I woke up this morning to the crisp cold mountain air that gives you an unbelievably invigorating feeling that gets you ready for the day. Enjoying the nip in the air for a few moments from my deck, with a steaming cup of coffee, while gazing at the snow capped Smokies I begin planning a day just for me. So many things to do! I have a decision to make…go shopping - maybe for some warm clothes to go skiing, ah, a nice day on the slopes… maybe a day at the spa…orrr the spa can come to me… a massage in the cabin… after skiing? Another cup of coffee.
A nice hike will do just fine, so I pack the Trail Mix and I’m off. Laurel Falls is a 2.6 mile hike round trip on a nice paved trail with a beautiful end at a 60’ waterfall. The trail was rewarding, to say the least, and I have spectacular photographs to return home with. The drive through Cades Cove and the Smokies presented an array of brilliant scenery with the mixture of snow on the trees and on the river banks to add to my photo collection!
Another cup of coffee in front of the fireplace and dusk is settling in. The fire is cozy and the Christmas lights and Christmas tree make me feel right at home and in the Holiday spirit. The plans for tonight are to take a stroll in the Winter Wonderland that is Downtown Gatlinburg and make the rounds through some of the specialty shops in The Village. Homemade crafts and candies abound in this bustling setting. The pure excitement and magnificent surroundings have made for an amazing day in the Great Smoky Mountains and a relaxing soak in the Hot Tub will make it complete!
Tomorrow, maybe I will sip wine in front of the fire…hot chocolate with extra marshmallows …or have that massage……….