Plan Your Affordable Vacation in the Smoky Moutains-Save Gas & Money!

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will always have free activities as well as very inexpensive, fun things to do. Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville and Townsend on the TN side of the Smokies and also Maggie Valley, Sylva, Bryson City, Cherokee and Franklin on the NC side of the Smokies are all less than a day's drive from half of the United States population - so, plan your vacation!

With the high gas prices, many of you are concerned about planning a vacation too far away from home.. The Smoky Mountains can offer you a vacation alternative without drving too far.. Plan ahead to save a few extra dollars here and there. If you rent a Smoky Mountain Cabin you can save money in the long run by cooking a few extra meals at the cabin.. Also, most cabins have a game room, hot tub and possibly access to a swimming pool - so those would be no additional expense for your vacation..

Outdoor activities in the Smokies range from hiking, tubing, rafting, and even rock climbing allowing you to enjoy God's wonderful creation. The breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains are just one of the many bonuses.

There are 800 miles of hiking trails to fit any level of experience. Laurel Falls trail is an easier hike that ends at a 75-foot cascading waterfall that you can swim in. A more strenuous hike is the Ramsey Cascade Trail, which opens to crystal clear cascades falling 90 feet into a pool where hikers can cool off. The Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlingburg has information on these and other hiking trails.

Also visit the Townsend Heritage Center and Visitor Center for more info about Cades Cove and the trails close by... There's a great biking trail through Townsend and you can have the Cades Cove 11 mile loop all to yourself if you are biking or hiking from sunrise until 10am on Wednesday and Saturday mornings during summer and fall... You can't get much closer to nature than biking or hiking in Cades Cove.. You can also horseback ride or take a hayride in Cades Cove.

The Little River, which runs through the Great Smoky Mountains, provides visitors a low cost way to have fun with guided or self-guided rafting tours, kayak and tubing day rentals. You will see lots of tubes in the summer floating down the river in Townsend, at the foot of the Smoky Mountains. There are many places to rent tubes or equipment at a great price.

You can even do a little geocaching in the Smokies. These outdoor activities are just a few ways you can have your summer vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains, while conserving money and fuel. Why not try some of the F R E E activities around the Smokies.

Check out the great Smoky Mountain Cabin rentals for just the right one for your family.. Many are even "Pet Friendly" so you can bring along the furry member of the family..

Photos by C. Gilliam Top- Cades Cove Field w/Deer, Cades Cove Barn

A Hike In The Smokies

One of our recent guests was kind enough to share his hiking story with us as well as some of his incredible photos of the Smoky Mountains...

A Hike In The Smokies By Predrag Gojkovic'

Here is what we read on the front page of spring issue of Smokies Guide we picked up at the park information centre:

"A spring hike in the Smokies is usually benign experience accented by wildflowers and singing warblers. However, there can be exceptions. In mid March of 1993. a storm dropped two feet of snow on the park's lower elevations. Above 5,000 feet there were chest high drifts and stranded backpackers suffered severe frost bite and eventually the amputation of extremities."

Is there a better way to start a vacation in the Smokies then to be reminded that you can be mauled by the bear or loose your extremities to frost bites?

We decided not to hike during the storm and to resist the urge to feed bears if we see one in the mountain. That should take care of that, now let's get down to business of planing our hikes.

First, we purchased a map with all hiking trails in the Smokies for only a buck. Then we asked Information centre employees for advice and they delivered. They told us exactly which trails were suitable for our 6 year old and which ones were more demanding. They gave us a nice hiking plan for our entire vacation and it worked really well. Next, we checked weather forecast for the rest of the week, courtesy of the new hi-speed connection at Glimpse Of Heaven cabin. It is really nice to be able to turn on your laptop and get detailed weather forecast for the exact area you're going to.

First we did Laurel Falls, the most popular trail in the Smokies, just to break into the habit of walking and climbing. Falls are gorgeous and hike was fairly easy. Trail is paved and the climb was not too demanding. We met lot's of people with small kids and some older couples.
Following day we hiked Little River trail. It was interesting to see buildings of an old Hunting Club still standing there. They provided us with a nice photo shoot backdrop. Although "Do Not Trespass" signs were clearly visible, we were told at Information centre that it's O.K. to look around as long as you do not enter the buildings.

Next, we drove to Cades Cove and hiked Abrams Falls trail. It was more demanding and rain didn't make it any easier. But still, it was nothing more than a nice walk and our younger boy (the 6 year old) enjoyed it very much and never complained. We were told to avoid hiking that trail on weekends because of the excessive crowds. So we went in the middle of the week. Still there were at least 20 people by the falls the whole time we were there. They were constantly arriving an leaving. We had a hard time getting a descent shot of the falls and we waited for 30 minutes to catch a moment with nobody else in the frame except us and the falls.

We chose a sunny and clear day for our trip to Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Smokies. It's only a short hike from the parking lot at the end of the road to the observation tower, but it's pretty steep. We worked out quite a sweat to get there, but the splendid views were more than enough of a reward. Obviously, don't go there on a fogy day.

Then, it was time for a really good stuff. Wife stayed at Glimpse with our younger kid, and me and our 12 year old went to Newfound Gap where we started our 8 mile roundtrip day hike on Appalachian Trail. Our destination was Charlies Bunion, a rock with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. We met and briefly talked with an AT thru-hiker and had lunch at Icewater Spring shelter (one of 250 on a 3500 kilometers long trail, where thru-hikers usually spend their nights). It was nice to be a part of this exciting adventure, even if it was for one day only (thru-hikers usually need 5-6 months to complete the task).

Next day was stormy and we stayed at the cabin and enjoyed all the comfort it offered to rejuvenate our strength. We needed that because on the last day of our vacation we were going to climb Mt LeConte. It was a foggy and rainy day, but at least there were no storms and kid and I put our backpacks on, checked the batteries in our cameras and left early in the morning. Alum Cave trail is a 5.5 mile long, very strenuous climb to Mt LeConte lodge where day hikers can use their office to warm up and dry out before the trip back. Or, if you make reservations well in advance it is possible to stay there overnight and eat in their restaurant. Even on a fogy day like that the beauty of the nature was completely overwhelming. Rocks, caves, mountain streams, trees,... it was just glorious.

