tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35808545368904729622024-03-14T00:18:16.898-07:00Road Treats...heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-56118105903675573972012-05-05T07:07:00.001-07:002012-05-05T07:07:30.557-07:00La Hacienda in Albuquerque NM…<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Uv_2mD9Mk4k/T6UyxGR9q1I/AAAAAAAAFXo/yTjUGQajWbM/s1600-h/2012-04-03%252520Albuquerque%252520NM%252520002%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="La Hacienda Burrito Express" border="0" alt="La Hacienda Burrito Express" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qmM_tfz3IAc/T6UyyFdz4aI/AAAAAAAAFXw/ZRZdRxfFlTo/2012-04-03%252520Albuquerque%252520NM%252520002_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="481" height="290"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-apwqIIA13Yg/T6UyysH0wKI/AAAAAAAAFX4/BuW2gUfinUM/s1600-h/2012-04-03%252520Albuquerque%252520NM%252520039%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="ristra" border="0" alt="ristra" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FJv1nDGGYlw/T6Uyy_N0CeI/AAAAAAAAFYA/CuLyT5fBpAo/2012-04-03%252520Albuquerque%252520NM%252520039_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="103" height="244"></a>When you travel to New Mexico and you are a foodie of any type you have to eat some classic New Mexican food smothered in either red or green chili, or both as is my preference. Now the chili in New Mexico isn’t just any chili – it is the Green Chili also called the Hatch Green Chili. In and around Demming and Hatch, New Mexico is where most all of these chilis are grown. Green Chili comes from freshly picked chilies roasted over open fire until the skin peels away. Red Chili come from the ripened red chilies that are dried and then reconstituted into a thick pasty red sauce. </p> <p>These chilies will spice up and flavor any food item you order from the unassuming little spot in east Albuquerque called the La Hacienda Burrito Express. You find this unpretentious little spot at 4300 Eubank Blvd NE in Albuquerque, NM. Order in or to go at their drive through.</p> <p>They specialize in burritos and I would recommend you get one with Carne Adobada and make sure to order it with both red and green chili sauce. Below is the sign at the take out window so you can see the variety of food they have to offer as a quick take out meal that will beat the socks off of any fast you have had before.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hESUzo5fmBw/T6UyzpaWheI/AAAAAAAAFYI/zF7-j1kk_V4/s1600-h/2012-04-03%252520Albuquerque%252520NM%252520001%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="La Hacienda Burrito Express Menu" border="0" alt="La Hacienda Burrito Express Menu" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-AlqBNwjyFwE/T6U0IY5ey_I/AAAAAAAAFYY/_jT8mFpJB-A/2012-04-03%252520Albuquerque%252520NM%252520001_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="521" height="384"></a></p> <p>We even stopped by one morning and had their Huevos Rancheros for breakfast and all I can say is order it… This fantastic little Road Treat is not only super tasty but it also won’t put a dent in your eating out budget…</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-69012460723122920312012-05-04T07:58:00.001-07:002012-05-04T08:00:47.079-07:00Luckenbach, Texas…<p><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-E0FZVB2ug5U/T6PukvvrIrI/AAAAAAAAFWA/pTb5ebNTbYQ/s1600-h/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520020%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-04-26 Luckenback etc 020" border="0" alt="2012-04-26 Luckenback etc 020" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-24F8oe7nCpU/T6PulZZatBI/AAAAAAAAFWI/kk20E_Ii7pI/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520020_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="437" height="307"></a></strong></p> <p><strong><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-F9HVgdXKrZA/T6Pul52lHvI/AAAAAAAAFWQ/HotclmSYGC0/s1600-h/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520009%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-04-26 Luckenback etc 009" border="0" alt="2012-04-26 Luckenback etc 009" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-otPjFLBFsWo/T6Pumk_S5XI/AAAAAAAAFWY/fyuo2DIVM-M/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520009_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="182" height="280"></a>“Everybody is somebody in Luckenbach”</strong> </p> <p>That is the saying in this small Texas town but it is here that one can sit and become part of the Texas music scene while sipping on a cold Shiner Bock (Texas original) beer. Just a few miles outside of Fredricksburg, Texas (also worth a visit) you will discover this little Texas gem!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HeznECFnprA/T6PunZKGK2I/AAAAAAAAFWg/jz9lWFNgEsU/s1600-h/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520028%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-04-26 Luckenback etc 028" border="0" alt="2012-04-26 Luckenback etc 028" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EQQ8CXjdzYA/T6PuoWXyprI/AAAAAAAAFWo/JJNydtrWOQw/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520028_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="170" height="107"></a>It all started many years ago when Jacob Luckenbach (1817-1911) first colonized this area. Luckenbach was first established as a community trading post in the 1840’s or so they say. In 1970 the whole town was put up for sale and bought by a Texas icon named Hondo Crouch. Shortly thereafter musicians such as Jerry Jeff Walker, singer/songwriter Steve Fromholz, and the massive hit from Waylon Jennings & Willie Nelson (“Luckenbach Texas (Back to the Basics)” had turned this sleepy little town into a worldwide destination.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gm83ZekogT4/T6Puox04aKI/AAAAAAAAFWw/vHoyVv4P_Uk/s1600-h/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520022%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="cold Texas beers" border="0" alt="cold Texas beers" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UZIRxv36-P0/T6Pup6yoCTI/AAAAAAAAFW4/hwXYdcA7fpw/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520022_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a>So when you are traveling in the area of Fredricksburg, Texas look for the little town of Luckenbach. Walk into the trading post and saunter over to the bar and order you a cold Lone Star or Shiner Beer. Step outside into the courtyard and take a seat… Then soak in all that there is in this spot as you listen to whomever may be picking on their guitar and singing a few songs…. This is a chance to experience a bit of pure Texas culture…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-3l8PPJj3TmE/T6Puqbri81I/AAAAAAAAFXA/PZMp9S1xn50/s1600-h/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520024%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Home of the armadillo" border="0" alt="Home of the armadillo" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ELQXr_9YR8g/T6Puq3F0-LI/AAAAAAAAFXI/lLFRfenBp48/2012-04-26%252520Luckenback%252520etc%252520024_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="453" height="318"></a></p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-69409735847203880022012-04-26T10:02:00.001-07:002012-04-26T10:02:57.169-07:00Greune Texas and Bubba’s Big Deck…<p><i></i> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LJt7PS_EJ6Y/T5l_Z7kd9nI/AAAAAAAAFK4/zGhPHD2ATYQ/s1600-h/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520072%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Texas windmill" border="0" alt="Texas windmill" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9CvlmkFg2Rw/T5l_bofR1jI/AAAAAAAAFLA/KNb64nLTHHA/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520072_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="465" height="359"></a></p> <p> <a href="http://www.gruenetexas.com/">Gruene, Texas</a> (pronounced Green) is a small t<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-flxNPZda4Ho/T5l_e-8QpmI/AAAAAAAAFLI/uTI2P0fISWk/s1600-h/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520079%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Greune Hall wall" border="0" alt="Greune Hall wall" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6aAqDdLNzAY/T5l_gCFOX7I/AAAAAAAAFLQ/sOBfSKicBq8/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520079_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a>own near New Braunfels and practically part of it now. The town of Gruene was established in the mid-1840’s, is now mostly a tourist spot with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants, boutiques, and even a winery. One of its main attractions is Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in Texas. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gruenehall.com/">Gruene Hall</a> is the oldest continually running dance hall in the entire state of Texas!!! Built in 1878 it has had the likes of many great singers <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cZoZhX_nxPI/T5l_j2z1gTI/AAAAAAAAFLY/RbLw6fXrvOc/s1600-h/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520081%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-04-24 Lake Pointe RV Resort 081" border="0" alt="2012-04-24 Lake Pointe RV Resort 081" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-u2VcFnB5ZRg/T5l_lTgRf6I/AAAAAAAAFLg/GHHrwualtkI/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520081_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="174"></a>and songwriters such as Lyle Lovett, Jerry Jeff Walker and Robert Earl Keen.. Have a cold one a the bar while perusing the nostalgia and the photos of prior musicians on the wall.</p> <p>Another place to have a frosty beverage is nearby at the <a href="http://www.gristmillrestaurant.com/">Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar. </a>It was converted from a cotton gin and it is located just beneath the water tower bearing the Gruene name. Sit out on the deck on the banks of the river and just enjoy the day.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FSOoyvW6nF0/T5l_npLwxKI/AAAAAAAAFLo/fXEETsvmev0/s1600-h/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520075%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Greune Hall Bar" border="0" alt="Greune Hall Bar" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-W5Nz48zdRH0/T5l_qw-04fI/AAAAAAAAFLw/Sj7RUSEqgdc/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520075_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="292" height="214"></a>But the best place to have a cold beverage is just down the road from Gruene Hall. Just across the Guadalupe River bridge and on your right is a small biker bar called <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bubbas-Big-Deck/113274035385716">Bubba’s Big Deck</a>. This is truly a road treat and it is a great place to stop and have a few cold ones ($2.50 per can). Out back of the open aired bar is a large multileveled deck that takes you right down to the Guadalupe River’s edge. It is great to sit on one of the towering bald cypress roots and take in the sounds of the rapids just upstream of the bar. Watch the “toobers” and kayakers roll by or just have a cold one and dip your toes in the chilly waters of the Guadalupe River…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JCn4j_ZjrLA/T5l_t4L_aFI/AAAAAAAAFL4/gY3kAvSaugs/s1600-h/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520087%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bubba’s Big Deck" border="0" alt="Bubba’s Big Deck" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8PUaqc5AqHc/T5l_vmAGgYI/AAAAAAAAFMA/vvrJJNreo30/2012-04-24%252520Lake%252520Pointe%252520RV%252520Resort%252520087_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="485" height="346"></a></p> <p>Hard to beat a nice day on the banks of the Guadalupe while having a cold one in Gruene,Texas… </p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-88568451773912247252012-04-18T20:02:00.000-07:002012-04-23T20:27:50.784-07:00Road Treats in Bryan/College Station, TX…<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-viKN1woHDY4/T5YdlzYax-I/AAAAAAAAFGs/VU5f2b26BK0/s1600-h/2012-03-29%252520Bryan%252520Texas%252520055%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-03-29 Bryan Texas 055" border="0" alt="2012-03-29 Bryan Texas 055" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-V_WFQDlb3xY/T5YdmQ7tJAI/AAAAAAAAFG0/LIGyNXKUJq8/2012-03-29%252520Bryan%252520Texas%252520055_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="489" height="311"></a></p> <p>Since we once resided in this area and have recently returned I thought I would highlight a few of the spots here in Bryan/College Station that might qualify as road treats.