As Florida’s school children return to class in the coming weeks, many will be faced with the age-old task of composing, “What I Did on My Summer Vacation.”
Actually, writing about personal events that leave an impression is not all that different than blogging.
For my vacation, I visited the Smoky Mountains. I preface the Smoky with the word “the.” Anyone who has visited East Tennessee knows what I am talking about.
Each roadside sign, each brochure and every diner claims to be the “(insert superlative here) of the Smokies.”
I saw everything from “Best Smoked Sausage of the Smokies” to “Best Family Owned Inn with New, Clean Linens of the Smokies.”
“Best Baseball of the Smokies” (or all of the State of Tennessee for that fact) goes to the Tennessee Smokies. I was treated to the American Pastime at Smokies Park. You know this ball club is different when parking only costs $3. With tall trees serving as a backdrop, this is one ball diamond you won’t soon forget. For starters, families rule here.
A playground and moon walk entertain the kids just beyond first base. But it’s the kids who entertain the adults after the 4th inning. It’s tradition outside of Knoxville that a giant chicken is released on the field and kids chase him. Honest. (See photos in the slideshow above). Later, everyone stands for the singing of the UT fight song. Before the game is over, soft baseballs rain from above as the press box tosses souvenir balls into the arms of screaming fans. Marketing Manager extraordinaire Rennie Leon gave yours truly the honor of participating in this ritual right behind home plate. Once the game was over, and the Smokies won at home, nobody moved. The lights on the field dimmed in order for a fireworks show that rivals any Orlando theme park. Although the season is winding down, a trip to Smokies Park is a must when visiting East Tennessee.
“Friendliest Employees of the Smokies” (or any U.S. theme park for that matter) goes to Dollywood, hands down.
There are no plastic smiles here. The folks we came across were genuine and caring. Halfway through the day, I found myself thinking, “The employees here are just as big of an attraction as the rides!”
Howard greeted us on the parking lot tram with a smile and kept us laughing all the way to the front gate. We were excited when he also escorted us back to the car at the end of the evening.
Londa helped us when setting up our Q-bot, a revolutionary way to wait in line without physically standing in that line. With the little pager-like device, we were able to reserve ride times and show seating, thus maximize our day. At Dollywood, this service will cost a family of four $27.40. Quite a bargain for the time we gained in return.
Meantime, Gloria found us while we were “lost,” looking at a map. With a warm smile, we were back on our way towards the wooden coaster named “Thunderhead.” This “storm,” designed and built by Great Coasters International, Inc., scores points for its unique design and overall smoothness, while not letting up. Thunderhead is relentless in speed and thrills. Like an afternoon summer thunderstorm in Orlando, Thunderhead changes directions and leaves you wondering what’s next. The styling of the “retro” cars found on the ride look as if you’ve been transported back to the roaring 20s (here in Florida, you can ride a GCI coaster at Busch Gardens Africa).
A kind soul named Jimmy had us all believing in Santa Claus again (one look at the photo, and you’ll see what I mean).
Plus, country singer Bryan White graciously met fans at the tour bus from Great American Country (GAC), as seen on Bright House Networks.
“Best Out-Of-The-Way Retreat You-Wished-You-Lived-In Based On A Reality TV Program of the Smokies” goes to the Blog Cabin.
In a world of reality television programs where people are voted off and sent away, this house is just the opposite.
Located in the foothills of the Tennessee Smoky Mountains, just outside of Knoxville, is a house you’ll only find on television.
The DIY Network, as seen on Bright House Networks, debuted the new series Thursday, Aug. 16. “Blog Cabin” is the direct result of what happens when television producers listen to what viewers want. Earlier this spring, 4.2 million DIY viewers logged in and made recommendations on everything from the floor plan to the staircase railing. The building crew followed their lead when constructing this log cabin with all the modern conveniences you would expect from a new home.
Brandii Toby from the DIY Network is the channel’s biggest star (that you won’t see on TV). The publicist granted me a sneak peek at this mountain retreat. As News 13’s long-time home improvement reporter, I tried to contain my excitement and act professional (although I arrived fresh from the pool, still clad in bathing attire).
We first hiked up the Smokes before I enjoyed my personal “Parade of Homes” (click on the slideshow link above).
Many of DIY’s design experts lent their expertise when building this retreat in the woods. Amy Matthews from Bathroom Renovations did the master bathroom. Dean Marsico and Derek Stearns from Rock Solid did the stone fireplace. Fellow roller coaster buff, Paul Ryan from Kitchen Renovations, took time to build an herb garden outside the kitchen window.
I like to think I helped out a bit when watering Paul’s window box after the summer sun began to take its toll on his oregano. Brandii and I had to get the water out of the master bath’s sink after the kitchen sink proved dry.
Take a look at the photos. Like what you see? The Blog Cabin could be yours!
Now that the home in the hills is built and the show is on primetime, a contest to win the “Blog Cabin” is on! Find out more details here.
Although the calendar reads mid-August, and summer vacation is over, the rest of the nation will not recognize the traditional end of summer until Labor Day early next month.
Be sure to take time to enjoy what’s my favorite season before the “cool weather” drives locals away from the pool and the long days slip away.
Until next week, travel safe,
Scott
And that old adage that nobody cares to see your vacation photos, but you, is wrong. You’ll see mine in the slideshow above. Send me yours. I love to see where you’ve been. Drop me a line at sfais@cfnews13.com.