News for today's 2018

Virginia back roads ... Foggy Ridge Cider

6:00 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrbWPXq5lRwGjLLfuwX-gZMCUdrlr6diIN-_HUw3pjiT26fS8CHvYjKWoYjU8_b04Lpiglf7W_SBlVfMs9NRplcpN6Z_OCIB1mdn4nEWawo6RmQLfookqRizXPY-rn5JmBdy-biGJOBPU/s1600/46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrbWPXq5lRwGjLLfuwX-gZMCUdrlr6diIN-_HUw3pjiT26fS8CHvYjKWoYjU8_b04Lpiglf7W_SBlVfMs9NRplcpN6Z_OCIB1mdn4nEWawo6RmQLfookqRizXPY-rn5JmBdy-biGJOBPU/s400/46.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">"It is indeed bad to eat apples. It is better to make them all into cider ."<br />--<i>Benjamin Franklin </i></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.foggyridgecider.com/">Foggy Ridge Cider</a> ... what a delightful discovery on the back roads of Virginia as we explored communities near the Blue Ridge Parkway! You've heard of Dugspur, right? <i>No?</i> It's a tiny little community tucked away off Rt. 58 in Carroll County, and that was where we were headed to check out this <a href="http://www.foggyridgecider.com/our-cider/our-cider.php">award-winning cider</a>. After all, September is apple season in the Commonwealth.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fPlXYKEyjZHByw0GPKBN_o1Per6hR5hj8fuqpda54z-KhBqwWekO-eS1K0rUaJFtwvDXcWpLaaqDbKCaO44UwJBItEatz2rMk-KuwQFIqmgYMjb9lCxagoyq9nDhrAFjPkSAcg_czMaF/s1600/47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fPlXYKEyjZHByw0GPKBN_o1Per6hR5hj8fuqpda54z-KhBqwWekO-eS1K0rUaJFtwvDXcWpLaaqDbKCaO44UwJBItEatz2rMk-KuwQFIqmgYMjb9lCxagoyq9nDhrAFjPkSAcg_czMaF/s400/47.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The <a href="http://www.foggyridgecider.com/">website</a> had an inviting greeting that intrigued me: "At Foggy Ridge Cider we value a rural life. Dirt roads, starry  skies and plenty of wildlife are more important to us than WalMart,  Hardees or a shopping mall. The surrounding three counties average 1.3  traffic lights and less than 20,000 people per county. This is a good  thing.While we're not on the beaten path, we are easy to find and will greet all visitors with a warm and gracious welcome."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwosUG5V159cCPmGJKw1xq0vbcGEwX9ckPPCc8vxrACF14v96y0plEwoN-ps2U1J6uccUagb3y8E63w7RbqdzzyXr09Nu-PWiaLFL5Ksgcz6rvPHPOmjVTycfyDUwGphnWzDn_k-Iy3AOf/s1600/48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwosUG5V159cCPmGJKw1xq0vbcGEwX9ckPPCc8vxrACF14v96y0plEwoN-ps2U1J6uccUagb3y8E63w7RbqdzzyXr09Nu-PWiaLFL5Ksgcz6rvPHPOmjVTycfyDUwGphnWzDn_k-Iy3AOf/s640/48.jpg" width="529" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I like places that are off the beaten path so we set out in search of Foggy Ridge Cider, following Buffalo Mountain in the distance and the wildflowers along the roadways and the occasional brightly-colored tree signaling fall had arrived. It was late September and the weather was sunny and cool.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We arrived just in time for a tasting with two other couples. Lynn was our warm and friendly server and entertainer, providing an excellent presentation of artisan cider and story-telling that kept everyone laughing as they tossed out verbal observations after each offering. The comfortable feeling was of seven friends enjoying an afternoon drinking hand-crafted cider while overlooking the orchard with Buffalo Mountain in the background.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQjlE5meeO-hRzuj9EGrcHgINJt8JP1vLu4Ck6M7E_VN76dGWt-RCQM0D23RC049dc-5NRSzB8aLTVywhBV9nSItNE30NF-7eAV1hhRbOB85WkJ3qLJaT1SQyPfxidkCSxNfkyBm6D6nh/s1600/45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYQjlE5meeO-hRzuj9EGrcHgINJt8JP1vLu4Ck6M7E_VN76dGWt-RCQM0D23RC049dc-5NRSzB8aLTVywhBV9nSItNE30NF-7eAV1hhRbOB85WkJ3qLJaT1SQyPfxidkCSxNfkyBm6D6nh/s400/45.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <a href="http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural_heritage/natural_area_preserves/buffalo.shtml">Buffalo Mountain</a>. It was said that in pioneer days, children were given permission to roam as long as they had Buffalo Mountain in their sights. It can be seen from a thirty-mile radius. It looms over the orchard at Foggy Ridge.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFIduslGmeNWmUcwC42R3hpHIORwmM0QXprIPLKEEG8yaWuh3xM8S4kbWnc3HiSJ-qMC6MmuxaNqYPQ2asZIwxFVFN2sr-9rMnsz5epYM4hvPAEmZlU_ts5wRkkkjQaNT7B1fujbniQX8/s1600/49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFIduslGmeNWmUcwC42R3hpHIORwmM0QXprIPLKEEG8yaWuh3xM8S4kbWnc3HiSJ-qMC6MmuxaNqYPQ2asZIwxFVFN2sr-9rMnsz5epYM4hvPAEmZlU_ts5wRkkkjQaNT7B1fujbniQX8/s400/49.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.foggyridgecider.com/our-cider/our-cider.php">Reviews</a> over the years have been numerous and glowing, as seen in the framed copies on the walls of the tasting room.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0-jROdD5xhW1YgNw7c5gAaUwS8gPhIllzACle420AGosnjRUf2I7wwZGRc-O0Ch1RiouiHgfKznaKFEJLySS3DD8Y5CB_9-Fl0uCz3AnjJ4MHV3Bj0KwXBeRV83rh7evKyg-VKjNiYtT/s1600/56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY0-jROdD5xhW1YgNw7c5gAaUwS8gPhIllzACle420AGosnjRUf2I7wwZGRc-O0Ch1RiouiHgfKznaKFEJLySS3DD8Y5CB_9-Fl0uCz3AnjJ4MHV3Bj0KwXBeRV83rh7evKyg-VKjNiYtT/s400/56.