Sunday, December 6, 2009
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Vermont, Web Farm, Chocolate, and bad roads
First our trip from Maine to Vermont (rt 89 through NH) was fabulous. Leaves had barely started to turn on the coast but they were fantastic in NH and VT.
Our main purpose in going to Vermont was to get chocolate but there was a flier...... Not far from the campground on the way to better things was one of our strangest stops ever. We drove up to the very small parking area and saw spider crossing signs. After parking at the Spider Web Farm we also saw spiders at work signs. We entered the small shop and there were very nice plaques with spider webs. The designs are really nice. There were also a number of nice wooden items. The owner's grandfather had worked on the Erie Canal and he talked with Bob a bit while I looked around. There was another customer in the shop and she had control of the conversation, by volume level. She was from Sweden (her children were all born here) and she told us what was wrong with America. It was an 'interesting' experience.
Next on my long list was chocolate. I have purchased (online) my chocolate from Green River Chocolates for years. I knew they were on Route 2 in Middlesex. It seemed to make sense to try and find the place and save the shipping fees. Bob found the phone number on his Blackberry! So we found the place- actually three places in one- A fiber products store, a bakery, and a chocolate/granola store. (No where did it say Green River Chocolates so I never would have found it). The woman working explained that Alan, who owned Green River, had gotten sick -cancer, now better; had made the chocolate for her granola. He sold Green River Chocolates to her. So we were able to get the chocolate and she remembered sending it to me in the past. Now she keeps up two websites Nutty Steph's and Green River. Her shop is called Nutty Steph's ; the name fits her. (This may become an annual trip).
I wanted to go to some of the factory stores. We did make it to the Cabot Cheese Store. What a zoo- it was packed! We got what we wanted and left, and no dents. When we got to Ben and Jerry's and there was a policeman directing traffic we passed on stopping.
Next was a brewpub. Found it. Parked. It was 2:00 and they opened at 3:00!
So everything else on my list was free (except for gas, etc).(The entire route of my list made a big circle back to the campground) . The map (and list of area attractions from the campground) showed some covered bridges and a floating bridge. We found the covered bridges- and we could drive over them. The countryside was very nice. We followed the map looking for the floating bridge. I thought a state route meant it would be a decent road (boy was I wrong). We finally found it and it was closed but it was a sight to see. Scroll down on this link to see pictures; http://www.roadsideamerica.com/tip/1375. It looked about the same but there were large cement barriers at either end. The sign said this is the 7th bridge.
The GPS took us on a twisty, turny route back to the campground in less than 10 minutes.
It was quite a day- I forgot - we drove through parts of Montpelier and saw the capital and some of the bicycle sculptures.
It was a very busy day.
Our main purpose in going to Vermont was to get chocolate but there was a flier...... Not far from the campground on the way to better things was one of our strangest stops ever. We drove up to the very small parking area and saw spider crossing signs. After parking at the Spider Web Farm we also saw spiders at work signs. We entered the small shop and there were very nice plaques with spider webs. The designs are really nice. There were also a number of nice wooden items. The owner's grandfather had worked on the Erie Canal and he talked with Bob a bit while I looked around. There was another customer in the shop and she had control of the conversation, by volume level. She was from Sweden (her children were all born here) and she told us what was wrong with America. It was an 'interesting' experience.
Next on my long list was chocolate. I have purchased (online) my chocolate from Green River Chocolates for years. I knew they were on Route 2 in Middlesex. It seemed to make sense to try and find the place and save the shipping fees. Bob found the phone number on his Blackberry! So we found the place- actually three places in one- A fiber products store, a bakery, and a chocolate/granola store. (No where did it say Green River Chocolates so I never would have found it). The woman working explained that Alan, who owned Green River, had gotten sick -cancer, now better; had made the chocolate for her granola. He sold Green River Chocolates to her. So we were able to get the chocolate and she remembered sending it to me in the past. Now she keeps up two websites Nutty Steph's and Green River. Her shop is called Nutty Steph's ; the name fits her. (This may become an annual trip).
I wanted to go to some of the factory stores. We did make it to the Cabot Cheese Store. What a zoo- it was packed! We got what we wanted and left, and no dents. When we got to Ben and Jerry's and there was a policeman directing traffic we passed on stopping.
Next was a brewpub. Found it. Parked. It was 2:00 and they opened at 3:00!
So everything else on my list was free (except for gas, etc).(The entire route of my list made a big circle back to the campground) . The map (and list of area attractions from the campground) showed some covered bridges and a floating bridge. We found the covered bridges- and we could drive over them. The countryside was very nice. We followed the map looking for the floating bridge. I thought a state route meant it would be a decent road (boy was I wrong). We finally found it and it was closed but it was a sight to see. Scroll down on this link to see pictures; http://www.roadsideamerica.com/tip/1375. It looked about the same but there were large cement barriers at either end. The sign said this is the 7th bridge.
