“The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.”
Psalm 121:7-8 ESV
As I observed the sun coming up over the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from about 5,000 feet, shining through the clouds, I thought it had the look of an erupting volcano. We’ve been somewhat out of our normal routine since early last Sunday, but not to worry, we encountered no volcano, only a lot of low thick stubborn clouds.
What a joy to spend several days high up in the Appalachians, a few thousand feet above our foothills. I hiked up to this knob where the views are spectacular, but on this particular morning, the only thing that was clear, is the reason this area is called the Smoky Mountains!
Pam thought this very old Chestnut Oak had a spooky look with all those “tentacles” reaching into the foggy air! The fact that we could barely see the highest branches reveals just how soupy the atmosphere was…and it remained so for 2 days and nights!
It is no wonder that lichen flourishes in this climate. It seems it is found on almost every tree.
I made a slight detour and passed through The Swag garden on my way to the Cataloochee Divide Trail inside the National Park. I wanted to see how the garden looked, basking in the clouds. Pam and I thought the fog brought a strange, yet unique beauty to everything…a living portrait in every direction! Like watercolors maybe??
Arriving on the trail and heading into the park, I realized that visibility was only about 100 yards. One spot we like to hike to along this trail offers awesome views, but is a pretty tough climb in places and almost all uphill for about a mile. After covering about a 1/4 mile it occurred to me that when I arrived at my destination, I wouldn’t be able to see a single thing! It only made sense to do this on a different day. I was also thinking “you could walk right up on a bear before you saw it”. And, as the mind tends to work, I envisioned a mama with two cubs. It was time to head to back.
It was here, at the same place on the same trail, that lyrics from an old song came to mind. “What a difference a day makes, twenty four little hours!”
Upon coming to an opening, I realized this was probably a stop off or rest spot for hikers. A couple of benches were here, and a circle of rocks that indicated campfires had been used in the past. Nothing odd about finding these items along a well used popular trail, but there was an unusual finding that someone left here at some point a few years ago. I am in the Appalachian Mountains of NorthCarolina, but the prominent tree in this opening is a Colorado Blue Spruce, if I am not badly mistaken! Some human involvement beyond just establishing a campsite!
The trail continues through the woods to the right around this ridge and eventually comes to the top from the back side near the highest point you can see. It is shorter to head straight up through the grass, but it is very steep and the ground cover is much thicker than it looks. I’ve traveled this route before, mainly coming down, but this day I decided to stick to the trail!
In this cool, wet climate, there is some type fungus almost always in view. This stood out from a distance, and to give an idea of why, I thought a hand comparison would help. There are some really unusual things that grow in these mountains.
I suppose this is a spider’s idea of a rustic home in the mountains. I’m glad I paused here because noting my watch, I realized the need to head down the trail in order to meet Pam in the Swag garden at our planned time. The main reason…together we were heading up another trail to attend a cookout from a knob that has one of Appalachia’s grandest views. And, it is never wise to be late for a barbecue!
At garden’s edge was a large bush (or small tree by some definitions). Pam made this photo of one of the dozens of berry clusters that were still dripping with moisture from the previous day’s clouds and fog. It was a truly fascinating and beautiful bush and we had no idea what it was. I later found out it was a European cranberry bush, obviously not native to the Great Smoky Mountains!
We were in a rush (you know, the food being prepared up on the mountain knob), but Pam spotted a butterfly that she said looked like a leopard. She called me over to see, and the little butterfly did look leopard-like, and seemed happy that I stopped by. We found out that this is called…a leopard butterfly. Who would’ve thought!!
After another hike of just over a 1/4 mile uphill, we arrived, carrying our appetites. With choices ranging from various types of hot dogs, sausages, bison burgers, beef burgers and a few other selections, I stayed basic and asked the chef for a beef (angus) burger with American cheese. There’s a saying that goes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”!
We had a mayonnaise discussion in a previous post, but clearly these mountain people are Duke’s Mayo fans. No Hellman’s in sight. I managed just fine. I don’t know if it is really the mayonnaise they favor, or could it only be because Duke University is in this state? This table was filled with numerous side dishes such as you would expect at a southern country cookout!
PJ and I found a spot on the end to settle into and enjoy our food. A room with a view would be an understatement. Later, a resident expert gave a short talk on how The Great Smoky Mountains National Park came into existence. What a fascinating story!
A monarch joined the party and stopped by briefly, landing at our feet…a male!
I think Pam and I were the last two people to leave the barbecue, hanging around to make a few more photos I guess. Seems that’s what we are always doing!
After the lunch cookout, you feel as if you will not be hungry for days. But then the dinner hour arrives, and we indulge as if we haven’t eaten for days. Dining at The Swag is an outstanding experience. Dinner is a four course meal. Breakfast might be my favorite, with just about anything you can think of that is great for breakfast being available. Pam and I both chose this for our main course one evening…New York strip with runner beans, frying peppers, cheddar potatoes, and sauce au poivre!
