Sunday, February 6, 2022

Mini Road Trip

 We've been trying to incorporate a little discovery in our weekends. After the ice storm on Friday had finally waivered, we decided to take a ride on Saturday morning. We knew that the roads were pretty clear because Paul had already driven our son to the airport early in the morning so, we were confident enough that the ride would be safe. 

We decided on Rhinebeck, NY, we had never been, even though for years we had heard of the Duchess County Fair but had never taken the trip. I know why, the kids were always in the midst of tournament sports and our summers were always filled with trips and weekends at their games. I enjoyed their games and watching them play immensely, but did not enjoy what we had to give up in order to do so. I guess I've always tried to fit in as much as I could, I wanted to experience everything with them. I know now that as long as they were happy doing what they enjoyed, it was time well spent. 

Back to our trip..

We set off on a very cold day, our ride on the winding road of the Taconic State Pkwy was remarkable. The sun was out and shining bright, reflecting off of the ice left behind by the storm. The trees were encapsulated in ice and the reflection of the sun emitting from the trees was just unbelievable. What a site! Quite an unexpected treat and view during our trip. 

It takes us about an hour and we finally drive into town. I love it already, I thought. I love quaint little towns full of older homes and little shops. I felt like we had traveled back in time, not too far back in time but far enough. The town was filled with small shops, including little toy shops that are really hard to find these days, a beautiful bookstore, ice cream, sweet shops, smaller galleries. Now, that's my kind of afternoon. 

We decided on "Foster's Coach House Tavern" for lunch. Originally built in that spot in 1860. A beautiful red building that truly stands out in the midst of everything else. It's full of relics from its past, very interesting, and the booths just happen to be old stalls. Every booth contained a photo of a horse and its name. We ordered the Potato Skins to start and the London Broil sandwich, and the Thanksgiving sandwich with a side of mash and gravy. They also included a bit of extra gravy for you to dunk your sandwich in...yumm. We weren't disappointed, the food was really good. Service was also good, the waitress was very welcoming esp after we admitted to being there for the first time. They must be used to many out of towners just spending the day.

We visited the "Oblong Bookstore" of course, I would never pass up the opportunity to visit an Independent Bookseller. Very nice, very modern and up to date. They also sell more than just books. 

We also visited, "Samuel's Sweet Shop". I have to be honest here, the fact that Paul Rudd is one of the co-owners and he also lives in Rhinebeck was a draw but it was still worth going. We didn't spend too much money in there because I was coming off of a sugar detox, but we did try the chocolate truffles and they were heavenly. 

It was pretty cold outside so we didn't spend as much time as we would've liked but we will definitely take another trip up there during warmer days and check out the fairgrounds, and their hiking trails while we're at it. I can't wait. 

No comments: