On board QUEEN MARY 2 –– 8 January 2012

Posted on January 8, 2012 by Ray Boas

You know I can be spontaneous, enjoyed my travels in 2011, and totally enjoyed writing about my experiences here both for myself and to share with you, but it has been awhile since I have been able to travel, and share.  I got itchy, so I left New York City on the QUEEN MARY 2 on Tuesday.  Do I have your attention now?

While working on A CHRISTMAS CAROL I began worrying about what I would do in 2012.  I started reviewing my list of hoped for adventures that I did not have time for in 2011, and poured through the Road Scholar booklets and brochures that keep arriving.  One adventure jumped out at me – THE STORY OF THE TITANIC – 100 YEARS LATER.  This program begins with a transatlantic crossing to Southampton on the QM2, and then travel to Belfast where the Titanic was built to visit various sites and museums there.  I called to ask more about it, and “sticker shock” – the “single supplement” for travelling alone was a killer.  I need to travel across the Atlantic as the immigrants did for the experience (something analogous to traveling across Canada by train) and several more trips to Ireland need to be done following my first visit in May of last year, so I did not discount the idea.  A few days later I carefully reviewed the itinerary and realized that there just what not enough time devoted to the Titanic sites in Belfast, and there was so much else to do in Northern Ireland.  Sometimes you have to travel in a group as I did to Greece and Turkey in 2010 because, at least for the first time, things are “foreign.”  But, the downside for me with group travel is the compromise that the time spent in a particular museum or place of interest may not be enough for me, and there is a great deal of time lost assembling groups and waiting for people making their continuous rest room stops. 

So what to do?  I got wonderful brochures from Cunard, and the cost for a single is almost the cost for two, but not as bad as the whole Road Scholar program when I started researching how I would handle the Belfast experience.  I then found a small commuter airline that can get me from Southampton to Dublin for around 50 pounds, car rental in Dublin is not bad (been there, done that) and gives you all the flexibility.  And, I never spent more than 80 Euros for a B&B last year in Ireland.  Then I started looking at things to experience outside Belfast: the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery, and there is the remote part of Ireland – County Donegal.  At first I thought I would hop over to Scotland too, but there is a week plus in just County Donegal and Northern Ireland.  Oh, and to get home – Aer Lingus about $450.  So the plan was hatched, I will do it, and I will arrive in Southampton on January 10th.  Confused?  In my research I found Cunard on Facebook, and I joined the Interactive Transatlantic Crossing from 2-10 January.

So, I had some fun with you, but am enjoying the crossing, and now enjoying sharing with you.  But another adventure is on the horizon.  One morning this past summer I got an email from Scott in Pennsylvania (Cathy and Scott worked together at Lotus) directing me to a Road Scholar program – WINTER VENTURE IN YELLOWSTONE COUNTRY.  I had introduced them to Road Scholar programs, and they were hooked.  I have been on several of them now, and feel that the educational programs they develop are exceptional and something you cannot find elsewhere.  It is the typical tourist trip, like the Queen Mary 2 excursion, that I feel at this point in life I can do myself without a group – but reading their booklets certainly helps in finding travel ideas.  So, Scott’s question was, “what do you think?”  The program looks at the nature of the park, and includes cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing, snowmobiling, and a day in a snow-cat touring the park.  It stated “small group.”  I emailed back, “we had better book now!”  So within 10 minutes Scott and Betty booked, I booked, and we also got Rich (Scott’s friend since kindergarten) to go with us.  The last couple of days with the help of Scott and Betty and Rich I researched and upgraded my outdoor equipment and when we talked by “ship to shore phone” last night (remember I am somewhere on the Atlantic) it sounds like I am all set, but as Betty has said to me, “we don’t have to be foolish, we can enjoy a fire instead of minus 30 degrees on skis.”

In preparation for these year’s travels I also want to add more “experiences” to SHUNPIKING WITH RAY.  I tried video in Rome last year, but the upload time was prohibitive, and I never tried again.  I learned that the MOV format my cameras and IPod record in is a large file, but the MP4 format is not – something like my resizing of JPGs to speed the upload time.  I have put off solving the problem, but yesterday downloaded a “free” program to convert MOV to MP4, and tried it with my second Rome video below:

I am thrilled. The MP4 format uploaded in less than a minute.  Last year the first video in MOV format took about 20 minutes — hopefully you are headed for lots of treats this year.

Another way to give you a better view of what I am seeing is with panoramas.  Earlier this year Mari introduced me to Photosynth, and here is my first experiment done several weeks ago On the Common.  Sadly we still do not yet have snow on the ground.  I have not found a way to host this program on my site, so will remind you to click on the image to get the full effect – just remember to come back.

On the Common – Walpole – Click on Image for Full Effect
 

So, that is “what is up here.”  I better run, time to get ready for the formal ball in the Queens Room.