</p> <p>First I would point out that one of my favorite type of foods is Tex Mex and although my favorite Tex Mex restaurant in Bryan recently closed there are still quite a few good ones to pick from. My favorite one for cheese enchiladas is <a href="http://www.casarod.com/">Casa Rodriguez</a>. Found in the renovated downtown area, the address is 300 North Bryan Avenue Bryan, TX. Make sure to go on a Wednesday night for the enchilada specials and you can order my favorite”El Memo” enchilada plate for only $5.99. Along with their complimentary hot sauce and chips you just can’t go wrong.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kLFZqMnFpxc/T5YdsK5nziI/AAAAAAAAFG8/fgAimOAECjI/s1600-h/image%25255B2%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1BFnYM2nohc/T5YdtV4TjCI/AAAAAAAAFHE/G3a374zMoto/image_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="244" height="211"></a>Now if it is Bar B Q you are after look no further than <a href="http://www.cjbbq.com/">C&J’s BBQ</a>. Now I admit I like just about everything on their menu and they feature a daily special that helps one try all the various fares. Three meats stand out in their lineup however, ribs, smoked turkey, and their pork tenderloin.Sharon and my daughter Katie, however, really love the brisket. Get a side of their homemade potato salad, ask for few slices of bread (complimentary) and you will then be ready to enjoy your feast.</p> <p>There are many other great spots that I will just mention along with what we like to order:</p> <p>Thai food – Pad Thai at Rosie's Phos at 2001 Texas Ave S # 300, College Station, TX </p> <p>Burgers – The Death Burger at the <a href="http://www.dixiechicken.com/articles/chicken_oil_co">Chicken Oil Company</a> at 3600 South College Avenue,<br>Bryan, TX</p> <p>Wings –Best wings at <a href="http://fitzwillysbar.com/">Fitzwillies Bar and Grill</a> at 303 University Dr. 77840, College Station, TX (they also have a burger challenge called Willies “Big Ass” Burger – 4lbs of beef with 16 slices of cheese and a lb. of fries – not for the light eater)</p> <p>Mexican Seafood – Gallitos Fish at <a href="http://www.loscucos.com/">Los Cucos</a>. One location in College Station and one in Bryan.</p> <p>There are many other good eateries in the area but the ones mentioned are our personal all time favorites.</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-8792036177589101892012-03-10T17:19:00.001-08:002012-03-10T17:19:02.688-08:00Rattlesnake Saloon, Tuscumbia, AL…<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZWQhwLDdtDQ/T1v9HlYhs_I/AAAAAAAAEs4/Mjleyvo2c08/s1600-h/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520075%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 075" border="0" alt="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 075" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pFafsVyOn_A/T1v9Jy3CapI/AAAAAAAAEtA/UNH00elA8YQ/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520075_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="526" height="328"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JBjGGwwTB2Q/T1v9NogAoGI/AAAAAAAAEtI/AIrqg_M4j00/s1600-h/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520073%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 073" border="0" alt="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 073" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5a2y_yjKThA/T1v9O6kiq2I/AAAAAAAAEtQ/CHj1q5cjzxk/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520073_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="148"></a>If you are ever stuck in Red Bay, Alabama or you find yourself nearby Tuscumbia Alabama you have got to go find the Rattlesnake Saloon…</p> <p>There are not a lot of interesting places of interest in this area but the 23 mile trek over to the Rattlesnake Saloon is more than worth the effort as this is a real unique Road Treat!!! Upon arrival you really aren’t sure you are at the right spot as it appears you are at a working ranch with a dirt parking lot but the signage all suggests you are in the right place. <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jmeKe-qb7XU/T1v9QnlPdwI/AAAAAAAAEtY/nua8uS-n5rk/s1600-h/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520078%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 078" border="0" alt="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 078" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nc9R80f04-U/T1v9SdwMFJI/AAAAAAAAEtg/fdLzrU9K8iQ/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520078_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="176" height="297"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-R2o2ynWyeME/T1v9U4Jex2I/AAAAAAAAEto/P1k2BwGUYco/s1600-h/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520101%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 101" border="0" alt="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 101" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qa1JgijLAPY/T1v9V0GMucI/AAAAAAAAEtw/bMzhCM0Oggo/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520101_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="148"></a>The saloon is situated next to a western resort of sorts and there is a gift shop, RV hookups ($20 a night) and horse corrals. When you park your car a truck drives over sporting a Rattlesnake Saloon logo and a kind western looking gentleman informs you that he is your taxi to the saloon. He gave us a card with the resort number and showed us the huge map of horse trails on the resort and then off we went... <p>The truck drives past the gift shop and the pool for overnight guests and then we disappear over the edge down a steep, winding hill that suddenly gives way to an amazing view below. To your right is a large cave with small waterfalls pouring over the edge, and inside the <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nxum2X3sDRA/T1v9ZKhlhrI/AAAAAAAAEt4/218njL_Bt18/s1600-h/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520098%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 098" border="0" alt="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 098" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-r7MKX0p4E-0/T1v9a43iTII/AAAAAAAAEuA/zzdDLrslybc/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520098_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="241"></a>cave is an outdoor stage, lots of tables and chairs as well as an indoor saloon. To the left is a deck overlooking a tree-lined river. The views are breathtaking, I can’t imagine how wonderful this place would be in late spring and early summer. <p>The saloon itself has a great vibe, decent beer selection and friendly staff making for a great dinner or happy hour setting. Now let me warn you they only serve beer, no wine or spirits, and no alcohol is served before 5 PM!!! Also you better bring you ID since they believe no ID no beer… Our choice of some nice draft Yuengling seemed to be a perfect choice to enjoy the grandeur before us. What can I say… DON’T MISS THIS PLACE!!!! <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UIvqb4q2T1o/T1v9ekYg9pI/AAAAAAAAEuI/YYughZD7J8Y/s1600-h/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520080%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 080" border="0" alt="2012-03-10 Red Bay Alabama and Natchez Trace 080" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lmttk1a1HsM/T1v9gcPNsAI/AAAAAAAAEuQ/Z4Fq9c7gvf4/2012-03-10%252520Red%252520Bay%252520Alabama%252520and%252520Natchez%252520Trace%252520080_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="518" height="323"></a> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-90361792597227901252012-02-13T16:02:00.000-08:002012-03-10T16:02:45.418-08:00Blues Fest at Buckingham Bar, Fort Myers, FL…<h5> </h5> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EYT0ZBBKKqA/TzkD8JS1w9I/AAAAAAAAEZk/Ywh7qLdSRUc/s1600-h/2012-02-11%252520Buckingham%252520Blues%252520Bar%252520Bluesfest%252520015%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="2012-02-11 Buckingham Blues Bar Bluesfest 015" border="0" alt="2012-02-11 Buckingham Blues Bar Bluesfest 015" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-E-MkIEoapts/TzkD8qcmUkI/AAAAAAAAEZs/X9HNkhByChw/2012-02-11%252520Buckingham%252520Blues%252520Bar%252520Bluesfest%252520015_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="297"></a> <p>The Buckingham Bar is a funky little tavern down the road a piece from North Fort Myers. Occasionally the bar has a Blues Festival and there was one on a Saturday while we were there so off we went… <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cHMSY1pyObQ/TzkD9PazzlI/AAAAAAAAEZ0/i-Z-0366lpA/s1600-h/2012-02-11%252520Buckingham%252520Blues%252520Bar%252520Bluesfest%252520014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="2012-02-11 Buckingham Blues Bar Bluesfest 014" border="0" alt="2012-02-11 Buckingham Blues Bar Bluesfest 014" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yxoMYVzGZM0/TzkD9WcHcLI/AAAAAAAAEZ8/Q3tm0LD13RY/2012-02-11%252520Buckingham%252520Blues%252520Bar%252520Bluesfest%252520014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="198"></a>The <a href="http://www.buckinghambar.com">Buckingham Blues Bar</a> claims that the they are world famous and after reading the stories about how the owner spent $80K to buy a run down bar,some surrounding property and converted it into what it is today. It is now a funky bar with a beautiful outdoor patio/garden area where a good sized stage can host bands for a wonderful outdoor concert experience… <p>If you go to the Blues Fest grab a couple of folding collapsible chairs so you can sit anywhere you want. Make the short drive to the bar, park (free), and make your way to the gate to pay your $7 per person to enter. Now the bar is nothing special as it would always be classified as a dive bar but I say that in a good way since we both love dive bars more than the chains since the people you meet in them are always way more interesting!!! <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RmyOYEZa1Tk/TzkD-Nt1ozI/AAAAAAAAEaE/A2Q4J8yHF38/s1600-h/2012-02-11%252520Buckingham%252520Blues%252520Bar%252520Bluesfest%252520003%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="2012-02-11 Buckingham Blues Bar Bluesfest 003" border="0" alt="2012-02-11 Buckingham Blues Bar Bluesfest 003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VWVyUsZYxp8/TzkD-VrNPTI/AAAAAAAAEaM/zcktDoeyQz4/2012-02-11%252520Buckingham%252520Blues%252520Bar%252520Bluesfest%252520003_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="459" height="304"></a> <p>The day we were there we got to hear there the music had just started and we heard a fun and energetic band named <a href="http://www.dsquat.com/">Diddley Squat</a> getting down… The saxophonist was fabulous and made several forays into the audience to serenade several of the ladies in the crowd. Of the three bands that played this day, we felt they put on the best show. <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mbsysfZqR2o/TzkD_PmJCmI/AAAAAAAAEaU/pY3bUgMNkBQ/s1600-h/2012-02-11%252520Buckingham%252520Blues%252520Bar%252520Bluesfest%252520006%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img title="2012-02-11 Buckingham Blues Bar Bluesfest 006" border="0" alt="2012-02-11 Buckingham Blues Bar Bluesfest 006" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ItKM7FYTl8E/TzkD_u06QZI/AAAAAAAAEac/gn3CYMcdhsU/2012-02-11%252520Buckingham%252520Blues%252520Bar%252520Bluesfest%252520006_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="501" height="291"></a> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p> <p>You never know what cast of characters will show up on stage but you bet whoever shows up will be able to play some pretty mean jazz… <p>If you are ever in this area you really need to check out the World Famous <a href="http://www.buckinghambar.com">Buckingham Blues Bar</a>. Why, they even have a beer drinking mule named Bucky but if you want to see Bucky partake in an adult beverage you will need to buy an Amber Bock since that is apparently the only beer Bucky drinks…</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-57242506625371174312012-01-23T15:41:00.000-08:002012-03-10T15:41:34.984-08:00Shark Valley–Everglades National Park, FL…<h5><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mkrt8ilt3NU/Tx2I2GoDwYI/AAAAAAAAELw/WFdxbgIjAIE/s1600-h/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img title="Purple Gallinule" border="0" alt="Purple