Monday, November 15, 2010

Fruit and Nut Bars

Fruit and Nut Bars
  


  






















 
   

Fruit and Nut Bars
  





































































Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup milk
1 (27-ounce)  Ready-To-Use Mincemeat
1 cup chopped nuts



















Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. In large bowl, combine dry ingredients. Add oil and milk, stirring until mixture is a moist crumble.
Reserving 1 cup crumb mixture, press remainder firmly on bottom of 11 x 7inch baking pan; top with Mincemeat. Top evenly with remaining crumb mixture, then nuts.
Bake 30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool. Chill if desired. Cut into bars. Store, loosely covered, at room temperature.

Servings: Makes 2 to 3 dozen bars
 

Crop till you drop Winterfest Scrapbook Weekend

Come join us for our sixth annual 'Winterfest Scrapbook Weekend'.  This weekend is planned for those of you who love to scrapbook.  If you are a beginner or advanced this  will be the perfect opportunity to make many new friends and get lots of new ideas.

February 5th & 6th, 2011


This event is hosted by: Michele   Sizemore
865-693-5022 Creative Memories.com

Friday, October 15, 2010

Berry Springs Lodge 2010 Fall Newsletter

Hello from Berry Springs  Lodge,  

October is right around the corner and we are ready for the cooler temperatures and fall leaves.  The summer was very warm this year, and we think it will be great for producing bright vibrant colors of the leaves.  We still have some rooms open through the month if you can get away for a couple days; we would love to have you come and visit.  Of course, there will be craft fairs, music festivals, hay rides, leaf falling adventures and much more going on.


Again we want to thank you for helping us make it to the ten year mark.  Hope to see you all soon.


 


Thank you, and God bless    




Patrick's


"Home Inn-Provements"





We have not had much time this summer to work on many projects plus as hot as it has been I am not sure I would have wanted to.  The big news is that I purchased a new toy!  It is an older D6C Caterpillar dozer.  Right now it is down at my brother’s shop in Florida getting serviced and checked over.  As soon as he is done, he will bring it to Tennessee.  When we purchased the property 10 years ago, the entire property, except for a small area by the ponds was clear cut for cattle grazing.  We let much of it grow up with trees and it needs to be thinned out and much of the underbrush and briers need to be removed.  I also would like to get back on track for future development of the mini-lodges that we planned to build on the other ridge.  It will take me a while to cut in a new road and flatten the top of the ridge; however, with the dozer here, I can work on it in my free time and not have to be rushed.  Hopefully, within a year, we will see the economy get back on track so we can build.


 


We are working on a new design upgrade for the bathrooms of the hot tub rooms.  This winter we will be able to do at least one of them, if not all.  Not that there is anything wrong with them now, I just want to tile the showers and put new glass enclosures on them.  The fiberglass bottoms are hard to maintain with all the cleaning that Melissa does on them.


 


Again thank you for your help and spreading the word. 



                                                                        Patrick 


Monday, August 9, 2010

Ultimate Turtle Brownies

1 box (1 lb 2.4 oz) brownie mix
Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on brownie mix box
36 caramels, unwrapped (from 14 oz bag)
3 tablespoons whipping cream
1 1/3 cups milk chocolate chunks
2/3 cup coarsely chopped pecans

1. Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Spray bottom and sides 9-inch square pan with baking spray with flour. Make brownie batter as directed on box. Spread 1/2 of batter in pan. Bake 18 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, in large microwavable bowl, microwave caramels and whipping cream uncovered on High 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until smooth.
3. Pour caramel over partially baked brownie; spread to within 1/4 inch of edges. Sprinkle with 2/3 cup of the chocolate chunks and 1/3 cup of the pecans. Drop remaining brownie batter by small spoonfuls onto caramel layer. Sprinkle with remaining 2/3 cup chocolate chunks and 1/3 cup pecans.
4. Bake 34 to 37 minutes longer or until center is almost set. Cool 1 hour at room temperature. Cover; refrigerate 1 hour before serving. For brownies, cut into 6 rows by 4 rows. Store covered at room temperature.



Chunky Cherry Muffins

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
6 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon almond flavoring
3/4 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped cherries, about 8 ounces
3/4 cup chopped pecans
Preparation:
Line muffin cups with paper liners or spray well with a baking spray. Heat oven to 375°.
In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, baking powder, soda, salt, and brown sugar, stirring to blend. Whisk eggs with butter and vanilla; stir into the dry ingredients along with buttermilk. Stir until blended. Stir in chopped cherries and pecans.

Fill muffin cups about almost to tops of papers. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes, or until light golden brown and the tops spring back when pressed lightly with a finger.

Makes 12 to 15 muffins



Friday, August 6, 2010

Winter Magic Kickoff & Chili Cookoff






















November 10
 
Chili_Cookoff_small_smEntertainment, Fundraiser, Food
Description:The City of Gatlinburg kicks off Gatlinburg Winter Magic tm from 5 to 8 p.m. on the Downtown Parkway by turning on over three million lights. Enjoy live entertainment by the Marvelettes, sample chili recipes from local restaurants and businesses. Spectacular fireworks at dusk during the opening ceremony are sponsored by Mountain Rentals of Gatlinburg.
Location:Downtown Gatlinburg

13th Annual Taste of Autumn

Hard_Rock_Taste_of_Autumn_sm





















September 23
 
 
Description:Sample signature dishes from the area's finest restaurants. Enjoy live entertainment, live auction with a cash bar. Proceeds benefit United Way of Sevier County.
Location:Gatlinburg Convention Center

