Sylva Summer

Friday Night Auction

2010-08-13T18:35:00.000-07:00

You just never know whats going to come out of those boxes next at Thad Wood's Auction. This is a fun Friday night. Robert was able to enjoy the sights of merchandise and comical shoppers. You see his crutches in the picture: he has had a bad run with a back injury, bronchitis, and gall bladder surgery all this summer. But, he could still get his giddyup going to check out Thad Woods.

On this particular night, a buyer could get doll faces, wigs, and hands. I sure wish I could have gotten hold of a little bit of it. Krista could use a pair of hands for her bubble lady costume (SNL reference). There was also model train equipment, dishes, crestwhite strips, a stuffed lion head, Marilyn Monroe stamps, a ventriloquist doll, and pottery. All I got was a few boxes of honey buns. I was happy to be able to give Kevin a case of honeybuns cause he was such a good brother to get rid of the second dead goat carcas in a week. (That'll be another article.) I do regret that I was too late in arriving to bid on a fiddle that was new and went for only $75. Deardre really wanted a pink of fur that sold for just 7.50 that she could use in making Santa robes.

Toni and I kept giggling about this guy who was an enthusiastic shopper. I mean, he bought all kinds of stuff. We kept analyzing just what could he want all this for. So, when he walked by on one of his trips to take his purchases to his truck, I had to ask. Turns out that he has a store. He bought so much that he didn't even realize that he left an entire set of dishes.

Kevin's Birthday

2010-08-09T17:59:00.000-07:00

After our time at The Factory, we made ice cream sundaes with lots of toppings and played canasta. We play canasta almost every night. Where four or more are gathered......Even when there's lots of loud action, Gah can read if she wishes because noise does not bother her at all.

Porch Sitting

2010-08-08T11:46:00.000-07:00

The balcony porch is a place we sit to relax. Alma likes to practice her fiddle out here. It is generally cooler than inside; so, a good place to bring coffee or tea and a good book. Mama and Deardre spent mannny hours trying to get the perfect picture of a hummingbird drinking the red sugar water. They did get some good ones.

Boiler Room in the Fun Factory

2010-08-07T19:26:00.000-07:00

We like to eat in the Boiler Room when we go to the Fun Factory. Kid's meals come on frisbees. The waitress said Kevin's broccolli was "catastrophic." I think she meant colossal; and it was tree size. I sang Beulah Land because it was in my head alllll day becase of a book I'm reading. Ski ball, Deal or No Deal, and buttcracks were the fun things that night. We like to rack up on tickets from games to get prizes. We usually get kinda junky stuff, but Alma finally got enough tickets saved for a lava lamp: 2000 !!! Thanks everyone for the donations to her cause.

Scenes from Fort Tatham Creek

2010-08-07T11:22:00.000-07:00

Some people pay big dollars for mud baths. This is such a nice little creek spot. I put my chair down and get my feet in the cool water and enjoy a book. Chloe had a good time watching some bugs and spiders walk on the water. She also used an ax handle found nearby to do a little water golf with leaves floating by.

Pert Near Winning Mario Kart

2010-08-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

Gah playing a little DS. This is not photoshopped but real picture. Jill P. took a sweeter one of all four girls around her sharing the moment. But, after they wandered off, Lorene just settled in to play on her own. I think we should get her a DS of her own with casino games, bingo, and a sewing mama.

We've gotten lot's of laughs because Gah described a book she was reading as "pert near pornagraphy." The title is Beulah Land. It is an epic saga set in Georgia post Civil War. We are now all passing it around. If you want a turn, just let me know.

Playing Around in the Tuckaseegee

2010-08-02T16:14:00.000-07:00

Now that Kevin and Toni are living on the Tuckaseegee we have a place to hangout for convenient playtime in the river. It is nice to have a porch to rest on and a bathroom if you need one. Sometimes, Chloe is a little timid about the current and likes to find excuses to go inside and watch tv. I really can't imagine choosing Suite Life of Zack and Cody over the cool water. Brent and I tubed in this river when we were teenagers. Mostly, the girls climb around on rocks and play in the mud. They really enjoyed having Stephanie and Olivia here to swim with. It is interesting to see how the river varies day to day. Sometimes it is higher and faster than others. After a rain, it is muddy for awhile. We also drive along other portions of the river when we go into town. I'd like to get brave enough to use a kayak or a raft; maybe one day.

2010-07-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

We watched fireworks in Dillsboro this year instead of Main Street in Sylva. Jackson county decided to not have them overthe courthouse anymore because of fire hazard near a historical building. I can respect that, but the huge explosions over that courthouse on a hill would just make you want to dance and shout the Star Spangled Banner and Dixie at the same time. This year, the crowd seemed a little milder and the fireworks show seemed so far away. I reckon we were spoiled; but, I hope that the community works together to improve it and get back to the July 4th that we loved in Sylva. Lynzi and Jill are waiting on the fireworks which were late to start. Lynzi gets very tired of having her picture taken; so, she was getting exasperated with all of our flashes. But, I do like this picture of Lynzibug. We enjoyed laughing at her and glad she got to spend the 4th with us.

A group of kids were giving out boxes of these pop-eyed spectacles. We collected a pile of them and played around with poses.

We sat on chairs and benches outside of the Dillsboro Chocolate Factory and enjoyed some street music, people watching, and frozen coffee drinks.

The Factory

2010-07-08T20:09:00.001-07:00

We have lots of fun at The Factory. We play various arcade games and try to win tickets to redeem extra fine prizes. The girls want to save up for lava lamps that are about 4 thousand tickets which seems out of reach since a big night of winning including donated tickets from our whole group only yeilds about a thousand. We'd be better off if I just bought them a lava lamp from Wal-mart; but, somehow it is just not the same.

Laser tag is exciting. Since I have this bad cough and can't run around much, I found a good hiding spot and shot at the base spot. I did get lucky and hit a few of my opponents. Toni is proud cause she "totally kicked butt." She still has her score sheet to prove it.

