Written by Christina Gordon Wednesday, 03 August 2011 18:17

Encouraging Words by Donna Clements

As printed in The Daily Herald of Roanoke Rapids

I have a dear friend: Her name is Kathryne. She promenades through the first years of the ninth decade of her exuberant life, resembling a vintage doily.

She is delicate to the eye, slightly sugar-starched for stability, and woven throughout the edges of her existence like a colorful silk ribbon, the Roanoke Valley is interlaced within her being. Of the many ways in which she serves us, the most extraordinary to me is her ministry of joyfully entertaining angels.

 
As the proprietress of Heathsville Haven Bed and Breakfast in Enfield, a standing invitation to experience the snugness of her encompassing home and gardens is extended to a world of strangers. Having reserved rooms via internet or telephone, Kathryne patiently awaits their arrival. When finally the doorbell is rung and the door is opened, she steps aside beckoning them to enter.

Some pull up on their broomsticks, others maybe on spaceship, still more on traditional automobile, but some … surely some … gently fall from the sky to gently land upon her doorstep, folding their wings behind them.

She entertains undercover agents, lawyers, artists, professors, business executives, pastors and genealogists; ranging from young to old, and in-between. Some arrive late into the night and leave early the next morning. Some stay for several days, carrying out their mission of job responsibility. Others come to relax and enjoy our beautiful Roanoke Valley. Some come to pronounce their marital vows; others to renew them. I’m sure some must be angels.

And speaking of angels, Kathryne was married to one! His name was Haywood, and he departed this life several years ago, leaving their life-long dream of entertaining angels to her. She carries forth the mission bravely, but you can still sense the presence of her devoted husband about her.

She speaks of him romantically, with everlasting marital fidelity continuing to bond their love. She recalls the many, many years she was awakened in the dawn of day by the smell of his after shave lotion as he completed his morning toiletry ritual. Oh, my goodness! Does that angelic thought not bring the tears of romantic bliss to your eyes and cause your heart to skip a beat?

A Master Gardener, Kathryne has respectfully dedicated her beautifully landscaped gardens to Haywood. And she shares her plants like she shares her hospitality — with love and dedication to a more colorful tomorrow.

Her entrepreneurial skills are amazing. She oversees every last detail of the practical, technical and legal responsibilities of operating a licensed bed and breakfast.

I know Haywood is proud.

As their love magnetically pulls travelers from the roadways, Kathryn places her hand upon the handle of their home, always a thrill to see the new set of faces before her.

Yes, folks arrive as strangers, but they depart as friends. And it is a naturally drawn conclusion that some … oh, yes some … are angels.

Donna Clements is a professional speaker and writer.  You may reach Donna by phoning 252-326-9194 or e-mailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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