So, as soon as I got this blog ready to go, I got busy. As in Too Busy To Go Have Fun. What? How can that be?
Part of the problem was, without an inaugural post, I wasn't obligated. But my dad reminded me recently that, to get started, you have to get started.
Dad worked on electronic gizmos since he was a kid in the 1930's. He repaired many gadgets he was unfamiliar with. If he didn't know how it worked or what was wrong, his approach was "just get started."
So I'm getting started and you're coming with me.
On the Fourth of July, at the last minute, I decided to drive to the top of Mill Mountain and see if fireworks were visible from there. It was a beautiful and blessedly cool evening with a gorgeous sunset. I got there about 8:30 and parking at the top was already spilling down the road's shoulder. I parked farther down at the Discovery Center -- only a few spots left -- and headed for the observation deck. The atmosphere was festive, with people arriving continuously from all over the valley. Some families had come early with picnics. There were lots of excited little kids. My friend Laurie and her friend Mark showed up.
We watched the sun set.
The fireworks display was actually close to the foot of the mountain and to the left of the deck. And everybody headed for the front rail like metal filings to a magnet as soon as the show started. And I am short. I stood on a very rickety picnic table in need of some attention to get some shots of the fireworks.
But the point turned out to be Showing Up. The anticipation, the people, the sunset. The reminder that the lower deck provides a fabulous view of the valley and its guardian mountains. I'll be going back there soon, picnic and friends in tow, just to watch the sunset. It's worth it.
So now we've gotten started... I can't wait to see what Fun Things are out there!
