John Dillon's Hidden Cove Travel Journal

I was invited for the second time to the elite Hidden Cove resort and spa this Labor Day weekend with the Moores.

Knowing that, as always, I was in for a weekend of seclusion, relaxation and laughter. . .

Learning quickly, that with the conquer of another 22 acres, there was an uncharted world to explore.

I did not anticipate, however, that I would be also in for a fierce test of survival.

I have chosen to document the events of Labor Day weekend in this journal, and pass the information on to those that may travel to this destination.

9.7.10. Sunday.

The Wine and Cheese Party

2:47pm

Lauren opens a few bottles of Petite Petit, we have pork sandwiches and exotic cheeses that I cannot pronounce. After a long drive it is a perfect way to wind down.

3:35 pm

Mr. Moore joins the party after weed-whacking in the 80 degree heat. We all feel slightly guilty about sitting among cheese and wine in the shade. “The Jackhammer”[1] is introduced.

[1] 1 part coconut rum. 1 part pineapple orange drink. Splash of makers mark. Serve over ice. Call a cab.

4:01pm

We enjoy a bottle of China Silk. Mr. Moore talks of hiking into the unclaimed territory[2]. Mrs. Moore proceeds to endanger bumblebees in Hidden Cove with the China Silk cork.

[2] A 22 acre lot adjacent to Hidden Cove that has recently been conquered.

5:30pm

The hike into the territory begins…

The Hike

5:41pm

We walk past the dock into Spring Creek. Cigars are lit. We quickly encounter a spring, and ridiculously slippery, mossy wet rock. The Cove Dwellers walk cautious, dogs proceed with reckless abandon. I feel my Navajo sense calling to me from the ancients. ..

6:15pm

Pointswithstick[3] shows us the way to Cathedral Falls. This is one of the most incredible views of the Hidden Cove Territories. The cascading rock overhead makes me feel small, and the echoes of our conversations only add to it.

[3] Pointswithstick. Noun. (Puyn’ts’wyth-stik) An ancient Indian Warrior spirit, by day a national retail sales executive, by night a native visionary pointing the way through the Hidden Cove territories. Always with a large stick.AKA: “JP” (Just-Points).

6:39pm

Lauren attempts a climb into Cathedral Falls and a deceiving limb breaks. We all rush to her aid. Luckily she is fine. Cathy flees the scene. Climbsbigrock[4] leads us into the best kept secret of Territory 22…

7:08pm

MOONROCK! It is incredible. An easy climb onto the chalky rock and the view is well worth the hike. We sit in the cool cavern of the moonrock and finish our cigars. What an amazing spot.

[4] Climbsbigrock. Noun. (Clymbz’big-rok) The leader of these territories. A noble tribal spirit who disguises himself as a technology salesman and technician by day, however, is often found seeking large rocks to climb. Upon his towering these rocks, it is rumored that he smokes a cigar, and makes sarcastic remarks of his fellow climbers.

7:49pm

We return to the Hidden Cove camp, and discuss the chainsaw work that needs to be done at Cathedral Falls. Jackhammers are served. Dinner is being prepared.

OH. MY. GOD.

8:22pm

Foods typically associated with outdoor experiences: Burgers. Hot dogs. Potato chips.

Foods apparently associated with Hidden Cove: Perfectly cooked ribeyes, carmelized onions, baked potatoes, asparagus, lobster tail!

An absolutely ridiculous, incredible dinner. This family does not half-ass ANYTHING!

11:36pm

We retire around the campfire, as seems to be the ritual. Amidst my role in conversation, my mind wanders . I can’t help but to marvel at the clever lighting down the stairs to the Gazebo, and to the new Hidden Cove signs, so carefully produced and stained. And I realize as we explored the unchartered territories today, that even to a city boy like me, the comfort of this place has been very deliberately and respectfully carved out of nature to be that way. It is personal, and it is unapologetically private.

9.8.10. Monday.

Morning

10:11am

We sleep in, and Lauren wakes me to the outline of a lizard type animal[5] on the inside on the interior of the popup. She is excited about its origin and species, I can’t help but to consider its possible venom.

[5] A “skink” is a salamander looking animal with a bright blue underside. Easily captured.

10:37am

I lazily walk down to the car after realizing I forgot my toothbrush. On my way back, I am greeted by Mazey [6] and Zoey . . . but they do not seem as they were the night before. They seem to not recognize me, and bark in a way that suggests I should climb a tree.

I am slightly startled, but did not pay much attention because, well, dogs are dogs…and I have dental hygiene to tend to. Then, out of nowhere, Mazey slams her sharp canine teeth into my calf! I fall HARD to the ground and we wrestle in the brush. Her rabid jaws snapping in front of my face I manage to hold her off by her shoulders. I can feel her hot and murderous breath on my skin, and quickly rely on my Navajo dogspeak to calm her down. . .whew, close call.

[6] Mazey. Beware.

I scold her in profanities as she runs away.

11:05am

We enjoy a Western Omelet that Cathy has been preparing for 12 hours overnight. Another great morning in Hidden Cove. Unfortunately John and Cathy have to leave soon, Lauren and I run to the general store for Red Bull.

003

11:47am

As also seems to be the ritual, turtles are found moments before one’s departure from Hidden Cove. Mrs. Moore finds a turtle by Cathy’s Landing, and he is one of the bravest we have seen yet. Not once did he retract to his shell, rather was just as curious about us as we were about him. His is tagged 003, and released. Good luck sir.

