And Chris and Kristin — I had no idea what to expect of the Biltmore. To be honest, I didn’t think much about it before I went as my mind was completely on the driving school. But the house tour was a fantastic surprise. (It was at holiday time so it was also quite beautiful–though I could have done with less carolers as I went through the house.) Along with just the complete opulence and wonder of the place (the antiques! the, I think, 65 fireplaces!), there were lots of interesting innovations to see–including, if I’m remembering correctly, intercom systems and ways to protect different parts of the building with fire doors and all sorts of other things. And that library. Oh, that library.

Despite it being relatively close to me, I’ve never visited Biltmore. The price of admission was always just enough to keep me from stopping in. One of these days I’ll throw caution to the wind…