I am a Wine-o-holic. I love wine- the science behind it, the intricacies in making it, and of course, tasting it!
This past Sunday, my family and I drove to Renault Winery for Sunday Brunch and some wine tasting. Sunday Brunch was very delicious, as it consisted of various meats, cheeses, breads, cold dishes, hot pasta, roast beef, an entrée, and desserts. Blueberry champagne punch and sangria were nice additions as well.
After a full meal, we went on a wine tour. Our tour guide walked us through various steps of the wine-making process, along with telling us stories from Renault's history. My favorite was how the winery kept itself in business during the Prohibition Era by hiding their wine in medicinal Tonic, and selling it in drugstores. As a wine history tid-bit, it amused me that riddlers used fencing masks when riddling in case a bottle broke from build-up of pressure. It makes sense, but I wouldn't have thought of using a fencing mask as protection. The tour soon concluded, and the wine tasting began. Now, NJ wine may not be the top-notch French or California wine, but I do enjoy my local produce :)
This marks the fourth NJ Winery I've visited since December. There are plenty more vineyards in NJ, but State Parks and Forests are still a priority for my journey. My summer is turning out to be busier than anticipated, so my future trips probably won't be as frequent as the last two months.
Here are the pictures. They begin at 93:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150257886665260.369929.753450259&l=35b9221985
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Trip #12: Sandy Hook- Gateway National Recreation Area & Fort Hancock
Two days of cloudy skies and occasional rain couldn't stop me from continuing my journey this past weekend! I took a short trip to Gateway National Recreation Area in Sandy Hook on Sunday.
I left my apartment with a light drizzle trying to dampen my day, but I was hoping for the best as I headed east. Someone must have heard me, because as I neared the coast, I began to see the sun trying to break free from the gray. Sooner than I knew it, I was crossing a bridge into Sandy Hook.
I very much enjoyed how underdeveloped the beaches were. No boardwalks, no shops, just a visitor center or bathroom facility and that's it. It was a nice change of pace compared to typical beaches. It made me feel more of appreciative nature. The one thing that was depressing, however, was the amount of plastic washed ashore. Beach season hasn't even started, yet there were garbage patches brought in by the tides. What are people doing to our planet? :(
Cars were few and far between. There were a number of parking lots I drove into, and then explored the surrounding areas. Not only was the beach pleasant and peaceful, but the coves made me feel adventurous as well; it was booming with vegetation. Flowers near the beach? Never would've guessed it. One water hole was surrounded by such green life that I felt like I was in my own secret get-away. I even had plenty of birds to keep me company, particularly a black bird with an orange patch.
One of the beaches had a strip of large rocks close to the shore. I'd be interested to know how they got there, since it was localized and I hadn't seen something like them at the other two beach areas I visited. It wasn't a jetty, since jetties jut out into the water. Instead, this rock collection was parallel to the shore. I kept waiting for something to jump out at me from the gaps between the rocks. Or maybe that the rocks buried some monster...I think I've watched too many movies. But it must have been safe enough, since this area seemed to be the hang-out place for sea-gulls. Plus, I was able to see my favorite summer bird- the sand piper!
After a few more pull-offs, I came to the visitor center. The employee there gave me a map of Sandy Hook and showed what buildings were open. Further north was Fort Hancock, chock full of history and old houses. What piqued my interest, however, was the Lighthouse. I was able to take a tour with two other people up to the top. By this time of the day, the sun had grown stronger, and my view was much clearer than a few hours before. Unfortunately, it was still too cloudy and foggy to see NYC. Regardless, I can say I visited the oldest operating lighthouse in the U.S.!
I headed out soon afterward since I had to return home, but I definitely would be interested to explore Fort Hancock more and to enjoy the beaches on a warmer, sunnier day. I will say this, though: there's something about being at the beach that makes everything else seem unimportant. The tranquil crash of the waves, the calling of sea-gulls, the endless view out on the curve of the earth... I'm pretty sure that no matter where I move in the future, I can't live far from the ocean. After all, my name means "protector from the sea."
