Saturday October 3, 1998

After many hours of preparation, I was finally packed up and ready to go at about 10 A.M. For the ride up, I would be driving a Mazda 929, which turned out to be a great car for the road trip. The house was secured and I drove up Krome Ave. to I-75. The first night would be in Tampa with Jimmy and Heather. The ride was uneventful and I arrived at their place at about 4 P.M., just as the Gator game on the radio was finishing. Jimmy was there, and I said that I  wanted to go to Ybor City to check out a brewpub, so we headed out. On the way, we stopped at Beer World, where I always find some beers that I can't find at home. Then we headed to the pub. Ybor City is an old part of Tampa, where all of the buildings are historic and many are restored, and the entire area looks like it can be busy at times. Our first stop was at New World Brewing, a funky place straight out of the late 1960s. There are drawings on the walls and the crowd is laid back. We tried a few beers and a good pizza, and Jimmy said he had heard of another brewery nearby, so we asked the bartender and he said that there was one  within walking distance. Tampa Bay Brewing is in fact only about two blocks away. We went there and found that they brew about ten beers. We couldn't try them all, so we tried a few. Tampa Bay Brewing is more of a yuppie type bar with all sorts of merchandise with their logo on it and liquor drinks available. The beer is ok but I've had better. It was time to go, so we headed back to the house. Heather was back from Cory's (my grand-nephew) birthday party so, we decided to go to the bar where Gretchen  works; Jimmy's. Jimmy's pub has over 100 beers available, so we found one and had a good dinner as well. It was getting late so we headed back and called it a night.

Sunday October 4, 1998

Today was going to be a long driving day. I would go from Tampa to Pensacola via U.S. 19 and U.S. 98, along the Gulf in the panhandle of Florida. I wanted to get a fairly early start, but I was a little slow getting up. I started to get ready about 9:00 AM. Heather and Jimmy  were already up, and several friends would stop by as the morning went by. Most of them were going to the Tampa Bay Buc's game later in the day. Breakfast was being made and Gretchen came by with Cory and Carter. We visited for a while and had breakfast together. Soon it was almost 11 A.M., so I had to go. At the time of my visit, Heather was about 8 months pregnant and all was well. As I prepared this page, she gave birth to Stephen Campbell Evans on Oct. 24, 1998. Baby, mother (and father!) are all doing well. As I left, I gave Jimmy a few sample micro beers which, I found out later, were enjoyed for the pre-game party he had. I left Tampa on I-75 and went to the exit for Brooksville, which would lead to U.S. 19 North. After about half an hour I reached it. U.S. 19 / 98 goes through many towns, small and medium sized. This made the going slower than I thought it would be, but it was good to be going through northern Florida towns. Many cool places are along this road, too many to mention. I passed through Crystal River, Inglis and Chiefland on my way to Perry, where I stopped for gas. I  cleaned the windshield and then turned West for the rest of the day's drive. The road was now two-laned and called U.S. 98. This drive along the panhandle Gulf beaches is still mostly old Florida. I made very good time. For the first part, I had the road to myself. As I passed a sign for Crawfordville, I realized that I was near the area where I used to work many years ago. Old milkman memories came back. Panacea was the furthest point I delivered milk from Tallahassee. I passed  through and headed toward Apalachicola. Along this section, I stopped at a roadside park with a view of the Gulf. It was a nice place for a picnic, but I had to keep moving. In the Port St. Joe area, I stopped near a bridge that reminded me of the Fla. Keys: there is a new bridge and the old bridge is still standing. There was a barge going through as I was there, and I saw that barge a few minutes later as I passed by an open area where I could see the water. I was getting hungry, so it was time to get to Panama City for lunch. I passed by Mexico Beach, which may be the best beach and town in the area. If you are going West (through) Mexico Beach, there is no development on your left (Gulf side); all the development is on the right side of the road. This leaves the entire beach side open and unspoiled by buildings. I arrived in Panama City and after some looking around I found Panama City Brewing for lunch. The brewery is housed in a building that was formerly a big Italian restaurant, now converted into a huge two-dining room place. Three beers were tried, all good. One was especially good, and the food was excellent. While there, a couple of locals noticed my shirt from Barley's in Asheville and asked about it. It seems that they travel to that area and had never heard of it. I told them to definitely check it out and they said they would on their next trip there. The bartender said that as long as I was going to Pensacola, that I might as well try McGuire's in Destin on my way there. I had called them a few days earlier and knew that they were at the end of Destin's beach area. By the time I got to Destin it was dark, but I could see the entire area was built up with huge condos and hotels. I was thinking that I might miss McGuire's, but at the end of town, a big green neon sign was showing the way. I decided that this was to be a quick stop; get rid of a beer and get another. I went in and sat at the bar for a stout, one of the best I have found. Two local guys were eating and when they heard that I was going to the "real" McGuire's in Pensacola, they advised me to order only a dinner without any other items, as the dinners were plentiful. They recommended the steak pie. I thanked them and left. On my way out, the hostess gave me a paper menu as well as several other small souvenirs. I wished I could have stayed, but I had to go on, and so that means that I will have to come back for a longer stay. The rest of the ride was in the dark; so there were no memorable things or places. I arrived in Pensacola via the Bay Bridge about 9 P.M. CST. I was able to find the Residence Inn about two blocks from the bridge, as advertised. I checked in, took my bags up to the room, cleaned up and walked over to McGuire's for dinner. The motto of McGuire's is "Feasting, Imbibery and Debauchery", as written on the wall outside. As you walk in, the place is larger then just a pub. There are separate rooms to the left, among them a Notre Dame room and a 1920's style Irish pub room. In the middle, as you come in, is the bar area, which is a long bar on the left and bar tables on the right. Further right, down a step, is a room with a stage and more tables. The night I was there there was an MC/ one man band on stage leading the crowd in songs and general mischief. He would call up people to do crazy things, such as: kissing the moose head or the picture of a lasses arse. There was a man, Ted, celebrating his 85th birthday, and the MC had one guy run over and "kiss Ted on the head". It all was in good fun and everyone was having a very fun time, Irish style. Meanwhile, I sat at the bar to have dinner. I met several people throughout the evening, and all were friendly and having fun. I ordered a beer and the steak pie for dinner, with no snack beforehand, as advised in Destin. That advice turned out to be good. As I ordered my second beer, the salad arrived. It was huge and was served with a loaf of fresh  bread, which came with it's own stick of butter. A lady next to me said that she had heard that the bread was good and wanted to try it. I said "help yourself", as I could see it looked like there would be overkill on the food portions. Soon, the main dinner arrived and it was very good, as advertised. The crust on the pie was fresh and flaky, and the steak pieces were tenderloin tips. The mashed potatoes were "home- made", chunky and tasty. It was getting to the point that I could eat no more, so I sat back and enjoyed the atmosphere of McGuire's. I drank a stout and watched the MC lead the place in song and dance. Later, dessert arrived; it was a brownie, which the lady nearby had said was famous. It was good but I was only going to taste it. I then passed it to the lady, who said that she wanted some; she tried it and then she told some sailors that were there about it, and they also tried it. That brownie sure made the rounds; one of the sailors remarked that he hoped no one here had any communicable diseases. All good pub visits, unfortunately, come to an end, and it had been a long day. So I said my good byes to the various people I had met, paid my bill and headed out. I wanted to get a pint glass to take home, but the area that sold the souvenirs was closed. Oh well, maybe next time. I walked out and across the street to my hotel, which was only one block away. It was late, so I turned in almost as soon as I walked in, taking at least three minutes to fall asleep.