The GPS took us on a twisty, turny route back to the campground in less than 10 minutes.
It was quite a day- I forgot - we drove through parts of Montpelier and saw the capital and some of the bicycle sculptures.
It was a very busy day.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Lighthouses and a Train Ride
The directions seemed easy enough .....
Somehow, we're not sure how it happened, but we saw the Goat Island Lighthouse. While we were there we also watched a fisherman unload his lobster haul. We also talked with some other people from NY, the first used to live in Buffalo and the other couple was from Canton.
We then followed the directions to the Wood Island Lighthouse. Just seeing the coastline is worth the trip- both fantastic views.
Then we went to Portland and the Narrow Gauge Railroad. We just missed the 3:00 trip so had lots of time to look around the museum. The ride went along the Eastern Prom Park. We could see the two river lighthouses, Bug Light and Spring Point Light. We also had a view of the sailboat class and some much larger sailboats. The tracks are only two feet apart and the seats are one on either side of the train- it was fun.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Wednesday- Rain and more
Another good day! We went back to New Hampshire to do some shopping. (Seemed like the best way to spend a rainy day) We did things backwards today - we went to the brewery before the lighthouses. We went to the Portsmouth brewery and had an excellent lunch with beverages. We walked around downtown a little- It's nice to see how the old buildings are being revitalized and I think the brick walkways and roads remind you of the past. Then we headed for New Castle and the Fort Constitution Historic site. More old houses that have been restored and or maintained- big and small, brick and lumber- a really nice drive. From the Coast Guard site we could see the Portsmouth Harbor Light. The sun came out and so we put the car top down while we could. We then headed back to go to Kittery, Maine. We had to wait for the draw bridge before crossing the bridge that was in memory of those that served in The World War. In Kittery we headed for Fort Foster, the best place for viewing Whaleback Light. Lots more beautiful old houses with ocean front views. Fort Foster was closed but there were several people walking under the barrier and up the road. It was a nice walk except for the acorns that kept bombing Bob. There were fantastic views of three lighthouses- Whaleback Light, Portsmouth Harbor Lightsaving Station, and the White Island Lighthouse. We could also see the storms coming so we headed back to the car. We made it before it poured again.
After returning to the campground we had to do more shopping (lightbulbs for the bathroom).
While at the hardware store we also purchased a wooden clothes dryer. That item of course did not fit in the trunk or the front. Fortunately the rain had stopped so we could put the top down and take our purchases home.
Seeing the Cape Neddick light from a distance wasn't good enough so we took a drive up to see it late this afternoon. No wonder it's the most often photographed light!
After dinner we took a walk over to the beach and we watched both lighthouses. We also saw a super bright shooting star!
Tomorrow is supposed to be a good day for sightseeing.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Change in Plans
We're in York Harbor, Maine at the Camp Eaton campground. The ocean is across the street (a two minute walk from the campsite). From there we can see two lighthouses: the Boon Island Light and the Cape Neddick (Nubble) light!
We may try New Hampshire another time. Traffic and construction discouraged us when there was another option within 30 minutes.
Tomorrow we'll explore (I got lots of fliers at the rest area- tourist info;)).
Gloucester 2,The Beach, Lighthouses and more
We started with a beautiful drive along the Eastern coast of Ipswich Bay- great houses and a fantastic rocky coastline.
We first stopped at Halibut Point State Park. After a walk through the woods we arrived at the quarry. Beginning in the 1840s, granite was quarried from this area, first on a small scale and primarily along the coast, and then on a much larger scale when the Rockport Granite Company acquired the Babson Farm quarry and expan
ded its operation. Shortly after the Cape Ann granite industry collapsed in 1929, 17 acres on the eastern side of the quarry were purchased and given to the Trustees of Reservations. The remainder of the area sat unused until late in World War II when a fire control tower (now the park's Visitors Center) was constructed to provide aiming information for the massive coastal defense guns that guarded Boston and Portsmouth Harbors. (from the website http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/northeast/halb.htm)There were lots of signs NO SWIMMING in the quarry- we could see why it looked s
o tempting in the summer.We continued on the path to the ocean overlook- fantastic! It was clear and we could see all the way to Maine along the coast. We also saw some fishing boats and lots of lobster lines.
After enjoying the view we continued along the coast to the Paper House. The house was started in 1922 . It has a traditional wood
frame and roof. The papers were covered with varnish and have survived but are very brittle. The walls are 215 thicknesses. The curtains are folded papers. It was interesting.We then found a parking place and walked around Rockport. We checked out several shops and a couple parks. We enjoyed all the old buildings. It’s an interesting to place to walk around. The Artist Open Studio tour is next weekend.
Bob then drove an some of Massachusett’s worst roads to find lighthouses. We saw the Thatcher Island Twin Lighthouses, and after driving all over, we didn’t go down the private road to see the Eastern Point lighthouse.
Then finally we made it to the Cape Ann brewery.
