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Innkeepers Blog 2009
Hemlock Inn, Bryson City, in the Great Smoky MountainsOwner Mort White keeps you updated! For questions or comments, email him at hemlock@dnet.net.
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December 17, 2009
Merry Christmas!It has been a while since I last wrote a blog. The reason has simply been that we've been busy with the Polar Express. For any who may not know of this event, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad turns into the magical train ride to the North Pole, based on the popular book and movie. Since November 6, kids of all ages have been converging on Bryson City for the ride. At last count, I understood that around 40,000 will ride the train over this six week period.
For the past few years, we have offered a package for folks wanting to ride the train. It has been very successful, but it is also very different from the rest of the year. The folks come for just one night, ride the train, and go home the next morning. They usually don't eat dinner with us since that conflicts with the times of the train ride, and breakfast is sometimes a buffet (on weekends, we can have up to 100 guests). This is certainly not a normal Hemlock Inn experience, but it is still one of the most joyful times of the year for us. The kids are very young and have an absolute ball on the train and love to tell everyone about it who will listen....and we love to listen.
I think we all need to step back sometime and just watch and listen to the children, especially at Christmas. Their wonderful level of excitement and pure joy is contagious. They don't care about the economy, or schedules, or politics....they just enjoy the moment and thrill of Christmas. I hope you have that thrill this Christmas as well. Enjoy time with your family, and remember the real joy that comes from knowing the meaning of the season...a Savior is Born...Wow!
Speaking of family, allow me a quick update. Andrew is now fully funded and is working full time with Campus Crusade for Christ on the UNC campus in Chapel Hill. Thank all of you who are supporting him. Steven has just one more semester at UT and will graduate in May with a degree in International Business and Marketing. John Thomas will graduate high school in June and has already been accepted at one university and waits on word from another. Lainey's dad, John Shell, who ran Hemlock Inn from 1969-89, will be 80 on December 17. A big family celebration is scheduled later. Lainey and I count our blessings.
We all hope your Christmas is especially merry. If you need a little help to get into the spirit, watch the children.
-- Mort
November 12, 2009
The Wonder of Christmas
Even though it is still November, our thoughts are turning towards Christmas. The reason is the "Polar Express".Several years ago, the local excursion train, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, began to do a holiday train based on the book and movie by the same name. Over time, it has become the most popular event they do. We are told that from the first weekend in November until December 23, over 40,000 happy children and their parents will ride the Polar Express.
The ride starts in Bryson City and goes to the "North Pole". Along the way, they gleefully sing Christmas carols, read the Polar Express book, and drink hot chocolate. Upon reaching the North Pole, they are greeted by Santa Claus, who boards the train and rides back with them to Byson City, talking with each child and giving them a bell from his sleigh.
The whole excursion lasts an hour and fifteen minutes, but the wonder last much longer than that. We began staying open for the train four years ago and love every minute of the time. The children come back to the inn after their magical ride and are still filled with excitement.
They will tell anyone and everyone about their adventure to the North Pole and that they saw Santa. It lifts the spirits of everyone who listens and watches their joy.
Christmas should be a magical time for all of us...even us grown ups.
We should all take a lesson from the kids back from the North Pole and join in the joy and celebration of the season.
Here at Hemlock Inn, we offer special packages for those wishing to ride the Polar Express. Most of the weekends are already reserved, but there is a little room still available, mostly rooms with one king bed.
_*There is plenty of room on weekdays*_. You can check the train website at www.gsmr.com for the schedule of rides. Check our website for our packages. The inn will be decorated after Thanksgiving with a live 10 foot tree and live garland and wreaths everywhere.
Your kids will love the Polar Express and Hemlock Inn too. Last year, one small girl wrote in our keepsake book ....
"I feel like a first class passenger on the Titanic (before it sank). It is very comfortable and the view is fantastic....love it"
Another wrote
"We're having a wonderful time here at Hemlock Inn, we're sharing memories that we will never forget,.. this place rocks...the Polar Express is great, SO GO RIDE IT".
Call us and make your plans now before it is too late. Come join in the wonder of Christmas!
--Mort
November 2, 2009
October has come to an end and for many that is the end of the leaf color season. While the peak has passed, Lainey and I were awed this past weekend as we drove to Knoxville to see our son Steven. The colors were still ablaze in parts of the park. I have attached some photos I took in the park for you to see. We saw gorgeous bright yellow colors in places, wonderful waterfalls in others,. and then complete fog and winter like conditions at the crest of the Smokies at Newfound Gap. The Smokies are a marvel, no matter what time of year.This has been an interesting year to say the least. The unusual economic conditions made it difficult for many to travel this year, but we were encouraged all year long by our regular guests and new guests alike. How blessed we are to have the friends new and old that support Hemlock Inn. As I sat at the dinner table one night with four couples, we figured between them they had been coming to Hemlock Inn for 135 years. I don't think many places can boast that kind of loyalty.
We are still open....
We are now starting the Polar Express season. This very popular train starts its magical trips to the North Pole this weekend, November 6.
Most Saturday nights and many Fridays are already sold out, but there is still plenty of room other times. We just had a cancellation for Friday and Saturday December 18-19 in the Red Cottage. I advise you call soon. This is a wonderful treat for the whole family.
Another grand time is Thanksgiving. We still have some room available for that wonderful weekend. Our rates include those great home cooked meals including the Thursday night Thanksgiving feast.
I encourage you to rejoice this season! Things are getting better and no matter our circumstances, we are really blessed.
