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A Spiritual Retreat |
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Written by guest Trudy Holden
Apollo Beach, FL
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It matters not what walk of life we’re on, what
earthly journey we pursue or what drives our faith . . . there are times when we
each seek 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 at the Crooked Oak
Mountain Inn, a wonderful bed and breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina. We
discovered this Inn through an Internet search while trying to find
accommodations to attend my husband’s 40th high school reunion. While the search
identified some fifty B&B’s . . . 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,
complete with 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 and 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 Patti’s design talents and creativity. Her person
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, dogwoods 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.
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/event planning
company in Denver, CO and delights in preparing spectacular, made-to-order
breakfasts that gratify the most discriminating palates. Bear was a General
Contractor in Denver and this handyman extraordinaire not only refurbished the
entire Inn, but he has developed his own culinary specialties and loves cooking
and creating alongside Patti in their kitchen.
Breakfasts were sheer joy, starting with coffee I’d swear was made in Heaven, an
assortment of homemade pastries and muffins, fresh fruit, and Bear’s special of
the morning. His secret recipe for Belgium waffles with roasted pecans was the
best I’ve ever had and believe me, I’ve had plenty!
When it came time to leave, mixed emotions surged ~ sadness to depart from this
wondrous retreat, sadness to say goodbye 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 mountain escape.
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