Phones Off – Glamping in East TN

campfire at Glamping Stay Minty

Enjoy camping, but wish you had a few modern amenities? You must go glamping! Disconnect to reconnect! We’re going on a camping trip We’re going to turn off our phones! Down a winding road we go, Through mountains, and streams, and dales. We’re going on a camping trip We’re going to turn off our phones!…

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Charleston Weekend Itinerary

The Bennett Hotel lobby

Head down South to the marshlands where candy-colored architecture meets cobblestone paths and alluring history, delectable food, and refined shopping abound! That’s right let’s go to Charleston, S.C.! My girlfriend and I had a little reunion rendezvous a few weekends ago in this most delicious of towns. We shopped, explored, ate, and cheers-ed to our…

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A Gift from Grandma

Stack of handmade quilts

I was 18 and headed to college…focus elsewhere…eager to leave home and branch out in the world. Little care or interest in the 2 quilts my grandmother determinedly gifted: Simple but sturdy patchwork bundles in mismatched colors and hand-me-down fabrics. Each was lovingly inscribed with her and her mother’s names as the makers further detailing…

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The Best Thrift Stores in Western North Carolina

Interior view of Second Blessings Thrift

Katherine reveals the 5 best thrift stores in Western North Carolina she frequents to find quality antiques and vintage. Just a few things to keep in mind when thrifting… No. 1 Don’t underestimate the power of manifestation. Set your intention to find something specific when you start your thrifting adventure. Think about it regularly though…

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A Sunday Supper Menu Idea

Plated pork loin, mashed potatoes, and broccoli for a delicious Sunday supper menu idea

Add this savory Sunday supper menu to your repertoire for a delicious meal worthy of gathering around the table. Sunday suppers were one of those Southern traditions we adhered to with dependability when I was growing up. My whole family would amass at grandpa and grandma’s house for a feast she miraculously assembled somehow between…

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A Joyful Nativity Scene Decoration

Blue and white Nativity set on silver tray with cedar garland surrounding and silver framed Bible verses in background - top view of Baby Jesus

Create a joyful Nativity scene decoration amongst the tinsel and lights as a vivid reminder of the meaning of Christmas. Fill your tableau with meaning and love to inspire you throughout the holiday season and share God’s gift! Do you remember as a small child standing in awe of your family’s Nativity scene? Being fascinated…

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Carolina BBQ: We Like Pig Butts & We Cannot Lie

A tureen filled with Carolina BBQ chopped

7 Tips for smoking delicious Carolina BBQ from our family grill master, including grilling tools, dry rub secrets, and techniques! Around our family circle, my husband Seth is the grill master. He can roast a steak to medium rare perfection, sear a scallop without it sticking, and smoke pork to barbequed goodness. Yeah, he is…

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Catherine Wiley at the KMA

Blond woman gazes at impressionist painting of woman reading by Catherine Wiley

Wander the galleries of the Knoxville Museum of Art and feel inspired by the incandescent paintings of Catherine Wiley with their vivid colors and serene narratives. While spring time blossoms and warming temps maybe luring us out of doors, use the next dreary day to head to the Knoxville Art Museum and see the incandescent…

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Elegance on the Half Shell – The Oyster Plate

Elegant antique oyster plate - refined dining must have

Entertain in style with the ever elegant oyster plate, delighting refined diners since the 1800’s. Learn more about these charming dishes, their history and how to collect. Candlelight flickers, music stirs the air, and elegant florals cascade across the table as guests saunter into the dining room. Chairs are pulled, napkins unfurled, and delighted chatter…

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7 Signs You Are at a Southern Wedding

Couple monogram decorates seating card display at this Southern wedding.

Ever wonder what makes a Southern wedding so distinctive? Read about 7 Southern wedding traditions and peculiarities that express our unique Southern joie de vivre. The cutting of the cake… the first dance… the throwing of the bouquet… When you are planning a wedding, there are lots of choices to make. Indoor or outdoor venue? Bold…

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