Winter Respite Weekend in the Poconos

Lehighton/Jim Thorpe, PA

January 21-23, 2011 

By Dorothy Saunders

Ten well spouses braved single digit temperatures Jan. 21-23 as we relaxed in the tiny town of Jim Thorpe, PA in the Poconos.  We ventured outside to browse in the charming shops in the heart of the 19th century town, to tour the mansion of the town's founder/industrialist, and to see the town's original library and train station. 

From the warmth of our cars we could gaze down at the scenic gorge and up at the snow-blanketed mountains which surrounded us.  Thick ice formations on the rocky cliffs at the side of the road enhanced the picturesque winter scene.

We kept warm* by focusing on indoor activities: a delightful concert by folk/blues guitarist/songwriter Chris Smither in the town's historic Maunch Chunk Opera House, and had relaxed conversations as we lingered over breakfast both days, and quiet lunches at the restaurant next door with the wonderful wood-burning fireplace. 

As at all respites, the laughs were abundant, and serious topics were discussed with honesty and empathy.

*Well, not all of us kept warm and dry -two respite revelers decided to make snow angels as we returned from a delicious dinner on Saturday night. 


They spent the next half hour drying off their backsides in front of the lobby fireplace as Tom again regaled us with his hilarious story first heard at the conference. 


If you have missed hearing Tom's oratory skills, it's a sign that you need to get out with Well Spouse friends more.