[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
9/23/1986 Cleve. – Albany
It’s a good thing we didn’t plan to do much sightseeing today. It rained nearly all day and/or the cloud covering precluded viewing any colors!
Had an interesting meal at the Vineyard in the Colonie Center, an attractive shopping mall across Wolf Rd. from the Days Inn where we had a comfortable room on the "Seniors" second floor. Mileage today was 508 mi.
9/24/1986 Albany – Bangor
The colors today were breathtaking + the scenery rustic + beautiful. We enjoyed the friendly lunch at Minard’s Family Restaurant in Rutland. Called the Ms at the mtn chalet, but no answer, so proceeded on to Woodstock. Enroute there who should we see standing in front of a Dexter Shoe Outlet store - Jack M. They whisked us off to see their chalet where we visited with their family, Kevin, Gail + kids. Lovely view! Killington Mtns area - spectacular!
Quechee Gorge was the highlight in sightseeing as quaint Woodstock with all the rich well-preserved homes dating from the early 1800’s. The Congregational Church + Faulkner’s Home were on our self-guided walking tour. (One of Paul Revere's bells that he crafted is housed in the Cong. Church.)
It was late when we checked into the Quality Inn in Bangor. It was a long 400+ miles of driving today through the Green Mtns of Vt + White Mtns of N.H. but well worth the extra time allotted to the winding, hilly Rt. 2 we chose rather than interstate.
9/25/1986 Bangor – Frederickton
Traveling I-95 from Bangor to the border of New Brunswick was unusually beautiful - full color of red maples interspersed with shades of yellow - orange - green. A scenic view of the Penobscot R. was especially lovely before reaching Houlton, Me + Woodstock, N.B.
We spent several hours at Kings Landing viewing century old living before going on to Keddy’s Inn at Fredericton.
Dinner was delightful down on the St. John River at a pub after a nice warm swim in the heated indoor pool at the motel. A special treat was seeing the longest covered bridge in the U.S. at Hartland. (1,282’).
9/26/1986 Fredericton - Moncton
We had a pleasant drive along the St John River from Fredericton to Moncton, a distance of 211 Km. We stopped at one of the many fruit stands for apples + pears.
In Sussex we stopped for ice cream cones - rated the best in Canada. Should be – it’s the dairy capital!
Magnetic Hill was our next stop where we coasted up hill defying the law of gravity.
A trip out to the rocks at Hopewell Cape which reflect the awesome force of the relentless Fundy tides was interesting. We watched the Tidal Bore come in from the bay - a small wave that causes the Petitcodiac R. to rise 28’ after disappeared completely - twice daily.
We drove over to Shediac for their famous lobster dinners in the evening.
9/27/1986 Moncton - Charlottetown, P.E.I.
We boarded the ferry at Tormentina at noon to go to PEI. This ferry which holds 300 cars, has an escalator as well as cafeteria + a number of lounges. We disembarked at Borden after a comfortable hour ride.
We viewed Charlottetown, the art museum (Robt. Harris collection of 19th C. work), and visited the Visitor Information Center where we got a Bed + Breakfast reservation at Chez Nous. This is a lovely farm type area with modern home. Three other couples in addition to the owners, Sandi + Paul G, joined us for the movie "Anne of Green Gables," a delightful film made in Nova Scotia, P.E.I., + New Brunswick.
Dining at the Bonnie Brae restaurant that evening was a real treat – stuffed sole, fresh vegetables, Caesar salad, + blueberry shortcake/crème!! Yummy.
Frank + Jae B
Fran + Howard D
9/28/1986 Charlottetown (Cornwall)
It was such a lovely home we decided to stay here another day with Sandi + Paul G.
After a delicious breakfast of steak, quiche, cereal, bread, fruit, + coffee, we started out to view the beautiful countryside.
We visited a historic museum which was the site of the first settlement by the French in the 1700’s + learned of the hard life of the Acadians.
Then we proceeded to Woodleigh at Burlington where we saw everything that the Col. Johnston built of English landmarks in replica – famous cottages, cathedrals, Tower of London, etc. Fabulous! I bought a Hamilton tartan plaque here made in Scotland.
Going north + east we visited the Green Gables Museum, saw the birthplace + home of Lucy Maud [Montgomery-]MacDonald, the interesting + colorful author of the book "Anne of Green Gables."
Had tea + cake at the Kitchen Witch – a quaint tea room. Enjoyed the view/antiques.
Dinner was at the Off Broadway Inn – Acadian pie- delicious.
Watched the movie “Out of Africa” with the family + guests.
9/29/1986 Cornwall - Cape Breton - Sydney Mines
Our drive to the ferry was scenic. We went by way of Murray R. + Harbour. The boat-ride was a little over an hour + we stopped in New Glasgow for a short lunch, then on to Alex Graham Bell’s Museum at Baddeck. We spent several hours there – very interesting.
After a quick “submarine supper,” we were on our way to Mr. Matthew’s Gowrie House. What a surprise! The Ds who were our b+b mates at Sandi’s were here to greet us as were the Ss from Toronto (Dave + Maurice). This house is filled with gorgeous antiques.
9/30/1986 Sydney Mines
This was the most interesting day! We spent the day at Louisbourg where we saw the fortress – French colonial settlers learning about the history of this area how in the 18th C. That took a greater part of the day, but it was worthwhile since we now understand how the area fell to the British + all the hardships the French had to endure!
We came home to this lovely place called Gowrie on Shore Dr. – a most welcome spot after walking + driving all day in the rain.
The meal prepared by Cliff + Ken was delicious. First we started with a creamed asparagus soup – next the mushrooms baked in a delicate pastry + cream sauce – then the main course which was roast lamb/spinach, mashed pot., squash + broccoli, all cooked to perfection.
Dessert was a raspberry torte – quite nice. Coffee was served in the parlor!
The Ds + two other couples joined us at the table. Three other couples ate in the second dining room.
10/1/1986 Sydney Mines
After a leisurely late breakfast we took off for the Cape Breton Highlands National Park via Cabot Trail. Our first stop was the Gaelic College which is a cultural institution of the Celtic Arts + Crafts. I learned where the Hamilton Clan (Arran) originated in Scotland. I also discovered that there are two tartans for Hamilton, the red as well as the Hunter. We stopped several places along the way for picture taking + viewing. Except for some muddy construction + raindrops it was a very pleasant drive of about 250 miles via the Cabot Trail.
We picked blueberries, saw two bald eagles, a fox out on the road + two dead moose on a truck.
We had dinner with the Ds at Skippers Landing in Sydney Mines + retired early.
10/2/1986 Sydney Mines – Dartmouth
Nothing but beautiful winding hills with bright reds, oranges, yellows, + greens enroute to Halifax on scenic Rts. 4 + 7 today.
We stopped to take pictures of Lake Bras d’Or + North Umberlin Strait. St Mary’s R. at lunch.
Checked into the Sterns Mansion for our bed + breakfast. Not really a mansion – a little disappointing but the Ds came in shortly after we arrived + we all went out for a delicious dinner at MacAskills on the Halifax Harbour. (We have been together at three or four B+Bs and have enjoyed each other's company!)
10/3/1986 Dartmouth
The weather was beautiful today + we drove out to Peggy's Cove and what a thrill that was. I’ve waited 35 years to see the real thing after viewing pictures Bert took while he was here on his buying trips from Greenland. Craggy granite rock formations + lots of fishing boats were picturesque along the coast. We stopped at several gift shops but weren’t impressed.
