Take a Tour of the Tiny House!

Oh! I can’t stand it … I’m ready to move in!!! This tiny house from the Tumbleweed Company is beyond anything I ever imagined it would be!! I have spent quite a bit of time inside it today, making a list of things that I want to furnish it with, and then just sitting inside, being swept off my feet. Between Dana and myself, I think we have given at least a dozen tours of it in the last two days! I am ready to simplify!!

The house doesn’t need too much in the way of furnishings, but I do need to get some pots and pans, dishes, make some simple curtains, get a futon, etc. so that it will be ready to rent out on a nightly basis. Who will be the first? (after me, that is?!).

For almost a decade I’ve poured over floor plans and Jay Shafer’s books to learn everything I could about these little homes. This tiny house is actually a lot more spacious than even I imagined, however. As you come up on the porch and through the front door, you enter the ‘great room’ which has lots of windows and is paneled in light pine, creating a very airy feeling. The main heat source of the house is a boat stove on the wall. A closet and a couple of bookshelves form the dividing wall between this main living space and the kitchen and the bathroom (complete with toilet and shower). The kitchen has a sink, under-counter refrigerator and a 2-burner stove. What more could you want? Here are some photos for you to take an online tour, but believe me, seeing it in person is worth the trip: http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/houses/fencl/

The Tumbleweed Has Finally Rolled on In!!!!

The BIG (long awaited) DAY has finally arrived. Last night around dinnertime the Tumbleweed Tiny House rolled in and parked itself at The Lodge, where it will reside for the next year, available for Tours, Rentals or even for Purchase. As many of you know from my Tumbleweed ‘ramblings’ over the years, I have been in love with the Tumbleweed Tiny House company for almost a decade. I’ve followed it online through their website, e-newsletter, books and pamphlets, YouTube video clips and the extraordinary media coverage it (and its founder, Jay Shafer) has received. A few of the places you might have heard about it (besides from me) could have been on CNN, Fine Homebuilding Magazine, Oprah, AOL, CBS, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and recently on the cover of Parade Magazine … as well as in smaller publications all over the country. I’ve never really been a groupie of anything in my life, but if I were, it would have to be for this little company (and MaryJane’s Farm, for which I also write!).

But back to Tumbleweed … I love everything about these tiny homes. First of all, I love the thought of being able to simplify my life to such a degree that everything I own might be contained in a house so small! The concept of a green lifestyle -- having such a small environmental footprint – has such an appeal, that I have dreamt of it for years. Now that my children are growing up and leaving the family nest one by one, I am facing the reality of such a possibility for the first time in recent memory. (34 years of parenting so far). Anyway, having this tiny house on our property here at the Lodge is a dream come true for me.

How did it get here? Well, I responded to a posting in a Tumbleweed e-newsletter, which said: “Interested in having a Tumbleweed Tiny House as a vacation rental on your property? We are looking to partner with someone who will host the Fencl house on their property as a vacation rental. Click here to learn more …” I didn’t think we had much of a chance, but gee whiz … you never know until you try, right? I sent in a short (but passionate!) response with a photo of our website and the White Mountains of NH and not too long afterward, I heard that we were ‘in the running’. To say that I was thrilled would be an understatement! Then we made it to the ‘Top 10’ list, followed by an email saying we were one of 3 properties they were considering in the continental US, and the only one on the east coast! Now if you’ve read this far, you’ve already read the spoiler: We (obviously) Won!! J And last night after dinner, the Tumbleweed arrived, as I’ve already told you. When I write again tomorrow, we’ll take a tour through this extraordinary little piece of architecture.

Hummingbirds

I was filling one of my hummingbird feeders today, when an amazing thing happened. I started unscrewing the glass container from its hanger, not knowing that one of these feisty little fellows was feeding on the other side! If he had only known that a fresh, sweet treat was soon to be in store for him, he might have been less displeased. As it was, he was pretty annoyed with me and started buzzing and whirring around, making those high-pitched raucous little squeaks that betray much hummingbird-emotion! This guy was really irked. I filled the empty glass feeder from the deck, holding the bottle over the railing in case my aim wasn’t quite as good as my intentions. With absolutely no self-control, my tiny little friend came within an inch of my arm, hovering there to survey the situation. He was so close that I could feel the wind on my arm from his 100 mph wings! (Actually, they beat 80 times per second; but I’ll let you do the math). Last year Billy took a magnificent photo of one of our Ruby-throated hummers here at The Lodge. The iridescent feathers were incredible, with the characteristic red bib in front. Amazingly, the next photo he took of the same bird showed no red at all!! It turns out that these birds have the ability to control their feathers in the same way that a dog can raise the fur on the back of its neck! But when hummingbirds do it, their iridescent feathers reflect the light differently at different angles, and that is why his photos of the same hummer looked like two totally different species.

Here are some interesting facts about hummingbirds that I found:
· Hummingbirds can fly right, left, up, down, backwards, and even upside down. They are also able to hover by flapping their wings in a figure-8 pattern.
· They have a specialized long and tapered bill that is used to obtain nectar from the center of long, tubular flowers. They also eat tree sap, insects and pollen.
· The hummingbird’s feet are used for perching only, and are not used for hopping or walking.
· They weigh .08 - .7 ounces; are about 1.75 – 8 inches in length; have a heart rate of 1,260 beats per minute; and a lifespan of 4 years.

· Their fast breathing rate, fast heartbeat and high body temperature require that they eat often. They also require an enormous amount of food each day. Hummingbirds have a long tongue which they use to lick their food at a rate of up to 13 licks per second.

I make my own nectar, using 1 part sugar to 4 parts water. I boil it up on the stove and let it cool before putting it in the feeders. You can store it in the refrigerator for at least a week. There is some controversy over whether it is a good thing to put in the red food coloring. Some say it is harmful to them. I’ve done it both ways, and the birds find it even if it is clear, but they definitely prefer red as their color of choice. Someone told me that it is better to purchase hummingbird food packets, because it contains added vitamins and minerals that is not in the sugar water, which they will need if they are not on a steady diet of real flower nectar. I don’t know whether this is true, or just a rumor started by the hummingbird food manufacturers. We have 18 feeders here at The Lodge, one in between every two rooms, and swarms of very healthy hummingbirds. They all give us (and our guests) quite a show! And now that we know all about these tiny winged friends, it’s time to board our Magic Schoolbus and get back to work.

Port of Call

My ‘territory’ it seems, has been re-zoned! Although I hope that wherever we are will always be considered ‘HOME’ by our children, they are launching left and right these days, and for most of them ‘the old home’ has now just become a ‘port of call!’. Noah ‘launched’ a year ago to attend Johns Hopkins University, followed by his friend (our “adopted” son) Billy, who went back to New York in April after living with us for 3 years, to set himself up in a business of his own. Earlier this spring it was Christopher’s time to permanently fly the nest, but today it is our daughter Zia’s turn! She has been accepted into a painting program at the Maine College of Art in Portland, and she has to be there to check in today by noon. The whole ‘kit-and-caboodle’ of us will see her safely there and all set up in her room (with a roommate who is hopefully not a neat freak!). We’re planning a Thai lunch as her official send-off, as there is a good restaurant right across the street from the school. ( … Knowing our daughter’s culinary taste buds, it will probably become her second home. Zia has worked for a number of years at the Thompson House Eatery as a chef, and school cafeteria food may be quite a shock after that!). After we get her settled, if I’m lucky I’ll also be able to fit in a visit to the Longfellow House and Museum a block away. I’m really psyched. Do I feel ‘anxious/sad/old/deserted/ all of the above’ with so many chicks flying the coop in such rapid succession? Surprisingly, the answer is a resounding ‘No’! For one, we still have Josh, who at 13 ½ is an amazing, multi-talented kid. But most of all, I am just happy that so many of our older ones have found their callings and are fulfilling their dreams. For a whole season of my life, the last 25 years at least, my most sacred dream was to see them all reach this point in theirs. Now that it’s here, a new season has begun for me, where I can start concentrating on some of my own personal dreams, such as my writing. So once again, it is another Red Letter day in the Belcher family/Lodge at Jackson Village household. Congratulations, Zia!

Kick up Your Heels -- It's the Covered bridge Dance!

