May 31, 2009

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site Greeneville, Tennessee

The Andrew Johnson State Historic Site in Greeneville, Tennessee is in downtown Greeneville. I had a little time after speaking to a group for my primary job and decided to stop by to check it out. I visited the house and gardens. After visiting, it was easy to see why Andrew Johnson chose to call Greeneville, Tennessee home.

Next time I hope to stay longer and enjoy it more.

Greeneville is about an hour outside of Knoxville, Tennessee. This quick stop is good for a day trip.

Read my full article here.

Resources:

National Park Service Andrew Johnson Historic Site
Greene County Partnership

May 30, 2009

Gouffon Moving and Storage Our Experience

Gouffon Moving and Storage in Knoxvile, Tennessee is going to be the moving company we use next time.

Hubby is in a line of work that requires frequent moves. I hate moving. For his job, it is a necessary evil. This last move came out of left field and just about knocked us off of our feet. We were physically and emotionally spent. The last thing we wanted to do was get estimates from moving companies in the Knoxville area.

Enter Gouffon Moving and Storage. They were the 3rd company we called and the first to respond promptly. They arrived in our home as scheduled to give us a written estimate. The men who came to load the furniture arrived on time, were very professional and had us loaded in no time.

When the date and time came to unload we again had no worries. Plus, Gouffon Moving and Storage made sure that our beds, dresser and mirror were put together and ready to use. The men even moved our furniture to my satisfaction.

For the full article on Associated Content and contact information for Gouffon Moving and Storage please click here.

To view the website of Gouffon Moving and Storage click here.

May 29, 2009

Reclaimed Strip Mine Jellico Indian Mountain State Park

Mountaintop removal is a dirty word. In Tennessee, we lose more than just mountains when the tops are removed for mining or other purposes. I've read where the land never fully heals from the environmental impact.

My family visited Indian Mountain State Park in Jellico, Tennessee the other day. It was peaceful and quiet. Birds flew overhead. Squirrels played amonst the trees in the picnic area. It was just what you would want for a quick getaway. You can imagine my surprise then when I found out that the park sits entirely on reclaimed strip mine land.

Now, please hear me. This is not enough to make me support mountaintop removal. However; it is enough to give me a hope. Maybe, just maybe, we can reclaim more of the beauty that we lose.

If you have the chance to visit Indian Mountain State Park do so. It is about an hour outside of Knoxville, Tennessee. You'll emerge relaxed and renewed.

You can read more about the park by visiting here or one of the resources listed below.
Tennessee State Parks
Visit Campbell County, TN

May 28, 2009

Disney Dining Plan Free Through 6/21Travel Through 10/3

Adults and kids can eat free at Walt Disney World! It's not too good to be true. Book now through 6/21 for travel in 8/16/2009 - 10/3/2009 and Walt Disney World will kick in their dining plan for at no cost!

Hubby and I used the dining plan for our last Walt Disney World visit. The plan included a quick service meal, snack and table dining and almost every restaurant in the park. We were extremely impressed. We're talking about fun places like Planet Hollywood and Wolfgang Puck not run of the mill family restaurants.

The best news is that all the usual restaurants that participate in the Walt Disney World dining plan are included in the free plan.

Hubby and I booked our room for late September. We're staying on the property for 6 nights. I just checked the Walt Disney World website. A family of 4 with 2 kids under age 9 can stay on the property for a week for $1,457 and change with meals included. This included a standard value resort room and base ticket without the park hopper option.

How does that compare? Read this article that a blog reader sent me. The article appears on Knox News.Com. The writer had tickets left from5 years ago. She also spent less time at Walt Disney World and stayed off the park. If you factor in the cost of the tickets at current value, parking and motel bill she actually might have paid more and gotten less that she would have if using the free dining plan.

Read my previous article on Associated Content and visit the Walt Disney World website for more information.

