"Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air."
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Day 11

We visit Washington DC to catch a couple of the Smithsonian Museums that we missed last year: "Air and Space" and "The American Indian Museum" The Imax movie about black holes was quite compelling too.

Day 10: We spend time exploring the wall that Great Grandfather Michael built and visit special people in Pelham and Valhalla.

Day 9:

Ashley and I enjoy a ride on some mountain ponies with a new friend Brittany. I was a little skeptical when Brittany told Ashley she knew a place where we could really haul. I was hoping that 'haul' didnt have to do with excessive speed, but I was wrong. Anyway it was another great adrenaline rush that I dont regret this trip. Ashley was kind enough to put some daisies in my horse Daisy's bridle.

Day 8: Cool and Stormy...When squalls blow in from Canada they are very cold and moving fast. The sky turns black and the winds howl. Very exciting weather for someone like me that loves that kind of show. We found gaps in the weather to play tennis and take bikes to the top of the mountain. Now we are tucked in our room in the middle turret and the wind is howling outside. Downstairs they are planning s'mores and moose stories.

This is the 130 year old stable. Nice digs for these New Hampshire ponies!

Day 7 continued: We have been at Mt. Washington since tues and have decided to stay for the duration. Already we are planning a return trip. This place is magical. The kids love the cliffs, Jim and I love the veranda and the 1930's speakeasy in the basement called the cave.

Day 7: We want to start this day with a Happy Birthday wish for Adam. We hope that conditions are right for some waves today as we know you are happiest when your surfing. Your Merrick is on the way and you'll have great competitions in the future. We love you and are so proud of you. Have a great day! Love Mom, Dad, Austin, Ashley and Andrew.

Day 6: Lower Falls on the Pemi River is our new favorite place to explore barefoot.

More amazing news: Jim decides to let me drive for the first time this trip! Unfortunately 3 minutes later I was pulled over by a New Hampshire State Trooper who decided I should donate to the state. That will probably be the end of my driving this trip. Oh almost forgot: we saw a beautiful moose and her baby cross the road in front of us, and yes we "Brake for Moose." Not everybody can say that. I need a bumper sticker now.

Day Five: Exploring Flume Gorge and Loon Mountain