DAY 52 SARATOGA SPRINGS AND THE SKETE

SARATOGA...AND THEY'RE OFF AND RUNNING!

Located on the west bank of the Hudson River- the name reflects the presence of a mineral spring in the area.  Saratoga was originally settled for the springs medicinal properties.  The horse racing opened in 1863 to go along with the "illegal" gambling going on.  We missed the season and a Florida friend who races her horses here (known as the Summer Derby with a  6 week season) it was fun to poke around the track and town.

Very cool to watch them working out the horses and running the track.  This $15 BILLION DOLLAR industry has it's own lingo that Pleep so enjoyed shouting out- EXACTA, QUINELLA, TRIFECTA, SUPERFECTA and Handicapping.  What is handicapping anyway?  

The Pleepster explained it's all about someones opinion although unlike random casino games, picking winners and knowing when and how to bet them is more like poker, a learned skill based on an "analysis" of predictive data.  He went on to tell us the handicappers look at breeding, track surface, weather conditions, trainer and the most recognizable horsemen- THE JOCKEY.  And who's your favorite Jockey?

They told Pleep that successful riders are more PILOT than PASSENGER and the architects of the victory.    Pleep managed to hitch a ride and now wants his own Jockey Suit in his very own colors- lots of Red!  WIN PLACE OR SHOW Mom!

Of course the local art is all about the horse.  Sis had more fun in town looking at the artsy horses....isn't that some brilliant marketing and pr?  In so many towns they have the cow, the steer, the dolphin and on and on.  A little lame but on the other hand a little cute.  Of course Sis tried to convince Bubba that one of these colorful horses would look so nice on the patio in Boca Raton. And Boca responded, "Does it look like we live in Davie?  Pleep couldn't resist, "Neeeeeeigh".  Oh well she said I can hardly wait to see the soon to be released movie about the famed Secretariat for which I will need new boots.  Oy.

NEW SKETE MONASTERY

Nestled in the hills of New York close to the Vermont border (an hour northeast of Albany) we found New Skete.  This community of men and woman dedicated to living the monastic life together within the tradition of the Orthodox Catholic Church.  Founded in 1966, numbering 8 Brothers  Skete is a  part of OCA (Orthodox Church in America). The community consists of the Monks of New Skete, the nuns of New Skete and the Companions of New Skete.  The community is self-supporting, relying on a farm, gift shop and German Shepard dog breeding and training.  Yes the sign telling us "Animal Blessing at 4:00" got our attention.   Brother Micheal gave us a tour of their picturesque property.

The new church was built in 1983 with the twin peaks of Two Top mountain in the background.  The Basilica style church has a u shaped iconostasis typical of the eastern rite.  Bubs loved the bell tower reminding him of St. Hermans on Kodiak Island.

Different from the iconostasis we are used to in the Greek Orthodox or Serb Orthodox style.  The open area is there for all to see throughout the liturgy.  Boca really liked this concept as she never understood what was going on behind the closed curtains and door?  No Alter Girl experience for her...will there every be Alter Girls?There are several relics housed in the church.  One of our very favorites', St. Herman of Alaska, was right there with us again!

Over the years New Skete has become world renowned for its work with dogs and have produced a number of highly respect books which include: How To Be Your Dog's Best Friend, The Art of Raising a Puppy and more.   These beautiful Shepard pups coming out of the New Skete Shepards are highly sought after. The breeding stock all come in from Europe.  I bet you've seen the Monks and pooches on TV.  Quite the "stars"-Woof Woof!

Bubba grew up with Shepards so it was all Boca could do to JUST SAY NO!   Awwwwwww... The pups pricing starts at $3000 each...worth every penny and then some.

OUR LADY OF THE SIGN MONASTERY-the Nuns of New Skete

"The Lord himself will give you this sign: the virgin shall be with child, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanauel"   Isaiah 7:14

BOCA enjoyed visiting the nuns and learning about their CHEESECAKE making operation.  MMMMMMMMMMMMMM.   

She tried to convince them that a "satellite" shop in Boca would be a big hit.  The Sister's gift shop had Icons, Books and homemade Dog Beds and  Biscuits.  Bubba even bougt himself a walking stick.  Sis bought Lulu some of the Holy Dog Biscuits hoping they would make it home without Pleep eating them up.

THE COMPANIONS OF NEW SKEET

This is the third component of New Skeet.  These married folks offer prayer and retreat for married couples.  Feel free to check out the web site as the retreat facilities at New Skeet are delightful.  We can't wait to come back!  Do you think they can help Bubba and Boca?  Nah, me either.

