Amish life, pobrecito, and what a pig!
We woke up around 10:00 am and had breakfast at the hotel. We drove from Harrisburg to Lancaster, the town where the Pennsylvania Deutsch or Amish have a large community. We got a little lost because on occassion the GPS gets a little "confused" or "slow" and then everything gets messed up. We drove through historic Lancaster...it's very nice, very artsy!
One of the memorable stories or catch phrase of the trip stems from this: we were stopped at a light, there was a gentleman with a bag of grapes standing at the corner, waiting to cross. Suddenly all the grapes fall out of his bag. We felt so bad for him...I even wanted to give him some fruit we had with us. When I saw what happened I said, "Pobrecito" and genuinely felt bad for him. Almost simultaneously, he swipes up the grapes from the ground and sticks a handful in his mouth. "What a pig!!!" was the next comment I said. My family just found that so hilarious, that I said pobrecito, and 2 seconds later, called him a pig. He was a pig!!!!! He didn't even attempt to brush off the dirt from the grapes he picked up. In addition, he didn't just put one tiny grape in his mouth. He stuffed a whole handful in his mouth. I can't live that down...its almost as if I had been the pig. They can't stop laughing and repeating the story. (pobrecito means poor thing)
Although the kids have been fighting a lot on this trip, they are having a good time and we are having many memorable moments. Once we arrived in Lancaster, we went to Abe's Buggy Rides, Al bought the most expensive and longest tour available. It was $40 per adult and $24 for kids. It was a 5-mile tour with one stop. The tour itself was just ok. I thought it was pricey for what we got. Our tour guide/driver wasn't very forthcoming with information. We had to interrogate him and had to request to see things even though they were listed as part of the tour. Later, I saw another tour on a brochure that seemed better. The brochure states they stop at three non-commercial farms so you can see "true Amish life on a farm" and other interesting things. The lesson here is, we should have done more research before jumping on the first buggy tour we saw.
Even though we had to extract information from our driver, we had read enough to know what to expect so we asked him about it and he showed things we requested. That was good because we were still able to see things we were interested in seeing. He just didn't have the initiative to do it on his own. It's funny because on our way back we saw a group that had been waiting for a buggy with us, walking around on foot with no buggy nearby. Later, we learned that two of the family members had a severe allergic reaction to the horse and had to get off and walk. Our horse's name was Dolly. Our driver didn't tell us his name, but he told us he is a Mennonite. He told us about the differences in the two religions. The Mennonites aren't as strict as the Amish. After the tour we bought a book that explains the Amish religion.
After the buggy tour, we drove to Bird-in-Hand bakeshop. It was cute and I found the state magnets the kids want to collect. We even found a magnetic map to put them on, but they were out of them, I gave them my number so they can call me when it comes in. We bought 14 magnets for all the states we've been to already. We are still missing the states we have yet to see and the Canadian provinces. I didn't buy them ahead of time, because I thought it would be funner to buy them as we actually visited the places. Alex and the kids agreed. Prices for everything are very low. Postcards were only .25, the magnets were only .98 each, the baked good were extremely inexpensive as well.
We left the Amish country around 4pm. We drove to Hershey, PA. Although we would have loved to take the kids to Hershey Park and they were really looking forward to it, we did not take them. (I thought we'd cave in, but we stuck to it). They have been fighting a lot and we kept reminding them they'd lose the trip to Hershey Park unless they were nicer to eachother...they never even tried...not even when we were there right in front of the park...they just kept fighting. I think it kills Alex and I more than it does them, that we didn't take them, but we had to. They are having a wonderful experience, but it's hard for us to see them be mean to eachother. On the flip side, they can also be very loving...but those moments are few and far between.
We did go to Hershey World. It is basically a huge gift shop with a movie about the history of the company and a ride that goes through the process of how chocolate is made. They loved the ride. We went on it 3 times. We had dinner there. Alex and I had chili in a bread bowl...we eat that often on this trip. The kids each bought a shirt and a huge Hershey chocolate bar. They also did a chocolate works activity where they "work" at a conveyor belt and fill containers with kisses and then seal the container. They had a lot of fun.
We also drove to downtown Hershey to the Museum and the factory. There is a super sweet smell of chocolate right around the factory area. The town has Hershey kisses lamp posts. It's a very pretty town...it is well-kept and clean. I was impressed with how beautiful it is.
