Harriman, TN

[melworks]

Spent most of today at the Biltmore Estate, wandering the mansion and the grounds. It was very impressive, but now my feet are killing me. Since they don't allow photography inside the house, I only got a single picture of the exterior. The lions flanking the front entrance were very impressive, and the gargoyles kept making me think of the place as stately Wayne Manor. Hah! Also, the Vanderbilts had one of the first indoor pools in America, complete with underwater electric lights. I did not know that.
While I was there, I also had the opportunity to take in an exhibit of Tiffany lamps. They were very pretty, but, personally, Tiffany lamps don't do much for me. Their glass is so dark, what would be the use of having one on your desk? You'd do better with an ordinary lamp. The paintings that Mr. Tiffany did, however, were very impressive.
Left Biltmore and boogied westward on I-40, crossing into Tennessee. Zipped through Knoxville and have stopped for the night in Harriman, TN. Had supper at a local Cracker Barrel and almost instantly regretted it. Didn't get sick, exactly, but came darn close. So now I have retired to my hotel room, where I am nursing a Coke and rereading Armistad Maupin's Tales of the City.
More later! - MEL

Comments

[kerithwyn.livejournal.com]

Road trip sounds fun! Ahhh, been wanting to reread the Maupin, books are on the other side of the country.....