Monday, February 8, 2010

Catskills?

If Winter Storm 2010 doesn't hit, Seth and I are off to the Catskills this weekend.
Back in 2008 we packed up our leftover turkey, green bean casserole and German chocolate cake (it was the day after Thanksgiving and the day of Seth's birthday) and headed to Phoenicia. We've camped in this area many times since moving to NY, but this was the first time we stayed indoors:
And I must admit, I'm hooked. Nothing like cozying up in front of a roaring fireplace and sleeping in a nice, warm bed (especially when you're the type of camper who never seems to dress warm enough or bring enough blankets and padding). The stained glass windows, log cabin walls and big stone fireplace with candles on the mantel was just right:
This was a regular home, in a regular neighborhood, so we were ideally situated to explore a winter wonderland...
...and to window shop at the local hardware store:
This time we'd like to get a bit more off the beaten path. I searched the Web last night the entire time Seth was watching the Superbowl*, but still didn't find lodging with that perfect mix of rustic charm and indoor plumbing. Well, Brigham Place looks right up my alley, but it's already booked. And Fourpeaks seems great, but not until the Spring since I don't want to freeze my @$$ off in the "privy." Plus, it's in the Adirondacks which is too long of a trek for a 3-day weekend. (In my opinion, at least!) If only the Wawbeek was still open to the public and somehow magically transported to the Catskills. Cue the Dirty Dancing soundtrack:
Why are we grinning like that?

Ethan and Hsingyi on Ampersand Mountain. The wind was so strong, I was truly worried about being blown off the side. This was a grueling hike, but the views at the top were worth the pain and suffering.
If you ever see this stand on the side of the road, stop. Make a U-turn and double back, if you must. This kettle corn is the perfect blend of salty sweet goodness!

We had the time of our lives! What are your favorite vacation spots in the Catskills and Adirondacks? And anywhere else, for that matter. If you don't mind sharing, I'd love to hear about them!

*Did you see Lance Moore's awesome tumble through the air during the two-point conversion? And how he held onto the ball even when pivoting on his head? It's even more fun in slo-mo!

1 comment:

Unknown said...

"now I've...had the time of my li-i-ife...and i never felt this way before...i swear, its the tru-u-uth...and i owe it all to you-u-u!"