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Summer 2013 ... 40 things to do in and around Staunton

6:00 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLx9DgPXfW7mr8J3Ag7E-_r-euZKMLHwslGddxM1NTt54iDIIUX8m3_omOCGwgO8LmHqRnmDfV_VnyhblDNzq20hvcM205NKQ7yHAps5xspWcZAaCZnaTsu7W3Z1UARMEtnk61_N1lyg/s1600-h/8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350511705932163682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLx9DgPXfW7mr8J3Ag7E-_r-euZKMLHwslGddxM1NTt54iDIIUX8m3_omOCGwgO8LmHqRnmDfV_VnyhblDNzq20hvcM205NKQ7yHAps5xspWcZAaCZnaTsu7W3Z1UARMEtnk61_N1lyg/s400/8.jpg" style="display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 350px;" /></a> <i>Beverley Street in historic downtown Staunton, Virginia,<br />in the central Shenandoah Valley.</i><br /><br /><div align="left">Voted as one of America's <a href="http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/americas-greatest-main-streets/13">Top 20 Main Streets</a> by <i>Travel and Leisure</i> magazine, the central Shenandoah Valley city of <a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/about.htm">Staunton</a> was also named one of the <a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/stauntonontap.htm">20 Best Small Towns in America</a> by <i>Smithsonian</i> magazine as well as <i>Virginia Living</i> magazine's <a href="http://swacgirl.blogspot.com/2012/05/virginia-living-magazines-best-of.html">Best of 2012</a>.<br /><br />With views east toward the Blue Ridge Mountains and west toward the Appalachians, Staunton is an historic slice of Virginia that offers restored Victorian homes, cozy downtown shops, and small-town atmosphere. Patriotic holidays find her streets lined with American flags, and the always-popular Christmas parade takes place each year on Beverley Street, the main thoroughfare that is lined with restaurants, store fronts, the Dixie Theater, the city courthouse, and old-fashioned lamp posts. Be sure and check the <a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/stauntonontap.htm">Staunton Convention and Visitor Center Calendar of Events</a> for all the latest happenings including art exhibits and live entertainment.<br /><br />Staunton is part of the <a href="http://206.113.151.20/wildernessroad/wrCommunity.asp?community=4">Wilderness Road Initiative</a> to preserve the legacy of this period in America's history that played a big role in the migration and settlement of Virginia and beyond. The website explains, "<span class="style84">As the colonies were thriving along the east coast in the late 1600s, the Appalachian Mountains remained a formidable barrier to the interior of the nation.  The  Wilderness Road led settlers to the <a href="http://www.danielboonetrail.com/">Daniel Boone Trail</a> which led through the Cumberland Gap into Kentucky or they traveled south along the Great Warrior Path into Georgia."</span> <br /><br />There's lots to do during the carefree summer months so here are some places and events you may find interesting. The list has been updated and 10 additional activities have been added.<br /><br /><b>1. Free Trolleys</b><br />A great way to get around downtown, <a href="http://www.staunton.va.us/community/transportation/trolley-service">Staunton's two trolleys</a> are free and pick up and discharge passengers at stops located throughout the city. It's one of the best deals around, and offers a way to see the city without driving. More information can be found at the Staunton Visitors Center on New Street or at the website. <br /><br /><b><span class="style84">2. </span></b><b>Wright's Dairy-Rite</b><br />Ever heard of the <a href="http://www.statlerbrothers.com/">Statler Brothers</a>? They grew up hanging out at the 1950s-era <a href="http://www.dairy-rite.com/">Wright's Dairy-Rite Drive-In</a> and it's very much the same today. Pull to the curb, order, and watch a carhop deliver your freshly-cooked meal while listening to 50s music. Or go inside to the 1950s-decorated interior complete with tables,  booths, and a historical display of those who have visited over the  years including the Statler Brothers and Governor/U.S. Senator George  Allen.<br /><br /><b>3. Ox-Eye Vineyard Tasting Room</b><br /><span class="style84"><a href="http://www.oxeyevineyards.com/">Ox-Eye Vineyards</a>, owned by the Kiers family and <a href="http://washingtonexaminer.com/local/local-opinion-zone/2010/07/will-hot-dry-weather-make-2010-good-year-virginia-wines/1639">located in Augusta County</a>, renovated an historic building in the Wharf area of downtown Staunton that now <a href="http://www.oxeyevineyards.com/our-tasting-room/">offers wine tastings</a> of their reds and whites. They displayed at the 2012 Shenandoah Valley Wine and Jazz Festival at the Frontier Culture Museum, and in April 2013 the Washington Post named them one of the <a href="http://swacgirl.blogspot.com/2013/04/wapost-calls-augusta-countys-ox-eye.html">Top 10 Mid-Atlantic wineries</a> to visit. Where did the name "Ox-Eye" come from? It's the name of the common field daisy with a yellow center and white petals that grows all over Ox-Eye Farm. <i>Hint: If you like white wines, try their Riesling and White Ox.</i></span><br /><br /><b>4. Andre Viette Daylily Food and Wine Festival</b><br />For 17 years, this has been one of the most popular festivals in the Shenandoah Valley with seminars, wine tastings, music, and food. Located in nearby Fishersville, the <a href="http://www.viette.com/v.php?pg=733">Food and Wine Festival</a> continues the tradition at world-known horticulturist Andre Viette's farm overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. Held July 20-21, 2013, it's a family affair with fun for all so stop by and see what's growing in Mr. Viette's garden! <i>Hint: There's more than just daylilies.</i><br /><br /><b>5. Newtown Artisans Bakery</b><br />Popular with the locals as well as visitors, <a href="http://www.newtownbaking.com/">Newtown Bakery</a> is a go-to place for pastries and specialty breads that are baked daily. <i>Insider's tip: Friday is yummy challah and it usually sells out fast.</i> Inside and outside tables provide a friendly setting for sandwiches and other treats from their <a href="http://www.newtownbaking.com/menu/">menu</a>. Located near historic Thornrose Cemetery (#6) and next-door to Anne Hathaway's Cottage (#9).<br /><br /><b>6. Historic Thornrose Cemetery</b><br />Dating to 1740, Staunton's historic <a href="http://www.thornrose.org/history.html">Thornrose Cemetery</a> was originally designed with grassy areas and shade trees for the town people to picnic on hot summer days. Located on a hill that has a view of the Appalachians to the west, Thornrose features Victorian architecture in its gates, buildings, vaults, and headstones. A special Civil War section featuring a marble statue of a Confederate infantryman is the site of over 1,700 graves of Confederate soldiers.