It’s that time of year again, and I hope you’ve brought your dancin’ shoes … because tonight you’ll be able to dance the night away under the stars and the Jackson Covered Bridge starting at 7 pm. Well, maybe the stars aren’t in tonight’s forecast, but the bridge has been around for more than a century, and it’s a great place to party in the mist!! The "White Mountain Boys" a local favorite band, will be back for our annual Covered bridge Dance to get our feet tappin’ and stompin’ as they always do! The leader of the band, John Sarty, is a New England singer/songwriter who has performed regionally and throughout New England over the last decade. He performs a wide range of material consisting mainly of classic American music from old time country and honky tonk to soul, gospel, rock, and rhythm and blues. There will be plenty of food to satisfy your dining needs, so come hungry. Wildquack the Duck will be on hand as well to keep the dancing going. Bring your chairs, blankets, friends, family and, of course, your Dancing Shoes as the Jackson Community comes together for this Old Fashioned good time. Since no cars will be allowed over the bridge between 5 pm and midnight, I guess we can predict that this event will be a real traffic stopper!!

I Got a Sponsor!!!

Yippeee, I’m sponsored!!!! Next month I’m scheduled to participate in ‘Seek The Peak’, a fundraiser for the Mount Washington Observatory. To raise the money, hikers pledge to reach the summit of Mount Washington on foot, and folks interested in helping out a good cause pledge money for the event. The minimum amount of money a hiker can raise to participate is $100. Today I was notified by email that a generous man named John --- has pledged $100 for my hike! I am so excited. In the past my pledges have come in slowly, but this was such a happy moment for me. With only 27 days to go, I am working hard to get in tip top shape for the climb. Thank you for your vote of confidence, John, and for your generosity toward the Observatory … I won’t let you down! I love Mount Washington, and the work that goes on at the Observatory. If anyone would like to pledge any amount for my hike for this great cause, you may do so by logging onto my Hiker page at: https://www.mountwashington.org/site/seekthepeak/view.php?p=MountainFarmGirl

A Heart-to-Heart Hike

My kindred sister left this morning to go back home to the Jersey shore. She’s my cousin, actually, and that was her photo, (holding my prayer shawl), in yesterday’s blog. Yesterday was our last day together, and the weather threatened to be a washout, but here’s a lesson we can all take to heart when in the mountains: ‘Do not listen to weather reports!’ After lunch Barb wanted to take a hike, and even though the sky was threatening, the forecast was dismal, and there had been intermittent downpours over the course of the morning, we thought, ‘What the heck! What’s the worst that can happen?’ and the answer is “We’d have to dry off!”. (Big deal!!). We never needed a towel, though, because we left regardless, throwing weather to the wind, and we had a wonderful time. We chose Black Cap Trail, off Hurricane Mountain, about 10 minutes from the Lodge. Black Cap is an easy to moderate hike, and once we reached the summit, a magnificent surprise awaited us: the clouds lifted, the sun came out, and we had a perfect 360 degree view! Who would’ve thought? (And what a shame to have missed it, as we were tempted to do earlier in the day).

Once we left the car and started on the trail, we were instantly transported to another place; it was magical. The woods there are beautiful, with ferns and wildflowers lining the sides of the well-marked trails. The scent of the balsam firs absolutely elated us; such a clean, fresh smell. The hike, if taken at a leisurely pace, takes 30-45minutes. We chose to take our time and smell the flowers! The birds were amazing. I know my birds by sight, but am less confident identifying them by song only. I heard some of the most beautiful, strong songs from many birds (some of which I had never heard before in my life), but never saw a one through the thick foliage.

Once on top, the view was fantastic. As we sat on the granite top, drinking in the water as well as the sun and the view, Barb said, “It just doesn’t get any better than this.” I couldn’t agree more. I sat there thinking about all the things I’d like to do over the next course of my life, and realized that it consisted of things like hiking, drawing, writing, playing my instruments, doing my artwork, connecting with friends … all things that cost no money … and ALL THINGS THAT MONEY CAN’T BUY. I realized that from where Barb and I sat, we were as rich as we could ever hope to be in our lifetimes. God’s bounty is so fulfilling, so sustaining and nourishing.

We must have sat there for two more hours, just talking like sisters, sharing our hearts desires, our frustrations, our thoughts and ideas. Before we knew it, it was time to make the descent and get home for dinner. I highly recommend Black Cap or any number of other mountain trails as an excellent way of sharing an afternoon with a friend; in short, of having a ‘Heart-to-Heart’ Hike.

The Prayer Shawl: Love Made Visible

Sometimes life crystallizes itself in moments that we can recollect and savor much later … at a moment’s notice. Similar to a piece of music or the scent of something that creates a de ja vu moment, it becomes a reflection of something deep, triggering emotional connections to another person, place or time. Today I want to share my Prayer Shawl, made for me by a complete stranger through an act of pure, unselfish love, and I will never be able to see the one without associating it with the other. A bit esoteric perhaps, but there is a lovely story here.

At the end of April this year, I lost my dear Uncle Bruce. He was my father’s twin brother, and because my dad died so very long ago – even before my grown children were born -- Uncle Bruce was like my second dad. My mom and I were staying with my Aunt Ruth, his wife, during the days prior to his funeral, and one morning she came into the living room with a beautiful hand-crocheted shawl in the most exquisite colors of lavender and blue. I love all sorts of fiber arts, but was magnetically drawn to this piece of handwork especially. My aunt said that it had been made specifically for her by Lois, a new member of her church, and that it was called a Prayer Shawl.

I have often seen the Prayer Shawl books in craft- and bookstores, and love everything about what they are and stand for. The act of making one of these shawls is a ministry of love, the idea originally created by two women, both graduates of the Women’s Leadership Institute of Hartford Seminary. The idea is that compassion and the love of knitting or crocheting are combined into a prayerful ministry and spiritual practice which reaches out to those in need of comfort and solace, as well as in celebration and joy. Many blessings for the recipient are prayerfully infused into every stitch while it is being created, and then a final blessing is made before the shawl is sent on its way to do its healing work of embracing and comforting. Some recipients have continued the kindness by either passing it on when they are no longer in need or by making one for someone in else; a ‘Pay it Forward’ type thing. Thus, the blessing ripples from person to person, with both the giver and receiver feeling the unconditional embrace of a loving and sheltering God.

Aunt Ruth made a point of pointing Lois out to me that afternoon at the church, and I was so blessed to make her acquaintance. I told her how much I loved the prayer shawl she had made for my aunt, my ‘second mother’. From its beautiful and intricate pattern which looked like it had come off a weaving loom, to its magnificent colors which are two of my very favorites, I told her I could just feel all the love she had put into it, and I thanked her for her kindness and generosity of spirit for making it for my aunt whom I absolutely adore. Lois positively beamed! She gave me a huge hug and a kiss, and asked in the most humble way, “Do you really like it? Do you think I could make one for you? I would be so honored if you would let me make one for you …” I had never met Lois before, but her response was so natural, so spontaneous and so sincere, I knew that she not only totally meant it, but meant it in a way that implied that I would be doing her a favor if I just said yes! Of course I didn’t want her for a minute to think that I had been fishing for such an offer, because nothing could have been farther from the truth or my mind. But I sensed something I don’t often experience from myself or other people – a peace and a stillness that was at the same time bubbling to overflowing. It was love made visible through a lovely woman, a true servant of God.

Lois made me a shawl, and she sent it to me on Monday, by way of my Aunt Ruth who is here visiting me this week at The Lodge. It positively exudes love. I have worn it every chilly morning this week, while reading a book at my kitchen table, sipping tea. With its warmth and wooly weight around my shoulders, I feel the blessings and it has inspired me to share the same.


Shawls ... made for centuries universal and embracing, symbolic of an inclusive, unconditionally loving, God.
They wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, give solace,
mother, hug, shelter and beautify.
Those who have received these shawls have been
uplifted and affirmed, as if given wings to
fly above their troubles..."

Mountain Farmgirl: I'm Launched!!

I’m Official!! Earlier this spring, Mary Jane Butters, author, entrepreneur, all-around extraordinary farmgal herself, liked my idea of a Mountain Farm Girl Blog for her website, and hired me to write for her … and all the other extraordinary Farmgirls around our country. (Believe me, there are TONS of us out there, I’m finding out!!). My first official blog launched Monday night by email and within 24 hours I received 117 comments. It totally blew me away! I was so overwhelmed by the response, never suspecting for one moment that I would get so much notice, or cause other busy women to take valuable time out of their schedules to respond … but they did!! It was so encouraging and heartwarming for me to hear from them all. I always hope, through my writing, to touch people in a way they can relate to and understand … that somehow through our collective experiences we can share and learn from one another, and help make each of our little corners of the world a better place. In this case they encouraged ME even more! To see my first post, click on this link, and then check out MaryJanes entire website, which (like her) is awesome!! mfgblog@maryjanesfarm.org

The Bonsai vs. the Charter Oak

They say you can pick your friends but not your family, but in my case, they are one and the same! My relations are few, but they are totally wonderful: AND they are coming to visit me this week!! “My” family consists of my husband and my kids, of course; my mother; my sister and brother and their families; my Aunt Ruth & cousin Barb; and my mom’s second cousin Emelie. That’s it … my only blood relations in this world! We may be small in number, and we’re a bit nutty (in a good way) but we’re all pretty close knit. The problem comes when my husband and I try to plot our family trees; it’s like a Bonsai on my side and the Charter Oak on his. My ancestors came to this country in the late 1800’s, and most of our genealogical records were destroyed during the wars in Europe. There aren’t too many branches on my side of the tree. Dana’s family on the other hand, is extremely well pedigreed, and he can trace his large family’s roots back in great detail (with paragraphs about each person) through the Revolutionary days in America to about the 1400’s in England. Totally impressive. In retaliation, I like to say that our tree actually dates back to the original Noah, but our records were lost in the Flood. (It doesn’t hurt having a son named Noah, too; we’re just keeping it all in the family).

