Years ago, I came across the state through the mountains geocacjing with a friend. Our main goal was a cache on The Road To Nowhere.
Years later, mom and dad bought a place in Maggie Valley which we could use for free, and it was perfect for my love of wandering and seeing out-of-the-way places. It’s kind of a sickness that infects others in a good way. My kids have been brought up on the wander.
So when we came up the first year and I didn’t know all I know now about the area I took them “somewhere cool”, The Road To Nowhere.
Seven years later and it’s a tradition. We know where we are supposed to be on Independence Day.
A little later it will be putt-putt and dinner. We will stop by Chris and Friends Antiques to see Chris and talk to him before fireworks tonight. And then we will be sitting right in front of Sippers Coffee after we talk to Amber (I’m horrible with names) the owner.
We’ve made so many friends up here. Some we know by name, others on sight. We’re always welcome, and it’s not like we’re tourists after all these years.
And the friends keep coming.
My daughter isn’t fond of little children, but they are drawn to her.
My son talks to me about video games non-stop. Tonight he met a younger version of himself.
It was hilarious watching them deal, but also seeing how well they handled the situation and the fact that they can care for other human beings makes me think I’m doing okay raising them.
Today has been a small adventure. Tomorrow is Gatlinburg(h). I am not a fan, but the kids get their afternoon there. What they don’t know yet is that we’re going to Clingmans Dome on they way back.
That’s for me.
Happy Independnce Day! #WeAreStillHere
Get off the highway!
Seegars
Searching The South 