Exploring the Wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains
A recent trip to the Great Smoky Mountains brought joy and adventure
Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Great Smoky Mountains, Michigan, Family
Gatlinburg: So, we just got back from an amazing trip to the Smoky Mountains! The snow was just enough to make it feel like winter, but the roads were a bit icy. You know how it is this time of year.
With temperatures hanging around the 20s, winter is definitely here. My daughter Susan brought her three boys over while she took her daughter Jennifer to the eye doctor. Jennifer didn’t pass her school eye exam, so they wanted to get it checked out.
It reminded me of the days when we had six kids in glasses. Keeping track of them was a full-time job! Now, only three of them need glasses, which is a relief.
Our trip to the Smokies was a blast! Joe and I took the tram up to Ober Mountain and rode the chairlift. It was chilly, but we had a great time. Coming back to Michigan, though? That was a whole different level of cold!
Pigeon Forge was another highlight. There was so much to see, but the best part? Spotting a bear near our motel one night! I’ve seen bears before, but being just 20 to 30 feet away was thrilling.
Meanwhile, Ryan and Curtis were curious about what I was writing. Those little guys are so sweet and full of questions! They spotted some wrapped gifts and started telling me what they wanted for Christmas. Ryan is all about a black hat, while Curtis wants a cup, a book, and some toy people.
Ervin Jr. just turned one and isn’t walking yet, but he’s got the cutest smile. He claps his hands and falls over, which is just adorable.
I made the boys grilled cheese for lunch, and of course, they wanted cookies too. Later, Susan came back, and thankfully, Jennifer can go without glasses for now. That’s a win for Susan, especially with the holidays coming up.
This Friday, I’ll be heading to Ann Arbor with Kevin for an appointment. Fingers crossed the roads are good for our two-hour drive!
Joe and I are also looking forward to a Christmas dinner at his work. All the Metal & Truss folks will be there, and the food is always delicious.
It’s a bit bittersweet, though. We’ll miss Joe’s brother Albert and his wife Sarah Irene. They were missed on our Smoky trip too. It’s going to be a tough Christmas for their family. Rest in peace, dear brother.
On a brighter note, nephew Steven is slowly getting stronger and has an appointment in Ann Arbor soon. Lovina and Daniel are putting together a “sunshine box” for him, which is so sweet.
Joe’s sister Susan had surgery again, and we’re all hoping for the best for her. Cancer is such a tough battle, and she needs all the prayers she can get.
Our community is mourning a 10-year-old boy who tragically lost his life while biking to school. It’s heartbreaking, and our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.
And just a reminder, it’s been four years since our son-in-law Mose was in that terrible accident. He’s gone but never forgotten. We’ve become close with Dan’s wife Jodi, and she still misses him dearly. Let’s keep each other in our prayers. God bless!