Essex, Connecticut calls itself “The Best Small Town in America” and judging by the pictures, I can’t argue with that. 
The town has a population of approximately 6500. Essex is actually comprised of three villages: Centerbrook (doesn’t that sound so New England-y?), Essex, and Ivoryton. You’ll find many Colonial farmhouses, white picket fences, Victorian homes, two libraries, and eight active churches. They have an annual Groundhog Day parade. LOL! Be sure to check the town’s official site.
Today in history:
- 1912 – Actress/singer Dale Evans was born. She’s probably best known as the wife of movie cowboy Roy Rogers.
- 1913 – The Lincoln Highway, the first automobile road across United States, was dedicated.
- 1926 – Magician Harry Houdini died of gangrene and peritonitis that developed after his appendix ruptured.
- 1941 – After 14 years of work, Mount Rushmore was completed.
I LOVE my new computer!!!
On TV tonight: the six hour live Ghost Hunters Halloween special which I’ll be recording, Terra Nova, Castle, and Hawaii Five-O.
Reading: The Unfinished House by Margaret Sutton. This is part of my Judy Bolton mysteries marathon.
We’re off to Ecuador’s capital Quito. Quito is considered one of the loveliest cities in South America. It’s also the highest elevation for a capital city. There are several volcanoes surrounding the city, some of which are active. Quito’s historic center is the most unchanged in the Americas. It includes almost 800 acres and 130 historic monumental buildings, plus 5000 other historic properties. There are many historic churches & cathedrals, parks. and museums.
Today in history:
- 1861 – The Pony Express officially ended operations.
- 1881 – The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral took place at Tombstone, Arizona.
- 1911 – Singer Mahalia Jackson was born.
- 1913 – Jazz muscian/bandleader Charlie Barnet was born.
- 1936 – The first electric generator at Hoover Dam went into full operation.
- 1958 – Pan American Airways made its first commercial flight of the Boeing 707 from New York City to Paris, France.
On TV tonight: Game 6 of the World Series (Go, Cards!!! 
), a couple of paranormal shows, a new show on BBC America called Whitechapel, Mythbusters, and Decoded.
Tomorrow’s blog will very likely be brought to you by my brand spanking new Macbook Pro!
Reading: The Mystic Ball by Margaret Sutton. It’s book number 7 in the Judy Bolton series.
Sorry for not posting yesterday. Had a doctor’s appointment and it screwed up my whole day. Also got my flu shot which has left me feeling really sluggish today.
We’re off to Wales today to visit St David’s Cathedral which is situated in Pembrokeshire. From the Middle Ages to today, it’s been a popular pilgrimage site. It’s even been visited by the likes of William the Conqueror. Check out the cathedral’s website, too. Stunning pictures!
Today in history:
- 1864 – American automobile pioneer John Francis Dodge was born.
- 1892 – Actress Nell Shipman was born. Originally from Canada, Nell’s career spanned almost 40 years. She was one of the first women to do a nude scene in the silent movies. She was also a screenwriter, producer, director, and animal trainer.
- 1912 – Comedian/singer Minnie Pearl was born. She made a name for herself on the Grand Old Opry and was famous for her hat which had the price tag hanging off it.
- 1924 – Actor Billy Barty was born. He was probably the most famous little person in Hollywood.
- 1928 – Actress Marion Ross was born. She’s best known for playing Marion Cunningham on Happy Days.
On TV tonight: NCIS, Mysteries at the Museum, NCIS: LA, Unforgettable, Off Limits, and Top Shot.
Reading: I’m reading The Yellow Phantom by Margaret Sutton.
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