Monday October 5, 1998

I woke up at about 8:00 A.M., ready for another day of sights, driving and whatever might cross my path. I showered, then went down to the lobby for breakfast. After breakfast, I went upstairs, packed, and checked the maps for the day's travels. I had come to Pensacola to see the newly designated Florida Scenic Highway; an eleven mile stretch of U.S. 90, which includes views of Pensacola Bay from atop  red clay bluffs, and a chimney from a 19th century saw mill. As it happened, my hotel was very close to the scenic road. I stopped for gas at the corner near the big bridge that I had crossed the night before. This gas station / store /deli was unique, as it was on a triangular piece of land surrounded by one way roads. So when you leave, you drive through a garage-size hole in the building to exit. I gassed up and went inside to pay. (No pre-paying here in America!) As I paid, I looked around and saw that this store was also a full deli with cooked food as well. There were several local workers getting their "healthy" breakfasts. This included anything from big greasy sausages, fried chicken, fat burgers to freshly made extra large sweet rolls. A picture of complete health was forming in my mind. I paid, walked to the car, started it and drove through the building to start my drive. I found my way to the scenic highway and started to drive down it. It didn't look too scenic at first, except that it was going through an older part of town. Soon, the bay side gave way to woods and a parking area that had a boardwalk nearby. I got out and walked down the boardwalk, which looks like it just goes into the woods. As I walked, I could feel that I was going at a slight decline. The woods were cool and clean; a beautiful Monday morning and I owned the place. It eventually led to a railroad track, and I could see a path to an incline with a beach beyond. I crossed the tracks and went to the beach. This beach has an unusual view; as I looked one way, the water was on one side and large dunes / cliffs were on the other. I have never seen a beach like this one in Florida. The cliffs were part sand and part Georgia red clay. After taking a few photos, I went back to the boardwalk. It had a path going east, and as I was wondering where it went, an old timer (local) came up and told me that where I had come from was only part of a system of boardwalks put in to protect the area from foot traffic and to allow access to the cliffs. I bade farewell to the old timer, after a short discussion about the area in general, and walked on to the eastern part of the park. I went to the other end and the beach / cliffs were similar to the first place I had been. I then retraced my steps to the car and got back on  the road. I wanted to see what else was along the highway. Soon, I came upon the big chimney on the beach side of the road. I decided to go on and see it on my way back. I continued east and soon the beach side became residential with private drives and streets. Also, the highway was a little further from the water. Soon, I approached I-10, so I knew that I was at the end of the scenic road. I went a little further, just to make sure, and I turned around. I went back to the chimney, which is all that is left of an 1850's sawmill, burned to keep it from falling into Union hands. There were city workers raking up and readying to put a wrought iron fence around the chimney.  My pictures are some of the last without a fence around it. As I was standing there, I heard a train whistle, and eventually a train came by. This may be the only train track along what is now prime waterfront property, but that may be why it wasn't developed, so it may be for the best. The train was on the tracks that I had been standing on earlier. It was getting toward noon, so I knew I needed to go. Since I was still in town I went back by McGuire's to get some necessary items, then hit the road. I-110 is a few blocks from the pub, and it led to I-10, and I got off one exit west in order to take some back roads to I-65 in Alabama. This back road ride was very rural and was through an area of Florida I had never been in. It is rolling hills and red clay roads coming into the main road. I left Escambia Co., FL, only to go into Escambia Co., AL. Shortly after, I was on I-65 north. It was about two hours to Montgomery, and the ride was uneventful, except for a few truckers who got their license at Sears or in Cuba. I saw several close calls and near misses and wondered what had gone wrong with the truckers; they used to be the good guys! As I approached Montgomery, I wanted to stop for lunch at Montgomery Brewing, so I stopped to get directions. I went into a gas station and asked the lady if she knew where it was. She saw the address and didn't know it right off, so she said she would call them. I think she wanted to call because she got a big kick out of their phone number, 834-BREW. She said as much several times. She got through, found out, and then told me how to get there. It was good that I stopped, as I could have spent a lot of time looking for it. As it was I found it right away, in the center of the old downtown area of Montgomery. The Brewpub, as it is called locally, is built inside an eighty year old railroad storage building. It is surrounded by similar buildings, all of the same good construction and age. It was about three o'clock, so when I went in I had the run of the place. It is a huge place and looks like it can hold a large crowd, as well as a band. It was quiet on this day but I was able to talk to the brewer, Dave, for most of the time. He was working, but all the brewing equipment is behind the bar within talking distance. It turns out that he started at McGuire's, bounced around for awhile and, then Montgomery called with the full time gig, and he's been there ever since. He is brewing some good beer; the light ones are very light, but  he is brewing in Alabama, so you've got to brew what will sell. His darker porter was tasty, and I was sorry that he was out of stout. After a shrimp po boy sandwich and a few good beers, I had to go. I was still going to North Carolina, and time was getting on. I thanked him and the staff for the good lunch, and headed out. They have the only draft beer in Montgomery because they are a brewpub; no one else can have draft in Montgomery Co. Sure wouldn't want to live there, but a return visit on a Sunday night for a Blues session could be in order. I found my way back to I-65, then to I-85 for the rest of my day's travels. Heading east on I-85 I passed an exit for Shorter, named, I believe, for (former) Auburn coach Terry Bowden. I then passed Auburn itself and got into Georgia. Still seems to be some truckers without brains or licenses in this area as well. I was approaching Atlanta at about 6:30, so I wondered how it's notorious traffic would be on my timing. About ten miles before, Atlanta I stopped for gas and saw a sign for The Package Depot, a warehouse-sized package store. I stopped to see if they had any good beers and found the selection to be excellent. Since I couldn't buy the entire stock, I bought some Rogue bomber bottles. I figured that I might need them to help get through the Atlanta traffic. Before I left, I opened the Dead Guy ale, which is a tasty Rogue ale. As I approached Atlanta, I knew I could believe the "smart signs", as I had seen how they work on their web site. The signs showed nothing in my way, and I went straight through downtown Atlanta, never going much below 55 MPH, and usually going 70 MPH. So much for the much- ballyhooed traffic. On the east side of Atlanta, it started to rain. Little did I know then that it would be a part of my vacation for the next two days. By now it was dark and the traffic was thinning out. The rain was going hard, and then it would quit a for a while then start up again. By Clayton GA it had slowed to a drizzle, which is what it stayed like the rest of the way to Highlands N.C.. It is always good to hit road 106 to Highlands, usually the end of a long drive. Today was no different. As you climb in elevation, open the windows for fresh mountain air, cool and clean. It was about 9:00 as I approached the Highlands downtown and it was very quiet. I went straight up to Mom and Dad's house up Satulah Ridge Road and was welcomed with a chili dinner and I consumed cold beer from my supply in the car. The rain had stopped and I was able to unload the car and unpack for a good week's stay. After settling in I turned in, with the window open, for a good night's sleep.