The Boiler Room is one of the best restaurants in the area. Several of us enjoyed prime rib that was on special. Lynzi just could not be pleased because 1. The menu had too many choices, 2. They don't cook the broccolli to mush, 3. Her sandwich (which was a club!) came with mayo and tomato. Lynzi is proof that picky eaters can grow up to be nearly normal adults which is relief for my daughters.

2010-07-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Jill and Curtis camped at Mile High Campground a few days before the 4th. So, they are official members of the mile high club I suppose. It is near Maggie Valley and a little difficult to find. They discovered it last year while driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It has an ok bathroom, no electricity, but stunning views. While our group chatted at their picnic table, I took a nap. My snoring kept the bears away.

Then, we rode the slow and winding drive into Cataloochee. This is an area of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park that was once a settlement. It now has a couple houses and outbuildings, a church, a school, a cemetery that are open for touring. The park service is reintroducing elk to this area. They are doing very well as the population is growing and the bucks get larger each year. This one thought Curtis was pretty cute.

Here Again

2010-07-02T09:23:00.000-07:00

I am here in Sylva again for the rest of the summer. By this time last year, I had already been in the mountains for a few weeks. But, our family had an amazing trip to Nevada and California that we are still recovering from. We saw Vegas, Lake Mead (along with the Colorado River and Hoover Dam), Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, and Yosemite National Park. Videos of that trip are being posted on my facebook profile as I find time to edit and upload.

My mom and dad brought Mrs. Smith last week after a family reunion camping trip in Helen, Ga. That's right: my mom and dad. The home belongs to my husband's family, but over the years mine and his family have truly become one big bunch. When I drove in late on Wednesday night, everyone was already settled in the house and the yard looked nice. It will be a lot less work than last summer. So far, all I've had to do was hook up service for the satellite dish.

At the house on 34 Dirt Road in Sylva, I have slept mostly in the same bedroom since I was only 16. It is such a familiar place; I have already arranged my summer reading in the nightstand, clothes in the dresser, and all my toiletries in a bit of order. At first, I was a guest of the family as the oldest son's girlfriend. Now, I've been married for 16 years and share the room with my two daughters and husband when he is here. I feel guilty leaving him in Florida with his normal routine of work and an empty house while we live the mountain life. But, not guilty enough to make me change my mind. Plus, there is the part about us being with Gah, who is 88 and would be alone most of the time without our company. It is strange to pack your bags and drive 10 hours to feel like you are simultaneously leaving home and coming home.

Cradle of Forestry

2009-08-13T13:38:00.000-07:00

The Cradle of Forestry is an area dedicated to teaching and preserving the idea of National Forests. When logging was so extensive in the Appalachian range, Mr. Biltmore dedicated an expanse of land for training forest rangers and botanists to learn how to manage forest areas. There is a small museum for kids to learn about forest animals, duties of a ranger, control burns, resources, and plants. The museum is kid friendly with hands-on exhibits and a scavenger hunt. The Cradle also has a cafe, a small theatre with a film about history of forestry, a nice gift shop, and an out door amphitheatre. We took the Porvazniks and Symonds over there one day to the museum and had a great picnic, too.

In July, they host the Songcatcher Series with various Appalachian bluegrass and ballad singers. This music is performed just as much for the sake of preserving cultural history as well as showcasing regional music. Their voices are nice in a certain way, but these people would not win American Idol. But, when they close their eyes and moan out these songs, it is mesmerizing to me. Anyway, we had planned on seeing Sheila Kay Adams, but the line-up was changed to Donna Ray Norton and Melanie Rice, who are cousin and daughter to Sheila Kay.

Before the performance, we were in the bathroom and these ladies were changing clothes. I thought their faces looked familiar (from a website on regional singers). So, I introduced myself and we launched into a conversation right there in the stalls about how excited we were to be there today. How sorry we were to miss hearing Sheila Kay since we loved her so much a couple years ago in Asheville. Sadly, she was absent this day as she has cut her touring down because her husband died not too long ago. He was Jim Taylor, who is quite famous for bluegrass also. I didn't know he was dead, so that was weird. They were happy to see Alma's interest in learning Appalachian music and told her to stick around after the show so they could hear her!!

It was hot outside and most spectators had yard chairs or quilts back in the shady area; but, not us! No siree, we were up front sweating in the sun. Alma wanted me to film all of the concert so that she could study the songs later. Afterward, she sang Miss Margaret for them and did a beautiful job.

Donna Ray had a couple of CD's for sale that we bought and she gave us a headsup about other bluegrass festivals we might like. Since then, we have become facebook friends. She has a website where you can hear samples. Most of these songs are about fighting, dying over a lover, drunkeness, and adultery. Alma hopes to perform on a stage someday, and Chloe has learned a couple of them also. That'd make any mama proud.

Alma got lots of attention that day, but Chloe did not get left out. I bought her a small Folkmantis baby possum in the gift shop. She was loving on it when a ranger asked her about what she had. "Well, it's a baby possum. I found it in the gift shop and it had no mama. So, I dopted it, named it Sam, and I will raise it and teach it to sleep upside down in trees and how to find it's food in trash cans." The ranger was relieved to know that Sam will have a good home.

2009-08-12T17:53:00.000-07:00

This is a spot in Fort Tatham Creek that I can access behind a small church. It is not on or connected to Mrs. Smith's property, but a very short golf cart drive away. Brent played here with neighbor boys when he was a kid. He has Brad explored this creek for lots of years. I began coming to NC with Brent's family when I was in high school, and we would wade an area of this creek and look for special rocks for him to paint on. Now, I bring the kids to play while I put my feet in the cool water and read or just daydream. Sometimes, I still get in and play with them. They coat themselves with mud and become "creek monsters". They throw rocks trying to perfect that skipping technique. We take the golf cart and just strip down to panties when we enter the thicket of trees. There is not much point in muddying clothes or a swimsuit since it is such a private retreat. Then, the girls ride with a towel back around them back to the house. Some little pools are deep enough to swim in. The water is always cold and refreshing. After a good rain, we can't go in the creek because it stirs the clay bottom up so that it is muddy. Even though they like to play in the mud, swimming in it is not so good and maybe not safe as we do have to watch for snakes. I enjoy rocky, fast creeks like Deep Creek and wide, slower ones like Ocunaluftee. Creeks are just about one of my very favorite ones from almost rivers to tiny, gurgling streams. I like to find shady bubbling places that seem so private to enjoy a time by yourself. The sound of the water is so relaxing. But, I return over and over to this place since it is convenient and holds so many memories for me. When I am in Florida, daydreaming about the mountains, I imagine this water running over the rocks eternally even when I am not there to enjoy it.

