Arbor House News and Views

Turning the heat on!

2011-10-02T07:50:00.000-04:00

Fall is here ready or not. Looks like a good morning to have the first fire in the dining room fireplace to enjoy with breakfast this morning. Yesterday I made home made apple butter to go on the hot biscuits this morning. We are using the last of the peaches and will not see them again until next spring. But we have several varities of apples from the local Henderson Apple farms and lots of recipes to use them.
Looking forward to making these.
Apple Butter Bars.
1/2 cup butter, 1 and 1/2 cups all- purpose flour, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup white sugar,
1 egg and 3/4 cup apple butter, 1/2 t baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice, 1 cup raisins, 1 cup confectionser's sugar, 1/4 t vanilla extract and 2 T milk.
Directions:
Preheat over to 350 degrees. Grease a 13x9x2 inch baking pan.
Beat butter or margarine until creamy. Add half of the flour, the brown sugar ,white sugar, egg, apple
butter, baking soda and apple pie spice. Beat together until well blended. Beat in remaining flour and stir in raisins. Spread in prepared baking pan.
Bake for 20 -25 minutes or till toothpick in center comes out clean. Cool in pan or wire rack. Drizzle with icing* . Cut into bars.
* To make icing. Mix 1 cup of confectionser's sugar, 1/4 t vanilla and 1-2 tablespoons milk.
Mix to drizzling consistency.
Enjoy.

Honk if you like fall

2011-09-16T09:09:00.000-04:00

I do believe that honk if you like fall was written on the water at Lake Tomahawk this morning because the travelling Canada geese were all honking like crazy. There was a little nip in the air this morning when I took a lap around the lake and people are starting to put on that little jacket for their morning stroll. Looking forward to some cooler weather, baked apples in the mornings and a wood fire roaring in the dining room. Come join us for the fall leaf show it's suppose to be great this year.

Christmas at Biltmore

2011-09-13T06:48:00.000-04:00

Make you plans to come stay at Arbor House and go see the wonderful Christmas trees and decorations at the Biltmore house. Each year I am amazed at how beautiful it is and the large tree in the dining room has a different theme. We have partners tickets here at Arbor House at a good price for you and you can add on the extra price to attend the candle light tour at night if you want. If you want something to put you in the holiday spirit this will get you going.

Lake Tomahawk

2011-09-12T09:39:00.001-04:00

The good rains we have had cleared up the lake and it looks like a mirror reflection of the trees and walker with his dog. I wanted to be out walking this morning but had to just be content to take a few pictures off the balcony while the guest had breakfast. Some of them did enjoy a walk around the lake this morning to build up an appetite for " Granola Blues" , blueberry granola pancakes . The path around the lake is a great flat walking area and only .55 miles around the lake. Everywhere you look you can see the mountain tops or just enjoy the ducks playing in the water.

Some upcoming fall events

2011-09-10T08:42:00.000-04:00

In the Sunday paper this morning there was a list of upcoming fall events in the Asheville area. Come check them out.
"Tiffany at Biltmore, Biltmore Estate, through Oct. 23" We have tickets here at Arbor House for partners price , savings over the door price.

"Salute to F.Scott Fizgerald weekend, The Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa. Sept 23- 25th"

Oktoberfest, Downtown Asheville. Oct. 8th

Lake Eden Arts Festival, Black Mountain Oct 20- 23

The Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands, Asheville Civic Center Oct 20 -23

Moogfest, Downtown Asheville, Oct 28- 30th

River Arts District Studio Stroll , River Arts District. Nov 12 -13

For more infromation on these evens, vist wwwexploreasheville.com

An Excellent year for leaf lookers

2011-09-08T07:56:00.000-04:00

According to the Black Mountain News this report gives hope to a pretty fall here in the mountains.
" Due to weather conditions over the spring and summer months. Kathy Mathews, Western Carolina Univerisity's fall foliage forecaster, predicts an "excellent" fall color show.

Can't believe it is Sept. where did the summer go?

2011-09-03T10:47:00.000-04:00

We have had another busy summer and looking forward to fall. Wish I had a "in" to let everyone know when peak season will be best to veiw the leaves but no such luck. It is nice that in the fall there is color either up high on the mountains or where we live. We get to enjoy the color for months that way.

What our guests are saying:

"HEI!
I just wanted to say that our stay has been wonderful. We could not ask for anything more. Thank you so much for your wonderful hospitality."

Guests from Norway

" This was our first stay in a "new" B&B and we loved it! Everything was designed to enhance the guests enjoyment from the site location to the design of the house, gardens, and interiors. You have been very gracious hosts and we will return and also recommend you to friends."
Knoxville , TN

Welcomed breeze

2011-08-09T09:58:00.000-04:00

Took a long walk around the lake and downtown this morning and the breeze was so wonderful. It has been a long hot summer and the breeze was a reminder of cooler days to come. I especially like walking in the early morning and enjoy watching the sun coming up turning everything a light gold and the clouds have a pink tinge color reflecting the suns rays.
The garden is putting on the yellow, gold , red and purple show right now. We had a couple good rains this week and the garden is perking up. I hate it when everything is hot and dry and just gives up. I can't water enough to make it look like it does after a good soaking rain.

Pretty and purple

2011-08-07T11:17:00.000-04:00

" Dear Carolyn and Dave,
What a wonderful place to spend our anniversary weekend! The lake, your beautiful gardens, the peace and tranquility of the house and the then there was the treat of seeing Natalie! Your breakfast and your company are the final touch. Thank you for sharing your lovely home.
We'll see you again."
North Carolina

Some like it hot but not in the mountains

2011-08-06T10:26:00.000-04:00

We are looking forward to some cooler temps this weekend and next week. All the summer flowers are starting to wilt and everyone wants it to rain. It's hard to keep up with the watering in the flower gardens. A good soaking rain would really help.
This summer has been the best one since we have started the inn 7 years ago. Maybe all the good word of mouth and repeats are paying off. Plus if you check out the pictures on the web site all the pictures of the gardens , house and surrounding lake and mountains.

Summer guests

2011-08-02T13:05:00.000-04:00

Dave and Carolyn,
We really enjoyed our 3 nights at Arbor House. It was a perfect getaway for us.The breakfast , the beautiful home and gardens,the spa shower, it all is a testimony to your creativity and hospitality.
We're glad we chose your B&B and for our stay in Black Mountain.