Tuesday October 6, 1998

I slept late, as the last few days had been fun but tiring. Dad got up early to go to Franklin for a Kiwanis breakfast meeting, and upon his return I was up reading the paper. He said that if I wanted to order some of the Highlands beers that I should go down to the store soon as the beer guy usually comes in the morning. I got dressed and headed down to Highlands Quick Mart, hereafter refereed to as "Fred's". Fred's is a convenience store / wine mart in the middle of town. Dad's daily routine is to get up early and go down to Fred's where several other men gather and talk, discuss important issues of the day, and play a version of Trivial Pursuit for the paper. If you get the question right the paper is free, if not, it is a dollar. While there, any number of different people come in and friendly greetings and jokes are exchanged. Over all it is a good way to get up and get your day started. I went in about 10 A.M. so the early group was long gone. I went in and Fred and his wife Carla were both there working. I noticed that the store had been enlarged and most of the new space was devoted to wine. A glassed in cigar room also had been added. I caught up on what everyone was doing, as it had been two years since I had been there. I noticed that they no longer sold the Highlands beers or any of the other good beers that they used to. Fred said that they weren't selling at all so I couldn't blame him for not carrying what doesn't sell. However he still could order them so I ordered a case of both the Stout and the Gaelic Ale. I thanked him and left the store. It was a foggy, rainy day. I tried to drive around to check out the leaf color and couldn't see most of the trees that I knew were there in full fall colors. It wasn't raining at that time but since I couldn't see anything I went back to the house. When I returned, Mom suggested that we go to lunch at The Whistle Stop over in Cashiers. We all agreed and headed there, about ten miles away. On the way the fog seemed to go away but soon came back. The Whistle Stop is a small place in a building that looks like a caboose. It's main feature is: slow or non existent service. For regulars who know about it, they bring their paper or a book to read while they wait. The place does have good food, but it is hard to believe anyone comes back. We came in and had to clear the table to sit down. A nearby couple got up and left as they weren't in the know about the place. We finally got waited on and while we waited a woman came in with a book and sat down nearby. Obviously she was a regular. When we got our food, not our first choice, as they had run out of half the items on the "menu", a chalkboard on the wall. Everything was good so we finished and headed back to Highlands. It looked like it was going to be a slow day, which was fine with me as long as it didn't go on for days. Mom had found a puzzle called 99 bottles of beer on the wall so we started on it. The rain continued and we spent the rest of the afternoon inside either puzzling, reading, or some other indoor activity. Cocktail hour arrived and I had gone down for some St. Teresa's Ales, which were excellent. We had dinner, did a little more on the puzzle, and watched some of the baseball playoffs. I laid down fairly early, read for a while and hoped the rain would go away as I fell asleep. But we were forecast for one more day of much needed (for Highlands not me) rain.

Wednesday October 7, 1998

I was up early and went down to Fred's with Dad. It still was foggy and rainy, as predicted. On our way down the mountain we heard a thumping noise, which turned into a flat tire by the time we got to Fred's. We went in first for warm drinks and to see who was there. Billy, the local hiking club guy was there and told us about the club's hike up Rabun Bald on Sat. We also asked him if he knew of anyplace it wasn't raining. Everybody got a good laugh about that but Dad said that on Tuesday when he was in Franklin it was dry there and raining in Highlands. We asked Billy if he knew of any picnic areas in Franklin, with shelters. He did and told us about "Standing Indian" recreation area. "Go out 64 about 5 miles after the K-Mart, look for the sign and turn left". We then went out to fix the tire. Meanwhile Dad asked Fred about where we might get the tire fixed or replaced. Fred made a call to a tire guy just up the road and found them open and they had our size tire, if necessary. I finished the tire change and we went to the tire guy, followed by Billy. As it turns out we needed a set of tires, so we left the car and Billy took us home. We had breakfast and decided to try a picnic at Standing Indian, even though it was raining steadily. We called our cousins, the Hills; Helen, Tucker and Janet to see if they were up for the picnic. They agreed to meet us at the picnic site at 12:30. We went down to Mountain Fresh, the local grocery store, and got provisions for the picnic. We then headed for Franklin. The rain was still coming down and seemed to get worse as we approached Franklin. We were wondering if our gamble for sunshine or no rain was going to work. I'm sure the Hills were wondering as they drove. (Later we heard it was "a darn fool idea", but time would tell). We went to 64 west and it seemed to get a bit lighter as we went west. The rain would stop then start up again. We found the left turn and the rain stopped. It was still a short drive up the mountain but as we approached the picnic site the sun actually came out! We were on Goeser time, about 20 minutes late. The Hills were already there, waiting. We all expressed surprise at how the day had turned out. We sat under the shelter, where it was dry, and spread out our food and drinks. There was plenty of everything there and it was good to see the Hills, as I had not seen them for a while. Helen, who lives in Highlands, I hadn't seen in several years. Tucker and Janet, who now live in Oregon, I had not seen since our Thanksgiving trip to Highlands in 1996. At that time they lived in Alabama. (Good move!) We caught up on things, then Tucker and I decided to take a walk through the woods. We went down several trails and ended up on a dirt road. We walked up it for a while and saw it wasn't going in the direction we wanted so we retraced our steps. We ended up by a bridge in the middle if the area which showed several trail signs and mileage. This park was a good discovery and we all want to come back, someday, to explore it further on a drier day. We then went back to our site and readied to go. The Hills invited us for cocktails later and we all headed back to Highlands. On our way back we stopped and got Dad's car with new tires which probably were a good idea as the car was going to be driven back to Florida within a few days. It was still drizzly in Highlands so we just went to the house and relaxed the rest of the day. Later on we went to Helen's for cocktails and snacks. I brought Tucker on of the beers I brewed, (Old Cleavage Stout), for him to take back to Oregon. I hadn't looked too closely at the bottle and it turns out it had no label on it. So I told him to enjoy it here, in Highlands, and I would give him another with a label on it. We had a few, talked over old times and new, and all too soon it was time to go. I told Tucker that one day we would play tennis and he said he would call on Thursday. We went home for dinner, which was partly ready when we arrived, ate and watched some baseball after dinner. We all were tired so we turned in and read for a while, and soon fell asleep.