The tour of the Citadel was impressive. We had 50 min. of slide narration as an introduction by the Park System. Very informative.
This fortification was designed to block a land based attack on the city. The Town Clock is the oldest bldg. extant on Citadel Hill + a recognized symbol of Halifax. It was ordered to be constructed by Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, + it was completed in 1803.
We had dinner with the Ds from Calif. Rode over + back on the ferry to McKelvies + had delicious lobster (Just loved the lobster here.) + choc cheesecake for dessert.
Wonderful day!
10/4/1986 Dartmouth – Digby
It was a dreary, rainy day’s drive here today with few stops enroute to the Mtn Gap Inn. We did stop at Luninberg as it’s a pretty resort port on the harbor off the Atlantic coast.
After checking into our cabin, we did alot sightseeing in this area. We visited the Annapolis Tidal Generating Station, Fort Anne + Port Royal. The first settlement was at Port Royal in 1605 by Champlain. It’s the first permanent settlement in Canada. It was destroyed by the British in 1613, but it was rebuilt.
Other areas grew up in the next century in Maine, New Brunswick, + Nova Scotia + it’s called Acadia.
The New England colonies to the south tried to destroy the Acadian communities. The town was renamed Annapolis Royal in honor of Queen Anne. It became the capital of Nova Scotia. In 1749 the capital was changed to Halifax. In 1755 the Acadians were expelled from the area to France.
The history of this area has been very interesting and the parks system does a fine job in making it come to life.
After a delicious dinner of scallops, for which the area is famous, we retired for a good night’s rest.
10/5/1986 Digby – Moncton
Shortly after leaving the Mtn Gap Inn, I discovered a few clothes missing. After searching my brain a few minutes, I realized they were back in the dresser drawer at Sterns Mansion. (They were still there!) We backtracked to Dartmouth + proceeded to Truro + Moncton around noon.
How fortunate for us to have arrived at the Tidal Bore just in time to see the wave came surging over the low tide at the Salmon River!
The colors in this area are more beautiful than they were when we drove through a week ago.
We’re in a very comfortable room at Journey’s Inn in Moncton. It’s a fairly new chain of motels in Canada + N.Y. + they cater to business people.
Dinner tonight was at a local family style restaurant – lobster salad – very good.
10/6/198: Moncton/St Andrews
We had a beautiful drive through Fundy National Park. We took a few pictures of deer + fawn and through a powerful telescope we were able to see the peregrine falcon nest which the park system is studying to enlarge the number of falcons that are on the endangered list.
At Alma we had marvelous sticky buns + coffee for breakfast. At St Johns we ate at the Old Mkt Square, then out to view the reversing falls rapids. They’re at the mouth of the St. John River. We were fortunate to get there at high tide so we got a glorious view from two areas. What a thrill to see that river going upstream with the onrush of the Fundy tides. For a couple seconds I thought I could see a whale, but when I got a full view of the black object, it was obvious that it was not one but three large sea lions!
On to St. Andrews – first sunshine – then a drizzle + cloud cover – finally a downpour. Not a pleasant welcome to Puff Inn where we met our glorious young hostess, Bridgett who teaches art at Fredericton.
Good, good salad + fish chowder at Smugglers Cove.
10/7/1986 St Andrews - Bar Harbor
We had an interesting + delicious breakfast of oatmeal, muffins, eggs + coffee with Bridget who owns the B+B – then off to Wedgewood, her father-in-laws shop, where we “bought the farm.” I’m five Wedgewood plates richer + really, they’re lovely.
By noon we had reached Campobello, Pres. [Franklin D] Roosevelt's summer home, where we visited the gorgeous 34-room cottage. So homey – not at all pretentious. Loved the blues they used in their decor.
We drove around the harbor + downtown area, but decided on the High Seas Motel which is up on the hill, a short distance from the shore. Have a very comfortable room #17 after changing from #14 which was not cleaned.
The smorgasbord here was exceptionally good – many appetizers, soups, + salads plus crab, shrimp, roast beef, ham, Swedish meat balls, lasagna, etc….
We watched the play-offs of the Amer. League Boston vs Angels on TV.
This afternoon we tried finding shoes at Bass outlet. No luck. Good day, as usual.
10/8/1986 Bar Harbor
After doughnuts and coffee in the room, we took off for Acadia National Park. We stopped at the Visitors Center for a short film + orientation of the 4 hr. tour. A book + map helped us chart our route – the Park Loop Rd. Frenchman Bay was our first scenic overlook. The fire overlook showed the devastation of the 1947 fire which destroyed much of the area. (Started in a dump.) We stopped at Sand Beach to feel the texture - small crushed shells of marine animals. This is a beautiful beach used by hearty souls in the summer where the temp is 50-60 degrees F. Cadillac summit (1,530’) was exhilirating. This is the highest point of land along the Atlantic Coast. Extremely windy!!
After descending Cadillac Mtn we did the usual tourist bit. Shopped, ate lunch at a sandwich shop downtown Bar Harbor + returned to our motel - High Seas.
Watched Boston take the second game from Los Angelos in the play off game 9-2, then out to dinner. Had delicious lobster across the road at the Log Cabin Inn.
10/9/1986 Bar Harbor - Ogunquit
The highlight of today's trip was our stop in Freeport at the L.L. Bean store. There are three levels, it’s opened 24 hrs a day - 7 days a week all year. We made a few purchases + did the rest of the shopping area – browsing – too many stores!!
We stopped at Kennebuncport – couldn’t find a room so went on to Ogunquit where we found a room at the Majestic Regency – a nice comfortable place – dinner at the Evergreen.
This ends our first glorious trip after my retirement.
Thursday, October 9, 1986
Monday, September 15, 1986
Rocky River V (1985)
As a teacher at Harrison School, I really like the arrangement, loved the students, their parents, my student teachers from Cleve. State, but when I turned sixty, I decided to retire. My principal couldn't convince me to stay. After 20 years in the classroom, Bert + I decided to see some more of the country.
At the end of the school year, I retired after 16 great years at Harrison School, and 23 total years for retirement. (The last three years were a buy-out for all teachers that year, but my principal insisted it wasn't for me!) At the age of 60 I was ready to travel with family.
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| Bert and Hammy (8/16/1985 in Rocky River, OH by YK) |
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| Hammy (12/26/1985 in Providence, RI) |
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| Bert (1985 in Providence, RI) |
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| Hammy reading to Erich (1985 in Providence) |
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| Kyle, Erich, and Bert (12/27/1985 at the Holiday Inn, Providence, RI) |
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| Bert, Erich, Kyle, and Kent (1985 in Providence, RI) |
Our first trip after retirement was to head north + east from Cleveland to Albany and view the glorious fall colors.
[See New England and Maritime Provinces (1986).]
Sunday, August 5, 1984
Alaska (1984)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
July 21, 1984 Ft. Collins to Vancouver, BC/Cool
Left Ft. Collins for Vancouver, B.C. from Ramada Inn’s Frontier Airlines office at 7:25 for Stapleton. Lovely flight once we got a seat assignment – 3 people assigned to our seat! We boarded the beautiful new Noordam ship at 2:30 pm, largest in the [Holland American Line] fleet, + newest in the world. We had hamburgers in the Lido room, then cocktails in the Piet Hein Lounge on the Promenade Deck. Sailed at 7 p.m. dinner at 8:00, then on to explore the Admiral's Lounge for dancing + entertainment. Beautiful scenic view of Mt Ranier [Mount Baker] + other ships leaving the harbor. Mary + Don S, Edna + Harlan joined us for an elegant meal. We turned in at midnight.