That hike was not suitable for our little one as well, so him and my wife stayed at the Glimpse again. I really appreciate her understanding and support for my love of hiking, but I think she also really love being at that cabin. I mean, what's not to love? GH is simply gorgeous!

So that's it from me, I hope readers of your blog will find this helpful, and again, thanks Cheryl for giving us opportunity to enjoy your wonderful cabin again.
Sincerely
Predrag
Windsor, Ontario

Thank you Predrag and family - we look forward to having you back again soon..

Cheryl - Heavenly Cabins

Antique & Classic Car Collectors Unite in Pigeon Forge TN - April 17-20 2008

Each year at the foot of the Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge TN, you will find a passionate group of people... They are passionate about their love of classic automobiles, motorcyles, trucks and vehicles of all shapes and sizes... They come in every conceivable variety - classic, antique, street rods, hybrids and everything in between.

The SWEET 1961 Corvette above is owned by Jim Griffin of Hickory NC. It's a perfect example of the unbelievable cars seen during Rod Run AND one of my favorites..

Classic car owners and enthusiasts gather in Pigeon Forge to enjoy their love for vehicles of days gone by and futuristic ones as well.. It is an awesome sight!! Beware: Traffic jams ahead - but at least you can enjoy the view!!

The Spring Grand Rod Run is the beginning of the 2008 season of car shows. Classic car, truck and motorcycle enthusiasts make the trip to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville and Townsend Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains each year in the spring and summer for this big event.

Pigeon Forge is the most popular host to rod runs and car shows. Just beware, everyone is so excited to get there, they do start early !! The Parkway in Pigeon Forge and hotel parking lots begin to fill with classic cars normally on Tuesday prior to the show. You will find lost more than just awesome vehicles. Throughout the event weekend, visitors can enjoy interactive displays presented by vendors from all over the country. If it's mechanics that "start your engine" you will find lots of workshops to get answers to your technical questions.

Come on to Pigeon Forge and enjoy a comfortable cabin with fantastic views, game rooms with a pool table, hot tub, fireplace and lots more when you're not out looking at the CARS !! We still have some openings - check out our Awesome Pet Friendly Cabins Our cabins are located in the Wears Valley area off Hwy 321/Wears Valley Rd -which makes it easier to get around the traffic by using the back roads off the main Parkway in Pigeon Forge via Wears Valley Rd.

Here's a list of other upcoming events in Pigeon Forge during 2008:

April 17-19, 2008:
Spring Grand Rod Run: The Grand Hotel. For more information call 1-800-472-1188. For Vendor info, Contact 865-687-EXPO(3976) -Pigeon Forge, TN.

April 24-27, 2008
Goldwing Riders Association: For more information call 1-800-251-4444 -Pigeon Forge, TN
May 5-15, 2008
Chevy Classics Round-up: 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevy Classics Cars Show. For more information call 865-984-3758 or 1-800-429-7700. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

June 6-8, 2008
Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge Classic Car Show: For more information call 865-983-7374 or 1-800-429-7700. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

June 19-21, 2008
Smoky Mountains F-100 Run: Smoky Shadows. For more information call 1-800-282-2121. -Pigeon Forge, TN.

September 5-6, 2008:
Shades of the past Rod Run: National Parks Resort Lodge.

September 11-14, 2008:
Grand Fall Rod Run: The Grand Hotel. For more information call 1-800-472-1188. For Vendor info, Contact 865-687-EXPO(3976) -Pigeon Forge, TN

October 17:
Corvettes Cruise the Smokies: For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

October 17-18:
Fall Corvette Expo: For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

October 17-18:
Horsepower and Hot Rods: For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

October 18:
Thompson-Carr Collector Auction: Starting at 11 a.m. at The New Sevierville Events Center. For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

October 18:
NCRS-SE Flight Judging: For more information call (865)687-3976. -Sevierville, TN

Reserve your cabin for Spring Rod Run today, we still have some openings! See our cabin rental website and virtual tours at Heavenly Cabins

Photo above - 1961 Chev Corvette owned by friend and client - Jim Griffin of Hickory NC - What a Sweet Ride !!

Smoky Mountain Visitors Bureau To Host Herb & Wildflower Day In Townsend April 5th

Smoky Mountain Visitors Bureau To Host Herb Wildflower Day in Townsend

By Iva Butler
of The Daily Times Staff
With the wildflowers in peak bloom during April, the Smoky Mountain Convention and Visitors Bureau (SMCVB) is once again hosting Herb and Wildflower Day on April 5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to allow locals and visitors not only to experience and enjoy the beauty of these wildflowers, but also to learn about the practical and medicinal uses of herbs and wildflowers that are found in East Tennessee.

"This is the seventh year for Herb and Wildflower Day, and it has become a great springtime tradition. People really enjoy learning new things about the wildflowers," said Herb Handly, executive vice president of tourism for the SMCVB. "It's a fun and educational event that is great for the family. The mountains really show their true beauty during this celebration. It is so important for visitors to take advantage of this natural opportunity."

At 7:30 a.m. participants will gather at the front porch of the Townsend Visitors Center for a special tour along the Townsend bike path with wilderness wildlife recording expert, Mark Dunaway. Dunaway has an extensive background in avian communication, which explains how and why birds sing.

On the walk, Dunaway will be identifying common species found in the area along with any summer migrants that have returned to breed. Then he will be discussing tips for identifying birds and learning their songs.

"Once you become proficient in identifying birds through their songs, approximately 90 percent of the birds you will detect in a given outing will be by ear. During bird census work, the vast majority of birds that are recorded by ornithologists are detected by ear," said Dunaway.

Dunaway currently specializes in recordings made inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, mostly recording bird songs, particularly those erupting from the Cades Cove area.

The day will continue at 9 a.m., with a talk about the spring wildflowers by senior botanist for the TVA Heritage Program, Dr. Patricia Cox. In addition to talking about some of our more common showy wildflowers, Cox will discuss some of Tennessee's rarest wildflowers and why protecting the plants as well as the plants' habitat is so important. She will also talk about steps that can be taken to help with conservation measures to prevent the loss of these species from our native flora.

Then, at 9:45 a.m., Meredith Clebsch, owner of Native Gardens, a Greenback nursery that grows and sells native plants, will speak about how to garden with plants native to the area. Since 1983, Clebsch and her husband have been operating Native Gardens in Loudon County, where they offer more than 200 different plant species.

