tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68278686162375987302024-02-06T23:04:07.528-05:00Upstate OdditiesCuriosities I come across in the CatskillsBethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.comBlogger107125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-53150580370258798262013-05-28T19:24:00.000-04:002013-05-28T19:24:32.595-04:00Petit Force!On a drizzly, unseasonably cold Phoenician day in May, I was fortunate to be stuffed into a pew at the Methodist Church Hall to bask in the white-hot energy of guest speaker Philippe Petit during a presentation of his new book, <i>Why Knot?</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRdjFCx4CLlne83DEzgtVhzKWb9QkV-ssX4EiGqC4BNON6L2QKQFhFy645rqqlfB6mUdmflxmRn0OB0fChHxBoWu6wj67wwUmo2FS1iLccKirDaX96svsR0BgGwjtlmUNYUrwgV5WKvIo/s1600/petit5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRdjFCx4CLlne83DEzgtVhzKWb9QkV-ssX4EiGqC4BNON6L2QKQFhFy645rqqlfB6mUdmflxmRn0OB0fChHxBoWu6wj67wwUmo2FS1iLccKirDaX96svsR0BgGwjtlmUNYUrwgV5WKvIo/s400/petit5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Petit spoke of ropes and cords, fibers and wires, strength and tension and how the difference between life and death could very well hinge on the simplicity of a well-tied knot. You know, like that time when he walked and danced and reclined a quarter mile above the earth on a wire strung between the Twin Towers <i>WITHOUT A SAFETY HARNESS!</i> Back and forth eight times, for nearly an hour. My knees turn to jelly just thinking about it. He was a week shy of his 25th birthday when he pulled off what may be the most astounding "art crime" of all time. If you haven't seen the documentary <i>Man on Wire</i>, do so tout de suite, sweetie! What Petit pulled off on that August morning in 1974 was breath-taking and daring and more intricately plotted than any grand bank heist, real or imagined. Mon Dieu! Just look at him up there!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRBiMhIsRHqWBQ8uvxXv2eQ6wvghVDfDfN7MKxo6kHui_1NEsZDk7Jtv-oN1Xk6bbG9jTfwYYRokb8iEM3DugjVDZ6mnNBo4nTKMDcuJxKkMzJuYZBSCXJfo6HZzIxWBzgO1i-d0MupA/s1600/philippe-petit-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRBiMhIsRHqWBQ8uvxXv2eQ6wvghVDfDfN7MKxo6kHui_1NEsZDk7Jtv-oN1Xk6bbG9jTfwYYRokb8iEM3DugjVDZ6mnNBo4nTKMDcuJxKkMzJuYZBSCXJfo6HZzIxWBzgO1i-d0MupA/s400/philippe-petit-2.jpg" width="351" /></a></div>
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But back down to the nifty, knotty present and our very vibrant host. Here is Petit demonstrating a few of his favorite knots. He was so personable and charming, even while tying up an unsuspecting volunteer, and he was a total sweetheart to all of the children in attendance, making it a point to fully involve them in his presentation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbAOSa0Z4w8AwLegmFFPI4Cixnx2X_EbzKBh9SlCKdSti8HjGTVq12q4_-9auQGk9n0LzxC2pg7ws0h2V2vfCiwsPWmv-NX7ngsppwa1qNH8f2vwHP4mBpvHQZJMEu88tLgPM0jjJ1oRU/s1600/petit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbAOSa0Z4w8AwLegmFFPI4Cixnx2X_EbzKBh9SlCKdSti8HjGTVq12q4_-9auQGk9n0LzxC2pg7ws0h2V2vfCiwsPWmv-NX7ngsppwa1qNH8f2vwHP4mBpvHQZJMEu88tLgPM0jjJ1oRU/s400/petit2.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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So perfectly poised is Monsieur Petit! Therefore, none of us were fooled when he took a stumble getting to the podium! He then proceeded to reveal the key in perfecting a fake foot fumble. I will not reveal this closely guarded secret, but I assure you I will use it only for good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutQ3kcJp5n4vhUOVJQNjSsekWOsN6F20VPcH8puq-sig9axeRRObQRjdAt7tdGeKHNjw-VxRpLohc9nsXb0aTewouIg5y5tRfmKZveX-nuDBZCp_TgEw0h-mpQ73sTq1P1uw1xjpHzNo/s1600/petit3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutQ3kcJp5n4vhUOVJQNjSsekWOsN6F20VPcH8puq-sig9axeRRObQRjdAt7tdGeKHNjw-VxRpLohc9nsXb0aTewouIg5y5tRfmKZveX-nuDBZCp_TgEw0h-mpQ73sTq1P1uw1xjpHzNo/s400/petit3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This special program was a benefit to raise money for the Phoenicia Library, which sadly, was destroyed by a fire in 2011. They are close to reaching their goal in rebuilding a bigger and better library for their patrons. The Golden Notebook, a Woodstock-based book shop was on hand with stacks of books (of which they were contributing 20% of the sales), including <i>Man on Wire </i>- Petit's account of what went into that amazing day; his lovely illustrated children's book, <i>The Man Who Walked Between the Towers; </i>and of course, his latest, <i>Why Knot?</i> - which includes a red cord for recreating all 60+ knots. Petit illustrated the book and wrote all of the text and instructions. Here's my attempt at a double surgeon knot:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm5DcypXliO1FX6nGOe_uKFiKRG8ojCtgJ1AlY13UCRQRaNyktC6INcK6PGCOIwrp4Q-MP-UCrKtQ1AzznXp2H11zyxzQgAIRv9QtfkuyCsrc7eYISsJqx2LXJgWPptshQ3ZEPxQtc8A/s1600/petit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm5DcypXliO1FX6nGOe_uKFiKRG8ojCtgJ1AlY13UCRQRaNyktC6INcK6PGCOIwrp4Q-MP-UCrKtQ1AzznXp2H11zyxzQgAIRv9QtfkuyCsrc7eYISsJqx2LXJgWPptshQ3ZEPxQtc8A/s400/petit1.jpg" width="370" /></a></div>
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His text is as playful as the man himself.<br />
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While we queued up for the book signing, I found myself tongue-tied in the presence of this fabulous funambulist, but I managed to loosen my vocal chords enough to express my delight and to ask M. Petit if he would sign a book I had brought along - <i>Let the Great World Spin</i> by Colum McCann. This heartbreakingly tender novel weaves together several urban lives on that summer day back in '74 when a French sprite traversed a wire in the clouds between the great towers. Petit is not named in the novel, but he is the connecting cord between all of the characters. Here is what he wrote:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL92u8zmUMr-Sj4LGmdBZVkV1sujqcdv0qWrCQADCKpLrugsIBWgpyrRc_aNPdvRS6ZVUo5KZttbEbOQvX3l1milh4T6VsTjtZw0KGkD8_21uanI9WxPCHSszlNKr-A8mi7L0XPkHnWVg/s1600/petit6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL92u8zmUMr-Sj4LGmdBZVkV1sujqcdv0qWrCQADCKpLrugsIBWgpyrRc_aNPdvRS6ZVUo5KZttbEbOQvX3l1milh4T6VsTjtZw0KGkD8_21uanI9WxPCHSszlNKr-A8mi7L0XPkHnWVg/s400/petit6.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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A multitude of thanks to the Phoenicia Library Trustees and Library Director Liz Potter, The Golden Notebook, the Methodist Church Hall, and to the magical and incomparable Philippe Petit for making an ordinary day in the mountains quite extraordinary!<br />
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For more information on the Phoenicia Library Fund…<a href="http://www.phoenicialibraryfund.com/">Click Here!</a><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Extra special thanks go to my friend DeLisa Brown Guc for turning me on to Let the Great World Spin.</span></i>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-30846938405087411392013-05-01T18:12:00.000-04:002013-05-01T18:12:35.186-04:00Be back soon!<div style="text-align: left;">
I appreciate your patience while I'm out looking for more oddities. In the meantime, please enjoy the lovely scents and sights of spring at your local Designated Use Area™ </div>
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No permits required…but please keep your pile of ice cubes neat and your ghost dog behind the diagonal line at all times. Kite flying will not be tolerated and will result in public flogging with a wet noodle.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_lBIUhFtXU6I9dbvuq8OU7O_bVrql99RhTtj81nEF3gunk6tqfOp88C80VdA-on76IeGPoZACxi6HHdTMBX9PKVnWLB9wvdF_ZtcMtAxupknatOo7N-IMmYovYMQ6QbEnjYw5g1CSnU/s1600/IMG_4283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_lBIUhFtXU6I9dbvuq8OU7O_bVrql99RhTtj81nEF3gunk6tqfOp88C80VdA-on76IeGPoZACxi6HHdTMBX9PKVnWLB9wvdF_ZtcMtAxupknatOo7N-IMmYovYMQ6QbEnjYw5g1CSnU/s400/IMG_4283.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-86909430206748923942013-03-30T10:25:00.000-04:002014-04-22T17:13:49.858-04:00It's a Small World!How about a little mid-century mod to light up your life?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbv1qlqXJ9gv1i75mx_Jl6IGVU96WVOlEgXRiXReY9b12eDhMLZZ3yNSHVyZdzo93VHuNjZ_lBU95dtp8gV-xVYzxEye-NOBfq7Sbr_vwKhPLbzyUV29LUA8_oncxYb9CkCfIvsEOiyE/s1600/IMG_5153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbv1qlqXJ9gv1i75mx_Jl6IGVU96WVOlEgXRiXReY9b12eDhMLZZ3yNSHVyZdzo93VHuNjZ_lBU95dtp8gV-xVYzxEye-NOBfq7Sbr_vwKhPLbzyUV29LUA8_oncxYb9CkCfIvsEOiyE/s400/IMG_5153.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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When passing by the <a href="http://www.villavosilla.com/ourstory.htm">Villa Vosilla</a>, the Italian resort hotel in Hunter, one can't help but notice the distinctively retro lamps that dot the landscape. According to their website, owner John Vosilla was so enchanted after attending the 1964 World's Fair in New York City, that he wanted that magical moment to last forever. And so, he purchased a trio of original World's Fair street lamps, known as luminaires, to light the way in welcoming his guests.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7DyBwU-QifnHTvw23DDxFvvsx9CxiAfHceQJHkc9GhrmHwTz9Zv7DKrHo66LV3IuvlNmDt2iLpXN409cu6NLUmIffc7jTdhXwfnCXt6N4d8GM5ZPGZAZPxoOSlrLDswxqqab97uqtQgQ/s1600/IMG_5154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7DyBwU-QifnHTvw23DDxFvvsx9CxiAfHceQJHkc9GhrmHwTz9Zv7DKrHo66LV3IuvlNmDt2iLpXN409cu6NLUmIffc7jTdhXwfnCXt6N4d8GM5ZPGZAZPxoOSlrLDswxqqab97uqtQgQ/s400/IMG_5154.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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Here they are in their original setting:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnJPpd3IlnNp6uRSEBIoOFcqi2P8LshUvBS1DlvzEnAiEL7tCFZM0n22rFk7Bw_vKb9Wy_MPGUPWO4SueR5_fIYGWwhtTY_Kr3i8vvHgNFP_a0Ng-a41G_HhB0WE10QKDyeZCcvhSdJs/s1600/34233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlnJPpd3IlnNp6uRSEBIoOFcqi2P8LshUvBS1DlvzEnAiEL7tCFZM0n22rFk7Bw_vKb9Wy_MPGUPWO4SueR5_fIYGWwhtTY_Kr3i8vvHgNFP_a0Ng-a41G_HhB0WE10QKDyeZCcvhSdJs/s400/34233.jpg" height="215" width="400" /></a></div>
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Imagine riding that Royal Tires ferris wheel…wheeeee!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglfp7hpr_nGxYhlbUGKiPZMLE6POIfNxiGPIsYS06jqvb44y3GDod6vaeU9V38BU1qmPKJFW0KtCoNzLHzuHbGMfmKHSwLkwSw_i_JdeeZSQkFuZ2Yv9yMgSW4xDlZ4ZrgNJJgmfA5CI/s1600/152381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglfp7hpr_nGxYhlbUGKiPZMLE6POIfNxiGPIsYS06jqvb44y3GDod6vaeU9V38BU1qmPKJFW0KtCoNzLHzuHbGMfmKHSwLkwSw_i_JdeeZSQkFuZ2Yv9yMgSW4xDlZ4ZrgNJJgmfA5CI/s400/152381.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's one more, because I dig that boy in his khakis and Keds. Pay no attention to the man in the hat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5r-_tcooi3hpN_CKJruBxmpv5chVc7xXLjKBCSluGUBsgcqid4TEl2LEJkBK-1IlWRMu19y8XWzmheqP02FQiVrba96duIup_SHlstuGwStkxYuQlzBbbBZY0RhbVXOvFrgKy2BtDTQ/s1600/5621166056_33446048f9_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5r-_tcooi3hpN_CKJruBxmpv5chVc7xXLjKBCSluGUBsgcqid4TEl2LEJkBK-1IlWRMu19y8XWzmheqP02FQiVrba96duIup_SHlstuGwStkxYuQlzBbbBZY0RhbVXOvFrgKy2BtDTQ/s400/5621166056_33446048f9_z.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></div>
