Quechee, VT

If you look closely at the photo left, you will see that, indeed, we WERE here...tucked into the tall pine trees on a steep hillside at Quechee/Pine Valley KOA and enjoying not having to follow any schedule.

No WiFi and poor cell service kept the world from us for most of the time. When sightseeing, we were able to check texts and make calls, but even that was limited. We survived and I flourished.

Vermont is known as the "Green Mountain State," thus, Green Mountain Coffee, and even more well known for its delicious cheddar cheese, Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream, and a huge granite quarry. We searched for the quarry, but to no avail, see below for a link to the amazing site.

We visited the Cabot Cheese Center and I was able to taste many flavors that are not offered in any grocery store that I've been.  My favorite was their Cheddar Reserve, which is wrapped in a heavy plastic coating.

We visited the Quechee Gorge, which was quite deep, but had very little water in the river. Unfortunately, every view worth photographing was obscured by chain link fencing. The photo I included here is not mine, as there was no way I was prepared to climb down and follow the trail, but thought it was worth showing.

We observed many kayaks atop cars, but couldn't figure out where they could "put in" until we discovered the Connecticut River that separates VT and NH and was deep enough and smooth as glass.

Vermont is a very pollution-conscience State. We were only offered paper straws in restaurants (don't know why people complain about them - that's all there was back in MY day).  At supermarkets there were signs that said, "Did you remember your reusable bag?" and when we checked out, I was embarrassed that we were one of the only customers using the disposable store bags.

Many eating establishments did not accept "plastic" - as in credit cards.  Good thing George is always "carrying," but had he not been with me, I would probably still be washing dishes or sweeping floors.

Here are a few photos of our time in the cities of Woodstock, Essex Junction, Pine Valley, Taftsville and White River Junction in VT and a quick ride across the border to West Lebanon NH.

Fabulous collection of toys at a huge Antique Mall.
Star Wars photos were specially taken for son, Glenn. Of course, George and I drooled over the spectacular train display.  

A newer covered bridge in Taftsville, VT, but still fun to drive through.

Great food and atmosphere at an authentic diner in Quechee, VT
I don't think I've ever seen one with as many original features, including stained glass windows.

Walking throughout pretty Woodstock, VT

Dog Friendly Ice Cream in West Lebanon, NH
Here's a little German Shepherd waiting for his Bogey Biscuit!

McGillicudy's in Essex Junction, VT

So very sorry to have missed Rock of Ages Granite Quarry in Barre, VT. If I ever return to Vermont, this will be at the top of my list of things to do. Click on that link above in blue to see more amazing pictures and information about the quarry,

Deep thought for the day:  Although it was a tiny sticker that we added to our map, The sights and atmosphere were hugely enjoyed. Don't overlook the tiny signs of beauty in your life. ~vc