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUHrWo2W7oAnN6RYLIse4osfCUbq4btiKEqBchBJf-WlE2GsWmuCXe1IAivfmam1mvepr87Dk0GX5C1WcTszpDuKe6KBno7m_wJiwrA09MJsvuM6iVfGAnCMmgPahjT3RP262WbXjNgF8/s1600/57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUHrWo2W7oAnN6RYLIse4osfCUbq4btiKEqBchBJf-WlE2GsWmuCXe1IAivfmam1mvepr87Dk0GX5C1WcTszpDuKe6KBno7m_wJiwrA09MJsvuM6iVfGAnCMmgPahjT3RP262WbXjNgF8/s400/57.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Diane Flynt, owner and cider artist, wrote: "Simple is often best–think of a just caught whole fish brushed with  fruity olive oil and grilled on a bed of fresh herbs. Or pasta topped  with fresh tomatoes, basil and a syrupy balsamic vinegar. Simple is also  best with cider. Foggy Ridge Cider begins in the orchard with apples carefully selected  for their unique flavors and grown for taste, not appearance. In our  cidermaking, we aim to put this fruit in the bottle with minimal  manipulation."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGYf-X9lM_p_66axOGYdlwp47KEnBjOO-B61XtEjhS8xt6cmWCCRtbGWPgb0_X76AxYcQLFNAOOC9J8SeuGB76vJrJkFxROMaT0DrQLhTsNF1ubX0XHl4CmFFBZM1AXvyPNu48qsRaMOR/s1600/60.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGYf-X9lM_p_66axOGYdlwp47KEnBjOO-B61XtEjhS8xt6cmWCCRtbGWPgb0_X76AxYcQLFNAOOC9J8SeuGB76vJrJkFxROMaT0DrQLhTsNF1ubX0XHl4CmFFBZM1AXvyPNu48qsRaMOR/s400/60.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5im9z6ma8-AQM7hbNpRYO_jrIWymvBYseCQHaxrVrSWgDPigecCVjKmbYU70arkkmuw2O1HtwnTmFiF1-_ut6neCEgng-6jkQOvLvGy1dNNnRprotIz0hHUjgHTASlziP6SMzNeHDoMi/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ5im9z6ma8-AQM7hbNpRYO_jrIWymvBYseCQHaxrVrSWgDPigecCVjKmbYU70arkkmuw2O1HtwnTmFiF1-_ut6neCEgng-6jkQOvLvGy1dNNnRprotIz0hHUjgHTASlziP6SMzNeHDoMi/s640/1.jpg" width="484" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">We adopted three bottles to take home for enjoying and sharing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>First Fruit</b> cider blends early season American heirloom  apples to create a rich fruity cider with lively acidity to drink, like  Thomas Jefferson, on its own or with a meal.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> Foggy Ridge Handmade</b>, bottled in baby champagne  bottles, is for sale only at restaurants, retailers, and at Foggy Ridge Cider Mill. This crisp cider  made from Newtown Pippin apples has beautiful soft tannins and a  delicate apple flavor with light pear notes.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiTgJODnsteY5oOwSutBYdtCRNbXgS4UI5bO5n4x6C7PG5Ybh_3zIwChGprAeqxs3sBWveb49IN8f00ZNwVc_pLaJ6LTBPJX37SPsqUqcqypzJqgquFrIW4qMO1TFn0qV9phCH6ytRIYL/s1600/61.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiTgJODnsteY5oOwSutBYdtCRNbXgS4UI5bO5n4x6C7PG5Ybh_3zIwChGprAeqxs3sBWveb49IN8f00ZNwVc_pLaJ6LTBPJX37SPsqUqcqypzJqgquFrIW4qMO1TFn0qV9phCH6ytRIYL/s400/61.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Award-winning medals.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntd0lK-ED47zN7fAgYHUwuHM17iJn_FtS4cugbjOTs8rXLSf58EQ_bBNfg9oYXm9K979qK2dELwI-4OcrQblJJjEGnXVXBS66f_Zkq4n7IB-xD8r3AYWZm1OCw8WEi8wmCxgZAg_tX5GW/s1600/62.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntd0lK-ED47zN7fAgYHUwuHM17iJn_FtS4cugbjOTs8rXLSf58EQ_bBNfg9oYXm9K979qK2dELwI-4OcrQblJJjEGnXVXBS66f_Zkq4n7IB-xD8r3AYWZm1OCw8WEi8wmCxgZAg_tX5GW/s400/62.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36JW94rf2BOKMWDrPOrCS-g7XVCcKP6Sxbyu6c0Ls4hFqENJlrczVOFGiw7XdiJqFobHS_20oiQ_z2vrlCTQpSMp6TQAJpVbTsNg5mT0yLw25y3HbElE9D8Xbtg5cBx2DV7dp8ABnU3OF/s1600/63.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36JW94rf2BOKMWDrPOrCS-g7XVCcKP6Sxbyu6c0Ls4hFqENJlrczVOFGiw7XdiJqFobHS_20oiQ_z2vrlCTQpSMp6TQAJpVbTsNg5mT0yLw25y3HbElE9D8Xbtg5cBx2DV7dp8ABnU3OF/s400/63.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJJIDaW_JVs_1_FoqNgukxv4QtAwXZktwmxXrKnM_YVwvn2apWxdTLri10XoVzO5ksI2nNo_0zBVU2Sh5VIGMtkxpKaCMYa3kdghdCXdEYrt87hDuFJz7PJONqimv0_06TuwpeEALXj8H/s1600/64.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJJIDaW_JVs_1_FoqNgukxv4QtAwXZktwmxXrKnM_YVwvn2apWxdTLri10XoVzO5ksI2nNo_0zBVU2Sh5VIGMtkxpKaCMYa3kdghdCXdEYrt87hDuFJz7PJONqimv0_06TuwpeEALXj8H/s400/64.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77UHi9dUkvFMGPyl_h0kkqhGIaiDeIexXTyw4oV8gNk7xmE2cFaeWAYdaJaiqUsEXnqmTFgjLlWm5C7sjy5eIF3Ih0VCIft8y5FR-mr-vptvJj4daeH9fbJ79QIGMamWERzT4YeyXzx2D/s1600/65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77UHi9dUkvFMGPyl_h0kkqhGIaiDeIexXTyw4oV8gNk7xmE2cFaeWAYdaJaiqUsEXnqmTFgjLlWm5C7sjy5eIF3Ih0VCIft8y5FR-mr-vptvJj4daeH9fbJ79QIGMamWERzT4YeyXzx2D/s400/65.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB5Mv2hRtR3enQcMVhbXSEiTLo3WVImnGbC6dIXKWfrVWH9gblcw7A38hCi4qFzT61qr5GoYDtGd47Z5redTy9HJtIuWJakQggpkddJbI1r96v1z8F_7ndrMWkjdHYsD97A_IZIxbTca2c/s1600/66.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB5Mv2hRtR3enQcMVhbXSEiTLo3WVImnGbC6dIXKWfrVWH9gblcw7A38hCi4qFzT61qr5GoYDtGd47Z5redTy9HJtIuWJakQggpkddJbI1r96v1z8F_7ndrMWkjdHYsD97A_IZIxbTca2c/s400/66.