<br /><br /><b>7. Coffee on the Corner Beer Garden</b><br />Located on the corner of Market and Beverley streets and next-door to Blackfriars Theater, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Coffee-On-The-Corner/116083138411934">Coffee on the Corner's</a> cozy atmosphere as well as free Wi-Fi makes it a popular spot for Mary Baldwin College students, tourists, patrons to Blackfriars (#8), and locals. Besides the obvious coffee and tea selections, COTC also offers a wide variety of sandwiches and bagels to grab a quick bite while working on your laptop. The outdoor beer garden opened in 2011, offering the perfect place to meet up with friends on a warm summer evening and enjoy one of their featured craft beers. <br /><br /><b>8. Blackfriars Theater</b><br />The <a href="http://www.americanshakespearecenter.com/v.php?pg=124">Blackfriars Theater</a> was built in downtown Staunton in 2001, the world's only exact replica of William Shakespeare's indoor theater, and is home to the American Shakespeare Center. It offers a great place to catch a play, tour the facility, or get involved in their camps for young and old alike. Their active schedule means something is almost always going on at Blackfriars. Check their website for current plays and activities.<br /><br /><b>9. Anne Hathaway's Cottage</b><br />What better way to enjoy a little slice of England in downtown Staunton than to stay at the <a href="http://anne-hathaways-cottage.com/">Anne Hathaway Cottage Bed and Breakfast</a>? Named for Shakespeare's wife, the thatched-roof inn presents all the ambiance of a period residence but was newly constructed and opened in 2011. Walk next-door for freshly-baked goodies from Newtown Bakery (#5). Located on Thornrose Avenue, it is just down the street from the historical Thornrose Cemetery (#6).<br /><br /><b>10. Hull's Drive-In Theater</b><br />Get your '50s on! A favorite for many in the area, nearby Lexington's <a href="http://hullsdrivein.com/">Hull's Drive-In Theater</a> is a non-profit run by volunteers. It's a blast from the past that is passing the tradition on to the next generations. The price is right -- $7 for adults and children 11 and under are free -- so bring your lawn chairs or settle back in your car for a double feature of currently-showing movies.<br /><br /><b>11. Betsy Bell & Mary Gray Mountains</b><br />Staunton is unique in that it has two small side-by-side mountains within the city limits. Named <a href="http://www.staunton.va.us/directory/departments-h-z/recreation-parks/parks/betsy-bell">Betsy Bell and Mary Gray</a> after two Irish women from the late 1600s, these small wilderness areas offer a close-to-home taste of the outdoors. Drive up, picnic or look out from the observation deck over the Wal-Mart to the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond, and hike or bike the trails. Talk about urban wilderness!<br /><br /><b>12. Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia</b><br />A unique hands-on outdoor museum located on approximately 300 acres in Staunton, the <a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/">Frontier Culture Museum</a> brings the past alive with costumed interpreters, farm animals, and original or recreated homesteads from the Old World and the New World. A winding, two-mile trail allows guests to visit the English, Irish, German, and American farms as well as the West African village, learning the story of America's settlement and where we came from. Spend an hour or all day ... visitors choose their own pace. Picnic tables are on the grounds, and special events take place year-round. Coming up in 2013: <a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/?ai1ec_event=shenandoah-wine-jazz-festival&instance_id=5">Shenandoah Wine & Jazz Festival</a> on June 29, <a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/?ai1ec_event=first-friday&instance_id=4">First Friday</a> in June and August open free to the public from 6-8 pm, <a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/?page_id=513">summer camps</a>, free <a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/?ai1ec_event=independence-day-celebration&instance_id=6">Independence Day Celebration</a> on July 4, <a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/?ai1ec_event=blues-brews-festival&instance_id=8">Blues & Brews Festival</a> on August 3, and many more events.<br /><br /><b>13. Gypsy Hill Park </b><br /><a href="http://www.staunton.va.us/directory/departments-h-z/recreation-parks/parks/gypsy-hill-park">Gypsy Hill Park</a> has a little bit of everything on its 214 acres located within Staunton's city limits. It offers ball fields, volley ball court, horseshoes, picnic tables, shelters, a public swimming pool that is open during the summer, duck pond, golf course, basketball courts, fishing pond, skateboard park, tennis courts, and an old-time Gazebo that is the center of entertainment throughout the summer. It also has a football field and is home to the Staunton Braves baseball team. The trolley stops at the park for easy access downtown. For $1, you can take a ride on the 50-year-old Gypsy Express mini train located near the duck pond. Newly renovated in 2007, the tradition continues.<br /><br /><b>14. Guided Tours of Staunton and Nearby Civil War Battlefields</b><br /><a href="http://www.stauntonguidedtours.com/">Staunton Guided Tours</a> offers personal year-round tours of the area while learning of its rich history. Narrated trolley tours are available on weekends and holidays. Park the car, sit back, and enjoy the ride! <i>New:</i> A History and Winery Tour has been added to the ever-increasing choices. Check the website for more choices.<br /><br /><b>15. Staunton-Augusta Farmers Market</b><br />Voted one of the best farmers markets in Virginia, the <a href="http://www.stauntonguidedtours.com/">Staunton-Augusta Farmers Market</a> offers fresh, locally grown produce, flowers, herbs, eggs, fruits, meats, and more from the convenience of the Wharf parking lot in downtown Staunton (corner of Byers and Johnson Streets). Area vendors provide fresh locally-grown products. Open Saturdays from 7 a.m.-noon through mid-November.