POST SCRIPT – 9 JANUARY 2012

Well, I am either a bad writer, or really good (I think good!).  I wrote about my plan for a trip on the Queen Mary 2 and visit to Northern Ireland with veiled references to currently being “on board” the fine ship.  I thought it was obvious I was not on board when I said, “I will do it” and again when I wrote “found Cunard on Facebook, and I joined the Interactive Transatlantic Crossing.”   I know, it did not help when I ended saying I had to go dress for the formal ball, but that was one of the events last night on board as I was following the QM2 on Facebook.  About 12 people have emailed or commented and are convinced I am gone, and I bet there are others who did not say so – but I am not arriving in the morning at Southampton.  So, sorry, the next trip is Yellowstone.  Queen Mary 2 will come in May/June.  Maybe I am not so sorry, just pleased to have brought some fun with my writing.  Hope you continue to travel with me for real.  Thanks, RAY

PS to the PS – or maybe you only read the title?

From Facebook today:

Today is the last full day of our interactive crossing. Since leaving New York we have travelled 2,912 nautical miles and now have just 329 nautical miles left to go before we reach Southampton. We are travelling at a speed of 19.2 knots and the sea is very slight (1.5-3 ft), so very calm travelling conditions. Shortly we will be posting tonights entertainment for you to select. Before then are there any other public areas you would like to see today, that we haven’t already? For information about Queen Mary 2 please take a look at the website at http://www.cunard.co.uk/Ships/Queen-Mary-2/About-Queen-Mary-2/

Well, back to (for real) reading Williams-Sonoma cookbooks from a collection I bought last year. I love them !!!

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MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM WALPOLE — December 24th 2011

Posted on December 24, 2011 by Ray Boas

Walpole is a town of tradition, and this evening marked the 37th Live Nativity on the Common, right at my front door.  I was flattered when the narrator, the son-in-law of the woman who started the live Nativity, said, “Walpole is a town of traditions, and this year marked the 4th Annual production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL by the Walpole Players.”  He concluded mentioning we have raised over $13,000 for the food shelves in four years.

The simple, yet touching and elegant live Nativity relates the birth of our Saviour, and I wanted to share with you.

Mary and Baby Jesus

The Full Live Nativity with Angels on the Common at the Band Shell

I woke up at 5AM Chrismas morning (was that a sleigh on the roof?) and realized that I did not have the full Nativity picture.  Actually, I like the one above more, but here is the completed scene.  And, by the way, waking up and looking at my statistics, I now have had over 4,000 views of my “blog.”  Thank you.

This is the completed Nativity with the Wise Men

MERRY  CHRISTMAS

From 44 ELM  STREET

Sadly without Snow

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AN INTERESTING AND FULL DAY OUT – 21 DECEMBER 2011

Posted on December 21, 2011 by Ray Boas

As you know, A CHRISTMAS CAROL has occupied my time since my return from Portugal November 9th, but I was way overdue for a “day out.”  So today I combined a few last CHRISTMAS CAROL errands with a road trip.  I packed in the car 6 cartons of food for the Fall Mountain Food Shelf donated during the play and bundled the checks.  I got gas, returned the clock borrowed for Scrooge’s living room, mailed books, and headed off to the food shelf to deliver the food and checks.  MaryLou was awe struck, even though she knew I was coming.

I then headed north to do some book scouting, have lunch, and look for a few gifts for my grandchildren.  Since losing Cathy I have taken what we would have spent for family adult Christmas gifts and given the amount to charity, and in return told my family not to send me anything but give to charity instead if they wished.  In our family we are all blessed, have so much, and need nothing material.  My daughter-in-law, Mari, when she was here last weekend said that the kids get so much not to bother, but I want to leave something when I see them – something they can open a day or so later.  On the way up Route 12 I heard a strange sound in the back of the car, and when I arrived at one place where I usually find good books I smelled brake pad, and in checking wheels a rear wheel was too hot to touch.

Well, if you know me, not much bothers me. I am relaxed and take what happens in stride.  Hey, with what I have experienced you learn that nothing matters to get upset about.  I bought 4 cartons of books, and when I was done I checked the phone book to locate the local Chrysler dealer.  It was not too far away in a section of Claremont that I had never explored.  So, off I went figuring it was the best thing to do.  Do I love small towns!  I arrived at the small dealership, went in and explained my problem, and in about 5 minutes my car was in the garage.  The mechanic came up to talk with me and explained that the brake caliper had stuck, but was now loose and I should be alright.  But this had occurred before as I recall, so we discussed things and he said to be safest, and avoid damaging the brake pads the caliper could be replaced.  He gave me a price of $169, and I said go ahead.  Shortly he returned, and sadly one of the brake pads, although with much life left, had cracked from the heat generated from the frozen caliper.  Pads are only sold in sets for both sides, so I asked if he could install just the one side and I keep the other side for the eventual change.  He said fine.  So, one and a half hours later I was back on the road.  Now, if I had gone to my own dealer, when I got an appointment (hopefully without further damage) it would have been a 45 minute round trip plus the repair time.  Time is money – and I saved my time, and possible further complications.  I am blessed.