Festival of Trees






















November 23 - 27
gcc_event_winterfest_09_sm
Category:Arts, Entertainment
Description:Festival of Trees and weekend performances of a holiday classic presented in Gatlinburg.
Location:W.L. Mills Conference Center

Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival


































September 1 - October 31
gcc_event_harvestfest_02_sm
Category:Arts, Entertainment, History
Description:Fall decorations, old fashioned hayrides, events, entertainment, and local craft exhibits.
Location:throughout Gatlinburg
  
  
Admission:FREE

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair



































Date(s):October 7 - 23
Season:Fall
Category:Arts, EntertainmentCraftsmens_Fair_Fall_small_sm
Description:Art, crafts and music lovers can find almost 200 booths featuring some of the nation's finest work. Artisans and craftspeople are on hand to demonstrate their skills, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale. Live Country & Bluegrass entertainment. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location:Gatlinburg Convention Center
Website/Link:http://www.craftsmenfair.com/
Contact Info:(865) 436-7479
Admission:$6.00

Berry Springs Lodge 2010 Summer Newsletter


Hello from Berry Springs Lodge,
 

The big talk this summer is the extremely high temperatures throughout the country. No matter whom you talk to from Florida to New York everyone is saying it is hot! We had quite a few 90 degree days so far this year but it has not been bad. We have been dry so far this summer, humidity levels have been very low. If you take a short ride into the national park it cools down 10 to 15 degrees. We are so lucky to live where we do. July 4th was our official 10-year anniversary date. We celebrated with fireworks shot from the ponds. You would think we were at a local stadium. The fireworks that you can get in Tennessee are spectacular. Everything went fine until Patrick tried to help the boys ignite some of the fireworks. He put two of them upside down in the shot tubes and blew the tubes apart. Must be getting old!! Needless to say the finale was kind of weak with two tubes short. Maybe no one noticed!! LOL.



Again we want to thank you for being our friends and guests. Hope to see you all soon.

Thank you and God bless

Patrick's   "Home Inn-Provements" 
This summer has been a lot of fun so far. We drained the bass pond and pulled all the big bass out and put them in the catfish pond. Have you ever seen the program on the discovery channel about the guys that catch giant catfish with their hands? They reached up under the banks and grabbed the fish out by their mouths. That is what it kind of felt like trying to get the fish out of the pond. We drained the pond down to about 1.5 feet in depth and used a net to screen the fish to one end.

 

 

 

 

 The large carp were first to go. They would get to the end of the pond and jump out of the water and over the net. You would have to catch them in the air as they came over. It was not easy but it was very funny to watch. I wish I had a video of that event to show you. The bass were much easier. You just had to reach down and grab them.

My good friend Scott (The one who built the Lodge) brought his trackhoe down and left it for me for a week. I had all kinds of fun digging up everything I could. The upper dam that supplies water to the ponds had grown up and filled with sediment over the years so this was a good opportunity to clean it out. And believe it or not I did not get stuck!! Most times it seems I get equipment stuck some where on the property. Good thing it was very dries this year.

 Sue's  Recipes     
 Hi everyone.  We just did this one the other day for the first time.  It turned out great!

 

 

Apple Walnut Cake

 

3 eggs

1 3/4 cups sugar

3/4 cups vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups all purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 teaspons cinnamon

3 cups granny smith apples, chopped

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

powdered sugar or a glaze for top when done

 

Crean the eggs, sugar, oil and vanilla in a mixing bowl.Stir in the flour,salt, baking soda and cinnamon.  Fold in apples and walnuts. spoon into a greased 10 inch round cake pan or a 11 by 7 retangular pan. 

Bake at 350 for 30 to 40 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.  Cool 10 minutes. Flip out of pan and when completely cooled drizzle glaze and powdered sugar on top.

*glaze---mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 1/2 tsp. vanilla and 1 - 2 tablespoons milk. Mix until smooth.

 

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Relaxing, quiet location with a great view that is close to Smoky Mountians


This is a place you really do not have to leave. The view along with the manicured park like setting is relaxing. On site are 2 fishing ponds, trails, bikes and lawn games for use also. Patrick and Sue do everything possible to accomodate thier guests. We are looking forward to a return trip.



 

Monday, August 2, 2010

BERRY SPRINGS LODGE-ABOVE AND BEYOND-5 STARS


what a fantastic gem berry springs lodge is in the smokey mountains.
the accommodations , food, and service was more than anyone could have asked for.
patrick was the perfect host and his wife sue served the most delicious breakfasts we have ever tasted.
patrick was very helpful in giving us directions to places we wanted to visit, and anything we needed he was always wanting to help.
we have stayed at many bed and breakfasts in our travels from coast to coast, and berry springs lodge is now our number one favorite.
the lodge is set in a seluded area on a mountain top, with some of the best views of the mountains we have ever seen, and it is a place where you can go to relax and have a great time and experience nature.
we want to thank patrick and sue for making this an experience we will never forget.
we plan going back to berry springs lodge in the near future and encourage anyone to go and enjoy this very unique bed and breakfast in the smokey mountains

hardy,va


Friday, July 30, 2010

A secluded, romantic, rustic lodge with incredible amenities and service.


A 33-acre retreat, set high atop a ridge in the Great Smoky Mountains, this beautiful log structure has multiple decks with rocking chairs overlooking distant hills and valleys. Bird feeders attract indigo buntings, hummingbirds, pileated woodpeckers, and many other varieties of wild birds. At night we heard the soft sounds of owls nearby.

