The Cove Billy Graham Training Center An Evening at the Cove

God's timing is perfect.  Even in the midst of great grief and loss at my amazing Mother's home going, we were able celebrate her life, loves and accomplishments.   My husband and I felt an added blessing to be able to reflect and refresh together after all of the services and meet Him here at The Cove at the Billy Graham Training Center in Asheville, North Carolina.

"The Cove is a Christian conference center designed to encourage, refresh and empower believers who want to grow and deepen their faith."

Truly a haven, a heaven on earth.  We were so thankful that God's providence would have it for us to be here this weekend. His timing is always perfect.

The Cove is a great time of refreshment from outside distractions and the daily quick pace of life we all seem to have.   Once we settled in, we gathered by the Fireplace ... can it get any more peaceful.  

The Cove is a perfect place for Clergy and Laymen alike.  In fact, our Church is having our Women's Retreat at the Cove again this year!  It is wonderful to get away, as we did, as a Couple.  Or, for Bible training. They host Marriage Retreats. And Biblical Training.  So there are many reasons to come and be blessed.  Everything is done for you so you can focus your time on Christ and relax. 

                                

One of the Fireplaces is a perfect spot for some quiet time and a refreshing, complimentary Sprite (or coffee, tea, cool water) at each Inn.  

Our room was so warm and comfortable.  We love the good nights sleep on these beds and the spacious bathrooms.  The two sinks are my favorite with one being a separate vanity so everyone can get dressed and ready for the special evening.  And lots of fresh towels!  I love not having to ask for more towels - we had lots of fluffy, soft white towels and toiletries in our room.  We even had a little chocolate waiting on us at bedtime.

When you enter the Training Center, the great living room looks like this at Christmastime. I could just stare. It was so magical.  Love the stone walls and every detail.  Everyone is relaxing by the fireplace. 

We paused for a minute to enjoy a photo opp on the Sleigh out front. This was fun and 

so convivial. 

On to Dinner, it was so fun to sit by the glass wall/ windows and looks at the mountains, the stars really since it was past sunset.  So very breathtaking and romantic.  We sat with a really nice couple. Though we enjoyed our "Date Night" dinner together.  I know, we couldn't help ourselves.

The Dining Room is so beautiful and elegant. 

The Chef at the Cove is phenomenal.  We love the consistency of a tasty, unique and 

healthy meal at the Cove!  And it's in abundance.  We chose the White Fish and Polenta with 

two fresh salads with homemade dressing. Oh my heaven on a plate! 

My husband felt the whole trip was worth it after his first (yes, he had to have two. :) I had one to 

balance us out.) Peanut Butter Chocolate Mousse!  They were truly worth each calorie. 

Then it was on to the most beautiful Michael Card Concert ever. We LOVED it. 

We heard him in concert just before we got engaged so this was really special for us. 

The Cove is such a warm and comfortable and social setting. We got to meet 

Michael Card at the Ruth's Attic Book Store after the Concert.  So fun! 

See, we really did love getting all Christmasy dressed up for our evening out. I am carrying the Tartan Plaid Clutch my Daddy brought me back from Scotland way back.  Memories. And in memory of my Mother as well.

It was an honor to meet Billy Graham's daughter, GiGi Graham as she Hosted us in the Dining Room. Such a real delight to meet her.

GiGi Graham at An Evening at the Cove

Obviously, we could go on and on.  We had to have one more picture by the Fireplace. Everyone has to do this. Right?  It brings back the fabulous memories already .

My husband was right at home by the fireplace and with the old-fashioned 

sled. We took a picture for Colorado sake.  Totally handsome and good-looking, for sure! 

And mine.  #thankful

The Nativity scene about full-life-size was one of my favorites. So very Christmas story.

We love meeting lovely, Christian couples who have been married forever. All of these (including the lady in the middle whose husband was back at their room) were married over 45 years. What a great heritage.  And some great stories, too!  So we only have 31 years left to join their ranks. :)

The beautiful setting as Michael Card played the Grand Piano and sang.  And we were not only refreshed in a new way, we were reminded of Christ in Christmas. 

"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my help, My help cometh from the Lord which made heaven and earth."  Psalm 121

You can plan your own event here and follow The Cove on Facebook here, the Cove blog here. 

Warmly,
Carolina Mama

*FTC Disclosure:  This post is sponsored by The Cove. I am honored to partner together and all opinions are all my own.