20 Years: Highlands

It is almost our 20th anniversary and we had the privilege of going back to the cabin we went to for our honeymoon. The date of our weekend changed a few times because of various children activities, but the whole trip ended up being perfect and stress-free. It was incredible.

Here is a picture of me by the sign on our honeymoon, and then again this weekend.

And a selfie by the sign (Jase endured my selfies for the weekend)

The cabin was pretty much the same, which was fun. The two additions were this beautiful bathroom and this awesome sunroom.

We drove up on Friday, after we dropped the kids off at school. We weren't sure exactly what time we could get into the cabin, but we wanted to spend Friday afternoon downtown anyways. Hurricane Matthew was hitting the East coast, so Highlands, even tho it was very far inland, had rain Friday evening and strong (20+mph) winds all weekend.

Since the weekend was about relaxation and food, that is what I'll tell you about. Friday night we ate an incredible sandwich shop. Jason got a yummy gyro and I got the best reuben sandwich I've ever had. We ate late and just had cheese and crackers that we brought with us for a late night snack.

Saturday we went to Dry Falls, just like we did on our honeymoon. Even tho a hurricane was coming, the drought was evident in the amount of water coming out of the falls. Regardless, it was beautiful and fun to see the beginning of Fall colors up in the mountains.

Our lunch consisted of Highlands Smokehouse - Jason had a brisket sandwich and I had pulled pork. Jason then endured a few hours walking around downtown venturing into different antique shops in the quaint downtown of Highlands.

There was no cell service at the cabin, which, in my normal life would make me nervous. Mostly nervous if the kids needed something. But I was totally relaxed and I thanked the Lord for giving me that peace. Mollee was at Aubrey's, Tavis was at Josh's, Daegan was with Papa and Grandma, and Capps and Mac were with the Harris'.

All I can do is to keep saying how awesome the weekend was - it truly was refreshing.

Saturday night we went to The Ugly Dog Pub for burgers and football.

Sunday morning it was 40 degrees and we could stay as long as we want. There was no time frame for getting back, so we enjoyed a few more hours sans kids and responsibility.

We headed back, stopped a few places along the way. The views were gorgeous and the weather was perfect.

 We used our leftover food for snacks along the Ocoee. I love blue cheese and baguette bread and Jason loves peppered salami, smoked gouda and crackers.

Back to reality always hits hard and fast. The kids barely missed and we had homework to get done, youth group to attend, lunches and bags to be packed.

But, we will hold on to the memory...of the perfect weekend.

Maybe we can go again in 2036.