We took advantage of a free Saturday by taking off for a day trip to Fall Creek Falls, the largest state park in Tennessee. It's about a two hour drive east & a little south of Nashville - but it gave us a chance to take our first real 'trip' (outside of the everyday commuting here & there) in our new van, which was nice.

We saw a couple of falls, including the big one which the park is named after. I think Andrea said it is the largest waterfall in the Eastern United States. It was really big, but, unfortunately, because of the drought we've been having in TN, it wasn't at it's full majesty. It was still beautiful to see, though.

After taking in the view from the overlook at the top, we decided to take the half mile or so hike down to the base of the waterfall & let the kids swim a little. The path wasn't too difficult down - not nearly as clear as the path we took last summer at Burgess Falls, though. Emerie was a trooper & hiked most of it herself (although mom & dad did carry her on our backs once or twice on the climb back up). When we hit the bottom the kids ventured out into the water. It was really, really chilly, but they didn't seem to mind too much, as they kept getting out & going back in. Josiah even swam over close to where the waterfall was hitting the rocks on the far end of the pool, enough to let the water splash onto his back.

It was nice to be outside enjoying God's creation. We took the alternate route home, opting to skip the Interstate & taking a state highway back instead. It was two lane much of the way, took a little longer, but was well worth it as it felt like we were actually driving through the country much of the time. Small towns & beautiful scenery to boot!

I've posted a Flickr photoset for anyone who wants to see some pics:

• Fall Creek Falls Trip