Of course for lunch I had a book with me, TITANIC CONSPIRACY (thinking about going to Titanic events in Belfast, Ireland in 2012 after a trans Atlantic crossing on the Queen Mary 2), and also put my IPodTouch in the car thinking the spot I wanted to lunch at, TIP TOP CAFÉ (in White River Junction, VT) may have WI-FI.  Well, I comfortably sat in the waiting area, book in hand, and internet at my fingertips with WI-FI at the dealership.  When I saw my car come outside I went to get my jacket on, and at the table next to me was a copy of the newspaper EAGLE TIMES.  Yesterday morning I sent a letter to the editor about the wonderful contributions at A CHRISTMAS CAROL.  “I wonder if they published it?” I said to myself, and I picked up the paper.  There it was, under the heading –

OVERWHELMED BY YOUR GENEROSITY

The Walpole Players 4th Annual production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL has concluded and we wish to thank our communities for their generosity.  The show is our gift to the community, but in return we ask that the audience members make a monetary donation to The Fall Mountain Food Shelf and Our Place Drop-in Center.

In these difficult times we expected donations to be off this year, but instead we were pleasantly surprised, actually overwhelmed.  During the four performances, with over 600 people attending, the cash donations exceeded $4,515.  Not a drop from last year, but an increase of 43 percent.

It is so heartwarming to know that our communities care about others less fortunate just as Scrooge learned from the ghostly visitations in A CHRISTMAS CAROL. 

Thank you so much for attending and making our production such a success. 

Merry Christmas, yours, Ray Boas and Tara Sad

If I had not broken down, I may have missed seeing the paper.  I asked, and they let me take their copy.  I stopped my subscription during my travels and haven’t started it up again.

So, off to the Tip Top Café ,Cathy would have loved it – I discovered it about 2 ½ years ago, but it was 2 PM and I got hungry so I stopped at a little café just off Exit 8 off I-91 and went in.  While enjoying my veggie wrap I noticed an “interesting” fellow pull up in the parking lot, pop his hood, tinker, get back in, and proceed to turn my way and smash into the corner of the building outside my window.  Nonplussed, he backed up, got out, talked to a woman who came out, got back into his car with mangled fender and drove away.  Supposedly, I was told, to get his driver’s license.  Only in Vermont!!!

Now if you live in our wonderful area, and you do not like “shopping centers” and crowds – that is me – there are not many shopping opportunities, especially for little ones.  But I had some great ideas.  I first stopped at the Montshire Science Museum gift shop, but nothing “grabbed me.”  I then headed to my planned destination, a small country store in Fairlee, Vermont called Chapman’s Country Store which has been run by the same family since 1897.  Cathy and I discovered this small town and store before we even lived in NH, and she loved to shop there.  Originally a Drug Store, Mr Chapman had developed a salve that Richard E. Byrd used at the South Pole (and you know my connection to the South Pole). Next door is a card shop, one of her weaknesses, that also has some gifts, in fact Betty, that is where she got the cookbook we gave to Matt.  We always found wonderful gifts there, and my last stop was on June 8th in “Black Beauty” returning from my endurance run to Franconia in the blistering heat.  Yes, I bought gifts then too – if you like a store or restaurant vote with your pocketbook!  I again was not disappointed, and 3 items “grabbed me.”

Chapman's Store - 4PM with my IPodTouch. Have to remember to have at least this with me if not a camera too.

Time to head home, 4PM, about 2 hours later than I thought I would be, so because of the car problem delay I had to delete a few stops, and the weather was turning fowl, so time to head south and home.  I love being “on the road” and I love being home.

So, why am I posting this?  I just want to reiterate that no matter what happens to your day, smile and make the best of it and have fun.  Thanks, and at least one more post will come before year’s end. As always, yours, RAY

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A CHRISTMAS CAROL REDUX – Sadly, but Successfully Concluded

Posted on December 19, 2011 by Ray Boas

Our fourth straight night of our 4th Annual production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL is now “history” and I am in total shock !!!!!!!!!! In a year that I thought we would not do as well, our donations to area food shelves topped our best year, last year, by 43 %. On our last night, December 17th, our audience donated $1455.75, our cast contributed over $600, we sold DVDs of the production for  $120, and a raffle to shave Mr. Dickens’ beard netted $31 — $2221.75 tonight. This year the total donations for the four evenings were $4515.75 YES FOUR THOUSAND, FIVE HUNDRED, FIFTEEN DOLLARS and SEVENTY FIVE CENTS. Topping last year by $1366. You can quote me, “I am elated, overwhelmed, and so appreciative. God knows what our community has done.” Everyone should be very proud, and we need spread the word.  Donations can still be made, in fact throughout the year, and just contact me for the addresses where your checks can be mailed.  I have DVDs here, and will be happy to mail you one for a donation.  Our fine friends at FactTV in Bellows Falls will be airing our production, and here are the details – Just click on the link below “A CHRISTMAS CAROL:

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Friday, December 9, 2011

Posted on December 9, 2011 by Ray Boas

Did I tell you I am very involved with A CHRISTMAS CAROL?  Well, FactTV in Bellows Falls has been very good to me, and this morning I was interviewed by the Executive Director of the station, Jacob Stradling, at the studio in Bellows Falls.  Please click on the link below (Interview with Ray Boas), and then click to start the video segment, and enjoy.  Thanks, RAY

Interview with Ray Boas

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Your Invitation to A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Posted on December 3, 2011 by Ray Boas

November 24, 2015 UPDATE – Sadly we are not able to stage our production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL this year, 2015. At auditions, only one quarter of the needed cast of almost 50 turned out.  It was with heavy heart and disappointment that Tara and I realized we could not give you the show this year.