We went back to the hotel, we arrived around 10ish. Alex and I were anxious because we still didn't know where we'd be going tomorrow.
Alex and I watched the Michael Jackson memorial service and planned the next few days of the trip. We decided to go to Niagara Falls for our anniversary and leave on July 11th, straight to Boston for the RedSox game at 1:30 pm on Sunday. On Saturday, we hope to stop in Cooperstown for the Baseball Hall of Fame and in Springfield for the Basketball Hall of Fame. I'd love to go to Lake Placid and do something in the Adirondack Mountains, but I don't know if it will be possible. It's funny... we have 33 days for this trip...a lot more time than many people would have...and we still don't have enough time to see everything we want. We gave up on attempting to go to Nova Scotia. If we do that we'll spend too much time trying to get there. Maybe next time...
We went to bed after 2:00 am.
Gettysburg to Harrisburg, PA - Monday, July 6, 2009
Gettysburg to Harrisburg, PA - Monday, July 6, 2009
Tomorrow, will be two weeks that we left and yesterday was 3 weeks to the day we will arrive in Miami. We aren't halfway done yet!!!! WOW! This is exhausting. The kids are driving us crazy. Alissa is behaving like a little nut who is completely out of control. She is defiant and just nutty. When we got to the hotel she laid on the bed and said "Mom, watch me make snow angels" and then proceeded to move her arms to make a snow angel on the sheets at speed of 20 mph minimum. It was so funny. She spills at least one thing everyday, if not more, and especially in the car. She is obsessed with the Washington Nationals. She holds the baseball cards she got at the game (in the program) and doesn't let them go. Earlier today she told me she wants to play baseball for the Nationals team. Although yesterday she couldn't remember their name. She asked me at east 15 times what the name of the team was.
Everytime we arrive anywhere, we are noticed...either because we are super loud, obnoxious or just too much. Today, we left Arlington, VA around 11:00 am. and drove to Pennsylvania.
We stopped for lunch at Moe's on the way, and continued to Gettysburg.
Gettysburg, is another place that is so evocative.
Quoting Alex, "Our fore-fathers rocked. They had amazing vision." To think that these people before us did so much and gave up their lives so that we could have better lives is amazing. Yet it's also very disappointing to know that we are driving this country into the ground because some of the leaders we've had have not known how to make good decisions and do things in the best interest of all its people.
Our fore-fathers and veterans gave so freely yet due to selfishness and greed in more recent times, our citizens are now struggling and suffering.
The battlefield was impressive. It covers a huge area. We did the auto tour, got off a million times for pictures and then went to the museum and store. I lost the kids in the store at least 3 times. I was looking for books to read to them so they could learn the story, I bought several picture books and coloring books about the Civil War, the generals, the Gettysburg Address and an explanation of the Gettysburg Address. In addition we bought a postcard and a magnet of Pennsylvania. We decided we are going to start a states magnet collection so we can display our travels year-round. We also bought the movie Gettysburg so we can watch it together and learn more.
We arrived in Harrisburg, Pa (our next "home base' destination) around 8 pm. We are staying at a Residence Inn. It looks fairly new, very clean and is very comfortable. The neighborhood is nice and there are several restaurants close by. We have a kitchenette and breakfast is included with the room so expenses should be kept manageable. We decided to run to Target and pick up some necessary items. I bought a scale because the eating is out of control, even though we were going to eat super healthy and exercise on this trip. I have gained a few pounds. I will be on a diet as of July 10th!!!!!!!!!! I bought some things to cook because we have a tiny kitchen in the unit. We had pasta with chicken and shrimp.We were starving so we ate a million things as we waited for dinner. Tomorrow we will probably go to Lancaster.
Until tomorrow...
Tomorrow, will be two weeks that we left and yesterday was 3 weeks to the day we will arrive in Miami. We aren't halfway done yet!!!! WOW! This is exhausting. The kids are driving us crazy. Alissa is behaving like a little nut who is completely out of control. She is defiant and just nutty. When we got to the hotel she laid on the bed and said "Mom, watch me make snow angels" and then proceeded to move her arms to make a snow angel on the sheets at speed of 20 mph minimum. It was so funny. She spills at least one thing everyday, if not more, and especially in the car. She is obsessed with the Washington Nationals. She holds the baseball cards she got at the game (in the program) and doesn't let them go. Earlier today she told me she wants to play baseball for the Nationals team. Although yesterday she couldn't remember their name. She asked me at east 15 times what the name of the team was.
