Spending more time in North Carolina, Part 1, a few days in Asheville.

No return trip to North Carolina is complete without stopping in Asheville and a chance to see my dear friend and former VA colleague Mary B. And so, after departing West Jefferson, Lenny and I parked the camper in Swannanoa at the KOA campgrounds, just like we did last Fall. It's a very convenient location and since it's early in the camping season we were able to secure a beautiful spot with a lake view once again. The weather this trip has been exceptional with low humidity and cooler daytime and nighttime temps. No need for A/C, however, we had to be mindful of the many geese and their young goslings in the area.

They cautioned a very curious Lenny not to get too close to the family. Thankfully, he took their warnings seriously and kept his distance. But Lenny, being Lenny and somewhat persistent, needed a few reminders during our stay at the campground, ultimately, he got the message loud and clear.

If you ever make the journey to Asheville, please add the Moose Cafe to your list of "must see" locations. This place is Southern down home and makes some of the best biscuits anywhere, not to mention their apple butter. Mary and I, being total foodies, indulged and savored every single bite.

When it comes to eating this kind of cooking, Mary B is no slouch and she opted for the chicken and waffles along with some greens, sweet potato casserole, and cornbread.

As you can see, I ordered the meatloaf, green beans, cornbread, mashed potatoes and gravy. Hey, what happened to those two biscuits??? Better ask Mary, she knows.

Asheville is now home to a gazillion brew pubs and we opted to sample one of the many options in town. Mary and I chose the Hillman and the beer was outstanding along with their rice bowls.

We elected to sit outside, so Lenny could join us and listen to the babbling creek directly behind the pub. Our waitress was a very interesting character and had this odd looking tattoo on the back of her thigh. Of course, I had to take a picture of it, just cause it was so unusual and plus, I am kooky for even asking if I could take a picture of it. Beware of weird old men asking to take photos of tattoos. We are a strange lot.

Reminded me of the movie poster from A Ghost Story

After spending several days in Asheville, visiting with Mary and her family in Montreat, it was time to pack up and continue our journey to Raleigh. But before I close this chapter, A BIG shout out to our mutual friend and former nurse colleague, Jennie W back in Sheridan!!! Jennie, you gotta get back there sometime this summer and spend a few days with our friend Mary B. Asheville is calling you. Well, it's onto the Capitol city to spend time with the family and more friends. Additional reports to follow soon.