Welcome to JOYFUL REFLECTIONS. Also welcome to MARCH!!!! My header picture this month is a photo I took of the pretty Crocus blooms in our yard... The Crocuses and Daffodils are the first signs of spring here in Tennessee. I am definitely ready for SPRING...

Friday, March 21, 2014

A Cashiers, North Carolina Visit

Laurelwood Mountain Inn,  Cashiers,  North Carolina
This week (March 18-20, 2014)  we finally got to take our Valentine's Trip (which had to be postponed in February due to heavy snow in that area).  We visited LAURELWOOD MOUNTAIN INN in Cashiers,  North Carolina ---and loved this inn!!!!  The entire area is fantastic --especially for waterfall lovers like George and me. 

I'll start my blog post showing you a little from Laurelwood Inn.  Above is a photo of the building where our room was at the inn.  We had a nice room which included a king bed, microwave, frig,  full bath,  TV with cable and an internet connection...  This inn offered all of the comforts of home!!!!



Little waterfall/cascade outside of our room
Can you believe that there was a little waterfall/cascade right outside of our room????  How's that for waterfall lovers like us?????  We could sit on the porch and hear the water!!!!  SO NEAT!!!



More of the little waterfall outside of our room




I loved sitting in the swing on the porch --and listening to the waterfall.  Tis the LIFE!!!




George enjoyed the porch also for his reading!!!!



One more photo showing the building we were in at Laurelwood Inn
We highly recommend this little inn.  If you want more information,  click HERE for their webpage.  We went there using a Groupon coupon (which saved us quite a bit of money).  We use Groupons alot --and have only had ONE bad experience.  This one was awesome.




Beautiful CULLASAJA FALLS (along the Scenic Cullasaja Gorge Rd between Franklin and Highlands) 3/18/14
While in North Carolina this week,  we visited TWELVE different waterfalls and got in some great hiking ----so you can imagine how happy we were being there. The weather was good --other than one very foggy day (when we had to change our plans 3 times in order to see waterfalls).  Plan C worked out to be perfect for us that day --so no complaints at all!!!!!   Here are a few more photos taken at some of the various waterfall areas we saw this week...



Us at QUARRY FALLS (along the Cullasaja Gorge Rd) 3/18/14;  Do you like our new purple sweatshirts???  We bought them when we were in Hocking Hills last week.




DRY FALLS was definitely not dry!  I am standing behind the waterfall. (3/18/14)




George got wetter than I did since he walked the entire distance behind DRY FALLS!!!!




This is BRIDLE VEIL FALLS  (along the Cullasaja Gorge Road, near Highland,  NC); 3/18/14;  This is not a big waterfall---and we could not drive behind the falls (like we used to be able to do).  BUT--we loved walking behind them.




GLEN FALLS (2nd drop) near Highlands,  NC 3/18/14
This was our big hike of that day ---and it was very drizzly/cool/foggy when we hiked to Glen Falls.  We  hiked down to see two different drops/levels of that gorgeous waterfall.



TRIPLE FALLS  (Top two drops of the three--noting the name of the falls) at Dupont State Forest,  near Brevard,  NC  3/19/14
Just had to share this funny photo.. I don't know what joke George told me here --but it must have been a good one!!!!! ha.... The two of us have so much fun together whatever we do.  We loved the three waterfalls we hiked to at Dupont Forest (High Falls,  Triple Falls and Hooker Falls)--but this one was definitely my favorite one.



HOOKER FALLS at Dupont State Forest,  Brevard, NC 3/19/14
Here is the smallest waterfall we saw at Dupont --but we enjoyed it just as much as many of the others.  I'll have to share a funny photo sometime that I have when George first sat down for these photos.  He missed the jagged rock---and almost sat on the ground...  Funny photo!



WHITEWATER FALLS,  Lake Toxaway,  NC  3/20/14
As you can tell by the beautiful blue sky,  this was our prettiest day in North Carolina.  We hiked down alot of steps in order to get this great view of a fantastic waterfall.   Beautiful,  isn't it?

I have tons and tons more photos ----and will publish more blog posts from this area I'm sure.  As I said,  we got to do alot of hiking and we DID see many beautiful waterfalls.    It was a great trip ---and probably worked out much better than it would have if we had have gone in snowy and cold February...