Cherokee

2009-08-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

Cherokee is one of my least favorite parts of WNC. I really do like to learn about the history of the Cherokee and I enjoy their culture and crafts. However, the strip in town that tourists get to see is such an exploitation. It is full of little tomahawks made in China and cheap tshirts. The neon lights and "chiefs" dancing with pink hula hoops in hopes of a dollar in their bucket is so trashy. I dread the visit; but, kids just have to go there to experience the Cherokee Indian side of the Smokies. So, I will highlight the parts that I do enjoy. The museum gift shop is great. It is authentic and has good prices. All of the kids got these little pocket knives. Outside of the gift shop is this huge stature of Sequoyah's head. I like to remind the kids who he was and that he is responsible for the Cherokee language (and later other tribal languages) being saved by creating an alphabet for writing. There is a Big Boy that my Ohio born friend Samantha was so excited to revisit. They have an Ohio burger with tartar sauce ??? and a Southern version that is just like a Big Mac. We both enjoyed our very own heritage burgers to go. The creek is Cherokee is just perfect for little ones to play in and tube. It is not too rough and rocky, but the current is still really fun. I enjoy taking a book, or catching a nap in my chair while the kids play. Gah really enjoys Harrah's Casino about once a week. She plays quarter slots for cheap entertainment and a social afternoon out with friends. The cigarette smoke is so intense that she comes home stinking like an ash tray. While I was relaxing creekside with Jill and Sam, I saw some old friends walk by. Seeing Brad and Maria Avans all the way from Leesburg, Florida, was such a surprise! It was so good to chat with them and see their kids; hopefully, we will get to visit with them some more when we get back to Florida.

2009-08-10T17:59:00.000-07:00

Gem mining is one of the touristy things to do around here. I am aware that there is some valid and valuable aspects to gem mining in The Smokies. People find rubies, sapphires, emeralds, garnets, and other stuff. But, when you find the real stuff, it just looks like a nondescript rock unless you have it cut and polished by a jeweler. Kids just aren't that into the real thing and it can be expensive for just something to fill an afternoon. While Jill and Sam were here visiting, and again when Jennifer was here, we got to take the girls to Sheffield's Mine outside of Franklin. I really like Sheffield's, because they sell a rainbow bucket for kids to find things that they can be excited about. It costs ten dollars and they get two good-sized buckets. They pour it in a real tray and get their hands in it. It might not be a ruby, but it is the kinds of rocks and geodes that they might want to buy from a museum gift shop. So, not a bad price for a quart size bag of colorful rocks. It's a nice drive out there through Cowee with some gorgeous valleys. On the first trip, I had six girls to myself (cause Jill and Sam stayed at the house to help with a paint spruce up). I was short about 5 dollars and this outfit does not take visa. Alma is a big girl with a great attitude, so she was willing to sit out and let the others do this with the promise we would return with out next set of guests. The guy behind the counter overheard and said to let her have the buckets and on my return I could pay the extra. So, the next week, I gave him 5 dollars extra. I don't think he remembered me, but he was so nice about it all. So, anybody out there finding this because you googled ruby mining, take the kids to Sheffield's; you won't be disappointed.

Nick and Nate's

2009-08-06T13:07:00.001-07:00

Nick and Nate’s is my favorite restaurant. I enjoy different kinds of restaurants for different occasions, company, and moods; but, Nick and Nate’s is my all-around anytime favorite. In North Carolina anyway. In ’94, when Brent and I honeymooned here, we were wandering around on Main deciding where to have supper. We decided on Andretti’s, which was a very casual zero-atmosphere Eyetalian place. (Eyetalian because that is how it is pronounced up here.) Mr. Andretti himself could be seen in the open window to the kitchen throwing his truly wonderful pizza dough with a cigarette held between his lips. That’s still allowed up here. But, even if a few ashes fell into it, it did not matter. We were so hooked on Andretti’s pizza that for several years, we couldn’t wait to return to it.

One year, we went with mouths watering for Andretti’s…and it was not there! We were in shock over our disappointment, but hungry enough that we went into see what had attempted to take it’s place. The waiter welcomed us and explained that Andretti’s sold his restaurant to Nick and Nate’s which is like the one on Main in Waynesville. Well, we were unaware of any Nick and Nate’s in Waynesville; and, how could this have happened to us while were in Florida and so unaware of changes taking place up here between summers?

But, the menu was enticing and I could already see they were doing something about the atmosphere problem by hanging old junk everywhere. It’s sort of like Cracker Barrel style, but sloppier and more eclectic with some local flare. I felt unloyal to poor old Andretti who much be somewhere with just a cigarette and no pizza dough. But, despite my feelings of guilt I developed a new passion that evening for Nick and Nate’s.

They have specialty pizzas with names like The Nantahala which is a miracle with spinach, pesto, feta; which, sounds Greek but is slightly different from The Mediterranean though. There’s The Barnyard for the meat cravers and a delicious Farmhouse for veggie lovers. The wings are great. The onion rings are perfect. They serve interesting local beer. And their homemade ranch dressing makes you actually crave a salad and, then, not wanting to give up the last bit, start dipping pizza crust in it. They also have a lunch buffet: a good way to get a fix for less money and time. I wish I could work there; the waiters seem to be so happy to see you and proud of what they bring to your table. (Plus, the Waynesville location has this really cute waiter who looks kin to The Rock.)