Everytime we arrive anywhere, we are noticed...either because we are super loud, obnoxious or just too much. Today, we left Arlington, VA around 11:00 am. and drove to Pennsylvania.
We stopped for lunch at Moe's on the way, and continued to Gettysburg.
Our fore-fathers and veterans gave so freely yet due to selfishness and greed in more recent times, our citizens are now struggling and suffering.
We arrived in Harrisburg, Pa (our next "home base' destination) around 8 pm. We are staying at a Residence Inn. It looks fairly new, very clean and is very comfortable. The neighborhood is nice and there are several restaurants close by. We have a kitchenette and breakfast is included with the room so expenses should be kept manageable. We decided to run to Target and pick up some necessary items. I bought a scale because the eating is out of control, even though we were going to eat super healthy and exercise on this trip. I have gained a few pounds. I will be on a diet as of July 10th!!!!!!!!!! I bought some things to cook because we have a tiny kitchen in the unit. We had pasta with chicken and shrimp.We were starving so we ate a million things as we waited for dinner. Tomorrow we will probably go to Lancaster.
Until tomorrow...
Washington Nationals baseball game at Nationals Park and drive-by the White House - Sunday, July 5, 2009
Sunday, July 5, 2009
This visit with our friends and the city have gotten me thinking a lot. Dad made breakfast in the morning and the adults ate in the screened patio while the children played in the yard. It was beautiful as the yard is full of huge oak trees. This whole trip seems out of a novel. The scenes are perfect. First, we have the little towns with their epicenters of quaint stores and restaurants. Then, we have farms and fields of beautifully growing crops and animals. Now in the city, you have the best of both worlds. You have the hustle and bustle of the big city yet, also the tranquil setting of suburbia. The picture perfect house, with the beautiful yard, the happy, healthy, well-rounded children....it's a dream come true.
One of the B-N kids woke up sick and she had a fever. The rest of the B-N girls stayed home selling lemonade from a Lemonade Stand and the rest of us went to Nationals Park to see the Washington Nationals play the Atlanta Braves. The game was very exciting. They kids had many enjoyable moments and their favorite was the mascots (which are all past presidents) running a race on the field. However, the most memorable moment, was when the kids ran the bases on the field after the game! They really enjoyed that.
We went on a short sight seeing trip because A wanted to see the White House. We drove down Pennysylvania Avenue and saw the mall, the Smithsonian, several museums and the White House with the snipers on the roof, which really got her attention. After, we went back to the house and M made a delicious dinner of pasta, sauteed varieties of squash with garlic in olive oil. She added a bit of milk, salt, pepper, fresh basil, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. It was spectacular. We had wine and fruit as we laughed and talked about the the last few days. We have had the best time!
We took the children out to light the sparklers M bought them for 4th of July, but we never got to use them. They had great fun with that and then they ran around catching fireflies. It was a perfect evening and a wonderful ending to a perfect visit to Arlington, VA.
This visit with our friends and the city have gotten me thinking a lot. Dad made breakfast in the morning and the adults ate in the screened patio while the children played in the yard. It was beautiful as the yard is full of huge oak trees. This whole trip seems out of a novel. The scenes are perfect. First, we have the little towns with their epicenters of quaint stores and restaurants. Then, we have farms and fields of beautifully growing crops and animals. Now in the city, you have the best of both worlds. You have the hustle and bustle of the big city yet, also the tranquil setting of suburbia. The picture perfect house, with the beautiful yard, the happy, healthy, well-rounded children....it's a dream come true.
One of the B-N kids woke up sick and she had a fever. The rest of the B-N girls stayed home selling lemonade from a Lemonade Stand and the rest of us went to Nationals Park to see the Washington Nationals play the Atlanta Braves. The game was very exciting. They kids had many enjoyable moments and their favorite was the mascots (which are all past presidents) running a race on the field. However, the most memorable moment, was when the kids ran the bases on the field after the game! They really enjoyed that.
We went on a short sight seeing trip because A wanted to see the White House. We drove down Pennysylvania Avenue and saw the mall, the Smithsonian, several museums and the White House with the snipers on the roof, which really got her attention. After, we went back to the house and M made a delicious dinner of pasta, sauteed varieties of squash with garlic in olive oil. She added a bit of milk, salt, pepper, fresh basil, and freshly grated parmesan cheese. It was spectacular. We had wine and fruit as we laughed and talked about the the last few days. We have had the best time!
