Indiana 2016

September 19, 2016

We are still waiting for coach to get fixed, so we decide to go on the tour of the RV plant.   We've taking many plant tours, but this one lasted 3.5 hrs.   Tom, our guide, knew more about RV's than we'll ever know.  He's been working at this facility for over 40 yrs.

REV has made incredible changes in this industry, mostly having to do with the exterior, including engine, framework, etc.  Although they've listen to us RV'ers and have included many new features on the interior.

I particularly like the American Eagle, one of the most expensive, but the paint design, is so different.   If only I had an extra $500,000 in my pocket!!!

Got back to the coach, still haven't taken it in, darn, we would like to leave on Thursday at the latest.

September 18, 2016

Left Jefferson, OH and headed to Decatur, IN.   Went to plant where the REV group's headquarters' are located.   When we arrived we were told where to park (have to get a

Ohio 2016

September 18, 2016


Went into Jefferson to have breakfast, excellent diner called the Jefferson Diner.   While there, it started raining cats and dogs, so we decided to just stay home today and relax.   Think Bobby is ready to go home!!!!   Only about 2 weeks and we'll be there!!



I'm going to make something with some of the apples, fried some for dinner last night, OMG excellent.   Today, might try an apple tart.



September 17, 2016



It' pouring this morning, so we decide not to do anything for a while.   Around 11, it stopped so we headed towards Ashtabula, OH.   Along the way, we stopped at a couple of covered bridges, they are famous for them here in Ohio.



While in Ashtabula, we went to their annual BBQ festival.  Not what we anticipated, it's more like a county fair, where the BBQ contestants have a booth where they sell their products.   No sampling or watching them cook their ribs.   Disappointing for us, as we love watching and talking to the cooks.   We ate an elephant ear and a corn dog, neither was that good. 



We then drove to Brandt's Apple Orchard, there we picked up 25 lbs of Honey Crisp apples for $1 a lb...big score!!!   Sampled some of their products, including an apple cider slushy, which was delicious!



On the way home, we saw several more covered bridges, including the longest one in the USA at 613'.   Granted it was built in 2008 but still very impressive.



September 16,  2016



We are slowly heading west, feels good to know we'll be home around the 5th of October.   It's been a wonderful trip, but we are ready to be home.



We traveled to Jefferson, OH today and are staying at an RV called Millbrook Outdoor resort.   It's out in the middle of nowhere, to be exact, 6.5 miles from Jefferson.   But, it's on our way home.



Today we didn't do much, traveled and few chores, but just relaxing for the remainder of the day.

New York 2016

September 15, 2016
 
Drove into Buffalo to find the Dr Martin Home that Frank Lloyd Wright created.  Arrived at 10 and took the tour.   The house is undergoing a major renovation so there was no furniture in the house, supposed to be completed by end of 2016 but think it will be more like end of 2017.   They've already spent 54 million and honestly they need 20 million or more to finish.  

The house it very unique and is over 15,000 SF.   Like most Frank Lloyd Wright homes, it's open and stunning in the architecture that he used.   We never get tired of seeing this style.

Lewiston, NY was our next stop, we thought it would have shops, etc. to see, but it's mostly restaurants with a few shops.   Had lunch at the Brickyard Pub, excellent BBQ. 

Tomorrow we leave NY state and head to Ohio, we only have 2+ weeks before we get home, can you tell I'm excited?

September 14, 2016

Caught up with Annette (friend from Havasu) who lives in Niagara Falls, Canada.    She recently bought a home near downtown so we drove over to see her.   She has a wonder place.      She fixed us lunch and we visited for 3+ hrs.    

Got home and went to the outlet mall which is across the parking lot from us.

September 13, 2016 

Went out to Westley, NY and drove around the island.   This is the largest island that the USA owns in the thousand islands.   It only took us about 1 hour to go from one end to the other, stopping to take in the views, along the way. 

We then went to the Antique Wooden Boat Museum in Clayton, NY.   What an amazing display of wooden boats.  Bobby was drooling over their beauty.   They have the boat house that Mr Boldt had and are in a constant process of keeping it up.    Never an ending job for this 105' 3 story boat.   Took a tour, it's amazing to see the craftsmanship that went into building this.  Just beautiful.   One of the most unique features, they have a piano and a dance floor.   Also the wicker furniture on the upper deck is original, yes it was purchased in 1904.   Still looks brand new! 

There are five buildings, each filled with a different type of boat, everything from small craft, canoe, etc.   We spent over 2 hours looking at everything.

September 12, 2016 

Took the 2 nation tour today.   The boat ride first took us into millionaires row, where we see spectacular homes located on some of the islands.   They are just beautiful and when you see them, you understand why individuals summer here. 

We then tour the US & Canadian portions of the islands, in which our tour guide gave us details about the islands, owners of the islands, homes owned by whom, etc.   It's a great tour and we highly recommend it. 

At the end of the tour, you have the option to get off at Boldt Island and take the self-guided tour, which we did.   Bought our tickets (separate charge from boat tour) and spent the next 3+ hours walking around looking at the castle and the buildings on Heart Island.   

Mr Boldt was building this castle for his wife Louise but 2 months before it's completion, she died and ordered all work to stop.    He vowed to never set foot on the island and never did, nor did his two children.   He died in 1916 and the children couldn't afford to maintain the house, so it was left unattended until 1977, when the thousand island bridge authority bought the property.    

To this date, they've put over 30 million into restoration and it's still not near completion.


