We Begin

Day One starts off with the normal run-around routine. Luke is not napping, Mom can't find her driver's license at the car rental place, and Erin is talking on the phone with Alex, whom she hasn't spoken to in three days and is not getting off until she has to- can you blame her?.

We hit the road at noon and stop embarrassingly at McDonald's right out of the gate, but I don't think anyone is really talking a lot about nutrition on this trip. At least not for the car ride.

The ride down is smooth, and we make good time. Luke manages to sleep for two hours in the car- yeah! We stop right outside of Knoxville to fill up the car and for more nutrition- my favorite twillzers, carmellos, and gum.

About a half an hour outside of our destination Luke melts down. This of course is during the curviest, most dangerous part of the drive. If you have ever driven to North Carolina from Knoxville, you know what I am talking about. Luke hates the tunnels. They kind of freak him out. I have a "come apart," but Mom and Erin manage to keep their cool.

We call Brad as we pull into the hotel, and a wonderful bellhop helps load the ton of stuff that is required whether you are gone one day or a month with a baby. Brad walks over from his apartment and meets us. It is really good to see him!

Our hotel room is gorgeous with two double beds, a separate sitting room, two full bathrooms (more than I have at home) Starbucks on the counter and Aveda in the shower. We are in heaven.

Dinner at Fiore's is awesome. I have the gnocchi, Mom has the grilled ravioli, Erin has a huge pork chop, and Brad the duck with figs. Yum!

Luke and I head back a little early for a bath while the group enjoys dessert on the house. It's a really great place.

Sleep comes quick after a chat with Mom in the most glorious beds you have ever seen. Erin and Brad spend a night out on the town with friends and day one comes to a satisfying close.