Ridin’ with Ralph & Susan
November 2024 – Blount British Car Club Newsletter
Another Perfect Day to be in a British Car
There was this invite for an impromptu fall leaf drive to Townsend for lunch. Susan and I read Jim Watson’s email and then checked the weather. Wow! Looks like a good day for a drive in the “B”!! I talked with both of my neighbors who are also in the BBC, Chuck, Tod & Laura, and the three of us decided to meet the rest of the club near the beginning of the infamous Dragon last Saturday morning.
The intention was NOT to do the Dragon but rather a cruise over the Foothills Parkway to a restaurant in Townsend called Elvira’s. Todd, Laura, Chuck, Susan and I parked at a really nice breakfast place at the junction of Rts 72-129….and waited! The rest of the BBC showed up as planned. I believe we had 16 cars – wow again!
From there we saddled up and drove toward the Foothills Parkway. Our first stop was at a large parking area next to the lake across from a Harley Davidson dealer (I am sure some of you know that place). It was our initial meet/greet session where everyone got out, stretched their legs and walked the cars, talking as they went. The scene was pristine, overlooking the Chilhowee Lake (along the Little Tennessee River).
Note finger on picture (new phone)? From this stop we drove Route 129 to the Foothills Parkway (past the Chilhowee Dam) turning left and heading up into the clouds. What at day!
Our travel took us on the Foothills Parkway to 321, north of Townsend, with scenic stops along the way. We were able to take time to stretch the legs again and enjoy the overlooks which were all around.
Susan and I are still in awe of the roads and scenery of Eastern Tennessee. Whether with a group or alone (MG or no MG), we always appreciate the surroundings that make any drive a pleasure. Add to this mix our BBC friends and the planned drives (this one by Jim & Melinda) and of course all the British cars in caravan, things just cannot get any better.
Lunch at Elvira’s in Townsend was great and the weather continued to cooperate to the point of having some of our folks eat outside. Todd had his faithful beagle Gracie with him, and took time to sit and enjoy the sunshine. Gracie even found a furry friend!
I would encourage all BBC members to join these great British car outings!!
Ralph Arata