We’ve enjoyed both locations depending on where other activities take us for the day and have shared it with lots of family and friends who generally agree with our enthusiasm. (Uncle Fred did not like the pasta and they did not give free bread with it; so, don’t order spaghetti.) One of the most romantic things Brent has ever given me is a Nick and Nate’s shirt from one of our Thanksgiving Sylva trips. Once, after driving north all day from home, at a gas station just before getting to the house to unload, Curtis said, “Let’s don’t unpack. Let’s just go straight to Nick and Nate’s.” He’d been craving it all day and just couldn’t wait anymore. He did not have to ask twice; but, once again, were stricken that our place on Main was closed! So, in desperation the next day we drove the short distance to Waynesville. A waiter filled us in on the demise of the Sylva restaurant. It seems that there was a disagreement between the landlord and restaurant owner that required a fight..a real one in the street and calling the police…that caused them to close and rebuild a new one near the hospital. I am really looking forward to it and have been for two summers already. They are supposed to open on August 15th. I’ll miss the old one which is now replaced by an Ironstone Grill Steakhouse that was ok, but just did not do it for me.

Main Street, Sylva

2009-08-03T15:39:00.001-07:00

There is something so appealing to me about Main Street in Sylva. This is the Jackson County Courthouse in Sylva. It makes we want to sing Dixieland Delight or something. On the 4th, Sylva does fireworks that go over this courthouse; but, they didn't this year due to some construction. (That's why we spent the night of the 4th in Bryson City for fireworks.) Main Street businesses have to cater to special interests or have a certain charm to compete with Walmart. Sylva's Main has an In Your Ear Music that is very unique, Jackson's General Store, Blackrock Outfitters, Friends of the Library, and some other things. Chloe is enjoying a cupcake at Annie's Organic Bakery. Some of our crew is chillin on a bench outside of the Ironstone Grill which is a steakhouse that took the place of Nick and Nate's. Nick and Nate's is relocating and I miss it being on Main very much.

Waynesville Pool

2009-08-03T15:32:00.000-07:00

We participated in a week of "Everybody Wins Summer Reading Program" at Lifeway Community Church. At the end of the week, we got an invite to go along with two other families to the Waynesville Pool. It is a very nice facility with slides, olympic lanes, water spouts, and enough chlorine to burn your eyes up. Alma and Chloe have enjoyed making new friends and we were so excited to get to go to a public pool. We are very fortunate to have Nina and Grandpa's pool in Florida, but have never been in a public pool! Anyway, it was a fun little day.

July 4th

2009-07-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I never posted pictures from our 4th of July weekend. We had a houseful of fun going on for several days. Jennifer and Brad and the boys were here, Mama, Robert and Dee, Fred and MaryAnne, and Brent, too! And, Jill, Curtis, Kevin, and Toni, and Tiffany came over for the bbq since they were only a few miles away in Toni's grandparents (Bill and Betty Hill). We had about 30 people over for Robert's smoked chicken and pork and lots of other good dishes. We invited some good friends from Fort Tatham Campground to join us for the occasion. These are good friends who have spent many summers with Papa and Gah, so I was glad to people able to help Gah host a "feed", as Papa would have called it!
Then, some of us went to Bryson City for fireworks. I can remember lots of laughter and all kinds of stuff going on--such a shame I did not write immediately, because now, I just have pictures and knowledge that we had a good time.
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David and Cecelia

2009-07-20T18:00:00.001-07:00

I've been attending Lifeway Community Church in Sylva. Brent and I have visited several times in the past; so, I was already familiar with it. It is much like a Vineyard Church. Anyway, I went to a Monday night Bible study led by David and Ceceilia Burress. He shared a funny story about living in Polk County, Florida for about a year about 20 years ago. He got so fed up with it, and thought he was running back home to the mountains, but he realized he was going the wrong way when he saw signs for Miami. We laughed so much about this, as flatlanders have a difficult with directions in the hills. David says up here, people don't so much mind the north and south directions, but prefer "up river and down river." He is a welder and blacksmith. He GAVE me a push lawn mower to help with keeping up with the yard--another guy at the study fixed it up some, sharpened the blade, and delivered it to me! David and Cecelia invited us to come out to their house to participate in some blacksmithing. Another family was planning to be there and the stuff would be hot. Finding it was an adventure in itself--not far off the highway, but really deep ruts in the road and steep drop offs. David is very humble and quiet about his talents; but, he has quite a list of credentials from working on the Biltmore horse stables, the North Carolina State Fair, and the John C. Campbell Folk Art School. I considered it an honor to get to spend time with these locals who obviously love children and sharing their talents. Chloe got to hold the drum that David's great great grandpa beat in the Civil War! She also got to try on chainmail armor that their son made for a homeschooling show years ago. He helped both girls make a hook, which is a good first lesson in blacksmithing. In return for their lesson, they helped Cecelia shuck corn for her chickens. Chloe hopes that we get to return again for more corn shucking. We all enjoyed our visit and stayed much longer than we'd planned because it was just so relaxing and interesting.

Panthertown Preserve

2009-07-17T09:31:00.001-07:00

We hiked in Panthertown while Brent was with us. It is the place that I fell in the water while taking a picture with my blackberry. It is connected to the Pisgah National Forest, but not part of it. Panthertown is nicknamed the Yosemite of the South because of its vast views, rocky terrain, and waterfalls. It is very remote and the trails are not well marked. Mom and I came out here with the girls a couple of years ago, and I've wanted to take Brent ever since. It is a very strenous hike, but worth it. We only saw two other people while we were on the trail. There were other cars at the trailhead, but we did not see the people. We had to step over lama poop as some people rent them to take them through the area. We walked to one waterfall and took pictures before we found what we were actually looking for: Granny Burrell falls. You can climb all over it and swim all around. At the bottom is a deep pool. If you jump in, the churn pushes you back up and out again. The girls did this over and over, "just one more timeee!!" Brent did it once-- its very cold! Chloe said this one was her very favorite day because it was an adventure. Alma hunted sassafrass leaves and crushed them to smell the rootbeer scent. We walked through an old pine forest that looked like Hansel and Gretel. But, the waterfall was surely the best part and one we will hopefully return to.