--Mort
October 18, 2009
Leaves, Leaves, Leaves.....It is mid October and in the mountains and all the attention is on the changing colors of the leaves. This is a great time of the year, the best time many folks feel. Right now, there are beautiful colors to be found all around. But there are still areas where the color still has a ways to go. So there is color available now and still more color to come. I think we will have some vibrant colors into November.
The air has cooled considerably with the lows at night well into the 30's while the daytime temps stay in the 50's and 60's. In addition, we have had good amounts of rain so the streams and waterfalls are accenting the overall beauty of the fall season. There was even a little bit of snow at Clingman's Dome last night. Hiking is wonderful and the sightseeing is unmatched.
I feel sorry for folks who can't witness all four seasons like we do in our mountains. A lady called a while back and wanted to make a reservation for December. She asked "Will the leaves still be pretty?"
When I explained that the color would all be gone by then, she paused and then asked "Well, will the leaves be green again? While I didn't ask, I assumed she must be from some tropical climate and did not know that after the leaves turned their beautiful fall colors, they died and fell off the tree. Leaves were always on the trees where she lived.
The mountains have four wonderful seasons, none better that fall.
If you still want to enjoy the mountains in the fall, there is still color to be found and we still have a few rooms available, especially the last week of the month and into November. Give us a call.
Gift Certificates
On another note, folks are already gearing up for Christmas. I wanted to remind everyone that we offer Hemlock Inn Gift Certificates. It is the perfect gift for those who love simple pleasures, genuine southern hospitality, and the Great Smokies...not to mention wonderful homecooked meals. Call our inn and we can take care of all the arrangements.
Speaking of Christmas, don't forget the Polar Express which starts November 6. Tickets are selling fast, so make your plans and give us a call. We can arrange accommodations and train tickets too.
Hope your fall is as wonderful and blessed as here in the Smokies. Come see us!
-- Mort
October 6, 2009
When do the leaf colors reach their peak?
We are accustomed to answering a lot of questions at our inn. The two most often asked are "How do you get up your driveway in the winter?" and " When will the leaves be at their peak?" The answer to the first question is pretty matter of fact depending on weather conditions.
However the second question has no real answer because there are so many factors that influence the timing of the colors including amount of rainfall, temperatures etc.
The best bet is the middle of October around the second or third week. However, we have seen good color earlier in the month and some brilliant color well into November. It is hard to pinpoint the absolute best time. The only thing we can tell you is that the leafs always change, they will be beautiful.
A local motel a few years ago decided to be the leaf prognosticator. On the sign outside his establishment, he listed the percentage of leaf color up to that point. Early in the month, the sign would read "Leaf color at 10%". As the month went on, the percentage would increase until it reached 100% at what he thought was absolute peak. Of course, his method was to step outside his door, look at the mountains, and make up a number. Truth be known, that is about as good as any more scientific method.
The colors have started. The dogwoods started a few weeks ago along with some sourwoods. We are beginning to see color change across the valley and all indications are that it is going to be a glorious fall.
It is one of the wonders of nature. I have been in the mountains since 1967 and at Hemlock Inn for since 1988. I am still amazed at the splendor of fall. The colors, coupled with cool temperatures, and clear skies make it breathtaking season. My mother-in-law, Ella Jo Shell, use to refer to October as the "color spectacular show in the world".
Come enjoy the most beautiful time of the year in the mountains. Some room is still available in October and November. We will have a fire in the fireplace, hot coffee in the morning, good meals, wonderful fellowship, and the most beautiful scenery you could ever imagine. You don't want to miss it.
-- Mort
Tom's Branch FallsSeptember 30, 2009
Are you watching it?PBS is showing a Ken Burns series on the National Parks. As with all of his work, this is very well done and tells the story of the formation of all the National Parks in our land. Of course, our special interest will be the feature on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Coincidentally, the Smokies are celebrating their 75th Anniversary this year. I encourage you to watch this series if at all possible.
Then, I hope you will take the next step and come visit the park. There is no better time to visit than right now. October is the best month to see the Smokies. The air is cool, the mountains are crisp, and the colors are unimaginably beautiful. I was down in Deep Creek just the other day and took some pictures of Tom's Branch Falls. It is one of our favorite spots and we never tire of it.
Fall is definitely here. The nights are cool (we had a fire in the fireplace last night and this morning too), the leaves are beginning to turn, a gentle breeze rustles the leaves. We are breaking out our sweaters and sweatshirts. We finished our Apple Chips in September and are now starting our Pumpkin Chips. Our supply is just about gone.
You need to come to the mountains. Our weekends are pretty busy, but there is a little bit of room here and there. There is more room available on weekdays. Don't forget about early November. Often the colors last into the first or second week.
Coming up is Thanksgiving and Polar Express. Both are very popular. Reserve now. The National Parks are a treasure and I hope you can come enjoy them soon.
-- Mort
September 19, 2009
We can feel a change in the weather in the Smokies. Not only have we had a fair amount of rain this fall (especially lately), but the temperatures are cooling off. We are experiencing temps in the 50's at night and 70's during the day. Some of the dogwoods are already beginning to show a change in leaf color.
Yes, the fall season is upon us.
There is absolutely no time better in the mountains than Autumn. The mountains become ablaze with color, temperatures are cool and comfortable, we keep a fire going in the fireplace, and there is nothing better than a hot cup of coffee in the early morning as the early morning fog lifts revealing the beautiful colors of fall. A roommate of my sister's once said the mountains in fall looked like a huge bag of M&Ms with the assortment of red, orange, yellow, green, and brown. I can think of no better example.
Even though we are busier in the fall than most any other time, THERE IS STILL SOME ROOM AVAILABLE. Don't hesitate to contact us if you want to come, even at the last minute. We have changes and some cancellations and may have room for you. Often the color last well into early November as well, so that is another option for you if October is not convenient.