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFieYlJynERiX8E1Lfc4mvdNQpTNk5U1Q0r8TJx5bIZsJuWrdyXgLFaNUj3mNIHK0KQuEcAxph3zpA_8m9rjYexBIwsuRlXXXYlv7JnmLNTP1_OCOw5u2OOj5YmHnmlnAqZod9TAJa8ie4/s1600/67.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFieYlJynERiX8E1Lfc4mvdNQpTNk5U1Q0r8TJx5bIZsJuWrdyXgLFaNUj3mNIHK0KQuEcAxph3zpA_8m9rjYexBIwsuRlXXXYlv7JnmLNTP1_OCOw5u2OOj5YmHnmlnAqZod9TAJa8ie4/s640/67.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Overlooking the apple orchards ... Buffalo Mountain is in the distance.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieEteSJ-26iwcz5IQKFx72p3bsK4HJAgBQTbJGKZnrAhjUNkt3HZNvOW8lHrdoiJoEjETa_vXQuGGGrDFBKmd_fT_nMBsphxQODCf09b8tRnrgBktHKqEPJ1JcHOfEAMrNZpzlrO0VPQPD/s1600/68.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieEteSJ-26iwcz5IQKFx72p3bsK4HJAgBQTbJGKZnrAhjUNkt3HZNvOW8lHrdoiJoEjETa_vXQuGGGrDFBKmd_fT_nMBsphxQODCf09b8tRnrgBktHKqEPJ1JcHOfEAMrNZpzlrO0VPQPD/s400/68.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYNSo4NlAhTZw4Y3hufkB52HFBtzMnuL4tyRakVLL2jkouFBn2a0X11_rVZYfxckc7xopKRB_bbUyL6xbAvw1Z20w9-sfDC9vfJVIdn1zLQcAElPpnrVx0axac6lvLi3AiYe0qcisFKK-/s1600/70.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYNSo4NlAhTZw4Y3hufkB52HFBtzMnuL4tyRakVLL2jkouFBn2a0X11_rVZYfxckc7xopKRB_bbUyL6xbAvw1Z20w9-sfDC9vfJVIdn1zLQcAElPpnrVx0axac6lvLi3AiYe0qcisFKK-/s400/70.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Y5ssweoYHIVXRXLUPeH7A54_h4JftrX9ov6CPUzNaO8XDHnsWCL141q3-n-oTxWA-UMtdqhOheZmEllvqQV4svEmvvgj3P7_QXK3TYujtIdeyHoaUUCF7UTxpfZcVfhU9TKwCc4P9P2C/s1600/50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Y5ssweoYHIVXRXLUPeH7A54_h4JftrX9ov6CPUzNaO8XDHnsWCL141q3-n-oTxWA-UMtdqhOheZmEllvqQV4svEmvvgj3P7_QXK3TYujtIdeyHoaUUCF7UTxpfZcVfhU9TKwCc4P9P2C/s640/50.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmF3-7BayPSdcSscF8lRPpSrquuGNhJeKTAEAlaq6GlP1qGwQjGGWsxQxGvjGhvAzTuqtVRnNX7hDsPpr1zBzhclWnqs8lnYkkry0hGxkKnVWnHXfQuWYgLvYUgUObL7CB8iHp3qKztm19/s1600/51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmF3-7BayPSdcSscF8lRPpSrquuGNhJeKTAEAlaq6GlP1qGwQjGGWsxQxGvjGhvAzTuqtVRnNX7hDsPpr1zBzhclWnqs8lnYkkry0hGxkKnVWnHXfQuWYgLvYUgUObL7CB8iHp3qKztm19/s400/51.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjG-kZQywh-PM6G15YQMYz2eaSxRBN1g-KMF490j1T7SywSoOWH8zcbzu4HcCqbX4lbc_hM7yIG94aNXpj6NsbPsUgLfX03z_0VqfEB61E-m8EBiYbQdFNtzeOVsUToQi09Gpe1gIRSviK/s1600/52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjG-kZQywh-PM6G15YQMYz2eaSxRBN1g-KMF490j1T7SywSoOWH8zcbzu4HcCqbX4lbc_hM7yIG94aNXpj6NsbPsUgLfX03z_0VqfEB61E-m8EBiYbQdFNtzeOVsUToQi09Gpe1gIRSviK/s400/52.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILkK98Csepc34KyMt5gPUocWa2igRGqfkjxigS9KPtt_16EYvCCVWfFTheq46306ghzbVGRdtO1o6UOWm0zOqzTzOe51z9rmgF3YzymMyZWrx_VG31P24OyYoH1pESBhEPGjnloi-kiqL/s1600/53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILkK98Csepc34KyMt5gPUocWa2igRGqfkjxigS9KPtt_16EYvCCVWfFTheq46306ghzbVGRdtO1o6UOWm0zOqzTzOe51z9rmgF3YzymMyZWrx_VG31P24OyYoH1pESBhEPGjnloi-kiqL/s400/53.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgxWLnkOxn4Wa-PWQDUAFMq0_zcK8jjvRDhiHq_pCeHUiO-nt8WA5rwcjxFRvGu8Hj5_fCBr5DveieL-0b1nyYtr3F4y2YPzGflCKEmLSpnTYTmJNqI9Cp_rLYt3xEwbdOcuCdo5LTh0g/s1600/54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgxWLnkOxn4Wa-PWQDUAFMq0_zcK8jjvRDhiHq_pCeHUiO-nt8WA5rwcjxFRvGu8Hj5_fCBr5DveieL-0b1nyYtr3F4y2YPzGflCKEmLSpnTYTmJNqI9Cp_rLYt3xEwbdOcuCdo5LTh0g/s640/54.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1iRmr4nF30rplbdr_jKBorZtTnSKPhJNHpF-RoHrhkrYTOMy1mvX8JBQIkvaFr9FKOcZLOLa2R31t82oWXyPmq21kpIIS93eUKDyvediLfFxLCbGZBT6Falv5D-Tmu5j30qnTZQioH3JH/s1600/55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1iRmr4nF30rplbdr_jKBorZtTnSKPhJNHpF-RoHrhkrYTOMy1mvX8JBQIkvaFr9FKOcZLOLa2R31t82oWXyPmq21kpIIS93eUKDyvediLfFxLCbGZBT6Falv5D-Tmu5j30qnTZQioH3JH/s640/55.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZg56mkkhvH2o7iPA9PzrmzxWSZXlGNIHLwlTp7Ai8YTFRGSTvj2016vu2hKqOOBbtm94omjCupq_tOjmsOqpTprZunbRQguTLq4SBfggMBpsb9cG1npjT1KAOP4PNDbvthxI1P1TzeJb-/s1600/59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZg56mkkhvH2o7iPA9PzrmzxWSZXlGNIHLwlTp7Ai8YTFRGSTvj2016vu2hKqOOBbtm94omjCupq_tOjmsOqpTprZunbRQguTLq4SBfggMBpsb9cG1npjT1KAOP4PNDbvthxI1P1TzeJb-/s640/59.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sometimes the best treasures are found in the tucked-away corners of Virginia and beyond. Foggy Ridge is one of those treasures. Years ago I said there had never been a gravel road that I didn't want to explore and find out where it went. Thankfully, SWAC Husband indulges my free spirit and good-naturedly goes along with my curiosity which has resulted in a lifetime of special memories sharing the places we've traveled and the sights we've seen.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This was just one more stop on our September journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway as we continued south to North Carolina....</div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />September 27, 2013

