tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post7309657328724298693..comments2023-11-18T04:41:02.841-08:00Comments on LauraFrantz.net: pittsburgh!Laura Frantzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-12636672799822695822012-01-30T07:12:28.852-08:002012-01-30T07:12:28.852-08:00CP, I SO appreciate the tips about Old Bedford Vil...CP, I SO appreciate the tips about Old Bedford Village and Fort Ligonier. You know what I like! I've often found that locals like you really know what to see or not. I think Pittsburgh is just fascinating, past and present. Didn't realize it was so beautiful or so historic, even though several of my books have roots there. I have a feeling your family was glad to return there though SC is another very different, lovely spot. My love for the Biltmore/Ashville area goes way back as my granny was a Virginian and so we were always going that direction, south... <br /><br />Thanks so much for taking time here. My trip to Pitt and Philly were among the best experiences of my life. It's wonderful to share it with a native!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-72769417295771787032012-01-29T19:10:10.925-08:002012-01-29T19:10:10.925-08:00So late to the game for this Pittsburgh conversati...So late to the game for this Pittsburgh conversation! My family has Pittsburgh roots, but I grew up with Amish neighbors in central PA. After a brief stint in South Carolina (about an hour from Asheville and Biltmore!) my family returned to Pittsburgh. If you're out this way again, Ft. Ligonier and Old Bedford Village offer some interesting perspectives and are a short trip East of Pittsburgh on the PA turnpike. :)Christin Leighhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05177743443495326686noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-67234285762305844382011-08-07T10:51:14.573-07:002011-08-07T10:51:14.573-07:00Dear Maggie Ann, Happy Lord's Day to you! Oh, ...Dear Maggie Ann, Happy Lord's Day to you! Oh, I just love following you as you read - that early scene was hard to write but I'm glad it comes across as vivid and heartfelt. Your gracious words sure minister to me. And they help so much as I get ready to turn in this next novel Sept. 1. And oh, that Dovie! Bless her wayward heart!! <br /><br />I hope you have a wonderful day of rest there. You've helped me start off my day in a very blessed way and I can't thank you enough!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-48018992625193607652011-08-06T20:08:09.910-07:002011-08-06T20:08:09.910-07:00Hello Laura, Just wanted you to know, I'm we...Hello Laura, Just wanted you to know, I'm well into your book and LOVE it. That part where Cass accidentally kills Richared Rowan so touched my heart. That scene sticks with me, him bending over Richard, the tears dropping...you painted a poignant picture...a work of art, sad though the scene. You ae a wonderful author. God has richly blessed you and you richly bless your us in our reading. I am at the place where Dovie admits she is expecting. And now, I must hurry off to bed, Lord's Day is tomorrow. Wishing you a sweet Sunday, Maggie. ( no way was I saving your TCL for winter reading! in case you thought I was...smile)Maggie Annhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04991999931680942893noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-10555316113910711022011-08-06T11:26:48.329-07:002011-08-06T11:26:48.329-07:00There you are, dear Michelle:) I was hoping you...There you are, dear Michelle:) I was hoping you'd stop by! Glad you like the Frick estate photos. I remember you're a Gilded Age fan as is Ruth and others. I bet you read Siri's She Walks in Beauty:) And maybe even Nancy Moser's latest set in that time period? It's certainly a fascinating era. I tend to prefer the Georgian era, obviously, as that's where my books are set but there was much excess even then. I guess it goes with any age - except stone age;)<br /><br />Pittsburgh surprised me as I'd grown up not thinking much about it down in Kentucky - or thinking of it in negative terms (not sure why). But we Kentuckians tend to have a bias toward Ohioans, too (not sure I spelled that right) and even those in Louisville, of all places!! <br /><br />Oh my, just realized your email didn't load. Grrr. Having problems with Blogger again...<br /><br />So good to catch up with you again here!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-73509414301112824962011-08-05T19:30:24.348-07:002011-08-05T19:30:24.348-07:00Love the pictures. It looks like you had a wonderf...Love the pictures. It looks like you had a wonderful trip to Pittsburgh. <br /><br />I love that you traveled by train! I bet it was just a wonderful trip, just beautiful. <br /><br />The George Washington statue is just great, I love it! I was thinking, as I read TCL, that one of the things I love best about your novels is your portrayal of Native Americans. :) <br /><br />I must admit I grinned over what you wrote about the Gilded Age and the Frick estate. I've always found myself very drawn to the Gilded Age, probably because of the excess of that time. It's always been one of my favorite times to study. <br /><br />After seeing your pictures, I think Pittsburgh would be a great place to visit.Michellehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05847510545827506148noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-13303394090385459642011-08-05T10:49:31.977-07:002011-08-05T10:49:31.977-07:00Carla, You said it so well. This statue does speak...Carla, You said it so well. This statue does speak volumes and sums up the area so well with one look! The body language is amazing! Thanks so much for stopping as you pack for your own trip! I can't wait to hear about CW and Ohio and all the treasures ahead for you. I think that's one of the best parts of writing - researching and travel. I never get tired of it. Prayers with you all the way!