This was our second visit to Berry Springs Lodge, and we reserved the Honeysuckle Springs unit. It has a plush 4-poster bed with beautiful linens, well-appointed furnishings,complimentary bottles of water, thick towels and robes, and when we entered our room, soft lovely music was playing in a CD player on the nightstand. A small basket of CD's is also furnished. Our room was an end unit, with comfortable outdoor seating on our private upstairs balcony. The balcony also has a softly-lighted modern hot tub (covered when not in use) which was absolutely spotlessly clean. It was wonderful at night lounging in the outdoor, private hot tub, looking up at the stars, and listening to the soothing Smoky Mountain night sounds...very peaceful and relaxing.

At night, a complimentary dessert and drinks are left in the dining room for one's convenience...just like raiding the refrigerator for goodies at home! Breakfast is a wonderful affair. It varies daily...my husband and I enjoyed a fresh bowl of mixed fruit with a flavored yogurt topping, orange juice and coffee, and French Toast with whipped topping and fresh strawberries and a side order of bacon and muffins. The breakfast menu is posted the night before, but can be customized the day before if a special dietary plan must be followed.

Patrick and Sue are a wonderful host and hostess, and I guarantee that once you have the Berry Springs experience, you will want to return again and again. The Gatlinburg-Sevierville area is sometimes very busy in high season, but Sue and Patrick provided us with a local "back roads map" that allowed us to visit the Arts and Crafts community in Gatlinburg without spending a great deal of time in traffic on the Parkway.

We highly recommend this facility to anyone who needs a wonderful getaway. We have celebrated two wedding anniversaries there, and will definitely return as our schedules allow.

Carol and Dick
Chattanooga-Signal Mtn., TN


Monday, July 26, 2010

The B&B to Measure All Others


This is by far, overall, the best B&B you will ever stay at. They have thought of everything. It is definitely in their attention to detail.

The rooms are all fabulous, very true to their website pictures. (Just as an FYI, the Sunset rooms do overlook the main entrance, which includes the parking area, so this is part of the view).

This B&B is a destination unto itself. Even if you didn't go sightseeing, you would have a great vacation just staying at the B&B. There are ponds to fish in (they provide the poles/bait), there are paths to bike ride on (they provide the bikes), you can play croquet, pitch horseshoes. You can even take out a canoe on the pond. They have a ping pong table, volley ball area, and I think a pool table.

Inside, the common areas are very relaxing and comfortable. They have a huge library of books, DVDs, and games. They also have a computer/printer which is handy for flight info/printing boarding passes. They even have a small work out area.

Most B&Bs give you a good solid breakfast. But here they are above and beyond! Compliments to the chef! Their evening snacks are very good, as well.

Everything about this B&B is just a notch above the rest. We definitely would recommend visiting here.

Colorado


Thursday, July 22, 2010

The perfect place for a wedding in the mountains


Our trip to Berry Springs was a combination of our wedding and the first part of our honeymoon. We couldn't have asked for anything more. We considered a full elopement, but in the end we invited a few family members and had our wedding on the back porch, overlooking the Smoky Mountains. Unbelievable? Yes. Breathtaking? Yes. Beyond our wildest dreams? Yes. Quiet? Yes. Laid back? Yes.

We planned this trip for months; we had our pick of any place in the Sevierville/Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area. We chose Berry Springs; and anybody else looking for a great bed and breakfast should do the same. Their website is accurate; it's how we picked it and everything is as described. You can spend all day on the grounds or take off and spend part of your day in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area. Our suggestion would be to learn the roads in the area as quickly as you can (you can get around on the back roads and the bypass; but you have to figure it out first) and pick out a place to eat an early dinner each night (the breakfast at Berry Springs is so good, it lasted us until 4 or 5 each day) and maybe see some sights in Gatlinburg.

Getting around those areas can be tough; it's a tourist trap. But less than 10 minutes away from all the hustle and bustle is Berry Springs. It's out in the country, easy to find (well, we only took one wrong turn at the old barn, but we figured it out) and just a gem of a place.

Our room was awesome. We stayed in the one cabin that sits outside of the main lodge in one of the honeymoon suites. Everything is as it looks on the website. You will be pampered and spoiled and learn to like it, because that's what it is.

We will be back. And that's the bottom line. Believe the hype. Berry Springs is a great place.

Bethalto, IL


Monday, July 12, 2010

Loved it AGAIN!


Again this year we met our friends from Cincinnati (we are from Marietta, GA) to celebrate our mutual anniversaries (48 years!) at Berry Springs. We ordered our dinner so we could grill in the "summer kitchen" and it was wonderful! We also asked Sue to pack us a lunch for the next day (checkered tablecloth and all) and it was delicious. Breakfasts were tasty as always. We love sitting on the porch in the rocking chairs catching up with dear friends and sharing a bottle of wine. Sue and Patrick pay great attention to detail and it shows. We have made plans to return next year.



Marietta, GA

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Better Than a Four Star Hotel!

This was our first experience with a B&B. We have stayed in many four star hotels and this elegant and cozy Inn has exceded all of them. The best service, great food, excellent amenities. We wanted a quiet, peaceful, beautiful location and this B&B met all of our expectations. It is very close to Dollywood, Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountain National Forest. We will return to this B&B frequentlly...in fact we have booked a stay in October for the Fall color. Don't hesitate making a reservation here!