Columbia, SC

Sunset picture

2011-07-27T11:47:00.001-04:00

We are enjoying views like this from the deck overlooking the lake and up to the mountains. Some nights we get lucky and get these views especially after a rain . The clouds capture the colors and put on a show. I have to run get my camera and hope I catch the light just right. The mountain peak in the picture is Craggy Gardens up on the Blue Ridge Parkway not to far from Mt. Michelle.

Hot summer days

2011-07-23T12:59:00.000-04:00

It is amazing the garden is still blooming and looking good. We have had a hot week, not to complain since we are cooler than many places in the US. This morning I went out and picked a beautiful bunch of flowers in the fog and they will be pretty in the house for almost a week. I try to pick them before the sun gets to them and draws out all the moisture.
One of our guest is going to do a 65 mile bike ride tomorrow for about 8 hours. It is part mountain trail and road. There must be 500 bikers in town getting ready for the ride tomorrow that starts down in Old Fort. I have hiked the mountain trail they will be riding and no way would I get on a bike for that trail up or down. More power to them! Give me a flat rails to trails bike path anyday and I can ride forever. Forget these mountain hills and rough trails.

Green eggs and ham

2011-07-20T11:34:00.000-04:00

I will do things to help guests if they are on special diets or have special food needs. This morning I went to the garden and gathered some basil to add to my eggs dish for a guest. I boild eggs for him and then put slices of ham in the broiled topped with swiss cheese. When it had melted I rolled up the ham and cheese and topped it with the sliced boiled eggs that I had heated in melted butter and basil. This was all topped with a rich butter lemon sauce. As you can guess he was on a no /low card diet.
He said it was the best breakfast he had EVER eaten in his life. Well done!!!!!

Summer days

2011-07-18T15:09:00.000-04:00

I love the color that annuals bring to the garden. They tend to be a little needy always wanting water and deadheading but the beauty of the flowers makes it all worth while. We enjoyed the cooler weather this past week and know that we will be heading to some higher temps next week. It's easy to find cool temps by going up the mountains near MT. Mitchell. When I walk the path around the lake I can hear the children enjoying the cool water at the swimming pool. It has gotten lots of use this summer.

Lazy Sunday afternoon

2011-07-17T11:56:00.000-04:00

Blueberry picking time and the bushes are loaded in my neighbors garden. I trade him blueberry pancakes and French toast for breakfast for the berries. We are still enjoying all the good NC peaches in season and all the fresh melons. Breakfast is very colorful and healthy around here.

What our guests are saying,
" Thank you so much for such a lovely weekend! Next time we visit , our baby girl will be born! Your home in wonderful and your hospitality incredible. Thank you."
NC

" What a great place for a sister retreat! Deb and I had a wonderful time in your lovely home. We will be back another time with our husbands. Thank you for your hospitality"
TN and SC

Busy July

2011-07-16T22:18:00.000-04:00

We have been enjoying some cooler temps the past couple days but I have a feeling it is going to warm up again this next week. Today the rim hike for the museum had to be cancelled due to fog and slippery conditions on steep rocks. I hiked the hike last year but felt sorry for all the hikers looking forward to the day hike today. We will reschedule it for another Saturday. The B&B is staying full for the month of July with just a couple of days with only a room or two to rent . July and Oct. are our peak months and we enjoy all the guests here now to enjoy the gardens in full bloom.

Five stars

2011-07-15T16:29:00.000-04:00

***** Five Stars, Thanks for our first adventure at a B&B. We hope to be back to see you again someday.

What our guests are saying

2011-07-12T09:51:00.000-04:00

"Our second visit to Arbor House was every bit as delightful as our first. The mountains in July were a surprise- so much cooler and enjoyable than what I had expected. You are wonderful hosts and this is still our #1 favorite B&B. Thank you for providing such a restful and peaceful place to escape the busyiness of life in such a beautiful setting. "

From Alabama guests

Come sit awhile

2011-07-11T14:09:00.000-04:00

It's hot outside but sitting on the front porch in the shade and catching a breeze is very enjoyable. The potted plants have gotten a little spoiled and want a little water everyday or else they wilt.

Think I will head up to MT. Mitchelle for a hike , it's always cooler up there and the trails will be pine scented and green. The turks caps lillies will be in bloom along the parkway , like these I have in my garden.

What our guests are saying

2011-07-08T10:43:00.000-04:00

July 2nd,
Our second week's stay here- we hope to return every year! Thank you for your gracious home and hospitality, for accomodation our vegetarian diet with scrumptous delectable breakfasts, for the comfy bed, the artwork , spacious bathrooom, the CD and DVD player , thick bathrobes , charming decor , spectucular location, a veritable Shangri-la! Carolyn , you are a true artist and a domestic goddess, and MASTERful gardener. Many blessings to you, Carolyn and Dave!

Guests from Virginia

Foggy morning breakfast

2011-07-06T08:58:00.000-04:00

This morning our guests wanted to eat out in the cool foggy mist. At 6 am the foggy was so thick that it was hard to see across the lake. I enjoy walk around the lake and enjoy the quiet and muffled sounds that the fog carries. Yesterday we had a rather large thunderstorm with lots of rain so the morning flowers from the garden were fresh.

Happy Fourth of July

2011-07-04T18:41:00.000-04:00

It must be summer, it hot and humid and we need some rain. I just took a lake around the lake and you could smell the backyard burgers and hear the laughter of people gathering for a picnic. The town of Black Mountain is having a street dance, games and music tonight before the fireworks start at 9:30.
It's nice to be able to walk down town to see the fireworks and not have to drive the car and find a place to park. Hope you have a safe and fun holiday.

Happy Red White and Blue to You

2011-07-03T06:26:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th of July weekend to you. Hope you have a good time with family and friends and a safe journey if you are on the road.
Our little town of Black Mountain will be celebrating with a parade , street dance and fireworks tomorrow night. For the brave there will be hike sponsored by the museum that will hike up a mountain to view the fireworks from the mountain top and hike back down with flash lights at 11 pm. It is an annual hike and anyone can pay a small fee to join the fun for a good cause.

Hike the Blueridge Mountains

2011-07-01T07:46:00.000-04:00

If you are into hiking and like the thrill of walking and taking in views the Blueridge Mountains calls to you. We are so lucky to have the park in our backyard and can hop on the Blueridge Parkway within minutes. The mountain to sea trail runs along the parkway and they are many other trails along the mile markers as you travel the parkway. We have maps that detail the trails and shows the elevations.
If you just want to drive you car up to MT. Mitchelle you can get the same views without hiking. Somehow it like just desserts, when you hike and work up a sweat to climb up the hills the end result is wonderful.

