Kyker Farms Corn Maze = October Fun!

Having never been to Kyker Farms before, I was looking forward to a trip there on Tuesday. I had always heard great things about the farm and found that it lived up to the recommendations. In my opinion, Kyker Farms is the best place for October fun!

First, the farm is only minutes from downtown Sevierville on 938 Alder Branch Rd. It is not very far at all from Highway 66.

The farm is beautiful and immediately put us in an autumn state of mind.

There are cute places to take a photo. This one was great for our group of 22 fun loving friends.

The kids playground area is excellent and worth at least an hour or two of fun.

Kids can jump on the Korn Hopper, a large inflated area that can handle dozens of kids. There are many benches for parents to rest and watch the fun.

I learned that there is much more to do there than corn mazes. Clearly, this farm is worthy of a whole day trip.

The left side of the trail shows several swing sets with endless rows of sunflowers. The right side shows swings for very young children, small and individual teeter totters, and other playground fun.

Don’t tell anyone…but I got very lost in the kids corn maze. To use Kyker Farm’s word, it was very ‘kornfuzing.’ 🙂

Of course, the main event is the pumpkin patch! Beautiful pumpkins are everywhere.

It was just a few minutes ride on the hayride to the pumpkin patch. So fun to ride this vehicle on a pretty fall day.

Perfect pumpkins are everywhere you look at Kyker Farm.

The restroom and diaper changing facilities are quite impressive. They are clean and can handle large groups of people. You are never far from the facilities…unless you are in the corn maze. Be prepared!

We brought lunches and found plenty of room to sit and refresh.

Then you can go back and play some more!

Our time at Kyker Farms Corn Maze came to an end all too soon, but there are still several weeks left to go back and enjoy it again.

In conclusion, I am a fan of family owned/local businesses and have a great appreciation for agri-tourism so I knew that it would be a good day trip. I was more than impressed with the wide range of things to do and convenient facilities. There were even more activities than I showed here, including the petting zoo. Make sure that you enjoy that too.

Truly, Kyker Farms Corn Maze offers serious October fun. Go while you can!

Here is a link to their Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/kykerfarmscornmaze

Also, here is a screenshot of their hours.

See you at the corn maze!

Best Thrills Around at Rocky Top Mountain Coaster

One of the best thrills in Sevier County is located across from Dollywood. I finally got a chance to try Rocky Top Mountain Coaster last night and it was so much fun. In fact, I rode it twice! This place is really special, especially in October. Come and take a ride down the mountain with me (as they say) at the speed of fright.

Rocky Top Mountain Coaster has a Halloween themed experience right now, but don’t be worried if you don’t like that kind of thing. It was very family friendly.

When I pulled into the parking lot, I could see the lights and hear the sound effects from above. I have always wanted to take a coaster ride in the evening for an enhanced experience.

It is easy to find the ticket booth and the facilities.

There is a spacious area for people to relax and observe if they want to just wait and watch loved ones ride the coaster.

Good information here.

I highly recommend the ‘re-ride’ option because you will want to ride again. I rode twice and could have gone one more time. You notice new things each time that you ride and experiment with your speed. So much to see and enjoy!

Let the attendant know if you want ‘the scares’ or not. I opted for the non-scary ride and relaxed knowing that I didn’t have to be so nervous. Also, I enjoyed hearing other riders get the ‘scares.’ I found it amusing and laughed out loud on several occasions. They do a wonderful job!

This is the boarding area. It is pretty straightforward. You get in, put on the seatbelt, and get instructions on braking and how to push levers forward at the top of hills. There were over 52 people in line in front of me; yet, I was on my coaster in under 15 minutes. Don’t worry if there seems to be long line because it will move quickly.

The attendants are in costume, but are nice and put everyone at ease…for the moment.

The couple in front were riding at night for the first time.

If you don’t want to be scared then you wear a glow necklace so the actors see you coming and leave you alone. It was chilly so I hoped that they could see it over my neck wrap.

The first hill gives you a nice look over the property. It is a relaxing pace and not too fast.

Here is a Time Lapse video of the first part of the mountain coaster ride.

https://tinyurl.com/yxdf8ukf

There are October sound effects and scenes that glow in the dark.

I like the lighting on the track and ominously humorous signs. It is very dark, but you zoom right along following the track lighting.