Here is a link to the pictures:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150257886665260.369929.753450259&l=35b9221985
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Trip #11: Allaire State Park/Allaire Village
As I'm writing this, I'm listening to Appalachian music on Pandora. My feet are tapping along to the quick, fun beats of the banjo and violin. I have to admit- I never thought I'd be a fan of the banjo, but there's something about the sound that's addictive. I really don't like country music, but I love Bluegrass and Appalachian music. The melodies and instruments feel like they have a dimension that country music doesn't have. A silliness and happiness that lacks in popular country music. Country music feels more like singing about your feelings. Bluegrass and Appalachian music feel more like playing your soul in instrumental form. And for those super-fast melodies, it releases the insanity that lies within, and tells everyone else to join in on the party. (Show me someone who can sit through one of those songs without moving a single part of their body-I'll show you someone who has no spirit.)
Anywho, this tangent on music stems from my visit to the NJ State History Fair on Saturday at Allaire Village, located in Allaire State Park. (I was fortunate to know about this Fair because I saw an advertisement for it when I visited Princeton Battlefield State Park last weekend.) I drove down with a friend, and we explored what life was like in colonial times, and other time periods as well. My favorite part of the day was listening to two groups of people play music. A trio consisting of the banjo, violin and Appalachian Mountain Dulcimer played a few songs, and taught me a little about Appalachian Music. The other group played a song that I've heard before, but I didn't know who played it or what it was called. Though a very plain song, the lyrics were very entertaining: I couldn't help but giggle toward the end of the story.
Cannon demonstrations were carried out during the course of the day. No matter how far in the park you were, you could hear that old thing fire. I was fortunate enough to have a camera that could take multiple pictures in a second, and was able to record the progression of the cannon ball being fired (pictures 13-14, 15-16, and 17-26. For the first two firings, my hand jerked from the sound of the cannon. I was able to keep my finger steady on the camera for the third firing, which gives a nice ten-picture progression).
There were a number of tables set-up to describe various aspects of life back in the day, whether it was old war artifacts, dental hygiene, or the popular vehicles driven in the day. I don't know much about cars and engines, but boy, have vehicles evolved over a century. I can only imagine what another century of technology will advance them to (I'm still hoping for hovercrafts). Seeing a 1903 Oldsmobile was quite a sight. Especially from their idea of a convertible, which I imagine was more of a way to save on materials while being functional in the rain. One thing I'm sad I didn't ask was the gas mileage that these classics achieved.
There are a number of old buildings in Allaire Village, including a blacksmith shop where men were working as if it were the 1800's. There was a bakery were goods were made from scratch over a burning fire, and a house where a woman just finished making two apple pies over hot coals. In the same house was a marriage certificate centered in a hand-woven frame of yarn. I must admit, I think that was a cute idea, to display one's marriage certificate. It seems to imply both a sense of ownership of the house, and a sense of pride between two people. I'm probably completely wrong in looking at the reason for it being there, but I don't care: that's my rationale for its presence. Unfortunately, I found out after a couple pictures that photography is prohibited inside the buildings. I was given two reasons by two different people: (1) The state doesn't want people taking pictures and publicizing the buildings without their consent, and (2) People took pictures, and then came back to steal artifacts. Stupid people for taking advantage of a privilege.
There were a few animals on display, including a horse roaming a fenced-off area, and a demonstration of two horses plowing a field. A well-behaved chicken was perched on a fence, and a couple of sheep were on display to show how people used to cut off their wool. There was even a cute little lamb doing its own thing off to the side.
After seeing how dancing occurred in the 1800s, I must say- I'm glad it died out. It's very appropriate as a socialization mechanism, but doesn't seem very fun. Ballroom dancing looks like it's on a pedestal compared to this stuff. My opinion is that people were too concerned about how they appeared to let the music control their movements. Well, that, and the music they played at these social dances didn't feel fun to dance to. Play me some Appalachian or Bluegrass music and show me some people who aren't concerned about other people laughing at them, and we'll have one fun dance party.
Then there was the old, very slow locomotive doing its rounds around a small track. It was open for riding, but my friend and I didn't get around to that adventure. There was also a miniature-sized train track and electric trains buzzing around in their circles. Though significantly bigger than typical miniature trains, it had the same feel. My brother circa age ten would have loved this thing! What I loved nearby was the band organ right off the side of the locomotive tracks. It was a no-man band! I won't go into the mechanics of how it worked, but for the music-savvy, I suggest looking into it. It's not the kind of music you listen to on a regular basis, but it's worth it to hear it at least once.
