Sunday, MAY 27th-Time to Play at The Springs

[Willis]

Tis Done!
The decision is made
It's Sunday of the Memorial Day Weekend, May 27th
(Rain date, Monday, the 28th)
Please post your intentions AND please, newcomers, don't be shy. This is a chance to take a step back in time in your own Blue Ridge backyard.
Read on:

I can tell you that the time is ripe for a visit to the Springs. Shadowplay, maintenance man extraordinaire, with the help of KatherineA's mower, was able to manicure the grounds around the ruins. It's looking REAL good. In a few weeks, however, the fertile alluvial soils will prompt rapid growth of grasses and other vegetation.

I will be available to give a talk about the Springs at the site. I was told that though the Historic Area is well tended, the trails leading to it are becoming increasingly difficult to hike.(I have requested DNR's help, but they like all agencies are strapped for cash and personnel). Consequently, FOSS has decided to open the gate to a limited number of vehicles. They would haul geezers like myself, toddlers, comestibles and equipment to the ruins.

Since shadowplay has done such a splendid job of preparing the area, we can consider this a MOSTLY play and VERY little work party. If I have my druthers I'd pick Memorial Day weekend. But, I'm open to suggestion. This is definitely the chance for all who haven't had the opportunity to visit to take that giant step back in time. And if you'll let me, I'll help you along with a narrative of this wondrous spot's history.

I need, as usual, a honcho or two to coordinate the project. Dates, times, activities, all need a decision.
Here are some links to a few photos that shadowplay took on May 8th:
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[shadowplay]

Another vote for Memorial Day weekend here.

[KatherineA]

If Rusty Morgan is serious about his offer, how about a mowing job on the main trails sooner rather than later? ??

Although next time I lend my mower, I expect my yard to be mowed AND trimmed as well.

[shadowplay]

Although next time I lend my mower, I expect my yard to be mowed AND trimmed as well.

Philanthropy just don't get no respect anymore.

[Willis]

OK, we're generating a little bickering but no date setting. It would be rather cavalier to have shadowplay(co-winner of FOSS of the year) and Willis (the Humble Webservant) to declare a date by fiat. How's about a little input from interested parties( ARE any interested parties, out there?).

Memorial Day weekend is one choice. Likely Sunday PM with a rain date of Monday. Times-Well in deference to the partygoers, a time of 1-4PM sounds suitable to me.

BUT, I have to know enough in advance to sked a volunteer sitter from Hospice or elsewhere. The ride back is ideal for the very young and decrepit geezers(or the flat out lazy, for that matter).

I'd also like to send out invites so help us make a decision!!

[Jenniffer]

( ARE any interested parties, out there?).

I'm interested, but haven't chimed in because I don't have a preference. I may be on my own this time

[Willis]

I'm interested, but haven't chimed in because I don't have a preference. I may be on my own this time

Note: I can't let your comment go without the following caveat, JJF:
NEVER HIKE ALONE

[Tony]

I too can't specify a date, but since I'm hiking in the Springs virtually every day in this nice weather (alone, I'm afraid), almost any day works for me.

Except when it gets hotter; then I'm cowering at home in front of the a/c.

[KatherineA]

Would anyone be interested in landing a floatilla at the beach - kayaks or canoes (or tubes if you are brave enough and the water is warm enough). We could start at the J.B. Farm river access - located conveniently next to - or close enough to - John and Teresa's house.

Float/paddle to the beach for a rendezvous with those that have walked/drove in to the old resort area and then on to the Springs parking lot/river access lot - where we could be picked up and arrange to get our boats back home?

[HollyV]

I'll be out of town, so I won't be able to join this year But I walk back there regularly, so a big THANK YOU to Shadowplay and KatherineA and everyone else that mowed and helps to keep the Springs looking good!

[Wormdoc]

I'm sure going to try and make it. I've not been to that area yet and would love to hear about the history behind it and all that stuff. If I can make it, I will bring Teri.

[Nanuk]

RedactedName0001 and I will probably be showing up.

[Willis]

Just one last reminder- The "FLOATilla" will leave John Brown Farms at 10:30 arriving at the Springs Beach about 1PM. The armada will have up to a dozen "seafarers". I will be at the parking lot by the boat ramp at the end of Shannondale Springs Rd. about 12:30 PM.

I'll be leading back a group of folks who may have difficulty trekking a mile and a half. I'm told the grass on the trails is becoming bothersome for foot traffic. But, hikers are welcome to to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy nature's show.

There will be some food available for a late lunch. Hikers and those going back with me are advised to bring some grub to augment the supply of victuals.. Something simple like pb&j will suffice just fine and dandy.

Come out and enjoy the HISTORY in the Blue Ridge's backyard.

[shadowplay]

Nice trip today, but a bit warm for us non-floaters on foot. Also, I couldn't believe how the vegetation has grown in just three weeks since I last mowed.

In any event, here are some pics from the day's activities.

[shadowplay]

Three more pics that would not fit in a single post.

[Jenniffer]

Benjamen and I had a wonderful time.

Photos are here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jjfbalt...7600276843999/

If you're not listed as a Flickr friend, you won't have to wade through all of the gratuitous Benjamen photos

[Willis]

I'll let others have their say before I bury you, the viewer, in my copious commentary. Just let me say that if you think Shannondale Springs is ALL about history and DRY and dust. take a spin thru Jenniffer's slide show. I'm sure other pix such as shadowplay's will follow, too. What a GREAT day and remember, that Summer hasn't yet arrived!!

[Tony]

The flotilla actually treed a coon? Sorry I missed it!

[flickr]http://www.flickr.com/photos/jjfbaltzell/517992712[/flickr]

[Jenniffer]

You probably walked right under him on the way out. We saw him while we were waiting for them to unlock the gate. An older fella pointed him out to us and said some young boys were throwing rocks at him I'm glad they were there to make them stop.

[shadowplay]

If I'd have seen kids throwing rocks at that raccoon I'd a treed the kids.