Saturday arrives and the work schedule indicates we start at 2 PM. With an early start we can explore the local swap meet and the downtown Oconaluftee Islands Park. Time to get moving.
On the way down the mountain the sky clears but clouds still threaten rain, the key word here is threaten. Spending time in the outdoors teaches you to carry rain gear and not fear the threat of rain - remember 50% chance of rain also means 50% chance of no rain.
In town we wind the streets looking for the swap meet and as promised it does appear. This is obviously a community gathering resembling huge yard sale with tables, rugs, car hoods, and pickup tailgates filled with the 'family treasures'. 'Family treasures' is the code for 'stuff you no longer need and hope to salvage some of the original value'. A lady behind a card table sells bean bread, banana bread, and cookies. A family hopes to sell baby clothes, work boots, and viewed DVDs. There are several groups selling expired clothes and a few craftswomen with treasures. Yes, I was lured by the display of crochet necklaces sporting local stones.
The rain starts and the 'vendors' begin to pack up their displays and treasures while I store my purchases (jeans, anklet, bread) in the car. Driving back through town Bill is intrigued by the local herb shop and decides to stop. The shop demands an air of reverence with its' beads, herbs, books, Cherokee musical instruments, and the required souvenir section. The flute CD playing in the background mellows your mood. From past experiences with churches and spiritual centers I conclude this is a store for meditation and spiritual materials.
Back in the parking lot we notice vendor tents, signs, and balloons at the Visitors Center. We learn this is Spring Fling, an event to thank visitors. Unfortunately, due to the threat of rain there are few visitors or vendors. Regardless, we tour the tents and visitor center. enjoy the event. One vendor is busily making tacos and roasting corn; looking too good to pass up we purchase a several tacos, corn, and tamales. Now where to dine? The visitor center porch looks promising and walking to the back we find the perfect dining spot: rockers, a fantastic view of the river, and chatty folks.
It is almost time to return but not before we explore Oconaluftee Islands Park with a play ground, trout fishing areas, boardwalks, ample wild life
a bamboo forest.
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