Tomorrow we head for New Hampshire.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Gloucester part 1
We made it to the Cape Ann Campground without a problem. We have a beautiful view of the bay and salt marshes of the Annisquam River. We were watching a sailboat when we first got here.
The lady who checked us in gave us a map and general directions. She also had a flier about all the local lighthouses. She said to come back if we need more directions.
We went to the end of the road the campground is on to the Wingaersheek Beach. From there we saw part of the Ipswich Bay, some huge house and the Annisquam Lighthouse.
We then went into Gloucester. We drove around a little bit, parked and tried to go to the Cape Ann Brewery but it was closed. We then walked around a bit and went to one of the fish stores on the bay to got lobsters for dinner. The man working was hoping to sell everything so he could go home and watch the Patriots game.
We then drove around a little more and again parked and walked around some more. We saw the famous Fisherman Statue, the Fishermans Wives statue, and we drove by the Joan of Arc and Fitz Henry Lane statues. From the park by the Fisherman's statue we could see the Ten Pound Island Lighthouse.
Tomorrow, hopefully, we will see the rest of the area lighthouses.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Leaf Peeping
We're off on our fall leaf peeping trip.
So far so good.
We stopped at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Mass. We joined 3 bus loads of people older than us.
It was interesting - the guide pointed out things about several paintings- things to look for as we looked at the other pictures. His pictures were in several magazines, most notably The Saturday Evening Post . Mr. Rockwell felt a picture had to be framed to be finished. The magazine would remove the frame and make the copies etc and then throw the picture in a pile, so, the guide explained, Mr. Rockwell would pick them up the next week when dropping off the new picture.
He used family members and local people as models for his pictures. The guide told us about one picture where a young boy on a train is trying to figure out how much he should leave for a tip. His son Peter was the model and he told how hot it was that day and the suit was scratchy etc. He said his father finally told him if he'd sit still for an hour he'd take him to FAO Swartz and buy him anything he wanted (he got a train set). Bob's cousin had been a model for 2 of the magazine covers, the window washer and the University Club, both were Saturday Evening Post covers in the 1960's.
Today Tim, Ann Marie, Bob and I went to Fruitlands. Tim and Ann Marie had been there for some functions but only outside on the grounds.
There are 4 different buildings. As recommended we started at the Farmhouse. It was, briefly, the home of Bronson Alcott and his “consociate” family' ( he was the father of Louisa May Alcott). Then we went to the Shaker Museum, the Indian museum, and the Fine
Art Gallery. All were very interesting and more information is available at http://www.fruitlands.org/attractions.
It was a very good day.
So far so good.
We stopped at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Mass. We joined 3 bus loads of people older than us.
It was interesting - the guide pointed out things about several paintings- things to look for as we looked at the other pictures. His pictures were in several magazines, most notably The Saturday Evening Post . Mr. Rockwell felt a picture had to be framed to be finished. The magazine would remove the frame and make the copies etc and then throw the picture in a pile, so, the guide explained, Mr. Rockwell would pick them up the next week when dropping off the new picture.
He used family members and local people as models for his pictures. The guide told us about one picture where a young boy on a train is trying to figure out how much he should leave for a tip. His son Peter was the model and he told how hot it was that day and the suit was scratchy etc. He said his father finally told him if he'd sit still for an hour he'd take him to FAO Swartz and buy him anything he wanted (he got a train set). Bob's cousin had been a model for 2 of the magazine covers, the window washer and the University Club, both were Saturday Evening Post covers in the 1960's.
Today Tim, Ann Marie, Bob and I went to Fruitlands. Tim and Ann Marie had been there for some functions but only outside on the grounds.
There are 4 different buildings. As recommended we started at the Farmhouse. It was, briefly, the home of Bronson Alcott and his “consociate” family' ( he was the father of Louisa May Alcott). Then we went to the Shaker Museum, the Indian museum, and the Fine
Art Gallery. All were very interesting and more information is available at http://www.fruitlands.org/attractions.It was a very good day.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Grandchildren
We spent the Labor Day Weekend (plus a few extra days) camping on Anna and Dave's land.
We were able to see all three of our grandchildren everyday! It was great.
Both our grandsons are so nice to snuggle.
Lucy loves to help. Here she is vacuuming the camper.
Both our children our great parents and we're very proud of them.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Coles Creek
We had a great 6 days camping at Coles Creek State Park in Waddington,NY.
We went on a couple of day trips.
The first trip was to learn more about the St. Lawrence Seaway. We went to the shipping locks at the Eisenhower Locks- there were no ships that day. We also could not get as close as we had in the past. There was a video from the history channel about building the locks amd shipping channels- no wonder they are hesitant to enlarge them for the bigger ships of today.
We also made our first trip to Canada since needing passports. We went to Brockville, Ontario. It has a very nice waterfront and historic area. Brockville is across fr
om Morristown so I've loked through the binoculars for years but this was the first visit.
We had to end our camping trip a day early but we were very excited to meet our newest grandson- Noah Nicholas.
