IF YOU ARE NOT SPEAKING RUSSIAN you might want to thank Connie and Steve. Back in the old Cold War days when the entire USSR—not just Vladimir—was out to get us, Connie and Steve, her boss at one of those “ABC” agencies, were peeking behind the Iron Curtain keeping tabs on the Russkis. “Spasibo, tovarishchi.”
Fueling up with Bagels and Lox
Connie has kept in touch with Steve and Roz for all these many years. We have camped and kayaked together and visited them in Virginia. They share our love of travel and both Steve and Roz are talented photographers. Roz is also a well-known author and illustrator. In other words, they are an interesting couple, certainly worth a 400-mile road trip. This would be our first real social get-together during the Dark Times since spending the holidays in Arizona with Paul. I think we were Steve and Roz's first house-guests other than family and they were a bit hesitant. But all of us have been vaccinated, wear masks when appropriate and prefer to eat outdoors. Besides, it’s time to live a little, don’t you think?
Old School Photography
After all of the questions about kids, trips, ailments, medications, upcoming doctors appointments and such were addressed, Steve showed us his new photo projects. Actually, he has returned to the basics of photography. He has a pin-hole camera, makes albumin prints from egg whites, cyanotype prints on glass and other esoteric processes beyond my ken. Roz has been Zoom-ing on-line writing workshops and they both take a variety of classes, online now, at George Mason University.
Tip-toe through the Tulips
Camellias
Everyone likes Orchids
Lewis Ginter Botanic Gardens in Richmond is “only” 100 miles from their home but worth the drive. The spring flowers are wonderful—plenty of tulips and daffodils, azaleas galore and even camellias. We could have spent half a day in the orchid house alone. Of course, I forgot my camera and had to revert to cell phone photos which also taxes my brain.
The Three Musketeers
Old-style, New construction
We stayed closer to home on Sunday, taking advantage of the walking trails in Occoquan Park. We finished our walk in the cute town of the same name and had a nice riverside lunch and a brew. This is livin’ Spasibo! Steve and Roz.