Sometime after lunch today my mom, Aunt Ruth and Barb will start arriving. I am so excited!!! I like to say that Barb is my second sister; we are VERY close, and look very much alike. This makes total sense because Aunt Ruth (her mother) has always been like a second mom to me. Aunt Ruth has never been to The Lodge before, and making this long drive from New Jersey, with a bad back, is nothing short of a true act of love. This is going to be a very special week for my “two moms”, my second sister and me!!

Back in the Saddle Again!

Woohoo … whatta weekend! After a tough winter and a very quiet spring, (always difficult but a seasonally predictable occurrence) we just had a whopper of a weekend, with another one coming up on its heels … and only a few rooms left! Even tonight as well as our upcoming mid-week is uncharacteristically busy, a sign that the economy may really be turning around after all. I guess it was a combination of good weather, Motorcycle Week, Fathers Day, the Race up Mount Washington and Guest Appreciation Days at Story Land, but we were busy and things were hopping here. I was baking cookies left and right for afternoon treats. This morning when I drove in to make breakfast for our guests, there weren’t any more parking places. (I love ‘problems’ like that!). Story Land is open all week now for the summer, and with kids getting out of school for vacation this week, I guess this accounts for the record number of phone calls I’ve been getting all afternoon. This is unheard of on a beautiful Sunday afternoon, when folks are normally out working in their yards instead of making reservations. Anyway … its only Sunday and even so, there are only 4 rooms left for next weekend, so give us a call. It feels great to be ‘back in the saddle’ again!

Mount Washington Road Race celebrates 50 Years!

Today is the Mount Washington Road Race. Oddly enough, it is a beautiful day for the event, both here at the base as well as up on the summit, which we all know is not always the case on this mountain! Today however, the top is mostly in the clear with sunny skies, temperatures of 51 degrees (does anyone know where the ‘degree’ symbol is on a computer?); visibility is 30 miles and the wind speed is currently 30 mph. Unbelievable! Participants are warned on the official race website that the weather can be extremely dangerous, even in June, and are told to be prepared with warm clothing such as mittens, hats and winter jackets. These items are usually a necessity, except when there is a heat wave like today. The runners I spoke to at breakfast this morning would prefer it cooler … but Mount Washington weather is the luck of the draw, and today’s certainly beats a blizzard!

Running the Mount Washington Road race would be a milestone in anyone’s book, but for long-time Lodge guest Walter Kuklinski, this is his 25th consecutive run!! Walter trains at various other races throughout the year, such as in the Rocky Mountains, where the elevation gives his lungs a good workout to prepare for this grueling race up Mount Washington, the stats of which are listed below:

Distance: 7.6 miles
Summit: 6288 feet above sea level
Altitude gain in the race: 4650 feet
Gradient: 12 percent average, 18 percent steepest long grade, 30 percent at finish

We wish Walter and ALL our runners (we typically fill to overflowing with runners for this race) – the best of luck. Regardless of the outcome, you are all winners for doing this!

Dana and our son Joshua will be volunteering again this year to help Larry Baima of the Thompson House Eatery, serve a great meal for about 1200 runners, post race in the base tent. T.H.E. uses paper goods and disposables that are all eco-friendly and biodegradable, and this year their catered menu consists of Tuscan Bean and Vegetable Soup (vegan), BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders with a maple chipotle BBQ sauce; Coleslaw; Whole wheat rolls, brownies, orange wedges, bananas, mini-candy bars, soda, water and Tuckerman’s Beer. Mmmmmm! I bet it will taste even more delicious than it sounds to those folks who just burned a zillion calories!

A little History on the Race, for those not familiar:
The first timed run up Mount Washington took place in 1904 by a young medical student named George Foster, who did it to impress his friends. His time was 1 hour, 42 minutes – faster than any automobile had ever made the trip! In 1936 some of Dr. Foster's friends organized a Mt. Washington road race in his honor. Twelve runners finished. The race was held again in 1937 and 1938, with larger fields each time. During the war years the race was forgotten, but it was held again in 1961 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Mt. Washington Carriage Road. Boston Marathon champion John J. Kelley won that year, beating 78 other runners. In 1962, 40- year-old former coal miner Fred Norris won in the stunning time of 1:04:57, which stood for 40 years as the masters' record. After a 3-year hiatus the race resumed in 1966 and has been run annually since. In 2002, for the first time in its history the Mt. Washington Road Race was shortened on account of the weather. Pounded by wind and freezing rain on the upper slopes, volunteers setting up what was supposed to be the finish area could hardly maneuver, and Auto Road staff determined that too many people's safety would be in jeopardy if the race went to the summit. The finish line was moved to just below the halfway mark, so that the field ran 3.8 miles.

Does the prospect of running up Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the east (known for the ‘World’s Worst Weather’) intimidate you? Relax … there's Only One Hill!

Putting it all Together and Making it Happen!

I think that one of the ways we are really able to shine above our competition here at The Lodge is by helping to create the perfect custom getaways for our guests. We’ve always prided ourselves on that, and we’ve come up with some really cool ideas lately in the line of personal itineraries. For example, Gale, one of our long-term guests from Bryn Mawr, PA, decided to come up on the spur of the moment this week, while her son was taking a Wilderness first Aid course at the AMC. With the better part of a week to herself, she told us that she would be very interested in taking some art classes … doing almost anything creative that uses her hands, and did I have any suggestions? Ahhh, I love a challenge! I used to work at the White Mountain Artisan’s Gallery in Intervale, and one of the best things about it was meeting all the artists and craftsmen who brought in their work to display. So I started going down my list of contacts, and came up with a few suggestions. Lori Badger of Silver Moon Mosaics (www.silvermoonmosaics.com) came to mind, because she lives here in Jackson, and often gives classes to local people. I own one of her mosaic lupine mirrors, which is beautiful! Lori couldn’t do anything this week with Gale on such short notice (she has two daughters graduating this week) but will be working with Gale when she returns in July for a 2-week stay. During that time she will also most likely be working with Karen Eisenberg in jewelry design. It was Dana who actually found Gale a really fabulous project this week. One of his census workers, Burt Weiss, is a glass artist (http://www.customartglass.com/) . He started out doing magnificent stained glass, and now does fused glass which he fires in mammoth kilns, allowing him to make glass doors and windows, tabletops, counters, etc. Dana arranged for Gale and two others to create amazing glass bowls. They worked outside on the patio near the pool all afternoon. Burt took the pieces home, fired them and returned the bowls … actual pieces of art, the next day! What fun … above and beyond everyone’s expectations. If you are coming for a visit, and have a special interest you would like to pursue, let us know and we will see if we can put you in touch with just the right person who can make your dream a reality!

The Lodge Lady Says:"You Can't Have Too Much of a Good Thing: Meet My OTHER Dana/Daughter!"

You can’t have too much of a good thing, and in this case, the good things are ‘Daughters’ and ‘Dana Belchers’. Dana Belcher the First is my husband, and he (of course) is wonderful. I’ve known him since I was born, although I do not remember him quite back that far. Our mothers were best friends all growing up through school and beyond, and were also the Maids of Honor in each other’s weddings. We always joke that ours was an ‘arranged marriage’, and there may just be some truth in that. Nevertheless, ‘my’ Dana came along 3 years before I did, presumably to wait for me as he says, and to prepare the way. He was even at my parent’s wedding reception, looking quite bored I must say … but then of course, I wasn’t there yet to keep him company!!

