Family is a very strong word. Its a place we feel secure, a place we feel loved. These are people who share our losses and our problems. Families also help us celebrate our joys. We are connected to each other in a very special bond. These people seem more important to me every day. Every Sunday before Memorial Day we gather at the Willis homestead in Wolf Laurel. We visit the cemetery where many of our relatives are laid to rest and then gather together at Aunt Zell’s for a big meal and fellowship. Aunt Zell and her four children live very close to one another. It is unique in this day and time and I treasure the fact this is still possible with many families. The Willis family actually built a large covered shed with tiny festive lights to house all of us. There were flowers on each table gathered from Aunt Zell and Susie’s gardens. A Blessed Day with 70 of us present! Thank you friends for joining me today.
Traveling to Wolf Laurel is one of the most beautiful views in Western North Carolina.
The rhododendron in front of Susie’s house is just amazing. As you can see, it is as tall as the first story of her house.
Years ago Susie started with an authentic log home and then added to it for a modern kitchen and a very spacious and comfortable home. I did not get a picture of the entire house. The old log portion of her home is my favorite part. Later in the post, we will go inside.
I am challenged to describe the beauty of this place. A creek runs through the property and they have done an amazing job building walkways and bridge walks to different parts of the property.
Old farm equipment from past decades can be found everywhere.
Someone gave this smaller cabin to Susie and she had it moved to her property. It is equipped to be occupied. While we were there, she had it rented for the weekend to a couple on a hiking trip. Beautiful. Look at the lantern light fixture and her decorating is amazing. I will show pictures later of the hay bale and statuary underneath the cabin. If it goes missing, I might be the first cousin to check with!
I feel home when I am here. My heart feels lighter. This feels like a little part of heaven to me!
I told you….wanted to sneak it home with me but I knew he was right where he belonged.
More gardens and beautiful statuary. Glorious!
This creek runs through most of this property… so calming and beautiful.
Now, lets go inside….
Real logs…antiques everywhere…an old organ…it is a journey into the past. It is amazing.
This grouping of old books against the rock mantle and logs captivated me. So beautifully done Susie.
In the other corner is this grande piano which is played often. This is a very musical family. Susie is an amazing pianist.
Wouldn’t we love to sit at this table. Bob Timberlake print on the wall.
I am going to Aunt Zell’s now…want to say another goodbye and we sat for a spell.
I am now at my Aunt Zell’s house where flowers are blooming everywhere. This is a yellow azalea. Very beautiful. Bob inquired about it. We don’t see many this color.
More rhododendron and hydrangeas in Aunt Zell’s garden.
Just so much natural beauty everywhere.
The old barn stands against lush trees and beautiful sky.
The creek runs right in front of her house.
Cattle in the field are relaxing in the lush meadow.
What a day with my Dad’s family. I love all of you so much. Thank you Aunt Zell, Susie, Jimmy, Anthony and Bobby for making this gathering possible for all of us for so many years. Thank you for your love. Forgive me for the times I may have failed to be there when I was needed. All of you are such a blessing. May God bless you in a special way.
My precious Aunt Zell with me. Love this woman.
Thank you for your visit.
Dianne