Virginia back roads ... Foggy Ridge Cider

"It is indeed bad to eat apples. It is better to make them all into cider ."--Benjamin Franklin Foggy Ridge Cider ... what a delightful discovery on the back roads of Virginia as we explored communities near the Blue Ridge Parkway! You've heard of D…

Peaks of Otter Lodge now OPEN

4:20 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETuN4mBg3I5xbroAvZEAHMD25TMlpURJCWgVEK8ZQLy4b67TDb5FkawTCx7DCXEG2R8b73amv9GY_Ea-YZuQIomamxdv3L8C3c3UC2diY-dAb1knuWyYDZJFtAOlZtjgDjc4cBsslbDWF/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETuN4mBg3I5xbroAvZEAHMD25TMlpURJCWgVEK8ZQLy4b67TDb5FkawTCx7DCXEG2R8b73amv9GY_Ea-YZuQIomamxdv3L8C3c3UC2diY-dAb1knuWyYDZJFtAOlZtjgDjc4cBsslbDWF/s400/23.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Peaks of Otter Lodge with Sharp Top Mountain in the background.</i></div><br />Good news! Peaks of Otter Lodge and Restaurant have reopened amid the continued government shutdown, good news for travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway during peak autumn leaf season.<br /><br />The company that runs the concession released a statement, according to <a href="http://www.wset.com/story/23675586/peaks-of-otter-lodge-re-opens">WSET TV-13</a>:<br /><blockquote><i>"Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts is thrilled to  announce the re-opening of Peaks of Otter Lodge effective noon Saturday,  October 12. The restaurant will open with a limited menu for dinner  service. The shuttle to Sharp Top Mountain will not be operating as all  National Park Service services remain closed. We would like to thank our  employees and our guests for their support and loyalty.  <br /><br />Our employees are excited to get back to work serving guests and  creating memorable experiences. Fall is a beautiful time to visit Peaks  of Otter Lodge and we look forward to continuing a successful first  season as operators.  <br /><br />Peaks of Otter Lodge is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway - an  open and gate-free commuter road. Because of its unique position, we  were able to re-open the iconic and popular property just in time for  the best views of fall foliage. The Lodge is open through December 1.<br /><br /> Shenandoah National Park, among other national parks where  Delaware North operates, remains closed due to the government shutdown.  We remain hopeful for a resolution in the near future."</i></blockquote>

Blue Ridge Parkway Delaware North Companies & Resorts government shutdown National Park Service Peaks of Otter reopening tourism Virginia Is For Lovers Peaks of Otter Lodge now OPEN

Peaks of Otter Lodge with Sharp Top Mountain in the background.Good news! Peaks of Otter Lodge and Restaurant have reopened amid the continued government shutdown, good news for travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway during peak autumn leaf season.The …