Thad Wood's Auction

2009-07-16T06:51:00.001-07:00

Saturday night, we stopped by Thad Wood's auction to see what was going on. I've been there before with Gah and Papa, and it's pretty good entertainment. You sit in rows of old school auditorium chairs in this warehouse building. The caller, Thad Woods, is at the front on a microphone doing that auctioneer chanting. A couple of other guys hold up the items and take them to the seats of the winner. There is a snack bar over in a corner selling ice cream and popcorn and such. Lots of stuffed dear heads and other animals that are real dusty are on the walls along with road signs and some local memorabilia. You get this card with a number on it and if an item comes up you want, you hold it up. It can be intimidating; I did not figure we'd bid on anything, but just watch the show. You never know what's going to be for bid: furniture, appliances, deodorant, dishes, artwork, socks, peanuts, fishing lures, a watch, a case of moonpies, Ford hats, ....you just never know. It's a very random thing and I kept help but wonder where he gets this stuff. Some is obviously from estate sales; but, a case of hand sanitizer? We ended up buying 4 cases of Extra gum at $3 each and 2 cases of sparklers at $2 each. left over from the 4th. Brent got a diamond blade at $5 for some kinda saw. Gah got some bleach cleaner for $5. The kids were so surprised when they were calling out the cases of gum, and I said, "hold up your number!" They get lucky once in awhile with a pack in the grocery check out line; so, to have a case of gum to call your own is a type of wealth for a kid. When our friends come visit, we'll chew it while we run around in the dark with the sparklers.

J&S

2009-07-15T09:12:00.001-07:00

Last Sunday we went over to Asheville to go to an AT&T store since I fell in a river in Panthertown with my blackberry. So, any trip to Asheville with Ga requires a visit to Hamricks which is sort of like Beall's but more old-lady style. I did find a pair of Lee shorts on sale. On the drive over, Gah says, " I know ya'll don't like J&S, but how about let's eat there?" Well, just what do you say to that? Now, Asheville is nicknamed the Paris of the South. Rachael Ray has highlighted interesting places and I have noted some features on Asheville in other travel and dining magazines. However, EVERYTIME I have been to Asheville, we go to J&S. It is a cafeteria. Sort of like Morrisons. The food is not bad, it's just plain and the atmosphere would be rated about a 2.

We get in the line and Alma looks over the glass at the ladies with white smocks and hairnets and exlaims, "Lunch Ladiesss!!! I've never seen one before!!" I reckon that's something for a homeschooler to get excited about. We all picked out some stuff and my coconut pie was good as always. Our bill was a little over $30 which is disappointing since it was not really how we would like to spend our dining money. But, the girls loved it. They kept saying, "This chicken is sooo good.... This rice is sooo good." Now, come one, how good or bad can chicken strips and white rice be.?? I asked for cocktail sauce for my fish when I was going through the line. The lunch lady said she'd send some out to my table. A few minutes later, the same lady came out with it and said, "Sorry this took a few minutes I couldn't get those Mexicans to understand what to do." hmmm Pretty blatant for a public place. Gah really enjoys J&S, maybe its the predictability of the meal. You do get a lot of food. She and Papa enjoyed this place for years, and I guess it's good that Alma and Chloe finally experienced a cafeteria. As we were checking out, I noticed pamphlets that said they also cater. Since our girls loved it so much, we might have a cafeteria wedding reception in our future.

Pigeon River

2009-07-10T17:23:00.000-07:00

Pictures from the end of the Cold Mountain Heritage Tour at the Pigeon River. (They would not all fit on one upload.)

Cold Mountain Tour

2009-07-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

On June 27, the community of Bethel, near Waynesville, hosted it's 5th annual Cold Mountain Heritage Tour. I went on this tour two years ago, and thought that the rest of my group might like this. I know that Libby and Eddie love to see new mountain areas and that Curtis and Jill enjoy old buildings and such. So, that morning we went to the Mast General Store on Main in Waynesville to purchase the tickets. The proceeds go to support a renovation on a historical building in Bethel.

There is a Cold Mountain in Bethel that the author, Charles Frazier, used as the title in his book. Written accounts do actually verify an Inman who left his wife and daughter to fight in the Civil War. On his way home, he was shot by the homeguard. So, the book and movie are based on this Robert Inman's life in this place.

The first building is a Presbyterian Church that has historical significance to the community and a great nephew of Inman's was the pastor there during the 1960's. The thing about this that stood out most was the stained glass. We also saw Inman Chapel, that Inman's family began. It is a universalist church and sounded a little like some kind of commune. We visited Inman's grave and a local historian explained why Inman's grave did not recieve the honors or a headstone for a long time because he was considered a deserter. This was not the case, and you'd understand all that by seeing the movie. We also saw the oldest standing building in Haywood County which was a log cabin with an addition built onto it. It is thought that the builder of that cabin was a skilled furniture craftsman, because it is built with tongue and groove and has other really artistic features for its time. The original family handed it down and actually lived in it until about 10 years ago! This cabin did not get electricity until the 1970's; the old man living there walked over to a neighbors to look at a little tv now and then and everything else was gas or wood powered. We also toured a dairy farm that has been in the same family for 100 years. Now, in the big room they hold square dances and weddings. I think this could be the perfect place for Kevin and Toni's wedding; but, she did not seem to think so. I enjoy meeting locals and getting a look at the inside of things. But, my group is not quite as enthusiastic about it all. This made me really wish Brent was there to share it with. I felt a little tension about it because it was clear they were getting a little bored with it and I felt bad because they paid and committed a day when they'd rather be fishing. I was really feeling like somebody was pooping on my parade. But, the end of the day wound up at a pole barn with some music and food on the Pigeon River. I think everyone enjoyed cooling off in it.

But, the coolest thing by far was meeting Charles Frazier while I was at Inman's Chapel. He was talking to a reporter there doing an article about the heritage tour. I waited and Libby helped me to get his attention for a picture. I got his autograph in my notebook I had; too bad I did not have a copy of one of his books with me. As it turns out, he has recently bought acreage in Belleview! I gave him all of my contact information and told him how glad I'd be to show him historical things in Florida and that he might would like to see our farm. Jill kept picking on me for being a weirdo stalker trying to get a date with a very rich man. Maybe just a little bit of that is true. I seriously doubt I'll ever get a call, but I could not help myself. He is the most famous author I've ever met; and, surely, we'd have a lot of interests in common.