We went on a couple of day trips.
The first trip was to learn more about the St. Lawrence Seaway. We went to the shipping locks at the Eisenhower Locks- there were no ships that day. We also could not get as close as we had in the past. There was a video from the history channel about building the locks amd shipping channels- no wonder they are hesitant to enlarge them for the bigger ships of today.
We also made our first trip to Canada since needing passports. We went to Brockville, Ontario. It has a very nice waterfront and historic area. Brockville is across fr
om Morristown so I've loked through the binoculars for years but this was the first visit.We had to end our camping trip a day early but we were very excited to meet our newest grandson- Noah Nicholas.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Home
OK- It was my fault.
We were on 81, everything was fine, we were almost to Wilkes Barre,PA (where you get on the PA Turnpike to bypass Scranton) and I started thinking - just thinking, nothing outloud- about how I could say on here that construction on the northbound lane of 81 wasn't bad- when all of a sudden both lanes of traffic stopped! It took almost 15 minutes to go just over 3 miles to our exit! Then when we got off the Turnpike we again hit construction. We then joined the rest of the travelers at the rest area to share stories as we waited in line at the rest rooms (Bob even had to wait!!)
Those stops do give us a chance to talk to other people- the lady behind me had on a cute t-shirt "Lord, please keep your arm around my shoulder and your hand over my mouth" - she was going to visit her mother-in-law!
We're home safely and know that there are lots of people who will be employed for a couple of years on all the road construction.
We were on 81, everything was fine, we were almost to Wilkes Barre,PA (where you get on the PA Turnpike to bypass Scranton) and I started thinking - just thinking, nothing outloud- about how I could say on here that construction on the northbound lane of 81 wasn't bad- when all of a sudden both lanes of traffic stopped! It took almost 15 minutes to go just over 3 miles to our exit! Then when we got off the Turnpike we again hit construction. We then joined the rest of the travelers at the rest area to share stories as we waited in line at the rest rooms (Bob even had to wait!!)
Those stops do give us a chance to talk to other people- the lady behind me had on a cute t-shirt "Lord, please keep your arm around my shoulder and your hand over my mouth" - she was going to visit her mother-in-law!
We're home safely and know that there are lots of people who will be employed for a couple of years on all the road construction.
Friday, July 17, 2009
The ride home
We left the wonderful Interstate Route 95 at Fredericksburg, VA.
We made it to Hagerstown, Md. before stopping for the night.
Tomorrow we'll see what rt. 81 thru Pennsylvania has in store for us.
We made it to Hagerstown, Md. before stopping for the night.
Tomorrow we'll see what rt. 81 thru Pennsylvania has in store for us.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Ocean Breezes
We've spent a quiet day reading by the ocean. (And plan to do the same tomorrow)
Bob made a great shrimp and scallop dinner.
On our walk to the beach tonight we met two girls (and their fathers). The girls told us about a turtle nest where they think the turtles might hatch tonight. We continued down and saw - way down the beach- where it looked like lots of people and red lights (as advised so the bright white lights don't confuse the turtles). We watched the stars - it looked like they drop right into the ocean. We also watched a helicopter checking out the boats that were a ways offshore.
Now I'm trying to stay up long enough to see the Late Show tonight!
Bob made a great shrimp and scallop dinner.
On our walk to the beach tonight we met two girls (and their fathers). The girls told us about a turtle nest where they think the turtles might hatch tonight. We continued down and saw - way down the beach- where it looked like lots of people and red lights (as advised so the bright white lights don't confuse the turtles). We watched the stars - it looked like they drop right into the ocean. We also watched a helicopter checking out the boats that were a ways offshore.
Now I'm trying to stay up long enough to see the Late Show tonight!
Cape Lookout Cruise
We had a wonderful day.
We left Beaufort, NC about noon on the Lookout catamaran.
On the way,we went by Fort Macon and then traveled the length of Schackleford banks. We anchored at the very end of Cape Lookout called Power Squadron Spit. There we had a very nice lunch, swam, and looked for shells (Bob found a really nice whole welk shell for me). We were also able to see some horses on Schackleford Banks. After everyone reboarded we went through the area called Lookout bight- where the ocean and sound met- to get to the Lighthouse. The Cape Lookout lighthouse is not currently open for climbing. We had about 40 minutes
to walk around, see the keepers house, and the listen to the volunteers, etc.It was a very nice cruise back to Beaufort and the sail kept us mostly in the shade.
There are several cruises available at the waterfront. The crew on Lookout were extremely nice, they made sure everyone was kept hydrated (water, soda, lemonade), there were snacks as well as the lunch. All kids who wanted to got to steer the boat. We'd recommend Lookout cruises.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Storms
Thunderstorms delayed our cruise to Lookout Lighthouse
until tomorrow (fingers are crossed).
A little more info about the area:
The Crystal Coast is much calmer than the Outer Banks. Traffic is much lighter and life seems calmer. There are a lot fewer stores and restaurants.
