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Never Stop Exploring.

Avery, downtown Asheville
I love seeing new places.  The act of discovery always warms my heart.  When I was a kid, there was a place in the back of our neighborhood where, while clearing land for lots in the 1970's, they had essentially created a small cliff, that dropped off to a small creek.  According to the older kids in our hood, this drop-off was the famed "Fountain of Youth."  I remember feeling so courageous when we would walk near it, and play in the creek there - as though we were the only kids in the world to see such a thing.  I felt like an explorer, and it felt great.

These days, that act of discovery is played out with my family (and friends, as well) - as we find new places in our town, and on our travels.  From riding the light rail to an old-fashioned soda shop while in Charlotte, to walking across Cincinnati's Roebling Bridge - we love to see new things.  But we are not always in a position to just flee town, and travel.
Avery and Austin, riding the
 Light Rail Train

Recently, Noah joined the Asheville Community Theater group - and has rehearsals downtown throughout the week.  Last week, Avery and I dropped him off, and decided to spend our time just exploring around downtown Asheville.  We went down the three flights of steps to see the Hobbit-esque room that is One World Brewing.  We found, and climbed inside the giant metal Rhinoceros, and took in the city view from atop a parking deck. We topped it off with a cookie at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge - and reflected on what a great hour we had just enjoyed.

Like Ponce de Leon before us, we failed to find the Fountain of Youth, but we had a great time anyway.  I love exploring Asheville with my kids, especially because the city itself is like an urban playground - but also because it nurtures my feelings for discovery, and keeps my eyes open for a fresh view of my surroundings.

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