(Post Written by Erinn Dumas)
After a great visit with our friends, it was time to take the long, windy trek into the Blue Ridge Mountains to a bluish grey house, tucked away on the side of a narrow road.
We were greeted with open arms, local sharp cheddar cheese and local white wine. We sat outside, just off the kitchen table nibbling on the cheese and warm ciabatta bread and olive oil while our gracious host Sara whipped up grilled chicken breast, grilled romaine lettuce, sweet peppers, and potatoes — engaging in sweet conversation and laughter.
Once dinner was ready, we took our plates to the upper level outdoor deck, where some of us sat on the floor and some sat on the bench – toasting to old and new friendships. As the night continued, Sheri and I kept getting to know Sara, while Adam caught up with his old friend over bottles of local Asheville wine. While Adam and Sheri put Maia to bed, I had the opportunity to check out Sara’s wine cellar and sample the Russian spirits she had brought back from a previous trip. In true Russian fashion, we shouted “Ogon”, which means fire, before taking the shots.
Before heading to bed, Sara warned us that we might get a furry black visitor in the middle of the night. And sadly, no black bears greeted us at our RV while we rested :-(. We were kinda looking forward to this unique experience as bears have been known to hang around her place.
After we woke up and made it to the house, Sara made us espresso and cappuccinos [yum!]. Then, we went to the outdoor shower, right outside her master bedroom. From there, we made a quick trip into town to grab lunch, and then went to Craggy Dome at the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As soon as we got in the clouds at the top, it literally rained on our parade. While we weren’t able to get a pictures there, Sheri and I were able to stop at an overlook on our way down and snap a few pictures.
This mountain retreat was the perfect way to start our weekend.
The Welshs Voyage West! 