Expeditions by Tricia

A Polynesian Expedition

2012-01-23T08:36:00.000-08:00

There is nothing like a cold January day in land-locked Arkansas, to get one's mind to take an imaginary trip to a tropical Polynesian paradise. Such was the case that made my mind recall my visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center (www.PolynesianCulturalCenter.com) on the north shoe of Hawaii's Oahu island. The Polynesian Cultural Center is a 42-acre facility that employs about 1300 people, with approximately 70% of those employees being students at nearby Brigham Young University/Hawaii. In fact, that was the purpose of this non-profit entity when it was founded in 1963. The "edutainment" complex enables BYU students to work 20 hours per week while school is in session, and 40 hours per week during breaks. (This is similar to a college near where I live, called College of the Ozarks, in Hollister, Missouri or www.cofo.edu ) The students at the Hawaii branch of BYU come from an area that covers about 12 million square miles of Pacific Ocean.

There are recreated villages of six different Polynesian cultures, such as this one, marking the entrance to a Tahitian village.

A visitor can participate in activities associated with whatever village culture they are visiting. I did not want to pass on the opportunity for a temporary tattoo, from a culture that had perfected this form of art long before it made its way into mainstream USA culture. Another culture of special interest to me was that representing Tonga, because I have cousins whose father is from that country. While in the Tongan village, I learned how to clap with a pasi or a fu sound. Although it was complicated at first, it turned out to be lots of fun!

This unusual structure is a recreation of a temple a European explorer might have encountered when the shores of Fiji were first discovered by non-native travelers. Activites one can do in this part of the park are reprsentative of the Fiji culture. The format is similar to that used at the Ozark Folk Center (www.ozarkfolkcenter.com) in Mountain View, Arkansas.

There are tree-lined canals and lagoons where visitors can see the sights, while seated comfortably in their simulated outrigger canoe.

A highlight of my day at the Polynesian Cultural Center, was viewing the colorful "floating pageant" of performers doing the native dances of each of the Polynesian cultures represented in the park.

Not all the performers are females, as these guys are meant to represent Polynesian royalty.

The "hypnotic hip action" of these dancers kept the crowd of spectators on the bank of the canal thoroughly entertained.

Of course, there are gift shops and souvenir shops that have items representing all of the cultures of Polynesia. My son had brought me a necklace similar to this one as a souvenir for me from his trip to New Zealand. By reading about this jewelry in the New Zealand village store, I learned that this "whale tail hook" design incorporates the whale tail that brings the meaning of family love: the mother and calf together side by side in the ocean is where this meaning originates. Turns out this was a very appropriate gift for a son to give his mother! In fact, it was a "whale of a gift"!

An optional part of your visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center can include a tour of the Visitor Center for the Laie Hawaii Temple (tourists are not permitted inside the temple itself).

The beauty of the Polynesian Cultural Center makes this Bible verse even more meaningful: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." (I Corinthians 2:9 NLT) Just imagine this----heaven will be even more beautiful than the Polynesian Cultural Center----more beautiful that all of the REAL Polynesian islands!!!Now, that's an expedition I DO NOT want to miss! Miles of smiles! Tricia

WE BOUGHT A ZOO!! (i.e., a zoo ticket!)

2012-01-09T15:58:00.000-08:00

Some of you may have recently seen the heart-warming movie, called We Bought a Zoo, starring Matt Damon, which is based on a true story. If that movie aroused feelings of nostalgia about the last time you visited a zoo, or planted a seed in your mind, to take a "zoo expedition", I would encourage you to do so! There are zoos , big and small, located across the country (and around the world), and to find one in your area, all you have to do is go to your computer's search engine!

This blog post is to tell you about a winter-time expedition I took to the zoo at Tulsa, Oklahoma.

There are many good reasons to visit a zoo during the cooler months of the year, and one of them is that the animals are usually more active. The "blur" of this tiger's hind legs in this photograph is intentional. I wanted to illustrate that the tiger was actually up and about!

Another good reason for a winter visit is that the crowds are smaller, and a visitor can take their time observing or photographing the zoo residents. There is not someone bumping into you, or clamoring for the spot you have picked out, to get the perfect view or photo of an animal.

When I first arrived at the Tulsa Zoo for this visit, the smaller crowds made the whole place quieter, and I heard animal sounds bellowing out across the acreage, that I had never heard before! Following those sounds, I discovered the sounds were coming from the habitat where the "big cats" like this one lived.

There are also lots of "fowl sounds" you will hear at this zoo, as they have a wide variety of avian species. In fact, the zoo boasts that it has "2,800 animals, 84 acres, and is open 363 days per year!"

I don't want to forget another reason for a winter visit to the Tulsa Zoo---in January and February, they have a promotion called "MONDAYS ARE DOLLAR DAYS", where it only costs a buck to get in! Add to that, the fact that there is no automobile parking fee January through March, and you have yourself a real entertainment bargain!

There are very few children who will not enjoy a zoo visit, and one reason is that so many of the attractions are specifically designed with youngsters in mind!

I enjoy attractions that have "photo ops" like this one, where you can get a picture of yourself and/or others, in a scene created to give you a souvenir image of your visit!

The young (or young at heart) can even add to their "intellectual tank" by learning big words like "brachiation" from the zoo's educational placards. Adding some "kinetic memory" techniques to the word, by actually attempting some brachiation on the nearby monkey bars, will make this part of the zoo truly MEMORABLE! (even if it happens to include sore muscles the next day!)

Regardless of the weather outside, you will always be comfortable inside the zoo's climate-controlled Conservation Center.

Comfortable, that is, if reptiles of every description do not frighten you----even if they ARE behind glass!

Notice that there is no "blur" in this photograph. It seems the purpose of these guys is to be the illustration of the cliche about being "slow as a turtle"!

This photo illustrates other good reasons to make a winter zoo visit---it is a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your family---in an environment beyond playing video games indoors, while sitting on the couch! Likewise, the background shows that, with the leaves off the trees, you can get a more open "safari-like" experience.

Speaking of safaris, you need to know that one of the perks of Tulsa Zoo Membership, is that you are eligible for a "Starry Safari" where you can bring your camping gear, and actually camp inside the zoo! I had a similar experience (mine was called "Roar and Snore") at the San Diego Wild Animal Park in California, and can heartily recommend it!

The zoo not only has examples of species that live on land, but also examples of species that make their home in the water! This beautiful aquarium is an illustration of that.

Most zoos I have visited have one section devoted to teaching about the animals/habitat of the area where the zoo is located. This photo shows how Tulsa does this with their well-labeled "Oklahoma Trail".

Lest us modern-day folks think we are the ones who popularized the concept of a zoo, remember these words in the seventh chapter of Genesis, when God was speaking to Noah: "You are also to take two of each living creature, a male and a female, on board the ship, to preserve their lives with you: two of every species of bird, mammal, and reptile---two of everything so as to preserve their lives along with yours." (The Message) So just like the Tulsa Zoo has its "Conservation Center", one might think of Noah's Ark as an early "Conservation Center"! If you would like to start planning your trip to this lovely zoo on the edge of the Ozarks, just log on to http://www.tulsazoo.org/ . I know that your expedition to this, or a zoo near you, will bring you "miles of smiles"!! Tricia

Pedestal Rocks Hiking Trail

2012-01-05T07:58:00.000-08:00

The Pedestal Rocks Hiking Trail is located in the Ozark National Forest, just a few miles south of the Newton/Pope county line in northern Arkansas. It derives its name from the unique formations (one is pictured in this photo) called pedestals, that were formed by weathering. This area used to be under water, and after the water receded, the land raised to form a dome called the Ozark Plateau. Since then, natural erosion has been occurring to form the steep hills, valleys, and bluffs that are the signature scenery of the area.

The trail is within an area of the Ozark National Forest, designated as the Pedestal Rocks Scenic Area. Besides the 2.2 mile Pedestal Rocks Trail, there is also the Kings Bluff Trail, which is 1.7 miles long.

To get to the rock formations, one hikes a trail through the woods, that will take you to the edge of the mountain. Although I had visited this trail in the past, this was the first time to make the trek with WHO (Women Hiking the Ozarks). I was eager for a return visit because the last time I was there, the camera I was using was a compact, Nikon film camera that quit working midway through the hike!! This time, to avoid such a "photographic catastrophe", I took TWO cameras with me (digital, of course), with plenty of battery back up power!

The great thing about hiking in this part of Arkansas in January (besides the fact that you don't have to worry about ticks and chiggers) is that a hiker is better able to see the contours of the land, because the Ozark National Forest is primarily comprised of oak and hickory trees that lose their leaves during the winter, allowing for more "wide open" views.