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-85871433549634990382011-08-05T08:19:52.738-07:002011-08-05T08:19:52.738-07:00I thoroughly enjoyed this post, Laura, with all th...I thoroughly enjoyed this post, Laura, with all the wonderful pictures and descriptions of your trip. That statue is amazing. It says so much. And I love that greenhouse. I want one! (though I'm afraid I lack a green thumb)<br />I'm so glad you were able to spend time with your friend on the trip. That must have been very special for you in addition to seeing all the great sites.<br /><br />I'll be off on my road trip next Tues. to Ohio and back through Colonial Williamsburg! I've never been and can't wait. Also, I look forward to visiting Jamestown. I've been to Plymouth Plantation in Massachusetts many times so it will be fun to see the earlier village.Carla Gadehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/01793809172905144101noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-56205118523653549942011-08-05T07:18:58.405-07:002011-08-05T07:18:58.405-07:00Renee,
Yes, I did:) The tunnels were amazing! I wi...Renee,<br />Yes, I did:) The tunnels were amazing! I wish that had been my first view instead of the Amtrak station! Heather said the same thing as you - how impressive it is at first view from there. Oh, to do it all over again:)!!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-9535826864424558692011-08-05T07:16:58.506-07:002011-08-05T07:16:58.506-07:00Kristen, Thanks so much for stopping by:) This tri...Kristen, Thanks so much for stopping by:) This trip was such a blessing. The Lord knows when we need them! I came home feeling much better than when I left, even with all that walking! Hope your summer is going great!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-51622984191660959812011-08-04T21:38:16.809-07:002011-08-04T21:38:16.809-07:00Gorgeous pictures! Glad you had a good time:)
Kris...Gorgeous pictures! Glad you had a good time:)<br />KristenKristenhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/14683245998938431038noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-42502500687631404532011-08-04T20:41:11.949-07:002011-08-04T20:41:11.949-07:00One thing I forgot to ask - Did you get to go thro...One thing I forgot to ask - Did you get to go through the Liberty Tunnels into Pittsburgh? THAT is absolutely one of the most breathtaking man-made views you will ever see. It's nothing but hills, trees, highway on one side of the tunnel and once you go through it BAM! you see pretty much the entire city. It's like two different worlds.<br /><br />BTW that special did feature all of the dolls, toys, clothing that they had in storage that the public doesn't get to see and it was pretty amazing stuff. I'm so glad you had a nice time.<br /><br />XOXO~ ReneeRenee (BlacknGoldGirlsBookSpot)https://www.blogger.com/profile/02701232799625814028noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-14761464344775754852011-08-04T19:24:16.452-07:002011-08-04T19:24:16.452-07:00Maggie Ann, I so understand! I waited so long to r...Maggie Ann, I so understand! I waited so long to read another much anticipated novel recently because I knew I wouldn't see another one of this particular author for a couple of years or more! Love that you read a bit and think it's delicious. That's delightful to this author:) And something I'll long remember.<br /><br />I thought you lived near Pittsburgh! I didn't expect it to be so hilly and green but it was - and I love your heat! So like my Kentucky home. I really wanted to go to the zoo in both Philly and Pitt. but stayed with history this trip. I know you love visiting the zoo with your grands:) That sounds like so much fun. I must admit I wanted to leave the city limits and explore, probably right where you are! The history just spreads in every direction!<br /><br />Thanks so much for stopping and enjoying your beautiful state with me, Maggie Ann.Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-31205126757151521552011-08-04T19:16:48.063-07:002011-08-04T19:16:48.063-07:00Michelle,
