Mike Edmisten Follower of Jesus. Husband of Nicki. Father of Ryan & Brock. Communicator of the Word.

Various Vacation Lessons

Tomorrow we'll be leaving Tennesee and heading back north to the old Ohio homestead. It's been a great trip, full of fun and relaxing times. It has also reminded me of a few things, which I feel compelled to share with you. You would do well to remember these lessons, as they may just come in handy someday.

1. It is possible for a hot tub to be too hot. Our first day here, Nicki and I decided to hop into the jacuzzi located so conveniently on the deck of our chalet. However, apparently the guests before us had used the hot tub to boil lobsters. After about 3 minutes in the tub, I couldn't stand it anymore. And after I got out, I looked like one of the aforementioned lobsters. It wasn't until day 2 that my brother, Jeff, found the thermostat on the hot tub.

2. Cornmeal grits are amazing. I have always loved grits, but the ones at breakfast this morning were the best I've ever had. Props to The Old Mill Restaurant.

3. People are willing to throw their money at anything. There are lots of cool things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. There are also a lot of goofy and corny attractions, and these are the ones that are always packed with people.

4. I love the mountains. I would visit the mountains over the beach any day. My wife hates that about me.

5. I stink at pool. Our chalet's pool table has done nothing but reinforce that truth.

6. My family is a huge blessing in my life.

7. You can't judge a book by its cover. That's quite cliche. It's also quite true. Last night, Nicki and I went to dinner and there was a large guy wearing a Bengals jersey who was also dining there. (I know this is off subject, but I've seen more Bengals apparel than any other team here in TN. The Titans apparently get no love down here.) He had a long goatee and many piercings, including a large nose ring. If you have already stereotyped this fellow, then you've made my point for me. He was sitting there with his family, which included his wife, his young daughter (probably about 3 years old), and twin infants. He was interacting with his children, singing songs from the Wiggles (which I immediately recognized, of course), and just being a great dad. I wonder how many people would write him off just because of the outer package?

There you go. A few important, and a few not-so-important lessons from my vacation. Excuse me now while I return to our deck for some more sweet mountain air.