snow blows

February around here racked up a record 41-point-something inches of snow. Dorcas and the four braved a weekend get-away to our other family homeland, Grantsville, at 2,300 feet above sea level. Forty-one inches was nothing there. Here she and Stephanie stand outside the back door of the motel. In the Appalachian highlands snowfall totals are being measured in feet. A record-breaking 20 feet this winter. Joel photo

weekend away

Spent two nights at the Casselman, Grantsville, Md. Being listed on the register of historical buildings, its new porch had to be made of all natural wood, including the banister atop. To add to the early American aura, two gas lamps face U. S. Route 40.

family restaurant

Just off Interstate #68, in Grantsville, 30 minutes west of Cumberland, Maryland, sits the Casselman. Here it is, in all it's summer glory, a year ago. Inside is a family restaurant where Dorcas held down her first job--waitress.

Upstairs are about six rooms for lodging and the offices for the motel which has about 40 rooms.

You'll also find a bakery and a gift shop. Friday through Tuesday this'll be our home.

www.thecasselman.com