A for A - Z Challenge 2013

Although I will be posting with a travel theme for this A - Z Challenge I would like to give special recognition to Arlee Bird for creating it and inspiring so many. Thank you!

 

A - Amherst, Massachusetts

 Amherst is home to about 35,000 residents as well as the campuses of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst College, and Hampshire College.  

A mix of students, academics, and retirees makes for a interesting spot

 

 



An unusual site found here is the Yiddish Book Center

 This is a non-profit facility that tells the whole Jewish story by translating Yiddish books to English.
You can even find Yiddish sheet music in their book store.

 

 

You won't want to miss Puffers pond

This historical landmark is now used by the town for swimming and fishing. There are beautiful trails surrounding the pond.  At the end of one of the paths is a mill river park, an open field and swimming pool and  to the left are tennis courts and basketball courts.

 

 Even in the winter it is a sight to behold.

 

 

 

 

Another, not to be missed site, is the Emily Dickinson Museum

 

The Homestead where this famous poet was born and spent most of her life.

You can take four different tours that present the story of Emily Dickinson from different perspectives.

They have lectures and hands-on workshops and the first professionally-designed interpetive exhibit, "my Verse is alive," which is about the early publication of Dickinson's poetry.

 

 

Several clock towers can be found around town

(maybe so college students have no excuse for being late to class).

 

The best time to visit is in the fall...

 

 

 

 No April fools,  it really is beautiful this time of year.

 

Happy Trails