April 20: Drinking, Dining, and Dandelions

For a third night in a row, I have stayed with hosts where I could get food and a drink and a place to park. This morning, after only about two hours sleep, it was cappuccino and a breakfast bowl at 6am. Silly me. I had thought the large Class A in the back of the parking lot with me last night would turn off its generator for some quiet time. Nope. Back at the bus I was trying to go back to sleep when a delivery truck rolled in. I gave up and myself permission to stay in bed as long as I wanted, especially because it was cold and the quilt was cozy. I likely did some dozing, along with some cooking, playing with the cat, and planning tomorrow’s drive. But mostly I’ve been reading for hours and hours, which is a rare treat. It helps that I like the book I’m reviewing: “Charm Casting.” It’s something I am anxious to try using objects from my lifetime collection of baubles, tokens, bones, stones, charms, and other similar small, oddly compelling objects that might come my way.

Before arriving here I was at Three Crosses Distillery where I had a gin martini and a salad with chicken. I was rereading the menu to see what I might want for a late-night snack besides the desserts and there it was – a barkeep’s drink special, no customer input allowed. I would have loved to try that, but karaoke about to start, and I avoid that at all costs. Besides, I had some celebrating to do. I happened to park next to the first dandelion I’ve seen this spring, and the only one I saw in the huge parking area. The sunset and the night sky were awesome to watch as I stuck a spoon into my jar of Lion Jelly saved from Ostara.

They were also awesome the night before that, too, at Springfield Distillery. The sprawling woman-owned business had a pavilion, outdoor seating, and large lounge with huge comfy armchairs plus an upper level. From April’s drink menu I chose a Daffodil (Scratch Orange Whiskey, peach puree, elderflower syrup and club soda) only to then see a seasonal martini flight (Lemon Drop, Blackberry & Blood Orange Sour with Scratch blackberry Whiskey, and Raspberry Squeeze with their own Honey Whiskey). I stayed long enough to try those, too, but skipped the DJ and pizza party.

Tomorrow I don’t anticipate as much fun staying at a camping store.

I do expect to spend another drive along back roads lush with every shade of green.