A lot has been happening in our lives since August. This is part of an account of our family trip to Tennessee.

On Aug.9, 2008, Fourteen of us left on a family trip to Pigeon Forge, Tenn. We went in three vehciles. Our first night was spent in Valdosta, Ga. in an antitquated motel room! (ugh). The next day we ate a good breakfast and were on Interstate 75 by 10 am. There was a lot of traffic and we had to make frequent pit stops for various reasons. Keeping our little convoy together was hard at times and many of us got "caritis" before the long day was done. Just before we reached Atlanta and nothern Georgia, we began to see hills. This was a great expierence for some as they had never been to that area ! North Carloina and the beginning on the Smokies in Tennessee was beautiful! The roads wound through valleys, over deep ravines and up steep hills. There was a big variety of trees and vegatitaion.

As we approached Smokey Mountain National Park, our excitement grew!
We all marveled at the splendor of those majestic, rugged mountains.
Driving through them was a moving expierence and one I will never forget.
We saw a large moose feeding in a meadow just off the road. Many slowed down and some stopped to take pictures of this awesome creature, who just stood there, munching on grass. Our drive took us up steep inclines toward the pincacle of the mountain road.

We stopped and took pictures at Cumberland Gap. Its elevation was over 5,000 feet. The view was spectacular! Going down the other side was a nerve racking trip! The road was very steep and winding. We had to put our cars in low gear, at times I could smell the brakes! Needless to say we were all glad to get to less rugged terrain.
We arrived at Pigeon Forge about 7;30 pm and stopped to pay for the cabin we had rented which was about 4 miles from town.
It was on top of a small mountain. The road was narrow and winding. We went up, down and around trying to find it! Finally about 8;15 we arrived at our destination! Fourteen tired, happy people tumbled out of the cars and excitedly entered the house!
It was all we had hoped for and more!
The cabin had 7 bedrooms, four baths,a kitchen, dining and living room, a hot tub, swimming pool, picnic area , grill and two large porches! The view was wonderful! We ate a simple supper and soon many of us were in bed. NEEDLESS to say we all slept very well that night! .. More to follow