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There were 76 different cube and color combinations used in the 1,842 luminaires that lit up the walkways of the fair at Flushing Meadow Park in Queens. The triangular bases contained state-of-the-art high fidelity speakers that were tied into the public address system. This allowed the fair to broadcast background music and announcements.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbH8WEepE7lwU658AvQ966wOuPlDlTAPKzxEAbY6utDWBtrElrxg7vwlXuiq6o7JKkSeTOG-A0me_pWJiBxV5v7QuxYGWPU5zfnJV-V7YrDCDvnRIvDzp-gWVnXeyId0gtpqSxEGvRDA/s1600/IMG_5152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbH8WEepE7lwU658AvQ966wOuPlDlTAPKzxEAbY6utDWBtrElrxg7vwlXuiq6o7JKkSeTOG-A0me_pWJiBxV5v7QuxYGWPU5zfnJV-V7YrDCDvnRIvDzp-gWVnXeyId0gtpqSxEGvRDA/s400/IMG_5152.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's one more photo that I took in the summer while passing by the Villa Vosilla.<br />
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I was thrilled to find out about the World's Fair connection regarding these lovely luminaires and I chose the title for this post - <i>It's a Small World!</i> - for two reasons, the first being the surprise at finding a remnant of a major cultural event from the past seemingly plopped into the present (and many miles away!). The second is a bit more personal. When I was 11 months old, my parents took me and my older brother to the 1964 World's Fair (My dad had been to the 1939 World's Fair when he was a boy). To this day, my mother tells me how much I smiled and giggled while riding on the Disney attraction, <i>It's a Small World</i>. If only I had been a few years older, I would have remembered it myself! Luckily, there are so many publications, websites, and personal family anecdotes to keep the memories of this marvelous World's Fair alive.Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-54230449473386422782013-03-08T14:32:00.000-05:002013-03-08T18:45:08.928-05:00Dedicated to the ones we loved.This sign caught my eye as we were turning a corner one day, driving home from a hike. There is something so sweet and heartbreaking about this simply etched scroll of tree bark that pays tribute "to the cherished memories of those now gone." The semi-circular garden area, complete with a miniature dog house and several stones, suggests that this personal memorial park is the resting place of someone's animal friends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkaWsdJiTouRo5GV67B2NBz27hcs-oQSyh72c6aprPH0mMayHD-u7Bc_mkTo8FTkFbTSXU9h0sarXzyF3aqkQxx4nuPliX7U9gTZKEKiS4gmDE3ajOrCO0YVPRlv5EZ6KxhW9wT4wd08/s1600/maggie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkaWsdJiTouRo5GV67B2NBz27hcs-oQSyh72c6aprPH0mMayHD-u7Bc_mkTo8FTkFbTSXU9h0sarXzyF3aqkQxx4nuPliX7U9gTZKEKiS4gmDE3ajOrCO0YVPRlv5EZ6KxhW9wT4wd08/s400/maggie.jpg" width="341" /></a></div>
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Several weeks later I was ambling through an old country cemetery. It was filled with tombstones of men and women who had lived and loved and died in the 1800s. In a far corner I found another memorial, also cut from stone and made to last. Even though the sweet memories of our animal friends are infinitely stronger than any physical representation in wood or steel or stone, seeing this little stone dog sitting faithfully in the snow tells me that once upon a time, maybe a hundred years ago, he or she was very much alive and loved and missed. Maggie's Memorial Park also shares that sentiment. Our animal friends give us something precious that lives beyond their own short lives - something that makes our time with them and beyond very rich indeed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUi1UVIvF6GAreaZTNTIwfgf_0hKaAPI6mRWMOD0hX5qn4eOQZZ94aP91VVUqd_IAYvhj6uicAWmDmTkPAFBxJiSCkiejlzjHsW3EoZ7ps5qS85EgCFJ1HxEUckCNl_yBnqWdNLfSMYIw/s1600/dog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUi1UVIvF6GAreaZTNTIwfgf_0hKaAPI6mRWMOD0hX5qn4eOQZZ94aP91VVUqd_IAYvhj6uicAWmDmTkPAFBxJiSCkiejlzjHsW3EoZ7ps5qS85EgCFJ1HxEUckCNl_yBnqWdNLfSMYIw/s400/dog1.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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This past December, my boyfriend and I lost a special friend. Daisy, a beautiful husky mix with multi-colored heterochromic eyes, was John's companion for sixteen years and my friend for almost twelve. She epitomized every good quality associated with dogdom, particularly in her loyalty. Here is a one of my favorite photos and an oddity in and of itself! During the course of a year or so, a beaver couple had taken up residence in Warner Creek, damming it up to form a large pool. Daisy loved bounding into the water to greet her wild friends, who would pop up to make their presence known at her arrival. They would swim circle-eights around her…at a respectable distance, of course! I dedicate this post to Daisy. You were <i>such</i> a good girl. We miss you very much.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7nJoiemVdd8mRYnsFwIuVJnmMr12x7BIN0SEaCiz0DvGuGVhT6YetG6IqeltzRaMq3eu0rCqwa8hu6rFwM4WpqJ4A5z7_l26On_ZJ2AWmGE6LrYfYHlIzY92US4549AJbJYoNphEyl4/s1600/daisy1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7nJoiemVdd8mRYnsFwIuVJnmMr12x7BIN0SEaCiz0DvGuGVhT6YetG6IqeltzRaMq3eu0rCqwa8hu6rFwM4WpqJ4A5z7_l26On_ZJ2AWmGE6LrYfYHlIzY92US4549AJbJYoNphEyl4/s400/daisy1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-29157478783247725692013-02-11T20:02:00.000-05:002013-02-11T20:10:23.849-05:00Tying the knot…or six degrees of separation in Saugerties?I love to share oddities that can be tied to a holiday-themed post. So back in September when I spied a heart-shaped sculpture sitting atop a hill in Saugerties, I decided to file it away as a future contribution to Cupid's internet feed come February. Nonetheless, no matter when I share an oddity it's always a thrill to happen upon one, and I carried that good feeling with me as I made my way down the road to the annual Garlic Festival. Thanks to the interconnectedness of social media, my friend Andrew realized we were both attending the same garlicky-good venue. We arranged to meet up for dinner at the nearby New World restaurant - he with his charming friend Holly, and me with my sweetheart and a few friends in tow. Over appetizers, Andrew asked if I had found any oddities while in Saugerties. At that moment, a vintage bottle of coincidence was uncorked when I showed him this photo:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDquv7p5vgf-MTdejRFPtVtcq4_qp8xF0EUgxv1gyoqIDLnpwZX3x7oOTzouag6bEZC87oP7i3oIHzz_JQDht1arfGZaF2yiGcNYKAgbbhmXbIczszNN3lRJQfekoH_2n-PfdKPUcgz6A/s1600/IMG_4267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDquv7p5vgf-MTdejRFPtVtcq4_qp8xF0EUgxv1gyoqIDLnpwZX3x7oOTzouag6bEZC87oP7i3oIHzz_JQDht1arfGZaF2yiGcNYKAgbbhmXbIczszNN3lRJQfekoH_2n-PfdKPUcgz6A/s400/IMG_4267.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Cue the string section of serendipity! It so happened that Andrew knew the artist - in fact, he knew him rather well! Ze'ev Willy Neumann, the Israeli-born sculptor of the aptly-named Love Knot, is the father-in-law of Andrew's sister, and on this particular weekend, Andrew and his friend Holly were guests at his home and studio.<br />
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Willy Neumann's original concept was to construct a heart-shaped apple for the iconic <br />
<i>I Love NY </i>slogan. This idea evolved into an expression of his love for the town of Saugerties, where he makes his home and art, and nearby Woodstock, with its tie-dyed immersion of groovy art and culture. My snapshot of the heart is actually a prototype for the finished Love Knot - an installation of two hearts, one to be placed in Saugerties and the other in Woodstock, with accompanying directions on each guiding the viewer to the other, in effect tying the conceptual knot. Here are the finished pieces. Aren't they lovely?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5cQLVgnpIV4HgoMXq3eCoPrKSnjPpRD4yidiTfHFAeYp50UTdsDVt4puXKtDKbidoOJYDvj3ai37xidHe-nybR3svO7q54_Ue0YxsKGK4CwKBZ6wgbGtUW4v60E69UR0jKcK1rTCdSg/s1600/loveknot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5cQLVgnpIV4HgoMXq3eCoPrKSnjPpRD4yidiTfHFAeYp50UTdsDVt4puXKtDKbidoOJYDvj3ai37xidHe-nybR3svO7q54_Ue0YxsKGK4CwKBZ6wgbGtUW4v60E69UR0jKcK1rTCdSg/s400/loveknot.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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With the infinity symbol as a grounding element, each heart speaks of the eternal love between two mountain towns that are united through their cultural connections. Once placed in their respective homes, these harmonious hearts will create a bridge to this link and Neumann's vision will be realized. I love this photo of Willy with his daughter-in-law Tracee and darling granddaughter all framed within the heart. The repeated curvatures of the piece beckon the viewer to sit or recline within its enveloping shape.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGsGwZn51vdE_LhDVTMH5pq08gQqd8met1kX8qPhWAsUIjGrh_7ygBIrQa-mzVqu7oS0CiskmAe7OvFgChlWb5OkOX9Cpvaxu0V8IDHpRQfA39g9ZT2T2NQ1GNh2mbbFpfmTE1WfYFc0/s1600/love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDGsGwZn51vdE_LhDVTMH5pq08gQqd8met1kX8qPhWAsUIjGrh_7ygBIrQa-mzVqu7oS0CiskmAe7OvFgChlWb5OkOX9Cpvaxu0V8IDHpRQfA39g9ZT2T2NQ1GNh2mbbFpfmTE1WfYFc0/s640/love.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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While symbolizing enduring love of place and connection, the Love Knot also represents the infinite circle of life that binds us all together. Cupid may hoard his arrows for that one day in February, but that cheeky cherub known as Coincidence and his sister, Serendipity, seem to strike when least expected and never fail to make my heart skip. Many thanks to my friend Andrew for leading me to the story and artist behind these heavenly hearts. More about the infinitely interesting Ze've Willy Neumann can be found at his website by clicking this <a href="http://zwneumann.com/index.html">link.</a> And here he is in action!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/SotaaYSEZzQ?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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What are you doing for Valentine's Day? If you can grab a date and hop on up to Saugerties, drop by Willy's studio. He'll be hosting a party celebrating the completion of the Love Knot. Seriously, don't you want to sit in this thing?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgafv_u0cXgrNiaki0lBRn9ixLXlsxhUBLVG3cgh8LBskkQnVsVuuwmGFzfcQaeGxPRurNopBrgYa4ZHo_lOWcrlKhAf79odN8K5M5iSmcB6Js2vIJIw46xMkcm9n8RJz25STpu_QomMwc/s1600/love+knot+poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgafv_u0cXgrNiaki0lBRn9ixLXlsxhUBLVG3cgh8LBskkQnVsVuuwmGFzfcQaeGxPRurNopBrgYa4ZHo_lOWcrlKhAf79odN8K5M5iSmcB6Js2vIJIw46xMkcm9n8RJz25STpu_QomMwc/s400/love+knot+poster.jpg" width="307" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Additional photos courtesy of Willy, Adam & Tracee Neumann. Thanks for your help, guys!</i></span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-59320754101490406772013-02-04T13:28:00.000-05:002013-02-04T13:28:12.945-05:00A Made ManWhen life gives you an old washing machine drum...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-CNIDjVVvuvwrud1qMXueVPMmUG8IUi7C756yOs4ILpwTmxaCFrsdcAg5-XXIPoDTdpfQ8wHvUXyHB97P3fwWPP9kH7OI2dHkle1Y-pluZCEVOIagW1M_GjEYPHY8LyeMKl0ouyvdqs/s1600/bigdrum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-CNIDjVVvuvwrud1qMXueVPMmUG8IUi7C756yOs4ILpwTmxaCFrsdcAg5-XXIPoDTdpfQ8wHvUXyHB97P3fwWPP9kH7OI2dHkle1Y-pluZCEVOIagW1M_GjEYPHY8LyeMKl0ouyvdqs/s320/bigdrum.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
