KIDNAPPED BY BLUE BELLE for 286 Kilometers (178 miles) – 5 May 2013

Posted on May 5, 2013 by Ray Boas

You have not heard from me for a long time.  My local friends know why.  I have been tourists accommodated FINALtotally involved (cast selection, directing, producing, marketing, backstage preparation, etc.) with the spring Walpole Players’ production of TOURISTS ACCOMMODATED (a play I was aware of, and volunteered to bring to our stage).  The past three nights we entertained just over 200 “tourists” and if you are nearby you can join us this coming weekend.  Full details are on The Walpole Players website and I will be happy to hold tickets for you.

So, what do you do when you actually have a “day off” and it is a “sports car day?”  You back BLUE BELLE out of her berth and follow her lead having a full tank of petrol.  She is more fun to tour with, more fun to drive, and it has nothing to do with the fact that she cost me one seventh of BLACK BEAUTY’S refurbishment.  Time for you to get your Vermont maps out.   By now you know there is a pattern to my life, and I have some favorite spots, but I still have many holes in the map to fill in — today seemed perfect to fill them.  So, track me from home to Chester then up to Proctorsville, VT to Crows’ Bakery and Opera House Café   for my Western Omelet (please make the trip).   Then through Ludlow to pick up VT 100 (one of my

Reopens 25 May - no gas today!

Reopens 25 May – no gas today!

favorite country roads), and detoured on 100A to Plymouth Notch my favorite picnic spot, and the most bucolic setting in the world – Calvin Coolidge’s home and site of his swearing in as President, then back to VT 100 up to Killington (been a long time since I was there) and then to Stockbridge.  Now, you know the importance of Stockbridge, Massachusetts and The Red Lion Inn to me, but Cathy and I had several wonderful trips to Stockbridge, Vermont visiting an antique shop in the late 1990s.  The leaves were unbelievable and the 80 plus year old shop owner a delight (across the way is the site of a country Ford dealership – since 1913, absolutely unreal setting).

Peaceful Plymouth Notch, VT with Calvin Coolidge's home and site of his swearing in.

Peaceful Plymouth Notch, VT with Calvin Coolidge’s home and site of his swearing in.

Then BLUE BELLE decided to head over VT 107 to Bethel (where I had never been – neat town) and down to South Royalton (home of the Vermont Law School, and worth the visit to see the architecture) on VT 14.  I pined for a root beer float, but in the small coop grocery selected an original Eskimo Pie and Blueberry Soda.  I enjoyed them while sitting atop the bandstand on the common.

I sat in this bandstand with my ice cream and blueberry soda.

I sat in this bandstand with my ice cream and blueberry soda.

And, this is looking back at downtown South Royalton, VT.

And, this is looking back at downtown South Royalton, VT.

Then we backtracked to VT 12 South to Woodstock to pick up VT 106 South through South Woodstock and Reading (yes, Carol and David, I swung by your estate, but not seeing any activity – you should have been in the yard working – I did not stop).  The idea was to pick up VT 131 to cut back to New Hampshire, but then I remembered (and told BLUE BELLE) that I had not been south of 131 on 106 and had to find The Weathersfield Inn in Perkinsville. 

The Weathersfield Inn - I cannot wait to try it with my friends - hint !!!

The Weathersfield Inn – I cannot wait to try it with my friends – hint !!!

So that is what we did.  You know I am still in tears with the closing of Rowell’s Inn (where everyone knew my name) and I am struggling with finding a new special spot.  I have read many wonderful articles about this inn being the best in Vermont (Fodor’s, etc.) and I found it on VT 106.  Ironically it is the same distance and travel time as Simonsville, VT the location of Rowell’s Inn.  I cannot wait.  Any volunteers to join me?? Once TOURIST ACCOMMODATED is over, of course.

More travels to come, I promise.  As always, yours, RAY

Posted in Day (or maybe two) Trips, Uncategorized | 3 Comments

DAY OFF – 5 APRIL 2013

Posted on April 6, 2013 by Ray Boas

Well, maybe everyday is now a “day-off” but today was planned that way as a road trip away from home.  Not all excursions need a finite purpose, for example last Saturday I followed the front of the car around Vermont. My planned destination was west into Vermont, but I ended roaming from Chester to Weston, then Manchester down to Arlington and East Arlington, North Bennington, Bennington then through Wilmington to Brattleboro.  Scouting for props for our upcoming play was my excuse, but whenever I head out I am looking for books.  Only found one worth buying, but once it sells my gas and meals for the day are paid for.

Friday, 5 April, was planned in more (but not exact) detail.  Last month I replaced my white Corian kitchen counters with a Verdi serpentine marble from Rochester, Vermont. The kitchen was just too much white.  While doing so I also changed the island

My New Kitchen

My New Kitchen

to one level since I now spend much more time “working” in the kitchen and thus can spread papers out.  On the way to The Red Lion Inn last month I found the counter stools I wanted in Holyoke, Massachusetts, but they were short a few, thus this trip was to pick up what they ordered in for me.  Now, Holyoke is just north of Springfield, home of the Springfield Armory National Park which was “on my list.”  Sadly, in fact, I had never been in Springfield except cruising by on I-91, so this became the perfect opportunity to visit.

But what else to do?  I went to Trip-Advisor on my Iphone, and number 13 on the list was TITANIC MUSEUM – shocker, in Springfield??  I checked their website, and now had my

Home of the Titanic Museum

Home of the Titanic Museum

first stop nailed after retrieving my chairs.  HENRY’S JEWELRY in the Indian Orchard section of Springfield has been the home of the Titanic Historical Society for the past 50 years with the museum in two rear rooms featuring original artifacts that were onboard given by the survivors.  Its founder, Edward Kamuda, as a youngster worked in the family theater across the street.  During the showing of TITANIC in 1953, he obtained a booklet with all the survivor’s names and addresses.  He wrote a letter to each beginning lifelong correspondence, and fascination leading to the establishment of the society in 1963, the museum, and the many donations of artifacts from the survivors of the sinking.  Definitely worth the visit (I spent an hour

Mrs. Astor's Lifejacket - but sadly not here for me to see

Mrs. Astor’s Lifejacket – but sadly not here for me to see

reading all the displays) but I was disappointed to learn that the most significant artifacts (Mrs. Astor’s lifejacket, a deck chair, etc) were away on loan at two new TITANTIC museums in honky-tonk areas – Bronson, Missouri  and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.   I may want to visit one of these someday, but I did get to the TITANIC museum in Belfast last year, and have also been to important Titanic sites including Southampton, Cobh (or Queenstown) and Halifax.

