Vermont? Yes. Vermont

Before Jerry and I married 29 years ago, I mapped out a trip to Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. It was a trip I was excited to go on!

But then I met Jerry, and I planned a wedding -- not go on a trip to Vermont. I've never lost the desire to visit Vermont. We did make it to Maine in '89, but a trip to Vermont never materialized.

                                                  Still blooming . . .

Sometime this year I wrote a list of things I wanted to do before I died. Visiting Vermont was one of my desires.

I was scheduled to take a few nights away this fall. Jerry went away in June and we agreed I'd go away in the fall. With Mom living with us, and the pups and Sam to care for, it was easier to take separate time away.

                                                Still blooming . . .

During the summer I thought about Lancaster, Hershey and Ohio of possible places to visit. I enjoy those areas greatly. That is until two weeks ago when the three of us were returning home from lunch in Emmitsburg.

"Go to Vermont," was spoken in my head. "Go to Vermont?" I thought. Where did that come from? I hadn't been thinking about Vermont at all. But the rest of the afternoon I pondered the possibility and that evening, when I told Jerry, he said ok.

Ever since then I've been planning the trip. I'll be visiting the southern part of Vermont coming in at Bennington. I'm splurging and staying in a B&B for the two nights I'll be in Vermont. The B&B is the home of Norman Rockwell, and it's just above the red covered bridge and white church that is so famously photographed.

I'm driving. Alone. I'll have my Booth Brother's CD, as well as Steve Green and John Starnes, and a few others to keep me company on the 9 to 10 hour drive.

                                                Still blooming . . .

Mom and Sam will get a vacation too, staying with friends for the week. Jerry will care for the pups and eat ribs from the Amish market. He's still not completely well from the pain in his back, so we're hoping he'll be feeling much better by the time I leave.

Another dream comes true this year of my 65th birthday. Two puppies in February; a new car and gaining health insurance in March, and a new camera this month (before I ever knew I'd be visiting the  beautiful place of my dreams).

       These two were giving me the eye as they watch over the little one sleeping on Wilson's Farm.

There won't be a new blog post next week because I'll be driving the back roads of Vermont, admiring mountains, lakes, covered bridges and wild life. Route 100 is one of the most scenic routes in America, says Reader's Digest.

Say a prayer for me as God brings me to mind. I've driven long distances before -- 35 to 40 years ago. But as my friend, Jackie, recently wrote to me: "I'm absolutely thrilled about your upcoming trip . . . and proud of you for pursuing a dream and having the courage to step out on your own and follow your heart."

                                                   Still blooming . . .

Psalm 37:4 says: "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Thank you, Father!"

                                           Abby and Jo wishing they were outside the gate!