We drove to the Northern end of the Island the other day- to Fort Macon. The Fort seemed similar to Fort Ontario.
We started up the boardwalk at the very end of the island but had to turn around because there was going to be a wedding. Pretty area and that day was very calm.
Yesterday we drove down to the other end of the island (it was less than a 30 minute drive) Most of the way there wasn't enough room for a road parallel to the main road- just houses and hotels on the main road or short roads off rt 58. Emerald Isle is at the southern end of the island and is larger, has roads in all directions and a bridge to the mainland. We didn't explore Emerald Isl
e (looks bigger than Atlantic Beach -Northern end of the Island- where we are) that trip- we had seafood to take back and cook.
The resort is very nice and has lots of little sitting areas- some with playgrounds, and most have water features.
Our unit overlooks the indoor pool- glass walls around the pools; and we can see a very small square of ocean between the houses. (It's a five minute walk to the beach).
We're enjoying the beach and the calm ( I've finished 4 books already ;)).
until tomorrow (fingers are crossed).
A little more info about the area:
The Crystal Coast is much calmer than the Outer Banks. Traffic is much lighter and life seems calmer. There are a lot fewer stores and restaurants.
We drove to the Northern end of the Island the other day- to Fort Macon. The Fort seemed similar to Fort Ontario.
We started up the boardwalk at the very end of the island but had to turn around because there was going to be a wedding. Pretty area and that day was very calm.
Yesterday we drove down to the other end of the island (it was less than a 30 minute drive) Most of the way there wasn't enough room for a road parallel to the main road- just houses and hotels on the main road or short roads off rt 58. Emerald Isle is at the southern end of the island and is larger, has roads in all directions and a bridge to the mainland. We didn't explore Emerald Isl
e (looks bigger than Atlantic Beach -Northern end of the Island- where we are) that trip- we had seafood to take back and cook.The resort is very nice and has lots of little sitting areas- some with playgrounds, and most have water features.
Our unit overlooks the indoor pool- glass walls around the pools; and we can see a very small square of ocean between the houses. (It's a five minute walk to the beach).
We're enjoying the beach and the calm ( I've finished 4 books already ;)).
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Boat trip
Well, Kathy has made reservations for a six hour trip for tomorrow (Monday). We leave around noon, have lunch on board, do some snorkeling and sight seeing. I'll let her tell you more.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Exploring today
Well, Kathy has me off exploring the local area today. We need to find the grocery store etc. and she wants to find out about the boat trips to Lookout National Seashore as well as Lookout lighthouse (naturally right?). The condo is really nice - big and roomy. I plan on going down to the beach later with a book and my iPod to just vegetate, being retired is hard work and I need to relax a little!!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Going to the Crystal Coast
We are on our way to Atlantic Beach, NC. The area is known as the Crystal Coast, don't know why but we will find out. This is the first post I've made in a while, usually Kathy does this, and it is the first post sans RV. We are driving the Saturn to NC and will be staying in the condo instead of the RV this time. Made a stop and spent the night in Fredericksburg, VA last night. The traffic was not bad until we got on Rt. 95. Many spots we were only doing 15mph when we were lucky. The GPS was excellent though. It did take us around some of the traffic problems and we got to see many new sights and travel lots of new roads! Construction on RT. 81 through NY wasn't as bad as usual this time. The GPS sent us down the PA turnpike instead of 81 because of the delays and construction through PA though. We will post more entries and pictures from the Crystal Coast as long as we have internet access (not sure of that yet but I will find access somewhere).
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Camping with Grandchildren & High School Graduations
We met Anna and Dave and the kids at Higley Flow campground. It's in South Colton on the Raquette River.
Lucy spent the night with Grandma and BobBob the 1st two nights there. The second night we made up a special bed for Lucy in the camper.
Both nights went well. I think we can handle an occasional sleepover.We didn't do a lot but Lucy helped Grandma with all her chores. We swept the camper stairs and she helped me wash dishes as well. Then at naptime Lucy fell asleep with her book over her face just like Grand
ma often does.And Freddy has changed so much- he laughs and coos and talks to us now. He's such a happy baby!
My sister and brother both had daughters graduating this year. One was Saturday night and the next one Sunday morning and it was a little over a 2 hour drive between location
s. The girls looked beautiful (and grown up!). We're very proud of both Krissy and Dani.Not only my siblings but my cousins also attended the party for the graduates. It was great to see everyone.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Ride Home
There was a line of rain, thunderstorms, etc headed our way. So that and the fact that Anna and Dave aren't home, we decided to try a different way home. We took Rt. 68 across to Rt 81. We went from WV, to Maryland to WV to Md. It was a beautiful drive across the mountains. Most trees had leaves then we were high enough -Keyer Ridge (2880 elevation and the RV handled it much better than the trucks we passed - many were barely going 5 mph) that only a few trees had buds. The many shades of green and areas with lots of red buds made the trip very pleasant. The nice weather and colors continued until about Cortland.