We took the children out to light the sparklers M bought them for 4th of July, but we never got to use them. They had great fun with that and then they ran around catching fireflies. It was a perfect evening and a wonderful ending to a perfect visit to Arlington, VA.
Arlington, Rock Creek, and firework lookout from Iwo Jima Memorial - Saturday, July 4, 2009
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Happy Fourth of July! We are excited again to be back near our nation's capital. This time, we are staying in Virginia and we know it's going to be a great day.
We had a very good night sleep at the B-N home. They bought their house three years ago and have added quite a few new rooms to it. They just finished construction and the house is amazing!!! They invited us to stay with them and it was a very generous offer. We took them up on the offer so we could spend time together and it would give us a break from staying at hotels. We have the entire basement to ourselves. It's above ground so they made a guest room, large playroom, a sitting area and a bathroom. It's very comfortable and private. It also has doors that lead out to the backyard. The house sits on a hill with a view of the woods.
We went to bed a little after midnight last night, yet the children all woke up relatively early. By 8:15 a.m., Alissa had managed to try to wake me up at least 5 or 6 times. Dad went out to run with D, so she had carteblanche to try to wake me up. Slowly, the B-N kids eventually made it down and the kids all played and watched T.V. in the playroom.
When D and Dad returned, most of the girls drove to the Farmer's market by the courthouse in Arlington. It was great and it made me feel guilty that I don't take advantage and go to the Farmer's Market in Pinecrest. I made myself a promise that I would start going upon my return to Miami. It wasn't very large, but they had beautiful and delicious fruits, vegetables, orchids, flowers, breads, desserts, etc. I like spending time with M because I am reminded that we should be more "green," should eat more fruits and veggies and less sugar and junk. Also, she cooks well and usually makes delicious meals. I still make the eggplant parmigiana that she made us at their former house over 8 years ago!
At the Farmer's Market I sampled a fresh Corn Zucchini Torte from Willow Restaurant at 4301 North Fairfax Dr. in Arlington. The torte was delicious. I would love to make it when I return to Miami. I am including the recipe because I don't want to lose it:
Fresh Corn Zucchini Torte
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/8 tsp nutmeg
3 ears corn (kernels off cob)
1 cup whole milk
1 shallot finely diced
1 lg Max tyson zucchini (shredded on grater)
6 leaves fresh basil chiffonade
4 tbsp melted butter
2 large eggs poly face
Directions: Cook Corn in milk over low heat until tender. Mix dry ingredients together in a bowl. Mix the corn milk mixture with the grated zucchini, butter, eggs. Stir by hand the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Scoop into buttered 4 oz. ramekins. Bake 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with sauteed cherry tomatoes.
Sweet Orange Cherry Tomatoes
1 pint sweet orange cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup Endless summer basil
4 cloves slice blanched garlic
3 tbsp EVOO
kosher salt
black pepper to taste
Directions: Cut the tomatoes in half. heat a saute pan until moderately hot, add the oil and garlic, brown slightly, add the tomatoes saute quickly, toss with basil, season with salt and pepper.
This is a fabulous dish. I hope my children like it when I make it. We returned from the market and D had whipped up homemade waffles. We had them with fruit, whipped cream and/or syrup. After breakfast, the kids played in the yard for a bit and the adults hung out.
For the afternoon, we decided to go to Rock Creek Park to hike and see the waterfall. The children had a wonderful time hiking and rock-climbing. The park has a Virginia side and a Maryland side. We went on the Virginia side. We also saw people climbing the rocks and kayaking down below in the river.
We were starving when we left. We had lunch at Amoo's Kabob in McLean, VA. This was a Persian restaurant and the entrees were delicious. All of us were thrilled with our selection. The chicken and fillet were both very good. I think the rice with raspberries was my favorite. We ate so much we were ready for naps when we left. Unfortunately, there was no time for napping. We quickly got our things together and left for the Iwo Jima Memorial where we were planning to see the fireworks. We drove around for a long time looking for parking. We finally parked in a garage about 10 blocks away.