I remember when our daughter was born (daughters being the other great thing!) … and he wanted to call her ‘Dana’. ‘Imagine’, thought I: ‘TWO Dana Belchers in the same family’! For various reasons, name confusion being one of them, we ended up naming her ‘Zia’. But guess what? You usually get what you wish for, and now there is going to be another Dana Belcher in our family!! (No … it’s not what you are thinking, shame on you). Dana the Second is the love of our son Noah’s life, and she is a giant ray of sunshine in ours as well. ‘Dana 2’ is working with us in our family operations here at The Lodge this summer, and hers is one of the cheery, helpful voices you will speak with on the phone when making your reservation, or when you check in at our Front Desk.

Noah and ‘his’ Dana met back in New York State (where we all lived at the time) when they were 13 years old. They met through Civil Air Patrol, where they were both cadets, and when they were also both home schooled. Although the two were ‘just friends’ at first, Noah says that from the start he always knew that they would marry someday. I totally believe this; Noah is a man who has always known his mind (and heart) and follows his convictions. (Noah is also brilliant, and smart man that he is, it’s easy to see that he would not let a beautiful, intelligent and very lovely young woman like Dana elude him if he had anything to say about it!).

Working with ‘Dana 2’ this summer is a wonderful way to get to know her like a daughter and to fall in love with her myself! Being very bright, she learned all our systems practically the first day on the job, and now works at The Lodge like she has been here for many years instead of just weeks. I feel totally confident leaving her in charge while I focus on other things that need doing here (which also includes my writing, which I like to do up at my cabin on the mountain!).

When ‘Dana 2’ graduated from home high school, she attended the Honor Academy in Garden Valley, Texas for two years. This school had a focus on Christian Leadership, and so it was a natural leap from there to Patrick Henry College in Purcellville, Virginia, where Dana started as a freshman, but will now be entering her junior year in the fall. The Mission of PHC is to prepare young men and women to lead our nation and shape our culture with timeless biblical values and fidelity to the spirit of America’s founding. Its vision, to prepare its students to serve God and mankind with a passion for righteousness, justice and mercy, through careers of public service and cultural influence, is compatible with the ideals of many of its homeschooled students, of whom Dana was one, and to whom PHC makes a deliberate outreach. Dana’s particular focus is American Politics and Policy, and this Major promotes practical application of the original intent of the founding documents of our American republic, while preparing students for lives of public service, advocacy and citizen leadership. After graduation (in addition to marrying our son, Noah), Dana hopes to work in the field of Public Policy in Washington, DC.

There are so many things I love about Dana; Her “Can Do” attitude, for example! She is a kindred spirit in the sense that we are both hard workers who like to set goals, roll up our sleeves, get to work and get the job done! Not only does she frequently ask, “What can I do to help?’, (such beautiful words, representing a thoughtful and generous spirit), but she also notices things ands thinks of projects that need doing completely on her own; and then jumps in and takes care of them herself. One project I have been putting off for just about forever has been to clean out the attic at The Lodge. It was an overwhelming task, and every time I stepped up there to survey the project, I’d end up walking around in circles not knowing where to begin. Last weekend, on one of her ‘days off’, Dana came to me and said she had about 3 free hours, and ‘would I like some help in the attic’? She said she thought that we could really make a dent in that time if we had each other for moral support. Let me tell you: Never underestimate the power of two hardworking, determined women!! Not only did we ‘make a dent’, we had that project completely licked and the attic whipped into perfect shape in that time. What an act of love that was --- you should have seen it!! … she is such a sweetheart!

Dana loves the outdoors, and Outward Bound-type activities which challenge and stretch her physical and emotional capabilities, (though believe me, she is very physically fit)! She and Noah go running almost every morning before work, and she will be on her school’s soccer team this fall. Dana also likes to knit things like sweaters, socks and scarves. Right now one of her consuming pastimes is planning for the big wedding day, which (although no date has been set as yet) will be about two years in the future in May. Their hearts and goals are in the right place regarding this event, which is basically to focus on their eternal commitment to one another in the presence of God, and the good company of friends and family. They also do not intend to start their married life together by going into debt for this occasion, demonstrating their common sense and level-headedness. I have been watching them research various venues, and become shocked at how much a wedding can cost … which is more than my parents paid for their entire house back in 1960! It has been lovely to observe the evolution of their wedding day dreams, as they distill the essence of the occasion and translate it into practical solutions, such as one of the themes they came up with of ‘celebrating the love and beauty of God’s bounty’ … a natural, rustic event celebrating God’s natural creations (such as river rocks, branches and other natural elements) which are certainly some of the most beautiful images I can think of.

And so, I am loving the opportunity of getting to know my second Dana as a co-worker, a friend, and as a daughter … and there are few things more precious to share with such a special person than our wonderful son Noah, whom I love and respect with all my heart. They are meant for one another, and they both bless me greatly!

An Unwelcome Visitor

When you love what you do, it doesn’t seem like work, even if you do it 7 days a week, 14+ hours a day! That, by the way, is the minimum amount of time it takes when you’re in the hospitality business, and it requires nothing short of pure passion to fuel that midnight oil! I remembered something the other day I hadn’t thought of in years. When we lived back in New York, our pastor gave each member of our congregation a little quiz. There were no right or wrong answers … its purpose was to determine what special gifts each of us possessed that God might be calling us to share with others, either now or in the future. Mine, it turned out, was ‘Hospitality’!! … and I was put in charge of meeting and greeting visitors at church each Sunday, and following up with a friendly phone call. Little did I know at the time, but a decade later my husband and I would move our family to the White Mountains to become your “Lodgekeepers”!! We’re more than halfway through our 6th year now, and we have no regrets regarding the ‘big decision’. When you have passion for what you do, it shines through, which is why our guests still rate us the #1 Small Hotel in Jackson on Trip Advisor after all these years. But it works both ways! I’ve often said that if there were such a thing as a ‘Guest Advisor’ website (maybe I should start one!), our guests would be right up on top, as well. We’ve made a number of true, lifelong friends here, all of whom we met for the very first time at the front desk. That is one of the special blessings of our profession; what makes it all worthwhile. Once in awhile, however, we get an unwelcome visitor, and this happened to us last week. He was a grizzly, unfriendly-looking fellow, and as he ambled up the walkway toward the front door, I just happened to be walking through the lobby. One glance was all it took, and I knew he was one guest that we didn’t want to mess with! This guy was big … at least 250 pounds BIG, and he hadn’t shaved in a coon’s age … he was covered with black fur! He was, of course, one of our local black bears, and he was no longer a cub by any stretch of the imagination. This guy has apparently dined very well since he came out of hibernation. When he saw me running out with my camera, he thought better of continuing towards the front door, and headed for the road out front. His appearance was a traffic stopper, but not too abruptly, thank goodness. Mr. Bear then ambled across the lawn, and swam across the river, he was quite a sight to behold. He paid us another visit the following night, I’m afraid. I had filled up some hummingbird feeders with nectar that day, and put them out back on my patio. Unfortunately, I didn’t get around to hanging them up before night fell, and then I got distracted and forgot about them. I discovered yesterday morning that our bear had emptied each one, and completely taken one of the jars. I haven’t found it yet! While bears are interesting creatures, and I’ve never been afraid of them, they DO deserve a healthy dose of respect. Here’s some good advice regarding bears: Do not feed them! It is interesting to watch black bears, but they can become a real nuisance as well as a danger once they lose their fear of humans. Cover your garbage and be sure to secure the lids. Our large commercial dumpster out back has plate metal lids and heavy metal bars across them. Once the bear tried lifting the lids and bent them perpendicular to the metal horizontal bars. It takes ENORMOUS strength to do such a thing, but a bear is equal to the task! Take down your birdfeeders also, until after the bears go into hibernation; or else you’ll find yourself missing your feeder one morning!

Mount Washington Edu-Trips: Another way to See the Top!

While I’m still thinking lofty thoughts, (well … thoughts that go as high as 6,280 feet, that is!) I want to mention EduTrips, the themed, overnight field trips at the Mount Washington Observatory.

You may have experienced the summit already, either by hiking, driving up the Auto Road, or riding up in the historic cog railroad. If so, you weren’t alone! Each summer Mount Washington is visited by a quarter-million people; in winter, only a few hundred make the difficult journey. Enduring sub-zero cold, hurricane force winds and whiteout conditions for the chance to experience remarkable vistas of snow-covered peaks, Mount Washington's winter secrets are known only to the most intrepid mountaineers.

Mount Washington Observatory EduTrips – of which I have now done two -- offer the exclusive opportunity to experience Mount Washington in winter without a technical mountaineering ascent. Travel to and from the summit is made possible by snow tractor transportation, and cozy overnight accommodations are provided at the summit weather station. The educational value of the visit is enhanced by expert instruction in a variety of subjects, ranging from mountain photography to meteorology, climate change to cooking. (Visit their schedule page for a complete listing of trip dates and descriptions). If you enjoy ‘extremes’, then this is the place for you!

