closing the loop

After adventuring in the New River Gorge, I wondered if the grandgirls’ trip could get any better? I was still pinching myself over the (Bridge) Walk of a lifetime! But three campgrounds, four states, and more adventures were waiting on the backside of the loop.

The girls were highly anticipating the Ark Encounter — perhaps because a big brother or cousin enjoyed it so much last summer. The Ark is so much bigger and better than you’d imagine; overwhelming in the most marvelous way!

The structure is built to scriptural specs and incorporates technological knowledge of the most advanced civilization of the time. As a result, the interior works well, without much strain on the imagination. Thoughtfully designed living spaces, animal spaces, food storage and distribution, plus mechanisms to keep the space clean challenge all preconceived notions of life on the Ark. My favorite space is a stroke of genius in the medicinal herbal greenhouse.

Side-bar exhibits are well researched and tastefully displayed to address a multitude of questions around the phenomena of the flood and subsequent repopulating the Earth. Ancient Hebrew culture is thoughtfully integrated and accessible as well.

On the lowest level you’ll find a cafe and expansive gift shop, including a fair trade market not to miss. There’s also a nice buffet restaurant across the way.

However, before setting foot inside the Ark, we took in the virtual reality experience. It’s a clever time-travel drop-in on Noah and his family as they’re building the Ark, up to the onset of the flood, and shortly thereafter. The program is exceptionally well designed; exciting but not scary, and helpful to orienting to the massive structure.

After the Ark, we meandered over to Ararat Ridge Zoo, grateful for a break in the temps and some cloud cover. Like everything else, it’s nicely done, and not too big. Animals include quirky-cool cross-breeds, like the zorse and zonkey, along with more predictable zooians, like anteaters and camels, plus some farm animals, too. What’s an Ark without variety, eh?

The girls delighted in the kangaroo (and wallaby) walk within the enclosure. They had opportunity to pet a red kangaroo. Before we left, they each rode a camel. Meanwhile, this old boy was zonked out, taking a break!

All to say, the Ark Encounter was an hit, through and through.

The next day, we surprised the girls with a trail ride. They all have experience, so this was high on our “hope-to” list — and one thing we wished we’d allowed time for with the grandboys. Kudos to the Hubs for locating the Kentucky Horse Park a short distance from our Georgetown campground. Again, a break in the weather made all the difference.

The Hubs had never riden a horse. I hadn’t in several decades. This was a real test. In our group of about 20, only we two lacked (valid) experience — I doubt my Shetland pony counts for much. Plus, we were the only participants over 30ish. Most of our group were riders in a summer youth horse camp, so you can see we were really up against it!

This inspired one of our grandgirls to call for a round of applause for the sixty-year-olds. To her great delight, the group complied. Never mind that neither of us have hit that milestone quite yet. Ha!

The KHP was a wonderful experience, with an interactive Kids Barn, a gorgeous variety on display in the Breeds Barn, massive mounts in the Police Barn, shows ongoing throughout the day, tributes to equine legends like Secretariat and Man O’ War, and real-time demonstrations, such as the ferrier we observed in the main barn.

There were other buildings we didn’t even enter, including a museum. It was hot and we were all getting tired. All to say, KHP is well worth the visit, with or without the giddy’up.

Our final stop brought us to Niagara Falls. As a New York native, I tend to underestimate the majesty of this natural wonder and formative importance on the national parks model. It really is awe-inspiring. What a privilege to share in our grandgirls’ first experiences.

We didn’t have a lot of time, and determined to stay on the U.S. side. I’m so glad we did. The New York State Park is lovely, and provides access to both Cave of the Winds and Maid of the Mist by trolley. That was plenty for us on a steaming hot Saturday in high season.

The girls absolutely loved these attractions. I can still hear the squeals and giggles of delight as fresh water crashed over them, soaking from head to toe. The ponchos are all but worthless!

So, that closes the loop on the big girls’ big trip. We returned home immensely grateful and, yes, exhausted. Every prayer answered. Every box checked. Every day an adventure. Every campground a discovery playground. And oh, the memories we’ve stored for years to come!

Sincerely, Sondra