It is fun to see scenes in the distance and wonder what you will see there.

At this point, you want the coaster to go a little faster until you see what is ahead.

The lights add to the thrilling experience. I just noticed that my sled reflects the lighting as well.

https://tinyurl.com/y5ar2qfg

I usually ‘granny it’ down a hill on rides like this, using the brake with a heavy hand; yet, I found myself going full speed at certain points and using one hand on the brake and one for photos. I felt very safe and in control. I wanted to feel the full speed of it at times. Then, I realized that it is actually a roller coaster without the big drops. Great fun!

It was fun to ride through a barn. On your first ride, you will wonder what awaits you there.

It reminded me of Disney’s Haunted Mansion scenes—Smoky Mountain style.

Nine minutes later, I was off and in the gift shop. There is a place during the ride that takes your picture. I saw the sign, but didn’t notice a flash.

Because I didn’t know there was a camera taking my photo, this is my real facial expression as I took off downhill.

In summary, Rocky Top Mountain Coaster will be great fun for all ages and family members. Night rides will offer a special experience enhanced by lights and darkness. The ride lasts over 9 minutes and utilizes 4 hills and descents. This was a long ride, in my opinion, but it will leave you wanting more so consider doing the ‘ride again’ option.

To see up to date information on the schedule and special events, go to the Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/rockytopcoaster/

There is a website as well. http://rockytopcoaster.com

I can’t wait to ride this coaster again. In fact, I think that I could ride it frequently and not get tired of it. Let me know when you go because I may want to tag along.

Two Coyotes Studio in Downtown Sevierville

 

One of my favorite places in downtown Sevierville is the Two Coyotes Studio. I like to drop by and browse the art and jewelry. In fact, I have bought several gifts and earrings for myself at this business. Also, it is just fun to chat with the owner/artist, Bev Gwinn Jones. Come along with me to visit this little treasure tucked away upstairs on Court Avenue.

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If you are looking in this direction then you are very close to the studio entrance. Check the Facebook page (included further in the article) to be aware of current hours. She is busy teaching classes in the summer!

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The door is to the right of D Garden Florique.

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The door is to the left of Southern Fried Hair. Now, you have found it on Court Avenue.

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Walk in the door and you will be directed up the stairs.

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It looks like a lot, but it you will be at the top in seconds.

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When you are close to the top of the stairs, you will see some pretty things!

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Everything will catch your eye!

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If you like jewelry, especially earrings, then you are in the right place.

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I love the visual presentation.

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So many pretty things!

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Bev Gwinn Jones is the artist/owner of the studio. She has had an interesting career trajectory that has led her to downtown Sevierville. Originally from Knoxville, Bev lived in Gatlinburg during her college years, working at a plant store called “Plants and Other Healthy Things.” Later, she worked with the Record Bar, a chain of record stores in the southeast. You may remember the Record Bar in West Town Mall? She traveled a lot through Nashville, East Tennessee, and more during those years.

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I always must admire this photo in the Two Coyotes Studio. OK, I admit that I always go over to this photo to pay homage to one of my favorite music artists.

Here is a short version of the story behind the photo above. Bev moved to Texas and was working as  regional manager for a record store chain when a friend invited her to go to a Sting concert. Not only did she get to see a concert of a lifetime, but they also had backstage passes. There was a long ‘meet and greet’ line to see Sting, but it was all completely worth it! Bev will tell you the story. Apparently Sting was very pleasant and personable as they got to enjoy that moment. Bev says that she had two highlights of her music store career: meeting Sting and David Crosby. What luck!

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At the height of her music store career, Bev had 24 stores under her supervision. Eventually, she was able to move back with the company to Nashville and ended up in Sevierville to start her family.

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When I asked Bev why she named her studio “Two Coyotes,” she told me that it came from a time when she and her husband lived in Colorado. Coyotes are iconic animal figures in Colorado, much as bears are in our area. Bev said, “Coyotes mate for life and their nest is usually high on a mountaintop.” One can see the parallel and it is perfect.

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Bev created and sold her art in Sevierville as she raised her family. I borrowed this photo  from the Two Coyotes Studio Facebook page that shows her selling her creations on Bruce Street in 1992. Bruce Street was her first venue; later, she began doing arts and crafts shows.  Eventually, she settled into her Court Avenue location. Catch her studio link here https://www.facebook.com/BevGwinnJones/ .