Gallinule" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-m5BSkFsvh_o/Tx2I3Zn23cI/AAAAAAAAEL4/uY4FlRaEEvg/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="277"></a></h5> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NgI6gQv2MaY/Tx2I7LyJdcI/AAAAAAAAENA/UEURAdSE9C0/s1600-h/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B23%25255D.jpg"><img title="Baby Gator" border="0" alt="Baby Gator" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CBGvkOno5pY/Tx2I7rd9oPI/AAAAAAAAENI/cE3dmzmlsKQ/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B16%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="192"></a>Another really special park can be found in Shark Valley at the Everglades National Park. There are several way to see this park… on foot, on bike, or take the guided tram. We decided to do the wonderful bike ride there since we had brought our bikes along and the weather was perfect… <p>The sign to Shark Valley is a bit hard to see but the cars parked all along the roadside<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-c67trzs38XM/Tx2I49vE8II/AAAAAAAAEMQ/ggm1qrgYh7I/s1600-h/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline; float: right" title="Great Blue Heron " border="0" alt="Great Blue Heron " align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-o_gT-sF1h6A/Tx2I5PHHotI/AAAAAAAAEMY/IY6veB1ebn0/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B24%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244"></a> are not easy to miss. As is typical on weekends, the park’s parking lot was already full and cars so cars were parked along the state highway. We found a spot and parked, took the bikes off of the bike rack and rode to the pay station where we flashed our National Parks Pass, which will save you the $5.00 per head entry fee. <p>The bike trail is a 15 mile paved road with no hills to climb or rough terrain to traverse making for a nice 2 or 3 hour ride. We know this now after having done the loop but when we first arrived we planned to ride 1-2 hours around what I recalled was a 6 mile loop… but is is much longer, ooops!!! <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CvbEYV8YGBs/Tx2I5iMTPeI/AAAAAAAAEMg/W1lkc5xtTmM/s1600-h/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline; float: left" title="Observation Tower" border="0" alt="Observation Tower" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_8Tgj7o-BjY/Tx2I5wgiA2I/AAAAAAAAEMo/8JRZtvo8-vI/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B21%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="140" height="243"></a> <p>The first half of the loop was teeming with various birds and oodles of alligators. We stopped for many photo opportunities but eventually made it to the observation tower just short of halfway on the loop trail. It was then that I began to suspect the bike trail was closer to 9 miles… Not to be deterred we went up the tower to look over the expanse that is the Everglades… <p>We continued on the trail which I assumed to be about the same distance as the first part only to discover it wasn’t as it meandered back and forth along the marsh lands. The first half of the trail had been a straight shot to the tower so as time passed we both started to get a bit tired and cranky. Because we didn’t eat lunch before we began the ride, this may have attributed to some of the crankiness along with the extra 3-4 miles of unplanned riding we undertook… <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-x05_7M1W4OM/Tx2I8GlPW5I/AAAAAAAAENQ/c4fYdObdr5M/s1600-h/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="bIKE LOOP" border="0" alt="bIKE LOOP" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dij2SSuRGKM/Tx2I8TrBcvI/AAAAAAAAENY/LPwkMHh2j9M/2012-01-21-Shark-ValleyEverglades-Na%25255B26%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="461" height="200"></a> <p>If you do this ride I may recommend that you only ride to the observation town and then back along the same trail since the best wildlife viewing is on this half of the trail. Plan on a long and tiring ride in the Florida heat and as we found out we both needed some time to recover from the long day it took riding the full loop… heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-78815485611670332182012-01-17T15:48:00.000-08:002012-03-10T15:48:40.194-08:00Road Treats of Key West, FL…<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XQ4oKlU4zfI/T1voSJnPotI/AAAAAAAAEsY/Fco1zIY8IKA/s1600-h/image%25255B6%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pU-bgGvtbe8/T1voTypDPfI/AAAAAAAAEsg/YIjQKT9hozE/image_thumb%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="488" height="250"></a></p> <p>Some of our favorite things we did while here in the Keys:<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9S-hhqgWr5U/T1voUysoDhI/AAAAAAAAEso/BfBDRprNZRw/s1600-h/image%25255B2%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7XM9kZsAqEU/T1voVmgUgfI/AAAAAAAAEsw/i_4vY95wqUc/image_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="165" height="244"></a></p> <ul> <li>Best Happy Hour outside of Key West – <a href="http://www.hogfishbar.com/">Hogfish Bar and Grill</a> <li>Best Happy Hour in Key West – <a href="http://www.commodorekeywest.com/">Boat House Bar</a> <li>Best local food establishment in Key West – <a href="http://www.mrzskeywest.com/">Mr. Z’s</a> <li>Best Beach – Higgs Beach <li>Best Happy Hour Menu – Boat House Bar <li>Best Street to Walk – Duval Street, Key West <li>Best Event to Watch/Photograph - <a href="http://www.premiere-racing.com/keywest11/pages/KW11_home_page.htm">Key West Race Week</a> <li>Best Biking – Anywhere in Key West <li>Best People Watching – 100 to 300 block of Duval when cruise ships are in <li>Best Bartender – Patty Wacker at the Hogfish Bar and Grill <li>Most fun event – Key West Seafood Festival</li></ul> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8R5-nl933T4/TxrJIbMaNOI/AAAAAAAAEKw/q_sHAkfkaWM/s1600-h/100_7343%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Sailing Regatta" border="0" alt="Sailing Regatta" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9__s_MzxK2I/TxrJI9YeThI/AAAAAAAAEK4/qNIOEDqyaA8/100_7343_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="469" height="149"></a></p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-34822121237776567722011-12-07T15:30:00.000-08:002012-03-10T15:30:55.718-08:00Naples Greyhound Race Track, Bonita Springs, FL<h5><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XXRHqyZf3MA/TuNB1PywGTI/AAAAAAAADx8/hc_wzQCZoAY/s1600-h/2011-12-06%252520bonita%252520springs%252520florida%252520058%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-12-06 bonita springs florida 058" border="0" alt="2011-12-06 bonita springs florida 058" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7A3EZpMqtz4/TuNB10-nyAI/AAAAAAAADyE/1-XCcwXJi3g/2011-12-06%252520bonita%252520springs%252520florida%252520058_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="450" height="168"></a></h5> <p>If you are looking for something different to do in the Naples/Bonita Springs/Fort Myers area you should drive over to the <a href="http://www.naplesfortmyersdogs.com/">greyhound racing track</a>. Make sure to check the web site and find the nights they have a “DOLLAR NIGHT”… What this means is that the race programs, hotdogs, popcorn and draft beers are only one dollar each American!!! I use to go to the greyhound races when I was in the Air Force in Rapid City, South Dakota and remembered having a fun night when all us guys went out. <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FQSMNCPdDlI/TuNB5IS9HxI/AAAAAAAADys/KfyxAKFmcb8/s1600-h/2011-12-06%252520bonita%252520springs%252520florida%252520052%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-12-06 bonita springs florida 052" border="0" alt="2011-12-06 bonita springs florida 052" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jByhn7J5Uhc/TuNB5wWOJCI/AAAAAAAADy0/uPNXwcUN3AA/2011-12-06%252520bonita%252520springs%252520florida%252520052_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="449" height="230"></a></p> <p>Since my bride had never been to a race at a dog track she said she waned to go so it was a done deal… we were off to the races. We got there a bit late<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QIpIWl2N5_o/TuNB360EovI/AAAAAAAADyc/Esx8RlJDzxI/s1600-h/2011-12-06%252520bonita%252520springs%252520florida%252520043%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-12-06 bonita springs florida 043" border="0" alt="2011-12-06 bonita springs florida 043" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wh1xWIm5LX4/TuNB4QXTw3I/AAAAAAAADyg/L-dSJ9ihTgU/2011-12-06%252520bonita%252520springs%252520florida%252520043_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a> but there was no fee for parking and only $2.00 per person entry. So with the one dollar program we started off $5.00 out of pocket after buying two entries and one program… 3 hotdogs and 2 beers later we were out a total of $11.00. This makes it pretty easy to break even on the day. We watched a total of 13 races and bet on 9 of them with our our wagers ranging from 2-6 dollars each race. We actually did pretty well at the track winning several bets with the whole day costing us less than eight bucks… despite having’s muchos cervezas!!! I know greyhound racing is somewhat controversial but for something different this is cheap and fun… especially on Dollar Night!!!</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-3824208743527115912011-11-29T15:20:00.000-08:002012-03-10T15:22:20.597-08:00J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, near Fort Myers, FL…<p>A nice side trip from the Fort Myers, Florida area is the <a href="http://www.fws.gov/dingdarling/">J.N. Ding Darling </a><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xUZ1oyPBncY/TtTX7AdegpI/AAAAAAAADsU/vz3k3bffbRs/s1600-h/11-26-11%252520Captiva%252520Island%252520Florida%252520005%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="Horseshoe Crab" border="0" alt="Horseshoe Crab" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-7tq4UXmgjhs/TtTX7t6FctI/AAAAAAAADsc/6LdnsSvBn-E/11-26-11%252520Captiva%252520Island%252520Florida%252520005_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="181"></a>National Wildlife Refuge on the subtropical barrier island of Sanibel. It is known for its display of migratory bird populations and that fact that has one of the largest undeveloped mangrove populations in the USA. <p>Visiting wildlife refuges is a past time I will always enjoy going back to my roots of having studied Wildlife Biology back in college. I am always curious to not only see the refuge and it flora and fauna but I am also curious to see how the refuge is being managed and maintained. While working for Texas Parks and Wildlife I was a Biologist responsible for maintaining the natural integrity of parkland ecosystems in the eastern half of the state of Texas. <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xcnZXitlzd8/TtTX7ykMDsI/AAAAAAAADsg/b1MVapntpGk/s1600-h/11-26-11%252520Captiva%252520Island%252520Florida%252520008%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Roseate Spoonbill" border="0" alt="Roseate Spoonbill" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-W-_BZsX0RMo/TtTX8SoOQCI/AAAAAAAADso/7_Hhrt8Ajaw/11-26-11%252520Captiva%252520Island%252520Florida%252520008_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="229"></a> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PShM4FqXFAs/TtTX8xTaftI/AAAAAAAADsw/ps_pSJ8Eyfs/s1600-h/11-26-11%252520Captiva%252520Island%252520Florida%252520006%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Mangrove Crab" border="0" alt="Mangrove Crab" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EbMJfiV8pKY/TtTX9RRT_LI/AAAAAAAADs4/04DRj1FTN0U/11-26-11%252520Captiva%252520Island%252520Florida%252520006_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="173" height="169"></a>As a Biologist I assisted in many events such from prescribed burning to maintain habitat for endangered species such as Attwater's Prairie Chickens to eradicating non-native species such as sika and fallow deer from the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. So when I visit parks and refuges I am looking at them from two different perspectives… and from what I can see they are doing a lot of real good things here at the <a href="http://www.fws.gov/dingdarling/">J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge</a>. <p>This super scenic four mile driving loop is well worth the $5.00 and if you have the National Park Access Pass your free for entry are waived. The absolute best to time to see the most wildlife will be during low tide. This would also make an absolutely wonderful bike ride, with camera in tow of course…</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-20710361756353018732011-11-20T15:08:00.000-08:002012-03-10T15:16:06.153-08:00Blackpoint Wildlife Drive Park, Titusville, FL<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ie4nhXKAT70/TsJgAYmmJrI/AAAAAAAADjA/F9Z2uO5M5ig/s1600-h/2011-11-12%252520Merritt%252520Island%252520NWR%252520005%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-11-12 Merritt Island NWR 005" border="0" alt="2011-11-12 Merritt Island NWR 005" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xcWQ6y4A_Ek/TsJgB0ShUAI/AAAAAAAADjI/GSo5O8x0DiQ/2011-11-12%252520Merritt%252520Island%252520NWR%252520005_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="445" height="292"></a></p> <p>If you are near the Titusville area then you really should take a daytrip over to the Canaveral National Seashore. Not only can you visit the National Seashore Park where you can lounge along the beach butyou will also pass a Road Treat along the way… The Road Treat I am referring to is the highlight of this area and it a nice little drive through the <a href="http://www.fws.gov/merrittisland/">Blackpoint Wildlife Drive Park</a>. Now keep in mind both of these parks are fee based but if you have a National Park Access Pass your free for entry are waived.