The founder’s sister then routed me to downtown Springfield via Berkshire Avenue to State Street which would get me to the Springfield Armory.  That was easier than going back via interstate, and gave me a flavor for the area.  For 174 years until 1968 the Armory (along with the one at Harper’s Ferry until the Confederates thought otherwise) was the producer of arms for the US, and research facility.  The entire area has been repurposed as a local college, police academy, office complex center etc., except for

Springfield Armory as seen through the Commandant's porch

Springfield Armory as seen through the Commandant’s porch

the main armory building where the National Park Site is located along the commandant’s home built in the 1850s.  A small museum, half of which is displaying arms (not my interest) and the other half gave me an insight to the history of the industrial development and importance of Springfield and the water power of the Connecticut River.  Some fascinating machinery was on display, and one exhibit helped me understand Shays’ Rebellion of 1787.  I enjoyed my time there, checked it off my list, but do not have to return.  Not sure what to do next I went down the hill to downtown, circled the museum area and business district.  Now, if you ever pass Springfield on I-91 do get off and explore!!!  The commercial and residential architecture is fabulous, well maintained, and I will probably return to “do” the museums and tour the streets with my camera.

BLAN.CHARD LATHE developed in 1820 to mass produce gun stocks

BLAN.CHARD LATHE developed in 1820 to mass produce gun stocks

Then I decided to cross the Connecticut River on Memorial Bridge and head north on US 5, which was the main north south route until I-91 was completed.  There are sections between Springfield to Greenfield that I had not been on previously, so now was the perfect opportunity to rectify that.  I passed back through Holyoke, and soon saw a sign –

How can you not stop?

How can you not stop?

DINOSAUR FOOTPRINTS – now that deserves a U-Turn and hike down to the Connecticut River.  Then I did some antiquing in Northampton, but sadly no treasures to load into the van.  I still had time before the dreaded 5PM closing hour to get to an antique center north of Yankee Candle, and bought enough books to cover gas money.  A fun walk around Yankee Candle followed before heading to my planned dinner stop at the Deerfield Inn.April-G

My first detour to Old Deerfield was in the pouring rain in the summer of 1963 – the top was up and side-curtains on Belzebuth – my 1929 Model A Ford Roadster.  I-91 was not yet completed, so my 21 inch tires rolled the back roads on this trip up the Pioneer Valley towards Chester, Vermont and eventually into the White Mountains – is there a pattern to my life? (sadly, I never discovered Walpole 50 years ago).  Since that day I always detour through the village.  I love the gift shop and buy books there, but have never toured the museum buildings nor stayed at the Inn.

Deerfield Inn

Deerfield Inn

This time I planned dinner at the Inn – a long overdue stop.  And it was a special and exceptional treat that will be repeated.  I did not know that the floods of Irene had closed the Inn for 18 months and that it had only reopened on Monday.  Nancy greeted me at Champney’s Restaurant and Tavern  (I later learned that the formal dining room will reopen soon). Then I was warmly greeted by the Innkeeper, Jane, who shared some photographs and history with me (I always carry a sport coat when planning fine dining – I feel better, and it does set you apart).  Once seated, I found the wait staff exceptional.  Having studied the menu on-line I ordered and savored the Deerfield Farm Burger, and thoroughly enjoyed the ambience for over an hour with a locally brewed beer.  From now on, dinner at The Deerfield Inn will be on my menu even though only 50 minutes from home (hint to friends – easy dinner road-trip).

So with piles of travel plan ideas laid out in a front room, and itchy feet for even local day-trips, you will soon be getting more posts from me, and hopefully ideas for your own travels.  Happy Shunpiking, as always, yours, RAY

Posted in Day (or maybe two) Trips, ROADS and ROUTES | Tagged , , , , , , | 3 Comments

THE RED LION INN – STOCKBRIDGE, MASS. – 4-6 March 2013

Posted on March 5, 2013 by Ray Boas

It has been over two months since I last wrote here.  At the moment (March 4th) I am in front of the fire at The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.  My “new” Macbook Air is in my lap and I am using Apple’s Pages for the first time — often the only way to learn new software is just start (I left my PC laptop home — only have Apple products with me).  Unfortunately I am not as mobile as I would like.  My operated on left foot is wonderful, but last Friday I awoke with terrible pain in my right knee.  I either threw my gait way off swelling the bursa, or possibly aggravated a gout reaction following enjoying some crab cakes.  After 5 days I am somewhat better, but will call the doctor if I hit a week in pain — I do just accept my aches and pains.

Now it is Tuesday morning, 5 March, and I last night I started reading Archer Mayor’s GATEKEEPER and have continued this morning in front of the fire for over an hour and a half.  It is 10AM and I have no real plans for today.  Soon I will head down my favorite US Route 7 to Great Barrington and maybe further.  I would like to visit the kitchen store in Great Barrington.  Why a kitchen store? Read on.

Last week Mike, my contractor, showed up with his stone man to look at my counter Readying the Kitchentops.  Awhile back I told Mike that I wanted to change from white counter tops, and eliminate the raised bar in the island.   I had told Mike what I wanted for the counters color wise, and when they walked in, right on top was a fantastic sample of Vermont Serpentine Stone – a marble – don’t even ask the price.  Mike said they could start this week, “but I will be away Mike, oh, but you have a key, have at it,” I replied.  Well, Mike arrived Monday and my center island was cut down to the new size before I left.  The template for the new tops should be completed before I return, and hopefully next week all will be done.

