Shenandoah National Park

Dad was here visiting with me this past week. We took off yesterday and headed to Shenandoah National Park, about an hour away from my house. It was a bit cloudy, but not too cold, and still had some great views.

Driving along "Skyline Drive", the road through the park

Click on this picture to make it bigger. . .it's worth it.

We even got to hike along the Appalachian Trail during part of the day!

The final view. . .with the sun setting. . .almost. 

Luray Caverns

The Luray Caverns are about 10 miles away from Shenandoah National Park, so we decided to head over there, too. Talk about some spectacular artwork by God, and NONE of it was visible unless you went underground to see it!

One of my favorite views.  It is a pool of water reflecting the roof above it.  It makes the water look really deep, but it is mere inches deep.  Truly beautiful.

Some stalactites growing right over the path where people walk.

This was an organ that played by hitting hammers on the rocks to create the sound.  It very unique. . .not exactly in tune, but cool.  Here is a link describing how exactly it works:  http://www.luraycaverns.com/DiscoverTheCaverns/StalacpipeOrgan/tabid/504/Default.aspx

A picture of the "hammer" of the organ hitting the rock.

This pool was called the wishing well.  The water is green from all the coins that people drop in.  Once a year, they gather the coins, and give them to charities (listed on the sign on the wall).

I Remember

Charleston, South Carolina Road Trip!

My new roommate, Caroline, had planned to go to Charleston with a friend this past weekend, but when the friend couldn't make it, I volunteered to drive down and enjoy it with her, since I'd never been there. It was a really fun trip! Our hotel was just on the other side of this magnificent bridge. We drove over this multiple times every day.

City center, Charleston!

Farmer's market on Saturday.  I got myself some souvenirs in the form of pictures and a hand made mug.

Cobblestone streets. . .the stones were round, unlike ones I've seen in Europe.

 A small pub in a really old building.

Battery park

Our view from the window where we had Sunday brunch. . .a hole in the wall local joint!

A great opportunity to get to know one another better, and a beautiful destination.  Visiting Charleston might have to be repeated someday!