Snow Dog

“If your dog doesn't like someone, you probably shouldn't either”

The Christmas Shop in Thomas, WV

The Christmas Shop in Thomas, WV

“Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents” ~ Louisa May Alcott 

Check out The Christmas Shop in Thomas for home decorations, gifts, and tree ornaments.

My new friend J.R., volunteer firefighter and seasonal Santa, though I think he is Santa all year, poses with owner of Christmas Shop.

Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West VA and the Half Time String Band

Purple Fiddle in Thomas, West VA and the Half Time String Band

When we head to our mountain compound in Western Maryland, we always make several trips across the border into West Virginia. I am amazed at what some of the tiny towns have done to make themselves stand out above much larger towns. Thomas, population 300, has appealed to a variety of artists from places like New York and Maine. The main draw is the Purple Fiddle, a hopping restaurant that offers homemade breads and soups, and healthy sandwiches, the likes of which you would expect to find in artist's communities in big cities, and in specialty cafes. The main draw, that brings people from hundreds of miles away, is the evening entertainment. In the summer months the place is packed with people from all walks of life.  Most every evening brings a new band. On this trip, we were entertained by the Half Time String Band from Morgantown.

I love the decor at the Purple Fiddle.

 Photos not in order, but by the time the evening starts to wind up, the place is full. Through the doors on the left is a beautiful garden patio for dining. And I love this: they have a resident cat, and dogs are welcome on patio.



Photo from street.

Happy Halloween from Bayard, West Virgina

Happy Halloween from Bayard, West Virgina 

Rowlesburg, WV - travel tip

Rowlesburg, WV, Szilagyi Center for the Visual and Performing Arts

I love it when a town takes something old and makes something not only useful out of it, but something educational and inspirational. I don't like to see history destroyed and replaced with a shiny building.  A town that works together certainly grows together, and Rowlesburg, WV, is a fine example of hard work and community pride.  I met some of the movers and shakers, and members of the revitalization committee, and was impressed at their excitement over the growth of their little corner of the world. Rowlesburg is quite a ways from the big-city life, so they have created their own magic, complete with a WWII museum and a performing arts center. I think what amazed me most about Rowlesburg is the population  - 600, give or take a few. 


The old school, built in 1910, and deemed uninhabitable for students after the great flood of 1985, houses a WWII exhibit that would please  a Smithsonian historian.  Inside you will also find a sports exhibit, B&O railroad exhibit (railroad exhibit is on loan, so check dates before you go), quilting room, cafe, and pottery and art studio. Located next to the main entrance is the Szilagyi Center for the Visual and Performing Arts. Visitors to the area are likely to stumble upon anything from bluegrass to opera. In the works, a library and computer lab for classes and Internet access. In addition to that, the old school gym/auditorium and kitchen are available for events. Office space is also available. Events are nicely spaced throughout the year to coincide with the seasons and holidays.

Here is sneak peak of WWII exhibit. It is totally awesome. A must-see.  No detail was spared. I shot these photos with available light.

 You'll have to go to see the rest.

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One little peak at sports museum...

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The cafe, not open at the time,  was readying for a festival. The ladies did provide me with some unsweetened tea, homemade, of course.

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Lots of little surprises as you wander around the town. They also have a beautiful park on the river and other little jewels you will have to discover for yourself.

I was told by a couple  who had rented a weekend room above this cute little shop, where I naturally bought several items, that the upstairs is complete with kitchen. Call number on signage for info.