[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
The first leg of our extensive trip in the summer of ’95 includes many areas + many people.
June 30, 1995: Pensacola to Montgomery
We left home about 2 pm after the usual packing up + a pedicure for me at the Parisian Nail Clinic.
Our routes 10, 29, 65, + 85 to Montgomery + Maxwell AFB were as usual, no problem, although we experienced very heavy holiday traffic. We weren’t aware of a heavy thunderstorm with 60 mph winds which preceded us from 3:30-4:30. We arrived at Maxwell AFB about 5:00 pm.
We checked in at the University Inn + had a 2 room suite – cost $20.00.
Dinner at the club was good. I had seafood shishkabob and Bert had veal. Total tab 24.00.
July 1, 1995: Montgomery – Hopkinsville
We got up at 6 am, had coffee in the room, then took off for the Ss in Hopkinsville, Ky.
We followed Rt. 65 nearly all the way – from Montgomery – Birmingham – Nashville – then Rt. 24 into Hopkinsville.
There was more traffic today than we’ve ever seen. After having no success getting breakfast at three restaurants, we drove north of Birmingham + had a bite at McDonalds + were on our way.
The farmland was especially lovely – lots of corn for miles + miles.
A lovely dinner, walk at their beautiful country club and bridge completed the day. A lovely visit with the Ss - wonderful friends.
July 2, 1995: Hopkinsville – Springfield
Left the Ss after a delightful brunch with them + their kids – Bill, Leslie + Brandon – about 9:15 am for S’fld.
We traveled Pennyrile Pkwy to W/K Pkwy for about 100 miles to Elizbethtown, passing large fields of corn + sorghum to Rt. 6. We moved our clocks ahead one hour to Eastern time.
From Rt. 65 we took 265 around Louisville to Rt. 71 which took us to Cincy, then 75 to Dayton + S’fld. Had lunch at Wendy’s in Richwood.
Arrived at Mary Jane’s at 5 pm after about a 10 mile detour on Rt. 41.
Had cocktails in the backyard, caught up on the news, had a delightful dinner + retired early. Another beautiful day!
July 3, 1995: Springfield – Hilliard
After breakfast we drove over to Barb’s + Janie’s to check on their houses. We had an early lunch at Applebee’s, then took off for Edith + Ron’s. (It was just an hour’s drive.)
The Us both amaze me. She’d had two teeth extracted just hours before our arrival + Ron’s doing well in spite of both knees replaced in May.
The Ts came over for cocktails + we all were treated to a delicious dinner at a nearby Chinese restaurant.
We saw a great display of fireworks on TV eminating from downtown.
This was another beautiful day. How lucky we are to have such wonderful friends.
July 4th Hilliard – Strongsville
Had a hearty breakfast with Edith + Ron. Left their place about 9:30 for the Ss, Ardath + John.
The traffic on I-71 was unbelievable, and we’ve never seen so many cops on the roads. It was a pleasant ride however + we were impressed with how green + beautiful Ohio is!
We found Ardath + John in good health and we welcomed his brother, Neal + sister-in-law, Thelma to the Fourth celebration – a feast! It was good seeing Jeanne + Jim LeR, Skip G, and meeting Beth’s dog, Jake. (He’s a brown Lab, good natured pet + has become a happy camper here while Beth gets relocated in Atlanta.)
After the delicious meal, we swapped tales + viewed grandchildren pictures until the wee hours.
Great day!
July 5th Strongsville - Rocky River
We left Ardath + John’s about 11 am + drove to the zoo where we spent the greater part of the day. Before leaving we got to meet Beth’s boy friend, Mark H, who just arrived from Atlanta while visiting Beth.
It was quite interesting going through the Rain Forest. It took 7-1/2 years to complete it but it’s quite nice.
We arrived at McNs in Rocky River late afternoon + were welcomed by Ray + Marie, their daughters, Kay + Pam + the beautiful little granddaughters, Shannon + Sara.
Had a delicious dinner – Ray cooked steaks, + Kay’s husband John joined us.
It was good seeing everyone here. Pam is leaving tomorrow for Wichita + will be moving to Dallas the end of the month.
July 6, 1995 Rocky River
After a good breakfast, we bid good-bye to Pam + Shannon before leaving for the downtown area + Westgate. (They’re going back to Wichita.)
Spent the day visiting downtown Cleveland. We were very impressed with Hall of Fame, Science Bldg., huge Marriott Hotel, Indians Stadium, + new basketball stadium – Many changes!
After lunch at Westgate, we returned to McN’s and heard Dr. Boyd, the new supt. of Cleve-Schools on TV. Very impressed.
Dinner that evening was at Applebee’s with Marie, Ray, Warren + Sue L.
Marie + I stayed up to watch Letterman + retired about 1 am.
July 7, 1995 Rocky River - Bay Village
Had a nice breakfast with Marie + Ray, then left about 10:30 to go out to the Ks - Phyllis and Dan in their beautiful new home in Bay Village.
Caught up on the news, had a tasty lunch, then left for a tour of the art museum. It was wonderful as usual. The exhibit of the Pre-Rafael masterpieces from England was outstanding. This artwork from the late 1800’s, early 1900’s was unknown to us.
The lakefront area in Bay has changed – many homes have been raised, making way for new ones – rather on the ostentatious side.
The dinner Phyllis prepared along with Dan’s swordfish on the grill was quite a treat!
Played bridge after dinner, then retired about 11:30.
Wonderful day.
July 8, 1995: Bay Village – Wellsville
This was a busy day! We said good-bye to Phyllis + Dan after a nice hearty breakfast + arrived at the hotel in Wellsville at 11:30. Mike + Donna surprisingly greeted us there but couldn’t stay. (We wanted them to stay and see the alumni reunion. They were enroute to Fl. from Chicago + had to hit the road.)
The lunch was fantastic + the program was interesting. They introduced all of the scholarship winners, and paid tribute to all the donors. They’ve reached their present goal of 100 thousand dollar contributors! I’m glad to say it was our '43 class that initiated this wonderful endeavor.
We visited there + up + down main street, parking in Riverside + viewing the beautiful river!!
Mary + Gene gave us a hearty welcome + after a short visit we were off again for the main events: dinner in the gym, visit with Billie S + ’42 classmates, then over to Riverside with ’43 grads. We pooped out after that + came back to Mary + Gene’s for a good night’s rest!!
July 9, 1995 Wellsville
Mary and I decided we’d had enough scheduled programs, so we decided it was time to relax this a.m. Gene barbecued chicken, we ate at 2:00.
Before the parade, we drove over to the Fox Nursing Home to visit Uncle Wayne. He was very alert + quoted scriptures + The Gettysburg Address.
There was confusion organizing the parade, but we got it started at 6 pm. I rode in a new convertible with the ’43 class. It was fun, but I missed seeing the parade.
The concert at the stadium was a huge success: a band from Pgh., the W.H.S. band, alumni band all performed in excellent style.
Gene, Mary, John J + wife, Patty + we sat together + got home around 10 pm.
Fun day.
July 10, 1995 Wellsville - Put-in-Bay
Left Mary + Gene's around 9:15 + drove to Rocky River by noon. Did some shopping at Heinen's, then proceded on to Helen's arriving at Catawba at 2 o’clock.
Rode across the lake on the Miler Ferry in our van.
The Is + Fs came over for a visit with us before dinner.
Helen took us to the Crew's Nest for a delicious dinner. We all ate the same thing – baked walleye + was it ever good.
There was a beautiful sunset which we enjoyed on the deck.
Retired early.
Spent the next few days with Helen.
July 11, 1995 Put-in-Bay
The morning began with a run to town to get the paper and a T-shirt for Bert.
We spent the afternoon reading and napping. After dinner we sat out on the deck and watched the sun set and after glow.
We had a phone call from Anne E from Wis who had planned to stop here tomorrow enroute from Chicago, but can’t make it because of the illness of her sister.
The All Star game on TV was the highlight of the evening.
I’ve orders from Helen to look up the author Ishi Gurre at the library when we go home.
July 12, 1995 Put-in-Bay
Our am schedule included: a run to town where I bought a Put-in-Bay T-shirt, to the post office to mail cards, to visit Peggy I’s class, and then pick up Helen at the beauty shoppe for lunch.
Ken + Bonnie D from Toledo stopped in for a visit with friends after our lunch at the Crescent. Their friend, a capt. on a freighter, + his wife were entertaining.
After cocktails + dinner, we sat on the deck, watched the sun set, and packed in preparation for our early departure in the morning.
July 13, 1995 Put-in-Bay – Danville, Pa.
We said good-bye early to Helen + were on the first boat out at 7 am, arriving on the mainland at 7:30.
It was Rt. 80 all the way – lots of construction but no heavy traffic or delays.
We ate lunch in Dubois, Pa. at a Dutch Pantry. Bought some apple fritters to take with us.
It was just 2:30 this afternoon when we checked into the Days Inn in Danville, Pa. It’s hot – 90 degrees while I’m writing. Even our air conditioned room isn’t very cool.
Tonight we had dinner at BJ’s + ordered the famous barbecue – ribs, shrimp + chicken breast. The bldg. was built in 1888 – very charming.
Drove + walked around downtown area + retired early.
July 14, 1995 Danville – Providence
This is record heat weather so we got an early start from the hotel at 7:45.
