We're always on the look out for fun new places to explore, especially those which are free and are within close proximity to where we live. Last year my husband discovered a quaint new destination: Dahlonega, Georgia, where a Hallmark Christmas movie had been filmed. (Christmas in Homestead) Apparently the town was brimming over with small town Christmas charm as well as fun seasonal activities. We tried to coordinate a visit there last year, but it ended up raining on the day we were supposed to travel, forcing us to cancel our trip.
Fast forward to this year, and it was still on our docket to try and visit. We had planned to bring the entire family, but the day of our planned excursion, we decided it would be our second EVER weekend getaway for just mom and dad. Since I was due with baby number ten a week later, I guess you could call it an unofficial baby moon.
We left mid-morning on Saturday, with no set-in-stone plans, just an open day to enjoy each others company and explore a new-to-us little town. We stopped at one of our favorite restaurants on the way; Jim & Nicks, a fabulous bar-b-que joint that we love.
The town was basically situated around a central building (the courthouse), with cute little boutique stores surrounding it. I absolutely loved these baskets, but unfortunately most of the items for sale in the cute little stores were way above our budget. No, worries as it is always fun to look.
There were several street musicians included this man playing a trumpet.
The old buildings were so pretty.
There were several old churches surrounding the square. The pictures really don't do them justice.
This was a huge real tree decorated in front of the visitors center. Mr. & Mrs. Clause were set up right beside the tree taking pictures.
At night the town was beautifully lit up with Christmas lights. Thankfully, it was a fairly warm day and we were able to enjoy the holiday festivities to the fullest. We explored many of the shops, watched a cute little parade, and rode in a horse-drawn carriage.
After the fun in Dahlonega, we headed out to find dinner, some coffee, and a hotel. We ended up eating Mexican which was delicious. Then we had coffee at Dunkin' Donuts where we also found this cute little Elf on the Shelf Christmas ornament.
We were super thrilled to find a hotel available at the first one we tried. Once we got settled it was 'feet up' and Christmas movies until I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer.
While I am still getting used to leaving all my babies behind, I am enjoying the reconnection of just me and my husband on our little excursions sans children. It's not easy to balance large family living and couple-time, but we're working on it. I'm thankful for the time we had in Dahlonega, as it was a super cute little town overflowing with all the bells and whistles of small-town Christmas charm; something both me and my husband really appreciate.
With Love & Hope,
Jennifer
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