The other event of fall here at Hemlock Inn is the making of our Apple and Pumpkin Chips. This special recipe is the only one we don't divulge. They are the creation of Lorraine Haney, the original owner of the inn. They are served on our tables every night and are very tasty and popular. We make our Apple Chip supply in September and our Pumpkin supply in October. We make enough to serve and sell. We just finished our Apple Chips and are in the process of getting our supply of pumpkins to start the Pumpkin Chips soon.
If you like to plan ahead, we are open for Thanksgiving and still have rooms available. We are already taking reservations for the Polar Express for November and December. I will give more information on that soon. But it is not too early to make your plans. Many nights and train excursions are already filling up.
We always look forward to seeing you. It is going to be a great and colorful fall. Make plans to enjoy it.
-- Mort
September 7, 2009
The Light of Hospitality
From the very beginning, the lantern has been the symbol of innkeeping. Visualize the innkeeper standing outside his inn with the lantern, welcoming weary guests to his establishment. Outside Hemlock Inn, there is a lamppost and lantern near the parking lot and right next to the "New Guests Park Here" sign. It has been our welcome to tired travelers of today.
None of us here know when the lamppost was installed. Maybe it was around when the inn was built in 1952. We found some pictures of it in the 60's. We think the Haneys, the folks who built the inn and managed it for the first dozen years, may have found it at an auction or antique store. No one really knows the age of it ...we just know it is old. Earlier this year, it began to malfunction. The lantern was showing some rust and the post was rotting. We thought maybe it was time to replace the whole assembly...new post and new lantern too.
Charles and Mary K Turkington had scheduled a family reunion at the inn for late June. As it turned out, several of the men in the family, including Will and Tim Turkington and Jack Ewing, loved to do handiwork and asked for a chore to do while they were here. I told them about our plans for the lamppost and they agreed to take on that task. But our plans to install a new lantern abruptly changed once they began to take the old one down. A quick examination revealed it was much older than we expected. First of all, it was very heavy. The top of the lantern was vented and the bottom was designed for a removable plate. It was quickly determined that this was a lantern designed for candles. The glass was very thick and some of the fittings were brass. This was a valuable and old treasure. We decided then and there that we needed to restore the old lantern and Charles Turkington, patriarch of the family, agreed to take on that job.
In Mid August, the Turkingtons returned with the refurbished lantern and it was installed in its original site. As I look at the lantern today, I think of how many guests it has welcomed over our 57 years of operation. I also think of the many the life long friends we have made here and how our lives have been touched by them. We hope our simple inn has touched them as well in some small way.
We often wonder if our inn is getting too old. We know much of the traveling public today want new buildings and modern amenities. Then I look at the lantern and remember that Hemlock Inn is also a valuable treasure offering a break from the stresses that seem to over take so many folks. You simply cannot find many places around any more that offer peace and tranquility in a wonderful natural setting, genuine southern hospitality, and delicious homecooked meals served family style.
Thank you Charles, Will, Jack and Tim. The new, refurbished lamppost and lantern is wonderful and has reminded us of our heritage May our lamppost continue to be the light of hospitality for many more years for folks looking for a special place to rest, relax, and renew.
Come enjoy the peace
-- Mort White
August 22, 2009
Hemlock Inn and the electronic mediaAnyone who knows me well knows that I am a bit of a throw back when it comes to electronic media. I would still rather go inside a fast food restaurant (when I have to eat fast food) or into the bank than use the drive through. I just like to see who I am dealing with. I can remember many years ago sitting with some guests at one of our dining room tables talking about the new fangled product called email. I emphatically told everyone that I preferred to use the telephone to speak personally with guests and prospective guests to answer questions, check availability, describe our unique inn, and make room reservations. Much later, after it became apparent email was a necessity, I had similar hesitations about on-line reservation systems.
I didn't want to give up the personal contact.
Today, of course, we have a Hemlock Inn website(www.hemlockinn.com), Hemlock Inn email (hemlock@dnet.net), Requests for Reservations on our website, and even on-line reservations available through Webervations (www.webervations.com). We also have a Hemlock Inn Facebook page (become a fan now), an Innkeeper's Blog, and high speed internet service for our guests. It is all necessary I know. Many folks now want to do everything by computer and we want to accommodate them the best we can and make it as easy as possible for them. But it is also frustrating at times. We exchange emails back and forth when one simple phone call would answer all questions quicker and easier. Some emails are returned as undeliverable, others not accepted because Hemlock Inn in not on their approved listed. Folks are trying to keep down the spam you know. We still try to call folks who have sent us messages or reservation requests, but many times they don't answer our call. They don't recognize our number on caller ID. It is all part of the new way we communicate these days and we'd all better get used to it. I still prefer the phone...I like to hear their voice and find out their needs.
I want to tell them all about Hemlock Inn and make sure we do everything to make their visit pleasant.
There are still a few things I don't have. I have no plans to twitter, I don't have a Blackberry, and I don't have a GPS system in my car.
Call me old fashioned I guess. But Hemlock Inn is all about escaping to a place where you can relax, refresh, and renew. It's about meeting wonderful folks around a big dinner table and sharing the events of the day....personally...one on one. That's still a great way to communicate. I think it is the best.
Fall is coming with beautiful foliage in October and parts of November.
Looking for a bargain?...September is your time to come to the mountains. Thanksgiving is always a special occasion at Hemlock Inn.
November and December is the time for "Polar Express." It always sells out. Reserve early.
Get in touch with us soon and make your reservation. We have lots of ways to communicate with you...and we'd love to hear from you..
