January 3, 2015

We stopped in Waynesville, NC, which is about 30 miles Southwest of Asheville, NC on the way home.  I wanted to stop at the Mast General Store, but as luck would have it, however good or bad, Main Street is loaded with 'little shops' in which to venture.

Oh yes... We ventured!

The following pictures a 'signs' that stood out.  The first one is on an apron... 

Any guesses as to why it is on an apron?

The following are self explanatory... 

 

January 1, 2015

We visited the Biltmore Mansion in Asheville, NC this past week.  It is a magnificent!  The building and the landscape architecture was very evident.  The time of year did not diminish the tour nor the story behind what brought it about.  It would be best to visit between Spring and Fall to view it in all its splendor.

The first picture does not tell the whole story, but it does give perspective.  Biltmore could be dubbed "The Downton Abbey" of America. 

The next picture give an overview of the building architecture.  This is above the front entrance.

The third picture give a hint of the landscape architecture.  Vines were planted at the base of many columns.

The last picture reveals the ingenuity throughout the facility.  This is in the stable, which is now the Stable Cafe.  The mechanism is of the gears and fittings used to open the large round top casement windows above the stalls.  Ingenious ingenuity!

We visited downtown Asheville as well, which is a "destination."  Many restaurants, shops of all varieties, galleries, and all within walking distance.  

Our highlights were having ice cream sodas at a converted FW Woolworth store which in now a gallery, BUT the fountain was preserved and has a great reputation for good lunch food.  Later, someone had a craving for some Gourmet Potato Chips.  For dinner, it was The Tupelo Honey Cafe.

We sat at the 'Chef's Counter' and watched the staff prepare the food.  It was so interesting and fascinating to watch them work to bring an order together.

Happy New Year!