The Cove at Celo Mountain - Through the Eyes of the Artist and New Homeowner - Guest Author: Shannon Runquist

 Ayles Creek that runs through The Cove at Celo Mountain

At Crabtree Falls near The Cove at Celo Mountain

 Near The Cove at Celo Mountain

 Old tobacco barn on drive up to The Cove at Celo Mountain

 The beauty of our mountains

A trout pond within The Cove at Celo Mountain

Our children have been going to summer camp in NC for the last 6 years.  Living in the SC Low country, an escape from the summer heat is always a welcome change.  We had visited many towns and communities near Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway over the last few years.  In June we were invited to visit the Cove at Celo Mountain when we picked up our kids from camp just south of Asheville.  Not really knowing the area very well, we decided to go exploring as its something we love to do. We are a very adventurous family having spent extended periods of time out west camping in the Grand Tetons, Idaho & Oregon, rafting big whitewater on the Snake River and various other outdoor activities.  We prefer the road less traveled & enjoy the beauty that surrounds us and appreciate nature.  

            To be honest we had no idea what we would find and were rather skeptical.  What we found was what we had been looking for all along.  A wonderful town full of friendly genuine people with diverse backgrounds and interests, a fabulous culinary treat in the Knife and Fork and a community well footed in the Arts.    Our son is a musician and our daughter participates in theater and visual arts.   Her years at camp have introduced her to glasswork and pottery.   With Penland School of Crafts just up the road & a theater in town there are even more opportunities for both of them during the summer.

            Now to Bigger issues like trout. There are “Big” Trout, almost certainly bigger on the end of the fly rod then in the river.  With the South and North Toe River just a crow’s fly away the fish don’t stand a chance for any fisherman on a mission.  That’s were you will find Lars on any free day.  Just waiting for a fish to rise.  The fish he catches are way over the size of any recorded fish on record. At least that’s what I am told.

            As for me, working as a professional artist I can't get a mile down the road without pulling over finding inspiration all around me. When spring comes Ill be out and about painting in plein air.   I tend to wander off the beaten path to where the wild things are.  Paintings from the area will soon be posted at www.shannonrunquist.com.

            We went looking for a piece of property and what we found was a beautiful community full of wonderful people & a well built cottage on a rustling creek.  This year we will be spending Thanksgiving in front of our fireplace with our parents too.   Before long our home will be full of lasting memories.  When we count our blessings we will include The Cove.  We are truly looking forward to meeting our new neighbors.