Often in executing an adventure I need a “positioning day” to begin, and get “in place”. Heading to the quiet corner of Connecticut to visit a few museums on 11 May I had to be “in place” for a full day of fun. And when heading there from home, how would I route myself? Via Old Sturbridge Village (OSV) of course. I do not think I have visited in May before.

It was a different, but as always an enjoyable experience. I enjoyed seeing many school groups enjoying the village. I also noted much renovation work in progress to the grounds, and new fencing and wood replacement on a number or buildings. Below the meeting house at the head of the Common, and then the parsons’ house with gardens. Still hoping I can again garden this year with veggies. (remember you may click my images for larger full views)

And, here in May is the covered bridge that was moved from Route 30 in West Dummerston, Vermont. I can show you the original location if you wish.

One of the most pleasurable experiences I have had is BOARDING WITH THE BIXBYS at OSV, an overnight experience I had in 2018. Below is the Bixby house, my bedroom, and where we made our meals. I would do this again “in a heartbeat.”

and where the family made brooms, and looking out to the gardens.

A recent addition is the piggery in the farm area — here you can see it on the rise behind the Bixby house.

Not having been here in May, I have missed seeing these little ones in the field above the Bixby house..

One of the “newest” buildings in the farm area is the Allen Piggery which officially opened to the public in June 2023 after relocation and restoration. This is the first time I have been able to see inside, and observe its inhabitants.

I then visited the potter in the pottery, and had a fine chat learning a few more tidbits. Did not catch his name, but he has been on staff, turning the potters wheel now for 50 years. We chatted about the school groups, and I mentioned it was nice to see because you never know how such an experience may influence someone’s life. I remember on one visit seeing a young child touring his parents explaining things he had seen on a recent school trip — one never knows.

A benefit of membership (and particularly at the NARM level – learn about and DO IT) is you do not feel you have to stay all day, and I did not wanting to head on new back roads to Mansfield Center, Connecticut, and my B&B. And to pick up my new back road route I swung by the Town of Sturbridge Common. The sign on the left below talks of Lafayette’s stop here during his tour of the US in 1824. Just beyond, and along the Common, is where I parked the family 1960 VW Convertible during an antique show I visited in 1964 – yes 60 years ago. You may remember I love early Country Store items, and decorate my bookshop with them. Well at the auction here I did not get the curved glass showcase I really wanted, but did get a large wooden one. Only way I got it home in was by putting the top down on the VW – lucky me. Oh, THE THREADS IN MY LIFE.

Back roads to Mansfield Center – almost due south from Sturbridge, and to the Stone Arches Bed and Breakfast. And, I will state upon my decades of B&B escapes, this was one of my best and most enjoyable B&B experiences – thanks to hosts Bette and Paul. Fascinating history of their home dating to the 17th century, fascinating couple ready to chat and share with a willing guest (me). I could (and maybe should) go on and on, but encourage you to experience their sharing their home with you, and its history of the woman who 100 years ago faced the outside in stone and built the fireplace in the living room. Below is approaching this wonderful spot (just miles from UCONN), my room, and where “I planted myself” with my “new best friends” at my feet – but not sure what interest they had in me.

I went out to dinner at Stix and Stones just down the road. Another great meal and experience. Returned for rest before a full museum day — coming up in my next post “to remember and to share.” Luv, RAY