Extremely severe weather: With temperatures sometimes approaching 50 degrees below zero, winds gusting over 100 miles per hour, dense fog, heavy icing, and air filled with blowing snow, it is as close to arctic conditions as you or I are likely to experience.
Extreme beauty: On those rare days when the fog lifts, the skies clear, and the entire White Mountain range is laid out before you, glistening white in its winter raiment. It is breathtaking, to say the least.
Extremely challenging conditions: To safely visit such a place in winter, you need to be in good physical condition, properly clothed and equipped, and aware of the vagaries of the often uncooperative weather. For an adventurous soul, what can compare with sampling such extreme conditions? On par with Everest and the Polar regions, Mount Washington is one of the most accessible extreme places on earth, and once conquered, will give you an extremely satisfying experience.

So here’s the scoop on Edu-Trips! EduTrips leave from the base of the Mount Washington Auto Road at 8:30 A.M. on the first day of the trip, you spend the night at the Observatory on the summit, and then return to the valley on the following afternoon (weather permitting). The trip includes transportation to and from the summit via snow tractor, several classroom sessions and/or outdoor field trips, tours of the Observatory and the summit area, meals and overnight lodging in the weather station with the observers, and a certificate of course participation. I have experienced both ‘White Mountain Ecology’ as well as ‘Winter Mountain Safety’ and I hope one day to have participated in them all!

As to WHO can go, all physically fit adults are welcome, as are fit individuals between the ages of 16 and 18 who are accompanied by a qualified adult. A minimum of six and maximum of nine participants are allowed on each trip. The cost is $459 for members and $499 for non-members. Keep in mind that this is MOUNT WASHINGTON, and that trips may be canceled due to extremely inclement weather. Safety is of the utmost importance. The Mount Washington Auto Road, used to access the summit, is about eight miles long, and approximately half of the road is above timberline. Weather here is often severe, and can turn deadly if you are unprepared, ill-equipped, or unable to hike to safety in the event of a vehicular breakdown (and while there have been few over the years, you absolutely MUST be prepared for that possibility). All participants must be ready, willing, and able to hike to safety (which is sometimes several miles away) in severe conditions. These conditions may include drifted snow, glare ice, sub-zero temperatures, hurricane force winds, and near zero visibility.

I can vouch for this firsthand, as a sudden blizzard blew in sooner than expected on our descent down the mountain after our Winter Mountain Safety course a few years ago. The white-out conditions and 90 mph winds caught us by surprise, and when the tractor got stuck sideways in 6 feet of snow, (which had not been there on the tractor’s ascent about 30 minutes before!) we had to walk a good way down before being rescued. My then-21 year old son Chris, who attended with me, thought it was one of the best parts of the trip, being the most outrageous possible ‘lab’ component of the topic “Winter Mountain Safety”. But the fact is, while it was momentarily exciting and had a happy ending due to the knowledge and expertise of the staff at the Observatory (and our own determination and survival instincts!!), it was a brutal lesson in how a deadly storm can come out of nowhere and catch you unaware. (By the way, when we reached the bottom, it was merely a calm and cloudy day. The mountain is as deceptive as it can be treacherous). Because we get lots of hikers at The Lodge, all of varying abilities and experience levels, this was the very reason I had chosen this Edu-Trip. I can now talk with experience and some authority to all my guests who are Mount Washington hiking ‘hopefuls’!
Here’s what you can expect in winter up there: An average mid-winter day on Mount Washington finds the summit in rime-ice producing fog, with visibility limited to 100 feet, a temperature of about 5 degrees Fahrenheit and a wind speed near 50 miles per hour; gusts of 70 miles per hour or greater are likely. A typical "wind chill equivalent" would approach 25 degrees below zero. It is not uncommon to experiences temperatures as low as 45 degrees below zero, with winds gusting over 100 miles per hour. Bitter winter conditions can set in as early as October, and persist through the end of April (our “experience” occurred on April 12th of that year, coincidentally the anniversary of the world record wind of 231 mph!).

Maybe you’re thinking that winter is a bit too rugged for you; in that case you may want to consider a Summer trip. Summit Adventures leave from the base of the Mount Washington Auto Road in other seasons as well, but are only day-length trips, no overnights. But try to experience Mount Washington for yourself any time of year; it is like no place on earth. Until then, support their scientific work, and consider sponsoring my hike this year up the mountain. Thanks!

More About the Mount Washington Observatory

Only 43 days left until Seek the Peak! Yesterday I wrote about this year’s annual Seek the Peak fundraiser for the Mount Washington Observatory. I’m one of the hikers pledging to reach the summit of Mount Washington on ‘Seek the Peak Saturday’, July 24, and I could sure use your pledge to help me get there! So far, there are 492 people registered to hike; 273 people qualified for a goodie bag worth over $100; 23 people in the running for the $500 Settler's Green Outlet Village shopping spree; and 9 people are in the running for the one-year lease on a brand new Subaru Outback! These prizes are based on the amount of money raised by each participant. I’m motivated by helping them raise money, not the prizes, but I thought I’d mention the stats to date … and I could sure use some pledges from anyone who would like to support a good cause! Here’s how you can help pledge any amount for my hike to the summit: https://www.mountwashington.org/site/seekthepeak/view.php?p=MountainFarmGirl


The Mount Washington Observatory is a private, non-profit scientific and educational institution organized under the laws of the state of New Hampshire. Its mission is to advance understanding of the natural systems that create the Earth's weather and climate, by maintaining its mountaintop weather station, conducting research and educational programs and interpreting the heritage of the Mount Washington region.

The first regular meteorological observations on Mount Washington were conducted by the U.S. Signal Service, a precursor of the Weather Bureau, from 1870 to 1892. The Mount Washington station was the first of its kind in the world, setting an example followed in many other countries.
The Mount Washington Observatory reoccupied the summit in 1932 through the enthusiasm of a group of individuals who recognized the value of a scientific facility at that demanding location. In April of 1934, observers measured a wind gust of 231 mph, a world record which was only broken last year. In spite of the hardships imposed by their environment, observers regularly monitored weather under the auspices of the U.S. Weather Bureau, and conducted landmark research in short-wave radio propagation, ice physics and the constitution of clouds. The relationship with the U.S. Weather Service has always been close, but the Observatory is not a part of any government agency.
The Observatory continues to record and disseminate weather information. It also serves as a benchmark station for the measurement of cosmic ray activity in the upper atmosphere, develops robust instrumentation for severe weather environments and conducts many types of severe weather research and testing. The term outpost can be defined as a small group stationed away from the main body; it is also referred to as an outlying or frontier settlement. These definitions lend a sense of endangerment associated with the word, as well as the understanding of an important mission. Of the scores of mountaintop scientific stations that eventually followed its lead, the Mount Washington station is perhaps the only one that can be said to have remained in continuous operation with an active and expanding mission.
Because the summit of Mount Washington is one of the most interesting and provocative locations in New England, the Observatory has always been called upon to educate. Beginning in 1973, however, with the creation of its Summit Museum, the Observatory has actively pursued a vastly expanded educational agenda that includes a nationally syndicated radio program The Weather Notebook, annual symposia and short courses in the sciences and humanities, and audio/visual and interactive outreach programs for schools and groups.
The Observatory provides interesting and exciting volunteer opportunities for its members which allows them to participate in the work which goes on at the summit.
In addition to its meteorological work, the Observatory maintains a natural laboratory research facility for the study of most aspects of icing, cloud, and atmospheric phenomena, and for the testing of instruments, devices and materials. However, most Observatory programs require membership, so be sure to check out the member page.

Seeking Donations to Seek the Peak

What’s an independent Mary Jane Mountain Farm Girl like me, (also known in these parts as the “Lodge Lady”) requesting donations for? A great cause, that’s what! Each year at this time we gear up for the Seek the Peak fundraiser, which helps raise money for the Mount Washington Observatory. This year’s annual Seek the Peak will take place on the weekend of July 23-24, when hikers of all ages and abilities from across the nation will converge on 6,288-foot Mount Washington, New Hampshire to participate in Mount Washington Observatory's Seek the Peak Hike-A-Thon fundraiser. Now in its tenth year, Seek the Peak has grown to become New England's premier hiking event.
Seek the Peak 10, presented by Subaru, L.L.Bean and Stonyfield Farm, will welcome as many as 500 hikers to the rocky trails of Mount Washington, each hiking in support of the legendary Mount Washington Observatory. I’ll be one of them! Over the event's history, Seek the Peak hikers, donors and sponsors have raised just under $500,000 to support the work of this important nonprofit institution, bringing in more than $117,00 in 2009 alone.
To celebrate the tenth anniversary of Seek the Peak, there will be thousands of dollars worth of prizes, goodie bags, a Kick-Off Party at the Weather Discovery Center, and the biggest addition for 2010... a Friday night Seek the Peak concert in North Conway featuring a national recording artist! (Curious? Come find out for yourself!). Combined with the awe and wonder of Mount Washington itself, Seek the Peak 10 will be an event to remember.