Farragut, Tennessee

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Berry Springs is an excellent place to relax and enjoy The Smokys


We have stayed at many B&B and inns during the past twenty (20) years and Berry Springs rates at the top of our list. Patrick is an excellent host, Sue is an excellent cook, and the inn is emaculate. We would highly recommend Berry Springs to anyone!!



Delaware, Ohio

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Strawberry Banana Bread

Sue's  Recipes     
 Hi everyone.  We just did this one the other day for the first time.  It turned out great!
 




Strawberry Banana Bread


 1¼ hours | 10 min prep

2 loaves








  1. Grease two 9- by 5-inch loaf pans.

  2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar.

  4. Incorporate the bananas and scrape the sides of the bowl with the spatula.

  5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each one; set aside.

  6. In another bowl, mix together the salt, baking soda, and flour.

  7. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and stir until fully incorporated.

  8. Add the strawberries and walnuts.

  9. Pour into prepared pans and bake for 60 to 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  10. Cool completely on a rack before inverting onto a plate.





 

Berry Springs Lodge 2010 Spring Newsletter


Berry Springs Lodge
2010 Spring Newsletter
 
 

 

 Hello from Berry Springs Lodge,


  Another spring has arrived in full bloom; it was like someone flipped a switch. The winter was colder than usual as we are sure you all know. Then one day a few weeks ago the daytime temperatures shot right up into the 80's, a very nice change to say the least. The only bad part is the pollen. It has been very thick this year, but it should be about done. We were looking back at the photos from when we built the lodge 10 years ago and realized we were doing the electrical wiring and hanging the  windows and doors about this time. We must be getting old because we can not remember how much hard work was really done.

Don't forget in celebration of our 10 years being open you save $40.00 off a night on weekdays and $20.00 off a night on weekends for the entire year when you stay two nights or more. We are seeing lot of guests staying 4 to 7 nights especially on the weekdays. So if you can try to take advantage of the special we would love to have you come celebrate with us this year


 

Again we want to thank you for being our friends and guests.  Hope to see you all soon.
 

Thank you, and God bless


 Patrick's   "Home Inn-Provements" 



Surprisingly enough, we did get the air ductwork done and it was a mind-boggling task. Ten years ago, we put in a 3-ton unit for our quarters and a 3.5-ton unit for the main lodge living room. The three main floor rooms were on the 5-ton unit with the second floor rooms, which proved to not have been the best solution. The 5-ton unit had a hard time keeping up with all 9 rooms when it was above 88 degrees. So in 2005, we removed the 3-ton unit and we put two of the 1st floor rooms the same unit as our quarters which worked fine except for when our son, who is going to culinary school, cooks spicy foods. The smells were sucked into the two guestrooms. The smells were not bad, but not what you would expect a bedroom to smell like. We decided that this year we would have the 5-ton to cover all three bedrooms on the first floor along with the living and dinning rooms and the 3.5-ton just for our quarters. This way when he cooks it will not go into any guest areas. All these changes the ducting in the basement was a mess, so we pulled everything out and started from scratch. The project went well but I am glad it is over!

We also replaced the carpet in the main floor rooms with hardwood flooring and put new carpet in the Raspberry and Royal Springs rooms. At this point, this summer we will do the usual outside touch up painting and mowing.

 

 Again thank you for your help and spreading the word.



                                                                        Patrick 

Sue's  Recipes     
 Hi everyone.  We just did this one the other day for the first time.  It turned out great!
 




Strawberry Banana Bread


 1¼ hours | 10 min prep

2 loaves








  1. Grease two 9- by 5-inch loaf pans.

  2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar.

  4. Incorporate the bananas and scrape the sides of the bowl with the spatula.

  5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each one; set aside.

  6. In another bowl, mix together the salt, baking soda, and flour.

  7. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and stir until fully incorporated.

  8. Add the strawberries and walnuts.

  9. Pour into prepared pans and bake for 60 to 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  10. Cool completely on a rack before inverting onto a plate.





 


Sunday, May 30, 2010

Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

All summer long hear tales, mountain music, and learn the lore of the Smoky Mountains on the sidewalks of downtown Gatlinburg. Fourteen acts nightly. 5 - 10 p.m. June 11 - August 7

Tales and Tues Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HLy9hpVJ6c

Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair

Art, crafts and music lovers can find almost 200 booths featuring some of the nation's finest work. Artisans and craftspeople are on hand to demonstrate their skills, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale. Live Country & Bluegrass entertainment. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Gatlinburg Convention Center.  July 16 - 24   http://www.craftsmenfair.com/

The synchronized lightning bugs are back!

The lightning bugs synchronized light show is actually part of the fireflies mating behavior. This start and duration of firefly behavior can vary based upon, when they emerged, current temperature among other factors so and exact "peak date" of when it is the best to see the Synchronized firefly show in Great Smoky Mountains national park will hopefully be when the trolleys are running from June 5th to the 13th.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials have announced that the Elkmont entrance road will be closed to motor vehicles and pedestrian use every night from 5:00 p.m. until midnight, June 5-13, except to registered campers staying at the Elkmont Campground.  The closure is to accommodate transportation service for visitors planning to spend the evening viewing the natural-occurring, synchronous firefly beetles at Elkmont.  
 
