Happy Fall from the Smokies

This week was a difficult one to navigate. A family trip had been planned for months and landed us close to the destruction and devastation from Helene. Do we cancel the trip to the Smokies? or support the local economy and continue? Hours of watching, calling, and planning placed us right in the middle of Sevierville in the Great Smoky Mountains…on the route to so many volunteers and support groups to western North Carolina. Our heart goes out to all of those affected with loss.

If you’d like to help, Samaritan’s Purse has feet on the ground and is a great place to start. There are so many other great organizations assisting, so hope you will join in supporting.

Have you been to the Smokies?

It’s one of our very favorite places to go. We had plans for Asheville in November as part of a birthday celebration. I cannot even imagine what’s happening there. Just join me in prayer for them, won’t you? Here’s an update on Biltmore.

We have camped in the Smokies; stayed in Lodges to hear the babbling brook outside more times than I can count; and then stayed in other places for different experiences.

This week took us to a family member’s condo nestled into the wooded area of the Smokies. Peace, tranquility, mixed with laughter and time around the table with family were all a much needed reprieve.

What to do in the Smokies?

Of course, the Smokies are known for the incredible trails, hiking, camping, and outdoor activities. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is open; but, it’s a good idea to check with them before making a trip there.

For this trip? Dollywood was on the agenda.

This week Dolly announced her support and contribution to her home mountains for Hurricane Helene Relief. Another great reason to support Dollywood since they are matching support with Dolly.

I’ve shared Dollywood for a June visit before. A visit to Dollywood is always magical. The shows, foods, entertainment and garden themed decorations are amazing no matter what time of the year you go.

Here’s some of our favorite parts of this year’s trip…

• Being with two of my sisters for their first visit to Dollywood brought much laughter. We are missing one sister from Alaska in the middle still of her doctor duties saving lives! She would have laughed at us all so much! My brother, the world traveler is probably somewhere across the world right now.

• The Cinnamon roll bread…yes, it was as good as we had heard! That bread missed the photo op…it was so good, it was eaten before I got a photo!
• A new show featuring a 13 year old inspirational vocalist, Tate Emmons was a highlight of this trip. Songwriter and great vocalist, we were so glad to hear him make his debut in Dollywood.

I chose this photo to share with you because Tate’s aunt, who wrote one of his songs for his new Christmas album, is seated in the wheelchair. We had the pleasure of meeting her later in the day. Keep her in your prayers as she navigates effects from a brain stem infection. It was a joy to meet her and to hear Tate’s concert.

• With each season the park transforms with incredible decorations to celebrate the season. They never disappoint.

• And of course, Dolly’s niece, Heidi, with the “Heidi, Kin and friend’s” show is a must see for sure. Beautiful! Heidi’s beauty and voice let you know both run in the family.

Dollywood at any season is a wonderful place to be.

And right now? Your support of their area is needed more than ever. So thankful we went.

Other things to do?

There are just so many ways to entertain kids and families in this area that are too numerous to list.

The food in the Great Smoky Mountains is wonderful. We loved local places and the Five Oaks Farm Kitchen was one of those that is special.

We always love shopping together at different places than we can find at home. So many great outlets and shops that are unending.

For families? Shows, like the Pirates Voyage Show, Dolly’s Stampede, and the Hatfield and McCoy dinner show, provide something for everyone.

The end of October brings a hot air balloon celebration to the area. Wouldn’t that be fun?

And in other table talk news this morning…

Are you a fan of Farmer’s Almanac?

If you haven’t checked yet? Here’s the forecast for the US.

I’m a fan of snow…so lucky me! Don’t shoot the messenger!

Fall always brings a birthday for me.

We are shifting because of Helene destruction to other places to celebrate. SOOO…I need your help! This is a new decade birthday…so, my husband is considering trip options.

November is not the most gorgeous time to travel…so your assistance is appreciated.

If you were celebrating, where would your travels take you? I’d LOVE to know in the comments, please.

Does Fall bring you to more baking?

That’s happening here already. I’m trying to hold off from the things I love…but, more pumpkin recipes have been tried and made it over the top. Two of those pumpkin recipes will be featured in the November Vue…so, I’ll share those in a few weeks.

This past week took me to other baking favorites for fall:

• Sweet and Savory Acorn Squash recipe that was the perfect lunch option.
• Zucchini Bread
• Pumpkin Bread

I can’t wait to try this recipe:

• Pumpkin Spice Latte

Happy baking, enjoying all that makes fall special, and gathering with friends and family who have their feet under your table. May your transition to fall include a bit of rest, fall beauty, and great food, friends.

Love to you all,