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NY: Letchworth State Park

An incredible day uncovering lower, middle and upper falls!

After a day climbing the stairs at Watkins Glen we were looking forward to the respite of driving around to the Falls. The lower falls does require a short hike down some stairs with a couple of options for views. One from a bridge as seen below and one closer. It was more majestic from the bridge given the rock wall and forest. .

From there we started our drive to the middle falls when we were stopped as the park was over capacity. We decided to hike the unexpected mile and were not disappointed. There also is an Inn at this spot for a meal or lodging.

Not too far further were the upper falls. There were also loads of options for alternate hikes, kayaking and biking. The weather was perfect for any option.

As we only were there for the weekend, we decided to start back to our hotel. On our way out we saw a two mile queue of cars to get into the park! We were grateful for our day!

TIPS: Get there early. Start with upper and middle falls. Bring snacks.

NY: Hudson Valley: Rhinebeck

If you would like a day with a little bit of everything head to Rhinebeck, NY.

For food – so many options. We chose Terrapin and enjoyed great service and ambience in their back pavilion with heat lamps. Next time I may select Beekman Inn for its history and authenticity.

Walk down the streets and stroll the adorable shops filled with whimsy and bohemian flair.

I often check out Atlas Obscura when I head somewhere and found Wilderstein mansion. While I just missed the house tour, the grounds were great to explore along the Hudson.

None of that compare, however, to our visit to Burger Hill – the highest point in Rhinebeck – especially on the weekend of Autumn’s peak. We received a “pay it forward” kite we were to pass on after our use which made the day that much more magical.

Worth the visit. Worth taking the time. Enjoy the journey.

CT: Goshen: A Perfect Winter Pairing

The sun goes down early and there is a crispness to the air as Thanksgiving approaches. A great treat to bring might be homemade truffles from Thorncrest Farm (see separate post on background about the farm). For now trust me that the truffles are perfectly executed based on the selected milk from their cows.

We chose to arrive a scenic route through South Kent to appreciate the view during stick season. The quaint store is filled with chocolate, truffles as well as their fresh milk. I always grab a vanilla milk as well.

After selecting a small four pack for a little treat, we went to Sunset Vineyards only two miles away and paired our delicious fall themed chocolates with hot mulled wine.

It was a perfect Goshen pairing and would highly recommend in stick and winter seasons.

NY: Bedford: Mianus Gorge

It’s officially stick season and Mianus Gorge was a lovely hike to observe it. It’s open for the season from March 1- Nov 30 so we just made it.

Next to the company, our favorite part of the hike was the apocalyptic scene of the Mianus River. The ground felt like rubber and the markings otherworldly.

There was a section marked overlook which we had fun circling but alas no overlook . . . mmmmm. In fashion of our Lifetime crew, they got down and did planks and mountain climbers instead.

Finally as we returned we paused by the grumbling – was it animal? Bird? Wind?

It was the trees “talking” between themselves which you can only readily see during stick season as they outstretch and intertwine their branches in “conversation.” That’s how we saw it.

4.3 Miles with many smiles. 😉

CT: Litchfield County Fall Tour

There are so many options for a beautiful driving tour of Litchfield County in the Fall. This was a perfect day. A day I described as feeling truly at peace.

I was fortunate enough to be taken around by a local who knew the best roads and vantage points.

Pictures above: Bulls Bridge, Kent; New Milford Pond & Lover’s Leap

Pictures above: Bulls Bridge, Kent; traveling the roads of Warren, CT, Bridgewater, CT, Litchfield, CT and South Kent CT. Unfortunately I am not sure of the exact route but head to the towns and take it all in. It was all breathtaking.

NY: Watkins Glen- Farm Sanctuary

The universe found us at the Farm Sanctuary. We had just sat down for lunch at Green Elephants, a vegan restaurant, and began an exchange with a kind spoken woman and her young son who ultimately offered us tickets to a farms tour.

I knew from her disposition and timing, it was a place we should accept and just go!

The Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen is quite worthy of a visit; caring for over 500 rescued farm animals advocating for a vegan way of life. It was an influential experience meeting Belinda the cow (my namesake) and Lily the goat. They each have a story of how they were saved by the sanctuary.

Our guide shared the issues experienced by the animals and asked us to intentionally allow them grace to approach us. The sheep were a great example. We paused outside their door and watched them resting and eating. After several minutes they began to come towards us but in a line- each taking turns to say hello.

It’s quite influential to becoming vegan. They shared the names of vegan restaurants/meal options in the area to try. We tried the Cellar in Corning and it was perfect!

Tips:

The farm offers a bed and breakfast. I hope to stay there at my next visit.

Head over to the Sugar Hill Fire Tower nearby for what is apparently a great view. I made it up two stories before I found myself going back down. I’ll try again next time!

NY: Fingerlakes- Watkins Glen State Park

A mile in and back will take you through a fairyland of 19 waterfalls and gorges.

While I was here during the summer before, the Fall was simply astounding. have fun with each turn!

Tips: Once you hit the bridge at one mile, don’t turn back yet. Continue on the path until the end which will take you to the north rim for your return. While it may not have more waterfalls it is picturesque nonetheless.

The lot fills up so try and get there early and on a weekday. Wear waterproof shoes and be prepared for lots of stairs.

We had a great lunch to follow at Green Elephants, a Thai restaurant, and then coffee at Seneca Sunrise coffee (with a freshly made organic apple crisp); both within walking distance of the park.

CT: Weston: Trout Brook Valley Preserve

In a four mile hike we were rewarded with a wooded trail, wildflowers, a meadow, an overlook to the sound and an apple orchard!

Of course what made this hike extra special was the group of beautiful like minded friends that together ensured each person experienced all to the fullest.

Thank you to everyone in the group who created “lifetime” memories. 😉

Note: There was a sign alerting us to a black bear siting on the trail so be aware!

Inspirations: A Time to Heal

Each religion has a time for repentance . . . A time to reflect on what went well and what can be improved upon.

It’s that time for me as part of the Jewish faith- Rosh Hashanah through Yom Kippur. One of my favorite times of year.

Reflections

What I learned this year: conflicts may be based on unclear competing agendas. It’s not always my fault.

What I will start to do: when I don’t know what to do or say. . . Pause. It’s ok to walk away.

What I am most grateful for: my present focus on health and befriending myself

And dancing like nobody’s watching. 💃 ❤️

Thank you to my family and friends for allowing me to continue to make mistakes and grow while standing by me.

VA: Virginia Beach Neptune Festival

2024 marks the 50th year of the Neptune Festival at Virginia Beach.

One of the highlights is the artistic sand castle contest for 12 solos and 10 doubles. You vote for your top two.

We learned that after the festival the castles are indeed destroyed! Argh! They offer sessions on how make them too!

One morning we saw blue dolphins in groups near the shore as the sun rays shined upon them while the sun slowly rose. We took cross fit, yoga and pilates on the beach.

Afterwards we shopped along the boardwalk for sunglasses, beach pants and face moisturizer. In the evening music was offered although it got rained out.

What a wonderful event!