If you’d like to join in the fun, the first step in your journey will be to click the orange "Register" button at the top of the page at www.seekthepeak.org/ Complete the registration form, set up your own personalized pledge page and you're on your way. All hikers must raise a minimum of $100 to participate, and the more you raise, the more chances you'll have at winning incredible prizes! The first 400 hikers that raise the $100 minimum will receive a long-sleeve event t-shirt, a goodie bag, a ticket to the Seek the Peak Concert, admission to the Stonyfield Farm Kick-Off Party and after party, a free tour of our famous mountaintop weather station and more. The event is limited to 500 participants, so register today!

As seen in the February 2009 edition of National Geographic Magazine, Mount Washington is home to some of the fiercest winter conditions on the planet. In summer, it is the pinnacle of the New England hiking scene, with numerous trails to choose from, unique above-treeline tundra and stunning views to the Atlantic Ocean, Canada and Adirondack mountains.
Your support will help the non-profit Mount Washington Observatory maintain its famous outpost high atop Mount Washington, advancing its work in collecting weather data, performing scientific research and educating the public about the science of weather and climate.
Grab your pack and join me for Seek the Peak 10! If you can’t participate personally, perhaps you’ll consider sponsoring my climb up the mountain next month. You can pledge any amount to help me reach my goal! Go to the above Seek the Peak website, click on the “Support a Hiker” button, and click on my handle, MountainFarmGirl (Cathi Belcher). Any amount you pledge will help, and is for a great cause: The Mount Washington Observatory!

Up, Up and Away!

As we went into ‘blacktop town’ last night with Zia for her birthday, (er … I mean, North Conway) … we had a very pleasant surprise! Directly in front of us hovering over Route 16 was a gorgeous hot air balloon sporting all the colors of the rainbow! And then there was another, and another!! Good thing I wasn’t driving or we would have been off the road. As we got to the village green, there were nearly a dozen balloons, all in various stages of filling themselves with hot air, and some of them in the process of going aloft. It was the beginning of the Hot Air Balloon Fest taking place this weekend, and it was a truly magnificent sight! These balloons are owned and operated by local enthusiasts, and will be available for short excursions over the Mount Washington Valley this weekend, or for tethered rides for the more cautious.

Ballooning is really an awesome treat from any angle. Dana and I have been on lengthy hot air balloon adventures twice in our lives, and it is an amazing feeling. Looking up from below, it always takes my breath away, they are so beautiful! But from above looking down, they are surprisingly very quiet and peaceful (except when you fire up the burner to get more altitude). Apart from this occasional disturbance (which you are all to happy to hear when the basket starts brushing the tops of the trees!) … it is perfectly silent. Also, since you are travelling the exact speed of the wind, your hair doesn’t even ruffle! That was something I didn’t know until I experienced it. In addition to sharing this mode of transportation with my parents, sister, husband, nieces and nephews back in the late 1970’s, my husband and I renewed our wedding vows in 1983 in a hot air balloon, and took off for a lengthy jaunt with our wedding party! The wind took us in a far and unexpected direction, creating a challenge for the chase vehicle below. We all had to cross fields, mud, a stream and hop barbed wire fences, a bit of a challenge in wedding attire and after sufficiently flowing Moet Chandon!

Here are a few facts you may not have known about balloons:
· They were discovered in France in 1783 after it was discovered that a fabric bag filled with hot air would rise.
· Initially Balloons without any Passengers were sent up. Then, animals of all sorts were used for experimenting like a sheep, rooster, and duck, to be sent high up.
· The first manned balloon was piloted by two men, who travelled 5.5 miles over Paris. The first attempt by man to fly!
· Balloons were used in the Civil War to get enough altitude to discover the enemy’s position.
· Balloons have been important in science as they have helped us study the weather and the atmosphere.
· Balloon pilots need a commercial pilot's license (fixed-wing). They must have at least 35 hours of flight instruction, attend ground school for basic aviation training, pass a written test for hot-air balloons and have a flight check from a Federal Aviation Administration official.
· Hot air balloons don't fly in the rain because balloon heat can cause water to boil atop the balloon, and boiling water destroys the fabric.
· Area balloon operators can carry from two to 10 passengers at a time, depending on balloon size.

There have, at times, been balloons flying over The Lodge ... a truly amazing sight. But then, no matter how you get here, it's always worth the trip!

Coming of Age

I could embroider a lot of tales about the Jackson Women’s Sewing Club, because the organization is a Tradition in our town with a long and colorful history. In fact, the Sewing Club is part of the very fabric of Jackson life, and has been since 1917. Though our Selectmen think that they are in charge, the Sewing Club is actually the power seat of local politics, and if you want to know what is really going on here, just ask one of the ladies! My daughter Zia and I joined the Club shortly after moving to Jackson 5 ½ years ago. We both like to sew, wanted to meet some people, and LOVED the idea that you could actually WALK to some sort of activity!! (We had come from the boonies where there was nothing around for miles and miles; where a car was an absolute necessity!). We met some lovely people at the club, although for a then-12 year old girl, there was waaay much too much talking at meetings and not enough sewing for her liking. But that was okay; I went to the meetings and she helped out at events. Our first luncheon, held that year at the Eagle Mountain House, was a very nice event for us. We knew absolutely no one as we entered the room, but we were instantly invited to sit at a table with some of the local women from the club. They were so kind to us and made us feel very welcome. They made a special point of including my daughter, young as she was … and it was one of the first times I had heard her speak as an ‘adult’ in a public situation. ‘Who is this amazing, interesting woman?’ I asked myself, as I listened with absolute awe! She was astutely and very intelligently discussing novels, authors, politics and a variety of other subjects, succinctly and with accurate details. It was an eye opening moment for me as a mother. My daughter had suddenly grown up before my very eyes, and without my noticing!

Today is another milestone in Zia’s life … and mine, consequently, as well. Today she turns 18 years old and has officially ‘come of age’. Well maybe not in the eyes of the state of New Hampshire, where legal adulthood begins at 21; but we are not a drinking family, so that means nothing to us. Zia is beautiful, mature woman, with a good head on her shoulders. As a true artist, she has been a watercolor painter since she was about a year old … ever since she could clutch her chubby baby fingers around a paint brush. I’ll bet there hasn’t been a day in her life since then that she hasn’t had a paintbrush in her hand, creating and experimenting with some new idea or artistic style. Zia has also been a chef, working at The Thompson House Eatery under Larry Baima’s expert guidance for many years, extending the range of her pallet (palate!)to include the art of food. As such, I was delighted to be able to treat her to the Sewing Club annual luncheon at the Wentworth the other day as an early birthday present.

Liz Jackson, owner of Libby’s Bistro up in Gorham, was the guest speaker. I could go on and on about Liz, some of which I only just found out about at the luncheon. However, everything I really needed to know about her as a person came through just by hearing her speak. She absolutely exuded passion! (Passion about cooking, passion about health, passion about travel, passion about her love of people … and expressing all this so creatively and PASSIONATELY through her artistic medium: food!). Wow! She was a slightly wild and crazy (in the good sense) one-woman act, and extremely entertaining! Yet I don’t want to overlook her BIO, which is also impressive: Cambridge School of Culinary Art; two stints in Julia Child’s Kitchen working on “In Julia’s Kitchen with Master Chefs”; a very successful catering business, and a long list of fine restaurants. She is also a wife and the mother of four children (no small feat, I can tell you!!). Her restaurant, Libby’s Bistro, occupies a century-old bank building, and its architectural renovation which she and her husband undertook, kept all the building’s initial integrity intact. (We’ve eaten there, and the bank vault, for example, is her wine cellar! The food is fantastic).

Liz loves to travel, and each year extensively explores different parts of Europe to learn its indigenous cooking techniques and foods. She just got back from Italy, where she was especially interested in learning about the foods prepared for school children. Liz is the catalyst behind a healthy foods movement in our local schools, and she told us some marvelous stories about Italian cafeterias, which she felt served some of the best and freshest foods she has ever eaten in her entire life!