Awhile back I researched counter bar stools since I will need new shorter ones.  It only made sense to sit on something before buying on-line, so I searched furniture stores in the Holyoke area on the way to Stockbridge.  Responsive email reply from Pete at Eddie’s Furniture (since the 1880s), and I planned it as my first stop.  He had exactly what I wanted with two in the warehouse.  I bought those, paid for two more, and will pick those up on my next trip to The Red Lion Inn.  Better price than the internet, and assembled, and very nice.  I then explored the old industrial mill and canal area of Holyoke finding it all fascinating.  It was also fortuitous because GATEKEEPER, I later found, is partially set there.   I enjoy Archer Mayor’s writing, but it is really great to known the areas he is describing as it brings the action right to life.

Today when I closed my book I finally left the Inn after 11 heading south to Great Barrington only to find that the kitchen store’s one day closed is Tuesday.  Well, the quest

Happy Birthday Ray

Happy Birthday Ray

for a new stainless steel dish rack and drainer will continue.  Lunch followed at The Neighborhood Diner – a walk around town (leg doing better) – and then continued my meander down my favorite US Route 7 (now in my 50th year doing so), stopping at the Great Barrington Antiques Center.  This is about the only place left as most establishments Cathy and I visited no longer exist.  An item caught my eye.  “You don’t need anything, Ray,” I mused, “but your Street Peanut Roaster and 1902 Cretors Sidewalk Popcorn Machine don’t fit in the house,” I then rationalized.  Some negotiation, and my new “toy” was loaded into the van, and off I continued south.

I am pretty familiar with this “neck of the woods” but not all the back roads, and each time of year everything looks different anyway.  I am not usually here with all the leaves off the trees, and the ride over to Ashley Falls looked totally different (wanted to buy the old mill and water wheel there in the early 1980s).  I crossed the line into Canaan, Connecticut and turned west on US 44 towards Millerton, NY where I usually can make some needed buys (got a printing press on my last visit – I know, how many does one man need – six at last count).   But at the last minute I decided to cut over to Falls Village not

Victorian Cottage at the Pine Grove Association grounds

Victorian Cottage at the Pine Grove Association grounds

having totally explored that area.  I saw the old railroad tracks, and what appeared to be the remains of a canal.  Always a good place for a historian to stop is the local library, and the woman who greeted me as I looked around happened to be the archivist for the historical society.  “Yes, the canal is from the 1850s,” she told me.  “Where is the church camp meeting ground,” I then asked, and she showed me on the map inviting me back to see the exhibit on Pine Grove at the historical society in the near future.     Having an interest in the 19th century Victorian church camp meeting grounds I back tracked (that is also true shunpiking) and discovered the entrance to the grove.  Such fun, and I hope to visit again in season sometime.

The old Buggy Whip Factory building.

The old Buggy Whip Factory building.

Then off on more back roads that I had not been on in quite awhile to Southfield, Massachusetts to the old Buggy Whip Factory.  For many years in the late 1990s I had space there for about 2,000 books which sold well.  But sadly, like so many other fine antique picking spots, its doors too are now closed.  Back through Marlborough the back way around Great Barrington it was nice to see the areas devastated years ago by a hurricane now reforested.  Parking the car behind the inn, and walking towards the door I stopped and thought, “it is nice to be home!”

Yes, you are correct, I am back in front of the fire, and after dinner I will return here to read and write and prepare images for this post (remember, all for the first time on a Mac).  Tomorrow I will do the same, but leave by noon having completed my two night stay — the only way to do it I have resolved with the full day in between.  I will head up my favorite US Route 7 into Vermont and continue to explore familiar haunts.  One stop for sure will be in Arlington at the Dorothy Canfield Fisher library — my “players” friends know why.  Then comes our CABIN FEVER RADIO FOLLIES on the 23rd, and rehearsals begin for TOURISTS ACCOMMODATED (by Dorothy Canfield Fisher).  I have been thinking about other trips this year.  Have bought a train ticket from Montreal to Halifax so I can say I have been coast to coast in Canada by train.  I have also booked a voyage from Istanbul to Luxor Egypt via the Suez Canal (then fly to Cairo and the Pyramids) — just to peak your curiosity.  There are a few other trips I “have to make,” so “stay tuned” and thank you for reading, yours, RAY

Good morning, Wed, March 6th, and I realized that I forgot one image.  This is one reason I love The Red Lion Inn.

MyRoom

Posted in Day (or maybe two) Trips, The Red Lion Inn, Stockbridge, Massachusetts | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

STAY-CATION and NEW YEAR’S WISHES – 31 December 2012

Posted on December 31, 2012 by Ray Boas

I started this year end post several days ago, and now is time to finish it.

Tonight (Friday 28 December) at dinner I thought I would start a post giving you a post-operative update.  Yes, I am taking my convalescence from foot surgery very seriously and consider this my first ever stay-cation, albeit without my usual hard running while on a trip away from home.

Surgery on 18 Dec, Gary brought me home. Wednesday I was pretty active, and Thursday slept most of the day. Friday I had my first post-op doctor’s visit after which Gary left at 3PM, and I have been on my own ever since.  And, I have been remarkably fine and have had no pain or problems for which I thank Him (and Cathy) with daily prayer.  BP brought over some lasagna on Friday night which was a great two meals, and L&D left some homemade soup Sunday afternoon, which I enjoyed that evening and the next.  I had laid in a good supply of groceries, but on Wednesday after Christmas TS picked up a few fresh items that I needed to fill out a 10-14 day supply (I make a few dishes that last me 3-4 days).  CN has (as she does when I am gone) been taking care of Cricket in the shop because I do not even want to take chances on the three steps in the mud-room before hustling through the garage to the shop – I would probably cry if I saw Black Beauty and Blue Belle unused anyway.  My days have alternated between heavy duty rest and some minimal activity in my informal front sitting room – activity involving reading, writing and laptop keyboarding.

As my days progressed after Christmas I worked on two articles for THE WALPOLE CLARION, worked on Town Treasury stuff, and read two small books.  The key to healing is rest, icing the foot, and an electronic bone stimulator – following this regimen has been my main job.  I have minimized my movement around the first floor only, and have the Dec-jkitchen set up for cooking ease.  Netflix is a nice relaxing time filler, and I am now working through the TV series WINGS, which has great characters and wonderful writing.

You have heard me say that I wake up with thoughts that provoke me to action, and on the 28th I said, “Ray, time for an Apple laptop for travel, and time to begin thinking about 2013 trips – read about Scotland!”  I actually listen to myself.  Some research on the Apple website, phone call with David for recommendations, and my 13 inch MacBook Air (I forgot about a check I was getting at the end of the year) is now due to be delivered 4 January.  My Dell laptop is big, weighs over 8 pounds (most evident when on crutches) whereas my new Apple laptop is small, thin, and Dec-iis 2.96 pounds.  I then delved into Rick Steves book on Scotland, and have become extremely excited to spend several days in Edinburgh and then drive up to the Highlands and Loch Ness, Inverness, Fort William, Pitlochry, etc.  Also on the search radar screen are historic train trips.  Betty suggested the Scottish Whiskey Train, and I began studying a great trip on the Royal Scotsman, but at $6,800 for four nights I may wish to buy many more experiences instead (but who knows?).  But that has lead to additional train research, and Amtrak has a reasonable 10 day Grand Canyon Journey.  Not that many nights on a train however, so I may just have to head back to Via Rail in Canada.  Main thing – 2013 travel thinking is underway.  And, yes, I did buy a second voucher for 2 nights at the Red Lion Inn.  An old friend always said, “Ray, you can go broke buying a bargain; but, you will never go broke making a profit.”  The price is a real bargain for lodging, meals and Norman Rockwell Museum tickets – much less than I would have to pay at the single tariff, but this deal is for two.

Rounding out my recent thoughts include some home improvements including installing hot water on-demand and upgrading the kitchen with new countertops and cabinet hardware.  And, I still have a full plate of projects that can be accomplished while sitting at a laptop – even my new one.

Well, let me stop and pass my best wishes to you for a joyful New Year.  Remember to Accept and Adjust and remain Content and Comfortable.  Focus on the positive, and remember there are always folks who are having a tougher time than you may be having – so, count your blessings.  As always, yours, RAY

And, here is something I saw the other day on John Tesh’s Facebook page:

Dec-bbStudies show that devoting time and attention to something that gives your life meaning can be a constant  source of joy. So, find a goal or a passion that fulfills you Don’t know what your passions are? Then ask yourself these questions:

“What makes me feel most energized and exited?”  “What could I talk about nonstop?”
And “Which activities do I get so caught up in that time just flies?”

Your goal is to figure out what’s missing and  incorporate it into your everyday life.

And, finally (through the front screen door) there is snow on the common on this overcast New Years Eve.

Dec-aa

Posted in Miscellaneous Musings | Tagged , | 9 Comments

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM WALPOLE – December 24th 2012

Posted on December 24, 2012 by Ray Boas

Dec-gI just looked at my new clock, and see that it is Monday.  Intuitively I also know that it is Christmas Eve.  Last evening I watched WHITE CHRISTMAS (a small tradition of mine) and tonight I will watch IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE.  I then reviewed and made a list of my blog posts from 2012 and December 2011 before falling asleep.  I see that on the 24th last year, I shared the live nativity on the common in front of my house with you.  I also noted that many of my posts began, “I just feel like writing,” so here goes.

Most of you know that I am now “laid-up” for the next 6-8 weeks following foot surgery.

Note my directions, and Doctor's initial

Note my directions, and Doctor’s initial

Tuesday the 18th I had a large bunion removed from my left foot, but more importantly had the big toe completely fused with screws and a plate following removal of gouty residue which we assumed may be there.  And, yes, prior to an operation on an appendage the patient can mark the correct spot along with the doctor.  Of course I went a tad further with full initials and an arrow to the spot!  Friday when I had my first post-op doctor’s visit I learned that my hour operation took almost two hours because my fine surgeon, Dr. John Gregory, did not like a spot one screw went into soft bone tissue and he essentially redid the surgery relocating all to a different location.  I have had no pain at all – NONE.  I do seem to have a high tolerance for pain, but we also know who is looking after me!  I am taking the overly cautious route of minimizing my movements around the house, and in not going out taking the risk of bumping the foot and damaging the healing process.

I returned from England on 2 November with pain and walking problems (worse this time than after my other 2012 sojourns), and after two visits with my foot surgeon opted for surgery.  No one chooses elective surgery over the holidays so I grabbed the first date after A CHRISTMAS CAROL was done.  Of course, that way I will be able to start traveling with Dec-eease sooner.  The five weeks spent on our fifth annual production again was very gratifying (and kept my mind off the walking problems and impending operation). Our 4 nights of performances were attended by almost 500 people, and the cash contributions totaled almost $3700.  The total cash contributions to the local area food shelves for our first five years have now exceeded $16,700 – not too bad!!!

This evening, peering out a window, I will only be able to get a partial view of the live Nativity on the common.  “On my list” was to acquire an old large Nativity set, and I stumbled upon one in March in an antique center in Massachusetts.  Once I verified that all the figures were there in the original box I could not write my $45 check fast enough.  The dealer had marked it 1960s, but in my researching the Japanese hallmark and the store it was originally sold in I am sure it is from the mid 1950s.

Dec-c

I did get some of the house decorated for Christmas, mainly my miniature tree collection in the kitchen and part of the dining room.