Nancy's Candy Company in Meadows of Dan

2:22 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08iJl7Ep9Xg5YTFyjiymD3uH0xTXDRXwtD1dFMkEao2obi2VdudYmn1TdOr-519bYAhWc2FdYk4MXnkWCUYVWqtwAo14sEMvgf_OPQ3H-Qtwasur2KwfV8Lfx_uQdfnlHOHK8eyP92mJ5/s1600/32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08iJl7Ep9Xg5YTFyjiymD3uH0xTXDRXwtD1dFMkEao2obi2VdudYmn1TdOr-519bYAhWc2FdYk4MXnkWCUYVWqtwAo14sEMvgf_OPQ3H-Qtwasur2KwfV8Lfx_uQdfnlHOHK8eyP92mJ5/s400/32.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">We stumbled on Nancy's Candy Company while traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway in September. SWAC Husband picked up a small package of cinnamon candy at Explore Park outside Roanoke and discovered it had been made in Virginia at Meadows of Dan. We were heading south on the Parkway so decided to look it up.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5_M-kxgSdWAd7xmZCRvwQhOTqeviaWLiiDP5jSUwIQcSZIHBKrK29u16-fMm5aBYq9-JIwoYuprBET2GfdM1DNgPKh-ZR1aohyjR7uK_SLHMpxv6YA9SzbyL5Jscy27eoiK_YNhI_kEV/s1600/33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5_M-kxgSdWAd7xmZCRvwQhOTqeviaWLiiDP5jSUwIQcSZIHBKrK29u16-fMm5aBYq9-JIwoYuprBET2GfdM1DNgPKh-ZR1aohyjR7uK_SLHMpxv6YA9SzbyL5Jscy27eoiK_YNhI_kEV/s640/33.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Within a mile of the Parkway at Meadows of Dan, there it was -- Nancy's Candy Company -- all decorated for Halloween.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Tkhk-8dpojFvUjXbAeIbWxYtiZqMKKfVTS4QGCI2yTTt5UM9W9gVkye6eSDf-FL6HufhcdNR02lqM9PNu48B_N4-NRXhftOibTjFB9CP8ueeI7HYUuxiJovwE2vQ9-wKHW2f_EoFBFJA/s1600/41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Tkhk-8dpojFvUjXbAeIbWxYtiZqMKKfVTS4QGCI2yTTt5UM9W9gVkye6eSDf-FL6HufhcdNR02lqM9PNu48B_N4-NRXhftOibTjFB9CP8ueeI7HYUuxiJovwE2vQ9-wKHW2f_EoFBFJA/s400/41.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">It all started with this little package of cinnamon candies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFNPoE9RJgNR7aR-oQznGt6HE6_hBI8viHFDCMe_ug6fB6y0cp-8L71Ds_INulqBShvYY0jti54cXDIkX88rU-bUmS0m9tJW7H01A4JFy5dE_p0DS3SWEIZ510-yuYiTs5K9jVAjCzrz0/s1600/34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFNPoE9RJgNR7aR-oQznGt6HE6_hBI8viHFDCMe_ug6fB6y0cp-8L71Ds_INulqBShvYY0jti54cXDIkX88rU-bUmS0m9tJW7H01A4JFy5dE_p0DS3SWEIZ510-yuYiTs5K9jVAjCzrz0/s400/34.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nancy's makes some candies and packages some bulk products. Their selection of fall and Halloween candies was impressive.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cPcssOv_AwIPN9huOxLmajodb4rbSBMKB227nzjti1Q9LgmYWXDrNxWWqnZq9kZcYfjnhDAIyLVtznyKhfbzNtNmJx8StYSEsQPvW7b0zeY9EfhFwgYAs9HOM86GtL6M8Dh_t3_zfrSW/s1600/35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cPcssOv_AwIPN9huOxLmajodb4rbSBMKB227nzjti1Q9LgmYWXDrNxWWqnZq9kZcYfjnhDAIyLVtznyKhfbzNtNmJx8StYSEsQPvW7b0zeY9EfhFwgYAs9HOM86GtL6M8Dh_t3_zfrSW/s400/35.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyIDV7HIoK-bpOozgdVnLVbgYNrVRe5ImlnX9jWIlCHhgClphqBdAYT9a2WHz_Zun57nbsYDIgU904UwfxRl2-HM564OY4i-hi-EsgaJaUV4oIY-y-B8sshplw57OuKlMN95oDNjW8Ozq5/s1600/36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyIDV7HIoK-bpOozgdVnLVbgYNrVRe5ImlnX9jWIlCHhgClphqBdAYT9a2WHz_Zun57nbsYDIgU904UwfxRl2-HM564OY4i-hi-EsgaJaUV4oIY-y-B8sshplw57OuKlMN95oDNjW8Ozq5/s400/36.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_K6rXtF0YymzPBSd-yn8J37vhEx7Ac3lbxXjNzbcm3q3SCrBKMnpQSK_K4_ZHBWMQovHBwDbYfrzmbV8hD96lZRyqCcxYyg76HfqXadTpZjbOQPBhMTxCFGMo2nQJV-b22GkSNrBGMD-/s1600/37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_K6rXtF0YymzPBSd-yn8J37vhEx7Ac3lbxXjNzbcm3q3SCrBKMnpQSK_K4_ZHBWMQovHBwDbYfrzmbV8hD96lZRyqCcxYyg76HfqXadTpZjbOQPBhMTxCFGMo2nQJV-b22GkSNrBGMD-/s400/37.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFR8dMXQ6ve6Ty6BOdswJbf6wV-s3IUrA6049OOwJ8GTR8CYXyqlhJJdBVtQZErW0X4My0zoRGE3Iu7lORvCxg99ubmIdlEqj_CWXZcwR1JEZywc8SWY9UmuaUxTbIyDCrcWiYidR81jd5/s1600/38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFR8dMXQ6ve6Ty6BOdswJbf6wV-s3IUrA6049OOwJ8GTR8CYXyqlhJJdBVtQZErW0X4My0zoRGE3Iu7lORvCxg99ubmIdlEqj_CWXZcwR1JEZywc8SWY9UmuaUxTbIyDCrcWiYidR81jd5/s400/38.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9z0fnU-OZTkFjR01OnoZxaXKrbIFCctvTMWjRBsUMU6Zod5aea3QMSL9mJC2vpE9oavtvwiQk-eBxS5qqRVnniGDOs0pLR0NZkTDBE5dZT_nWSa0vRtYDynIe5itkJp_i8NY8NBp3kEak/s1600/39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9z0fnU-OZTkFjR01OnoZxaXKrbIFCctvTMWjRBsUMU6Zod5aea3QMSL9mJC2vpE9oavtvwiQk-eBxS5qqRVnniGDOs0pLR0NZkTDBE5dZT_nWSa0vRtYDynIe5itkJp_i8NY8NBp3kEak/s400/39.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">There was an even wider selection of homemade candies that are crafted on-site in the candy kitchen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HiSOZyDT7Hma6OrPSFP0H9IF0tSB21pVvFt2E_uB8elpundvLb1wplGxOC2CPI8FSDfXa0GCqLCGnRirT9JSuKpkBqHE1Sb3LHE-2DhSQp6GeU5Y0WtulWZ6bxIkugYeSwmOlajgWVKT/s1600/40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2HiSOZyDT7Hma6OrPSFP0H9IF0tSB21pVvFt2E_uB8elpundvLb1wplGxOC2CPI8FSDfXa0GCqLCGnRirT9JSuKpkBqHE1Sb3LHE-2DhSQp6GeU5Y0WtulWZ6bxIkugYeSwmOlajgWVKT/s400/40.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />From Nancy's website:<br /><blockquote>In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains is a small mountain community                where pride in accomplishment is still important. This is the                home of my Candy Factory. With the help of caring neighbors,                we make the greatest tasting fudge, chocolates and truffles.<br /><br />Using the finest chocolate, fresh cream and butter and a little                extra patience, I developed my original recipe for creamy fudge,                decadent truffles, homestyle chocolates and lots more. Folks                say our candy is the best they’ve ever had. <br /><br />Come visit us and shop our three candy stores – you’ve                never seen so many luscious chocolates, mouth- watering fudges,                artisan truffles and handmade candies. And at factory prices!</blockquote>If you're near Meadows of Dan or Mabry Mill or that part of Virginia, stop by and visit with the folks at Nancy's.<br /><br /><i>Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell</i><br /><i>September 27, 2013</i>