Thursday October 8, 1998

We awoke "late" (7:30) for our daily visit to Fred's. We had agreed to meet Tucker there about 6:30 so, he had an hour wait for us. Darrel, the accountant and FSU fan was also there. After some teasing about being late, we confirmed the Saturday hike and also told everyone that we were taking a day trip to the Cherohala Parkway in Tennessee on Friday. Darrel asked us to get info on it and also let him know how it went as he wanted to do the same trip next week. We planned to hike up Whiteside Mountain later, as soon as the weather cleared, which was supposed to happen sometime today. We went back to the house and had an easy morning, breakfast, paper and shower. The sun was out by 11:00 so we got ready for the hike. Tucker chickened out on the hike, but said to call later for possible tennis. So, it was just the three of us. We drove east on 64 to the Whiteside mountain parking area which is where you leave your car while you hike up the mountain. It was a perfect Autumn day, great for this hike. As we walked up the trail we came to a fork and took the right hand trail. This trail was fairly steep and rocky and wet after two days of rains. After a while Mom and Dad were probably asking themselves why they agreed to take this hike but we continued on. They had been on the mountain several years ago and seemed to remember that it was easier then it now seemed to be. We finally got to the top where it is mainly flat rocks and set up for lunch. We had brought sandwiches and cool drinks along, and the view off the side is spectacular. The view is of shear cliffs and a rock formation called the Devil's Courthouse. You can see for miles up there.  We were about the only ones up there as most people probably thought it would not be a great day for a hike. We finished and continued along the rocky trail, which goes along the edge of a big cliff. There are bars along the edge so no one will fell off; these cliffs are at least 1000 feet above the ground below. The trail down was much easier and wider. The decline was not as steep; it seems that we should have taken this trail up and the other trail down. We got back to the car about 4:00 and returned to town. We stopped by the store for food and more Highland beers. We went back home and relaxed for the rest of the afternoon. We did a little more on the puzzle, had drinks and dinner. It had been a long hike (about 4 miles) so we were content to clean up after dinner, watch some baseball and go to bed early. Tomorrow we would be taking a full day long road trip.

Friday October 9,1998

Today was the day we would take a trip to the Cherohala Skyway. The Cherohala Skyway is a new scenic road connecting western N.C. to eastern Tennessee. It goes through national forest lands so, there is no development or tourist signs along it. It is set up similar to the Blue Ridge parkway with pull overs and guide signs marking the various pull over areas. Helen wanted to go with us and we picked her up at 9:00 at Bryson's Market parking lot. We went to Franklin, then west on 64 to the Wayah Bald road. (FS 1031) This road is a quiet road that goes to Wayah Bald viewing area and then on to Nantahala Lake. Not too many people use this road; I don't know why as each time I have been on it in the fall it has great fall colors and it is easy to stop for pictures. At the west end it goes along Nantahala Lake, and then along a river that is popular for rafting. We stopped at a new river overlook and stretched and watched as several rafts went by down below. We then went to Robbinsville, taking a slightly longer route then planned, arriving at lunchtime. I had been to Robbinsville about two years ago and remembered an old fashioned restaurant, The Joyce Kilmer, named for the poet who has a Memorial Forest nearby. This restaurant is straight out of the 1950's, cafeteria style with "home style" cooking. We went, got our food and drink, ate and left all probably faster then if we had stopped at a "fast food" place. Better food too!. We got back on the road and went to road 143, which leads to the skyway. We stopped at a ranger station along the way and picked up some info and maps of the area. The skyway is about 30 miles long and goes from 2600 ft to 5240 ft and back down to 1370 ft in Tennessee. The colors varied from green and no fall colors to reds and oranges in full fall color. The color seemed to vary based on height and each turn brought a different mix of color. We stopped at several of the pull overs to stretch or take pictures. We eventually got to Tellico Plains, Tenn. There isn't much there so we got gas and turned around to go back. We noticed a spur road to a ranger station and a falls in the Cherokee National Forest and decided to check it out. Bald River Falls is about five miles of the main road, but well worth the ride. The falls is right by the road, one of the most accessible I have ever been to. You drive by, on a bridge, park and walk back on the bridge to a towering two level falls. We then returned to the skyway and headed back. This road is only two years old and we thought that it wasn't very busy. I guess it should be enjoyed before the world finds out about it. The return ride was relatively uneventful, we did take the shorter route from Robbinsville, retraced our path on the Wayah road. We arrived back in Highlands about 6:30, dropped Helen off and went home for dinner. Dinner was enjoyed and we watched Atlanta lose again, they would eventually lose their way out of the playoffs totally. Shortly after the game we retired to read and go to bed.

Saturday October 10,1998

Today was the day for our hike up Rabun Bald and my Saturday night steak cookout and football party. We met the Highlands hiking club at 10 A.M., in the downtown bank parking lot. Our party of four; Dad, me, Janet and Tucker, met there along with about twenty other hikers. We then went to Scaly Mtn. to pick up several more people. Rabun Bald is about ten miles into Georgia. We arrived at the base of the hiking trail and found spots for all the cars. (Not an easy task as there were several roads that had to be left unblocked.) The group agreed to meet at a spot about half way up wait for everyone, then continue on up. Tucker and Janet got going right away and led the way for most of the uphill hike. The trail was very rocky, so you had to watch your step all the way up. As we worked our way up I stayed with Dad, who tired out toward the end and eventually became the "sweep". The sweep is the last guy in the group, who makes sure the everyone has made it up. We rested at the half way point and continued on. Once again we had a perfect fall day, not a cloud in the sky and beautiful fall colors all around. This trail was through the  woods so most of it was shady. We made it to the top and everyone had  packed a lunch. There is a lookout platform which looks out over the entire area. You can see Clayton, GA and Scaly Mtn and various other areas, undeveloped and developed. We took a picture at the top (Click here) it shows Tucker , Janet and me on the platform. The hike down was uneventful; (being downhill helps), we got to the cars and returned to Highlands.  We stopped by Mountain Fresh and I had the butcher cut some great steaks for the dinner later. I had invited the Hills over for Steaks and football watching. Jimmy Hill (Tucker's brother)  had come up for the weekend and was also invited. He had a new electric keyboard that he wanted to show to everyone. Everyone arrived and cocktails and snacks were enjoyed. I had been talking and e-mailing about all the good beers and now  we were all together to finally enjoy a few of them. It was a good time and I was in charge of most of the cooking as well. The Florida-LSU game was on and I was keeping track of it as well as getting the steaks and salad ready. Meanwhile, Jimmy was playing the keyboard and had a few selections ready to show us his newfound interest in music. The keyboard looks small but with all the electronics it can sound like an entire group playing. I opened another beer and then got the fire ready. The beers were enjoyed by both Jim and Tucker, but Jim soon changed to liquor and Tucker enjoyed most of the beers with me. Eventually it came together, all at the same time! Dinner was ready and everyone enjoyed everything. (I think) After dinner we sat around the table and watched the end of the game (Florida won) and had some dessert. The Hills said they had a great time but were ready to go home, so the party ended; but it will be remembered for a long time. After they left we finished cleaning up and turned in to read and go to bed. Tomorrow, I was going to sleep late!

