In the Wild

by Staci Louise Smith

I am really blessed to live near two awesome caves (that are open to the public, there are more around here then that) in Eastern PA.  

We have Lost River Caverns and Crystal Cave.  I have visited both throughout my life, but it had been a long time since I had been to Crystal Cave.  

Crystal Cave is located in Kutztown PA.  So my parents and the kids and I went out to spend the day exploring it all over again ( we had all been there before except my two youngest).  

I fell in love all over again.  I brave cave tours, because the rock lover in me is stronger then the claustrophobic little person in me!

Anyhow, I love the entire site of Crystal Cave......they haven't changed a thing.  It is outdated, but I love it, because its a piece of small town history.  It was the first cave in PA to be made open to the public, and everyone from around here knows the story.  

So, without further ado, here are some pictures from my day.

The Family (my parents and kids)

CRYSTALS IN THE WILD

Also known as Arragonite

You may be used to seeing it like this though

or in bead form like this

www.firemountaingems.com 

There was so much texture and variety in the stone.  My first love in jewelry making was a love of stones.  :sigh:  I felt so energized this afternoon.  Being surrounded by stones "in the wild' was just so inspiring.

The only downside was that the tour went pretty fast, because it was crowded.  I wish we would have had a bit more time for pictures at each spot.  I didn't get to fully take everything in.  Maybe next time........

I am not one to buy kitchy souvenirs, but I did want to get something to remember today.  So I thought these were just perfect.  They had a whole bin of these narrow little geodes, 

and what I saw when I looked at them...............was caves.  So,we each got one, and this is mine.  The kids already ran off with their treasures.

Anyhow, I know we are way off topic of jewelry and all, but I thought my day around rocks was close enough.....I know it made me want to play with stones and rocks and crystals!

The kids ended the trip panning for gems.  Such a cute set up, and I must say, its fun.  We were all digging through the gravel!

I am so ready now, to make some nice, organic beads!  Inspiration has set in......and I am antsy to get into that clay!

And that is the great little cave not even an hour from me. 

Someday I will get to Larray Caverns.  someday..........

How about you guys?  Any awesome caves that you live near?  Or want to share that we must visit?  I know I am not the only rock hound in this group!  Please feel free to share in the comments- your stories and favorite places to visit.