Spring Carlisle Part 2

Day 118 - 55°- Sunny, Windy - Spring Meadows Park

Day 117 - 61°- Sunny - Spring Meadows Park

Day 116 - 61° - Sunny, Breezy - South Middleton Park

Our guests have arrived for the “Spring Carlisle” event this weekend.  One couple is from Massachusetts and the other  from Virginia.  Bradley is restoring a Chevy Impala circa 61-63 and Bill is restoring an Oldsmobile 422.  As I mentioned, this is one of the largest car part shows in the country, so this is the place to find that elusive fender or door or handle.

The weather is going to be cool and some showers tomorrow, but that doesn’t stop the thousands, and I mean thousands of car enthusiasts who converge on the Carlisle Fairgrounds for the weekend.

The car show guests are early risers because they love being at the show when the gates open.  I usually serve breakfast @ 7:00 or 7:30 am.  This weekend is no different.  The breakfast call is for 7 and 8.   Billy will have the coffee going at 5:45 am.

Tomorrow I will serve a fresh fruit cup, then scrambled eggs, home fries with sautéed apples and ham. This will be followed with an apple/cinnamon breakfast cake.  I believe that should hold them over to late afternoon.

I have everything laid out for tomorrow, so it is just a matter of getting up at 6 am and getting in the kitchen.

Of course I am so motivated because the kitchen is just about finished and looking awesome.  Tearing down the wall and adding a bay window has added so much light, I love working in there.

If you are interested in cars then a trip to Carlisle should be on your itinerary and we invite you to come stay at the Red Cardinal B&B.

Spring Carlisle at the Fairgrounds

Day 115 - 51° - Sunny, Cool - South Middleton Park

Day 114 - 42° - Rainy, Cold - Lerew Road

Beginning this weekend, Carlisle becomes a magnet for car lovers.   There are car shows every other weekend through the end of August at the Carlisle Fairgrounds.  These are huge events that attract visitors from all over the country and the world.

This weekend is Spring Carlisle and according to the website :

“As it has since 1977, Spring Carlisle (April 25-29) will jumpstart the Carlisle Events season schedule with its ever-popular swap meet, car corral and a two-day auto auction presented by Auctions America by RM. Spring Carlisle once again puts the focus on a one-of-a-kind shopping experience with unmatched camaraderie by those in attendance and the chance to interact with more than 100,000 like-minded people. “

When Billy and I moved to Carlisle, we had no idea that this popular event happened every summer.   We were interested in seeing what it was about and during our first summer as residents in Carlisle, we attended each event to get the flavor of the show and to see the cars on display.  I was amazed with the number of people and cars and vendors that were part of the weekend.  There were thousands of people at these shows.

Billy usually attends the motorcycle event in July, and now that we opened the Red Cardinal B&B, I enjoy seeing a “mini” show with the parade of cars that park in our driveway.

We have had guests from all Colorado, Texas, California  and Georgia.  Last year we had a couple from Ireland.  They all have a passion for cars, and very specific models at that. 

If you are interested in the different shows, you can check out the events at
http://www.carsatcarlisle.com/

If you come to an event, don’t forget to make a reservation at the Red Cardinal B&B.  We are booked with repeat guests for some of the most popular shows, but if we have an opening, we would love to have you as our guest. We have offstreet parking for your car and a great breakfast each morning before you take off to the Fairgrounds.

Reunion

Day 113 - 46° - Rainy, Cold - Lerew Road

Day 112 - 70° - Sunny - Glenn Mills, PA

This weekend was a time of nostalgia.  On Saturday, I attended  a reunion with my grade school classmates.  Yes, grade school!  I went with my best and dearest friend, Sally.  Sally didn't go to the grade school, as she moved into the neighborhood in 9^th grade, but she knew many of the girls since we went on to high school together.

I attended St. Laurence School through grade 8, and went on to Archbishop Prendergast High School (Prendie).  Many of the girls in my 8^th grade class went on to Prendie, so we were together for 12 years.  A couple of us went on to Immaculata College as well.

St. Laurence School was a “neighborhood” school.   There were plenty of kids in the neighborhood because many of us came from large families.  We had siblings in every grade.

In the morning, when I walked to school, I met up with other kids along the way.  Then at noon time, I walked home for lunch. Very few students rode the school bus.  And I can’t think of anyone who had their parent drive them to school.