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...make a Washing Machine Drum Man!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYNRS2R4780lSelBQwJgmSQ9bAQ35RCliwND8r_NT3P8Z0KbGymRSQkxmd-tEKbWFSjAxCw4eHtHbGyJHo5fD3hY6dp1833vSWVEoUI7mGWQuYmWYaOUg0_PDX5-yTL6WYAof83G9H4Q/s1600/drum+man.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYNRS2R4780lSelBQwJgmSQ9bAQ35RCliwND8r_NT3P8Z0KbGymRSQkxmd-tEKbWFSjAxCw4eHtHbGyJHo5fD3hY6dp1833vSWVEoUI7mGWQuYmWYaOUg0_PDX5-yTL6WYAof83G9H4Q/s640/drum+man.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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This chipper chap was found standing sentry in front of a shed. Just look at that funny face...Ooooooo!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0TNWA6tKzpWhFH6MDfuMe9TwSrQPIFdYPIj874PGRNRVN0O8hUEOXLHhEkI8CEVsfvfXIVdmKL2yntHQfBDIucEliuzHjaUFrylWLlJcm8vB4rkbtoRLLv40YvOTTc_qgIvQEXNr4R4/s1600/head.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy0TNWA6tKzpWhFH6MDfuMe9TwSrQPIFdYPIj874PGRNRVN0O8hUEOXLHhEkI8CEVsfvfXIVdmKL2yntHQfBDIucEliuzHjaUFrylWLlJcm8vB4rkbtoRLLv40YvOTTc_qgIvQEXNr4R4/s400/head.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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I really dig found-object art. It's green and doesn't take the mastery of a Michelangelo to make. All you need is an eye for seeing the creative possibilities in the prosaic; to imagine an object beyond its utility and infuse it with new life. Whimsical found-object sculptures dot the landscape of the Catskills, bringing a bit of humor to a yard or gaiety to a gallery. Who hasn't seen a smile in the grille of a car or a nose in a doorknob? <br />
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Take Mighty Joe Young here:<br />
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He was found in a funky Phoenician art gallery. Who would think that a couple of wrenches, horseshoes and a faucet handle could pack so much personality? It just took an inspired shift in perception. So before you take those old tools to the dump or leave those spare parts to languish in a shed, why not turn those figurative lemons into a cool glass of artistic lemonade?Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-73151716593480634842013-01-17T10:16:00.001-05:002013-01-17T10:16:29.834-05:00Leaving One's Mark<div style="text-align: left;">
On this chilly midwinter morning, I'd like to revisit a place I discovered on a sultry summer afternoon. I can't resist the charm of a covered bridge, so when I saw a sign for one up ahead I had to stop, stretch and seek some shade, and once there, I got a double treat - an historical marker! I love these ubiquitous bits of Americana! They are chock full of trivia, usually marking the spot of a revolutionary conflict or letting us know that Washington kicked back with a Sam Adams in the local tavern. <i>(He would have loved that beer!)</i> But I prefer the more obscure memorials, like this one, which marks the spot of a 19th century angler's favorite fishing hole. No big whoop, right? On the contrary. This guy was <i>major!</i> I know because I googled him and found a wealth of information.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPluDgz85kHlIt3aQqax_90kYN-KLs85_e8GAp6UWCcVShUHZW1pnAXvWJLz6CWy0YJNQF_h_Nk0IamG9Ezi9nickmdSV6jkahXGceKoUl38Rwf-peQedDgat9B2fbe5ga_DYCLZkkvo/s1600/IMG_4159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrPluDgz85kHlIt3aQqax_90kYN-KLs85_e8GAp6UWCcVShUHZW1pnAXvWJLz6CWy0YJNQF_h_Nk0IamG9Ezi9nickmdSV6jkahXGceKoUl38Rwf-peQedDgat9B2fbe5ga_DYCLZkkvo/s400/IMG_4159.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXb1fm0EESVPPIQFXM4qzjq7W15CnUXzrmXV4JqRKP1gjAqdGAjvSHnzTvOz-TNQdauk0ts-SjTaucRhTQD6_58GFENae-M13xGddpYCO1inNKwQ4hd4jNj-K8z1QV8ndZHbYTR_VRQR8/s1600/Theodoregordonanddog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXb1fm0EESVPPIQFXM4qzjq7W15CnUXzrmXV4JqRKP1gjAqdGAjvSHnzTvOz-TNQdauk0ts-SjTaucRhTQD6_58GFENae-M13xGddpYCO1inNKwQ4hd4jNj-K8z1QV8ndZHbYTR_VRQR8/s400/Theodoregordonanddog.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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Theodore Gordon was deemed the father of the American school of dry-fly fishing. The Quill Gordon dry fly came about after he imported English fly-fishing tackle and flies and began to alter the English flies to precisely match the insects hatching in the Beaverkill and surrounding Catskill rivers. Gordon was also a consumptive hermit who sometimes wrote under the pseudonym Badger Hackle. I love a mustachioed man who can rock a striped seersucker suit and enjoys the company of a dog friend. So kudos, sir! I shan't forget you or your insanely jolly pseudonym.</div>
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But not everyone can aspire to Theodore Gordon levels of greatness and the historical markers such achievements bring. Just the same, we ordinary folk like to leave our own marks. We all want to say <i>I was here</i> at this time and at this place. Just look at the Paleolithic cave paintings at Lascaux...or on the beams of a covered bridge. Let's go in, shall we?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUv8-V08Vn_-ocVxZjIBc75lmukKZq8ZpMdtpWda-k0ifG0oNkQ_gUwewPI0fQVqfkcbAmixZ8qOSBB0mxYMbqD7PK4hAN7TtzZ72IPOcy7iXT-FXPlkRuxb-_8jG6Fx82T-6UvNXwbno/s1600/IMG_4162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUv8-V08Vn_-ocVxZjIBc75lmukKZq8ZpMdtpWda-k0ifG0oNkQ_gUwewPI0fQVqfkcbAmixZ8qOSBB0mxYMbqD7PK4hAN7TtzZ72IPOcy7iXT-FXPlkRuxb-_8jG6Fx82T-6UvNXwbno/s400/IMG_4162.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ArFauSRKVwA8gPjZ_vfYhUxNlWxfXcFWNlwuL02Q9cbR4O-i7Ox9kmV-7U87KRR4ocXZWZQJGh-K0mWNxVxGjK9AfODg_W8rVxJTv9GuOnAbwJob9JXF_LtLGtuLKpDyTezmpB-OZuU/s1600/IMG_4160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ArFauSRKVwA8gPjZ_vfYhUxNlWxfXcFWNlwuL02Q9cbR4O-i7Ox9kmV-7U87KRR4ocXZWZQJGh-K0mWNxVxGjK9AfODg_W8rVxJTv9GuOnAbwJob9JXF_LtLGtuLKpDyTezmpB-OZuU/s200/IMG_4160.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvl6sB7O4oYyctWE8XwFwzkxio83z1nE1ccV6dNGI6Q4MPLnupWrmx2dcs2sVMhOUNZ_6g7D3vZ_PFeFPvgTZPhIljLhDEMtgyrYq3UUP6lleGP10e-SB3dq1tnVWGR1VaXgMFwJqNCg/s1600/IMG_4163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvl6sB7O4oYyctWE8XwFwzkxio83z1nE1ccV6dNGI6Q4MPLnupWrmx2dcs2sVMhOUNZ_6g7D3vZ_PFeFPvgTZPhIljLhDEMtgyrYq3UUP6lleGP10e-SB3dq1tnVWGR1VaXgMFwJqNCg/s200/IMG_4163.JPG" width="200" /></a>What narrative do these markings<br />
suggest? They are found on opposite sides of the bridge, directly across from one another.<br />
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Jenna G. had been visiting this bridge every year for a span of seven years from 2004 until 2010. Joshua G. had been visiting every year from 2006 until 2010. Who are they and why did they not return in 2011? I felt stymied by this and tried to weave a sensible narrative for both. Perhaps they are brother and sister, born two years apart and their parents have been carving in their dates of visit since the birth of both. Mr. G, after witnessing a botched mob hit in early 2011, had to bring his family into a witness protection program and they are now living in San Jose under assumed identities. Perhaps the G was for Gordon? Hmm, the plot thickens! Or were Jenna and Joshua lovers who happened to share the same last initial? Jenna had been visiting the bridge for two years, until suddenly, in 2006, she met the fly-fisherman of her dreams! But it was a whirlwind, tempestuous romance that ended bitterly in 2011 with Jenna destroying all of Josh's prized fishing rods. Who knows…they're gone now, but like Theodore Gordon, they were there and have left their marks for generations (and curious bloggers) to ponder.</div>
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-74382798394173010192013-01-06T15:19:00.002-05:002013-01-07T06:35:43.356-05:00Onward and Upward!Wherever this year takes you, may it be on a path of renewal and replenishment, compassion and camaraderie…with way more ups than downs.<br />
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Happy 2013!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1GidYfw6Oy3eU56HVvzOl0xukiI1pbUADnqvs8zgikOoXdnotABWrroBfnZ7LTHwPNwU6RpwFjjWYxgNf-hMva4NxDT0PNzZ3LhCO0OkjiXyXmw9vyzNG68CX3EkK4iqQZJSlvyzJ2-M/s1600/arrows1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1GidYfw6Oy3eU56HVvzOl0xukiI1pbUADnqvs8zgikOoXdnotABWrroBfnZ7LTHwPNwU6RpwFjjWYxgNf-hMva4NxDT0PNzZ3LhCO0OkjiXyXmw9vyzNG68CX3EkK4iqQZJSlvyzJ2-M/s400/arrows1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In my travels I've seen two of these striking sculptures. This one is on Route 28. Where is the other? The first person to send the answer with a photo wins a <strike>brand new car</strike> mention on this blog!<br />
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<i>FYI - You may wonder why that white van occasionally photo-bombs my posts. My partner in crime is behind the wheel, ready to whisk me away if I have to beat a hasty retreat!</i>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-35000830633918762672012-12-24T09:52:00.000-05:002012-12-24T10:01:06.158-05:00Where's Santa?Ho! Ho! Huh? Santa, baby - no loafing on the job, tonight of all nights! Get your padded butt out of the Phoenicia Pharmacy…even if that old dentist's chair IS comfortable! You've got work to do, man!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtD58bHhyau63jU87wIr0aBSNmAtR2zoAjZFBU_8PHIMC4JMvTLhrbOp3gO1mPqmhANzir96pBV8uANKr59tHawwfnCYetbGGLv6s7o4LitfCiKrGr0pyT_TtCAYxenoxuoivd_C1Urw/s1600/santa2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtD58bHhyau63jU87wIr0aBSNmAtR2zoAjZFBU_8PHIMC4JMvTLhrbOp3gO1mPqmhANzir96pBV8uANKr59tHawwfnCYetbGGLv6s7o4LitfCiKrGr0pyT_TtCAYxenoxuoivd_C1Urw/s640/santa2.jpg" width="468" /></a></div>
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As I wrap up another year of oddities, I'd like to thank my friends of the Catskills for always surprising me with another curiosity just around the corner…and for not pressing charges for trespassing. You make these marvelous mountains the coolest place in the world! Have a magical and memorable holiday, brimming with love and goodwill to all! And cookies. Lots of cookies.<br />