<br /><br /><b>16. Oak Grove Theater</b><br />Just outside Staunton is <a href="http://oakgrovetheater.org/">Oak Grove Theater</a>, a community theater group that performs an annual five-play summer  season. The plays are performed at night, out-of-doors, at beautiful Oak  Grove near Verona. Patrons picnic in the Grove before the sun sets and the play begins, offering delightfully entertaining plays under the stars, thanks to local philanthropists Fletcher and Margaret Collins. Wrote local reviewer Charles Culbertson, "Here, nestled among the stands of towering oak  trees and rhododendrons, reposes one of our area’s most brilliant  theatrical jewels and valuable community resources." Hear, hear.<br /><br /><b>17.  Staunton Braves Baseball Games</b><br />The Boys of Summer come to Staunton each year as the <a href="http://www.stauntonbravesbaseball.com/">Staunton Braves</a>, part of the Valley Baseball League that brings college players to the area. The ball park is located at Gypsy Hill Park (#13) and provides hours of fun on summer evenings.<br /><br /><b>18. President Woodrow Wilson's Birthplace</b><br /><a href="http://www.woodrowwilson.org/">Woodrow Wilson, 28th President</a> of the United States, is remembered with the restoration of his birth place as well as his Presidential Library and Museum. His original Pierce Arrow can be seen in the Museum as well as many displays. Wind down your tour with a leisurely stroll through the formal gardens behind the Manse.<br /><br /><b>19. Barren Ridge Vineyards</b><br />Located at the family’s former apple orchard, <a href="http://www.barrenridgevineyardsva.com/about/">Barren Ridge Vineyards</a> came to life when the old apple barn was converted into a state-of-the-art winery. The beautiful interior offers up a stone fireplace in the tasting room that features wines for sale and tours. Outdoors, the European-style veranda offers views across the vineyards with Staunton's Betsy Bell and Mary Gray mountains in the distance. There is an active schedule of events including their Vine to Wine 5K on June 28.<br /><br /><b>20. Ghostly Evening Tours</b><br />What better way to see the architecture of historic downtown Staunton and well-known landmarks than with the <a href="http://www.ghostsofstaunton.com/">Ghosts of Staunton Tour</a>? Spooky candlelight tours are also offered of what is described as the most haunted area of Staunton, the Depot train station, and in October only, the former DeJarnette Sanitorium as well as a special Halloween version of the Depot tour. If you are looking for something different and unusual, this is the tour for you!<br /><br /><b>21. Sunspots Studio and Glass Blowing</b><br />It is fascinating to watch as glassblowers craft jewelry, garden art, bird feeders, decor, and other glass items at <a href="http://www.sunspots.com/">Sunspots</a> where the viewing window lets visitors watch the craftsmanship while avoiding the heat. Stop by and see the magic of hot glass.<br /><br /><b>22. Stonewall Brigade Band</b><br /><a href="http://www.stonewallbrigadeband.com/">The Stonewall Brigade Band</a> is the nation's oldest continuous-running community band and still entertains with a free Monday night concert at the Gazebo in Gypsy Hill Park at 8:00 p.m. Visitors and locals take their lawn chairs and relax under the massive trees to enjoy a concert under the stars. Here's the<a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/documents/2013SummerMusicSchedule5.23.13.pdf"> 2013 schedule</a>.<br /><br /><b>23. Jazz in the Park</b><br />Jazz in the Park is held at the Gazebo in Gypsy Hill Park every Thursday evening at 8:00 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and hear some of the region's jazz greats. Here's the <a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/documents/2013SummerMusicSchedule5.23.13.pdf">2013 schedule</a>.<br /><br /><b>24. Cocoa Mill Chocolatier</b><br />Located in downtown Staunton, <a href="http://swacgirl.blogspot.com/2011/08/historic-downtown-staunton-cocoa-mill.html">Cocoa Mill Chocolatier</a> offers yummy chocolate delights that are handmade, much as can be found in the shop in nearby Lexington.  Voted best overall chocolates by the <i>Wall Street Journal,</i> they are your source for truffles, barks, rich caramels, dipped fruit, chocolate-covered almond  butter crunch toffee, chocolate-dipped pretzels, nonpareils, truffles,  peanut butter cups, and brandied cherry cordials. Stop by and get your chocolate fix!<br /><br /><b>25. Visualite and Dixie Movie Theaters</b><br />Located in downtown Staunton, these <a href="http://www.visulitecinemas.com/">vintage movie theaters</a> offer first-run films as well as golden oldies and artsy selections. They are locally owned and popular with all ages, making your night out an exceptional experience.<br /><br /><b>26. Shenandoah National Park</b><br />Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains east of Staunton, <a href="http://www.nps.gov/shen/index.htm">Shenandoah National Park</a> offers 200,000 acres of wilderness, campgrounds, picnic areas, hiking trails, horseback riding, lodges, and visitor centers along the 100-mile-long Skyline Drive. Escape to the quiet beauty of the mountains.<br /><br /><b>27. Humpback Rock Farm</b><br />A mountain homestead much like the ones from days gone by, <a href="http://swacgirl.blogspot.com/2009/10/sunday-humpback-rocks-farm-day-on.html">Humpback Rock Farm</a> is located at Milepost 5.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway south of Afton. Costumed interpreters are on hand weekends and on select days throughout the summer to answer questions about a bygone era. Farm animals, a working garden, mountain music, and more round out the experience. Visitor Center on site.<br /><br /><b>28. Grand Caverns</b><br />The Shenandoah Valley is full of caverns due to the limestone underfoot. <a href="http://www.grandcaverns.com/">Grand Caverns</a> in nearby Grottoes opened in 1806 and is the longest-running show cave in the U.S. Its interior has signatures from dozens of Civil War soldiers, perhaps because of its close proximity to major Civil War battlefields. With picnicking, hiking trails, a bike trail, and other entertainment located on the banks of the South River, it will be alive with music this fall for the 27th annual <a href="http://www.grandcaverns.com/v.php?pg=153">Blue Grass Festival</a> to be held September 6-8, 2012.<br /><br /><b>29. Shakin' at the Station</b><br />Every Thursday evening during the summer months, downtown Staunton comes alive with the music of <a href="http://www.stauntondowntown.org/shakin-summer-concert-series/">Shakin' at the Station</a>. Located in the Wharf parking lot, admission is $2, donated to area non-profits, with various local and regional bands on stage from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Here's the <a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/documents/2013SummerMusicSchedule5.23.13.pdf">2013 schedule</a>.