We started off the trip by going to Crystal Cave, it was a lot of fun, cold, and beautiful. Jason remembered going there as a kid; but couldn't remember the details; so it was an adventure for both of us. That night we spent time with his Grandmother Minich, Uncle John, and pups (big pups). We had some good food and wonderful hospitality. It was great to meet a part of his family that I've only talked to on the phone and to get to know them in person! Thank You Grandma Minich and Uncle John for making our stay there comfortable!
The Next day we hit the Hersey factory. The tour is done by a ride and singing cows. The whole ride smells like chocolate all the way through- delicious. After, we even got a little candy bar to satisfy the sweet tooth. I hope the people working there have a great dental plan from being around all that candy, all the time... it sure makes you want a sugar rush. That afternoon we went to the Amish Town of Intercourse. We got some yummy apple cider at a farmers market and walked around the little town. It had a shopping center that had a bunch of stores with handmade items. My favorite was the music box store... the old antique music boxes are unique and sound beautiful... downfall is that they are pricey.
The next day we got the chance to meet up with Aunt Janice and Uncle John (Janice's John) at the Bloomsburg fair. Holy cow- yummy cheap food and so much stuff to see that we didn't even get the chance to go through it all even though we walked through the fair most of the day. It was great to spend the day with them and finally get the chance to talk to Aunt Janice in person, she reminds me so much of Jason's mom (sisters) that it's fun... makes me wonder if people think me and my sisters are alike? It was a great day... and by the end we were looking forward to the hot tub back at the hotel. Thank you Aunt Janice and Uncle John for spending the day with us and introducing me to some great polish food, awesome polka, and the chance to get to know you!
On Sunday, we toured Jason's home town of Shanandoah. To me it's just like a city squished in a small place. The homes are so close to each other for the most part, that when we were overlooking the valley, all you can see is the main street with nothing but roof tops; but it's still a small town for the area. After we saw the valley part of the town it was off to Grandparents Chesonis's home in the Heights. Grandma Chesonis reminds me a lot of my Grandma Chynoweth... always making sure everyone is full and satisfied. Must be something about Grandmothers never wanting anyone to go home hungry. It was a family dinner- Jason's dad came with his wonderful companion Patricia and we also got to meet the grandparents, Aunt Roel, Aunt Daria, Uncle Dave, Cousin Abigail- All of which were very loving and fun to sit around and talk with (what I love to do most, when family is near).
That night we went over to Jason's dad and Patsy's house. We got the chance to sit and catch up with them... I think it was good to meet them in person and let Jason have some time to talk to his dad- it had been 8 years since they last really got the chance to talk and see each other. I also got to spend the time getting to know Patsy and her mom- what two great women. Her mom is a cancer fighter and Patsy is the loving daughter any mother would wish for. We hope and pray the best for them! Thanks to all the Chesonis's for a wonderful day and making me feel so welcome!
Our last full day there was Monday, in which we hit up some of the malls and then made our way back close to the airport. We spent the day mostly relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Pen State is beautiful and full of history. My favorite is all the colors and the old stone homes... It was a wonderful experience... one of which we plan on doing again; but not waiting 8 years this time to get back to. Thank you to all of Jason's family for making our trip memorable!
