We left Birmingham about 8:30 am heading for Chattanooga, and then Waynesville, North Carolina. We had considered stopping in Gadsden, and it was a great city, but we had sleeping kids when we got there, so we moved on. Our first stop was Chattanooga for waterplay, a picnic, and just some quick sightseeing.
Near the river, there is a very steep grassy area just perfect for sliding down on cardboard boxes! We enjoyed several runs. Porter wasn’t heavy enough to slide by himself, so I was thrilled to go with him!
We had heard that there was the Trail of Tears memorial in Chattanooga, but we had some trouble finding it. Once we did (it’s under bridge, right next to the aquarium), we cooled off in the river water, while respecting the memory of thousands of Cherokee who were forced to leave their homes.
After Chattanooga, we headed into the mountains. We traveled along the Ocoee River, observing the rafters. I felt a little guilty exclaiming over the scenery every three seconds, while Patrick had to drive, but he said he didn’t mind. The boys thought rafting looked pretty fun, especially when we stopped to watch the groups put into the river.
We got to Waynesville in time for dinner at Boojum Brewery. So good! Then to our airbnb rental. It’s a cozy little house with toys, books, and a washing machine!
Our Friday activity was Flat Creek Falls hike in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park. It was a little more exciting than I’d hoped. We saw some exceptionally fresh bear scat, Porter lost his shoe in a bog, and we missed the falls! We’ll remember it for sure! After the hike, we found a blackberry bush, and had our fill. That redeemed it.
I’d wanted to go to Asheville tonight to see the drum circle, but it’s raining, the kids are tired, and we decided to just call it a night. When traveling with kids, dial back your expectations, and everyone will have fun!
Academic Leigh Speaking 