BUT, we are still having a Fundraiser to benefit the local food shelves. And, as an extra incentive, all donors will have an opportunity to win a $250 Shopping Spree, which has been provided by an anonymous donor. Thus, all contributions will go to the Food Shelves we have been assisting.  Full details can be found by clicking on this link taking you to THE WALPOLE PLAYERS website. And, feel free to contact me to make a donation, thank you, RAY

Since posting this page I have started a website for The Walpole Players in Walpole, New Hampshire.  Our 7th annual production will be held on December 10, 11, 12, and 13, 2014.  Full details can be seen on THE WALPOLE PLAYERS website.  (this update posted 27 October 2014)

You have heard me talk about the Walpole Players annual production of Charles Dickens’ classic tale A CHRISTMAS CAROL.  Here is the public service announcement the wonderful folks at FACT TV in Bellows Falls, Vermont, filmed yesterday for me announcing our 4th annual production that will be held in the Helen Miller Theater in the Walpole Town Hall, Walpole, New Hampshire on December 14, 15, 16, and 17.  Following is an article I wrote about the history of our production. Click on image below to start video.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Presented by The Walpole Players

 

            To give a reading of The Carol is to live a lifetime in one hour – as Scrooge so aptly remarks at the end – The Spirits have done it all in one night! – Cedric C. Dickens, London 1965 (great grandson of Charles Dickens

The curtain rises on Wednesday, December 14th for the fourth year when The Walpole Players welcome Mr. Charles Dickens to the Helen Miller Theater at the Walpole Town Hall to give a public reading of his classic tale, A CHRISTMAS CAROL.  Starting at 7PM the production will run for four successive evenings, December 14, 15, 16 and 17.  As its gift to the community from the players, admission is free, but in keeping with the Christmas spirit, as learned by Ebenezer Scrooge, your monetary donation at the door will benefit The Fall Mountain Food Shelf and Our Place Drop-In Center.

What has become an anxiously awaited annual tradition was sparked by a solitary serendipitous comment.  You may recall the freak storm the last day, Sunday, of Walpole’s Old Home Days in 2008.  The power was out in the village and the final performance of the players’ YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU had to be cancelled.  The cast party, as a result, began early by candle light on Ray Boas’ porch.  At one point that evening Jean Kobeski said, “We should do A CHRISTMAS CAROL.”  Everyone nodded yes, but Ray’s ears perked up.  In the early 1990s following a trip exploring Dickens’ London he wanted to give readings in his book shop of Dickens’ holiday tale.  That never came about when Cathy and he married and eventually moved to Walpole, but the suggestion that evening germinated and Ray brought the idea up at the players’ annual meeting that October.  It was enthusiastically received, and Tara Sad said, “I will help you Ray.”  And with that the annual production began.  Ray and Tara felt that this would be something they would want to do each year, but it is presumptuous to call an event the “first annual.”  But, now the players’ can proudly say they are presenting A CHRISTMAS CAROL for the Fourth time.

In preparation, Tara and Ray read a number of stage adaptations and were intrigued with the use of tableaus within a frame.  Dickens could be reading as he did during his public performances from 1853 until his death in 1870 while some scenes could be acted out within the frame.  Tara suggested a scrim for the frame be acquired which would enable black outs for scene changes, and her efforts in having it donated to the players has provided a magical effect.

Slight modifications have been made each year changing, adding or dropping some scenes, but Ray has kept his adaptation as close to Dickens’ original as practicable to get Dickens’ message of Scrooge’s redemption across to the audience.  With last season’s overwhelming response by young budding thespians Tara added a group of young carolers to entertain the audience prior to Mr. Dickens arrival.  For this year’s production over 40 people ranging in age from 5 to 70s came out on the first day of auditions, and as in the past Ray and Tara found a spot for each one who wanted to be included.

Charles Dickens’ first public reading was of A CHRISTMAS CAROL on December 27, 1853, with the proceeds all given to a charity.  What a perfect thing to do Ray and Tara realized. “We can give the play to our friends in the community, and in return they can do something for those in need.” The charity collectors could not have said it better in the first scene when calling on Scrooge at his office seeking a donation for those “in want of common necessaries” because it is at this time of year “of all others, when Want is keenly felt, and Abundance rejoices.”  Mary Lou Huffling of the Fall Mountain Food Shelf explained that she could obtain more groceries with cash donations than if someone bought and donated foodstuffs for the same dollar amount, so it made sense to ask the audiences for a cash donation instead.  In the first three years audiences attending The Walpole Players’ performances have contributed $8,590.74 to the Fall Mountain Food Shelf.  This year monies donated will also be shared with Our Place Drop-In Center.  The need is particularly acute this year for both organizations in providing meals and groceries for those in need.  In fact, Our Place has seen a 35% increase this year in requests for assistance.

