Smoky Mountain New Year

I'm a couple of days late getting this post up with pictures, but I thought I'd share a couple from our New Year's day trip to the Smoky Mountains. Lynn's parents thought it would be a good idea that instead of spending a lot of money on gifts for each other this year, that we spend the weekend in a very nice cabin located just outside of Pigeon Forge in the Smokies, and let that be our Christmas gift. That was a great idea and would have worked too only Lynn's parents are very generous and giving, and ended up giving us gifts on Christmas day as well. It's hard not to feel bad, but they really seemed to enjoy it and of course it gives them 4 days in the Mountains with their daughters, Lynn and Kate.

The cabin was quite exquisite. Some people think when you say cabin, that you're probably roughing it with no electricity, a water pump and an out house. This place was a little nicer than that as you can see from the pictures. The cabin was nestled high up on the side of a ridge, two floors with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a downstairs living room, and upstairs home theater with a huge flat screen TV on the wall, and a pool table and air hockey table. Needless to say, I could get used to that!

The evenings were spent hanging out there watching movies, football, playing games and such. Friday we all spent the day together. It happened to be cold and rainy that day, so we went inside Ripley's Aquarium which was actually much nicer than I had expected. The shark tank was larger than it appeared it could be from the outside, and there was a slow moving sidewalk where you could stand and just enjoy being transported through the tunnels of fish, shark, sting rays and who knows what else swimming all around you. The tunnel is all glass, so the sharks literally swim right over your head. A great experience that rivals the Georgia Aquarium. That evening dinner was had at the "World Famous" Dixie Stampede owned by Dolly Parton. This is a dinner show where you are fed way more food than you should eat in one sitting while watching a show that, really is hard to describe. The arena is in a horseshoe setting, and you can sit on the North side or the South side. There are some amazing horse riding feats that are performed, some southern comedy, of course music and singing to accompany. I'll admit the show was better than expected and the whole chicken breast they gave me was completely devoured!

Saturday the gals when shopping while us guys went to the bass pro shop. Seeing as I'm the only guy living in the south that doesn't care for hunting, I had actually never been in one of those places. They're like a small mall within themselves, devoted just to outdoor activities. And while there were some pretty cool camping and hiking supplies in there which does bode up my alley, mostly the store is devoted to hunting and fishing. I never would have guessed there could be THAT MUCH stuff devoted to these sports. Quite amazing actually. The store is a neat experience that everyone ought to try at least once.

It was great to get away for a few days, and not have to worry about anything work related. I love the mountains and i'm very grateful for the opportunity Lynn's parents, Billy and Ann, gave us to spend time up there for New Year's 2009. Now unfortunately, it's back to the grind in what is about to be the busiest time of year for my profession. But rather than complain, I should be thankful for the job I have, and the opportunity I had to get away for a little while. Especially at a time where so many are struggling and could not have afforded such a luxury. Thankful indeed, I am.
God Bless.