Check out their website for some great gifts and Dog Treats too!

www.newsketemonks.com

www.newskete.com

Day 51 AU REVOIR MONTREAL HELLO ADIRONDACKS

SAINT JOSEPH'S ORATORY
Saint Joseph's Oratory is a Roman Catholic Basilica on the northern slope of Mount Royal in Montreal.  Oratory?  We had stopped by for a short visit on the Highlights tour but Boca insisted we go back for and up close and personal view.  Oratory?

In 1904, Blessed Andre Besset, CSC began the construction of a small chapel on the side of the mountain near Notre Dame College. Soon the growing number of visitors made it too small. Even though it was enlarged, a larger church was needed and in 1917 one was completed.  Brother André was a lay brother of the Holy Cross order who was devoted to Saint Joseph (the Virgin Mary's husband). André especially related to the carpenter Joseph because of their shared experience as laborers and migrants.

Born Alfred Besette in 1845 and orphaned at 12, Brother André joined the Holy Cross Order at 25. Due to his poor health, he was assigned the humble duties of receptionist and doorkeeper at the College Notre-Dame in Montreal. However, another of his assigned tasks was visiting sick students and he soon gained a reputation as a miraculous healer through his prayers to St. Joseph. Before long, a new venue for his fast-growing healing ministry became necessary. Brother André raised $200 from small donations and giving student haircuts at 5 cents each to build a small wooden chapel in 1904 near the site of the modern basilica. Grandly named Saint Joseph's Oratory, the chapel was just 15 feet by 18 feet.

Brother André's powers attracted pilgrims from great distances and he performed his healing work until his death in 1937. In 1916 alone, 435 cases of healing were reported. Interestingly, Brother André never witnessed a miracle himself. He counseled and prayed with the sick, but they were cured after he had gone. He later said this was his greatest cause of suffering.  Boca and Bubba watched as people crawled up the 99 stairs as part of the healing ritual, Bubba suggested that Boca get right behind that nice lady for the same.  Good idea Bub.

André's popularity was so great that he soon attracted the attention of church authorities, and a special commission was set up to test the alleged cures and André's integrity in 1911. The commission recommended that pilgrimages continue, without commenting on the miracles. André was beloved throughout his life and still remembered today for his life of simple faith, continuous prayer and unfailing kindness. When he died in 1937, a million people filed past his casket despite bitter winter cold.  And André's dream of building a great shrine to Saint Joseph became a reality in 1955, when the present basilica was completed. Brother André is buried in the basilica and was beatified (declared "Blessed") by Pope John Paul II in 1982, a status one step below sainthood.  And this vault contains his cut out heart!  His body rests in a crypt at the Basilica as well- but not together with the heart. And the good news.. HE IS NOW BEING CANONIZED on Oct 10 in Rome.  The Basilica was a flutter with preparations for this Canonization.  It was amazing to watch about 100 plus young boys march in for Alter Boy duty that Sunday morning.  Catholic friends, check out the service and process in Rome!


AND ON TO THE ADIRONDACKS

Making it back across the border without incident was to be celebrated.  Coming back to the good ol'USA doesn't seem to be a problem for Boca and Bubba- it's the leaving.... I know many of you New Yorkers have enjoyed the Adirondacks.  It was a first trip for Boca and Bubba.  Pleep and Sis were very exited as they heard there were lots of walking trails and woods to mess around in.  In and out of the water they played and played.


Streams, brooks, lakes and the most famous Lake Placid.  It felt like half of NYC was with us looking at the COLORS.  INDEED a very popular weekend place.  Living in Palm Tree Florida Boca forgot how beautiful "real" trees are and the changing of the colors.  Oo la la!
Pleep and Bubba were more interested in the rivers and streams.


 LAKE PLACID TRAINING SPOT FOR THE ICE SKATER

The site of 2 Winter Olympics, 1932 and 1980.  The population of this hamlet is 2,638 but I know there were a million people on main street with us today.  Remember the 1980 Olympic USA-Russia Hockey Game?  "miracle On Ice"- the young amateur USA team beat the Russkies.  Some say the most exciting event in Olympic history.  And while Main Street was jam packed with tourists there was absolutely NOTHING FOR BOCA in those shops....all that cabin stuff and canoe this and that, bear toilet paper holders, bear salt and pepper shakers, moose napkins and don't forget your deer pj's.  No no no.  But she did manage to load up on

And during that Olympic games Lake Placid High School was issued an alcohol license- serving as a private bar during the Olympic games.  It is the only high school to be issued and alcohol license ever! Pleep wanted to sign up for school immediately.