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-62653191427791754772012-12-04T17:56:00.000-05:002012-12-04T17:56:09.088-05:00One pill makes you larger...'Tis the season to be madly dashing towards the holidaze - a time when logic and proportion are falling all over themselves in apoplectic panic. May this colossal capsule remind us all to chill out, have a cup of cocoa, and take a deep cleansing breath. If all else fails, go ask that chick Alice. I think she'll know.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZuLGQSv7kt5DAMnkhP_1UJqjhydSXn6-QyNovzqKdVR8grhW8nfriYqL5DiIY5JdI8y7Q6T5IqejbQceZNYH0es_ezsYde-J96Q9nfUNpK53jw8m77_FyT5aZcU6_t6cli30jcsC8Iao/s1600/16+gb+308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZuLGQSv7kt5DAMnkhP_1UJqjhydSXn6-QyNovzqKdVR8grhW8nfriYqL5DiIY5JdI8y7Q6T5IqejbQceZNYH0es_ezsYde-J96Q9nfUNpK53jw8m77_FyT5aZcU6_t6cli30jcsC8Iao/s400/16+gb+308.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Props to my pal "Doctor" Jon for prescribing this <strike>pill </strike>oddity!</i></span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-52077663199060532692012-11-20T19:23:00.000-05:002012-11-20T21:26:46.750-05:00Giving ThanksWhile driving along these country roads, I always brake for dudes in loincloths. Look! There's one in the distance!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp8l1NQ7wlRRZiM8xtc9_jCZ_aJT9rXY3Kwc0ypebusZUnd1CSUDmhRq20g5qp30DS-4XN39JkqMSC5yJs5-HDcgSsGGYFKgxoGHRcEjHYxoi2HA0WSev5tUmAfA7m6MIir7LgnfkewI/s1600/IMG_4293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp8l1NQ7wlRRZiM8xtc9_jCZ_aJT9rXY3Kwc0ypebusZUnd1CSUDmhRq20g5qp30DS-4XN39JkqMSC5yJs5-HDcgSsGGYFKgxoGHRcEjHYxoi2HA0WSev5tUmAfA7m6MIir7LgnfkewI/s400/IMG_4293.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Could he be the last Mohican? Perhaps. The Mohican tribe settled along the banks of the Hudson, which they dubbed the Mahicannituck. They called themselves the Muh-he-con-neok, meaning the People of the Waters That Are Never Still. I find that so very lovely. I'm certain they didn't have rifles, that is before the European settlers came barreling in with them. Which is why it made me sad to see that someone had nailed a firearm to his arms.<i> (omg...where are his hands?!)</i> Is this supposed to be a not-so-subtle hint about trespassing? I wanted to get to know my native friend a bit better, so of course I got a bit closer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4MOMZr1bGfRu9trjs_kNnjK_0O62j3_OJOeo7X8HmKh35IeZRmCvpKOHb9PW6vkMqFxCVUlhFHTPnT117cieFOXljLfZBlj8pE32Ro5sapLVBAx6ZWdbqsLtdxSLnkuw-nh_k-EXaNfs/s1600/IMG_4288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4MOMZr1bGfRu9trjs_kNnjK_0O62j3_OJOeo7X8HmKh35IeZRmCvpKOHb9PW6vkMqFxCVUlhFHTPnT117cieFOXljLfZBlj8pE32Ro5sapLVBAx6ZWdbqsLtdxSLnkuw-nh_k-EXaNfs/s640/IMG_4288.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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This really is a fine carving. Nice quads!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrU5_oTphG35pNjHDpAndNfWyXf14PXTG85Ize_kkUTMVJB1T2N7JT3jcqdFK627MLpcXqeER296VDS89ncoWDNOfLUdFcYe-2jTKJdHN94sUtf78cYI5IhbjRKoYLbeMTsGfLH4ckkgM/s1600/IMG_4289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrU5_oTphG35pNjHDpAndNfWyXf14PXTG85Ize_kkUTMVJB1T2N7JT3jcqdFK627MLpcXqeER296VDS89ncoWDNOfLUdFcYe-2jTKJdHN94sUtf78cYI5IhbjRKoYLbeMTsGfLH4ckkgM/s400/IMG_4289.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Still, I really hate that he's got a gun. Seriously, I hate that. He's obviously striking a pose of thanks to the Sky Gods of stuffing and sweet potatoes, not looking for a can of cranberries to shoot off a fence. If I were the owner of this magnificently carved man, I would change up what he's holding. Perhaps a custardy fruit trifle, instead of that rifle? What would you have him hold?<br />
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While pondering that, I'd like to wish my Friends of the Internet That is Never Still a happy Thanksgiving. I am thankful for your visit to my little blog, and I'm immensely grateful that the Catskills continue to be a veritable cornucopia of curiosities!<br />
<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-89120031823842373832012-11-15T17:22:00.000-05:002012-11-15T17:22:24.352-05:00Tempest-tossed and topsy-turvy!So who got shook up by Sandy? *raises hand* I think the windows on this house got a bit scrambled by the squall, as well. Or as my friend remarked on this peculiar place, "It's as if someone went to a spectacular window sale and said: I'll take that one, a couple of those, three or four from over there, and oh, these are nice…I'll take them, too!"<br />
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Willy-nilly windows aside, I truly hope that if you or a loved one were hit hard by that blustery bitch, that the road to recovery has been swift. As a Long Islander, I'd like to thank the Ulster County Fire Departments who came to my area. Thank you for sacrificing the time you would have spent with your own families and communities in order to help mine. Your assistance and bravery did not go unnoticed. A big wind-swept kiss to you all!Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-53520761006608967462012-10-31T10:48:00.001-04:002012-10-31T10:48:52.605-04:00Nevermore!Once upon a midafternoon dreary, while I motored, neither weak nor weary, I came across this formidable fellow.<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduJDt474KXTDp7d4DGha2F8k6rh1EbSH4g_uiwN7GKVTiIBR_XFksjQx1gOTGHcfeUd0id3osqY34UjzplGMAYXKBMqXySb3lvgqQodHIxzANpbRHdE8bnx12OLV4jHa5udXwN6gZnuQ/s1600/IMG_4175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiduJDt474KXTDp7d4DGha2F8k6rh1EbSH4g_uiwN7GKVTiIBR_XFksjQx1gOTGHcfeUd0id3osqY34UjzplGMAYXKBMqXySb3lvgqQodHIxzANpbRHdE8bnx12OLV4jHa5udXwN6gZnuQ/s400/IMG_4175.JPG" id="blogsy-1351654795549.2664" class="" alt="" width="400" height="298"></a></div>
<br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/>He was not alone.<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5NxHicYPCd79uvyDJ9n_VhecE_UB03ww_A_i6g5201LDH9CNc5XXTna1R29kThvQTqTxn8P8bWrilIzdg2zDklRleS7tjqRe93sfeCZoSXgp11GjEzkUfcp2Xjll-g_EEpBh4DVlOIM/s1600/IMG_4182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5NxHicYPCd79uvyDJ9n_VhecE_UB03ww_A_i6g5201LDH9CNc5XXTna1R29kThvQTqTxn8P8bWrilIzdg2zDklRleS7tjqRe93sfeCZoSXgp11GjEzkUfcp2Xjll-g_EEpBh4DVlOIM/s400/IMG_4182.JPG" id="blogsy-1351654795628.1924" class="" alt="" width="400" height="298"></a></div>
<br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/>There were many more.<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikY7pcxaUek97vxKAn3IjkwMtEvP_XrfPvaugRo5FsnXIFGFAlE5e5ucPC5ZfeN6vZNgrj-J0t1qfbA0UC1NtJEnw_-n5cxJvLOMQqzj1ecVtSR4gIsNfHrDvojn_7ahJK5HWTvqgoPsQ/s1600/IMG_4183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikY7pcxaUek97vxKAn3IjkwMtEvP_XrfPvaugRo5FsnXIFGFAlE5e5ucPC5ZfeN6vZNgrj-J0t1qfbA0UC1NtJEnw_-n5cxJvLOMQqzj1ecVtSR4gIsNfHrDvojn_7ahJK5HWTvqgoPsQ/s320/IMG_4183.JPG" id="blogsy-1351654795599.0557" class="" alt="" width="320" height="260"></a></div>
<br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/>Many, many more. Are you getting chills yet?<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfI4uZFgXAIK6s279ryX3EFEm83TqIXCAXAFyba223IVKF43q6UK6Bzl402-9wlSjSJA8skV5a4HjqPD3XR6nH7e6NRF5rbHomvR9urvBfkF-bZnnHyR9uxTyydTRVAKdilzQfDUW0Uk/s1600/IMG_4187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfI4uZFgXAIK6s279ryX3EFEm83TqIXCAXAFyba223IVKF43q6UK6Bzl402-9wlSjSJA8skV5a4HjqPD3XR6nH7e6NRF5rbHomvR9urvBfkF-bZnnHyR9uxTyydTRVAKdilzQfDUW0Uk/s400/IMG_4187.JPG" id="blogsy-1351654795622.8918" class="" alt="" width="400" height="290"></a></div>
<br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/>You should! A grouping of crows is called a murder; a grouping of ravens an unkindness. Since all ravens belong to the family of crows (Corvidae) one could say, with authority, that this is a cold-blooded killing on display! One of Hitchcockian and Poe-ish proportions and quite appropriate for Halloween, quoth I. Have a happy one…and stay off the ice!<br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ubYzL6y89fBPyAABLouTgmuQ8_c3l61EgX-eghtvcmmx2ZTQsexkEsiqD8UcxoDpWS2BgjdzZH0Wy603_WDqyRJXZUfZ3DLowLFae4KmJupOMNBD3ZIZYLgw9LmnlSxpmEgsZ5xU1cc/s1600/IMG_4192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ubYzL6y89fBPyAABLouTgmuQ8_c3l61EgX-eghtvcmmx2ZTQsexkEsiqD8UcxoDpWS2BgjdzZH0Wy603_WDqyRJXZUfZ3DLowLFae4KmJupOMNBD3ZIZYLgw9LmnlSxpmEgsZ5xU1cc/s400/IMG_4192.JPG" id="blogsy-1351654795616.2852" class="" alt="" width="400" height="298"></a></div>
<br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-63069076977778325662012-10-01T17:07:00.001-04:002012-10-01T17:07:52.767-04:00A clove by any other name...The Hudson Valley Garlic Festival in Saugerties is the most aromatically appetizing outing this side of the, well…Hudson. There were about a zillion variations of raw garlic, dips, spreads, baked goods and fried foods to sample and buy, along with a few unexpected turns of the common clove. Garlic marshmallows for your garlic cocoa, anyone? It's a day of eating on top of eating with some more eating. So I was rather surprised to see politics poke its stinky head into the mix.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTq66MhIkgNfeDKJv8PR7xHvAvlJJO7SbmusG4JVelTEUVTLqg9PUJkKT3SBbAbZ1Qikhozfx5cbrbqD4JqeYztnUX_b3d6tsjGlC0aE2ZV3XuyeMl2H_xHn8MvQAOTnXSyGszfzPWrY4/s1600/garlick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTq66MhIkgNfeDKJv8PR7xHvAvlJJO7SbmusG4JVelTEUVTLqg9PUJkKT3SBbAbZ1Qikhozfx5cbrbqD4JqeYztnUX_b3d6tsjGlC0aE2ZV3XuyeMl2H_xHn8MvQAOTnXSyGszfzPWrY4/s400/garlick.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yes, this is a real person. Ms. Garlick has been collecting taxes in the town of Geneva for many years. I can't blame her for wanting to get her name out there in this venue. In fact I applaud her piquant sense of humor. Just don't tax my bulbs, lady!Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-70524175311291501262012-09-12T17:45:00.001-04:002012-09-12T19:00:09.202-04:00Words to live byI live and work downstate in the cookie-cutter checkerboard grid of suburban Long Island. The only signs affixed to the houses there are the ubiquitous home security stickers and occasional directives meant to dissuade the knocks of solicitors (Girl Scouts being the exception because, y'know, Thin Mints)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; font-style: italic;">. </span>Anything that deviates from the norm is pretty much a guarantee that a block party invite won't be coming your way. Not so with the quirky Catskills! Freedom of creative expression is not only commonplace, but expected. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3H7E486nfOwFRYUCSsWGrMvjGhCcU4s0WAGw0-kL125dklHF3jcNQgzvyjeh9Xct80aTZkxXqI14nTONIrRIF0m4o7UtpPFQKJW7lQLPdKxS3NjqP9ql9sT1Y620d_shVlCQh3MzK1Dk/s1600/IMG_3799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3H7E486nfOwFRYUCSsWGrMvjGhCcU4s0WAGw0-kL125dklHF3jcNQgzvyjeh9Xct80aTZkxXqI14nTONIrRIF0m4o7UtpPFQKJW7lQLPdKxS3NjqP9ql9sT1Y620d_shVlCQh3MzK1Dk/s400/IMG_3799.