</p> <p>This self guided drive takes you along marshes, ponds and uplands where you will see a lot of different species of birds… some of the many we were able to spot were the Great Blue Heron, Tri-colored Herons, Green-backed Herons, Wood Storks, Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, Reddish Egrets, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shovelers, large flocks of Gadwall, American Widgeon and American Coots. Double-breasted Cormorants, Common Gallinule, Anhinga, Belted Kingfishers and Pied-billed Grebes. We also saw many other species and other notable were Osprey, Northern Harriers and one stately Bald Eagle. <p> <p>If you are ever in this area I would recommend you take a trip to this beautiful park drive and really enjoy the day… heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-91505338431186661862011-11-11T15:05:00.000-08:002012-03-10T15:05:51.638-08:00High Tides @ Snack Jacks, Restaurant/Bar Flagler Beach, FL…<h5><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X0qRyjwIjdo/T1veGRzdtfI/AAAAAAAAEsI/SK8v4e2tQWc/s1600-h/image%25255B6%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6PNlpM95Zkk/T1veJ7WzZqI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/p-ReTxK8lEc/image_thumb%25255B2%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="500" height="364"></a></h5> <p>Wednesday we discovered a new road treat as there is a small restaurant/bar on the beach here at Flagler called <a href="http://snackjacks.com/">High Tides @ Snack Jacks</a>. We like to walk along the beach and noticed that this place was within walking distance. The actual address is 2805S. Oceanshore Blvd, Flagler Beach, FL. <a href="http://www.snackjacks.com/about-2/">The Story of Two Women and a Dream</a> on how this place came to be is an interesting read… So we were there on a Wednesday and we looked it up on the internet to see if they had a Happy Hour and guess what? It was Wacky Wednesday at High Tides @ <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MO3qVY1wDGE/Tr008vrJnsI/AAAAAAAADgY/OU9sc8tpZjM/s1600-h/2011-11-10%252520Gamble%252520Rogers%252520Rec%252520Area%252520FL%252520002%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-11-10 Gamble Rogers Rec Area FL 002" border="0" alt="2011-11-10 Gamble Rogers Rec Area FL 002" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OXwmrK9--vU/Tr009dI2JBI/AAAAAAAADgc/2aYrcl4fs3o/2011-11-10%252520Gamble%252520Rogers%252520Rec%252520Area%252520FL%252520002_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="237" height="149"></a>Snack Jacks… whoopie…</p> <p>Off we went about a quarter mile down the beach and after a short stroll up the stairs, we were at a table overlooking the ocean ordering some frosty beverages. Now what is Wacky Wednesday? Domestic bottles and pints are only a buck fifty!!! Well what can I say we stayed and watched the sun set over the water before making our way back home. Oh by the way they serve food here too but with beer at a buck fifty and an ocean view who is eating… heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-64677337822444149542011-10-02T11:21:00.000-07:002012-03-10T10:21:47.130-08:00Shady Maple Grocery, East Earl, PA…<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qRphnLiH65Q/T1ubiybjf_I/AAAAAAAAEr4/qnnswRLGZI4/s1600-h/amish%252520farms%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="amish farms" border="0" alt="amish farms" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4or37HLW7kQ/T1ubkdBUObI/AAAAAAAAEsA/O89uSmDYphk/amish%252520farms_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="497" height="290"></a></p> <p>While driving through the Amish country of Lancaster County Pennsylvania you will likely pass by the Shady Maple Grocery in East Earl, PA. This store in the middle of the Amish country features locally grown produce and they specialize in “Made From Scratch” or “Home-Made” food items.</p> <p>Their bakery inside the large store has wonderful treats from homemade apple fritters to some fresh out of the oven breads. A bargain can be had on their day old products as well. They have an interesting array of local meats, vegetables, bins of grains etc. and other food items. The prices are dirt cheap and the quality of the produce is as fresh as it gets.</p> <p>I have no pictures of this place or any of the sections in the store because our hands were so full of produce, baked goods, cheeses and other various and sundry items. Never did I thing a grocery store would end up on Road Treats but this one does… Check it out!!!</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-75192582397997924032011-09-19T10:22:00.000-07:002012-03-10T09:22:29.408-08:00Seafood Festival, Hampton Beach, NH<h5> </h5> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BEZxxr2dJQA/Tmyh7Srj9EI/AAAAAAAACuU/756oPta2d8k/s1600-h/2011-09-10%252520Hampton%252520Seafood%252520Festival%252520013%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-09-10 Hampton Seafood Festival 013" border="0" alt="2011-09-10 Hampton Seafood Festival 013" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dNtn4EhiGGk/Tmyh8ZGecMI/AAAAAAAACuY/JpXUYTETess/2011-09-10%252520Hampton%252520Seafood%252520Festival%252520013_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" height="199"></a><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0W79XyMtwjU/Tmyh39NZSYI/AAAAAAAACuM/OCrtohbsy54/s1600-h/2011-09-10%252520Hampton%252520Seafood%252520Festival%252520011%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline; float: right" title="2011-09-10 Hampton Seafood Festival 011" border="0" alt="2011-09-10 Hampton Seafood Festival 011" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YxNCp3s7dF4/Tmyh5Vv7rnI/AAAAAAAACuQ/mafh1UBSMik/2011-09-10%252520Hampton%252520Seafood%252520Festival%252520011_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="200"></a></p> <p>Labeled as "One of the Top 100 Events in North America" the <a href="http://www.hamptonbeachseafoodfestival.com/index.cfm">Hampton Beach</a> Seafood Festival just had their 22nd annual event. This three day festival marks the transition of moving into fall and signals the end of the summer. </p> <p>The festival started as a means of promoting Hampton’s local restaurants and allowed you the opportunity to taste some of the local seafood specialties. Entrance fees are only five dollars per person per day and parking is free.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-njpGG2u6JIc/TmyhvIsirPI/AAAAAAAACt8/J-JinBbvKEI/s1600-h/2011-09-10%252520Hampton%252520Seafood%252520Festival%252520004%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-09-10 Hampton Seafood Festival 004" border="0" alt="2011-09-10 Hampton Seafood Festival 004" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Vn110JxF7fQ/TmyhwNscDcI/AAAAAAAACuA/sTd__wGw8zM/2011-09-10%252520Hampton%252520Seafood%252520Festival%252520004_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="283" height="189"></a>Of the several highlights of the festival we most enjoyed the Culinary Chef Demonstrations where we got to watch some of the local chefs prepare their signature dishes. <p>We also got to listen to some golden oldies played by a couple of bands called the Soulmate and the B Street Bombers. Lots of folks enjoyed the music and a bit of dancing. Another fun event was to watch was the all-you-can-eat lobster roll competition which exemplifies America’s fascination with gluttony… the winner consumed 14 lobster rolls in ten minutes! <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-76implmbLpU/TmyhywhqViI/AAAAAAAACuE/8hSwWxoYpQc/s1600-h/2011-09-10%252520Hampton%252520Seafood%252520Festival%252520010%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-09-10 Hampton Seafood Festival 010" border="0" alt="2011-09-10 Hampton Seafood Festival 010" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AcgBRsxi-n8/Tmyh1KpfCOI/AAAAAAAACuI/i1cMyThRygA/2011-09-10%252520Hampton%252520Seafood%252520Festival%252520010_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="315" height="286"></a> <p>Scattered throughout the festival were Arts & Crafts vendors promoting locally made products and hawking cheap bulk goods. <p>The local restaurants sell all kinds of delectable treats so you can try out the various seafood products. Prices for the seafood are very reasonable with whole grilled lobsters being sold for $10 each and if that was too much lobster you can just get claws for a buck each. <p>It is a fun to spend some time exploring the festival at Hampton Beach and partake in the food and entertainment along with the other 25,000 plus people in attendance. The evening culminates with a spectacular fireworks display. heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-61864487463492362292011-09-09T10:11:00.000-07:002012-03-10T09:12:41.563-08:00Windjammer Festival, Camden, ME…<h5><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-k6PyZHcKc4c/TmTpq_hNVMI/AAAAAAAACqw/fTXfj4-X__Q/s1600-h/2011-09-03%252520Camden%252520Windjammer%252520Festival%252520026%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-09-03 Camden Windjammer Festival 026" border="0" alt="2011-09-03 Camden Windjammer Festival 026" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X4a-Rx630lM/TmTprYS85aI/AAAAAAAACq0/MVztfRd4k7c/2011-09-03%252520Camden%252520Windjammer%252520Festival%252520026_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="459" height="360"></a></h5> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uWKdj45CNPk/TmTpr0m_wSI/AAAAAAAACq4/1M8sjy4qq2s/s1600-h/2011-09-03%252520Camden%252520Windjammer%252520Festival%252520020%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img title="2011-09-03 Camden Windjammer Festival 020" border="0" alt="2011-09-03 Camden Windjammer Festival 020" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tMjOy97Z17s/TmTpsZ0-WvI/AAAAAAAACq8/RG8cwEndt18/2011-09-03%252520Camden%252520Windjammer%252520Festival%252520020_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="112" height="244"></a> <p>The three day Windjammer Festival is a community-led celebration of Camden, Maine’s maritime heritage and living traditions. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Qt15GpWl0c0/TmTptJ938MI/AAAAAAAACrA/TmT6FixqWZA/s1600-h/Camden%252520Harbor%252520%252520030%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img title="Camden Harbor 030" border="0" alt="Camden Harbor 030" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vmQE7QzGExI/TmTptsP4jUI/AAAAAAAACrE/MgH8DCT0Vfc/Camden%252520Harbor%252520%252520030_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="209" height="286"></a>The first day of festivities had the arrival of the windjammers along with a Maritime Heritage Fair with booths and displays of maritime history, traditions and skills. The first day ended at dark with the sky full of pyrotechnics as fireworks lit up the sky. <p>Saturday’s festival highlights were the Lobster Crate Race and the Schooner Open House in Camden Harbor. The Lobster Crate Race is an event where lobster traps are strapped together end to end in the sea and children get the opportunity to run across them as fast as they can without falling into the water. Lots of fun was had by all watching these kids try their best to beat their rivals. A few even made it across several times without falling in the cold North Sea waters of Camden Harbor. <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nU_uJpZQ468/TmTp0caiTZI/AAAAAAAACrw/pCDFoigiHo0/s1600-h/2011-09-03%252520Camden%252520Windjammer%252520Festival%252520011%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline; float: right" title="2011-09-03 Camden Windjammer Festival 011" border="0" alt="2011-09-03 Camden Windjammer Festival 011" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VpZkrAIwUqY/TmTp0wyYrrI/AAAAAAAACr0/7dbFUZsZrQ0/2011-09-03%252520Camden%252520Windjammer%252520Festival%252520011_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="232"></a>The Schooner open house was held on both Saturday and Sunday as festival goers were allowed the opportunity to board the schooners and windjammers. Once on board you could tour and explore the ships to better get a feel for what it is like to journey on these vessels. There are some really nice ships here that have been restored and are now active commercial cruise liners of sorts. They take 3-6 day sailing tours of coastal Maine. Pricing varies but seemed to be about $150 per day per person and the sleeping quarters are near as luxurious as the less than $100 per day price of commercial cruises on lines such as Royal Caribbean, Princess, and Celebrity. <p>Other Sunday highlights were the Sea Dog Show, the Build-a-Boat race (where contestants built a boat and tried to race to the finish without sinking – not all were successful), and the Boat Parade. The Boat Parade marked the end of the three day festival and what fun it is as the boats sail by one at a time while the harbor master tells details about each one of them. Great fun at this festival – Don’t miss it!!!