Monday, March 25, 2013

Guilty! Of Wanderlust!

Maybe having lived in 3 countries by the time I was 10 has something to do with my lack of deep roots?  Maybe, its the simple fact that neither my husband or myself live near any of our families?  Maybe because in just 4-6 short years we'll be empty nesters?  Maybe because I'm still trying to find a place where I truly belong in this world?


Regardless of the reasons I have a severe case of wanderlust.  I blame my gypsy soul...




I've lived in the same town now since 1988, and I'm beyond restless.  Don't get me wrong, I have friends that I wouldn't trade for the world, but I know they'll always be friends, almost family...no matter how far I travel.  




So, we've decided that while 6 years is quite a long time to wait idly for the train, that looking for and researching our new stomping grounds can begin immediately!




Project Wanderlust has ensued!



Photo Credit:  Brad Coy

In December we traveled to Southwest Florida.  The weather was divine!!  The beach speaks to me...but I'm not convinced its "the place!"



Being in the Appalachian Mountains is the closest I've come to being at peace with myself.  Where I feel the most "at home."  So...



Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah Valley, Virginia



Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia


We decided that we needed to experience a little more than simply hiking the trail.  

Enter....


Luray, Virginia - Great Citees

Luray is famous for its caverns.  I've been to all of them at least a dozen times or more.  But, for some reason other than the great hiking, and caverns,  Luray intrigues me...


Luray Caverns, Luray VA - Wilkipedia


So, we did what any self respecting out-of-towners would do...and rented a mountain cabin for a long weekend!  


Back in the woods, up a mountain.  Secluded.  Hot tub and scenic views included...Hey!  I didn't say I wanted to "rough it!"  Quaint town just miles away...and lookie what I spied while secretly "not planning" our weekend...

That my friends is Shenandoah Moon Beads & Fiber

Its not the mega-bead-store-meca that we're all used to...but its more than I have now!  I just have to wait until mid May until I get there.  4 birthdays, 1 BSBP, and 1 craft show stands in between me and the mountains!



Others on our short list?  

Monterey, VA
Lexington, VA
Berkeley Springs, WV
Cherokee, NC
Blowing Rock, NC
Punta Gorda, FL


The sky's the limit...well, as long as its below the Mason-Dixon Line! ;)