The Biltmore...

My cousin Zana and I share a LOVE for anything British.

British countryside. British literature. British tea shops. British period dramas.

And definitely British stately homes. 

So naturally...while she was here we made a stop at the Biltmore House in Asheville.

It's not British....but it's the closest to it in America!

The last time I had been here it was snowy and blustery...so we weren't able to see the grounds.

But on this trip...the sun was shining...the leaves blazing...and the sights breathtaking!

Meandering up and down the trails...exploring the wooden bridges...just letting the beauty of God's creation seep deep down inside of me, I was overwhelmed with His goodness and His splendor.

I would have been content to just sit...and be still...and know that He is God.

But alas...there was so much more to see and do!!!

Zana and I tend to be quite silly when we are with each other...

and at times probably even embarrassed the kids a bit...but it was fun!

After we had our fill of the grounds, Zana treated us to fill our bellies.

We aren't used to such fancy digs...

so we had to scrounge up our manners and try hard not to put her to shame! :-)

The house and grounds were completely decked out for Christmas...and while we were eating dinner...there were many people scurrying around the house lighting a plethora of candles.

Unfortunately...there were no photos allowed...but try and picture the most beautiful home you've ever seen...even more beautiful!!

There were carolers set in the front foyer and their echoes filled the entire home...

serenading us from room to room.

It was definitely an enchanting evening...filling us with Christmas cheer and anticipation for the season ahead.

Sadly it was the last evening we had with Zana...

but we're hoping it will fill her with fond memories that draw her back to see us again!!!