Tiny Adventures, Pt. 1 - A Walk in the Woods

Since the Outer Banks, I haven't had the opportunity to really get out and go anywhere (tomorrow, Sunday, May 17, I'll be headed down to Tampa, FL with the senior class though!). However, I think I've said this before, adventure can be had anywhere. A couple of weeks ago, I decided to follow Robby down to the pond where he normally fishes so I could use my other lens and see what sorts of things I could come up with. This included enjoying nature a little more and photographing some of my favorite wildflowers along the way. I also experimented with being his "fish photographer." He doesn't keep the fish . . . he just likes to make them late for something. Mitch Hedberg, anyone?

Anyway, did you know there's an app that's similar to Instagram, except for fishermen?? It's a free app called FishBrain. You post the fish that you catch on it, where you caught it, etc. and you create a network of anglers. It's kind of neat, but of course, I call him a nerd for having it. Check it out, though, if it's something you think you'll like!

The following pictures are from our tiny adventure a couple of weeks ago in the rain. Tadpoles and Osprey also made an appearance. Unfortunately, my skills still aren't stealth enough to catch an Osprey. One day, though!

 

 

 

October, Part II - Elk Neck State Park

The last weekend in October was homeleave, so my friends and I went camping. It was much needed for all of us, and who doesn't enjoy relaxing by a camp fire in an over-sized sweatshirt and roasting marshmallows?

We went to Elk Neck State Park in eastern Maryland. Robby's family is actually from that area, so while for the rest of us, it was somewhere new, for him, it felt much like home. For five people, it averaged out to $10 for the whole weekend (not including the food we bought). Who can beat that, though?? We made delicious campfire food in aluminum foil, and went for a beautiful hike on Saturday. Turkey Point Lighthouse is a must-see if ever you camp at the park. It's a short walk (a little less than 3/4 of a mile), and when you come out to the lighthouse, you're struck with the view of the bay from this amazing cliff. Also, the lighthouse is open on certain weekends of the month - you'll have to visit the website here for more information.

I had so much planned for this post when I originally got back, like the recipes we used, and other things to do in the area . . . but alas, time has taken away the effort I would have put into it on the Monday after.

The link to Elk Neck State Park's website is here - I do encourage you, if you're a Marylander or even an eastern PA or DE resident, to take a look and spend a weekend there. They also have fishing spots, hiking trails, and primitive camping options. Maryland is such a beautiful state, and I'm always taken back by its beauty in the changing seasons. Make sure, as the weather's getting colder, that you're staying bundled up, but that you're taking the time to enjoy the small things and getting out there to adventure!

Later this month, I think I'll be posting my top Christmas albums to use when traveling or light-seeking :) Happy Holidays! xoxo

October, Part I

I know . . . it's December. And I'm posting about October. It's embarrassing to think that I've managed to get this far behind. The truth is I've been struggling with reasonable life management this semester - time management, monetary management . . . I'm losing control of my life. (lol - it's not that serious.)

Hancock, MD

Anyway, the first post from October is about Senior Survival. As a Senior Class Sponsor this year, I'm part responsible for 26 young people. Since we're a smaller private academy, we get to do cool things like take a class trip or have field trips that are more intimate and less crazy. Something they do every year is this thing called Senior Survival. It's essentially a weekend of "roughing it" and allowing for class bonding. One of the other sponsors (there are three of us total) decided it would be nice to bike ~75 miles of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal that follows the Potomac River. We started at McCoy's Ferry in MD and stopped at Spring Gap, MD. A small group of three continued on to the beginning in Cumberland.

Hancock, MD

I, however, did not bike. The other sponsor ended up having a serious form of the flu, and just couldn't make it on the trip. His job was to drive a chase vehicle with everyone's crap in it (food, sleeping stuff, etc.), and when I say chase vehicle, I mean a mini-bus. I had never driven this vehicle, and it always daunted me when I thought about driving it, but alas. It became my job. Stupid me didn't pack a book or homework because it happened all kind of last-minute, and cell phone service was rough, but it ended up being a good trip.

If ever you want to plan a biking trip along the C&O Canal, October is definitely a wonderful time to do it. It's just getting chilly and the leaves have started to change. The scenery that I did see was beautiful! But avoiding the sore rump was also a pleasant positive of getting to drive the bus. Always check with your local National Park Service for advisories, tips, and helpful information to stay safe. And, if biking, always have someone chasing you in a vehicle with medical and biking supplies in case something happens. Someone should always know where you'll be!

I hope your holiday season is going well! Thanksgiving for me kicked off a wonderful start, and so far, the season has been wonderfully paced - not too fast, and certainly never too slow. Happy Adventuring! xoxo

The seniors that survived!

Frederick, MD: A Walking Tour

This past Sunday was Robby and I's 3-year dating anniversary. With how stressful everything has been between work and school, I asked him to plan the day for us. I had originally chosen two things, and both had fallen through. However, I'm glad it worked out that way because we took in a side of Frederick that neither of us really had seen before.