Fresh flowers on the table

2011-06-26T14:20:00.000-04:00

Food taste better when you have some pretty flowers on the table. My garden has been supplying me with lots of flowers of every color to pick to make little arrangements for the breakfast table.

The summer flowers are now coming into bloom and I have some dead heading to do in the garden plus some weeding. With all the rains the weeds are growing faster than the bought plants. I guess that is where the saying " growing like a weed" comes from. They do seems to be heads taller than the other plants. Come take a stroll in the garden and smell the roses.

Odd Duck

2011-06-24T18:26:00.000-04:00

One of the favorite things our guests like to do is walk the path around Lake Tomahawk (.55 miles)
and look at all the ducks. It is so easy to walk down our garden path and go through the gate down to the path. The path goes by the tennis courts and you can look up to the mountains that surround our valley. The Blue Ridge Parkway is only minutes from our B&B and you can go either north to MT. Mitchell
or south to Mt. Pisgah.
Come check out the ducks but please don't feed them bread. They are starting to learn to live without the stuff humans like to throw at them and eat grass and bugs like nature intended.

Sunset of Lake Tomahawk

2011-06-20T14:48:00.000-04:00

There is something magical about sitting out on the deck in the evening feeling the cool breeze blowing across and looking out on the lake watching the sunset. The evening I took this picture there had been a storm that afternoon and the clouds were low and bouncing off the pretty colors. The colors of the Blue Ridge Parkway were soft purples and yellows and I thought it doesn't get much better than this.
Come check it out.

Bright Yellow

2011-06-18T13:28:00.000-04:00

Working is the garden has it's payoffs and just looking at these flowers makes it worthwhile.
I worked in the garden yesterday half the day dividing plants and putting out lots of new annuals.
The flowers stay pretty for months and something is always blooming in the gardens until frost.
We are enjoying some nice cool evening and morning. Today I did a 7 mile bike loop around town and enjoyed the cool breeze. The town of Black Mountain is building more greenways to ride and walk and it is so nice not to compete with the cars for the road. I will be happy when the dream trail is build from Black Mountain to Asheville about 15 miles of paved trails by the Swannanoa River .
Epic Bikes has rental bikes in Asheville and there is a good bike trail down the old 70 Road which is now a park way. I love to ride down it but have not mastered coming back up the mountain. I have someone pick me up at the bottom .

Lovely flowers to bring inside

2011-06-17T08:17:00.000-04:00

It is such a joy to walk out in the garden in the early mist and pick flowers to bring inside so everyone can see and enjoy them. With the good rains we have been having the flowers are big and pretty this year. I just bought 4 flats of annuals that need to go in the ground today. They will bloom and stay pretty until frost and that a long way away since summer doesn't start until next week.
The first park concert was fun last night and well attended. It starts at 6 and ends at 9 pm. As I was walking home on the path around the lake I saw Dr. Wilson with a crowd of people watching the evening primroses opening with lots of blooms to entain the viewers.

Thursday night concerts

2011-06-16T06:22:00.000-04:00

The fountain on Lake Tomahawk provides such peaceful sounds and we enjoy it when we sit up on the deck and balacony looking over the lake.
Starting this Thursday the first of eight free Thursday night concerts kicks off the season for the parks department entertainment around the lake. The Swayback Sisters will sing tonight and The Red Radish will cater food for the evening. We have lawn chairs available for our guests to take and sit on the lawn to enjoy the event. It's a great evening to sit outside , enjoy the music and eat dinner. If you get tired of sitting the lake has a half mile path that circles the lake and you can take a stroll to enjoy the gardens and watch the ducks. It a very Black Mountain thing to do !

Summer gardens

2011-06-12T17:16:00.000-04:00

It's starting to look a lot like summer in the garden . With some nice rains the flowers are starting to grow and the grasses are looking pretty. I have cut flowers in vases all over the house and enjoying looking at them inside as well as outside.

It took 7 years but this past week I finished the last untamed patch of garden in the front yard. Someone helped me pull all the weeds and put down a good mulch cover. It looks great.

Evening blooming primroses

2011-06-08T22:10:00.000-04:00

Exciting times to be had in Black Mountain are going down to the lake to watch the Evening Blooming Primroses open at 9 PM. The blooms start to wiggle and then open quickly . People stand around the bed looking as hundreds of blooms start to unfurl and watch and wait for them to open. Dr. Wilson likes to tell the on lookers about the history of the plants and how they have a sweet scent to attract the night moth. The season of the blooms starts early June and peaks around July 4th. Dr. Wilson usually has some seeds left over from the year past to share with people and a sheet of planting instructions.
The Friends of Lake Tomahawk earned money to have a rock wall built behind the flower bed and people can sit on it to watch the flowers open.

Most delicious biscuits ever

2011-05-19T17:17:00.000-04:00

WOW,
Wonderful oh wonderful! Love the Lookout room, love the view ... and most declicious breakfasts . I/we had the best biscuits ever - I mean ever! Thank you
NY

P.S. We'll see you again soon.

Grandmothers too

2011-05-15T12:22:00.001-04:00

"Dear Carolyn and Dave,
What a lovely home, B&B, and gardens! I'm so glad my son and wife had been here and picked it again for the graduation of my grandaughter . My other son and his wife hve commented on how lovely it is and how gracious you floks are. What delicious breakfasts, I'll ditto all the above. Thanks.

Warren Wilson Grad

2011-05-15T12:20:00.000-04:00

What our guests are saying,
"Dear Carolyn and Dave,
On the occasion of our daughter's graduation from Warren Wilson College we considered ourselves so lucky to have found this lovely " second home." Our only regret is that we did not discover you sooner! Your gracious hospitality, your lovely settting and beautiful gardens, the scrumptious breakfast will all be a part of our memory of the momentous occasion.
With many thanks and all good wishes."

Williamstown, MA

Misty Mountain Morning

2011-05-14T10:58:00.000-04:00

Love this cool misty morning with the clouds hanging over the mountains. Just went down to the town square and enjoyed all the people in town shopping at the plant fair and going to the local tail gate farmers market. Friends visting friends, stopping for coffee and going in and out of the shops. Love this small town.

