Ed Van Schaack is my uncle, but he’s only two years older than me. Along with my brother Alan, who is between Ed and me in age, we spent a lot of time together as kids, something of a “Three Musketeers – The Early Years.” Ed moved from California to Maine in the early 80’s, and I had only seen him briefly two or three times since. But the bonds made in youth are strong, and when we got together at his home in Wells I felt as if no time had passed or familiarity lost. Such are the treasures of life.
Ed lives a few miles outside of Wells with his wife Kerri and daughter Bria. It is a truly rural setting. The same types of animals roam his land now as did hundreds of years ago. There is no noise or light pollution in this retreat-like setting, and the best thing is they appreciate how fortunate they are.
Kerri was at work on the morning I left. I walked around the property with Ed and Bria, took some photos, then they watched patiently while I packed the scooter and geared-up to ride. I left with a renewed appreciation for life-long relationships.
The ride this day took me the width of Maine and halfway across New Hampshire. It was a full day of secondary roads and small towns. Days like this are why I’m making this trip.
A small part of Ed’s driveway in morning light
Ed planning my route for the day
Some photos around Ed’s yard (Yes Ed, the relatives back home want to see.)
Ed and Bria
Maine and New Hampshire
Neat story and cool pictures😎
Wow, now I want to go to Maine – maybe
visit the VanSchaack State Park. (So Uncle Ed, how can I get one of those driveways?)
Aunt Sue and Mom were commenting that they hoped you would have some pictures of Ed and surroundings – they will love seeing these tonight. I especially loved this set of photos of the New England countryside.
Another array of tantalizing photos, from picturesque to homespun to whimsical. I especially adore the sphinx-like hay bale cat sculpture, so imaginative. You are also becoming an adept couch-surfer, I see 🙂 Good that you are rekindling your old cherished relationships, as far-flung as they are. Your uncle Ed must be impressed: “Mike came all this way, on a motor scooter no less, just to see me!” You can tell him he can keep my old Columbia balloon-tire bike I had as a kid in 1951, even though he hasn’t taken very good care of it. Keep up the great travels and posts, Mike.
VanSchaack property looks very peaceful, away from it all. Many of us dream of living in places like this. I’m impressed that you are touching base with your relatives, reaching out. Adds some time and distance to your journey, but you come so far – so “Why not”. Your immediate family will like hearing your stories & photos from these visits.
To VanSchaack family: “Congratulations, probably took some risk & decision-making but “Way to go!”.
Wild, who knew we had relatives out that way?! (Besides you, of course.) Guess that makes Ed my first cousin once removed, and Bria my second cousin. What a lovely place they live in, looks really peaceful.