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Thank you, whoever you are.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzTQnu-xl5XbweB21K9aReDSYc9K6jIGNtNtPOwPJRHXl9gRmPs-3xU3pz-TGBZS4U1uZwayo9FCvImxozATXF2-54OP2uYDmGIopW7QFPa_-bjGdgeS3JkuVBLJeje69bY57ymOEGGo/s1600/IMG_3800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzTQnu-xl5XbweB21K9aReDSYc9K6jIGNtNtPOwPJRHXl9gRmPs-3xU3pz-TGBZS4U1uZwayo9FCvImxozATXF2-54OP2uYDmGIopW7QFPa_-bjGdgeS3JkuVBLJeje69bY57ymOEGGo/s400/IMG_3800.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-13509852262980074872012-09-03T12:52:00.001-04:002012-09-03T14:29:31.692-04:00Library LoveI love libraries. They are the defenders of democracy, the champions against censorship and the fighters for intellectual freedom. They are the keepers of our stories and our histories and our humanity. Their doors are open to all. Come inside the Haines Falls Free Library, won't you?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghZGwgGkpP1uI9DnIz68fNOlulSGlghJecWG9TTt-3xGS0bGJSFCCWE4a-FqVjWqmnXQPpUOTJWVJuJ20XOXmf9EupVhp6oX70l1hK9WBd0au2pmzfC6ksjaWDXPHs1sgXry1NlVytGrA/s1600/IMG_3733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghZGwgGkpP1uI9DnIz68fNOlulSGlghJecWG9TTt-3xGS0bGJSFCCWE4a-FqVjWqmnXQPpUOTJWVJuJ20XOXmf9EupVhp6oX70l1hK9WBd0au2pmzfC6ksjaWDXPHs1sgXry1NlVytGrA/s320/IMG_3733.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Haines Falls Library was founded in 1900, and although it has progressed with the times, it still retains its early 20th century charm. Their system is fully automated, but the card catalog remains present, as if to say, "I am here for you, too. And don't I look lovely?"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjbmcksSldTzKk4XuRU1-sfYxypq4XxnfYvTuvCQ16CNdDkyT7pI5gqNXT9XPLTvyuKtZo9oG1_uKFKKFKtT_ZvF_5q5we_zNwFcp_ctoMuJlHL7c-YO-DOv8o8L2pQ8jnjp4Lw7L8-U4/s1600/IMG_3724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjbmcksSldTzKk4XuRU1-sfYxypq4XxnfYvTuvCQ16CNdDkyT7pI5gqNXT9XPLTvyuKtZo9oG1_uKFKKFKtT_ZvF_5q5we_zNwFcp_ctoMuJlHL7c-YO-DOv8o8L2pQ8jnjp4Lw7L8-U4/s400/IMG_3724.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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It's the little touches that give every library personality and life. Product placement should be thoughtfully displayed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuH6u2BtbpfF6obc90UvHN-oVS9Z_MNy4gi-CFr2SUWPClulou_vRoJxIPIjcv_sXBuyR7WUve4b33_ImYwIhkz_nNUDrUqoMP9CfrBkkVw7iPz35VNOgYTrCp1h1NqSWdryLFhrbCis/s1600/IMG_3726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuH6u2BtbpfF6obc90UvHN-oVS9Z_MNy4gi-CFr2SUWPClulou_vRoJxIPIjcv_sXBuyR7WUve4b33_ImYwIhkz_nNUDrUqoMP9CfrBkkVw7iPz35VNOgYTrCp1h1NqSWdryLFhrbCis/s400/IMG_3726.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
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That little boy's grandma is looking for her bookmark, I bet!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjae5iSKPhIRpZo-EUcyDumtE1izCqVM1KmZ5Py6o5Scwp2QWRPtP9wFPHuwbuDkOHivl2i0VRDn5ibaQ9Mpm457qNGO3Ax0QyFOzZyYjeW_uITcOLWcdPHD-6s-Kw8CnsxgThAyn6Cp3Y/s1600/IMG_3731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjae5iSKPhIRpZo-EUcyDumtE1izCqVM1KmZ5Py6o5Scwp2QWRPtP9wFPHuwbuDkOHivl2i0VRDn5ibaQ9Mpm457qNGO3Ax0QyFOzZyYjeW_uITcOLWcdPHD-6s-Kw8CnsxgThAyn6Cp3Y/s320/IMG_3731.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Because everyone has the right to be able to read clearly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGT-Tdgq2YMJlUWrthOm7FuYizujwtK7fAPQvdCzWePq875hC3uH_eixaQQcWcpIYmzJZ64Kv8r0S27M0Q08Ptl05ti8u9PAxjKk0aU81dpL-f6yYE3htDQDgp5my5bIsi12LBMS4HQZE/s1600/IMG_3732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGT-Tdgq2YMJlUWrthOm7FuYizujwtK7fAPQvdCzWePq875hC3uH_eixaQQcWcpIYmzJZ64Kv8r0S27M0Q08Ptl05ti8u9PAxjKk0aU81dpL-f6yYE3htDQDgp5my5bIsi12LBMS4HQZE/s320/IMG_3732.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mysteries hold a prominent position in front of the fireplace. I thought I heard a tap-tap-tapping from the blocked-off hearth.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4Uwd8EJjBVrEkTIKnV9qvU-dROGFH7b_dwL05r0Lmr4yNvWjUZZjkgwvnSD0fPNs5hsQ-eOR7Zj3v0wA11Ev6iw9kVm66ccWazYzE6CF092KoOYpfVlw5QatDK7hfco_h_Y2eSZA_RQ/s1600/IMG_3722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4Uwd8EJjBVrEkTIKnV9qvU-dROGFH7b_dwL05r0Lmr4yNvWjUZZjkgwvnSD0fPNs5hsQ-eOR7Zj3v0wA11Ev6iw9kVm66ccWazYzE6CF092KoOYpfVlw5QatDK7hfco_h_Y2eSZA_RQ/s400/IMG_3722.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Young adults…represent! Although I think that copy of Edna Ferber's <i>Giant</i> on the third shelf there was more representative of my mother's teen aged years.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyOZ2feCLC-NF5dcTTs-J_xjZc0nTUBxGEedVP222AuduljV0K9yKC77XfAYHVhSKIx0y414k9aCpS5plvX8OGqTg3qaythmUEcnwen9ZtFEkUr3UR_n-Lbt-8pO4_mGgHjPjSHj40qho/s1600/IMG_3725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyOZ2feCLC-NF5dcTTs-J_xjZc0nTUBxGEedVP222AuduljV0K9yKC77XfAYHVhSKIx0y414k9aCpS5plvX8OGqTg3qaythmUEcnwen9ZtFEkUr3UR_n-Lbt-8pO4_mGgHjPjSHj40qho/s400/IMG_3725.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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My favorite section of a small town library would have to be the local history collection. Priceless treasure to be found here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29VK4f4h99bKtMs5T-cr0440ynw-se6GggFporaTsNMS8fo_9-uOktaGo2r2hp8OCnW1JfOsk4xdOiZn1zGJaQWakAlH89N55TGbwRCz7R2SZKV7HaY4obRc-U1o5efrEwcDuY0uiob8/s1600/IMG_3728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29VK4f4h99bKtMs5T-cr0440ynw-se6GggFporaTsNMS8fo_9-uOktaGo2r2hp8OCnW1JfOsk4xdOiZn1zGJaQWakAlH89N55TGbwRCz7R2SZKV7HaY4obRc-U1o5efrEwcDuY0uiob8/s400/IMG_3728.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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That lovely long-necked lady is Maude Adams, a stage actress best known for playing Peter Pan. She lived her final years of celebrity in nearby Tannersville. The woman on the left gained notoriety for having an overdue library book for 67 years (Edna Ferber's <i>Giant</i>). The wooden dude next to her? No clue, but he's featured in my nightmares now.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34_dNRz0wCwsdldjIr5i6y4xLCD1qgARRYz1BbjhyphenhyphenfWVQhkVM_NgJeRpTjfKIO54p7J9WZGyk-EXaR8ALRFOOPxhMlfPySxD5iOms9RfOUBMW_4ecX4xT_xyrzzjFfQiidl1YoZZdyBk/s1600/IMG_3727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi34_dNRz0wCwsdldjIr5i6y4xLCD1qgARRYz1BbjhyphenhyphenfWVQhkVM_NgJeRpTjfKIO54p7J9WZGyk-EXaR8ALRFOOPxhMlfPySxD5iOms9RfOUBMW_4ecX4xT_xyrzzjFfQiidl1YoZZdyBk/s400/IMG_3727.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It seems that librarians cannot help themselves from documenting and cataloguing <i>everything</i>. This was found in the bathroom. Joe did a fine job with all the fittings, but someone had a heavy hand with the paintbrush.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaudPZeYtX-k77jSp9-GHkBZ0aCTZEDu0D6H2q_YAYHI993chgAsuTRJY2los4Gh_J13Z4exMafWKz7vfYYpZ3HogykTZ_VVe-Xg4Ymkx4gNmRqc4oSjuw2qjuiQd39YhQsQ-bwV83RD8/s1600/IMG_3730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaudPZeYtX-k77jSp9-GHkBZ0aCTZEDu0D6H2q_YAYHI993chgAsuTRJY2los4Gh_J13Z4exMafWKz7vfYYpZ3HogykTZ_VVe-Xg4Ymkx4gNmRqc4oSjuw2qjuiQd39YhQsQ-bwV83RD8/s400/IMG_3730.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Does this not look like something you'd find in The Shire?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOIOKXhuKLUkiSkuhmqenXjSNO65GM29IB9xTzfL5WSX-MJ5IliNkcqnmLptL3el7gxhxlQST0L9mgayJ8S_6iq_t9xhL8v6WVxcinYaPiPH-w5czowuUBRqMEIVnouraWyzfFAY7QGQ/s1600/IMG_3734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOIOKXhuKLUkiSkuhmqenXjSNO65GM29IB9xTzfL5WSX-MJ5IliNkcqnmLptL3el7gxhxlQST0L9mgayJ8S_6iq_t9xhL8v6WVxcinYaPiPH-w5czowuUBRqMEIVnouraWyzfFAY7QGQ/s400/IMG_3734.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I imagine Bilbo Baggins would treat his library like the precious institution it is. We all should. And whaddya know? September is Library Card Sign-Up Month! If you don't have a library card, what are you waiting for? It's your passport to the world and beyond. And librarians (myself included) are there to help you embark!Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-76939507508477392112012-08-14T13:32:00.002-04:002012-08-14T13:32:43.924-04:00Rip Tide!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is along this scenic route, built by convict labor (thank you, convicts!), where Rip Van Winkle took the world's longest nap. Mmmm…naps.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_C35pMypbGL9eMhA1s4aaSCHM1-MX4XCbLywHyFnT0FRprrT2jlEJ88gJkvdCxTZVK-7imGx9IJ-H-7TeJ7eeKyjQ4dIF3Weka3hJKERnQTGOJBHIT7ZJHLNzn3QyTjocI9TaFInCSs/s1600/IMG_3717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_C35pMypbGL9eMhA1s4aaSCHM1-MX4XCbLywHyFnT0FRprrT2jlEJ88gJkvdCxTZVK-7imGx9IJ-H-7TeJ7eeKyjQ4dIF3Weka3hJKERnQTGOJBHIT7ZJHLNzn3QyTjocI9TaFInCSs/s400/IMG_3717.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Most of us know the tale of Rip Van Winkle's famous slumber, but few know that Washington Irving's first draft had Rip waking up to a confusing case of identity disorder! Here he is, ready to strike up the band.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4RzLda_OdgtX5OIP7QLvSFSbY-7TNhhhyphenhyphen7DBl-0nDyGcfNPoNvAMP_nL6b8DzKmF75C5AmRLbBtNzh11ofXjrt0g9Sabvwc0koTwdesfklGVNEC_iRakI-ArDInT55ub48oZQvTMFnI/s1600/IMG_3791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4RzLda_OdgtX5OIP7QLvSFSbY-7TNhhhyphenhyphen7DBl-0nDyGcfNPoNvAMP_nL6b8DzKmF75C5AmRLbBtNzh11ofXjrt0g9Sabvwc0koTwdesfklGVNEC_iRakI-ArDInT55ub48oZQvTMFnI/s400/IMG_3791.jpg" width="328" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7vs5XzDd4E6h2FRsaIhK8JtCOUIpHiSiyQ9__roFaxWoMLDfXQkof81lBH7Trqtqm34DuXhroUkw2e-hbL1nk4fTIIegBES1Xath71skZteRuSAfHMmBtj_7lmUZZKHe8F2wCnXa0uYo/s1600/IMG_3789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7vs5XzDd4E6h2FRsaIhK8JtCOUIpHiSiyQ9__roFaxWoMLDfXQkof81lBH7Trqtqm34DuXhroUkw2e-hbL1nk4fTIIegBES1Xath71skZteRuSAfHMmBtj_7lmUZZKHe8F2wCnXa0uYo/s320/IMG_3789.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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On the other side of town, he was found gearing up for ski season…</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzeINvKPa8VIbip5WbJ5kfKS0boqn9Cw0XMrZhfsK76PiIXu6MCn08lLpjPna4Wjssf5g1WKwp1TMJsm5QFpyUrYdatpI91EmZBbZ_hpmmAdFRcQ4UYF-LzEu4ZQ58fMAmhn9oDKHH7M/s1600/IMG_3785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzeINvKPa8VIbip5WbJ5kfKS0boqn9Cw0XMrZhfsK76PiIXu6MCn08lLpjPna4Wjssf5g1WKwp1TMJsm5QFpyUrYdatpI91EmZBbZ_hpmmAdFRcQ4UYF-LzEu4ZQ58fMAmhn9oDKHH7M/s400/IMG_3785.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