July 22, 1984 Sailing toward Ketchikan/Cool/Sunny
An early morning swim in the heated salt water pool got us off to a good start for the day. Spent the afternoon sunny on the deck - watched the four Phillipino ice carvers demonstrate their artistic sculpturing at the side of the pool. The Captain's cocktail party followed by a scrumptious dinner with champagne was enjoyed with friends compliments of the Thomas who sat with us + the Ss. We tried the movie “Yentl” but couldn’t stay awake so we crashed early for a full day of sightseeing tomorrow.
July 23, 1984 Ketchikan, Alaska/Perfect – No rain!
We docked early + went into a tender across the bay to Ketchikan. Had an excellent tour of the Tongass National Forest to see the totem poles made by the Tlingit + Maida Indians. Had a nice lunch at the Lido Lounge Deck + a swim in the warm salt water pool, followed by a sauna bath. Dinner was delightful as usual with cocktails in the Crow’s Nest followed by a floor show in the Admiral's Lounge afterwards. Packing for the tomorrow’s trip to Juneau was the last item of today’s agenda.
July 24, 1984 Juneau/Rainy – 52 degrees
After 3 glorious days of sailing of clear sunny skies on the Noordam, we reached Juneau in typical drizzling rain. Had a tour of the city + then on to our hotel the Breakwater Inn - not too plush but comfortable. Our room overlooks the Gastineau Chanel where there are various types of boats tied up. The mountains are spectacular, but there’s no where for Juneau to grow, so they’re building across the channel in Douglas, a lovely residential area. Taking advantage of a good night's sleep to rest up for tomorrow.
July 25, 1984: Skagway/Fair
Left Juneau for the Mendenhall Glacier at 9:30. Interesting. Saw several bald eaglets nesting + salmon spawning in a nearby stream. Boarded the MV Fairweather at Yankee Cove for a beautiful 100 mile, 4 hr. trip up the Lynn Canal to Skagway where we checked in at the Klondike Hotel. This is by far the most interesting town we’ve seen so far. Pop. is 914, with tourism as its chief industry. After a fine meal in the Klondike Inn we were entertained at the Eagles Hall with "Skagway in the Days of '98" - history of Skagway.
July 26, 1984 Whitehorse, Yukon/Cool, Sunny
When Vladimir brought Bert herbal tea that Peter Rabbit drinks, for breakfast at the Klondike Inn in Skagway, I thought we were in for it. However, it was a very lovely day. We took an hour walk of the town of 900, shopped, had lunch at the Sour Dough Café + then headed north via motor coach over the new road thru the pass to Whitehorse. Had dinner with Dr. + Mrs. G of Indianapolis at the Parthenon Greek Restaurant. Took a walk + it was still light at 11:00 p.m. when we turned in at the Regina Hotel, overlooking the Yukon River.
July 27, 1984 Whitehorse to Beaver Creek/Fair
To our pleasant surprise we boarded our motor coach promptly at 8:00 as scheduled with only 13 passengers. Great! Scenery in the Yukon Ter. is very similar, so although it was lengthy over the Haines + Alaska Hgways, it was very scenic – snow-capped mtns, pines + lakes + Lake Kluane was especially beautiful. Stayed at the Al-Kon Lodge, very small room – new – comfortable + expensive. Had a tasty meal in the lodge, then over to the Community Center by shuttle bus for an interesting slide show of the Inside Passage.
July 28, 1984 Fairbanks/Cool/Sunny
We left Beaver Creek in the Yukon + drove to the Can-Alaska border. The inspector was surprised to note my birthplace as he knew someone from there at Ohio U. Drove to Tok for lunch. The Alaska Hgway to Fairbanks is insulated due to the extreme temperatures. We stopped to see the malmutes + Alaskan huskies as well as the Pipe Line enroute here. After checking in we went to a delicious salmon bake with our friends Mary + Don S from the Noordam. The Ds from Seattle joined us. Had quite a nice meal + evening.
July 29, 1984 Fairbanks/Rainy
This was our first day for raincoats. Had a bus tour of the city with stops at the U. of Alaska Museum + the Visitors Center. The pipe line tour was great. It’s 800 mi from the Beaufort Sea to the Pac. Ocean (Prudhoe Bay - Valdez). Cost 9 billion $. Travels 7’ an hour + it’s kept at temp. of 140-160 degrees. We walked downtown upon return to the hotel, shopped in the rain, had lunch + came back to hotel to watch the Olympic Games on TV. Dinner with Ds at Clinker Bagger. Delicious meal + delightful English Tudor atmosphere.
July 30, 1984 Mt McKinley/Beautiful
This was the highlight of our tour. We checked in at the Chalet and started on our Wildlife Tour of Denali. We weren’t sure of what we’d see, but in addition to seeing beautiful Mt McKinley in all its splendor, we saw 4 bears, a dozen caribou, 2 moose, and 4 Dall sheep – quite a day. The Nenana R. was flowing at our front door + we watched people riding in rubber rafts in very swift current. After dinner we watched the Olympics in the lounge.
July 31, 1984 Anchorage/Cool/Cloudy
We left for Anchorage about 10:00. Saw a dog sled demonstration at the Denali Hotel. Interesting. Boarded our bus around 1:00. Nothing much to report. Visited a fruit stand en route + saw a movie. Had dinner at the rooftop of the Hilton Hotel with the Ds. What delightful evening – had shrimp + beef tenderloin. Beautiful, beautiful view of the city. Mary + Don Ss called to say they couldn’t join us for dinner so we bid farewell to our Peoria, Ill. friends via phone.
Aug. 1, 1984 Anchorage/Cool – A Little a.m. drizzle
Our morning city tour included stops at the museum and Earthquake Park. The flowers are the most beautiful colors, sizes + shapes ever. I'll always remember the beautiful hanging baskets - the larkspur, lobelia, marigolds, forget-me-nots, begonias, + dahlias, to name a few. The city is growing leaps + bounds. The Kenai Mts, Alyeska ski lift, + Portage Glacier were on the afternoon tour – all extremely interesting. Our dinner at the Downtown Deli across from the Visitors Center was one of the best meals we’ve had on the trip. We said “Good-bye” to our friends the Ds - Gladys + Leonard from Wash. Quite a day.
Aug. 2, 1984 Anchorage – Seattle/Cool - Clear
We had a 4:30 a.m. call to get bags out at the Hilton at 4:45, leaving early for our trip to the Lower 48. Had a good flight + arrived at the Edgewater in Seattle shortly after noon. Wasted no time getting to the Science Center, sight of the [1962] World's Fair. Enjoyed the China Exhibit, "Behold Hawaii" on a 3-1/2 story high screen, 60 ft. wide at the Imax Theatre, then a ride to the top (550’) of the Space Needle. Had a delicious seafood dinner at the pier called Elliott’s – a most interesting floor – ceiling bar. The walk back to the hotel was interesting along the pier as the fleet’s in for Seafarer’s Weekend. Home tomorrow via Colo.