IMG_6853Bev sells her creations at my favorite boutique in town: Loraleis. She also once sold them in a store that you may remember called the Common Good. Now, her creations are primarily sold in her own studio.

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I always find 10 things that I like on this display. Love the birdcage to display jewelry!

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I admired these necklaces. Beautiful color!

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Bev Gwinn Jones is busy creating art and teaching classes. Go to her Facebook page and click on ‘events’ in the left menu. She offers small group art camps for children in her studio. Also, she helps lead a drama camp at her church so check the Two Coyotes Studio Facebook page for times and dates. Here is the link

https://www.facebook.com/BevGwinnJones/

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A generous spirit, I personally know that Bev supports charities and fundraisers. The work pictured above has been commissioned for an upcoming charity event.

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One thing that is unique to this studio— you can design your own jewelry. There are no limits to what you can create at Two Coyotes Studio.

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I felt very attracted to this design when I realized that it reminded me of something…

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The flowers remind me of the cabi Primrose Dress. Love it!

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It is a visual pleasure to gaze at the creations in the Two Coyotes Studio.

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I learned about Bev and the studio from my good friend, Sheley. We have visited the studio together a couple of times, especially for Christmas shopping.

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And even ornaments! The store is so pretty that I used the photo above for an Instagram post last year.

 

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Bev Gwinn Jones is a talented artist with an interesting life and personal story. Her studio is so fun to visit and anyone can afford something there— some things just cost a few dollars. This artist supports downtown Sevierville and small businesses. In truth, Two Coyotes Studio is a downtown Sevierville treasure.

Check out some pretty things at Two Coyotes Studio when you are out and about in Sevierville. 

Pick Your Own Flowers at Rivers and Roots in Sevierville

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A new page popped up on Facebook this week and I was intrigued. There is a new ‘pick your own flowers’ place on the river, just off Robert Henderson Road. I talked three friends into going with me today and we discovered the most charming little place on the  river.  Put on your garden shoes and come along with us to Rivers and Roots in Sevierville.

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I went onto the Rivers and Roots Facebook page to find a map and hours. The navegation starts at National Fitness Center because that is where I was when I thought to look it up online.  I had never noticed this road along the river before. Turn right before the bridge.  https://www.facebook.com/riversandroots/  

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It was fun to explore to little River Road!

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Keep driving down River Road until you see this sign. Park in a dry area and walk on the wood chips avenue to the flowers. Or you could drive on the woods chips up to the main area.

IMG_4441Walk up to the green house area. There are flowers inside, and outside, beyond view.

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We were met by the owners, Sydney and Titus. They welcomed us and explained how things work. It has only been open 2 days!

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Prices are really good and you can cut a lot to fit a small bucket. My friends got to work while I took pictures. We all love flowers so excitement was in the air!

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We started outside the greenhouse because the flowers were beckoning us.

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Janice looks beautiful amidst the daffodils.

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Anita stands by the greenhouse area for the flowers. I need to find out what that is called!

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It was just too beautiful for words!

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It was a feast for the eyes under the canopy.

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Music was playing from the small building. As I was standing there, a song resonated with me and that exact moment. Good one! Click the link for a live shot—and to hear the song. My new favorite song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7rO6MDicvM&list=UUZ6cmtdU5I9jm7TPRaqgpbA

http://tinyurl.com/y528rufq

An attraction to Rivers and Roots is not just found in the lovely flowers; it is also the highly photographable things on the property. I found them to be irresistible and was drawn to several areas.

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But in the end, the flowers are the main attraction to Rivers and Roots. Amazing!

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Pick your own flowers and pay at the little stand.

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Elaine created the perfect nosegay. Bet you haven’t heard that word in a while! But it came to mind for this picture.

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So beautiful!

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Sydney and Titus bid us farewell. We will see them again soon!

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We headed back to the car.  Good friends, a good place, and a good day.

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Anita had to head out ahead of us. Follow the River Road back to Robert Henderson Road and you are back in town. It is only a hop, skip, and a jump away when you are out and about in Sevierville. 

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This is truly a special place. Wear old shoes or garden shoes and plan to stay a while. Come by and see the beauty at Rivers and Roots in Sevierville. So far, it is my favorite place of the year. You will like it too!