Love reading your list of places! You...Michelle,<br />Love reading your list of places! You've seen some that are on my list, too. Jamestown, especially! Now I know why you love history, too:) Like you, I appreciate travel so much more as an adult. I could just kick myself having been in some places and NOT enjoying them properly in my younger years. I almost took my Wyatt on this trip but he has a summer job and the cost was prohibitive. In hindsight I see it's probably wiser to wait. <br /><br />Glad you like the Amish pic. The train passed right through Amish farmlands. I saw the most winsome sight up close - right off the track was a farm wagon being driven by a young Amish woman while her husband was haying off the back. When we went by they waved at the train and then kept on working. The day was so beautiful and the sun was shining and everything was so rich and green. Like something out of a portrait:) I wanted to step right in...<br /><br />Bless you for your comments. You always add so much!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-25586826251309439252011-08-04T18:59:58.349-07:002011-08-04T18:59:58.349-07:00There you are, Renee! Mz. Pittsburgher:) I can now...There you are, Renee! Mz. Pittsburgher:) I can now officially say I'm in love with western PA! And I love knowing that you know about the Fricks and this was just a little more icing on that Gilded Era cake. I would give anything to see that special! Quite a few rooms were closed to the public and I just had a terrible hankering to see them, plus push on up to the third floor where Childs, the son, and others lived. Lucky you!<br /><br />I think one of the best things was that Clayton is still in possession of much of Mrs. Frick's wardrobe. They bring out her various gowns throughout the year in her dressing room, which I thankfully managed to see. The one on display while I was there was so exquisite I can't even describe it adequately, except to say the train of the gown was actually a garland of dogwood blossoms and other flowers. I've never seen anything like it and probably never will. It's a treasure trove of a house, that's for sure.<br /><br />Another interesting thing that you may know is that when the daughter, Helen, was in her 90's, she returned to live out her final 3 years there. She moved into the room she'd had as a girl (adjoining her mother's room) and it was virtually unchanged for her with her dolls and desk there, etc. A lovely, lovely room that really takes you back in time. It's such a blessing the house stayed in the family so long and they were scrupulous about keeping it as it was so it's truly like stepping into the past 100 or more years ago.<br /><br />Thanks so much for the link! You're a gem:)Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-17898128608594682042011-08-04T18:52:59.970-07:002011-08-04T18:52:59.970-07:00Winter, You've sure sold me on Bridal Veil Fal...Winter, You've sure sold me on Bridal Veil Falls and all the rest. I used to hike a lot and waterfalls are among my favorite things. It's fun to think that you've been to the Pittsburgh area. Makes me want to move east! I bet it's breathtaking in the fall - all that color and the crunch of leaves and a bit of coolness in the air. Oh my... Like you said, one day, I hope! Bless you for this:)Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-23704990432411271442011-08-04T13:31:00.267-07:002011-08-04T13:31:00.267-07:00Laura, I love this post, thank you. We live just...Laura, I love this post, thank you. We live just an hour away from Pgh. but most of our trips there have been to the hospital or the zoo. So I enjoyed your perspective and beautiful photos. <br /><br />And, I got TCL for my Kindle app and am jealously waiting untill I have an uninterupted bit of time to enjoy every word. The preface and first few paragraphs are delicious. I sort of am reluctant to start it because I will be sorry when it ends. Is that crazy of me? lol.. have a blessed day!Maggie Annhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/04991999931680942893noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-47269503476836234492011-08-04T12:05:56.952-07:002011-08-04T12:05:56.952-07:00I've never been to Pittsburgh, but it looks li...I've never been to Pittsburgh, but it looks like a fascinating place full of history. Your photos are wonderful!! I especially love the one of the Amish family -- so beautiful! <br /><br />Also, it was very interesting to see how the Pittsburgh area has changed over time. <br /><br />Historic places that I've been include Washington D.C. (8th grade trip), Jamestown, Mount Vernon, Arlington National Cemetery, Old Sacramento, Knights Ferry, CA, Columbia State Historic Park, CA, and probably more places that I can't remember. ;-)<br /><br />The thing about going to Washington D.C. in the 8th grade, is that I honestly don't think I had the capacity to appreciate it as much as I would now. Would be wonderful to take that trip again!<br /><br />Thank you for sharing more you your trip with us!<br /><br />Have a blessed day, <br />LauraMichellehttps://www.blogger.com/profile/06111576612128164411noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-18175069528298677692011-08-04T11:35:37.085-07:002011-08-04T11:35:37.085-07:00Sorry I'm late but yay! So glad to see some fa...Sorry I'm late but yay! So glad to see some familiar sites! I absolutely love the pics that you took of the Frick house, Clayton. I LOVE the Victorian era with all the opulence and elegance even in some of the not so wealthy family's homes. Although I've never been to the Frick house the local PBS station aired an in-depth special that was basically a tour of the house AND the parts of it that aren't open to the public. It was amazing. I can't imagine living like they did but it sure must have been nice to love when the pace was a bit slower. <br /><br />This is an article that was