We did make it back to our porch where we both had sweet iced tea while relaxing and taking in this view. The afternoon temp was mid 60’s, about 30 degrees cooler than home!
Out front at dusk a waxing gibbous moon rose over the mountains, shining down on the flag. Time to return home seems to roll around quickly, so we must take in every offering before departing…
…but the full sturgeon moon rising into the scattered clouds this weekend at home behind the Sunshine Cottage was not a bad place to be either! We enjoy an occasional trip, but there is no place like home!
BTW, although late in being able to, we read all the comments on last week’s post. As always, thanks for your gracious and kind words!
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
Hebrews 13:8 ESV
Linking with:
Pieced Pastimes, Between Naps on the Porch, Katherines Corner, Follow The Yellow Brick Home,
Life and Linda
Happy Sunday Butch and Pam, I couldn’t wait to see where you two adventurers had been. Your photos are beautiful, especially with the fog. Isn’t it funny the discussions over Mayo this summer! Duke’s, proudly invented by Mrs Eugenia Duke during WWI in Greenville, SC! We are truly blessed that, even though we’ve been fortunate to travel many places in the world, one of the most beautiful spots on this old planet (Great Smoky Mountains) is in our backyards!
Thank you Roxanne. You do live in a beautiful place with convenience to a lot of other beautiful places. I had read the history of Duke’s but forgot it was Greenville. We actually enjoyed having the low clouds at first. It gave everything a completely different look. Have a great week!
Butch and Pam
Duke’s mayo has nothing to do with the university. It was created in 1917 by Eugenia Duke and is manufactured in South Carolina. I am an NC gal, and personally cannot stand it, as it tastes like pickle juice to me. It has a higher vinegar content than Kraft or Hellmans. It is popular in the south because of the vinegar taste, like vinegar barbecue here too (which I also don’t like). And part of the popularity is from it being made in the south. But there are lots of people like me that prefer the more eggy flavor of the other brands.
Thank you Carole. I had actually read the history of Duke’s (and Hellman’s) some time back. I joked with Pam that maybe they like the name Duke because they are Duke fans. We now joke about the mayo thing since having fun about it on a post some time back. We sometimes have both brands at the house. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
Good Sunday Morning. Oh my gosh the food you ate. Yum! I am so hungry now! The pictures as always tell a wonderful story and we feel we were right there with you. Have a wonderful week. Hugs. Kris
Thank you Kris. I feel like all we did was eat and now it’s double hard to get back on a good program of eating and exercise. I guess vacations are designed to help us gain weight! Have a pleasant week!
Butch and Pam
Beautiful – and I also thought “bear” just before you mentioned it! Glad you had two views of such a beautiful place.
Thank you Leslie Anne. Fortunately we did not encounter any bears, just great food and great scenery. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
What a lovely getaway! The photos of the fog are so beautiful! How wonderful to enjoy down home BBQ with an incredible view and cool temps~
Thank you Jenna. Weather permitting they have that outdoor cookout every week right out on the mountain top. And it was cooler, much cooler. Have a great week!
Butch and Pam
Could there be a place more sublime? How well you have captured it from the
vantage point of The Swag.. That respite through your eyes will do me nicely,
thank you very much. Also for the view of the sturgeon moon, which I missed
this weekend. All the photos are compelling and warrant a book in the future..
the wonderful excursions on which we piggy-back along with you. A lovely
Sabbath experience of beauty and tranquility.
Thank you Mary. The Swag has become a favorite place and it is less than 6 hours away. This was our 6th visit so no doubt they have spoiled us. I’m not one to want someone waiting on me but I must admit I give in for a few days on occasion. Have a blessed week!
Butch and Pam
Beautiful photos of your getaway week at The Swag, Butch & Pam, despite the rain! I love the foggy photos and quiet beauty it lends. Hope you had a relaxing week and enjoyed the cooler temps. Happy Sunday ♥
Thank you Mary. We did have a very relaxing time and although it was foggy which had everything wet, it really never rained. Later turned out beautiful too, so no complaints. Have a great week!
Butch and Pam
PS – I’m keeping both kinds of mayonnaise here so everyone can be happy!
P.S. We’re ‘Team Duke’s’…it’s all about the vinegar. 🙂
Wowza – you have captured Smoky Mountain magic in images and word! Hiking the mountains and breathing the fresh air – very good vibes!
Thank you Mary. The air was fresh and so cool compared to when we left home…30 or more degrees cooler. A light jacket in the evening felt good. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
You can see how the mountains got their name from your lovely photos. I’m sure that staying at The Swag anytime is beautiful but it is nice that the weather cleared before you left.
Thank you Karen. We were glad for clear weather arriving but really enjoyed the smokies in their element also. A really unique experience. Have a great week!
Butch and Pam
What a phenomenal place, thank you for taking us with you! As always, I learned something new, I had never heard of runner beans…fun to look up. Enjoyed seeing the different mayos too. All the pictures were so stunning, what a beautiful post!
Thank you Sue. We weren’t familiar with the term runner beans either. They were delicious. Maybe they are about the same as what granddaddy always called pole beans. ? Have a pleasant week!
