🌄 A Journey Begins
As I left Fort Dumber’s State Park, I couldn’t shake off the excitement bubbling inside me. I was bound for Washington, New Hampshire, a place that promised not just beautiful sights but the warmth of friendship. It had been a while since I caught up with Marybeth and Tommy, and the anticipation of shared laughter and catching up on life filled me with joy.
🌳 The Allure of Washington
The moment I arrived, Washington exceeded my expectations. The homemade lobster rolls? Oh, they were off-the-chart delicious! Each bite was like a taste of summer, brimming with freshness. But it wasn’t just the food that captured my heart; the colors around Washington were simply stunning. Vibrant reds, brilliant oranges, and sunny yellows painted the landscape, creating a kaleidoscope of autumn beauty that was breathtaking to behold.
🌞 A Lift to New Heights
One of the highlights of my trip was a visit to the Sunapee Ski Resort. Marybeth and I hopped on the lift, ascending into the crisp mountain air. As we reached the peak, the view left me speechless. The valleys below were a patchwork of colors, each hue more vivid than the last. Standing there, felt like I was on top of the world, soaking in nature’s artistry.
🏛 A Touch of Ivy League
On another day, we made our way to Dartmouth College, where Marybeth works. A charming campus greeted us, scenic and historic. We strolled along the river, where the Dartmouth crew practiced, their boats gliding smoothly over the water’s surface. I couldn’t help but admire the beauty of the campus buildings, especially the impressive murals by Jose Clemente Orozco, which are cherished as National Historic Landmarks. The artistry was a perfect mix of history and beauty, igniting my imagination.
🏞 Beyond the City’s Heart
As my time with Marybeth and Tommy drew to a close, I felt a bittersweet tug at my heart. But the adventure wasn’t over yet! On my way out, I stumbled upon some charming covered bridges. Every creak of the wooden structure told stories of days gone by, adding a sense of nostalgia to my journey. Next on my itinerary was a visit to the Augustus Saint Gaudens National Historic Park. Here, the home and studio of America’s most famous sculptor awaited me, along with his incredible works. It felt like stepping into a different time, surrounded by art that spoke volumes.
🌲 Nature Reigns in Vermont
Now, I find myself at Quechee State Park in Vermont. As I set up my plans for the next few days, I can’t help but relish the thought of exploring more of this stunning landscape. Each corner promises to reveal something new and exciting, and I’m ready to embrace it all. My slow but delightful trek back toward the middle of the country will continue, but the memories crafted here will stay etched in my heart.
With each adventure, I realize it’s not just about the places I visit but also about the connections I make and the experiences I gather along the way. The world is vast, yet it always feels a little smaller through the friendships we nurture. Until next time, my exploration continues!