Now, since most of the day was spent in Allaire Village, I figured I'd be cheating myself if I didn't take some time to go on a hike. So we went on the yellow trail, followed by the red trail. The yellow trail seemed non-existent at times, as it was a narrow dirt way through the Manasquan Floodplain. But walking deeper into the forest felt like I was transported to another world. It didn't just feel like walking through the woods in NJ, it felt like walking through the woods in another place or another time period. Everything seemed so raw. Though, I imagine the splendor may have stemmed largely in part to the vast amount and sheer size of all the skunk cabbage. It felt like I was either in giant world, or someone shrunk me!
After being able to make our way through the quiet wilderness, we embarked on the red trail. Not as impressive as the yellow trail, but abundant with more visible wildlife. There were three young boys fishing with their father. They were very impressive for being about ages 5-10- they caught "sunnies" left and right! Fortunately they released them back in the water, which was pleasant to know. One of the boys even showed us a bucket of the goodies they found- mostly tadpoles and tiny fish. In about two or three minutes time, he found at least five tadpoles. You could see the legs beginning to develop on one of the tadpoles. Didn't see any frogs, though, but the boys said they saw one or two. The father even offered to let me try to catch a fish, since I told him I had never fished before. Well, I had bad beginner's luck because after three times, no fish were hooked. Oh well. I can officially say I tried fishing. But I'm perfectly okay with the fact that I'm no good at it. Can't be good at everything the first time.
I was incredibly happy to see little goslings along the trail. I've seen so many geese in pairs over the last month or so, but finally, I was able to see their little joys. It's an interesting mechanism- how fuzzy and cute baby birds are. Then they grow up and aren't nearly as cute. Too bad. Such is one of the ways babies make their parents want to take of them: Their cuteness is simply overwhelming.
The final thing to point out on this journey was the spastic caterpillar we came across. It was blue on top, and purple on its underside. Something that shouts- "Don't eat me- you'll be sorry!" It moved like a fish flopping out of water combined with a snake who's too short to slither. He kept moving from a C to a reverse C position, but wasn't really moving anyway. It was very strange.
Yet another beautiful day to write into the books. Though I can tell summer is getting closer- my pale face was quite sun-kissed after spending hours in the sun. It's the time of the year when I need to invest in some sunscreen. I will not be a victim of skin cancer!
Here is a link to the pictures:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150241841700260.366972.753450259&l=e4e2f5f3b3
Anywho, this tangent on music stems from my visit to the NJ State History Fair on Saturday at Allaire Village, located in Allaire State Park. (I was fortunate to know about this Fair because I saw an advertisement for it when I visited Princeton Battlefield State Park last weekend.) I drove down with a friend, and we explored what life was like in colonial times, and other time periods as well. My favorite part of the day was listening to two groups of people play music. A trio consisting of the banjo, violin and Appalachian Mountain Dulcimer played a few songs, and taught me a little about Appalachian Music. The other group played a song that I've heard before, but I didn't know who played it or what it was called. Though a very plain song, the lyrics were very entertaining: I couldn't help but giggle toward the end of the story.
Cannon demonstrations were carried out during the course of the day. No matter how far in the park you were, you could hear that old thing fire. I was fortunate enough to have a camera that could take multiple pictures in a second, and was able to record the progression of the cannon ball being fired (pictures 13-14, 15-16, and 17-26. For the first two firings, my hand jerked from the sound of the cannon. I was able to keep my finger steady on the camera for the third firing, which gives a nice ten-picture progression).
There were a number of tables set-up to describe various aspects of life back in the day, whether it was old war artifacts, dental hygiene, or the popular vehicles driven in the day. I don't know much about cars and engines, but boy, have vehicles evolved over a century. I can only imagine what another century of technology will advance them to (I'm still hoping for hovercrafts). Seeing a 1903 Oldsmobile was quite a sight. Especially from their idea of a convertible, which I imagine was more of a way to save on materials while being functional in the rain. One thing I'm sad I didn't ask was the gas mileage that these classics achieved.
There are a number of old buildings in Allaire Village, including a blacksmith shop where men were working as if it were the 1800's. There was a bakery were goods were made from scratch over a burning fire, and a house where a woman just finished making two apple pies over hot coals. In the same house was a marriage certificate centered in a hand-woven frame of yarn. I must admit, I think that was a cute idea, to display one's marriage certificate. It seems to imply both a sense of ownership of the house, and a sense of pride between two people. I'm probably completely wrong in looking at the reason for it being there, but I don't care: that's my rationale for its presence. Unfortunately, I found out after a couple pictures that photography is prohibited inside the buildings. I was given two reasons by two different people: (1) The state doesn't want people taking pictures and publicizing the buildings without their consent, and (2) People took pictures, and then came back to steal artifacts. Stupid people for taking advantage of a privilege.