The drive through the rest of Pa. on Rt. 80 was uneventful + I did some of the driving until we got to the Delaware Water Gap. It’s a National Recreation Area + part of the park system on the Appalachian Trail. It’s in N.J. along the Delaware River + as you look out, you see Pa. across the river.
From 80 we took Rt. 287, across the Tappan Zee Bridge + on to Rt. 95 + Conn. We stopped in Stamford for a sandwich after driving thru White Plains looking for a “cool” spot. Ha!
We were happy to arrive at Kent’s + Tamiko’s + catch up on their news.
We played games + puzzles in the basement with Brynne.
July 15, 1995 Providence
It’s hot – a record 95-100 degrees! a record for this date.
Kent took us on a tour of downtown + then we picked up the boys while Brynne + Tamiko went to a soccer luncheon.
After lunch we drove to Barb H's to see her Tapestry Garden (perennials) in Uxbridge, Mass. It was so hot in Uxbridge. The kids got some plants, we had a nice visit with Barb’s parents, Lil + Bob C, and had a refreshing glass of iced tea on their deck.
The pool was a welcome treat at their Swim Club, and then dinner was pizza + pasta at Uncle Tony’s.
We showed the kids the kimishibai box + the artwork from Japan.
Good day in spite of the heat wave.
July 16, 1995 Providence
It’s cool! Hurrah! We’re “chilling” out today – just resting up for tomorrow and the trip South tomorrow.
Kent took Brynne + the boys swimming before lunch. After lunch we took Erich + Kyle over home + Kent drove us around to see more of downtown Providence. It’s looking more prosperous than several years ago.
We watched the Discovery Channel with Brynne after supper. The kids worked on the computer + we all retired early.
Temp. this evening in high 60’s.
July 17, 1995 Providence - Potomac, Md.
Mileage was 784 when we left the kids’. Took I-95 to New Haven where we picked up the Merritt Pawy – then 287 to the Garden State Pkwy + on to N.J. Turnpike. We exited at Exit 7 + filled the tank @ 1.07.9. Had lunch at Stewart’s in Bordentown – a Calif. burger + black cow. Proceeded on N.J. Turnpike to Exit 1 – Dela. Mem. Bridge.
Arrived at Peggy B’s about 4 pm. What a treat to see her looking so well. After a couple hours catching up on family, friends, etc., we had a lovely supper. Peg + I stayed up a few hours longer + talked after dad went to bed because he did most of the driving today + was very tired.
The mileage today was 1217.
Weather – still hot but cooler.
7/18/95 Potomac – Spartanburg, S. Car.
We left Peg’s about 8 am after a nice breakfast. We found I-270 with not too much difficulty + got onto the Beltway (495) after about 10 min. We took I-95 to Richmond + I did alot of the driving today. We exited at Exit 51 where we took I-85 the rest of the drive. We experienced lots of construction + heavy truck traffic.
We had lunch at Wendy’s at South Hill, Va. near the N. Car. Welcome Center.
When we entered S. Car., we stopped at the Visitors’ Welcome Center and made a reservation at the Ramada Inn in Spartansburg w coupon for $39. Nice comfortable room.
After a refreshing swim in the pool, we showered + dressed + had dinner at the next door Steak + Ale. I had steak + Bert had flounder. Good, good day.
July 19, 1995 Spartanburg – Pensacola
Mileage today – 1690
This, our final leg of the journey, proved to be a very interesting one. All went well through the NW corner of S. Car. on Rt. 85 through Greenville to Commerce – all very prosperous looking area with good highway. It was from Commerce south to Athens – where we began meandering over country roads, averaging 35 mph + hitting every red light possible. Bert insisted it was better than traveling the interstate + besides we “needed to see that part of Ga.” Not until Warner Robbins AFB, could I convince him we’d already been there! It was beautiful farmland. (If we couldn’t identify the plant, we called it either corn or beans.)
I set the cruise control on 70 the last leg of the trip on I-10, and the speedometer read 2315, a total of 3808 miles + a wonderful vacation w family + friends!!!
Wednesday, July 19, 1995
Monday, May 29, 1995
Elderhostel at Amicalola Falls, GA (1995)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
In May 1995 we went to an interesting Elderhostel in Amicalola Falls, GA. Then we drove to Charleston and met Kent, Tamiko + Brynne.
5/21/95 Pensacola – Amicalola Falls, Ga.
Mileage 9803 on van 8 a.m.
Took I-10 to Rt. 29 – 65 to Montgomery.
Took Rt. 85 from Montgomery to Atlanta.
We had lunch at Hardees just before going into Ga.
Stayed on Rt. 85 right thru Atlanta. Saw signs 425 days until ’96 Summer Olympics.
Took I-75 to Exit 115 – Rt. 575. Beautiful red, pink + white poppies planted in the median all along the way.
Arrived at the lodge about 4 pm. 420 miles.
As we checked into our lodge – whom did we meet but Shirley + Dave M formerly from Rocky River now residing in Davidson, S.C. Ate dinner with them – had orientation from staff, then retired to our beautiful fourth floor room overlooking this magnificent view of the Appalachian Mtns.
N. Ga. State College is located in Dahlonega – about 18 mi. from here – more about that later when we tour the campus.
Monday 5/22 Amicalola Falls
After breakfast we had a unique way of getting acquainted. We divided into groups of 5 + interviewed each other on paper – then picture taking time where we viewed each person’s picture with a little blurb about each one.
Break time 10:00-10:30. Now class.
Bill Hooks, Land + Sea Instructor - *Great
Don + Laeta Smith – Interesting course on Mtn Music + Its Roots
1) Migration 1700’s – 1860’s – Scots – Irish influence more important than from Eng. Isolates
2) Civil War – 1861-1865
3) Sears Roebuck – 1890-1900 German influence, farmers - more money to buy instruments
4) Discovery – 1900-1925 – Frank Walker – 1922
5) Electrification – 1930-1940
6) Homogination –
Brian Murphy – Your Rights + My Rights in the eve. Political Science from the college
5/23 Amicalola Falls
These are instruments used in the mtns:
Migration – Fiddle, Mtn. Dulcimer, Irish Harp
Civil War – Banjo (linked to Fiddle)
Sears Roebuck – Harmonica – “Devilish Mary”
Horace Kephert (1904) Whisky period
Cecil Sharp – 1918
Discovery – Guitar
Electrification – Accordion
Then we had a short lesson on the 4 Shape Notes – “Bright Mornin’ Stars”
More Mountain Music + Its Roots after lunch
They demonstrated fiddle sticks + fiddle.
Claud the Cloud Hopper – a handmade rhythm instrument. “Baby-O”
Southern Mtn Dance Music was introduced and we’ll put it to music Thurs.
Bill Hooks talked to us about Light Energy: Producer Consumer Disposer
Susan Sullivan came in the p.m. with her yarn + spinning wheel to entertain us after dinner.
Quite a full + interesting day!
5/24 Amicalola Falls
The day began with Bill Hooks + Land and Sea after breakfast. He compared the forest with an apartment building. Rock, soil, litter area (greatest activity – woodland mites+ decomposers here), herbaceous layers (flowering plants), shrubs, underbrush, + then canopy on top.
We boarded the bus at 11 am + went to the No. Ga. College campus.
Brian Murphy, our political science professor, gave us a great lecture on Article IX – rights + spoke on abortion.
A box lunch was served, then we toured the town of Dahlonega, starting with a 25 min. film on gold mining. We stopped at the Amicalola falls enroute to the lodge + dinner.
Bill Hooks was our evening speaker who continued lecturing on the Land + Sea. Very entertaining!
5/25 Amicalola Falls
The day began with Brian Murphy, our Miami U. graduate + a professor in political science who gave us a lot of food for thought regarding one’s rights. (What’s legal + what’s illegal according to the Supreme Court.)
After the break the Smiths came in with their musical instruments. The afternoon was free, but I decided to attend the Smith’s workshop on the Shape Note singing.
The evening was fun! After dinner we had square dancing and singing in the lounge. I was part of the Amicalola Fa La La Singers + we sang “Babylon is Fallen.” One of the guys compared our singing to an Amish prayer meeting!
Packed up for leaving in the a.m.
5/26 Amicalola Falls (Mileage 10,223) – Charleston, S. Car. (Mileage 10,565)
Arose early with the serenade of birds outside the window.
Brian Murphy was our speaker after breakfast. We discussed sexual harassment. The first case was in 1976. In 1980 EEOC was enacted. Quid pro quo – “This for that exchange.”
We had to call it closed at 10:30 + at 11:00 a.m. we hit the road.
Our route – 52 to Dawsonville
Rt. 53 to Gainsville, Ga. where we ate lunch at K-Mart, bought a new battery + watch strap + a bottle of Nexus Shampoo.
Rts. 129 to Athens, 78 – 20 to Augusta
We passed beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier and the Chattahoochee R.
Rts. 78/278 to I-26. Crossed the Savannah R. which divides Ga./S. Car.
These are crops we saw: sorghum, watermelon, peanuts – oats – quail – cattle – nurseries (pines).
Checked into Masters Econ. Inn 7:20 pm.
5/27 Charleston, S. Car
Had a hearty breakfast with the kids at Shoney’s before taking off for a self-guided tour at Middleton Plantation. It was first settled in the late 17th C + stayed in the family until it was engulfed by the Civil War.