When one reaches the edge of the mountain where the bluffs and pedestal formations abound, you begin spotting more of the evergreen trees that are also found in Ozark National Forest.

The bluffs provide a wonderful place to sit down, rest, and have a snack. Although there are picnic tables and a vault toilet at the trail head, there are none located along the actual hiking trail. But who needs a man-made picnic table and bench, when God has so marvelously provided a place to dine, like the one shown in this photo!

As the bluff extends far out above the land below, you get the sense of a "Rock Island" floating above the valleys and hills that stretch to the horizon.

As with any outdoor activity, safety should be a top consideration. These warning signs put up by the forest service are a reminder to visitors that a trail such as this requires close supervision of youngsters.

Of course, youngsters are not the only ones who need to be careful near the edge of tall bluffs. This hiker is wisely lowering her center of gravity, as she intently photographs the scenery at the base of the bluff. While attending one of his photography workshops, I once heard well-known photographer/author Tim Earnst say that he sometimes tied himself to a substantial tree, so that he could do a 180 degree lean over a bluff, to get just the perfect photograph!

One theory on the origin of the word "Ozarks" is that it is an Anglicized version of the words aux arcs , which means "land of the arches". This natural arch I came across on the lower bluff trail is an excellent example of such an arch.

The reason you can only see the top half of my torso in this photo is because the bottom half is down inside a large depression of the rock surface. Sometimes these rock depressions are so weathered through erosion, that they go completely through the top of the rock, opening up to the valley floor, several feet below.

That was the case for this "hole in the rock surface" that had been surrounded by a protective stone/split rail fence.

Many of the hiking trails in the Ozark National Forest were originally constructed by the WPA (Work Projects Administration) and CCC (Civilian Conservation Corp) . These were public work relief programs from 1933 - 1942 in the U.S. for men between 18 and 25. Since my son's paternal grandfather had been a part of this program, it made me have a greater appreciation for the CCC-style stone masonry that could be found along the trail. This photo shows one of the bluffs with such a railing that might have even been worked on by him!

There are occasional access points along the trail where one can "boulder" their way down to the lower section of the formations, and this is the spot where I carefully made my way to the bottom of the cliff. Although I did not see any climbers with technical rock climbing gear at Pedestal Rocks, rock climbing is popular along similar bluffs located nearby at Sam's Throne and Horseshoe Canyon. I have hiked in both these locations, and could recommend them for anyone wanting to see or participate in the sport of rock climbing.

Being on the bottom side of the bluffs enabled one to see some of the caves and open rooms that lay beneath. Fred Flintstone would have found plenty of room for him and his entire family to inhabit in true "flintstone" style!

One of the natural features creating these caves are the seeps and springs that flow through the forest along the limestone and dolomite bluffs. These supply the baseflow for Ozark streams. Even though the temperature got up to sixty degrees on the day we hiked, I spotted this icicle hanging off of the side of a bluff where spring water was running across the top.

Being out in this beautiful area on such a gorgeous winter day, made me give thanks to God for the beauty of his creation, both in the surrounding countryside, and in his creation of the human body that carries us outdoors to see that creation! Being able to enjoy a hike such as this is one reason I promote participation in First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) , because it gives you the tools you need to be a good steward of the body we have each been given! One thing we do in First Place 4 Health to keep our mental health functioning well is Scripture memorization. The memory verse that came to mind when I was inside the rock house, looking out onto one of the tall rock formations was from Proverbs 18:10 that says "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." Before you run right out to see the towers at Pedestal Rocks, log onto www.fs.usda.gov to get driving directions, safety tips, and trail maps to make your expeditions a truly memorable one! Miles of smiles! Tricia

New Year's Day Traditions

2011-12-26T11:11:00.000-08:00

There is one day a year that the lowly legume known as "black eyed peas" gets to be put on a pedestal. That day is New Year's Day. At least, if you live in the southern part of the USA, a dish of black eyed peas is considered a mandatory menu item for any New Year's Day feast.

According to legend, the tradition of having black eyed peas (usually cooked in hog fat) on New Year's Day goes back to the Civil War. The local farms in the south were raided by the Yankees, who stole all the food, slaughtered the farmers' hogs, and took the meat. Therefore, the poor Southern folks were left with only the dried blackeyed peas and hog bones. Yet, they survived the winter on these. Hence, it was thought if you include this dish on the first day of the new year, you will be able to survive the hardships that may occur in the future.

Another common practice in all parts of the USA---not just the South---is making New Year's Resolutions. If YOUR New Year's Resolutions include to live a healthier lifestyle----have I got a deal for you!!! Get together with a group of like-minded individuals to support one another in keeping those resolutions, through a program called First Place 4 Health ( http://www.firstplace4health.com/ ). Our first meeting will be Wednesday evening, at 5:30, in the CLC at the corner of Spring Street and Club Blvd. in Mountain Home. The meeting will end at 6:45 PM. The class will meet each Wednesday for the next 13 consecutive weeks, from 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM. The name of the First Place 4 Health book that we will be using is called God's Best for Your Life and is available from major book sellers for under $20. Participants will need to have already ordered their book and have it with them when the first class meets on January 11. I have the photo of the Best Choice logo, because I can 100 % guarantee that the time you spend participating in the First Place 4 Health program will not be" wasted", and will, more than likely, help your "waist"! If you have questions about the local classes, you may email me at triciaturnerfirstplace@yahoo.com So get with the program---the BEST CHOICE for a healthier lifestyle!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Another McConnell Expedition!

2011-12-18T18:38:00.000-08:00

Last month, when I was driving on California's legendary "I-5", I decided to stop in Redding to do my daily walk. The access from I-5 to the Turtle Bay Exploration Park must be remarkably easy, because before I knew it, I was in the parking lot of the section that is the very closest to Redding's renown landmark, The Sundial Bridge. While doing some photography at the bridge, I noticed a sign adjacent to the bridge that had the name "McConnell" in it. The name caught my attention because the day before, I had hiked across a new pedestrian bridge over Lake Siskiyou in Mt. Shasta, and I had read that the bridge was financed, in part, by a grant from The McConnell Foundation. Likewise, I had witnessed the coming to fruition, of the Mt. Shasta Skatepark, also made possible, in part, by a McConnell Foundation grant!

To access the McConnell Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, I first needed to cross this magnificent, glass-floored structure, that also received part of its funding from The McConnell Foundation. If you are interested, you can see the blog I wrote about The Sundial Bridge in my blog archives.

The bridge provides a way for pedestrians and bicyclers to cross the Sacramento River, without having to dodge automobiles and 18-wheelers!

When I reached the arboretum, I read that the area consists of 20 acres of Mediterranean-climate display gardens, a children's garden, and a medicinal garden.

The acreage is enclosed in metal fencing, but the day I visited, the gates were wide open, and many folks were taking the opportunity to do what Turtle Bay Park says in their namesake to do---EXPLORE!

The grounds are flat, and wheel-chair accessible, with park benches placed throughout for sitting, if desired.

This is one of two beautiful water features at the park. The inscriptions carved into the various granite components of the water feature all relate to marine ecology, and can serve as a teaching tool for those who take the time to read them.

By following the markings on this simulated "stairway", one learns the basics of the aquatic life cycle.

Probably, these children are just more interested in jumping on the granite slabs and splashing in the water, than learning about the lifestory of the salmon!

I had never seen evergreen trees like this, and was fascinated by their sculptural profiles. They represented a certain latitude of a Mediterranean-climate plant (this simply menas an area between the latitudes of 30 - 45 degrees, a little less than halfway from the equator to the poles.) That would include the area around Redding, as well as the part of Chili where this particular evergreen plant originates.

The children's garden is called the "Mosaic Oasis" and has numerous mosaic sculptures for the children to play on, plus this large centerpiece mosaic where parents can sit and watch as their children explore the nearby surroundings.

When the gates are open, the arboretum connects to the Sacramento River Trail, which bicyclists can use to ride several miles along the river.

That is one reason the center traffic-way through the garden is so wide. The idea is for pedestrians and bicyclists to both be able to use it simultaneously.

This riparian forest of valley oaks and native vegetation provides a buffer zone between the Sacramento River and the botanical gardens.