Across from the Castle located on Wellesely Island but we took the boat shuttle, which takes less than 5 min.   Here you  get to see where the Boldt family stored their boats, of which two of them are on display.    They are just gorgeous. 

Took the shuttle back to the castle and caught a boat to the Alexandria Bay, walked around town a little and then headed home.

September 11, 2016

Left Malone around 8 and headed for Alexandria Bay, NY where we'll spend next couple of days. We arrived around 11, took a walk down to the St  Lawrence River, which divides Canada and USA.   If I still had my throwing arm, I might be able to throw a rock across the border.   Yes, it's that close to us.

Had lunch and then drove into Alexandria Bay, NY.   Decided that we'd take the boat tour to the Singer Castle, which is on Dark Island.  Even though it's called 1,000 islands, there are actually 1,864 of them, but only a handful are reachable by car.   

The boat ride provides lots of history about the islands and the river, plus some of the famous people that have bought islands.   The ride took us about 30 minutes up river to reach dark island.  Once there, you obtain a guided tour of the castle, which lasts 50 minutes.   It's a great tour but nothing like we thought since we'd seen the Vanderbilt homes in NY & RI that are also from the gilded era. 

This castle is much more like Hearst Castle, it's dark and kind of cold.  

Frederick Bourne built the castle in 1903-1905.   He was president of the Singer Sewing Machine company and original the castle was called Dark Island Castle but in recent years got renamed to Singer Castle because of his connection to the company.   While touring the castle, you see many Singer Sewing Machines.   In 1928 after his death, his daughter Marjorie stayed in the castle and added several additions to it.   Once the taxes and up keep came to much for her, she sold it to a religious facility, whom later sold it to three private investors, which own it today.

On the boat ride back to Alexandria Bay, we learned of many ship wrecks, much of the river is very narrow and if you don't know where the shoals are, you go a ground and sometimes sink.   Fishing is excellent and like the Columbia, they have Sturgeons.  

Walked around town upon departing the boat, bought a few gifts.  Tomorrow, we'll tour the Boldt Castle.




September 10, 2016



Played golf with Jim, as Marilyn is in the clubs Solheim tournament and couldn't play with us, however she did ride around with us on the first 9 holes.    Bobby had an amazing round of golf,  shot 82 with a10 on one hole, went in the water 3 times.   I played well,  98.  



It's very hot and humid today, 85 but with humidity, feels like 100+.   Tomorrow we are heading to Alexandria Bay, so we can see the Thousand Islands.



September 9, 2016

Left Burlington around 8 and headed to Malone, NY via hwy 2.   Beautiful drive that goes though the islands and around Lake Champlain.   We are starting to see more and more trees getting their color but honestly we'll miss the season, as it's time to head home. 



We arrived in Malone around 11, found the Elks lodge and got parked.  While parking, Jim & Marilyn Lusk (freinds from Havasu that summer here) stopped by to say hello.   They only live about 2 blocks from the Elks.



Agreed to meet them at the Golf Course for a tour and dinner.   Drove out to Almonzo Wilder's boyhood home (his wife was Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of Little House on the Prairie).   Went through the museum and picked some apples.



Then we headed to High Hills Falls, 160' waterfall that's a hidden gem.   Beautiful and glad Marilyn suggested it to us.



Got to the golf course  just as they were finishing their round of golf, they showed us the east side as we're playing the west side tomorrow.   What a beautiful course, green and very challenging.   Hopefully we play well tomorrow on the west side.



Had dinner at the club, we were joined by their friends Mark & Mary, great couple.   Had a wonderful time chatting with them and catching up with Jim & Marilyn.

Vermont 2016

September 8, 2016

Went to see the Ethan Allen home, but it was closed, walked around the area, took some pics and then decided to go to downtown Burlington.  This is a quaint little area, so we decided to explore.  Burlington is the largest city in VT at 40,000, city more like Havasu than large city in most states!   Walked up and down Church street, main shopping area in town and close to the VT college.  

Weather is nice but rain is supposed to come so we headed home to close up the coach.   Tomorrow we'll head to Malone, NY where my girlfriend Marilyn Lusk and her husband Jim spend the summers.

September 7, 2016

Took a cruise of Lake Champlain on the Ethan Allen Boat today.   It's a narrated cruise, telling you the history of the lake, some of the incidents that have occurred, famous people that have sailed it and of course the battles that have occurred in or near Burlington, VT.   

The cruise took about 1 1/2 hrs, which was a wonderful way to spend the after noon on a hot muggy afternoon.   It's about 90 today and humidity is high, although it's supposed to cool down for the weekend.

September 6, 2016

Laundry is our first chore today, once we completed that task, it was off to see the VT capital.   This is the smallest capital in the USA, however it's beautiful.   Even though it's small, it has very interesting architecture, paintings and statues. 

Once we finished our tour, we headed back to the coach, packed it up and then headed to the town of Waterbury, where we found a place at a park to park the coach and then we took to truck to see the Ben & Jerry Ice Cream factory.   Learned about the history and how the two best friends created this ice cream company and how's it's expanded to a worldwide corporation.   It's no longer owned by the two friends but they still operate it after negiating that they'd they still have all say in the flavors, etc.   Obviously the new management agreed to their terms and it's grown in leaps and bounds since the purchase.

After the tour, we got a sample of the flavor of the day: Milk and Cookies, huge sample that was excellent.  The graveyard of the retired flavors was our next stop, fun to see funny headstones. 

