In February I flew to Chicago, met up with my mom and we drove her car 800 miles to Georgia to see my son Zach and meet his wife Tara, step daughter Ella, and my new grandson Chance Panek. Our little road trip took us through Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and of course, Georgia. Actually, I think we just touched a tiny bit of Alabama too. Maybe a couple of minutes. Weather was perfect, unseasonably warm and my mom’s car ran like a champ. No problems whatsoever.
We spent three nights and two full days there. Jill put us up in her gorgeous home just 15 minutes from Zach’s beautiful home. Zach and Tara were well prepared with plenty of things planned out to do and great food to eat. The hospitality from them all was fantastic. They made my mom and I feel totally at home.
The morning after we arrived Zach and I did a bit of droning then packed up everyone and drove to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. This is a non-profit organization that rescues all sorts of wild animals. Often times from zoo’s or circus’. Some of the animals have been raised there since they were babies. For example there is a lion and a bear that are best of friends and even nuzzle each other. It was amazing to see these big animals get along so sweetly. Some pictures of them are below.
The next day we went to Amicalola Falls which is at the start of the Appalachian Trail. Quite foggy a the top where we had lunch at the lodge, but once we came back down where Zach and I hiked up to the midpoint, it was clear. A beautiful place that must be just amazing in the summer or fall when the trees are full of color.
The whole trip was a real joy. Spending a full week with my mom, seeing Zach and Jill after probably 20 years, and of course meeting Tara and Ella, and that adorable grandson Chance. Oh, and also the new pup, Leo, who is just the happiest guy ever. I bet he and my Charlie would have a ball. They all have a wonderful life there in Georgia and I was so glad to experience a part of it. I hope to do this on a regular basis.
Everyone looks so beautiful and happy, but of course Chance and Ella get my vote for cutest!!! I love the children.:-)
I’m so glad for you that you had this wonderful family reunion.
xoxo
Good job, Geoff. We did have a great time. Enjoyed being there with
Jill, Zack, Tara, Ella, and of course little Chance, our very special
lovable, sweet, dear grand baby. He is adorable. A most loving and
exciting visit.
Love.
Mom