 

A Morning Ride at Cades Cove Stables: Our Favorite Horseback Riding Place in the Smokies

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We are lucky to have a selection of horseback riding stables in this area. When you want to saddle up and ride, there is a stable that is particularly worth the drive to the mountains. We had a wonderful morning ride at Cades Cove Stables. Here is a summary of our trip.

Lisa and I wanted a final, fun activity before work resumed last month so we drove up to Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to try the stables located at the entrance. We had tried to ride a week earlier, but a fast moving storm cancelled rides for several hours so we decided to try again a week later. As it turned out, we had the perfect morning and an idyllic ride on our last day of summer vacation.

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We wanted to be in the first group (if possible) so we met at 7:30 and drove through Wears Valley in order to arrive by opening at 9:00 a.m. There are no reservations. First come, first serve. There seemed to be about 30 horses in the stables ready to ride. That was a lot more than I was expecting so they can handle different group sizes.

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Enter the office, sign a waiver, pay, and choose a riding helmet, if you like. I think that they were optional for adults, but we tried them to ‘get the whole experience.’ We like wearing cool hats too.

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You will get a quick lesson from your guide and then saddle up. You can see how easy it is to get up in the saddle with this platform. Lisa’s horse was named Puddin.’

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My horse was very gentle and nice. Her name was Noble. She reminded me of a Palomino.

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Everyone gets a safety check of bridles, straps, and stirrups. They were very thorough.

And away we go!

The trail is about 3 miles so the ride lasts about an hour. It is mainly flat and woodsy.

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About a mile into the ride, the guide will stop and do another quick safety check.

On the way out and back, you get to cross a shallow creek. So relaxing!

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We mainly walked, but there were some sections on the trail that we got to trot. I wasn’t expecting that for a trail ride and really enjoyed it!

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One thing we really appreciated was the fact that our guide stopped at the halfway point and took pictures with everyone’s cameras so we could remember the moment. It is not recommended to use a camera during a ride because it could scare the horse and you need both hands ready–just in case. I took pictures and video for this blog. If I did it again, I would use my clear camera sports bag and just wear it around my neck. It is not easy juggling a camera and riding so the guides will help you with photography. We really needed help with the picture above so it was a nice service. We left a nice tip to show our appreciation for everything.

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At the end of the ride, dismounting is just as easy. You use a platform to get off the horse so all ages can ride.

Dismounting is as easy as pie!

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Our guide, Debbie, was the best. I was impressed that she could ride backwards in the saddle while talking to us. Get a picture at the end of hour so you can remember them and your ride in the mountains.

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There are children’s rides and carriage rides available as well.

Here is a link:      http://www.cadescovestable.com/index.html

In summary, here are the things that we liked the most about this riding stable.

  1. The horses and healthy and well treated. They get every other day ‘off’ in the pasture.
  2. These are knowledgable ‘horse people.’ They know what they are doing. They are friendly too.
  3. The trail is easy so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
  4. The are times that you may trot, if you like.
  5. The waiting area is good. We saw a bear on our first trip.
  6. There is a bathroom next to the office.
  7. The horses are well tempered and gentle.

Here are some good ideas.

  1. Wear old shoes or boots.
  2. Bring a snack and have a picnic in Cades Cove after your ride. Keep it safe from bears in your car.
  3. Wear a sports camera carrier bag around your neck if you want to take photos.
  4. I hate a horsefly and there was one that bedeviled our horses during the ride. Be watchful and gently swat at them if they land near the top of the tail where the horse cannot reach as well.
  5. Maybe wear a hat or a visor.
  6. Crowds are smaller during local rod run weekends and other big events.
  7. Tip your wonderful guide!

 

This was a wonderful way to end our summer vacation. We highly recommend Cades Cove Stables. It is our favorite horseback riding place in the Smoky Mountains!

 

 

Your Coffee Break Just Got Better: A Visit to Smoky Mountain Espresso

Do you enjoy a fireplace with your morning java? A new coffee place has opened on the corner of Veterans Boulevard and Middle Creek Road that can give you that experience. I took a quick trip to check out Smoky Mountain Espresso this morning. Here is what I found…

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The fireplace is very warm and cozy. You could wear a T-shirt in that spot and be very comfortable. My latte was wonderful.

