Sweet Virgina

 

Adventures in Chincoteague.

Driving down to Greensboro, we had taken the mountain route through Eastern Pennsylvania, but the way back, I chose to take the inland route through Eastern Virginia, which included the small fishing village of Chincoteague. A quaint hotel next to the Wildlife Refuge on Assateague Island. 

Known for its population of wild Ponies, the hotel we stayed at had an area where several of them reside. The 1947 Novel "Misty of Chincoteague" was written by Marguerite Henry (No relation to O. Henry)

We didn't encounter any of the wild ponies living on the island on our brief stop, but we did manage to spend a little time with the ones at The Refuge Inn, and see a few things on Assateague Island as part of the refuge itself.  

Taking a short ride to the beach, we were rewarded with miles of pristine sand, and a large flock of Plovers milling about where the waves wash in.

The final step of the morning was a short hike to the Lighthouse and the marsh overlook within the Wildlife Loop.

We had what ended up being an eleven hour drive heading back home (thank you New York City and Hartford traffic/construction for the extra time!) but we made it back before midnight, and with many memories from our Thursday-Monday adventure!

Sweet Carolina

 

Adventures in North Carolina.

William Sydney Porter was a writer better known as O. Henry. He was from Greensboro, North Carolina, but spent much of his time in New York City. 

My girlfriend went to college in Greensboro, and was invited back to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the theater department's auditorium. She would be taking part in a couple of dance numbers, but also performing a solo musical number, of which I would be asked to back up on guitar and harmony vocals. We've been playing together as a duo for a few years now, so I was very looking forward to filling up a large, classic designed theater with just two voices and one guitar.

We did the song "Look at Miss Ohio" by Gillian Welch, and the large audience was very receptive. It was a nice way to be introduced to the city for the first time. Very nice people indeed. Outside after the show the audience had gathered for champagne and music from the College Jazz Band. It was a wonderful touch, and the band was great. Lots of people greeted us and complimented us on our performance. Many were dressed in 1920's clothing. It would have been easy to get lost in the moment.

Back at the hotel, we had a wonderful time. The restaurant on the property was amazing, both in quality and atmosphere. 

Upon checkout the next morning, we noticed a very interesting looking car of British make.

While the city itself doesn't stand out from many other places, it was pleasant to visit, but the hotel was an absolute jewel, and the experience at the college was very special.

Summer's Gone!

 I always mark Labor Day weekend as the last whispers of Summer. It was a very busy one for me. I played some great shows, as the month wound down. 

I played a wedding gig that my cousins showed up for as guests. Very memorable. The next day I was playing yet another wedding one town over from the previous one.

and just like that... September was here!

September is probably my favorite month of the year, but it does mark the end of another Summer, and it makes me think of the many Summers gone by. I try to savor the good moments and hold onto them as I prepare for the upcoming winter 

(which I dislike very much) 

But I always enjoy the Fall, and will go on a few more adventures before the cold Winter weather sets in.