It began with the arrival of the Oregon Kaufman's on July 3rd. The first in about 7 years and Evie's first visit. Here at the Maperium - a Boston original and a way to experience the globe from the inside. This is a unique experience you'll only have here, can't really describe and will never forget.
This is Boston with the Kaufman's so there was boating. Swan boats on The Commons, a tradition since 1877 - the replica WWII amphibious Duck boats - and of course Blue Chip with Captains Evie and Steve at the helm.
July 4th, which meant fireworks on the Charles, viewed from our back deck with the Boston Pops playing in the background. (We're happy to arrange anything for Evie, Clara, Erin & Jeremy and invite all of Boston to attend.) Clara and Jeremy clearly enjoyed driving and bumping at Canobie Lake Park in Salem, NH. Evie and Bubbie over did it in the twirling cups and decided pitch-prize games might be a better option. And we all agreed that the New England Aquarium was the perfect rainy day activity. Definitely visit during feeding times for giant sea turtles, penguins, and seals. Also stop and pet the sharks and man-if-rays - but NOT during feeding time.
We were very sad to see kids leave and hope they return soon - there's so much more exploring to do! While Steve got back to work, Karen got back to earning traveling points.
A quick trip to NYC proves you can successfully put lipstick on a pig! The LIRR and NJ Transit are finally going through s renovation it's needed for 40+ years. It's truly amazing what a little "lipstick" can do.
Above ground - movie makers take advantage of New Yorkers exiting the City for the cooler beaches. Hoever, in the evening it's clear that vacationers are here in full force, despite the fact that in the summer Time Square becomes a de facto oven. (Where is trip Advisor?)
A quick run to Florida for a dentist appointment (don't ask) also means a stop on Useppa. Late day storms creates beautiful sunsets, complete with rainbows. The rainy season has everything blooming, including beeblam and Passion flowers. The butterflies are thrilled! It's also a great time to plant, if you can work the timing around the 100% heat index. More water please.
Southwest Florida loves its Gulf Coast shells. Although typically seen decorating mirrors, boxes and lampshades, why stop there? This 2005 VW Beetle is covered in 60 different species of shells to commemorate the first National Seashell Day which was proclaimed by Lee County, FL and first celebrated on June 20, 2016. It took 65 volunteers 1,200 hours to apply 20,000 shells using 100 tubes of Amazing Goop marine glue. Okay - we've now debunked any rumors that Florida lacks innovative spirit! Has anyone contacted Ridleys?
Summer has just started. Clearly we are determined to make the most of it. We'll keep you posted.
Chicago is one of those great towns. We stayed inThe Loop area for a two day visit last week. You will find music, theatre, dance (including the Alvin Alley Dance Theatre) and restaurants galore. And there's plenty of natural beauty and outdoor activities within easy reach. There's a Great Lake - no pun intended - with sailing, beaches and incredible sand dunes. And of course Millennium Park, which transformed nearly 25 acres of rail yards, parking lots and parkland to celebrate the second millennium. Near the east entrance is the iconic Frank Gehry designed stainless steel, abstract, arching Pritzker Pavillion amphitheater that hosts musical events for up to 11,000. I'm sure there MUST be room for one more guest!
