Tuesday, August 5, 2008 -  SHE SAID:  Well, we had a good day's drive yesterday that ended in Pigeon Force, TN and it's a pretty area but turned out to be very much like Branson. Lots of different tourist attractions featuring music, water activities and tons of gift & souvenir shops & unfortunately LOTS of traffic. So, when we left this morning we were part of the morning commute and although the drive up through the Smoky Mountain National Park was beautiful & scenic, the roads are VERY curvy. Then, when we passed through some of the little towns, it seemed like the road narrowed down to 10 ft lanes--one lane in each direction & the businesses were no more than a few feet from the road, so I admit, although Don is an excellent driver, I was a bit tense, feeling kinda claustrophobic. Give me those wide open spaces any day!

But, we made it into Asheville early enough to take in all the beauty of the Biltmore Estate, and oh my, was it magnificent. Over 250 rooms, 43 bathrooms, 63 bedrooms, and acres and acres of incredible gardens, towering trees and some of the most beautiful flowers you will ever find in one place. It makes the Hearst Castle seem like a slum in comparison...in fact, there is no comparison. It is absolutely breath-taking with all of its beautiful antiques, including 2-story size tapestries from the 1500s, a chess set & desk that belonged to Napoleon, original Renoir paintings, and on & on. It is a must see for everyone and I feel mighty lucky to have seen it with my happy, little traveling companion…Mr. Donald.