One Final Time!

Late this morning, I set foot in Tobacco Lane on the Square for one last time.  Yes, one of Fort Worth's iconic businesses is closing its doors for good sometime late this afternoon.  Around 11:30 a.m. I darkened the door of the establishment, and then proceeded to spend the next three hours smoking and enjoying great fellowship with other patrons in the round table.  After two smokes and some hearty conversation, I made my goodbyes.  Six years of my life, pretty much the entire time I've lived in Fort Worth, has come to an end.  Vaguely do I recall my first acquaintance with the shop, but it quickly became an oasis, an anchor, through the turbulence of adjusting to a new place of residence.  Over the years, it has become so much a part of my life, I will have to readjust many of life's routines.  For me, this was the Cheers of Fort Worth...a place I could truly come and find a welcoming handshake and lively discussion.  In the last episode of Cheers, Sam Malone adjusted the picture of Geronimo, gave the place one last look, and then locked the door for one last time.  Much the same, I gave the place and people one last look before heading out the door for my vehicle one final time.  However sad my heart is, I will eventually find that new place of refuge.  Until then, I will miss you Tobacco Lane.


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