Parchment Paths

What is it about rain that makes it so soothing? Is it simply the sound or the idea of  dirt and dingy snow being washed away. Is it the sense of renewal; the knowledge that the rain nourishes the soil in preparation for spring? I think it could be all of those things, along with something intangible , something just beyond human verbal ability.  Rain just makes me want to take a nap, drink in some coffee or tea, read a good book, or watch a good movie all at once.

Have you ever watched a travel show and realized that most likely you may never get to visit the location the show is about? While it’s fun to watch or read about exotic locals it’s also nice to hear about places you have a high probability of visiting.             For instance, I spend a great deal of time in the Lancaster, Pennsylvania area.   My friend, Mel and I often stop by the town of Litiz.   During these visits I was always intrigued by a large yellow and green, Victorian looking home along the main street. After a few visits, we finally slowed the car down enough to read the sign, The TomatoPie Café .             Time went by and I forgot about the brightly painted place with the fun name till Mel sent me the link to a You Tube channel called Meeting and Eating that highlight restaurants in the Lancaster and Litiz area. One of the eateries high...

Do you ever notice that when a TV show or a movie features a restaurant or café that it’s always some, fun, funky, local place? The walls are usually covered in quirky art work and the tables and chairs are either unique or mismatched, or both.   The Central Perk from Friends comes to mind, but so does a real life restaurant, Canteen 900 in Forty Fort Pennsylvania.  My good friend, Nicole introduced me to the place, which is housed in what used to be factory and was abandoned for several years until it was purchased and renovated.   Now, the building houses not just Canteen 900 but a clothing outlet, a gift shop, a yoga studio, a salon, and several offices.               I love the idea that the old building was rescued and revitalized.   Far too many unused buildings are left to decay and present dangers as the elements and vandals take hold, but not this place. Aside from being a rescue itsel...

Just a fair warning, this is not going to be a comprehensive review of The Force Awakens.     I’m still processing the movie and I’m also trying not to spoil it for anyone who hasn’t seen it yet.   I’ve seen it twice, but feel a thorough review and consideration needs one more viewing.                 I will say this; it was incredible. It felt like the original trilogy without feeling recycled.   The new characters were well rounded and intriguing, yet there was enough valuable screen time with the returning cast.                   The cinematography was beautiful as well; the music was a perfect fit and I cannot wait till the next one.   I also need a Kylo Ren shirt and lightsaber.