At 10:30 a.m., Dunaway will return to give a presentation on planting for the birds. The talk will instruct people on how to create and enhance a backyard habitat for birds through plantings, shelter, food, and water sources.

During lunch, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., visitors will be able to purchase plants, baked goods and pottery as well as view gardening demonstrations.

"We won't be providing lunch, but we encourage visitors to grab a quick bite from one of the Townsend eateries or purchase some fresh bread from Marjie Richardson, owner of The Bakery Lady, a local, home-style bakery in Seymour," said Jeanie Hilten, special events coordinator for the SMCVB.

After lunch, from 1:30 to 5 p.m., Dunaway will be signing copies of the audio CD set, "Bird Songs of the Smokies," which is a soundtrack to the bird sounds in the Smoky Mountain. Each recording was made in the park and offers listeners a detailed narration in how to find the specific birds.

During this time, visitors will also be able to choose between two different hikes that will last from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. or a longer hike that will last until 5 p.m. All hikes are in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

"Ferns and Flowers Stroll," led by Cox; on Chestnut Top trail is a moderate 2-mile hike that can be very narrow in places, so participants are asked to wear sturdy shoes. While on this hike, Cox will focus on ferns and other wildflowers. Some of the wildflowers visitors can expect to see will include bluets, dwarf ginseng, fire pink, little brown jug, Solomon's seal, Solomon's plume, several species of trillium, and wild ginger, just to name a few. Additionally, ferns are abundant including Christmas fern, maidenhair fern, maidenhair spleenwort, marginal shield fern and others.

"The Chestnut Top Trail has one of the most spectacular displays of wildflowers and ferns of any trail in the Smokies. If you have never been on this trail, it is amazing and you will love it," said Cox.

Visitors can also choose to take part in the Tremont area walk called "Bees and Blooms," led by Dr. Jim Lowe, a forest entomologist. The Tremont area is home to a former pioneer Appalachian community and logging town. The hike, considered easy along the wide, flat trail, follows a large stream, which features several scenic cascades and a four tiered waterfall at the end.

Or, visitors can take a nature hike to White Oak Sinks, led by Jim Burbank, a national park volunteer and expert in wildlife management. This popular trail features 60 different species of wildflowers along a moderately difficult 2.6-mile trail. Some of the wildflowers you can see along this route include yellow lady's slipper, Columbine and shooting stars.

"White Oak Sinks is a special place in the Smokies, furnishing a great variety of flowers -- at least three species difficult to find elsewhere in the Park, a 'blow-hole' cave, and a disappearing waterfall," said Burbank. "The hike is moderately difficult but well worth the effort."

Throughout the day, visitors can purchase baked goods from The Bakery Lady, which include home-made bread, sweet rolls, cookies and pies.

Additionally, Stringtown Pottery, a Townsend pottery shop, will have items for sale relating to the day's theme of herb and wildflowers. Honey Rock Herb Farm and Native Gardens will also have plants for sale so visitors can buy a plant and a planter to take home.
Article Courtesy of The Daily Times - Maryville TN

Photo by C. Gilliam Heavenly Cabins
See Last Minute Cabin Openings for this weekend 4/4- 4/7/08 - Come to The Herb & Wildflower Day in Townsend TN, enjoy a cozy cabin with awesome Smoky Mountain Views.

A Surprise Smoky Mountain Cabin Vacation & One Brave Man!

We truly have the most wonderful guests in the world at our Heavenly Cabins near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN. We are blessed with caring, friendly folks that come back year after year and become like family - even when we may not meet them face to face....

During the last 7 years, we have had honeymooners, family gatherings, business groups, Sunday school classes and others at the cabins but Harold Mann's surprise was a first for me... He and wife, Carol travel quite a bit and love the Smoky Mountains - so they do visit there often.. It is customary for them to rent a cabin near Pigeon Forge around the Wears Valley area but this was their first trip to our Glimpse of Heaven cabin.. He emailed me months in advance and noted that he was impressed with our guest testimonials, Yeah! - you can read them here http://www.homeawayconnect.com/guestbook.cfm?pid=22844&cid=5 ....

We traded emails for a while and Harold shared with me that he was totally in charge of finding the "perfect" cabin for his and Carol's Smoky Mountain trip but with one catch - Carol did NOT want to see any photos or website info about the cabin - NONE, Nada, Zilch!! Wow, I have to say that is one trusting woman or Harold has great taste and she knew it!! Harold seals the deal, months go by and they get another surprise.... Their son will be joining them along with his wife after arriving home from Afghanistan !!! Wow - even better...

The Mann's arrived earlier this month and thankfully - Carol was impressed with Harold's choice - whew, I was relieved also... Not only were they both thrilled with Glimpse of Heaven - they left us a gift - A BAMA bear for our collection!! See the photo above of BAMA bear lying in the hammock at the cabin and their awesome comments below...

Harold's personal email to us.......
I think you can read my feed back(on the online guestbook) and see that we had a wonderful time. Carol was tickled with what she found when we arrived. She said it was worth the wait to finally get to see the beautiful cabin and the surrounding mountains. I did promise you some pictures of the Bama Bear and I am sending a few. I think it is apparent that he is enjoying his stay...lol...but not nearly as much as we did. Thank you for putting this cabin together and allowing your many visitors a chance to enjoy a real "glimpse of heaven".
Harold & Carol Mann

Harold's Online Guestbook Entry
Carol and I truely enjoyed our stay in your cabin. We were joined by our son (just back from Afganistan)and his wife, and we could not have picked a better location for our time together. The cabin was spotless, well decorated and large enough for the four of us to spread out and enjoy ourselves. Since we have stayed in many cabins, I have found from past experience that there are many things usually lacking, so I loaded up lots of my trusty home items and lugged them along. The cabin was so well equipted, that most of them stayed packed up until time to head back home. We loved the bears that your other guests have left and left you a "Bama" bear to join the others. The view from the cabin was spectacular and we were fortunate during the week to experience some beautiful days with the sun shining and the temps in the 70's and spent one rainy day at the cabin watching the mist rising from the surroundng mountains and enjoying the fireplace and had an unexpect snow day and had about 9 hours of heavy blowing snow....a real beautiful site to behold from the decks. Of all the cabins we have visited, this one was by far the best in every manner. We will no doubt become frequent visitors and are already looking forward to our next trip. We, like others who have taken the time to leave comments, really appreciated the beautiful cabin, the very appropriate decor and the beautiful mountain views and feel like you named the cabin just right, because while we were there and since we have left, we know that we have had a "Glimpse of Heaven". Thank you and your husband for making this available to us all....
Harold & Carol Mann, Seneca, SC (lakemann1952@msn.com)

