July 5, 2008 – Bicycling at the Reservoir

This morning we made a trip back to the Askokan Reservoir with our bikes and had a wonderful ride (~4 miles).

Some pictures:

Back home, we have started to dismantle camp – today was the screen tent. This is the longest we have ever stayed in one spot. While it has been nice to really see the area and get to know some of the locals, we are ready to move on.

The workers had a picnic today and Audrey (one of the staff) brought us some fruit salad – fresh and delicious. Audrey has been really good to us every time she is working and it has been great talking with her. The ranger who works weekends, John, gave us a farewell (hug for me and handshake for Andy). John has always entertained us with stories. Everyone here has been absolutely wonderful.

One of the campers we met a few weeks ago is back in the park and stopped by today to chat (he asked if we were still here from before – yep!). Maybe we need to put out a mailbox. Oh, and last night, Andy lent a shovel to the young couple across from us. When they brought the shovel back, they gave us some grilled shrimp as a thank-you – mmmmmmm!

Although I liked having the park to ourselves, it has been very interesting people watching. But after two days, I am ready for some quiet in the evenings/nights!

And of course another great campfire!

June 19, 2008 – The World’s Largest Kaleidoscope and Ashokan Reservoir

Another beautiful day here in the Catskills! We did our morning walk around the campground and then headed to Mt. Tremper to see the world’s largest Kaleidoscope.

Since we were the only ones there for the show, we were able to lay on the floor and watch. WOW!! Kaleidoscopes always fascinated me – maybe because they are such a treat to the eye – the colors, the designs, etc.

After the show, we went into their shop where there were hand made kaleidoscopes. How unique. (No, we did not buy any!!). And there on display was the world’s smallest kaleidoscope. (Two extremes in one day!)

From there, we took a ride to the Ashokan Reservoir. This reservoir, built 1912-1915, along with the Schoharie (also in the Catskills) provides almost 40 percent of New York City’s daily water needs which is 1.3 billion gallons of water.

Some views:

It looks like they have a great hiking/biking path so we may return.

And on our way back to the car:

And another great campfire night!