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Make note! The drive thru window is open at 6:30 a.m. during the week. The front door usually opens by 7:00 in the morning.

There will be a grand opening on Wednesday, February 28th from 6:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. They will celebrate with $1 lattes and mochas! Scroll their Facebook page to find

https://www.facebook.com/smespresso/  

because they have a contest to give away free coffee for a year! ‘Like,’ ‘share,’ or ‘tag’ a friend to enter.

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I found the location to be easy and accessible at 1259 Middle Creek Road. You can see the traffic light in the picture above. In addition, you can see the future location of Sweet Frog Premium Frozen Yogurt next door. The owners ( who own both businesses)  hope to be open by Feb. 14th.

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Walk in the front door and the bathrooms are immediately inside. The open foyer leads to the coffee shop on the left and the yogurt shop on the right.

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This must be good!

I asked them which was the most requested coffee right now and they replied “the Smoky Mountain Mocha.” It can be served hot, cold, or over ice. Also, this month there is a special Chocolate Covered Strawberry coffee. Oh, my!

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Smoky Mountain Espresso is beautifully decorated with a cool, mountain feel. Smoky Mountain Espresso offers coffee, tea, smoothies, and Nitro coffee. Nitro is a very cold brew with a frothy top. Must try one this summer.

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Of course, this was the preferred spot for my skim latte.

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There are plenty of chairs and views of the beautiful hills and woods.

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Like Sweet Frog, this is a Christian owned company. I have always enjoyed the good vibes that you get there so this place is no exception. I enjoyed listening to music by Crowder, Chris Tomlin, and Switchfoot during my time there. The music is very soft so you will have no trouble having a conversation.

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Here is a nice touch…the indoor fireplace is actually a ‘double fireplace’ because it is inside and outside. They will place more tables and chairs in this outdoor area and it will be a great place to enjoy a treat with friends. Or have a faculty meeting? I vote “yes!”

Smoky Mountain Espresso is located across the street from the Holston Conference United Methodist Connexion building, visible in the photo above.

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Treats are available for those who want a snack or breakfast on the go.

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This is the place to go for a gourmet cup of coffee because each one is ground fresh the moment that you order it. I couldn’t help but admire the huge grinders on the counter in front of me.

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This will be quite an asset to Sevierville and I know a lot of people will enjoy a gourmet blend now, whether on the way to work, or on weekends. See more photos on my blog Facebook page for pictures: Out and About in Sevierville.com

I will visit the Smoky Mountain Espresso again soon. Save me a seat on the couch!

 

Lift Your Spirits! A Trip to Sevier Distilling Company.

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A dreary, cold Friday prompted Karen and I to investigate a new distillery in Sevierville. This one is special and I think that you would enjoy spending an hour or more there. It is easy to lift your spirits at Sevier Distilling Company. Come along, if you like, and see this new business in town.

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We walked in to see beautifully displayed merchandise. You won’t see a T-shirts displayed more attractively than this.

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The room is clean and sleek with an ‘industrial mountain’ vibe in the decor. I love it. Look at the beautiful floors reflecting the room. This business has only been open since October 2017 so go to the Sevier Distilling Facebook page to see the metamorphosis. Here is a link: https://www.facebook.com/sevierdistilling/https://www.facebook.com/sevierdistilling/

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The sign behind the bar is stunning. Absolutely beautiful. It was created by local artist, Chuck Ottolini. The sign changes colors as well. Note the examples in the picture collage  above.

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Ottollini also created the front of the bar area. It is stunning. This alone is worth a visit!

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Staven, our server and distillery guide, was quite helpful. He took his time explaining the products and the distilling processes.

I was admiring their floor mats too.

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We ran into one of the family members who owns the distillery, Chris Yett, pictured here with his friendly dog. I have known the family for years so that was another reason that I wanted to visit the business. His dad is checking on things in the background.

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You have a opportunity to taste the products. They say that there is no sugar in the product and no GNS (Grain Neutral Spirits). Sevier Distilling Co. makes everything and processes on site. There are three flavors for sale. The Tennekeela was sold out during our visit due to a high volume of sales during the holidays. As you would guess, that product is a tequila.

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Besides tastings, you can also order a cocktail or spirited concoction by the bartender.

