I began a post last evening beginning, 452 stories shared since April 2011; only five so far in 2025; and 18 in 2024 with two in draft stage still. And, then there are the trips I have notes on and want to write about “to remember, and to share.” No idea why I fell out of practice, I will still finish that update — BUT TODAY WE BROKE THE MOLD, and BLUE BELLE and I got out and wish to share our adventure which I encourage you to follow. Maybe the key is to come right back and do a short documentation.

BLUE BELLE has not been happy with me. Just 300 miles last year, 2024. Not out since October, the battery was very sluggish a month ago, so she sat with tears. Six days ago at Old Home Days, friend Bill stopped and chatted. He has prize winning MGAs. “Ray,” he said, “you mean your battery is twelve years old – they are usually good for five years.” Monday Bill pulled my battery, and Tuesday I bought a new one, and he came back by and installed it – changing a battery in an MGA is not an easy task, particularly with a non-compliant body (human body that is). Then he started her right up. Checking over fluids, I added some oil and brake fluid. Today I gave her tyres (British speak) a breath of fresh air all around (what a smooth ride resulting) and after a prior evening of thought the direction changed from south to east – and off to Hancock we went. Three hundred miles last year — 89 miles today.

NH Route 123 is great, rural and scenic from Walpole through Alstead and Marlow, Stoddard and then into Hancock – nothing but forest from Route 9 to Hancock. I had heard recently about Fiddleheads Cafe in Hancock – and it was open.

sometimes when you have no idea what it is, you order it — ROASTED ROOT CRUNCH WRAP

Next door in Hancock (you need to visit, even if bringing a picnic for the Common or tables at the boat launch to the lake) is the Market. I toured through looking at many unique items – food and otherwise.

remember I love various types of shots? Rocking chairs, textures, and through windows. I snapped this walking out with the Hancock Inn across the street.

Across the street is this interesting brick home – I did not check out the cheese shop but other folks were walking to the rear.

I have eaten at the Hancock Inn a few times 15 years ago or more, also looked at the Rufus Porter murals in one room, similar to what Dutchie did for us in our dining room.

then out of town on Route 123 south towards Dublin, but taking a right on Hancock Road (must head to Harrisville Ray said to Ray) and it did skirting a lake I had not been around before. A pristine old mill town with brick buildings everywhere, you must visit here to visit Harrisville Designs, or get a bite at the Harrisville General Store. I have eaten on the porch often, but never taken a picture from across the mill river.

Now, back to the map above — heading out of Harrisville to Nelson – small and quaint and typical New Hampshire New England.

To Route 9 (but first swing up to Munsonville and the lake, then turn back to 9 West); turn right to Sullivan before entering the Gorge and where the Sullivan General Store used to be (excuse my flavor of old Yankee directions) — next right on Route 10 to Gilsum, but before arriving there turn left onto Surry Road, cross the old concrete bridge, and then FOR ONE OF THE MOST AMAZING DRIVES, follow along the ASHUELOT RIVER to Route 12A, where (yes again) turn right, and shortly thereafter left (for a change) onto Walpole Valley Road, and home.

Have you any idea how excited I am to write about something the same day, and then share the same day? AND, I got to share the day with BLUE BELLE. We even have an idea for a Sunday Sojourn. Well maybe “Ray is Back” — stay safe and well, luv, RAY