A Thrilling Adventure at Dollywood

Hey there, thrill-seekers and amusement park enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the exhilarating world of Dollywood, the beloved amusement park nestled in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Join me as we explore the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and share some unforgettable moments of fun with our beloved grandsons. So strap yourselves in, hold on tight, and let the adventure begin!

Welcome to Dollywood!

Notice the sign.  The pie is bottom rack.

Nestled in the scenic Smoky Mountains, Dollywood is a magical destination that combines the charm of the Appalachian region with thrilling rides and world-class entertainment. It's the perfect place to create lasting memories with your grandsons and let loose with a dose of adventure.

The 2 youngest grandsons INSISTED
on riding in the first car every time !

Consort found the nearest trashcan upon exiting a roller coaster.

The Need for Speed:  Roller Coasters at Dollywood:

The Lightning Rod.  Brace yourself for an electrifying experience on the world's fastest wooden coaster, Lightning Rod. With speeds reaching up to 73 miles per hour, this coaster guarantees an adrenaline rush like no other. Feel the wind in your hair and let out screams of excitement as you navigate the twists and turns of this gravity-defying ride.

The Wild Eagle.  Soar like a majestic bird on the wings of the Wild Eagle, Dollywood's first wing coaster. As you glide through the sky at speeds of up to 61 miles per hour, the sensation of flying combined with stunning views of the Smokies will leave you breathless. Prepare for a sensation that's both thrilling and awe-inspiring.

(When I have my grandsons with me, their safety always comes first.  The Wild Eagle looked like a terrifying ride -- and it was, but both Middle and Youngest grandsons wanted to ride.  I got in line with them with the plan to share their ride.  When we made it to the front of the line, we realized only two people could ride at the same time.  The grandsons went solo.  I rode with the next guy in line.  Screamed throughout the entire ride.  Such fun!)

The Tennessee Tornado.  Hold on tight as the Tennessee Tornado sends you spinning and twisting through the mountains at a heart-pounding speed of 70 miles per hour. This steel coaster will leave you grinning from ear to ear as it takes you on an adrenaline-fueled journey of loops, corkscrews, and unexpected drops.

(And the Tennessee Tornado is the culprit that caused consort to seek the nearest trashcan upon exiting the roller coaster.  In his defense, he had just consumed about a quart of soda before starting the ride.)

I think the grandsons' eyes lit up more over food
and less over favorite characters.

Fun with Grandsons: Memories in the Making:

Dollywood isn't just about the thrilling rides; it's also about creating lasting memories with your grandsons. From watching their eyes light up as they meet their favorite characters to sharing laughter on family-friendly attractions like the Dollywood Express train or the River Battle water ride, every moment becomes a treasure.

Dollywood's live shows and entertainment options cater to all ages. Sit back and enjoy musical performances, dazzling acrobatics, and mesmerizing displays of talent that will leave your grandsons in awe. Whether it's the mesmerizing lights of the nightly fireworks or the toe-tapping tunes of the Bluegrass and Southern Gospel Festival, Dollywood offers a feast for the senses.

At Dollywood, the exhilarating roller coasters and the joy of spending quality time with your grandsons combine to create an unforgettable experience. From the heart-pounding speeds of Lightning Rod to the shared laughter on family-friendly attractions, this amusement park has something for everyone. So why wait? Grab your tickets, embrace the adventure, and make memories that will be cherished for a lifetime at Dollywood.

Remember, the next time you're seeking a thrilling adventure and some fun with your grandsons, Dollywood is the place to be. So, get ready to scream, laugh, and create memories that will be treasured for years to come. Happy riding!

{Disclaimer: Due to the dynamic nature of amusement parks, it's always a good idea to check Dollywood's official website or contact them directly for the latest information on roller coasters and attractions.}

Blogger's note.  This entire blog was written using AI, Artificial Intelligence.  I've been reading about AI and am intrigued by the technology.  I wondered what would happen if I gave AI some basic information concerning what I wanted to blog about.  You have now read the results.  Thoughts?

Happy Mother's Day!

Mom on 05/06/2023

Today I'm reposting a blog originally published on Mother's Day of  2020.  It's one of my favorites.  I've included an updated picture of mom.  She is timeless.  Enjoy!

The first time I met my mother was almost 59 years ago.  It was a very intimate setting, that first meeting.  She made me feel like I was the most important person in the world.

For a few years in elementary school, my mother was one of two leaders for my Girl Scout troop.  The weekly troop meetings were packed with crafts and activities, and always ended with the singing of Taps around the flagpole.

As much fun as the weekly meetings were, nothing compared with the campouts.  One in particular stands out in my mind.  It must have been a jamboree as lots of different troops were in attendance.

Mom, as a leader, was present for the campout and quickly became a favorite among the girls. It was easy to find mom despite the crowds of campers and leaders:  She always wore a red ball cap covered with white polka dots.  The hat promptly earned her the nickname of Polka Dot.  When the girls learned that Polka Dot was my mother, I became an instant rockstar simply by association.  Every team wanted her for a member.  No game was as satisfying without her participation.  We were all in agreement:  Polka Dot was a blast!

After high school, I was overflowing with plans and dreams.  Some plans had merit, but many were the ridiculous blather of an overblown and inexperienced teenager.  I remember my mother listening with unwavering patience, and without judgment, as I wandered aimlessly through extravagant thoughts and ideas.  She was a steady anchor available to me as I set sail in unknown waters.

In all of the years from then till now, my mother has been a constant in my life.  She has provided a road map to navigate the difficult terrain of life, of motherhood, by her every word and action.

She's the first person with whom I want to share good news or a funny story.  She offers comfort when the world has me out of sorts.  She never dwells on my many and varied faults.  She celebrates, wholeheartedly, my every victory as if it were her own, which I suppose in many ways, it is.  If I have achieved my goal of being a good mother to my own two children, it is only because of the success of the woman who walked the path before me.

Please accept my deepest thanks, Mom.  I appreciate your guidance, help, and unyielding love throughout my years.  Thank you for always being willing to go to the ends of the earth for me.  You have my highest regard.  I wish you long days and pleasant nights.  I salute you with my heart.


If you live to be a hundred, I hope I live to be a hundred minus one day, so that I never have to live a day without you. ~Winnie the Pooh