As I was exiting the arboretum/botanical gardens, I was able to enjoy this stunning view of the Sundial Bridge that I had not been able to see on previous visits to the area. In my travels over the last several years, I have been deeply impressed by (and thankful for!) the philanthropy of those who lived before me. I have seen beautiful parks made possible by names like Rockefeller, Raley, Hershey, and Walton. These were families that prospered, but they also GAVE abundantly. It reminds me of the famous verse, written in 27 different languages, at the front of every Gideon Bible: "For God so loved the world, that He GAVE his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him, would not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16 And that is the essence of Christmas: When man reaches out to God, it is called "religion". When God reaches out to man, it is called "Christmas". If you would like to learn more about the topics I discussed in this blog, visit http://www.turtlebay.org/ , http://www.mcconnellfoundation.org/ or http://www.gideons.org/ Miles of smiles! Tricia

The Gift of Crystal Bridges

2011-12-12T12:22:00.000-08:00

As I approached by automobile, the first thing I noticed when I arrived at the newly-opened Crystal Bridges Art Museum in Bentonville, Arkansas, was the lifesize sculpture, resembling a tree, at the main entrance to the museum. It is made of stainless steel that has been welded into branchlike forms, and its appearance varies with the weather and time of day. (I can already visualize what it will look like later this winter with icicles hanging from it, that are being back lit by the sun, to give it the appearance of a crystal chandelier!)

The stainless steel tree sculpture, titled Yield is one of eleven sculptures on the grounds of the Crystal Bridges Museum complex. This photo illustrates that the sculpture's title is appropriate because this driveway is where one "yields" to handicapped persons who are being dropped off at the museum entrance.

From the upper level entrance used by those arriving by automobile, one can get a sense of the overall design of the building, spread out in the valley below. The museum's glass-and-wood design by architect Moshe Safdie and engineer Buro Happold features a series of pavilions nestled around two creek-fed ponds. The complex includes 217,000 square feet of galleries, several meeting and classroom spaces, a library, and a gathering space that can accommodate up to 300 people. In addition, there are outdoor areas for concerts and public events, as well as extensive nature trails.

Persons who have walked from the automobile parking lot, or have been let out at curbside, all travel down this elevated walkway to an enclosed elevator that takes them down to the museum's main lobby.

I snapped this photo while waiting for the elevator to take me down to the lobby. Considering the design on the stone floor of the lower level, one would think money came from the Target discount chain, rather than its true source---WalMart!!

Fayetteville, Arkansas architect Marlon Blackwell designed the Museum Store at Crystal Bridges to be an organic complement to the Museum's natural setting and distinctive architecture (Notice the plants growing on the roof of the store). I was familiar with the name Marlon Blackwell, because my son had gone on an overseas architecture tour with some other University of Arkansas students, that had been led by Marlon Blackwell.

Blackwell designed the interior ceiling and walls of the museum store to mimic the fluting on the underside of a mushroom. The mushroom design can be seen in this photo that shows the undulating cherrywood ribs of the ceiling and walls. The Museum Store carries beautiful gift items, books, and educational toys. Plus, if you are buying for someone else, gift cards are an option, so that the recipient can make their own selection from the numerous choices available.

The Museum's restaurant, Eleven, advertises that it offers "modern American comfort cuisine (including wine and cocktails) in a setting as vibrant and exciting as its menu." The restaurant is open for lunch between 11 AM and 2 PM, as well as being open for dinner on Wednesdays and Fridays from 5 PM to 9 PM. There is a coffee bar adjacent to the restaurant that remains open throughout the day.

This photo is a reminder that visitors can download an app for their own personal "electronic device" that will give them an audio tour of the various items they view in the art galleries. Audio tour devices can also be checked out at the Guest Services desk in the main lobby.

The day I visited the museum, I happened onto a free public lecture being given by Dr. Kevin Murphy, the museum's Curator of American Art. He is pictured here telling the background of a painting done by William Merritt Chase, during our country's Guilded Age. The management of the museum had thoughtfully placed numerous portable, foldable seats in front of the large painting for attendees to sit on during the lecture. The design of the seats was such that they would take up very little space when stored, but yet could be moved to anywhere in the museum that a temporary seating area needed to be set up.

The very BEST thing about the art lecture I attended on the day I visited, was running into my friend, Cynthia Coffman Morris (we share the same hometown of Harrison, Arkansas). She is pictured here with the painting by Mary Cassatt, that she states is her current favorite of all the museum's works. Since Cynthia's graduation from college in Missouri, she has done extensive independent study in the art field, taking art lessons from a variety of instructors, and touring art museums around the world, to broaden her knowledge of the visual arts. She is now putting all that knowledge to good use as a volunteer at the museum. I felt VERY FORTUNATE to be getting a one-on-one tour of Crystal Bridges by someone with such a great background in art, plus someone who knew their way around the maze of galleries!

Cynthia even showed me the "behind the scenes" area of Crystal Bridges where the volunteers have lockers, a kitchenette, tables, chairs, and cubicles. In this photo she is shown where the volunteers go to sign in for their "tour of duty".

As Cynthia was pointing out the unusual architecture of the Grand Hall (shown in this photo), I was reminded of another "architecture connection" (of sorts) that we had. The connection goes back to the time when Cynthia lived in a home in Harrison, designed by the world-famous, and award-winning architect, Fay Jones. The home was not the only thing designed by Fay Jones. He also designed a mail box to match the home. One cold and dark wintry night, my husband and I were leaving Cynthia's home in Harrison after a dinner party. We were in our very old, 4-wheel-drive, farm pickup, and we accidentally backed over, and on top of, that very expensive mail box!! The truck was high-centered on top of the mail box, with none of the wheels touching the ground! Hearing all the commotion, the other guests came outside. One of the guests, who was an attorney, gave my husband her business card, saying "He was going to need it, because he had just run over the most expensive mail box in all of Boone County!" Remembering this bit of history of our past friendship, made me ESPECIALLY thankful that Cynthia would take the time to show me around!

This colonnade of glass and metal leads to the Grand Hall. Through the full-length glass wall on the right, one can view the water feature, and the left side contains numerous meeting rooms available to the public for functions.

This art installation is a part of the special exhibit, called WONDER WORLD: Nature and Perception in Contemporary American Art. Cynthia said this part of the museum's collection seems to be of most interest to the younger visitors.

There are numerous seating areas throughout the galleries, where one could spend hours looking through the coffeetable art books laying around, or just enjoy gazing into the beautiful woodlands on the other side of the glass wall. Wifi is also available here and throughout the museum.

The first photos showed the area where one enters if coming by auto. This photo shows the paths one would come as a pedestrian (the museum is within walking distance from downtown Bentonville) or on the lovely bicycle trail available. They provide access to the lower level of the museum.

The brochure I picked up called "OUTSIDE" states "The grounds of the Museum are as much a part of the experience of Crystal Bridges as the art inside. Stewardship of our natural environment is a key element of Crystal Bridges' mission, and forms our overall philosophy---that art and nature are both vital to the human spirit, and should be accessible to all. More than three miles of trails invite you to explore and immerse yourself in the beauty of our native Ozark forest. Each trail offers different plant life, terrain, and ecosystems." As an added bonus, one can purchase a picnic lunch at the "Eleven" restaurant, and have an "Al fresco" dining experience!

The gray colors seen in the bark of the trees, the sidewalk, and building exterior, illustrate the developer's attempt to minimize human impact on the natural colors of the landscape.

Cynthia told me that one of the most frequently asked questions to the volunteers is "Where is Rosie?" By this, they mean, "Where is Norman Rockwell's WWII-era painting of Rosie the Riveter?" Well, here she is, in front of Ol' Glory! If you have read this far, you may be curious about what the admission fee is to go into the museum or view the outdoor sculptures along the trails. The answer is---it is free!!! Thanks to a $20 million gift from the WalMart Family Foundation, everyone has free admission for the foreseeable future!! What a wonderful gift---all we have to do is accept it!! Likewise, as we are in the midst of the holiday season, it is time to remember that God has also given us a wonderful gift---his Son, Jesus Christ----all we have to do is accept it! ..................................... If you would like to start planning your visit to this outstanding new attraction or you are interested in being a museum volunteer, visit http://www.crystalbridges.org/ Miles of smiles! Tricia

Lake Siskiyou Recreation Trail

2011-12-02T16:56:00.000-08:00

Lake Siskiyou Recreation Trail is in northern California, near the town of Mt. Shasta, and winds its way around the body of water with the same name. According to Wikipedia, there is no certain origin of the unusual-sounding word (pronounced SISS-kew), but one version says that it is a Chinook Indian jargon for "bob-tailed horse"; another version says it is from the two French words "SixCailloux" meaning "six stones", because six large stones were used by early settlers to cross one of the rivers of that region.