There were a few animals on display, including a horse roaming a fenced-off area, and a demonstration of two horses plowing a field. A well-behaved chicken was perched on a fence, and a couple of sheep were on display to show how people used to cut off their wool. There was even a cute little lamb doing its own thing off to the side.
After seeing how dancing occurred in the 1800s, I must say- I'm glad it died out. It's very appropriate as a socialization mechanism, but doesn't seem very fun. Ballroom dancing looks like it's on a pedestal compared to this stuff. My opinion is that people were too concerned about how they appeared to let the music control their movements. Well, that, and the music they played at these social dances didn't feel fun to dance to. Play me some Appalachian or Bluegrass music and show me some people who aren't concerned about other people laughing at them, and we'll have one fun dance party.
Then there was the old, very slow locomotive doing its rounds around a small track. It was open for riding, but my friend and I didn't get around to that adventure. There was also a miniature-sized train track and electric trains buzzing around in their circles. Though significantly bigger than typical miniature trains, it had the same feel. My brother circa age ten would have loved this thing! What I loved nearby was the band organ right off the side of the locomotive tracks. It was a no-man band! I won't go into the mechanics of how it worked, but for the music-savvy, I suggest looking into it. It's not the kind of music you listen to on a regular basis, but it's worth it to hear it at least once.
Now, since most of the day was spent in Allaire Village, I figured I'd be cheating myself if I didn't take some time to go on a hike. So we went on the yellow trail, followed by the red trail. The yellow trail seemed non-existent at times, as it was a narrow dirt way through the Manasquan Floodplain. But walking deeper into the forest felt like I was transported to another world. It didn't just feel like walking through the woods in NJ, it felt like walking through the woods in another place or another time period. Everything seemed so raw. Though, I imagine the splendor may have stemmed largely in part to the vast amount and sheer size of all the skunk cabbage. It felt like I was either in giant world, or someone shrunk me!
After being able to make our way through the quiet wilderness, we embarked on the red trail. Not as impressive as the yellow trail, but abundant with more visible wildlife. There were three young boys fishing with their father. They were very impressive for being about ages 5-10- they caught "sunnies" left and right! Fortunately they released them back in the water, which was pleasant to know. One of the boys even showed us a bucket of the goodies they found- mostly tadpoles and tiny fish. In about two or three minutes time, he found at least five tadpoles. You could see the legs beginning to develop on one of the tadpoles. Didn't see any frogs, though, but the boys said they saw one or two. The father even offered to let me try to catch a fish, since I told him I had never fished before. Well, I had bad beginner's luck because after three times, no fish were hooked. Oh well. I can officially say I tried fishing. But I'm perfectly okay with the fact that I'm no good at it. Can't be good at everything the first time.
I was incredibly happy to see little goslings along the trail. I've seen so many geese in pairs over the last month or so, but finally, I was able to see their little joys. It's an interesting mechanism- how fuzzy and cute baby birds are. Then they grow up and aren't nearly as cute. Too bad. Such is one of the ways babies make their parents want to take of them: Their cuteness is simply overwhelming.
The final thing to point out on this journey was the spastic caterpillar we came across. It was blue on top, and purple on its underside. Something that shouts- "Don't eat me- you'll be sorry!" It moved like a fish flopping out of water combined with a snake who's too short to slither. He kept moving from a C to a reverse C position, but wasn't really moving anyway. It was very strange.
Yet another beautiful day to write into the books. Though I can tell summer is getting closer- my pale face was quite sun-kissed after spending hours in the sun. It's the time of the year when I need to invest in some sunscreen. I will not be a victim of skin cancer!
Here is a link to the pictures:
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150241841700260.366972.753450259&l=e4e2f5f3b3
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Trips #9 & 10: Princeton Battlefield State Park & Morven Museum and Garden
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Yet another beautiful Spring day presented itself today, for which I could not let slip away. I spent the day in Princeton at two sites: Princeton Battlefield State Park and Morven Museum and Garden.
Spending some time on a field that was previously the site of bloodshed was an odd experience. It was quiet, with only a birds chirping and a few people talking out in the distance. As I walked along the grass field, I tried to recreate the scene in my head. What it would have appeared to be standing in the same spot over two centuries ago. To picture men being murdered by muskets, cannon balls, and swords of sorts. To envision a field of lost souls as their remains lay on the reddened grass field. It was strange to think of a war being fought on American soil, considering it's been so long since it last happened. I can't imagine the horror that Americans experienced on an everyday basis, knowing that one wrong step or one bad location would terminate their short lives on this earth.