Had a nice visit with Mike, Leslie, + Ryan for a few days before going home to Rocky River. Since school will start in a few weeks, I had to get lesson plans ready. I spent at least six weeks teaching about Alaska. My third graders all wanted to go there, + I wonder how many of them will make it via military service. They thought I was rich because I’d traveled so much. Because of our military life I told them they could do the same.
July 21, 1984 Ft. Collins to Vancouver, BC/Cool
Left Ft. Collins for Vancouver, B.C. from Ramada Inn’s Frontier Airlines office at 7:25 for Stapleton. Lovely flight once we got a seat assignment – 3 people assigned to our seat! We boarded the beautiful new Noordam ship at 2:30 pm, largest in the [Holland American Line] fleet, + newest in the world. We had hamburgers in the Lido room, then cocktails in the Piet Hein Lounge on the Promenade Deck. Sailed at 7 p.m. dinner at 8:00, then on to explore the Admiral's Lounge for dancing + entertainment. Beautiful scenic view of Mt Ranier [Mount Baker] + other ships leaving the harbor. Mary + Don S, Edna + Harlan joined us for an elegant meal. We turned in at midnight.
July 22, 1984 Sailing toward Ketchikan/Cool/Sunny
An early morning swim in the heated salt water pool got us off to a good start for the day. Spent the afternoon sunny on the deck - watched the four Phillipino ice carvers demonstrate their artistic sculpturing at the side of the pool. The Captain's cocktail party followed by a scrumptious dinner with champagne was enjoyed with friends compliments of the Thomas who sat with us + the Ss. We tried the movie “Yentl” but couldn’t stay awake so we crashed early for a full day of sightseeing tomorrow.
July 23, 1984 Ketchikan, Alaska/Perfect – No rain!
We docked early + went into a tender across the bay to Ketchikan. Had an excellent tour of the Tongass National Forest to see the totem poles made by the Tlingit + Maida Indians. Had a nice lunch at the Lido Lounge Deck + a swim in the warm salt water pool, followed by a sauna bath. Dinner was delightful as usual with cocktails in the Crow’s Nest followed by a floor show in the Admiral's Lounge afterwards. Packing for the tomorrow’s trip to Juneau was the last item of today’s agenda.
July 24, 1984 Juneau/Rainy – 52 degrees
After 3 glorious days of sailing of clear sunny skies on the Noordam, we reached Juneau in typical drizzling rain. Had a tour of the city + then on to our hotel the Breakwater Inn - not too plush but comfortable. Our room overlooks the Gastineau Chanel where there are various types of boats tied up. The mountains are spectacular, but there’s no where for Juneau to grow, so they’re building across the channel in Douglas, a lovely residential area. Taking advantage of a good night's sleep to rest up for tomorrow.
July 25, 1984: Skagway/Fair
Left Juneau for the Mendenhall Glacier at 9:30. Interesting. Saw several bald eaglets nesting + salmon spawning in a nearby stream. Boarded the MV Fairweather at Yankee Cove for a beautiful 100 mile, 4 hr. trip up the Lynn Canal to Skagway where we checked in at the Klondike Hotel. This is by far the most interesting town we’ve seen so far. Pop. is 914, with tourism as its chief industry. After a fine meal in the Klondike Inn we were entertained at the Eagles Hall with "Skagway in the Days of '98" - history of Skagway.
July 26, 1984 Whitehorse, Yukon/Cool, Sunny
When Vladimir brought Bert herbal tea that Peter Rabbit drinks, for breakfast at the Klondike Inn in Skagway, I thought we were in for it. However, it was a very lovely day. We took an hour walk of the town of 900, shopped, had lunch at the Sour Dough Café + then headed north via motor coach over the new road thru the pass to Whitehorse. Had dinner with Dr. + Mrs. G of Indianapolis at the Parthenon Greek Restaurant. Took a walk + it was still light at 11:00 p.m. when we turned in at the Regina Hotel, overlooking the Yukon River.
July 27, 1984 Whitehorse to Beaver Creek/Fair
To our pleasant surprise we boarded our motor coach promptly at 8:00 as scheduled with only 13 passengers. Great! Scenery in the Yukon Ter. is very similar, so although it was lengthy over the Haines + Alaska Hgways, it was very scenic – snow-capped mtns, pines + lakes + Lake Kluane was especially beautiful. Stayed at the Al-Kon Lodge, very small room – new – comfortable + expensive. Had a tasty meal in the lodge, then over to the Community Center by shuttle bus for an interesting slide show of the Inside Passage.
July 28, 1984 Fairbanks/Cool/Sunny
We left Beaver Creek in the Yukon + drove to the Can-Alaska border. The inspector was surprised to note my birthplace as he knew someone from there at Ohio U. Drove to Tok for lunch. The Alaska Hgway to Fairbanks is insulated due to the extreme temperatures. We stopped to see the malmutes + Alaskan huskies as well as the Pipe Line enroute here. After checking in we went to a delicious salmon bake with our friends Mary + Don S from the Noordam. The Ds from Seattle joined us. Had quite a nice meal + evening.
July 29, 1984 Fairbanks/Rainy
This was our first day for raincoats. Had a bus tour of the city with stops at the U. of Alaska Museum + the Visitors Center. The pipe line tour was great. It’s 800 mi from the Beaufort Sea to the Pac. Ocean (Prudhoe Bay - Valdez). Cost 9 billion $. Travels 7’ an hour + it’s kept at temp. of 140-160 degrees. We walked downtown upon return to the hotel, shopped in the rain, had lunch + came back to hotel to watch the Olympic Games on TV. Dinner with Ds at Clinker Bagger. Delicious meal + delightful English Tudor atmosphere.
July 30, 1984 Mt McKinley/Beautiful
This was the highlight of our tour. We checked in at the Chalet and started on our Wildlife Tour of Denali. We weren’t sure of what we’d see, but in addition to seeing beautiful Mt McKinley in all its splendor, we saw 4 bears, a dozen caribou, 2 moose, and 4 Dall sheep – quite a day. The Nenana R. was flowing at our front door + we watched people riding in rubber rafts in very swift current. After dinner we watched the Olympics in the lounge.
July 31, 1984 Anchorage/Cool/Cloudy
We left for Anchorage about 10:00. Saw a dog sled demonstration at the Denali Hotel. Interesting. Boarded our bus around 1:00. Nothing much to report. Visited a fruit stand en route + saw a movie. Had dinner at the rooftop of the Hilton Hotel with the Ds. What delightful evening – had shrimp + beef tenderloin. Beautiful, beautiful view of the city. Mary + Don Ss called to say they couldn’t join us for dinner so we bid farewell to our Peoria, Ill. friends via phone.
Aug. 1, 1984 Anchorage/Cool – A Little a.m. drizzle
Our morning city tour included stops at the museum and Earthquake Park. The flowers are the most beautiful colors, sizes + shapes ever. I'll always remember the beautiful hanging baskets - the larkspur, lobelia, marigolds, forget-me-nots, begonias, + dahlias, to name a few. The city is growing leaps + bounds. The Kenai Mts, Alyeska ski lift, + Portage Glacier were on the afternoon tour – all extremely interesting. Our dinner at the Downtown Deli across from the Visitors Center was one of the best meals we’ve had on the trip. We said “Good-bye” to our friends the Ds - Gladys + Leonard from Wash. Quite a day.