in the Pittsburgh Trib of a home similar to the Frick estate that had been restored and is now up for sale and it is absolutely stunning. Maybe you should consider a move to the area? LOL <br /><br />http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/pittsburgh/s_749156.html#.TjQ4VQFioGU.facebook<br /><br />XOXO~ Renee C.Renee (BlacknGoldGirlsBookSpot)https://www.blogger.com/profile/02701232799625814028noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-17683621532269045762011-08-04T06:07:24.227-07:002011-08-04T06:07:24.227-07:00You've been to the places I've been and wo...You've been to the places I've been and would have recommended. Though I do have to say, if you ever get back there, you need to head up into the Pocono Mts. It' is gorgeous up there, especially in the fall. Hubby and I went to Bushkill falls and hiked along the trails to see all the waterfalls. They're beautiful, especially the Bridal Veil one. I'd love to get back in that general area and explore. One day, I hope.Winterhttp://www.winterapeck.com/noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-28345303128666910002011-08-03T20:26:05.395-07:002011-08-03T20:26:05.395-07:00LOL, Amanda, YES, the river and Red Shirt - my tho...LOL, Amanda, YES, the river and Red Shirt - my thoughts, exactly:) And George does look dashing, even in bronze! Thanks so much for checking out the pics. It's such fun to share them and read your comments. Makes me feel like we all traveled together a wee little bit...<br /><br />Heather's kitchen is amazing. Talk about a kitchen diva! I really liked her cookbook collection. I came home and made her tart which my men gobbled up posthaste. It has a divine gingersnap crust. I've wanted to share it here but guess I should ask her permission. Heather, you out there?<br /><br />You summed up my thoughts exactly about the way things were - love that you wish we could see the untouched land the way God intended. You say things so well, my friend:)Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-8942578584917577632011-08-03T20:09:39.675-07:002011-08-03T20:09:39.675-07:00Carissa, I think we must be sisters!! We Kentucky ...Carissa, I think we must be sisters!! We Kentucky girls think alike. You've just named every place I love:) I have a particular hankering to go to Scotland. Must be those Scottish heroes of mine... I wonder if you have Irish roots like I do? My maiden name is Feagan which is truly Irish. I'd love to go dig up some family roots. So many Scots-Irish settled in Kentucky in the colonial period, etc. Oh, I'm making myself homesick!!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-44371484979417159332011-08-03T20:06:24.994-07:002011-08-03T20:06:24.994-07:00Renee Ann, Such a great point! As I get older I ha...Renee Ann, Such a great point! As I get older I have a much greater appreciation for history and those things than I did even 20 years ago. And it seems I learn a lot more now:) Maybe there are some benefits to aging! As a teacher, I think you have a unique perspective on history and literature. I sure enjoy your blog posts. Thanks so much for taking time for mine.Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-48635434887635505412011-08-03T20:04:08.468-07:002011-08-03T20:04:08.468-07:00Welcome home, Julia! I prayed for travel mercies f...Welcome home, Julia! I prayed for travel mercies for you all and am so happy to had a wonderful time. Weddings and family reunions are great this time of year. How neat that you saw where Chris lived. And that you connected with a long lost cousin. Been there, done that:) Sounds like some great memories were made - and I bet you took some pictures:)<br /><br />And touring Philly can wait:) When the littles are little bit bigger, you'll find so many great things to do. Right now they'd probably love the zoo, one place I didn't go and wish I had. <br /><br />So happy you're in the drawings! Every person here today is and I can't wait to draw some names:) So glad you're back safe and sound!Laura Frantzhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07067252948999879024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2607797015497924515.post-85871348152882258282011-08-03T19:59:22.243-07:002011-08-03T19:59:22.243-07:00Thank you for sharing these great pictures with us...Thank you for sharing these great pictures with us, Laura!! I'm so happy you had a fun time seeing all these great places and hanging out with your old friend from college! Her kitchen is beautiful, BTW!<br /><br />Gosh, I wish we could go back in time, at least for a little while, and see the untouched land the way God intended. And maybe we would be lucky enough to stumble across Ezekial Click or, be still my beating heart, Red Shirt!! I'd throw myself in the river if it meant he could save me...sigh... ;)<br /><br />That statue is so cool! Dear George, always so handsome ;) And if the outside is anything to go by the inside of Clayton must have been so pretty! And those little Amish kids are adorable! Gosh, such sweet memories to cherish :) Thanks so much for letting us tag along on your adventure!!<br /><br />Praying the rest of your week is beautiful and blessed, dear friend!<br />AmandaAmanda Stanleyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/16372107574684016349noreply@blogger.com