When I saw the white Plains text flash by on the green highway sign, and realized it wouldn’t even add time to our Florida drive, the choice was easy: left instead of straight.
It’d be a quick stop to check out Jimmy Carter’s newly opened gravesite in Plains, Georgia – as it was on my bucket list after all – and then we’d be on our way.
Inside the Jimmy Carter Historical Center, a park ranger in the classic dimpled hat and drab green uniform asked, “Are you here for the stamp ceremony?” Her deer-like eyes brimmed with expectation, as if she might take me by the elbow and lead me there herself. “Uh, yes!” I blurted. “Let me go get my family.”
We slipped into the auditorium where maybe 50 people sat—not exactly packed. Evelyn was see-sawing in her old brown chair, and I worried we’d have to duck out. Then the announcer said the next speaker was Jimmy and Rosalynn’s son, Chip Carter. Suddenly, everything went still.
He spoke about his parents’ values, about life in the White House, about faith and commitment. The way he spoke about politics calmed my weary soul. Knowing where he came from, I felt a kindred spirit—like he truly got what mattered.
Afterward, they unveiled the new stamp of his father, set to be released on October 1st. And when things wrapped up, I noticed Chip standing nearby without much of a crowd. He knelt down and took a picture with Evelyn.
Then came a butterfly release just two blocks away. We were handed bottled water, rainbow-frosted butterfly cookies, and little cartons—each holding a butterfly that had been lightly chilled so it wouldn’t injure itself before release.
When Chip released his, he handed it to Evelyn. It fluttered off and landed right near his shoe. And yes—I caught it all on video. Fitting, since the whole event was in tribute to his mom.
Later, filled with the human spirit, we finally visited the graves, toured the family home, and I even checked the flowers they’d planted—wanting to see which ones drew the most butterflies.
I’m telling you, this is in my top top of days. I only wish you knew how grateful I am.
Love, Jaclynn
Going On 40 