After leaving the eagles behind, we were again clueless as to a destination. Actually, we got a little lost on a winding country road. We stopped at an intersection, apparently with confused looks on our faces. Policemen-from-nowhere pulled up alongside of us and asked, "Are you lost?" I cracked up, answering, "Is it that obvious?" With a little help, we chose our direction and headed towards a little town named Phoenicia. Honestly, we are still so amazed by what nestles in between our mountains and waterways.
This charming place was hoppin'! Lots of bikers had parked their Harleys, to then enjoy lunch alfresco. Mambo traveled with us, garnering lots of attention; even the macho, leather-clad hombres melted in his presence.
There was a wedding in progress in the little Catholic church at the northern end of town; oh my, what a perfect place to initiate vows. A beautiful brook serves as gatekeeper to the southern end. In between are lots of Mom 'n' Pop establishments, their owners anxious to share a little slice of local Heaven. We spent quite a bit of time luxuriating in the space called Phoenicia.
Leaving there, we headed through an old familiar and favorite spot called Frost Valley. Gorgeous to behold in snow, it is equally appealing decked out in green.... especially when the resident horses are all grazing in the luxurious field, encircled by breathtaking scenery. The Forstmann Castle, in all its intrigue, looms graciously over all. To note here: Mambo is so calm; even a field full of horses doesn't phase him. His only desire in life is to be next to us. It's not tough to understand why he travels all over with us.
Just beyond Frost Valley and nearly to Claryville lies the most gorgeous natural waterfall. It is frozen solid in the wintertime; but its rushing noise and mossy pool are somethin' else, in springtime. The sun was beginning to set, lighting it from way above at the top of the mountain. "Surreal," thought I, as I snapped away.
Okay, now it's down to business - time to head home. But wait! "Joe, Joe, puh-lease swing by the eagles... puh-lease!" Continued in Part III
