Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Looking Forward



from the verona daily photo site and marking my recent short hair cut.

Monday, September 14, 2009

August 20, 1931 (newspaper clipping)

Miss Katherine Beckett and J.B. Akin Wed Today

The marriage of Miss Katherine Beckett, daughter of Mrs. Maye N. Beckett, to James B. Akin, of Franklin, Tenn., which took place this morning at 9:30 o'clock at the home on West Sixth Street, will be of unusual interest to a wide circle of friends. Rev. C.E. Crafton, pastor of the Garden Street Presbyterian Church, officiated in the presence of the immediate families.

The ceremony was said before an improvised altar of flowers and ferns in front of the window in the living room. Large baskets filled with bridal veil were used on either side of the altar.

The couple entered to the strains of Mendelssohn's Wedding March played by Miss Christine Beckett, sister of the bride. During the ceremony she played softly "Ah, Sweet Mystery of Life." The impressive ring ceremony was used.

Miss Lucile Nowlin of Nashville, cousin of the bride, served as maid of honor, and Mr. Akin was attended by his brother, Robert N. Akin of Franklin. Miss Nowlin wore a becoming model of green crepe.

The bride and groom entered together. She wore a beautiful poudre blue crepe costume with the harmonizing appointments.

Miss Beckett is a graduate of the Central High School and for the past few months has been connected with the Liberty Range Company. She has many friends who regret that her marriage will take her to another city to live.

Mr. Akin is the son of Mr. and Mrs. M.F. Akin of Franklin and is director of athletics and teacher in the high school at Ashland City, Tenn. He is a graduate of Battle Ground Academy, Franklin, and of the University of Tennessee, where he was a member of the Chi Sigma Delta, the Phi Delta Kappa and the Phi Kappa Phi fraternities.

Immediately after the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Akin left for a short motor trip, going later to Ashland City, where they will make their home.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

April 7, 1931



Dearest Katherine,

I'm all time writing you astounding news. You'd never guess who called me up and asked for a date Friday night. Ned Lentz in person. Needless to say I'm mad with joy. Don't know whether I'll survive until then or not. Can't help but wonder what brought this on cause I'm just not Ned's type. He likes 'em wilder and woolier and full of fleas. However I shall improve my opportunity. Hope he asks me out again.

Nothin' else to say. Just wanted to tell you the astounding good news.

Double dated with the roommate tonight. My date had the best looking auburn coupe and carried us out to the most adorable camp I've ever seen. Would love to see the place in the summer time.

Well, good bye -

Love, 'Cile

Friday, September 4, 2009

Orange Line: Ballston (Home Base)



A year ago tomorrow, I went to closing and shortly thereafter moved from my Washington, DC studio apartment into a small one-bedroom condo in Arlington, Virginia. I made the decision to buy in Ballston for a number of reasons with cost and proximity to public transportation being the most important considerations, and only then did I look around to see what the area might have to offer me.

After living in Adams Morgan, a true urban neighborhood with gunshots and everything, Ballston seemed a little slow and uneventful. I was bored out of my mind, quite frankly. I had plans to visit the Washington Capitals Ice Rink directly across the street from me, both to skate and watch the players practice, but have yet to do anything more than pick up a schedule. And the Ellipse Arts Center, just around the corner, suddenly closed right when I set out to see their Crossing Glances photo exhibit.

While I miss the vibrancy of Adams Morgan, I have adjusted to my new life all the same. I’ve been sailing and camping, and will go kayaking for the first time this holiday weekend. I have a great boyfriend, a relationship that might not have worked out as easily had I continued to live in the city (no parking, you understand), and just this week, for the first time, I went to Ballston’s big 12-screen movie theatre at the Mall. I’ve even found a nail salon I like. While I don’t see myself living in Ballston forever, for now, I’m doing just fine. See links for recommendations.