... also known as Jonesborough. For any of you who have ever attended the National Storytelling Festival the first weekend of October ... you know the paradise of which I speak. Michael and I arrived in Nashville on Wednesday afternoon, rented a Yaris and took off to the Eastern side to the beautiful state. 4 and a half hours ... (not a minute of that spent getting gas I must add), and we arrived in Jonesborough. We were fortunate enough to be able to stay in one of the three rooms at the Hawley House Bed and Breakfast. Marcy, the Innkeeper did not only ooze southern hospitality, she was filled with stories of her own and fed us breakfast like we have never had before.
Michael and I were joined at the Festival by my parents, (Mike and Gayle), his parents (George and Nancy), and his aunt and uncle (Bob and Marcia). Cruising around Jonesborough with an entourage of eight was quite an experience. Five of them were Jonesborough virgins and all left very satisfied.
This was my fourth trip to the Festival though this time was different than any before. I was completely aware of the greatness that surrounded me, and what a true honor it was to stand on a stage that was graced by some of storytelling's greatest ... Kevin Kling, Elizabeth Ellis, Donald Davis, and Carmen Deedy to mention just a few.
Not only was it a great time to see some old friends, but also a time to meet some new ones.
Perhaps the most important thing that came from the Storytelling Festival was a renewed passion for the art of story and the importance of telling. Whether you are a teller yourself or a dedicated story listener, the National Festival in Jonesborough is a must attend event at least once in your life ... put it on your list ... right next to "spend more time with family" and "lose 20 pounds."
Michael and I were joined at the Festival by my parents, (Mike and Gayle), his parents (George and Nancy), and his aunt and uncle (Bob and Marcia). Cruising around Jonesborough with an entourage of eight was quite an experience. Five of them were Jonesborough virgins and all left very satisfied.
This was my fourth trip to the Festival though this time was different than any before. I was completely aware of the greatness that surrounded me, and what a true honor it was to stand on a stage that was graced by some of storytelling's greatest ... Kevin Kling, Elizabeth Ellis, Donald Davis, and Carmen Deedy to mention just a few.
Not only was it a great time to see some old friends, but also a time to meet some new ones.
Perhaps the most important thing that came from the Storytelling Festival was a renewed passion for the art of story and the importance of telling. Whether you are a teller yourself or a dedicated story listener, the National Festival in Jonesborough is a must attend event at least once in your life ... put it on your list ... right next to "spend more time with family" and "lose 20 pounds."