Last year, the trail received a wonderful amenity, with the completion of the Wagon Creek Bridge, shown in this photo. The bridge came with a price tag of $2.8 million. According to news releases, the bridge was funded from several sources, including a $600,000 grant to the county, from the Redding-based McConnell Foundation. The majority of the funding came from $1 million of state alternate transportation funds, and $1.2 million of federal stimulus cash.

It is very appealing to go out over the water on this sturdily-built structure, and officials hope it will draw tourists from all over to enjoy it.

When crossing over the water, I was able to get photographs of folks enjoying another one of Lake Siskiyou's recreational benefits---fishing and boating. Lake Siskiyou is also known for its brilliant reflections of Mt. Shasta, especially on calm mornings. I did not get to witness that scene, which is a very good reason to return another time!

The bridge was designed to accommodate bicyclists, hikers, runners, and horseback riders. Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the bridge or on the trail. We saw several bicyclists enjoy the smooth, wooden surface of the bridge when we were there.

There are numerous places to sit along the trail, both in the form of large boulders, as well as wooden benches. This gives you an opportunity to rest, meditate, or pose for a photo, as we are doing in this snapshot.

We saw lots of people walking, running, and biking with their dogs along the trail. It seems the trail is just as popular with the "canine clan" as it is with the two-legged clan. The lake provides a place for dogs to practice their swimming/retrieving skills, or just enjoy cooling off, after working up a sweat. It is also a great place for humans to swim on hot summer days.

The water marks on the grasses shows that the reservoir is doing its job of helping provide flood control. With the coming of snow, followed by spring melting, the lake level needs to be low at this time of year, so that it can accommodate the winter/spring water basin drainage from the surrounding Cascade Mountain Range. The low water levels of fall enable the south shore segment of the trail to be combined with the north shore segment of the trail, to make a continuous loop around the lake.

Parts of the trail have alternate routes, depending on whether the user wants to be next to the water, or further up the hillside through meadows and forests. The trail can be used year-round---it can be used in the winter months with and without snowshoes or cross-country skis.

One gets such a feeling of serenity when passing through the pine-needle carpeted path that meanders through the tall evergreen trees adjacent to the lake.

My daughter-in-law, Stacy, is shown in this photo with her special dog, Sadie. I felt extremely fortunate and very thankful to have Stacy as my guide, showing me the "ins and outs" of the Lake Siskiyou Recreation Trail. With Stacy as my guide, I was able to see points of interest along the trail that I might otherwise have missed, and I didn't get confused as to which way to go, when I came to crossroads along the trail. Being a good guide, she had also told me in advance that there were toilets along the trail, so I did not have to be concerned about "elimination" issues! The word "guide" reminded me of the verse in the twenty-third Psalm that says "He guides me in paths of righteousness", so I am likewise thankful to God for His guidance through His Word, guiding me through the "ins and outs" of the "trail of life", and keeping me from getting confused as to which way to go, when I come to crossroads along life's trail. If you would like to learn more about outdoor activities in this part of the country, log on to www.MountShastaTrailAssociation.org and review the abundance of information provided on their website. Since I volunteer some with the trail patrol of the Arkansas Master Naturalists ( www.home.ArkansasMasterNaturalists.org ), I have an abundance of appreciation and gratitude to the Mount Shasta Trail Association for the volunteer work that they do to build trails, advocate for more access to trails/trail protection, and their work to conserve the natural beauty of the area. It's a great big beautiful world out there, so get out and enjoy it!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Castle Crags Expedition

2011-12-01T07:37:00.000-08:00

The first time I ever heard the phrase "castle crags" was several years ago when my son first moved to northern California. I received a text message from him that said "Stoked!! Just climbed castle crags!" His epistle only contained five words, and I had to look up three of them, in an attempt to figure out what he was talking about! By looking on Wikipedia, I learned that Castle Crags is a dramatic and well-known rock formation in Northern California. However, as an Arkansas native, not at all familiar with Northern California at the time, Castle Crags was hardly "well-known" to me! I also learned that "stoked" did not mean that he was literally "on fire"; rather, his level of excitement at his climbing accomplishment was "on fire"! I was somewhat awe-struck when I saw the photos of Castle Crags for the first time on the Internet, and continue to be awe-struck at their beauty the times I have seen them in person since then.

When I was there last week, wispy clouds were periodically encircling the summits, making them truly appear like a castle in the sky! Elevations range from 2000 feet along the Sacramento River near the base of the crags, to over 6500 feet at the summit of the tallest crag.

Exploitation of the land by lumber and mining operations encouraged concerned citizens in 1933 to acquire much of the land, which would eventually become Castle Crags State Park ( http://www.parks.ca.gov/ ). Located just west of Interstate 5, between the towns of Castella and Dunsmuir, Castle Crags is today a popular tourist stop along the highway.

Castle Creek Road will get you to the entrance of the park, where there is a Visitor Center, campsites, and hiking trails. However, due to budget cuts within the state, weather conditions, and seasonal closures, be sure to call ahead (1-800-444-7275) if you are hoping to reserve a campsite within the park.

When I visited on November 25, most of the deciduous trees had lost their leaves, but I did find this one beautiful maple tree that still was clinging to its colorful autumn "wardrobe".

Castle Creek runs beside the main entrance to the park, plus physically fit visitors can take the River Trail to a pedestrian underpass of Interstate 5, and access a Day-use picnic area along the Sacramento River.

When the state park gates are open, visitors can drive their vehicles up to Vista Point to get a closer view of the giant spires of granite that remind one of sky-scrapers. There are placards at Vista Point that help explain the history of these unusual formations, as well as their common names.

My son continues to be "stoked" about his trips to Castle Crags, and his wife (they are pictured here), has accompanied him on some of these climbing adventures. If you would like to visit Castle Crags, but you are not into rock climbing---consider this: Go there to cut down your Christmas tree!! I read that many families in Northern California have the tradition of purchasing the $10 permit from the U.S. Forest Service that entitles them to trek into the woods and pick out their very own fir tree to put up in their home! Since much of the Castle Crags area is part of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, you can pick up your permit at any of the ranger stations in that area, or go on-line to www.fs.usda.gov for more information.

My son is currently working on a project of writing a guide book about rock climbing in this area. This fact made a Bible passage I read from The Message really come alive when I read it today. It is from Psalm 145 and says "I lift you high in praise, my God, O my King! ... Generation after generation stands in awe of your work; each one tells stories of your mighty acts. ...Your marvelous doings are headline news; I could write a book full of the details of your greatness." I am not writing a book, BUT, I am writing a post for this blog, urging you to get out there and enjoy God's marvelous creation! Get "stoked" about seeing the glorious splendor of God's great outdoors! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Frostweed sculpts 11/11/11

2011-11-11T06:47:00.000-08:00

These are the "flowers" delivered to my part of the Ozarks this morning, to honor our military veterans!! Even the description on one of the websites I used to research the plant ( www.biosurvey.ou.edu ) brought the sight of elderly veterans to mind: It said, "Although the plant has gone to seed and looks dead, at the first hard freeze of the season, it bursts forth to produce something remarkable!" Likewise, you can be sure that our former military personnel still have what it takes to produce something remarkable!

In Frostweed, this "botanical phenomena" is brought about, because when that first hard freeze happens, the sap in the plant freezes, splits open the stem, and forms these "frost-flowers".

The real "scientific name" for this plant is Verbesina virginica, but not surprisingly, it has lots of nicknames. Besides Frostweed, it is sometimes called Iceplant, Iceweed, Indian tobacco, Squawweed, Crownbeard, and (I love this one!) Rabbit Butter! The plant is most often seen at the edges of woodlands, where it can form sizable colonies with its spreading rhizomes.

Under the right temperature and atmospheric conditions, the stems exude water that freezes into fascinating shapes. The ice crystals formed on the stems have been given many names---ice ribbons, ice flowers, ice fringes, ice filaments, frost beards, and frost ribbons---to name just a few. When I was doing my Bible study this morning, I read a verse that seemed to describe this remarkable process perfectly: "What a wildly wonderful world, God! You made it all, with Wisdom at your side, made earth overflow with your wonderful creations." Psalm 104:24 (The Message)

The website www.wildflower.org says the plant is best suited as a transitional plant between manicured and wild areas. That is exactly where I routinely see it grow---where my front yard stops, and the woodland begins, as shown in this photo. That website also shows what the plant looks like in the summertime, when it is blooming with the more traditional definition of a "flower".

