On the outskirts of New Market lies yet another worthwhile cavern adventure in the form of Shenandoah Caverns. Although not as heavily marketed as nearby Luray Caverns, Shenandoah has its own unique charm that make the hour tour notable. Driving onto the property you are greeted with several incongruous, larger than life (Ok, cheesy) cartoonish … Continue reading Shenandoah Caverns: 100 years of colorful caving
What is touted to be the most popular - and certainly the most advertised - underground experience in the country are Luray Caverns in the Shenandoah Valley. Since this U.S. Registered Natural Landmark is a mere hour's drive from Staunton, I would be remiss to start off my 2022 trips to Virginia caverns without visiting … Continue reading The Allure of Luray Caverns
A mere stones' throw (with a vigorous arm) from the better known Natural Bridge is a hidden gem for light hiking called the Locher Tract. With more than 370 acres, this accessible spot along the James River in the town of Glasgow, offers three shortish trails in a quiet area that abounds with local wildlife … Continue reading Taking on the Locher Tract
Have you ever noticed when you're thinking about buying a certain model car, that's all you see on the road? There is a similar phenomenon going on now during this COVID-19 crisis. I often feel books I've read or movies I watch have some connection in theme to what we are going through as a … Continue reading Steinbeck in Staunton
When I first brought him home from the Connecticut shelter, the tiny kitten was a snarling, spitting ball of shaggy grey fur and tiny (albeit sharp) Chiclet teeth. It took a few weeks for the rescue kitten to warm up to me. After several failed attempts to bond (I had to wear oven mitts just … Continue reading The Tao of Joey
Growing up in the '70's, I eagerly ingested a steady diet of post-apocalyptic films and books. Nothing set my heart a-twittter more than a film featuring the then-hunky Charlton Heston (pre-gun nut). I would beg my father to take us to the drive-in to see The Omega Man, Soylent Green (is people!) and of course, … Continue reading WWSD?
The oldest church in Staunton may arguably be one of the most awe-inspiring in the city. I'm talking about Trinity Episcopal Church, which sits gracefully on the edge of the downtown area offering a respite from the bustle (as if there were any) from the shops and restaurants anchoring my Virginia hometown. I'd been meaning … Continue reading A revival meeting
A few decades ago I started a collection of glassware called Amberina. It is pretty - yellow and orange colors melding into one pretty piece of glass - a pitcher, a sugar bowl or vase. When I was getting ready to move from Connecticut, I realized most of my Amberina collection was still in boxes, … Continue reading A Confederate victory
More than 200 years ago for literally pennies on the dollar, young Thomas Jefferson purchased a 157-acre tract of land that is now one of the most awe-inspiring state parks in Virginia. I'm talking about Natural Bridge State Park, a gorgeous tract that's a 45-minute drive from Staunton and so well worth the trip. The … Continue reading Natural wonder
Since it's officially fall and the start of the spooky season, I feel compelled to tout the many attributes of my new favorite Staunton haunt, Thornrose Cemetery. This 12-acre final resting place with its rolling hills, gorgeous statuary and jam-packed historical figures of long ago, is nestled on the West side of the city. It … Continue reading A stroll among the dead
Stanton with a "u" 