Part of my tree collection on the kitchen mantle

Part of my tree collection on the kitchen mantle

Dining room, partially done

Dining room, partially done

Part of my review of last year’s travel blogs was to start thinking about what I would do in 2013.  At this time in 2011 only the Yellowstone adventure with Betty, Scott and Rich was planned, but evolved into about 72 nights away from home.  Nothing is in the works for 2013, but I am not worried – things just happen.  I went to sleep deciding that my first adventure will be to return to my favorite Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.  This morning my TravelZoo email was offering a Berkshire special – The Red Lion Inn.  I immediately bought my voucher (good until late May) representing an over 40% savings for two nights.  I may just have to buy another.  I remembered in my review that I could not share Pompeii, Sorrento, The Isle of Capri, the Amalfi Coast and Positano with you due to my laptop being hacked.  So as I convalesce and start developing travel adventures for 2013 I will share 2013’s ideas with you along with some “catch-up” for 2012.

But, most importantly:

MERRY CHRISTMAS and

HAPPY NEW YEAR

As always, yours, RAY

and, this image taken at 8:30 Christmas Eve from my front door of the Live Nativity on the Common.

Dec-h

Given to my mother in 1927

Given to my mother in 1927

Posted in Thanksgiving and Christmas | Tagged , , , | 7 Comments

30 DAYS, AND NO TRAVELLING – AN UPDATE on 3 December 2012

Posted on December 3, 2012 by Ray Boas

But as you know, this is my time for A CHRISTMAS CAROL, and this year will be our fifth ACC poster draft 2012[1]annual benefit production by The Walpole Players.  Last year I had many “hits” on SHUNPIKING WITH RAY when I talked about our production, and knowing that helped fill the audience, in September I started a new website for the players www.thewalpoleplayers.org where, if you ended up on this page on your internet search, you can click on for all the details.

This time last year in 2011 I had no travel plans for 2012 other than the fantastic winter Yellowstone adventure in January with Betty, Scott and Rich.  That lack of plans ended up with 72 nights away in 2012 (not including some nights at David’s) with three trips to Europe, two to Canada, two trips on Queen Mary 2, and some “little trips.”  I have nothing planned at this point for 2013, but am not concerned.  I will wake up with a thought, and go do it.  I do, however, have to get to Africa (sounds like a safari) and South America to have been on all continents.

In February 2010 I was scheduled for foot surgery, but cancelled that operation when I was feeling and walking better.  The restoration of Black Beauty occupied 2010 prior to my trip around the Aegean Sea, and then I went into full travel mode in 2011 and 2012, essentially without any hiccups.  My left foot acted up, however, following several of my 2012 trips, and the time in July with David and family sailing I was not mobile at all.  Pain and lack of mobility overtook my life upon my return from England on 1 November, and I began attending (as patient) several doctor appointments.  Cathy would always ask a professional, “if it was you, what would you do?”  Asking our foot surgeon, Dr. John Gregory, he replied, “I would have had the operation 5 years ago.”  End of issue, and he operates on me on 18 December. When I told Tara (my co-conspirator with A CHRISTMAS CAROL) she said, “oh no!”  “Tara,” I replied, “it is after A CHRISTMAS CAROL, I would even postpone a heart transplant for A CHRISTMAS CAROL!”

Actually pretty good timing because with the recovery of 6-8 weeks that is still well before world-travel time.  And, it gives me lots of time with “nothing to do” to plan those trips.   I get as much (if not more) enjoyment out of the planning as the actual execution.  I have lots of research and writing projects I have not been able to get to including adding a great deal of shunpiking and travel history to this site.  I envision filling my prone time (with foot elevated) with words – both in writing and reading.  You may even read of my planning here – but hopefully not be confused (like last January on QM2) thinking I am really away.

I have been working on what to tell you here and think I have it all covered, but just wanted to get something out after 4 weeks since my last post, and also (not knowing if I will have time beforehand) wish you all a very Merry Christmas and happy Holiday Season.  As always, your, travelling correspondent, RAY

Posted in Miscellaneous Musings, Uncategorized | Tagged , | 5 Comments

AND, THE LAST TWO ENGLAND EXPERIENCES – 30 and 31 October 2012

Posted on October 31, 2012 by Ray Boas

Continuing on with the tale, Tuesday I travelled to Ironbridge which is the birthplace of

This one is for Cathy

the Industrial Revolution.  A fascinating little town, I did stop in about 1993 and see the cast iron bridge built there in 1779 – the first of its kind.  Coalbrookdale was the original town and besides iron ore for that industry there were the other necessary raw materials for tile, brick and pottery making (yes Coalport china comes from just down the Severn from here).  This quiet area is not the heavy duty industrial area it was in the 18th and 19thcenturies but many of the industrial

The Iron Bridge at Ironbridge

archaeology sites are extant and in situ.  I started with a visit to the Museum of the Gorge, then walked around town, and, of course, crossed the bridge again.

My main purpose in revisiting, however, was because my Queen Mary 2 tablemates told me I had to see the Blists Hill Victorian Town which founded in 1967 represents what a mill town would have been like in the late 19thcentury.  (alright 8:30 PM, back from dinner at the Thatch Roof Inn – licensed since 1623 – yes I need old ambience and experiences).   Now, I have visited and enjoyed a number of recreated or restored villages including one outside Belfast earlier this year, and Blists Hill absolutely

The Steam Engine that hoists the cage in the mine

tops my list and I could have spent more than my four hours at this 50 plus acre site.  Some buildings (blast furnace, mine, brick and tile works) are original to the site, others moved piece by piece, and some are faithfully copied or accurately “invented.”  Costumed re-enactors were in most shops and trade sites working as they would have been.  Steam engines driving equipment (including a steam traction engine in the street) were all fully operating.  I was fascinated talking with the operator of the single cylinder steam engine who was running the cage up and down the mine shaft that dates to the 1770s, and the boiler was heating away in the adjoining building  – too much fun!  And even a school group came dressed in period costumes (I had to ask, and it was the kids idea).  The first stop upon entering is the bank where you can exchange today’s currency for “tokens” representing the pennies, farthings, shillings, etc. of the time to make purchases at any of the shops or for food (money from the 21st century was still accepted however).