THANK YOU Both and to ALL our Wonderful Guests/Friends - You make all the hard work - worthwhile - Praise God ! Roger & Cheryl Gilliam

Heavenly Pet Friendly Cabins

It's Dollywood Time!! Opening March 21st With Dolly Visiting in April 2008

Spring is almost here and it's once again time for Dollywood to open for 2008. This year will feature a new, $5 million dollar - River Battle Ride when the theme park opens its doors for the 2008 season on Friday, March 21, 2008. Dollywood will also add a 750-foot walkway to connect Timber Canyon with Craftsman’s Valley, reopen its Thunder Road attraction at Adventures in Imagination and host five spectacular festivals for the 2008 season. There is also a new entrance for 2008 to improve traffic flow into the theme park.

River Battle is a themed water raft ride equipped with powerful soaker guns. Nine rafts, each with room for eight passengers, follow a 500-foot channel. As the rafts navigate the waters, the battle begins as passengers, each armed with a soaker gun, take aim at each other and more than 100 targets along the way, including large-scale “talking animals”— Photo from http://www.dollywood.com/

Dolly will be making her annual appearance at Dollywood on April 11th and 12th to help kick off the 2008 season with press events scheduled during the day on Friday followed by her traditional parade through Pigeon Forge on Friday evening - Aprill 11,2008. The Dolly Parade will begin on River Road near traffic light #7 and will travel north along the Parkway disbanding at the Belz Factory Outlet World at traffic light #3. The Dolly Parade will get underway at 6:00 p.m. Just a taste of the entertainment that can be found all year in Pigeon Forge.

Dolly will also be doing a number of tributes to her late friend Porter Wagoner throughout the weekend including a musical tribute and rose ceremony. The musical tribute will feature many of the original Wagonmasters complete with their characteristic sparkly rhinestone suits. Dolly will also include long-time friend and original Wagonmaster, Don Warden, on steel guitar in the tribute show.

Townsend Winter Heritage Festival February 7-10 2008 Smoky Mountains TN

What: The Townsend Winter Heritage Festival
A celebration of the history, people, and traditions of Townsend TN, Cades Cove, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Why not a last minute trip to the Smoky Mountains this weekend and stay in a great cabin near Townsend Special Last Minute Rates!
When: Thursday, February 7-Sunday, February 10, 2008

Where: Various locations in Townsend, Tennessee and in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Contact: The Townsend Visitor Center, 800-525-6834; jhilten@smokymountains.org;
http://www.smokymountains.org/winter-heritage.html

The Smoky Mountain Convention & Visitors Bureau, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Great Smoky Mountains Association, Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, Cades Cove Preservation Association, and other community groups in the Townsend, Tennessee area are working together for the 2008 Winter Heritage Festival. 2007 was the first year, and the festival was a great success, winning an "Award of Distinction" from the East Tennessee Historical Society. Pick up a program brochure and registration form at several locations around Blount County, download below, or call 800-525-6834 to obtain a form.

The event is an in-depth look into the rich heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cades Cove community, and it is designed to celebrate the culture, history, natural beauty, and heritage of the area. Through classes, tours, exhibits, music, hikes, and demonstrations, visitors can experience:

Stories of mountain life and families of the Smokies
Logging and railroad days
Illustrated talks and displays about people and the land
History, stories, music, and plant lore of the Cherokee Indians
Mountain music and crafts
Cades Cove guided walks
Creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cades Cove Military History
Displays from family archives and old fashioned portraits at Townsend Visitor
Exhibits at the Heritage Museum, Little River Railroad Museum, Thompson Brown House, Blount County Historic Trust, and Art Exhibit at Mountain Sage Gallery
Schedule:

Thursday, February 7, 2008:

6:00pm--9:00pm Kick-off Reception and entertainment at the Dancing Bear Lodge:
Heavy Hors D'Oeuvres, (fee charged) for reservations, call 865-448-0044
(programs only, free)

Bill Landry, featured guest speaker--"Cades Cove and the Heartland Series"
Mike Clemmer, dulcimer music
Friday, February 8, 2008: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m-talks, walks, music, and tours:

Some of the highlights include a Music Heritage Program with Lisa Free, lunchtime program on "Hiking the Smokies" with Sue Jenkins, "Fire Towers of the Smokies" talk by Charles Maynard, "Geology of White Oak Sinks" with Harry Moore, plus walking tours in Cades Cove, music at Tremont, and Cade Cove Preservation Association illustrated talks at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

In the evening, Townsend area restaurants are featured at "A Taste of Townsend".

Saturday, February 9, 2008: 9 a.m. to 5: p.m.-talks, walks, art, demonstrations, music, Cherokee history:

A few of the highlights include "Drawing History" workshop with Andrea Wilson, "Cades Cove Military History" with Blount County Mayor Jerry Cunningham, "Wild Edibles of the Smokies", Ila Hatter, Logging and Railroad History and walks, "Cades Cove Photography" with Bill Lea, Cherokee Storytelling and music, plus a wide variety of sessions on the special places and families of Cades Cove.

Saturday, February 9, evening at The Barn Event Center of the Smokies:

Mike Clemmer, dulcimer music
Star-gazing with the Smoky Mountain Astronomical Society
Catered supper by Miss Lily's
Bo Taylor, Native American Culture program
Sunday, February 10, 2008-At the Richmont Inn: "The Walker Sisters", with Robin Goddard and Harp Music with Jennifer Love. At the Valley View Lodge: "Precious Memories--A Cades Cove Homecoming" panel discussion.

Programs and Presenters 2-1-08 A booklet of the schedule describing the activities and leaders, as of 1-24-08. Please call 865-448-6134 for updates, as there may be last minute changes. Note that this document is in booklet format, to be printed front to back, so just follow the page numbers!

Winter registration form Please download this document to register for sessions, and send to info@smokymountains.org or mail to Townsend Visitor Center, 7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy., Townsend, TN 37882.