Ray has also prepared a sixteen page keepsake booklet for each year’s production, donating it in memory of his late wife, Cathy.  Besides a listing of cast members the booklet provides historical information about Dickens and his classic tale along with an illustration from the 1843 First Edition.  The balance of the pages focus on different aspects of Christmas history and traditions.  Using his collection of over 40 books about Christmas, Dickens and A CHRISTMAS CAROL for ideas and research, the 2011 booklet will include the history of the Candy Cane, the origin of the Nativity Scene, and its relationship to the beginnings of caroling.

Tickets to the 7PM production on December 14, 15, 16 and 17 are required because of limited space in The Helen Miller Theater, although Ray has been able to seat everyone who has come to the door in the past.  The free tickets are available at Real to Reel, Galloway Real Estate, Village Square Booksellers, Costume Ladies, Murray’s and Jake’s. A CHRISTMAS CAROL has been read and performed since 1843 – 167 years – obviously a success and tradition.  So, even without any additional changes The Walpole Players know that their tradition will continue too, and in the spirit of  Ebenezer Scrooge’s redemption the audiences will continue to do what they can for those less fortunate at this time of year.

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30 November – A few notes, and A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Posted on November 30, 2011 by Ray Boas

I missed writing to you here, and have missed the travelling, but as many of you know it is at this time of year I am totally immersed in our annual production of Charles Dickens’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL for the benefit of our local food shelves.  I have been writing though.   On Monday I took to the printer my 16 page keepsake booklet which is given to the audience.  Each year besides providing background information on Dickens and his classic tale I explore and share in the booklet various Christmas customs.  This year I researched and wrote about the candy cane, Nativity Scenes, the early history of Christmas Carols relating to one scene in the play, Advent wreaths and calendars, and then a closed with A Christmas Alphabet that I found from the 1890s.  I also wrote a history of our production which will be the lead article in The Walpole Clarion which went to press today.

So today I am taking a slight breather, it is in the 50s and I may even take “Black Beauty” out and go visit my friends at Sports Car Services in Vermont.  Another update for you is on “Billy the Goat” that I found way back on September 29th, remember him?  Twelve hours after my post that day the director of the DeMoulin Museum in Greenville, Illinois, contacted me about my circa 1905 De Moulin Bros. Rollicking Mustang Goat.  It seems as though something called “Google Alert” advised him there was a new post on-line about DeMoulin.  Well we emailed

My "Billy" The Rocking Goat

back and forth and I am thrilled that “Billy” is going home to the museum.   Of course because of everything else going on packing my large friend has taken some time, but I am an excellent packer and today had the time to finish the job.  Off to UPS he goes tomorrow.  I will send John, the director of the museum, an email later on, but may not so he will first see the “Google Alert” for fun.

In case you can make it, and also for any Google Searches, here is the press release and some images of our production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL.  Maybe in a few days I may post the article I just wrote for our paper, and also include some of the pages from my booklet.  Enjoy, thanks, RAY.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL 

 

The cast from our third annual production in 2010

 

The Walpole Players are pleased to announce their Fourth Annual production of Charles Dickens’ classic A CHRISTMAS CAROLin The Helen Miller Theater at the Walpole Town

Scrooge played by Bill Pearre

Hall, Walpole, New Hampshire (NH) December 14, 15, 16, and 17, 2011 as its gift to the community.  The performance will begin at 7 PM when Mr. Charles Dickens arrives to read his classic tale.  In conjunction with Dickens’ reading, the Players uniquely and magically perform twelve scenes from the story as the Ghosts of Christmases Past, Present, and Future escort Scrooge through his redemption and transformation.  In the keeping of the Christmas Spirit, as learned by Ebenezer Scrooge, the performances will be held to benefit the Fall Mountain Food Shelf and Our Place Drop-In Center which have both long provided meals and needed groceries to people in Alstead, Acworth, Bellows Falls, Langdon, North Walpole, Saxtons River, Walpole, and Westminster.  Admission is free, but tickets are required because of limited space.  Tickets are available at Real to Reel, Galloway Real Estate, Village Square Booksellers, Costume Ladies, Murray’s and Jake’s.   In lieu of paid admission, the Players are asking each person attending to make a monetary donation to the Fall Mountain Food Shelf and Our Place Drop-In Center.    Donations the first three years of The Walpole Player’s production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL have raised $8,590.74 for those in need.  For further information call: Ray Boas 603 756-4545 or Tara Sad 603 756-4861

Ol' Joe and the Charwomen discussing Srooge's belongings

Posted in Day (or maybe two) Trips | 2 Comments

7 November and written and posted from the Lisbon Portugal Airport 8 November 2011

Posted on November 8, 2011 by Ray Boas

Hi all.  I am sitting in the Lisbon airport and have  already checked in for the flight.  All seems to be on track and on time.  I have about an hour and a half here before boarding time, and then about an hour plus layover in Ponta Delgada, Azores, so I should be able to post this before arriving in Boston.