The reunion was at a local restaurant where we use to frequent as teenagers. 

The night turned out to be a great time with lots of smiles and laughter and good memories of “remember when”.  It was “you look great”, “what have you been up to” and “we will have to do this again”.   Everyone was having a wonderful time.  I could tell by the lively chatter and grins from ear to ear.

There were some sad moments also, when I heard about the girls and guys that have died.  It made me realize how quickly time passes by for some of us.

I invited many of the girls to visit Billy and me at the Red Cardinal B&B.   One of the girls mentioned that her brother lives in Pittsburgh, and the Red Cardinal B&B would be a great half way point to meet.  I will be looking forward to her call to make a reservation.

Today, before heading home to Carlisle, I went to the First Communion Mass of my great-nephew, Brian.  The mass was at Sacred Heart Church.  This was another place along the nostalgia trail for me, as this is where I began my teaching career.  I taught 6^th grade math and science.

I’m sure there will be pictures on FB and the internet.  They will be sent out to the classmates who weren’t able to attend.  It would be great if one or two of the girls keeps in touch.

Carlisle is a lovely place to visit and the Red Cardinal B&B is a terrific place to stay. 

If you have a friend that you connected with lately, why not spend some time together.  Start by making a reservation at the Red Cardinal B&B.

Yard Sales

Day 111 - 72° - Sunny - Lerew Road

Day 110 - 72° - Sunny - Spring Meadows Park

Day 109 - 52° - Cool, Showers - South Middleton Park

Day 108 - 64°- Cool - Spring Meadows Park

I enjoy spring.  It is perhaps my favorite season of the year.  I look forward to the bright yellows of forsythia and daffodils that announce the season.  Next come the trees that begin to bud and bloom in a variety of beautiful blues and whites and pinks and greens. 

I begin to plan my garden for the year and plant the early vegetables of cabbage, lettuce, onions, broccoli and spinach.

But one of the most enjoyable parts of springtime is going on the “yard sale” hunt.  Billy and I anxiously await the daily paper as the list of “yards sales” begins. 

Our interest in yard sales began innocently enough.  We were traveling through Vermont and happen to see a “garage sale” sign.  So we decided to follow the sign and see where it might lead.   This particular route was one of the longest roads we traveled for a sale, but it was beautiful.  It took us to an area of Vermont that most likely would have been hidden to a “tourist”.    We were hooked.  Whenever we traveled after that day, we would follow a sign or two and discover some special places.

When we moved to Carlisle, we took the paper each week and our map and ventured out for the “sales”.  This was a perfect way to discover our new surroundings, talk to the "locals" and find a few bargains at the same time.  It was amazing how quickly we got to know the area.

Yard sales in this region usually begin on Thursday and go through Saturday.  There are few sales on Sunday since most people go to church.

We have found some great bargains and managed to find many items for the Red Cardinal B&B.   The fun now is that we get lists from family and friends for items that they need.  And if we aren’t in a hurry, we end up finding everything on the list - dishes, tables, fences, coffee pots, mowers or fountains.  Anything is possible to find if patience is your virtue.

The other enjoyable part of going to the "yard sales" is meeting the people. Billy loves to chat and there is always someone to listen.  Me - I am not a great chatterer.  I like to scan the items and move on, anxiously looking for the next bargain.

As I mentioned, we have learned about the area and we found some beautiful scenic routes.  If you come to Carlisle for a drive or a visit or for biking, make it a point ot stay at the Red Cardinal B&B.  We will help plan a great drive and you might even end up with a great bargain that you can take to "Antiques Road Show".

Happy Hunting.

The Wall is Down

Day 107 - 85°! - Hot - Spring Meadows Park
Day 106 - 73° - Overcast, Humid - Spring Meadows Park
Day 105 - 65° - Sunny - Spring Meadows Park

It was another busy weekend at the Red Cardinal B&B. Our guests were from Hingham, MA (Red Sox territory). Jack and Lucy were here to visit their daughter who attends Dickinson College. There was a community/college orchestral performance and Isabel played the violin in the orchestra.

During the 3 days they were here, Jack and Lucy left early in the morning and returned late in the evening. They got to see a lot of the area in this short time and ate at several restaurants in downtown Carlisle. Their daughter is a freshman, so we hope to see them over the next 3 years.