Wonderful day to be out in the garden

2011-05-12T09:43:00.000-04:00

Spring is one of my favorite seasons. There is such promise with every little plant I put in the garden that it will grow big and have lots of pretty blooms. Gardening gives so much joy to the gardener and to the people who view it. Come take a stroll in my garden and smell the roses.

Summer weather is on the way

2011-05-10T16:36:00.000-04:00

Today we had a taste of summer time temps in the high 80's. I am still enjoying all the spring flowers and don't want them to go away quickly. The peonies are just beautiful this year , I especially like the old fashioned white ones a friend gave to me from her grandmother's house here in Black Mountain. No telling how old the plant was that we took rootings .

Happy Mother's Day Flowers

2011-05-08T12:42:00.000-04:00

May 8th Mother's Day

A note from our guests.

"I knew I'd like this place as soon as I stepped foot inside and saw Carolyn's painting of the hiking boots and her collection of walking sticks. Seems like Carolyn and I are kindred spirits of sorts, with our love of hiking, biking - adventure!!

My amazing husband took me up here for Mother's Day weekend and I can't think of a better way to spend it than waking up to coffee on the deck, a hike up Greybeard Mtn, shopping and dinner in town and hopefully later a glass of wine and a cribbage board on the deck.

What a great place to just stop all the busy-ness in my head and just be grateful for what the Lord has blessed me with. I need more than the weekend to do that , but it's a start."

Charlotte, NC

Honeymoon Suite in Lookout Room

2011-05-01T08:27:00.000-04:00

What a great way to start your honeymoon by staying in the Lookout Room. It is a great get away for a night or for several days. Breakfast is served up on the private balcony as you look over the lake up to the Blue Ridge Mountains or in your room as you relax in the comfortable white robes .
Also a great place to get engaged , we are happy to help get flowers etc to make the day all the more special.

Lady Banks Rose

2011-04-30T13:01:00.000-04:00

The Lady Banks Rose is putting on a show this spring. It almost covers the back of the garage up to my studio window. The yellow blooms don't last but two weeks but it is worth the show.

What guests are saying.

"Carolyn and Dave,

We had a lovely time at your wonderful B&B.The house is wonderful as well as the views. We enjoyed swinging by the lake, the cookies and a delicious breakfast. It has been a great and relaxing time away for our 8th anniversary. We hope to be back again.

Greer, SC "

Spring at Arbor House

2011-04-29T13:53:00.000-04:00

Come experience spring in the mountains. This year we have had plenty of rain and all the flowers and shubs are in full bloom. We now offer tickets to Biltmore for purchase so you can just get your tickets here at Arbor House.

What are guests are saying

2011-03-20T10:55:00.000-04:00

Dear Carolyn and Dave,
Thanks so much for your hospitality. I can't tell you how much we needed some time away together.
The house is beautiful and your recommendations on places to eat were spot on! We will definitely be back . Next time I won't plan on going some crazy race up Mt. Mitchell.

PS. She came is 4th over all for the women racers!

Great Day for a hike

2011-03-12T10:52:00.000-05:00

The Swannanao Valley Museum offered a Saturday hike today to a local waterfall less than 15 minutes for our B&B. You can get to the lower falls hiking in a trail by a creek for almost a mile and if you are up to a climp you can go to the upper falls. In the spring the falls are large due to all the snow melt and rain fall.
Do the Catawba falls in the morning and then head to Andrews Gyser to see the local attraction. A great place to have a picnic and watch the trains as they struggle to go either up or down the mountain. After a good lunch then you can hike up old highway 70 with is now a hiking, biking lane or choose a mountain trail Kitsumma Trail [ an old Indian trail on a ridge] which is a mountain bike trail / hiking trail. If you don't want to bring you mountain or road bike Epic Bikes in Black Mountain rents bikes.

Any of the three could be done alone and then head back to Black Mountain for lunch and check out the shops. Some new shops , eateries and an ale house have opened. Still have energy left for the evening check out some local music in Black Mountain.
Not sure about hiking alone, check with me and I can hook you with one of the many hiking groups and I
maps and plenty of suggestions of safe trail hiking near us.

Spring rain will bring on the Biltmore flowers

2011-03-10T08:31:00.000-05:00

With all the rains we have been having the spring flowers are just waiting for a little sunshine so they can bloom. Hopefully the Biltmore flowers will be right on cue and my guests can enjoy a day at the park. Arbor House will be offering a free ticket through May and another ticket can be bought at my price.
The gardens here are Arbor House and getting a face lift. I have someone come in , a first, to help me do spring clean up and to do a new set of steps leading down to the garden and the path around the lake.
We put in the small stepping stones seven years ago and now need something a little bigger. Will post a before and after picture.

Biltmore Spring Special

2011-03-09T15:43:00.000-05:00

Oh boy, it's March already and the blog has sat idle most of the winter. Glad to say I'm back.
We have lot of good news. A new grand daughter has arrived and the snow has melted.
This spring we are offering a special stay two nights at regular price and receive a Biltmore ticket for free. You can purchase another ticket from us at our price. Call to check on available dates and go to the Biltmore.com web site to see about the spring flowering blooming dates. Our special will last through the month of May.
Hope to see you soon.

Missing the fall leaves already

2010-11-01T21:19:00.000-04:00

Hard to believe it is November and the leaves are now falling on the ground waiting to go in the mulch pile. My goal this year is to grind them all up to use in the flower beds. The flower beds still have blooms since we have not had a frost to kill off the plants. Hard to believe that the same plants have produced flowers most of the summer into the fall. This past weekend I bet I cut my last flowers to bring in the house. It will not make me sad to put the garden to bed for the winter. I will try to wait until the warm spring weather to get out there again . Each year I rush it and end up spending hours and hours working in the flower beds. It was worth all that work this year with all the beautiful plants and flowers. Hopefully I can dust off my paints this winter in the studio and work on some paintings either in WC or oils. Running a B&B is never boring so I am sure I will have plenty to keep me busy.

Girls Weekend

2010-10-31T13:27:00.000-04:00

Carolyn and Sisters,
Me and my best friend came to celebrate my graduation from grad school. I had no idea this girls weekend would be so fantastic. Your beautiful B&B set the stage for a spectuacular weekend. This is an amazing house. Absolutely, positively lovely. Your hospitality has been a true labor of love. I, we felt so cared for! The breakfasts have been great. Thank you for such a wonderful stay. We will be back soon.