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and Rip-lining! (otherwise known as zip-lining to those not as ego-centric as Rip)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_QDnC7MteWDfsH_WlHnoZvHU7IJ5anzx1mykwxYHA25idTKLclp_tK2R-pZhxBmGOOxhOoDBo4gZGXn8ZPMxpmIKA-e2ZPLvbW_0l0Xfmx0J_bWhiJBXVitSyryJPC4VLTAXsvUqTpA/s1600/IMG_3786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_QDnC7MteWDfsH_WlHnoZvHU7IJ5anzx1mykwxYHA25idTKLclp_tK2R-pZhxBmGOOxhOoDBo4gZGXn8ZPMxpmIKA-e2ZPLvbW_0l0Xfmx0J_bWhiJBXVitSyryJPC4VLTAXsvUqTpA/s400/IMG_3786.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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Rip knows that women cannot resist a man in a kilt…</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEillIchuKBQCDD5V0LG9vothD1G6BHrbpEZJ6b0rPrDUgNdGJpNGs0vmlYnBkUln_VFim1Om-V5uDuLQI4KTKpcl75ACxTID_vduH4jfWWfLtFr5aV5-OvHJeqV6jT_Mt2MMqW1pp5DDVE/s1600/IMG_3775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEillIchuKBQCDD5V0LG9vothD1G6BHrbpEZJ6b0rPrDUgNdGJpNGs0vmlYnBkUln_VFim1Om-V5uDuLQI4KTKpcl75ACxTID_vduH4jfWWfLtFr5aV5-OvHJeqV6jT_Mt2MMqW1pp5DDVE/s400/IMG_3775.jpg" width="330" /></a></div>
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Or in top hat and tails. Oh, that ritzy Rip!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GoPORwmzLhqKhT33aGLOzLn-CGJOgipEJWU_NxDGG_ZAUTjN8Jex1Fvt2ibA8nzW6J6xC9t8HmunQgz1XCWiGzYPWQSLwzJS1Gp4UkGU-VE9ImSwu2evGG98Vb6Xo_XoxIiygd5VcuY/s1600/IMG_3746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GoPORwmzLhqKhT33aGLOzLn-CGJOgipEJWU_NxDGG_ZAUTjN8Jex1Fvt2ibA8nzW6J6xC9t8HmunQgz1XCWiGzYPWQSLwzJS1Gp4UkGU-VE9ImSwu2evGG98Vb6Xo_XoxIiygd5VcuY/s400/IMG_3746.jpg" width="331" /></a></div>
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Well hello there, ripped Rip! Where have you been all my life?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUB4ANsUnV9MuLjwSkPMGNfo6-t_yULAet8laL-cTAb6P5paxrpS4bJBSHy7o6-Rzn-Fv91qqj-zUsx3R5OWfRrrN3X_DGkpdrvfyZZMEIqiTko6J776e3AlHs9jvNHfKqqdBNtV7kj0k/s1600/IMG_3779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUB4ANsUnV9MuLjwSkPMGNfo6-t_yULAet8laL-cTAb6P5paxrpS4bJBSHy7o6-Rzn-Fv91qqj-zUsx3R5OWfRrrN3X_DGkpdrvfyZZMEIqiTko6J776e3AlHs9jvNHfKqqdBNtV7kj0k/s400/IMG_3779.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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At the height of his identity disorder, Rip believed he was Jerry Garcia. The Jerry Garcia who works for cheese. I would work for cheese, too…</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAt8aAivVowCaqoKqARgH79WRlby0S7t73wlLUzgq48aaKEXzlVh_8aAYHWC7KlnU4bHc0uT8a1eQBexSGAwFL_zTNwBHvs2caeaT9-lIcockN8Km7eyWXJPSXPNvm9aHzw8hYCBrZoU/s1600/IMG_3760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAt8aAivVowCaqoKqARgH79WRlby0S7t73wlLUzgq48aaKEXzlVh_8aAYHWC7KlnU4bHc0uT8a1eQBexSGAwFL_zTNwBHvs2caeaT9-lIcockN8Km7eyWXJPSXPNvm9aHzw8hYCBrZoU/s400/IMG_3760.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
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…and for beer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglml3H5gvSrggGK_xXqO3Zjvn5c69wPsuKU7Hd0e9ocdxIZFL8BiWd0lSkLZllcqkWMtw08q4ryapPhXATlGNz_xGoJouQf96cT6wRcKBU9qTUQZNsvORzfGPBUQTUGu7EwzfdHK5TejY/s1600/IMG_3759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglml3H5gvSrggGK_xXqO3Zjvn5c69wPsuKU7Hd0e9ocdxIZFL8BiWd0lSkLZllcqkWMtw08q4ryapPhXATlGNz_xGoJouQf96cT6wRcKBU9qTUQZNsvORzfGPBUQTUGu7EwzfdHK5TejY/s400/IMG_3759.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Then there's the Rip who was so confused by his affliction, that he just tried to blend in unnoticed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDugujIu-9MCJlUNFgVzb_L05iW0tY-SRDh6IvX_EAO5t_4QBMqpwZxzoLY4ZoeO01QP7IQDA-Cxt1kwr0N2hr-W_8utwquHXcR-G6zbiWDnuIpFJnsHrfizlb5sYxuqQv1grQjf7t3nc/s1600/IMG_3764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDugujIu-9MCJlUNFgVzb_L05iW0tY-SRDh6IvX_EAO5t_4QBMqpwZxzoLY4ZoeO01QP7IQDA-Cxt1kwr0N2hr-W_8utwquHXcR-G6zbiWDnuIpFJnsHrfizlb5sYxuqQv1grQjf7t3nc/s400/IMG_3764.jpg" width="275" /></a></div>
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<i>Psst…I can see you, Rip! </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHODkt2fIVAmV-g07vYqRd-rYxVb28_7vOvCR-7zgC48OjYvBJWeTEzzNZGy0b5jmowiEb52cXHy9YPAWK2Km8baxjwY6JqVXDryV_I7963xiImJSsxzy3BUY8Wob1YGsEWzY1EveOAoo/s1600/IMG_3737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHODkt2fIVAmV-g07vYqRd-rYxVb28_7vOvCR-7zgC48OjYvBJWeTEzzNZGy0b5jmowiEb52cXHy9YPAWK2Km8baxjwY6JqVXDryV_I7963xiImJSsxzy3BUY8Wob1YGsEWzY1EveOAoo/s400/IMG_3737.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Strategically placed lighthouse. Oh my.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi06IvPYrKsskjz-_dtx0jeeGPja9iyBe3Er8VrPqsnH3ws-O2Vbf9-mYtIcLqyC4sIasCpEp4fkBo-BKNpBYBh7gQdJ1_KcRw9MgRe47oUHn9-7osS9RgKZvH8K9Jo-bg-mHNN2NiyRXo/s1600/IMG_3743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi06IvPYrKsskjz-_dtx0jeeGPja9iyBe3Er8VrPqsnH3ws-O2Vbf9-mYtIcLqyC4sIasCpEp4fkBo-BKNpBYBh7gQdJ1_KcRw9MgRe47oUHn9-7osS9RgKZvH8K9Jo-bg-mHNN2NiyRXo/s400/IMG_3743.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Kapow! Are you sensing a disturbing crotch trend here, or is it just me? <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Yes, I'm 12 years old)</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFwfu_aJdkI4I2RpfiLuR_Zecfx6D2_vlqeHghG0zKBVypD_ogGp2D87GvwdDZVlPMNwjkIBIsTHG3JMhaocmiFxLeZr2GqEwvQro4176HRXo4C2vTNYNQYRQs0k96cdnrysl3zLX6HQ/s1600/IMG_3751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFwfu_aJdkI4I2RpfiLuR_Zecfx6D2_vlqeHghG0zKBVypD_ogGp2D87GvwdDZVlPMNwjkIBIsTHG3JMhaocmiFxLeZr2GqEwvQro4176HRXo4C2vTNYNQYRQs0k96cdnrysl3zLX6HQ/s400/IMG_3751.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Okay, at this point, I've gotta come clean - I've just been <strike>ripping</strike> ribbing you! Rip did not awaken to a schizoid existence. He was fine…albeit a bit confused at first. <i>"You mean there was a Revolutionary War?!"</i></div>
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All of these artistic incarnations of Mr. Van Winkle are part of a yearly fund-raising effort to raise money for non-profit organizations, to assist those who were affected by last year's devastating Hurricane Irene, and to help our local artists. There are more than fifty Rips dotting the landscape along Route 23A…Wowza! And they'll be auctioned off on October 6th, so you, too, can own a piece of this historic mountaintop legend. More info here at <a href="http://www.riplives.org/">Rip Lives!</a></div>
Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-84952898050197967692012-07-23T17:08:00.000-04:002012-07-23T17:09:56.662-04:00CleavageThis is a post about cleavage. Get that image out of your head (yes, I know what you were thinking) and replace it with this one - a smooth river rock, plucked from Warner Creek. No big whoop, right?<br />
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But when precise metamorphic pressure and unique molecular structure combine with the ticking hands of time...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcdskz3CM05TThbxOjnuL1m0VQTxd8HkDYyV0tVwG_7pbbaMrAZMz18MJdp4b3LNcNkDSj0eB8scyZXg9JYMKWRmQae23m8k24b9tyhG6Lxgkxy1dowBPpznEsBWiaTUIADnxxbdKlOg/s1600/IMG_0729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcdskz3CM05TThbxOjnuL1m0VQTxd8HkDYyV0tVwG_7pbbaMrAZMz18MJdp4b3LNcNkDSj0eB8scyZXg9JYMKWRmQae23m8k24b9tyhG6Lxgkxy1dowBPpznEsBWiaTUIADnxxbdKlOg/s400/IMG_0729.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Voila! One becomes three!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRzO2O42G_IxcEWlqJ42WyDUzlblEZl9VSnb_szbk4AJZKFe-X3XWrrm39o_2KoByisvXr4oXEJtGx6ugrIMvQTaLj-YJwFrs9wysTDvBoubTey83ngrbBuTHdX8zoljfLhhvs41kHBY/s1600/IMG_0732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRzO2O42G_IxcEWlqJ42WyDUzlblEZl9VSnb_szbk4AJZKFe-X3XWrrm39o_2KoByisvXr4oXEJtGx6ugrIMvQTaLj-YJwFrs9wysTDvBoubTey83ngrbBuTHdX8zoljfLhhvs41kHBY/s400/IMG_0732.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is what geologists refer to as "perfect cleavage." I refer to it as nature exercising her awe-inspiring capacity again and again and again. And that's hot.Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-84422366955015396442012-07-01T17:01:00.000-04:002012-07-01T17:01:39.030-04:00Condo Bird ApprovedSituated on one of the crossbeams underneath our deck is a beautifully constructed nest. I was delighted to find it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibrXXKt6yTejaLE5ff9pZwnhz8JlDZvN8HrhYcR6okTEYuAFXibbXQ_YoFm0ddac3jlDekaCbpkYQNGfuGnIXXOT73sWXwcvK_XPz4sUsnjEcmw3mDw3rwI7lmWPiJWagvcvwiTIkYfX4/s1600/IMG_3328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibrXXKt6yTejaLE5ff9pZwnhz8JlDZvN8HrhYcR6okTEYuAFXibbXQ_YoFm0ddac3jlDekaCbpkYQNGfuGnIXXOT73sWXwcvK_XPz4sUsnjEcmw3mDw3rwI7lmWPiJWagvcvwiTIkYfX4/s400/IMG_3328.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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My pleasure was doubled when I glanced a bit to the left and found another.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFfMTXZW-KI8kMzBYDD8fzJFqHj_9dnPp99l-J4wPb5DUqbr60jnj168-4HAUj9Nsw3S_0eB-7CbcnpbCm-apS1MWG85JBB80JrP5UDyY2KLtlNpRH274rQxiOTwCcZTqgMkMnWak7uBM/s1600/IMG_3344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFfMTXZW-KI8kMzBYDD8fzJFqHj_9dnPp99l-J4wPb5DUqbr60jnj168-4HAUj9Nsw3S_0eB-7CbcnpbCm-apS1MWG85JBB80JrP5UDyY2KLtlNpRH274rQxiOTwCcZTqgMkMnWak7uBM/s400/IMG_3344.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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But wait...there's more! Three neat little nests all in a row.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5YDJlGFzMd5YskLktrPCwawcOZ9jQdwgs4MU_Nhu8Ic-kxLhmQzU9vXHR3nnpDNNmLMbSfZNfigss0M5CHI92AwgWf1ZXLwwP1IhSeJL6aQuq6BX-QzdbgSuTW2vxIP3-giC9UVdZmb8/s1600/IMG_3344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5YDJlGFzMd5YskLktrPCwawcOZ9jQdwgs4MU_Nhu8Ic-kxLhmQzU9vXHR3nnpDNNmLMbSfZNfigss0M5CHI92AwgWf1ZXLwwP1IhSeJL6aQuq6BX-QzdbgSuTW2vxIP3-giC9UVdZmb8/s400/IMG_3344.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was curious to find out if this avian apartment complex is a family friendly operation. Indeed it is!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoPGTfjC-niioOnQTMLV3TwcMxzI_4BXL9QOKdN1vzsSYpC4tz4bnyekm1LEMpBE_HsqmxxZep7vBroUYv0b5QAaEpH7em0jN9LaJHvmr4noKgzMV6XOqU567_-vk3WGzhIMYWTR7_ps/s1600/IMG_3331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoPGTfjC-niioOnQTMLV3TwcMxzI_4BXL9QOKdN1vzsSYpC4tz4bnyekm1LEMpBE_HsqmxxZep7vBroUYv0b5QAaEpH7em0jN9LaJHvmr4noKgzMV6XOqU567_-vk3WGzhIMYWTR7_ps/s400/IMG_3331.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
