August 2012

Want a true sense of just who the Appalachian Trail thru-hiker is? Saunter on into tiny Damascus, Va., May 14-16 for the full flavor.

Friday: Behold the Beauty. Learn about nature, horticulture and native plants through educational programs or a walk along the landscaped trails at the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum and Botanical Garden, located on the campus of JMU.

One of my favorite Blue Ridge Parkway stops – and one of Mindy DeCesar’s “favorite projects” – is the garden at Brinegar Cabin (mile marker 238.5) at Doughton Park.

For about 200 miles of Virginia roadway, at about 23 different stops, the idea is the same: Take part, one way or another, in the music of these old blue mountains.

To say I was surprised when your letter of Sept. 1 arrived telling me I was chosen as the Grand Prize Sweepstakes Winner of Blue Ridge Country magazine’s GETAWAY TO PRIMLAND (as advertised in the July/August issue) is quite an understatement.