Street view – Blists Hll Victorian Town

But closing time came, and off I had to go for the hour and twenty minute drive back.  Oh no!!  Accident prevented getting on the motorway, off I scoot for back roads – thank goodness I have learned how to “load” area maps into my IPAD as long as I don’t hit the wrong button and loose them.  But sadly it was now dark so I did not see the two plus hours of back road scenery.

If I could have done anything different these past three days I may have stayed at a different B&B each night.  I probably spent too much time driving to the destinations I wanted and back – the distances were more that I had thought with my research.  But Stratford on Avon was somewhat central to what I wanted to do, and it did work.

And today, off I had to drive again for an hour and 20 minutes to The National Waterways Museum at Gloucester.  Back roads I took, open country side which I love but think strange.  England is so old and so small you would think that people would be occupying

An exhibit at the National Waterways Museum

every square inch, but no, villages are far and few in between, and when you stumble on one (like Stow on the Wold – a 16thcentury market town – that I saw today) buildings and homes are all attached basically without yards.  I arrived at the museum, but was disappointed because the museum did not live up to its name, National, and really was general history and a learning center for children.  I had hoped to learn something about the canals as used by the narrow boats today.  The history was nice, but the Canal Museum in London is much better.  What I did learn and find fascinating is that

Outside at the National Waterways Museum

Gloucester even though way inland was a seaport for trade and dock area was developed in the 18th and 19th centuries as the junction point between the ocean and the canals.  This area has undergone quite a renovation/restoration which was nice to see, and the docks and basins are filled with residential narrow boats.

One of the basins outside the National Waterways Museum – Residential Narrow Boats

Leaving about 2:15 I took a different route back, partially on the M5 (you have to be careful because at 75 MPH you can still get run over) and got back to Stratford on Avon in time to be walking downtown before 4 PM.  I had to make the obligatory trip to Shakespeare’s

The obligatory picture of Shakespeare’s birthplace

birthplace (done that tour before!) and catch the rest of the town.  It is busier, bigger and more touristy than I had remembered, but still worth the trip.  And then I got to the boat basin !!!  Ends up that the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal meets the Avon River here with one lock. The basin had a number of narrow boats (6 feet 10 inches wide) and a larger boat (9 feet wide) that was serving as an information booth, and also the gentleman there collected tolls for those entering the Avon River which is maintained by a group other than British Waterways.  Now here was all the resource information that I had hope to get at the museum (well I did get one waterways annual at the museum).

Lock from Avon River to Stratford on Avon Canal

I had collected information two years ago about narrow boats after visiting the Canal Museum in London, earlier this year learned there are also restored narrow boat canals in Ireland, and I am going to travel on one for sure next year (another new experience with memories).

Back to my B&B about 5:30 I started this blog, ate at 7 at the Old Thatch Tavern, and back

Old Thatch Tavern since 1623

typing after 8 PM.  As I said, not much time was spent in planning these few days.  I had three places I wanted to visit, figured Stratford on Avon a central place to stay, sent an email to the first B&B I spotted and got an almost instantaneous response from Sue saying I could stay Monday and Tuesday but they would not be here Wednesday so I would have to find something else.  I arrived and she and her husband Simon have been so helpful.  They recently took over the B&B as a preretirement venture having always wanted to do so, and are doing a wonderful job with Adelphi Guest House.  I told her that one of my criteria is responsiveness to my emails, and she set the bar.  Ends up they are gone tonight, they have been fully booked the other nights I was here, but decided I could stay here alone.  Originally they thought not because there would be no breakfast

Typical Stratford on Avon street facades

available, but their Rumanian caretaker (who came with the B&B) insisted that they let him come in and make me breakfast tomorrow.  So, as I am finishing up I am in the front parlor again (now the breakfast room) looking out over a park just two blocks from the 17th century downtown.  Plan to stay here if you can, they have all the awards possible and the highest ratings on Trip-Advisor (they told me, I never looked).  And my room with breakfast, just 40 pounds, breakfast alone worth 8)

I could not confirm my flight on-line (just like I couldn’t when coming) but I will leave about 9AM to make sure I am in Heathrow by Noon for my 3 PM flight.  Heathrow is not a bad place to kill a few hours since there is so much going on in the shopping area.  I am looking forward to some “home time” and A CHRISTMAS CAROL starts with auditions in a week.  But who knows, you may get day-trip or over-night get-away reports before the end of the year.  Thank you for joining me again, as always, yours, RAY

PS – remember you can click on an image to see it in a larger size

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ENGLAND EXPLORATIONS CONTINUE – 28, 29 and 30 OCTOBER – Never Enough Time

Posted on October 30, 2012 by Ray Boas

It is close to 11 PM as I start to write this on 30 October, Tuesday.  Of course I have tried to keep track of the devastating events back home with hurricane Sandy, and not having heard from David will assume they are about to land in Boston.  Yes, at the worst I will post this on Halloween – your “treat” (not trick) from me.

Sunday Lisa and Alex did not stir until about noon, and we then headed to the Natural History Museum, but had lunch at a small crepe restaurant before joining the queue at the entrance.  A recommendation – don’t do London activities (especially those appealing to youngsters) on a weekend, or as we learned just before a school term break.  But once we got in the crowds were not bad except for the queue to see the dinosaur exhibit.  Mari and David were scheduled to be done about 4, so we called them closer to 5 and the plan was to meet back at the hotel.  We got the kids settled with some pizza we brought in, and then found via Trip-Advisor (I actually knew of an App that David did not know about) the absolute best small family run Indian restaurant he had ever been, and just a short walk away.  A friend joined us, and the cuisine was phenomenal.