The City of Gatlinburg, in partnership with the Park, will provide the trolleys for this activity.  The trolley service, coinciding with the expected peak flashing period, will be the sole transportation mode for visitor access during this period; no private vehicles will be allowed to enter Elkmont.  For safety purposes, restrictions will be in place to prohibit motor vehicles from parking along roadsides, pullouts, or any other areas besides at the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking area for the purposes of viewing fireflies at Elkmont.  Only those visitors parking at the visitor center will be allowed to ride the trolleys.  Because of safety concerns, visitors will  not be allowed to walk the Elkmont entrance road. 
 
The trolleys will begin picking up visitors from the Sugarlands Visitor Center RV/bus parking area at 7 p.m.  The trolleys will run continually until the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking area is full or until 9 p.m., whichever comes first. The last trolley to return visitors from Elkmont to the Sugarlands Visitor Center is scheduled at 11 p.m.  The cost will be $1 round trip per person as in previous years.  
 
For those riding the trolleys, it is recommended that visitors bring flashlights with red cellophane covers to reduce white light.  Visitors can bring lawn chairs, and carry food and water in backpacks which can fit on their laps in the trolleys; there are no services available at the site.  Visitors are prohibited from bringing coolers, alcoholic beverages, or their pets.

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Midnight Independence Day Parade

For the 35th consecutive year, Gatlinburg kicks off America’s Independence Day celebration with the nation’s first parade, which leads off at 12 a.m. on Sunday. July 3 - 4

 

For the 35th consecutive year, Gatlinburg kicks off America’s Independence Day celebration with the nation’s first parade, which leads off in the opening moment of the holiday at 12 a.m. on Sunday, July 4, to the cheers of close to 100,000 spectators and features a special tribute to our military personnel among the many highlights of this one-of-a-kind patriotic event.






Among the military personnel being honored as Grand Marshall for the parade will be the 129th Army Band from Nashville, Tennessee, which will march in the event. Vintage military vehicles will also be part of the parade.

As soon as the street is closed late on July 3, the parade route comes alive with pre-parade entertainers that begin the excitement of what is to follow. Marching bands, colorful floats and helium balloons will navigate the streets.


Also appearing in the line-up will be a parade-scale replica of the famous starship U.S.S. Enterprise from Riverside, Iowa and the Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit from Boyertown, Pennsylvania.


Bands schedule to participate in the Midnight Parade include the 129th Army Marching Band, Boyertown (Penn.) Alumni Marching Unit, the Nashville Suzuki Strings and Knoxville Pipe & Drum.


“This will be one of the most patriotic and colorful midnight parades that the City of Gatlinburg has ever produced,” according to Special Events Manager George Hawkins, who organized the first Gatlinburg 4th of July parade in 1976 in celebration of America’s Bicentennial. "We are very excited about the entire weekend of events, which will include a four-day festival highlighting our armed services!”


Additional weekend activities in downtown will include free admission concerts by the 129th Army Band, the Boyertown Alumni Marching Unit, Nashville Suzuki Strings, Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta unmanned floatable race, and a spectacular fireworks display.


For more information about the 35th Annual 4th of July Midnight Parade, please call 800-56-VISIT (568-4748).



The New Rocky Top Wine Trail

IMG_1835_smallWith in minutes of the lodge you can explore the "Rocky Top Wine Trail." You will be able to visit and tour some of areas finest, award-winning wineries located just minutes from Gatlinburg. You could bring back a bottle of wine and relax in a rocking chair while enjoying the spectacular Smoky Mountain View from your own balcony or the massive lodge deck. Or take and afternoon tour of all the wineries. There are three wineries on the "Rocky Top Wine Trail." They are Mountain Valley Winery, Hillside Winery, and finally, Apple Barn & Cider Mill.

Mountain Valley is Tennessee’s largest winery and host to a National Award-Winning "Wines of the South" (voted 2009). Mountain Valley is located only a few minutes away from Dollywood, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and downtown Gatlinburg TN. You can take a tour of the winery from the moment the grape is picked from the home grown vines to the time it is bottled and corked. Make sure you stop by the FREE tasting bar to sample over 20 award-winning wines. They also have a variety of freshly churned cheeses from Tennessee Farm Products. We are sure you will love the Mountain Valley Winery as we produce thousands of gallons of wine each year and have taken medals, both nationally and internationally, since our doors opened in 1991. Before you leave stop by the gift shop and take some souvenirs home with you! For more information please visit www.mountianvalleywinery.com

Hillside Winery is the Sister Company to Mountain Valley Winery. It is the newest winery to the Smoky Mountain area. Take a tour of the winery experiencing their newly offered Italian wines such as Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese and several others. The Hillside Winery has a wide selection of sparkling wines, such as the Black & Blue, which is made from homegrown blackberries and blueberries. For more information please visit page www.hillsidewine.com

The Apple Barn & Cider Mill is your last stop. Apple Barn and Cider Mill has a working apple farm with a general store, winery, two restaurants, a candy factory, an ice cream parlor, and a Christmas shop. The beautiful estate and genuine Apple Barn Farmhouse Grill will make you feel like family just by stepping into the restaurant. The Apple Barn has homemade butter, apples, pastries, bread and cider. The staff will be there to help you with any questions you might have. For more information please visit www.applebarnwines.com.