We also had family visiting from Connecticut. Dale and Mark came for an overnight and brought some new bedding that I ordered for the guest rooms!

When we said our goodbyes this morning, and the guests left, the contractor came and took the wall down in the kitchen.






What a difference it made. The change was unbelievable. The kitchen was bigger, brighter and even in this very rough stage, Billy and I were excited!



It was the classic - “Why didn’t we do this sooner”! But now that we did it, we can’t wait for the room to be finished.




I guess that’s how it is in life sometimes. It takes a long time to tear some walls down, but when they finally come down, doesn't it feel better? Doesn’t the situation seem brighter, and we say to ourselves - “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”

I can’t wait until we have guests at the B&B after the kitchen is complete. It will give an entirely different look to the Red Cardinal when you step through the front door. Of course, the warm, welcoming atmosphere will still be the same.

Kitchen changes

Day 104 - 62° - Sunny, Mild - Spring Meadows Park
Day 103 - 53° - Sunny, Cool - Spring Meadows Park

We are getting a “face lift” at the Red Cardinal B&B. We are extending our kitchen. For those who have been to the B&B, we are moving the wall with the door and window out toward the patio. We will make that an eating area with a bay window to overlook the fields. The floor will be redone and then an island will be added for more “work space”. After all, if I am going to make a strudel some day, I will need the space.

Billy and I are excited about the project. We have an excellent contractor. We expect the project to be completed by the end of the month. I’ll keep you informed.

We are busy this weekend with guests from Massachusetts and a family visit. The weather will be ideal.

Local farm stands and nurseries

Day 102 - 48° - Cloudy, WINDY and HAIL - South Middleton Park
Day 101 - 54° - Overcast - WINDY - Spring Meadows Park
Day 100 - 63° - Cloudy, Breezy - Lerew Road

My dear friend Ann came for an overnight visit on her way back to Cape Cod. Each spring when she visits, Ann comes with pansies in a yellow container. It adds a touch of spring to the house and fond memories.

Ann enjoys flowers and gardening as much as I, so we went on a tour around the area.

The first stop was at the Garden Gate Farm Market. If you are familiar with Dietch’s Farm Stand on Trindle Road, our neighbors have taken the lease and will have the grand opening in a couple of weeks. All the produce will be locally grown and a special addition will be colorful bouquets of cut flowers.

I am so excited about the flowers because at the Red Cardinal B&B we like to have fresh cut flowers in the guest’s room. And I know where I will get them!!!

From the Garden Gate, we headed over to Ashcombe’s Nursery (http://www.ashcombe.com/). I enjoy walking around and looking at the assortment of garden plants, because they have such a wide variety.

The vegetables were out, but around here it isn’t wise to plant until early May. Ann and I bought a 6 pack of Early Girl Tomatoes anyway and will keep them indoors for a couple of weeks.

There are many favorite garden centers in the area. If you head west of the Red Cardinal B&B, there is Lurgan which is very popular.

Recently, a nursery opened around the corner from the Red Cardinal B&B - Spring Garden Nursery. It is lovely. Even if you don’t buy anything, the view from this Nursery is spectacular.

So if you are in the area, come for a stay at the Red Cardinal B&B. You will enjoy the beautiful flowers in your room. And if you are taking a ride to enjoy the area, you might want to stop in some of the local garden centers! Spring is here.

Easter - A Celebration of Life!!

Day 99 - 61° - Sunny -Easter Sunday - South Middleton Park
Day 98 - 61° - Sunny, breezy - Spring Meadows Park

What a beautiful weekend and a truly blessed Easter. It was a weekend to celebrate the joy of the risen Christ and celebrate the many friends that have become a part of my life.

Yesterday after the guests were gone, the cleaning was done and Billy went off to the blessing of the motorcycles, I went to visit some friends and enjoy the outdoors.

I stopped by to see Jen, an older woman in our bible class. Jen’s husband has Alzeimer’s and Jen is his primary caregiver. She is so strong. I often go to visit Jen to offer her encouragement, but she is there to pat me on the back and send me off with something she just made.

Next on the route was Kim, owner of the Fallen Tree Farm B&B. I love to pop in on Kim. She has the greatest smile and laugh. There is always something interesting going on at her B&B. Kim and Brent were working on an outdoor “dance floor” for their wedding events. I can’t wait to see the finished product.