You may recall my post from February of the Carroll Creek Promenade and visiting the Delaplaine Visual Arts Education Center. It was much different in the late summer, and much more lively. We walked along the promenade for a bit, but also stopped at a bunch of other incredibly quaint places. Most of our adventures took place on or just off of Market Street.

Our first stop was the Mount Olivet Cemetery, across from the Frederick Keys baseball stadium. Francis Scott Key, the writer of our National Anthem, is buried there with his wife. Thankfully the big event celebrating the 200th anniversary of when it was written was on Saturday, so most of the people had left by the time we got there. With tombstones dating back into the early 1700s and some even in the late 1600s, it's such a cool place to visit. I had no idea there was so much history so close!

We parked in the Church Street garage and walked. We went to Firestone's Market on Market, a cute little market that has organic foods, local beer, and interesting items (olive oil on tap and jelly body butter). Almost right next store was Zoë's Chocolates - it has given chocolate to the Emmys and the Oscars. Robby got me a small box of chocolates. They have a unique selection, but their Fleur de Sel Caramel chocolates were amazing. Next, we walked further down to the North Market Pop Shop. It literally has pop in their old-time glass bottles, and almost any flavor or brand you can think of. Robby settled for a Frostie's Root Beer and I chose a Leninade. It was a refreshing, retro-feel stop that gave us a boost.

Off of Market, we walked up Patrick Street to the corner of Court Street to see, in front of the court house, a statue of the original first President of the United States . . . I'm not entirely sure, as a history major, how I feel about it, but it's a statue of John Hanson. He was technically the first president, but under the Articles of Confederation. We weren't entirely the "United States," but I guess it was close enough. His house is also right in front of the court house, on Patrick Street. So, if you're curious about John Hanson, you can probably tour his house and learn more!

After walking, we ate at Brewer's Alley. It was the first microbrewery in Frederick, so the history continued. Robby was probably more excited about the brewery aspect than I was. The area surrounding the bar is more modern, with rustic wood and brick, but when you get back into the dining area, it looks dated to the 60's or 70's. The food is mildly expensive, but the beer isn't and the menu sounds wonderful. I got a fajita salad, which was alright, but I have a feeling they have some better options that I'll have to try next time.

All in all, it was a wonderful way to spend celebrating 3 years. Downtown Frederick is full of so many things to do. If you're still interested in what else there is to offer, Trip Advisor is probably your best place to start. OR, Frederick's city and tourism websites. Enjoy the transition from summer to fall, and happy traveling!

Annapolis, MD

I can't believe it's August already. Summer has flown by so quickly! Pre-session starts tomorrow (!!!), and I'm trying anything to not think about it for fear I'll fall into a bout of depression. Thankfully, my last rendezvous for the summer happened to be to Annapolis. I love, love, love this town. Even though it's the capital city of Maryland, it holds a tight-knit vibe for me. Maybe it's because I've only visited in the summer when school isn't in session, or maybe it's the location on the water, but I love it. Have I said that enough? I love this town.

Anyway, my family and I went, and we visited the Naval Academy (this was my first time inside - unbelievable!), the State House, and of course walked up and down Main Street for its stretch of shops and restaurants. We also stopped by the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium (but they were having a crab feast), and the Westfield Annapolis Mall. Here are some tips, details, and ideas for places to go and things to do while you're there!

Chapel at the USNA

• Set Sail. If you're in for an aquatic journey, Annapolis is your place. With guided tours, boat charters, sailing schools, fishing excursions and kayak rentals, there is literally something available for every type of nautical adventurer.
• Maryland State House. We Marylanders have a lot of pride in many things: our flag, our crabbing industry, our football and baseball teams, and our beer to name a few. However, the Maryland State House is truly a state treasure. It's the oldest state capital in continuous legislative use and the only state capitol to ever serve as the U.S. capitol. The first legislative meeting was held in 1779, and it features the largest wooden dome in the country. So, of course, it only makes sense that it's a National Historic Landmark :) Make sure you have your ID handy for a security check-in.
• City Dock. It's amazing to walk along the city dock. You can lust after the yachts, sailboats and fishing boats parked there, or just take in the Bay Bridge in the distance. There is also a bit of history to learn about too. With its Alex Haley memorial, a commemoration to the 1767 arrival of Kunta Kinte, and its replica Skipjack that John Smith used when exploring the area in the early 1600s, boat and people watching doesn't have to be your only option.
• U.S. Naval Academy. If you're anything like me, there's a deep respect that is felt when in the presence of men and women who decide to give their lives (even if it is for a minimum of 4 years) to serve their country. Visiting the US Naval Academy was a truly incredible experience. It was something I wanted to do at one point in my life. There are so many cool things to see. At noon, you get to hear the students read the menu in front of Bancroft Hall. You can tour their decadent chapel and visit the crypt of John Paul Jones. You can also take a walk around their training complexes and peruse the scenery along College Creek where the rowing teams train. If you want an official tour, that costs $10, and can be purchased (along with your Navy gear) at the visitor's center. Check out the museum they have there as well. Just remember to bring an officially issued ID (aka. a driver's license, etc).
• Main Street. From souvenir shops to candy stores to great restaurants, there is a little of everything for everyone. All along the dock, there are also places to shop and eat. If you're into Man vs. Food from the Discovery Channel, Chick and Ruth's Delly on Main is where host Adam Richman defeated their Colossal Challenge - you have one hour to eat a 1lb. burger and a 6lb. milkshake. It's a fast-paced joint with deli-style food. There is also Kilwin's, a chain candy place that makes fresh fudge, caramel apples, truffles, and any other decadent dessert you could think of. I got a Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Apple that was to diiiie for. Another favorite of mine that sits on the corner of Cornhill and Fleet streets is Capital Teas - it has a great selection of, you guessed it, teas from all over the world, unique tea pots, and other nifty gadgets for a tea lover. Along with blown glass, hats, pottery and clothes, Main Street and its surrounding area shops are a fun place to browse.
• For more information, visit the city of Annapolis's website!