Mid 80's and sun to rain and much cooler temps- It's still good to be home.
Mid 80's and sun to rain and much cooler temps- It's still good to be home.
Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum(TALA)
The Weston State Mental Hospital is an awesome place. It is the largest hand cut stone building in North America. The building is huge and then there are also additional buildings. Tours are offered daily. There are also various kinds of ghost tours. Much as I enjoy ghost tours (I've learned lots of history that way) I had no desire for this one.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Glass Fest part 2
The demonstrations today were all outside. There was a glass blower doing some beautiful work- he was making a small pitcher and then we saw him make a vase. There was a lady etching glass. The young man who was making the glass pendants was still there. He was making the stopper for a perfume bottle he made earlier.
We talked with Mr. Turner and explained we had seen the information about the glass festival on the AAA site and we planned our trip around it- so that bit of advertising was worth it. We said we were really glad we had. He thanked us for coming and h
oped we were enjoying (obviously because both of us had items to purchase). We repeated our thanks for the festival as we paid (Mrs. Turner). She told us about some other festivals they’ll be at- a fall festival in October in Elkins- and some others. She, after asking us what we did, said they’re supposed to be retired but are helping their son get the business going. We watched outside a little more, bought the glass pendant we saw being made (and a couple other things). Definitely take time to stop if you’re traveling route 79 through WV.Then just because it was a nice day we went for a ride. We turned off the main road onto a paved two-lane road. There were school bus stops and some houses. The houses became less frequent and the road got narrower. It was a very
pretty drive but the only roads we came to were dir
t roads that went farther into the mountains. After about 30 minutes we ran out of power lines along the road about 10 minutes later we turned around and drove back. I’d still like to know where the road goes. I guess we need to buy some better maps.There’s a café in town that is supposed to have wifi- we’ll find out tomorrow.
Stonewall Jackson State Park
There was supposed to be a Ramp Festival. We found a chef making cornbread muffins with ramps. She gave everyone the recipe and a sample. We heard some stories about kids being sent home from school, or being made to sit in a small separate room. Then there was the lady who said they could only eat ramps on Friday so the odor was gone by Monday. The chef said ramps are stronger than garlic when someone asked her for a comparison. Maybe there was more ramp cooking later but there was no info so we checked out more of the state park.
West Virginia has several state parks that are resorts. This is one The hotel looked fabulous- on the lake with paddle boats and a tour boat, an outside pool with lots of lounge chairs. There was an Arnold Palmer golf course, very nice looking cabins you could rent, and a nice campground with most of the sites on the lake. We got camping info for a future stay.
Glass Fest
I was so busy watching and listening that I forgot to get my camera out.
We pulled into the parking lot at Appalachian Glass and Bob said the Sausage Wagon should be here. There were some venders set up – Fried dough, Funnel cakes, plants, etc. Everyone was just getting set up. We went inside where they were blowing glass. There was a circle of chairs and people sitting, standing and watching as one guy blew the glass and several others explained what he was doing- he 1st made a witches ball (when it was finished they made sure everyone watching could see the three glass threads inside- someone had said that was what he was doing during the process- it made since after seeing the treads), then a friendship ball, then a fancier ball with a long neck. Then other men took their turns (one broke). It was a very relaxed, friendly atmosphere. We did a little shopping and headed for the car. Outside, near the entrance to the glass blowing, another young man was set up so we went to see. He was making glass pendants. We were the only ones there so he explained what he was doing and then answered our questions about the material he was using. He was using a different material and different process and he explained the differences in the glass they were using to make hand blown objects and the glass he was using. He was trying some new colors and explained every step and showed us at different points how it was turning out. He explained that he was being very careful about the hanging loop because if it’s not perfect it won’t hang right around the neck. It was a very pretty pendant but he wanted more yellow (WV colors) so he told us how he’d try it next.
The festival is all weekend so we’ll go back probably Sunday.
A little information about Appalachian Glass (from ‘Two-Lane Travelers by Lisa and Frank Minney www.wvtravelers.com)
At one time there were more than 30 glass factories in this area now Appalachian Glass is the only one in Weston. It’s a family affair - Matt Turner and son Chip. Lewis County High School had a glass making class. Chip worked for several companies including Princess House Manufacturing . They started their company in 2001.
The witches ball and friendship ball are called Kugels- the friendship ball is a circle with no beginning and no end. It sparkles the way a good friend brings sparkles into your life. No two are the same just as no two friends are the same. The three threads inside the witches ball trap the bad or mischievious spirits inside the ball.