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It is always fun to go behind the scenes and tour a factory or facility. Staven showed us where the processing takes place. He took his time and answered all our questions.

IMG_5127We saw where they fill the jars, then label and seal the jars by hand.

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It is always interesting to see the grains and ingredients that go into a product.

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We saw various machines and heard about chemical processes. The white container above holds distilled water. The blue containers hold honey for the Yenoh product.

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Study the label very carefully and see if you can discover what Yenoh was named for…

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They lifted the lid to let my look into this vat of corn mash. It smelled like corn bread!

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I was fascinated by the vats and containers. So interesting! They looked like a Jules Verne or steam punk creation.

IMG_5155We looked out the back door to see these things. The flag measures 1800 square feet with an 180 foot flagpole. The picture above shows two 1,000 gallon vats and one 5,500 gallon container.

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Beautifully displayed products.

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One of my favorite things is the name of the vodka because it is based on the family name. I know them and ‘get a kick out of it.’ Also, they told us that Chris somehow posed for the design above. On the next visit,  I will ask to see him to recreate the emblem for a photo. So clever!

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There are a lot of nice souvenirs to choose from at Sevier Distilling Company. The leaning Yetti shot glass was our favorite.

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Sevier Distilling Company is open 7 days a week. Right now, they are operating on winter hours, pictured above.

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As our visit ended, Karen and I decided that we must return with more friends. Sevier Distilling Company is very clean, attractive, and relaxed. The servers do not rush you and they are glad to answer any questions. I felt no pressure to buy any products, but they apparently sold a ton of things over the recent holiday. It was very enjoyable and I could have lingered another hour there.

The behind the scenes tour is excellent and gives one insight to the growing industry in our county. It was a very enjoyable afternoon, even though it was cold and dreary outside. Sevier Distilling Company can certainly help you lift your spirits when you are out and about in Sevierville. 

 

 

A Visit to the Spa at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort

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I was sorry that I missed a friend’s birthday party here last week. They reported that it was a nice experience. Fortunately, an appointment was open after work this afternoon so I was able to fit in a treatment. The spa was offering a special for locals who work in my field so I knew that it was the time to visit the spa. What a nice experience!

Welcome to Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort Spa.

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The front porch was inviting, but it was nearing time for my appointment so I couldn’t linger.

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The spa is located downstairs so stop at the top and enjoy the view. If you look toward the center of the photo then you can see the top of two extreme water slides in Splash Country.

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You don’t need an appointment to visit the spa so enjoy the beautiful ambiance!

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Having visited here before with my sister and her children, I know that this is the best spot in the building. The view is breathtaking. Take it in!

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It is an extraordinary presentation of Dolly’s albums and music. Amazing!

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The entrance of the spa is spacious and it radiates light.

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Once inside, the decor is comfortably posh.

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Everything is pretty.

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There is a door to the right that goes out to the patio. People can lounge there and enjoy a snack or beverage. I can imagine how nice that could be with friends on a warm day.

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The robes and slippers are hung with care. The lockers are almost invisible and blend in with everything in the room.

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The couples treatment room is ready.

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Even the floors are lovely.

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Bathrooms/changing rooms are immaculate.

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My room was so nice, warm, and cozy. Your mind will float away within minutes.

I tried an aromatherapy massage by Michelle and it was one of the best that I have ever had. She really does and good job and takes pride in her work. In addition, she makes sure that she is exerting the right pressure for you. The hand and scalp massage was superior to most that I have experienced in other places.  I was completely comfortable. Be sure and ask for Michelle!

A variety of products are for sale at the front desk.

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Checkout was quick and easy. Dee was warm, friendly, and helpful. In fact, I forgot my little gift bag on a table so she made an effort to call and text me before I left. I really appreciated that she went to that effort for me.

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You can’t help but admire the design as you leave the spa.

The resort is ready for fall. Festive notes of autumn are here and there.

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This new event looks fun!

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I see our lovely friend Peggy, pictured right, in this ad for the spa.

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This Thanksgiving meal must be amazing!

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As you walk through the front door, you will want to linger on this porch and to sit a while  in the rocking chairs. How nice it would be to sit and look at the mountains for a while.

My friends and I will return to the Dollywood DreamMore Resort some day. It is a spa fit for a queen…like our queen of country music here in Sevier County.