Rest and renewal for body and soul


My husband and I enjoyed an all too short 3-night stay at Berry Springs Lodge following a conference I had attended in Nashville. I cannot imagine a better bed and breakfast-style retreat in which to rest and renew than the lodge. Its peaceful and beautiful mountain top setting seems light years away from the Nashville nightlife and the now over-commericalized Sevierville-Pigeon Forge-Gatlinburg strip. Owners Patrick, who is the "front of house" host, and Sue, who prepares the amazing 3 course breakfasts and decadent nightly desserts, have created a true haven from the busyness of life.
Our well-appointed room came complete with comfortable king bed, fireplace, a great reading area and a private balcony. The en-suite bathroom was large and, like everything at the lodge, immaculately kept. Housekeeper Melissa does a great job. The lodge's large, covered back deck afforded spectacular views of the rolling hills of the Great Smokey mountains and proved to be our favourite place to read, birdwatch and enjoy some conversation with other guests. Because the weather was warm and we wanted to be outside, we didn't spend much time in the indoor living spaces, but we could imagine ourselves curled up on a counch by the fire at another time of the year. We took advantage of the amenities down by the bass and catfish ponds. While we didn't fish or canoe or shoot some pool at the table that can be found in the loft of the barn, we did play ping-pong and croquet for the first time in years. Each morning we wandered the trails in the woods, well worth the hike as there are lovely views to be had at each turn.
It had been 30 years since we were last in Tennessee and we'd camped out that time. After such a wonderful stay at Berry Springs Lodge, we know we won't wait so long until our next visit. The scent of the honeysuckle, Patrick's passion for the mountains and the lure of Sue's wonderful cooking will draw us back soon to the piece of paradise they are stewarding - and sharing- so well.  May 29, 2010  Guelph, Canada


Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Heavenly and Peaceful

Patrick and Sue thought of everything! You couldn't ask for a better place in the Smokey Mountains to stay and be pampered! You are close enough to all shows and great eating places, but far enough out in the beautiful country side for peace and quiet. We would highly recommend anyone to stay at Berry Springs Lodge! By the way ~ Congrats to Patrick and Sue for their 10 year anniversary of owners of the Berry Lodge.  May 25, 2010  Little Rock, Arkansas

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Two sisters at Berry Springs


Being at Berry Springs was like being home. (Except someone else took care of everything!) The views from the back porch and our room (Colorado Springs) were superb at every time of day, from morning mist over the mountains just before sunrise to twilight and approaching darkness as the birds settled in for the night. The breakfast was varied and enough to last us until long after lunchtime. The dessert each night was, again, varied and delicious. Patrick gave us good suggestions for activities and restaurants and provided clear directions to get there. The peace and quiet of this hilltop location is surprising, since it is very close to areas of substantial tourist activity. It only took us 15 minutes to drive to the Smokies. Our room and the common spaces (giant livingroom, diningroom and the back porch) were attractive and thoughtfully furnished, with every detail for our use (such as binoculars waiting in a basket by the porch door). We enjoyed interacting with the other guests.



May 18, 2010


Monday, May 17, 2010

Peaceful, relaxing but within minutes of everything

This B&B is the best kept secret in Sevierville. It is located just east of downtown Sevierville, but you feel as though you have arrived in a different time and place. The B&B is located on a mountain with spectacular views and quiet all around. We loved being there. We were minutes away from everything we enjoy doing in the Sevierville/Gatlinburg area, yet it was so quiet and relaxing -- the perfect getaway!

This B&B is extraordinarily clean and well-maintained. The hosts, Patrick and Sue, are friendly and welcoming. The food is great, and if you have special food needs, they are more than willing to go the extra mile. It was a great pleasure to stay at Berry Springs Lodge. We have already recommended it to friends, and we will be returning!!!

May 17, 2010  Memphis, Tennessee

Friday, April 30, 2010

Fantastic!


We returned home from our stay less than an hour ago and couldn't wait to sign on and comment about the great time we had on our vacation. We stayed 4 nights in the Colorado Springs room which has a King size bed, fireplace, and hot tub on a private deck with a beautiful view. Each morning we ate breakfast downstairs and Sue is truely a fantastic cook! There was always homemade bread or muffins, fruit and everything from omelettes to blueberry pancakes. You never have to ask for anything, Patrick thinks of everything and you never have to lift a finger. The lodge is secluded and beautiful but also a VERY short drive to any attractions you want to see. Sue and Patrick were great at offering suggestions, giving directions, and even making reservations for us. Berry Springs offered everything we could have wanted and more! We can't wait til our next stay!



Apr 30, 2010  Columbus, Ohio

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

We Won't Stay Anywhere Else in TN!


My husband and I have made several business trips to east TN this past year. We were very excited to hear about Berry Springs Lodge through the "Select Registry 2009-2010" book that has the best B&B's listed across the nation. Berry Springs Lodge is everything they say they are online and more... from the moment you arrive, the customer service is outstanding, the living room/dining area very clean, warm, and charming, and the rooms are cozy, beautiful, very clean, comfortable and warm as well. We loved our fireplace AND jacuzzi on our private deck overlooking 30 beautiful, peaceful acres along with a view of the Smokies! We left everyday and came back to a sparkling, clean, nice smelling room, with a piece of chocolate on our pillows. The breakfasts and nightly baked fresh desserts were some of the best food we have eaten in TN! Thank you Patrick and Sue... we will be making another reservation soon at your lodge for the summer! And Congratulations on 10 Wonderful Years as Berry Springs Lodge!



Mar 25, 2010

Absolutely Amazing


We stayed at Berry Springs for our anniversary. We were very impressed by the cleanliness, hospitality, and the beautiful views. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect place.