Beautiful fall leaves

2010-10-27T16:50:00.000-04:00

Just took a walk around the lake and enjoyed the fall leaves. We are at peak this week and now the rains will start making them fall early. I would have enjoyed having them around another week or so. Can't complain about the rain we needed it so much, has been a dry summer and fall.

"must stay"list

2010-10-26T11:49:00.000-04:00

Lovely house, lovely gardens, lovely people, lovely peace.
This should be on the "must stay" list of NC B&B's. COngratulations on creating a restful place of beauty. It is inspiring. Thank you.
Charlottesville VA

What beautiful Oct color

2010-10-20T16:49:00.000-04:00

We are enjoying cool nights and warm sunny days. The color on the leaves seem to be popping out more each day. Last night there was a slight rain and it made the leaves look even prettier today with the dark bark.
This past week it was cool enough in the mornings to have a small wood fire in the fireplace . Will look forward to more cooler weather and good hiking weather.
See you soon.

Wonderful relaxing and nurturing retreat

2010-10-17T13:12:00.000-04:00

A wonderful relaxing and nurturing retreat! A beautiful home at the most amazing place on earth. Carolyn and Dave are masters at their craft and we are so grateful to have experienced in their joy.
We hope to be back soon.
Orlando, Fl

Hard time picking which room to stay in

2010-10-15T11:34:00.001-04:00

Carolyn and Dave,
Thank you so much for a nice relaxing B&B. The food and service were "outstanding"! We loved everything . The view was remarkable, we so needed a vacation. It was time to slow down before our busy season starts. Every thing was perfect. The Lookout Room was awesome. We had a hard time picking which room to stay in.
Texas

Feels just like home

2010-10-13T10:54:00.001-04:00

We enjoyed our 3 nites here so much. The view, setting, food and accomodations were just lovely. You did a great job on the decorations. Feels just like "home". Thanks for a lovely time.

South Carolina

Roses are red

2010-10-13T10:51:00.000-04:00

Roses are red
The mountains are black
Arbor House Inn-
Is leader of the pack!

A most excellent stay.
Kansas

It doesn't get any better than this!

2010-10-11T15:11:00.000-04:00

Carolyn and Dave,
Thank you so much for making our stay a memorable one. You both are very pleasant, making us feel at home. The breakfasts each day were scrumptuos. We fell in love with the Lookout room and are already planning another visit. Walking around the Lake, sitting on the balcony and just waking up to the awesome view was so relaxing. It doesn't get any better than this! Take care, I'm sure we will see you again in the near future.

Pittsboro , NC

Jog, walk or stroll around the Lake Tomahawk

2010-10-10T11:34:00.000-04:00

The weather couldn't be nice , cool temps and sunny to go for a walk around the lake. It's an easy .55 of a mile loop around the lake and you can get to it by just walking down my garden path . The leaves are just starting to show some color and looks like a pretty fall with good color heading our way. Up on the parkway near Craggy Garden the color is starting to turn and we can watch the progression of the color wave marching down the mountain range as the fall progresses.
Come take a stroll around the lake and walk into town to enjoy all the shops and great places to eat.

Fall temps are coming

2010-10-05T09:53:00.000-04:00

Looks like we are heading for some frosty mornings. This morning we were in the high 30s so no damage to the potted plants and fall blooming flowers. In the paper this morning was an article that told about 3 feet of snow at Mt. Le Cont in TN last night. I have hike up there in the spring and stayed in the overnight cabins. Glad we haven't planned a fall hike there.

The kitchen smells of cooking walnut rasin pumpkin muffins , apples , bacon and coffee brought down the guests early for breakfast this morning. All we needed was the wood burning fire in the dining room and it would have felt like a holiday.

Come join us for a big country breakfast and then a walk around the lake or into town to work it off.

What a great sanctuary

2010-10-04T15:12:00.000-04:00

What a great sanctuary for a mountain retreat- rejuvenation of the soul! We so enjoyed just soaking in the beauty of the view, the walks around the lake and the hospitality of Dave and Carolyn.
Special memories we will cherish for months and years to come...

Florida

We tremendously enjoyed you picturesque setting

2010-10-03T12:40:00.000-04:00

Dear Carolyn and Dave,

Thank you for a lovely stay. We tremendously enjoyed your picturesque setting- a jewel on the lake and your beautifully tended gardens. We admired your artistic taste and touch with which you furnished the extremely comfortable rooms. And breakfast was delicious - a real treat.
Our only requet is that we did not discover you sooner! But we will be back in May for WWC graduation and we will look forward to sharing this wonderful place with family.
All good wishes-
MA

You've thought of everything

2010-10-02T10:44:00.000-04:00

Carolyn and Dave,

You 've thought of everything to make this an amazing stay. This was only to be a long pause in our trip back home but instead became a high point of our vacation. Fabulous b'fast with a grand hike to wear if off. Will be emailing you both for the recipe for the apples and details of your Oregon trip.
Thanks.
WI.

Fall is in the air

2010-10-01T11:26:00.000-04:00

It has been a long time coming but the wonderful fall breeze and crisp mornings are finally here. We bought the first load of firewood for the fire place in the dining room . Our guest like to wake up to the smell of a real wood fire and hear the crackling sounds as they come in for breakfast.
My garden is going to seed and the little birds are loving it. We were lucky to see some of the fall warblers coming through and yesterday saw a couple of rose breasted grosbeaks in our pecan tree.
Soon the trees will start putting on the fall show with the colored leaves and it is going to be a good one this year from everything we have heard.
Come join us for the sights and delights of fall in WNC.

Beautiful weather

2010-09-14T13:46:00.000-04:00

Just got back from a hike on the Mountain to Sea trail up on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The leaves are showing a little hint of color and the sky is Carolina Blue. We are all enjoying the cool fall temps in the mornings and then a warm up in the afternoons. This past Sunday I went on a seven mile hike up on the trails in Montreat (very close to Black Mountain) and enjoy hiking some on the old toll road leading up to MT. Mitchell. It is so nice living here in the mountains with all the hiking trails and path available to the public to enjoy.

North Carolina Mountain State Fair

2010-09-11T11:55:00.000-04:00

Come enjoy the 10 days of country fair fun. The fair opens today and runs through Sept. 19th. Lots of rides, games and food. A weeklong local music stage opens 4:30 daily and is free with the fair admission.
Enjoy plenty of mountain music including a competition for best old-time and bluegrass bands. Winners of those contest get to open for newgrass star John Cowan on the fair's closing day Sept. 19th.
The center piece is a big chairlift which covers the fairgrounds with spectuacular vews.
Visit http://www.mountainfair.org/. for more information.

