New Life at Hill House

My name is David Raphael Smith, and beginning last week I became the third proprietor of Hill House. I've had three previous careers, as a commercial real estate appraiser, a journalist, and restaurant waiter. Thank heavens my assistant innkeepers Matthew Williamson and Crystal Barnwell are here to tell me what to do.

I have no big changes planned for Hill House. It's been so lovingly cared for during the past eight years by Terry and Bill Erickson that there's no need for anything dramatically new. I'm sure as I get my feet wet, I'll start tinkering around the edges here and there. But I feel very fortunate to have come across the opportunity that Terry and Bill have developed.

The Ericksons first grandchild arrived last year in northern California, where they and their daughter lived together for many years. They're moving back out West, to Prescott, Arizona, near where Terry's parents and a number of brothers and sisters live, and where they'll be able to savor some well-deserved free time. Bailey and Maisie tell me that everyone is looking forward to the southwestern climate, but that they're going to miss all the attention that Hill House guests give them.

Hope to see some of you readers soon.

A Message from Terry and Bill:
The past 8 1/2 years at Hill House have been incredible, and it has been an honor to have you as guests and friends. While we are excited about our new adventure, it is bittersweet to leave the Inn and the Asheville area. It has filled us with a lifetime of memories.

Our granddaughter, Katelyn, will be 1-year old next month and we are looking forward to being a bigger part of her life. Of course Bailey and Maisie will take good care of us, and are anxious to get settled in their new home.

We will miss seeing each of you, but hope you return to Hill House soon to start new memories with David and his staff. Come and enjoy their delicious new breakfast entrees and afternoon snacks! Hill House will always be a special place, and we thank you for filling the Inn with warmth, laughter and hugs.