Last year at our annual fall family gathering, the decision was made to meet up in the summer somewhere in Upstate New York. In July Jan and I traditionally head north for a cooler and dryer environment. The northeast easily fit into our travel strategies. Originally the plan was to find a house large enough to hold all of us. That was easier said than done. To make a long story short, we retreated to meeting at the Kenneth L Wilson state park in the Catskill Mountains. This is where Jan and I traditionally stay when visiting Mark and Kevin. The location is in easy reach. It worked great as everyone was able to come, except David who was on his own summer adventure.

The first challenge was Hurricane Debby who brushed by just before everyone got there. She brought plenty of rain and humid weather to keep us humble in so many ways. Her presence was front and center for the first few days but once she was done with us, we got some nice sunny days. However, she left a trail of downed trees which put the restroom facilities out of commission, leaving us with another challenge.

The crew all descended on Mark and Kevin the first day which was high and dry. This was great as we caught up with each other’s lives in a comfortable setting. Good conversation and great food made it all work. A surprise celebration of Dad’s (Larry) 80th birthday was a special highlight. It was gratifying to have everyone together again.

There is always a hike or two when we get together. This time we took on the North-South trail in the Catskills overlooking the Hudson Valley. The weather was good, after the rain we were up to an outing. The trail had just the right challenge for the group. It was a fun outing resulting in some good pictures to remember it by

The next outing was near Saugerties, Opus 40. The setting is a bluestone quarry. It is an artistic work developed and created by one man, Harvey Fite. He was a sculptor and Professor at Bard College. It is an amazing body of work done over several decades. His work was influenced by Mayan art and technics. He purchased the property in 1938 and died in 1976, just short of his goal of completion 40 years. Enjoy the photos…

As is tradition, we can always find a spot with good food and good brews. This time the Woodstock Brewing near Phoenicia.

The campground setting was a hit. Already planning next year, time and place to be determined. Here are a few shots taken along the way.

Family time is important. As Jan and I, the aging parents, we find we cherish these moments!

God Bless,
Larry and Jan