Dance, Dance , Dance

2010-09-11T11:41:00.001-04:00

Never a shortage of new things to do in the mountains. The movie Dirty Dancing was filmed at Lake Lure back in the 80's. Now on Sept. 17-18th there will be a lakeside film screening at 7PM. A family dance festival will be from 9 am - 4 pm on the 18th at Morse Park Meadows, followed by "time of Your Life" Gala at 6 PM at Firefly Cove .

Ducks on the lake

2010-09-05T12:38:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I look out at the lake and just have to laugh. There is an odd assortment of ducks and Canadian geese . Depending on the time of day they all have a voice and seem to be enjoying paddling around the lake looking for adventures. Saw a mother mallard with five babies and worry that it's a little late to be having babies now. Since they stay here year round I guess it is not so important to have the wing strength to fly south.

Now that fall is arriving soon we are seeing more of the Canadas dropping in for a short visit, thank goodness don't need any more that the ones that stay here year round. The song birds are busy in the garden looking for bugs and picking the seeds off the flower heads that I left for them. The favorite is the black eyed susans and there are plenty of them to go around. The gold finches are enjoying the new net bag of thistle seeds we hung out for them. Dave put out some fresh hummingbird food and the hummers are coming by to store up energy for the Sept. flight to warmer climates in the tropics.

We've had a wonderful time in the area

2010-09-05T12:22:00.000-04:00

Dear Carolyn and Dave,
We've had a wonderful time in this area. We have been asked many times on our trip to North Carolina
"why choose here to visit?" It's not the usual destination for us 'Brits' to choose , but we've found so many great places to visit, the weather has been superb and our stay here at Arbor House is out of the world. Whether we will fit into the seat of the plane home is another question after the delicious food you have served us! Many thanks to your both, continue with all your great talents Carolyn.

England

Honeymoon in Lookout Room

2010-09-05T12:16:00.000-04:00

Carolyn and Dave.
Thank you so much for your hospitality We LOVED the room. Amazing balcony view, great setup, bath .etc. Thanks also for coordinating the flowers and champaine, and the orange snapdragons . Thanks for letting our friends check us in and set up our room for us. We had a wonderful midnight dinner on the balcony with our boxed food from our wedding reception - very romantic. A wonderful place to begin our honeymoon and our marriage together. We will definitely be back and will recommend you to other.

NC couple

FORECAST; Expect a vivid WNC leaf show

2010-09-03T12:27:00.000-04:00

Good news in the Asheville paper this morning. According to the front page article the leaves are
"Thanks to highter temperature and less than average rainfall Mathews said that this fall should put on a better show :Because of the hear and especially the drier spring and summer seasons, colors should be a better and richer this year. Peak still uncertain, peak color changes depend on the first frost date of the year Mathers explainded, "If frost comes later than usual because of the higher temps so will the peak color season.

Yeah, come see us and check out the colors.

What a treat your B&B is!

2010-08-09T14:52:00.001-04:00

Dear Carolyn and Dave,

What a treat your B&B is! Makes me want to go build the Craftsman style bungalow my husband and I are planning. Your hospitality was a lovey respite for my friend and I. We took delight in your gorgeous gardens and the lake views. You sited your home beatuifully! But most of all, we enjoyed your gracious warm hospitality and interesting conversation. Carolyn- I especially appreciate your info on Roads Scholar, and the understanding of the the artistic soul. You might very well have opened new vistas for my photgraphy. Thank you!!!
Warmest wishes,

Guest from NC

Black Mountain Yacht Club

2010-08-07T15:15:00.000-04:00

I know it is a stretch to think we have a yacht club up the mountain in the small Lake Tomahawk but it is true. Today the men were out racing their small remote control sail boats out on the lake. It you go up to our Lookout balcony and squent your eyes you can almost think you are up in the Alps looking down at large sail boats out on a lake. See it doesn't take much to entertain us here in Black Mountain. Come relax with us!

I loved hanging out in the garden

2010-07-25T22:12:00.000-04:00

I spend several hours a day out in the gardens and it shows. All our guests love sitting up on the deck looking out over the flowers and plants . It make me feel like all my time spent is worth while when I see the guests going along the garden paths trying to name all the different plants, flowers, butterflies and birds. It is a labor of love. Each day I cut flowers to put on the tables and in vases around the house. It is nice bringing the outside in so all can enjoy the flowers.

Carolyn and Dave ,

Thank you for the comfy place to land and relax. I loved hanging out in garden in the evening amongst your beautiful flowers. The breakfast was yummy.

Carolyn and Dave,

Once again a fabulous stay at our home away from home. Your graceousness never ceases and the comforts here really make us feel at home.
P.S.
The gardens are beautiful.

Hot day for Bele Chere

2010-07-23T12:40:00.001-04:00

It's a good thing there is an outdoor pool nearby at Lake Tomahawk for people to cool off today. It's sad that today is the starting of Bele Chere in Asheville and it is going to be a record hot day. The crowds will still flock in for the weekend and enjoy all the shows and street vendors.

Black Mountain is getting ready for their fall festival , Sourwood Festival, the second week of August. The town sponsors a talent show, art and crafts booths downtown and food vendors.
The name of the festival , Sourwood , comes from the native tree and is a good source for the bees to make Sourwood honey A beekeeper comes to the fair with a working hive of bees and sells the sourwood honey he has collected for the year. It is a very good light sweet honey that goes great with hot biscuits.

One night not enough

2010-07-21T11:57:00.001-04:00

It was hard for this Florida couple to decide what to do! Walk around the lake , walk downtown, sit out on the front porch to read, ride their bikes , play tennis , got to Hot Springs to sit in the natural hot tubs and take in all the sites and things to do at Biltmore and Asheville. I have a feeling they will be back.

"Dear Carolyn and Dave,

One night was not enough!! Next time we will plan a longer stay. We loved your B&B and the area is so beautiful. Thank you for such a lovely stay.

Florida Couple

Rested and Refreshed

2010-07-19T17:02:00.000-04:00

Dear Carolyn and Dave,
Your B&B is lovely and your hospitality is genuine. Though we only were able to stay one night, we are rested and refreshed. God bless you and your family. P.S. Happy hiking and golfing. It's a beautiful area!

Virginia Couple

Southern Hospitality

2010-07-19T16:58:00.000-04:00

Carolyn and Dave,
We could not have had a better time. We enjoyed our suite, your town and the surrounding area.
Thanks for all your great recommendations and your southern hospitality.

