Timber Frame Vacation Home Rentals

Let's think cooler weather!

2011-08-22T11:11:00.000-04:00

We are all looking forward to fall and cooler temperatures. I can't wait to enjoy the outside fireplace, snuggling under one of our faux fur throws with a cup of my favorite hot chocolate.

October & November availability is getting tight, but the beauty of our area is the fact that you can base your stay from our home and take beautiful scenic drives experiencing all the varying colors of foliage. My favorite time is late October into mid-November. The Smoky Mountain National Park colors normally peak earlier in October. So, no matter when you are able to get away, come and experience the colors of Western North Carolina.

Christmas is still available at the Cottage. However, we are requiring a minimum 10 night stay. Arrive December 22nd or 23rd and depart on January 1st of 2nd. And, of course you are welcome to come earlier and stay later. Inquire about our discounted rate. Last year we have 8" of snow for Christmas. We do decorate for the Holidays, so bring your loved one(s), gifts, and start a new tradition.

Winter - we will again be renting this winter. We don't always get a lot of snow, but then sometimes we do. Last year, lots of snow throughout the season. The Pond House requires all renters to drive a 4-wheel SUV vehicle since the driveway is gravel and not plowed. The Cottage's drive is paved, so we are able to plow. You must be flexible during the winter month visits. Snow and mountain roads don't always get along well. There may be times when we can't get you in exactly on the day of arrival, or you may not be able to leave as scheduled. So, while it's wonderful to plan a visit for snow, having an easy laid back spirit is a must.

Quite frankly, there isn't a bad time to visit Western North Carolina. So much to do!

We have also started taking reservations for 2012. So, book early!

Looking Ahead

2011-06-23T19:55:00.000-04:00

We're booked for July, but August and September dates are available. Many of the area schools head back to school early this year, so this is a great time to visit for all of you who either don't have children or they're grown. You'll have a lot less crowds by mid to late August (rafting, tubing, swimming holes and scenic drives). September, weather cools a bit, the outdoor fireplace gets lots of use again, and it's comfortable hiking weather.

Labor Day weekend is available at both homes as of today.

Our area will again be busy in October and early November with all the "leaf lookers". We still have some great dates available. Our peak leaf season is usually towards the end of October into early November. And, if you can stay during the week (Mon.-Thurs.), you'll get a special deal (just mention our blog when you inquire).

Our favorite source for things to do in the mountains is http://www.stayandplayinthesmokies.com/play/

A waterfall guide http://franklin-chamber.com/whattodo/waterfalls.php

Plan your favorite activities and book your visit at The Pond House or The Cottage.

Bust Your Butt Falls

Hiking

Slow Tube floats on the River

Wyah Bald

Great Motorcycling Roads

Famous Tail of the Dragon

Cherohala Skyway

Cooling off in the Mountains

2011-06-03T14:51:00.000-04:00

Looks like we're in for a hot summer!

But there's so many ways to cool off in the Mountains...

Cool off at a local water hole or under a waterfall.

Take a picnic and swim at the lake or

Tube or Raft on the Tuckaseegee River.

Take a hike in the woods - enjoy the shade from the trees and cool off in the mountain stream.

A few dates remain at The Cottage during June & July. Many August dates available at both The Cottage and The Pond House.

Enjoy Festivals, local music such as Pickin on the Square in Franklin, Concerts on the Creek in Sylva, Music in the Mountains in Highlands. Take a scenic drive to The Blue Ridge Parkway for a picnic where temps are 10 -20 degrees cooler.

Our homes are a great place to base from - so much to do in the Mountains Come for a visit, you'll never want to leave!

2011 Vacations

2011-01-17T11:31:00.000-05:00

Every New Year brings a chance to re-think what's important and to make changes and set new goals.

One of mine is always to try to take more time with family and friends. And, each year, I do a little better, but want even more. This year brought up close and personal again how important it is to cherish every moment.  This year is a new year without my beloved mother, so life will be different and times together are now precious memories.

I get such a calming feeling in the mountains. I look out and know that God is ever present. The mountains give me the spirit to let go and relax. I talk a lot about soothing the soul. And, that is just what they do for me.

We love sharing our mountain homes.  Giving others the chance to experience the calm and quiet. It's our chance to get friends together and spend more time getting to know each other even more, not just an evening out to dinner but breakfast, lunch and dinner.  And, Neal and I love to go and spend time on us; hiking, driving the mountains, morning coffee gazing at the mountains, and afternoon wine on the deck or porch.  Just the two of us.

Sharing our homes through vacation rentals has been a great experience. Our renters share with us their vacation through our Guest Book comments.  I really enjoy reading about how their spirit is also renewed, the details of their vacation, and how much fun was experienced with friends and family, or the chance they had to escape just as a couple.

