Bakersville, NC, a mountain paradise

I enjoyed my stay in Bakersville, NC. From Ashville, I drove along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a national park. It was a very narrow and steep winding road, with glimpses of the mountains, and old round arched rock overpasses. I stopped at Little Switerland. Eventhough I have never been to Switzerland, it felt like I had, viewing the steep hills, and thick forest. I stopped in to visit, and met the renowned educator and potter, Cynthia Bringle. I am now the proud owner of one of her pieces! Finally I arrived and spent the rest of the day, and part of the next day with Lynn and Gary, former owners of Craft Company No. 6, in Rochester. It was really wonderful to see them. They live on several acres in a beautiful, peaceful, and remote mountain paradise. The evening consisted of a fun dinner party with artists, and neighbors. There were 4 other dogs to keep JoJo company. The next morning I went to the Penland School of Craft, only about 10 minutes from Lynn and Gary. The gallery featured current student works as well as a collection of works from former educator, Cynthia Bringle. The work in this gallery is stunning, world class quality, from a world class school. I am determined to come back to take a class someday. I was reluctant to leave this peaceful place! At 3000 feet elevation I enjoyed the cool night, and clean, fresh air.

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