A Layover in Richmond

Having left Savannah behind, our next port call is Richmond, VA. This is a particularly good stop for me as one of my oldest shipmates and his extended family live here. We pulled in to the Americamp RV park just north of Richmond off of I-95. A nice camp, we were able to get a site where our dish could pick up a signal and allow me to update the blog

Our first night allowed us to meet up with my shipmate's dad (Bob Sr.). We had not seen each other in over thirty years, man how time flies. We shared dinner at the Smokey Pig BBQ restaraunt. A really great evening catching up with him and his wife Betsy. Bob Sr., Bob and the rest of their family played a key role in my life in the '70s and will always have a place in the heart.

The next day, we just sort of drove around the historical district of Richmond, visiting the local grower's market, and lunching at Copola's Deli, reportedly one of the best eateries in Richmond. I would have to say that they lived up to the press, we had a tremendous lunch.

Later that evening we met my old shipmate (Bob), his wife Ruth and their son Elliot for supper and some catching up on old times. I always enjoy hooking up with my old friends and that is doubly so for Bob and family. During the meal (Mexican at the El Paso restaraunt, very good), Ruth suggested that we check out the Lewis Ginty Botanical Gardens which we took to heart.

The following day we took Ruth's advice and made our way to the Gardens and this turned out to be a terrific way to spend the day. The Gardens are beautiful and I recommend a visit to this extraordinary place.

That evening we arrived at Bob and Ruth's for supper, Bob was cooking. A perfect evening just enjoyning the company of really good friends. Ruth's mom joined us and it felt kinda like a little family reunion. I feel lucky in the friends I have because even though our visits are often separated by great lengths of time, we are able to pick up like we had visited just the other day.

The evening waned and the time came for us to have to leave. As always, the visit was too short, but I know I'll see them again. Tomorrow we are back on the road heading Pine Grove, PA. See y'all down the road.

PS

My Daughter-in-law (Sam) sent us a picture of my grandson (you didn't think I was going to take you on this trip without showing you updates on the greatest grandson ever). Thanks to Sam's thoughtfulness (and modern technology) we are able to keep up with his development. Here is a great photo.

What a cute guy. Look at the new chompers, he's got that Spongebob look going on.