the Crypt of John Paul Jones

Kilwin's Sea Salt Caramel Chocolate Apple 10/10

From the USNA Visitor's Center Museum

Easy Street Gallery on Francis Street

Bancroft Hall - USNA

The surrounding areas of Annapolis are also really nice too. You can visit Baltimore, DC, or just peruse around Anne Arundel County. There are a lot of significant places dealing with colonial and Civil War history, great shopping, and quaint towns that are ready to be explored.

Chapel at the USNA

In the Senate Chambers at the State House!

Happy Traveling, folks! xoxo

Eastern Shore Thing

For the past few summers, Robby and I have been wanting to explore Chestertown, MD. Its historical significance, placement along the bay, and presence of the oldest college in Maryland has been enough to peak our interest to visit. Robby's family lives on the Eastern Shore in Rising Sun, and he spent most of his life growing up there. He goes crabbing around that area, but has never taken the time to go into downtown and simply walk around.

Because we went on a Saturday, beach traffic was insane. It still took us about 2.5 hours across the Bay Bridge, but if we had left earlier, we probably could have avoided some of it. If you don't have an EZ Pass, tolls are $6. If you don't want to want in the lines to pay cash, you can bust through an EZ Pass lane and get a $9 ticket in the mail. It's up to you.

The one good thing about going on a Saturday though, is that there are Farmer's Markets in almost all the small towns along the shore. Chestertown's Farmer's Market lasts from 8 am to 12 pm in their central square. When we got there, it wasn't a huge affair, but there was, of course, fresh produce and hand-cut flowers, wool, handmade craft jewelry, professional local pictures, and a pie-eating contest for the kids. It was also Crazy Days this weekend, which means that stores bring items out on the sidewalk to sell for majorly discounted prices. If you're looking to pick up that goose, rockfish, or crab insignia with the MD flag for your car, this would have been the weekend to do it.

The shops are quaint, the sidewalks are brick, and the houses are beautiful. You can follow High Street down to the water and walk along the docks, read about the Schooner Sultan, and spend some time along the Chester River. There are a variety of shops from traditional preppy menswear to shoes to music shops and the Prince Theatre to a bakery with fresh bread from 7 am to 5 pm. There is literally something that can be found for everyone. Even the history buff can read about Chestertown's involvement in the American Revolution all the way to Desert Storm just off the square in a War Memorial.

Before we left, we walked around Washington College's campus for a bit. We were mostly aiming to visit the bookstore and pick up some Flock gear, but during the summer, the store is only open Mondays thru Fridays. They failed to mention that on their website! But it was okay - they have an online store. The campus is beautiful with traditional brick buildings in colonial style mixed with more modern buildings. It's definitely worth a stop if you're driving through - maybe you'll get lucky and see the Lacrosse team doing an open practice!

We headed north up the shore to Rising Sun to see some of Robby's family. If you're ever in Rising Sun, stop at the Greenhurst Market and pick yourself up some crabs or a signature sandwich. Robby's Aunt and Uncle own the store (be aware - they're closed on Mondays), and it has that local Mom and Pop charm. They'll ask you where you're coming from and they'll tell you where to go, if you inquire.  Once we were on our way out, we went to Havre de Grace to see the Concord Point Lighthouse and walk along the Promenade there. It offers wonderful views of the bay and its wildlife. The CPL is the northern most lighthouse in Maryland and marks the spot of prominent activity during the War of 1812. There are informational plaques that span from the time of John Smith to the present as you walk along the planks. We went in the evening, and it couldn't have been a better atmosphere.

If you're in the area for longer, you should look into seeing an Aberdeen Ironbirds game or bask in the local Decoy and Maritime culture by visiting their museums (also in Havre de Grace). There are so many great things that Maryland's Eastern Shore has to offer. From small town charm to activities on the bay, hopefully you can find something you enjoy!

Happy traveling!