I titled this post "Frostweed sculpts 11/11/11" because when I first looked out the window to see it this morning, the radio was announcing that today is 11/11/11, and is the day set aside to honor our veterans. My mind's eye saw "elevens" in those vertical strips of white! I am glad I did not wait until 11:11 am to photograph them, however, because by that time they had all melted! No matter WHERE we look today, we can see the beauty of God's creation, and give thanks to the veterans who have served our country so that we can preserve that beauty! Miles of 11/11/11 smiles! Tricia

"ALUM" EXPEDITION

2011-11-06T12:29:00.000-08:00

Arkansas has three natural bridges, and this is a photo I took yesterday of the one located in the Ozark National Forest day use area in southern Newton County, Arkansas, near the town of Deer. It is known as the Alum Cove Natural Area. This photo shows the top of the span, which averages about twenty feet wide.

Attractive protective railings have been built on each side of the span, because of the long drop-off to the forest floor beneath the natural bridge.

This photo was taken from underneath the bridge, looking up towards the sky. The bridge is about 130 feet long. Early loggers in Newton County reportedly used the span with their wagons and teams of mules, to carry their cargo out of the narrow valley, where the bridge is located.

The area is no longer used for logging, so hikers can walk the short quarter mile of trail down to walk across the bridge, as well as, look underneath the bridge. The walk is rated as moderate, because the hill is steep; however, there are several places where benches have been placed to stop and rest. These two hikers said they have been coming to Alum Cove for years, and enjoy seeing the way it looks different during each of the four seasons we enjoy in the Ozarks.

The purpose of my visit yesterday was to be part of the Trail Patrol crew from the North Central chapter of the Arkansas Master Naturalists ( http://www.home.arkansasmasternaturalists.org/ ), who were working as volunteers to do some repair work along the trail. These guys are working at replacing a foot bridge that had been washed out by spring floods in the valley. As I thought about the bridge work that they were doing, it occurred to me that they were making a "man-made" bridge. Earlier along the trail, I had crossed the "natural" bridge. Likewise, the Bible tells us that Jesus Christ is a "supernatural" bridge to connect the human race to our Heavenly Father: "Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.' " (John 14:6 NIV)Just as I am thankful to get to use the natural bridge at Alum Cove, and the man-made bridge over the creek, I am MOST thankful for the SUPERnatural bridge that Jesus provided when he died on the cross to take the penalty for my sins!

In this photo, one of our members is using a weed-eater to keep tall weeds from obstructing the steps. Continuing the "life trail" analogy between the work that the trail patrol does, to the work I am supposed to do , my job is to keep the "life trail" clear of obstacles so that others can continue on the trail that leads to the decision to become a Christ-follower!

These trail patrol workers are making the steep trail easier to navigate to breaking it up into manageable steps. Likewise, we are called as Christians to recognize the step-wise process that each believer must go through to grow in their faith. The trail to spiritual maturity is a step by step process.

These ladies were part of the "Poison Ivy Patrol". Their mission was to identify the obnoxious plant, and stop its growth. A key to stopping the growth of poison ivy is being able to recognize it in its many forms. Likewise, the best way to keep poisonous "plants" from overtaking our trail in life, is to study God's word, so that we will be able to identify the poisonous "plants" from the non-poisonous "plants".

Regardless of whether you are talking about the Arkansas Master Naturalists trail patrol, or the "trail patrol" we as Christians should be a part of, you need to be well-nourished! The husband-wife team shown in this photo, cooked up some delicious vegetable-beef stew and fruit cobblers in a Dutch ovens during the morning part of the work day, in anticipation of some hungry workers taking a lunch break between their morning and afternoon work sessions.

Our human bodies have to be well-nourished to keep their strength up, and everyone who participated yesterday can attest to the fact that we were very well fed----and well-fed in a very comfortable, congenial atmosphere! The nice pavilion has a concrete floor, metal picnic tables, food preparation counters, water, electricity, and grills. Groups can reserve it in advance through the forest service headquarters ( www.fs.fed.us/oonf/ozark ).

In addition, picnic tables (equipped with fire grates) are located at the trail head and are surrounded by beautiful hardwood trees. The timber is a mixture of oaks, gum, and beech trees. The colors were absolutely gorgeous on the beautiful fall day that our group visited. A wheel-chair accessible restroom is adjacent to the picnic area.

There are other natural features, in addition to the bridge, along the 1.1 mile trail. A rugged bluff line on the back side of the trail has caves and overhangs that youngsters especially enjoy exploring. The young folks in this photo represent the reason our Master Naturalist group volunteers for this trail work activity: We all want to preserve our state's natural wonders for future generations to enjoy!

I called this post "Alum Expedition" because the early part of my day started out with a delicious meal, because I was an "alum" of the University of Arkansas; my college ( http://www.hesc.uark.edu/ ) was having a special Homecoming Breakfast for us in Fayetteville. Then I left Fayetteville, in Washington County, and followed Highway 16 (shown in this photo) to the second part of my expedition---"alum" cove trail clean up! Although the Newton County location probably got its name from the mineral known as "alum" that it contained, it still seemed quite a coincidence that both "alum" activities fell on the same day!! Now, I am urging YOU to become an "alum" of "Alum Cove", by visiting it at your earliest convenience!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Charlevoix Biosphere Expedition

2011-10-29T15:18:00.000-07:00

Since November 3, 2011, is International Day for Biosphere Reserves, I thought it would be a good time to write about a Biosphere Reserve I visited recently in the Canadian province of Quebec. It is called the Charlevoix Biosphere, and this photograph shows its northern border, the St. Lawrence River.

The Charlevoix Biosphere is made up of agricultural areas, river ecosystems, estuarine tidal marshes/flats, coniferous and mixed forests, stunted vegetation, and mountain tundra ecosystems. Every year, six species of migrating whales, along with seals, rendezvous with visitors at the junction of the Saguenay and St. Lawrence Rivers.

One way the Charlevoix Biosphere is unique is that it is inhabited by approximately 30,000 people, whereas many biospheres do not have human beings living in them. This photo shows the lovely Fairmont Le Manoir Richelier (www.fairmont.com/richelier) , which served as my "campsite" during my visit to this beautiful part of Canada.

The hotel has the nickname "Castle on the Cliff" due to its scenic location on a high bluff above the St. Lawrence River. Its location near the water, means that the early morning often finds it cloaked in a misty fog, until the sun comes out to burn away the shroud.

The grounds of the hotel are immaculately maintained, and provide miles of enjoyment to visitors who want to stroll the property, and take in the views.

Seeing this elegant lodging property may make one curious as to what exactly IS a "Biosphere Reserve"??!! According to the website of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (www.unesco.org ), it is defined as a learning site established by countries, and recognized under UNESCO'S Man & Biosphere program, to promote sustainable development; this development is to be based on local community efforts and sound science. There are currently 580 sites in 114 countries, and you can click on their website to find out the location of other biospheres around the world.

The UNESCO designation does not mean that the United Nations comes in and "takes over" the management of a UNESCO-designated sight. Rather, the site is still completely controlled by the government of the country where it is located.

The key phrase in an inhabited biosphere such as Charlevoix, is "sustainable". The Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu actively participates in ecological measures of sustainability. It has a rich history and tradition that it wants to "sustain" for generations to come.

As I relished my time exploring the St. Lawrence River section of Charlevoix, I was able to take in some remarkable sunrises and sunsets over the river. It brought to mind the verse "From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised." Psalm 113:3 I was doing LOTS of praising when I was in this remarkable area of Quebec! If you would like to learn more about all there is to see and do in this year-round, vacation playground, visit www.tourisme-charlevoix.com and start preparing for miles of praise-filled smiles!!

St. Louis Cardinals Celebrate 2011 World Series Victory!

2011-10-29T06:07:00.000-07:00

There is going to be a new addition----2011---- to the year markers shown on the top of this Busch Stadium scoreboard, thanks to the St. Louis Cardinals winning the 2011 World Series of Baseball! And even if you were not able to be physically present in the stadium last night for Game 7, there is a good chance that you could be present in Busch Stadium for the Victory ceremony to be held there on Sunday evening, October 30. Tickets to the event are only $5 and go on sale at 2 PM, Saturday, October 29. Just click on www.cardinals.com/parade to make your purchase. Even if you don't get to buy a ticket, you can attend the Victory Parade, which will be held in downtown St. Louis, starting at 4 PM on Sunday, October 30. The famous horses known as the Budweiser Clydesdales will be leading the procession of Cardinals team members, Fredbird, the Rally Squirrel, and several marching bands from area schools. The parade will conclude with the ceremony on the field at Busch Stadium. Fireworks will top off the celebration, and will be visible to both those inside, as well as those outside, the stadium.

