The View from Here

  The view from our room at the Grove Park Inn…

As seems to be my tradition when we travel to the mountains of North Carolina, I have used all of the data on my iPhone from posting too many photos and videos. Frustrating for someone who had planned to blog each day of our trip, but on further reflection, probably a healthy thing for me to be a bit cut off from social media for a few days as Dan and I focus on each other and our anniversary. There will be plenty of time to write and share photos when we get home. So, just a little catching up here…

Our last day in the Nantahala was purposely devoid of any scheduled activity- we did what felt right in the moment, and it was truly medicinal for us. We swam and sat by the pool, journaling, talking, and dreaming. We so rarely do nothing, and we realized that we need to find more pockets of time to be agenda-less. Good for the mind, heart, and soul. Enjoying ‘nothing’ in the beauty of the Nantahala Gorge was priceless. 

  The Grove Park Inn, Asheville, North Carolina… 

Yesterday, we made our way to Asheville and the historic Grove Park Inn, deciding to take the much longer and more scenic path via the Blue Ridge Parkway. The winding road took us past breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, as well as through several curving tunnels. We took our time, stopping at a few of the overlooks to take it all in. How nice not to be rushing from one point to another. Once we got to the Inn, we were greeted by a romantic gift in our room- champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries, accompanied by a nice note. We have not been to the Grove Park Inn in several years, and we are enjoying reconnecting with the fascinating history of this place. After an afternoon spent enjoying the spa pools, we are preparing to join a few dear friends to celebrate this evening.  Thirteen years…so much has happened during our time together, events both good and challenging. No matter, they have been the best years of my life, and I am so very grateful. Love is everything, and when you are fortunate enough to find it, cherish it. Let the adventures continue!