Having worked with Julia Child in her home in Boston for two years, Liz’ ‘take’ on the ‘Julie and Julia’ movie was fun to listen to! The first time she saw it, Liz said she cried all the way through it; the second time she laughed the entire time. Meryl Streep apparently gave a marvelous rendition of the ‘real’ Julia, who loved people, food, wine, parties, and especially her husband. The portrayal of her marriage in the film was a realistic one. Julia had enormous energy. She was 80 when Liz worked with her on the shows, and after a full 12-14 hour day of filming, Liz and the crew would be wiped out, but Julia was ready to party! Her husband had died many years prior, and Julia, now in her 80s, had a boyfriend … so after a long day of TV sets and film productions, the two of them would go out and paint the town red!

Liz demonstrated making a fantastic salad using arugula, fresh strawberries, and a high-end, freshly-shaved, parmesan cheese. The dressing included extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, fresh lemon juice and sugar. As she tossed the ingredients together and mounded them on the plate in a huge pyramid, the colors and textures created as much of a visual sensation, as the sweetness of the fruit, the slight bitterness of the fresh greens and the tanginess of the dressing made a tasty and tangy one. It was a highly informative and interesting presentation. We highly recommend that you visit her amazing restaurant “Libby’s”, as well as her lighter, more economical “Saalt Pub”. “It was never our intention to have a high-end restaurant” said Liz. “Our clientele really dictated our emphasis in that direction. But now through the Saalt Pub, we are getting back to our original intentions of basic, regional, indigenous foods from around the world, that are delicious and very affordable for the common man (and woman)”. We at The Lodge at Jackson Village highly recommend that you try both!

Jackson History and Hospitality

Yesterday I attended the annual Jackson Women’s Sewing Club luncheon, this year held at The Wentworth, which is owned by our friends Fritz and Ellie Koeppel. Fritz and Ellie, along with Jim and Ibby Cooper (owners of the Inn at Thorn Hill) were so very kind to all of us new innkeepers back in 2005. That year there was an influx of ‘newbies’ to Jackson, (four couples in all), and the Koeppels and the Coopers, who were experienced and successful hoteliers, acted as the welcome committee. They took us all under their wings by inviting us as a group to each of their inns for dinner on two separate occasions. As our hosts, they introduced us to one another, to Jackson, and set the tone for what was to be a very unique and cooperative business relationship amongst us all. As a result, we all became friends instead of competitors, a condition that has continued through the present day. I don’t know how common this sort of thing is in other places, but I suspect not very. Jackson is an incredibly special place, made up of wonderful people!

I’ve written about the Jackson Sewing Club a number of times in the past. It is a unique institution in Jackson; one steeped in tradition. Its complexion has changed over the years, especially as its older members, some of them Founders, have passed on. Since 1917, the Jackson Women's Sewing Club has provided a gathering place for the ladies of the village who wish to help their neighbors. This group is an integral part of the social history of Jackson. The original mission was to do something on the home front for the "Jackson boys" serving in WW I. The founders decided to wrap bandages and to knit mittens, socks and scarves to send to the troops serving overseas. Since then it has provided financial support and assistance to persons in the local community. The club sponsors two very important events each year - the Annual Luncheon and the Annual Christmas Silver Tea. Both have become Jackson traditions and are important fundraisers and social events for the community. I will report in tomorrow on the luncheon itself. I was anxious to hear guest speaker Liz Jackson (her name just coincidence!) speak on her restaurant, her travels throughout Europe, and her working relationship with Julia Child. I definitely wasn't disappointed. But more on this tomorrow!

Mount Washington: A Beacon in our Backyard

Mount Washington has a strange fascination for many people, and I am one of them. Just what it is that draws us to this austere place like a moth to a flame is hard to put your finger on. We all know that this mountain is the highest peak in the northeastern United States, and that it has (or it least it HAD until recently) the world’s worst recorded weather. But there is something else, some elusive fascination about Mount Washington, that has distinguished it in the minds of many, drawing us back to it again and again. This mountain is treacherous, austere and sometimes deadly, many having lost their lives in the process of climbing it over the years ... not exactly the best qualifications to recommend it as a destination. And yet we still go! By the throngs!! (Easter weekend, I was driving up toward Pinkham Notch, and there were almost 5 miles of cars parked on either side of the road near the AMC! It was estimated that over 3000 people climbed up Tuckerman Ravine to get in some awesome spring skiing!!).

Nicholas Howe, a long-time Jackson resident, has written a marvelous book about some of the more disastrous attempts up to the summit of Mount Washington, called ‘Not Without Peril’. It is filled with lots of interesting stories, but apart from its ‘good read’ value, the book serves a warning for the unprepared or inexperienced hikers who think it would be ‘fun’ to climb to the top. My sister-in-law was one of them. She came for a visit one year with her three small boys, the youngest of whom was five. Despite our protests, she left after lunchtime (a definite No-No), without any tents or equipment in case of the arrival of unexpected weather (another No-No), and she was determined to go; no amount of reason would sway her. And so with some take out sandwiches from the deli, she started out on her afternoon expedition. We sent our oldest son Chris along with her. As a Civil Air Patrol cadet with extensive training in Search and Rescue missions, as well as being an experienced hiker himself, this added a good bit of insurance to what could have been a ‘drowning party’. Chris carried his youngest cousin most of the way up the mountain, and Dana met them at the top to drive them all down. I don’t recommend this sort of a hiking experience. However, if you are prepared and in shape, it is unsurpassed. (And of course, there is always the Auto Road to get you to the top safely).

We get many hikers here at The Lodge. Most are aware of the dangers that this particular mountain can pose. We always check out the summit conditions for our guests, sometimes calling the AMC for special advice, which they are expert at giving. As a result, if you are prepared for the experience, Mount Washington is one of our best and most exciting resources.

Way to Go, Tim...!

We have always been blessed with great people at The Lodge and at our Front Desk, who welcome you to not only our inn, but act as a Concierge for all of the Mount Washington Valley and our entire state. In fact, all of our Employees have gone through a special 2-day certification training to become “Granite State Ambassadors”. That’s one of the reasons we can be of such help in planning your itineraries and your upcoming visit to New Hampshire. The other reason is that we also live here and love to do all of these wonderful things, too … and have first hand knowledge and recommendations to share. (We’ll also occasionally steer you away from something or some place that might not give you the experience you are looking for).

Anyway, many of you might remember our former staff member Tim Corrigan, from a few years back. Time hails from Rhode Island, but spent all his ‘growing up’ summer- and winter- vacations hiking the peaks of the White Mountains. He knows the area and the various trails like the back of his hand. We were very sorry to see Tim leave us when family matters called him back to his home state. However, Tim is back in the area, now working at the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Pinkham Notch Visitor’s Center, and promising to come back to work with us at The Lodge when his schedule allows. It was not surprising to us that the AMC recognized what a natural resource they have in Tim, and to their credit and good judgement, they announced Tim as Pinkham’s Employee of the Month! In just under two months, Tim has gained the upper hand on all aspects of his large job description. He extends himself regularly to support emergency rescue efforts, re-connects disconnected parties, logs lost gear for sorrowful owners, provides alternative trip itineraries, shares his personal expertise of the Whites, stocks lonely merchandise racks, collects meal tickets, hosts visitors, provides interpretive programs, entertains guests, closes lodging sales, and helps reduce our carbon footprint. BUT, But, but! As we know from his working with us at The Lodge, it's what goes way beyond his obligations that makes Tim stand out. He supports guests and fellow employees like family. Welcoming new visitors, orienting new staff, driving crew to towns both near and far, improving the Admin experience, and taking on the role of Admin RA, all attest to his concern for our community. His praise as a host was summed up in a recent Comment Card that the AMC received: "My daughter Lisa and I had our 1st trip to AMC & Tuckerman Ravine. We didn't know what to expect. Tim helped us out with lots of good info. Just outstanding..." Not surprising, knowing the kind of person that Tim is. We offer him our heartiest congratulations. Stop in at the AMC on your next visit to Pinkham Notch (just 10 minutes from The Lodge) and ask for Tim! He’ll be glad to see some familiar faces and offer his expertise and guidance if you are attempting a climb up Tuckerman Ravine or the surrounding trails. (and P.S. Ask him when he’s planning to come back to The Lodge?!)