<br /><br /><b>30. Stonewall Brigade Museum</b><br />The <a href="http://www.militarytrader.com/military-trader-news/military-museum-opens-in-verona-va">Stonewall Brigade Museum</a> collection of military history from the Revolutionary War to Iraq and Afghanistan was originally housed at the Thomas Howie Armory in Staunton. However, security measures that were implemented after 9/11 forced its change of location about 10 minutes away in Verona. It honors the 116th Regiment, which is made up of soldiers from the  area, and includes sections  dedicated to the Civil War, when the Regiment fought for the Confederacy  under Stonewall Jackson. Admission is free and tours are available.<br /><br /><b>31. Movies in the Park & more music</b><br />Throughout the summer, Gypsy Hill offers family-friendly movies at the Bandstand. Movies begin at dark; bring chairs or blankets. The 2013 schedule: Jun 14 Madagascar 3; Jun 28 The Goonies; Jul 19 Puss in Boots; Aug 2 Journey to the Center of the Earth; Aug 16 Life of Pi. More music: Besides the Stonewall Brigade Band and Jazz in the Park, Gypsy Hill  offers Praise in the Park on Tuesdays and Bluegrass in the Park on  Wednesdays. Both are at the Bandstand. Here's the <a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/documents/2013SummerMusicSchedule5.23.13.pdf">2013 schedule</a>.<br /><br /><b>32. Camera Museum</b><br />The <a href="http://www.cameraheritagemuseum.com/">Camera Heritage Museum</a> is located in downtown Staunton and is the largest privately-owned free camera museum on the East Coast. Includes  daguerreotypes, wooden cameras, spy cameras and 100+ Leicas and Zeiss  cameras. Ask for a tour -- it's free. <br /><br /><b>33. Giancarlo Fine European Pastries</b><br />Working from his home, <a href="http://www.europeanpastry.com/">Giancarlo's Fine European Pastries</a> shop is tucked away in a former garage where he bakes and sells bread, superb cakes, and pastries that have that extra flair. His retail shop is only open Friday and Saturday with a case full of goodies. He specializes in that anything-but-ordinary wedding cake and adds exquisite details to everything. His shop is located about three minutes from downtown Staunton and is definitely worth the trip.<br /><br /><b>34. Mary Baldwin College</b><br />It began as Augusta Female Seminary in 1842 and, during the Civil War when it stayed open while other educational institutions in the area closed, a graduate named Mary Baldwin took over and guided the school through those dark days. Today the historic stately white brick buildings of <a href="http://www.mbc.edu/">Mary Baldwin College</a> overlook downtown Staunton and continue to provide a quality education in a small-town atmosphere.<br /><br /><b>35. Polyface Farm</b><br /><a href="http://www.polyfacefarms.com/">Polyface, Inc.</a> is a family owned, multi-generational, pasture-based,  beyond organic, local-market farm and informational outreach in  Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Joel Salatin has become known throughout the natural food community, leading seminars around the world about how to get back to nature with the food supply. There's a store on the premises and visitors are welcome to walk around the farm on their own. Check the website for details.<br /><br /><b>36. R.R. Smith Center for History and Art</b><br />The former Eakleton Hotel, a 25,200 square foot building designed in 1893 by noted local architect T. J. Collins, now houses the <a href="http://www.rrsmithcenter.org/">R.R. Smith Center for History and Art</a> in downtown Staunton. Housing the Staunton and Augusta County historical societies as well as the Staunton Augusta Art Center, it provides art galleries, a lecture hall, library, and gift shop.<br /><br /><b>37. North Mountain Outfitters</b><br />If you're looking for horseback excitement, check out <a href="http://swacgirl.blogspot.com/2013/02/north-mountain-outfitter-in-augusta.html">North Mountain Outfitters</a> adjacent to the George Washington National Forest west of Staunton. They offer trail rides, overnighters, and camp cooking like the cowboy ways out west. Get away from it all, step back in time, and slow down the pace by returning to the simplicity of nature in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains. Half day, full day and overnight rides available.<br /><br /><b>38. Statler Brothers Tribute</b><br />These four local celebrities were born in Staunton where they continued to live even after hitting the heights of country music fame. The <a href="http://www.statlerbrothers.com/">Statler Brothers</a> -- Harold Reid, Don Reid, Phil Balsley, and Jimmy Fortune (who took the place of the late Lou DeWitt) -- have never forgotten their roots. After retiring in 2002 from traveling and concerts, a tribute was dedicated on Johnson Street in the historic Wharf District ... a round masonry structure with the names of the Statlers engraved on top, and four oversized brass stools. They are a reminder of the group's tradition during concerts when they sat on stools and talked about family and home, and sang gospel music. Like those four stools, the Statlers are pillars in the community they love.<br /><br /><b>39. Where to stay in Staunton</b><br />There's no shortage of places to stay in Staunton and the surrounding area. Everything from camping to Bed & Breakfasts are offered in this historic, scenic part of the country. <a href="http://www.visitstaunton.com/lodging/lodging.htm">Check here</a> to begin looking for an overnight spot during your visit to the Shenandoah Valley. <br /><br /><b>40. Lots of Eats</b><br />There are plenty of places to grab great eats in the Valley ... here are a few: <a href="http://staunton.depotgrille.com/">Depot Grille</a>, <a href="http://www.byersstreetbistro.com/">Byers Street Bistro</a>, <a href="http://www.thesplitbanana.com/">Split Banana</a>, <a href="http://www.shenandoahpizza.com/">Shenandoah Pizza</a>, <a href="http://www.mrsrowes.com/index.html">Rowe's</a>,<a href="http://www.clocktowerhistoricstaunton.com/"> Clock Tower</a>, <a href="http://www.klinesdairybar.com/staunton.html">Kline's</a>, <a href="http://www.millstreetgrill.com/">Mill Street Grill</a>, <a href="http://www.gocranberrys.com/">Cranberries</a>, <a href="http://www.thepamperedpalatecafe.com/">Pampered Palate</a>, <a href="http://zynodoa.com/">Zynodoa</a> (pricier fare), <a href="http://www.bajabean.com/">Baja Bean Co.</a>, and <a href="http://www.emiliositalianrestaurant.com/">Emilio's</a>. Many of the chain restaurants are also available in the Staunton-Waynesboro area.<br /><br />Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell</div></div>

