Spring Break, Part 1 - The Getaway!

Mark 6:31
Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."

Traditionally, my husband, Danny, and I reserve a cabin in the Nantahala Mountains of North Carolina to celebrate our anniversary.  This year, however, with MIL staying with us, embarking on an extended vacation is out of the question.  So Danny does some research and finds a charming place, Lake Rabun Hotel and Restaurant, where we can indulge in a one-night getaway.  Of course, he asks MIL if she's comfortable with this venture; she assures us she is, but I know it's a relief when my son, Daniel, arranges to take a day off from work in order to be available to her.  That eases our minds, too!

The drive to our destination is fairly long, but oh, so scenic!  We drink in the rural landscape and the mountains, which loom in the distance.  The balmy spring air has coaxed the trees into leafing, and recent rains have transformed pastures into lush seas of green, soothing sights for our eyes and refreshment for our souls.  Though I initially worry that the lengthy drive will tire us out, just the opposite is true.  We arrive at our destination more relaxed than either of us could have imagined.

According to its website, Lake Rabun Hotel is the oldest one remaining near the lake.  At 96 years old, but with a major renovation in 2008, it maintains its rustic, welcoming feel.

When we check in, the pleasant young woman at the desk gives us a tour of the common areas, which are many, shares some of the hotel's history, and graciously shows us to our room.  Danny has booked the only one boasting a private deck.  What a perfect space for us to sit and chat, sip wine, and play some backgammon.

Our concierge also makes us aware of the resident hotel cat, Meow, who will slip into the building any chance she gets.  Although the staff tries their best to keep her out due to guests who might be allergic to cats, Meow is a crafty one.  We welcome her visit with us on our deck in the late afternoon, but not so much when, at seven o'clock the following morning, Meow is outside the window, practicing with gusto the origin of her name.

After a delicious dinner in the hotel's restaurant, Danny and I decide to go for a stroll.  Bad timing!  Here comes the rain, so we beat a hasty retreat to the hotel.  How delightful it is, though, to hear the rain drops pinging and dinging on the tin roof sheltering our deck!

We enjoy a satisfying night's sleep, and are greeted with a generous gourmet breakfast in the morning.  No photos here, but suffice it to say, neither one of us could finish it all.  Not surprisingly, we see Meow again, boldly roaming the restaurant.  The scrambled egg Danny offer her is promptly gobbled down, and she moves on, hoping other guests will be so generous.

All too soon, it's time to pack up and head for home.  But we are so grateful to the Lord that we came to this quiet, peaceful place where we found some much needed rest.

Amen.