After lunch we all soaked up rays at the pool + Brynne dove for pennies.
Kent, Brynne, Bert + I went to the Footprints in the Garden, a giant puppet theatre from Canada. This was part of the Spoleto Festival. (It’s an adaptation of the Noh play from Japan.)
We had dinner at Locklear’s with the kids + Tami’s friend, Marsha C. I had fried green tomatoes + Shrimp salad that was really, really good.
5/28 Charleston, S. Car. (Mileage 10,648) - Valdosta, Ga. (10,935)
We had a nice buffet type breakfast at Holiday Inn with Kent, Tami & Brynne.
Our trip began at 9:30 a.m. + took these routes: US 17 – US 21 to I-95 at Point South. Then it was I-95 South to Exit 14 in Ga. We traveled US 84 through Jessup + Waycross. The latter is a very attractive old railroad town. We stopped here for a frosty at Wendy’s.
Going southwest to Valdosta, we saw lots of rich good farm country - rice + lumber (pine nurseries) and peach trees.
We shopped at the outlet mall at Valdosta, had dinner at Cracker Barrel + retired early at Shoney’s Inn – Lake Park.
Had a little shower mid afternoon, but most of the day was sunny + hot.
5/29/95 Valdosta, Ga. – Pensacola
At 7:15 we left Shoney’s Inn, Lake Park. We filled the tank with gas - $1.02 per gallon. The following routes:
Rt. 84 to Quitman + Thomasville
Rt. 319 to Tallahassee
Rt. 10 to Pensacola
Thomasville, Ga. is a beautiful small town + wasn’t ravaged by the Civil War. As a result, many of the wealthy Northerners came here seeking a warmer climate during the winter months.
Pebble Hill Plantation is an example of the beautiful winter “cottages.” This one was built by the Hanna family of Cleve.
The mileage on the van was 11,209 as we arrived around noon.
Wonderful vacation!
In May 1995 we went to an interesting Elderhostel in Amicalola Falls, GA. Then we drove to Charleston and met Kent, Tamiko + Brynne.
5/21/95 Pensacola – Amicalola Falls, Ga.
Mileage 9803 on van 8 a.m.
Took I-10 to Rt. 29 – 65 to Montgomery.
Took Rt. 85 from Montgomery to Atlanta.
We had lunch at Hardees just before going into Ga.
Stayed on Rt. 85 right thru Atlanta. Saw signs 425 days until ’96 Summer Olympics.
Took I-75 to Exit 115 – Rt. 575. Beautiful red, pink + white poppies planted in the median all along the way.
Arrived at the lodge about 4 pm. 420 miles.
As we checked into our lodge – whom did we meet but Shirley + Dave M formerly from Rocky River now residing in Davidson, S.C. Ate dinner with them – had orientation from staff, then retired to our beautiful fourth floor room overlooking this magnificent view of the Appalachian Mtns.
N. Ga. State College is located in Dahlonega – about 18 mi. from here – more about that later when we tour the campus.
Monday 5/22 Amicalola Falls
After breakfast we had a unique way of getting acquainted. We divided into groups of 5 + interviewed each other on paper – then picture taking time where we viewed each person’s picture with a little blurb about each one.
Break time 10:00-10:30. Now class.
Bill Hooks, Land + Sea Instructor - *Great
Don + Laeta Smith – Interesting course on Mtn Music + Its Roots
1) Migration 1700’s – 1860’s – Scots – Irish influence more important than from Eng. Isolates
2) Civil War – 1861-1865
3) Sears Roebuck – 1890-1900 German influence, farmers - more money to buy instruments
4) Discovery – 1900-1925 – Frank Walker – 1922
5) Electrification – 1930-1940
6) Homogination –
Brian Murphy – Your Rights + My Rights in the eve. Political Science from the college
5/23 Amicalola Falls
These are instruments used in the mtns:
Migration – Fiddle, Mtn. Dulcimer, Irish Harp
Civil War – Banjo (linked to Fiddle)
Sears Roebuck – Harmonica – “Devilish Mary”
Horace Kephert (1904) Whisky period
Cecil Sharp – 1918
Discovery – Guitar
Electrification – Accordion
Then we had a short lesson on the 4 Shape Notes – “Bright Mornin’ Stars”
More Mountain Music + Its Roots after lunch
They demonstrated fiddle sticks + fiddle.
Claud the Cloud Hopper – a handmade rhythm instrument. “Baby-O”
Southern Mtn Dance Music was introduced and we’ll put it to music Thurs.
Bill Hooks talked to us about Light Energy: Producer Consumer Disposer
Susan Sullivan came in the p.m. with her yarn + spinning wheel to entertain us after dinner.
Quite a full + interesting day!
5/24 Amicalola Falls
The day began with Bill Hooks + Land and Sea after breakfast. He compared the forest with an apartment building. Rock, soil, litter area (greatest activity – woodland mites+ decomposers here), herbaceous layers (flowering plants), shrubs, underbrush, + then canopy on top.
We boarded the bus at 11 am + went to the No. Ga. College campus.
Brian Murphy, our political science professor, gave us a great lecture on Article IX – rights + spoke on abortion.
A box lunch was served, then we toured the town of Dahlonega, starting with a 25 min. film on gold mining. We stopped at the Amicalola falls enroute to the lodge + dinner.
Bill Hooks was our evening speaker who continued lecturing on the Land + Sea. Very entertaining!
5/25 Amicalola Falls
The day began with Brian Murphy, our Miami U. graduate + a professor in political science who gave us a lot of food for thought regarding one’s rights. (What’s legal + what’s illegal according to the Supreme Court.)
After the break the Smiths came in with their musical instruments. The afternoon was free, but I decided to attend the Smith’s workshop on the Shape Note singing.
The evening was fun! After dinner we had square dancing and singing in the lounge. I was part of the Amicalola Fa La La Singers + we sang “Babylon is Fallen.” One of the guys compared our singing to an Amish prayer meeting!
Packed up for leaving in the a.m.
5/26 Amicalola Falls (Mileage 10,223) – Charleston, S. Car. (Mileage 10,565)
Arose early with the serenade of birds outside the window.
Brian Murphy was our speaker after breakfast. We discussed sexual harassment. The first case was in 1976. In 1980 EEOC was enacted. Quid pro quo – “This for that exchange.”
We had to call it closed at 10:30 + at 11:00 a.m. we hit the road.
Our route – 52 to Dawsonville
Rt. 53 to Gainsville, Ga. where we ate lunch at K-Mart, bought a new battery + watch strap + a bottle of Nexus Shampoo.
Rts. 129 to Athens, 78 – 20 to Augusta
We passed beautiful Lake Sidney Lanier and the Chattahoochee R.
Rts. 78/278 to I-26. Crossed the Savannah R. which divides Ga./S. Car.
These are crops we saw: sorghum, watermelon, peanuts – oats – quail – cattle – nurseries (pines).
Checked into Masters Econ. Inn 7:20 pm.
5/27 Charleston, S. Car
Had a hearty breakfast with the kids at Shoney’s before taking off for a self-guided tour at Middleton Plantation. It was first settled in the late 17th C + stayed in the family until it was engulfed by the Civil War.
After lunch we all soaked up rays at the pool + Brynne dove for pennies.
Kent, Brynne, Bert + I went to the Footprints in the Garden, a giant puppet theatre from Canada. This was part of the Spoleto Festival. (It’s an adaptation of the Noh play from Japan.)
We had dinner at Locklear’s with the kids + Tami’s friend, Marsha C. I had fried green tomatoes + Shrimp salad that was really, really good.
5/28 Charleston, S. Car. (Mileage 10,648) - Valdosta, Ga. (10,935)
We had a nice buffet type breakfast at Holiday Inn with Kent, Tami & Brynne.
Our trip began at 9:30 a.m. + took these routes: US 17 – US 21 to I-95 at Point South. Then it was I-95 South to Exit 14 in Ga. We traveled US 84 through Jessup + Waycross. The latter is a very attractive old railroad town. We stopped here for a frosty at Wendy’s.
Going southwest to Valdosta, we saw lots of rich good farm country - rice + lumber (pine nurseries) and peach trees.
We shopped at the outlet mall at Valdosta, had dinner at Cracker Barrel + retired early at Shoney’s Inn – Lake Park.
Had a little shower mid afternoon, but most of the day was sunny + hot.
5/29/95 Valdosta, Ga. – Pensacola
At 7:15 we left Shoney’s Inn, Lake Park. We filled the tank with gas - $1.02 per gallon. The following routes:
Rt. 84 to Quitman + Thomasville
Rt. 319 to Tallahassee
Rt. 10 to Pensacola
Thomasville, Ga. is a beautiful small town + wasn’t ravaged by the Civil War. As a result, many of the wealthy Northerners came here seeking a warmer climate during the winter months.
Pebble Hill Plantation is an example of the beautiful winter “cottages.” This one was built by the Hanna family of Cleve.
The mileage on the van was 11,209 as we arrived around noon.
Wonderful vacation!
Thursday, February 2, 1995
Key West (1995)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
Feb. 2, 1995 Marco – Key West
At 7:30 am we boarded the Gulf Stream Falcon at Snook Inn for a 4-1/2 hr trip to Key West. There were approx. 150 passengers + we rode outside on the first deck most of the way.