The Von Trapp Family lodge was our next destination.  This family migrated from Austria to the USA in then1940's and earned money by holding performance where they sang.   Also operated a farm, that today is still in operation but is mostly a world renowned ski resort.   Because of their signing, the musical Sound of Music was created and later the movie was produced.   Very interesting to learn about them and of course see the views from their lodge.

Drove back to the coach and headed to Burlington, VT Elks Lodge, where we'll spend 2-3 days looking at this area.


September 5, 2016

Montpieler, VT is the capital of VT and our next destination.   We arrived at around noon, had terrible fog on the route up.   We traveled I-89, beautiful drive for what we could see.

Got the Montpieler Elks lodge and decided we'd play golf.  Tee'd off at 10:15 with a local couple (Mike & Lisa), great to have locals since they know all the in's and out's of the course.

Afterwards we joined them for cocktails and spent time getting to know them.


September 4, 2016

Simon Pierce Glass

The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park is in Woodstock, VT, so that was our destination for today.  

Queechee Gorge

While driving there, we first stopped at the Quechee Gorge.   It's supposed to be the Grand Canyon of the East, believe me, it's NOTHING like to the Grand Canyon.   However it is a nice gorge.   We walked the 1/2 mile to the bottom to capture a pic of the bridge plus walked up to the bridge to get the view looking down river.

Queechee Covered Bridge

On the drive to NP, we found two covered bridges, of which we drove across one.   We also stopped at Simon Pierce glass studio in Quechee, he's a world renowned glass blower, where they make high end glassware.  We watched them make sugar bowls today.   A finished one cost $55.  


The National Park is attached to the Billings-Marsh Farm, still a running cattle farm, however we elected to spend our time at the National Park.   We watched a 25 minute film on the history of the three owners, of which George Perkins Marsh was the first.   His family bought the farm when we  was very young and he grew up there learning about the conservation of plants, in particular trees.   He was sent to Europe for his work and while there his brother sold the farm to Fredrick Marsh 1869.



Mr. Marsh was extremely concerned how the state had allowed much of the forest to be logged and now the forest was 90% gone, hence he created reforestation and conservation, plus the idea of a National Park was created.   He died in 1890 but his wife Julia and his three daughters continued with his vision of the farm.    In the 1950's, Julia's granddaughter Mary, married Lawrence Rockefeller, whom continued to run the farm.  In 1992 Lawrence and Mary gave the home to the National Park and it opened to the public in 1998.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NP

We took the miniature guided tour of the main house.  You get to see most of the first floor and second floors, but nothing of the third floor.   The regular tour gives you more in depth but we did not want to wait the two ours to get the tour.   Our guide explained the rooms and we saw 85% of the house, which is amazing for that it was built in 1835 or so.



We then went Sugarbush Farms, learned about the maple syrup business, had samples and bought a few things.



Woodstock was our last stop, walked around town, look in the shops and caught a late lunch.

New Hampshire 2016

September 3, 2016

Left Brad's around 8 and drove to Lebanon, NH, as we are staying at the Lebanon Elks for next two days.

Got settled and then headed to Saint-Gauden National Park.   This was once the home of Augustine Saint-Gauden, the famous sculpture.  They do a wonderful job of telling his story of how he became a master sculpture.   He was very talented at a young age, learning his trait carving ivory cameo's.   He then progressed to creating bronze statues, etc.  Some of his famous work were of Lincoln, Farragut and General Sherman.   The original Lincoln and Farragut statues have been returned to this location and are on display for all to see.   In fact, the Lincoln statue arrived in June, for the 100th anniversary of the National Parks.

Anyone interested in Art, particularly bronze statues, should see this park.

We then drove to Windsor, VT, found a covered bridge to see and drive across.   Had lunch and then drove back to the coach.

September 2, 2016

Brad showed us his quarry and surrounding property.    The property has been in his family for many years, in fact, his father operated it as a dairy farm until his death back in the 70's.   Brad started the quarry after his death.   He sells beautiful slaps of granite, that can be 15' long by 8' wide.   Has lots of stuff that is used to build walls, of which they have several around their house.

We then went and played 18 holes of golf at his course, Lake Morey Golf Course.   Beautiful course next to Lake Morey in Fairlee, VT.

Got back to their house around 4, had cocktails and then Mary fixed a wonderful pork roast.   Had fresh vegs, potatoes, etc from their garden.  Nothing better than homegrown vegs.

September 1, 2016



Left Lincoln around 9:30 and headed to Piermont, NH, where our friends Brad & Mary Simpson live.   They have a home in Lake Havasu and Bobby plays golf with Brad. 

We got there and parked the coach across the street from their home on the Quarry Side.   Brad operates a quarry business in the summer.

Visited and spent the remainder of the day catching up.   Mary fixed a wonderful dinner of BBQ chicken.  

August 31, 2016

It's raining so we've decide to just take it easy and watch TV.   Leave tomorrow for Piermont, NH where one of Bobby's golfing buddies (Brad Simpson) lives.

August 30, 2016

State Capital of NH is in Concord so we headed there.  Not much of a capital, at least to compared to what we seen.  In fact, this one is second from the bottom, pretty plain.   We then went to the outlets in Tilton, NH, still did not find an IZOD store, so drove home.

On the way back, came off at exit 29 and took route 3 home.   We stopped at the Jackolantern golf course, had lunch and decided we'd play golf tomorrow.

