6.27.2011

Summer in the Catskills



There are a million reasons why I love summer. While long days by the beach and the ice cream man are at the top of my list, vacation takes the cake for me.  A week of downtime and a change of scenery does wonders for my head. Traveling is something that my husband and I have always shared a passion for, and although life since children has changed the way we travel a bit, passing on the travel bug to our kids is important to us.

Today I'm linking up to Centsational Girl's Favorite Destinations Link Party to share a newfound favorite destination of ours.  Last summer, this beach girl went to the mountains.  We planned a trip to New York's Catskills region, Phoenicia, to be exact, having absolutely no idea what to expect. We were skeptics to say the least, but the affordable price tag and two and a half hour drive won us over.  Big time.  

We spent days playing in the creek behind the house we rented, exploring nearby Woodstock, local antique fairs, farm stands and taking picturesque drives.  Most nights were cool and breezy, and spent roasting marshmallows by the creek or on the deck watching stars that are impossible to see back in suburbia. I really thought I would miss the roar of the ocean, and while nothing can replace that sound, it was great to experience something so close to nature in a totally different environment.  Phoenicia was a lucky choice for us providing opportunities to do as much or as little as possible, from hiking, waterfalls, camping and tubing, to great restaurants, shops and beautiful scenery.




view from deck by dusk

the beautiful stream behind our rental home







Dancing in the rain

bliss by the campfire



The Catskill Mountain Railroad

If you are near the New York area and looking for an affordable getaway, check out the Catskills. We are heading back this summer to explore a new town, Livingston Manor, and looking forward to a week of laid back family time. How about you? Are you heading anywhere new this summer, visiting an annual favorite or sticking close to home? Whatever your plans, enjoy every minute.



Erin
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4 comments:

  1. What gorgeous photos ! I want bliss by the campfire...is there room in the hammock for me ?

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  2. We'll have an extra bedroom this year ; )

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  3. looks like a great adventure! love all the photos but my favorites are the bridge and the train. thanks for linking up today at "photo friday." make sure to leave a comment if you want to be eligible for the giveaway!

    Andi

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  4. Thanks, Delaney. I've just finished sifting through your blog, Sweet Tea Serendipity, and really enjoyed it. I'll be following and looking forward to your posts; you're a great writer.

    Have a great weekend, hopefully at the beach!
    Erin

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