Hello and welcome to part 9 of our journey through North Carolina.
From the Ashe Art gallery in West Jefferson, NC our bellies began groaning and we knew it was time to find a special little place to satisfy our hunger. On a small side street, right near where we parked we had two choices of eateries. One was busy and had fancy outdoor seating with little umbrellas and fancy dishes and fancy waitresses. Then there was this small homey place called The Log House at Smithey’s Café. You guessed it…. we chose the latter and were so glad. They had little tables out front in the shade and accepted Emma with open arms. In fact, as we were settling in, the owner, Angie, came out with a huge bowl of water for Emma and cooked up some fresh bacon for her. Emma was in dog heaven as she sipped and chomped before laying back to bask in the sun improving on her chocolate color tan. The menu board was chocked full of great specials and bannered with a scripture verse from the book of Psalms.
After this great little stop, it was time to get back on the road again. As we headed out of town we both looked at each other with this feeling that something wasn’t right. Then it hit us, we realized we didn’t pay for the delicious lunch at The Log House. By this time, we were a way out of the town, so we called to ask what they wanted us to do. The last thing we wanted was to have our faces plastered in some post office with the heading, “WANTED”. We talked with the owner’s son and explained the situation and he said he was sure his Mom would say just send it later. You can bet we sent the money but isn’t it great how accepting they were of our mistake and quick to forgive. This wasn’t the first time on our road trips encountering folks so open about and walking their faith in an attitude of forgiveness and acceptance. If you are ever in West Jefferson, NC, please stop to enjoy a relaxing meal and say hello to Angie and Sara, who we know are following us.
Well this is it for today. We hope you come back and see how the trip unfolds as we share more of the USA Through Our Eyes. Until then be safe.
Thank you Shiva. Be safe.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s Right we get to know the places much better before anyone visits.
This is one Good Deed you both are doing. Thanks
Have Safe Journeys where ever you go.
With Great Love
Shiva🎶
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Shiva. This is nice knowing you are finding it informative. We learned so much about the area and about ourselves. Now when you come over to visit you’ll have an idea of places to see.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hello I went through a random of your detailed tour of North Carolina. Your presentation is unique and makes us know like as if we are over there.
Congrats and Thanks
Shiva🎶
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was a dynamite place that we stumbled upon. The community as a whole was overflowing with peace. We’re sure they have the same everyday troubles we have but they didn’t let it effect them. Its great when towns pull together.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Amazing!!! THAT is hospitality at its finest.
LikeLike
So true isn’t it. I mean the owner brought out at least a half pound of fresh cooked bacon for Emma. This is what we love about those off the beaten path restaurants. You get a great meal with huge portions and friendly staff to go along with it all. We’re sure you encounter this on your travels with your doggies too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Isn’t amazing when dogs are more than just “accepted”. How absolutely heartwarming that Emma got her own order of bacon.
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasures!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is so great Peter. We are enjoying our getting to know you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s right! I’m looking forward to read more of the Journey Reports.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was a wonderful place Peter. Yes, in the article I believe we noted one of the wonderful things we experienced there was Angie, the owner, brought Emma fresh cooked bacon and a large bowl of water. Emma ate and settled in under our table and was as content as a bug in a rug.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Angie and Sara is a Christian Family having a decent and Christian Eatery. That is the best place to rest and eat for special guest like Audrey & Tom. You didn’t mention Emma here, I hope you give it something to eat?
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂 🙂 It is so funny Madelyn because as we travel and talk with folks they are so okay with letting us share their stories. We always ask if it’ll be okay and can’t think of once where someone was at all hesitant. We are so often amazed at how the news world paints this picture of lock yourself inside but we’re not seeing it. Folks are kind and open and forgiving. We don’t purposely go into compromising areas but some of the areas we are in are areas some may not want to visit. Its interesting to note the latter areas have folks with the least but are the most willing to give it and the former have the most to give but are the least willing. Its been an eye opening journey and one that like you note leaves us feeling great about the future.
LikeLike
LOL – if your pictures are ever on a WANTED poster it will be because your readers are wanting you to post more-more-more.
If Tink and I are ever anywhere near West Jefferson we will make sure to plan a visit to The Log House at Smithey’s Café. They are *more* than dog-friendly, they are dog-welcoming – and they sound people-welcoming as well.
Reading about how lovely they were about your payment oops has me feeling GREAT about the future of America – we will make it through these troubling times because the people in the so-call “hinterlands” are so kind and good and generous of spirit. Thanks to you and to them for the upliftment today.
xx,
mgh
(Madelyn Griffith-Haynie – ADDandSoMuchMORE dot com)
ADD/EFD Coach Training Field founder; ADD Coaching co-founder
“It takes a village to transform a world!”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes. It is so nice being with you on this journey and share thoughts.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Amen! 😀 It inspires people to see how great our God is, who can make the whole world so magnificent and beautiful!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is a wonderful opportunity to walk and do His word.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is such a cool idea for a blog! I love it! 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Bel.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The kind of conversation that’s not easy to find nowadays. I’m glad you had that kind of experience – makes it worth it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is so true Bel. There is something special about those off the beaten path eateries. The meal we got here was incredible, it wasn’t a from the freezer to the microwave to the table meal. This was food mom made and the price blew us away. Then there was the personable conversations that occurred with the owner and staff that topped it off.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is what I love about road trips –
discovering good food that aren’t overpriced and just expecting a home cooked style meal…nothing beats that!