May 27, 2009

Davids Bridal Knoxville Review You've Been Reviewed

Our experience with David's Bridal was pretty hit and miss when it came to service. The sales clerks seemed to be very interested in selling us what they thought we needed. When looking for a gown for one of my daughters, it took 3 different trips before a sales clerk offered to wait on her.

But as rocky as the sales staff was, the alterations department shined. They were the crown jewel in this store. My daughter was more than pleased. For this reason we'll be back to Davids Bridal. I only wish that you didn't have to buy a gown from Davids Bridal to use this particular alteration department.

My full review is here.

May 26, 2009

Three Rivers Cornmeal Now in the Obituary Section

I am shocked to learn of the death of Three Rivers Cornmeal. Shocked and angry. For 75 years, Three Rivers Cornmeal has been a staple in the homes of Knoxville. Almost 4 generations of happy Southerners grew up on the corn meal and passed that preference on to our children.

Using Three Rivers Cornmeal was a source of pride among the people of the South. We are a people who still believe in Sunday covered dish dinners and all-day-preaching with dinner on the grounds. We are a people who believedd that almost any illness can be cured with stuffed eggs, fried okra and cornbread. And we believed that the cornbread had to be Three Rivers Cornmeal.

It's not that other cornmeal isn't good. It's just that they aren't as good. The cornbread made by the competing companies just doesn't have the same texture or flavor as Three Rivers Cornmeal.

Our happy allusions were shattered this week. That's when word broke out that the J.M. Smucker's Company perceived back in March that Three Rivers Cornmeal was on life support and decided to pull the plug.

But Southerners still believe in hope. Those of us who don't have hope believe in corporate greed. Three Rivers Cornmeal has a solid base of fans who love the product and would buy it under almost any circumstances.

Bigger companies have gotten started from less. This might be just the occasion for someone to buy the recipe and start another Three Rivers Cornmeal.

Read more in Mary Constantine's article in the Knoxville News Sentinel.

May 25, 2009

Carmike Movies in LaFollette Review Youve Been Reviewed

At the Carmike Movies in LaFollette, my family and I had the chance to see an early showing of Star Trek. (For the movie review click here. This review is about the theater.)

This is a small theater with only 2 screens. Perhaps why it's only $11 for two movie tickets, a popcorn and two drinks?

The staff at Carmike Movies in LaFollette was friendly and professional. They gave the impression that they were glad to see you and hoped you would enjoy the visit. How many places really act like they care these days? The service alone was a pleasant change of pace.

Seating was comfortable stadium seats. The room temperature was fine and the popcorn was good. We'll definitely be back again.

The full review is avialable online. To read it go to http://tr.im/meAU

Isaiah 40:31 A Word for the Graduates

Saturday was the graduation at our local high school. I was impressed at how nice the students looks. The guys were in ties. All of the girls were in their dresses and heals. Included in the dress code of the day was smiles that were as bright as the sun. It was heartwarming.

I thought back to the graduation days of both of my daughters. We thought the days were never going to get here. Now, the time has flown past. Isn't that the way it always goes?

Both daughters have done quite well but at times this past year their patience has been tried. There have been moments when they have looked around and wondered if they did the right thing or if finals week was really going to end. There were times when they were sick and had to drag themselves to class.

The scripture of Isaiah 40:31 comes to mind. Bible Gateway translates it as "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

To the graduates who may be reading this I'd like to say, keep your faith. It will see you through. When your hope falters it will be renewed. When you are tired there will be times when you will run. And most of all, there will be times when you will soar.

Another article on Isaiah 40:31 can be found here.

May 24, 2009

Quality Inn East Knoxville Strawberry Plains Pike Review

The following link is a review of the Quality Inn in Knoxville, TN at I-40, Exit 398 (Strawberry Plains Pk).

We had a great stay there. This motel has the most comfortable beds of any that I've tried lately!

It's also nice that you can go to www.igive.com to reserve at any Choice Hotels property. When you book your room through this link a tiny percentage is donated to the nonprofit I work with. Hope for Healing.Org is the only nonprofit that serves all of Strawberry Plains, TN. They can really use the help.