Since we have had 3 trips this month (Arkansas, Ohio and North Carolina),  we are WAY BEHIND on our work here.  I'm taking a week off ---and hope to be back with you next Friday,   March 28,  if possible.   IF not,  I'll definitely be back on the 31st.   Can't believe that March is almost over --and that we have been SO busy...

Hugs,

67 comments:

Margaret Birding For Pleasure said...

Hi Betty. Well I am glad you finally got away on this beautiful trip. Love all the trip story and wonderful scenery. You 2 look so happy.

Ms. A said...

Beautiful, beautiful falls and scenery. I'm surprised to see so much green, considering the winter they've had.

Jo said...

Hi Betsy, I just love the names of the Waterfalls in the US. And the AMOUNT of falls you always see. I'm thrilled when Grant and I see ONE on a ten day bike ride through South Africa. I love the sound of the inn; it all looks so peaceful and I could almost hear the little waterfall tinkling outside your bedroom. Blessings and (((Hugs))) Jo xxx

eileeninmd said...

Betsy, the waterfalls are gorgeous. And the inn looks lovely.. What a great place to visit. Thanks for sharing.. Have a happy day!

Catherine said...

My goodness - you two always find such wonderful waterfalls! Beautiful!
Have a happy weekend Betsy!
xo Catherine

Arkansas Patti said...

What a perfectly lovely place. Looks like plenty to do for either the sitter and quiet enjoyer to the hiking and waterfall enthusiast.
Love that you could go to the other side of the falls. Cool.

Tanna said...

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful waterfalls!! And, I can almost smell the wet and wonderful smell of the woods hiking to them! But all that beauty pales in comparison to the love shining in each of your faces. That was a true treat this morning. Wishing you have safe travels! blessings ~ tanna

linda m said...

All I can say is gorgeous. I have added their website to my list of vacation spots. Thanks for the link. enjoy your time off and hope you get all your work done. Have a great weekend.

Joy said...

You two are really enjoying your life:) inspiring!
Have a a nice free week!

The Furry Gnome said...

It's absolutely amazing how you come up with all these waterfalls to visit! Wonderful. I so enjoy those little short trips together - in our case recently to the lancaster Quilt Show.

Linda at To Behold The Beauty said...

Oh, that inn reminds me of the Old Wonderland Hotel. It's more luxurious, of course, but the setting is similar. What a great trip for you. So many beautiful waterfalls and so many beautiful (and some funny) self-portraits.

MadSnapper said...

that cabin is my kind of home, would love to live in one but not that big.. and the porch, rocker and swing is the life i love the most. my kindle and that swing... oh my

Miss Debbie said...

I have been to Cashiers a couple of times...a beautiful place!

Out on the prairie said...

what a gem to visit, I loved all your fun you shared with us

Shug said...

Good Morning...

That place looks so peaceful and COOL. I'd love to be sitting on that porch right now....listening to the birds singing and hearing the trickling of the water on that little falls. Glad you both had the best of times....love seeing the smiles on your face!!
hugs
Shug

CJ STITCHING AND BLOOMS said...

Hello Betsy, you all find such wonderful places to visit.. I always enjoy seeing them all. and I also Love see you and George so happy and carefree. Hugs Judy

Janice K said...

Betsy, you are giving all of us Spring Fever and the desire to be able to get out and do things once again. It is hard to believe, but we woke up this morning to everything covered in "white" once again. However--It's supposed to get near 60 today?? Go figure!

George said...

These are wonderful pictures of our trip. But you need to remember that I have some funny pictures of you that I can post as well!

Sylvia K said...

A great, fun post for the day, Betsy!! And what a wonderful trip! I do love all of those waterfalls!! Awesome! Thanks for sharing the beauty, your terrific captures, and the fun! And, of course, have a lovely weekend!!

Big Dude said...

You are traveling folks for sure. Great shots of your trip - I especially like the ones of the two of you. We really like that area.

David said...

Betsy, I thought that we liked waterfalls! Not compared to you two...! We've lived over here in East Tennessee for 4.5 years now and we still haven't explored much of North Carolina. We have to get our act together and get 'er done! Take Care, Big Daddy Dave

Pat - Arkansas said...

What a lovely trip. Gorgeous waterfalls! Thanks for sharing your photos.

Serenity Cove said...

What a beautiful area! I love all the waterfalls and that inn looks awesome.
Just thought I would let you know its been snowing here this morning! Happy Spring!!!!

Peaches McGinty said...