Why Are You Bald?

2009-07-06T14:50:00.000-07:00

Wayah Bald??? This is a short drive outside of Franklin. You wind up a road with lots of switchbacks and end up at this overlook tower. The story on a sign says that a wise Cherokee chief would take his grandson, named Wayah, up to this high point to study stars. It is also believed that other explorers, Ponce de Leon and William Bartram, used this place to create charts and maps as well. Libby took lots of pictures that I have used here. There are several other photos that I'd like to include, but blogspot does not seem to want them here. I'll try that again later, I suppose. And, what's up with the picture locations that I can't seem to move? Will a blogger help a girl out?

Tuckaseegee River Rats

2009-06-30T18:43:00.000-07:00

Hanging out at Bill and Betty Hill's (Toni's Nanny and Papa)- We rocked on the porch, enjoyed the river, and grilled some great burgers.

Flatlanders Lawnservice

2009-06-27T18:14:00.001-07:00

We all worked really hard getting this yard into shape. It was just the normal stuff: weeds and mowing; until, a tornado blew through last weekend. Then, we had to start over with a real big mess. The girls helped lots with good attitudes. Gah worked on weeds and trimming-she is really proud of this topiary. Mama learned to ride a mower up a VERY steep slope. It made me nervous to watch her. I got a new weedeater. A "girly" one-meaning can do heavy work, but light weight. It is a rechargeable battery Troybilt. I am proud of it. At first, I was not used to holding it at the angle of the slopes and it kept digging lines in it like a four year old giving himself a buzzcutt. The first patch of yard I did looked like someone hired Braille Yardservice. But, it got easier. My hands hurt really bad; and, I am considering using it to write words along the driveway. The worst part is Gah got a horrible case of poison ivy. I took her to her doctor and he prescribed prednazone and cortizone. She is still itching pretty bad. We got ahold of some poison ivy scrub today that Curtis recommended and she thinks it is easing up.

Jessica and Sheila

2009-06-25T16:19:00.000-07:00

Alma had a great experience at WCU's Mountain Mystery Daycamp. The stone cottage is a replica of a Scottish home long, long ago. The inside was a good rendition of their very sparse lifestyle, too. The Scots were some of the first European settlers in Western NC. The other picture shows her sample of weaving with scraps of cloth. She hopes to continue it to make a little bag or something. The cute, curly-headed girl is Jessica Gibson. She became Alma's friend in daycamp. So, on the last day, I introduced myself to her mother to explain our extended stay here this summer and hopes that they could spend more time together. Then, the mom, who reminds me so much of Rachael Ponds, asked, "Did you by any chance call the church about VBS last week?" Well, yes I did and spoke to their children's minister, Sheila Gibson... this girl's MOM! How weird is that!! So, on Friday of last week, Sheila and Jessica joined us at The Factory for a fun night. Jessica's dad is a graphic designer and even created the brochures and billboards for the Factory. We have also seen them at the Jackson County Library program that meets every Thursday afternoon. I am still surprised by this coincidence..... isn't there some piece of scripture about steps being numbered and even hairs on our heads or something?? cool, huh?

hodgepodge with no pictures

2009-06-24T08:31:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting in this little cafe in Franklin across the street from a park the kids like to play in. Mama is watching them while I update this blog. I am sooo frustrated because I can't seem to access the pictures from my blackberry. I am sure I will figure this out, but right now, I am running out of time. My internet time is so limited. This is my first hour since last Friday. So, in the past few days, we have been cleaning up limbs from a really bad storm, taking Gah to the doctor for poison ivy, dealing with satelite tv and insurance problems. Also, we've played in the creek, read books on the porch, played Canasta with Ft. Tatham friends. Yesterday we went over to Waynesville to toodle around in shops and eat at Nick and Nates. Nick and Nates was closed on Tuesdays ( I forgot!) So, we had supper at Bogarts, which is always good too. We also went to a book signing at City Lights this past Saturday. The author is Susan Gilmore and the book is Finding Salvation at the Dairy Queen. I enjoyed meeting the author, a very charming Southern girl. I have not started the book yet, but each night Gah reads and laughs out loud. Last night, she was up till one or so reading. It must be pretty good. I will try the pictures again soon and add some more here.

Mountain Mysteries Camp

2009-06-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

This week Alma has been able to attend this great day camp at WCU. Two of the Mountain Heritage Museum curators, Mr. David and Mr. Peter, teach 12 children (ages 8-12) Appalachian history, culture, folk arts, music, and botany. She made a quill and wrote her name in Cherokee, made a candle out of beeswax, cooked on an open fire, walked trails, played games the pioneers enjoyed, and enjoyed mountain music. Alma and I have an appreciation of country, bluegrass, and ballads. I love the litarary and historical signficance and the haunting sounds. Yesterday at the camp, Mr. David and a guest named Will entertained the kids with a concert. Will is a 22 year old who is an expert fiddle player and even makes his own fiddles out of maple. I got to hear a few tunes as I picked Alma up. As everyone was leaving, we heard more fiddle playing, so walked back in the auditorium. David was standing on the stage alone playing. No one else was in there, so we walked down to the front. I asked him if he knew any ballads. Duhh, of course he did. He asked Alma to sing "Miss Margaret" as he played. She joined him and did her most beautiful performance ever and the acoustics and lighting also added to to. As she was singing, her teachers wandered back in. I could see from their expressions that I am not impressed only because I am her mother. They were so surprised that a Florida girl knows these old songs, and gave me tips on how I can help to enrich this and continue her learning in folk music. I told them that I hesitate to tell mountain people that I am from Florida, because of the stereotype associated with Floridians. They assured me that they know that some Floridians are real southerners and not "half-backs"-people who move from up north, live in Florida awhile, then make it halfway back home showing their yankee ways with Florida license plates. Anyway, it was a chill-bump moment of Alma singing with and for these people. In fact, David personally knows Sheila Kay Ash! He told me I need to get her into banjo or fiddle lessons. hmmmm in The Villages?

tv and mail

2009-06-17T06:42:00.000-07:00

Gah and Papa move their satellite service back and forth from Oxford to Sylva. I called to move the service for her and found out that it's not so simple. Since the account is only in Tom Smith's name, it has to be closed out with a faxed death certificate and reopened for her. uggg. I told the guy her husband just died and she can't hear. She just wants to look at some news. Anyway, we are working on it.