LikeLike
Amen to this.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s clever…”Knee Mails!” He does answer them…but in His time. It’s all according to His plans for us and the world. For His true children, He tends to us as a Good Shepherd, and makes sure our best interests are met.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s your gift – to meet them, and then to share those meetings with us. Very nice!
LikeLiked by 1 person
LOL. This is soooo kind of you to say. What an inspiring compliment.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Theresa. We are having so much fun. So many wonderful places to see and people to meet.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I just thought of this … “You put the ‘venture’ in adventure!”
LikeLiked by 1 person
So glad to hear an update about Emma making new friends! And as always, a lovely and fun personal narrative about your adventures. You are the most adventurous! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for getting back with us. Yes isn’t it great!!!! Be safe okay.
LikeLike
Absolutely! This is what I like most about blogging.. Being able to connect with like minded people from all over the world ☺️ and share stories…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Dina and The Fab Four of Cley. It is sites like yours that keep us dreaming.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Charu. It is nice having you along with us and being able to share each others journeys of discovery. Be safe.
LikeLike
“Dine and dash” I have never heard before, what a nice phrase to add to my vocalbulary. 🙂 I really enjoyed your gallery and all the lovely comments. ❤ Thanks for all the smiles! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m kind of feeling hungry after looking at those pictures 🙂 🙂 Guys what a thrilling journey….I’m so looking forward to Part 10 🙂
Cheers, Charu
LikeLiked by 1 person
Isn’t this the truth. Think of the drastic change that would occur!! There are many and it’s good we are right there with them. God answers those Knee Mails for sure.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s fantastic! Wouldn’t it be nice to have more Christians practicing their faith in this world?!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes it is an honor. They grow up so fast and before you know off they go. Its that wonderful journey of life.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s was such fun getting to spend time with her!! It sure is a wonderful honor to be a part of!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is so great that you were able to lend that hand in making that day become a special memory. Then being able to sit back and watch how the two become one with the trials and the triumphs. We’re sure that love you have is seen and felt by them and ain’t it awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Not alone for sure😂! Yes, I think she’s in great shape with the wedding! 👏👏👏 I just love her sooo much!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
LOL, LOL… This is so funny that you did the “dine and dash” thing also. Its reassuring when we know we’re not alone in making mistakes like this. Ain’t it great when the people are so understanding because they know deep down we didn’t mean too. Did you get all the wedding plans put together?
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh so kind how they welcomed Emma and graciousness over your “dine and dash” 😂 so funny to read this as I mentioned being out of town a few days with my niece; well our last hour together we ate an early lunch together at an adorable restaurant and were so busy cramming into as much conversation as possible, we left without paying… luckily we snapped before getting in our cars. They just laughed and weren’t at all concerned 😊
LikeLiked by 3 people
LOL. Thank goodness for understanding people.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You saying these wonderful words have brought huge smiles to our hearts. It is so nice having you with us to share in these adventures.
LikeLiked by 1 person
A lovely post. This restaurant sounds like a wonderful find and it is so nice that they understood your mistake and were happy to accept it as just that. It happens to the best of us from time to time.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Not wanting your face plastered in the post office with the heading “Wanted” left me in piece. I just couldn’t stop laughing.😂 Your blog gets better and better with each post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is great that you do this. Good folks like you are what makes this country great. We believe that kind acts come back in some incredible ways. So hang on cuz a few are coming at you, wait and see.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you for your kind words. We just know we feel so blessed to be interacting with so many wonderful folks on our travels and through our blogging (like you). You always seem to make time to share with us.
LikeLiked by 2 people
We’re Airbnb hosts and we have all different people and perspectives. It has happened to me and the people involved were awesome. And I’ve accidentally walked out of a restaurant talking and forgotten the bill and returned with similar reactions. They chuckled when I’ve returned. I’ve also covered for friends when they’ve left forgetting the bill.
