V6 – Another Mountain to Climb

Grandfather Mountain is an enormous mountain, that when viewed at the right angle resembles a sleeping man. At its peak, it’s more than a mile high.

It's known for its swinging suspension bridge.

OK, so I didn’t get on the ladder when I painted the kitchen and would clutch a bit when looking over Skip and Kathy’s balcony. I had to go! And I loved it!

Once again, I confronted my nervousness and the altitude for glorious views of the area.
Taking the first step on the suspension bridge was pretty challenging, but it felt quite secure and once I got going, it was fine.

Walking over this bridge really was an important thing for me to do. It DID swing a bit (not much, though) and I DID look down, because I figured that was important to do. (Having said that, I didn't look down too often... just out!)

Rick and Skip went higher. I did a bit, but not as much as they did!

The mountain has a glorious natural habitat area, where we saw the eagle…


The bear (Skip got him to sit up!)…
And the cougar.

The museum was equally fascinating, explaining the history and geology of the region.

Back home to a farewell dinner and another game of dominoes.

The following day, we hit the road for home – and 13 hours later arrived to a happy little marmalade Gypsy. (Thanks, Claudia and Kate, for checking in on the orange-boy!)

The pleasure of the holiday was multiple for me. A desperately needed vacation with lots of downtime; good friends; family; new experiences; beautiful countryside. It was especially wonderful to get to know Rick’s family outside of a wedding or reunion when there are lots of people around. My thanks to all who were a part of it!

(This is the last of the V-posts -- anyone commenting on any of the vacation posts marked “V” (this is “V6”) might be chosen to receive my vacation souvenir packet with items from West Virginia, Myrtle Beach, and Banner Elk, North Carolina!). I’ll draw and announce soon!

It includes small shells picked up by me on Myrtle Beach (not pictured), rustic color pencils, some playing cards from the beach, some mini-flipflops that y ou can use as an ornament or embellishment, a packet of folk-art notecards, a lovely quilt card and of course the obligatory souvenir postcards!