What? It's almost May?!

Sorry for another long lapse between posts. Facebook and Twitter are easier and faster for sharing bits of information about life. I've been thinking about giving up the blog entirely but I come back to it every now and then because I miss the journaling or chronicling aspect.

Here are a couple of pics from Troy's birthday (now more than a month ago). We were lucky to have friends from Minnesota visiting us. They loved the Virginia scenery and beer as much as we do! We had a really good time with them. It was really nice to get some one on one time with Vanessa and Rick. They have asked Troy to perform their wedding ceremony in Cape Cod this August. It will be an incredibly beautiful wedding, I am sure.

I'm sad to report that our favorite hiking spot nearby has now closed to the public. The city is building a new dam as a part of a long-term water plan for the community and so the Ragged Mountain natural area will be largely flooded as a result.

It's such a pretty and peaceful natural area, and it's within 10 minutes of our house. It's been a great place to visit to recharge my spirits in times of stress. I guess I'll need to find an alternative spot. Anybody have suggestions?

Back in the Blue Ridge again

One thing we love about Charlottesville is its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Over the past couple of weeks, we have ventured to the mountains twice (making last-minute plans both times). We feel lucky to be this close--within half an hour we can be in Shenandoah National Park.

Last weekend we went to Turk Mountain, one of our all-time favorite hikes. It's fairly short, but with the climb you get some good exercise--and it's a great view.

Turk Mountain view

Troy and Steve taking a breather at the top of Turk Mtn

One of these kids is not like the others.

Full moon over the brewery

This weekend has been a bit crazy as we have been prepping for a potential grant application for BradFest. We made a last-minute plan today to get out of the house for a few hours. It turned out to be a perfect fall day.

Oops! Can't see the scenery behind our big melons.

New favorite spot: Blackrock Summit. It's a scramble to the top but a pretty easy hike.

 Nature always helps me to relax and feel like a human again.