That just adds to the niceness of the stay at the Quality Inn East Knoville. To learn more view my full review at http://www.associatedcontent.com

Car Concerns Is Heard World-Wide Now !!!: Car Consulting Working With Chrysler Affected Dealers

Car Concerns Is Heard World-Wide Now !!!: Car Consulting Working With Chrysler Affected Dealers: "a"

It's good news to hear that an organized group of dealers is tacking Chrysler head-on. Years ago, my Plymouth Horizon was purchased from Harry Lane as was my husband's Tourismo. Later, we went on to purchase a Dodge Dakota pick up truck and a P.T. Cruiser.

I have loved our Chryslers. We have plans to drive the PT Cruiser to Alaska next month. I love everything about my little car.

What I don't love is Chrysler's decision to sever ties with people who have been dealers for years. To me, that decision does a lot to bolster brand loyalty for drivers of Toyota, Ford, or other brands. But it doesn't do a thing to help me feel valued as a loyal Chrysler customer.

The economy is a mess. That's something everyone can agree on. When it will heal is anyone's guess. The only thing I know is that this is the wrong time to be cutting jobs. It's a worse time to be making drivers question what our next car purchase is going to be and that is what cutting the ties to the local Chrysler dealerships means to me.

May 23, 2009

Knoxville Pediatric Dentists

Knoxville pediatric dentists are just who you need when your child says "Mommy. My mouth hurts."

These words struck fear in my heart when my daughter said that to me. Turns out, it wasn't her mouth at all. It was her tooth. We were living in a different city and I had no idea where to take her. Thank goodness for friends who did!

I was asked to compile the following information for a freelance article. Because of the word count limit of the article it wasn't possible to list every pediatric dentist. If you are searching this list may be a good place to start. Pediatricians often give very good referrals too. When it comes to your children don't just take my word for it. Ask around!

Click on this link as a starting point to begin your search for Knoxville pediatric dentists.

http://bit.ly/knoxpedodontists

May 22, 2009

Moving Companies in Knoxville, Tennessee

Moving companies in Knoxville, Tennessee can be a godsend when you have to move.

Last year Hubby was transferred to another county and we needed a moving company.

We were in the middle of one of the most tumultuous times of our lives. I was working two jobs plus mystery shopping. My main job was still unpacking from relocating. Our youngest daughter was graduating from high school the week before our oldest daughter had to be out of her dorm. Plus, we found out we were moving the night Hubby returned from his first overseas mission trip.

I was in no mood to pack our belongings and move much less begin interviewing possible movers. Neither was anyone in our family.

Fortunately, Knoxville has several moving companies. There are pages of them online and in the phone book. If you need a short list of possible companies to call you can start with this link. It may help. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1757948/moving_companies_in_knoxville_tennessee.html?cat=55/

We'll have more on the Knoxville moving company we used a little later. The editors at the company are still reviewing it. I'll get it posted as soon as I can.

Knoxville Summer Festivals and Events

Knoxville, Tennessee has so many summer festivals and events that it will almost blow you away! The online company I do freelance for asked for an article on just this topic. Finding the information was easy. Narrowing it down wasn't.

What I re-discovered is that we live in a great city. Knoxville has many summer festivals and events. But it gets better. Most of them are free to attend.

So, what are you waiting for? Click on the link for this article and get started. With a list this good there's no need to keep waiting. Start planning which Knoxville summer festivals and events you are going to attend.

http://bit.ly/knoxfestivals09

May 21, 2009

Big South Fork Camping Hiking in East Tennessee

Big South Fork State Park grabbed the attention of my family. Friends told us how much fun it was to visit. We were told that the overlook had one of the best views anywhere. They were right.

The park takes some doing to get to. I thought we were going to drive forever. Take I-75 up to the Huntsville exit and follow the signs. Big South Fork State Park is about an hour from the interstate. This includes the 15 minutes or so that we spent at the Scott County Visitor Information Center.