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Not wanting to barge in on our bird friends uninvited, I took this shot in the least intrusive manner possible by placing the lens of my iPhone's camera directly on the space between the floorboards above the nests. It's such a tiny space that reveals nothing but darkness to the naked eye. And because of the glare on the display I didn't see what I had shot until I went indoors and scrolled through the photos. You can imagine my excitement. We're going to have babies! Well, not me eggzactly, but you get my drift. Nature...thou art awesome.Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-57765736726445944442012-06-05T18:00:00.001-04:002012-06-05T18:00:25.938-04:00Heads up!In my obsessive quest to document every oddity in the Catskills, I have been accused of a blithe indifference to personal boundaries and a general disregard for my own safety. And although my heart is in the right place - entertaining and enlightening you, dear readers - it has come to my attention that one's heedlessness could very well result in one's headlessness.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7Sq2CgSW6wspLkvDREVROJ1-528ZEimXrAaoeBpgVrM-NtkPHs50aNZOq7p5eQwnXNgozL9S6ikwdlRpNtN3mBQj_5afcbcbe0nS9pb2JynGaynrYqRjTy8-HNvVRqFZi6kWpeoCJEM/s1600/IMG_2973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7Sq2CgSW6wspLkvDREVROJ1-528ZEimXrAaoeBpgVrM-NtkPHs50aNZOq7p5eQwnXNgozL9S6ikwdlRpNtN3mBQj_5afcbcbe0nS9pb2JynGaynrYqRjTy8-HNvVRqFZi6kWpeoCJEM/s400/IMG_2973.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Poor chaps - couldn't they read the sign? And why is the gentleman to the right unduly amused by his situation? I don't trust him.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6tReZ53135shJA4nrHvXcq00chiHsVjpMOfvt73YViwVJZJDo2174A7HaPxfr-HTLl45P-m1Bse7AfZ_38Pzvl3-7kp4K-Big8u30D5WqfM1KlMuATJX_Ttv2JjxZ9xg9UeqyuENOL_Y/s1600/IMG_2972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6tReZ53135shJA4nrHvXcq00chiHsVjpMOfvt73YViwVJZJDo2174A7HaPxfr-HTLl45P-m1Bse7AfZ_38Pzvl3-7kp4K-Big8u30D5WqfM1KlMuATJX_Ttv2JjxZ9xg9UeqyuENOL_Y/s400/IMG_2972.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ned? Ned Stark! Is that you?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm39eIXj5tJYzlp9A92wwI-kVMqoy9mTviw1LX26MlZF_jrDvY837EEVCI6_kRvxI4XK4b1mVcxu63KNAwUNutbSjHHE6QSn_Droridix9gFM1cOZ0-zIfIW_dQZZug8gAG8lW8HGeZY/s1600/IMG_2971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm39eIXj5tJYzlp9A92wwI-kVMqoy9mTviw1LX26MlZF_jrDvY837EEVCI6_kRvxI4XK4b1mVcxu63KNAwUNutbSjHHE6QSn_Droridix9gFM1cOZ0-zIfIW_dQZZug8gAG8lW8HGeZY/s400/IMG_2971.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sorry, I couldn't resist referencing <i>another</i> of my obsessions. Please forgive...but do remember, kids - No trespassing means EN-OH Trespassing!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Except for me, of course.)</span>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-90870647855793604732012-04-10T21:39:00.001-04:002012-04-10T21:39:54.298-04:00Fun HouseOne of the best reasons for taking a road less travelled is the possible and sudden explosion of art when one least expects it. Tucked away in the landscape, a bit of whimsy catches the eye at 40 miles an hour....Quick, hit the brakes!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHr7qOL8PPh8jdE_H8WAnbSQRPNLZF07IVcW2BlFL1Da0zDThl97p-xZlbLPJzePXAlHR2qGjNmehrPQnXUBJo16j4OgmJwonhgMv1VxMuTLL-b4B3eJejF5F3hHTbjQPA0c8XDRxbzI/s1600/IMG_2930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHr7qOL8PPh8jdE_H8WAnbSQRPNLZF07IVcW2BlFL1Da0zDThl97p-xZlbLPJzePXAlHR2qGjNmehrPQnXUBJo16j4OgmJwonhgMv1VxMuTLL-b4B3eJejF5F3hHTbjQPA0c8XDRxbzI/s400/IMG_2930.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Let's stop and investigate! What's this? A flaming beach ball sent to earth...<br />
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and a rocket in a pocket of dirt.<br />
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An iron garden...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiATbbHTQYnHPkogN9nTwABT7HhJzknRwNL5QY-AuRPkaMQIa-PRThdhM9KFTVY7k1K-jZ3jcY_5BCkuM7RQbbNWQifIx7nlNRmha8sHh5FTHO2U49S29EmYFO-WUA5mokAU6ks9O7UpGM/s1600/IMG_2933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiATbbHTQYnHPkogN9nTwABT7HhJzknRwNL5QY-AuRPkaMQIa-PRThdhM9KFTVY7k1K-jZ3jcY_5BCkuM7RQbbNWQifIx7nlNRmha8sHh5FTHO2U49S29EmYFO-WUA5mokAU6ks9O7UpGM/s400/IMG_2933.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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reaches for the sun.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitYBt1E2FGBitgVU9rq-pKH-1Qv6AM-FH_txweH5CgaO2KT0owezfoM1PLWNQ1rNFJYC2J2xHUh3CJfcYV4TgmcSJraEEqvNSO6hOQQtPAN77Ol9_RvU1iUK-pX_olfnsXqUYkEr4HxP8/s1600/IMG_2934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitYBt1E2FGBitgVU9rq-pKH-1Qv6AM-FH_txweH5CgaO2KT0owezfoM1PLWNQ1rNFJYC2J2xHUh3CJfcYV4TgmcSJraEEqvNSO6hOQQtPAN77Ol9_RvU1iUK-pX_olfnsXqUYkEr4HxP8/s400/IMG_2934.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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And further afield...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPl3FF4jkaHj8uTbf5AnxV4ZWBaj37i8NuVHunYPqLYbGhBN_TMVxwBoho-trS4ka4vauJE-YenYywrWYbrZdapB2bEq1YjgvftfVgR7N6i_aUv-XMYXAsZ9b2mC8JsrMVx3dXtYc6YI/s1600/IMG_2936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLPl3FF4jkaHj8uTbf5AnxV4ZWBaj37i8NuVHunYPqLYbGhBN_TMVxwBoho-trS4ka4vauJE-YenYywrWYbrZdapB2bEq1YjgvftfVgR7N6i_aUv-XMYXAsZ9b2mC8JsrMVx3dXtYc6YI/s400/IMG_2936.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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a capital "F" for FUN!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA5Nd4F-jAmWKJpoZW0zoXata6QFEPaWsxx1kcng-WV__FwFjvgw_UvjKqA5dBvM-oZPPXoMAOpPot4oFX100nxTNK4VV9zez05G9PS4FBijYD2HE3sqbJZ26Zf2TrX1uxeCykXC7EITU/s1600/IMG_2960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA5Nd4F-jAmWKJpoZW0zoXata6QFEPaWsxx1kcng-WV__FwFjvgw_UvjKqA5dBvM-oZPPXoMAOpPot4oFX100nxTNK4VV9zez05G9PS4FBijYD2HE3sqbJZ26Zf2TrX1uxeCykXC7EITU/s400/IMG_2960.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Shall we go upstairs?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-9oIbY2JoHBVPyKqtdfZe7a5hV-YO8RlBzOjJTAnY8osEjPYrwk1s7qsttHZwxTdMYcUHKL_43fxSZYIj13KTfjbKK5Uu54sESkGiqu1IC_76yeUNbGU1_FOq588lhX6FNuUgZKHwE4/s1600/IMG_2941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-9oIbY2JoHBVPyKqtdfZe7a5hV-YO8RlBzOjJTAnY8osEjPYrwk1s7qsttHZwxTdMYcUHKL_43fxSZYIj13KTfjbKK5Uu54sESkGiqu1IC_76yeUNbGU1_FOq588lhX6FNuUgZKHwE4/s400/IMG_2941.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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There's a cozy sitting area to take in the view.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4ai4avR1bmOHURn2J4whmn0vMoL4RuzTCkLuJaAIYTmqri6Go7wriWuGo2MXlV85vphldilJnhAzRugv40D0EF1IQujUx131nQVRL-ssd8fpWfpl0N-y4qXpn1sYSEqO3qnZ6Jt8_ls/s1600/IMG_2942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4ai4avR1bmOHURn2J4whmn0vMoL4RuzTCkLuJaAIYTmqri6Go7wriWuGo2MXlV85vphldilJnhAzRugv40D0EF1IQujUx131nQVRL-ssd8fpWfpl0N-y4qXpn1sYSEqO3qnZ6Jt8_ls/s400/IMG_2942.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Well, hello there...who are you?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTB24V8igoEw9PMSSYSdQv7UCYdiqQAA1WqVQzqxpDCahPOKCAbVRnYpH7WfY9IBq22cAqwK-_YqCecyBh6EKjHEZcP4OIsGstTa1iaMnVfNngRhtQ1Heu8EKBvIBI15JsfPc9UOHSCQ/s1600/IMG_2944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTB24V8igoEw9PMSSYSdQv7UCYdiqQAA1WqVQzqxpDCahPOKCAbVRnYpH7WfY9IBq22cAqwK-_YqCecyBh6EKjHEZcP4OIsGstTa1iaMnVfNngRhtQ1Heu8EKBvIBI15JsfPc9UOHSCQ/s400/IMG_2944.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjTB24V8igoEw9PMSSYSdQv7UCYdiqQAA1WqVQzqxpDCahPOKCAbVRnYpH7WfY9IBq22cAqwK-_YqCecyBh6EKjHEZcP4OIsGstTa1iaMnVfNngRhtQ1Heu8EKBvIBI15JsfPc9UOHSCQ/s1600/IMG_2944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;">This reminds me of a film set in another state...isolated area, big guy with a chainsaw... perhaps we should explore the lower floor. C'mon! Right down the stairs...</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzUva5FN_mq0KAJ2FzS2JiytF2s2ikri3uJhyphenhyphen9YeeRvk9OYtkFEWtUCpw-aG0-pglmoEQekfjTTUL1iS9P62wGUZWdlUuCNYRyS1l-WUYwhE8Rb3imdy31odY1-4nxF65aCFWl3oUjIU/s1600/IMG_2948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzUva5FN_mq0KAJ2FzS2JiytF2s2ikri3uJhyphenhyphen9YeeRvk9OYtkFEWtUCpw-aG0-pglmoEQekfjTTUL1iS9P62wGUZWdlUuCNYRyS1l-WUYwhE8Rb3imdy31odY1-4nxF65aCFWl3oUjIU/s400/IMG_2948.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDzUva5FN_mq0KAJ2FzS2JiytF2s2ikri3uJhyphenhyphen9YeeRvk9OYtkFEWtUCpw-aG0-pglmoEQekfjTTUL1iS9P62wGUZWdlUuCNYRyS1l-WUYwhE8Rb3imdy31odY1-4nxF65aCFWl3oUjIU/s1600/IMG_2948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;">It's a different world down there! A crystal chandelier...</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBEEJvXpw6n75sDCqfskVtV-F1AASWeNlb-SajZ3KW8GRoBb1Axxz8eQwR53018ivM7_7DqCp5IFCudWWlx4QIvEjxNK0Fv1wHg2S72k7g6loFxeFPyrPjx0644uJhFr9tE4PZ1C5y5BM/s1600/IMG_2939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBEEJvXpw6n75sDCqfskVtV-F1AASWeNlb-SajZ3KW8GRoBb1Axxz8eQwR53018ivM7_7DqCp5IFCudWWlx4QIvEjxNK0Fv1wHg2S72k7g6loFxeFPyrPjx0644uJhFr9tE4PZ1C5y5BM/s400/IMG_2939.jpg" width="337" /></a></div>
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a charcoal nude...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcPS_ej1YJfto_0Djof6EtvVrGpEifA0J4hlmFm99EUN-_OBXJu4ilHL1UU-PdNSfDzJWWobNHkpPe0pFRqCkUS5wr7liS7pKVex-eEmBnjVR4w1n0lZPFb-Tub8Y6Mj7uYuuTDc-mdU/s1600/IMG_2952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcPS_ej1YJfto_0Djof6EtvVrGpEifA0J4hlmFm99EUN-_OBXJu4ilHL1UU-PdNSfDzJWWobNHkpPe0pFRqCkUS5wr7liS7pKVex-eEmBnjVR4w1n0lZPFb-Tub8Y6Mj7uYuuTDc-mdU/s400/IMG_2952.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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and an assortment of gourds to set the mood.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5oVeNaSxX6-k9UOVbWtYJhHBbRdCKbhhzmFsJZZrKVFhaW2_DbkwpU040EFWrk2lM95A7KbIASH_RuVhSBtUKUHqmQmsJuKG8awn5z7NEfAl6lkOjYwGW2S5-oOzU2OkGS95dQI3ePs/s1600/IMG_2937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5oVeNaSxX6-k9UOVbWtYJhHBbRdCKbhhzmFsJZZrKVFhaW2_DbkwpU040EFWrk2lM95A7KbIASH_RuVhSBtUKUHqmQmsJuKG8awn5z7NEfAl6lkOjYwGW2S5-oOzU2OkGS95dQI3ePs/s400/IMG_2937.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5oVeNaSxX6-k9UOVbWtYJhHBbRdCKbhhzmFsJZZrKVFhaW2_DbkwpU040EFWrk2lM95A7KbIASH_RuVhSBtUKUHqmQmsJuKG8awn5z7NEfAl6lkOjYwGW2S5-oOzU2OkGS95dQI3ePs/s1600/IMG_2937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;">But alas, not a soul in sight to shed any light. Just another lonesome oddity to puzzle and delight.</span></a></div>Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-60392049982289743492012-03-01T18:55:00.000-05:002012-03-01T18:55:56.299-05:00Keep Calm and<br />
Carry On...as I gather more oddities.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZar6SEKf8Ov5G0qBeagYPdJT6HYulLiCrTBXL0hzRRzFOc64jH05W1sdgZ-Z_b9HFPbmbcZ9pnvl1MAecfqBtIO9ncpLnsAQJOoebcHifGCpFjpxtTKdXETB-pKLbhe4LtioHfYK7NXA/s1600/IMG_2245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZar6SEKf8Ov5G0qBeagYPdJT6HYulLiCrTBXL0hzRRzFOc64jH05W1sdgZ-Z_b9HFPbmbcZ9pnvl1MAecfqBtIO9ncpLnsAQJOoebcHifGCpFjpxtTKdXETB-pKLbhe4LtioHfYK7NXA/s400/IMG_2245.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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And remember, if you see something, say something! I gladly welcome your photos, info, suggestions and/or donuts (preferably chocolate glazed). I should have new oddities magically appearing on your computerized intertube screen contraptions later this Spring.Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-22888910589488663042012-02-13T19:59:00.000-05:002012-02-13T21:44:51.498-05:00Happy TrailsAh, the welcoming sight of a trail registry box - how I love these portals to adventure! They hold the promise of wilderness and wildness and escape!<br />
