The Great Outdoors

We had more firsts with my son and grandkids yesterday.  We got to explore the great Ijams nature center and hiking trails, along the TN river.  We witnessed a huge owl just sitting in a tree near us in broad daylight, a big first for all of us.  There were masses of beautiful wildflowers of all kinds, fascinating rock formations, and lots of natural recreation for little (and big) kids.

Then we checked out one of many family-friendly brewpubs along the extensive bike trails in the city.  We sampled beers and played board games outside at the picnic tables.  Then we moved on to a playground along the river.  There is so much going on in this city, we could never experience it all in a lifetime.

Finally, we adjourned to Avdi’s for pizza-and-a-movie, one of the few times he gets to snooze in his armchair, while the kids pile on top of us and chill.  I treasure these dwindling chances to bond and get to know my grandkids, before they have to move out of state.  I’m not looking forward to that prospect.  I never take such moments for granted anymore.

 

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