Trip to Mountains

We have recently returned from visiting my parents. While we were there, we took a day and drove into the Smokey Mountains for a little fresh air and a view of the beautiful fall leaves.  We drove through the Nantahala River Gorge area....we climbed Clingman's Dome, and although it was foggy, it is said that that was the clearest day the Dome had seen in a very long time.  The leaves were beautiful and the weather was wonderful!  We also drove into Cherokee, NC and checked out the local heritage...well my family and I showed it to Matt.  Being part Cherokee Indian, I am quite familiar with the area, but it was nice to be able to share that with Matthew.  We also drove to Cades Cove, TN and toured the 11 mile round trip around the park area. We saw several deer, turkeys, many tourists, and a couple of bears.  We had a picnic on the grounds of my mom's wonderful fried chicken, some macaroni salad, pineapple, strawberries, grapes, and various other items.  We also took a day and visited the Apple Festival in Ellijay, GA...also something I grew up with, but I wanted Matthew to experience the festivities.  It was very crowded, but there was good food and again the weather was wonderful!  

Photos