Monday I was on the Tube heading to Heathrow to get my car by ten, and was “on the road” again about 11:40 heading towards the Heritage Motor Centre in Gaydon  at the grounds of the former RAF Gaydon.  Why you ask?  Well, it is a “mecca” for British Car enthusiasts and the repository for the archives of most of the build records for British Car

Record of BLUE BELLE’S birth

production.  Shortly after I bought Black Beauty I purchased by mail my “Heritage Certificate” providing all the details of when she came off the line and with what features and accessories.  For her I also know what ship she arrived on in the states and the dealer she was delivered to in NYC.  So Ray thought, “wouldn’t it be great to see if I could get Blue Belle’s build record (let me call it “Birth Certificate”) in person.  I arrived at the museum about 1 PM, and my first stop (well, after the WC) was the archive room.  Yes, Steve, John, Butch and David C. at Sports Car Services in West-West, I had my chassis number and motor numbers with me.  I went in and handed my numbers to the researcher there and he went back to some rolling stacks. After pushing a few he selected a large black metal binder and brought it over to the counter and started flipping pages in front of me.  The left hand column was the chassis numbers, and the columns to the right had codes for paint color, interior, wheels, heater, etc., along with rubber stamps indicating the date of assembly, completion, and leaving the factory.  But for MGs the shipping records were not kept.  He said he would be happy to prepare my certificate if I was going to be there a few hours at least.  “That is the plan,” I replied, and he collected my 40 pounds, and off I went to eat and then tour the museum.  Now I will admit, I had the parochial viewpoint that I was going to see nothing but sports cars, like one of every Triumph and MG made.  Not the case, the sports cars were in just one smaller second level area (I have lots of pictures for Sports Car Services and anyone else interested).

A cut-away MBG GT – great fix-it project for David C. and gang

Having learned around the world that guided tours can be a plus I joined with about 5 others a tour at 2:15 that lasted about an hour and a half, getting much more out of the exhibits as a result and a few tidbits like “dashboard” coming from buggy days.  And that one early paving method for roads was a clay that some found could be used for making good cooking pots.  Out in the countryside near a farmhouse drivers usually came to holes in the road.  It seems as though the farmers would dig up some clay, form it into a pot and fire it.  The result in the road was a “pot hole.”  Well, it was a fun four hours and near closing time when I went back to the archive room to get my certificate.  When first there I was so thrilled to see the actual notation in the book I took out my camera to take a picture only to be told that I could not – they did not want to have the data on a page copied.  So, on returning I asked, “could I take a picture of you pulling the binder off the shelf?”  The archivist replied, “let me take your picture looking at the book.”  So here I am pointing to the line in the book, and to my right (your left) is my British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certified Copy of a Factory Record – “build record” or for me Blue Belle’s “birth certificate.”  She was built 1-7 October 1959 – Date of Despatch 7 October 1959 – her birthday as a 1960 model.

Just part of the museum — a Must Visit!!!

I just realized that I will never be able to adequately tell you tonight about my journey today to Ironbridge, and the thought came to end now, and maybe post again tomorrow about Ironbridge, and my planned trip on the 31st to the National Waterways Museum.  Yes, I still need to know more about narrow boats and England’s canals so I can hopefully get a group together to leisurely narrow boat together.

Of course, a Triumph TR3A, but also the rare TR3A Junior

So, I hope you are safe and unharmed, and good night, as always, yours, RAY

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LONDON – A QUICK TOUR OF OUR DOINGS – 25, 26 and 27 October

Posted on October 27, 2012 by Ray Boas

I am starting to write this on Saturday, 27 October (yes I have had that little available time to write) and not sure when I will be able to post.  Yesterday (Friday) I could connect through the hotel, but last night at 11PM none of us could connect.  Worst that happens is I post my tales from my first B&B on Monday.

So, let me relate Thursday and Friday on this post (and as I am getting back to this will include today, Saturday).  Thursday, Lisa and Alex and I arrived at the British Museum (a short walk from our hotel) at 10:30 and before we knew it, it was 1:30 and David and Mari called to meet us.  We started off with the mummies and Egyptian history. Then took in

Hands-on Coin experience

the Japan exhibit with the samurai accoutrements, the Etruscan room, and then saw the coin room and were fascinated by the clock exhibit.  In the coin room there was a hands-on lecture volunteer explaining and letting people touch actual museum pieces.  Lisa and I saw that on the first floor there were a number of such hands-on experiences and we took Alex there where a very knowledgeable woman shared almost a million years of history with us starting with a fascinating stone implement.

I had to see the Rosetta Stone

Meeting Mari and David outside we grabbed some lunch and got on the tube. David, Alex and I exited at Covent Gardens and the ladies continued to go to Bond Street shopping and then to Harrods.  David and I had both been to the London Transport Museum before, but there had been many changes recently including lots of children’s activities (from what I have learned, most of the museums here now have become more child friendly for learning), and the plan was to spend time there.  Too much to absorb in one visit, and my ticket is good for a year, so I will be back.

In the London Transport Museum

This fascinating museum traces the development of the tube and suburbs through peace and war. Make the trip there for sure!

David had a meeting at 5PM so we parted and Alex and I travelled to Harrods.  If you ever plan to make cell calls in Harrods do so before getting there.  I could not reach Mari at all,

Downstairs at Harrods

and Alex and I waited in the ladies shoe department (where she said she was going) while I called and called.  Finally I reached her, but she thinks it is because she was under a skylight.  David later in the evening found he could not make calls inside Harrods.  But we met then in the fabulous toy department, attended an animated book reading, and played our way across the floor.  I cannot wait to get back to Harrods (my first visit was when Cathy and I were dating in 1993 and I bought a little gift there to bring back for

Two London Icons

her). Next visit I will need to spend at least a half a day there with at least each lunch, and possibly dinner too.  David called us and it ends up that three of his Japanese colleagues and one from the UK had journeyed with him to a Lebanese restaurant nearby.  He came and got us and a fabulous evening followed at MAUOUSH 1 (www.maroush.com).  We got back to the hotel close to midnight – now that is running hard – 13 ½ hours on the go – and with two kids!!!)