I went to the library in Sylva to register the girls for the Summer Reading Program. I inquired about how I could get a card. It seems that I only need a piece of mail with my name on it matching my photo id. So, Brent is going to send me an envelope; hopefully, it will arrive today.

It's Gah's birthday. I wanted to do a little something special. She requested going to eat at Ryan's; so, I called up a couple of Ft. Tatham girls and they gathered five to meet us for supper. I enjoyed seeing Gah's face light up throughout the evening. These are some fun friends with a quick wit and fun spirit. They don't seem to mind that some don't remember well and some don't hear it to begin with. Zella Mae killed a snake yesterday. It was crawling under her cabin when she picked it up by the tail and swung it out and got it with a hoe! What's up with old ladies and snakes? After needing to be rolled out of Ryan's, they came over for canasta. We had enough players for two tables of four. Myram talked about how Papa used to aggravate the living daylights out of her over intense card games; he would "hex" the cards and get her all upset. Gah and Zella Mae won and then they began scheduling trips to the casino.

Gah's Birthday

2009-06-17T06:34:00.000-07:00

Friends in Lowe Places

2009-06-16T06:09:00.001-07:00

I had a nice morning hanging around W.C.U. and running a few errands while Alma was in daycamp. At noon, I picked her up and we headed back to the house. I expected to find Gah and Mama doing some cleaning and maybe getting the flower beds tidied up, but apparantly something else was up. There was a car in the driveway with a Texas plate. Standing in the door was a large, loud, friendly man introduced to me as Randy. He came to help out when Gah called him because the basement flooded. Mama said it was a couple inches deep. It's a big basement; that's a lot of water. The 29 year old washer had rusted out and sent this deluge when Mama tried to wash a load. I'm so glad Chloe went down there to play and found it before it got even worse. Randy told us to go to Lowe's and buy a new one and he'd help deliver and install.

I was still processing this when Mama said Gah killed a snake at the grape vine. It was black with some pattern and probably harmless; but, since kids play around there Gah killed it.

Heather, the little neighbor girl, came over to play and I helped the kids get some lunch before Gah and I went to Lowe's. She took a receipt for some flowers that died because they had a one year guarantee. The girl at the customer service department did not really know what to think about refunding dead plants. Gah can't hear, so I had to interpret by yelling and explaining. The girl called the manager. He was helpful and credited her with 19 dollars and then helped me to get what I needed for running the weed eater and blower: a little gas can and some stuff to pour in and mix with gas. Then, he walked us over to the appliances and apologized that we were having a tough day with the dead flowers and washer and all that. Linda in appliances was real sweet. Even in this one trip to the store, it was so obvious that some people can deal with old folks better than others. I had to holler Linda's sentences to Gah. Within, five minutes, a decision was made and we filled out the papers for delivery that was free with a rebate. They enter a purchase in the system by the customer's cell phone number which Gah could not remember. Then, at the checkout, she handed me her Mastercard and I taught her to use the little slide in thingy that you sign with a fake pen. This was so overwhelming, I had tears stinging my eyes, but she was a trooper.

On the way out, I asked her about the snake. She said, "I was at the grapes and it was there. Probably just a black snake, but it didn't offer to move, so I kilt it. I beat it's head in with a stick." Allrighty then.

We went to Harold's and got some groceries, then stopped at Randy's campground that he owns to let him know that we won't need help with delivery since Lowe's had a rebate on it. He showed us all around his place. It's real nice with very high end campers with beautiful decks and arbors built around them. In the center of the campground, he has an outdoor kitchen complete with a large flat-screen built in it. There is an old barn he converted to a gym and game room. They are adding a pool this summer. It's top-notch, but not real cozy with it's big concrete pads and brand new trees that don't give shade yet. He talks a lot and is rightly proud of his accomplishments with the campground. I was not surprised at all when he told me that when he lived in Texas, he owned two car dealerships. His knack for bullshit is superb. His wife, Dana, saw Gah visiting with Randy and came over and scooped her in a big hug that lasted a full minute. She is about fifteen years younger than he is and pretty although a little rough from lots of hard work. She has those sexy gapped teeth like the girl on CSI. Then, she hugged me too and went on saying how much she thought of Papa and would miss his funny suspenders. She wanted to hug his neck again. Gah told her how it was in the end for him and how much they both appreciated Randy and Dana's friendship and help in the recent years. It is obvious that Randy and Dana's love for Gah and Papa is very sincere.

After supper, Mama went down to clean up what was under the washer to prepare for the delivery of the new one. Then, she found wads of lint-whole piles of it- behind the dryer and no hose or whatever that is supposed to be there. So, I carted up to Ray's, a neighbor that I have never met, but who has been very nice to Gah in the past and has offered to help anytime. Here's his chance. His yard is a showcase of a garden with all kinds of plants, flowers, arbors, and a goldfish pond. He comes to the door and I see the hairiest chest ever. I hope my face did not do like Cramer at the ugly baby. He had intense eye contact skills that I tried hard to match rather than gawk at his gorilla chest as I told him about the problem. Thankfully, he put on a shirt and came down to see about this dryer lint. He told me just what to get at Lowe's (again!) and how to connect it. I was trying hard to understand as he used words like exhaust, connecters, clamps... oh boy. Then, he visited awhile and told about his new job that he's liking and about goldfish ponds in North Carolina. I didn't know that from November to March, you can't feed goldfish cause they need to hibernate in order to survive the icey water temperatures.