Aug. 2, 1984 Anchorage – Seattle/Cool - Clear
We had a 4:30 a.m. call to get bags out at the Hilton at 4:45, leaving early for our trip to the Lower 48. Had a good flight + arrived at the Edgewater in Seattle shortly after noon. Wasted no time getting to the Science Center, sight of the [1962] World's Fair. Enjoyed the China Exhibit, "Behold Hawaii" on a 3-1/2 story high screen, 60 ft. wide at the Imax Theatre, then a ride to the top (550’) of the Space Needle. Had a delicious seafood dinner at the pier called Elliott’s – a most interesting floor – ceiling bar. The walk back to the hotel was interesting along the pier as the fleet’s in for Seafarer’s Weekend. Home tomorrow via Colo.
Had a nice visit with Mike, Leslie, + Ryan for a few days before going home to Rocky River. Since school will start in a few weeks, I had to get lesson plans ready. I spent at least six weeks teaching about Alaska. My third graders all wanted to go there, + I wonder how many of them will make it via military service. They thought I was rich because I’d traveled so much. Because of our military life I told them they could do the same.
Saturday, July 21, 1984
Rocky River IV (1980-1984)
We had two memorable events in 1980 with the arrival of our two precious grandsons, Erich on Aug. 30th and Ryan on Nov. 6th. Needless to say, our flights went East to Providence, then West to Ft. Collins.
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| Hammy with Erich (1980 in Providence, RI) |
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| Kyle, Ryan, and Erich (1981) |
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| Hammy and Bert (1983) |
I’ll record memorable times in 1984, beginning on July 21st on a flight from Ft. Collins to Vancouver, B.C.
[See the post for Alaska (1984).]
Thursday, August 30, 1979
Trans-Canada and the Canadian Rockies (1979)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
Aug. 5, 1979 Toronto – Calgary/Warm – Sunny
Took off at Hopkins for an 8:00 o’clock flight to Toronto, Canada. We arrived at 8:45, checked in our baggage at the train station after a nice 25 minute ride from airport via Charterways bus. Had a delicious lunch at the Royal York Hotel + a nice walk thru the new Sheraton Center. Our train - the Super Continental is very adequate - not plush, but comfortable. After traveling 7 hr. I checked the map + discovered we’re directly north of Cleve. What a surprise! I was sure we were farther West. Birch trees – lakes – evergreens - some wheat (not alot), + many veg. gardens in Toronto area. Bedded down about 10 pm in our sleeping car. Bert – Upper, Hammy – Lower} Bunk bed!
Aug. 6, 1979 Nakima, Ontario/Pleasant - Sunny
Most of the day was spent lumbering through Ontario. Six hundred + evergreens per min. is about the extent of our viewing throughout the day. We nearly had a riot in the train trying to get in the third sitting for the diner – our section. Everyone wanted to eat before arriving in Winnipeg where we lost most of the orig. cars from Toronto - picked up additional ones from Montreal + added a dome car. What a view of the city! Manitoba was certainly a contrast from Ontario. It’s very flat - lots of wheat + some cattle. Very pleasant.
Aug. 7, 1979 Regina to Calgary/Pleasant
We awakened to flat prairie + soon after viewed Regina's interesting Legislature Bldg. with Golden Boy atop its dome. (All this from the Observation Car.) We passed quickly into Saskatuan (sp.) [Saskatchewan] + made stops in interesting places like Swift Current + Medicine Hat, Alberta. These are typical western type towns with Indian culture predominating. We’ve found this trip very interesting so far but welcomed the Calgary sign where we exited and went to the Palliser Hotel for the night. Went to Mashe's for a delicious deli meal.
Aug. 8, 1979 Lake Louise, Alberta/Sunny - Rainy - Warm - Cold
Left Calgary by Royal Glacier Coach at 8:00 A.M. Beautiful drive on Trans Canada Hgwy. Our hotel, the Chateau Lake Louise looks like the lake + is a splendid sight to behold! The afternoon was spent visiting Banff + Yoho National Park including Emerald Lake + Takakkaw Falls. The latter two are located in B.C. After a 5 course dinner in the hotel we walked 3-1/2 miles to the end of the lake. I'll always remember the gorgeous blue flowers, blue green lake, and mtns of evergreen.
Aug 9, 1979 Lake Louise to Kamloops, B.C./Cold here to very warm
Quite a nice day with such a variety of scenery we couldn’t become bored. We got up early from the booming sound of johns flushing in this old hotel + jogged around the lake. Nearly froze our tu-tus. We passed thru Wapka Lake, saw spiral tunnels in Yoho Valley, followed the Kicking Horse River – Field – the natural bridge, then lunch at Rogers Pass. This is in Glacier Nat. Park where grizzlies abound, but we didn’t see any. There are many avalanches in this area, but we didn’t see any. They build sheds over the hgihway. From Three Valley Gap – beautiful Shuswap Lake – Salmon Arm + our final stop Kamloops.
Aug. 10, 1979: Kamloops to Jasper/Hot
With just 9 passengers on the bus we had a glorious day. We stopped along the way to watch logs being processed into lumber, - all automatically. Spahata [Creek] Falls, the N. + S. Thompson R., Blue River + Birch Island were all part of our scenic route. Had a marvelous lunch at Clearwater + a drink of glacier water later in the afternoon. As we approached Jasper, we took magnificent shots of Mt. Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies - 12,970’. A moose was feasting on fire weed at the side of the road just a few miles from the beautiful city of Jasper where we stayed.
Aug. 11, 1979: Jasper, Alberta/Cool – cloudy then sunny
Beautiful place. Our a.m. tour was by a beat up school bus Brewster leased but we made it to Malign [Maligne] Lake, Pyramid Lake, + a tram trip to the top of Whistlers Mtn. Had the afternoon off to go shopping along the main street. It’s interesting the way the houses are built with high fences around them to prevent animals from coming in. The Park System doesn’t allow anyone from feeding them, so they became very dangerous. Had dinner in our motel - the Andrew Motel - very lovely.
Aug. 12, 1979: Jasper to Banff/Beautiful
Enroute to Banff we had a very scenic ride viewing glaciers, water falls, + more beautiful mountains – Crowfoot Glacier at Bow Lake, Saskatchawan River Valley, the Bridal [Veil] Falls in Banff Nat. Park. We stopped + toured the Columbia Ice Fields. Saw a 150’ millwell [a hole in a glacier into which melted ice water falls] + rode a most uncomfortable snow mobile.
Had a very poor lunch at a crowded bus stop + accommodations for dinner + lodging at the Mt. Royal Hotel. The town is very commercialized + this distracts from the surrounding beauty.
Aug. 13, 1979 Banff - Calgary – Colo. Spgs/Cool
Left by Royal Glacier bus at station across from our hotel for a 10 a.m. drive to Calgary. Enroute visited with a Japanese teacher going to Vancouver - we practiced his English. Check thru customs in Calgary + were airborn at 2 p.m. for Denver. Saw the Space Shuttle + Boeing 747 which had just landed. Had a hassle to get dinner in the airport. The kids [Mike + Leslie] met us + we had a grand visit for a week.
