Mountain Laurel Inn, formerly known as Blossom Hill Bed and Breakfast, was purchased by Sarah Wilcox in October of 1996. Having camped and worked at Camp DeSoto in Mentone for over 20 years, Sarah enjoys and appreciates the area and its residents. The name change reflects the abundance and beauty of the Mountain Laurel on the bluff. Together with her dog, Baxter, the two take special care to make your stay at the inn memorable.

Enjoy below an excerpt from Baxter's Beef in the latest newsletter...

Dear Guests...

This newsletter is written with a heavy heart. On December 31, 1996, the best addition to Mountain Laurel Inn occurred when Baxter, formerly known as Nitro, showed up on my doorstep to become my new best friend. Four other homes had not wanted him and at two years old he reached heaven here with me and all of you. Baxter took on his role as guest ambassador with lots of enthusiasm, twirls and licks. As you know, he loved when guests arrived and he could show them around. He did his job well chasing tennis balls and entertaining guests. Our favorite times together were taking long walks.

We took our last long walk together ten days before he passed away on June 2, 2005. He loved nothing more than to run a little ahead and then look back to see if I was coming. We had a wonderful 8 1/2 years together. We even celebrated his 11th birthday in March.

Baxter knew how to live life to the fullest. In February, when we discovered cancer in his lymph nodes, he did not let it get him down. As soon as the medication made him feel better, he made weekly treks to the falls to show the disease that it was not going to get him. He was brave and full of life to the end. His presence will always be felt here. Thanks to all of you who have written notes or called.

It is hard to lose a constant companion and best friend. Baxter and I tried to get a companion here before he said goodbye. I am looking for another Golden Retriever. He will not replace Baxter but he will come to give everyone who visits Mountain Laurel some love and joy. Thanks for loving Baxter too.

Sincerely,

Sarah

P.S.

The first part of this note was written in June. It has taken me many months to go back and read again about losing my best friend. Some of you know, however, that I do have a new golden. Lickety Split joined me at Mountain Laurel Inn in July. She stayed true to her name and ran off nine days after she arrived because she was spooked by her reflection in the sliding glass door. She did return home and has been right by my side ever since. Lickety Split is two years old and she came from a program in Alpharetta, GA outside of Atlanta. Canine Assistants raises and trains dogs to help with wheel chair bound individuals and stroke victims. Don’t let her know, but Lickety didn’t quite make the grade. You will know why when you meet her. She is a definite “Happy Head”. She will be so excited when you arrive. Come and meet her soon. She has cooked up some fresh dog bones to take back to your buddies at home.