Butch and Pam
Your posts are always a highlight of my blog-readin’ week. I truly think your ‘Simple Southern Sunday’ photos and posts should really published in a book.
Thank you Cindy. Such kind words you share. Have a blessed week!
Butch and Pam
The Swag…is always beautiful and I love the fog photos. I’m not crazy about driving in it but I love looking at it with two feet planted firmly on the ground. Your BBQ fare looked so good and inviting and food always tastes better when one is outside, I think. The moon pics are stunning. but you are right…there is no place like home. Thanks for letting us live virtually through you. Blessings Always
Thank you Kari. Fortunately we didn’t drive but a couple miles in the clouds as the lower elevation was clear. It didn’t turn soupy until we were at about 4000 feet and almost there. Have a blessed week!
Butch and Pam
Indeed that appears to be a Colorado blue spruce. I’m sure you are enjoying the cooler temperatures. The mountains are steep and so your knee wasn’t screaming? It was so beautiful and would be tempting but alas my legs just can’t do it. I did find Pam sitting in the end table and I love the fungus picture. We just had smother hail storm. Glad to get the moisture and glad it wasn’t as bad as the last one.
Thank you Alice. You would definitely know the blue spruce. The knee slows me down but the orthopedic doctor put me onto a very good flexible brace and it helps. I usually do want to scream at the end of the day when I’ve over done things. Going much slower these days. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
Hello Folks,
Your fog pictures made everything feel a bit mysterious. When I saw that one path in the woods, I was worried for the Bears—and then you thought the same!
What a lovely place. The food looks divine! Did you have the Swag Bars too? I remember both of you mentioning how tasty they were, and Pam shared the recipe once.
Glad you are back home safe and sound. Your moon picture is gorgeous!
Thank you Nancy. We did have a few Swag Bars and brought a couple home too. Mysterious is a good description of the sense from being shrouded in the fog. I think Pam might make some of those bars again soon. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
So happy that you were able to get away for a mini vacation. It sounds like you had a wonderful time and of course all that hiking would work up an appetite! The Swag dinner looks delicious and barbecue burgers are the best. The photos are beautiful and the fog almost looks a bit spooky. The moon shot is stunning and yes, home sweet home is always a wonderful place to be. Have a wonderful week! P.S. I’m a Hellman’s girl all the way and nothing else will do…
Thank you Kim. The fog did provide a different look that could appear spooky if you thought about it much. It was a good idea to get as much exercise as possible between meals to be ready to eat again, and hopefully not to gain too many pounds. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
What a lovely mountain break Butch & Pam. Lot’s of misty adventures along the way 😊
Blessings to you both, Jennifer
Thank you Jennifer. It was a nice break with just the right mix of mist and sunshine. Blessings to you and have a pleasant week!
Butch and Pam
Thank you 😊
Thank you for this beautiful virtual tour! Precious time! I also love the Bible verse. Hugs and blessings.
Thank you Maristella and blessings to you as well. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
Oh what a treat to be in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! This brought up so many memories for me. My late beloved and I went camping there when we were a young married couple. I had never been camping before and I loved it! We were in Cades Cove, hiked up to Abrams Falls and drove up to Clingman’s Dome (I think that’s the name!). I thought the surroundings in the mountains were one of the prettiest spots I’d ever seen.
I’m sorry to digress, but those are my memories. Your photos are outstanding, but yes, there’s no place like home. 😊
Thank you Kitty. We are glad you shared memories and you are right on with Clingman’s Dome. Cades Cove is such a beautiful drive. We’ve not been in the cove in a long time. It can be very crowded but wasn’t so much many years back. We love the privacy and no crowd or traffic at The Swag. Have a wonderful week!
Butch and Pam
I absolutely positively loved this post. It was so interesting, informative and stunningly beautiful. Your pics and text just took me to a trip in those beautiful cool mountains. Thank you. With this relentless heat it was so refreshing. Sigh. Isn’t God wonderful to gift us such beauty?
Thank you Michele. Yes, creation is a gift beyond words. It was a nice break from the heat but we’ve had some rain and a couple of cooler days at home this week too. We hope you have a blessed remainder of your week and can maybe cool off a little!
Butch and Pam
Those are gorgeous shots and the time away sounds heavenly! The weather temperatures are absolutely wonderful! We’re ready for the 60’s or even the 70’s instead of the high 80’s to low 100’s! The lunch on the mountain sounds great and looked delicious! The supper looked fabulous! Enjoy your week. Clara❤️
Thank you Clara. We are getting a slight break on the heat even here back at home. The food on vacation is a spoiler and it’s so hard to come home and eat healthy. I’ve got to get back on my diet. Have a great week!
Butch and Pam
The weather adds so much atmosphere to the photos.
Amalia
xo
What a beautiful place! I just wonder what heaven will look like. It is hard to imagine as we see such beauty here on earth, but it will be even more beautiful. What a glorious day it will be when we all get home!
Thank you, Cheryl. What a day that will be!