One thing that makes the field of Busch Stadium so unique is that one can see the famous Gateway Arch in the green turf of the outfield, as well as in the skyline to the east of the stadium! (See photo) If you cannot be at the Victory Celebration tomorrow in St. Louis, you can still have the opportunity to see the magnificent prize given to the winning team----the famous World Series Trophy. That is because it will be on display inside the stadium, and all those taking a tour of the stadium throughout the year, get a chance to see the trophy and photograph it. Stadium tours are a very enjoyable activity, and cost ten dollars or less, depending on your age and group size. To find out about the Busch Stadium tours, click on www.stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/stl/ballpark/tours . I wrote about these tours and put photos on a previous blog post (June 22, 2009), and found the tour extremely worthwhile. You are probably going to need a place to stay in St. Louis, and you can find out everything you need to plan your "VV" (Victory Visit!) to St. Louis at http://www.explorestlouis.com/ Of course, any talk about a prize trophy brings to mind the familiar verse that says "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heaven-ward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14 And that is what our beloved St. Louis Cardinals did---They forgot that they had already won ten World Series, and they forgot the less-than-stellar season they had before the World Series started. Nope, they pressed on to win the prize their fans had called them to---the 2011 World Series!! Congratulations Cardinal Nation for a job well done!!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Dogwood Canyon Autumn Transitions

2011-10-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

Dogwood Canyon is a 2200 acre nature park that sprawls across the Missouri/Arkansas border, a few miles outside Branson, Missouri. There are numerous activities that one can do there, such as hiking, bicycle riding, fishing, horseback riding, ATV & Segway rentals, tram tours, dining, picnicking and even lodging!

There is a segment of the population that would like to get outside and enjoy nature, but various obstacles limit their ability to do so. Dogwood Canyon was Taylor-made for these folks: The hiking trails are paved, making them smooth riding for those in wheel chairs, or those with other forms of mobility restrictions. It is also suitable for single travelers, who might not feel comfortable going into the woods to hike by themselves.

The paved hiking/biking trails will take you past numerous geological formations associated with the Ozarks, such as the moss-covered limestone bluffs, shown in this photograph.

There are waterfalls in the park that create reflecting pools where you can sit and do some "reflecting" or meditating at your leisure.

My son and I took advantage of the area that Dogwood Canyon had decorated up for their autumn chuck wagon dinners, to pose for a family photo (thank goodness for the "automatic, self-timer" setting on my camera!)

Since the park has numerous water features, there are numerous bridges throughout. Each one seems designed to enhance its natural surroundings. This "stonebridge" built of native Ozark rock, produces an oval frame for the water it spans. The irregular lines of its masonry seem to transition the eye up to the horizontal lines of the limestone bluff behind it.

This bridge transitions the visitor from an open meadow to a path along the ridge line, and its low design does not cover up the beauty of the overhanging bluffs it leads to.

The gentle curve design of this bridge transitions the visitor from a lower part of the park to a section of slightly higher elevation.

And who doesn't love the warm feelings of nostalgia that a covered bridge can provide, as the traveler transitions from one side, across a swirling river, safely to the other side. It can be a reminder that God is our cover, as we transition from one period of life, to the next. Remembering that autumn is the time of year that we transition from one SEASON to the next, I thought of the verse that says "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." (Ecclesiastes 3:1) One definition of transition is that it is a movement or development from one form or stage to another. I am hoping that this blog post will TRANSITION you out of inactivity and into God's great outdoors! Enjoy the scenery as the landscape transitions from one season to the next! You can learn about a wonderful place to do this in the Ozarks by clicking on http://www.dogwoodcanyon.org/ . Wishing you additional, transitional smiles! Tricia

Lost Valley Expedition

2011-10-14T10:19:00.000-07:00

This autumn would be a fantastic time to visit the Lost Valley Hiking Trail, located within the boundaries of the Buffalo National River ( www.nps.gov/buff ), in Newton County, Arkansas. The trees, shrubs, and bushes in that area of the state put on a magnificent display of color each autumn, as shown in these photographs. As the newly-fallen leaves carpet the forest floor, they form a colorful mosaic pattern, prettier than any you will see at a store selling artificial floor coverings! (top photo). The bright red leaves shown in the bottom two photos are from the sweet gum tree that is abundant throughout the trail area, and is accompanied by the bright oranges of hickory trees, burgundy colors from dogwoods and red buds, yellows from wild black walnut trees, and the rusty orange provided by the numerous oak trees. The area also contains a beech tree stand.

The top photo of this collage shows some of the hikers from the Mountain Home Audubon chapter, that made a field trip to Lost Valley this week to hike the trail and do some birding. The trail is rated as "easy to moderate", and there are spots along the way where one can sit to rest or meditate, if so desired (bottom photo).

This photo shows that the trail is a great hike for families with children, as it can be hiked in 2 1/2 hours, with a total distance of 2.3 miles.

The trail will lead you to a beautiful limestone bluff shelter, where one can imagine what it would have been like for the early Native Americans that might have used this space as their living quarters. I heard the comments the children in this photo were making to their parents, and their imaginations were providing vivid scenarios of bluff dwellers from bygone days.

Lost Valley has a natural bridge, a waterfall, and a small cave. As is the case for most waterfalls in this area, Eden Falls is best viewed after heavy rains. The Park Service recommends not going into the cave unless one has the proper equipment, so the family is this photograph decided to save their spelunking adventure for another time when they were better prepared.

Since there are some very high bluffs near the end of the trail, the park service has signs warning of potential dangers. Although serious accidents are rare here, when I was a kid, a young man fell to his death after he wandered away from the group he was with, to climb to the top of the waterfall. However, I am happy to report there were no accidents on the day I visited Lost Valley!

The top photo of this collage pictures the National Park Ranger showing our group the photo album of how Lost Valley looked after heavy flooding that occurred there a while back. She said that since Lost Valley is one of the most popular hiking areas in the entire park, there has been a massive effort to seek out funding to save the Lost Valley trail for future generations. She told us we would see workers along the trail (bottom photo) who were laboring to repair washed out areas and downed trees. When I heard her use that phrase---to seek and to save the lost---it reminded me of the Bible verse that says "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost." Luke 19:10 If prompted me to ask myself if I am being a diligent worker along the trail of life, "to seek and to save what was lost"? I discovered there is even a very worthwhile website by that name ( http://www.seekandsavethelost.com/ ), which I found very inspirational.

Regardless of which highways you use to get to Lost Valley, your eyes will be in for a feast! I took Highway 43 West out of Harrison, stopping at the overlook on top of Gaither Mountain (top photo) to snap this photo of the Crooked Creek Valley, with Boat Mountain on the horizon. Following Hiway 43 will bring you to the tiny village of Ponca, built along a scenic creek (middle photo). It is in Ponca that you will see the ever-busy Buffalo Outdoor Center. I spent some quality time in Ponca and the B.O.C. decades ago, attending photography workshops put on there by photographers Matt Bradley, Kenneth Smith, and B.O.C. owner, Mike Mills. On the day I visited, I was a little surprised to see Mike Mills behind the counter there, talking to a multitude of customers (both on the phone and in person) and employees, in this beehive of activity, he describes as being in "the middle of nowhere"! You can learn more about all they offer, including their new canopy tour, by clicking on http://www.buffaloriver.com/ . A short distance past the Buffalo Outdoor Center, you will pass the Elk Education Center, also a worthwhile place to visit. Continuing westward, you will pass the Boxley Valley Historic District, with its explanatory placards and historic buildings. Depending on the time of day you are there, you may even get to see elk grazing in the meadow! Follow the signs, and you will see the paved road off to the right that will take you to the Lost Valley Campgroud and Trail (bottom photo). Hopefully, I have stirred your interest in including a trip to Lost Valley in your "fall foilage finding" adventures, where you will encounter scenery that will give you miles of smiles! Tricia

Austin Live! with Project 11 Band

2011-10-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

It seems every tourism publication I see about Austin, Texas, gives heavy emphasis to the "live music scene" one encounters in that city. In the research I did before visiting, it seemed the topic of music came up more often than the mention that Austin is the state capitol of Texas! These research findings were reinforced as I stepped out of the plane, and into the airport terminal, upon my arrival there last week. At the luggage claim area where travelers pick up their checked bags, there are huge (and beautifully painted) works of art in the shape of guitars (top two photos of collage) that have been sponsored by various entities of the city. The one that I liked best was the bright yellow guitar, with a bicycler giving the victory salute. (No surprise----it was sponsored by the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Austin is considered Lance Armstrong's home town, and perhaps for that reason, bicycle advertisements/signs are almost as prevalent as guitars!) In addition to the works of art in the shape of guitars, there is a huge LED screen on one wall of the airport (middle photo of collage), reminding visitors that Austin is "keeping it live". As I was photographing the "work of art" guitars at the luggage claim area, another traveler got out her camera, and started taking photos as well. To do this, she had temporarily laid down the guitar she was carrying on top of her luggage (lower right photo). Obviously, I was not yet part of the "in" crowd, because I was not carrying a guitar. However, my anxiety soon eased, whenever my ride came to pick me up, and there were two guitars in the back of their van. So "guitar separation anxiety" is apparently a condition a lot of people in Austin have to deal with! I even saw one homeless man (or "urban camper") downtown who had his guitar and his bedroll strapped on his back.