Mar 23, 2010

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament

trout_tourney_sm_smApril 3 - 4

The 11th Annual Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament is open to adults or children – and equally challenging for both visitors and locals, with multiple categories to be contested in this largest trout tournament in the Smokies.  www.rockytopoutfitter.com

Smoky Mountain SpringFest

springflowerMarch 11 - June 7

Ahhh...Springtime in the Smokies! There's no better time to enjoy nature and festivals of all types.

Arts & Crafts Community Show

March 31 - April 3

Unique handcrafted gifts made by members of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community as they host their annual show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. http://www.gatlinburgcrafts.com

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Great Romantic Getaway


We loved our 2 night stay at Berry Springs Lodge. Location is just minutes from everything in Pigeon Forge, but it seemed hours away. I highly recommend mountain view room with jacuzzi. (Worth the extra few bucks).
Cleanest place we have ever stayed. We usually have major problems with filth when renting a cabin.
Patrick & Sue are very friendly & informative. They were always available when needed.
Each night we went downstairs to see what was for dessert, grabbed some snacks & chose a dvd from hundreds available. Great way to relax & unwind.
We plan on returning at least once per year!

March 2010


Monday, March 15, 2010

NEW TITANIC MUSEUM ATTRACTION IN PIGEON FORGE

The World’s Largest Permanent Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon new_pa1Forge, TN, launching its Grand Opening April 8, 2010.

You can navigate through twenty rooms holding 400+ valuable museum artifacts and personal items, an exclusive photo collection and hands-on-activities, which include:


  • Walk an actual size replica of the Grand Staircase

  • View pictures that literally come to life

  • Touch the frozen surface of an “iceberg”

  • Send an SOS signal from the ship’s wireless communications room and receive communication from the coast guard

  • Listen to survivors’ stories as they sit in actual lifeboats

  • Feel the chill of that fateful "Starry Night"

  • Stand on the mighty ship's bridge and hear the Captain's commands

  • View life onboard, see a First Class Stateroom and a Third Class cabin

  • Explore world-class gallery rooms with rare historical artifacts

  • Control a simulated underwater Titanic exploration of your own













 
  

Guests will be given a passenger boarding ticket upon entry. On this ticket, you will discover the story of an actual Titanic passenger and will follow their story throughout the exhibit. Each artifact has a unique story that relates directly to a passenger or crew member. When you approach the memorial room at the end of your 2 hour self-guided tour, you will discover the fate of your ticketed passenger.

Unlike traveling exhibits, Titanic in the Smokies is a permanent three-story, $25 million museum attraction shaped like Titanic herself. The signature building has been built half-scale to the original Titanic and towers 100 feet above the Parkway. The structure is anchored in water to create the illusion of the Titanic at sea.


Visit www.titanicattraction.com for more information about our locations. A free Titanic Museum preview center is now open daily at 2134 Parkway in Pigeon Forge. Titanic Pigeon Forge is proud to anchor in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and is excited to be a part of the entertainment and fun in the smoky mountains.

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival

May 15 - 16









A family oriented fine arts festival featuring juried artists from around the country, delicious cuisine and music on Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Plaza and River Road. http://www.gfaf.net/
Location:Downtown Gatlinburg

Friday, March 12, 2010

Gatlinburg Scottish Festival & Games

May 14 - 16

29th Annual Scottish clans meeting featuring Highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, Highland dancing, border collie demonstrations, haggis hurling, entertainment, whiskey tasting, food & merchandise vendors. http://www.gsfg.org/

Wildflower Pilgrimage and Greener Living Expo

April 21 - 25









Enjoy the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with over 150 different programs, including hiking tours, motorcades, demonstrations & classroom lectures. http://www.springwildflowerpilgrimage.org/
Location:W.L. Mills Conference Center & various venues

 

Monday, March 8, 2010

Spring Gatlinburg Ribfest & Wings

  Enjoy the area’s best ribs and wings as well as live entertainment during Gatlinburg’s Ribfest & Wings on Thursday, April 22. One admission price allows sampling until the ribs and wings run out as the Parkway transforms into a Street Fair.

The popular ninth annual festival will feature extended hours (5 to 9 p.m., with musical entertainment starting at 5 p.m., food sampling from 6 to 9, eating contests, and loads of atmosphere on the Parkway between Traffic Light 6 and Riverside Motor Lodge/Reagan Terrace Mall.


Come out and enjoy live entertainment, children’s activities, hot wing eating contests and an ice cream eating event, each promising a wonderfully good time!


This year’s event returns to the Parkway with the entertainment menu spiced up by the classic tunes of the Beat Daddys, featuring their soulful rock ‘n roll blues. The main stage will also feature the musical group Soulfinger, spearheading a neo-classic soul movement with original sounds.


A panel will judge and award the best ribs or wings in seven categories. All vendors will be vying for the coveted “People’s Choice Award” chosen by popular vote.


Hot wing eating contests sponsored by All Sauced Up will feature wings prepared in sauces such as “Blazing Bomb,” “Treacherous Tongue,” “Fire Pit Hell,” “Scorching Screaming” and “Next Day Disaster.” Prizes will be awarded to the “Hot Wing Eating Contest Champion of the Year.” See if you can handle it!


The “Vermonster Eating Contest” sponsored by Ben & Jerry’s is another highlight of the evening of fun and festivities.


“We think this will be our best Ribfest & Wings extravaganza ever,” said George Hawkins, Special Events Manager for the Department of Tourism. “The Parkway is such an exciting and unique venue.”


