Monday, August 1, 2022

Townsend, Caves, and Cades Cove (TN Trip - Day 2)

 We woke up to a rainy morning on our first full day in TN.  Perfect for snuggling a bit on the bed swing on the porch.
Then we all packed in our van to head out for the day.
First stop was one especially with Ezra in mind. (Not to be mentioned: this visitor center where we really went first and Shiloh was already experiencing motion sickness).
Checking out the free train museum in Townsend.
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Then a perfect rainy day activity....exploring a cave in the Tuckaleechee Caverns
One of my fond childhood memories was exploring a cave in the mountains, and I wanted my children to get to experience such as well!
They were given permission to touch a part of one. (Normally the oils on human hands stop the future growth.)
The cave lighting made for some interesting pictures...including this one that looked like Lauren was photoshopped in!
My turn..
Many areas had steps to climb to explore...
That led to a huge cavaron.
So many different areas and things to see.
Only one slip, and lucky kids just seem to bounce back up!
Beautiful waterfall at one end of the cave...
Such an unique experience I would definitely recommend.
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We stopped by a local coffee cafe and roaster to watch their process and grab a cup.
Cheers to organic coffee in Townsend.
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Then we hoped the weather would hold off for us to check out Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 
A fun driving area with many stops to explore some historical houses and buildings.
Lots of in and out of the car to see it all!
Interesting to imagine how different life was for them.
While the weather was extremely overcast, which blocked some of the views, it was still manageable to explore the outdoors.
Wild turkeys everywhere.
Love hiking with this crew.
Starting to clear...
How Ezra really felt about hiking...
and then I beg for a smile.
Checking out the mill.
Sister love...
As we headed back to the cabin, the sky began to clear even more!
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Kids got to hit up the hot tub again when we got home.
And swinging with my girl.
Happy dance when you realize you are going to Dollywood the next day.
Then I got to try out the hot tub after getting them in bed.
Dark lighting made for odd pictures.
It truly was such filled fun day!

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