Photo Phriday: A Bend in the River

While I haven\’t lived in Chattanooga, Tennessee for many years, it is still the place that comes to mind when asked, \”Where\’s home?\” Odd, since all I wanted to do growing up was to move away – my gypsy spirit ill at ease with staying too long in one place. Now when I return, I see through wiser eyes the beauty of my hometown.

I grew up about a mile from the vantage point seen here. Signal Point, occupied by the Union Army during the American Civil War, is today managed by the National Park Service as part of the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park. There is great hiking to be had, but views like the one above are accessed by a trot down some steps from the parking lot. After enjoying the outdoor activities, you can grab a cup of joe at Mayfly Coffee, located across the street from the building that housed my family\’s real estate office for many years.

This bend in the river is as familiar to me as the lines of my hand. I stand and follow the river\’s flow as it rounds the mountain and carries with it the memories of generations.