Yesterday was GREAT.  The van showed up as scheduled, and our guide was professional and fabulous.  We left at one to arrive back at seven and the plan was to visit the caves at Mira de Aire prior to going to the mediaeval walled city of Obidos.  These were Corinne’s perfect suggestions.  I sort of acted as coordinator, and “under my wing” were 7 ladies.  We first headed off on back roads (shunpiking Portuguese style) to the caves at Mira de Aire, about 15 kilometers away.  Our driver/guide provided a nice background to the area which answered many of my unasked questions as to the building materials and paving materials use.  This is limestone country, lots of limestone, and that is what I have seen in the little blocks making up the sidewalks (all hand cut and laid) and in the various buildings.  He also pointed out various trees, etc.  I learned that most of the firs had been imported years ago to provide building material.  Because of the limestone (at least in this region) not much grows.  I had learned about olive trees in Italy, but saw fields of a hybrid developed that lasts about 15 years but grows faster bearing more fruit.  I mentioned that I read that olive trees can live hundreds of years and he said that they have dated some to thousands of years in Portugal, but that is not what we were seeing in the fields.

And if you remember anything from geology, you understand that this region is ripe for

One view in the cave

caves forming from ground water (or underground streams) wearing away the stone.  The cave we visited was first discovered in 1947 through a small hole, but exploration when further.  It was not until 1974 that an entrance way was cut and passages and steps created for visitors to descend 110 meters down (there is a lift to bring you back up) and adding lighting effects and fountains.  This is the largest cave in Portugal and is classed among the “Seven Wonders in Portugal.”  Each cave is different, but I will say that I was more enthralled with Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico that Cathy and I visited in the late 1990s – she loved caves, and it was “on her list.”  What was fun to watch is that we were the only ones there, but had to wait 15 minutes for the guide to escort us – she was there and told us so.  Well, the waiting spot is the gift shop, the ladies had fun (I am hoping it is a larger plane going home for all their goodies – ha, ha). Obviously that was the plan.

The entrance to Obidos

Leaving the caves we cut back over to the main highways to head to Obidos a mediaeval walled town.  This visit was worth the trip, and I need to read Rick Steves’ book on Portugal to plan another trip back to see this and similar old towns.  They have found remains from Roman times, but most of what is seen dates from the 12th century.  There was an earthquake in 1755 that destroyed much, so the result is a beautiful blend of Mediaeval, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque.  There is a castle (a luxury hotel since 1950), and from there I walked along the town wall.  I was able to view several churches. Saint Peter’s Church built during the 13th and 14th centuries, but rebuilt after the earthquake, was particularly impressive.  I also enjoyed the town square with Saint James’s Church (1186, rebuilt 1755), the town portico, pillory house. 

Walking along the Town Wall in Obidos

The shops are on one small lane with smaller lanes off to residences.  High end quality items were everywhere.  Obidos is the site of a chocolate festival, and a must do is to have Ginja in a chocolate cup.  This is a cherry liqueur, and is vended outside many of the shops for one Euro.  I first tried it in a shot glass shaped chocolate cup – great!!!  Then I saw a

Typical Side Street

chocolate cup that was shorter with a handle or probably a sipping spout.  I tried that too, tasty also, but not as easy to handle.  Think I will have my liqueur in a chocolate shaped shot glass from now on (along with my Guinness from Dublin?).  We arrived there at 4 and the ladies said they wanted to leave at 5:30 (I had originally planned on 6).  As I walked around and saw their shopping bags before even getting to the castle I told them 5:45 at the van, being the good tour director I am.  As usual one person always does not listen (she was taking pictures of everything) so we got underway at 6 arriving back in Fatima at 7.  A most perfect afternoon.

 

 

Looking back towards the Castle from above the Entrance through the Town Wall

 

So here I sit, 15 minutes to boarding time, plenty of time to re-read and double check, and then post.  A great time, grand experience, and a treat to have been able to experience the splendor and history of Fatima and Our Lady’s visits.  This week feels like it has gone faster than others.  As I was falling asleep last night I was looking forward to getting home (I love being home), but I was also starting to long for a new adventure.  So, what should I do?  Any suggestions?  Leave a comment if you have any please.  Should I experience Christmas again in Quebec City, or go to Dublin or Scotland.  Most journeys this year just happened, I awoke with an idea.  So maybe that will happen again soon.  I will let you know.  Thanks, RAY

Posted in 2011-e - Fatima - (Nov) | 5 Comments

5-6 November 2011 – Saturday and Sunday

Posted on November 7, 2011 by Ray Boas

Hard to believe this trip is nearing to an end.  On Saturday the 5th following the 9:30 Mass I walked around the newest part of the city.  The city has developed surrounding the grounds and buildings of the Sanctuary and is modern having been mainly built in the last 20 years.  The religious shops have some of the most beautiful items I have seen, and Cathy would have enjoyed them so much.  The main season here is 13 May to 13 October, but crowds do arrive for a weekend vacation retreat, and it was nice to see so many here.