Friday – Mari was free until about 3PM. She had seen the changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace at an age in between that of Lisa and Mari, and it was an “even day” with the event on at 11:30.  We arrived in time to join the massive crowd.  It is one of those things you can say, “been there, done that!”  As you know, I am

Typical Changing of the Guard view

not a crowd person, and really there is no decent vantage point for the Changing of the Guard.  We then walked back to Westminster Cathedral, but opted out of going in due to the queue and cost (I did visit over 20 years ago with no crowds, as had Mari).  A couple of bus rides later with the kids enjoying riding on the top level at the front window, we arrived back at the hotel.  From 3:30 to 4:30 I scoped out where David’s opening keynote address was to be held, and met a firm guard who said, “you are not getting in the building without passes!”  There is a reason why I am relied upon, and check things out early.  So, off I headed to the conference registration area, found David’s secretary, Stacey, and said “help!”  Problem solved, badges in hand for the three of us!

We arrived shortly before David’s address.   Mari saw us and showed us to our seats she had saved.  For an hour all I can say is proud Dad wanted to cry with his son’s brilliance.  This was the opening of the Functional Near Infrared Spectroscopy Conference for the society of the same name which David has been instrumental with organizing (check out www.fnirs.org).

Son, David with the opening address

Their work is with imaging the brain to look at issues such as pain functions and epilepsy (about all I understood of his talk).  Mari later told me that his research in this field represents about a quarter of what he is involved with.  If you have a chance just google “David Boas” (proud Papa again).  Afterwards we attended the reception for the conference and the kids and I were then seated at our own table at a private dinner.  Arrival time back at the hotel – 10:30 – an eleven plus hour day!

What does that bring us to?  Oh yes, today, Saturday – just the kids and I, and the plan was for Tower Bridge and The Tower of London.  We took a circuitous bus ride (starting at

Not your typical Tower Bridge view

the first stop – top of the bus front seats) and arrived at Tower Bridge, built in 1894, shortly after 11.  WOW – the views, the restoration, a visit to the bridge is a MUST DO!  We then continued across to The Tower of London area, but first had a bite to eat, entering the Tower then about 1:30 spending almost 3 hours.  The Crown Jewels collection is a must, and the set-up has been changed since my last visit in 1993 (I asked, and they did in fact revamp the layout in 1994).  But overall I think The Tower of London is overhyped for the cost and crowds.  It is another “been there, done that,” and I have now done it twice.

Did you know I am fascinated with steam engines?

By 5:40 we were back at the hotel, and rested a tad before heading to a typical English Pub just off the campus for a private gathering for the conference.  Lisa, Alex and I stayed just a short time (for appetizers and two glasses of wine) before coming back to the hotel.  I have no idea when David and Mari will make it back, but that is why I am here – they don’t have to worry about getting back.

The kids want to sleep in tomorrow even though we are setting the clocks back an hour (what is wrong with youth?).  Once they are alert, possibilities are the science museum or natural history museum, or Madame Tussard’s or a combination.  So, if I cannot get this posted tonight I will in the morning while they are still out cold, and I will next report to you from my B&B in Stratford on Avon (been there too, anxious to get back).  Goodnight, and God Bless, as always, yours,

Kids with the head executioner – Alex promised to be good!

 

My images have not been my usual creativity – sorry

 

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LONDON — A CITY I LIKE – October 2012

Posted on October 26, 2012 by Ray Boas

You should figure out from the images below that I am in London, and I am with David, Mari, Lisa and Alex.  I am here to tour the kids around London while David and Mari are involved with a conference.  I did not realize that they will be busiest on Saturday and Sunday since I thought their time was filled with the conference Thursday through Monday when they head home.  But today was an open day, and tomorrow afternoon David has some free time and on Friday when David officially opens the conference giving the keynote address Mari will have some time.

We left Boston Tuesday evening  (the 23rd) arriving at Heathrow at 9 Wednesday morning (4 AM back on the East Coast).  We got our Oyster Cards and got onto the Piccadilly Line exiting at Russell Square near our hotel and into our rooms at about 11:30.  I unpacked and was ready to run hard, but David decided to nap for an hour, and I actually put my head down for 45 minutes.  By1 PM we were all out and did not arrive back until past 8:30 – 7 and ½ hours running, and amazing with a very tired 7 year old.  I realize that I may not get to show the kids as much as I hoped, but we will see a great deal.

Covent Gardens

Today was a big bonus.  We took the tube back to Covent Gardens and walked around watching a number of the street performers.  From there we walked down to the Thames River and crossed the footbridge to the south side of the river to the London Eye.  I had read about horrible waits, but this was an off time and misty – we went and I am glad that we did. We then walked over the Westminster Bridge past Big Ben, Westminster Cathedral before heading back up through Chinatown to get dinner at Leicester Square.

Street Performer at St. Pauls in Covent Gardens

Similar picture to the one of David and I from 2010 but with Alex

It was a full day, running hard, especially for a day of arrival after a night flight and with Alex.

Thursday the 25th was such a full day I could not even post this, and my connection was bad.  But, it was even a fuller day and we did not get back to the hotel until 11PM.  I will work on those images and a quick tale, but I am waiting for the kids to get up, take them to breakfast, and off we go again.  In 2010 before my travel blog I had sent email to family and some friends of my adventures, and my 2010 emails from Iceland and London I recently post here.  Go to the menu and hover over ABOUT – and you will get a drop down link to that adventure.

London Eye (with some glare on glass) looking East

Kids on London Eye – Big Ben in background

I reviewed them in preparation for this excursion, and now cannot wait for even the next trips here to London.  BC (before Cathy)  I would find British Airways packages and fly over for 3-4 days for theater, etc.  I have to find some deals like that in 2013. So, I will catch you when I can, just wanted to give some update, yours, RAY

An iconic spot – and yes that is the moon too

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