CONTACT: Most programs are free, but many will fill fast, and pre-registration is required. Please register by February 1. (See program registration form, above). There will be charges for mealtime programs. To obtain registration forms, call 865-448-6134 or 800-525-6834 and to make reservations for meals call 865-448-0044.

Thank you to our Sponsors: Great Smoky Mountains national Park, Great Smoky Mountains Association, GSM Institute at Tremont, GSM Heritage Center, Blount County Historic Trust, Cades Cove Preservation Association, Dancing Bear Lodge, Highland Manor Inn, Valley View Lodge, The Barn Event Center of the Smokies, Little River Railroad Museum, Sister Cats, Miss Lily's, Richmont Inn, Townsend Business Association, Townsend Artisan Guild, and:

Tennessee Arts Commission: This project is funded under an agreement with the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Pick a cabin with incredible views for your trip to Townsend and the Great Smokies.

Metcalf Bottoms Bridge Townsend Tennessee - Photo by C.Gilliam
Info Courtesy of
2007 Smoky Mountain Convention & Visitors Bureau
7906 E. Lamar Alexander Pwy., Townsend, TN 37882

Skiing & Snowboarding in the Smoky Mountains

If you love skiing, snowboarding, ice skating or any winter sport, there are lots of options around the Smoky Mountain area. Even though the town of Gatlinburg didn't get all the snow they anticipated last night - there is still plenty of snow in the higher elevations of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as Gburg's ski resort, OberGatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park

Need a lesson or brush-up for your snow skills? Why not try something new - alpine skis, shaped skis or snow boarding. Smoky Mountain Snow Sport School in Gatlinburg offers lessons for families, groups or individuals.

The Cataloochee Ski Resort is on the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains in Maggie Valley. Maggie Valley is home to Ghost Town In The Sky which reopened last year. This is about an hour's drive from the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area - why not enjoy all the attractions and cozy cabins near Pigeon Forge/Gburg and try both ski areas.

Have some Smoky Mountain fun in the SNOW !

Best "Shows" in The Smoky Mountains !

While there's always plenty of entertainment to choose from in either the North Carolina or Tennessee side of the Great Smoky Mountains, the greatest entertainment here is the "Natural' kind... My friend and fellow cabin owner - Bob Williams has kindly shared a few of his "Top Nature Shows" in the Smoky Mountain area below. Bob is an avid hiker, biker, businessman and all around nice guy but his greatest asset is his God given gift of service to others. Check out his "natural faves"....

Best "Shows" in The Smoky Mountains ! By Bob Williams
I have some natural shows for you.
Sunsets ...There are few better places to watch a sunset than atop Mt LeConte at Myrtle Point. Can't spend a night or hike that far try Clingman's Dome.

Waterfalls... Ramsey Cascades in the Greenbrier section is my favorite. It is the highest falls in the park, but getting there is half the fun. The Greenbrier section is old growth forest and there are trees there where 5 grown adult humans can barely reach around the tree.

Wildlife, Cades Cove is great, but Cataloochee has elk and more angry bears. It is on the north east side of the park in NC. It also has a lot less people

Lakes....If you got a boat, Lake Fontana is a fantastic lake. Surrounded mostly by Federal land it is wild and scenic. There are remote trails, waterfalls and excellent fishing to boot. You can explore remote parts of the National Park and barely see another soul.

White water rafting...the Pigeon is a nice river,the Nantahala is the world's most rafted river with class 2s and 3s, but the Ocoee is perhaps the wildest ride within a few hours of Gburg.

Best swimming hole, besides Lake Fontana, I would vote for the "Sinks" on Little River in Townsend where you can jump off rock outcroppings into cool mountain water.

Best day hike with a view...this is a 4 way tie and usually you gotta pay double for that, Andrews Bald off Clingmans Dome with 180 degree views of Lake Fontana, The Nantahala and Plott Balsam Mountains, Gregory Bald over looking Cades Cove both bald hikes feature the native flame azaleas, Chimney Tops and Charlies Bunion are great rocky cliffs(Bob, are these rock cliffs slightly dangerous or what? cg). Fun for the entire family.

Best Drives - Roaring Fork motor nature trail featuring a drive along the steepest stream in the eastern US. The Blue Ridge Parkway is the Grand Dame of scenic roads in America. That's my list of natural shows.

Bob Williams
Welcome to Smoky Mountain Time!
Mountain Bear Cabins http://www.mountainbearcabins.com/
Dillsboro Chocolate Factoryhttp://www.dillsborochocolate.com/

Thanks Bob, this should keep us busy for a while.... Bob and wife Tonya own some great vacation cabins on the NC side of the Smoky Mountains around the towns of Bryson City, Dillsboro and Cherokee, they also own the Dillsboro Chocolate Factory & Espresso Bar in the quaint little town of Dillsboro, NC. (That's where the Smoky Mountain Railroad is located). They not only have killer chocolate, candy and great coffee right there in Dillsboro but you can order a beautiful gift basket of goodies right from their website and they'll ship it for ya - check out the cabins and chocolate on their websites -
Mountain Bear Cabins & Dillsboro Chocolate Factory You won't be sorry - unless you get hooked on those creamy, hand dipped - chocolate turtles - yum!!

We would love to hear from you, what are you favorite "Natural Shows" around the Smoky Mountain areas?? Send me an email at heavenlycabins@charter.net
Cheryl


Remnants of Fall in The Smokies - photo by c gilliam

Pigeon Forge Christmas Cabin 12/14-21 Special 7 Nts-$799*

All the Pigeon Forge Outlet stores are open and full of bargains!! The spectacular Winterfest Light displays are shining from Sevierville to Gatlinburg... The Christmas tree is up and our Glimpse of Heaven cabin is just waiting for you!!

Due to a last minute cancellation, Glimpse of Heaven is now available from Friday 12/14 till Friday 12/21/07 for a very special rate of $799 plus tax. Why not come and do a little Christmas shopping, enjoy the lights and relax before all the chaos.. You can even bring along the family dog with approval & pet fee).

Glimpse of Heaven has two comfy king size beds, cozy fireplace and absolutely amazing views of the Great Smoky Mountains! Now with WIFI - you can keep a check on your work - if you must!! Enjoy a game of pool in the gameroom or hot chocolate by the fire..

See our full website Heavenly Cabins or you can email heavenlycabins@charter.net or call 828-310-6305 for other available specials..