The photo of the wall mural in the upper left shows that the city boasts that it is the "Live Music Capitol of the WORLD!". The reminder of the photos in this collage show why I am tending to agree with their claim. There was live music in the Austin City Limits retail store, in the Waterloo Records store, in the main terminal of the airport, and in the worship services (middle photo). The lower left photo even shows a guitar-strumming granny, while the lower right shows that there is even music (in the form of bagpipes!) out on the football field for a "Friday Night Lights" experience in the Austin area! In one local newspaper, I counted approximately 200 separate venues that were offering live music performances for the weekend I was there! These included everything from a Whole Foods Market grocery store, a barber shop, numerous retail establishments, dozens of food establishments and bars, theaters, and Costco (ok, so the Costco music was just supplied by random customers who wanted to try their hand at the numerous electronic musical instruments for sale there!)

So with the background I have written in the previous paragraphs, you can imagine how delighted I was to realize the dream of doing an interview with one of the up and coming bands in the Austin area---Project 11. Their website on Facebook lists their genre of music as "hybrid" and also lists the four members ( Brandon Raschke, lead guitar; Colin Tompkins, Drums & Ukulele; Thomas Cochran, guitar-vocals-mixer/producer & keyboard; and his brother Ryan Cochran, Guitar & Vocals) that comprise the band. The two that I was able to interview for this article were the Cochran brothers, and are pictured in this photo collage in their recording studio, known as "204 Underground Productions".

Their sound booth (upper left photo of collage) helps set the mellow mood for whoever is doing the vocals for a particular recording. The abundant supply of guitars of all types (upper right photo) provides inspiration for musicians specializing in strings. And so much electronics!! They don't call Austin "Silicon Hills" for nothing! There were several different kinds of microphones, keyboards, computers, mobile devices, and dual screen monitors for music software applications! All the electronics I saw made me better understand the advertisement for AMD that I heard on the Austin City Limits ( http://www.acl-live.com/ ) show, that said "Technology designed to amplify the creative genius of musicians!". There is plenty of creative genius going on with the musicians at the "204 Underground Productions" studio!

This photo shows younger brother Thomas Cochran working on new releases/song ideas in the studio. It seems that throughout the time I visited with him, he always had something music-related either in his hands, or somewhere in a pocket of his clothing!

Lest the reader think that Project 11 band members, are one-sided with no other interests, I included a photo of older Cochran brother, Ryan, at his high school football game (photo on left), AND baking up a delicious panini sandwich for the interviewer! In addition, both brothers are active on their debate team at school.

The Cochran brothers tried to help provide material for my article about Austin by giving me a tour of various highlights of the area, especially around the campus of the University of Texas. It seems sympbols of Longhorns are everywhere there---from bronzed sculptures, to bus stops, to store fronts, to street signs, to coffee advertisements, and even in the form of crochet!! Since the author was "born and bred" in Razorback country, all these Longhorn symbols brought back many memoires of days gone by, when the Longhorns and Razorbacks were in the same college football league----what a rivalry we had!!!

Fortunately, however, rivalry was not seen between members of the Project 11 Band! I had the opportunity to not only hear some of them play their instruments "live" (pronounced with a long ' i ' ), but also spend time with them where they "live" (pronounced with a short ' i ' ). They were a wonderful example of the truth of the verse in Psalms 133:1 that says "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!" If you would like to follow the careers of these guys, you can check out their Facebook information. If you would like to plan you very own trip to experience the live music scene in Austin, just log onto http://www.austintexas.org/ . Miles of musical smiles! Tricia

Expedition to "The Smokies"

2011-10-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

The "Old Mill" shown in this photograph is often used as the image to be synonymous with the town of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Part of the reason is that the mill has been around about the same amount of time as the town itself (it is the only structure in Pigeon Forge listed on the National Register of Historic Places). . The Pigeon Forge Mill was once part of a small industrial complex that included the iron forge for which the city was named, since it is located along the North Fork of the Little Pigeon River. After the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park a few miles to the south in 1934, Pigeon Forge gradually evolved into a tourist boom town, and the mill became a popular stop for passing tourists.

The mill was originally used to grind grain, and still does. Shoppers can go inside the mill and take a tour of the grinding processes, as well as buy a package of the products produced there (upper left photo). A variety of shopping experiences have been added to the area around the mill in recent years. This includes a pottery store, complete with potters working at their wheels (upper right hand photo), as well as a great place to spend your candy "calorie allowance", on delicious homemade treats, that you were able to watch being created. The mill area is also the headquarters for the excellent public transportation system that traverses the area, in the form of colorful, old-fashioned style trolleys (lower photo). For a mere 25 cents, one can ride the trolley for miles and miles along their designated routes!

You may not think something from the Middle East would be seen in the center of the USA, but you would be wrong! In front of The Miracle Theater along the Pigeon Forge main highway, one can take a camel ride!! And when you get inside the theater, you may recognize the very camel that you rode---up on the stage, being a part of a Broadway-style production about the life of Jesus!

In a town that has the word "pigeon" in its name, it is not surprising to see that there are plenty of pigeons flying around, eager to eat out of the hand of any tourist with the patience to stand still for a flock of the birds to descend upon them (top photo). The food also supports a healthy population of ducks that provides hours of entertainment to young and old alike (bottom photos), along the Little Pigeon River.

There is never a bad time to visit The Smokies, but fall is especially popular because of the beauty of the leaves changing color, and the numerous harvest festivals in surrounding communities. For details, you can click on www.gatlinburg-tn.com to start planning your trip to this incredibly scenic area.

Autumn is also a wonderful time to explore the numerous hiking trails located throughout the national park. This photo collage shows that you can even complete a section of the famous Appalachian Trail during your visit . Near the location where these photos were taken, is a spot where you can have one foot in North Carolina, and one foot in Tennessee. When you are back home, you can brag to your friends that you walked from Tennessee to North Carolina, while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Hiking trail maps (as well as loads of other helpful information) are available at www.stayandplayinthesmokies.com .

Located adjacent to the Tennessee entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is the small town of Gatlinburg. As this photograph shows, the city does a terrific job of displaying seasonal harvest themes throughout the town. Gatlinburg has been greatly influenced by the opening of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. When the park opened in 1934, it was a community of about 600 individuals. But in 1935, an estimated 500,000 visitors had passed through the city. From 1940 to 1950, the cost of land in Gatlinburg increased from $50 to $8,000 per acre. Those trends continue today, and the area must consistently re-adapt to accommodate the growing number of tourists. The town of Gatlinburg has the only snow ski park in Tennessee, making the area a four-season tourist destination.

One of the shops in downtown Gatlinburg caught my eye, because of its name. The phrase "God's Corner" challenged me to examine my life to ask myself if I only give God a "corner" of the"rooms" of my life, or is he located "throughout the house" of my life. It reminded me to actually live the mission statement verse of the healthy living classes I participate in ( www.FirstPlace4Health.com ) that says "Seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33 . Hope you will use this beautiful fall season to get outside and explore God's amazing creation that is surrounding you. Miles of smiles! Tricia

A JAPANESE (garden) EXPEDITION!

2011-09-25T14:03:00.000-07:00

If one would like to learn more about Japanese culture, but an overseas trip to that country is not on your schedule, how about exploring a Japanese garden instead? I had the opportunity to visit the Japanese garden at Cheekwood ( www.Cheekwood.org ) in Nashville, Tennessee, this past week, where I photographed their garden, and followed up with a "crash course" from Wikipedia, to give me a better understanding of this lovely art form. Several years ago I took the training to be a Master Gardener in Arkansas, but never progressed much past the classroom, in terms of putting my new knowledge into practice. Fortunately, however, there are highly-trained landscape gardeners who successfully manage to create a landscape that captures the essence of a Japanese garden. The stone lantern shown in this photograph, is typical of what one normally sees in a Japanese garden, and often are thought of as the "symbol" of such a place.