Summer 2013 ... 40 things to do in and around Staunton

40 things to do in Staunton Frontier Culture Museum Hull's Drive-In Ox-Eye Vineyards Tasting Room Shenandoah National Park Shenandoah Valley Statler Brothers Staunton summer Summer 2013 ... 40 things to do in and around Staunton

Beverley Street in historic downtown Staunton, Virginia, in the central Shenandoah Valley. Voted as one of America's Top 20 Main Street...

U.S. House schedule for Monday, June 3, 2013

5:59 AM Tukiyooo 0

<i><a href="http://majorityleader.gov/">From Majority Leader Eric Cantor....</a></i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b>MONDAY, JUNE 3RD</b></u><br />On Monday, the House will meet at 2:00  p.m. for legislative business. Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>One Minute Speeches</b><br /><br /><b>Legislation Considered Under Suspension of the Rules:</b><br /><blockquote><b>1) <a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=335927-6846703" target="_blank">H.R. 1919 </a></b>- Safeguarding America's Pharmaceuticals Act of 2013, as amended<i> (Sponsored by Rep. Bob Latta / Energy and Commerce Committee)</i><br /><b>2) <a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=335928-6846703" target="_blank">S. 622</a></b> - Animal Drug and Animal Generic Drug User Fee Reauthorization Act of 2013<i> (Sponsored by Sen. Tom Harkin / Energy and Commerce Committee)</i><br /><b>3) <a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=335929-6846703" target="_blank">H.R. 126</a></b> - Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act<i> (Sponsored by Rep. Walter Jones / Natural Resources Committee)</i><br /><b>4) <a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=335930-6846703" target="_blank">H.R. 1206</a></b>- Permanent Electronic Duck Stamp Act of 2013<i> (Sponsored by Rep. Rob Wittman / Natural Resources Committee)</i><br /><b>5) <a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=335931-6846703" target="_blank">H.R. 885</a> </b>- San Antonio Missions National Historic Park Boundary Expansion Act of 2013 (<i>Sponsored by Rep. Lloyd Doggett / Natural Resources Committee)</i></blockquote><b>Special Order Speeches</b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b>COMMITTEE ACTIVITY OF THE DAY</b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Rules Committee meeting on “<a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=335932-6846703" target="_blank">H.R.  2216, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies  Appropriations Act, 2014 & H.R. 2217 Department of Homeland Security  Appropriations Act, 2014</a>” (Monday, June 3rd, at 5:00 p.m.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://republicanleaderforms.house.gov/Components/Redirect/r.aspx?ID=335933-6846703" target="_blank">Printable PDF</a>

U.S. House schedule for Monday, June 3, 2013

Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act Eric Cantor Permanent Electronic Duck Stamp Act of 2013 Rob Wittman San Antonio Missions National Historic Park U.S. House of Representatives U.S. House schedule for Monday, June 3, 2013

From Majority Leader Eric Cantor.... MONDAY, JUNE 3RD On Monday, the House will meet at 2:00 p.m. for legislative business. Votes will be p...

