The View from Here

The Grove Park Inn, back view.

It had been several years since Dan and I visited the historic Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina- ten or more, to be more precise. The place is timeless, though, and as soon as we walked into the Great Hall, I felt as if I’d never left. It takes me back to another era, a time of grandeur, gentility, and  elegance. The hotel opened in 1913 (Here’s a brief history of the place: https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/asheville-grove-park/property-details/history), and they have done a wonderful job of preserving the past while keeping an eye to the future. 

We took time to walk around the property, enjoying the historical photos, as well as the amazing views. The Grove Park truly is a castle, and it was fun to revel in that kind of luxury for a couple of days. I am not wealthy by any stretch of the imagination (except in love), and I grew up at poverty level. I would never feel comfortable living in such a grand style, but getting to experience the rich history of the Inn was fascinating and fun. 

When we returned home to our own little castle in Birmingham, we were greeted by wagging tails and kisses. I was reminded yet again how much I love to travel and see the world- and how much I love coming back home to Chez Gainey. It is not anything fancy, and there is always tons of work to do here, but it is filled with love and memories- priceless treasures. We make our castles – even the most humble ones- whatever we want them to be. I’m a simple gal, and I’m grateful that life brought me to this place. I choose to build my castle with love and joy- always good to come home to.