We met friends of the B-Ns there. We found a great spot on a hill with a view of DC and the Washington Monument. The children had a fabulous time, as did the adults. We talked, walked through Arlington Cemetery, snacked, played catch with rackets with suction cups, caught fireflies, and Dad led the kids in a game of Simon Says. The folks behind us were also very entertaining. We had a funny commentary going on throughout the fireworks display. It was a memorable night. When we got back to the house three of the five kids were sleeping. We took advantage and got ready for bed early. Again, Happy 4th!!!!
Happy Fourth of July! We are excited again to be back near our nation's capital. This time, we are staying in Virginia and we know it's going to be a great day.
We had a very good night sleep at the B-N home. They bought their house three years ago and have added quite a few new rooms to it. They just finished construction and the house is amazing!!! They invited us to stay with them and it was a very generous offer. We took them up on the offer so we could spend time together and it would give us a break from staying at hotels. We have the entire basement to ourselves. It's above ground so they made a guest room, large playroom, a sitting area and a bathroom. It's very comfortable and private. It also has doors that lead out to the backyard. The house sits on a hill with a view of the woods.
We went to bed a little after midnight last night, yet the children all woke up relatively early. By 8:15 a.m., Alissa had managed to try to wake me up at least 5 or 6 times. Dad went out to run with D, so she had carteblanche to try to wake me up. Slowly, the B-N kids eventually made it down and the kids all played and watched T.V. in the playroom.
When D and Dad returned, most of the girls drove to the Farmer's market by the courthouse in Arlington. It was great and it made me feel guilty that I don't take advantage and go to the Farmer's Market in Pinecrest. I made myself a promise that I would start going upon my return to Miami. It wasn't very large, but they had beautiful and delicious fruits, vegetables, orchids, flowers, breads, desserts, etc. I like spending time with M because I am reminded that we should be more "green," should eat more fruits and veggies and less sugar and junk. Also, she cooks well and usually makes delicious meals. I still make the eggplant parmigiana that she made us at their former house over 8 years ago!
At the Farmer's Market I sampled a fresh Corn Zucchini Torte from Willow Restaurant at 4301 North Fairfax Dr. in Arlington. The torte was delicious. I would love to make it when I return to Miami. I am including the recipe because I don't want to lose it:
Fresh Corn Zucchini Torte
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/8 tsp nutmeg
3 ears corn (kernels off cob)
1 cup whole milk
1 shallot finely diced
1 lg Max tyson zucchini (shredded on grater)
6 leaves fresh basil chiffonade
4 tbsp melted butter
2 large eggs poly face
Directions: Cook Corn in milk over low heat until tender. Mix dry ingredients together in a bowl. Mix the corn milk mixture with the grated zucchini, butter, eggs. Stir by hand the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Scoop into buttered 4 oz. ramekins. Bake 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with sauteed cherry tomatoes.
Sweet Orange Cherry Tomatoes
1 pint sweet orange cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup Endless summer basil
4 cloves slice blanched garlic
3 tbsp EVOO
kosher salt
black pepper to taste
Directions: Cut the tomatoes in half. heat a saute pan until moderately hot, add the oil and garlic, brown slightly, add the tomatoes saute quickly, toss with basil, season with salt and pepper.
This is a fabulous dish. I hope my children like it when I make it. We returned from the market and D had whipped up homemade waffles. We had them with fruit, whipped cream and/or syrup. After breakfast, the kids played in the yard for a bit and the adults hung out.
For the afternoon, we decided to go to Rock Creek Park to hike and see the waterfall. The children had a wonderful time hiking and rock-climbing. The park has a Virginia side and a Maryland side. We went on the Virginia side. We also saw people climbing the rocks and kayaking down below in the river.
We were starving when we left. We had lunch at Amoo's Kabob in McLean, VA. This was a Persian restaurant and the entrees were delicious. All of us were thrilled with our selection. The chicken and fillet were both very good. I think the rice with raspberries was my favorite. We ate so much we were ready for naps when we left. Unfortunately, there was no time for napping. We quickly got our things together and left for the Iwo Jima Memorial where we were planning to see the fireworks. We drove around for a long time looking for parking. We finally parked in a garage about 10 blocks away.
