June Highlights From the Publisher

June ushers in the good old summertime in East Tennessee and temperatures have already been heating up. As a child growing up in Northern California, June meant the beginning of summer vacation and three months of freedom! Soon after school got out, we’d load up the trailer, hitch up the boat, and depart for one of the many beautiful camping locations around to enjoy God’s beauty – and get in some water-skiing. As soon as we’d make camp, and my chores were finished, I’d get on my bicycle and explore the area, basking in the cool mountain air and the gorgeous trees!

I love trees! I guess that’s one of the reasons we chose East Tennessee to make our home. I get that same “Aaahhh” feeling when I explore the gorgeous cool wooded areas around Tellico Lake and the Smoky Mountains as I did as a child exploring the northern Sierras.

June also marks the month in which we gather with family to celebrate Father’s Day. And although my dad has been gone now for a number of years, I still reflect back on memories of him when Father’s Day arrives. Memories of camping trips from Yosemite to Yellowstone, of going down the Super Slide, of accompanying him when he sang solos at church, of walking down the aisle with him at my wedding, of him insisting on fixing my sink for me on Thanksgiving, and so much more.

Dad taught me a lot. He taught me to read, to always try my best, and about fixing things, just to name a few. He also taught me to love and revere The Lord. Even though he’s been gone for almost three decades, I still think about sharing things with him and asking his advice. I miss him.

In addition to my dad, other fathers come to mind. Our only son is a relatively new father, about to be blessed with his second child. Watching him dote on his precious little girl reminds me of watching my husband doting on our son at that age; another example of children learning from their parents and taking on many of their traits. Seems so much of life comes full circle. I’m grateful and proud of the father I had. I’m grateful and proud of the father my husband is. I’m grateful and proud of the father my son is becoming. And, I’m especially grateful to my Father in heaven who blessed my life with these three wonderful men. So, to all dads - and to those who fill the role of dad, we wish you a very happy Father’s Day.

Kathy Rose

The East Tennessee’s Mountain Views Team