It had been awhile since I traveled and I hadn’t had any plans to do so by Dave’s birthday. I knew Bob and Jan were planning a trip to Tennessee with their biking friends. They know how “special places for Dave” are so important to me and didn’t hesitate to take Dave along on the trip. They were sure they’d experience some beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains.
The first stop was to Clingman’s Dome. This is a brief excerpt from the Clingman’s Dome website:
“At 6,643 feet, Clingman’s Dome is Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s highest point. It is located along the state-line ridge; half in North Carolina and half in Tennessee.”
The peak is accessible after walking a steep half-mile trail, which, of course, this is what Bob and Jan did.
“Vistas from the Dome are amazing. On a clear day, views expand over 100 miles and into seven states.”
What a special place for Dave!
But as they traveled a short distance from the Dome, they came upon such a magnificent view that they had to stop and sprinkle Dave’s ashes there as well. The first time I saw the picture, it caught my breath and immediately gave me chills. As a sacred mountain to the Cherokees, it radiates pure spirituality. It is a honor that Dave’s ashes share such a beautiful place.
A special thank you to Bob and Jan for going out of their way to find two special places. And much gratitude to their friends who joined them in remembering Dave.
Somewhere, Dave is smiling! I know I am, but with tears in my eyes.
Leave a Reply