We spent the weekend in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and I fell in love with the place. If Savannah, Georgia ran into Charleston, South Carolina, I think the result would be something like Chattanooga. We saw The Ringling Brothers/Barnum & Bailey circus, which – while not the old-fashioned, romantic ideal I had in mind and more like a Vegas show – was completely enjoyable. The next day, we went up the Incline Railway (the steepest in the world) to the top of the mountain, where on a clear day you can see six states. We visited the park where the ‘Battle Above the Clouds’ was fought during the Civil War.

And (while I forgot to take my camera) we visited Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall that demanded a two-hour trek through jaw-dropping caves. Fortunately, most of the spaces were large enough that my dislike of tight spaces stayed away , and the destination was worth every second. (Plus, there was the added privilege of being able to poke fun at newcomers on the way back. I think I terrified a few of them by remarking, ‘Look at them, still smiling and happy’ as we passed.)

We ate breakfast at ‘Rembrandt’s,’ a small but fairly perfect café where they thought my name was ‘Merium.’

Angel’s house (my vampire, not Whedon’s). We passed it and I had to get a snapshot – all it’s missing is the long, tree-lined gravel drive.

It’s amazing how even one night away from home makes you eternally grateful for your own bed. I had a great time and would definitely go back to Chattanooga if the opportunity arose. Also, did anyone else see Insurgent this weekend? Because if not, get thee to a theater!