</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-57049785053463952712011-09-05T10:03:00.000-07:002012-03-10T09:04:40.696-08:00Mount Megunticook Hike, Camden ME…<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YD3bmtSsKXk/TmIjw-UDbII/AAAAAAAACpI/la7DAb04bzg/s1600-h/Camden%252520Hill%252520SP%252520Mount%252520Megunticook%252520004%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="Camden Hill SP Mount Megunticook 004" border="0" alt="Camden Hill SP Mount Megunticook 004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-RWE4YRMSFd8/TmIjxaM9ySI/AAAAAAAACpM/ngAw425db1s/Camden%252520Hill%252520SP%252520Mount%252520Megunticook%252520004_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="476" height="268"></a> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-b_9LJy6WuH8/TmIjyApSrMI/AAAAAAAACpQ/qmTnQKh7wRg/s1600-h/Camden%252520Hill%252520SP%252520Mount%252520Megunticook%252520009%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Camden Hill SP Mount Megunticook 009" border="0" alt="Camden Hill SP Mount Megunticook 009" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7bFlDI_d8K8/TmIj0Uv7AcI/AAAAAAAACpU/qx9gbudI1ig/Camden%252520Hill%252520SP%252520Mount%252520Megunticook%252520009_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="168" height="244"></a>There are over 30 miles of trails in <a href="http://www.maine.gov/cgi-bin/doc/parks/find_name.pl">Camden Hills State Park</a> and one that shouldn’t be missed is the hike to the top of Mount Megunticook </p> <p>Mount Battie are the top three hikes in the immediate area of Camden.</p> <p>At 1,380 feet, Mount Megunticook is the highest mountain in the park and the second highest coastal mountain along the Atlantic. The tallest coastal peak in Maine can be found in Acadia National Park. This hike is only about 2.5 miles and covers just over 1200 of elevation. <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-OMN_3g_ahwI/TmIj1L4SHmI/AAAAAAAACpY/AHnC5_kOQ_4/s1600-h/Camden%252520Hill%252520SP%252520Mount%252520Megunticook%252520003%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="Camden Hill SP Mount Megunticook 003" border="0" alt="Camden Hill SP Mount Megunticook 003" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XUo8opsaAMc/TmIj1ey8jqI/AAAAAAAACpc/6ZBXVMO9g7A/Camden%252520Hill%252520SP%252520Mount%252520Megunticook%252520003_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a>The hike up Mount Megunticook starts from the RV campground. This trail is rated by the state of Maine as a 2 on a scale of 1-3. I have hiked a lot of trails and would have to say this trial was fairly difficult. Not only is it pretty steep since you will be hiking up nearly 1200 feet of elevation in the first mile but the trial itself is mostly rocky.The rocks are mostly all rounded and not angular making placing your footing all the more critical. <p> <p>After taking about an hour on a relentless climb winding our way up through woodlands one mile to the summit of Mount Megunticook the trail becomes a series of plateaus until you reach the Ocean View Lookout at 1300'. The Ocean View Lookout at Mount Megunticook provides a really beautiful panoramic view of <a href="http:///www.coastguides.com/r4/r4.html?http%3A//www.coastguides.com/r4/4.25Camden.html">Penobscot Bay</a> including Camden's picturesque harbor filled with all the windjammers and lobster boats. It makes this ragged 2.5 mile worth the trip. <p>There is an alternative to hiking this trail for those with health issues as the road up to the top of Mount Battie a has similar view to the one you see at Mount Megunticook with a whole lot less effort…</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-36004220161639042932011-08-19T10:02:00.000-07:002012-03-10T09:03:07.717-08:00Saratoga Springs, NY Horse Racing Track…<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Advhg4XIG-g/T1uI4uzR2_I/AAAAAAAAEq4/uTCKGo1cWkk/s1600-h/2011-08-18-The-race-Track-at-Saratog%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-18 The race Track at Saratoga NY 010" border="0" alt="2011-08-18 The race Track at Saratoga NY 010" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0K7Dlox9w4g/T1uI5rG_ghI/AAAAAAAAErA/7cpPKcVWH0g/2011-08-18-The-race-Track-at-Saratog%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="474" height="296"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4GE4c7hZgCk/T1uI6S5s5BI/AAAAAAAAErI/w1kyV5snWOM/s1600-h/2011-08-18--The-race-Track-at-Sarato%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-18 The race Track at Saratoga NY 011" border="0" alt="2011-08-18 The race Track at Saratoga NY 011" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-wgKnq2hRK5g/T1uI7PwnLvI/AAAAAAAAErQ/z3Eox8kXhUA/2011-08-18--The-race-Track-at-Sarato.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165"></a>Saratoga Springs, New York (simply Saratoga as the locals call it) has a slogan that is well known around these parts “Saratoga is the August place to be.” Why you may ask? Not only is the weather picture perfect in this cool little town on the southern edge of the Adirondack Mountains, but it is also the time of the year the ponies are running…</p> <p>The Saratoga Springs, NY Horse Racing Track called the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saratoga_Race_Course">Saratoga Race Course</a> opened In 1863 and then moved the following year to where it is today. The track is not only the the oldest continuously-operating horse track in the United States is also the oldest of any sporting event of any kind in the USA. The track today is opened for six weeks in the summer and attracts the top jockeys and <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lg9aoJWXbO8/T1uI8LqdIxI/AAAAAAAAErY/vbHqmzvje_Y/s1600-h/2011-08-18-Camp-K-and-Saratoga-NY-00%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-18 Camp K and Saratoga NY 004" border="0" alt="2011-08-18 Camp K and Saratoga NY 004" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_3065FdKVO4/T1uI84HnfmI/AAAAAAAAErg/yG2LXL4bUyU/2011-08-18-Camp-K-and-Saratoga-NY-00%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="128"></a>thoroughbreds in the land. It is host to the Travers Stakes which is said to be the most important summer thoroughbred race.</p> <p>Besides the history one can enjoy the sights and sounds of the track on a racing day as the sophisticated ladies are sporting their racing garb and their large, showy hats. You can smell the bratwursts on the grill alongside the sweet smelling caramelized onions and green peppers. Cold draft Labatt's Blue on tap helps complete the day at the track. So go to the track and bet an exacta, quinella, or daily double and simply enjoy the day…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EaCMhm59XqE/T1uI-EPMbFI/AAAAAAAAEro/LBnuFmMzGe8/s1600-h/2011-08-18-Sharon-in-front-of-the-Ti.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-18 Sharon in front of the Tin and Lint" border="0" alt="2011-08-18 Sharon in front of the Tin and Lint" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-rg0Kj5YpW5M/T1uI-6zIZ2I/AAAAAAAAErw/p_sl7lfUufQ/2011-08-18-Sharon-in-front-of-the-Ti%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="148"></a>After you have had your fill of horse racing go into town and park free behind the police station and check out the post racing action by visiting one of the many pubs, taverns or restaurants in town. There are many great little spots in town so just dive in… Some of our favorites ranged from the upscale <a href="http://www.partingglasspub.com/">The Parting Glass - Irish Pub and Restaurant</a> to a little dive bar called <a href="http://www.facebook.com/tinNlint">Tin 'N' Lint</a>. Where ever you end up you will have a great time….</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-50782040300911773242011-08-09T05:37:00.001-07:002011-08-09T05:37:27.704-07:00Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon…<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wUvNPKgz5-s/TkEp7s7CkuI/AAAAAAAACec/26CXDRleXbw/s1600-h/2011-08-08%252520Pennsylvania%252520Grand%252520Canyon%252520016%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-08 Pennsylvania Grand Canyon 016" border="0" alt="2011-08-08 Pennsylvania Grand Canyon 016" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9THdQSuYiE0/TkEp8exnUCI/AAAAAAAACeg/0V-FcOzDv00/2011-08-08%252520Pennsylvania%252520Grand%252520Canyon%252520016_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="506" height="393"></a></p> <p>Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of the Allegheny Plateau in the northern part of the state of Pennsylvania is a spectacular canyon known as the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania. Not to be confused with the Grand Canyon of Arizona but this canyon offers a level of beauty all its own.</p> <p>There are two places you can go to view this geologic wonder: one is to go to <a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/leonardharrison.aspx">Leonard Harrison State Park</a> and the other is to visit <a href="http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/coltonpoint.aspx">Colton Point State Park</a>. These two state parks are dedicated to preserving the area around the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. Leonard Harrison State Park is on the eastern rim of the canyon while Colton State park is on the west rim of the canyon. Both of these parks were originally built by the CCC back in the mid-1930s and they both offer extensive hiking and biking opportunities appealing to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_-hPK9OuKdI/TkEp9py5dcI/AAAAAAAACek/78uaZPCkSj4/s1600-h/2011-08-08%252520Pennsylvania%252520Grand%252520Canyon%252520027%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-08 Pennsylvania Grand Canyon 027" border="0" alt="2011-08-08 Pennsylvania Grand Canyon 027" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pg4DSV3qHxI/TkEp-fq-2GI/AAAAAAAACeo/w6SyqBAjPB4/2011-08-08%252520Pennsylvania%252520Grand%252520Canyon%252520027_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="234" height="284"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jT5C-Dd9VW0/TkEp_c3zKVI/AAAAAAAACes/m3lxcz5_vuk/s1600-h/2011-08-08%252520Pennsylvania%252520Grand%252520Canyon%252520026%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-08 Pennsylvania Grand Canyon 026" border="0" alt="2011-08-08 Pennsylvania Grand Canyon 026" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-AOdCqNyeYx0/TkEqAEiYDcI/AAAAAAAACew/RP3ZrS-BtCk/2011-08-08%252520Pennsylvania%252520Grand%252520Canyon%252520026_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="208" height="282"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--SOn69T5m-8/TkEqAjr_leI/AAAAAAAACe0/Ibx464mfF2Y/s1600-h/2011-08-08%252520Tioga%252520Hammond%252520Lakes%252520PA_thumb%25255B2%25255D%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-08 Tioga Hammond Lakes PA_thumb[2]" border="0" alt="2011-08-08 Tioga Hammond Lakes PA_thumb[2]" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SA-2yxdktOg/TkEqBYpoq6I/AAAAAAAACe4/VaJrPVYPuqs/2011-08-08%252520Tioga%252520Hammond%252520Lakes%252520PA_thumb%25255B2%25255D_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="276" height="186"></a>From the rim you are treated to various scenic vistas that each offer a different spectacular view into the glacially-carved canyon. At its deepest point the canyon is 1450 feet deep and but is only 800-foot deep between the rims of the state parks. </p> <p>Stay for a while and enjoy the lighting that ever changing as the sun peaks from behind the clouds and then retreats back for a while. Immerse yourself into the history and geology of the area and transcend yourself back into time to truly enjoy your time spent here.