Our calendar is now open for 2011. Connect, reconnect, make new memories with friends and family in the mountains of Western North Carolina. So much to do, or do nothing and talk about your goals, read and escape. My favorite phrase that sums it up is to come and "rejuventate the soul".

  “The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes.”

Charles R. Swindoll quotes (American Writer and Clergyman, b.1934)

The Beauty of Fall

2010-09-15T14:52:00.000-04:00

Our busiest time of year is almost here - Fall Peak Leaf Season. Visitors come from around the world to take in the cool weather, the clear mountain views and the beautiful leaf colors of vibrant reds and golds.

While we are rather booked up, we do have the last weekend in October available (due to a recent cancellation). This is, in my opinion, THE best time to visit. The leaves are changing, the weather is perfect for snuggling by a warm fire, hiking, enjoying the many fall festivals, and simply taking a deep breath and relaxing before the holidays take over.

Our color continues into the first part of November and then the leaves begin to fall. We love to head for a hike amongst the glory of it all, enjoying a shower of leaves and shooshing in those that are slowly covering the trail.

Our next favorite activity is spending the day driving along the Blueridge Parkway, stopping for a picnic and just taking in the breathtaking vistas of Fall in the Mountains. Franklin, NC is perfect for basing your visit. Our central location makes it easy to visit nearby towns where elevations vary allowing you to enjoy a full array of color changes.

Relaxation Found

2010-07-25T12:14:00.003-04:00

Relaxation is not easily found these days. Children, family and work commitments seem to make the idea of doing nothing a dream we hope for once or twice a year. When we do go on vacation it's all about planning every day's activities, but we fail to plan on time for doing nothing. "Escaping" is the key word.

At first when I think about doing nothing I feel guilty. Too much to do, can't just lay around and be idle. I read an article lately about training yourself to do nothing. Start by doing nothing while you are waiting in line, at the doctor’s office, on the train or aiplane. Wait, without reading a newspaper or magazine, without talking on the phone, without checking your email, without doing any work, without worrying about what you need to do later. Check out the environment, close your eyes for a few minutes, or notice the artwork or music playing. Wait, and do nothing.

I'm trying not to be on the cell phone or check my Blackberry in the car, even at the traffic light. It's tough, I might miss something for a few minutes, or an hour!!! But, it makes me think about other things and enjoy the drive. I'm amazed at how many restaurants or shops are open that I have missed noticing. And, I'm able to enjoy music which allows me to be more relaxed.

We all know the mental and physical advantages of relaxation are huge. We sacrifice too much of our well-being pursuing the ideal of faster, higher, stronger, and/or caught in the fear of our economy, our jobs and businesses. Our worries are huge. It does take a toll on our health.

Relaxation doesn't have to mean sitting or sleeping, it can mean taking the time to do what you love without worries. My favorite things - a walk in the woods, a picnic, a scenic drive with no time constraints. I love to read and I don't mean emails. My family gave me a Kindle last year. It's a great way to carry books with me wherever I go, encouring me to take time to read. Relaxing in the mountains, reading on the deck or porch is my favorite way of escaping. Taking time to cook recipes I haven't had a chance to do is relaxing to me. I also love to get away with friends to simply catch up or to getaway with my parents - it's a great time to enjoy just the two of them without planning a lot to do. They are in their 80's and being busy is not on their agenda. I love my garden, tending to the flowers is my way of forgetting my worries for a little while. And, best of all, taking the time with just my husband to get up late, make a great breakfast, and catch up on all that's happened during the week.

Stop and enjoy the moment and be grateful for the privilege of doing absolutely nothing for as long as you possibly can.

If you want to Escape and get yourself on the right path to relaxation - come visit the Mountains of Western North Carolina. Refresh, rejuvenate and be sure to plan a day or two of doing nothing.

I am so busy doing nothing... that the idea of doing anything - which as you know, always leads to something - cuts into the nothing and then forces me to have to drop everything. Jerry Seinfeld

A vacation is having nothing to do and all day to do it in

2010-06-09T11:49:00.006-04:00

Longing to get away? Think Western North Carolina. Relax, take in the beautiful mountains, cool off under a waterfall, take a nice walk in the woods, have a leisurely lunch or picnic, catch up on those books you've been trying to read, and nap.

"A vacation is what you take when you can no longer take what you've been taking." Earl Wilson

Escape all by yourself, or bring your partner for a romantic time away.

Many of our guests are coming for multi-generation get togethers - - creating new memories for Mom & Dad, kids & grandkids.

