Our new house

Our new house

Cheney and I finally found a home that we love. We went and looked at the property today in Asheville, North Carolina. I think we pretty much settled on it.

No, really. We went to tour the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. It is the largest private residence in the United States. The home has 4 acres of square footage in the MAIN house. It was built in the 1890's. The Vanderbilt family moved in Christmas Eve of 1895. We toured it today when it was over 90 degrees. Being built in the 1890's, there was no air condition. So, if you look at the pictures, we aren't looking our best. It took us 3 hours to walk the entire house. Of course that was because there were so many people in it. You had to follow a line, but it was worth it. After the tour we were parched so we headed straight for the Creamery. Cheney enjoyed frozen caramel apple custard and I went with an old standby, Coca-Cola classic. Afterwards we drove through the 8,000 acre estate and walked the gardens. We couldn't find parking at the vineyards so we missed the wine tasting.

Asheville was beautiful. It's only 60 miles from where we live. We would definitely consider living there. They even had a Starbucks right outside the gates of the Biltmore Estate. If you ever get a chance to go, do.

Surprise! Surprise!

This week has been very eventful. I have entered a holding pattern. I turned 31 on Thursday and that is the end for birthdays. Of course, that doesn't mean the end of presents and celebrations, I'll just continue to be 31 in the minds of everyone I know. So, please remember!

On Tuesday of this week I ventured out of the norm and gave someone free reign on my hair. It has taken me 2 years to grow it out and the picture shows you what I got. Of course, that picture is after I tamed it a bit. The very flamboyant stylist gave me South Carolina hair, which for those of you who do not know, is very similar to Texas or Mississippi - can we all say "bouffant" He used my natural wave, which is what I wanted, but I had to flatten it with the straightener. Now, I'm satisified.

Thursday evening we had a picnic for my birthday at the lakeside concert. I looked up and my neice Sophie was standing there. My family drove in for the day and surprised me. We have had a wonderful time exploring Greenville. I've especially enjoyed the "Sophie Time."