Hi Betsy!
I'm so glad you and George finally got to go on your Valentine break, it looks like such a romantic place to be, you two look as happy as ever! I love ALL the pics, I love the waterfalls and I really love the pic of you and George at Triple falls (3rd one up from the bottom) it's my favourite one of you both! I hope you both have a wonderful weekend x x x

LV said...

I am sure there is no one else that has seen as many water falls as you two. Instead of a joke, I thought he was going to plant one on you, a nice kiss. What is wrong with George's knee?

Ruth Hiebert said...

I have to smile when I see the two of you enjoying life together.That is a beautiful sight,even better than all the beautiful waterfalls. You have to know that it also tugs at my heart just a little. :)

Brenda Kay Ledford said...

Oh, my, what beautiful photos. You've been visiting lovely places near my home. What awesome photos of the waterfalls. Thanks for sharing this awesome trip with us.

Rose ~ from Oz said...

Oh Betsy, the lodge and surrounding grounds are just perfection and the various waterfalls are breathtaking. There should be an official title for you and George and waterfalls. A calendar keeps coming to mind.
Enjoy your weekend dear girl!

Chatty Crone said...

This is funny - is that near Culloway, North Carolina? I swear that is the same cabin we stayed at - or at least a copy of it!

Yes it is beautiful! So serene and gorgeous.

You two are having fun.

Sandie

Ann said...

well that's the perfect spot for you. So many beautiful waterfalls. I like the looks of that inn also

Betty Manousos said...

oh, betsy!
what an AWESOME post for the day. i adore all of your photos-those waterfalls are truly amazing-but the photo of you sitting in the swing on the porch has my heart.

my gosh, what a great scenery!
it looks like such a beautiful place to visit..i always enjoy seeing those lovely places you visit, betsy.

it's so great the two of you enjoying life together!
enjoy your break!
big, big hugs!!
xoxo

Ginny Hartzler said...

The pictures of you two are the best ones ever. Especially the one with you laughing, Betsy. And these pictures have the most brilliant color! Gosh, I never saw a waterfall like this one, with a wooden walkway all the way around.

Busy Bee Suz said...

The cashiers area is really nice; we've enjoyed that area before too. Your Inn looks so darn cute. I love that you finally got your valentines trip in....and hiking and waterfalls?? perfect!!
I am a huge fan of Groupon too. XOXO

Elizabeth Edwards said...

do you use a tripod to get these couple shots? i love all the water falls --- so gorgeous!! what a gorgeous area. i love your trips. you always seem the most lovely spots. i am happy you both had such a great time away. ( :

i enjoy your cabin - lovely water spot.

Terry and Linda said...

George's knees are looking a tad sore! Love the place...someday maybe I will see for reals.

✿♥ღ Linda
http://coloradofarmlife.wordpress.com

Dr. Kathy McCoy said...

Beautiful! Perfect!! A belated Valentine's trip worth the wait!

Betsy said...

It looks as though you had a wonderful time and are very happy. Perfection. Thank you for sharing with us.
Blessings,
Betsy

Anonymous said...

Glad you finally got to go on your trip. What a fabulous place with the falls!

Cheryl @ TFD said...

Looks like a wonderful trip! Hope George hasn't hurt his knee. Take care of him so you can keep on hiking!
Yes, I'm up late. Our son is home for the weekend and we've been playing cards, eating and visiting. And laughing. I'm trying to get in a few comments before turning in, I'm so behind. Too many things I love to do and so little time!
Take care and have a wonderful weekend!

Lisa @ Two Bears Farm said...

We have looked at those Groupon stays several times, but have yet to try it. Sounds like you found a great place!

Hootin Anni said...

Always a treasure trove of fun places when I visit here. LOVE the photo of you 'under' the falls!!

DeniseinVA said...

It is always a joy to see your photos Betsy. You show us some gorgeous places!

Jeanne said...

What a great place to stay and with your own waterfall right off your porch!! Awesome pictures!!

Anonymous said...

Hi Betsy, Really beautiful waterfall pictures. So happy you enjoyed your vacation to North Carolina. I have been to that state a few times but have never explored much (airport and Smokys' state line. Have a wonderful weekend and enjoy your work time.

Carletta said...

Yah,two falls I know! Bridal Veil and Dry Falls.
So glad you were able to finally make the trip. Looks like you had good ruin as always.
Don't work too hard catching up. :
By the way we were there when Sarah came home and have already spent time with her.