August 29, 2016

Spent morning lounging and then drove to Franconia, NH to find the Robert Frost home, that he lived in from 1915 thru 1920.   The house is a basic little home but had 170 acres, which is what inspired him to write his 3rd and 4th books.   When you arrive, they show you a video on his life and why he chose this beautiful area.   It's the hills, serenity and of course, he spent time here as a boy, so he had fond childhood memories.

We then drove to Sugar Hill, but first stopped at Stone Iron Furnace, this was once used to melt iron and create tools, etc.   Today, all you see is the furnace but can't get close as it's across the Gale river from where we had to park.   Still it was interesting to see, looks like a castle vs. furnace.

Sugar Hill is a very small community near, which has a unique gift store (an old barn), where we learned about the dairy farming in this area plus learned that Betty Davis once had a home here.   Bought a couple of masks for Halloween, very funny, you'll see pics of those later.  Also stopped at a

small store noted for their cheese, nothing special, they don't make it here, just sell it.

Our last stop was the Ski Museum, it's located at the Tram (we did not ride).   They have Bodie Miller's Olympic medals from 2002 and 2010 on display.  Bodie learned how to ski on the White Mountain slopes.  Must say it was cool to see the medal up close and personal.

August 28, 2016

Russell-Colbath House

Drove the scenic byway Kancamagus Hwy from Lincoln, ME to Conway, ME today via hwy 112.   Fall is just starting to occur, so we saw some red leaves, should be spectacular come late September.

On the drive to Conway, we stopped at the over looks, taking in the views.   It's very much like driving from Portland to Redmond, lots of mountains, trees and ability to hike and/or fish, if that's your desire.

We stopped at the Russell-Colbath historic home near Conway.   Took the 3/4 mile loop around the area, hoping to see a moose, nope!!  Took a tour of the home, it was built in 1831-1832.  It's your typical farm home for that period.   The cemetery tells you they were well off, it has a fence around

Bartlett Bridge

it, meaning they were rich.

Found the Saco River Covered bridge, actually still in use to today, we drove across it to get across the Saco River. Upon crossing the river, we found the outlet mall, did a little window shopping and then had lunch at the Muddy Moose, nice little pub.

Took a different route getting out of Conway, took the 16 to the 302, then Bear Notch Rd back to the 112.   During the winter, this route would be closed, due to amount of snow they get in the area, many feet!!!

Saco Bridge

On hwy 302, we found the  Bartlett Covered Bridge, they've converted it into a gift shop, very unique.   Bought a flag for my yard!

Still have not seen a moose or black bear, think these signs LIE!!!  Might have to get up mighty early to see them!



August 27, 2016

I've researched the area and there are many waterfalls and hikes in this area, so today we tackled Franconia Notch State Park.   This is home to the infamous "Flume", which is basically a river running through a narrow gorge. 

Even though there wasn't much water, it would take your breath away with it's beauty.   It's a two mile round trip but honestly it's probably closer to 3.5 if you take all the side trips, that allow you to see views up close and personal.   Along the wooden trail (amazingly they remove this wooden trail during the winter months, as it would be destroyed from the weather otherwise), which about 1/2 of the trail, you get extremely close with nature.   Even though you are not allowed on the rocks (extremely slippery), you get close enough to capture great pics.

After 1/2 way around, you have the option to take short cut back to visitors center or continue onto the covered bridge and water fall, which we did.  It provided breath taking views of a 1827 covered bridge and an amazing water fall.

This hike took about 3 hrs, so then we headed to "The Basin", another area inside the park.   This area is visited by many that want to play in the water (it's cold, I mean cold mountain water), you can slide down many areas, allowing you to cool off,  no we did not try it.  I might however come back another day but doubtfully.   Old age has made we smarter and wiser!!!

We waked up the trail for about a mile, taking in nature and all it's beauty.

Our last stop was "The Old Man at the Mountain", here you get to visualize what this famous rock

look like back in 2003 before a cold rain winter night it fell off the face of the rock.  The rock formation looked just like a man.   They had made several attempts to stabilize it, but nature just caused it to fall.

Our feet are tired, think we walked about 6.5 miles today.



August 26, 2016

Left Bethel, ME and traveled about 70 miles to Lincoln, NH.   We spend 5-7 days here at Country 
Bumpkins Family Campground.   This area puts us on the west side of Mount Washington, which has tons of hikes, waterfalls, attractions, etc. 

This afternoon, Bobby is doing the laundry, while I catch up on chores, including my blog. 

August 25, 2016

Mt Washington is our first stop for today (drove here from our location at Bethel, ME).   It's a very scenic drive between Bethel, ME and Gorham, NH, but the weather is starting to change, as we are expecting rain tomorrow.  

We get to the entrance to the auto road, which is about 6 miles south of Gorham around 9.  Purchased our trip up the mountain, they charge for the car (includes the driver) and the passenger is extra, plus they give you a CD, explaining the history of the area and mountain.   Could have taken a guided tour but without know what's along the route, I elected to drive.

The drive is 8 miles up at a 12% grade and the road is barely wide enough for two autos (large trucks, RV, etc. are forbidden), you really have to watch your mirrors and how close you  get to the edge, as there are no guard rails.

After about 6 miles, the weather got foggy or cloudy, not sure which, but we could barely see the road, a little nervous for me, especially since I a was driving...lol.

