Cataloochee Ranch

The last time "Sheriff Joy" came to visit, we took her to Cataloochee Ranch up in Maggie Valley, so her one request for her return visit was to go back. I didn't put up a struggle. Cataloochee remains one of my favorite places. As it turns out, it's one of the boys', too - especially Jones's! He was in his element - the horses to see! The leaves to throw! The horseshoes to toss (or, in Jones's case, to stack neatly on the stake)!

Both boys loved "fishing" by tossing leaves into the lake, and Jones concluded his visit by cuckling up on the couch in the "cowboy house" and reading a book about horses by fire light.

It was clear that his love of both cowboys and animals had found its resting place, so it's pretty safe to say that his fifth birthday party will be held here (unless he develops a love for something altogether unexpected between now and next October).

After such a beautiful visit this morning, I'm ready to start planning!