ARGENTINA AND GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD PRODUCTS

5:05 AM Tukiyooo 0

<br /> <br /><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"></b>  <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b>UNLIKE IN EUROPE, ARGENTINE PUBLIC IS LARGELY UNAWARE OF HEALTH DANGERS, GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD PRODUCTS BEAR </b></span></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"> </span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGedL4yVhRG82stlF66IWlthERC4QzWcMUXhKlvEuRCjN_zWRfy58XSLnBAjyc4ApUhttLqY5zYMAfjC_k_tlYs9h9vnhx0buu802QCCyM4Bdvd0nR1EIsPqRuU5bmWNMBpXaq_NZoTpo/s1600/IMG-20130208-00778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGedL4yVhRG82stlF66IWlthERC4QzWcMUXhKlvEuRCjN_zWRfy58XSLnBAjyc4ApUhttLqY5zYMAfjC_k_tlYs9h9vnhx0buu802QCCyM4Bdvd0nR1EIsPqRuU5bmWNMBpXaq_NZoTpo/s320/IMG-20130208-00778.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="266" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/94y78ff2r04?feature=player_embedded" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="320"></iframe></div><br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">MONOCULTURE THANKS TO MONSANTO<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">  </span></b></span><br /><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Executive summary: </b><br /><br /><div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> <span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">        <span style="color: #666666;"></span></span></span></span><span style="color: blue;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">In ARGENTINA soya and other food products are not labelled as GM</b></span></div><div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> <span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">         </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">GM products are promoted as a healthy alternative to meat, so <span style="color: red;">even the middle classes, worried about cholesterol levels</span>, are turning to the <span style="color: red;">fatal bean</span> and food products</b></div><div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> <span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">      <span style="color: blue;">   </span></span></span></span><span style="color: blue;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">GM SOYA, rice, corn and wheat grown in ARGENTINA has never been independently scientifically tested for its safety</b></span></div><div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> <span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">         </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ARGENTINE Association of Direct Seed Producers to promote GM soya as the solution to the malnutrition problem in the country</b></div><div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> <span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">        <span style="color: blue;"></span></span></span></span><span style="color: blue;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Their aim is to integrate the bean into the ARGENTINE diet and change people¹s eating habits to suit their business interests</b></span></div><div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> <span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">         </span></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Creating a nutritional apartheid</b></div><div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> <span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">         </span></span></span><span style="color: blue;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">GM feed for ARGENTINE live stock</b></span></div><div style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><br /></div>ARGENTINA, once boasting a diverse agricultural sector, is being transformed into a land of soya-bean monoculture. In the last 10 years, the amount of soya grown has nearly tripled, according to World Bank's figures, and it is almost 100% genetically modified (GM).<br />It was the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) prize pupil, Argentina's President Carlos Menem, who signed the contracts with the agribusiness giants Monsanto and Cargill to go the “soya way” at the beginning of the 1990s. The contracts were entered into without the participation of Congress and without a public debate. Since then, ARGENTINA has become the second largest GM soya producer in the world, after the United States.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="266" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VTaQf3nihBU?feature=player_embedded" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="320"></iframe></div><br /><br /><b>Related Monsanto articles:</b><br /><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2013/06/argentina-monsantos-gmo-genetically.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2013/06/argentina-monsantos-gmo-genetically.html</a></span></b><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/02/monsanto-global-monster-corporation.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/02/monsanto-global-monster-corporation.html</a></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 20.4pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/02/monsanto-part-2.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/02/monsanto-part-2.html</a></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 20.4pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"><a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2013/03/argentina-and-monsanto.html"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2013/03/argentina-and-monsanto.html</b></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 20.4pt;"><br /></div>The countryside is being left empty as the farm workers' role in nurturing the land and crops is<br />displaced by airplanes and agribusiness infrastructure. Migration to the cities has risen at<br />an alarming rate: 300,000 farmers have deserted the countryside and more than 500 villages have been abandoned, or are on the road to disappearance. Agribusiness GM soya farming requires agriculture without culture or people. As a consequence, the villas miseria (slums) on the outskirts of the cities are mushrooming with the arriving unemployed agricultural workers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="266" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wvjCE_g2tKM?feature=player_embedded" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="320"></iframe></div><br /><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">AGENT ORANGE AND MONSANTO </b></span><br /><br />Dusty ashes are left as the earth is intoxicated with agrochemicals to harvest Monsanto¹s patented seeds, which are genetically modified to be resistant to the company's herbicide, Round Up. Previously unknown illnesses are appearing as people are exposed to highly toxic herbicides, which include Agent Orange, the defoliant used by the US military to devastate Vietnam during the 1960s and '70s, and others that contain paraquat, which can corrode metal, and glyphosate.<br /><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">FLOODING IN ARGENTINA ON THE INCREASE</span> </b><br /><br />Floods without precedence are taking place as forests are cut down to make way for soya crops. In the high-mountain provinces of Salta and Juyuy, on the border of Bolivia, the subtropical Yungas region is being deforested to make space for soya plantations. Greenpeace has warned that in five years, the ancient cloud forest will be extinct.<br />The city of Santa Fe was flooded: 140,000 people were evacuated, sections of the city were<br />submerged and several people died. Thousands lost their homes and possessions as they fled for their lives.<br />Alongside this destruction, Monsanto¹s profits in ARGENTINA almost doubled, from US$326 million in 1998 to $584 million in 2001.<br />Because Monsanto holds the patent to “Round Up Ready” soya seeds, farmers are dependent on the corporation to provide them. They cannot legally develop their own varieties of the patented seed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="266" mozallowfullscreen="mozallowfullscreen" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tPMd4u1MCDg?feature=player_embedded" webkitallowfullscreen="webkitallowfullscreen" width="320"></iframe></div><br /><br /><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">MONSANTO AND CARGILL TEAMED UP WITH AADSP</b></span><br /><br /><span style="color: red; font-size: 14.0pt;">Never missing an opportunity to expand its profits, Monsanto subsidiary Cargill Seeds and the<br />ChevronTexaco oil company have teamed up with the <span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ARGENTINE Association of Direct Seed Producers</b> </span>to promote soya as the solution to the malnutrition problem in the country. Their aim is to integrate the bean into the ARGENTINE diet and change people¹s eating habits to suit their business interests.</span><br /><br />The Soja Solidaria (Solidarity Soya) project is ruthlessly promoting GM soya as a viable alternative to traditional forms of nutrition among the poorest communities, which is creating a nutritional apartheid.<br /><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">TARGETING SCHOOLS, HOSPITALS AND OLD PEOPLE’S HOMES</b></span><br /><br />Soja Solidaria encourages soya producers to donate 1% of their soya production to comedores (eating halls) for the unemployed, and in public schools, hospitals, neighborhood centers and old people¹s homes. The organization uses community participation to reach the heart of society, complementing their donations with <span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: red;">cooking courses using soya recipes and the provision of health and nutritional advice on the benefits of the genetically modified bean</span></b>.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">GM SOYA GROWN IN ARGENTINA HAS NEVER BEEN INDEPENDENTLY SCIENTIFICALLY TESTED FOR ITS SAFETY.</b></span><br /><br />In Europe regulatory issues regarding GM food are very strict.<br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regulation_of_genetically_modified_organisms_in_the_European_Union">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Regulation_of_genetically_modified_organisms_in_the_European_Union</a>and<br /><a href="http://ec.europa.eu/food/food/biotechnology/index_en.htm">http://ec.europa.eu/food/food/biotechnology/index_en.htm</a><br /><br />Monsanto¹s GM beans have been highly exposed to agrochemicals containing glyphosate. Glyphosate is soluble in water and in order to make it penetrate the plant, a surfactant is added. Glyphosate is therefore present in the very core of the soya bean. Washing the bean is not sufficient to prevent the consumption of glyphosate. Glyphosate can be harmful to the eyes, causes skin inflammations and is linked to a variety of lymphoma cancer.<br /><br /><span style="color: #134f5c;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">IN ARGENTINA, SOYA PRODUCTS ARE NOT LABELLED AS GM</b>. </span><br /><br /><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red; font-size: 14.0pt;">It is promoted as a healthy alternative to meat, so even the middle classes, worried about cholesterol levels, are turning to the fatal bean.</span></b><br /><br />As soya exports are ever increasing, so are hunger, marginalisation and destitution in this once plentiful land.<br />The IMF and World Bank's structural adjustment recipes aim to integrate southern and northern markets through “free trade”. However, such a global market, policed by the World Trade Organisation, is for the benefit of the corporations. Policies such as the dumping of cheap subsidised goods from the rich countries, not only destroys local markets, but entire livelihoods.<br />What is becoming apparent is that it is access to local, not global, markets which will prevent poverty and hunger.<br /><br />ARGENTINA now imports milk from URUGUAY, as farmers stop dairy farming to make way for soya crops. But what will people consume if imports become economically inaccessible? Monsanto¹s toxic beans in Soja Solidaria's comedores?<br />This is why the international farmers¹ movement Via Campesina campaigns for food sovereignty: the right for countries to produce and protect the food they need. This frees producers from the catastrophic effects of agricultural dumping and gives them access<br />to their local markets.<br /><br />The farmers¹ movement MOCASE in Santiago del Estero, ARGENTINA, is reclaiming this fundamental human right. But the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">multinationals, along with their local collaborators</b>, are campaigning to drive farmers off their farms to make way for more soya. MOCASE is recreating what Monsanto¹s genetically modified monoculture is destroying: organic agriculture; reforestation; solar and wind power; local crafts; and a sustainable way of living and farming for future generations.<br />Last but not least one should not forget that GM feed for Argentines meat production endangers also meat consumption.<br /><br />Adapted by Geopolitical Analysis and Monitoring from the article written by Ann Scholl

