We packed our bags and made the trip to the Smoky Mountains for our fourth annual New Year's mountain trip last Monday. We had such a blast with our friends enjoying a very light dusting of snow, hiking, and of course eating. We arrived late Monday night and went to bed excitedly awaiting the snow that was in the forecast. We woke on Tuesday to the tiniest bit of white snow outside. Although it wasn't much, we were all very excited considering we rarely see snow. Thankfully it did pick up and snow a bit more later that day! I didn't have my camera out to catch the excitement but one our friends did and I can't wait to see how the pictures look! We spent the rest of the day stocking the house and exploring the pretty little town of Blowing Rock.
Wednesday we made our way to Grandfather Mountain. It was clear and beautiful and absolutely frigid (as in two and three layers of clothing).
We all started hiking the trail that is near the peak at the parking lot despite the hiker who fell and was injured enough they had to call the paramedics to pick him up. It was covered in ice and rather treacherous, but a few us kept on in search of some great views.
We were treated to this sunset as we were getting ready for the evening. Can you think of a better way to end 2014?
Later that night we ate dinner at
Roots. We went with my in-laws this fall and immediately made our reservations for New Year's Eve since we enjoyed the food so much. We were not disappointed!
They feature a very interesting menu that includes Fried Frog Legs,
an endive pear and walnut salad,
and this delicious cocoa cumin rubbed pork chop with blueberry moonshine barbecue sauce. I don't really care that much for pork chops, but I've ordered this both times because it's just that good.
We spent that night at our favorite little spot, Twigs. The next day we all headed out in search of more breathtaking views.
With sore legs and happy hearts we returned home ready to start 2015 refreshed and excited for what it will bring! I don't know about you, but I'm incredibly happy to be finishing school in three months! Happy happy New Year! I start my elective rotation in plastic surgery and dermatology and couldn't be more excited!