Got to the top and it was totally socked in from the clouds.   On a clear day, they say you can see the Atlantic Ocean (east), Vermont (west), Quebec (north) and Massachusetts (south).    However we were not that lucky today.   We did get to see the town of Gorham but that's about it.    Just the luck of the weather, per the CD, this is the worst weather in the world.   In fact it holds the record for the highest wind ever recorded by man at 234 mph in April 1934.   On avg they get over 200" of snow.   Thankfully we just had clouds/fog.

After we spent time looking around and hoping for weather to change, we drove down and headed to Glen Ellis Falls, about 4 miles away.   Now this is what I expected to see in Grafton Notch State Park yesterday.

After spending an hour or so, headed to Gorham, looked through a couple of shops and then we headed home.   Tomorrow we travel to Lincoln, NH.

Last stop for the day was the Sunday River Covered Bridge, great old bridge built in 1872.  It's one of those old wooden bridges, but this one was not painted.   Unusual, as they are usually white or red.   Very interesting to look at the craftsmanship that went into building this structure.

Maine 2016

August 24, 2016

Arrived at Bethel Outdoor Adventures campground around 11.   This campground is located on the Androscoggin River, where they offer kayak and canoe rides.   Not sure if we'll have time to do these activities.

After lunch we drove to Grafton Notch State Park, I had read they have wonderful waterfalls, so off we went.   Our first waterfall was Screw Auger, since they are short on water, not much was coming over the falls, but it was a nice area to walk around and enjoy the pools that  were there.

The next fall was Mother Walker Falls, again it was barely running, so we didn't spend much time.

Our last fall was called Moose Cave, it's a great 1/2 mile walk that you get to look at the cave where the water would run had there been any, but there wasn't.  There was a nice pond at the end of the trail, but no running water through the cave.

August 23, 2016

Played Palmyra Golf Course, nice course that's attached to the RV park.   Many trees and narrow fairways that you have to navigate, however we did not.   Lost many golf balls!!!

After golf headed into Newport, ME, not much to see.  This is rural Maine but reminds me so much of eastern Oregon.   Fall is coming, crisp air at night and leaves are starting to turn color.   They say they won't have much color this year, since they've had very little rain.

August 22, 2016

Washed the coach, boy did it need it!!!   Afterwards we drove to Skowhegan, ME, home of New Balance Shoes, but they were closed.   Apparently they had a big sidewalk sale this past weekend and were moving all of their inventory back into the store.  Might stop on our way to Bethel, ME on Wednesday.

Took the back roads back, beautiful drive.

August 21, 2016

Left Trenton around 9 and headed to Palmyra, ME.  It was about a 2 hr drive thru rural Maine.   We drove hwy 2 and part of I-95 to get here, not much traffic which is always nice.   Arrived at Palymra Golf and RV resort, which is about 30 miles west of Bangor, ME.  We have finally turned west and will slowly head to AZ expecting to arrive in October.

Spent the afternoon just looking around the area, took a walk around the golf course, will play it before we leave.

August 20, 2016

1911 Model 50 American

Last day in Acadia, so we take advantage and head to a town called Seal Cove (not on a bus route) to see the Seal Cove Auto Museum (Bobby was in heaven).   This was the private collection of  Richard Paine, which displays cars from the Brass Era (1895-1917).   The array of autos you see is absolutely eye-catching.   I loved reading all the notes they printed either about the car itself, manufacturer or the owner.   Truly one of the best collections we seen of this Era.

1934 Ford Luxus Cabriolet

Over 50 vehicles tell the exciting story of early automotive history, the years when men tinkered in their barns and yards experimenting with steam, electricity and gas powered engines! The Seal Cove Auto Museum shares this story — the innovation, ingenuity, and the power of imagination — that created these vehicles and transformed life in America.   Many of these cars are one of a kind, including the 1934 Ford "Luxus" Cabriolet, made for and owned by Edsel Ford.  It was a concept car!!!

While here, you also learn how the autos came to the island and how many resident didn't want autos, as they felt it would ruin the beauty of the island and injury many residents.  However, auto won and today, they are trying to limit the number of autos that are allowed on the island.  Parking is a premium and find a spot inside the NP is extremely difficult.  Thank goodness they have a bus system, as it certainly allows more people to view the NP and enjoy it's amenities.

Gilley Museum was our next stop.   This museum showcases the works of Wendell Gilley, who used to live at Southwest Harbor.   He's a famous bird carver and sold his work to Abercrombie and Fitch, which later lead him into becoming one of the leaders in the bird carving world.  

The museum also teaches individuals how to carve and/or you can watch a carver at work, which we did.   We talked extensively to Steve Wormer, you teaches plus sells you art at the museum.   I'm telling you, Deb's birds would bring many dollars if she ever decided to sell her collection.

Took a new route home, think we've covered at least 80% of this island during our stay.  Believe me, if you like the ocean, mountains and exploring, this is a great NP to explore!!!

August 19, 2016

Roosevelt center

Long, very long day but so much fun and beauty that we saw was

spectacular!   Started out by leaving park around 8, caught the bus into Bar Harbor.   Had breakfast as the ferry didn't leave until 11 to Schoodic point, a part of Acadia NP that's not located on Mount Desert Island.

Once we caught the ferry, it took us 45 min, in which we passed many islands along the way.  As we threaded through Frenchman Bay, we finally arrived at Winter Harbor, where we caught the local Island Explorer bus.    The bus makes a 1 hr loop around the park, but we decided to get off at Schoodic Point.    Here we captured some great shots of the waves breaking against the granite landscape.   I could have spent all day watch the ocean and playing on these huge pieces of granite.

