The photo is of the American family, Melanie, auntie Betty, Barbara and Phyllis at Sturbridge historical village. I got to see the gorgeous rural countyside and townships in conneticut, there is tobacco farms and horse studs in the area. The Sturbridge historical village was extremely well done, a collection of authentic buildings restored and relocated in village style in the era just after the civil war. Most interesting to me were homes of different families of various professions showing decorations, furniture, kitchens and information about the families who lived there. Farms, schools and businesses like potters, blacksmith and mills were faithfully reproduced on an accurate scale. There were lakes and two covered bridges, absolutely beautiful. The highlight, being charged by a groundhog I had scared and was unknowlingly near the entrance of his borough. I also saw my first chipmunk.

I had dinner at barbaras house - so good to have a home cooked meal especially one as delicious as her lasagne and salad and dessert of rasberry turnover with berries! I got to hear lots about the family history and speak to other members of the family on the phone! They are all great people, and look forward to keeping in contact with them after this trip and returning again to visit longer. Auntie Betty has a great memory and is full of stories from her past - information that is priceless. Barbara is a fellow foodie and lives in a beautiful house with a dog and two cats on the outskirts of Hartford and has a very big heart and a beautiful daughter Melanie. Phyllis has an interesting job in Boston and the most gorgeous complexion, I have really enjoyed talking to her about life and work and would have loved to have met her husband.... Next time.