Sunday October 11, 1998

I slept late today as Saturday had been a full day, and being on vacation should be relaxing and on some days just do whatever comes up. I had a leisurely morning and we had sandwiches made from some of the leftover steak of the night before. I took a short drive around town and the area in general. I drove by Bridal Veil falls and into Cliffside recreation area, where there is a lake and picnic areas. There have been many events here over the years, but today I was just looking around. I returned home and we decided to take a short local trip with no long or steep hikes. I had read, on the internet, about a place we had never been to called  Slick Rock. To get to Slick Rock, head out Horse Cove road. Then go onto Bull Pen Road about one mile down the road there is a small pullover area. It is a short walk up to a rock outcropping, similar to Sunset Rock except it looks east. There were a few people there and the view was great. After a while we went back to the car and continued on Bull Pen Road. Eventually the road comes out on road 107. We turned right and looked for another small pullover area. This was an area that Dad had remembered so we soon found it and pulled off the road. The area is called Silver Bluff Falls. There are trails leading into the woods, so we followed them in. The trail ends abruptly at a the edge of a running brook that is too wide and deep to walk through. There in a log there that can be used to cross, so we were able to get across and continue down the trail. The trail ends at the falls. It is a smaller falls but only a few people come there so it was peaceful and quiet. We met a local guy, there with his wife and family. They had come up behind us at the gap in the trail. He brought one child across, left him with us and went back for the other. He also helped find a stick which made it easier to cross the water. He was a window washer, and said he had plenty of business. They had moved into the area and enjoyed going to places like this one when they had the time. We spoke to them for a while then headed back to the car. The brook was crossed again and I noticed that at one time it  there had been a wooden bridge there. Hopefully the Forest Service will replace it before our next visit. We returned to Highlands via Cashiers and US 64. When we got home we decided to just take it easy and stay close to home. The beer puzzle was finished (finally!) and I started to get my things ready for my three day trip out of town. We had dinner and I spent the evening readying for the road trip ahead. Dad watched the Sunday night ball game and I got things ready as well as check the game. We all retired fairly early, and I needed to as Monday would be a full day on the road and in Asheville.

Monday October 12, 1998

I awoke early, went to Fred's with Dad and returned home so I could get an early start. I was ready to go about 9:00, said my good byes and headed out. I stopped in town to get a sandwich for my lunch on the Blue Ridge Parkway. After getting the sandwich I noticed that I needed a soft drink to go with it, so I stopped by Fred's for one. Fred and Carla were both working and I got my soda. Fred chuckled when he heard that there was only beer in the ice chest, and I needed a soda for lunch. I said good bye and headed out US 64. In Cashiers, I turned north on 107 to go to Silva. There is a big lake along parts of this road, but I couldn't see much of it as it was fogged in. I arrived in Silva, made a quick stop at Walmart, then took US 23 which hooks up with the parkway at the Balsam Gap entrance. I got on the parkway and stopped at the first pullover, as I usually do. This one was called Balsam Gap Overlook. It was probably made many years ago, and the trees have grown up to block any view that was there. I took a photo of the car, as I usually do at my first pullover on the Parkway. I went on and stopped at various pullovers and drove through others. One was called Roy Taylor Overlook, named after Congressman Roy Taylor, who helped secure the surrounding land in 1981. There is a boardwalk to a platform with a great view of forest - covered mountains. After a few more miles, I came to the Richard Balsam Overlook, which is the highest elevation (6053') on the parkway. As usual, I took a photo of my car by the sign marking the elevation. By now, it was getting on to 1:00, so I wanted to find a quiet spot with a picnic table and a view. A few miles up the road, I came to a pullover with only one car there. The people had just finished eating at the sites' only table, and they passed it on to me, advising me that the bench on one side was wet. Beartail Ridge parking area was a great lunch spot. I sat down and took in a great view that was peaceful and quiet; no one stopped or otherwise bothered my lunch. I took several photos of the area, and as I finished, passed the table on to two local couples who pulled up as I was leaving. Through out this early part of my drive, the fall colors were around in some areas but still not too impressive. As I came to certain elevations, the colors seemed to change. I continued after lunch and was hoping for better colors. I arrived at Herrin Knob, which has cliffs, and the colors were getting better. But, Courthouse Valley Overlook was still mostly green. John Rock View had trails leading to views of the Devil's Courthouse, but colors still were spotty. I was going along and came around a curve, and it was as if I had come into a totally peaked fall scene. The area called Graveyard Fields was awash in fall colors. Oranges, reds, yellows and browns, all in the brightest form. There is a pullover / parking area that was filled with cars. There is a trail to a falls, so most people were down on the trail. I didn't have time for the trail, but vowed to find time next trip here. Several photos were taken and about 1/2 mile up the road, I stopped and could see the falls in the distance. The color here was, in my estimation, the best of my vacation. I had agreed to meet my friends Steve and Joni in Asheville at 3:00, so I had to get moving. I drove the rest of the way to Asheville with no side trips or stops, although I could have easily spent the rest of the day exploring the Parkway and surrounding areas. I arrived in Asheville, found our hotel, The Best Western Downtown, at about 3:15. As I checked in, I asked about my friends, and was told they weren't there yet. So, I decided to unload the car and get into my room. I took some stuff up and on my way down the elevator stopped at another floor and Steve and Joni were there. They had been there for about half an hour, so the clerk was mistaken and we still don't know why. They had quite a story to tell me; they had been in an auto accident about a week previously and almost didn't come to N.C. Joni was still hurting and sometimes didn't want to walk a lot, but they came anyway and I think it was a good idea that they did. After catching up on events, we decided to go to the Grove Park Inn for cocktails. The Grove Park Inn is a big resort type place with a large lobby that has huge fireplaces on each end and everything is on a grand scale. We  have been there before, so we sat and enjoyed the atmosphere and activity of the lobby, while enjoying Highland ale on tap. It was good to sit back and relax with my friends, and we have always liked the Grove Park. If you walk around the place you'll see pictures of many of the famous people who have stayed there. The original inn is almost 100 years old and many newer rooms have been added, but the entire place still retains its, charm. After several rounds of drinks  we decided to go, as we had other places to visit. We left the Grove Park and found our way to Two Moons Brew & View, a new Asheville brewpub. As you pull up, it looks like a movie house marquee, painted purple. This was a new concept to us; fresh brewed beer in the lobby and movies being shown as in any movie house. We were there at about 6:00, so no movies were showing, but the bar was open. There was almost no one there so we were able to find out about their beers and the place in general. They make six beers, but only had three of them available, along with six guest craft beers. The best beer was called Pisgah Ale, but the others were good also. A local guy next to us said the food was good,  so we ordered a small pizza. The pizza was quite tasty, as were the other small snack items; all of handmade quality. We wondered if the place will make it, as it seemed deserted, but the local guy said it was very crowded on the weekends. Nearby, there was a shelf area with all beer related publications; all for the taking, many I had never seen. Good beer, friendly people; that's what makes a good brewpub, even one a little different, like this one. We then returned to the hotel to get ready to go to Barley's, the original Asheville Taproom. We have all been to Barley's before, so we knew what to expect. I had heard of a new brewpub next door called The Blue Rooster, and I wanted to check it out as we walked to Barley's. The Blue Rooster was closed, with a note on the door, which didn't really say what was wrong. No one in Barley's knew either, but the attitude detected was "good riddance to our competitor right next door". This was unsaid but I could read between the lines of comments made. Barley's was still a great place; big long bar with all craft beer taps and now the upstairs is open with pool tables and more beers. We sat at the bar, ordered beer and later, food. All went well; I wish this place was close to home; I would go there often. Steve and Joni left early, and I stayed for a few more beers. Eventually I had enough, so I paid up and stumbled back to the hotel. I arrived back at my room just in time to see the Jacksonville Jags beat the Mullets on Monday Night Football. I called it a night, and looked forward to tomorrow and more parkway travel.