Blue Ridge Parkway candy makers Mabry Mill Meadows of Dan Nancy's Candy Store tourism Virginia Virginia Is For Lovers Nancy's Candy Company in Meadows of Dan

We stumbled on Nancy's Candy Company while traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway in September. SWAC Husband picked up a small package of cinnamon candy at Explore Park outside Roanoke and discovered it had been made in Virginia at Meadows of Dan. We were …

Afton Mountain's popcorn man

11:31 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyD57WX-HC2gjtROq0jcrmdDovRpoSEQRXpiuwVHi48_MSkjEBcU_MH2tG-0EPpI_UZVaSBSAo1yRlvBRNz__NGy2hugXYycacSptyNF1Glh0UH97A4_yg5-jK6mX_HdsBH-WNQsRfbrwF/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyD57WX-HC2gjtROq0jcrmdDovRpoSEQRXpiuwVHi48_MSkjEBcU_MH2tG-0EPpI_UZVaSBSAo1yRlvBRNz__NGy2hugXYycacSptyNF1Glh0UH97A4_yg5-jK6mX_HdsBH-WNQsRfbrwF/s400/20.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>King's Gourmet Popcorn on Afton Mountain</i></div><br />"If you build it they will come." Or, perhaps more appropriately, they will stop and buy.<br /><br />Ron King has found a market for snacks on Afton Mountain with <a href="http://www.kingsgourmetpopcorn.com/">King's Gourmet Popcorn</a> located at the juncture of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Skyline Drive, I-64, and Rt. 250. With views into the Rockfish and Shenandoah valleys, millions of tourists pass that way annually.<br /><br />Once an oasis for hungry travelers, the past 15 years have not been kind to Afton. The Inn at Afton formerly known as the Holiday Inn, the Howard Johnson Restaurant, service station, and everything else have fallen into disarray. Only the Inn remains open. The sight of burned-out buildings and graffiti is not what most would expect while traveling the scenic mountain ridges.<br /><br />That's why King's bright yellow vendor trailer, decorated now for fall with brightly colored chrysanthemums, hay bales, and orange pumpkins, is a welcome sight for hikers, travelers, and locals alike. He is filling a need, as evidenced by his steady customer base and ever-growing menu selections.<br /><br />Eighteen months ago he started with a tarp and kettle korn pot, cooking the salty-sweet goodness on site while servicing curious customers. That fall he was joined by the apple man.<br /><br />Then King's Gourmet Popcorn began branching out, offering bottled water and icy cold soft drinks followed by a wider variety of flavored popcorn and then pork rinds. That was followed by the bright yellow vendor trailer that replaced the tarp and kettle. He added picnic tables, hotdogs, coffee, ice cream, walking sticks, and tee shirts. A Facebook page was established that now sports 600 followers and comes in handy when late afternoon storms cause early closings, conveniently announced online. There's even a small neon "Open" sign that flashes when he's on site.<br /><br />In short, King's Gourmet Popcorn is now a fixture on Afton Mountain, sought after by travelers who have become familiar with his offerings. My husband stops almost every time we're in the vicinity, grabbing his favorite bag of kettle korn before heading north on the Drive or south on the Parkway, and even sometimes as we head east on I-64 toward Richmond.<br /><br />Ron King is becoming a tradition. But he's not finished. Plans are to add more food selections, mail order, and additional flavors. Many would be happy if he proved to be the seed that began the rebirth and rebuilding of Afton Mountain.<br /><br />An interesting article by Waynesboro reporter Roger Gonazlez shares more about King Gourmet Popcorn and Ron King in <a href="http://www.dailyprogress.com/newsvirginian/mountain-munchies/article_7b29ef1c-b0e2-11e2-b523-0019bb30f31a.html"><i>The News Virginian</i></a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>If you go:</b></i></span><br /><blockquote>Kings Gourmet Popcorn<br />Afton Mountain, I-64, Exit 99 (look for the bright yellow vending trailer)<br />Open: 7 days a week <br />Follow on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KingsGourmetPopcorn">Facebook</a><br />Website: <a href="http://www.kingsgourmetpopcorn.com/">King's Gourmet Popcorn</a></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQclunh_WY1uCaC0XNNAYP3wu1tt7QX9QUjtnDQbN_miM_9_0f1vwPQ8ktusoRQutvw-dshuCxUGNQ2OZw1fQOa4ciTmRce9V8GC8fw5YErOCHdvQEKbNqxLcBCg05ejUiczdvF2u82g_v/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQclunh_WY1uCaC0XNNAYP3wu1tt7QX9QUjtnDQbN_miM_9_0f1vwPQ8ktusoRQutvw-dshuCxUGNQ2OZw1fQOa4ciTmRce9V8GC8fw5YErOCHdvQEKbNqxLcBCg05ejUiczdvF2u82g_v/s640/19.jpg" width="356" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qCZP4fgct9dJWHloPF5rA5bSNEDXCV8bm2VbKKv5uUx60cOxkQeTqVik8fE1m3v7n8EPBV7G9xkdABBvyMsqR0_MLOUz8NdynjLJuD318LY5d64mhKSclIcu5Vw1uiZA7MASSJemfuMT/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qCZP4fgct9dJWHloPF5rA5bSNEDXCV8bm2VbKKv5uUx60cOxkQeTqVik8fE1m3v7n8EPBV7G9xkdABBvyMsqR0_MLOUz8NdynjLJuD318LY5d64mhKSclIcu5Vw1uiZA7MASSJemfuMT/s400/21.