Hello!

s the opportunity to get beyond the usual tourist stops. We get to meet the people who make a destination special, learn its stories, and discover experiences we might otherwise overlook. Haywood County gave us plenty to think about, and plenty of reasons to return.

There's something particularly appealing about mountain towns in the fall. The slower pace, the changing seasons, the welcoming communities, and the chance to settle in and enjoy where you are. It's a different kind of luxury, and one I appreciate more and more.

Of course, conventions are also exhausting! Between meetings, presentations, conversations, and activities, there isn't much downtime. I came home with plenty of ideas, new connections, and a rather lengthy to-do list.

Now that we're home, we're sticking close for a while. There are stories to write, photos to sort, and a little catching up to do before the next adventure.

And with Halloween just around the corner, I've been thinking about some of the spooky places and seasonal experiences we've explored over the years. A little history, a little mystery, and perhaps a ghost story or two seem just right for October.

Mary Jo & Tony

Have You Read:

23 Spooky Spots in London for a Haunted Halloween The spooky, eerie, and downright creepy, take center stage in October as interest in the paranormal peaks for Halloween-time. If you are not too nervous to leave your hotel, it’s a good time to explore the spookier side of London. ​ ​ Read story

Vampire Travel: Planning a Trip to the Dark Side Sink your teeth into vampire travel! Explore Dracula's Transylvania, mysterious New Orleans, Twilight's Forks, and other destinations steeped in legend. Whether you're drawn to Gothic literature, centuries-old folklore, or a little supernatural adventure, there's a whole world of vampire travel to be explored. Read story

Books Set in Western North Caroline (over 40 of them) Discover Western North Carolina through 41 unforgettable books, from Asheville to the Great Smokies. A literary journey through mountain stories and history. I loved discovering these in preparation for our North Carolina trip. Read story

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Here's what else is going on:

Traveling: Home

After our busy stretch in North Carolina, we're staying close to home for the next couple of weeks.

That doesn't mean there won't be adventures. One of the things I've learned from years of travel is that you don't have to get on an airplane to discover something interesting. Sometimes the best experiences are practically in your backyard.

I'm looking forward to a little fall exploring around the Pacific Northwest, along with some time to catch up on the less glamorous side of travel writing. You know, the writing, editing, photo organizing, and all those things that happen after the suitcase is unpacked.

And perhaps a few leisurely mornings with coffee and no particular place to be. That sounds pretty luxurious right now.

Reading: The Parisian Heist by Jo Piazza

In the late 1800s, the young widow Jo van Gogh inherits hundreds of paintings from her brother-in-law Vincent that the art world deems worthless. Determined to prove their genius, and to secure a future for herself and her young son, she becomes consumed by Vincent’s legacy.

A good heist story has a certain appeal. There's the planning, the intrigue, the inevitable complications, and the question of whether everyone will get away with it. And when Paris is part of the equation? Even better.

This was also a look at the Van Gogh legend, learning about the family instrumental in propelling him to fame.

Learn more about the book here.

I've finished 102 books this year, even after a reduced reading schedule while at the SATW convention.

Watching: Stuart Fails to Save the Universe (MAX)

Comic book store owner Stuart Bloom is tasked with restoring reality after he breaks a device built by Sheldon and Leonard, accidentally bringing about a multiverse Armageddon. As the title implies, things don't go well.

This Big Bang Theory spinoff is a change of pace from our usual viewing, and while it's gotten decent reviews and has been renewed for another season, I'm feeling ambivalent about it. There's a companion podcast, so maybe I'm missing some of the nuance of the show. For now, though, it's a meh.

More info here.

Listening: Some Other Small Town (Buddy Melton)

There's something about bluegrass and Americana music that fits particularly well with fall. Maybe it's the storytelling, the instrumentation, or the way the music evokes a sense of place. And after our time in the mountains of North Carolina, it seems especially appropriate.

I love songs that make you pay attention to the lyrics and the story told. This one has made its way onto my listening list, and it's a nice change of pace from some of my usual musical choices.

Check it out here.

Heads in Bed: Wanesville Inn and Golf Club

The property dates back to 1926, when legendary golf course architect Donald Ross designed its original nine-hole course. Today, the inn is part of Hilton's Tapestry Collection, following a substantial renovation that brought contemporary comforts to the historic property. We stayed here during our SATW Board meeting.

Set against the mountains of western North Carolina, the inn combines a sense of history with a relaxed resort atmosphere. There's an 18-hole golf course, dining on the property, and easy access to downtown Waynesville and the surrounding mountain communities. You don't have to be a golfer to appreciate the setting.

For DYI-ers, here's the link. Or get in touch with us, and let us see if we can book for you with value-added benefits.

4946 SW 329th Way, Federal Way, WA 98023

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