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade Dec 7th

December 7- Gatlinburg's 32nd Annual "Fantasy of Lights" Christmas Parade, Presented by Schwan's - This popular Christmas parade in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee is recognized as one of the very best by the International Festival and Events Association and as one of the Top Twenty Events in the South by the Southeast Tourism Society.



Enjoy lighted floats, marching bands, equestrian units and giant helium balloons. Parade begins at 7:30 p.m. at Traffic Light #1A and continues through downtown to Traffic Light #10. Pre-Parade "Warm Up" Chili Supper at Our Savior Lutheran Church.



Come spend the weekend, enjoy the parade, do a little Christmas shopping! Check last minute cabin specials for the parade weekend.

Have A "Toasty" Christmas in the Smoky Mountains?

Christmas in the Smokies is always a magical time!! With the dazzling display of lights during the Smoky Mountain Winterfest Celebration, it's hard not to get in the spirit. You do normally expect cooler temperatures and the possibility of snow then but..... we may have much "toastier" weather for the holidays this year...

With above average temps and extremely dry conditions, fall arrived much later this year in the Smoky Mountains and mild weather has continued. This makes it hard to predict the weather for the upcoming holidays... It's even harder to explain to guests - when they are planning their holiday vacation trips to Heavenly Cabins - expecting snow ! I just tell 'em - that's in the Lord's hands so just pray for some snow !!

For snow and ski enthusiasts, there is always hope for manmade snow in the Smokies... Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park is still hoping to open by mid December..

You can always pretend it's cold outsite, just take in a little ice skating at Ober's Indoor rink. You can even slide down the mountain WITHOUT snow on the Alpine Slide.

Come experience Christmas in the Smokies - whether it's toasty or chilly - it's still MAGICAL !!

The Apple Barn-Pigeon Forge TN

Imagine a huge fried apple pie with a tender, buttery crust encasing sweet - cinnamon flavored apples topped with vanilla ice cream! Thirsty now? Add a large cup of fresh apple cider.. Then order a box of freshly baked apple muffins to take home. How does that sound???

My mouth is watering just thinking about these famous fried delicacies.. No need for me to even think about my low-carb diet when we get anywhere close to The Apple Barn and Cider Mill . The Apple Barn is located in Sevierville TN just a couple miles from Pigeon Forge. It sits across from the Little Pigeon River - a beautiful setting to enjoy these apple treats.. It is very hard for us to come to Pigeon Forge without stopping by the Apple Barn and we normally have to take a box of pies home to share with family and friends... Don't miss the Apple Barn, the restaurant and general store on your next trip to the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge or Sevierville Tn area..

Glimpse of Heaven in the Smoky Mountains

My fellow blogger and low carb buddy, Jimmy Moore and wife, Christine recently stayed in our Glimpse of Heaven Cabin near Pigeon Forge, TN. They had an awesome Smoky Mountain vacation. You just have to check out the fantastic review he wrote here on his blog Jimmy Moore’s Review of Glimpse of Heaven

Jimmy was there just in time to try out the new Comcast high-speed internet connection at Glimpse of Heaven cabin. We do have to stay "connected" these days and high speed makes it a little easier to stay in touch with work and emails even on a Smoky Mountain vacation..


We also recently added a brand new high-quality king sized bed and mattress with new luxury bedding to our upper-loft bedroom - what comfort ! This king bed offers views of the Smoky Mountain skies from the massive, upper windows. Can you tell that I love home decor and interior design, just can't get enough HGTV !!




We are blessed with some of the greatest cabin guests on earth, many of them even leave us gifts !! We have a collection of plush, stuffed bears in our cabin and lots of folks love adding bears to our "Stair of Bears". Jimmy & Christine kindly gave us a gorgeous plush blue bear that I nicknamed "Livin La Vida Low Carb" Bear. The beautiful stained glass, cross window was a custom design by a well known artist from our hometown of Hickory NC - John Falcone of Aquarius Stained Glass.

Here are a couple other recent guest testimonials for Heavenly Cabins

Just can't find enough words to describe our wonderful vacation at your "Heavenly Cabin", it truly is a "Glimpse of Heaven".. Let me start with the spectacular view that goes so well with the comfort of the cabin--truly a gift. We also found so many activities in the area , from the beautiful sightseeing of mountains and countryside,to adventure in the sky( helicopter ride through the Smokies), adventure in the water (whitewater rafting and tubing on the river), watching wildlife in Cades Cove( 5 Black bear at different sightings, lots of deer, wild turkey and other species), also the history in Cades Cove was very interesting. Of course I can't say enough about all the shopping and family activities between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. All of this was so wonderful...we just can't wait to go back!! The Abate Family - Wellington, FL

Thank you for sharing your wonderful cabin, "Glimpse of Heaven". We love the peace and solitude of Wears Valley and easy access to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The cabin is so nicely decorated and the extra amenities are really appreciated. Best of all is the breathtaking view off the deck. We love eating breakfast on the deck and watching the birds. After a day of hiking, sitting in the hot tub and watching the gorgeous sunsets is so relaxing. It just doesn't get any better than that! We have been to "Glimpse" in the spring, summer, and fall and had great vacations each time. I'm sure we'll be back. Thank you for your attention to detail. Sincerely, Jim & Chris Storck, Alliance, Oh

We have been going to the Smoky Mountains for the last four years. We have always gone through a Real Estate company to rent cabins. This is the first year we have rented from Heavenly Cabins a private owner, we were so pleased with the experience that we have already booked again for November. We arrived at the cabin and were pleasantly surprised by the interior design, cleanliness and extras. There was a large basket of candy, microwave popcorn, coffee, creamer, filters and just about all of the condiments that one would need. Beverly, Jim and Abby, Severn, Maryland

Summer Vacation Fun Pigeon Forge-Smoky Mountains

What's more fun in the summer than cooling off in the water? There are tons of great choices for water fun around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.. There's always Dollywood's Splash Country Water Adventure Park with loads of wet and wild fun but one of the most popular is in Townsend near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park border.

The Smoky Mountain River Rat offers tubing and kayaking on the Little River in Townsend. It's only about 20 minutes from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and only 5-10 minutes from our Heavenly Vacation Cabin Rentals.

This is my kind of relaxing in the Smokies ;-) just choose your sturdy, colorful tube at the River Rat - walk down to the river and just float in the cool water downstream about 1 1/2 miles.. THEN, the shuttle bus picks you up and carries you back to the "put in" place and you can do it all again!! How cool is that??

