Lake Norman, North Carolina

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The ride from DC to Lake Norman (near Mooresville, NC) was shrouded in mist; but the beaurtufl fall foliage managed to peek through. Virginia was beautiful; but no stopping for us. Sometime we should plan to stop at Old Town Alexandria; but not this trip. The dam that created Lake Norman was built in the early 60s and the homes are newish and stylish. We went with Cindy to pick up Ray at the Charlotte Airport (about a half hour drive). We've been in the Charlotte Airport many times on layovers; so, it was interesting to see it from the "non-secure side." The four of us went to Davidson, NC to the Brick House for a great dinner prededed by a drive trhough of this nice, "traditional looking" small town. The town reminded me of the better parts of Ballston Spa. The campus of Davidson College is a bit like Schenctady's Union College. We were invited to Ray and Cindy's neighbors for a Halloween Party on Saturday night. So nice to be included. R&C are gracious hosts and the RV fit in their driveway - just like the Chevy Chase Christmas movie! Sunday found us on a scenic and interesting, if a bit chilly, boat ride around the lake, which is about the size of Lake George. Monday, after some client business conducted from our "mobile office," we headed for Asheville, NC. The drive was wonderful. This is very pretty country, golden and glorious foliage, tall mountains (the Smokies and the Blue Ridge Mountains) in the background and (while we were here) clear blue skies and a full moon. The Bear Creek RV Park suits our needs and is close to the fabulous Biltmore (Vanderbilt) Mansion. The area is said to be a great blue grass, traditional music town and has a health spa tradition. We had been steered to Ashville by our musician friend, Jane Rothfield. Stay tuned for a full report.

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Photos

Frank & Cheryl
It's fun to get invited to a house party when you are away from home. We, four DeVoes, were Titanic survivors (who said "women and children first")! To point out the obvious, we are the ones in the orange life vests.

Ray and Elise and Ray's Friend Cristy
Nice to have the younger generation along on the boat ride. Ray pointed out where he worked at a day camp teaching sailing and water skiing last summer.

Cindy and Ray
We enjoyed splendid hospitality.

The Pier
All of the lake houses have fairly long piers jutting into Lake Norman. The end is a floating raft, designed to go up and down with the water level which can vary due to the dam which formed the lake back in the early 60's. Lake Norman is a water source and also has a power plant near the dam.

Comments

[Ellen]

The View
Great to see you all!!!! How far from Pawley's Island are you? We have a condo there.

[Barb Wayman]

Great pictures of our southern family
Thanks so much for sharing pictures of the "southerners" of the family. All look happy and healthy! Safe travels.

[Silver Back Cuda]

Yes - everyone is great - we had a very nice visit.

[Silver Back Cuda]

We are in the mountains - almost to Tennesee border in Asheville right now - Ray and Cindy are also a ways in-land from Pawley's Island.