Preparing for the Long Trail
I am preparing to hike the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the US—272 (435 km) miles long running the length of Vermont from the Massachusetts to the Canadian borders. It is considered more difficult and rugged than the Appalachian Trail, with lots of mud and mountains (53 named ones) including 27 that are over 3,500…
My next big adventure: 270 miles on the Vermont Long Trail
After Memorial Day, Dennis and I are heading up to New Hampshire to spend time with our daughter and her family. While she and hubby are on a week-long cruise, we will care for their 19-month son and their pets. Living 1400 miles away, I welcome this opportunity to spoil my only grandchild. Walking the hills…
January 31, 2015 Visiting Sarasota
Anne’s visit is coming to an end. Luckily the weather has warmed enough (60s) to enjoy outdoor activities. We started our day with a walk on Lido Beach, enjoying the late morning sunshine, the soft sand beneath our feet, and easy conversation as we walked the shoreline. I love the beaches in Sarasota and wonder…
Thurs. 29-Jan-2015 Red Bug Slough and Turtle Beach
Yesterday, my friend from Massachusetts and I walked through the Red Bug Slough Preserve. Since this park is near my home, it is a favorite of mine. This 72-acre preserve has several miles of hiking trails to walk and spend time with each other and with nature. We were even lucky enough to see an otter…
Wed, 28-Jan-2015 Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center
I welcome having guest and exploring Florida with them. Wednesday, a life-long friend from Massachusetts and I visited the Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach. The cool weather attracts manatees and other fish to the warm water in the discharge canal, which was designated an official state manatee sanctuary in 1986. I’ve been seeing the…
September 7: Sarasota
We left Amsterdam for the US via Aer Lingus. We had a short stopover in Galway, Ireland, and then a 8.5 hour flight to Orlando, FL. There were many babies on the flight. and it seemed as if they were in a crying competition–the din gave Dennis a headache. There was a pre-clear US Customs…