Ohio couple.

Plane crash picture

2010-07-18T15:34:00.000-04:00

This is a picture of the plane crash I wrote about in the blog today.

Mountain climb number 7

2010-07-18T15:22:00.001-04:00

The Swannanoa Valley Museum is sponsoring hikes this year that will cover all the ridges around the valley of Black Mountain. This past Saturday we did a five plus mile hike up on the Balsam Ridge. The group of 35 started out at 8:30 drove up the Blueridge Parkway to Steppes Gap and started our hike. We had to hike up a mile on a road before we started on the trail that took us to the Mountain to Sea trail. Lots of down this trip and not so hard as the last month . We visited a old plane crash site and saw the remains of the plane. Crashed back in 1930's and was a small engine plane. The summer weeds are doing well even without rain and we had to do some off trail hiking to get to some of the out of the way sites which was difficult. It's was a fun day and we got back home around 4:30.
The museum offers several hikes led by guides who will not get you lost in the woods. Come join in the fun and see the mountains from a different point of view.

Idyllic place for respite you have

2010-07-12T09:44:00.000-04:00

Dear Carolyn and Dave,
What an idyllic place for respite you have! We enjoyed every single minute in your woodland hideaway. The setting and gardens are superb. The inn-luxurious and so homey.
Your hospitality, good cooking and warmth were so welcomed. We can't wait to come back to enjoy the comfy bed and wonderful shower. Wish we could have stayed longer.
Thank you so much.

Happy guests!

Breakfast was delicious

2010-07-11T14:12:00.000-04:00

Carolyn and Dave,

Thank you so much for everything! It was our first time visiting this area and your B&B was the perfect place to stay. Breakfast was delicious and the room was so comfortable. It is too bad we were only able to stay one night. We hope to come back again sometime soon. Thanks again.

New York

Turk's Cap Lily

2010-07-10T12:59:00.000-04:00

Turk's Cap Lily

I got really lucky that the start of this plant my friend gave to me is going so well in my garden.

The stalks are over 5 ft. tall and on the seven stalks there must be 30 flowers. I have noticed small black seeds forming on top on the green leaves on the stalk. This plant will bloom July - September depending on the growing condictions and the weather.

Habitat- moist woods, balds, and trailside thickets.

" This spectacular member of the lily family is one of the showiest wildflowers in the Smokies Park. There may be over two dozen large , nodding flowers per plant. The petals and sepals turn sharply back on themselves, givning the impression of the caps worn by the ancient Turks. "

Recharged our batteries

2010-07-09T11:19:00.000-04:00

It has been wonderful to come here from the bustle and heat of D.C aand spend some quiet time watching the light on the water and the clouds in the sky. Thank you for being such gracious and helpful innkeepers ( not to mention good cooks and exceptional gardeners) and for providing us with a place to recharge our batteries.

Washington , DC

Absolute delightful 3 days

2010-07-09T11:15:00.000-04:00

Carolyn and Dave,

An absolute delightful 3 days at the Arbor House in "Lookout"! We truly appreciate the many little touches that made our stay so special. From the front entrance to the back gate and all the 'in betweens" you have thoughtfully planned your B&B dream to be a joy filled experience for all who enter your home.
Thank You.
Sincerely from the heart.

A Happy Couple from Florida

Flowers love the sunny days

2010-07-08T17:13:00.000-04:00

The gardens at Arbor House are very dry right now but some of the drought type plants are doing ok.
The Black Eyed Susans are in full bloom and the birds are loving all the seeds from the other seed heads in the garden. I try not to dead head too quickly because the birds want the seeds.
Hope the rains promised for this weekend give us a little moisture.

Spent our 24th Anniversary

2010-07-07T16:09:00.000-04:00

Dear Carolyn and Dave,

Thank you for your hospitality. We enjoyed the peace and quiet. We apprieciate the extras, the video library , all the books and magazines and the wonderful art. Thank you for the great breakfast.
This was a nice way to spend our 34th anniversary.

Guest from North Carolina

Truly enjoyed our stay

2010-07-07T16:05:00.000-04:00

Dear Carolyn and Dave
I couldn't think of a better way to spend our anniversary than here! we have truly enjoyed our stay here and cannot wait to come back. You two have made this trip so enjoyable for us. We cannot than you enough!

Guest from North Carolina

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-02T18:40:00.000-04:00

The weather has co operated and given us a cooler weekend to enjoy sitting out and watching the Black Mountain fireworks on the 4th. Last night we enjoyed sitting out on the park lawn to listen to a free concert. The Black Mountain Parks presents on Thursday nights during the month of July and part of August concerts by different musical groups. The band that played last night did lots of motown and had many people up dancing to the music.

There is still time to come join us on Thursday nights and enjoy the music. We provide the lawn chairs and there is a local diner present each week to serve a light dinner for a small cost.

What our guests are saying this summer

2010-06-27T15:53:00.002-04:00

Summer flowers

2010-06-27T15:53:00.000-04:00

A true blue flower is hard to beat. The gardens are still pretty but could use a little rain. Our guests have enjoyed sitting outside on the deck for breakfast this week.
The view of the lake looking up to the Blue Ridge Mountains couldn't have been prettier this morning.
We serve breakfast between the hours of 8 and 10 am so if people want a little extra vacation sleep in we are happy to work with their schedule.
This morning we started with a fresh strawberry , yogurt and granola parfeit followed by fresh peach
and granola pancakes and smoked sausage. A selection of juices, coffees and teas are always available for breakfast.

Summer time fun in the mountains

2010-06-20T08:00:00.001-04:00

Want to try some white water rafting , canoe down a river, climb a moutain or view some water falls?
Arbor House B&B is the place to stay to enjoy these day trips and then return home to a peaceful setting

on the deck watching the sun set over the mountains. Don't want to watch the sun set well then dance the night away or listen to music at the local music pubs and a great local brewery with some of the best brews to be found. Asheville beat out Portland, Oregon as the national brew city for the US. That means you can try out lots of different types of beer made here in the moutains on Western North Carolina.

Summer garden at Arbor House

2010-06-20T07:53:00.001-04:00

We are expecting lots of blooms and pretty views in the garden this summer. Last summer we added a swing under the shade of the Hic-con tree, that's a cross of a Hickory and Pecan tree. It makes a great place to sit reading a good book or just taking in the breeze over looking the garden to the lake. The garden was modeled after the English gandens I saw while living in England for three years. Every season there is something to enjoy. Come enjoy some time well spent outside smelling the roses.

