Northern Hospitality: Back to Basics

After the hustle and bustle of New York, we were eager to leave the big bad city and head out to vast open land. 

First stop: Connecticut

Our destination was the Panagopoulos house about three hours from NYC. As we drove further into Denise's neighborhood the houses got increasingly bigger and nicer and we were suddenly struck with the realization that were looking quite grimy from the city soot. Autumn kept informing us that there was a fountain in the Panagopoulos house, but somehow, that was not registering in our minds and we gave our appearance no thought. Regardless, Denise and her family welcomed us into their home, giving us luxurious living quarters, a delicious meal, and good company.  

The next day, we went kayaking and hiking. Spending the day out in the sun took its toll on our fair Irish skin and we burned like lobsters, leaving us slightly envious of the Panagopoulos sisters' rich, Greek skin bronzing effortlessly in the rays. We smeared ourselves with aloe and took a gorgeous hike up to a lookout tower where we could see much of Connecticut. After the hike we topped off our wonderful day in nature with pizza, a backyard bonfire, and a movie on the projector screen in the basement. 

We left the Panagopoulos home with a wealth of knowledge on Greek culture (Ted and Georgia are 100% Greek and are natives of the country) as well as a healthy glow in our skin. It great to get back in touch with nature and refresh ourselves in open air.

Second Stop: Ludlow, Vermont

After saying our goodbyes in CT we took off for the Partlow residence. After five phone calls to Anne we finally found her beautiful house tucked in the backwoods of Vermont. Anne welcomed us with open arms and an open kitchen. We had a hearty home-cooked meal and had lively conversation. Steff was so impressed with the dish, she snagged a recipe to bring home to the fam (be ready for Tortellini pasta!!).

Anne's house looked like something out of a fairy tale: Built in 1802, it was cozy and classic. The house was full of intricate quilts and hand made decor. It was a bed and breakfast of sorts, complete with our OWN separate rooms and a maple cookie on each pillow. We awoke from a peaceful sleep and gobbled down some blueberry waffles then headed outside to get a better look at our surroundings. Anne's 5 acre lawn was stunning with a colorful garden and plenty of space to roam. The house was surrounded by wood where moose, black bear, and wild turkey reside. Just before leaving, we took a leisurely walk with Anne on a gravel trail that led to a breath-taking view of the mountainous tops of Vermont. We were also giddy to find bushes of blueberries and shiny rocks. 

Anne's house was warm and inviting. It was the perfect place to go to unwind and enjoy the beauty of God's creation. 

Third Stop: Burlington, Vermont

After lingering all day at Anne's house, we hit the highway for a scenic two hour drive to Burlington. Jeff Nowlan and his amazing cat, Senor, welcomed us to their quaint college town. Starving, we promptly made our way into town for dinner. After our stomachs were content, Jeff treated us to Ben and Jerry's ice cream (born here!). We came home and played with Senor, the hugest, fattest, fluffiest, most agile, and adorable cat we've ever met (he changed Molly's entire life-view of cats!) That night, we settled into couches, air mattresses, and Katrina spent half the night on the front porch to catch some of the cool Vermont breezes. 

We awoke the next morning....to a huge egg, bacon, fruit, bagel, potato breakfast that Jeff had made. Yummy! Good thing we had such a hearty breakfast, because as we headed out into slightly overcast weather to rent bicycles, we had no idea what was to await us. 

Armed with two of Jeff's bikes, a backpack of meager supplies, and two rented tandem bicycles, we headed out on the trail. The shadowed weather couldn't keep our happy spirits down as we zipped and zoomed around the trail on our bicycles built for two. Even when rain began to spat, we were not deterred and kept on moving. It was exhilarating! It was refreshing! It was...pouring down rain. We ended up on a long gravel type bridge. The dark waters crashed on both sides as the wind and rain picked up and slapped us sharply on the face. Jeff peddled off to find Molly and Katie, seemingly oblivious to our dangerous and uncomfortable situation. The lost sheep were found and the giddy tandem riders were now determined and serious, pressing into the wind to get back. 

We returned at the bike rental in one piece but splattered with mud which covered much of our backsides. Although it wasn't the ideal situation for a bike ride, we all agreed that it was great fun and headed back home to dry up and chow down.

Now clean and warm, we insisted on making Jeff dinner. On the menu was a special recipe mac and cheese, pickle rolls, chicken tenders, and some broccoli for a touch of nutrition. It was delicious and Jeff was appreciative of the bountiful meal. We spent the rest of the night reading, talking, and taunting Senor with a string toy. Once we grew weary, we settled down for our last night at Jeff's place. Next stop, Niagara Falls for Molly's 21st birthday celebration and more camping!! It's been a long, fun journey but we are more than ready to get home. Just three more days to go. NEW PICS. LOVE AND MISS YOU ALL!! XXXXXOOOOO