One of my abilities that most amazes my husband is the way I can go from reasonably well to a state of &uot;death warmed over&uot; in a matter of a mere day or two.

What can I say?

I don’t like to do anything halfway.

This particular skill often plays havoc with my well-laid plans. I had been looking forward to a busy but enjoyable weekend kicked off by attending the AHA Pilgrimage, touring some of the city’s loveliest homes, checking out the art show at Whitney and taking lots of great photos on Saturday.

But I didn’t factor in &uot;The Crud&uot;. I spent a good portion of last Friday afternoon sitting in Stabler Clinic feeling infected, inflamed and downright forlorn. I squeaked when I spoke.

When the doctor took a look down my throat, I recall his exact words to my husband were: &uot;Yeesh. It’s nasty back there. I wouldn’t kiss her if I were you!&uot;

A hefty shot of cortisone and a few heavy doses of antibiotics later, I managed to get some writing done but simply couldn’t summon up the energy to make the trek on Saturday.

With the able assistance of my spouse (who still wouldn’t kiss me but did consent to bake a mean version of Mama’s delicious cream cheese pound cake), I – a bit spacey but at least able to speak – made it to Greenville on Sunday to take part in the 40th anniversary of our local historical society.

There was a wonderful &uot;Taste of Butler County&uot; Luncheon at first United Methodist Church – if you missed it, you missed a real treat.

Dishes made by recipes from the society’s new cookbook were a featured part of the day’s menu, and the tables were practically groaning from all those wonderful casseroles, salads, breads, cakes and pies. I think everybody got to take home at least one plate of good home-cooked food to savor for supper or share with a shut-in.

I was able to enjoy the pilgrimage vicariously from hearing the stories of those who attended. I was pleased to hear the day went so well. It seems visitors to our fair city were truly impressed by what they saw, and the hospitality they experienced, while in Greenville for Pilgrimage Weekend.

Not that I am surprised. I know I’m a little prejudiced, but this is one special place.

Whether it’s hosting a state pilgrimage, providing a reception for Arts Council performers, welcoming potential industries or new foreign-born neighbors, local folks in general just don’t like to do things halfway. (However, the community’s outcome is a whole lot nicer than this old &uot;crud&uot; of mine.)

Kudos go to all those who went the extra mile on an overcast, rainy weekend. You certainly made the Camellia City shine.

Angie Long is a Lifestyles writer and columnist for The Greenville Advocate. She may be contacted at home by phone at 382-5145.