There’s just something special about being on vacation, especially if it’s a familiar place like Gatlinburg. Sure, it’s gotten way more commercial over the years, but it’s still a location full of memories going back to early childhood for me.

It’s nice to be able to set your own pace and not have to be anywhere at all certain time. You can even sit on the balcony of your hotel room and just be. No agenda, no program.

This time, I didn’t have a list of everything that I had to see and do in order to qualify the vacation as successful. I rid myself of every expectation, and just decided to enjoy the moments. So far, so good.

I’m thankful for the means and the opportunity to get away for a bit, so I can rejoin the normal routine a little more energized and relaxed. Plus, I’m sure my cat will be happy to see me again.