The carriage house leads a lush life all summer long. We’ll miss that thick layer of green vines come wintertime.
We may not be happy about the end of summer, but we’re taking consolation in using the fire pit in the back yard.
We seem to have a number of toads in residence with us. This little fella hopped along the side of the garage one day and, when I caught sight of him out of the corner of my eye, I let out a joyful little squeal. Then I pulled The Mister over and announced that we would call him Francis Hopper. Yes, I am apparently eternally six-years-old.
Speaking of the romance of train travel, here’s a chance to experience the glory days of riding the rails. Over three dates in October, you can board a mid-century style Pullman train in either Chicago or Madison and experience rail travel the way it was meant to be – stylish and romantic. The $199 “diamond class” fare includes a chef prepared made to order meal and beverages (including spirits!). There’s also a $99 standard class fare, with snacks and beverages available for purchase.
Having traveled with the masses on a standard Amtrak train, which felt akin to riding a Greyhound bus, I’d love to try out this first class train experience. The website shows passengers dressed in their finest. Let’s hope that encourages folks to ditch the flip flops and shorty shorts in favor of more tasteful attire.
Check out the Travel Pullman site for more information on riding the Varsity line.
Image: Travel Pullman
They don’t make small towns like they used to. So we consider ourselves lucky to be near a small town with a bakery, a movie theater, an antique mall and a grocery store. As far as we’re concerned, that’s all you really need in life!
Image: This American House
