1) The anticipation- this is where I make lists and pack things and feel smug when it all fits into the carry-on bag.
2) The execution- the actual trip (Except for the flying part. Flying used to be awesome but it isn't anymore.)
3) The reflection- looking back and putting the photos into scrapbook pages.
I've been deep into part three lately (when I haven't been unpacking boxes and making decisions about where to put things). Got nine scrapbook pages done yesterday- most of them about the trip and there are many more to come!
On Thanksgiving Day, the processing center for OCC was closed. So we went for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and saw this big
In real life, it was owned by textile magnate Moses H. Cone. You've heard of Levi Strauss? Cone provided him with denim. Cone died in 1908 and his wife in 1947. They never had kids, and the mansion was donated to the Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital upon her death, and then to the National Park System a few years later.
Today the grounds have beautiful trails and the house itself is used as a shop to sell items made by local artists and craftsmen. We spent a lot of time browsing, but there wasn't anything in my price range that I couldn't live without. We weren't allowed to take pictures inside, so I can't show you any of the beautiful carved wood, stained glass, and textile items for sale. I guess you'll just have to use your imagination.
Can you just imagine living there? What beautiful views to wake to every morning!
