Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Storming the South Day 4

Gatlinburg or bust was our motto of the day. We headed east with the goal of seeing some mountains, exploring Gatlinburg, and possibly doing some “easy” hiking. Little did we know that the Smoky Mountain National Park version of “easy” hiking involved a 1.3mile climb STRAIGHT up the mountain. Well, maybe not straight, but it sure seemed that way to this out of shape family. The benefit of this hike was that it led to an amazing waterfall and gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains and nature.

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Climbing up

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Long way down and we weren’t even at the top yet

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By the waterfall, Megan was mesmerized by it, we could barely get her to look away

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The rushing water, it really was worth the climb

Our abbreviated exploration of downtown Gatlinburg served as reinforcement of our decision to stay in a smaller resort town. Just being in the throngs of tourists, shops, and attractions for a short time was overwhelming. It was definitely fun to visit, but we wouldn’t want to “live” there.

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Megan did run into an old friend in one of the shops

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We also had a great lunch, here are Megan and Daddy enjoying a Southern Catfish Sandwich (she really liked it)

Last of all I just thought I’d show you how bad Megan has it:

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The  poor girl hasn’t any toys to play with or people to talk to in the car, so she has to resort to playing with her socks. It really is sad isn’t it

Smile

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