Mary Poppins

The reason why we moved out to the mountains for 3 weeks was because Lizzy and Ava were going to perform in Mary Poppins at Lees-McRae College. It proved a great excuse to escape the heat of Fayetteville and to do a ton on fun things in the mountains. The girls had small roles, but it allowed us a lot of free time around rehearsals for swimming, hiking, horseback riding, and enjoying friends.  The girls loved being part this professional production. They learned a lot about theater, made some good friends, and performed 7 shows, including closing night to an audience of over 600.

Closing event- 4th of July parade in Banner Elk

Elk Knob State Park

Looking back towards our house, Beech and Roan mountains in the distance.

Tubing the Toe River

Tubing on the Toe River and ending at the Blind Squirrel Brewery. The trip was made more enjoyable with a growler of hard cider tide to my tube.

Rafting the rapids with Gabe.

Other fun weekend activities with friends. Hanging out in Little Elk Creek.

Exploring new areas in the Pisgah Game Lands below Elk River Falls.

Horse Camp

While we were in the mountains, I created a horseback riding camp for the kids with Roan Mountain Riding Company.  The owner, David, and his daughter did a fantastic job.  From 9-11am, Monday through Friday the kids learned about horses, groomed them, feed them, cleaned stalls and practiced riding. Friday culminated with a long trail ride. Gabe rode the 4 wheeler since he is still a bit small to ride these horses on rough terrain. This camp was win for all the kids.

 

Fun and Forts

Playing with friends from Fayetteville at Elk River Falls

Mountain top construction project.

We're off to see the Wizard

Riding the ski lift up Beech Mountain to the Land of Oz

The Land of Oz was an attraction open from 1970-1980. The defunct park is now private property that is opened a few times a year for visitors. Proceeds go to restoring some of the park attractions and preserving a cool piece of local history.

That broom looks good on him.

Mother/daughter photo 

The cast for our trip through Kansas/Oz.

The gate keeper for our private tour. 360 people total are let in each Friday in June, each tour group was 60 people.

Dorthy's house after the tornado.