We were met on the island by the Conch (Konk) Tour Tram which took us around the perimeter of Key West a distance of 1-1/2 x 4-1/2 miles, seeing the highlights of the area: Ft. Zachary Taylor, Mallory Sq., Hemingway’s Home, southern most home of U.S., 90 mi to Cuba sign, etc. It was a 14 mi. trip + took 1 hr 45 min. Had a delicious seafood lunch + key lime pie at Two Friends Patio Rest. On Duval St. seeing how the subtropical climate nourishes the lush vegetation, especially palm trees, hibiscus, + bougainvillea, made us anxious to go back + spend a few days next year. We just didn’t have time to see it all. We just got glimpses of old + new Key West, the Bahamian architecture features using shuttle doors on the roofs for ventilation, houses built up on quarry stones to withstand hurricanes, city cemetery, the gravesite of victims of USS Maine, whose sinking precipitated the Spanish Amer. War, + since we had such a limited time to spend there, it was the best way to see the sights. As I said before, we must go back!!
The return trip on the Falcon was my downfall. Because of high winds, we opted to sit inside the cabin + due to lack of oxygen, a full tummy of a late lunch + early dinner, my final hrs seemed like an eternity + I was delighted to land in Marco a little after 10 pm.
Feb. 2, 1995 Marco – Key West
At 7:30 am we boarded the Gulf Stream Falcon at Snook Inn for a 4-1/2 hr trip to Key West. There were approx. 150 passengers + we rode outside on the first deck most of the way.
We were met on the island by the Conch (Konk) Tour Tram which took us around the perimeter of Key West a distance of 1-1/2 x 4-1/2 miles, seeing the highlights of the area: Ft. Zachary Taylor, Mallory Sq., Hemingway’s Home, southern most home of U.S., 90 mi to Cuba sign, etc. It was a 14 mi. trip + took 1 hr 45 min. Had a delicious seafood lunch + key lime pie at Two Friends Patio Rest. On Duval St. seeing how the subtropical climate nourishes the lush vegetation, especially palm trees, hibiscus, + bougainvillea, made us anxious to go back + spend a few days next year. We just didn’t have time to see it all. We just got glimpses of old + new Key West, the Bahamian architecture features using shuttle doors on the roofs for ventilation, houses built up on quarry stones to withstand hurricanes, city cemetery, the gravesite of victims of USS Maine, whose sinking precipitated the Spanish Amer. War, + since we had such a limited time to spend there, it was the best way to see the sights. As I said before, we must go back!!
The return trip on the Falcon was my downfall. Because of high winds, we opted to sit inside the cabin + due to lack of oxygen, a full tummy of a late lunch + early dinner, my final hrs seemed like an eternity + I was delighted to land in Marco a little after 10 pm.
Wednesday, February 1, 1995
Pensacola II
Even though we’re home based in Pensacola, many of our winter months were spent in Marco Island after the holidays to sunny warm springtime, first in a rental at H-10 Southwind to a one bedroom at D-7, and then later at C-1. During this time we enjoyed our grandchildren, Kyle + Erich from R.I. + Ryan from Colo.
Our trip to Key West was by boat, the Falcon + I’m sorry to say I was seasick most of the way not a very good sailor!
[See Key West (1995)]
Most of the time, from Jan. - March we spent at Marco + enjoyed our winter visitors, then returned to Pensacola - the best of two worlds.
Saturday, July 30, 1994
Elderhostel at Kennesaw, GA (1994)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
In Jul. 1994 we had an interesting Elderhostel in Kennesaw, Ga.
7/24/94 Pensacola/Kennesaw, Ga.
Left home about 6:45 for Kennesaw Mtn. Elderhostel. Arrived about 1:00. Came up via Rts. 29, 113 to 65 to Montgomery. From there we drove to Atlanta via 85, 285 + 75 to Cartersville, our destination at the lodge. Since our room wasn’t ready until 4 o’clock, we drove over to Allatoona Dam + mineral museum. One thing I didn’t mention was that at Newnan, Ga. where we had lunch at McDonald’s we saw Jim G from church. Small world.
Had a nice dinner, get acquainted fun time, then retired to our room at the lodge.
We’re watching TV rooting for the Braves. Retiring early after a long day.
7/25 Kennesaw Mtn Lodge
J. B. Tate, a history professor at Kennesaw State College was our extremely interesting + informative speaker this a.m. He discussed the three causes of the Civil War 1) emotional 2) economic and 3) political as there was no single cause.
After lunch we had the birds come visit us. Monteen McCord brought Sam, a horned owl, barred owl + broad tail hawk.
We were on our own the rest of the afternoon so we drove to the Kennesaw Nat. Battlefield Park + to the Shanty Museum to see the locomotive “General” which was the site of the big chase in Andrew’s raid.
Triska Clark was a very humorous guest speaker, including slides of the area, for after dinner entertainment.
Saw two deer grazing in our front yard in P.M.
7/26 Kennesaw Mtn Lodge
Highlights for today included a short walk on the trail before breakfast where we saw several gold finches, a bluebird feeding outside the dining room and two hummingbirds who were also having breakfast.
Dr. Ed Bostick gave us a complete course on kudzu as well as a wonderful account of the geology + biology of Ga.
After lunch + another short walk we had a lesson on the music + artillary of the Civil War by John Carruth and a discussion by J.B. Tate on the second aspect of the causes of the war – the economics involved.
We had a movie “The Great Locomotive Chase’ featuring the famous locomotive, The General.
7/27 Kennesaw Mtn Lodge
This a.m. we had a combination of Civil War/music and a taste of the artillary including a demonstration of the workings of a canon by John Carruth. Interesting. Because of rain, the firing was canceled.
After a hearty lunch including yaka soba, we drove up to Exit 126 at Cartersville + toured the Weinman Museum – a vast display of minerals, gemstones + fossils. The huge amethyst geode was the favorite for me. Awesome!
We motored on to Exit 131 to New Echota which was the headquarters for the Cherokees from 1825-1838 when they were forced from the land to Okla.
A quick swim before dinner and a film on the Etowah mounds completed a very interesting day!
7/28 Kennesaw Mtn Lodge
Today’s activities began after breakfast at 9:00 A.M. when we boarded the Kennesaw State College bus for a field trip to Atlanta. Our first stop was at the Atlanta History Center where we saw the Gone With the Wind memorabilia as well as many Civil War exhibits. We enjoyed a box lunch at Grant Park + then toured the interesting Cyclorama and a stop at the college campus book store.
When we returned to the lodge, we went to the conference center for a slide presentation on the native birds. Had a barbecue on the patio – ribs, chicken, baked pot., corn cob, salad, strawberry short cake – all delicious.
Joe Head, admission director at the college was our guest speaker this eve. Spoke on the “General.”
In Jul. 1994 we had an interesting Elderhostel in Kennesaw, Ga.
7/24/94 Pensacola/Kennesaw, Ga.
Left home about 6:45 for Kennesaw Mtn. Elderhostel. Arrived about 1:00. Came up via Rts. 29, 113 to 65 to Montgomery. From there we drove to Atlanta via 85, 285 + 75 to Cartersville, our destination at the lodge. Since our room wasn’t ready until 4 o’clock, we drove over to Allatoona Dam + mineral museum. One thing I didn’t mention was that at Newnan, Ga. where we had lunch at McDonald’s we saw Jim G from church. Small world.
Had a nice dinner, get acquainted fun time, then retired to our room at the lodge.
We’re watching TV rooting for the Braves. Retiring early after a long day.
7/25 Kennesaw Mtn Lodge
J. B. Tate, a history professor at Kennesaw State College was our extremely interesting + informative speaker this a.m. He discussed the three causes of the Civil War 1) emotional 2) economic and 3) political as there was no single cause.
After lunch we had the birds come visit us. Monteen McCord brought Sam, a horned owl, barred owl + broad tail hawk.
We were on our own the rest of the afternoon so we drove to the Kennesaw Nat. Battlefield Park + to the Shanty Museum to see the locomotive “General” which was the site of the big chase in Andrew’s raid.
Triska Clark was a very humorous guest speaker, including slides of the area, for after dinner entertainment.
Saw two deer grazing in our front yard in P.M.
7/26 Kennesaw Mtn Lodge
Highlights for today included a short walk on the trail before breakfast where we saw several gold finches, a bluebird feeding outside the dining room and two hummingbirds who were also having breakfast.
Dr. Ed Bostick gave us a complete course on kudzu as well as a wonderful account of the geology + biology of Ga.
After lunch + another short walk we had a lesson on the music + artillary of the Civil War by John Carruth and a discussion by J.B. Tate on the second aspect of the causes of the war – the economics involved.
We had a movie “The Great Locomotive Chase’ featuring the famous locomotive, The General.
7/27 Kennesaw Mtn Lodge
This a.m. we had a combination of Civil War/music and a taste of the artillary including a demonstration of the workings of a canon by John Carruth. Interesting. Because of rain, the firing was canceled.
After a hearty lunch including yaka soba, we drove up to Exit 126 at Cartersville + toured the Weinman Museum – a vast display of minerals, gemstones + fossils. The huge amethyst geode was the favorite for me. Awesome!
