The Jasons Great Outdoors

Saturday, July 22, 2017

And We're Back......to civilization, that is!

Holy- Moly- Smokes (as Ethan used to say)! I have been just dying to return to N.H. pretty much since the last time we left its borders. The state did not disappoint! The weather was uncommonly good (it is very hard to predict in "The Notch"). We enjoyed familiar hikes in the warm sunshine, with cool New Hampshire breezes pushing us along. There were times when I felt Zevon was right there with us. The last time we traveled those familiar forest trails our furry brother was always pushing to be the hike leader, and was more than happy to pull the weight of whomever was holding his leash! The views from the mountain tops were breath taking...and giving! My goodness how I would have given anything for a deep inhale of mountain air during those hot days in Texas!! It felt so refreshing to fill our lungs. Our campsites were very comfortable and yet totally different. The first was in the woods inside the heart of the national park, and the second was literally in the parking lot of Echo Lakes beach parking! After a VERY satisfying stay in N.H. we packed up "Rolling Thunder" and headed to Aunt Ann and Uncle John's home in Vermont. WOW! What a beautiful drive through Vermont countryside. Their driveway has proven great for our trailer...and their hospitality has been unbelievable! Delicious and nutritious meals, prepared and set out on lovely plates...coffee in cups with saucers...gourmet ice cream for dessert (made right here in Vermont). A fabulous laundry facility right on the premises. Fabulous showers with INCREDIBLE water pressure. I give this place a solid FIVE star rating. Ann and John took us on an incredible scenic route to the Middlebury Museum where we viewed an amazing show. Then they had reservations for dinner at a french bistro...that is literally making my mouth water again from just reflecting on the meal they treated us to! It will be hard to say goodbye tomorrow morning, but we must move onward. It is just so comforting to know that we have such amazing family and friends to come back to when all is said and done.

This is why I want to live here.

The kids found this swimming hole when they were exploring in the woods.

Who needs bathing suits?

Panorama from the top of "Willard Peak"

Our last family portrait, taken in this same spot, was with Gammy and Gampy and Zevon on my 39th birthday!

Let me just say; our hike down to the "Dismal Pool" was just that.

There's our home. All nestled in at the base of Cannon Mountain and 500 yards from Echo Lake!

Here we are on the top of "Bald Mountain" looking off into Vermont.

They are always making me nervous.

That's my girl...

There is a beautiful bike path linking 9 miles of state park. You just have to be willing to bike up some serious inclines!!

With an artists help, here is what "The Old Man of The Mountain" looked like.

Taken while canoeing on "Echo Lake".

Here are the ski trails of "Cannon" in the summer while they are sleeping.

Yup, I can bake bread in the trailer!

Two little Hennessey's!

O.K. Funny story. Scott was so proud that he got the entire family in this shot. He didn't realize that Ethan was not, in fact, the backpack!!!!

There was an elderly woman a few sites down with a very high energy dog. It didn't take long for her to realize that she could count on Fiona and Ethan to tire the puppy out each day we were there!

Can you believe it? The only catch of the day was a dang crawfish!!?? (I think it followed us from Texas)

This was the path around the lake, with fishing spots scattered about.

Preparing for our night hike to the top of "Artists Bluff". I was terrified of bears the entire time...but we did it. AND I never want to hike a mountain at night again. EVER.

Here we are parked at the Kenney's in Vermont.

They have a marvelous swing.

Enjoying a light lunch before we head in to see some amazing artwork.

Such great people...

Such great memories...

Plus, we just feel smarter when we are around them.

See?

Saturday, July 15, 2017

Last Night in MA!!!!!!!!!

It's been an amazing stay. But, as with all things, it must come to an end. The turn of events that led us back to MA was a bit disturbing. However, now that dad has made a full recovery, I am thankful that it has become our starting point. Our visits with family and friends were so marvelous! Last year our whirlwind summer tour was sooo rushed. Often we were only able to see people for a few hours before saying goodbye for another year! It has been incredibly valuable having the luxury of time. Time to help my mom and dad recover from a scary illness. Time to see some people more than once! Time to fix the trailer so that she is more ready than ever. Time to feel truly ready to move on. Yes, we will miss everyone. Tremendously. BUT at least we were able to get home to say a proper farewell.
Mom and Dad, your hospitality has been unwavering. The unlimited electric and water will surely be missed, but not more than knowing you were just a short walk away in "The Big House". Having you both so close was not something we took for granted. It has been a pleasure.
In this last week we were able to get one more sunny day in Nahant with the Brown's, a sleepover with Cate, a visit with my Aunt Melcie and Uncle Bill, dinner with Sandra in Winthrop, a night out for me with Cara in Ipswich, and a "last supper" with Meagan, Ellie and Jason here in Merrimac. Tomorrow morning we pull away with happy hearts knowing that Gampy is healthy and we have seen those who we love, and who in turn, love us.