Day 50 MONTREAL CITY HIGHLIGHTS- BONJOUR!

MONTREAL is a jewel nestled along the St. Lawrence River. Once a fortified city, the old town is now a safe and vibrant community. Like Quebec City, Old Montreal is very European in character. Cobblestone streets, a café culture, and historic 17th and 18th century architecture, all contribute to the quaint charm of Old Montreal that is unique amongst cities in North America.  Our hotel located a couple blocks from Old Montreal- thank you William Shatner.

Recovering from the Green Fairy, a City Highlight tour to refresh the memory was in order.  We convinced our new pal, Helen (from Binghamton NY) to come along, as she heard Boca's Bus rides are always "MAGIC".  That funny funny Helen wore her most favorite piece of jewelry in honor of Boca and Bubba....her OBAMA 08 pin.  She insisted Bubs take a picture with her and the pin.  Helen, figured his redneck pals would tease him forever.  And I am sure she is "RIGHT"...PUN INTENDED.  We had a lot of fun with Helen and she is coming back for the internationally known MONTREAL JAZZ FESTIVAL.  Have you been??

Now can you believe we asked one of our fellow tourees to take our picture in front of the famous Olympic structure...and he managed to not only get the pole in the way but also a bus.  Duh.  Maybe he wasn't to keen on OBama either.....  I think Boca and Helen make a cute couple, like Salt and Pepper in so many ways.  After getting no where in trying to convince Helen to change parties to no avail, BOCA then moved on to why Helen should take the job offer and move to Spain.  Ole!  Eat, Pray and Eat Some More Helen!  

This structure was built for Montreal's 1976 Olympics, the impressive, grandiose structure drew controversy in public opinion but remains a Montreal landmark to behold.  The building itself may not be of too much interest other than for architectural or Olympic enthusiasts. worthwhile.

BOCA ALWAYS LOVES TO PEEK IN ON A WEDDING....invited or not.  Both of these were beautiful.  I think Boca must have been a Wedding Planner in another life.  And the offer stands for any of you to borrow any or all of the 162 Wedding Books I have....  It is such a pleasure to see a young couple get married in the old fashion traditional way- hello church.  

I know destination weddings can be fun and exciting but remember Boca is all about the church.  I know my Jewish friends that it is customary to have your service at the hotel but you always have that fabulous Chuppa so that counts.  Loved the brown bridesmaid's dresses...brown? Who knew? Oh so chic.  

Old town Montreal is quite the spot for a wedding.  We heard it is booked up years in advance...and remember the favorite daughter of Montreal, Celine Dion...her extravaganza, I mean wedding. Held here at the NOTRE DAME BASILICA.  NOW THAT WAS A WEDDING!  

More old Montreal fun...AMEN!  BEN AND JERRY'S.  BOCA pick me up when your done nosing around.  This is Bubba's version of the Green Fairy.  Ditto for Sis.  Boca and  Pleep still in recouping mode.

The Underground City
 
On a cold or rainy day, you may wish to visit the Underground City - a sheltered complex, which covers over 12 kilometers in Montreal's downtown and attracts hundreds of thousands of local and international visitors per day. Shop, eat, visit a museum or just escape the elements. 

The largest and best-known section of the city is located in the centre of downtown, between Peel and Place-des-Arts metro stations on the Green Line and between Lucien-L'Allier and Place-d'Armes stations on the Orange Line.  And yes BOCA AND BUBBA on the Orange line -quite a site!  We are talking shopping Mecca.  Sis had a ball shopping and hopping from store to store while Boca  got a manicure-finally.  Now if she could only find someone to do those never ending pesky roots...  Sis tried to convince Boca to go "green"  and Boca remarked been there done that my darling Sis.  No more Green Fairy for the Boca.

DAY 49 MONTREAL KEEP THE HONEYMOON ALIVE

Montreal- Second City ( to Toronto #1)- just like my home town.  And we all know how fab Chi Town is.  Montreal's population 1,900,000.  And 2nd city again, to Paris as in most populated French speaking city.  While always a great city, shall we say this neck of the woods of Canada left us a little "chilly".  But the past 34 yrs have definitely "warmed" up the natives...friendlier and more English for ol Boca and Bubba's Second Visit.

Ah that honeymoon of 1976 also brought us to hoppin and hip Montreal.  We arrived just in time for the HAPPIEST OF HOURS.
 
Sara B  Bar & Lounge This voluptuous absinthe bar owes its name to the divine Sarah Bernhardt (1844-1923), queen of French tragedy, which was described by Victor Hugo as the "golden voice" of the nineteenth century. His travels brought him to Quebec in 1880, where she gave a memorable performance in the auditorium of the historic Nordheimer, now part and parcel of the InterContinental Montreal. Since his death, his spirit, they say, still lurks in the vaults of the hotel.  And PLEEP and SIS confirmed the legend!

