Photo Journal Volume 2 – Life in East Tennessee
It’s hard to believe that my first photo journal post was in July of 2020. My oh my how life has changed since then! I so wish that it was a series I kept up with because looking back at that post was like stepping back in time. It is a post that captures our life during the first few months of quarantine.
So, in an effort to share more behind the scenes of what is happening around our farmhouse day to day, it’s my plan to make this photo journal series a quarterly update right here on the blog. A post where I’ll share those moments that may not have made the cut in other posts or over on our YouTube Channel, Spotted Rooster Farm.
THE JOURNEY TO EAST TENNESSEE
The girls and I took the road trip down to Tennessee together. Our truck, Betty, was packed out and the girls’ tablets were fully charged. Justin made the trip down a week before with all the animals and a car load of stuff because he was starting work shortly after his arrival.
This picture is of Nora in our first stop in Virginia. We ate dinner before checking into the hotel, which was a smart move. The restaurant is Three Little Pigs, and it was the perfect choice because the food was delicious. And, my glass of wine, well earned.
SPIRIT, SPIRIT, LET'S HEAR IT
Sadie decided to sign up for cheerleading while we were wrapping things up in New York, and this is a picture of her at her first football game this August. TO be honest, at her first practice it didn’t seem like Sadie was going to make it the entire season. And then they handed out the pom-poms. Cheer ended up being one of her favorite activities, even with such a rigorous schedule. She made a lot of friends, and as of right now, can’t wait until next year.
EAST TENNESSEE FALL FESTIVAL
Sadie’s first ever pony ride happened at the Apple Festival this Fall, which just so happened to land on the weekend before her birthday. She was a bit apprehensive throughout the entire ride. But, it’s one of my favorite memories from our first few months. So far, the festivals in Tennessee are some of the best I have ever visited. Genuine people, great food, affordable prices, and the opportunity to support local businesses. Can’t go wrong there.
A DOLLYWOOD BIRTHDAY
When Nora turned 7, we celebrated her birthday at Adventureland. For Sadie’s fifth birthday, we went to Dollywood! It was our first time there, and it was interesting. Don’t get me wrong, we all had a great time, and wished we could have stayed longer but, there were just a few things that I wish were done better.
Regardless, Sadie had her first pirate ship experience, and even went on the tea cups. There are a ton of rides for everyone of all shapes and sizes. One thing I do love about Dollywood is that the park plays to the seasons. And truthfully, I would love to experience each season. I’m just not so sure I would go more than that.
FARMHOUSE NIGHTS
I like this picture just because it was a random night in the kitchen. Memories like these make a house a home. I cannot wait until we can welcome our friends and family into our home (and feel good about it). Then, I know this place will feel even more like home.
NATURE TRAILS IN EAST TENNESSEE
One of the best things about living in Stony Brook was the access to nature. We had a north shore beach within walking distance. We had nature preserves all around us, and were within striking distance of everything nature had to offer.
I was worried when we moved to Tennessee that we wouldn’t have easy access to a hiking trail. To be honest, Avalon is one of my most favorite places to visit. It was easy to take the girls there for an hour or two, even in the cold. We would just head home for some hot cocoa afterwards.
But, when I found this small forest trail system I was grateful. And, reminded of just how much Tennessee values nature. I am so grateful we have a trail system we can explore that is almost as close as Avalon was to our home on Long Island.