Aug. 5, 1979 Toronto – Calgary/Warm – Sunny
Took off at Hopkins for an 8:00 o’clock flight to Toronto, Canada. We arrived at 8:45, checked in our baggage at the train station after a nice 25 minute ride from airport via Charterways bus. Had a delicious lunch at the Royal York Hotel + a nice walk thru the new Sheraton Center. Our train - the Super Continental is very adequate - not plush, but comfortable. After traveling 7 hr. I checked the map + discovered we’re directly north of Cleve. What a surprise! I was sure we were farther West. Birch trees – lakes – evergreens - some wheat (not alot), + many veg. gardens in Toronto area. Bedded down about 10 pm in our sleeping car. Bert – Upper, Hammy – Lower} Bunk bed!
Aug. 6, 1979 Nakima, Ontario/Pleasant - Sunny
Most of the day was spent lumbering through Ontario. Six hundred + evergreens per min. is about the extent of our viewing throughout the day. We nearly had a riot in the train trying to get in the third sitting for the diner – our section. Everyone wanted to eat before arriving in Winnipeg where we lost most of the orig. cars from Toronto - picked up additional ones from Montreal + added a dome car. What a view of the city! Manitoba was certainly a contrast from Ontario. It’s very flat - lots of wheat + some cattle. Very pleasant.
Aug. 7, 1979 Regina to Calgary/Pleasant
We awakened to flat prairie + soon after viewed Regina's interesting Legislature Bldg. with Golden Boy atop its dome. (All this from the Observation Car.) We passed quickly into Saskatuan (sp.) [Saskatchewan] + made stops in interesting places like Swift Current + Medicine Hat, Alberta. These are typical western type towns with Indian culture predominating. We’ve found this trip very interesting so far but welcomed the Calgary sign where we exited and went to the Palliser Hotel for the night. Went to Mashe's for a delicious deli meal.
Aug. 8, 1979 Lake Louise, Alberta/Sunny - Rainy - Warm - Cold
Left Calgary by Royal Glacier Coach at 8:00 A.M. Beautiful drive on Trans Canada Hgwy. Our hotel, the Chateau Lake Louise looks like the lake + is a splendid sight to behold! The afternoon was spent visiting Banff + Yoho National Park including Emerald Lake + Takakkaw Falls. The latter two are located in B.C. After a 5 course dinner in the hotel we walked 3-1/2 miles to the end of the lake. I'll always remember the gorgeous blue flowers, blue green lake, and mtns of evergreen.
 |
| Lake Louise |
Quite a nice day with such a variety of scenery we couldn’t become bored. We got up early from the booming sound of johns flushing in this old hotel + jogged around the lake. Nearly froze our tu-tus. We passed thru Wapka Lake, saw spiral tunnels in Yoho Valley, followed the Kicking Horse River – Field – the natural bridge, then lunch at Rogers Pass. This is in Glacier Nat. Park where grizzlies abound, but we didn’t see any. There are many avalanches in this area, but we didn’t see any. They build sheds over the hgihway. From Three Valley Gap – beautiful Shuswap Lake – Salmon Arm + our final stop Kamloops.
Aug. 10, 1979: Kamloops to Jasper/Hot
With just 9 passengers on the bus we had a glorious day. We stopped along the way to watch logs being processed into lumber, - all automatically. Spahata [Creek] Falls, the N. + S. Thompson R., Blue River + Birch Island were all part of our scenic route. Had a marvelous lunch at Clearwater + a drink of glacier water later in the afternoon. As we approached Jasper, we took magnificent shots of Mt. Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies - 12,970’. A moose was feasting on fire weed at the side of the road just a few miles from the beautiful city of Jasper where we stayed.
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| Moose feeding on fireweed |
Aug. 11, 1979: Jasper, Alberta/Cool – cloudy then sunny
Beautiful place. Our a.m. tour was by a beat up school bus Brewster leased but we made it to Malign [Maligne] Lake, Pyramid Lake, + a tram trip to the top of Whistlers Mtn. Had the afternoon off to go shopping along the main street. It’s interesting the way the houses are built with high fences around them to prevent animals from coming in. The Park System doesn’t allow anyone from feeding them, so they became very dangerous. Had dinner in our motel - the Andrew Motel - very lovely.
Aug. 12, 1979: Jasper to Banff/Beautiful
Enroute to Banff we had a very scenic ride viewing glaciers, water falls, + more beautiful mountains – Crowfoot Glacier at Bow Lake, Saskatchawan River Valley, the Bridal [Veil] Falls in Banff Nat. Park. We stopped + toured the Columbia Ice Fields. Saw a 150’ millwell [a hole in a glacier into which melted ice water falls] + rode a most uncomfortable snow mobile.
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| Bert with the Snow Tracks - tour snowmobiles |
Aug. 13, 1979 Banff - Calgary – Colo. Spgs/Cool
Left by Royal Glacier bus at station across from our hotel for a 10 a.m. drive to Calgary. Enroute visited with a Japanese teacher going to Vancouver - we practiced his English. Check thru customs in Calgary + were airborn at 2 p.m. for Denver. Saw the Space Shuttle + Boeing 747 which had just landed. Had a hassle to get dinner in the airport. The kids [Mike + Leslie] met us + we had a grand visit for a week.
Wednesday, August 1, 1979
Rocky River III (1978)
The big event in the spring of 1978 was the arrival of our precious first grandson, Kyle. Mary Jane's sister, Karen, came to help out. Grandpa H, Bert + I made the trip to Providence at Easter, and many, many trips after that.
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| Kent with Kyle (1978 in Providence, RI) |
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| Ray H with Kyle (1978 in Rocky River, OH) |
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| Bert, Kyle, and Hammy (Christmas 1978 in Providence, RI) |
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| Kyle and Bert (1978) |
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| Bert and Hammy (1979) |
In Aug. ’79 we took off for a trip across Canada.
[See the post for Trans-Canada and Canadian Rockies (1979).]
Monday, August 23, 1976
Great Britain (1976)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
Aug. 9, 1976 Edinburgh, Scotland/Sunny
After a lengthy delay at JFK, British Airways managed to land us at Prestwick where we were met by our tour guide, Gil. We had a scenic drive to the Californian Hotel + checked into a lovely high ceilinged room with an Olympic size bath. After a relaxing 2-3 hour nap, we had a great time meeting the rest of our tour group at a cocktail party downstairs. Later we had dinner – haggis complete with ceremony – at the North British Hotel. Bagpipes + dancers were very entertaining.
Aug. 10, 1976 Edinburgh/Misty
The morning was spent visiting Edinburgh Castle and the sights we saw were the Palace of Holyrood House, the home of Mary Queen of Scots, + visiting home of Queen of England. Shopped in the afternoon at Jenners, Dunns, + Tartan Shop. In the p.m. we gathered together at the hotel + drove out to Dalhousie Court for a Jacobean Banquet, accompanied with traditional entertainment. We had a five course dinner + we ate in the 1600 style with no utensils. What fun!
Aug. 11, 1976 Edinburgh – Aviermore/Misty a.m. Warm + Sunny p.m.
We left this morning and drove through the beautiful Trossachs region. The heather was beginning to bloom - a hillside of dark lavender. We saw Stirling Castle enroute to Pitlochry for lunch, then more castles to visit. Stirling castle is a fortress mounted on Castle Rock. The afternoon was spent driving north to Aviermore in the Cairngorm Mountains with a stop at Blair Castle where we saw most of the 32 rooms + furnishings of the Dukes of Athall since the 13th C.
Nethybridge Hotel – a quaint country inn.