We motored on to Exit 131 to New Echota which was the headquarters for the Cherokees from 1825-1838 when they were forced from the land to Okla.
A quick swim before dinner and a film on the Etowah mounds completed a very interesting day!
7/28 Kennesaw Mtn Lodge
Today’s activities began after breakfast at 9:00 A.M. when we boarded the Kennesaw State College bus for a field trip to Atlanta. Our first stop was at the Atlanta History Center where we saw the Gone With the Wind memorabilia as well as many Civil War exhibits. We enjoyed a box lunch at Grant Park + then toured the interesting Cyclorama and a stop at the college campus book store.
When we returned to the lodge, we went to the conference center for a slide presentation on the native birds. Had a barbecue on the patio – ribs, chicken, baked pot., corn cob, salad, strawberry short cake – all delicious.
Joe Head, admission director at the college was our guest speaker this eve. Spoke on the “General.”
Wednesday, April 20, 1994
Rumford, RI (1994)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
April 10, 1994: Pensacola – Montgomery
We started our trip to Providence after church. Left around 1:00 to Montgomery and arrived at Maxwell AFB about 4:00 where we tried to get a room in the VO2 but had no luck, so we exited on Rt. 85 at Exit 6 where we found a comfortable room at a Comfort Inn @$49.95. Dinner tonight was take out from Taco Bell – across the street. Had a nice visit via phone, calling Mary W, our former next door neighbor on Narrow Lane Rd. while we were living in Montgomery, from 35 yr ago.
We drove 176 mi. today via Rts 10, 29, 65, + 85.
Other than no room at Maxwell, no snags so far.
4/11/94 Montgomery to Henderson, N.C.
Celebrated my B’day.
This was quite a drive today - 576 miles through Ala., Ga., + the Carolinas traveling all the way on Rt. 85. The foliage was outstanding – dogwoods, redbuds, and wisteria. This is the first time we’ve ever made it through Atlanta without any traffic problems. There was a lot of construction from Greensboro, S.C. to Durham, N.C. We want to be sure to hit Atlanta when it’s not during rush hour because 10:30 am was a cinch today! After 10-1/2 hrs on the road we were glad to pull in our motel, the Budget Host Inn at Henderson. We didn’t have much choice in motels, but this was a ** in the AAA book + it’s clean. We celebrated my birthday at the Holiday Inn restaurant with lasagna + veal. Nice day.
Gasoline cheap in Ga. - 80¢ a gal.
4/12/94 Henderson to Severna Park, Md.
The day began with breakfast in the room – banana + our own tea + coffee. Temp. a bit cooler so our jackets felt good. The routes were 85, 95, + 495. We stopped at Hardees for breakfast + then got on our way to Richmond where we visited Ft. Harrison + toured the Richmond Battlefield National Park. It’s an interesting city + we wished we had time to tour all the museums. Lunch was at Camp Hill, Md. at a Friendly Rest. Heavy traffic on the Beltway going through Wash. + Baltimore. We arrived at DeGs around 2:30 after a 270 mile drive. They had the card table ready + we played a few hands of bridge before + after dinner. Dottie made a crab casserole for us + we retired around midnight. Fun day! Flowers + shrubs – forsythia + pear trees along with pink + white dogwood made a beautiful scene all along our Va. + Md. routes. Gas still cheap - under a dollar a gallon. Mileage this far - 1,020 miles.
4/13/94 Severna Park, Md.
The day began with a big breakfast of sausage, eggs + toast in DeG's kitchen. Then we set out for the Eastern Shore and Chestertown where we ate at the quaint restaurant, the iron Kettle. Many of the shops date back to Revolutionary War days + are filled with interesting antiques. It was about an hour's drive past Kent Island and on to Chesapeake Bay.
After we had lunch we headed back with a slight delay while Bill had to call AAA for a battery charger.
We finished our day at the bridge table + a light supper. We played a total of 48 hands of bridge!
4/14/94 Severna Park to Rumford, R.I.
We left DeGs at 8:15 + arrived at Kent and Tamiko's, at 5:00 pm. a distance of 400 miles. It was pleasant driving through Md. + Delaware seeing spring in action but we met reality + traffic when we got to the N. J. Turnpike + Garden State Pkwy. Then again it was hazardous in most of Conn. with alot of construction going on.
How happy we were to see the kids! Kent was here to greet us + Tamiko + Brynne came in shortly afterwards from dance class.
After a light supper we celebrated our mutual birthdays with cake + presents including lots of cards.
I read to Brynne, she slept in her new nightgown dressed the same as her doll Samantha’s + we retired very early after a busy day.
Total mileage from Pensacola 1420 mi.
4/15/94 Rumford
After breakfast we headed southwest to Cranston to meet the Bs - Rita + Ed. (They’re part of the Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] who’ll be coming to the reunion in Pensacola.) They took us to a good restaurant called Chelo’s in Cranston. We had a nice visit. Then Bert + I drove over to Cranston H.S. West where we watched Kyle’s baseball team from Classical H.S. play Cranston. Kyle’s team lost 15-3, but we got to see him catch a fly ball in left field for the first out of the game - great catch! Dinner here with the kids – fish + chips. Later Kent and Tamiko worked on income tax + made it to the p. o. in time to escape the deadline + penalty. Nice day.
4/16/94 Rumford
This was the big day – Brynne’s birthday party. The zoo plans were changed as we were rained out. Plan B – the kids came here instead. The girls, Katie + Tessa arrived first, then came Kevin + Chuck, followed by Christian + Alex. The tiger cake (or was it a lion) was on hand with five glowing candles – then ice cream + pretzels for the boys who didn’t want the cake/ice cream. Brynne opened a wide assortment of gifts with Christian’s help. They had their choice of games in the basement or a movie. What fun! I ended up playing school with the girls as we had a few live boys with balloons.
In the evening, Kent + Tamiko took advantage of our offer to watch Brynne by taking in a movie + dinner out + we took over our favorite roll – playing with the kids. G’pa made a pizza + we retired early.
4/17/94 Rumford
Today we had a nice brunch at home. Then we put the rain checks to the zoo to use by taking Brynne + her friend, Katie, along with Kyle + Erich to the zoo. We managed to get through all the exhibits before the rains came.
I took advantage of a little time off from the activities when we got home to take a quick nap.
We went out for dinner at the newly renovated Union Station Grill. It was very good food. After dropping off the boys at Mary Jane’s, we had a little dessert + retired early for our early departure to Pensacola.
4/18/94 Rumford/ Winchester, Va.
We got off at 7:20 for our first destination – Winchester, Va. It was a 10-1/2 hr trip travelling the Merritt Pkwy from New Haven to Rt. 287 then across the Tappan Zee Bridge, Garden State Pkwy, on to Rt. 80, Pa. Tpk, then Rt. 78 + Rt. 81. Cities we went through were Allentown, Pa., Harrisburg, then on to Md., Welcome Center in W. Va. + on to Winchester, Va. – a distance of 510 miles. We had a comfortable room for $44 at Comfort Inn. For dinner we walked across the street to Chason’s Country Buffet + had a feast. If we’re ever in the area again we’ll come back again. For $15.00 for dinner you can’t beat the price.
4/19/94 Winchester to Chattanooga
What a day! It started out beautifully. All through Va. on Rt. 81 we saw spectacular foliage, especially flowering apple and pear blossoms, redbud + dogwood trees. Cities that impressed us with their large rolling lots + architecture in homes adapted to the terrain were Staunton, Harrisburg, Roanoke, Wytheville, + Bristol. Traffic through Knoxville on 40, then 75, was heavy. Our luck changed when we stopped at the Welcome Center near Athens. The van wouldn’t start so we had to call AAA who gave us a jump start + we were off for a short distance, then the car stopped completely. Upon checking, we discovered a fire under the van, and a nice girl stopped to offer her help. She drove/Bert hitched a ride to Exit 33 where he got a wrecker + we were towed to our Comfort Inn in Chattanooga - a distance of about 30 mi. Mileage from Kent's is now 1,021. We’ll just have to wait + see what tomorrow brings.
4/20/94 Chattanooga – Pensacola
The day began at 7 am when the wrecker came to tow the van to the Dodge dealer’s. With a new alternator we were on our way to Pensacola at 10:30 am. We stopped at Gadsden for a bite of lunch, then on to Birmingham on Rt. 59 to Montgomery on Rt. 65. Ala. has the best roads + cleanest rest rooms on the whole trip. We had a heavy shower in Flomaton, but by the time we got to Pensacola, it had stopped. We made it to the p. o. in time to pick up our mail + got home at 5 pm. with the mileage is 1455 from R.I. I heated left overs + we got caught up on our mail, watched a little TV, did some laundry + retired early – the end of a great trip.
April 10, 1994: Pensacola – Montgomery
We started our trip to Providence after church. Left around 1:00 to Montgomery and arrived at Maxwell AFB about 4:00 where we tried to get a room in the VO2 but had no luck, so we exited on Rt. 85 at Exit 6 where we found a comfortable room at a Comfort Inn @$49.95. Dinner tonight was take out from Taco Bell – across the street. Had a nice visit via phone, calling Mary W, our former next door neighbor on Narrow Lane Rd. while we were living in Montgomery, from 35 yr ago.
We drove 176 mi. today via Rts 10, 29, 65, + 85.
