The making of friends who are real friends, is the best token we have of a man’s success in life
Edward Everett Hale
The best parts of life are spent with friends; and this year my partner Keith and I are starting a new tradition with our friends Don and George from NY by taking a group vacation together. When we first talked about this idea back in the early spring it seemed like a pipe dream. After all, we lived almost 1,000 miles apart from each other — yet in our short visits we had grown to be very close friends. So when we finally pulled the trigger and decided to go on a vacation together we knew we were embarking on a journey that would be remembered and celebrated for years to come. Our first stop for our first vacation, Gatlinburg, TN!
As we count down the days, the excitement continues to grow. With each passing night we get one day closer to what will hopefully be the first trip of many more to come. What makes it special is not the fact that we are two gay couples traveling together, or that we’re going to one of the most scenic spots in the USA — what makes it special is that we are all doing it together. We may not get to see each other but a few times a year, but true friends know that even a minute spent together just strengthens those bonds even more.
So Keith and I will head out from Missouri; Don and George will head out from NY. Each of us has almost exactly the same amount of miles to drive — 673 vs. 704, and we’ll meet in Gatliburg for 9 days of friendship, fun and adventures! We’ll be staying in a beautiful cabin in the Smokey Mountains, enjoying the very best of what nature has to offer!
During our adventures I’ll be posting pictures and memories; sharing stories and laughs; and documenting the first of many trips of a lifetime! August 24th is the date we head out, and I can’t wait!
Gatlinburg, TN — Here we come!