Husband and wife team - Shannon and Shannan have made the River Rat a family favorite. They are open all summer - 7 days a week from 10am - 5pm.

Photo courtesy of The Smoky Mountain River Rat

Smoky Mountains Synchronous Fireflies Showtime

Well, it's that time of year again, time for the awesome Smoky Mountain display of the little firefly better known as a lightning bug - if you're a country girl from the South. The peak flashing period will be from June 8-16, 2007

As I prepared to write this post, I found some truly interesting facts about fireflies/lightning bugs and this mating ritual. The wonders of God's marvelous creation never ceases to amaze me. Flashing Lightning Bugs are trying to attract mates. Among most but not all species of North American Lightning Bugs, males fly about flashing while females perch on vegetation, usually near the ground. If the female sees a flasher and she's ready to mate she responds by flashing right after the male's last flash. A short flash dialogue takes place as the male flies closer and closer, and then, if all goes well, they mate.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials announced the transportation schedule for visitors during the mating period of the synchronous firefly beetles at Elkmont. The City of Gatlinburg trolley service will once again operate transportation between the Sugarlands Visitor Center and the Little River Trailhead at Elkmont. The trolleys will start at 6 p.m. picking up visitors from the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking area. The trolleys will continually run until the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking area is full or until 9 p.m., whichever comes first. The last trolley to transport visitors from Elkmont to the Sugarlands Visitor Center is scheduled at 11 p.m. The cost will be $1 round trip per person.

The Gatlinburg trolley service will be the sole transportation mode for visitor access during this period; no private vehicles will be allowed. In order to accommodate the public transportation, starting at 5:30 p.m. each night June 8-16, the Elkmont entrance will be closed except to registered campers staying at Elkmont.

The annual appearance of the synchronous firefly beetles in the Park has become so popular that Park officials began managing the number of visitors to the trailhead. This area has very limited parking spaces that were designed to accommodate day use for several trails.

Deep in the Great Smoky Mountains in a deserted Tennessee logging community known as Elkmont, male fireflies hover along mountainsides and open fields. At dusk, you notice a light blinking here and there. Then as more fireflies join in, their lights blink together in unison. By 10 p.m., whole glades and hillsides flash like massive strings of Christmas lights blinking in unison.

“It’s very magical; it’s unbelievable when you see it,” said Wanda DeWaard, a Tennessee field researcher and educator who leads hikes into the Elkmont area during the brief spring mating season of synchronous fireflies.

Why not plan a trip to see this Smoky Mountain magical miracle. Find a cozy cabin for your Tennessee vacation Guide to the Best"By-Owner"Vacation Rentals-Smoky Mtns of Tenn & NC

Firefly info courtesy - Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Pigeon Forge-Comedy Barn's Ugly Dog Winner?

I recently posted about dog lover, trainer and Pigeon Forge Comedy Barn star Dawn(Elberson)Goehring and her 9 - oops, make that 11 precious dogs. My prior blog post did state that Dawn had 9 dogs - well that's how many she currently has in the Comedy Barn show but she does have 2 others and a pot bellied pig "in training". This story, however is only about one very special member of the Comedy Canines - her name is Ellie or Miss Ellie. She is on a quest to become the Winner of the 2007 World's Ugliest Dog Contest in Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma CA.

Please click the link below, go to the website and VOTE for Ellie - scroll to bottom of the page to find Ellie, then click - add your email and send your vote... Please forward this to all your friends - we need to get an Ugliest Dog Campaign going here to beat out last years winner and help Dawn and the Comedy Barn in Pigeon Forge have a Tennessee WINNER in 2007 !! http://www.yourfair.org/uglydogvote07.shtml

Ellie is a 10 year old rescued Chinese crested hairless. After Dawn adopted another hairless, she was asked by the owner to keep an eye out for a home for Ellie. Dawn-being a "pushover" for all dogs decided to take her and see if she could find a home. That was four years ago and the rest is history! She likes to gum the other dog's hind legs-yes "gum" because she has no teeth in the front of her mouth. That is why her tongue hangs out.

Dawn says - "This dog is the "other woman" to my husband. He fell in love with her before he fell in love with me! She was even at our wedding!" How can we let Ellie and Dawn down - GO VOTE http://www.yourfair.org/uglydogvote07.shtml At last count, Ellie had 214 votes but Pee Wee Martini had 906 to lead the pack for now - Please ask everyone on your email list to VOTE - Thanks from Ellie and me!

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Geocaching in the Smoky Mountains

Geo-what? Geocaching - pronounced geo-cashing and no, it doesn't have a thing to do with money or a compact car..... Geocaching is a modern day - techno treasure hunting game where you use a GPS(global positioning system-for those of us who are electronically-challenged;-) to hide and seek containers with others. The Great Smoky Mountains provide a great place for this new hobby.

Geocaching is an activity that has appeal for a diverse group of people… individuals and families, young and old, athletic and physically challenged, technological buffs and nature lovers…people from all walks of life. The activity can be done almost anywhere in the world, and requires a relatively small initial investment. There's even a Great Smoky Mountains Geocaching Club . I can't wait to check it out but since I don't have a GPS-I'll need to tag along with one of the real geocache-sters !! Anyone up for teaching a newbie cacher?

The Geocaching sport has grown to caches in all 50 states and over 100 countries. There are many variations of the game, including virtual caches, offset caches, puzzle caches, and multi-stage caches. Blount County- TN is full of a variety of these caches that will delight all that participate in this fast growing sport. There are numerous hidden caches around Townsend, the Smokies and Cades Cove.

So visit the Geocaching.com site for a full listing of all the caches in the Townsend and Blount County area and explore areas that few visitors will ever see. If any of you "geocachers" from the Smokies would like to share your favorite Smoky Mountain cache story - please email me at heavenlycabins@charter.net I would love to hear from you.

Photo by Cheryl Gilliam

Townsend TN Spring Festival 4/27-5/5/07

Townsend TN is one of my favorite destinations in the Great Smoky Mountains especially in the spring... The quiet, laid back setting of Townsend is the reason it's been nicknamed the "The Peaceful Side of the Smokies". Come see the Smoky Mountain beauty unfold as hints of green and flower blossoms appear.

