Friday morning we arrived in North Carolina to meet our friends, Mike, Leeann, Lane and Quinn. We explored our cabin, the views the fireplace and went to the grocery store to get some supplies. We also made a stop at the Mast General Store Candy Barrell for some candy because no vacation would be complete without candy!
Saturday, we made a trip to Blowing Rock. I am still not quite sure why the Blowing Rock even exists, but I was too worried about children falling over the edge to read the information. That tends to happen these days.
After the actual Blowing Rock, we made our way downtown to eat lunch and watch some football. There was a park downtown too, so we played on the playground a bit and headed to Linville Falls.
After a long day of hiking and exploring, we needed some s'mores! Who doesn't love s'mores while in the mountains or anytime for that matter?!
Sunday morning was Grandfather Mountain. The entire mountain was great. We started out checking on Split/Sphinx Rocks and then traveled further up to the Nature center. They had native animals like otters, an eagle, deer, a mountain lion and some bears.
When we made it to the top, 5,280 feet up - 1 mile and IT WAS WINDY! I think sustained winds were at least 40 mph and gusts up to 60. We got up almost to the suspension bridge and I was holding Kate and I could not go on that bridge. I put Kate down for a second and she almost flew off the mountain. I was outta there and took the kids with me. Craig, Mike, Leeann and Quinn made their way across. Jack then wanted to go out on the bridge so I prayed and let him go. I may be a little dramatic here, but it was windy, seriously. The views were beautiful and it was worth the fear and drive to see God's creation.
We had a great time. I am glad to be home, but a little time in the mountains enjoying nature with some sweet friends, was wonderful!