LikeLiked by 2 people
We sure did didn’t we. Places like this are special and they do deserve lots of customers. Some how we think they’re doing good. So nice having you taking time to talk with us.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you again for your great words. We felt so bad and the owner, Angie, was so kind. In fact when she called us back she told us to forget sending the money. We didn’t feel right about not so we sent it. She works hard and the place was so special. Real strong Christian business.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is so great hearing from you. Sounds like this may have happened to you too. We felt so bad but you were right about them being so appreciative that we wanted to make good. In fact when Angie, the owner, called us back she told us to never mind about sending the money. We didn’t feel right about it and sent it. You are so right again that when given the chance people want and will do the right thing. Sounds like you are this kind of person too. Keep it up. Thanks again for sharing with us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, Amen.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You struck gold at this eating place and they sure deserve to have lots of customers.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Another great story! Hey, it happens to the best of us sometimes. It’s an unfamiliar place and a special circumstance so forgetting to pay is understandable. At least you called back and made it right. Good for you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
The food looks amazing. I loved how pleasant they were about the oversight, people frequently do get distracted and forget. The owner’s reaction is a reminder that given the opportunity people will do the right thing. Great blog entry to read with a happy ending for all.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a gem you are, Audrey! It’s my pleasure to follow along vicariously on your adventures. As you say, you’re meeting so many wonderful people — though I suspect the people you’re meeting are saying that about you too. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Amen.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’d love to visit!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is nice to hear. So much to do and so little time…
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes we must let our light so shine instead of being afraid to offend.
LikeLiked by 1 person
And He hugged everybody! You know it made Angie feel good making that bacon for Emma, HUG. It made y’all feel God because you know God is blessing you, HUG 🙂 and we certainly know Emma felt her hug while she was gobbling up her fresh bacon(that’s making me hungry) 🙂 I felt a huge hug reading it :):) He didn’t leave a one of us out. :):)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Every day i do wake up and wish there could be more hours in the day!! I’d get here more often!!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Yours mean a lot to me too. I was thrilled to see that menu board. I look forward to the day when we see more restaurants with something similar.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wasn’t that a great menu board. You don’t see this in many places and we knew right then the food was gonna be good. Thanks for stopping by and being with us. Your comments mean a lot to us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
And if you had ordered the biscuits and gravy we’re sure you would have wanted seconds, lol. Isn’t it true about the off the beaten path eateries. So nice that you made time to be with us for this one.
LikeLike
Wow! The food looked so yummy and I loved the menu board! North Carolina is awesome!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I still remember the best patty melt I’ve ever eaten was at a family run restaurant in a small town in Wyoming. You meet the nicest people and see the neatest things when you go into the smaller towns.
After looking at the pic of the menu board, I’ve got a craving for biscuits and gravy.
LikeLiked by 3 people
This is so nice of you to say. This is a real compliment. We never had time to travel in earlier years because of being to busy making a living. Now that we are its amazing how many wonderful people and places there are just down the road. It is so nice of you to make time to talk with us and we hope you are able to get out there on your journey.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so right Margaret! Wow you have such a keen understanding. When she brought out the bacon we were astounded. It wasn’t just one or two pieces it was half a pound. Isn’t it great feeling those God hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Ann. Yes this place set the pace for the community. Every spot from there continued to follow suit. We love these little off the beaten path eateries.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is great that you are from that area. You surely will love the place. So is so neat knowing you know the region. Its a place we’ll visit again.
LikeLike
It was surely a great moment in West Jefferson. Definitely a people friendly place to hang out in. Its so great having you along with us.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Mary. Yes we are blessed with Emma wanting to love every human or pet there is. At this place she curled up under the table and watched life go by her always waiting for someone to pet and tell her how pretty she is. So nice having you with us Mary.
LikeLike
Heide this was such a wonder comment to read this morning. We think you are right that the situation made their day and ours too. So many wonderful people. It is so nice having you to talk with about our adventures.
LikeLiked by 3 people
I haven’t traveled much (other than for work). Reading about your travels is inspiring and makes me feel like I should travel more while I can. Nice post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This put a huge smile on my face. I knew anyone who brought Emma a big bowl of water, and freshly fried her up some bacon, would say don’t worry about it, just send it to me later :):) And I know it was her son who said, just send it, but he learned that from his mom 🙂 God is so good to us, all the time. Thank you for sharing your trip, and sharing the little hugs God gives you all along the way :):)
LikeLiked by 3 people
They sure are. There is something about getting off the beaten path and into the communities where everyday folks like you and us are making life happen for the better. So glad you always make time to talk with us, thank you.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Love this story about the people from the small café, so nice to see and read how they love Emma, and that is Always a good sign. The food looks tasty and very nice from the owners they where not mad at all for the mistake. Warm greetings,
Ann.
LikeLiked by 2 people
That’s where we live. Thanks for the tips well be checking out the cafe for sure!
LikeLiked by 2 people
The dog looks happy and the dinner looks great. What else is there to ask for? Sorry for the confusing turn of events guys! Glad it all worked out in your favor. Good luck on the next of your trip 😉👍🏻
LikeLiked by 1 person
I wish my dogs were dog friendly. They are great with people but are afraid of other dogs so I have to be careful where I go with them and relaxing outside an eatery like that would not be possible. I love that You could do that with Emma. I love the people I meet through your blogs. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It’s rare that a blog post gets more and more charming the farther down you read, Audrey — but this one certainly did! I’m glad the good folks at The Log House were willing to accept a remote payment. Something tells me the unusual situation made their day. 🙂
LikeLiked by 5 people
Side-road trips are the only way to see America. You always meet great people!!
LikeLiked by 5 people