There were various information posts around the lawn, depicting different events during the Battle at Princeton. There was also a house, called the Clark House, which holds various artifacts from the battle, along with artifacts from the time-period. The house is open during the afternoon, free for visitors. There were cannonballs that were found on the site. The thought of seeing such rocks tearing through the air was appalling.
I'm so distanced from the idea of war, as I'm sure most Americans are, that this stream of consciousness seemed so foreign. I don't think Americans realize how fortunate they are that they need not endure through battles on their home soil. It's something we take for granted so easily.
Pictures are 81-122: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.10150236279845260.365305.753450259&l=855ce5f5e3
After such a surreal experience, I drove to the nearby Morven Museum and Garden. I found this on google, thinking the garden would be extensive, but it was typical of the type of garden a mansion would have. The tour cost six dollars to roam the rooms of the Morven House. A tour guide explained the history of the house, particularly the social history of its past residents before becoming a museum. What caught my eyes were the number of portraits of the house's residents. (I have quite a fancy for painted portraits).
Oh, but if everyone could live such a lifestyle, with a large house, a large garden area, lavish accessories and portraits to boot. How lucky those few are who are born into such wealth. But for the rest of us, we simply dream and visit such places. Though I imagine it would be drafty in the wintertime. And such a home would feel empty without a large family to fill its rooms. Though I will say this: it makes me sad that people don't entertain the way they used to. Bringing out the nice china, having discussions over tea, and simply enjoying the company of others without the distractions of modern society. If there's one this the British got right, it's afternoon tea time. What a nice event that would be to have on a regular basis.
Pictures are 123-150: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.10150236279845260.365305.753450259&l=855ce5f5e3
Yet another beautiful Spring day presented itself today, for which I could not let slip away. I spent the day in Princeton at two sites: Princeton Battlefield State Park and Morven Museum and Garden.
Spending some time on a field that was previously the site of bloodshed was an odd experience. It was quiet, with only a birds chirping and a few people talking out in the distance. As I walked along the grass field, I tried to recreate the scene in my head. What it would have appeared to be standing in the same spot over two centuries ago. To picture men being murdered by muskets, cannon balls, and swords of sorts. To envision a field of lost souls as their remains lay on the reddened grass field. It was strange to think of a war being fought on American soil, considering it's been so long since it last happened. I can't imagine the horror that Americans experienced on an everyday basis, knowing that one wrong step or one bad location would terminate their short lives on this earth.
There were various information posts around the lawn, depicting different events during the Battle at Princeton. There was also a house, called the Clark House, which holds various artifacts from the battle, along with artifacts from the time-period. The house is open during the afternoon, free for visitors. There were cannonballs that were found on the site. The thought of seeing such rocks tearing through the air was appalling.
I'm so distanced from the idea of war, as I'm sure most Americans are, that this stream of consciousness seemed so foreign. I don't think Americans realize how fortunate they are that they need not endure through battles on their home soil. It's something we take for granted so easily.
Pictures are 81-122: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.10150236279845260.365305.753450259&l=855ce5f5e3
After such a surreal experience, I drove to the nearby Morven Museum and Garden. I found this on google, thinking the garden would be extensive, but it was typical of the type of garden a mansion would have. The tour cost six dollars to roam the rooms of the Morven House. A tour guide explained the history of the house, particularly the social history of its past residents before becoming a museum. What caught my eyes were the number of portraits of the house's residents. (I have quite a fancy for painted portraits).
Oh, but if everyone could live such a lifestyle, with a large house, a large garden area, lavish accessories and portraits to boot. How lucky those few are who are born into such wealth. But for the rest of us, we simply dream and visit such places. Though I imagine it would be drafty in the wintertime. And such a home would feel empty without a large family to fill its rooms. Though I will say this: it makes me sad that people don't entertain the way they used to. Bringing out the nice china, having discussions over tea, and simply enjoying the company of others without the distractions of modern society. If there's one this the British got right, it's afternoon tea time. What a nice event that would be to have on a regular basis.