Monastery of Batalha

Following lunch most of us hopped on a small bus (with windows intact) for an optional tour Corinne arranged to Batalha, Alcobaca, and Nazare (a seaside resort town).  It was nice to get out into the countryside.  The Monastery of  Batalha was begun two years after the Battle of Aljubarrota on 14 August 1385.  The victor of the battle, who was to become King Dom John I, vowed to the Virgin Mary that he would build a monastery in her honor should he win the war. Back on the bus for a short ride to the Monastery Church of Alcobaca with origins

Looking into a Cloister at the Alcobaca Monestery

to 1151.  This monastery too has its origins to a vow made to the Virgin Mary by the first King of Portugal during his conquest of Santarem from the Moors.  He also hoped to gain Papal recognition to aid the consolidation and independence of Portugal

At one time 900 monks lived and worked here.  The church itself is open to the public, but I also paid to tour the inner cloisters, dormitory, various rooms and the “great” kitchen.  A massive chimney supported by early cast iron pillars dominated the center of the kitchen, and along one wall were massive sinks fed by a stream for food preparation.  Looking up the chimney was spectacular, so much that I forgot to take photos, but the images are impressed in my mind.  .  From what I quickly saw of the town it is worthy of a future visit.

We then headed over to the seaside resort town of Nazare.  We first went to the old town, Sitio, which is more than 300 feet above sea level looking down to the town and Atlantic Ocean.  A popular legend has a knight, Dom Faus Roupinho, in 1182 chasing a deer on horseback to the edge of the cliff.  The deer fell to its death, but knowing that a sacred stature of Mary was in a small cave nearby he invoked Our Lady’s protection and was saved.  A chapel was built over the cave, and in 1377 the king ordered a church to be built.  I visited the cliffs, and the little chapel and the church.  In the church I bought a wonderful hand painted folk art plaque for 5 Euros of the chapel which will fit in nicely with a religious grouping I have on a wall on my porch at home.  The sun was starting to set, and we got back on the bus (still with all its windows) and headed down to seaside for shopping.   As you know, nothing is sadder than an empty resort (well maybe a religious shrine without throngs of pilgrims).  I went out on the empty beach to follow the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean, and when I head back I notice a funicular railway going from the town up to the Sitio.  I had to walk over to see the station which had been modernized with a new car, but there was not enough time for me to traverse up and back.  I continued walking the small quiet streets past empty or closed restaurants.  A shop with sports car caps (remember I bought one in England a year ago, and in Ireland in May) was on the corner, I went in and explored the styles and purchased a great cap with ear flaps that come down (my first of this type) to wear in colder weather in “Black Beauty.”  A new collection? I now have three such caps.

Looking down from Sitio (old town on the cliff) to Nazare

Sunday was a slower paced day with Mass, breakfast, and then I walked around and purchased a nice book on Fatima and the locales we visited on Saturday.  At lunch Corinne told me she talked with a fellow in town about a car rental for me, and also about renting a van for 8 to tour us to some local caves and then to the medieval village of Obidos.  I went to discuss more with him after lunch, the price went up again, and he said to check back later.  I browsed around town and visited the interesting Museu de Arte Sacra E. Ethnologia with fascinating religious artifacts.  My next stop was back to the fellow trying to arrange the van, and the price had gone up again.  I said to email me once he figured things out.  Most of us then went to the Vespers service in the Basilica, and on the way back to the Casa I told Corinne that the price was creeping up.  We agreed to forget the idea, and the fellow really was trying to be accommodating, but was out of his league.  But then she remembered in past years getting a van through the Casa.  A phone call made, and the price for 8 is now 130 Euros instead of the 240 Euros and climbing rate.  We booked the van and driver.  So hopefully the van will arrive, and on my last full day eight of us will have an interesting tour that I can report to you on my “final full day, and trip home” which may get posted when I get home (or maybe from the Azores).  Have to wait because remember the adventure David and family and I had getting home from Italy?  So, bye for now, as always, RAY

 

Sun setting over the Atlantic

 

Posted in 2011-e - Fatima - (Nov) | 4 Comments

Fatima, Portugal Continued – 3-4 November 2011

Posted on November 5, 2011 by Ray Boas

The Basilica - Feels as if you are in St. Peter's Square, but on a smaller scale.

Where to begin?  For a peaceful, contemplative trip there is still so much to share, or at least write down because, as I have mentioned, to do so is to “live it twice.”

