Jackson's Actions

All human actions have one or more of these seven causes: chance, nature, compulsion, habit, reason, passion, and desire. --Aristotle (384 BC - 322 BC) <

I went with my group of women friends to the Orchard in Altapass (to celebrate a birthday)--it's an apple farm not far from Asheville where the public is invited to enjoy the gorgeous scenery, the 'general store' where fudge, cider, honey, and a vast array of goodies are sold (I bought Spiced Peaches, Apple Butter, Spiced Lime Pineapple, Apricot Butter, and Parmesan Peppercorn salad dressing, as an example).

We have had a severe drought this year, so the Fall foliage has not turned (and we're all concerned that there won't be our usual gorgeous colors this year) but things are still that resplendent N.C. green, and it was a beautiful, crisp 70 degree day.

In addition to a live country band (with an active dance floor), there are picnic tables available on a scenic deck; and a tractor-drawn hay ride---which turns out to be the surprise treat of the day.

The 45-minute journey begins by following the path of the Revolutionary War mountain soldiers called the Overmountain Men. The hay wagon swings through the orchard itself, past old and young trees. The scenery is spectacular for the entire route.



Storyteller Skip Carson (part of the family who owns the orchard) told in-depth stories about this part of the mountains, which state historian Harley Jolley described as "the most historic two miles of the entire Blue Ridge Parkway." His stories covered the early settlers, the coming of the railroad, the March of the Overmountain Men in the Revolutionary War, their victory at King Mountain, thus helping win the war--and more delightful tales passed along by people whose families date back hundreds of years in these parts. Skip is a true raconteur and we were all spellbound by his talented recounting of history.

Here's a link to the photos of our celebration -- I was behind the camera so you are spared photos of me. Run the slide show to get full size images of the day.

Hayride

Have I mentioned lately that I LOVE North Carolina?

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