Rite of Passage

My son is 15. He's been taking a driver's ed course this summer. I took him to get his learner's permit this past Friday. What an unexpected bundle of mixed emotions that was. Part of me was excited for him and remembering how I felt when I got mine. Part of me was afraid (if you've seen the way people drive around here you'd understand). Part of me was sad to see him so grown up and independent. Even though I know that is my job, to help him be independent, it still pulls at my heart to want to keep him close and protect him.

Upon receiving his permit, he tells me that he can drive now. I told him not on the freeway during rush hour. We stop at Wal-Mart to pick up some groceries and he mentions again that he can drive. I tell him not on the highway. So I get us to our subdivision and pull over and tell him okay you can drive now. The look of sheer panic on his face surprised me. I had to get out of the car and tell him to move over. With a few slight comedic errors, he manages to get us home and park in the driveway (6 inches away from my work vehicle and the satellite dish).

He looks over at me and says driving is a little harder than I thought it would be. It's a lot to get used to. I tell him now you understand why I don't want you on the freeway yet. A little more practice and you'll be fine.

My boy is growing up.

Smoky Mountains

I love the Smoky Mountains. I have ever since I was a child. There is something special about this place that touches me deep down in my soul. I have always loved the woods. Even at home when I was troubled I would go for a walk to have some time by myself to think and journal. It recharges my batteries like nothing else on this earth.

It was such a blessing to be able to go hiking with my dad and my son. The timelessness and continuity of the forest. The tradition of hiking carried on to another generation. As a child, I used to hike with my father. He would answer a never ending stream of questions about the plants, animals, and tracks I would find. Now I get to share that love with my son and pass the information on to him.

I hope to someday pass the same information on to his children.

Family

I'm sitting here by the river in Pigeon Forge waiting for my dad to get back to the campground. We're going hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park this afternoon.

I spent a nice evening last night visiting with my Aunt and Uncle and cousins from CT last night. They are staying in a condo in Gatlinburg. Since I live so far from home now, I only make it back once every 5 years or so. Having them vacationing so close and getting to visit was a special treat.

My Uncle has survived prostate cancer and heart bypass surgery. He has always been a tremendous blessing in my life. I hope I'm as tough as he is when I get old.

Well, my dad made it back, so now we're off to hike!