Minke Whale

However, we have much more to see, so we took a hike down to the Schoodic Institute, where they research the ocean.   Here is the home to the Roosevelt Visitors Center and museum.   The building is the prior home of one of the Roosevelt's, it's stunning from the outside, inside is your typical NP museum.

From there, we walked to Blueberry Park, about a 1 to 1.5 miles down the road.   Along the way, capturing great shots of the Atlantic and off in the distant, Bay of Fundy (it divides USA and Canada.

We catch the bus at Blueberry Park and take it to Prospect Point, where we have lunch at the Pickled Wrinkle (got the name from whelk snail that they pickle).   Sorry, but we did not see any pickled wrinkles nor did they sell any, however love the name.   Had a

great club sandwich, then caught the bus to winter Harbor.   You
must catch the 4:30 ferry, otherwise you have to hire some to drive you back or spend the night.    Not many choices for hotels either!!!

Arrived back in Bar Harbor around 5:30, looked through more shops and then caught the 6:00 PM bus for home.   Long but wonderful day.


August 18, 2016

 Decided to play golf at Bar Harbor Golf Course.   Not exactly what we had anticipated but a nice little course.  All of the sand traps were horrible and they allowed a free drop out.   To bad, as otherwise the course was in fairly good condition but certainly not worth the $56 a person it cost.

This afternoon we'll stay home and goof around the coach.   Bobby took way to many swings and his feeling it!   I shot really well, in fact I got a 92 and even took a nine on the last hole!!!




August 17, 2016

 I wanted to see Thunder Hole and the waves that it creates, once again however, we get there to close to high tide (even though it's 1.5 hrs before).   We did however get some great shots of the waves breaking on the nearby rocks.  

On the way home, we took a trip through the park and found a few more things to look at.  Honestly, I'll never get tired of seeing the ocean!!!!

Got home, thought about playing golf, however the wind and clouds have moved in, so we decided to play tomorrow.

Had a great sunset and the moon rising over Eastern Bay (that's the bay we are parked on), was magnificent, especially since it reflected in the bay.


August 16, 2016

View from Cadillac Mt

Today we took the truck and headed up to Cadillac Mt, it's 1,530 and gave us incredible views of Mount Desert Island.   You can see forever from here, no wonder everyone wants to come see the views.

Thunder Hole at slack tide

This is the highest peak on the east coast and one of the first places where you see the sunrise.   Tonight we might come see the sunset, but rain is expected, so might have to be another day.

We take in all the views we can, looking at Schoodic peninsula plus the many islands that surround Bar Harbor, truly is a fisherman's paradise!

Next stop was Thunder Hole, it's slack tide so no action, will have to return another day, then onto to Otter Point.  Beautiful pink rocks in this area.

Jordan Pond is next, you can see this lake from Cadillac Mountain, it's a beautiful deep blue lake.  You are not  allowed to swimming but they have a great 3 mile hike around the lake.  The restaurant

Bar Island, we walked to it yesterday at low tide

here is famous for it's popovers and strawberry jam, we did not have one, there was a huge waiting line to get a table.

After that, we headed into Bar Harbor, wanted to take a few more pics of some of the moose statues.

We then headed to Ellsworth to do some grocery shopping at Walmart, rest of the afternoon, I'll spend catching up on the blog and playing at the ocean, only 1/2 block from our coach.






August 15, 2016

10,000  yr old boulder

Land bridge at Bar Harbor

It's time to catch up on chores once again, so we spent the morning to them.  Around 12:30, I decide to head into town to do the island bridge walk.   This is only possible at low tide, as when the tide goes out, it creates a natural bridge from Bar Harbor to Bar Island.

I would say it's about a 1/3 of a mile across, but easy walking, unless you want to explore the sea life, then you have to climb across the walks and wade into ocean looking for starfish, etc., as we did!!!

We spent a couple of hours goofing off, then headed into town, went to find the ferry that will take us to Schoodic Island, another portion of Acadia NP but it's about 1 hr from here.

Cairn's on Shore path

I wanted to walk the Shore path, so we took a about a 1.5 mile hike along the ocean.  Beautiful views of the islands, Frenchman's bay and homes along the route.   We then headed back into Village and look at more shops plus got our mail.

Got home at around 5:30.

August 14, 2016

Another day in Arcadia, today we took the bus (rose colored number 7) to the westerly side of the island.  Once again, you stop at many small towns (SW Harbor, Bass Harbor Echo Lake, etc), hiking trails, picnic areas, etc.   The last stop is a town called Bernard, so we took the bus all the way and then on the return trip, got off at the Lighthouse area (Blackwoods campground).   Had to walk about 1/2 mile one way, but it was an easy hike.

Once you arrive at the lighthouse, you can see it from all sides, but on the ocean side, you have to walk down several steps and over big boulders, which are right on the ocean.   Cool for us, but not for the faint of heart!

Views were spectacular from here, you can see for miles and miles out into the Atlantic.

Took the bus into Bar Harbor, walked around some of the shops and had lunch at a 50's/60's dinner.  I had fish & chips (haddock) and Bobby had shrimp.  It was delicious.

Took the bus back to the coach, standing room only today (it's after 4 PM) and everyone is trying to get home.

August 13, 2016

Ocean Path walk

It's cloudy and supposed to rain but we leave on the local shuttle bus determined that it will be a great day, after all, we are in Acadia National Park.   We get to the visitors center for Acadia and transfer from the campground bus to the park loop bus.  They have 7 routes that run around the park and/or Bar Harbor area.  

