A drizzly Vermont day

Today's adventure is called "Taste of Vermont" and I understand why now...we are eating our way through the state!

Since morning generally starts with coffee, we visited the Green Mountain Coffee Visitor Center for a presentation on their process and were treated to samples, a catalog and a mug to take with us.  These people are valiantly going on in a warehouse location after the hurricane destroyed their showroom.  They are actively involved in the Fair Trade movement and although it was a short visit, it was very pleasant.

Next we went on to Ben & Jerry's for a tour of their facility.  I love this corporation, not just for the delicious product but the ethics involved in both the treatment of the animals and laborers.  They constantly give back to the community in many ways.  We were able to see a film and watch some of the production process and then had a sample of ice cream.  Many of us proceeded to the gift shop and to buy an ice cream cone for the ride.

We had an unscheduled surprise stop at a cider mill and were able to watch the pressing process and visiting ....yes....another gift shop.  They seem to have them everywhere!

I regret having had the ice cream cone - it was incredible, but our next stop was at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe VT.  We had a HUGE buffet of food and desserts and then listened to a presentation by the great granddaughter of Maria.  We were fortunate to be able to view a documentary of Maria as she revisited the old homestead and talked about her marriage to the Captain.  I've got to buy the movie now and watch it with the kids when they come.  We were all singing "the hills are alive...." as we left.

We got back to the hotel about 4:00 and the shower felt good as I cleaned up to be ready for an early departure tomorrow.  Tonight we'll go see Money Ball at the theatre across the street.

Long Live the Queen of Ice Cream