</p> <p>Originally known as Pine Creek Gorge, it is the home to the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania where it took thousands of years of erosion by active glaciers for Pine Creek to carve the wonderful Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.</p> <p>Heyduke says check it out!!!</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-59022949603692975922011-08-06T12:41:00.001-07:002011-08-06T12:41:18.501-07:00Bullfrog Brewery - Williamsport Pennsylvania<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rsektnR18as/Tj2YaAeABYI/AAAAAAAACdU/mcZfadhokgs/s1600-h/2011-08-05%252520Williamsport%252520PA%252520055%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-05 Williamsport PA 055" border="0" alt="2011-08-05 Williamsport PA 055" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gDXsmfWtzP8/Tj2YbSVd95I/AAAAAAAACdY/vLM2CRdFuaU/2011-08-05%252520Williamsport%252520PA%252520055_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="469" height="298"></a>Williamsport Pennsylvania, where every little league player dreams to end up playing baseball or softball in the Little League World Series. However, there is more to <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-E3IpG9umQ84/Tj2YeY48mNI/AAAAAAAACdc/qzYacztlfcA/s1600-h/Bullfrog%252520bar%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bullfrog bar" border="0" alt="Bullfrog bar" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZysFELZW7as/Tj2YgrTxUCI/AAAAAAAACdg/nJxQ9R42jFI/Bullfrog%252520bar_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="138" height="290"></a>Williamsport Pennsylvania than little league. </p> <p>Williamsport is home to many people of wealth and their abundant million plus dollar restored homes. These homes and their varied architectural styles are can be found along fourth street but something else can be found on Fourth Street – the Bullfrog Brewery – a Road Treat.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fTsZ2q2cWAU/Tj2YuQibzBI/AAAAAAAACdk/maWrUvgUhP0/s1600-h/image%25255B5%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-af8EC0g2WaM/Tj2Ywxz8e5I/AAAAAAAACdo/UqnVltv_6k4/image_thumb%25255B3%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="166" height="285"></a><a href="http://www.bullfrogbrewery.com/">Bullfrog Brewery</a>, on 229 West Fourth St. was founded in 1996 and was named small business of the year recently. This award winning brewpub is more of an upscale microbrewery than I generally like but it does sport some nice brews. </p> <p>We sampled three of the beers. First we tried the Billtown Blonde ale. This is a lightly colored ale with a smooth clean and crisp flavor at about 5.5% alcohol. We both liked this brew and my bride decided to have a pint of it. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sFjlmjEFFJI/Tj2Y0KyR0xI/AAAAAAAACds/AYwdUoTIKt0/s1600-h/2011-08-05%252520Williamsport%252520PA%252520051%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-08-05 Williamsport PA 051" border="0" alt="2011-08-05 Williamsport PA 051" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LetPvt7l3X8/Tj2Y12STObI/AAAAAAAACdw/YABa8Sb7n-E/2011-08-05%252520Williamsport%252520PA%252520051_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="147" height="250"></a>Next we tried the the Apricot Wheat beer since we had one in Spartanburg that we both loved (it was actually peach but close enough). The beer had no real flavor of apricot (a negative) and was a bit bitter. So this one was not to be a choice for a pint. The third one we tried was my favorite. The Edgar IPA is a hoppy and lively beer with just a hint of bitterness (8% alcohol). The beers went really well with a Rueben sandwich we ordered to split which came with a side of sweet potato fries. The sandwich was great!</p> <p>The place is a bit pricier than I would prefer it to be but on this day we splurged since it was <a href="http://www.internationalbeerday.com">International Beer Day</a> . In case you didn’t know International Beer Day is a worldwide celebration of beer held annually on August 5th at local pubs, bars and breweries all over the world.</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-27139966827285350172011-07-13T05:27:00.001-07:002011-07-13T05:27:27.570-07:00The Green Parrot Bar<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-3q9EtEDW6AI/Th2PE5BHeqI/AAAAAAAACRM/1V8fJBXFG7w/s1600-h/IMAG0235%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0235" border="0" alt="IMAG0235" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pioK1XTJiWc/Th2PHKUMhhI/AAAAAAAACRQ/tGp4w_TjUYc/IMAG0235_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="457" height="291"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mWgsIWSz0Wo/Th2PH9ECORI/AAAAAAAACRU/BQ2crBSKtMI/s1600-h/IMAG0236%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0236" border="0" alt="IMAG0236" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5CnfKdgA2bs/Th2PIbC-AXI/AAAAAAAACRY/dMXwxonQpZ8/IMAG0236_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="153" height="244"></a>The <a href="http://www.greenparrot.com/">Green Parrot Bar</a> located in a building that has been around since the late 1800’s can be found in downtown Key West on 601 Whitehead Street. What you see when you take off you sunglasses and first walk into this bar is a large square bar surrounded with people. Above them is a large multicolored parachute lit up with green Christmas lights. There is an additional smaller bar in the back and between these two bars is a stage where the have live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday as well as other occasional days.</p> <p>They say that the Green Parrot Bar is “a sunny place for shady people” and after spending some time there they made believers out of us. There are some real interesting characters that call the Green Parrot Bar their regular haunt. Also the large wooden parrot found just above the main bar has a caption that reads “no sniveling” – what a great place this is. It is, in our opinion, the best place to go for a high energy fun time in Key West. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qEuAhsFI-A0/Th2PJAVjeNI/AAAAAAAACRc/VhfCERHE4ng/s1600-h/IMAG0246%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0246" border="0" alt="IMAG0246" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ME6oJsLTr6s/Th2PJzOsXKI/AAAAAAAACRg/l--xkglVWaU/IMAG0246_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="431" height="273"></a></p> <p>As with any Key West establishment expect to pay more for anything in<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tWE0FPj3S3c/Th2PKTZTSUI/AAAAAAAACRk/qrsGtnNc478/s1600-h/IMAG0239%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0239" border="0" alt="IMAG0239" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BR2_tutHrl8/Th2PK7PEaPI/AAAAAAAACRo/9nFb1F-bJoI/IMAG0239_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="210" height="244"></a> downtown Key West when compared to crossing the bridge north towards Stock Island or Cow Key. They do have a happy hour from 4-7 pm and during this time they have free self serve popcorn. During many of the live music events they will have a sound check early show and a later main show. Since we are not the night owls we once were this offers us a fun experience during the early evening.</p> <p>The vibe and feel of this place allows for an assorted collection of regulars mixed with tourists to come together and listen to some <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zYGRnXbMZWg/Th2PLSV_TZI/AAAAAAAACRs/28cSg6ufqL8/s1600-h/IMAG0247%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0247" border="0" alt="IMAG0247" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3u2LAXWZLWo/Th2PLqSWwjI/AAAAAAAACRw/9pZDZiKcuRQ/IMAG0247_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="113" height="131"></a>live music which for us createed a very fun filled evening. We got to listen to a band called The Legendary JC's which was a 7 member soul band along with a fellow who could flat out play the brass. He even broke out a tuba while playing a few songs and made his way through the crowd. We decided that with the vibe, energy and fun we had there that this too was another Key West Road Treat! Heyduke says check it out…</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-76867749319745710722011-06-22T08:37:00.001-07:002011-06-22T08:37:09.127-07:00Key West - Hog Fish Bar & Grill…<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_WlNmdcFrF0/TgIMG6qKahI/AAAAAAAACJw/ZzzO7IqFUlk/s1600-h/2011-6-22%252520Key%252520West%252520169%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-6-22 Key West 169" border="0" alt="2011-6-22 Key West 169" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-PR1NWhaluYk/TgIMHdK6QoI/AAAAAAAACJ0/ZHL0Eo9rn2Q/2011-6-22%252520Key%252520West%252520169_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="461" height="166"></a></p> <p>The title says Key West but actually this bar and grill is located on Stock Island just outside of the town of Key West. We actually stumbled upon the <a href="http://www.hogfishbar.com/">Hog Fish Bar & Grill</a> while looking for Boyd’s RV park and Campground. I had read about it in all my readings about Key West but until I saw a small sign poked into the ground that read Hog Fish Bar & Grill with a little arrow pointing down the road I hadn’t given much thought to looking for it.</p> <p>SO one sign led to another and after winding through a maze of roads through a rather ratty part of town you near the water’s edge where you will then discover Stock Island's Hog Fish Bar & Grill…</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jkMjZhTP0Vg/TgIMH3v7WEI/AAAAAAAACJ4/IS1XDd88K2A/s1600-h/2011-6-22%252520Key%252520West%252520170%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-6-22 Key West 170" border="0" alt="2011-6-22 Key West 170" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HxUEDZ-HXXE/TgIMIcuWkNI/AAAAAAAACJ8/76-hRndTtFg/2011-6-22%252520Key%252520West%252520170_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="269" height="194"></a>Once parked you can enter the front of the bar and grill, all open aired as is done in typical Key West fashion, you are treated to an atmosphere that is genuine and exudes the feeling of “we are going to really like this place.” This place is probably more like the bar and grills of old Key West than any of those now found on Duval Street, the main drag of Key West.</p> <p>The bar and grill sits right on the water and offers both covered indoor and outdoor seating. In fact while we were there our first time they put a new blue awning over the picnic tables outside near the docks on the water’s edge. But we like to sit right at the bar.and mingle with the locals who have a lot of stories to tell about how Key West use to be.</p> <p>Here is where during happy hour you can get $1.50 Yeungling’s – yes that is what I said - $1.50 Yeungling’s. We have heard the food is excellent and during happy hour they also have some half priced appetizers. One evening we shared the nasty nachos and had plenty for the both of us –Warning they are a bit messy!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Kq6yWSZYTGs/TgIMIqAIzuI/AAAAAAAACKA/iYm7iiA8KB8/s1600-h/2011-6-18%252520bluewater%252520key%252520sunrise%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-6-18 bluewater key sunrise" border="0" alt="2011-6-18 bluewater key sunrise" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7E1KQdYwf5I/TgIMJME21EI/AAAAAAAACKE/LAdUztgGqKk/2011-6-18%252520bluewater%252520key%252520sunrise_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200" height="244"></a>This setting is an ideal Key West setting to just sit back and relax while enjoying the warm summer sea breezes while gazing out over the views of the shades of blue and other colors offered by the sea water and varied boats docked nearby. Here is where we have learned what Key West was really like from the locals like Captain Ed, Guenther and Axel while the bartender Patty brings us round after round of cold $1.50 Yeungling’s…</p> <p>The Hog Fish Bar and Grill is definitely off the beaten track and you will have to search for it but once you find it you will discover what we did – a laid back old Key West establishment with good food, drinks and people… Heyduke says stay till sunset and check it out!