Tuesday October 13, 1998

I awoke at about 8:30 and met Steve downstairs for the hotel's free breakfast. It was light but easy on the stomach, which was good, as I could still  feel the pizza from last night. We took our time getting ready and got the cars loaded. Steve and Joni wanted to go by Thomas Wolfe's house, which they had enjoyed on a previous trip. I had seen the place but never explored it. Unfortunately, the old home has been partially destroyed by fire. We already knew this, but there is a visitor center right next door. I didn't know much about Wolfe, but after going through the center I knew all about him. There is a short film about him, as well as a walk through display of some of his property, and a history of his life and times. We spent about an hour there, well worth the time to learn about one of America's premier writers. We then went about five blocks west to see a store that Joni had seen an ad for and wanted to see. It was a jewelry store with most items made by artists, both local and of national standing. Neat stuff but probably a bit pricey for us. We then wandered around the area looking at several stores and shops. It was getting toward noon so we needed to get going. We returned to the hotel to get the other car. We would be taking two cars on this part of the trip, as we had arrived separately and had nowhere to leave a car for a few days. This was unfortunate, as will soon be seen. We decided to stop by the Asheville mall for several needed items, so I said that we should meet there. As we left the parking lot, we got on the local expressway, and as we approached the mall area, we lost each other in traffic. I waited outside, looking for Steve and Joni, and upon not seeing them, decided to go in and get what I needed so that we would be done. As I was leaving after my purchase, I spotted Steve, so we were reunited with no major delay or problems. He had parked away from me, so I said let's meet at the first pullover on the Parkway. He thought I was going to come by where they were parked, and I thought they would come out of the lot and I would see them then. Once again, we were split up. I had said that if we were split up, remember that we were going to stay at Green's motel in Boone, which turned out to be a good thing to say, as that is the next time I saw them; we were separated for the rest of the afternoon. Once I realized the reality of that, I decided to make the best of it and travel the Parkway and go to Boone and see if they showed up at Green's. My first good stop was at Craggy Gardens visitor center. It was a cool, windy day with clear skys. Around the Craggy area there were some good fall colors, but all were near areas that said no stopping, due to the local watershed being very close to the surface. Just after the visitor center, driving through Pinnacle Tunnel, is a pullover with a view of Craggy Dome, which is impressive. My next stop was at Mt. Mitchell State park. I drove to the top parking area, still hoping to see Steve and Joni. No luck; so I took the walk up to the lookout tower on the top of the mountain. It was still a clear day, rare at Mt Mitchell, which is usually cold and cloudy. I enjoyed the view from the top, but soon I had to go. On the way down I pulled in to the restaurant to look for Steve and Joni's car; no luck, but as it turned out, I probably missed them by twenty minutes one way or the other. I drove on, stopping at Green Knob Overlook, which is a good view, but fall colors weren't as good as earlier. Lick Log Ridge Overlook is a quiet place with great view, and the colors are now getting better. At Bear Den Overlook, the parking area is right on the edge of a drop-off and the other side of the road is a big cliff. This is one of the better places on the Parkway; it is far enough from Asheville that many people skip it or already have turned off the road. It has a great view and I took several pictures. Just up the road is a place I have come to like better than any other on the Parkway. It is called Chestoa View. As you pull in, there is a picnic area and parking lot. To get to the view, you must walk down a trail, built of local rock, that goes down step by step to a half circle, also made from the local stone. The work looks like old fashioned quality stone work, probably done by the CCC in the 1930's. The half circle hangs off the side of the mountain and you can see for miles in all directions. I had to keep moving, no time for a picnic this time; maybe next time. I pulled in at Crabtree Meadows visitor area; got a snack and found a nice shirt as well. I then called Green's to get a room; they had one but hadn't heard from Steve yet. It was getting late, so I had to keep moving. As I approached the Grandfather Mountain area the sunset was making the colors great. The area was in full fall colors, almost as good as the Graveyard fields area I had seen yesterday. It was getting dark as I pulled into Green's motel. I went in and a friendly girl had my room key and registration ready. I signed in  and also asked her for directions to The Howard Street Grill and Cottonwood Brewery. I wrote the directions on a small piece of paper, and later they actually got us there! I pulled up to my room got settled in and sat down for a beer. Green's is an old fashioned motel; you pull up right in front of your room and you are probably six feet from your door. No parking lots, elevators or rolling carts needed. I settled in in about five minutes. I  had a Highlands Gaelic Ale and was enjoying it when a knock came on the door. It was Steve and Joni; they had driven their own trip, wondering about me and what had happened. They came in for cocktails and we discussed how our days had been. Everyone had a good day except for wondering what had happened to the other. We then got cleaned up for dinner. We went to the Cottonwood Brewery, which we have been to before. It has joined with a restaurant, the Howard Street Grill, and has become a local favorite in it's new location. We came in and it was busy for a Tuesday night; no room at the bar so we got a table. The beer is still good; this is the only brewpub I have been in that has two stouts on tap as well as several other beers. The original brewery was a Mexican restaurant and that menu has been retained as well as regular grill items from the Howard St. Grill. It is now a fairly loud local party place; we enjoyed the place and wonder if you can even get in on a Friday or Saturday night. We ordered various starters and then dinner, meanwhile a band set up. The band was a pleasant surprise; good blues and rock 'n roll. There was a guy on electric fiddle; I called him Papa John Creech, because he sounded like him. We finished up, paid and returned to the motel.  Joni was very tired, so she headed back to their room. Steve and I had several more very necessary beers and watched TV for a while. Soon we were ready to call it a day; we finished our beers and Steve returned to his room and I turned in. 

