What Would Dolly Do?

Grief, Grace & a Little Bit of Glitter

This week has been one of the most emotionally layered in a long time.

Just days ago, I was honored to hold my first-ever book reading and signing at the Cushing Town Library, jointly sponsored by the Thomaston and Cushing Libraries. The room was full—really full—and my heart was equally full seeing so many familiar faces, and a few new ones, show up to support me and my story. It was humbling. It was beautiful. It gave me a deep sense of purpose.

Afterwards, we toasted with a Dolly Parton-themed cocktail, because if there’s anyone who can balance joy and sorrow with rhinestones and heart, it’s Dolly. She’s my spirit animal, and I leaned into her energy this week more than ever.

But the joy of that evening sat beside a heavy truth. My dear friend and former work partner, Terry, passed away. His death has been hard to process, and I’ve been navigating waves of grief as best I can.

Yesterday, I worked a shift at the winery—pouring wine, sharing stories, trying to stay present. I even found a little comfort in a plate of buffalo oysters from Fox in the Vines (highly recommend if you’re ever there). But my heart still ached.

Then, early this morning, I played a round of Non-Rev Roulette from Portland Jetport. My intention was to fly to Knoxville, TN for Terry’s memorial, but I ended up landing in Chattanooga. Life rarely takes us in a straight line. I rented a car and drove the rest of the way to Johnson City, where I’ll attend the visitation and services today and tomorrow.

Somewhere along the drive, I realized—I’m near Dollywood.

I still have a valid Gold Season Pass. And with a few Marriott Bonvoy points tucked away, I might just be able to create a little Dolly-inspired sparkle for myself in the next few days. I’ll see how I feel after the funeral before making any decisions. But I keep thinking: What would Dolly do?

She’d show up. She’d sing through the sorrow. She’d wear something fabulous and keep loving people with her whole heart. And maybe—just maybe—she’d make time for some rollercoasters and rhinestones, too.

Here’s to grief, grace, and the glitter we carry with us.

With love,
Shannon
@shannondtravels | shannontravels.substack.com