I don’t know how much of the history and background of Fatima to write about, so I will give a basic idea (and then some links) so you will have an understanding of what I am seeing and appreciating.  (here is a great link that I just found that details it all simply) In the Spring and Autumn of 1916 the Angel of Peace appeared to three little Shepherds, and in the Summer the Angel of Portugal spoke to them.  This was preliminary to their first visit at the Cova da Iria by Mary on May 13, 1917, at which time she told them she would appear on the 13th at Noon for the next five months.  Mary revealed to the eldest, Lucia, the “three secrets of Fatima” which foretold major events to come during the 20thcentury including: the end of World War I, the beginning of World War II, and the assassination attempt on a Pope, and later the Consecration of Russia leading to the end of the Cold War, the Russians leaving Poland and the tearing

Our Lady of Fatima on the Altar in the Basilica

down of the Berlin Wall.  This is almost 50 years of history in a few lines, so please read more.  In history there have been many Apparitions and Miracles, but what I find fascinating with Our Lady appearing in Fatima in 1917 is that it is within our recent history and memory with photographs of the Pilgrims experiencing the dancing of the Sun on October 13, 1917, eyewitness accounts in newspapers and books, and future events occurring as told by Mary to Lucia and the children.

At 9:30 we had Mass at the Capelinha, the enclosure at the site of the Apparitions of Mary.  Then we toured the Basilica seeing the tombs of Francisco and Jacinta and now that of Lucia.  I forgot to mention yesterday that the city is recently build, mainly in the past 20 years, and construction continues of hotels in anticipation of the 100th anniversary in 2017.  But with the downturn of the economy there are vacancies and unfinished projects everywhere.  Corinne said she has never seen so few people here.  Then we went to a little known spot, a picture museum in the basement of a home in a residential area run by a religious order.  Here is the whole Fatima experience documented in photographs up to the Beatification of Francisco and Jacinta in 2000 with Lucia in attendance at age 93.  I purchased four books for just over 8 Euros. 

Corinne explaining the images in the Photo Museum

Following lunch we saw a film about the lives of the children and their experiences, afterwards I walked to the village of Aljustrel to see the homes of the seers.  Beautifully restored in 2000, built in 1888, is the home of Jacinta and Francisco who were born there,

This year I have shown you views from my windows in Ireland, Italy, Canada, and now here is the view of the Basilica from my window.

and Francisco died there from the Flu Influenza of 1918.  Nearby is cousin Lucia’s home built in 1885 and restored in 1987.  Part of the experience is seeing where and how these simple peasant children lived.  Back for dinner at 7:30 – Cod, second night in a row with fish.

Friday – November 4th — We had an appointment for an English tour of the exhibition, “Fatima Light and Peace” at the museum of the Sanctuary of Fatima.  Shown here are 1,000s of items offered from around the world to Our Lady of Fatima, all of great beautify and many of significant historical, artistic and monetary value (move over Fort Knox).  I think the highpoint is the crown used to adorn the Stature of Our Lady of the 13th of each month from May to October.  It was offered on the October 13, 1942.  In 2000, at the Beatification of Francisco and Jacinta, Pope John Paul II took the attempted assassins bullet that almost killed him on May 13, 1981, and placed it into a hole that had been left inside the crown when made.  It fit perfectly!  Do you believe yet?  Following Mass many of us went to a new museum , Vida de Cristo (the Life of Christ).  I am not a wax museum person, but found this exhibit wonderfully done and of special help to me is the guide booklet we were given. It details the 33 scenes shown with narrative text in combination with the related Gospel.  I will admit I am not as familiar with Bible stories as I should be, however, this booklet is extremely well done, and I will have to share it.  I took pictures of the scenes and will sometime have to develop a page narrating them.

 

After lunch we all headed back to Aljustrel along the original old path through olive groves, and along the path are the stations of the cross.  In the fields are two important places which I did not visit yesterday.  We saw Valinhos, where Mary appeared to the children on 19 August 1917 because they had been imprisoned on the 13th by the local Administrator who hoped to get the secrets from them, or get them to admit to lying.  Further along is Loca do Cabeco where the Angel of Peace appeared in 1916, and on the third apparition there gave them communion. 

The Angel Giving Communion to Lucia, Francisco and Jacinta

We then headed on to the village, but with most folks tired of walking, they headed back

Parish Church of Fatima

tothe hotel, but I along with a couple others continued on foot to the original parish Church of Fatima where the three children were all baptized.  Across the street the cemetery was an amazing sight to see with all the unique graves decorated with live flowers following All Souls Day. 

 A 40 minute walk back to town, and that was the end of the day before dinner.  Yes, fi sh again – third night in a row – Wreckfish.  Scary sounding isn’t it?  Well I googled Wreckfish, and my findings did not engender enthusiasm, BUT, if you ever see it on a menu, go for it.  Like a salmon steak, and it was good.

I brought only three books with me to read this trip, I am getting smarter.  However, I think I will stop carrying books because I spend my time (and get so much enjoyment from) revisiting my day and thoughts putting them down here.  Part of the process is reading what I bought and also researching on line to learn more (and find some links for you).  My “blog” posts take hours to do, but I love it.  Thanks for bearing with me, yours, RAY

Posted in 2011-e - Fatima - (Nov) | 5 Comments