I continue on to see Minka, another church friend. Minka just had surgery on her foot and will be laid up for several weeks. Minka is another friend who is always in a postive, up beat mood. I am going to take her up on her offer to go walking and blogging. Of course, she will be walking in her wheelchair for a while.

Billy and I finished up on Saturday, with dinner at our neighbor’s house. Deb and Gary were some of the first people we met when we moved to Carlisle. They have always welcomed us into their family. Deb is great to visit because she loves to welcome everyone with a hug.

I finished the day with a few emails to family and friends who do not live in the area, but who are a special part of my life.

Today Billy and I attended church service and afterwards had Scott for breakfast. Scott is a friend who is so reliable and so down to earth. He never seems to be in a hurry and is always interested in what you have to say. Scott is another person who is positive and upbeat.

I managed to take Molly for a long walk before heading off to the Lairds for dinner. I walked along our usual path at the park, but from the opposite direction. I found this lovely wild flower that I believe is a Trout Lily.

I mentioned Lance and Doris in previous blogs. They are always so welcoming to Billy and me. We enjoy so many laughs when we are together. And of course, the dinner was great!

I am truly blessed with these wonderful people in my life. They all have struggles and challenges in their lives, but each one, in their own way, finds a way to celebrate life each and every day. I pray that the dear Lord continues to bless them all.

I am also truly blessed with a great and caring husband who also finds a way to celebrate life everyday. Praise God.

WINERIES

Day 97 - 60° - Sunny, breezy - Carlisle Barracks Golf Course
Day 96 - 63° - Sunny, breezy - Spring Meadows Park

Today our guests, Rudy and Helen left for Austria. They will be returning at the end of June with their 3 children. The family will spend a year in Carlisle while Rudy studies at the Army War College.

They found a house in South Middleton, so we will be “neighbors”. We are delighted. Last evening we celebrated the arrangement with a glass of wine. We were telling them about the many wonderful wineries we have in the area.

Some of the popular wineries are: Hauser Estate Winery (http://www.hauserestate.com/), Reids Orchard and Adams County Winery (http://www.adamscountywinery.com/) in the Gettysburg area.

If you take a scenic ride north there is the Hunter’s Valley Winery which has been around for @ 25 years (http://www.huntersvalleywines.com/), and a new winery Buddy Boy Winery & Vineyard in Duncannon, which we have yet to visit.

On April 28, from noon to 5 pm, Downtown Carlisle is presenting Art, Music and Wine. There will be a wine and food tasing event at particpating downtown businesses along W. Pomfret & S. Hanover Streets. You can purchase a wine glass which will be your pass through the event. Proceeds will benefit the W. Pomfret Street "Going Green” project and the Calrisle Arts Learning Center.

It sounds like a fun time. So call us and book a room. We can even have your glass on hand when you arrive!

If you are visiting the area, be sure to make a reservation at the Red Cardinal B&B. We can easily provide a map that will lead you through a wine trail of the area.

April

Day 95 - 73° - Sunny, breezy - Spring Meadows Park
Day 94 - 63° - Sunny - Spring Meadows Park
Day 93- 45° - Sunny, windy - Spring Meadows Park
Day 92 - 48° - Sunny, windy - Spring Meadows Park

This is a great time to walk in the park. All the kids are out practicing soccer and baseball. There are groups everywhere kicking the ball, or in the cage swinging at the ball. It is so alive as I make my round.

This has been a busy week thus far. We have guests for the week from Austria. They will be coming back in June for a year, as Rudolf (Rudy) will be an international student at the Army War College. It is our pleasure to give Rudy and Helen some “tips” as they pursue their house hunting and explore the area. The best part is that by the time they return they will know someone in the USA.

This weekend is Easter and we will have family and friends join us for the holiday.

At the end of April, guests will be coming in for Spring Carlisle at Carlisle Fairgrounds. (http://www.carsatcarlisle.com/). This event is the first of the summer car shows in Carlisle and we are already booked for several of them. We are getting excited to see repeat guests and meet new ones.

Check out the visitor’s guide to Carlisle ( http://www.visitcumberlandvalley.com/). and book a room at the Red Cardinal B&B. We will look forward to having you as our guest!