The time spent here in Rolla was heart warming. I enjoyed every second. I think it’s because I knew there was a possibility I won’t be here again or seeing these people again. It made me slow down and enjoy each interaction with every person.
I suppose that in the past, I might have overlooked how special this place is. The carnival and the fireworks were phenomenal. This July 4th was the most spectacular show ever. And the patriotic music and overall circulating camaraderie touched a proud American vein I didn’t realize existed within me.
We stayed up until 5:30am the next morning after the family/neighborhood BBQ. It was a lot of fun, a lot of kids, and a lot of jello shots. It was so nice being surrounded by family with the little ones running all over the place and deep into the morning. I knew Bobby’s nieces when they were little. Now they’re grown with children of their own. I appreciated spending this time with them to know them as adults and play with their children.
After a few hours of sleep, we headed over to Six Flags and spent the entire day there. It was Denton’s first time on a roller coaster. Suprisingly, the lines were thin and short, and we got our fill in of rides and water park. By the end of the day, we collapsed into the car, tired, happy, and ready to go home.
Yesterday, we floated down the the Huzzah River and Meramac. The rivers here are gorgeous. It was peaceful, beautiful, and reminiscent of summers past. Afterwards, we drove by our favorite campsite and Denton and I went on a trail run. There are so many memories here.
Keelin and I fly home today. Marly and Denton are off to Vermont. This time here has been very special; even moreso because I savoured every moment. I know these times, the people and places, won’t come again. Not like this. But I suppose you can say that for any moment.