The Big South Fork State Park is more remote than some of the State Parks in Tennessee. This only adds to the beauty.

If you go do three things. One, read the article below. Two, take your picnic supplies with you. Three, have a wonderful trip to Big South Fork State Park!

http://bit.ly/bigsouthfork

U2 Top Ten Favorite Songs of All Time

U2 Top Ten Songs

This was the name of an article that I was able to write for a company. Sometimes, it's just fun to write about something quirky.

U2 has been one of my favorite bands since high school. The Christian bent to many of their songs was lost on me as a kid. Now that I have matured (I refuse to say "gotten older") I appreciate their music even more.

If you like the music of U2 check out the list of U2 Top Ten Songs by clicking the link above.
Let me know what you think.

May 20, 2009

Norris Dam State Park in Tennessee

Norris Dam State Park is a great place to go for some R&R. There is so much to see and do here. It's no wonder that it is one of the busiest of Tennessee State Parks.

It's only about 45 minutes outside of Knoxville. Norris Dam State Park is the home of the Lenoir Museum. Here you can learn about Appalachian life around the time that the dam was built. Then, there are those great picnic sites, trails, wildlife viewing and bird watching.

Of course, then there is the great Norris Dam itself. Let's not forget the visitor center and viewing area.

Do you want to read more about Norris Dam State Park? Follow this link http://bit.ly/norrisdam

May 19, 2009

Have you seen Star Trek yet?

Have you seen Star Trek yet? If not, you're missing a treat. My family and I had the chance to view a prescreening. It was all I could do not to call all of my friends to rub it in later. The movie was great! It is destined to be a summer blockbuster!

A review that I posted of Star Trek The Movie can be found here. There are no spoilers to give the plot away. If you haven't seen it yet the review might encourage you to go. Overall, I thought the movie was a good way to spend an evening.

May 12, 2009

Strawberry Plains Spring Festival 2009












The Strawberry Plains Spring Festival 2009 is now history. This annual event is sponsored by the Strawberry Plains Community Alliance. Membership to the alliance is open to anyone who works, worships or lives in Strawberry Plains, Tennessee.

The Strawberry Plains Spring Festival is a family event that features a parade, crafts booths, vendors and games for the children. Crowds were down significantly from previous years. Those who attended had a great time.Smiles are part of the dress code and on Saturday, May 9, 2009 there were plenty to go around.

Here are a couple of photos to enjoy if you missed the Strawberry Plains Spring Festival.

May 10, 2009

Post Recital Reception Given for Alexandria Crabtree











After the recital, a reception was given in honor of 2006 Carter Graduate Allie Crabtree and to David Collins in recognition of their hard work.

Weddings are New Beginnings

Yesterday, my cousin and friend tied the knot with the man she loves. I am very happy for her! A host of family and friends were there for the occasion. Even though it rained yesterday morning by the time the wedding started the sun was as bright as the smiles on the face of bride and grooms. It was a beautiful occasion.



After the wedding everyone gathered to "The Barn" for a lavish reception.



Carrie and David, I wish you happiness and Godspeed on your new life together.

Berea College Music Recital

video
Accompanying Allie Crabtree at her recital was David Collins. He is studying voice at Berea College. If the recital is any indication both of these students have very bright futures.

Piano music was provided for the recital by Kathy Bullock. The evening was enjoyed by many.

2006 Carter Grad gives College Flute Recital

video
Alexandria Crabtree is a graduate of Carter High School (2006).

On Friday, May 8, 2009 the Presser Music Hall of Berea College came alive with the sounds of music as students Alexandria Crabtree and David Collins gave their college recital. Graduation for both of these students is set for May 2010.

After graduation, Miss Crabtree has accepted a summer position teaching music to students in Sudan, Africa.

If the quality of the recital is any indication, both of these students have extremely bright futures ahead of them.

Go here to learn more about Berea College.