Other than no room at Maxwell, no snags so far.
4/11/94 Montgomery to Henderson, N.C.
Celebrated my B’day.
This was quite a drive today - 576 miles through Ala., Ga., + the Carolinas traveling all the way on Rt. 85. The foliage was outstanding – dogwoods, redbuds, and wisteria. This is the first time we’ve ever made it through Atlanta without any traffic problems. There was a lot of construction from Greensboro, S.C. to Durham, N.C. We want to be sure to hit Atlanta when it’s not during rush hour because 10:30 am was a cinch today! After 10-1/2 hrs on the road we were glad to pull in our motel, the Budget Host Inn at Henderson. We didn’t have much choice in motels, but this was a ** in the AAA book + it’s clean. We celebrated my birthday at the Holiday Inn restaurant with lasagna + veal. Nice day.
Gasoline cheap in Ga. - 80¢ a gal.
4/12/94 Henderson to Severna Park, Md.
The day began with breakfast in the room – banana + our own tea + coffee. Temp. a bit cooler so our jackets felt good. The routes were 85, 95, + 495. We stopped at Hardees for breakfast + then got on our way to Richmond where we visited Ft. Harrison + toured the Richmond Battlefield National Park. It’s an interesting city + we wished we had time to tour all the museums. Lunch was at Camp Hill, Md. at a Friendly Rest. Heavy traffic on the Beltway going through Wash. + Baltimore. We arrived at DeGs around 2:30 after a 270 mile drive. They had the card table ready + we played a few hands of bridge before + after dinner. Dottie made a crab casserole for us + we retired around midnight. Fun day! Flowers + shrubs – forsythia + pear trees along with pink + white dogwood made a beautiful scene all along our Va. + Md. routes. Gas still cheap - under a dollar a gallon. Mileage this far - 1,020 miles.
4/13/94 Severna Park, Md.
The day began with a big breakfast of sausage, eggs + toast in DeG's kitchen. Then we set out for the Eastern Shore and Chestertown where we ate at the quaint restaurant, the iron Kettle. Many of the shops date back to Revolutionary War days + are filled with interesting antiques. It was about an hour's drive past Kent Island and on to Chesapeake Bay.
After we had lunch we headed back with a slight delay while Bill had to call AAA for a battery charger.
We finished our day at the bridge table + a light supper. We played a total of 48 hands of bridge!
4/14/94 Severna Park to Rumford, R.I.
We left DeGs at 8:15 + arrived at Kent and Tamiko's, at 5:00 pm. a distance of 400 miles. It was pleasant driving through Md. + Delaware seeing spring in action but we met reality + traffic when we got to the N. J. Turnpike + Garden State Pkwy. Then again it was hazardous in most of Conn. with alot of construction going on.
How happy we were to see the kids! Kent was here to greet us + Tamiko + Brynne came in shortly afterwards from dance class.
After a light supper we celebrated our mutual birthdays with cake + presents including lots of cards.
I read to Brynne, she slept in her new nightgown dressed the same as her doll Samantha’s + we retired very early after a busy day.
Total mileage from Pensacola 1420 mi.
4/15/94 Rumford
After breakfast we headed southwest to Cranston to meet the Bs - Rita + Ed. (They’re part of the Combat Cargo Group [Squadron] who’ll be coming to the reunion in Pensacola.) They took us to a good restaurant called Chelo’s in Cranston. We had a nice visit. Then Bert + I drove over to Cranston H.S. West where we watched Kyle’s baseball team from Classical H.S. play Cranston. Kyle’s team lost 15-3, but we got to see him catch a fly ball in left field for the first out of the game - great catch! Dinner here with the kids – fish + chips. Later Kent and Tamiko worked on income tax + made it to the p. o. in time to escape the deadline + penalty. Nice day.
4/16/94 Rumford
This was the big day – Brynne’s birthday party. The zoo plans were changed as we were rained out. Plan B – the kids came here instead. The girls, Katie + Tessa arrived first, then came Kevin + Chuck, followed by Christian + Alex. The tiger cake (or was it a lion) was on hand with five glowing candles – then ice cream + pretzels for the boys who didn’t want the cake/ice cream. Brynne opened a wide assortment of gifts with Christian’s help. They had their choice of games in the basement or a movie. What fun! I ended up playing school with the girls as we had a few live boys with balloons.
In the evening, Kent + Tamiko took advantage of our offer to watch Brynne by taking in a movie + dinner out + we took over our favorite roll – playing with the kids. G’pa made a pizza + we retired early.
4/17/94 Rumford
Today we had a nice brunch at home. Then we put the rain checks to the zoo to use by taking Brynne + her friend, Katie, along with Kyle + Erich to the zoo. We managed to get through all the exhibits before the rains came.
I took advantage of a little time off from the activities when we got home to take a quick nap.
We went out for dinner at the newly renovated Union Station Grill. It was very good food. After dropping off the boys at Mary Jane’s, we had a little dessert + retired early for our early departure to Pensacola.
4/18/94 Rumford/ Winchester, Va.
We got off at 7:20 for our first destination – Winchester, Va. It was a 10-1/2 hr trip travelling the Merritt Pkwy from New Haven to Rt. 287 then across the Tappan Zee Bridge, Garden State Pkwy, on to Rt. 80, Pa. Tpk, then Rt. 78 + Rt. 81. Cities we went through were Allentown, Pa., Harrisburg, then on to Md., Welcome Center in W. Va. + on to Winchester, Va. – a distance of 510 miles. We had a comfortable room for $44 at Comfort Inn. For dinner we walked across the street to Chason’s Country Buffet + had a feast. If we’re ever in the area again we’ll come back again. For $15.00 for dinner you can’t beat the price.
4/19/94 Winchester to Chattanooga
What a day! It started out beautifully. All through Va. on Rt. 81 we saw spectacular foliage, especially flowering apple and pear blossoms, redbud + dogwood trees. Cities that impressed us with their large rolling lots + architecture in homes adapted to the terrain were Staunton, Harrisburg, Roanoke, Wytheville, + Bristol. Traffic through Knoxville on 40, then 75, was heavy. Our luck changed when we stopped at the Welcome Center near Athens. The van wouldn’t start so we had to call AAA who gave us a jump start + we were off for a short distance, then the car stopped completely. Upon checking, we discovered a fire under the van, and a nice girl stopped to offer her help. She drove/Bert hitched a ride to Exit 33 where he got a wrecker + we were towed to our Comfort Inn in Chattanooga - a distance of about 30 mi. Mileage from Kent's is now 1,021. We’ll just have to wait + see what tomorrow brings.
4/20/94 Chattanooga – Pensacola
The day began at 7 am when the wrecker came to tow the van to the Dodge dealer’s. With a new alternator we were on our way to Pensacola at 10:30 am. We stopped at Gadsden for a bite of lunch, then on to Birmingham on Rt. 59 to Montgomery on Rt. 65. Ala. has the best roads + cleanest rest rooms on the whole trip. We had a heavy shower in Flomaton, but by the time we got to Pensacola, it had stopped. We made it to the p. o. in time to pick up our mail + got home at 5 pm. with the mileage is 1455 from R.I. I heated left overs + we got caught up on our mail, watched a little TV, did some laundry + retired early – the end of a great trip.
Saturday, July 24, 1993
Wellsville 50th Reunion (1993)
[Key: Memoir in Times New Roman, Travel Journal in Arial]
The rest of '93 we visited in Ohio + R.I. Went to Wellsville H.S. Alumni 50th Reunion, stopped at Mary + Gene's, then up to Put-in-Bay to see Helen Sinram.
7/3/93 Pensacola to Sweetwater, Tenn.
We left at 8 a.m. Took I-10 to Cantonment, Rt. 29 to Flomaton, then I-65 to Chatanooga. Of interest today, Bert had trouble with his zipper + lost his GM card. All went well after lunch. We followed I-75 to Sweetwater where we spent the night at the Quality Inn. Had a delicious buffet at the inn + retired early. Total mileage 446 miles – travel time 8 hrs. – not a bad trip + traffic moderate considering it’s a holiday weekend. Temp. in high 90’s + humidity high so we welcomed the air conditioned room. Very comfortable. At Birmingham we took 459, then Rt. 59 to Chatanooga – from there we took Rt. 24 to 75 to Chatanooga.
7/4/93 Sweetwater to S’fld
The mileage is 818 from Pensacola. We took I-75 all the way to Dayton where we picked up 675, then Rt. 70 into S’fld + Mary Jane’s when we arrived here about 4 pm. Had a nice supper, then went to Cliff Park for a concert. We left at intermission + came back to watch the Country Club fireworks in our backyard.
7/5/93 Mary Jane B’s
Got up early + went to Brown Reservoir to walk on the dam. Had breakfast, then went to the mall + to Yellow Springs to window shop. Had delicious lunch at the Country Connection in New Carlisle. We stopped at Meijers large super mkt after a long drive through the country. Had dinner at the country club. Wanda + Ray G joined us. Afterwards M.J. drove us around the north + west areas to see new housing. Retired early. Full day!
7/6/93 Springfield/Hilliard
Left Mary Jane’s about 11 am + arrived at Edith + Ron’s at noon traveling Rt. 70 + 270 exiting to Mill Run Villas on Exit 13. Had a nice lunch + visit. The Ms – Bill + Ruth – came over for cocktails, then we went to dinner at Wilhelm’s a 55 restaurant in Dublin. Nice!! Came back + visited some more until about 10:30. We retired to the “loft” after a very pleasant day!
