A Memorable Trip Concludes on High Notes

Today I'm wrapping up my journal of my and Judy's trip to Buffalo Tavern Bed and Breakfast and all points within 20 miles.  Well, that's what it seemed like, but we were there less than 48 hours.  Let's pick up with late Tuesday afternoon, when we turned off the Blue Ridge Parkway to see a couple of sights in and around Glendale Springs, NC.

This is one of the famed Churches of the Frescoes, with masterful works of art by world-renowned Ben Long.  We had been here before, so didn't linger.

As always, the church doors were open to welcome guests.

This is the fabulous frescoe of "The Last Supper."

Judy's brother Tim ("Hi, Tim") is an expert at ferreting out interesting but little-places places.  He had told me how to find an out-of-the-way Methodist campground with abundant views of the New River.  Here's where we crossed the river-- getting close.

Imagine those lucky campers.

Very inviting waters, but not today for us.

Elk Shoals United Methodist Camp-- God's Country.

And they're not exaggerating!

The camp office where we were directed to register was not manned.  We saw a few folks enjoying a riverside beach, but apparently no groups were staying at the camp during that week.  Tim's family had seen it brimming with campers on a weekend.

Heading back to the Parkway, we stopped for a short stretch break at the Northwest Trading Post.  Nice facilities and a wide variety of books, mountain crafts, and souvenirs.

As I stood on the front lawn of the trading post and took in the panoramic vista, I thanked God for places where we can still retreat to have time to think, smell the flowers, and appreciate the greatness of His gifts to us.

This angle shows the venerable Blue Ridge Parkway, established and long protected by wise men of vision.  I pray that we, as a state and nation, don't abandon this and other national treasures that bless, instruct, and enlighten our citizens.

We exited the parkway at Laurel Springs and followed a scenic route back to Jefferson.  We wanted to wait a little while before eating, so I followed a sign to the Ashe County Park, about 3 miles out of town.  We were pleased to see a spacious park with facilities of every kind.  There were ballfields, picnic areas, a lake for fishing or swimming, a frisbee golf course, and more.  These ducks certainly had no complaints.

Here's a glimpse of the pond, still affording a wonderful view of old Mount Jefferson, even though we were miles further away.

While at the park, our appetites struck with a vengeance, and we headed off to a place worthy of such a voracious hunger-- Shatley Springs.

This place has been known to us for more than 30 years, but we had not been sure it was still open until we inquired with our innkeeper, Doc.  He told us he had eaten there twice recently and that they still offered the old family style all-you-can-eat meal, but you can also order from a menu.

We both found meals to suit our palates on the menu; Judy got the vegetable plate (plus one) and I got the baked ham dinner (plus one).  We had all we could handle and at a very reasonable price.  Then we drove through the grounds for old times' sake.  We were happy to see all buildings were in good repair with a fresh coat of redwood paint.  But mostly, I was happy about the restaurant!

So dusk brought us back to our homey, cozy Bed and Breakfast, where we would have another night of restful repose before heading homeward refreshed.  I highly recommend that you take a glance at the following website, which has numerous glowing reviews of Buffalo Tavern.

http://www.bedandbreakfast.com/ShowReviews.aspx?inn=623529&m=1#s7508409

So farewell, Doc.  So long, Buffalo Tavern.  We'll be back, Blue Ridge Mountains.

And as for you, dear readers, I'll see you soon!