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Let's open the latch and sign in, shall we?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjie_HKtcwIbviTjq8VjJChchVSgeMKOggPKBQC6d-5hhPSWuOH_CkeBHGQA-YVKHzIW9vYYpGoTMeOOj9wyhDDr7st6X_QwFuwUnm8tw3t5BvQoccocw3crA-0gOlkKcA3kNbwJCiRNHY/s1600/phelps_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjie_HKtcwIbviTjq8VjJChchVSgeMKOggPKBQC6d-5hhPSWuOH_CkeBHGQA-YVKHzIW9vYYpGoTMeOOj9wyhDDr7st6X_QwFuwUnm8tw3t5BvQoccocw3crA-0gOlkKcA3kNbwJCiRNHY/s320/phelps_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I like to read all the names of my fellow hikers and see where they're from <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(usually Brooklyn)</span> before signing my own name. What can I say? I'm <strike>nosy</strike> curious. That aside, the key purpose for using a trail registry is to record when you start and when you return from a hike. It would be most unpleasant to be pinned beneath a tree and have to contemplate sawing off your own foot. Or how about having to subsist on nothing but protein-rich slugs for days at a time? Quelle horreur! And all because it was too much of a bother to log in. The rangers need to know, yo!<br />
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When I'm all hepped up for a day of hiking, I'll sign my name with a flourish. Others are so excited that mere paper won't do - the box itself becomes a register of sorts.<br />
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Well, well...Winston Smith was here!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsOHUOpjd5Pm3zWyRc2k0sPMCXNlj_GBL7zaidcJUHuS0IftDvyLYq_VQbhiAkEU6aoMGXlkaHGr2Qhp9hW_D9NYuDrqesdEwAOulhmEJrQUoeICgEORNwE7HI4TQhB8EDKRBHY0gbVi4/s1600/IMG_2472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsOHUOpjd5Pm3zWyRc2k0sPMCXNlj_GBL7zaidcJUHuS0IftDvyLYq_VQbhiAkEU6aoMGXlkaHGr2Qhp9hW_D9NYuDrqesdEwAOulhmEJrQUoeICgEORNwE7HI4TQhB8EDKRBHY0gbVi4/s400/IMG_2472.jpg" width="341" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsOHUOpjd5Pm3zWyRc2k0sPMCXNlj_GBL7zaidcJUHuS0IftDvyLYq_VQbhiAkEU6aoMGXlkaHGr2Qhp9hW_D9NYuDrqesdEwAOulhmEJrQUoeICgEORNwE7HI4TQhB8EDKRBHY0gbVi4/s1600/IMG_2472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><i>Somebody</i> can't make up his mind...or is this a thinly veiled statement on the perils of global warming? Hmmm.</span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsOHUOpjd5Pm3zWyRc2k0sPMCXNlj_GBL7zaidcJUHuS0IftDvyLYq_VQbhiAkEU6aoMGXlkaHGr2Qhp9hW_D9NYuDrqesdEwAOulhmEJrQUoeICgEORNwE7HI4TQhB8EDKRBHY0gbVi4/s1600/IMG_2472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"><br /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYts6quzMRdDghRKyVBYfxmryRqGN1uDSzoCM6IG4v8wU4ymTI9Fmo4hU_SN0h0ZtGc0-47j_li5AeQOWxcmwEdtNIPKAFzGhoa6FSHYWqCUi7rwN7LtM2PC5-1cJsCMZOX6oL0OoH2c/s1600/IMG_2473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYts6quzMRdDghRKyVBYfxmryRqGN1uDSzoCM6IG4v8wU4ymTI9Fmo4hU_SN0h0ZtGc0-47j_li5AeQOWxcmwEdtNIPKAFzGhoa6FSHYWqCUi7rwN7LtM2PC5-1cJsCMZOX6oL0OoH2c/s400/IMG_2473.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwYts6quzMRdDghRKyVBYfxmryRqGN1uDSzoCM6IG4v8wU4ymTI9Fmo4hU_SN0h0ZtGc0-47j_li5AeQOWxcmwEdtNIPKAFzGhoa6FSHYWqCUi7rwN7LtM2PC5-1cJsCMZOX6oL0OoH2c/s1600/IMG_2473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;">I don't doubt it.</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBfB0fKEpI_qpAnqKkxeb2dTxA3g7KsQ76g-WgyK_tfW74tuEwM90Kk3QSn_-WajKl93mrgyI4PMcJrbkVQAOw-zLfZs0TzeRwEMucC_vxlZaoR9cJbrpOzUSvcF5oXVRChtASC6N2Sf4/s1600/IMG_2493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBfB0fKEpI_qpAnqKkxeb2dTxA3g7KsQ76g-WgyK_tfW74tuEwM90Kk3QSn_-WajKl93mrgyI4PMcJrbkVQAOw-zLfZs0TzeRwEMucC_vxlZaoR9cJbrpOzUSvcF5oXVRChtASC6N2Sf4/s400/IMG_2493.jpg" width="322" /></a></div>
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Strong to the finish, this one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp5xnDSLicB7zQ_t-xi5ilSKrKGfOU6jWyonVZIZ1rh4aJtdig_nO1qA46_Scw74g0Qy5rxdpcsFar6UfK3a49oXkJK3tKFm9y-f1WeLUglHwVVLLW71SgcBJbhhLp1yZ-lCXV73fMTTo/s1600/IMG_2495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp5xnDSLicB7zQ_t-xi5ilSKrKGfOU6jWyonVZIZ1rh4aJtdig_nO1qA46_Scw74g0Qy5rxdpcsFar6UfK3a49oXkJK3tKFm9y-f1WeLUglHwVVLLW71SgcBJbhhLp1yZ-lCXV73fMTTo/s400/IMG_2495.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's easy being green here, my friend.<br />
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By now, you're probably ready for a hike. Have fun and don't forget the three rules of the forest:<br />
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1) Don't leave anything but your footprints.</div>
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2) Don't take anything except pictures.</div>
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3) ALWAYS sign in and out at the registry box.</div>
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....unless you're the dark lord, of course.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl_-2sXndkKg-5x6EoHbTMbBFXyydLaJFSogwmd4B-c4eaiFldDaivZurkCtIkLVzvJvSjJ27ZKA_S79znc50JXLcEUOU4JKoyCQTw-XVmmp1uXNwrsJMyqFGudea29GivI-XajEoTZCM/s1600/IMG_2496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl_-2sXndkKg-5x6EoHbTMbBFXyydLaJFSogwmd4B-c4eaiFldDaivZurkCtIkLVzvJvSjJ27ZKA_S79znc50JXLcEUOU4JKoyCQTw-XVmmp1uXNwrsJMyqFGudea29GivI-XajEoTZCM/s400/IMG_2496.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
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I think I'll find another trail.</div>
<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-3689193557968839212012-01-30T19:11:00.000-05:002012-01-30T19:11:28.601-05:00Sign of the TimesI love historical landmarks. Whether they mark the spot of a delightfully obscure battle or claim to be a founding father's rest stop, I find these factoids fascinating. What tasty morsels of history they contain!<br />
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Oh look! There's one now! Quick, pull over!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfjKJnH9T2VR68uIAk7lcWbR4XsXTzNzloEf9f13oy9zlNs9VutSSg3Rl0rZa2XVaq7qRC8j4s1ccK1jnQgkRupbIPw5KgaxVrR0h4khVs8F76ZEtNcGzq2PqQG9YuB4XYNqheRq0UF0M/s1600/IMG_2253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfjKJnH9T2VR68uIAk7lcWbR4XsXTzNzloEf9f13oy9zlNs9VutSSg3Rl0rZa2XVaq7qRC8j4s1ccK1jnQgkRupbIPw5KgaxVrR0h4khVs8F76ZEtNcGzq2PqQG9YuB4XYNqheRq0UF0M/s320/IMG_2253.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Well isn't that interesti...HUH?!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMaVPB1AM7GQjqx8LCC3cDx8_siqshSIK06B8HnnI7YGjiUfDuutdJjspiUUHJZz8-hUUJXjZReGL96YrJ-MEBiT2TputTQ2_ONgyrPHIYJ827WvhmavkCbP2gI1hEGlkJQTqXRVP-WCo/s1600/IMG_2255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMaVPB1AM7GQjqx8LCC3cDx8_siqshSIK06B8HnnI7YGjiUfDuutdJjspiUUHJZz8-hUUJXjZReGL96YrJ-MEBiT2TputTQ2_ONgyrPHIYJ827WvhmavkCbP2gI1hEGlkJQTqXRVP-WCo/s400/IMG_2255.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Had to do a double take, didn't you? This sign comes from the brilliantly subversive and socially conscious mind of artist Norm Magnusson as part of his I-75 Project. This inspired installation places historical markers with social and political content throughout the country. Magnusson's goal is "not to incite, but inspire thought."<br />
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I remember seeing his signs when they made the media rounds a few years ago. You can imagine my glee at stumbling upon one for real - it was like finding the holy grail! Pull over and take a look at the rest of his historical landmarks...<a href="http://www.funism.com/art/I75project.html">here</a>!Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6827868616237598730.post-84751845072483307902012-01-16T14:08:00.000-05:002012-01-16T14:11:24.042-05:00Everything AND the Kitchen SinkWhile on a lengthy drive to a trailhead, we stopped at the side of the road to let our restless dogs do what dogs do on the sides of roads. A few yards up we came across a curious discovery.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2MtsFPc-gZoOxuMHdNIp_cV1zngsgmevv9Rl022jGjH4nGHLfYb2n5R7BdE9N_bHEZPrKB3lJZ-Y0C85_FREzop4bU7vtbn-Ky0tdSGi7WI9BTyF4i_WCZ5S32_vCcVOmxRfARfPvL_U/s1600/IMG_1795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2MtsFPc-gZoOxuMHdNIp_cV1zngsgmevv9Rl022jGjH4nGHLfYb2n5R7BdE9N_bHEZPrKB3lJZ-Y0C85_FREzop4bU7vtbn-Ky0tdSGi7WI9BTyF4i_WCZ5S32_vCcVOmxRfARfPvL_U/s400/IMG_1795.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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As if dropped from a temporal portal of the past and plunked down among the moss in the middle of nowhere sits this porcelain sink, circa 1950. A dishtowel has been carefully draped on the edge and the plates and saucers are neatly stacked in the drainer, as if June Cleaver herself, having finished her after-dinner chores, disappeared in a puff of smoke along with the rest of her surroundings.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjog1je4C17EiGaBP6kFIESt4ebtL2_6s23WcrSvQJzgKPpF2Uy6fBuDsyTqQstdZfu7JKf0PGiTshd1zA2DhcyCiUB25sPH_7YJixkLdVBAEL5IpWAYeDywL-U-jIzJOaZt4OYwiS8GI4/s1600/IMG_1797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjog1je4C17EiGaBP6kFIESt4ebtL2_6s23WcrSvQJzgKPpF2Uy6fBuDsyTqQstdZfu7JKf0PGiTshd1zA2DhcyCiUB25sPH_7YJixkLdVBAEL5IpWAYeDywL-U-jIzJOaZt4OYwiS8GI4/s400/IMG_1797.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Nary a house nor campsite can be found nearby to explain its presence. Judging by the trademarks on the dinnerware, this is old, durable crockery. My mother had an entire set of Corelle by Corning which held plenty of scrumptious mac 'n' cheese lunches throughout the years...but that was long ago and I certainly didn't help rinse the dishes in the woods after gorging myself on Kraft.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrYv2gzd7xjlxhTBIRWY16a_0MFP3C0MNGgwzQmzF2oRh60pD7DsdWlRuRUoir53Cy1YK994uOLhMtExviS8PhyiNr9Vx6LmG8Va4pkxUcsi9Qho_WWbe8_2g256QPLgJbq5-C99SwOI/s1600/IMG_1790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOrYv2gzd7xjlxhTBIRWY16a_0MFP3C0MNGgwzQmzF2oRh60pD7DsdWlRuRUoir53Cy1YK994uOLhMtExviS8PhyiNr9Vx6LmG8Va4pkxUcsi9Qho_WWbe8_2g256QPLgJbq5-C99SwOI/s320/IMG_1790.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LrmzwWWf0O9YD2FLJO0PZK44XqBWYdYOx0Yqrjoh8m4PbjA1dAKUr1WJGAYfCX3ulktpGLDAgkIud2MzwIGpL31_a1iKMSCsA1jMnBVwse2J7s-qkAosknexFG1vCxakTYwjfTUXHtQ/s1600/IMG_1791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2LrmzwWWf0O9YD2FLJO0PZK44XqBWYdYOx0Yqrjoh8m4PbjA1dAKUr1WJGAYfCX3ulktpGLDAgkIud2MzwIGpL31_a1iKMSCsA1jMnBVwse2J7s-qkAosknexFG1vCxakTYwjfTUXHtQ/s200/IMG_1791.jpg" width="187" /></a></div>
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So why is it here? And who is using it? Have the bears in the Catskills evolved in ways we're not aware? It's a puzzle wrapped in porcelain shrouded in soapsuds, and I fear it will never be solved!<br />
<br />Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09779321543908938202noreply@blogger.com3