Massachusetts

On Monday, the 2nd, we drove up to MA from NJ.  It was an interesting trip to say the least.  We drove up the NJ turnpike, missed our first turnoff to take a westerly route around all the congestion of Newark/NY/etc. so had to continue on the turnpike up past Newark before finally getting off ($21.40 later!!).


We did get a shot of the NYC skyline:

We took 280/80 west until we finally got to 287 which it what we wanted in the first place!  We circled back (east) toward CT and had to cross the Tapanzee Bridge ($5 for cars - $24.75 for us!!). 

Needless to say, that is not an area I want to travel thru very often -  way too much traffic and congestion!

We did arrive at our CG (Sunsetview Farm Campground) later in the afternoon and got setup.  Larry, Jacky, and Hannah came out around 5 and we went out to dinner at a nice restaurant in Monson, MA.

On Tuesday we drove into Amherst and had a late lunch with them at the Loose Goose.  Ate outside as it was nice out.  Around 5 we drove out to the farm where Hannah works/rides horses - ususally 3 days a week.

Here she is with Little Man.  She has ridden him alot so he responds very well to her.  Hannah has won medals in competitions with him.

Hannah's best friend, Emma, helped her.

On Wednesday, July 4th, they all came out and we went to a festival in Monson.  
Here is some yard art:

One of the stands was selling syrup, honey, etc.

They had derby races:

Judy thought this sign at the CG was hilarious:

But, just past the sign were all of these:

I guess they aren't mototized - just electric!

The CG has a great little pond that you can swim - has a sandy beach all the way around.

It is about 8 ft deep near the fountain.

Later we went back to the RV and grilled steaks, chops, chicken, and hot dogs.  It was a perfect day.

On Thursday we drove into Amherst and had a late lunch with them and ate outside again.  Watched Jacky make a berry/berry scone. (And had some the next day - delicious!!!).

The farm where Hannah rides has a miniature pony:

And a half horse half donkey:

This time Hannah rode Onyx for the first time.  He is a much bigger horse as you can see.  She did very well but was exhausted when she was finished.

Sorry about the pictures - it was dark in the barn.

On Friday I did some tree pruning at their house.  They had a bad ice storm last Oct 31st and there are some trees that need trimming.  I got a good start on them and will probably do more next week.

Today, Sunday, they will be coming out to the CG again for more swimming, relaxing, and grilling.  Supposed to be a great day, weatherwise.