ARGENTINA AND GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD PRODUCTS

UNLIKE IN EUROPE, ARGENTINE PUBLIC IS LARGELY UNAWARE OF HEALTH DANGERS, GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD PRODUCTS BEAR MONOCULTURE THANKS TO ...

12 Secrets to Having a Truly Restful Vacation

3:33 AM Tukiyooo 0

Summer is here. Whether you're reading this in June and live in the northern hemisphere or in November in Australia and south America. You know what you've got ahead.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgw2Z5NMfZKHyFwJZBdF8iTUqX02yPmZfl7a2-Kfnnbp5mz9w4-05S-uP-c9m7vvorHCFQWL0-p00OxGK9LlKqQw8owMjj69fEM25DqVUzItS0SBOLjqMeamIGjYc1tfwuuRG0Y-K7TM8L/s1600/IMG_6498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgw2Z5NMfZKHyFwJZBdF8iTUqX02yPmZfl7a2-Kfnnbp5mz9w4-05S-uP-c9m7vvorHCFQWL0-p00OxGK9LlKqQw8owMjj69fEM25DqVUzItS0SBOLjqMeamIGjYc1tfwuuRG0Y-K7TM8L/s320/IMG_6498.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQOVKC16Y8gsYHlzikg2aqzJqqelx3-9KJ69LJGGlxKkeWYVz3M7tHWk8t5KEgEFIu5OqEizbuu7zoDBjcZiu60yNUbDNAguWLKhCB6u5l4gthzzfpLy7tuRIVbf4QRbwXhbKKjvYJbs2/s1600/IMG_2208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQOVKC16Y8gsYHlzikg2aqzJqqelx3-9KJ69LJGGlxKkeWYVz3M7tHWk8t5KEgEFIu5OqEizbuu7zoDBjcZiu60yNUbDNAguWLKhCB6u5l4gthzzfpLy7tuRIVbf4QRbwXhbKKjvYJbs2/s320/IMG_2208.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See "S<a href="http://coolcatteacher.blogspot.com/2009/06/school-daze-recovering-teacher-within.html" target="_blank">chool Daze: Recapturing the Teacher within</a>" for the<br />story of these photos of me and my son.<br />I'm an idiot when it comes to being goofy in the water.<br />It just feels so good to be outside and be free!</td></tr></tbody></table>You do need rest. You need to veg out. There are so many things you can do. Let's look at some things that will improve your life and your mood. When I say technology, I really mean an always-on smartphone that texts and tweets and vibrates every time that some happens to hit send. I don't mean you can't take pictures. We're talking the barrage of people OUT THERE keeping you from paying attention to the people RIGHT HERE.<br /><br />Disconnecting helps you feel more like a human BEING rather than a human DOING. It is ok to just BE.<br /><br /><br /><h3>Why?</h3>A <a href="http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0054402" target="_blank">new study</a> shows that people who claim to be the best multitaskers AREN'T. So, if you think you can focus on all happening OUT THERE, you're lying to yourself. There is a company now to help you with your <a href="http://theweek.com/article/index/239243/life-in-the-age-of-internet-addiction" target="_blank">internet addiction</a>. Even more so, your kids are likely at risk.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQV9bppz50I0cVkQFKoWkLmZZbLOR4yfo8yJMqNh9OPt4jysqNiyTxG4tUmlOLy3G5DT7KMFOk4xqmoJC-Cgoo2jd1NwRkvdkty-fO0cFpW-3cXBUHfpdEB28yd17K8EplYNTGRMhA7F4/s1600/IMG_2240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjQV9bppz50I0cVkQFKoWkLmZZbLOR4yfo8yJMqNh9OPt4jysqNiyTxG4tUmlOLy3G5DT7KMFOk4xqmoJC-Cgoo2jd1NwRkvdkty-fO0cFpW-3cXBUHfpdEB28yd17K8EplYNTGRMhA7F4/s320/IMG_2240.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was taken just the moment before I saw<br />a flash of light and bubbles. If you've done water sports<br />you know how fast it happens.<br />Don't be afraid to have fun because you're going to fall<br />if you're healthy.</td></tr></tbody></table>Are you really UNABLE to disconnect? Is this a matrix where your spine is forever wired into this mesh of people and when you're done, you unplug and are thrown in the ground?<br /><h2>Take a technology-free vacation.</h2><h3>1. Set guidelines</h3><div>If you have to check, then set a time when you won't be taking away from your family. What does disconnecting mean?</div><div><br /></div><div> I'll never forget the year I was in the mountains and I got a nasty tweet from an awful person. The attack was very personal, off base, and upsetting. I spent the day brooding and writing a response. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>No one can cross the fence of disconnectivity to ruin your peace of mind. You can't control THEM but you can control what you look at. </b>You NEED To disconnect sometimes, YOU DO. What does it mean? Will you still take pics (I do?) Will you use your ereader?  Don't say technology free to your kids and take away their phones and bang away on your laptop. What does technology free look like.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6myyh0OerOD2-Uvy_UCVLkpjk1-CYV74cYJlUjeGv0tnOJEOi7lqo7aoWfMtyj_aK65nyw0f2A6V-Y2qKeuHrBLhhib8UGRh-Fk28f7k37MpBXlqcWQ4owVAvDMemJBPdM6ynvILFHKs/s1600/DSC01811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6myyh0OerOD2-Uvy_UCVLkpjk1-CYV74cYJlUjeGv0tnOJEOi7lqo7aoWfMtyj_aK65nyw0f2A6V-Y2qKeuHrBLhhib8UGRh-Fk28f7k37MpBXlqcWQ4owVAvDMemJBPdM6ynvILFHKs/s320/DSC01811.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picture of a mushroom taken on a hike.<br />Vicki Davis</td></tr></tbody></table><div>When we go to the mountains with my parents, sisters, kids, and nieces and nephews, we all check our email, etc.in the morning. Then we spend the rest of the day together.</div><div><br /></div><h2>2. Plan to go offline</h2><div>I'll schedule my tweets in buffer and my blog posts as well. I'm often a better blogger when I'm out of town. This also helps others not worry and start trying to reach you because you disappeared! Communicate with those who need to know that you're going offline. </div><div><br /></div><div>Decide how often you're going to post and schedule those before you go out of town. My goal is that the moment I get in the car, I can curl up with a good book and start laughing at Dad's jokes.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3G4qCrhzRtkEKkOhepzR542gK0_fX-CTP6t_LCTqCqzBCGK8kPcniytS9enAJNCKL0flVjsWL-xIEQYGczrPj7WF7CmkPZgufoFPsYraURG5XLpWZlrWE975lgCPS2z17yQ7ZbIFMWSU/s1600/img_0046_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3G4qCrhzRtkEKkOhepzR542gK0_fX-CTP6t_LCTqCqzBCGK8kPcniytS9enAJNCKL0flVjsWL-xIEQYGczrPj7WF7CmkPZgufoFPsYraURG5XLpWZlrWE975lgCPS2z17yQ7ZbIFMWSU/s320/img_0046_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my son rafting down Little Wesser Falls.<br />Yahoo! I'm always scared but glad I do it.</td></tr></tbody></table><h3>3. Disconnect your eReader / Tablet from notifications</h3>OK. This doesn't include a Kindle that is NOT connected to the internet. I have an old Kindle that allows me to download books.<br /><br />The problem with my iPad is that if I don't turn off notifications, it will bug me all day. If your tablet is your ereader, then turn off the wi-fi. You need to read. You might not take paper books any more, especially with the prices for luggage on airplanes. Make provision to read, but be careful you're not interrupted.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigT6f0jFxCLy3YN8E5mQoahcCYZRpvVHMoN5hO5hDjCUACWvZwy6ZKlISwtV4a00OphvESmrBKyShJmIV6uFJ0OyJYWKedLCgBtT3UEeivRDCAsT8mPohcaJcchRfKhj3pPxeJQhd8oz79/s1600/Zipline+2012+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigT6f0jFxCLy3YN8E5mQoahcCYZRpvVHMoN5hO5hDjCUACWvZwy6ZKlISwtV4a00OphvESmrBKyShJmIV6uFJ0OyJYWKedLCgBtT3UEeivRDCAsT8mPohcaJcchRfKhj3pPxeJQhd8oz79/s400/Zipline+2012+%25281%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last summer all of us went ziplining. It was awesome. They don't<br />allow you to have cell phones on the zips for safety reasons.<br />They say you can't focus and you become a danger.<br />You're not focusing on the moment and what you're doing.<br />I think this applies to everything on vacation.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3>4. Take up Smartphones and cell phones for long periods of time</h3>My pastor, <a href="http://michaelcatt.com/" target="_blank">Michael Catt</a>, has a basket at the door of his summer vacation cabin where everyone deposits their cell phone. He pays to take his adult daughters and their families on the trip and makes it a condition of the trip. I agree.