</p> <p><em><strong>GPS address or just follow the signs… 6810 Front Street, Stock Island, FL </strong></em></p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-18502243403151867002011-06-07T15:45:00.001-07:002011-06-07T15:45:14.747-07:00Making Bread On The Road… no not that kind!<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QTsJALYPZMg/Te6pzwXAc0I/AAAAAAAACC0/Cf1fTEuckxc/s1600-h/IMAG0139%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0139" border="0" alt="IMAG0139" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-w9nAXizAYgI/Te6p1ZcPpEI/AAAAAAAACC4/mfrFUBhkV5U/IMAG0139_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="454" height="330"></a></p> <p>Who can resist the scent of bread baking in the oven? My wonderful mother loved baking bread and I must have inherited that particular gene. I was determined to make the transition from baking in our large kitchen and spacious oven to our new, much smaller digs. The first MAJOR challenge in French Bread baking was finding ovenware to fit in the convection oven. My beloved baking sheet to my dismay was too long. Most convection ware is too small. I appealed to my creative husband to solve this dilemma. Sure enough he remodeled my beloved pan by bending the handles upward. Alas, a pan that was a PERFECT fit for our convection oven. The next challenge was my tried and true recipes did not turn out as well in the convection, so through trial and error we found three reliable, full proof recipes to suit our needs: Everything Bagels, Focaccia Bread and Crusty French Bread. We give you fair warning…..if you try these, you may never want store-bought bread ever again….</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-M8uLxcAaNW8/Te6p2Z5kDwI/AAAAAAAACC8/JmjGkGc55qM/s1600-h/bagels%252520in%252520covection%252520oven%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="bagels in covection oven" border="0" alt="bagels in covection oven" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gYH0KHXhTt4/Te6p3fckRlI/AAAAAAAACDA/NfXDuRuuXCc/bagels%252520in%252520covection%252520oven_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="394" height="264"></a></p> <p><strong>Homemade Everything Bagels (makes 12 to 15)<br></strong>Ingredients<br>• 2 cups warm water, about 110 degrees F<br>• 2 (1/4-ounce) packets active dry yeast<br>• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, plus 1 tablespoon<br>• 5 to 6 cups all-purpose unbleached flour (1 or 2 whole wheat)<br>• 2 teaspoons salt<br>• 2 teaspoons olive oil<br>• Pam Cooking Spray<br>• 2 tablespoons yellow coarse cornmeal<br>Optional Toppings: (sprinkle on after water dip)<br>• lightly toasted chopped onions, dry onion powder, poppy seeds, dried granulated garlic, sesame seeds, flax seeds, sea salt, etc. (whatever you want)</p> <p>Directions<br>Combine the water, yeast, and 3 tablespoons of the sugar in a bowl .. Stir and let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add 4 cups of the flour and the salt, and mix (I use wooden spoon and tall glass bowl) until the mixture comes together.</p> <p>Add 1 to 1 1/2 cups additional flour 1/2 cup at a time to make a stiff dough, either stirring with the wooden spoon or working with your hands. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and no longer sticky, about 5 minutes, adding just as much flour as needed. (Dough should be heavier and stiffer than regular yeast bread dough.)</p> <p>John usually kneads while I clean and olive oil the glass bowl 1 to 2 teaspoons of olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Pam one side of plastic wrap, cover the bowl, top with folded bath towel and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot until almost doubled, about 1 hour to an hour and a half. Tips: do not place the bowl on wood surface, not granite or corian (too cold).</p> <p>Remove from the bowl and punch down the dough. Divide into 12 equal pieces, about 2 to 3 ounces each, measuring about 4 inches across. Form each piece of dough into a ball. Roll each ball into a 4 to 6-inch log. Join the ends and place fingers through the hole and roll the ends together. Repeat with the remaining dough. Place on baking sheet sprayed with Pam and sprinkled with coarse corn meal. Cover with the same cling wrap, and let rest until risen but not doubled in a draft-free spot, while preheating convection oven to 400 degrees.</p> <p>In a large, heavy pot, bring 6 cups of water and the remaining tablespoon of sugar to a boil.. Remove from heat and, In batches, add the bagels to the water turning, for no more than 30 seconds. Flip bagels back onto the prepared sheet pan. Sprinkle on desired toppings. Bake for 20 minutes at 400 degrees turning bagels once for the last 5 minutes of baking.<br>Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HqVBmqyGj8I/Te6p4cgwnkI/AAAAAAAACDE/qyqdyLmyWwc/s1600-h/IMAG0142%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0142" border="0" alt="IMAG0142" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Igs-eO6WS4U/Te6p5T2hAKI/AAAAAAAACDI/Vuu1-pMBoiU/IMAG0142_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="372" height="255"></a></p> <p><strong>Convection Focaccia Recipe</strong><br>Cook Time:<br>15 to 20 min 400 degrees<br>Ingredients<br>• 2 teaspoons rapid-rising dry yeast<br>• 1 cup warm water<br>• 2 tablespoons sugar<br>• 3 1/2 to 4 cups flour<br>• 3/4 tablespoon coarse salt dissolved in 2 tbsp water<br>• 1/4 cup olive oil<br>• Coarse cornmeal for dusting<br>Optional Toppings:<br>• we used garlic powder, shredded Parmesan Cheese, and fresh rosemary </p> <p>Directions<br>In tall glass bowl proof the yeast by combining it with the warm water and sugar. Stir gently to dissolve. Let stand 3 minutes until foam appears. Slowly add and stir in the first two cups of flour.. Dissolve salt in 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the mixture. Pour in 1/4 cup olive oil and stir in the remaining flour. Mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes, adding flour as necessary.<br>Turn the dough out onto a work surface and fold over itself a few times. Form the dough into a round and place in an oiled bowl, turn to coat the entire ball with oil so it doesn't form a skin. Cover with plastic wrap or damp towel and let rise in warm, draft-free place.until doubled in size, about 45 minutes (may take longer if not warm enough surroundings or if not using rapid rise yeast).</p> <p>Coat a sheet pan with a little olive oil and corn meal. Once the dough is doubled and domed, turn it out onto the counter. Roll and stretch the dough out to an oblong shape about 1/2-inch thick. Lay the flattened dough on the pan and cover with plastic wrap. Let rest for 15 minutes.</p> <p>In the meantime, coat a small saute pan with olive oil, add the onion, and cook over low heat for 15 minutes until the onions caramelize. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Uncover the dough and dimple (poke) with your fingertips. Brush the surface with more olive oil and then add optional toppings: caramelized onions, garlic, olives, cheese, salt, pepper, and rosemary. Bake on convection rack for 15 to 20 minutes.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-H76AN0kkhKc/Te6p6op732I/AAAAAAAACDM/mF1SX_6Twd4/s1600-h/IMAG0143%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMAG0143" border="0" alt="IMAG0143" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IIGceCxr7kI/Te6p7ohh6zI/AAAAAAAACDQ/LLy9jCugyY4/IMAG0143_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="447" height="285"></a></p> <p><strong>Whole Wheat French Bread Recipe – (round style pictured in header and above)</strong></p> <p>Cooking Time: about 20 to 25 minutes 400 degrees<br>Rising Time: about 2 hours </p> <p>Ingredients:</p> <p>2 cups Whole Wheat Flour<br>3 cups All Purpose White Flour<br>1 Egg<br>1 tbsp. Sugar<br>2 tsp. Salt<br>1 tbsp. Dry Active Yeast</p> <p>Directions:</p> <p>1. Sift the two flours together into a large bowl. Mix in salt and sugar with hand. Move the ingredients to the sides of the bowl, creating a large "well" (an empty space) in the middle.<br>2. Pour the yeast into the "well" and pour 2 cups of lukewarm water over the yeast. Sprinkle about 1 tbsp. of flour over top. Wait (about 10 minutes) for bubbles to appear in the yeast.<br>3. Once the bubbles have appeared, you can start to mix together the ingredients (hands work best) to form the dough. The best way to do this, is to gradually incorporate the flour that is "waiting" on the sides of the bowl. Doing it all at once will be too difficult. So, go bit by bit, if it's too liquid, just add a bit more flour at the end. You should finish this "pre-kneading" stage with a round, firm ball of dough. Again, if it's too sticky, add a little more flour.<br>4. Kneading: remove the bread from the bowl and place on a lightly floured surface. Knead it by pushing your palms into and then turning it one quarter. Keep kneading and doing quarter turns for about 5-10 minutes, or until the bread is supple and non-sticky.<br>5. Place the bread in a lightly floured bowl and cover with a damp dish cloth. Let it rise for about 2 hours (depends on the room temperature, you want it to be fairly warm). It should double in size.<br>6. Preheat oven to 400°F. Re-sprinkle a counter top (or other surface) with flour. Prepare a baking pan by lightly oiling and flouring it (or bake on top of parchment paper). With your hands, remove bread and place on floured surface. Punch it down once, hard, with your palms. Now, re-shape it into a ball. Put the ball on the baking pan. Using a sharp knife, cut diagonal lines across the top of the bread. Whisk the egg, and using a brush (or a teaspoon) coat the top of the bread. Put in oven and bake for 30 minutes (more or less, depending on how much you like it browned).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JLBQbGp4fHw/Te6p9CkAGnI/AAAAAAAACDU/SubOSvKNW8E/s1600-h/100_4631%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_4631" border="0" alt="100_4631" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-32NW6EayL80/Te6p-BlYZCI/AAAAAAAACDY/mNZXlt52R8o/100_4631_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="448" height="360"></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><strong>The famous bread pan that we bent the handles up on to fit the convection!</strong></font></p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-1864750544781387962011-06-04T04:18:00.001-07:002011-06-04T04:18:55.361-07:00RJ Rocker’s Microbrewery …Spartanburg, SC<p><font size="2"><font style="font-weight: normal">We had one last night in Spartanburg, SC and one place we hadn’t visited was the <a href="http://www.rjrockers.com/home.asp">RJ Rocker’s</a> microbrewery in the downtown area at 226-A West Main street. We knew that on Thursday’s they had their “Tour and Taste Thursday”. So tonight from 5-7 pm we knew where we were going to be… at the Brewery. Tours and Tastings were $5 and included a pint glass souvenir.</font></font></p> <p><font size="2">So with the threat of a severe thunderstorm warning looming over us we headed out to the downtown area and got to the brewery right when the rain began to fall. It looked pretty dark northwest of us and it was headed our way. We decided it was probably safer in the brewery than in the motorhome under these circumstances. </font></p> <p><font size="2"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9X4BlUhiGTg/TeoUmmsVrHI/AAAAAAAACA8/Z4rSSiA8BQc/s1600-h/image2.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-V-Qc-kC0vqQ/TeoUngFEbpI/AAAAAAAACBA/afe00yVMf5A/image_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="144" height="138"></a>There was about a dozen other people milling around when we got there. The building in a nice sized building with lots of windows and all the stainless steel vats were shining. We bought our $5.00 pass which included a pint glass with 4 “beer” tickets. We could exchange one ticket for one taste of beer in our glass. You would get anywhere from a 4 oz to 10 oz pour… depending on who poured it as it seemed.