May 09, 2009

Knox County Public Libraries Reason to Love Knoxville

Knox County Public Libraries are a good reason to love Knoxville. I recently had the opportunity to write a freelance article on Knox County Libraries. This gave me the chance to rediscover all that our library system has to offer.

I have fond childhood of memories of going to the (now defunct) library in the West Haven Shopping center. The thrill of having my very own library card made me feel grown-up. I couldn't wait to fill my arms with books!

If you haven't been to the library in awhile you should go. Libraries don't just have books anymore. They have media, books on CD, events, meeting rooms and of course, they still have books!

As an adult, my favorite branch is the Carter Library. This branch has a friendly, helpful librarian named Melanie. She went the extra mile to help me find a craft book that I needed. And, she always does that. It's as if she can read my mind and picture the book I need. If you go to the Carter Library be sure to tell her hello for me.

Writing the freelance article helped me rediscover the Knox County Public Library system. It is a veritable treasure trove that is just waiting to be utilized.

If you've not been to the library lately you should go. Better yet, take the kids and enjoy some family quality time together. Don't wait.

May 08, 2009

Bristol, Tennessee A Great Vacation Getaway

My family and I recently traveled to Bristol, Tennessee. At first glance there isn't much to see or do. Looking beneath the surface reveals plenty to keep a family happily occupied for a long weekend.

Click here to read more about the neat things to see and do in Bristol.

May 07, 2009

Swine Flu Is Your Church Taking Precautions?

Swine flu is on everyone's minds. We're all talking about it. The media is bombarding us with information and up-to-the-minute reports. People are being told not to gather. At least one city is having a separate graduation ceremony for a group of exposed high school students.

But the place where most people gather every Sunday is church. Can a church to anything to prevent the spread of illness? If so, what.

The full article is available on
Associated Content

May 06, 2009

Quiznos Subs Turkey Creek Review Youve Been Reviewed

The Quizno's in Turkey Creek is located next to iSold it on eBay. It's at the end of a shopping center with plenty of free parking. The sandwiches were good and served hot. The staff was friendly.

What was so wrong that I'll have to think for awhile about going back?

The full review is available online

May 04, 2009

Ryan's Oak Ridge Review You've Been Reviewed

Ryan's in Oak Ridge was a family buffet and bakery. These once dotted the landscape in Knoxville, Tennessee and are now closed. Ryan's offers a buffet of hot food, soup, fruit, a salad bar and a tempting array of desserts.

But is the service good? Is the food rotated as frequently as it should be?

Read the full article here to find out.

May 03, 2009

Movie Theaters in Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville, Tennessee is the home of some great movie theaters. Recently, Miley Cirus visited the Regal Cinema Pinnacle at Turkey Creek to promote her latest movie.

The Tennessee Theater and the Bijou Theater are both historical. People are often surprised to find out that these theaters still show movies.

Carmike Cinema on Millertown Pk. offers a concession special on Tuesdays. Get a soda and popcorn for $1 each.

Carmike Movies 7 is a value theater. Conceessions and ticket prices are less than you pay at the other theaters.

To get the full scoop, see my article on Associated Content.

May 02, 2009

Ritas Water Ice Market Square Mall Youve Been Reviewed

Rita's Water Ice in Market Square Mall. Youve Been Reviewed!

Have you tried Ritas Water Ice yet? This smoothly delectable treat is only available at Market Square Mall.

Does the franchise owner plan to expand to other locations? Is it worth the drive?

Click this link to find out more.

May 01, 2009

Walt Disney World Free Dining Plan Book through 6/21

Eat free at Walt Disney World when you book now through 6/21/08. Travel dates are for this fall. It is for kids and adults. The free dining plan offers quite a bit of savings. It's hard to imagine a vacation where you don't have to pay for meals.

Hubby and I took advantage of the Disney Dining Plan a few years ago. We accompanied Sam's high school band to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fl. Our plan included a daily snack or drink, quick service meal and full service meal.

We can't wait to get to Walt Disney World and use the free dining plan!

My full article is available on Associated Content.