Getting together at the holidays can be complicated. The suggestion for a family gathering in early November became reality with some herculean effort on the part of the travelers. Getting ahead of the holiday travel rush proved to be a bonus in scheduling travel plans.
It was so good to see everyone. It was fun finding things to do as well as enjoying good food. Putting our Plant Based Chef skills to the test was an adventure, well at least for the chefs. Finding things to do was easy. The final list came down to enjoying time together, a trip to the Biltmore Estate, a hike on the Brasstown falls trails and capping it all off with a brew at the Jocassee Valley Brewing Company.
What is a family gathering without good food. Would you believe all of this is plant based?
A campfire on the deck, great way to catch up and to finish off the dinner dessert.
Nothing can beat a warm evening, a campfire and a little wine to end the day.
Our timing for the Biltmore was right on. The Christmas exhibits had officially kicked off the day before. The day of our visit, it rained so staying dry became a full-time job. The bright spot was the house tour, the holiday decorations and enjoying the botanical gardens.
Back at the Biltmore Estate to enjoy the Christmas exhibits. The weather forecast double crossed us with a dreary rain instead of the expected sunshine!
Here we are just trying to stay dry.
Colorful shot of the waning fall landscape, in spite of the weather.
Still smiling – looking forward to a fun day.
Touring the house, the highlight of the day.
Of course, a tour of the gardens is part of the visit.
Found someone to take a photo of this smiling group.
Being in the conservatory was a good way to keep dry…
Is everyone ready for this shot!
The Biltmore Estate Stable Restaurant an excellent choice for a late lunch.
There is always a hike or two in our times together. This year was no exception. Traveled to Long Creek to hike the Brasstown Trail taking in the three falls. This is an enjoyable easy hike with impressive waterfalls. Took in a new brewery which was a great way to end that day.
Then there was an outing to the Brasstown Falls an impressive stop.
Good hiking trails makes it easy to see all the different falls.
Loved our time together.
More camera opportunities.
So much fun to have visitors from the north.
The pull to get your feet wet was irresistible for some.
Looking forward to next year.
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