--Mort
July 27, 2009
Simple Pleasures
We often speak of "simple pleasures" at our inn. That is partly because we are an older rustic inn and do not offer some common amenities such as a pool or hot tub. Goodness, we don't even have televisions. We honestly feel folks sometimes need to get away from those things and escape to a simpler time.
Sometimes that is a bit scary for parents. What in the world will their kids do without television or pool etc? In reality, they don't need to worry. This past week, we had several families with children of various ages. They did the usual things available in our area, tubing, hiking, riding the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, but they also occupied their time at the inn playing ping-pong and shuffleboard, chasing and capturing fireflies at night, and playing waffle ball in our front yard. But, by far the most popular activity was sliding down our hill on cardboard boxes. This entertained them, and all the parents watching, for hours.
We have a memory book in our sunroom. Some time back, a 12 year old girl wrote about staying at Hemlock Inn. "My Dad finally had time to play a game with me", she said. Perhaps we parents work too hard to find things for our kids to do when all we need to do is spend some time with them let them use their imagination to create fun. It is the kids that often bring their parents back to Hemlock Inn.
Simple pleasures for the adults? That is easy....a hot cup of coffee early in the morning while looking over the mountains. Reading a good book while rocking on the front porch. Eating wonderful homecooked meals without having to cook them or clean up afterwards. The absence of constant phone calls and deadlines.
Interested in some simple pleasures? Come see us .....
-- Mort White
July 12, 2009
What do you look for on vacation?
We try not to take our good fortune for granted. We live in a beautiful and restful setting, but sometimes we just forget how lucky we really are. This past weekend, I was quickly reminded.
My family decided to take a short weekend trip to the greater Atlanta area. This was to be a combination trip to celebrate my son Steven's return from Africa (he was there six weeks on a Campus Crusade Summer Project), also to celebrate his 21st birthday, and to attend the wedding of the oldest son of some dear friends. We made reservations at a fine four star establishment, planned to play a little golf on Saturday morning, attend the wedding late Saturday afternoon and return home Sunday morning. We left late Friday afternoon with great anticipation.
I forgot about traffic on Friday evenings on I-985 and I-85. We got a little behind in our schedule and decided to stop and eat a good dinner before checking in. We exited off at a busy intersection with many restaurants to choose from. As it turned out, we were fortunate there were many to choose from because most all had a waiting list of at least an hour. It was already 8:00pm and I was hungry. After all, I was used to our regular 6:30 dinner time at the inn.
After a late dinner, we finally arrived at our destination and it was beautiful...but it also was hosting three weddings. We were happy to finally hit the bed since we had an early tee time. But the fun was just beginning for others. We began to hear loud and persistent noises. Doors were slamming over and over and there was commotion and loud voices filling the hallway. I finally got up and went to the front desk to ask for help. On my way there, I passed the lounge and discovered that inebriation was the word of the night. I guess the bachelor parties were in full swing and they were spilling into the hallways. Security was helpful and finally, after 2 hours, we were able to sleep.
We awoke groggy eyed, played our game of golf, fought the traffic to the nearby town where the wedding was held (which was wonderful) returned to the inn somewhat fearful of a repeat of the night before.
As we drove back to the mountains Sunday, I was reminded why folks come to Hemlock Inn. The area is beautiful, we offer wonderful home cooked meals on time without waiting, the setting is peaceful and the traffic is usually not a problem. There is plenty to do in the area for those who want to stay active, but there is also peace and quiet for those who just want to relax. Folks hopefully return home rested and refreshed.
What are you looking for for your vacation this summer? There is still time to plan a fun family get away or couple retreat. We have some great deals and can help you plan the activities your desire. Come visit the mountains, get away from traffic, long lines, and the noise.
Come enjoy pure, simple, ..... peace.........
--Mort
June 30, 2009
Small Towns, Big DoingsAs most of you know, Hemlock Inn is located just 4 miles outside Bryson City. Our town has a booming year round population of 1500 and surrounding Swain County has about 14,000 full time residents. When I first moved here 21 years ago, it took me a while to adjust to living in such a small community. There were fewer stores and shops, no movie theater, everything closed up early in the evening, and I couldn't find a radio station to my liking.
But small towns have their advantages also. Everyone calls you by your name, ask how you are and means it. You get to know the postman, your kid's teachers, the folks who repair your car, and most importantly the hair dressers and barbers.
I believe there is an old saying something like this..."The best thing about living in a small town is everyone knows you and knows what you are doing and the worst thing about living in a small town is everyone knows you and knows what you are doing." But there is one more advantage...
In Bryson City, every holiday is celebrated by a festival. That is what is happening this weekend for Fourth of July. Freedom Fest will go on all day Saturday with food, games, and music. The highlight may be the goat patty bingo and watermelon eating contest. All this is caped off by "the biggest firework display in Western North Carolina". A great time is had by all.
We still have rooms available for the July 4th weekend. Come visit us and enjoy the fun. We look forward to seeing you.
--Mort
June 20, 2009
Location, Location, LocationMany business people have said that location is one of the most important factors in determining the success of a business. If the business was visible and near high traffic areas, it had a better chance to attract customers. Hemlock Inn is neither easily visible or near any traffic. In fact, you have to look for us pretty hard....off the main highway, up a side road to our mountain top. But the search is worth it. Our view and seclusion is what makes Hemlock Inn special. But our location does have its drawbacks and we certainly don't get much drop by business. That is the price we pay.