We met friends of the B-Ns there. We found a great spot on a hill with a view of DC and the Washington Monument. The children had a fabulous time, as did the adults. We talked, walked through Arlington Cemetery, snacked, played catch with rackets with suction cups, caught fireflies, and Dad led the kids in a game of Simon Says. The folks behind us were also very entertaining. We had a funny commentary going on throughout the fireworks display. It was a memorable night. When we got back to the house three of the five kids were sleeping. We took advantage and got ready for bed early. Again, Happy 4th!!!!
Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown Battlefield, Virginia - Friday, July 3, 2009
Friday, July 3, 2009
We woke up a bit late and took a long time to get ready and leave. We finally got on the road to Williamsburg around 11:00 AM. We decided to stop along the way and do the area in chronological order and went to the Jamestown settlement first. When Dad and I came to Williamsburg 14 years ago, we never made it to Jamestown. We enjoyed the museum very much as they had clear fiberglass planks on the floor of the building where you could see the original foundation from the settlement circa 1600s. We walked through the museum and saw many artifacts, such as earthenware, utensils for cooking and eating, tools, locks, keys, etc. We even saw remnants of a leather shoe.
The settlement was in a gorgeous location by the river with scenic views. Then the settlers arrived, they were told to decide wisely on the place for the settlement. It had to be safe from Spanish attacks, a good place to farm and be able to provide all necessities for living. We had lunch there on the river. The highlight was chili in a bread bowl. We also got to see a statue of Pocahontas as this is where she was from.
After Jameston, we went to Colonial Williamsburg. We didn't have much time there, but we did walk around for a little while, saw the shopping district, the historical area, the palace and some of the houses and other buildings. After, we stopped at Yorktown Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the Revolutionary War.
Driving on these small country roads is very nice. You get to see farms, barns, animals, fields of crops and many corn fields. Every now and then, we would pull over to take a picture of houses on a hillside and one had a groundhog or prairie dog peeking from its hole. We took pictures of it just before it snuck back into his hole. As we were running late, we were a bit embarrassed because we were staying with the B-Ns tonight and we are super late. It's 8:18 p.m. and we are still 77 miles away (about 1 hour 30 minutes to go). We are anxious to get to Arlington, Virginia and visit with our friends.
NOTE: Before we left, Dad made a playlist and some of the most memorable songs from this trip are: I Got a Feeling (Tonight's gonna be a good, good night) by Black-Eyed Peas, The Climb by Miley Cyrus, Pink songs, other Black Eyed peas songs, Lady Gaga's Poker Face, and Right Round by FloRida.
We woke up a bit late and took a long time to get ready and leave. We finally got on the road to Williamsburg around 11:00 AM. We decided to stop along the way and do the area in chronological order and went to the Jamestown settlement first. When Dad and I came to Williamsburg 14 years ago, we never made it to Jamestown. We enjoyed the museum very much as they had clear fiberglass planks on the floor of the building where you could see the original foundation from the settlement circa 1600s. We walked through the museum and saw many artifacts, such as earthenware, utensils for cooking and eating, tools, locks, keys, etc. We even saw remnants of a leather shoe.
The settlement was in a gorgeous location by the river with scenic views. Then the settlers arrived, they were told to decide wisely on the place for the settlement. It had to be safe from Spanish attacks, a good place to farm and be able to provide all necessities for living. We had lunch there on the river. The highlight was chili in a bread bowl. We also got to see a statue of Pocahontas as this is where she was from.
After Jameston, we went to Colonial Williamsburg. We didn't have much time there, but we did walk around for a little while, saw the shopping district, the historical area, the palace and some of the houses and other buildings. After, we stopped at Yorktown Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the Revolutionary War.
Driving on these small country roads is very nice. You get to see farms, barns, animals, fields of crops and many corn fields. Every now and then, we would pull over to take a picture of houses on a hillside and one had a groundhog or prairie dog peeking from its hole. We took pictures of it just before it snuck back into his hole. As we were running late, we were a bit embarrassed because we were staying with the B-Ns tonight and we are super late. It's 8:18 p.m. and we are still 77 miles away (about 1 hour 30 minutes to go). We are anxious to get to Arlington, Virginia and visit with our friends.
NOTE: Before we left, Dad made a playlist and some of the most memorable songs from this trip are: I Got a Feeling (Tonight's gonna be a good, good night) by Black-Eyed Peas, The Climb by Miley Cyrus, Pink songs, other Black Eyed peas songs, Lady Gaga's Poker Face, and Right Round by FloRida.
Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and Chesapeake Bay, Virginia - Thursday, July 2, 2009
Thursday, July 2, 2009
We checked into the Townplace Suites by Marriott on Cleveland Street. We then went with our friends (the Ws) to Norfolk, VA. Its a downtown area with nice buildings and a waterfront scene. It's similar to the Bayfront area in Miami. We had lunch at Granby's Deli across from C's office. After, we walked around a bit and went to an Arcade. It's a place where artists have small studios and exhibit their art for all to enjoy. C met us there for a bit and then went back to work.
During this time, there was a Harborfest on the Elizabeth River and they were setting up for it. We saw the large ornate ships that came in for the event and they appeared to be the same ones that were in Charleston that we saw on the way to Fort Sumter. We walked around and then watched the kids run though the fountain and get soaked. Then we walked to the Nauticus Museum and the impressive Battleship Wisconsin docked there. We saw jellyfish swimming right off the bridge by the entrance of the museum.
On the way back to W's house, we went to Chesapeake Bay and crossed the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. It was amazing and is the largest estuary in the U.S. Dad had been looking forward to seeing it for a few days.
Note: There was a toll when we arrived at the bridge. Dad was shocked to hear that the toll was $12.00. He kept asking the woman, "Are you sure?" She was annoyed by Dad's response to the cost of the toll. Then to annoy her further, he asked if he had to pay another $12.00 on the way back. She was horrified. Alex was even more horrified as he claimed that it was going to cost $24.00 to cross this bridge. " In the end, he thought it was work the $24 although it is very pricey when you just want to go across and back within 15 minutes.
We went back to W's house as they were having a BBQ in our honor (at least I think it was). It was great as they invite some family and neighbor friends. There were lots of kids for our kids, so they had a great time. C grilled and A made the corn and cole slaw. Everything was delicious and the company was fantastic. We had a wonderful time. A neighbor made Mojitos and we had great conversation as the girls put on a "show" and the boys played football. When it was time to say goodbye, the boys exchanged email addresses and wanted to keep in touch.
While talking, A and I discovered that she knew L and V from St. Theresa. They also told us to try to go to Charlottesville and Monticello (the home of Thomas Jefferson). They also encouraged us to take a scenic drive through the mountains in West Virginia. We mentioned that we weren't sure if we'd stop in Williamsburg. They thought it would be great to stop and see it.
As we said our goodbyes, we thank them for their hospitality and generosity. Hasta la proxima we said along with a big hug for all. These trips are extra special when you get to visit family or friends. This was a highlight of the trip.
We checked into the Townplace Suites by Marriott on Cleveland Street. We then went with our friends (the Ws) to Norfolk, VA. Its a downtown area with nice buildings and a waterfront scene. It's similar to the Bayfront area in Miami. We had lunch at Granby's Deli across from C's office. After, we walked around a bit and went to an Arcade. It's a place where artists have small studios and exhibit their art for all to enjoy. C met us there for a bit and then went back to work.
During this time, there was a Harborfest on the Elizabeth River and they were setting up for it. We saw the large ornate ships that came in for the event and they appeared to be the same ones that were in Charleston that we saw on the way to Fort Sumter. We walked around and then watched the kids run though the fountain and get soaked. Then we walked to the Nauticus Museum and the impressive Battleship Wisconsin docked there. We saw jellyfish swimming right off the bridge by the entrance of the museum.
On the way back to W's house, we went to Chesapeake Bay and crossed the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. It was amazing and is the largest estuary in the U.S. Dad had been looking forward to seeing it for a few days.
Note: There was a toll when we arrived at the bridge. Dad was shocked to hear that the toll was $12.00. He kept asking the woman, "Are you sure?" She was annoyed by Dad's response to the cost of the toll. Then to annoy her further, he asked if he had to pay another $12.00 on the way back. She was horrified. Alex was even more horrified as he claimed that it was going to cost $24.00 to cross this bridge. " In the end, he thought it was work the $24 although it is very pricey when you just want to go across and back within 15 minutes.
We went back to W's house as they were having a BBQ in our honor (at least I think it was). It was great as they invite some family and neighbor friends. There were lots of kids for our kids, so they had a great time. C grilled and A made the corn and cole slaw. Everything was delicious and the company was fantastic. We had a wonderful time. A neighbor made Mojitos and we had great conversation as the girls put on a "show" and the boys played football. When it was time to say goodbye, the boys exchanged email addresses and wanted to keep in touch.
