I was about my daughter’s age, 12 or 13, when my folks finally let me go to the river with my brothers. I was elated, but realized that such a milestone had a test attached to it wherein I had to confidently swim across the river and back without the aid of flotation devices.

The current wasn’t too strong during most summer months—heck, in dry years, you could pretty much walk across. Unfortunately (or perhaps in retrospect, fortunately?) the current that summer was not exactly meandering, but tackle and prevail I did, thus beginning my insane streak of independence fueled by additional tests of courage from 4 brothers and their friends.

That river, oddly enough, became a friend to me. I prided myself on my ability to rock walk and run both smooth and craggy terrain. I found solace and solitude in those secret places I believed were mine alone. I identified with the uneven banks which, to me, symbolized the angst that accompanies the trials and tribulations of a teenager. To see, and understand, the constant change that a river adapts to in its own special way, well…..really helped me a lot.

My daughter, Sammie, found a river this weekend. She’d been here times before but was much too young to wade, swim, and navigate a creek bed on her own. It’s the most joyful I’ve seen her in quite some time. She pushed her boundaries, exercised her freedom, and gained a bit of confidence. Her smile lit up my world.

This particular river is located in Sedona, Arizona at the edge of Briar Patch Inn on Oak Creek Canyon. I’ve been coming here since 1996 and the pleasures of this place draw me back time and time again. 

Sammie, Emily and I made the journey this weekend and as is common, found new people to connect with and, most importantly, connected with each other. Sedona is a very special town, but Briar Patch Inn trumps it all with aces.

It’s the kind of spot where your shoulders naturally drop away from your ears. Tension is replaced with peace. There is no danger, no trepidation, no roosters, but some really nice sheep. Every season has a different kind of beauty, brings a unique sense of being, and fosters a complete connection with nature. Briar Patch Inn offers a space to help you understand why that connection makes one complete.

Yes, I know, I don’t usually blather on in this particular manner. Therefore, I hope you take me seriously when I tell you that you must experience not only Sedona, but Briar Patch Inn.

Many thanks to Rob Olson, and that sweet brunette who’s name I forgot who set everything up; the lovely Carmen who brought us our own pitcher of juice to go with our Champagne, and Javier who hooked us up with power so we could sit beside the Creek and record a show; one of our best, I do believe.

Chef Christopher Dobrowolski is a gem of a guy, and the plates he prepared for us at Barking Frog Grill were beyond compare. He was as gracious on-air as he was playing “host” in his restaurant, and I have every intention of coming back to talk with him some more – an amazing young man who overcame amazing obstacles. He’s quick with a smile and serious gratitude for where he is and what he does. I’ll betcha’ $5 bucks that he grew up near a river.

As for me, I snuck out early,did a little river walk hoppin’ on my own and rediscovered that complete feeling of solace. My childhood and my confidence came rushing back. I felt intensely joyful because I got to share it with my girls ~ especially my Sammie.  To you, my gorgeous daughter, I know that change is tumultuous and scary, but you are brave and independent. You crossed a stream today. Sometimes, when you’re wondering how you’ll make it all work, take a minute to watch how a river does it, relish in it and find your own personal peace. I love you so very much. 

~Mom~