Wednesday October 14, 1998

I awoke in room 120 of Green's motel; the first thing visible was a bunch of empty bottles of good beer on the TV cabinet. The sun was trying to come in the window, so I got up and went outside. I returned quickly as it was probably 40 degrees outside! A cold front had come in overnight. Being from Florida, I was glad to see it; this day would be the coldest on my trip. Meanwhile, Steve and Joni were waking up and getting ready. We took our time showering and packing to go. Once ready we packed the cars; I left mine at the motel and drove into Boone with Steve and Joni. Downtown Boone is about four blocks long and two blocks wide, near the campus of Appalachian State University. We parked and went into the Mast Store, an old fashioned general store, really sort of a tourist place but cool anyway. After several highly necessary purchases (toads, yardsticks, mushroom brushes) we headed out. A few blocks away, we went to a beer store that I had remembered from my last trip. I found a few beers that I wanted, then we returned to the motel. A friendly Oriental guy checked us out, also offering all the ice we needed, which wasn't much since it was still 45 degrees out. The heavy jacket was being used at least one day anyway. Since we had missed each other Tuesday, we decided to do a bit of the Parkway together before we went to Knoxville. A picnic was decided on so we stocked up at the local supermarket and headed to the Parkway. We took Blowing Rock Road to the Parkway and headed south. It was still cool and windy, but still a nice October day in northern North Carolina. Our first stop was at Price Lake, a lake right alongside the Parkway. In the fall, the opposite side of the lake shows the leaf colors well; several years ago, Steve and I had done some fishing on this lake. We took in the scenery, walked around for a while, then headed on. We were going into the Lin Cove Viaduct / Grandfather Mountain area, which had been so colorful yesterday. Today at midday it wasn't disappointing. We stopped at Rough Ridge Overlook, just before the viaduct. There appeared to be a small trail system at this stop; it will be explored further another time. Across the road we could see the viaduct from the side. The Lin Cove Viaduct was the last link of the parkway to be built; it was finished in the late 1980's. Being built that late meant that all the new environmental regulations were in place, so it had to be built up on columns so as not to disturb the rare plants and animals of the area. It is an engineering feat unmatched anywhere else on the Parkway. Driving over it is almost like floating over the area as you are above almost everything nearby. There is no stopping on the bridge; the stops are before and after. We crossed the viaduct, pulled into the small visitor center, and walked the short trail that goes under part of the viaduct. It had warmed up a bit, so now only light jackets were  necessary. The leaf colors were now the best in the area, so several more stops were made. At the Stack Rock parking area we saw spectacular views in all directions; the view north is the background of this page. Right in front of us were many varied colors and to our left, if you look hard enough, you could see the span of Grandfather Mountain Parks' bridge. We drove on to Linville Falls and took the trails up to see the falls. This trail system had three different places to view the falls, and the entire walk takes about one hour. This is a very worthwhile trip; the trail is easy to moderate and well used and marked. The views are excellent with the top being the best. The lower view has a great place to sit and take a photo with the falls in the background. We were getting hungry so we needed a spot for the picnic lunch. I knew of the perfect spot; in fact I had been there just yesterday. Just a few miles south of the falls area was Chestoa View; the perfect place. We arrived and there were only one or two cars; neither party using the picnic area. We chose a table, spread out a blanket and enjoyed a much needed late lunch. This was the first time I had actually used the picnic site; all earlier visits were to take in the view only. It was a great day but soon we knew we had to get moving if we were going to make Knoxville tonight. One last trip down the trail to the view, and then we got going. Several short stops were made but soon we came to Road 226, which would lead us to I - 40 to Knoxville. 226 is a very steep road for the first few miles; there are runaway truck ways and many warning signs about steep grades. If I were driving a truck I believe I would take another road; the signs are practically yelling this. Of course we came up on a truck, jack - knifed along one part of it; some people just won't learn or listen. The road flattened out and soon we were on I-40 going west. We went right through Asheville; would have liked to stop at Barley's for a few but it was getting late. I-40 goes from Asheville to Knoxville, but at the state border it becomes very narrow going through the pass between the mountains. People don't slow down; I was glad that the trucks are required to stay in the right lane through this twenty mile stretch. We made it through that area, and soon Knoxville was in sight. Our exit to Knoxville took us right through the heart of downtown, directly to the campus of the University of Tennessee. We found our hotel, Days Inn Campus, right away. Check in was quick and we settled in with some cocktails. Looking out the window I saw that we were directly behind a Krystal restaurant and near a bunch of college oriented shops and bars. We were running late so we needed to go to the brewpub that we had been planning to go to. The Great Southern Brewery is a big place, two stories with a cigar room in back. Being Wednesday night, some areas of the place were closed and the staff was small. We wanted to sit at the bar; the best thing to do in a brewpub, but it was full. We sat at a table, waited and no one came over, so as soon as someone left the bar we moved up to it. We ordered a round and appetizers and were glad to be back in a place we had enjoyed before. The prime rib is famous there so we all ended up ordering it. Another round was had. We then noticed that the next weekend, the bar was having Octoberfest. Since we wouldn't be there we asked if we could buy the special glass made for the occasion, and the guy said it would be ok. The food was excellent as was the beer; the short wait earlier didn't hurt and soon was forgotten. We finished and walked outside into a brisk, cool breeze. We then returned to the hotel, had a nightcap of stout, then called it a night.

Thursday October 15, 1998

I awoke, looked out the window and knew where we were going to have breakfast. It looked cool and clear outside. It was a  beautiful Tennessee fall day. We all got ready and packed to go. We checked out, packed the cars, then walked to Krystal for breakfast. After breakfast I said that I wanted to go to the old world's fair site and go up the Sunsphere. The Sunsphere is a big ball on top of a tower; about twenty stories high with a 360 degree view of Knoxville. It took a little driving around to actually get there, but we finally found a place near the base of the tower. The local chamber of commerce and visitor's center was also nearby. We checked out the visitor's center and found that there are many things in Knoxville that we could have done. Since we had only planned one day there we picked up some information for a future, longer visit. Next door is the south's finest chocolate outlet; we stopped in for a few items. We then walked to the tower. The tower trip up is free and was not crowded. Once up top, the view was incredible, especially on this clear day. The tower goes all the way around, with place cards telling you what you are looking at. It was a good day for this; you could see for miles in all directions. The world's fair was in 1982; much of it has been removed or rebuilt into something else. By now, it was getting late in the morning, so we had to get going. We left Knoxville and went south toward Gatlinburg. On the way, we stopped by the Pigeon Forge outlet shops. I had remembered a store there with shoes that I needed and we just wanted to look around. We got there; split up for a while, got a few items (not the shoes), and headed on. We arrived in Gatlinburg, parked and walked all over town. Gatlinburg (also known as Tacky Town) is one long street with every shop, store or restaurant known there. We checked out a few places; a racing store, coke collectibles store and several other places. One cool store that Joni remembered was a civil war store; a quiet bookstore type store with Dixie playing and a lot of civil war era books and memorabilia. We then wanted to get lunch; Steve had remembered a place that he thought had their own beer. We found it at the end of town. The restaurant was called Calhoun's but just behind it was the Smoky Mountain Brewery. As it turns out the brewery supplied Calhoun's with beer but now had opened their own brewpub in the back of the original restaurant. The Smoky Mountain Brewery was a new place; with all the food served upstairs. We sat at the bar which looks out on the street. They have several good beers and the food is good as well. The walls are covered with dollar bills signed and decorated then stapled up by the staff. Each of us made one and will check back next time to see if they are still there. By now it was mid afternoon and I knew I still had some driving to do. The plan was that Steve and Joni were going to stay at a nearby bed and breakfast and I was going back to Highlands. They would join me there tomorrow. We left Smoky Mountain Brewing; stopping for some souvenir items on our way out. It was a bit of a walk back to the cars, probably good to work off some of lunch. We split up and I headed south, through Smoky Mountain National Park. This drive is pleasant, except that there are many cars on the road, US 441, through the park. Since I was just driving through I only made a few stops; with more time I could have spent the day checking out different areas along this road. I soon arrived at the southern end of the park, near Cherokee (the other Tacky Town). I turned south toward Franklin, arrived there and took US 64 to Highlands. This road is one of the most scenic roads in the area. It has many curves and switchbacks. You are driving up through the Cullasaja Gorge where there are several sharp drop-offs and waterfalls along the way. Truckers hate this road, but if you just take it easy and enjoy the scenery it is a great piece of North Carolina. I arrived home about dark, only to find a note on the door. The note said that if I were early enough dinner was at the Hill's. I called over and they hadn't served yet so I went on over. This was our last get together for a while as Tucker and Janet were leaving for Oregon on Friday morning. Tucker asked if I would like a beer and brought out the Old Cleavage Stout I had given him, without the label. I had brought him another one with a label; he wanted to try the beer with the brewer of it. It was still a good beer; we both enjoyed it and the other one would be enjoyed back in Oregon. Soon dinner was ready; Helen usually makes a very good dinner for all of us and this was no exception. We speculated on when we would see each other next; Tucker said the I would have to come out their way for the next visit. Sounds good to me; let's see what 1999 brings. It had been a big day for me, so when dinner was finished I excused myself said my farewells and returned to the house. I did a few things to try to get ready for the trip home; then turned in as it had been a tiring day. 

