When we climbed Independence Rock a couple of weeks ago, we were struck again by our need as a people to connect, or as Joseph put it, “to say we were here.” Some of the etchings on that rock have survived since the early 1800’s when pioneers struck out across the vast unknown to establish a new life. Although they left everything behind, they still felt the need to pause for a few hours and chisel their names into a stone. Some of them even left a message for family or friends coming along behind them.

We don’t live in that world anymore. But our desire to connect has remained. This week, Serenity, is visiting New York City for the first time in her life. It has been her dream for decades, and our entire family is thrilled. In fact, we feel as if we are riding with her today on the bus from Washington, D.C. to Manhattan.

My mother watches the national weather several times a day to find out if the day is good for touring. It is.

I listen for the little beep on my phone to say Serenity has sent another update on her trip. She has.

Molly pulls up Google Earth and takes a virtual walk on the street where Serenity will soon unload her luggage to make sure the city will live up to her expectations. It will.

And, we all remain connected. Spread across four generations, several states, and thousands of miles we are all riding with Serenity today. We are feeling her excitement, anticipating her thrill, and sharing her journey.

What a life.

Serenity pictured here sharing Felicity's journey