We ride the bus until we get to Sand Beach, then we decided that we'll walk the beach path, where we'll catch the bus to continue on our route.   This hike is about 2 miles long, on a path that allows you to capture view of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.

We took several opportunities to walk out on the rocks, to capture that special shot.  The path took us to Thunder Hole, where at high tide, you can hear the roar of the ocean as it enters the cave plus

Thunder Hole

splash up to 40' waves.   We'll hopefully see it later this week.

Our next stop is Otter Cliff, here you see climbers scaling the rocks.   Braver than I would be.  It's starting to rain, so we head up the path to next bus stop, just in time.  Once we got on the bus, it was pouring.  Do to this, we took the bus back to the visitors center where we caught the campground bus back to the coach.

Tomorrow, we'll explore another route!!!


August 12, 2016

Hope to see one of these

Travel day, left Rockland around 8:30 and arrived in Trenton, ME (about 15 miles from Bar Harbor and 6 miles from Acadia National Park) at Narrows Two Campground (Thousand Trails park) around 10:30.

Once we got parked, we decided to drive into Bar Harbor Campground to look at that park.   We were supposed to move on Monday, as it's about 6 miles closer to Bar Harbor, but it did not impress as much as the current park, so we've decided to stay here until the 21st.

View of sound at our campground

Drove into Bar Harbor, what a zoo that was, we knew it would be crowded, but it was crazy.  We'll take the free shuttle in tomorrow, so much easier than trying to fight this traffic.

Went into Ellsworth (about 6 miles west of our campground) and had a wonderful lunch.  Ate at Pat's Pizza, excellent and I'm sure we'll go there again before we leave.

Took a walk down to the sound (we can see it from the motorhome), very rocky and will be great to explore tomorrow.   Right now it's raining, so back in the coach.  Hopefully the weather won't keep us from doing everything Acadia National Park has to offer.

August 11, 2016

This is probably our last day here in Rockland, ME area, think we'll head to Bar Harbor tomorrow, weather is going to turn raining, so want a few good days to see Acadia National Park.

Pemaquid Point Light, which is an hour south.   We have light fog but when we arrive it's incredibly beautiful with no wind.   The temps are going up and so is the humidity, so we want to get back before the high temps come.   My body doesn't like this humidity!!!

Pemaquid park is unique, in that once again the rocks look like petrified wood.   I just love looking at these rocks!!!!   We climbed around the area for about an hour, then headed to the lighthouse.   It was built in 1827, I'm sure it's been remodeled and/or replaced but did not find any information on

that.  

From the rocks, it's a stunning view looking back up at the lighthouse, I can't imagine the view during a winter storm, nor do I want to stay and find out!!!!

We then drove into Bristol, very small costal town, looked around and went thru a few shops.   We did stop at the Pemaquid State Historic Site, home of Fort William Henry.   From here, you get a great view of the bay and off in the distance you can see the town of Bath, home of the Bath Iron Works, where they make naval ships.

Drive home was beautiful, some of the trees are starting to turn colors, think it's from lack of water!   Like most of the country, they are in a drought.

August 10, 2016

Marshall Lighthouse

Owls Head

Owls Head Lighthouse & Marshall Lighthouse are our destinations for today.  Owls is fairly close where Marshall is about 1 hr to the south.

Owls head is a wonderful lighthouse located on a point about 5 miles from us.  Stunning views of the bay, you can see Samoset Golf Course off in the distance plus the town of Rockport, which is one town to our north.  We walked around the area, including the swimming area, no, still to cold for me to swim in!

Next we drove to Marshall Lighthouse, about 40 min to the south.   Beautiful area once again giving us spectacular views.   This lighthouse is very small but stunning.   It has a museum attached but was closed until 1 PM, so we decided not to wait the 3 hrs.

Inn keepers house at Owls Lighthouse

Drove into the town of Port Clyde, very small coastal town with a few interesting shops and museums. 

We then headed back to Rockland (no way to get to another lighthouse since we are on a peninsula.

Found a place to park and then walked up and down main street of Rockland looking in almost every store.   Love window shopping!!!

August 9, 2016

 Started day by taking a 2 mile walk out to the Rockland breakwater.   Great views of the bay and Samoset Golf Course.

We then drove up north on Hwy 1 to a town called Camden.  It's another coastal town but has a nice wharf area that we look around.   Had lunch at a nice restaurant called Mariners, had a wonderful club sandwich but the clam chowder was too clammy and watery for Bobby.   It definitely was not my type of chowder, which would be more like thick potato soup!!!

Earlier in the day, we drove up to Mt Battie, which is just north of Camden.   You get the most incredible view of the Atlantic and the surrounding islands and cities.   We had the perfect day for viewing as it was crystal blue skies.   The views were breath taking, post card perfect situation.   Also at the summit, you see this tower, which is dedicated to military.   They are in the process of remodeling, so we could not climb it.

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On the drive back home, we took in many sites of the ocean, even though the beaches are nothing like Florida or even Oregon, it's magnificent.    All of the beaches so far are rocky, nothing that we'd call a beach.  Also, we've found only tiny shells, nothing like I expected, might be because the water is extremely cold, not sure how kids swim in it.   Burr!!!!

August 8, 2016

Moving day, drove from Portland to Rockland, ME, which is about 2 hrs but we had traffic so took us about 3 hrs.    We expected that, since this is like being on hwy 1 in Oregon.   Lots of tourists!!!