Our photos said...

Nice waterfalls

Sally Wessely said...

Betsy, you look so relaxed and happy in this post. I think you needed this trip. I could love spending some time on that porch. Wow. What a porch. What a setting.

Lynda said...

I do like your purple sweatshirts. I was thinking that very thing and then you asked it. It's a good thing we didn't have to vote on our favorite photo cuz they are all excellent. That bridge behind the waterfall is quite impressive - - - very lengthy and good construction. Twelve waterfalls - - - VERY impressive!!! What about George's knees? Is he having problems? I wore that kind of brace my last year at work when I had to stand so much resulting in inflammation and pain.

amy @ Life in Pink Hi-Tops said...

What a great trip. The inn looks fantastic. I'd love to have a porch like that. The falls are beautiful. I love the picture of you and George laughing! FUN!

Small City Scenes said...

Oh my what fun you two have. Love all the photos and love all the falls.

We have a Dry Falls out here well it is in Eastern Washington. Supposedly larger than Niagara Falls but now it is the desert and very DRY. Still beautiful though. It is in a state park now.

You guys look wet and wonderful. LOL
MB

Ercotravels said...

Yours pictures tell us that you had a wonderful trip.

troutbirder said...

Hiking in an awesome setting, camera in hand with your soulmate. Life is good....;)

Dee said...

DEar Betsy, I, too, love waterfalls and you've shown us some wonderful ones in your postings, including today's. I used to camp for two weeks with a friend in northern Minnesota each September. There is one state park there that has such a gorgeous waterfall.
The sound of it. And the light flashing on its fall. That's beauty. Peace.

Susie Swanson said...

Wow, what beauty. I love the waterfalls and your photos. Cashiers sure is a beautiful place. Thanks for sharing. Hugs, Susie

A Colorful World said...

What a truly gorgeous place, and I LOVE all the waterfalls! Just the perfect trip for you two falls lovers! And, you both look so cute! Glad you had such a wonderful time.

Small Kucing said...

what a scenic place. George captured the waterfall well. I can practically hear it roars over here.

Beatriz said...

You really like waterfalls!!!
This place is fantastic, isn't it?
It's a pity I live so far away...
Thanks for sahring so many beautiful photos Betsy!
Big hug

Bia
www.biaviagemambiental.blogspot.com

Neal said...

Looks like you had a great time and definitely got some great pictures.

Connie said...

Looks like such a pretty place to visit and made just for you and George with all those waterfalls!

Pat Tillett said...

What a beautiful place to stay! I really liked the reading lamp on the porch (behind George).
What lovely scenery! You got some good exercise and took a lot of great photos...

Pat @ Mille Fiori Favoriti said...

Betsy you and George are having so much fun! It is so wonderful you share a love for the outdoors and hiking to see all these beautiful waterfalls! I loved the looks of the 'dry" falls! It reminded me of when I walked behind a portion of Niagara Falls.

It's been bust here as one \grandchild after another came down with bad colds/congestion--so I was babysitting quite a bit to help out. Now, thankfully, all are well and the youngest boy had his third birthday.
Enjoy your yard work and upcoming trips --I love seeing all your photos on facebook!

Cheqna said...

Hi Betsy!

Twelve waterfalls? wowww...you and George surely had a lot of fun then being to each one as I enjoy seeing all of them here.

Love the funny photo...my eyes zoomed on you both before I noticed the lovely background..haha..

I realised nowadays whenever we go on trips, almost the first thing that we checked is the free wi-fi, ..so to get somewhere like the inn that you went to would be perfect...hehe..

Have a great Friday/weekend.

:-)



Janie said...

This looks like a beautiful place to visit, and such a quaint little inn. Next time we go to Atlanta, I'd love to take the grandkids up there.

Grandma Bonnie said...

That little water garden with waterfall is so pretty. It makes me wish summer would hurry and get here already. I hope you enjoy your break.

Twilight Man said...

I always admired all your travels and lovely photos that bring sweet memories! However I prefer the American holidays like yours in the nature's bliss of greens and waterfalls.

Rohrerbot said...

I'm catching up with your adventures. You both have been VERY busy! I would love walking underneath the waterfalls. I enjoy the lodges and hikes that have lots of interesting little features. You must see birds on all of your treks:) I wonder which ones?

Heidrun Khokhar, KleinsteMotte said...

I envy you that you can find and enjoy such beauties and the two of you look radiant.