There’s nothing quite like an impromptu trip to the mountains to balance out the hubbub of everyday life. The drive to North Carolina seemed quick, even though it was 12 hours from Tampa. I felt exhilarated, yet relaxed, surrounded by beautiful mountains. I rode my bike up the Blue Ridge Parkway via 80 (my cycling loop), and in the 10 miles of twists and turns I saw rabbit, chipmunks, squirrels, lots of robins, cardinals and two pileated woodpeckers – I’m always amazed at their size (that of a crow), and this time I heard one call as it flew by and it reminded me of woody woodpeckers laugh.

The side roads were steep and the turns were tight, but it allowed me to hit 55mph at one point. The cottage itself was charming and the babbling sounds of the “whispering creek” that cradles it was soothing. The smell up there was fresh, cool and wet with the taste of earth not far behind. It was a wonderful break and I arrived home feeling fully refreshed.