Through the centuries with Glori and Mike (2-4 July)

The three days we spent with Glori and Mike at their "new" home in Plympton were marked by fascinating outings, relaxing stay at homes and a wonderful private concert. On the morning of the 2nd of July, appropriately clothed as can be noted in the above photo, we went for a walk in the extensive woodland reserve behind their house. Ticks and mosquitoes were successfully foiled and we returned unscathed.

In the afternoon we visited Plymouth Plantation, a reconstruction of the first settlement on American shores. The buildings and surrounding open areas were populated by numerous costumed actors, practising the handicrafts of the times and providing a wealth of information. Especially remarkable was the fact that they all spoke in the accents of the early pilgrims and always used the present tense, making the experience quite realistic. When I asked what they ate in winter to have enough vitamin C, they answered "what is that"?

The early realtionships to the native Americans was friendly and cooperative. Of course, the more self-sufficient and affluent the settlers became, the more they commanded the riches of the "New World" for themselves. This sad fact became ever more evident as we crossed the States westwards!

Glori and Mike's home was one of the first built in the area and has been pretty well maintained. Thanks to Mike's ingenuity and talent, many of the minor and some very major problems which cropped up were resolved. A good relationship within the neighborhood has also been established, not least due to the house concerts that Glori and Mike have organized.

From the past to the present: the 4th of July parade

The 4th of July is a celebration of America's independence from England and the establishment of its own constitution and governement. For this reason, the parade is a vehicle for political candidates as well as a demonstration of American civil and military "power". The parade begins with a sheer endless convoy of fire engines, all sounding their horns and carrying candy-throwing passengers.  There were also some music groups and humorous numbers, but mostly there were politicians making themselves noticeable to the voting public ... elections are coming up soon! Below a few more impressions:

Having seen and heard enough of the cortege, we returned to Plympton and enjoyed a comfortable afternoon, drinking beer (Maine Beer, of course) on the deck, listening to Glori and Mike give an impromptu concert and just relaxing. Plans to see the fireworks in Plymouth were quickly scrapped and our wonderful mood continued on through a delicious hamburger dinner and pleasant evening with the family. Tomorrow we begin our treck back across America to the west coast ... what adventures, impressions and encounters await us?