The Dollywood DreamMore Resort Spa is a new favorite for when you are out and about in Sevierville. 

 

Fly High at Sevier Air!

Looking for fun or an intense workout? This place has it all …and more! Follow along as eight of us played at Sevier Air yesterday.


First, you walk in the door and check in by computer, watching safety rules and signing an electronic waiver. Pay close attention because you want to have fun, not deal with bumps, bruises, or worse. The tutorial goes quickly and you’ll be glad to know all the rules for your first visit.


The price is more than worth it. Kids play freely and get a huge workout (adults too). Bystanders can watch for free and take pictures. Well worth it!


You will get a special pair of socks with grippy bottoms to reduce slickness. Bring them back each visit and receive $2 off. You can see the cubbies in the picture above. There are several throughout the building. The Ninja Course requires shoes, so just store them in cubbies while jumping on the trampoline courses.


We started on the Ninja Course because my niece is applying to the police academy and must do a fitness and obstacle course. This ninja course is nothing to laugh at because I could do very little of it. The course replicates the TV show. Consequently, we stayed there a long time, especially with the walls to scale. It was amazing and we all tried it. Over and over again. Two of my nephews could do it so it was great fun.


You have to get a running start and feet must dig into the wall, using all your momentum. It is amazing that people can do this. My sisters and I tried it several times. It is a fun way to compete against each other. Suzanne got her hands up the highest so she won.


The kid at the top may be a future ninja on TV. What an athlete!


The glass wall was kind of hard.

Slam dunk to your heart’s content. One was even adjustable, coming down to any player’s reach. Fun!


There were several dodge ball courts. We played before leaving and just 10 minutes there can be exhausting. But what fun. We played boys against the girls, with one little boy wanting to play with us. I threw the ball as hard as I could, but my nephew just caught it in his hands. No head shots allowed! The hardest part is maintaining your space with a lot of players and not intruding on their trampoline. Strategy!


The jousting area is fun. Players must be well matched in order to play. If you fall in the foam then it feels great, but you really have to ‘swim out’ to get out of there.


I am no athlete, but had a blast!  Therefore, I recommend that you do 2 hours. One hour goes by too quickly. Especially if you are playing with family and friends.


Adults and kids can play side by side. Be careful because you could get a bump, bruise, etc. It is very vigorous, intense fun.


You can take some fun pictures in there. Can you see what we are spelling? V-O-L-S!

We also took some fun ‘Boomerang’ shots for Instagram.


Snack bar downstairs can come in handy. There are drink vending machines on all levels too.


There are a lot of rooms for birthday parties. Each room has a capacity of 43 people. My nephew had his birthday here earlier in the year and enjoyed it with lots of his friends.  Call Sevier Air to get more details.

I was very, very impressed with the amenities for parents and those who prefer not to play. No kidding—it was nice!


An upper level looks over the entire facility. There are large screen TVs, chairs, and tables for waiting parents.  A lounge for ninja parents.


You can rent a massage chair. In addition, you can charge your cell phone while you wait. Brilliant!




Ball are lined up for dodge ball. Workers can referee, if you like.

I was very impressed with Sevier Air and can’t wait to go back. I asked and they said that they may resume fitness classes there in the future. You burn a LOT of calories there.

Here are my final recommendations:

  1. Wear shorts and a T-shirt because you will get a little hot.
  2. Pay attention at all times and follow the rules so you don’t get banged up. I did fine. Just bumped my elbows on the ‘wall,’ but almost twisted my foot on the way down.
  3. Do a minimum of 2 hours. One is just getting warmed up!
  4. Try to go mid-week when the crowds are down if you are not used to jumping on trampolines.
  5. Eat a good snack or carb load before you go. It takes a lot of energy there, but you have so much fun that you don’t realize it until later.
  6. Go with as many friends and family as will go. The more the merrier. I have not laughed that much in a while. So fun!

Play like a ninja and don’t worry about who is watching.

We are all ninjas.

Sevier Air rocks and Sevierville is lucky to have such a nice facility. My sister said that it is a lot better than the one in Knoxville due to the challenging ninja course. With that, you need to fly high at Sevier Air. We did!
It is an intensely fun way to get out and about in Sevierville. 

See you at the ‘wall!’

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