"Vermont is a state I love"

Now of course I have not visited all the states in the USA, a goal on my "bucket list" however, my Dad has and always says "Vermont is the most civilized of all the states" I am not sure that is why I love it so much, but before I go on, let me quote this from Calvin Collidge. I read it on a plaque as we were having dinner at Bennington Station in Bennington Thursday night and I could completely understand what he was talking about.

"Vermont is a state I love.
I could not look upon the peaks of Ascutney,
Killington, Mansfield and Equinox
Without being moved in a way that no other scene could move me.
It was here that I first saw the light of day;
Here I receive my bride;
Here my dead lie,
pillowed on the loving breast of our everlasting hills.
I love Vermont because of her hills and valleys,
Her scenery and invigorating climate,
but most of all because of her indomitable people.
They are a race of pioneers who have almost beggared themselves
to serve others.
If the spirit of liberty should vanish in other parts of the union
and support of our institutions should languish,
It could all be replenished from the generous store held by the people
Of this brave little state of Vermont."

Now that explains why he loved it. I still do not have the words to express my love of this little state, it's more a feeling. As soon as we crossed the state line I smiled, "we made it". As much as I loved our first week in New York states, the finger lakes with it's beautiful scenery, small towns and villages, there is a differant feeling in Vermont. NO billboards allowed, ahhh what a treat to travel along and see unspoiled land. In Stowe, no franchise operations allowed, no McDonalds, Burger King, Wal-Marts or massive super stores.

I am sitting at our motel, nothing fancy, but as I lay quietly in bed last night, peering out the window at the view of Mount Mansfield, listening the babbling brook running right by our back door I thought "What more do I need?" In all honesty nothing, a bed, a desk, 2 comfy wing chairs, peace, serenity, a fridge (for the wine of course), a few articles of clothing (OK a few more than a few, but not much). there is nothing out of a long walk or short bike ride I would ever need. 2 great chocolate factories (not the best in the world but pretty good), Ben and Jerry's ice cream factory, wineries, and scenery that can feed your soul every single day.

This is my quiet place - the place I want to share with everybody and nobody.