Pictures are 123-150: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.10150236279845260.365305.753450259&l=855ce5f5e3
Trip #8: Ag Field Day/NJ Folk Festival/Rutgers Day
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Saturday was nothing less than a lovely day to spend outside. It was the 3rd annual Rutgers Day, which is an extension of Agricultural Field Day and the NJ Folk Festival held on the Cook/Douglass campus of Rutgers University. Rutgers Day turned the two previous events into part of a multi-campus event, where various student groups organize tents to demonstrate and display what they have to offer. Busch campus is known for more math, science, and engineering-related activities and displays and College Ave has a collection of liberal arts events.
This was the first time I made it to Ag Field Day and the NJ Folk Festival, since I spent the two previous years helping out with the Rutgers Chemistry Society tent. The collection of plants for sale was very tempting. My future house-mate and I bought a number of herbs to grow in the backyard. I foresee myself becoming quite an avid gardener!
Many proud dog-owners were present, I imagine in part due to the dog show that was being held. I walked by a children's dog show, in addition to an agility competition that was to be held later in the day. Walking further along cook campus brought me toward areas with pigs, horses, cows, and goats...oh my! I don't think I'm ever going to outgrow my love for animals. My family can tease me as much as they want, but I love barnyard animals. And for quite some time I've been toying with the idea of raising my own animals; though I imagine it's an expensive endeavor. Riding a horse is still on my bucket list as well. The only fear I have is the sheer size difference between the horse and me. All it takes is one little spook, and I'm done for- I guess I'll cross that bridge when I get there. But I'll probably be too excited that my adrenaline will push the fear aside.
There were also a number of vendors for food and hand-crafted items. I bought two small paintings and a homemade mug. Hand-crafted pottery is something that should come back in style. Commercial pottery simply lacks the personality that comes with something hand-crafted.
All in all, a nice stroll on a nice day listening to various musicians and enjoying nice company.
Pictures are 51-80: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.10150236279845260.365305.753450259&l=855ce5f5e3
Saturday was nothing less than a lovely day to spend outside. It was the 3rd annual Rutgers Day, which is an extension of Agricultural Field Day and the NJ Folk Festival held on the Cook/Douglass campus of Rutgers University. Rutgers Day turned the two previous events into part of a multi-campus event, where various student groups organize tents to demonstrate and display what they have to offer. Busch campus is known for more math, science, and engineering-related activities and displays and College Ave has a collection of liberal arts events.
This was the first time I made it to Ag Field Day and the NJ Folk Festival, since I spent the two previous years helping out with the Rutgers Chemistry Society tent. The collection of plants for sale was very tempting. My future house-mate and I bought a number of herbs to grow in the backyard. I foresee myself becoming quite an avid gardener!
Many proud dog-owners were present, I imagine in part due to the dog show that was being held. I walked by a children's dog show, in addition to an agility competition that was to be held later in the day. Walking further along cook campus brought me toward areas with pigs, horses, cows, and goats...oh my! I don't think I'm ever going to outgrow my love for animals. My family can tease me as much as they want, but I love barnyard animals. And for quite some time I've been toying with the idea of raising my own animals; though I imagine it's an expensive endeavor. Riding a horse is still on my bucket list as well. The only fear I have is the sheer size difference between the horse and me. All it takes is one little spook, and I'm done for- I guess I'll cross that bridge when I get there. But I'll probably be too excited that my adrenaline will push the fear aside.
There were also a number of vendors for food and hand-crafted items. I bought two small paintings and a homemade mug. Hand-crafted pottery is something that should come back in style. Commercial pottery simply lacks the personality that comes with something hand-crafted.
All in all, a nice stroll on a nice day listening to various musicians and enjoying nice company.
Pictures are 51-80: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.10150236279845260.365305.753450259&l=855ce5f5e3
Trip #7: Buccleuch Park
Friday, April 29, 2011
After work on Friday I was able to squeeze in some time to head to a local park. Fortunately, I made it with just enough time before an April shower began to fall. I must say, there’s something about a spontaneous light rain that just makes me want to smile- especially when surrounded by beautiful trees and bright flowers. It creates one of those moments when time slows down just long enough to enjoy such a happening.
Though not a State Park, it seemed worthy enough to include in my Journey. If Pigeon Swamp State Park made the list, then I deem Buccleuch acceptable as well. I’ve never visited the Buccleuch Mansion, but I’ve put that on my to-do list once June rolls around (since it’s open for tours from June-October).
Pictures 1-50: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/fbx/?set=a.10150236279845260.365305.753450259&l=855ce5f5e3
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