fall

Can’t believe that it’s already 2020. Crazy how fast time is moving!

Screenshot_20200113-214705 — Exhibition Coal Mine, Beckley, WV

Back in October, hubs and I went on a small vacation. We were looking for something a little different, something slower paced – where we could relax. We found it in West Virginia. One of the first places we visited was an exhibition coal mine. Not being from a coal mining area, I never gave too much thought to how difficult mining could be. After visiting the mine, I came away with a new respect for the miners.

Screenshot_20200113-215753 — Cass Scenic Railroad – Bald Knob Trip

We ventured north to Cass where we took a train ride. We chose the trip up to Bald Knob. The scenery was beautiful and the smell of Red Spruce was spectacular. Our trip included a hobo lunch (sack lunch of a sandwich, chips, pasta salad and a cookie). The engineer was very entertaining. (click here for link to Cass Scenic Railroad)

♥♥♥

IMG_20191011_095713 — The Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park, Fayette County, West Virginia

About twenty miles from the New River Gorge, you’ll find Babcock State Park. This was one of my favorite stops. While at the park, we took time to check out the Grist Mill before we went hiking. We chose to hike around the lake. I think the trail was classified as easy to moderate.

This little vacation comes highly recommended. It’s perfect for those who want to unplug from daily stresses and recharge. Totally felt like a new person when the vacation was over.

Hiking at Babcock State Park

A little peak at our hike.

I have always been a summer person. Give me a pair of shorts and some flops and I happy. Let me walk in the grass or along the beach with my bare feet and I’m in heaven. But holy cow, this summer had me longing for a little frost on the pumpkins.

As I’ve been counting the days to the arrival of September and the official start of pumpkin scented candle burning – and having nothing better to do because it’s been too hot to be outside – I decided I needed an autumn bucket list. Nothing like daydreaming about cooler temperatures.

autumn bucket list

Number 5 on my list is truly yummy!

All you need is a pot of water (low rolling boil) and a can of sweetened condensed milk. Remove the paper from the can and place in water (on side so it rolls). Bring water to a slow, rolling boil. The can should always be completely submerged and you’ll need to roll the can about every 15 minutes or so to ensure the condensed milk caramelizes evenly. Add more water as needed. Boil 3-3 1/2 hours. Drain water. Carefully remove the can and place in cold water. Let cool before opening. (Maybe an hour or so. The can should be cool to the touch.) It’s really important to not rush this process – patience is essential. Nothing worse than being burned by hot, gooey caramel. We serve with sliced granny smith apples. Delicious!

Here’s wishing you a fabulous fall season! And if you have a must do activity or recipe feel free to share in the comments.

-Deb