Battery Park Book Exchange and Barley's

A few days ago, a group of us went into downtown Asheville, NC to celebrate our friend Tom's birthday. He's going on the World Race (11 month mission trip) in a couple of weeks so we were glad for a fun night with him.

The birthday boy!

Most of our evening was spent at the Battery Park Book Exchange. I had been once before, but didn't realize how awesome it was! This two story bookstore has thousands of books, a full-functioning coffee bar, and munchies and large selection of beer and wine as well.

Tom's parents met us there with a delicious homemade cake that his mom had prepared. Battery Park Book Exchange also gives a free bottle of champagne to customers on their birthday, and Tom was excited about that. I would have been too, if I didn't hate champagne :p

The Carl Sandburg 

We spent a long time talking, laughing, eating cake, drinking coffee and champagne, and looking through books. I thought the iced latte I got was wonderful. All the drinks are named after famous people, or animals. Not sure why, but its cute. I got the Carl Sandburg.



Later in the evening, I ordered an Earl Grey latte and that was fantastic! It was probably the best one I've ever had!

After we left Battery Park, we walked through the downtown area to a place called Barley's. I had never been, but Taylor had gone with a friend a few times. It was about a 15 minute walk. Asheville is a very diverse place and great for people watching. Within a 15 minute walk we managed to see hipsters, thugs, rednecks, drug addicts, homeless people, drunk people, "normal" people, people playing saxophones, people playing blue grass, and people selling art. And all of this can be seen no matter what time of the day you go! Interesting, huh?

My favorite part of the walk was the man on the street playing the saxophone. It was beautiful; I could have listened all night.

By the time we got there, I was ready to sit. Not because the walk was strenuous, but because it was so hot, even at 10 in the evening.

The hubby and I at Barley's :)

Barley's: a cute, country pub

Barley's was cute. I really liked their atmosphere and their prices were great. I wasn't a huge fan of the food, but everyone else loved it, so I guess I'm just weird.

The evening was wonderful and much needed. I love my friends and I wish I had more time to spend with them. I have the sweetest friends who love the Lord and I hope that all Christians come to be blessed in this way!