7/7/93 Hilliard/Rocky River
Left Edith + Ron’s a few minutes after 10:00 + arrived in R.R. about 12:30. Had lunch at Friendly’s + drove around town after talking with Gloria H about U’s house. Dinner with Marie + Ray McN’s was at Fratella’s in Avon Lake. Delicious pastas. Charlie Rose on PBS was interesting + after a full day of fun, we retired at midnight.
7/8/93 Rocky River
Had a nice walk in the park at 7 am. The McNs took us on a tour of Cleve. to see all the changes. Lunch on a barge – Hornblower on Lake Erie. Checked Edith + Ron’s house then had dinner with Erie Rd. gang at Salmon Dave’s after cocktails at Ls.
7/9/93 Rocky River/Wellsville
Fri. Arrived shortly afternoon at Mary + Gene’s. Weather - hot + humid. Had a nice supper with them. Went into Well. + had a delightful party at Vivian S B’s house on Wells Ave. About 50 alumni + spouses on hand. Visited with Mike + Phyllis.
Sat. Left after lunch, toured River Museum – saw both g’pas there plus lots of other pictures. Toured the high school, then met at the old River View Hotel to hear about the renovations sponsored by the W. Alum. The eve. was spent at the Masonic Temple where we had turkey dinner + later dancing. It was decorated beautifully – tigers, orange + black balloons + streamers. We received our 50 yr. diplomas. Fun! (Visited Dolores + Chauncey in afternoon.)
7/11/93 Wellsville
Sun. Left for church which was held at the Epis. Church on 11th + Main. Committee gave a lovely service. Afterwards we had a picnic at the marina – chicken by Richard C – baked beans, pot. salad, rolls + beverages – quite a feast. We let all our balloons fly over the river. Beautiful sight! We spent the evening reminiscing with Mary + Gene.
7/12/93 Wellsville/Put-in-Bay
Left Mary + Gene’s at 9:00 + had trouble with the van stalling on us. Stopped in R.R. + got NAPA thermos-aid + premium gas. Had a bite to eat at Friendly’s. Arrived at the dock at Catawba + I’m writing this here at 2:15 awaiting loading on the ferry.
Helen was surprised at our arrival + we were surprised to see the Cs – 17 yr. old Kirkland, 15 yr old Ben + 9 yr old Anna. It was great seeing Naomi + Kirk. Cooked burgers on the grill. Talked until 10:30 + retired to the loft. Fun day! Spectacular sunset.
7/13 -7/14 Put-in-Bay
Tues. Had an early morning walk to town before breakfast. Enjoyed being with the kids. Ben + Anna were both vying for Carrie L’s attention. Naomi + I had to round them up – they nearly missed the boat. We had a problem with the van + got it fixed – a vacuum leak. Helen took us to dinner at the Skyway.
Wed. Helen + I visited Peg I’s school in a.m. Had lunch at the Crew’s Nest. Heard the sad news there that Joe D was electrocuted retreaving a pair of glasses in the water off the dock. (He was a former student of mine.) Dinner at Pat Daily’s was good.
7/15/93 Put-in-Bay/Danville, Pa.
Left on the 7 a.m. ferry from P.I.B. Had a great visit with Helen. Arrived in Danville around 2:30 after a good trip across I-80. Checked the various motels + decided on Days Inn, the former Sheraton. Had a relaxing swim + whirl pool before dinner at B.J’s Ribs. A wonderful meal of ribs, barbecued chicken + shrimp. Had a tour of the city. Of interest was the Geisinger Medical Center.
7/16/93 Danville/Rumford, R.I.
Left about 7:15 + arrived at Kent + Tamiko’s at 2:30 – a very easy drive considering the congested N.E. traffic. Traveled I-80 + 287 across the Tappan Zee Bridge over the Hudson R. Went to see Erich’s team play in an All-Star game. Mt. Pleasant/S. Providence. His team squeaked through with an 8-7 victory + will now vie for state champs. We stopped to get fish + chips. Ate about 8:30, talked until 11:00 + retired after a wonderful day to Brynne’s room. She’s darling!
7/17/93 Rumford
Sat. After lunch we went to the Slater Mill in Pawtucket to see the art exhibit of Don Bosquet. Afterwards we drove through Providence to see the new bridges + progress that’s taking place. Kent cooked burgers on the grill.
Sun. Left at 11 am for Goosewing Beach in Little Compton. Weather was beautiful. Lunch at Abraham Manchester was delicious. Erich went over to Mary Jane’s + Kyle stayed here to baby sit Brynne tomorrow when Tami + Kent go to work. Fun day!
Mon. Took Brynne + Kyle to Rehobath, Mass. playground in afternoon. I cooked ham New Eng. dinner. Had a family discussion before retiring.
7/20/93 Rumford/Towson, Md.
Left about 7:15 + arrived at Mary Jane + Walt L’s at 3:15. The routes traveled are 95 to 287 which is the Garden State Pkwy to the N. Jersey Turnpike. We exited at 6 instead of 1 so had to backtrack to the Pa. Turnpike + drive thru Phily to Baltimore. That was Rt. 95 and known as the Kennedy Mem. Hwy. Walt + Mary Jane live in a beautiful area of Towson – very spacious + comfortable townhouse. She served an Imperial Crabmeat dish with Greek salad, fruit + frozen yogurt. It was delightful. We spent many hours in good conversation + reminiscing before retiring. A delightful day in spite of the hectic drive getting here – a distance of 400 mi. for a nice visit with Mary Jane + Walt L.
7/21/93 Towson
Our day began by driving to Ft. McHenry. We saw a film describing the Battle of Baltimore + the writing of the “Star Spangled Banner” by Francis Scott Key. (It became our national anthem in 1931.) Ft. McHenry spans the period from the Amer. Rev. through World War II. It derives its name from McHenry who was sec. of war under Geo. Wash. + John Adams.
We had lunch at Sanders at Loch Raven near the dam, then drove to Hampton to see the mansion + grounds that were originally own by the Ridgely family + are now National historic site. I got my passport book stamped here + at Ft. McHenry.
Dottie + Bill DeG, other AF retired friends came over for dinner. More fun!
7/22/93 Towson/Bristol, Tenn.
It was a beautiful 400 mi. drive today with mild temp. Routes traveled were: 695 to 95 around Baltimore, then 495 to 66 around D.C. South on 66 to 81 which we followed past Front Royal, Strasburg, lunch at Woodstock on to Staunton. We stopped enroute to these places at Manassas (Bull Run) National Battlefield Park + got the passport book stamped and saw a Civil War film. We passed Lexington, home of VMI + Wash. + Lee U. where Robt. E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson, Geo. Wash., + Geo. Marshall attended college. We also passed Roanoke before arriving in Bristol where we had dinner at Bristol Choice + stayed overnight at the Ho-Jo Motel. Nice day.
7/23/93 Bristol, Tenn to Atlanta
Left about 7:30 + arrived at Chickamauga/Chattanooga Nat’l Military Park around noon. We traveled Rt. 81, then 40 to Knoxville. The 16 min. film at the park was excellent. We continued driving to Kennesaw Mtn. Nat’l Battlefield Park – Rt. 75. Then we got on 285 + exited at 28 for Fairfield Inn where we spent the night. It was a welcome sight after heavy traffic. We took a swim, then cleaned up for dinner. Ate at Ruby Tuesday’s, then walked thru the mall. Bert bought a hat at Eddie Bauer’s. The interesting plant that has taken over the entire landscape in Ga. is the kudzu.
7/24/93 Atlanta/Pensacola
After an hour + a half drive to Calloway Gardens on Rt. 85 South, we spent about 4 hrs. touring the beautiful gardens: the horticultural center, the chapel, the log cabin, butterfly house + Mr. Cason’s veg. garden. It was a hot day + although we’d have enjoyed staying for the circus act + water show, felt we’d better get home. The drive through Montgomery on Rt. 65 + 113 + 29 into Flomaton + into Pensacola on I-10 were very calm -piece of cake. Stopped to get veg. + fruit in Ala. + arrived home around 5 p.m. having added 3775 mi. to the van + visited 13 National Parks. Great trip!
The rest of '93 we visited in Ohio + R.I. Went to Wellsville H.S. Alumni 50th Reunion, stopped at Mary + Gene's, then up to Put-in-Bay to see Helen Sinram.
7/3/93 Pensacola to Sweetwater, Tenn.
We left at 8 a.m. Took I-10 to Cantonment, Rt. 29 to Flomaton, then I-65 to Chatanooga. Of interest today, Bert had trouble with his zipper + lost his GM card. All went well after lunch. We followed I-75 to Sweetwater where we spent the night at the Quality Inn. Had a delicious buffet at the inn + retired early. Total mileage 446 miles – travel time 8 hrs. – not a bad trip + traffic moderate considering it’s a holiday weekend. Temp. in high 90’s + humidity high so we welcomed the air conditioned room. Very comfortable. At Birmingham we took 459, then Rt. 59 to Chatanooga – from there we took Rt. 24 to 75 to Chatanooga.
