Biltmore day 2

Thanks for bearing with me as I continue to document my birthday excursion I want to always remember this special time with Andy.  Our first full day at the estate, after a leisurely brunch at Deerpark, we took the architect's tour. The men who carved the stone were master craftsmen indeed. You can tell by the quality of their work. We had amazing views of the property. We even got to go on two of the rooftop terraces. It was beautiful.  We also swam in the infinity pool, ate dinner at the Inn and enjoyed a walk around the Inn.  Such a beautiful trip. Blessings.

the spa

After Andy and I got to Asheville, we stopped for dinner at McD's.  This particular one has a grand player piano inside.  Then, after getting settled into our room, we got a couple's massage at the Biltmore Inn's spa.  After the long drive and hiking at Big Creek, it was so nice and relaxing.  Just the right way to start our weekend getaway.  I added the brushing to my massage and got to keep the body brush, so I even have a souvenir of our time at the spa. Such a luxury.  Blessings

Big Creek

On our way to the Inn at the Biltmore, Andy and I decided to do some hiking in the Smoky Mountains.  He found a place called Big Creek on the Eastern end of the park just inside NC on I-40.  The views were amazing.  It was a great start to our weekend getaway.  Blessings.

the Inn at the Biltmore

Andy gave me a trip for my birthday.  A trip, here ,to the Inn on the Biltmore Estate in Ashville, NC.  I am so excited.  What a sweet present.  He kept it a surprise for a long time (since July) and even arranged for child care (his parents and some friends).  It's going to be a great time away. I'll post again once we return and enjoy a break from the day to day tasks. Blessings.

here I am opening my note about the Inn.  :) 

39 and holding

Yesterday was my 40th birthday.  We had a party with a western theme to celebrate, it was a lot of fun.  Here are a few pictures from the day.  I was afraid that it was going to rain, but the weather held until it was time to clean up.  Thanks to all who came out and all who sent birthday greetings via facebook, text, phone and cards.  It was a great day.  Blessings.

my little girl

Mollie said that when she is ten that Betsy would be her little girl.  She is so funny.  I don't know where she gets such ideas.  Blessings.

trash can

I have already gotten a few birthday presents - mostly from Andy's family while we were in TN. I got a magazine subscription, shirts, a beautiful necklace and I trash can that I don't know how I lived without. It has a lockable lid-now that we have a dog in the house, that feature is very useful. It also has a foot pedal to open the lid, extremely useful when I am cooking eggs and chicken especially.  The lid is slow close as well, so it doesn't come crashing down on fingers or with a loud bang. Best gift I didn't know I needed-thanks again Kristen.  Blessings.