BOCA MEETS GREEN FAIRY - The speciality of the Sara B is when the past is integrated into the present through the fascinating ritual of serving ABSINTHE.  Absinthe is a legendary liquor known to have exacerbated the creative energy of great writers and European artists of the nineteenth century. Also known as "Green Fairy", this herbal drink used to have an alcohol content of 55 to 75%!  Whether for leisure or business, Sarah B. is a favorite place for many. Boca was introduced to the Green Fairy lounging with a few guests- bewitched by Sarah B.
 
Spirits Absinthe plants are a set of spirits, commonly known simply as "absinthe", "Green Fairy" or "the blue".

 
The Green Fairy was a great success in the nineteenth century, but she was accused of causing serious poisoning (containing inter alia methanol, an alcohol neurotoxic), described by Emile Zola in particular the Assommoir and the folly of some artists of the times. It is also known for its abortifacient effect.  Say huh? said Bubba.
 
By 1875, the temperance societies, unions, the Catholic Church, physicians and the press were mobilizing against "absinthe it makes one mad".  Oh Joy, said Bubba. I can hardly wait to see the combo of Boca and Green Fairy.
 
This led to its ban in many countries because the league said of her virtues "that crazy and criminal, makes a man stupid and threatens the future of our time."  Why couldn't  she just stick with the Green Slime? Bubba wondered.

The Barkeep explained the preparation of the absinthe ritual is qualified because of many specific accessories required for its development and its appearance.  How to prepare absinthe plays a vital role in its final taste flavors by allowing plants to release and grow over other flavorings.  PLEEP was very excited by the thought of chasing a Green Fairy but Bubba was a tad nervous.  Come on Bubba, when in Rome!!  And we have met such fun "Romans!".  Don't want to offend.....

 
WITH A LITTLE DIGGING WE FOUND.....What is Absinthe?"
 
Absinthe is a strong alcoholic drink made with herbal extracts of Artemisia absinthium, commonly known as wormwood. The wormwood contains a chemical known as thujone that is thought to be slightly psychoactive.
 
Absinthe was first commercialized by Henri Louis Pernod circa 1805, it became very popular amongst Europeans and most notably among artists Van Gogh, Baudelaire, and Verlaine. It is thought to bring lucidity and clarity to the beauty of nature as well as act as an aphrodisiac.
 
It was ultimately banned due to pressure from powerful wine makers who were losing substantial money form the competition produced by the much cheaper and easily made Absinthe. Also absinthe of old was very high in alcohol content and often the production left behind adulterated materials. Finally, the possible toxic effects of extended thujone use and social stigma led to its prohibition in most countries in the early 1900's.
 
"What are the effects of Absinthe?"
 
First of all Absinthe is generally a very strong alcohol (upwards of 190 proof) so that in itself will have an effect. But it is also believed to have a further effect due to the addition of various herbs, these herbs contribute to the intoxicating effect. The effects on every individual is subjective, most describe a sense of clarity or lucidity. It is a misconception that Absinthe will make you hallucinate or go mad. But that said it is a much different experience than drinking beer. One will only need one or two glasses to feel its effects, any more and you will just get dangerously drunk.
 
"How do you drink Absinthe?"

 
Traditional Absinthe is considered bitter and strong. So it is traditionally diluted with cold water and sugar. Generally you dilute 1 part absinthe with 5 parts water
The french method is as follows.

1. pour one shot (approx 1oz) Absinthe into a glass.
2. Then place a perforated Absinthe spoon over the glass.
3. Place a few sugar cubes on the spoon
4. Slowly pour ice cold water (approx 5 oz) over the cubes so that they melt into the glass.
5. Once glass is full mix with spoon.
6. Enjoy!

 
"Is absinthe legal in the U.S.?"
 
No. Traditional Absinthe is not legal in the U.S.. Absinthe isn't controlled as a drug but as a food product by the FDA. It is illegal to sell Alcoholic beverages that contain thujone that was banned as a food additive according to Section 801A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of August, 1972. Thujone is the active ingredient in wormwood used for making Absinthe and is considered psychoactive.
 
Additionally it is illegal to distill alcohol (the process of purifying a liquid by boiling it and condensing its vapors) with out the proper licenses from the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms. Note that it is legal to infuse or soak herbs in alcohol, just not distillation.