This fact was bought home to me very vividly yesterday as a spent the day in Asheville. As I waited to have my car serviced, I decided to walk across the road to a pretty well known restaurant, which will remain nameless. I had never been there, but seen and advertisements offering homecooked southern style meals. "This ought to be good" I thought. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by all the plaques and certificates. The Asheville newspaper had declared this restaurant the "best southern cooking in Western North Carolina" for several years running Southern Living had even done a write-up praising the food.
The place was packed.
I knew I would be having a big meal back at the inn that evening so I only ordered a chicken sandwich and a glass of their "famous" sweet iced tea. I had high expectations. Much to my surprise, they brought me the tea in a mason jar and shortly thereafter my sandwich arrived in a plastic basket. My french fries were an odd combination of overcooked and limp. Don't get me wrong, the food wasn't bad...it was just ordinary. I pictured the chicken and fries right out of a frozen bag and quickly deep fried. It tasted like a chicken sandwich I could get anywhere.
As I looked around the restaurant at all those dining there, I thought to myself, "These people don't really know what southern cooking really is". I already knew that when I returned back to Hemlock Inn that evening, I would be having Fried Chicken (fried in a black iron skillet over a gas stove), homemade meat loaf, apricot casserole, green peas, carrot custard, broccoli salad, homemade yeast rolls, sweet tea in a real glass, and chocolate eclair squares for desert. Now, that is what I call genuine southern cooking.
Hemlock Inn is not located on a main road in a large town and has not reviewed by the Asheville Citizen or Southern Living. I doubt they know we are even here. But I will stack our southern style meals up against anyone.
Hope you will come visit us and enjoy our meals. We have plenty of room most all season and the country ham, chicken and dumplins, roast beef, and fried chicken await you.
--Mort White
June 6, 2009
It's all about our guests! I know every business like ours realizes that guests come first and that everything we do should center around their desires and needs. We constantly strive to give our guest a change of pace, a change of scenery, great home cooking, and simple southern hospitality. However, there are times our guests give back to us in so many ways. That has been the case over the past few weeks here at Hemlock Inn.Our season started fairly strong with our regular hiking groups coming in the spring to see all the new growth and especially the spring wildflowers. However, starting in mid May, the numbers began to dwindle. We always compete with graduations and weddings that are so prevalent during this season, but this year seemed to be quieter than usual. We know it is the uncertainty of the times, but we hoped the recent encouraging economic news would result in more folks beginning to make vacation and get away plans.
It has been during this time that some our regular guests came to visit and each gave us an uplifting perspective. The Baker family, along with the Blackburns, having been coming to Hemlock Inn for 4 generations.
They come every year for a week and are sometimes even able to come a second time in the fall as well. This family clearly loves the mountains and fill their days with a wide variety of activities from fishing to rafting, to shopping and much more. Even after all the years, they are never bored. The highlight of our day is to sit with them a dinner and catch up on their day's activities and family news. They are always so refreshing and encouraging and love Hemlock Inn. I have a promise from their daughter that a fifth generation will be coming.....eventually.
Roberto and Magali Diaz live in south Florida, and will make a two day journey several times a year to visit us. They enjoy their days sitting on our porches, reading a good book and taking in the beautiful mountain view. After their last visit, they sent us an email and, with their permission, here is some of what they wrote:
"...Thank you for the beautiful days and the peaceful evenings. Being at Hemlock Inn makes it possible to recharge our internal batteries and enjoy time without counting the hours or the minutes...Just enjoying the sunsets and sunrises....The Hemlock Inn family helps nature in making the guests feel great inside and outside too....The food is ....spectacular...."
My most favorite memory of Magali is watching her walk out to our deck one last time before leaving and gazing at our view...saying goodbye to the mountains. Thank you Roberto and Magali. We look forward to seeing you in October...if not sooner.
Don and Pam Malone just left a few days ago. They always come twice a year. Don loves to fish..Pam loves to read and shop. But we weren't sure they would be able to come this spring. Don just completed his second bone marrow transplant over the winter. They were here last fall and told us of the re-occurance of his leukemia, after 17 years. What a shock. They were able to return this spring after doctors gave him the OK to start getting out a little. Hemlock Inn was the first place they wanted to come. The amazing story of this couple to me is their overwhelming faith and positive attitude. Don shared about the trials of the transplant, subsequent treatment, and the ongoing recovery process, but most of his story was about his friends and the wonderful events that have surrounded him. Rather than being depressed and gloomy, he felt blessed. What a lesson he was teaching all of us at Hemlock Inn.
People come to Hemlock Inn for various reasons. We hope you will come also. I know there continues to be uncertainty, but I also believe things are already getting better. We will help you as much as we can with various discounts and packages. We invite you to enjoy the peace of our mountains, our delicious home cooked meals, and cool quiet evenings.
--Mort
May 26, 2009
Mom would be so disappointed in me. In my last blog, I was so excited over the achievements of my sons that I failed to recognize someone very important to Hemlock Inn. For many years, Jim and Eleanor Burbank have come to the inn in the springtime to lead our wildflower walks and give evening illustrated talks. Jimn is retired from TVA and, along with his wife Eleanor, is a former innkeeper as well. He is a wonderful naturalist and strong advocate of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. All those who have been here and been on his walks know how knowledgeable and interesting both Jim and Eleanor are. Eleanor couldn't come this year due to an unfortunate leg injury and we missed her tremendously. But Jim was here from April 27-May 9 and I failed to recognize him and tell him how much we appreciate him coming every year. Many of our regular spring guests come to visit while Jim and Eleanor are here and, as always, they had a great time. Thanks Jim so much for all you do. Eleanor, we missed you. Both promise to be back next year, April 27-May 8.....