Arrived at the Rockland Elks around 11:30, went into town and found the visitors center.  Picked up brochures then headed back to Elks.

Went to club for dinner, only have on Monday nights.   I had fresh Haddock and Bobby had the meatloaf special.   Both were wonderful.

August 7, 2016

Took the mail boat ride thru Casco Islands!   This ferry goes to about 7 islands taking the mail, supplies and people to the various islands.   While we just paid to ride, many were getting off at various islands to spend the weekend, etc.  

Some islands are extremely small (only two couples lived on one full time) while others had hundreds living on them.   Two had schools for kids up to the 5th grade, after that, the ferry picks them up and takes them into Portland for their schooling. 

More than one island is privately owned, so you can't get off at those unless you're renting a home from one of the owners.   We were allowed to get off the ferry at two islands for about 15 min. each time.   You can't really see much but we could have stayed and caught another ferry had we chosen.   Most owners have golf carts but some have cars (another ferry will transport your car), otherwise you walk.

August 6, 2016

The AC at the dash is not working, so we went to find an rv repair place but everything is closed until Monday.   We then decided to take today and just watch TV, extremely hot and humid here today.  94 and 70% humidity.

I went shopping while Bobby stayed home and watched TV.   I got home and made fried rice with the leftover lobster, it was delicious!!!


August 5, 2016

Dropped south along the hwy 1, stopping at Old Orchard Beach first.   They have a board walk here, so we went to see it.   It was closed, guess it doesn't open until after noon.   We walked along the beach, taking in the sites and realizing that the sand here is nothing like anywhere else we've stopped.   Hard as a rock, even in the water.

Next we headed to the lighthouse, you have to park near the ocean and then take a trail around the golf course to get to it.   Beautiful area with tons of rocks to explore.   The lighthouse is on an island, so you only get to take pics, however, I really enjoyed walking around the rocks.

We then headed to Goat Lighthouse, which is near cape porpoise, great area.   When you get out to the lighthouse, once again, it's on an island, you have to find a place to park, extemely difficult.   Only a limited number of spots and most are there to have lunch at the Chowder House, which we did also.   Had an excellent lunch of shrimp and chowder. 

You get a great view of the lighthouse plus learn about these islands.   One is named after President Bush, as they have their summer retreat in the next town of Kennebunkport, which was our next stop.  Since it's a presidential summer home, you can't get anywhere near the home, but did get a few good shots.   Apparently this was Mrs. Bush's childhood summer place and inherited it from her family, it's actually called Walker's point, after them.

August 4, 2016

We played golf at the Sable Hills Golf Course in South Portland.  Met a single guy named Peter and he played with us, great guy from Montreal.

Afterwards, we found a local laundromat and did our weekly duty.   While doing the laundry, I found a place to order to lobsters, so after laundry we picked up the two cooked lobsters (cost us $5.99 lb) .

Once we got home, I cleaned the lobster and then we had them for dinner....delicious but very rich, only ate one between the two of us.

August 3, 2016

Drove to Augusta, capital of Maine.  Took the tour, which was nothing special.  They have a few pics of important individuals but that about all you really get to see.   In the senate chambers, you are not allowed to get near the desk, who knows why?   They are in summer break and nothing on them.   The House of Reps was being remodeled, so you don't even get to go inside that area.

LL Bean's flagship store is in Freeport, ME, so we headed there.  It's something that everyone should see, you can't imagine how big this place is.   First off, it's four buildings and three of those are 2-3 stories high.  It has everything a person would want to look their best!

The rest of the town is basically an outlet mall except it's individual buildings up and down the street.  Very different but cool in its own way.  Stopped at the Whoppie Pie store, had an oatmeal one, delicious.  Also we found a few things we needed (lol) and then we headed home.

August 2, 2016

Was hoping to get pictures added to the blog, but the wifi system is just to slow for adding them, promise it will get done soon, however you can see most of them on our facebook pages.

Today was a road trip looking at 6 lighthouses, five of which are on land. 

The first two are located in Twin Light Park, but both are on private land, so you're not able to get close to them.  However, the park is wonderful and a great place to explore the Atlantic Ocean.   The rocks in this area look like petrified wood, very interesting and unique.

Portland Head Lighthouse was our next stop.   It's the most photographed lighthouse in Maine.   It's magnificent.   Located on a point that allows ships to see it clearly.   Very stunning.

Also near by (but out in the bay,) is Ram Lighthouse

Spring Point Lighthouse is our next stop, it's a spark plug design, very unusual.   You can walk out on the breakwater to get a close up view, which we did.  Huge boulders, but easy for us to navigate.

Our last lighthouse was Bug Light, it's located at the entrance to Portland Harbor.

We then headed into old town and walked around, looking in some shops.  Stopped at Gilley's for lunch, had my first lobster roll, I liked it, Bobby thought it was tasteless.   We then did some more looking around and went to a local fish market.    Lobsters start at $5.99 lb and they'll cook it for you.  Takes 20 min, so we'll do that tomorrow night.

August 1, 2016

We finally made it to Maine!!!!!   Arrived at the Portland Elks around 12:30, we stopped at Cabela's (about 15 miles from here) to dump our tanks and then traveled to here.

Met Carol (secretary), lodge is closed until Wednesday.   Nice lodge, however they are going to start a major remodel any day.  It will make this look like a totally new lodge. 

Went to Border for lunch and on the way back, it started to rain, so we'll just stay inside for the remainder of today!