Availability - two weeks remain in August at The Pond House, lots of September dates are available and a few Fall October dates remain at The Cottage House. Check our calendar on line and book now. Visit our Website

Reconnect, Reflect, Relax, Soothe the Soul

Summer - Reconnecting with Friends & Family

2010-04-28T12:54:00.002-04:00

It's been a busy Spring and while we do have some May dates available, June, July and August are almost totally booked! Check our availability calendar, it is up to date. It seems that reconnecting with family is a common thread among both previous and new renters. The Cottage works so well for three generation getaways.

The Pond House is still my favorite place to grab two other couples and enjoy hiking and exploring, then returning back to the house for lots of wine and cookouts together.

Maybe it's time for a girlfriend getaway, escape work, the kids and catch up with each other.

And, guys or girls - how about letting us coordinate fly fishing instructions and guided fishing trips based at either The Cottage or The Pond House.

So, since our calendar is almost filled for Summer, plan ahead for Peak Fall Leaf Season. Many great dates are still available. From mid-October to early November the leaves are changing all around us. Higher elevations begin early October and mid-October, our area the peak in my opinion is usually late October. I also love November, through the 15th. Leaves are falling and a walk in the woods is a colorful experience.

Views are so gorgeous in November with all the shades of red and gold.

Early Spring Fever

2010-03-07T12:21:00.003-05:00

Okay, my excitement of winter snow is gone and I'm looking forward to a little warmth.

One of my favorite times of the year is Spring. The woods seem to come alive with new wildflowers that just can't wait to pop out from a winters sleep.

Come enjoy the four seasons in the mountains of Western North Carolina.

April dates are booking fast, May is open, including Memorial Day, and several open dates in June. Ten days are available in July at The Cottage, otherwise we're booked! Check out the availability calendar and plan your getaway.

A Snowy Season

2010-02-10T12:52:00.000-05:00

We've had some beautiful snows this season. For us in the south it is a wonderful thing! Having lived in Wisconsin for many years growing up, I haven't always felt the same. But, since I've been in the South for almost 30 years, the shoveling and painful memories of northern winters have left me and now I look forward to a good snow. Of course, I can also appreciate it more knowing it won't be there but a few days.

Here's a couple Cottage photos. Come experience the serenity of a moonlight walk, snow angels or just curling up with a good book and a roaring fire!

Western North Carolina is gorgeous year-round!

BABY, IT'S COLD OUTSIDE!

2010-01-15T18:47:00.000-05:00

Ah, how the mountain views are so much clearer in the winter. Cold, crisp air, snow clinging to the rocks and cliffs, icicles on the waterfalls - a photographers dream.

Nothing is better than getting away from it all and fine tuning your relaxation skills -- enjoy just doing nothing. Sweats, or your favorite comfortable jeans, a good book or two, DVD's you just never find time to watch, several great bottles of wine, easily prepared comfort food (think chowder, chili, or a roast in the oven). and maybe a nice port or hot chocolate for sipping before bed.

The Pond or Cottage can make that dream come true.

Come, snuggle by the fire and enjoy a quiet romantic weekend away.

Winter is also the best time if you are looking for just that right piece of property for retiring or building your dream home some day. We know this from experience. You get a better idea of views, layout, neighbors, etc. without the leaves on the trees and underbrush to climb through. We like to say, come for a visit and stay a lifetime.

"Baby, Its Cold Outside" is an old pop song with words and music by Frank Loesser. Loesser wrote the duet in 1944, it's been performed by many.

Baby its cold outside ...I really can't stay (but baby it's cold outside)
I've got to go away (but baby it's cold outside)
This evening has been (been hoping that you'd drop in)
So very nice (i'll hold your hands, they're just like ice)
My mother will start worry (beautiful whats your hurry)
My father will be pacing the floor (listen to the fireplace roar)
So really i'd better scurry (beautiful please don't hurry)
but maybe just a half a drink more (put some records on while i pour)
the neighbors might faint (baby it's bad out there)
say what's in this drink (no cabs to be had out there)
I wish I knew how (your eyes are like starlight now)
to break this spell (I'll take your hat, your hair looks swell)
I ought to say no, no, no, sir - (mind if I move closer)
At least I'm gonna say that I tried - (what's the sense in hurting my pride?)
I really can't stay - (baby don't hold out)
I ought to say "no, no, no sir" (mind if I move in closer)
at least I'm gonna say that I tried (what's the sense in hurtin' my pride)
I really can't stay (oh baby don't hold out)
Ah, but it's cold o u t s i d e ...

Happy New Year!

2009-12-30T11:17:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful Holiday season this has been. Both The Cottage and The Pond House were booked for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. The Holidays are a wonderful time to reconnect with family or get away for a quiet escape from all the stress the Holidays can bring. Western North Carolina is such a beautiful place to escape.