Aug. 12, 1976 Aviemore – Erskine/Beautiful
Drove through Culloden Moor to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. We had lunch at a lovely spot with a view of Loch Ness + viewed the area where supposedly the monster is. Ben Nevis, the highest mtn in Gr. Britain is a sight to behold. People race up it, but I don’t know why or how! The banks of Loch Lomond and the River Clyde are just as beautiful as we’d imagined. We had a delicious dinner at the motel on the River Clyde across from Glascow. P.S. A bomb scare rustled us out of our beds, but it was just a hoax fortunately.
Aug. 13, 1976 Erskine - Chester/Sunny after the mist burned off
The drive today was lengthy but very interesting for it included the Southern Uplands, the beautiful Lake District of Eng., and lunch at Windermere a resort area. Saw a 14th C. church + proceded on the journey to Chester. Our hotel, the Grosvenor, was quite elegant, food delicious + the walk along the ancient wall, fun. The Chester Cathedral is an example of Gothic architecture + we heard the organist practicing + the apostles' creed carved in marble. Later, a visit to a pub – quaint.
Aug. 14, 1976 Chester – Stratford-on-Avon/Warm + sunny
I loved the rolling hills of Northern Wales + the stop for gathering some heather + feeding the sheep.
Stopped for a snack at Llangollen, the home of the International Music Festival, + found some beautiful tweeds in a mill which I had made into skirts when we got home.
The evening was exciting at the theater where we saw a dramatic play Troillus and Cressida. Prior to that we stopped to take pictures of the Coventry Cathedral. More bombing took place in this city in a single day than any other place in England, so much of the cathedral had to be restored. It’s the pink sandstone, the same as the Chester Cathedral.
Aug. 15, 1976 Stratford/beautiful
Started the day with a friend for church but there wasn’t a 9:30 service at Holy Trinity so we returned to the Hilton + took pictures along the way. Bert + I did some window shopping before going on a tour. The tour today included Shakespeare's birthplace and Anne Hathaway Cottage (farm house), Holy Trinity Church + then a stroll through town followed by a lovely meal of prime rib + Yorkshire pudding in the Warwick Lounge at the Hilton. The pewter ware looked as authentic as that at the Warwick Castle - dungeon, Great Hall - 13th-15th Century.
Aug. 16, 1976 Stratford – Bristol/Hot
*The Winter’s Tale (rest stop) at Burford near Oxford charming. Lt. Col. Ret. Owner.
Our first stop was at Oxford where we viewed the various colleges. A stop at Cheltenham for lunch in the park was relaxing before going on to South Wales to view Tinter Abbey. Saw the Roman baths today, - were excavated nearly 100 years ago + were certainly an example of great engineering + plumbing. Driving through the city we saw many examples of the Regency type architecture of the late 1700’s + early 1800’s but the most interesting of all was a circle of fine homes – Dickens’ for instance. Bristol for overnight at the Draganair + Kiln restaurant – large indus. city.
Aug. 17, 1976 Bristol – Plymouth/Comfortably hot but dry
Our first stop was at the medieval cathedral city of Wells where we visited the 13th C. moated cathedral. We listened to and watched the clock. Next to Glastonbury to see the 12th C. Abbey + went to the legendary burial place of King Arthur + Queen Guinevere. I bought a cross which I still wear.
Lunch was at a quaint tea + sandwich shop at Exeter. We could see several forest fires in the distance as we traveled across Dartmoor toward Plymouth. So much of this city was bombed in WWII that it’s hard to distinguish its new section from any other modern city. A boat ride around the city was pleasant and the Navy Monument + site of Mayflower viewed.
Aug. 18, 1976 Plymouth/Hot and dry
A quick morning dip in the penthouse pool was a refreshing way to start the day. Afternoon was spent sightseeing at Tintagel which dates back to King Arthur’s days. Not much remaining of the castle, but the scenery was beautiful. The castle is quite high + overlooks the English Channel. The creamed tea with scones, cream + fresh strawberry jam were marvelous. Dinner at the penthouse of the Holiday Inn again was quite pleasant. The flower show at the City Hall down the street had every variety of flower and cacti imaginable.
Aug. 19, 1976 Plymouth – Bournemouth/Hot and dry
After a typically slow service breakfast at Holiday Inn, we had a pleasant drive along the coast to Torbay for picture taking at the Riviera type resort. The Salisbury Cathedral was enroute to the plains of Salisbury where we visited the Neolithic Stonehenge area. The Palace Court Hotel at Bournemouth was a welcome site. It reminded us of Atlantic City; the evening was spent at a Pier Show. In bed early.
Aug. 20, 1976 Bournemouth – London/Delightful
This is probably the highlight of the tour for today we visited Winchester Cathedral, had lunch at Frimley in a beautiful hotel. The first ice tea on the trip! Nearing London, we viewed the magnificent Windsor Castle overlooking the Thames River – what a royal sight. Passed Eton College, founded in 1480 [1440] + then on to our hotel - the Portman in London. Mail from Leslie + Mike awaited us + also our Edinburgh Crystal from Jenners. To the Palladium in the P.M. for a wonderful evening of entertainment – phone tag, Ink Spots, Billy Daniels.
Aug. 21, 1976 London/Beautiful
Today we spent the day shopping: Oxford St., Piccadilly Circus, and Regent St. Bought crystal for the Is + goodies for Ms + Ss. Took a bus to Victoria Station where we had a long walk past Embassy homes, high tea at a shop near Harrods (a fancy department store), then on to view the crowds of sightseers in this fabulous store of diamonds – silver – crystal – marble, etc. Walked back to the hotel via Hyde Park + speaker's forum. Had a delicious dinner in p.m. at Duke's, a nearby restaurant off Oxford St., recommended by a lovely lady walking her dog. I had white fish (plaice) and Bert – kidney creole (lamb). To bed early.
Aug. 22, 1976 London Beautiful
At 9:30 we boarded our bus for a tour of London which included St. Paul's Cathedral, the business district, London Bridge + the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Lunch was at the Sherlock Holmes Pub – fun – then on to see London Bridge + the Tower of London.
The Captain's Cabin was fine - delicious food + wine + folk singing (with a Cockney accent). We said “Good-bye” to Gil, our guide at the bar in our lovely Portman Hotel.
Aug. 23, 1976 London – N.Y./Great - Muggy
Left our hotel promptly at 8:30 + arrived at 9:20 at Heathrow for our 747 flight to N.Y. It was on time + all went well. Just a few minor annoyances like dripping overhead from the air conditioning. (British Airways does have its problems.) Also we thought we had a bird along + never did solve that mystery. At 1:00 we landed in N.Y., + 6:58 pm in Cleve. Nice trip but happy to be home.
Aug. 9, 1976 Edinburgh, Scotland/Sunny
After a lengthy delay at JFK, British Airways managed to land us at Prestwick where we were met by our tour guide, Gil. We had a scenic drive to the Californian Hotel + checked into a lovely high ceilinged room with an Olympic size bath. After a relaxing 2-3 hour nap, we had a great time meeting the rest of our tour group at a cocktail party downstairs. Later we had dinner – haggis complete with ceremony – at the North British Hotel. Bagpipes + dancers were very entertaining.
