Friday Photo Post: Blue Ridge Parkway

Photos by zen♫♪ on flickr

My article on The Best Fall Road Trips included information on autumn in Asheville, North Carolina. In the comments, Rob from Go Budget Travel agreed with Asheville as a great place to visit. A big reason is the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Rambling Traveler meets Go Backpacking

When we decided to go to Maryland, one opportunity I wanted to take advantage of was meeting Dave from GoBackpacking. I've been following Dave's blog as he plans and saves for his upcoming round the world trip. He is leaving the country in just a few weeks, so this was a chance I couldn't pass up. I sent him an invitation to join us for drinks before we left D.C., and Dave graciously accepted. He suggested Ireland's Four Courts in Arlington, Virginia and I'm so glad he did.

Set up like a traditional Irish pub, it reminded me of our trip to Ireland and the several meals we had at pubs just like this one. Even though I ordered an Irish beer (Smithwicks), I couldn't resist the non-Irish 5 Layer Dip with refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, tomato salsa and grated provolone and cheddar cheese. It was delicious.

It was great to visit with Dave. We talked a lot about travel and blogging. His eyes light up when he talks about his trip, and his relief that physical therapy is helping his knees. I'm excited for him with his upcoming trip and I can't wait to hear his stories from the road.

Dave, I hope you will give me a call if you are ever in Minnesota so we can compare local Irish pubs.

Friday Photo Post: Shenandoah National Park

I'm excited because Doug and I will be in Washington D.C. for our anniversary next month. Just thinking about our trip brings back memories of when we lived in Maryland. These pictures are from a road trip we did on the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.


At the southern end of the drive, one of our last stops was at the Blackrock Summit parking lot at mile marker 84.8. A short 10 minute walk led us to Blackrock and a fun climb up to some amazing views.