</font></p> <p><font size="2">We tasted five different beers and our two favorites were Son of a Peach and the Fish Paralyzer. The description of these two beers from their website are:</font></p> <p><strong>SON OF A PEACH</strong><br>An unfiltered American wheat ale made with real mean peaches. The only thing missing is the fuzz. Savor the anger. Available during the late Spring and Summer months. <br>6.0% abv <p><strong>FISH PARALYZER <br>BELGIAN-STYLE PALE ALE</strong><br>Fish Paralyzer is a Belgian-style pale ale that is moderately hopped with Tradition and Saaz. The grain bill calls for a combination of specialty malt to produce its sweetness and copper color. The Belgian Ale yeast used provides a strong Belgian essence to Phenolic and spicy flavors and aromas <br>7.5% abv <p>The Fish Paralyzer was my favorite with the taste of a nice pale ale with some pizazz… The Son of a Peach was my brides favorite and I too admit this is a real nice fruity pale ale worthy of a summer toast while barbequing over a hot grill. <p>While the wind was howling, thunder booming, and pea sized hail pounding the tin roof we chatted with some of the locals and enjoyed our samples of beer and we were glad we were not in the park in the RV under these ominous skies. We had a good (but short) tour along with some very good beers… and all for five dollars each!! Heyduke says check it out… heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-80722720503488043692011-06-03T06:52:00.001-07:002011-06-03T06:52:41.189-07:00Gothic styled church… Spartanburg, SC<p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-71w807keGjY/Tejj5e9lDnI/AAAAAAAAB_8/XJaqkIObCxA/s1600-h/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520002%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 002" border="0" alt="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 002" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NLem7gG8HH0/Tejj8rn-40I/AAAAAAAACAA/RF13gC9ze-k/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520002_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="249"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Dc4jPVbg85I/Tejj-9HaGQI/AAAAAAAACAE/RjrS8WQiVmU/s1600-h/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520005%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 005" border="0" alt="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 005" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3ORURsN_4r0/Tejj_43uahI/AAAAAAAACAI/gTJQk52H9s8/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520005_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="249"></a></p> <p>Now as I mentioned in my other blog <a href="http://zeetraveler.blogspot.com/">On the Road of Retirement</a> I am a spiritual man but not a regular Sunday go-to-church worshiper. But we saw this church several times as we were driving through Spartanburg and never stopped at it until we passed right by it one day. As I said in my other blog if we had found it sooner we may have had to visit it on a Sunday to better see the inside of it and to hear the messages were being delivered. The structure itself doesn’t immediately remind one of a church with its gothic towers that are more castle like than church like. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Bez5EYRtA50/TejkCEVaOvI/AAAAAAAACAM/1YDQdWWTJ2I/s1600-h/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520013%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 013" border="0" alt="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 013" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BJi1ZFLymZ0/TejkD-RuuWI/AAAAAAAACAQ/qqJ7_DvIM2A/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520013_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="171" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fgOoRWANG2w/TejkGkAX9dI/AAAAAAAACAU/r5Uv4R4PUKg/s1600-h/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520014%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 014" border="0" alt="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 014" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PahamxxOaZI/Tejmqq2w-fI/AAAAAAAACAY/YCH4P1jteUY/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520014_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="313" height="242"></a></p> <p>However, once you start walking the grounds you get the sense that this is indeed a religious property. The church, as with many here in the deep south, has many families buried right on the property. In Texas this is pretty rare but here in the southeast I have witnessed this on many occasions.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-B-1zvv8RLHc/TejmumKjvDI/AAAAAAAACAc/LAY_hZ9K4UQ/s1600-h/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520009%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 009" border="0" alt="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cc0gMYjfN38/TejmwphVWTI/AAAAAAAACAg/6xztd8vGzFE/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520009_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Q5gAKQmmaz0/Tejm5FdutJI/AAAAAAAACAk/QEGAMmHu73o/s1600-h/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520011%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 011" border="0" alt="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oS0-7f76Qlk/Tejm7iBLm_I/AAAAAAAACAo/mTcCQ6R5Hfw/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520011_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>You really need to walk around this church and look at the many grave markers to get a feel of what times were like in the 1800’s. Many youngsters and babies never made it to adulthood since medicine was either not readily available nor had been developed at that time. We even found one grave marker with a person that was born in the late 1700’s… and lived a full life of 81 years! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6ebzi7NlQqY/Tejm9pwKBUI/AAAAAAAACAs/py9TGPl6Emo/s1600-h/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520006%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 006" border="0" alt="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 006" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-soHUxHdqZks/Tejm-5KXEVI/AAAAAAAACAw/8MX16T6Et9s/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520006_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZQz9ArDW2bI/TejnF1RTjfI/AAAAAAAACA0/t_5q-l9CE_A/s1600-h/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520012%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 012" border="0" alt="2011-5-31 Spartanburg and Greenville SC 012" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WT_REN7DtjQ/TejnJUNFYlI/AAAAAAAACA4/tzqc3zpw1k0/2011-5-31%252520Spartanburg%252520and%252520Greenville%252520SC%252520012_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>Also one with the captions that read:</p> <p>Captain in the first Florida infantry USA… during the first two years of the Confederate War. Wounded at Shiloh and taken prisoner In 1863 made full surgeon in the Confederate Army. Remained in service until the surrender…”</p> <p>He was born in 1833 and died in 1900. Wow! What these two individuals saw during their lifetimes is unfathomable! We found this church and the adjoining cemetery very fascinating and as a result this became another Road Treat… so when in the area… Heyduke says check it out…</p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3580854536890472962.post-41344722620928001462011-05-23T19:04:00.001-07:002011-05-23T19:04:59.927-07:00Tuna smothered in zesty mushroom sauce…Recipe<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/--OOpG8mzCO0/TdsQy0eH9CI/AAAAAAAAB8A/40PEjy6COOI/s1600-h/100_5021%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5021" border="0" alt="100_5021" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iDJygq_dYZE/TdsRABOYApI/AAAAAAAAB8E/8fFFHyzL6LM/100_5021_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gq7mCAYCR6c/TdsRMEy4MtI/AAAAAAAAB8M/Fb9xC7EeY5E/s1600-h/100_5023%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5023" border="0" alt="100_5023" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ilh68vwn4Js/TdsReXYZtFI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/Zde0B3d6iXk/100_5023_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p>I have a dish that I made in the sticks and bricks house that was so good it had to follow me on the road… So I have made it a few times and although it is a bit more of a task it is still very doable especially now that we are slowly accruing the toys we need to live this lifestyle as a life and not as part time attendees.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IQ_e2hBZulk/TdsRi8kPIyI/AAAAAAAAB8U/HwhnxpqunGo/s1600-h/100_5022%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5022" border="0" alt="100_5022" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-AGFJdw4A_-E/TdsRk3RVNkI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/7e1wis69GZ4/100_5022_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a>So I put a picture up on my other blog and had a few people ask about the recipe so here it is as best as I can provide it… you see I don’t measure anything and I wing it at times so the ingredients may change. But we had just recently purchase a new Coleman outdoor grill and the bride said let’s grill tuna so I got the camera and took some pictures and thought I would provide the recipe here on Road Treats. After all this is truly a road treat for us. So as a result I will include recipes on road treats as they fit the true meaning of what I meant this site to be… So here it is…</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-no7wRYpYfMc/TdsRp-r9kpI/AAAAAAAAB8c/qcAzTKuTFq8/s1600-h/100_5024%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5024" border="0" alt="100_5024" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-sIToNqn2NrY/TdsRs9eblRI/AAAAAAAAB8g/0bb5oeC7Wzk/100_5024_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="232" height="179"></a> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GmAU114HFeQ/TdsRxXNDO_I/AAAAAAAAB8k/5EmTUkj5KTo/s1600-h/100_5026%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5026" border="0" alt="100_5026" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_PHooxq3Dhs/TdsRzlLJxGI/AAAAAAAAB8o/UEpKUVFwT5o/100_5026_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="252" height="178"></a></p> <p>The main starting ingredients (see top two pictures) require you to slice very thinly some onion (I prefer purple, but any will do), slice jalapeno very thinly, yellow pepper very thinly, and some mushrooms (crimini or white will do) and chop a large garlic clove. Sauté these ingredients in some butter (1-2 tablespoons) until soft. I usually add all the ingredients except the mushrooms and garlic and sauté for a few minutes before adding them (see pictures above). As these items soften it is time to deglaze with some white wine… simmer a bit to remove the alcohol and then add the heavy cream till you have a good sauce to simmer down (see before and after pictures below).</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-msudTJKZDuA/TdsR27SK1OI/AAAAAAAAB8s/uZBnbrvnzEU/s1600-h/100_5029%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5029" border="0" alt="100_5029" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-116YBNtORbM/TdsR5GeaicI/AAAAAAAAB8w/YoB3caUpzao/100_5029_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7N_CGpQ8faY/TdsR_kN4oFI/AAAAAAAAB80/Fj6CjlM9nYA/s1600-h/100_5030%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5030" border="0" alt="100_5030" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KuQLB65Nfkg/TdsSBIymPNI/AAAAAAAAB84/RjpsdfiKyb4/100_5030_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p>Then while this is on low get your tuna steaks and add some sea salt and coarse black pepper on each side. Slap these babies on the grill at the same time you put on some fresh asparagus that has been sprayed with Pam and salted and peppered similarly.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KGogvw8U_jY/TdsSEAz2PYI/AAAAAAAAB88/85vTpx9Rjr8/s1600-h/100_5028%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5028" border="0" alt="100_5028" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Nd5mq3NQrdk/TdsSGIlURWI/AAAAAAAAB9A/VcJZupYcnCw/100_5028_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="315" height="150"></a></p> <p>Cook the tuna for a few minutes while stirring the sauce to reduce it. Flip the tuna steaks and add some thinly sliced lemon till they are done. The asparagus should be done about the same time as the tuna. Let them sit until the sauce is pretty thick. Then squeeze some fresh lemon in the sauce and give it a stir before ladling a heaping spoonful atop the tuna steaks… place the asparagus along the side and you have a road treat… compliments of Heyduke…</p> <p>Give it a try and you will like it… if you really need more details let me know…</p> <p> <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZLNDvEVDosQ/TdsSNx5xlYI/AAAAAAAAB9E/Rs4avCXgSHc/s1600-h/100_5031%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="100_5031" border="0" alt="100_5031" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zDYAVsbkW0s/TdsSSLS6XHI/AAAAAAAAB9I/1zpWq_IbsE4/100_5031_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="362" height="293"></a></p> heyduke50http://www.blogger.com/profile/14927304490275027002noreply@blogger.com2