An armband for Ribfest & Wings may be purchased for $12 (or $5 for kids) that allows sampling until 10 p.m. or as long as the ribs and wings last.


Last year’s vendors include All Sauced Up, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Corkys BBQ, Crawdaddy’s Restaurant & Bar, Gatlinburg Elks Lodge, Gatlinburg Fire Department, Gatlinburg Police Department, Hogg’s & Honey’s Saloon & Grill, Lineberger’s Seafood Restaurant, McCutchan’s Brass Grill, Ripley’s Aquarium of Smokies, Texas Roadhouse and TGI Fridays.


To enter your recipe as a vendor and compete for awards in categories including restaurant, lodging, attraction, retail, financial institution, public safety and civic organization, call the Office of Special Events at 436-0506.


A portion of the proceeds benefit Gatlinburg Hospitality Association’s educational scholarship fund.


The ninth annual Ribfest & Wings is sponsored by Star 102.1, Food City, Coca-Cola, the Best Western Twin Islands Motel and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.


 



Celebrate St. Nicholas & St. Patrick this weekend March 13th- 16th

Santa Claus is coming to Gatlinburg! And Mrs. Claus, and the reindeer, too. It's the biggest convention of jolly old elves you can imagine as the Jolly Old Elf and his cohorts gather at the Convention Center for their 2010 convention, trade show and gala.

March 13 - 16

For More Info: http://www.hollyandshamrock.com

Saturday, March 6, 2010

Winter Newsletter 2010

 Berry Springs Lodge
Winter Newsletter
 
 
   Hello from Berry Springs Lodge,
  

 Christmas was mostly quiet this year. Our niece has been staying with us for the past few months.  We are not use to having a girl around and compared to the boys, she is much more boisterous. It made for an interesting Christmas; especially when P.J, our oldest son, bought Patrick a karaoke player.  It was not determined who was the better singer, our niece or Patrick!The first week in January we celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary on a cruise to the Southern Caribbean and the timing was perfect. The day we left until the day we got back, the weather in Tennessee was very cold and snowy. The average temperature on the cruise was 83 degrees and sunny. We had a wonderful time; but of course, we ate too much.  Patrick found he was allergic to vinyl. The flippers he used to snorkel made his feet blister. We were about 80 miles from Haiti when the earthquake hit; but it did not affect us at all. We kept imaging that a tsunami would hit the ship and roll us over like the movie "The Poseidon".

Again we want to thank you for being our friends and guests.  Hope to see you all soon. 

  


  Patrick's   "Home Inn-    Wintertime is here. Time to work on inside projects. We did our usual touch-up painting in all the rooms and common areas. Melissa has been working on detailed cleaning, taking beds apart, moving furniture and cleaning every square inch of the lodge. It is a very good feeling to hear guest say they cannot believe the lodge is 10 year s old, "It looks like you just opened".  My worst fear would be a guest unhappy because the place was not clean and well kept. I wish every place we went had the same philosophy. We replaced the carpet in the Raspberry and Royal Springs rooms and plan to put hardwood floors in Crystal and Powder in a few weeks. Last year we talked about reeducating the air units in the basement but never got a chance to do it. Hopefully, we will be able get that done this month as well. I have a few tiles in the kitchen and laundry room that have come loose that I will have to replace and repaint the rockers and outside benches before spring. That should do it for the most part for guest areas. I know Sue has some projects for me to do in our living area but you know how that goes... I have to save some time to skiing and snowmobiling up north.   

                                                                        Patrick 

 

 


We are celebrating our 10th year Birthday and would like to offer you a special discount to help celebrate. Starting today through December 31st, 2010 you can save $40.00 per night on weekdays and $20.00 per night on weekends.

Save $40.00 per night on weekdays and $20.00 per night on weekends.



 (Two night minimum stay and not valid with any other special)



    Sue's  Recipes     

  

 Hi everyone.  This one is very good! 
White Chocolate Cranberry Blondies

  
 



  • 3/4 cup butter, cubed

  • 1-1/2 cups packed light brown sugar

  • 2 eggs

  • 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

  • 6 ounces white baking chocolate, coarsely chopped



  FROSTING:

  • 1 package (8 ounces) Kraft Philadelphia® - Cream Cheese, softened

  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar

  • 1 tablespoon grated orange peel, optional

  • 6 ounces white baking chocolate, melted

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped



Directions


  • In a microwave, melt butter; stir in brown sugar. Transfer to a large bowl; cool to room temperature. Beat in the eggs and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon; gradually add to butter mixture. Stir in cranberries and chopped chocolate (batter will be thick).

  • Spread into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Bake at 350° for 18-21 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean (do not overbake). Cool on a wire rack.

  • For frosting, in a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, confectioners' sugar and orange peel if desired until blended. Gradually add half of the melted white chocolate; beat until blended. Frost brownies. Sprinkle with cranberries. Drizzle with remaining melted white chocolate. Cut into bars. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 2-1/2 dozen.


  
 

 

 

Ingredients

 
Thank you, and God bless

Friday, January 15, 2010

“AMAZING!!!”



Me and my husband were married at berry springs on New Years eve. ALL i will state is patrick and sue are amazing! they have thought of everything therefore you dont do anything and you will have all you need for whatever it is you want.. the place and property are amazing, the food wonderful, and it is really comfortable, you feel like your home.
they made our weekend a truly memorable one, and we will be going back!
i really loved it here. enjoy!