The 15th Annual Townsend in the Smokies Spring Festival & Old Timers Day offers a wonderful sampling of fun, food, crafts and history. Come, enjoy the festival and stay in a beautiful cabin rental just a few miles from peaceful Townsend in the Smokies.

On the Weekends of the Townsend Spring Festival:
Bluegrass Music and Jammin'
Appalachian Demonstrations and Exhibits
Antique Engine and Tractor Show, April 28
Antique Cars, May 4-5
Arts and Crafts Booths -Food Booths,Bar-B-Que May 4-5
Wildflower Walks and Hikes
Arts and Crafts Demonstrations in Exhibit Room
April 27-28
Basketry: Karen Kenst and Bonny Kate Sugg
Woodcarving: Lendel Abbott
Quilting: Ila Mae Morton and Maetta Conrad
Rug Hooking: Carol McBride

Arts and Crafts Demonstrations in Exhibit Room April 29
Woodcarving: Lendel Abbot

Arts and Crafts Demonstrations in Exhibit Room May 4-5
Charcoal and Pencil Artist: Andy England
Basketry: Bonny Kate Sugg -Woodcarving: Lendel Abbott
Quilting: Ila Mae Morton, Maetta Conrad
Rug Hooking: Carol McBride

Featured Authors and Book-Signing April 27-28
Missy Tipton and Paulette Ledbetter

Featured Authors and Book-Signing May 4
Doris Gove

Featured Authors and Book-Signing May 5
Charles Maynard

Appalachian Demonstrations April 27 and/or 28
Mountain Berry Basket Making and Poetry: Bill Alexander
Lye Soap Making: Sallie Swor - Heirloom Spinning: Esther Gray
Blacksmithing: Clayton Sharp - Bee Hive Observation: Tess Arnold
Cornmeal Making: Ronald Fowler
29th Tennessee Regiment Civil War Re-Enactment April 28
Moonshine Still and "Rivin" Shakes: Bill Leistner

Appalachian Demonstrations May 4-5
Chair Caning: Lois Parker - Heirloom Spinning: Esther Gray

Storytelling April 28
Dwight McCarter, Master of Ceremonies.
David "Buffalo Bill" and Jean Nelson, Lendel Abbott

Other Activities
Clogging Lessons April 27: Jack and Doris Patton
Knoxville “ZooMobile” April 28, 11am—1pm: Steve McGaffin
Old Fashioned Kids' Games April 28: Stacy Robinson
Spelling Bee May 5: Robin Goddard
Dowsing Demonstrations April 29, April 30, May 1, May 3: Charlie & Sandy Monday
Cades Cove Preservation Association Exhibit: both weekendsr
Cake Walk and Bake Sale May 4-5: Hearts and Hands Scholarship Fund

Wildflower Walks and Nature Hikes Friday, April 27:
9:00am—11:00am: Chestnut Top Wildflower Walk with Dwight McCarter.
Meet at the Visitor Center
1:00pm—5:00pm: White Oak Sinks Hike with Liz Domingue.
Meet at the Visitor Center
2:00pm: Hedgewood Gardens Walk with Hope Woodard.
Meet at the Visitor Center
Sunday, April 29:
1:00pm—5:00pm: Cucumber Gap/Little River Trail with Wanda DeWaard.
Meet at the Little River trailhead, above Elkmont
2:00pm: Hedgewood Gardens Walk with Hope Woodard.
Meet at the Visitor Center
Monday, April 30—Thursday, May 3:
2:00pm: Hedgewood Gardens Walk with Hope Woodard.
Meet at the Visitor Center
Friday, May 4:
10:00am—12 noon: Chestnut Top Wildflower Walk with Wanda DeWaard.
Meet at the Townsend Y
Saturday, May 5:
10:00am—12 noon: Tremont Area Wildflower Walk with Liz Domingue.
Meet at the Townsend Y
Need more info call Townsend Visitor Center 865-448-6134
Smoky Mountain Visitors Bureau

Dogs, Dogs & More Dogs-Pigeon Forge TN

I am a real sucker when it comes to dogs......any shape or size! It's pretty evident since my husband and I have 4 dogs with at least 2 or 3 other "related" dogs hanging around most of the time. Chaotic - to say the least..... but I am NO match for Dawn Elberson of Pigeon Forge TN, not even close.....

At last count, Dawn had 9 dogs, yep you heard me - 9 dogs !!! Bless her soul - If any of you Pigeon Forge - Gatlinburg visitors have seen the wildly popular and funny Comedy Barn Show in the Smoky Mountains - you likely have seen Dawn and some of her "pound puppies". Elberson and her 9 dogs, all Humane Society rescues, appear almost nightly at the Comedy Barn Theater in Pigeon Forge. Dawn says "The newest trick in the act is my rat terrier jump roping with me". Dogs are always out during intermission at the Comedy Barn show for "meet and greet". The dogs also visit senior citizens in nearby Sevierville TN as part of an assisted living and Alzheimer's care Pet Therapy program.

These Comedy Canines are stars in their own right - not only are they a famous Comedy Barn act, they even competed on Animal Planet's animal talent contest series, "Pet Star." In one episode, Dallas, her 5-year-old Sheltie mix adopted from the Sevier County Humane Society, jumped over four other dogs. Several of her dogs have been in commercials, print work, and videos - talk about talent! I'm lucky if my dogs come when I call them! Dawn does also have a local training program - hey, that's a thought. Elberson has trained wildlife and done wildlife education programs for many years and has been training dogs professionally for 13 years.

Next time you plan a visit to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg or the Smoky Mountains - Have a heart, bring your pet or dog along for vacation. You will find lots of comfortable pet friendly vacation rental cabins in the Pigeon Forge area. You can even have Dawn Elberson "dog-sit" ! Her "Just Fer Paws" Dog Service includes: 1 acre fenced play area, temperature controlled kennel space, individual attention, play with other dogs-if requested, flexible schedule. Open most Sundays and holidays, baths and nail-clipping available, owners live on premises, doggie day care available or just bring your dog to play ! Be sure to call ahead for info - You can reach Dawn at 865-430-3383 or her website Comedy Canines **Just a little inside tidbit - Dawn told me today she will be adding something new to the act soon - top secret !! Here's a hint- Oink, Oink!

Let your dog enjoy the next Smoky Mountain vacation as much as you do !!!!