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xJb-Bm2O1yIfF9nJMjbYnVqsFjVBR9gGWZSEBAbybk7FwJ2YB0Hu03libqtjXZ-0mSGcIwAi3h_h8eIhB3r4g4qXq_HFjPBIj9kBvPxd4MVDM2CAv0j6O5XkxKRnqOYzVBHjp_ZvgJlw/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xJb-Bm2O1yIfF9nJMjbYnVqsFjVBR9gGWZSEBAbybk7FwJ2YB0Hu03libqtjXZ-0mSGcIwAi3h_h8eIhB3r4g4qXq_HFjPBIj9kBvPxd4MVDM2CAv0j6O5XkxKRnqOYzVBHjp_ZvgJlw/s400/22.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSMzHui5PTPJ3N_DdMKMBlk-GuG_V9bBjZT0oZzJCjUef61whn4nBy28LfSGXjIfi01YWR8j8km96XsY6Ge-hSivWm6J7ddkQKwRAp_0MAFDy5tLz6hq4C5Q50589vHaWlDGU-vZjejOc/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSMzHui5PTPJ3N_DdMKMBlk-GuG_V9bBjZT0oZzJCjUef61whn4nBy28LfSGXjIfi01YWR8j8km96XsY6Ge-hSivWm6J7ddkQKwRAp_0MAFDy5tLz6hq4C5Q50589vHaWlDGU-vZjejOc/s400/23.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtuQ1cUHX51HzrmXm5BCfWB3qxzVfj0cAfn7kwLV8GY29Voq9r_QHRB_FVAolg4_pKoH3LsiGR2IxC62xqSbpIpSUR_YrtkXqjwM5L6qcYBFr8BLadiQ8zrtNFRTN-yI6asvUWmkeaTwW/s1600/24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtuQ1cUHX51HzrmXm5BCfWB3qxzVfj0cAfn7kwLV8GY29Voq9r_QHRB_FVAolg4_pKoH3LsiGR2IxC62xqSbpIpSUR_YrtkXqjwM5L6qcYBFr8BLadiQ8zrtNFRTN-yI6asvUWmkeaTwW/s400/24.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Afton Mountain overlooks (from top to bottom) Skyline Drive, I-64, and Rt. 250.</i></div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />October 11, 2013

Afton Mountain Blue Ridge Mountains Blue Ridge Parkway King's Gourmet Popcorn Ron King Shenandoah National Park Skyline Drive tourism Virginia Is For Lovers Afton Mountain's popcorn man

King's Gourmet Popcorn on Afton Mountain"If you build it they will come." Or, perhaps more appropriately, they will stop and buy.Ron King has found a market for snacks on Afton Mountain with King's Gourmet Popcorn located at the juncture of the Blue …

Foggy Blue Ridge Parkway

5:44 PM Tukiyooo 0

Blue Ridge Parkway fog on mountains Shenandoah Valley Foggy Blue Ridge Parkway

Photo by Lynn R. MitchellOctober 12, 2013…

Humpback Rock on foggy October day

2:30 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEE679JNvi9gICqmnruC2rcptoYoA0XdCvc1FUEe-ijaxnp5GkaPa9Z-LbNL1-rWqjZ0dB651MfNSfdOvSY3-skAAwGgNBKkbUd6rPOD_i9RQZoVPwnUPcBBiBPHdzg6ZefDh56UfcP8xH/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEE679JNvi9gICqmnruC2rcptoYoA0XdCvc1FUEe-ijaxnp5GkaPa9Z-LbNL1-rWqjZ0dB651MfNSfdOvSY3-skAAwGgNBKkbUd6rPOD_i9RQZoVPwnUPcBBiBPHdzg6ZefDh56UfcP8xH/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Top of Humpback Rock is shrouded in fog as viewed from the farm on Friday, October 11, 2013.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcs7uzg_G1nfivqYh1ZmjMPclwNw7vf8zsB32f3YcsDEhNRl7Z8-zdLtVvr_NyJ7eda4hjZykQrMHHixMMcG8Z3WhmrrtjDQn49T_IADmsEs9s66YaYwqHGFSEAVny13pdCnbDxRh2aRa/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIcs7uzg_G1nfivqYh1ZmjMPclwNw7vf8zsB32f3YcsDEhNRl7Z8-zdLtVvr_NyJ7eda4hjZykQrMHHixMMcG8Z3WhmrrtjDQn49T_IADmsEs9s66YaYwqHGFSEAVny13pdCnbDxRh2aRa/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Blue Ridge Parkway as seen from entrance to Humpback Rock hike parking area.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGBLv9LjINfqLKa0DAJV6qlVjRHrRzfYpbLH4KKPqGphHJhGEOgyRLPx275QWbp1wvr4nUDKgGB7o7x8N74yRt_HxZYQ6tWivLfV1ttGztM_8msLCAHjqEn0P1ffZKr1GupqgcDYumhVR/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGBLv9LjINfqLKa0DAJV6qlVjRHrRzfYpbLH4KKPqGphHJhGEOgyRLPx275QWbp1wvr4nUDKgGB7o7x8N74yRt_HxZYQ6tWivLfV1ttGztM_8msLCAHjqEn0P1ffZKr1GupqgcDYumhVR/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Humpback Rock hiking area had vehicles in the parking lot on a foggy, drizzly day. The assumption would be they had hiked to the top.</div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />October 11, 2013