<br /><br />Have you ever looked up from your laptop on vacation and seen everyone furiously texting people who aren't there? Your time as a family is your chance to connect. You can make memories. I promise that you won't remember ONE text you received or tweet you wrote. You will, however, remember going ziplining with the kids or rafting. You'll remember playing Uno or a board game. You'll remember snuggling up under blankets with a warm batch of brownies watching old episodes of The Pink Panther.<br /><br />You'll remember sleeping late and staying up late. You'll remember catching fire flies and building bonfires. You'll remember when Joey sat on the flaming smore. You'll remember when Suzie ate a bug because she didn't look before grabbing a handful of raisinettes from the picnic basket. You'll even remember when the whole family started singing a crazy Pink song and you filmed it and put it on the family movie at Christmas.<br /><br />When you unplug you make memories. When you stay plugged in, you just make data.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-oU_SIYSBl_8YH702cSdFXM0Xq5W3GZVJ-1mjp_hdRWyo25UrvL-7wX8zchDvcor6RNwukisT3UkJd6j4nx80lhiYVWU5LwUqOKesybAPs9cXnb2D3aFQf7IzLekBGUqXM67SFdyly2n/s1600/IMG_2894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-oU_SIYSBl_8YH702cSdFXM0Xq5W3GZVJ-1mjp_hdRWyo25UrvL-7wX8zchDvcor6RNwukisT3UkJd6j4nx80lhiYVWU5LwUqOKesybAPs9cXnb2D3aFQf7IzLekBGUqXM67SFdyly2n/s320/IMG_2894.JPG" width="320" /></a><br /><h2>5. Take pictures but wait to upload them</h2>I don't upload pictures until after a trip. First of all, so I don't worry about the security of my house. Secondly, so I can just be in  the moment. Thirdly, because as much as it hurts, if you put too many cool things on Facebook in a small town, people get jealous and it doesn't help you.<br /><br />I know people who go to the beach every weekend and others resent it like crazy. If they just went and kept it private, NO ONE WOULD KNOW. Upload a few highlights when you're done. Plus, if you do something cool, then you start getting, TEXT MESSAGES.<br /><br />This blog post is full of photographs I've taken with my Canon Rebel. It is offline, I can focus on what I'm seeing and I truly see it. I remember the snail and the mushroom and the flowers. Pictures are beautiful memories but beware lest they suck you back into an online world that will take you away from your vacation.<br /><br /><h2>6. Carry a Journal</h2>I use Evernote for everything. But it is a quick jump from Evernote journaling to Twitter for me. Typing is typing. So, I carry a journal to capture ideas (it is what writers do). I write down memories and thoughts. Then, when I get home, I scan them to evernote which handles handwriting recognition just fine. This includes pens and a small notebook in my pocket book and full size journal with at least 20 pages.<br /><br />If I can avoid technology as much as possible, I'm happier. Plus, the bright light of technology can make it harder for you to go to sleep.<br /><br /><h2>7. Investigate cool places</h2><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWm-2D6Csht1FwvTn9Bky-9-NGdAC9RZl_yOFh848r5bzzUUe8WnpnCrj4TdMC4RWorh0nUipcllFrFPJcCAqiBGD-BFl_RyYLySf1hjwAKkzj0qqn3fuwxtqFT1SqOtmLKZ9-iAylkE3U/s1600/IMG_2617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWm-2D6Csht1FwvTn9Bky-9-NGdAC9RZl_yOFh848r5bzzUUe8WnpnCrj4TdMC4RWorh0nUipcllFrFPJcCAqiBGD-BFl_RyYLySf1hjwAKkzj0qqn3fuwxtqFT1SqOtmLKZ9-iAylkE3U/s320/IMG_2617.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We collect "waterfalls" in my family.<br />We buy books about them and<br />go off weird places to find them.<br />There's something beautiful in the roar<br />and something calming in the shhhh<br />of water falling from rocks.<br />We use the same book every year and<br />mark them in the book. We take pics.<br />Think of something you like to<br />see and collect experiences.</td></tr></tbody></table>I do use Yelp like crazy when we're traveling. I use the "nearby" feature to find cool restaurants nearby and bookstores. I love bookstores,even though I'm an ebook fanatic. I like the smell of books and the feel of them. Books are like air to me - they help me feel truly alive.<br /><br />Some people check these out ahead of time and mark them on Foursquare.But be careful, it is an easy slide into full blown online engagement and offline disconnect. There have been times my kids have looked at each other and said, "Mom's gone again..." I don't like that! I'm here! I'll be here! Time is short because soon they'll be gone.<br /><br /><h2>8. Go places off the grid</h2>Do you really NEED wifi everywhere you go? I've found the best way to disconnect is to go somewhere with bad service. I always feel so much better by the second day and like a human again by the third.<br /><h2>9. Plan ahead to do fun things</h2>We have older movies, board games and card games. We pack them. Sometimes the boys pack their airsoft guns or nerf guns (what a mess.) This is a great thing about going to one place each summer that is the same from the prior year. Routines often make memories.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwiZRF8Rc7yODZ0rhKuef3hiL9F5obVPzvUz7JJYBgN41Qwqm5O2QL_kduRk6TkvRCsFaiGgp9FECEGDZaFpvsVq91Bq72NZRn9E0DyFe61ydNmCwBvRddbttcrhS0mHWg2lcg4tPqnav/s1600/IMG_2581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwiZRF8Rc7yODZ0rhKuef3hiL9F5obVPzvUz7JJYBgN41Qwqm5O2QL_kduRk6TkvRCsFaiGgp9FECEGDZaFpvsVq91Bq72NZRn9E0DyFe61ydNmCwBvRddbttcrhS0mHWg2lcg4tPqnav/s320/IMG_2581.JPG" width="255" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you really look at the wildlife?<br />Kip stopped the car one year so I could<br />photograph these lovely flowers.<br />When you take pictures, you make a memory.</td></tr></tbody></table><h2>10. Leave your worries at home</h2>I make a list of things that will bother me while I"m gone and do them before I go. If there is a bill to be paid, I pay it. If there is something upsetting me, I try to tackle it head on (unless it is something I have to think about.) I handle the pets. I'm not tempted, then, to make phone calls and interact too much with the outside world.<br /><h2>11. Plan to return to a clean house</h2>Money is always tight but one thing I've always done is to schedule someone to clean my house while I'm gone. There is nothing nicer to come home to a clean house. Otherwise, you feel like you've got to come home and wear yourself out.<br /><br />How does this help with technology? It means that when I come home, I can focus that first day on getting caught up. I don't have to panic as I drive home all upset knowing the house is a mess AND I haven't checked email.<br /><br /><h2>12. Don't stress. Remember, you make the rules and this is YOUR vacation.</h2>Stuff happens. It does. If it does, handle the problem. Get on the phone, use your laptop, etc. Talk to your family and then move on. Remember, though, that you are a gift you give your family. Unstress and be your best.<br /><br />But stuff doesn't happen every day. If it does, why are you on vacation?<br /><br />In Conclusion<br />This is your time. These precious people will not last forever. Twitter will likely live longer than some of the people you're with. If you want to live life with no regrets, intentionally walk away from things that tempt you to distraction.<br /><br />Life life with intention. You can't be perfect but you can plan ahead. You can focus on the people around you instead of that cell phone that will put you in a digital jail if you let it.<br /><br />Enjoy your vacation and yes, I want to see pics and I will be happy for you. (Unless you go to Alaska and if you do, I don't want to hear about it! ;-)

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