Introducing the book to you
Len at Lover’s Leap at Rock City
Most writers will tell you that once the book you’ve spent hours researching, days agonizing over the right words, countless emails tracking down sources and, well, years waiting for it to see the light of day, it’s like giving birth. I created this. From a blank page. Me.
She’s here, and she’s lovely. See Rock City Barns was published on March 3 by The History Press. Due to our busy schedule, it has taken a while for us to get on the road. However, when we do, we pack all the joy and excitement we can muster and let the book ride shotgun as we allow it to take centerstage in the world.
McMinn County Living Heritage Museum
Small crowds are always the fun crowds. Lots of questions and shared interest in the barns, visitors gathered at the museum to spend about 90 minutes learning about Rock City and the barn story. Thank you Charlene for the invitation. We look forward to seeing you again soon.
The Museum: The McMinn County Living Heritage Museum is a local museum located in Athens, Tennessee, dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the cultural and artistic heritage of McMinn County. It serves as both a historical repository and a community arts center, highlighting the region’s history, visual arts, and cultural traditions. They were even having an Italian class later that afternoon; we almost stayed to brush up on language skills but had miles to go.
When in Athens: Eat PIE (Pie Hound). Excellent pizza and great service. Local beer (YEE HAW) and conveniently located in a beautifully restored brick building in the downtown area.
Rock City & Chanticleer Inn
To Michelle, Jaime, Jaiden, Brent, Matt, Victoria, and to all the others that dropped by our little corner of the garden, thank you. There are no words to express our gratitude for your following and interest in our work. It makes the solitary days in front of the computer worthwhile is the most magical way. And shouldn’t it be magical? Afterall, we are in Rock City and Frieda knew there was something powerful among these rocks and flowers. We proved her right again, today. “Never underestimate the power of a woman and an idea.”
It was Mother’s Day and we watched hundreds of families walk in the door. Rock City is definitely a multigenerational destination. It proves much of what we learned during our research that these gardens are for families and generations. “Making memories worth repeating” drives the team at Rock City and we witnessed it in action.
ROCK CITY: Rock City Gardens in Lookout Mountain, Georgia: Rock City Gardens is a scenic attraction atop Lookout Mountain known for its massive ancient rock formations, winding garden paths, and panoramic views where visitors can “See Seven States” from Lover’s Leap. The gardens feature caves, waterfalls, bridges, and whimsical fairy-tale displays that blend natural beauty with family-friendly exploration.
Books are available on Amazon. For your signed copy, please order at seeingsouthern@gmail.com.