Blue Ridge Mountains Blue Ridge Parkway government shutdown Humpback Rock Farm Humpback Rock hike leaf season tourism Virginia Is For Lovers Humpback Rock on foggy October day

Top of Humpback Rock is shrouded in fog as viewed from the farm on Friday, October 11, 2013. Blue Ridge Parkway as seen from entrance to Humpback Rock hike parking area.Humpback Rock hiking area had vehicles in the parking lot on a foggy, drizzly da…

October 11, 2013: Humpback Rock Picnic Area still closed

2:04 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRB7QjRwi9ukHmd4XJQ3dRbEBtLUd20Ll9xL8OZVgO1Oc__YExAVY60uuI2X5b8cXTCSPJPiqGsZ7aHTcZKX6I-GEJCje-i8ls0EnhtMOQOeso33F7PLmUiwI1hoz06MMmfpAHwR9HWEd/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRB7QjRwi9ukHmd4XJQ3dRbEBtLUd20Ll9xL8OZVgO1Oc__YExAVY60uuI2X5b8cXTCSPJPiqGsZ7aHTcZKX6I-GEJCje-i8ls0EnhtMOQOeso33F7PLmUiwI1hoz06MMmfpAHwR9HWEd/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Humpback Rock Picnic Area was closed and fog-shrouded at mid-day on Friday. The locked gate had a sign: "Because of the federal government shutdown, all national parks are closed." This is the time of year when this particular picnic area is packed on weekends with locals from the Valley.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ZYTVZOaBvO32F0JTCWI8wCSsd5vGT1PyjpWOUZGx_tVebW-R5mhFWC4xZmpHzWX2tZ4hOGH23qIB2AxEYbExuFVuHU2_TfQ7PEu0yaFB5pr8wzAsRhr3aldHkAvJBGZFAoPHuC4yC3OV/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8ZYTVZOaBvO32F0JTCWI8wCSsd5vGT1PyjpWOUZGx_tVebW-R5mhFWC4xZmpHzWX2tZ4hOGH23qIB2AxEYbExuFVuHU2_TfQ7PEu0yaFB5pr8wzAsRhr3aldHkAvJBGZFAoPHuC4yC3OV/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Heavy fog covered the mountains at mid-day on Friday.</div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />October 11, 2013

October 11, 2013: Humpback Rock Picnic Area still closed

Blue Ridge Mountains Blue Ridge Parkway government shutdown Humpback Rock picnic area tourism Virginia Is For Lovers October 11, 2013: Humpback Rock Picnic Area still closed

Humpback Rock Picnic Area was closed and fog-shrouded at mid-day on Friday. The locked gate had a sign: "Because of the federal government shutdown, all national parks are closed." This is the time of year when this particular picnic area is packed …

October 11, 2013: Humpback Rock Visitor Center still closed

1:59 PM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ruykzzr2jqr2xTylN2mDU8GdJPNwRHh3iDvb9POIxtlB68Ss2Eo5J0Mq4OZG-x2bs0ff91wgEqu3EbTKQTBwJw2e1I-31mwWswuvP5bFYnv90WmUUic9Wj8WcI3svaVPUuD0RVqdTqno/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ruykzzr2jqr2xTylN2mDU8GdJPNwRHh3iDvb9POIxtlB68Ss2Eo5J0Mq4OZG-x2bs0ff91wgEqu3EbTKQTBwJw2e1I-31mwWswuvP5bFYnv90WmUUic9Wj8WcI3svaVPUuD0RVqdTqno/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Humpback Rock Visitor Center remains closed during the government shutdown even though travelers stopped, perhaps hoping to find it open. They were disappointed. The Blue Ridge Parkway itself is open.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTW0SGzi5CJMUbI1Tv7bGIqInSzF59yCpzCQZSNlLum7QT5nhwgS8ip2oI9tOCWD8Xol3UHp_A_8SLuz1qvF3AhGGUrEt7iqzr1wLRI6xLSQvldBto4oYeocBKOyyTQqYlREFKNWB2hanx/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTW0SGzi5CJMUbI1Tv7bGIqInSzF59yCpzCQZSNlLum7QT5nhwgS8ip2oI9tOCWD8Xol3UHp_A_8SLuz1qvF3AhGGUrEt7iqzr1wLRI6xLSQvldBto4oYeocBKOyyTQqYlREFKNWB2hanx/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hand-written sign on restroom doors noted, "Restroom Closed. Please travel to Waynesboro for gas and restrooms. Thank you." Comments added by disappointed patrons.</div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />October 11, 2013

October 11, 2013: Humpback Rock Visitor Center still closed

Blue Ridge Mountains Blue Ridge Parkway government shutdown Humpback Rock Visitor Center October 11, 2013: Humpback Rock Visitor Center still closed

Humpback Rock Visitor Center remains closed during the government shutdown even though travelers stopped, perhaps hoping to find it open. They were disappointed. The Blue Ridge Parkway itself is open.Hand-written sign on restroom doors noted, "Restro…