Come See the Rare Bicknell's Thrush

This is the time for viewing birds of every description! I noticed that our hummingbirds have returned from their winter vacations, so I just boiled up a fresh batch of nectar for them (1 part sugar, 4 parts water). Now it’s waiting to cool down so I can pour it into our 2 dozen feeders that hang between guest rooms. Just last night we got a close-up look at a tiny fledgling sparrow in the bushes behind the Lodge. As evening approached, he was still sitting there, too scared to try his wings, baby bird fuzz still sticking out of the side of his head. It was a sight only a mother could love … and being a mother myself, I thought he was absolutely the most adorable little thing I’d ever seen (except for my own kids, of course). As I clicked photo after photo of him with my camera, I obviously made his parents very nervous, as they hopped from branch to branch, making a huge racket which they hoped would distract me. I noticed that my little feathered friend was gone this morning, which I will take to be a sign that he finally found his courage as well as his wings. I do not want to contemplate the alternative. As a former wildlife rehabilitator, I know only too well the difficulties of bird survival.

Sightings of this sort are random, requiring the good luck of being in the right place at the right time. But you have the opportunity to see some very special bird life over the next few weekends here in the White Mountains! The “right place” is Mount Washington, and the “right time” is June 9, 12, 13, 16 and 18! I’m talking about the Bicknell’s Thrush Guided Tours, which will once again be offered by the Mount Washington Auto Road. Bicknell’s Thrush is an extremely rare species with very limited breeding grounds. It is the rarest and most secretive of the breeding thrushes in North America and it is the only bird whose breeding is restricted to the Northeastern part of the continent. They usually breed at higher elevations, normally nesting above 3,000 ft. The unique yet harsh climate of the White Mountains is just what the birds prefer due to the combination of low vegetation and abundant moisture, and the Mt. Washington Auto Road offers you a unique opportunity to view these rare birds. The Bicknell's Thrush Guided Tours leave early in the morning before the Mt. Washington Auto Road opens to the general public, to cause as little disturbance as possible. Cost is $50 per person, and advanced reservations are required. Tours depart from the base of the Mt. Washington Auto Road at 5:30am (please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure); and tours are approximately 2 hours in length. To reserve your spot, call Mary Power at 603-466-3988, and tell them the The Lodge Lady sent you!

The Alpine Gardens

It is June, and the Alpine flowers atop Mount Washington are in bloom. These flowers, known as the Alpine Gardens, are located on a relatively flat area of our highest-most eastern peak. The area is an arctic outpost inhabited by rare wildflowers that normally live only in northern Canada, Greenland, Alaska and within the arctic circle. Huge rock piles, some of the most unusual and exciting landscapes in all New England, are home to some of the most interesting species of these hardy but slow growing mountain-loving flowers. Our frequent guests, The Tintis, stayed at The Lodge last week and said the flowers were just amazing. If you plan a day hike to see them, save this outing for a calm, sunny day, so you can savor the flowers and the extensive views eastward to the Carter Range. It is a long and arduous hike to reach this special place, and one must be ever vigilant regarding the weather, which can be fierce, if not life-threatening, at any season of the year. Fortunately, there is an alternative if you are not too proud to drive there. The Mount Washington Auto Road will take you to the Alpine Gardens, and you may park and hike along the trail bearing the same name. Many folks take an annual pilgrimage to see these rare beauties, and if you bring a camera, you will not be disappointed no matter what the weather.

The ‘official’ Alpine Tundra Ecosystem is restricted to the highest peaks of Mount Washington. The primary vegetation is similar to those species occupying most other summits, ridges and slopes above treeline, (usually from 4,200 to 4,900 feet in elevation), with the exception of these rare flowers which are native to the Mount Washington area alone. There are about 70 plant species in this system, include dwarf alpine shrubs (bilberry, cranberry, and blueberry heaths, and other dwarf shrubs), alpine sedges and rushes, and relatively few forbs. Nearly all of these plants are perennials. Flowers you will most likely see this time of year are:
· Diapensias (Diapensia lapponica) grows on exposed rocky ridges that are kept free from snow by high winds. It’s a small evergreen perennial shrub up to 15 cm in height, with oval, leathery toothless leaves, up to 1 cm long, which are arranged in dense rosettes. It bears solitary white flowers and can be aged by counting growth-rings, and on this basis, tiny plants no bigger than a coin have been shown to be over a century old.

· Lapland Rosebay (Rhododendron lapponicum) The most striking flower in the alpine zone is not only beautiful but tough! It lives in an area of sharp, angular rock fragments left by the last glacier. Over centuries of freezing and thawing action just enough soil has been created to creat a habitat for these flowers. One of the first alpine flowers to bloom each year, the one-inch deep pinkish-purple flowers of this diminutive, perennial shrub are considered huge by alpine standards, dwarfing the rest of the plant. The leaves and branches seemingly disappear in a sea of pink during its short blooming period from mid- to late-June.

· Dwarf Cinquefoil (Potentilla robbinsiana) This is a small perennial member of the rose family endemic to Mt. Washington, with 5-petaled yellow flowers. It was placed on the endangered species list in 1980, when only two populations were known. The primary threat to its existence was ‘recreational impact’, associated with the Appalachian Trail. This prompted moving the trail in one location on Mount Washington to protect this species. It has since recovered and was removed from the endangered list in 2002.

· Mountain Avens ( Geum pekki) The leaf and flower stems of this buttercup look-alike flower emerge directly from the ground and its leaves turn bright red to purple colors in the fall. It is indigenous to Mount Washington.

· Alpine Azelea (Loiseleuria procumbens) From the tufted branchlets of this matted shrub are borne pairs of tiny, oblong, closely-set leaves and abundant clusters of dainty flowers. Each flower, a rose to white bell, is perched upright in the cluster. Plants are not taller than 1 ft. A creeping, much-branched, mat-forming, dwarf shrub with 2-5 pink, bell-shaped flowers in terminal clusters and evergreen leaves with rolled edges.

Now that you know some of the very rare, colorful players on our highest peaks, be sure to come take a peek at their flowers while they are still in bloom. Its an opportunity we're afforded only once a year!

Internationally Renowned Folk Singer David Mallett Staying at The Lodge Tonight!

When you hear mention of the “Believe in Books Literacy Foundation” you probably think of The Polar Express … and you’d be right. Bringing Christmas joy to children of all ages through the ride of a lifetime on the real magical train you’ve seen in the movie and book of that title, is what Believe in Books is best known for. But they are oh, so much more than that!

Their latest initiative is first rate family entertainment in their Theater in the Wood … (which is their 3-season transformation of the “North Pole” during the other months of the year). Come see plays, hear speakers and listen to top shelf performances, such as the one this weekend with David Mallet. The cool breezes of Maine’s northlands have flowed through David’s songs for nearly four decades. In addition to being featured on his fourteen albums, his pen has provided material for an eclectic collection of artists, such as Pete Seeger, Alison Kraus, Emmylou Harris, Kathy Mattea, John Denver, and the Muppets! His tune, The Garden Song, is one of the most popular folk tunes in America, having been recorded more than 150 times and performed around the world. He has toured consistently in folk clubs, concert halls, and festivals for 30 years. AND, David Mallett and his band will be our guests this weekend at The Lodge at Jackson Village!!! Come hear him perform tonight at 7 pm at the Theater in the Woods (tickets $30 at the door), and then chat with him tomorrow morning in our lobby over breakfast!!

The Believe in Books 'Bookbag Program' is another initiative that provides families with bookbags on loan, filled with 10 different books. It’s a wonderful way for parents to share the love of reading with their children while exposing them to a wide variety of literature. The bookbags are distributed through local schools and libraries across NH and western Maine.

BiB’s 'Books in Character' program is another way to introduce young children to great books through on-site school & library visits by some famous storybook characters, such as The Cat in the Hat, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, and others.

The goal of their 'Books From Birth' Program is to provide free books and literacy information to all families in northern NH, who give birth in registered hospitals. The first book comes in a fleece pouch, and subsequent ones come to the family free of charge at various developmental stages from 3 months to 5 years.

They also offer a 5K Trail Run/Walk for all ages in the Hundred Acre Wood, which is open to the public, and filled with trails and recreational fun for the entire family. During Maple Sugaring season, they offer guided Maple sugar tours through the sugar bush and sap house, as well as a Story book Walk through the 100 Acre Wood.

Of course, the famous Polar Express train, which runs from the day after Thanksgiving through the weekend before Christmas, is one of the highlights of a lifetime for many young families and grandparents. The Lodge is on eof their major sponsors, and our Polar Express packages are on sale right now! We sell out by summer's end every year, so don't wait to book your magical train ride (which comes with a 2 night stay at The Lodge, breakfast each morning, a horse drawn sleigh ride, Golden souvenir tickets and a personalized letter from Santa for each child, and a Polar Express gift box). Don't miss out!

The Believe in Books Literacy Foundation is one of the most worthwhile not-for-profit charities anywhere, and we totally support and applaud their efforts and mission. They are also affiliated with one of our favorite independent bookstores, White Birch Books in North Conway, which we highly recommend if you want to browse for a good book.