I was asked to post this lovely report:
A Spiritual Retreat: It matters not what walk of life were on, what earthly journey we pursue or what drives our faith there are times when we each seek a spiritual awakening to settle ourselves and heighten our awareness of the magnificence that surrounds us daily.
My husband and I experienced just such a divine event recently at the Crooked Oak Mountain Inn, a wonderful Bed & Breakfast overlooking the Merriman Valley in Asheville, North Carolina. We discovered this Inn through an Internet search while trying to find accommodations to attend my husbands 40th high school reunion. While the search identified some fifty B&Bs I believe a Greater Guide directed us to the Crooked Oak Mountain Inn.
After winding our way to this secluded haven, we opened our car door to be greeted with a splendorous scene of nature and breathtaking views of the valley - replete with wild rhododendrons, azaleas, mountain laurel, and a multitude of indigenous trees and bushes embracing the hillside. As we approached the covered porch, we were welcomed with gregarious smiles from Bear (real name Michael Joseph) and his soul mate, Patti, the owners of this delightful mountain crest paradise.
The Inn is a bit rustic, with a French Country flair woven into the charm of its six guestrooms, demonstrating Pattis design talents and creativity. Her personal touches abound throughout the sleeping rooms and the common relaxing areas that cascade on three levels. A sense of warmth and casualness emanates from every corner, fueled by the genuine affection of the owners.
Outside, one may experience various sanctuary areas nestled on a ridge top among mature chestnut oaks, dogwood and several varieties of pine to walk, sit, read, and/or meditate while being embraced by the spiritual whisper of the wind moving softly through the branches of surrounding trees, singing a song to nurture the soul. Nearby, usually on a side porch, giant gentleness lazily welcomes everyone to his doggy-heaven. Gunner, Bear and Pattis beloved eleven-year old yellow lab, gazes intelligently at guests and responds warmly to any overture of friendliness.
There is a uniqueness to this Bed and Breakfast retreat found firstly in its owners and their accommodating schedules and services, and secondly, in the serenity of its natural surroundings. Patti owned a catering company in Denver and delights in preparing spectacular dinners and mouth-watering, made-to-order breakfasts that gratify the most discriminating palates. Bear was a contractor in Denver and this handyman extraordinaire not only refurbished the Inn, but he has developed his own culinary specialties and loves cooking and creating alongside Patti in the kitchen.
We planned a dinner for seven the evening of our arrival a party for a few friends in for the reunion. The meal was held in the Inns private dining room and featured a gourmet salad of mixed greens with citrus vinaigrette and pecans, and selections of Hazelnut Encrusted Chilean Sea Bass w/Mango Lime Chutney, Pistachio Encrusted Rainbow Trout or Lump Crab Cakes w/Citrus Aioli (my personal choice) from an array of delectable entres. The menu offered various starches and vegetables for side dishes and we completed our culinary experience with a freshly baked peach pie, chocolate fudge cake, ice cream and crme brle.
Breakfasts were sheer joy, starting with coffee Id swear was made in Heaven, an assortment of homemade pastries and fresh fruit, and Bears special of the morning. His secret recipe for Belgium waffles with glazed pecans was the best Ive ever had and believe me, Ive had plenty!
When it came time to leave, mixed emotions surged sadness to depart from this wondrous retreat, sadness to say good-bye to two new friends who have chosen to share their dreams and passions with others, yet - joyfulness in knowing we will definitely journey back to be renewed and rejuvenated with the spiritual awakening found in this extraordinary escape.
Sandy Soule
BedandBreakfast.com
Sandy@BedandBreakfast.com