Middlebury USA

 Another outing!

This one to Middlebury IN for a train show.

Trolleys were available to transport us to the three main display areas,

but the three of us braved the cold temperatures.

Canes in hand, we walked!

 We honestly didn't know what to expect.

As it turned out, there were close to 200 vendors...

 and less than ten operating train layouts.

 The most fun for me was seeing it through a child's eyes--

 THIS one, for instance, who was invited by the operator to ring the bell on the train

 when it stopped in front of him!

 Of course, there were plenty of BIG kids, as well!

 My dad (far right beside my hubby below) was a trooper!

After touring the displays,

we settled down for a super dinner buffet at Das Dutchman Essenhaus.

The way there and the way home,

we drove back roads through beautiful Amish countryside.

I love the relaxation and restoration a day like this brings with it!

"It is my experience that journeys rarely take us where we think we're going.  
As Steinbeck wrote 'we do not take a trip, a trip takes us.'"
(from Miles to Go, by Richard Paul Evans - my current read)

The Day-After-New-Year's-Day

 Gray skies and a parking lot blanketed with vehicles...

a perfect day to spend a few hours at a table in the corner.

Four stacks of magazines--his and hers, read and unread.

f

 Ideas abounding!

 Inspiration-packed!

....and then home to share a breakfast-type supper

with Dad, sister & brother-in-law and the love-of-my-life.
Afterwards, we cleared the table to play a couple of card games.

Now, the evening draws to an end as the long third quarter of the Rose Bowl game continues.

I'll head upstairs to read my book soon...

What a relaxing way to spend the day-after-New-Year's-Day.
(I hope YOUR new year is off to an equally fulfilling start.)