Friday October 16, 1998

Today was to be my last day in Highlands; so I slept in and had a relaxing morning. I spent the morning getting ready for the long ride home. I cleaned up everything and started to get all my stuff together. It is amazing how much stuff is accumulated on one of my trips. Last year, when I flew out to South Dakota with several friends I remarked, on the first day,'Let the junk collecting begin'. The same motto was in effect this year; driving only gave me more space to put it in. When I arrived in Highlands I had unloaded the car entirely; when I took my short trip earlier this week I only took some of the stuff. Now I had to take it all back to Florida. The balance of the morning was spent packing, bagging and otherwise getting ready for the trip home. After a quick lunch I decided to take a drive around town. I ended up going on 64 west to Cliffside Recreation area, a favorite spot over the years. As I drove in, I took a dirt road to the left. I had been on this road many years age and forgot just where it went. It goes around until you come upon Miller's Cemetery, a small family plot. I checked it out and read that this was an old burial place that probably had become part of the national forest; therefore no new, non family members were being allowed to be buried there. There are recent burials so, there must still be some of the original decedents around today. It is a peaceful, quiet scene; there aren't too many places like this one. I retraced my path back to the main road; drove down by the lake and picnic sites. It was fairly quiet so I just drove through without stopping. I drove back through town, picked up some ales for tonight, then returned to the house. Steve and Joni arrived from Tennessee around three o'clock. They had been here several years ago so they were happy to relax and stay close to the house for the afternoon. We planned to go out to sunset rock about 5:30 so we would be there before the sunset at about 6:15. We took our ice chest with supplies and a blanket to sit on. On the way we drove through a new development, which currently has only one house, but you can see where there will be more. We arrived, set up and were right on time; within fifteen minutes the sun set over the far away ridges. It is a spectacular sight; the sun setting with  Highlands below on the valley floor. The sun is there; then disappears quickly behind a tree lined ridge in front of you. A small crowd watched this and shortly after everyone goes on home. We arrived back in time for dinner which was enjoyed, immensely, by everyone. After dinner the fire was still going and we all sat around it talking about our trip and whatever else had happened; all too soon it was late and time to get some rest for Saturday's drive. Steve and Joni would be heading to Savannah and I was going to Gainesville to see Gary, Karan and Patrick for the night; then on to Miami on Sunday.

Saturday October 17, 1998

We all awoke early and went down to Fred's with dad. Steve had been there before and this was Joni's first visit to the early morning meeting of the minds of Highlands. Most of the regulars were there: Billy, Darrel, Lloyd and, of course, Fred. Steve tried to win a newspaper but had to pay a dollar. Dad won his and I won a copy of the Asheville paper to take home. We all drank warm drinks and discussed how it would be in just a few weeks, after the part timers all went home. It would be very quiet and cold! I think Joni enjoyed it; she was one of the few women to be a part of the early morning group. We said all our good byes and vowed to be back next year. (We will!) We then returned to the house to get ready to go. After breakfast we loaded the cars and readied to go. I was going to Gainesville and Steve was going to Savannah. They said that they would follow me for part of the trip; then go on to Savannah. This was, again, a great piece of non communication; they should have gone east to South Carolina and on to Savannah. Instead they followed me to Macon, then cut over to Savannah, adding about two extra hours to their trip. This wasn't communicated and no one looked at a map to check the route. It was still enjoyable but it made Steve and Joni's ride longer. We left about ten o'clock on NC 106. About five miles down there is a country store. I went on by and soon noticed I had lost them. I pulled over and they soon appeared; this two car idea has got to go. We agreed to stay together; when I leave for Florida I'm ready to go and not stop too much. We stayed together fairly well and took the short cut through central Georgia to Macon. This route is also known as the Antebellum Trail, named after all the great old buildings in the small towns along the way. We went via Athens and Madison, GA. At the intersection of I-20 we stopped for a quick lunch at Arby's. It was fast; and that's where I said my good byes, as I didn't want to stop again until close to the Florida line. We then continued on to Macon. At some point I lost them; later I would find out just how long their ride was. I continued on and tried to find the Gator game on the radio. This is not possible in central Georgia; all stations have Bulldog football only. As I approached Florida I was able to catch the second half, and continued to all the way to Gainesville. I found the way to Gary's house, arriving just as the Gators beat Auburn, about six o'clock. Gary and his family had recently moved into their new house; a newer house in a nice woodsy neighborhood, in northwest Gainesville. I arrived, brought in some of my beers, and relaxed with Gary and Karan. Patrick was working on a class assignment and they also had several of the neighbor's children for the night. A full  house, which kept Karan busy for a while. Dinner was prepared for everyone; it was nice to be at their place and just hang out for the night. We just took it easy and I was able to check out the new place. It is on a half acre, surrounded by trees, in a neighborhood of similar houses. It is a big difference from some of the places I had stayed in when I was a student at UF almost twenty years ago. Gainesville has grown and changed since then. We turned in somewhat early; as we wanted to get a good start on Sunday morning.

Sunday October 18, 1998 / Epilogue