We pulled into the parking lot at Appalachian Glass and Bob said the Sausage Wagon should be here. There were some venders set up – Fried dough, Funnel cakes, plants, etc. Everyone was just getting set up. We went inside where they were blowing glass. There was a circle of chairs and people sitting, standing and watching as one guy blew the glass and several others explained what he was doing- he 1st made a witches ball (when it was finished they made sure everyone watching could see the three glass threads inside- someone had said that was what he was doing during the process- it made since after seeing the treads), then a friendship ball, then a fancier ball with a long neck. Then other men took their turns (one broke). It was a very relaxed, friendly atmosphere. We did a little shopping and headed for the car. Outside, near the entrance to the glass blowing, another young man was set up so we went to see. He was making glass pendants. We were the only ones there so he explained what he was doing and then answered our questions about the material he was using. He was using a different material and different process and he explained the differences in the glass they were using to make hand blown objects and the glass he was using. He was trying some new colors and explained every step and showed us at different points how it was turning out. He explained that he was being very careful about the hanging loop because if it’s not perfect it won’t hang right around the neck. It was a very pretty pendant but he wanted more yellow (WV colors) so he told us how he’d try it next.
The festival is all weekend so we’ll go back probably Sunday.
A little information about Appalachian Glass (from ‘Two-Lane Travelers by Lisa and Frank Minney www.wvtravelers.com)
At one time there were more than 30 glass factories in this area now Appalachian Glass is the only one in Weston. It’s a family affair - Matt Turner and son Chip. Lewis County High School had a glass making class. Chip worked for several companies including Princess House Manufacturing . They started their company in 2001.
The witches ball and friendship ball are called Kugels- the friendship ball is a circle with no beginning and no end. It sparkles the way a good friend brings sparkles into your life. No two are the same just as no two friends are the same. The three threads inside the witches ball trap the bad or mischievious spirits inside the ball.
Lessons Learned
Most Important- When driving the RV don’t always believe the GPS.
With all the rain the road out of Pegasus Campground was very uneven. It’s only an hour from Elkins to Weston. So we decided I’d drive the Miata. It was a beautiful drive on the Stauton- ------ Parkway. According to the GPS we were about 7 miles from the campground. I knew it was south of Weston so the directions seemed reasonable (a right, a left and a right). The road went from a narrow 2 lane to a 1 lane crushed stone with turns to a dirt road with more turns. You’ll have to hear Bob tell what ‘fun’ he had driving the camper. When we got to a ‘real road’ we called the campground for directions. We ended up about 2 miles away. Apparently we weren’t the only ones who’d gone that way because the woman who checked us in said she was thinking about putting a sign at that turn for the campground with better directions.
Second lesson- Always pack for 4 seasons of weather changes. In the mountains in Elkins we had rain, hail and snow (just in the air) and cold. The weekend is supposed to be in the 80’s- I packed for low to mid 70’s (as the forecast said). Sunshine will be nice.
Here is the view from the back of our campsite. It’s the sound of the waterfall and trees that make this site so pretty and peaceful. I even saw a couple of deer on the hill.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Ramps and Rain
Bob has a cold and his voice is scratchy. When we got here yesterday Mark (campground owner) told him he should have some ramps. This morning when we were getting ready to leave both Mark and his wife told Bob he needed a handful or so of raw ramps.
We went into Elkins to look around. We didn't walk around much in the pouring rain. We did find the train station/ tourist information/ gift shop. We learned that the trains operate around Mother's Day and then from the end of May til sometime in September/October with special holiday trips. (We will come back) We also learned (as we thought) that ramps are wild leeks. This Saturday is the Ramps and Rails festival (apparently there are many Ramp festivals). And I got lots of travel pamphlets :) We drove around a little more and found the Iron Horse Statue Park. (On the map I picked up) The park is the statue and some flowers- barely room for a park bench. The area is referenced often, it is a cool statue but no information about who/what it was. I finally found the linked info.
We did get some ramps on the way back; Bob had a few of them raw;and we cooked the rest with dinner. (Bob thinks there might be some back home)
The weather in this valley changes rapidly. We watched the clouds come in and then the sun would come out and it was beautiful. Then the clouds and rain would come back. There is a very old cemetery on the road in. I wanted to check it out today. There were a few clouds in the sky but a nice afternoon. As I got almost to the cemetery I heard some thunder. It wasn't repeated so I thought I'd have time to look around a little. As soon as I started looking at the very old stones the wind came up. I could see the rain coming so I started back. I didn't make it (not much more than a 5 minute walk) before the rain and hail hit. About an hour later it was clear and we talked about cooking outside. 30 minutes later it was raining again. By the time dinner was over it was clear and Bob started a fire. We sat out for a little while, waiting to see stars - we saw about 10 stars before the clouds came back in. (It hasn't rained again yet). I can't wait to see what tomorrow will be as we go exploring.
We went into Elkins to look around. We didn't walk around much in the pouring rain. We did find the train station/ tourist information/ gift shop. We learned that the trains operate around Mother's Day and then from the end of May til sometime in September/October with special holiday trips. (We will come back) We also learned (as we thought) that ramps are wild leeks. This Saturday is the Ramps and Rails festival (apparently there are many Ramp festivals). And I got lots of travel pamphlets :) We drove around a little more and found the Iron Horse Statue Park. (On the map I picked up) The park is the statue and some flowers- barely room for a park bench. The area is referenced often, it is a cool statue but no information about who/what it was. I finally found the linked info.