The big news here continues to be the weather. After two years of drought conditions, we have been blessed with lots of rain. We are not complaining. The rain has been regular, but not constant. There is still plenty of time to get outside to hike or raft or just sight see.
But the rain has filled the rivers and streams (even Lake Fontana), kept the air clear and cool, and the mountains are a deep dark green that just takes your breath away. I don't remember so many days of just crystal clear views. The overlooks in the park, around Clingman's Dome, Charlies Bunion, and the Chimney Tops has been nothing short of spectacular. It seems you can see forever. Check out the view from our front porch that I took today. The flowers also continue to be brilliant such as the Flame Azalea pictured. It is a great time to be in the mountains.
The other item I have noticed recently has been the birds. We can sit on our porches and hear them sing all day long more distinctly than usual. It is so peaceful.
Unfortunately, it has been much quieter than usual. There are noticeably fewer travelers than years past. I just regret that so many are missing such a beautiful time in the mountains. I hope you plan a trip soon and hope the economy is not keeping you from getting a much needed break from whatever gives you stress. I just read this morning that consumer confidence is on the rise. Things are getting better.
All will be well. Breathe deeply, smile more and enjoy your family.
Come see us when you can. We continue to offer several discounts.
-- Mort
May 12, 2009
We had a big eventful week-end personally.
On Sunday, we attended the graduation of our oldest son, Andrew, from the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill with a degree in Religious Studies. He plans to work for Campus Crusade for Christ in Chapel Hill for a while before beginning graduate school. I know many of you have already experienced events like this, but this was our first. I really is hard to describe the overwhelming pride you experience when a child accomplishes something like this.
But there is more. On Sunday night, we drove to Greensboro to drop off our second son, Steven. He is a rising senior at the University of Tennessee and also an ardent member of Campus Crusade. He was beginning a three day orientation
session before leaving for Senegal, Africa for seven weeks as a member of a Campus Crusade summer project. He will leave Wednesday morning on his flight for Africa. Some of you may remember that Andrew went to Central Asia on a similar trip last summer. How can a parent adequately express their feelings when they see their second son commit his summer to such a wonderful program. I am so full of pride, I could bust. Lainey and I are so blessed.
So, be prepared. When you come to visit this summer, we will certainly share with you all that is going on with all three sons. Andrew will be here at the inn off and on during the year as he goes through training and fund raising for his new job. Steven will communicate when he can until he returns late June and will undoubtedly have many stories and experiences to share. We don't want to forget son number three. John Thomas will be a high school senior next year and will be here all summer.
We were reminded this weekend how quickly time passes. Our children are now young men with so much to offer.
We know you have a lot to share as well and we are interested in your family and events in your lives. We are eager to learn of your children as well as changes and even the challenges you have faced. You friends are so important to us and we want to have the opportunity to visit with you this year.
Check out our specials, discounts, and offers. Call or email us to check rates and availability. Use our on-line reservation system if you prefer. We have room available most times. We especially have space open for Memorial Day weekend.
We look forward to hearing from you and learning all your news.
--Mort
May 6, 2009
After two years of drought, the rains have returned this week. We have had plenty of rain, like most of the south. The benefit, beside the rise in the water table, is the increase in the flow of all the streams and rivers. It is a great time to tube down Deep Creek. The added moisture is also helping the beautiful Spring growth.On another matter, we are looking forward to the first holiday of our season. Memorial Day weekend is just a few weeks away. Outside of the usual festival in downtown Bryson City, there will be another treat for the holiday. The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is offering a Lone Ranger ride on the excursion train. You can check gsmr.com for all the details, but basically this will be an hour and twenty minute ride on the train highlighted by the arrival of the Lone Ranger on his horse Silver with Tonto to save the day from train robbers.
To encourage you to come join the fun, we are offering two incentives.
We will offer a special Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Package that will include tickets on the Lone Ranger train as well as lodging and two homecooked meals each day. Secondly, we will waive our usual charge for children for the whole weekend. That's right...no charge for the children...Bring the kids and enjoy a great get away in the mountains including a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad with the Lone Ranger.
This is a busy week for us. We have on son graduating from college and another leaving to go to Africa on a mission trip. More on all that later. We know your are involved in your own family activities this spring. May seems to be full of weddings and graduation and reunions.
Hope you will take some time for yourself.
Things are getting better. The future is looking brighter. Hope abounds.
--Mort
April 26, 2009
We just completed a great week. The weather was ideal, the dogwoods in full bloom, and our guests were wonderful. Many of our regular April guests were here to hike, rekindle friendships, and of course eat. It was a lively group and our dining room was filled with laughter and tall tales. Aren't friends wonderful? No matter what our circumstances, friends always lift us up and help us feel better. This group from all over the country have been meeting here the third week of April for as long as I can remember. They were initially drawn here by a common interest, hiking in the Smokies. Now they gather as much as anything to reunite and reconnect with each other. Hiking in the beautiful Smokies in the spring are an added bonus.One big event occurred over the weekend. Two of our new guests from Pennsylvania arrived on Saturday, went for a walk on our nature trail, and became engaged...all within the first hour they were here.
Our congratulations to Kristen Facente and Nate Haas as they begin their new life together. I included a picture of the happy couple. They are an extremely nice pair and we all wish them the very best.
We begin two weeks of Wildflower Walks this week. Jim Burbank is here and will be leading hikes to the best sites in the Smokies were the wildflowers will be in bloom. We still have a few rooms if you wish to make a last reservation. This shapes up to be a great wildflower season. The weather is warm and we've had some good winter rain.
If you are planning for a family getaway, Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner. We have rooms available for the three day weekend, May 22-25. There will be some holiday activities in town as we celebrate Heritage Fest. We will also have some specials to offer, so give us a call.