7/4/93 Sweetwater to S’fld
The mileage is 818 from Pensacola. We took I-75 all the way to Dayton where we picked up 675, then Rt. 70 into S’fld + Mary Jane’s when we arrived here about 4 pm. Had a nice supper, then went to Cliff Park for a concert. We left at intermission + came back to watch the Country Club fireworks in our backyard.
7/5/93 Mary Jane B’s
Got up early + went to Brown Reservoir to walk on the dam. Had breakfast, then went to the mall + to Yellow Springs to window shop. Had delicious lunch at the Country Connection in New Carlisle. We stopped at Meijers large super mkt after a long drive through the country. Had dinner at the country club. Wanda + Ray G joined us. Afterwards M.J. drove us around the north + west areas to see new housing. Retired early. Full day!
7/6/93 Springfield/Hilliard
Left Mary Jane’s about 11 am + arrived at Edith + Ron’s at noon traveling Rt. 70 + 270 exiting to Mill Run Villas on Exit 13. Had a nice lunch + visit. The Ms – Bill + Ruth – came over for cocktails, then we went to dinner at Wilhelm’s a 55 restaurant in Dublin. Nice!! Came back + visited some more until about 10:30. We retired to the “loft” after a very pleasant day!
7/7/93 Hilliard/Rocky River
Left Edith + Ron’s a few minutes after 10:00 + arrived in R.R. about 12:30. Had lunch at Friendly’s + drove around town after talking with Gloria H about U’s house. Dinner with Marie + Ray McN’s was at Fratella’s in Avon Lake. Delicious pastas. Charlie Rose on PBS was interesting + after a full day of fun, we retired at midnight.
7/8/93 Rocky River
Had a nice walk in the park at 7 am. The McNs took us on a tour of Cleve. to see all the changes. Lunch on a barge – Hornblower on Lake Erie. Checked Edith + Ron’s house then had dinner with Erie Rd. gang at Salmon Dave’s after cocktails at Ls.
7/9/93 Rocky River/Wellsville
Fri. Arrived shortly afternoon at Mary + Gene’s. Weather - hot + humid. Had a nice supper with them. Went into Well. + had a delightful party at Vivian S B’s house on Wells Ave. About 50 alumni + spouses on hand. Visited with Mike + Phyllis.
Sat. Left after lunch, toured River Museum – saw both g’pas there plus lots of other pictures. Toured the high school, then met at the old River View Hotel to hear about the renovations sponsored by the W. Alum. The eve. was spent at the Masonic Temple where we had turkey dinner + later dancing. It was decorated beautifully – tigers, orange + black balloons + streamers. We received our 50 yr. diplomas. Fun! (Visited Dolores + Chauncey in afternoon.)
7/11/93 Wellsville
Sun. Left for church which was held at the Epis. Church on 11th + Main. Committee gave a lovely service. Afterwards we had a picnic at the marina – chicken by Richard C – baked beans, pot. salad, rolls + beverages – quite a feast. We let all our balloons fly over the river. Beautiful sight! We spent the evening reminiscing with Mary + Gene.
7/12/93 Wellsville/Put-in-Bay
Left Mary + Gene’s at 9:00 + had trouble with the van stalling on us. Stopped in R.R. + got NAPA thermos-aid + premium gas. Had a bite to eat at Friendly’s. Arrived at the dock at Catawba + I’m writing this here at 2:15 awaiting loading on the ferry.
Helen was surprised at our arrival + we were surprised to see the Cs – 17 yr. old Kirkland, 15 yr old Ben + 9 yr old Anna. It was great seeing Naomi + Kirk. Cooked burgers on the grill. Talked until 10:30 + retired to the loft. Fun day! Spectacular sunset.
7/13 -7/14 Put-in-Bay
Tues. Had an early morning walk to town before breakfast. Enjoyed being with the kids. Ben + Anna were both vying for Carrie L’s attention. Naomi + I had to round them up – they nearly missed the boat. We had a problem with the van + got it fixed – a vacuum leak. Helen took us to dinner at the Skyway.
Wed. Helen + I visited Peg I’s school in a.m. Had lunch at the Crew’s Nest. Heard the sad news there that Joe D was electrocuted retreaving a pair of glasses in the water off the dock. (He was a former student of mine.) Dinner at Pat Daily’s was good.
7/15/93 Put-in-Bay/Danville, Pa.
Left on the 7 a.m. ferry from P.I.B. Had a great visit with Helen. Arrived in Danville around 2:30 after a good trip across I-80. Checked the various motels + decided on Days Inn, the former Sheraton. Had a relaxing swim + whirl pool before dinner at B.J’s Ribs. A wonderful meal of ribs, barbecued chicken + shrimp. Had a tour of the city. Of interest was the Geisinger Medical Center.
7/16/93 Danville/Rumford, R.I.
Left about 7:15 + arrived at Kent + Tamiko’s at 2:30 – a very easy drive considering the congested N.E. traffic. Traveled I-80 + 287 across the Tappan Zee Bridge over the Hudson R. Went to see Erich’s team play in an All-Star game. Mt. Pleasant/S. Providence. His team squeaked through with an 8-7 victory + will now vie for state champs. We stopped to get fish + chips. Ate about 8:30, talked until 11:00 + retired after a wonderful day to Brynne’s room. She’s darling!
7/17/93 Rumford
Sat. After lunch we went to the Slater Mill in Pawtucket to see the art exhibit of Don Bosquet. Afterwards we drove through Providence to see the new bridges + progress that’s taking place. Kent cooked burgers on the grill.
Sun. Left at 11 am for Goosewing Beach in Little Compton. Weather was beautiful. Lunch at Abraham Manchester was delicious. Erich went over to Mary Jane’s + Kyle stayed here to baby sit Brynne tomorrow when Tami + Kent go to work. Fun day!
Mon. Took Brynne + Kyle to Rehobath, Mass. playground in afternoon. I cooked ham New Eng. dinner. Had a family discussion before retiring.
7/20/93 Rumford/Towson, Md.
Left about 7:15 + arrived at Mary Jane + Walt L’s at 3:15. The routes traveled are 95 to 287 which is the Garden State Pkwy to the N. Jersey Turnpike. We exited at 6 instead of 1 so had to backtrack to the Pa. Turnpike + drive thru Phily to Baltimore. That was Rt. 95 and known as the Kennedy Mem. Hwy. Walt + Mary Jane live in a beautiful area of Towson – very spacious + comfortable townhouse. She served an Imperial Crabmeat dish with Greek salad, fruit + frozen yogurt. It was delightful. We spent many hours in good conversation + reminiscing before retiring. A delightful day in spite of the hectic drive getting here – a distance of 400 mi. for a nice visit with Mary Jane + Walt L.
7/21/93 Towson
Our day began by driving to Ft. McHenry. We saw a film describing the Battle of Baltimore + the writing of the “Star Spangled Banner” by Francis Scott Key. (It became our national anthem in 1931.) Ft. McHenry spans the period from the Amer. Rev. through World War II. It derives its name from McHenry who was sec. of war under Geo. Wash. + John Adams.
We had lunch at Sanders at Loch Raven near the dam, then drove to Hampton to see the mansion + grounds that were originally own by the Ridgely family + are now National historic site. I got my passport book stamped here + at Ft. McHenry.
Dottie + Bill DeG, other AF retired friends came over for dinner. More fun!
7/22/93 Towson/Bristol, Tenn.
It was a beautiful 400 mi. drive today with mild temp. Routes traveled were: 695 to 95 around Baltimore, then 495 to 66 around D.C. South on 66 to 81 which we followed past Front Royal, Strasburg, lunch at Woodstock on to Staunton. We stopped enroute to these places at Manassas (Bull Run) National Battlefield Park + got the passport book stamped and saw a Civil War film. We passed Lexington, home of VMI + Wash. + Lee U. where Robt. E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson, Geo. Wash., + Geo. Marshall attended college. We also passed Roanoke before arriving in Bristol where we had dinner at Bristol Choice + stayed overnight at the Ho-Jo Motel. Nice day.
7/23/93 Bristol, Tenn to Atlanta
Left about 7:30 + arrived at Chickamauga/Chattanooga Nat’l Military Park around noon. We traveled Rt. 81, then 40 to Knoxville. The 16 min. film at the park was excellent. We continued driving to Kennesaw Mtn. Nat’l Battlefield Park – Rt. 75. Then we got on 285 + exited at 28 for Fairfield Inn where we spent the night. It was a welcome sight after heavy traffic. We took a swim, then cleaned up for dinner. Ate at Ruby Tuesday’s, then walked thru the mall. Bert bought a hat at Eddie Bauer’s. The interesting plant that has taken over the entire landscape in Ga. is the kudzu.
7/24/93 Atlanta/Pensacola
After an hour + a half drive to Calloway Gardens on Rt. 85 South, we spent about 4 hrs. touring the beautiful gardens: the horticultural center, the chapel, the log cabin, butterfly house + Mr. Cason’s veg. garden. It was a hot day + although we’d have enjoyed staying for the circus act + water show, felt we’d better get home. The drive through Montgomery on Rt. 65 + 113 + 29 into Flomaton + into Pensacola on I-10 were very calm -piece of cake. Stopped to get veg. + fruit in Ala. + arrived home around 5 p.m. having added 3775 mi. to the van + visited 13 National Parks. Great trip!
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