When Enjoying the Mountains is a Chore

I used to absolutely love driving into the Smokies and Appalachians for work.  I was easily able to enjoy the amazing natural views this part of the country has to offer.  It's such a beautiful world we live in, and among my favorite parts of it involve mountains of some kind.

Like I said, I used to love it, but it has recently become a chore to really enjoy the mountains I am lucky enough to visit during some work trips.  Today I went  on one of my favorite drives; it took me from Nashville, TN to Boone, NC.  Traveling through the Cherokee National Forest and into the Boone area is one of the most scenic trips I have been able to take.  The views never disappoint, but it was a little harder this time than usual. 

Maybe it's because I returned back from a five night trip on Saturday only to have to leave again 36 hours later for two more nights.  I'm sure that was part of it, but lately, it's become increasingly difficult to enjoy these wonderful parts of the world without Nea and our daughter.  It feels a little less full and deep with life when I'm having to see all of this beauty by myself.  I'm still trying my best to enjoy it, but I really can't wait until I can return with my other two sets of eyes.  It's a beautiful planet, and even more beautiful when we have others to share it with.  I'm thankful that I have that, even if they are currently a full state away.

What are your favorite outdoor wonders to enjoy with your family and friends?

-Pablo

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Comments

[Tonithegreat]

I have experienced some of the same feeling. I used to budget time and money for one big guided climbing trip for me each year, but on my last few trips I just kept thinking about how much greater it would be to camp with my husband and girls in the area and show them things. I haven't calendared a solo trip in some time, now, and I think it is because my priorities are changing.

[Family Wilds]

Thanks for sharing, Toni! I know how you feel for sure. Nea and I used to both enjoy me going our of town for a few days on occasion, but not that we have our daughter in the mix we all would rather be together.

[Shawna]

This is a great post. It's so true that the people you're with can add the finishing touches to an outdoor experience. Some of my favorite memories are of playing "Road Trippin" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers on the CD player as we cruised in our Jeep through the mountains with our little boy in the back. Thanks for sharing this!

[Family Wilds]

Thanks, and that sounds like a wonderful memory, Shawna. We're taking our little one on her first long road trip in a few weeks, which will take us up into the mountains. We're really looking forward to it!

[Valerie]

Nice post! Very refreshing. I like to do canoe camping but also like walking with snow shoes during winter times in our beautiful forest in Quebec!

[Family Wilds]

Thanks, Valerie! We love to paddle and camp, too. We've never been snowshoeing, but would love to try it. There aren't usually opportunities for that in Nashville, TN :-)