After a long winter, spring is in full swing. The days are brighter and warmer and hope abounds. Come visit the mountains to refresh and renew....Bring your spouse, your family or a group of friends. I promise you will feel better....being with friends and family always do that.
--Mort
April 18, 2009
Well, we opened last Monday and have had a good opening week. We loved having a family with us celebrating their "spring break" and they had so much fun rafting, hiking, seeing the elk in Cataloochee, biking and more. We also enjoyed having several other Hemlock Inn regulars with us making our initial week special. Our season really gets into gear this next week with a strong group that always meets here for some serious hiking and maybe some not so serious conversations. They are always such fun and it will be great to see then here again. They reserve much of the inn, but there are still a few rooms available if you're interested.Jim and Eleanor Burbank will be here for two weeks starting April 27.
They will lead our wildflower walks every day and give wonderful illustrated talks in the evening. We have rooms available both weeks.
If you have not been in the Smokies in the spring, you are missing a delight. The spring wildflowers are just awesome and Jim and Eleanor are the best guides imaginable.
We have spoken earlier of our emphasis this year of "returning to nature an returning to simplicity". On the first day we began our spring cleaning, the housekeepers and I stood on the deck for the longest time watching two deer in our meadow. About 30 minutes later, we were intrigued by wild turkey that visited us for a spell. I wished I had my camera to share this with you, but will try to do better next time.
While I can't guarantee you wildlife in our fields when you visit, I can promise you a restful setting, good homecooked meals, and some wonderful guests. We have the best you know. Come sit a while and enjoy a "return to nature and simplicity" in our rustic mountain setting. As always, we will look forward to seeing you.
-- Mort
April 13, 2009
Hello Friends! Hemlock Inn is officially open. Spring has finally arrived (for the most part); the grass is green, the trees are beginning show see new leaves, the tulips other flowers and Dogwoods are starting to bloom. We've had some good rain this winter and expect a glorious spring.We have good availability this first weekend, April 17-18 and invite you to come to the mountains. The weather forecast is good and we will make you a special opening week special. Make a reservation for the weekend, pay regular rate for the first night and get the second night at half price. Of course, your rate will include our wonderful breakfasts and dinners.
If you need to plan ahead, Jim and Eleanor Burbank will be here from April 27-May 9 to lead wildflower walks everyday. If you have not experienced the spring wildflowers in the Smokies, you have missed a treat. There is still some room available April 27-30. The second week availability is limited.
Don't forget our family specials this summer...no charge for children under age16 for June, July, and August.
Hope you all are well. Things are getting better and we hope you will want to escape for a while. I don't think there is any doubt we all need to get a change of pace every now and then. Come let us take care of you. See you soon
-- Mort
March 27, 2009
Spring has finally arrived. I hope many of your have already received the postcard about our new season. We've adopted a "theme" of sorts this year...Return to Simplicity...Return to Nature. With all that's been going on, we think it is time for all of us to slow down, refocus our priorities, and return to a simpler time. We invite you to return to Hemlock Inn and the nature surrounding our 57 acres.Return to Nature is appropriate since 2009 is the 75th Anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. They will have activities planned for all year.
To make it possible for folks to take a vacation, we are offering several incentives including the elimination of charge for children under age 16 for the summer months, special discounts for multi-day stays, and adventure packages for families and adults. We invite families to enjoy an experience like being at a family camp, except with warm beds, hot showers, and home cooked meals. Spend quality family time together doing all sorts of family activities such as rafting, riding the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, going to "Unto These Hills" outdoor drama, tubing, hiking and much more. Adults can have the same experience as well with the Adult Adventure Package. Call us and let us help you plan your trip.
Like many other places, Hemlock Inn in making an effort to "Go Green".
The first thing we have done is to switch to completely green cleaning products. These products are from a brand new company and carry the DfE (Designed for Environment) seal of the EPA. Lainey and I have recently become involved with this company and if you are interested in learning more about the cleaning products, their health products, or the company, let us know. We have switched just about all of our light bulbs to the new fluorescent tube bulbs. We have begun a comprehensive recycling effort, sorting all our cans, bottles, cardboard etc and making containers available in each of our rooms. We will also provide our room soap and shampoo in reusable pump containers, eliminating all the wasteful individual plastic individual bottles. We have a long way to go, but we want to be part of the effort to help our environment.
I hope your winter has been pleasant and that you are planning a great spring, summer and fall. We have had decent rains and the drought concerns are greatly diminished. The streams are running well, the early spring flowers are beginning to come up, and the grass is turning green. We expect a glorious spring. Rooms are available starting April 13. Let us know how we can help you.
March 3, 2009
Well, it's just not fair. The big news of the past weekend was the huge snowstorm hitting all of the southeast. You may have some at your home, but guess who missed it all? The storm came down through Tennessee, into Alabama, over to Georgia, and then went northward up through South and North Carolina before hitting the northeast. The only place it missed was the mountains. We set and watched the news coverage, looked out the window, and kept asking "Where's the snow?". Well, apparently everywhere but here. We love a good snow and it is just not fair that it snowed everywhere but the mountains.
We have had some good rains this winter which is helping our two year drought. Deep Creek has good flow and we expect a glorious spring, which according to the calender is just a few weeks away. If you have been a guest here, you will get a spring postcard soon with some information about specials and new deals. We want everyone to be able to take a vacation to the mountains this year and are doing our best to make it affordable, especially for families. Our biggest decision this year was to not charge for children under the age of 16 during the summer months of June, July, and August.
