To rise early and be bundled up
Still not really awake
As the car moves down the highway
The sun just rising over the eastern horizon

We have been on the road for two days
My father driving at a high rate of speed
Another adventure of travel
From where we are to where we've been

After a hour and miles behind
Breakfast to fuel the daily run
Towards the past and family pact
Annually we meet like a clan

As we arrive at the park
It's hugs all around
As brothers and sisters
Aunts and uncles

Gathering to see the family of their past
BBQ and potato salad
With bags full of chips
And soda for the kids and beer for adults

Kids running about playing games of tag
Throwing a Frisbee sometimes with dad
Lawn darts and softball
There were games to be had

The day comes to an end
And smiles all around from a great time
Then soon again we are back on the road
And the adventure begins anew

From where we had been
To where we are now
As the park fades away
And we have miles to go

Tears from my mother
As she relates her fears
Of how soon she will see
Her family and parents again

I sit there in silent sadness
As I see her face drawn
As the tears run down her cheeks
And so began my life as mama's boy