BOCA DO NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT CROSSING THE BORDER WITH THAT GREEN FAIRY STUFF!!! said Bubs.  WE HAVE HAD MORE THAN OUR FAIR SHARE OF BORDER "ISSUES"!  And our new pal Helen asked, how long did you say you folks have been married?

DAY 48 QUEBEC CITY....MORE HONEYMOON REMEMBERANCES

 QUEBEC CITY

Capital city of Quebec Province- population 491,000- the Algonquin word meaning "where the river narrows.  Old Quebec City was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.  The last time we were here was on that honeymoon in 1976.  Still quaint and charming as ever.No other place in Canada has so much history squeezed into such a small spot. Upper Town was a barren, windswept cape when Champlain decided to build a fort here just over 400 years ago. Now, of course, it's a major tourist destination surrounded by cannon-studded stone ramparts.

We stayed next door to the American Embassy which is next door to the ever so famous Frontenac.  Very much like our honey moon suite....a former private residence and practically original in every way.  To fit in the bathroom, one had to keep the door open.  But the smell of baking croissants in the morning made up for the tight quarters.  Can't wait to get home to compare those honeymoon pics to this visit.   Where did you go on your honeymoon?

How do you celebrate your anniversary every year?

Home to many of the city's most famous sites, Upper Town also offers a dramatic view of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding countryside, especially from a ride on the funicular, or while walking along the Terrasse Dufferin, or standing in front of the majestic Château Frontenac. It's also where you'll find historic buildings, bars, cafés, and shops, along with hotels and bed-and-breakfasts on busy rue St-Jean and several side streets.  A very European feel with it's winding cobblestone streets. Ooo la la! 

The walkway and funicular are all under construction.  It looked like the Canadian version of the Big Dig.

Overcoming the rain and dampness we pressed on.

Bubba, always interested in all things military and history.  So up the hill we march to The Citadel.  Squish Squish.  Must get real rain coat and rubber shoes.  After another lecture about my ridiculous "rain gear" Bubba's North Face "rain coat" did not work.  He was soaked to the bone. C'est la vie. 

The crowning touch to the city's fortifications came after the War of 1812, with the construction of the cut-stone, star-shape citadel. An irregular pentagon with two cannon-lined sides facing the river below, the structure earned Québec City its 19th-century nickname "North America's Gibraltar." But it was never tested. Since 1814, relations between Canada and the United States have sometimes been a little tense, but never hostile. When the citadel was finished, the city's fortifications took up one-quarter of the entire city's surface. American naturalist Henry David Thoreau was so struck with the fortress atmosphere of Québec City during a visit in 1850 that he wrote, "A fortified town is like a man cased in the heavy armor of antiquity with a horse-load of broadswords and small arms slung to him, endeavoring to go about his business." 

On the other hand Boca is all about the Churches, people watching and of course SHOPPING.   As mentioned before, shopping in the US has gotten so homogenized ( Saks, Nordstrom, Neimens, Macys etc) so it's fun to come to a city like this where the boutiques and small shops offer things that are new and exciting. 

 Bubba is fine with the shopping , just don't make him tag along and NO MORE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS.  BAH HUM BUG BUBBA.

 The shops and restaurants are ever so charming and inviting.  Of course the architecture has a lot to do with that, however, the upkeep and pride in showing their goods and having the restaurant/cafe be a unique and wonderful experience is delightful and appreciated. 

Pleep ran up quite a bill in Cool As a Moose.  Bubba told him the story of his honeymoon purchase in Quebec. I insisted that he buy a pair of Clogs.  Remember, it was the 70's.  Bless his heart.  He did and near killed himself trying to walk aound in them wanting to appear so cool and nonbubba for his new bride.  I believe he heaved them out the window before we arrived to our new love nest in DC.  A for effort Bubs. 

Ah the "French" so enjoy their cafe's.  We Americans are more of a run in and grab a $5 cup of Java at Starbucks and hop back in the car or a la Bubba a drive through Dunkin Donuts for the same.  Funny how different cultures manage their time.  We all have 24 hrs in a day right?  We all have bills to pay, places to go, people to see.  Is it the "romantic" cafe setting that has one sit down and linger with that cup of Joe?  The view?  The people watching? 

The food was excellent and the service very much "improved"- meaning a whole lot more English speaking people and more "tourist" level of service delivered= making it easy for ol'Bubs to order. C'est Bonne!  Of course the food and wine was and still is outstanding.  And every restaurant at dinner time was packed to the gills....in spite of rain and recession. 

Such a romantic city Bubba....and in spite of all that rain we had a fun time revisiting our honeymoon spot.  Love you Bubba.