The Last Boat Ride of 2010

1:33pm

We decide after a cold brew in the gazebo that it is best to take one last boat ride before the weather breaks. This is what it is all about.

We join the hundreds of other Nolin Lake populous swimming, boating, and tubing. Samson and Quincy play this new game where they fetch Frisbees. A perfect end to a perfect trip.

Departure

It is a memorable weekend and one I am honored to be invited to. This place is special, even so, is only in its adolescent stages. I look forward to more time in Hidden Cove, and contributing to its future.

---

Kara and Scott Head South!

What an amazing Weekend in Hidden Cove with the Moores!

We planned on setting out early Friday morning, however we had a bit of a rough start to say the least! After we packed the car with our pillows, luggage, and plenty of snacks and wine- we set off at noon. Scott was our designated driver, Lauren graciously rode in the backseat with Bosco, and we were off!

To help break-up the long drive to Hidden Cove, we stopped at Smith Berry Winery to sample some of their delicious wines. The wines were yummy, and the the winery was beautiful. We each purchased a few bottles before we set off for the remainder of the drive.

We reached our destination around 6:00. After unlocking the property gates, we quickly began setting up the camper and pop-up, before taking a tour of the property. Scott, having never been to Hidden Cove before- was instantly in heaven!

Set-up went quickly with everyone helping. We hopped on the golf cart, with Lauren as our guide sitting in the back. Lauren directed Scott through the many paths of the property, as well as through the streets up to The Summit and "our" property. Bosco seemed to really enjoy the breezy ride!

Just as dusk was coming- Jack, Lei, Sampson and Quincy arrived at Hidden Cove! Dinner was started. Lei made a delicious meal of steak and rice, and I contributed some gooey brownies which hit the spot! Due to the extreme heat, we enjoyed our dinner in the pop-up before heading to Mojo Lounge for some wine and laughs!

We woke up feeling well rested. At some point during the previous night, Lauren's cousins Chris and Nick arrived with several friends. Lauren was a wonderful host and cooked us a breakfast of bacon and eggs while Scott and I met everyone.

After breakfast, I decided to hopefully earn some of the much talked about platinum points by helping Lauren stain the sign posts that would be placed later in the weekend.

Everyone was hot, and we decided that it was time to hit the water! Jack gave Scott his first lesson in riding the jetski. Despite the numerous stories of the difficulties in riding these, Scott was optimistic. He quickly learned it was not as easy as it seemed!

After getting the hang of it, we set off for a ride. Scott was impressed by my skills :)

Next came a relaxing boat ride around the lake. Everyone including the doggies put on their vests. Lauren pampered Bosco- who is afraid of water- during the ride!

We stopped at Jump rock to do some swimming.

Just as we arrived back at the dock, the weather changed and it began to pour. While Lei cooked another delicious dinner, Lauren and I set up a happy hour in the Gazebo. Everyone enjoyed a HUGE selection of cheese and crackers, followed by a chicken dinner. The night ended with an intense game of flip cup.

Sunday was another busy day! We awoke to a breakfast of waffles, cinnamon rolls, and sausage. Next Lauren, Scott, and I set off to explore the nearby caves.

The day ended with Scott and Jack placing the path signs. Lauren, Lei and I supervised- providing lots of helpful advice :)

After a quick shower and pack-up, we started our journey back to Columbus. Thanks for showing us a great time during our weekend away! We are looking forward to returning very soon!

Wild Weekend with Mike and Melanie

Alot going on this weekend, we are purchasing another lot for Hidden Cove and then spend some fun time with Mike and Melanie Bobson.

We both ran into heavy traffic but finally got in around 10ish Friday night. After unpacking the cars, and stocking up the fridge, we all headed down to Mojo's lounge and just enjoyed the rest of the evening and started making plans for Saturday.

After tending to annoying dogs in the morning, Jack took the boys to the Falls.

The boys had to get wet and Jack & Lei looked for turtles, but alas none could be seen by the naked eye. We needed Zoey and Mazey -THE TURTLE HUNTERS!

After our morning stroll, it's off to the courthouse to finalize the deal. We are purchasing the lot that is next to the road. We are halfway to abandoning the road and putting up a gate at the top!

YEA!

We arrive at the courthouse and meet up with the sellers.

The deed is done!

Mike and Melanie are very pleased with our new acquisition.

Mike then prepares a magnificent breakfast to celebrate.

Then we're off....... Forever Moore, here we come!

We take a nice leisurely cruise to Wax on the other side of the lake.

The dogs are ready, unfortunately, Jack is not.

Melanie and her doggie nephews (Quincy and Samson) are totally enjoying the water!

Time to head back, and Captain Mike is taking control.

Jack is enjoying the role of passenger.

Mike & Melanie head off on the gator to take in all that Hidden Cove offers.

Now it's time to enjoy some steaks and drinks and wind down for the evening.

Mike takes charge and dinner is almost ready.

We all head down to Mojo Lounge to chill.

The perfect ending to a perfect day.

A great day, great company, and great beverages!

Sunday morning, Jack & Mike take out the defective kill switch from the waveblaster jet ski.

Jack is earning platinum points, while closing up Hidden Cove.

Until the next time... Can't wait!