Fourth of July celebration in Black Mountain

2010-06-20T07:44:00.001-04:00

Looking for a fun thing to do for the 4th of July. The town of Black Mountain offers a great fireworks celebration on the 4th with street dancing to follow. In the afternoon there is a small parade and lots of shops to browse. Just up the street to Montreat you can enjoy the day with games and activities and a real square dance shin dig that is so big the dance has been moved out to the tennis courts and beyond.

The musuem offers a program that lets you hike up a mountain for hot dogs then hike down to a viewing site on the mountain to watch the fireworks going off all down the valley and then see the Black Mountain fireworks from a birds eye view. The hike ends with a night hike down the mountain around 11 pm. I've done this twice and it is a great way to spend the evening. Last year there were 40 people at least hiking down the mountain carrying lights and it was neat to be back towards the end watching the lights snaking down the curvy path.

Summer time fun in Black Mountain

2010-06-20T07:39:00.000-04:00

Thursday nights around Lake Tomahawk are getting to be a lot more fun. The parks department summer concerts have started and last Thursday night's entertainment was wonderful. Kit Williams and her band did an outstanding night of song and music . The weather was great to sit out on the lawn listening and eating a picnic style dinner provided by a local BBQ place.
For the next 7 weeks the concerts will run from 6 -9 PM and the music will vary each week.
We supply the lawn chairs for our guest so come on out to enjoy a fee evening.

On top of Old Smoky

2010-05-16T13:25:00.000-04:00

On top of Old Smoky , well almost. But we did go to the top of Pinnacle, the highest mountain on the Blue Ridge Mountain Range. Saturday 25 brave hikers were dropped off past the Mt. Mitchell State Park entrance and hiked 6 hours down to the bottom of the ridges to Montreat. The hike took us to the top of Pinnacle ( 5,665) to Rocky Knob ( 5,240 ) down the ridge and back up to Greybeard ( 5,408)
down to Walkers Knob and then on to Greybeard Falls and Pot's Cove before ending back down at Montreat (3,000) .

Pinnacle is the name of one of our downstairs bedroom. After seeing the blue sky up from the rocky top I am glad now that the color theme for the room is blue. We named all the bedrooms after the local mountains. Greybead in on the first floor and looks out on the lake, Lookout is upstairs and also looks out on the lake up to the Blue Ridge Parkway and High Windy in on the second floor.

Come check out the mountains and the rooms named after them.

Tea pot and blue pottery collection in Pinnacle Room

Come relax in the shade in the swing

2010-05-14T11:33:00.000-04:00

The garden couldn't look prettier. Most of the spring flowers are in bloom and I am starting to set out annuals now the frost free day is clear. The roses have everyone on the lake path sniffing the air to figure out where that wonderful scent is coming from.
During the hot summer months it is delightful to sit out under the shade and relax with a good book or a glass of wine .

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T06:56:00.000-04:00

To all you moms out there Happy Mother's Day. I was treated to flowers, cards and a long hike today on the Mountain to Sea trail with a nice dinner promised at the end of the hike. Yesterday was spent partly working in the garden getting it ready for all the summer guests. The daisies are trying to take over the garden so I pull them up and put a sign for Free Dasies down by the garden gate and everyone who walks on the lake path can help themselves.
There was rumors of snow up on top of the mountains and judging by the temps of 34 degrees here this morning I wouldn't doubt it could be true. I feel sorry for the hikers on the AT who are probably wishing for some warmer weather about now. This will be a beautiful June to be on the trail with all the native rhododendron that will be in bloom . It is a short ride up the Blue Ridge Parkway to go to Craggy Gardens to catch the rhododendron show locally. If you haven't seen them it is worth the drive.

Come check them out for yourself.

Hike -N- Shoots

2010-05-05T22:39:00.000-04:00

We live in one of the prettiest places in the world and so happy to wake up and look around to realize how lucky we are. One of the best things to do is take a camera and just point and shoot and you can get a wonderful picture with out really trying.
Some people actually make a living here taking great pictures. One such person in Black Mountain is Joye Ardyn Durham and she owns the Ginko Tree Gallery in town. You can see her work at www:artistwithcamera.com.
If you are looking for a place to come photograph and want to join in a group , Joye is offering some classes. The hike-n-shoots will be photography instruction on an individual basis. The groups will be small so Joye can show you things of interest. If you have questions about our camera or want to know more about composition this would be a great opportunity to learn and have on the spot training.

So grab your camera case, put on your hiking boots and come on to Western North Carolina to see what we are all so excited about.

Can't beat the view

2010-05-04T09:15:00.000-04:00

Looking back on that snowy winter I am now saying thank you for all the moisture that produced such wonderful flowers in the garden this spring. It doesn't get any better than this. The flower beds in the gardens are busting with colors and more are on the way.
This May and June the wild rododendron should be breath taking up on the Blueridge Parkway up at Craggy Gardens and up on Roan Mountain.
Yesterday we hiked a path on the Parkway up by Tanbark Tunnel up to Rattlesnake Lodge. The lodge now is the remains of a family estate built back in the early 1900's. There was a lodge, swimming pool, tennis court , spring house and more. The mother would take the children and guests up for the summer and not come down until fall.

When you come to visit I have lots of hikes like this to recommend for outtings.

View of my garden looking out to the lake and up to the Blue Ridge mountains to the Craggy's

April flowers

2010-04-06T18:21:00.000-04:00

Spring is here, the trees are in bloom and the pollen is flying. It is nice to look out and see a green lawn and pretty flowers in the garden. We enjoyed a nice Easter Sunday with family and serving our guests.

WHAT OUR GUESTS ARE SAYING

April 2, 2010
Being enveloped in the quiet, surrounded by the mountains and the lake was fantastic. We loved being on the deck, daylight and star light were fully enjoyed. Can't think of a B&B more combortably designed. Home made cookies were appreciated and to our surprise the Easter Bunny found us!
He left goodies outside our room door. Orginal paintings and artwork add much to the lovely setting.
Thank you for a wonderful visit.
Tenn

April 6, 2010
Dave and Carolyn We came here to relax and this could not have been a more perfect setting. Everything was just wonderful. the two of you are a delight. In short, great hospitality, a great enviroment, and a great time! See you again soon.

South Carolina