We had a great time getting our homes ready for the Holidays. Both rental groups this year requested Christmas decor. So we made them festive with all the special personal touches that are our signature. The warmth of the fire (both inside and out) really add to the festive spirit. And, lots of prayers were answered with snow.

The Great Smoky Mountain Train runs their annual Polar Express with Santa and the children love an old fashioned train experience. This year Tanner (2-1/2) had his first train ride experience.

We are now taking reservations for 2010.

Holiday dates book up early in the year. And, our rates will be the same as 2009.

Our Winter Season rates for 2010 are extended through April - $200.00 per night.*

Spring/Summer "In" Season rates are $295 per night* and Peak Fall dates and Holidays are $325 per night*. Fall dates and Holidays usually book up by April. If you have never been during the Fall Leaf Color Change, you must come. Peak is usually the third and fourth week of October, and I particularly love the first part of November. The leaves start to fall and a walk in the woods is a heavenly experience.

Visit our website for more information and pop us an email to begin the reservation process http://www.timberframerentals.com/

*All rates are subject to availability, minimum stay requirements, and do not include the exit cleaning fee & NC Taxes

Thanks to everyone for visiting in 2009.

The Mountains are Calling!

Escape to the Mountains this Winter

2009-11-10T11:48:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure I know anyone not affected by the economy right now. Turn on the TV and the news is negative, constant bickering, and I want my own economic stimulus. Split up the cost of all these bailouts and new spending and send each American a nice fat check. We'll restore our economy by purchasing whatever we need - healthcare, car, home, retail items, etc. It's simple.

I do know that won't happen, they are not listening, so we run away and escape every chance we get.

Gazing at the Smoky Mountains seems to comfort our soul. We relax, catch up on reading and each other. Remembering what's important, our loved ones - family and friends.

Rates are now reduced to $200.00 per night (2 night minimum), bring those you love along and share expenses. Hike, sightseeing (the views are grander without leaves on the trees), you might enjoy a winter snowfall, or simply stay in and keep the fire going. Naps abound.

Rentals: http://www.TimberFrameRentals.com

Home Sales: http://www.TimberFrameMountainHomes.com

Summer Days are Here

2009-06-29T17:58:00.001-04:00

Rentals are going well. We are enjoying all the wonderful comments our renters leave about the fun and new memories they are making. A couple of weeks in August are open so check the website for availability. We've updated comments other renters have left in our guestbook on the website.

Hikes to waterfalls & beautiful vistas, scenic drives, picnics along the Cullasaja River, gem mining, fishing, rafting.

Come for a visit and maybe you will decide to Stay a Lifetime!

Calling all Fall Leaf Lookers

2009-05-28T10:21:00.000-04:00

We've booked up well (with just a mid-June week available), so are now looking towards Fall. The Western North Carolina leaf colors are spectacular - beautiful reds & golds! The mountains are clear and hiking is at its best with the cooler temps.

October & November dates will fill fast, so plan early!

Filling Up Fast

2009-05-04T19:01:00.000-04:00

We've had a busy Spring. Both homes are booking fast.
Visit http://www.timberframerentals.com/ for more information.

Recent Vacation Rental Reviews

2009-02-10T12:55:00.000-05:00

Recent Renter Comments:

The Pond -
Just wanted to drop you a note to let you know how much we enjoyed staying at your house. Our stay was absolutely fabulous! We thoroughly enjoyed the outdoor fireplace and screened porch after a day of hiking. We would stay out there until dinner, then come inside and build a fire to enjoy.

Our two day hikes on the Appalachian trail were spectacular. Wayah Bald had close to six iniches of snow on Friday morning which was simply beautiful. In the woods along the trail there were some drifts of near a foot deep. We made it to Winding Stair Gap in about five hours which made for a wonderful day.

On Saturday, we once again began our day at Wayah Bald. There was still a condiserable amount of snow, some of which had turned icy overnight. The hike downward to Tellico Gap was really beautiful. Even thought the temps warmed up on Saturday, we encountered quite a lot of snow on the trail. It made the winter woods seem magical.

Our weekend couldn't have been better. We would love to stay at the Pond again soon in order to do a few more hikes in your beautiful mountains!

Thanks for sharing your beautiful mountain getaway with us! N & J
--------------------------------------------------

The Cottage -
I just wanted to let you know what a great time we had on our "girls weekend" at your beautiful home. While your website is fabulous, even it does not do the house justice. Everything exceeded our expectations.
Thank you again for sharing such a wonderful place. We felt like queens for the privilege of living in such a beautiful "tree house" for the weekend. L.A.

Loved the cottage…it was very comfortable. We also walked to the top of the property…quite a workout & worth the wonderful views! Thanks and hope we can rent again soon…would love to check out The Pond next time! J.A.