Aug. 10, 1976 Edinburgh/Misty
The morning was spent visiting Edinburgh Castle and the sights we saw were the Palace of Holyrood House, the home of Mary Queen of Scots, + visiting home of Queen of England. Shopped in the afternoon at Jenners, Dunns, + Tartan Shop. In the p.m. we gathered together at the hotel + drove out to Dalhousie Court for a Jacobean Banquet, accompanied with traditional entertainment. We had a five course dinner + we ate in the 1600 style with no utensils. What fun!
Aug. 11, 1976 Edinburgh – Aviermore/Misty a.m. Warm + Sunny p.m.
We left this morning and drove through the beautiful Trossachs region. The heather was beginning to bloom - a hillside of dark lavender. We saw Stirling Castle enroute to Pitlochry for lunch, then more castles to visit. Stirling castle is a fortress mounted on Castle Rock. The afternoon was spent driving north to Aviermore in the Cairngorm Mountains with a stop at Blair Castle where we saw most of the 32 rooms + furnishings of the Dukes of Athall since the 13th C.
Nethybridge Hotel – a quaint country inn.
Aug. 12, 1976 Aviemore – Erskine/Beautiful
Drove through Culloden Moor to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. We had lunch at a lovely spot with a view of Loch Ness + viewed the area where supposedly the monster is. Ben Nevis, the highest mtn in Gr. Britain is a sight to behold. People race up it, but I don’t know why or how! The banks of Loch Lomond and the River Clyde are just as beautiful as we’d imagined. We had a delicious dinner at the motel on the River Clyde across from Glascow. P.S. A bomb scare rustled us out of our beds, but it was just a hoax fortunately.
Aug. 13, 1976 Erskine - Chester/Sunny after the mist burned off
The drive today was lengthy but very interesting for it included the Southern Uplands, the beautiful Lake District of Eng., and lunch at Windermere a resort area. Saw a 14th C. church + proceded on the journey to Chester. Our hotel, the Grosvenor, was quite elegant, food delicious + the walk along the ancient wall, fun. The Chester Cathedral is an example of Gothic architecture + we heard the organist practicing + the apostles' creed carved in marble. Later, a visit to a pub – quaint.
Aug. 14, 1976 Chester – Stratford-on-Avon/Warm + sunny
I loved the rolling hills of Northern Wales + the stop for gathering some heather + feeding the sheep.
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| Hammy feeding sheep |
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| The sheep love Hammy |
The evening was exciting at the theater where we saw a dramatic play Troillus and Cressida. Prior to that we stopped to take pictures of the Coventry Cathedral. More bombing took place in this city in a single day than any other place in England, so much of the cathedral had to be restored. It’s the pink sandstone, the same as the Chester Cathedral.
Aug. 15, 1976 Stratford/beautiful
Started the day with a friend for church but there wasn’t a 9:30 service at Holy Trinity so we returned to the Hilton + took pictures along the way. Bert + I did some window shopping before going on a tour. The tour today included Shakespeare's birthplace and Anne Hathaway Cottage (farm house), Holy Trinity Church + then a stroll through town followed by a lovely meal of prime rib + Yorkshire pudding in the Warwick Lounge at the Hilton. The pewter ware looked as authentic as that at the Warwick Castle - dungeon, Great Hall - 13th-15th Century.
Aug. 16, 1976 Stratford – Bristol/Hot
*The Winter’s Tale (rest stop) at Burford near Oxford charming. Lt. Col. Ret. Owner.
Our first stop was at Oxford where we viewed the various colleges. A stop at Cheltenham for lunch in the park was relaxing before going on to South Wales to view Tinter Abbey. Saw the Roman baths today, - were excavated nearly 100 years ago + were certainly an example of great engineering + plumbing. Driving through the city we saw many examples of the Regency type architecture of the late 1700’s + early 1800’s but the most interesting of all was a circle of fine homes – Dickens’ for instance. Bristol for overnight at the Draganair + Kiln restaurant – large indus. city.
Aug. 17, 1976 Bristol – Plymouth/Comfortably hot but dry
Our first stop was at the medieval cathedral city of Wells where we visited the 13th C. moated cathedral. We listened to and watched the clock. Next to Glastonbury to see the 12th C. Abbey + went to the legendary burial place of King Arthur + Queen Guinevere. I bought a cross which I still wear.
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| Bert admiring terraced houses on Vicars Close in Wells, Somerset, England |
Aug. 18, 1976 Plymouth/Hot and dry
A quick morning dip in the penthouse pool was a refreshing way to start the day. Afternoon was spent sightseeing at Tintagel which dates back to King Arthur’s days. Not much remaining of the castle, but the scenery was beautiful. The castle is quite high + overlooks the English Channel. The creamed tea with scones, cream + fresh strawberry jam were marvelous. Dinner at the penthouse of the Holiday Inn again was quite pleasant. The flower show at the City Hall down the street had every variety of flower and cacti imaginable.
Aug. 19, 1976 Plymouth – Bournemouth/Hot and dry
After a typically slow service breakfast at Holiday Inn, we had a pleasant drive along the coast to Torbay for picture taking at the Riviera type resort. The Salisbury Cathedral was enroute to the plains of Salisbury where we visited the Neolithic Stonehenge area. The Palace Court Hotel at Bournemouth was a welcome site. It reminded us of Atlantic City; the evening was spent at a Pier Show. In bed early.
Aug. 20, 1976 Bournemouth – London/Delightful
This is probably the highlight of the tour for today we visited Winchester Cathedral, had lunch at Frimley in a beautiful hotel. The first ice tea on the trip! Nearing London, we viewed the magnificent Windsor Castle overlooking the Thames River – what a royal sight. Passed Eton College, founded in 1480 [1440] + then on to our hotel - the Portman in London. Mail from Leslie + Mike awaited us + also our Edinburgh Crystal from Jenners. To the Palladium in the P.M. for a wonderful evening of entertainment – phone tag, Ink Spots, Billy Daniels.
Aug. 21, 1976 London/Beautiful
Today we spent the day shopping: Oxford St., Piccadilly Circus, and Regent St. Bought crystal for the Is + goodies for Ms + Ss. Took a bus to Victoria Station where we had a long walk past Embassy homes, high tea at a shop near Harrods (a fancy department store), then on to view the crowds of sightseers in this fabulous store of diamonds – silver – crystal – marble, etc. Walked back to the hotel via Hyde Park + speaker's forum. Had a delicious dinner in p.m. at Duke's, a nearby restaurant off Oxford St., recommended by a lovely lady walking her dog. I had white fish (plaice) and Bert – kidney creole (lamb). To bed early.
Aug. 22, 1976 London Beautiful
At 9:30 we boarded our bus for a tour of London which included St. Paul's Cathedral, the business district, London Bridge + the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Lunch was at the Sherlock Holmes Pub – fun – then on to see London Bridge + the Tower of London.
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| Hammy (in green dress) and Bert at the River Thames across from Parliament and Big Ben |
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| Hammy (in green dress) and Bert on the River Thames with the group |
Aug. 23, 1976 London – N.Y./Great - Muggy
Left our hotel promptly at 8:30 + arrived at 9:20 at Heathrow for our 747 flight to N.Y. It was on time + all went well. Just a few minor annoyances like dripping overhead from the air conditioning. (British Airways does have its problems.) Also we thought we had a bird along + never did solve that mystery. At 1:00 we landed in N.Y., + 6:58 pm in Cleve. Nice trip but happy to be home.
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