Finally, it was time to clean the kitchen and get the girls to bed. Mama was already asleep on the couch-so tired after sweeping out a basement of water and cleaning a winter's worth of dirt and dust off of the porches and ceiling fans. Gah told me and Randy, Dana, and Ray something special about Papa today. Papa said that he never thought of himself as a lovable person. But, through cancer, he received so many kindnesses from friends that he had changed his mind about that. Someone would have to be loved to get cards, calls, yard work, repairs, and just generally good care. I guess that's one blessing to be found in a slow death rather than a quick one. I'm glad he went to be with Jesus knowing that he was truly loved in this life.

Endings and Beginnings

2009-06-15T07:19:00.000-07:00

I was sitting with Lorene Smith, ("Gah" because my husband wouldn't say Grandma 36 years ago, and still won't.) in her silent home while we waited for news that her hasband of 64 years had gone to be with Jesus. I was praying because I certainly had no words for her and did not know exactly how I found myself in this most intimate place. Most of the family was with Papa at the hospital saying one more goodbye as the oxygen was unhooked to end his short battle with lung cancer. During all of this, our whole family had this awful stomach virus just in case losing your grandpa wasn't bad enough. After getting news of the finality of it all, but before even one hour had passed, Gah asked me if I'd come to the mountains with her and spend the summer. I was able to quickly answer with a yes.

Brent and I had already discussed this possibility if Papa was to die before summer, and if she wanted to go to their mountain home. Being a teacher does have this one great perk of long summers. I have loved western NC since I was a little girl going camping with my grandparents. When I was in highschool, I became part of Brent's family years before we were old enough to marry and spent summer vacations in his grandparents home in Sylva with his family. Brent and I spent our honeymoon in this house and at least two weeks each year since. Gradually, I started spending an extra week or two with his grandparents either before or after his time off of work to extend time in the mountains and time for our girls to be under one roof with great-grands. Two years ago, while here for July 4th, with all the family, I had a gall bladder attack and had to have surgery. Brent had to return home to work, so Mama stayed up here with me for a total of 5 weeks until I could return home. I was born with a longing for the mountains that I just can't explain. I get lonely for this place. I see this in my daughters also. Brent and I love the weather, landscape, culture, and history of this place. I am proud to be a Florida cracker, but the Smokies are a second home for me.

So, yes, yes, I will go spend the whole summer with an 87 year old lady who has just lost her husband. I will leave my husband, friends, and other family behind while my daughters and I do this whole other thing. It's kinda funny that some people live far from family all the time. I'm only coming for two months, and my sister, brother, parents, husband, and maybe some friends will visit. It's not really, that destitute or anything, it's just different for now.

Beginning the Journey

2009-06-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, June 14, after lots of good-byes to friends and family and one last hug with Brent, we began our drive to Sylva. I drove the Tahoe with Gah, and Mama drove my Vue with the girls and E.T., our bearded dragon. I would usually start a day-long drive very early in the morning, but my girls had their ballet recital the night before and I still had loose ends of things to do around the house. So, we did not leave home until 10 a.m. I was pulling a small trailer with a golf cart that helps Gah get around in the yard. Both cars were totally packed with stuff...clothes, games, groceries, electronic "necessities", books (of course!). We were blessed with traveling mercies. The road was pretty full, but no really bad traffic. Even with pulling the trailer, getting around Atlanta was not a problem. Thanks to Daddy for hitching the trailer and making sure we were safe travelers. Thanks to others who called to check on our travels and help me pass some road time and especially Miss Betty who called four times to make sure we were doing allright. Thanks, to Ed, our mountain neighbor who came over to get our water going for us and for the reassurance that his help is not too far away.

I did not get much sleep the night before this drive and was wondering how I'd ever pass at least 10 hours with Gah, who is very hard of hearing, so conversation might be limited. We started out with a crossword puzzle. I had some mix radio station on when she said, "I got some tapes if you want to hear em." She pulled out 3: Floyd Cramer, Oak Ridge Boys, and Mickey Gilley.
I took this as a hint. "Well, put in Mickey Gilley; I haven't heard that in a long time." She did not know how to insert a cassette tape which was another reminder for me to be prepared for generation gaps. I used my non-driving hand to help out with that, but it was not successful because the tape was old and squeaky. She did not seem to notice, so I told her that it was hard to hear it and I thought the tape was old, "No, it aint old. We got that when we went to see Mickey Gilley in Branson." hmmm, I think that was nearly 10 years ago. Then we discussed if Mickey was dead or not; I still don't know the answer to that. So, I put in a cd of Kathryn Scott which I thought would be pleasing to both of us. It has a track of What a Friend We Have in Jesus; Gah liked that part.

She is reading one of my favorite novels, Wish You Well, by David Baldacci. She would read a whole page or two between snoozes.

Mama and I chatted back and forth on cell phones some. My girls are really good travelers. We stopped in Valdosta and got some new bras. We tried to eat lunch at a Chic-fil-A that I once again forgot was closed on a Sunday. So, we went to Arby's. When we finally got to Franklin, we transferred the girls to our car and Mama went to Ingle's for some basic groceries. I was anxious to get home before dark to unhitch the golf cart and all that. I took the keys out of the ignition and could feel that familiar pit in my middle and a knot in my throat. I was trying hard to have some emotional control as I asked, "Gah, you doing allright, getting out here without Papa?" She just shrugged, "Wellll, yeah. Reckon I am." I guess that's really grace.

This mechanically retarded girl was able to get the cart off the trailer and unhitch with only two phone calls to her daddy. I was pretty proud of that. Gah was talking about her flowers and blueberries since Clayton as if they were friends she was excited to see. She immediately went to touch and inspect the plants before she went in to make tea. We forgot to put ice on the grocery list and Mama's cell phone had absolutely no service. Uh-oh, no ice! I drove the golf cart to our neighbors, but they weren't home. So, a little later, we had Digiorno's (Gah's request) and no drink. I reckon we are Southern enough that if you can't have iced tea with supper, you just boycott the whole drink issue.

There were nostalgic reminders of Papa's absence everywhere: his Ford Motors hat in "my" closet, stale graham crackers in the pantry, and boxes of tapioca pudding he liked me to fix him for a bedtime snack. I had to go out on the porch and call Dee. We talked for an hour or so about the day and being without him. Then, I joined Chloe for a few hours sleep.