10 days ago we headed down to Gatlinburg, TN for our 2013 family vacation. We left in a relaxed fashion after Vanessa's theatre class, but we were excited to get there. On the way down, Zane napped a little and Vanessa tried but there was too much to do and too much to anticipate. It rained during the drive but we were treated to a rainbow which seemed to be pointing us toward our destination. We arrived in the dark and we were sort of clueless as to where we were going as we drove up the mountain. The kids fell asleep on the way up, so once we got to our condo, we stayed in the car while Daddy checked in. We waited for what seemed like forever, so I got out of the van to get a feel for what was happening. As I stepped toward the front of the van I caught a glimpse of Adam waving for me to get back in the van while he pointed to three black bears, just feet from the entrance to our condo. We were convinced then that our time in Gatlinburg would be extra exciting. With over 800 pictures and so much crammed into 7 days, we'll share our adventure by days. Some posts may have WAY more pictures than others but we will only squeeze in a fraction of the total. And take note of the folded towels on our bed -- Vanessa thought it was the greatest "origami".
Although not exactly planned, it is neat to think we made a trip to an area rich with American history, just before the Memorial Day weekend, when we honor all who have fought for our freedom and equal rights. We feel extra blessed and thankful to be part of an era with the new South and not the
old.
I liked this item included in a list of stereotypes about the South:
"Southerners are not inherently dumber or more backward than anyone else.
Remember, there are also states up North where you can marry that
attractive first cousin."
And for more fun, read
etiquette for Northerners.
It was truly awesome to discover the genuine intelligence, kindness, warmth and love of Southerners.
