Gatlinburg

Wheeler Family Portrait- Final Four Mountain Edition

We spent a memorable, fun weekend with my family at a cabin in the Smokies this past weekend.  The drive up to the cabin was crazy steep, but worth it once we reached the top of the mountain and the spectacular views.  The cabin, and company all weekend was nice too!

Sunrise over the Smoky Mountains, having an early bird baby does have some advantages

Our Baby Bear posing with a mountain bear at the cabin

Gatlinburg is a crowded, over the top tourist trap town that still manages to offer some charm and lots of fun and excitement for everyone.  We did a little bit of everything- hiking in the national park, visiting the aquarium, shopping at the outlet malls, strolling on the streets, dining out, dining in, and just enjoying being together as a family again.

Opa and his favorite girl

The Ripley's aquarium has some very unique perspectives in several underwater tunnels where you can experience the fish all around you.  Kate loved it.  She also eagerly ran through the penguin tunnel as Uncle Stephen crawled behind her trying to keep up.  

Uncle Stephen and Daddy let Kate touch a horseshoe crab

Viewing the penguins from below the water, Kate scurries through the exhibit on a mission

After a morning inside the aquarium, we spent the afternoon hiking to Laurel Falls.  It was pretty and one of the few paved stroller friendly trails in the park. 

Downtown Gatlinburg wandering

On Saturday the sun came out and we spent the day outdoors giddy with anticipation for that night's Final Four Kentucky game.  The day, and game, did not disappoint.

Mom and Dad relaxing watching us kids play

Claudia and Stephen rock hopping in a creek

Triple slide family playground fun

Just minutes off the busy main strip was a deserted playground just for Kate to explore

After playground adventures it was time for ice cream for everyone!

It was a wonderful weekend, and a spring break family tradition we're hoping will continue for years to come.  

Attempt at a family photo before we left Sunday morning, a bit hazy, but still a gorgeous view