While talking, A and I discovered that she knew L and V from St. Theresa. They also told us to try to go to Charlottesville and Monticello (the home of Thomas Jefferson). They also encouraged us to take a scenic drive through the mountains in West Virginia. We mentioned that we weren't sure if we'd stop in Williamsburg. They thought it would be great to stop and see it.
As we said our goodbyes, we thank them for their hospitality and generosity. Hasta la proxima we said along with a big hug for all. These trips are extra special when you get to visit family or friends. This was a highlight of the trip.
Outer Banks, Kill Devil Hills, Wright Brothers, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore Park - Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
We woke up the earliest ever and we were on the road by 8:00 a,m. We drove on highway 17 to highway 64 to the Outer Banks. We frist drove to Kill Devil Hills and this is where the Wright Brothers National Memorial is and the site of their first attempts and successes at flying. We stood in the field where their first flight took off. It was remarkable and well worth the visit. One of the best places we've been to so far on this trip.
After three hours there, we drove to Cape Hatteras National Seashore Park. There were enormous, impressive sand dunes. It was a beautiful drive. We drove south to the Cape Hatteras lighthouse. The wooden beach homes are reminiscent of the homes on Cape Cod. There are simliar homes all along the east coast of Florida, Georgia and North and South Carolina. These homes are bigger and more beautiful than any others. The drive was very beautiful. We arrived at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and attempted to buy tickets to climb the 244 steps in the 93 degree temperature inside the structure. We were informed we wouldn't be able to buy tickets because there had been a medical emergency inside and they weren't allowing anyone else in. We waited a bit and then just went through the museum, read about and saw pictures of the $2 million relocation of the lighthouse to this new spot. They had to move it because there was a lot of erosion and the land was wearing away. After waiting about 30 minutes, we decided to leave. We think the emergency was that an older woman either fell and hit her head or it got too hot and she felt sick.
Then, we drove to the beach and the kids played on the shore. They ran around jumping in and out and over the waves. They enjoyed it very much. We even collected some seashells and then went to play, run, and roll down the sand dunes. We had take-out dinner from the Atlantic Coast Cafe on 25150 NC Highway 12 in Waves, NC. Check out the link to their web site. They are only open from April to October. They had great gourmet burgers and were fast. There were two large families eating inside and they all seemed to be having a great time. We drove out of Cape Hatteras National Park and then back through the Outer Banks and up to Virginia. We stayed in Virginia Beach and will soon visit with the Ws.
We woke up the earliest ever and we were on the road by 8:00 a,m. We drove on highway 17 to highway 64 to the Outer Banks. We frist drove to Kill Devil Hills and this is where the Wright Brothers National Memorial is and the site of their first attempts and successes at flying. We stood in the field where their first flight took off. It was remarkable and well worth the visit. One of the best places we've been to so far on this trip.
After three hours there, we drove to Cape Hatteras National Seashore Park. There were enormous, impressive sand dunes. It was a beautiful drive. We drove south to the Cape Hatteras lighthouse. The wooden beach homes are reminiscent of the homes on Cape Cod. There are simliar homes all along the east coast of Florida, Georgia and North and South Carolina. These homes are bigger and more beautiful than any others. The drive was very beautiful. We arrived at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and attempted to buy tickets to climb the 244 steps in the 93 degree temperature inside the structure. We were informed we wouldn't be able to buy tickets because there had been a medical emergency inside and they weren't allowing anyone else in. We waited a bit and then just went through the museum, read about and saw pictures of the $2 million relocation of the lighthouse to this new spot. They had to move it because there was a lot of erosion and the land was wearing away. After waiting about 30 minutes, we decided to leave. We think the emergency was that an older woman either fell and hit her head or it got too hot and she felt sick.
Then, we drove to the beach and the kids played on the shore. They ran around jumping in and out and over the waves. They enjoyed it very much. We even collected some seashells and then went to play, run, and roll down the sand dunes. We had take-out dinner from the Atlantic Coast Cafe on 25150 NC Highway 12 in Waves, NC. Check out the link to their web site. They are only open from April to October. They had great gourmet burgers and were fast. There were two large families eating inside and they all seemed to be having a great time. We drove out of Cape Hatteras National Park and then back through the Outer Banks and up to Virginia. We stayed in Virginia Beach and will soon visit with the Ws.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)