We did get some ramps on the way back; Bob had a few of them raw;and we cooked the rest with dinner. (Bob thinks there might be some back home)
The weather in this valley changes rapidly. We watched the clouds come in and then the sun would come out and it was beautiful. Then the clouds and rain would come back. There is a very old cemetery on the road in. I wanted to check it out today. There were a few clouds in the sky but a nice afternoon. As I got almost to the cemetery I heard some thunder. It wasn't repeated so I thought I'd have time to look around a little. As soon as I started looking at the very old stones the wind came up. I could see the rain coming so I started back. I didn't make it (not much more than a 5 minute walk) before the rain and hail hit. About an hour later it was clear and we talked about cooking outside. 30 minutes later it was raining again. By the time dinner was over it was clear and Bob started a fire. We sat out for a little while, waiting to see stars - we saw about 10 stars before the clouds came back in. (It hasn't rained again yet). I can't wait to see what tomorrow will be as we go exploring.
Pegasus Farm Campground
Monday's drive was a long one. The wind and rain made driving difficult (we saw one trailer tipped over on its side). The wind let up a bit when we got away from the lakes. There's more green as we got farther south - some of the bushes have leaves, lots of the trees have buds, and we saw redbud and flowering crab trees. There's even dandelions here at the campground. The campground is surrounded by mountains. As promised we can hear the tree frogs (and some bullfrogs) and the birds. Mark (the owner) called us around the time I said we'd arrive- we were at a gas station - he gave us directions and about 5 min. later called back and talked us through the turns and met us at the entrance and brought us down the long bumpy road to the campground. We drove by the barn on the way in and the horses came over to the fence to check us out. Mark made sure we were set and gave us some travel info. It seems like a really nice place.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Anna's Birthday Weekend
We had a great weekend!
We stayed about 5 minutes from Anna and Dave's and weren't in anyone's way (I think). We even had electricity!! Thank you Dave, you take such good care of us.
We spent Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with the grandchildren.
Saturday we even got to see Rick and Gina (and check their link to see the sonogram pictures of our 2nd grandson). Also on Saturday Aunt Karen drove all the way down to meet Freddy. She got to see everyone and paid for dinner for all of us- thank you!
And Sunday was Anna's birthday. We're still not parents of a 30 year old (That must mean we're not so old- right?)
It was a great weekend- thanks kids.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
The 'Shortcut'
We followed route 95 to Fredericksburg, Va. When we refused to follow the GPS directions to DC eventually the GPS said to take route 15 north. That was what I thought after looking at the map- we were headed for Harrisburg, PA- and that looked like the shortest way. Well it may be the shortest distance but....There were way too many traffic lights and it was just 2 way traffic until we got into Maryland. It was beautiful country to drive through (Bob's car would have been great). There were lots of horse farms and beautiful homes. We had been through the PA part before and knew it was a four lane road and we hoped the rest would be- oh well. I don't think I can talk Bob into the RV and that route ever again.
This campground is open all year but we weren't told until we asked (while getting set up) that there's no water. There's piles of snow but even the gravel is unbelievably muddy. So we'll bring home dirty dishes and muddy shoes. This makes us ready to be home.
This campground is open all year but we weren't told until we asked (while getting set up) that there's no water. There's piles of snow but even the gravel is unbelievably muddy. So we'll bring home dirty dishes and muddy shoes. This makes us ready to be home.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Traveling
We're on our way home. We're in Roanoke Rapids, NC at The RV Resort at Carolina Crossroads. This is a pretty new place and very nice. It's very open so we imagine it'll be rather warm in the summer. There are several gazebos, an open clubhouse, a playground area, and a dog walking area.
The sunrise this morning at the ocean was beautiful. Just before
the sun actually came up there was a red outline of about 5 clouds
on the horizon. I never saw anything like it- It was really neat.
No major traveling problems- it took a few tries to get the car hooked up right. I also rearranged some cupboards and when Bob pulled into the parking lot all the plates went flying. One chipped but we love Corelle Ware it held up beautifully (and is now back in the original cupboard). Today's driving was just on 95 so no direction problems :) We'll see how tomorrow goes.
We're going to sit outside a bit (probably our last chance for a while).
The sunrise this morning at the ocean was beautiful. Just before
the sun actually came up there was a red outline of about 5 clouds
on the horizon. I never saw anything like it- It was really neat.
No major traveling problems- it took a few tries to get the car hooked up right. I also rearranged some cupboards and when Bob pulled into the parking lot all the plates went flying. One chipped but we love Corelle Ware it held up beautifully (and is now back in the original cupboard). Today's driving was just on 95 so no direction problems :) We'll see how tomorrow goes.
We're going to sit outside a bit (probably our last chance for a while).
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