Now if you will permit me, I'd like to bring you up to date on some family news. Andrew, our oldest, will graduate from UNC in May with a degree in Religious Studies. He is considering joining the staff of Campus Crusade for Christ in Chapel Hill. Steven is a junior business major at the University of Tennessee and will be going to Senegal, Africa this summer on a trip with Campus Crusade. John Thomas is a junior in high school and has just won the role of "Lumiere" in the spring musical "Beauty and the Beast" being presented March 20-22 and March 27-29. Lainey and I try to keep pace. We celebrated my "60th" birthday last month with family and friends in Asheville. We were surprised when we ran into some Hemlock Inn friends, the Actons, at dinner.
Oh, I almost forgot, we have a new addition to the Hemlock family. We have a "rescue dog" that wondered onto our front porch last September. I don't know if we adopted her or if she adopted us, but we named her Scruffy. She is about four years old and a mix, but mostly Yorkie. I have tried for days to get a good photo to show, but she is camera shy....
Looking forward to catching up on all your family news this season. Take heart, spring is on the way and better times are ahead.
Mort White
February 15, 2009
What a difference a few weeks make. When I last wrote, it was cold and snowy. I was worried about frozen water lines and icy roads. Today is just the opposite. It is a bit cool, but sunny. This skies are a crystal clear blue and since all the leaves are gone, you can see forever. I just came in from a walk around the property and was just memorized looking at Frye Mountain across the valley. I felt like I could just reach out a touch it. That view never ceases to amaze me.
Everyday, it is different. The picture shows the mountain a few evenings ago just after a rain and before sunset.
As I walked today, I was reminded how lucky I am to be here and how many blessings I have. It is so easy to get consumed with what we don't have, or what we have lost. I am constantly working on concentrating on what I have. When it comes to it, I believe it is the simple things in life that are most important; our family, our faith, our friends, and our unfailing belief things will get better.
At Hemlock Inn, we invite you to return to simplicity...return to nature. We want to make it possible for you to bring your family to the mountains this years and enjoy each other in a peaceful, beautiful setting. We have already announced some special discounts for the year and there will be more. Check this website for the latest or call me at (828) 488-2885.
There are so many places you can visit. We are grateful when you choose Hemlock Inn. Hope to see you this year...
Mort White
February 2, 2009
February is a great month. It is a quiet time for us at Hemlock Inn.January is used not only for some time to unwind after our season, but also to catch up on lots of paperwork; W-2s, seemingly endless quarter and year ending reports, and getting all the information together for tax filings. Then comes February and we can relax a bit and reflect on our past year and plan for the new one as well. Everyone seems focused on the events of 2008 and is a bit tense about the uncertainty of 2009.
Maybe the best thing we all need to do is step back, take a deep breath and plan for the future with a clear head rather than with sweaty palms. A few nights ago, I was outside and looked up at the stars.
They were brilliant. One of the things we like best about our area is the lack of huge domes of light that engulfs so many big cities and drowns out what is really beautiful. Watching the stars was so calming and reminded me that maybe we just need to get back to the simplicity of life including enjoying those around us,enjoying our surroundings, and focusing on what is really important.
We invite you to come to the mountains and get away from whatever gives you stress. Enjoy the cold mountain streams, the cool mountain air, a quiet walk in the Great Smokies. Come sit on our porches and look at the wonder of nature all around you. Savor our home cooked meals. Look at the stars and the fireflies. I guarantee you will find your stress greatly reduced and perhaps a new appreciation of what is really important.
We want to make all this possible for you this year and have several specials already in place. In addition to no increases in our rates this year, please take note of the following:
- 15% discount on all stays of three nights or longer during the week days (Sunday-Thursday). Holidays and cottages are not included.
- Free Dinner on the night you arrive for every new reservation made before March 15. Must be confirmed with a deposit.
- No charge for children under the age of 16 during the summer.(June-August).
We also offer AAA and AARP discounts, but please note that we can only honor one discount per family.
We open in April, but if you have a group of 25 or more, we can open for you earlier.
We will be waiting for you. Come look at our stars!
Mort White
January 14, 2009
Welcome to the first of what will be many “Innkeeper’s Blogs.” I will update this blog every few weeks to keep you informed of everything regarding Hemlock Inn including special events, activities, package plans, special incentive prices and much more.First, a big announcement…. we will be open the weekend of February 6-7. We have a small church retreat that weekend that will not need the entire inn. They will meet in one of our cottages and not use all our rooms …so we can open up the rest of the rooms to anyone wishing to come. We have special discounted winter rates (up to 30% our regular rates) . Call us at (828) 488-2885 or email us at hemlock@net.net if you wish to make reservations.
So here is your first big incentive to call now and make a reservation. FREE DINNER
If you make a reservation now through March 15 for anytime this season, you will get dinner the day you arrive free of charge. Your reservation must be confirmed with normal deposit and must be for at least two nights. Our meals as always are large homecooked meals served family style around our large lazy susan tables.
There are a few other fun things to report. One of our guests recently put together a page on his Facebook group entitled “I Love Hemlock Inn”. If you have Facebook, click here to check it out, join the group and post your comments.
We also have two other computer related items to report. Over last summer, we finally had DSL installed at the inn and we can now offer Wi-Fi service in our dining room area. We have also joined an on-line reservation system called Webervations. You can now make your reservation anytime on-line.
Well, that’s all for now. I welcome your comments. Just email me at hemlock@dnet.net.
Mort White
Hemlock Inn
Adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
P.O. Box 2350, Galbraith Creek Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713
phone: 828-488-2885 / fax: 828-488-8985
Reservations taken from 8:00 AM until 10:00 PM EST
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