The Cheekwood space had the typical entrance gate, where the visitor is to leave the cares of the world behind.

Then there is the stepping stone path, where one prepares for spiritual renewal. Parts of the path are intentionally hidden to give a sense of discovery. It is uneven to focus attention on the journey.

A Japanese garden is said to be an artistic expression of the essence of nature, where the form, dimension, and arrangement of every element is meant to have a spiritual meaning. The purpose of the garden is to provide an opportunity to connect with nature and one's inner self. (According to the Cheekwood placard placed near the entrance to the garden).

From the viewing pavilion within the garden, one contemplates an abstraction of nature in the dry lake---encircled by hills---with every stone, lantern, and plant carefully placed.

The enclosure or "framing" provided by the hedges, walls, and bamboo grove is intended to create a feeling of security.

The pebbles of the dry lake are carefully raked to give a simulation of water and waves.

Although Japanese gardens have evolved over the last 1300 years, it is still accurate to say that the primary purpose of a Japanese garden is to create an oasis of serenity, and a place for meditation and contemplation. Although one might think these are only aspects of Eastern religions, there are plenty of places in the Bible where those qualities are encouraged. In the New Testament, we are told that Jesus retreated to a garden to pray; and in the Old Testament, Psalms 46:10 instructs us to "Be still, and know that I am God...." . It is very easy to neglect taking this quite time in today's hectic world, so I am thankful that there are places all around us (even if it is not a lovely Japanese garden!) where we can "BE STILL" and feel the presence of God. Miles of smiles! Tricia

Buffalo National River Expedition

2011-09-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

The well-equipped Tyler Bend Pavilion (top photo) was the location where dozens of volunteers, representing various area service organizations, gathered to participate in the National Day of Service and Remembrance on September 11( www.nationalservice.org ) After opening remarks remembering all those who died on September 11, 2001, the groups received their safety instructions and equipment they would need to do a trash pick-up in, and along, the Buffalo National River. The group I was with---the North Central Chapter of the Arkansas Master Naturalists---is shown in the bottom photograph. Our mission was to cover the stretch of river between Tyler Bend and Gilbert, Arkansas.

One of the factors making this volunteer effort possible, was the donation of the use of all the canoes, life jackets, and paddles by the nearby river concession-operator, known as Silverhill Canoe ( www.silverhillcanoe.com ) It was a VERY generous gesture on their part, and greatly appreciated.

The Buffalo National River is famous for the tall and colorful limestone bluffs that border this very scenic float.

In this photo, one of our members is telling us about the "fern fall" that is growing out of the moist cracks in the bluff above her head.

Unless they are covered up by high water, several of the limestone bluffs have overhangs above the river, forming shallow "caves", as shown in the top photo of this collage. The paddler in the bottom photo is using the overhang to get a bit of shade from an otherwise, bright sunny day.

In this collage, the top photo shows some of our members pointing out the location of some fossils they learned about from a "geology float" they had taken earlier in the year. The bottom photo shows the foot-long nautiloid fossils easily visible on the bluffs there. These ancient organisms had long, cone-shaped, segmented shells and wavy tentacles. To see more photos from the geology float, go to www.home.arkansasmasternaturalists.org, and click on "Geology float".

After seeing the incredibly beautiful scenery of the Buffalo National River on this day, I was thankful to be part of a group that is working to keep it clean. Since the GLAD Bag Company donated the trash pickup sacks, it seems appropriate to say that the floating and fellowship certainly made us paddlers GLAD---similar to what is described in Psalm 46:4 that says "There is a river whose streams make GLAD the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells." If YOU would like to "get GLAD" as well, try becoming a volunteer in God's great outdoors!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

A "Seedy" Expedition

2011-09-08T13:45:00.000-07:00

When I refer to this as a "seedy" expedition, I am not referring to the definition of seedy that means "squalid"; rather, to the definition of seedy that means "full of seeds". This post is about an expedition you can take in Southern Missouri that is all about seeds! The first "seedy" place I want to tell you about is called the Bakersville Pioneer Village. This farm and pioneer village is in the beautiful Ozark hills, near the town of Mansfield, Missouri (See my blog post from August 14, 2010, for more information on visiting Mansfield).

The pioneer village contains gardens, pastures, an old-time mercantile store, herbal apothecary, natural bakery, garden museum, blacksmith shop, a Western jail, a native-rock oven, and a windmill.

The kids,especially, like the fact that they can see some "historic" livestock, like the sheep and pony shown here.

This "storybook-looking" building is also on the property, and never fails to bring a smile to folks who observe its unconventional construction methods. The owners say the decor seen around the village comes from years of collecting sickles, churns, washboards, old movie posters, horse collars, etc., etc.,! And the best part is that looking at all this stuff is free entertainment for you (except for the two days each May when the Spring Planting Festival is taking place). There is also a cafe on the premises where you can purchase a healthy lunch on weekdays. You can find out their exact hours of operation, get directions, and see the seed varieties they have available by clicking on their website, http://www.rareseeds.com/

The Bakersville Pioneer Village all got started around the original seed store, called the Baker Creek Seed Store. The owners of the seed store, Jere and Emilee Gettle, says seeds are their actual business, but their Bakersville Pioneer Village is more a "labor of love". And the seeds they sell are VERY SPECIAL!! Their advertisements say that they sell only pure, non-hybrid, non-GMO, non-treated and non-patented seeds. They say they are NOT members of the pro-GMO American Seed Trade Organization. Rather they work with a network of about 50 small farmers, gardeners, and seed growers to provide the selection of over 1300 varieties of fine seeds, they have available in their actual store at Baker Creek, and on their website store.

The next "seedy" place I want to tell you about is the Ozark Seed Bank, located in the "don't-blink-or-you-will-miss-it" community of Brixey, in south-central Missouri. I was going there for a meeting, had the address set in my GPS, and STILL managed to miss it, because I glanced to the opposite side of the road for a split second! The white structure, which has a very typical architecture for this area of the Ozarks, has been there for decades. Buildings such as this have been used for schools, churches, community centers, polling places, and whatever else a group of locals might need. The Ozark Seed Bank website states that their mission is to research, cultivate and conserve indigenous and non-native plants, and disseminate information on their potential benefits. They use the main floor of their building for monthly educational events, that serve as a gathering place for local farmers and gardeners interested in sustainable agriculture, biodiversity and plant protection. You can find out about volunteering to conduct a seed trial in your garden or farm by clicking on their website www.one-garden.org/ or phoning 417-679-1003.

The building's lower floor contains their climate-controlled seed vault that stores over 300 varieties of culinary and medicinal plant seeds. One of the special ladies that keep this very worthwhile organization in operation is shown in this photo, holding her container of seedy treasure! I am very thankful that organizations like the Ozark Seed Bank and Baker Creek Seed Company are out there with the mission of not only preserving heirloom seeds, but also educating folks on their importance. There is such a disconnect today between the food one buys at the megamart, and the seed from which it came. This is significant not only for education about the physical environment, but also, education about the spiritual realm, as well. There are so many references to seed in the Bible, that are absolutely meaningless to many of today's younger generation, because they have never grown anything from seed, and were not really even aware that food comes from seed! The Parable of the Sower that Jesus told in Matthew 13:3-9 is an excellent example. Having an understanding of the principles of sowing seed will help us see the importance of understanding what Jesus meant when He said "Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop---a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. " SOOoooooo, if you would like for your annual leaf-peeping drive to have a "destination" this year, meander your way through the Ozarks, and go on a "seedy" expedition!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

REMEMBERING SEPTEMBER 11

2011-09-06T14:42:00.000-07:00

As we approach the ten year anniversary of the day our country was attacked by terrorists----often called " 9/11 " ----I am reminded that the date of September 11 has been significant in my family's history, long before the September 11, 2001, attacks. That is because my family's history is intertwined with the attack on September 11, 1857, of the Baker-Fancher wagon train, that left Arkansas earlier that year, on its way to California. In that attack, approximately 120 men, women, and children were murdered. However, there were 17 children (all under age 7) who were spared. One of these orphans was returned to Arkansas, and taken in by ancestors in my family, who raised her as their own daughter.

The wagon train camped along the banks of Crooked Creek, near Harrison, Arkansas. The group then proceeded westward, to camp on another night, in the area known as Carrollton. Anyone who has driven Highway 412 between Harrison and Huntsville, Arkansas has passed through the tiny community of Carrollton. Although you may not have seen it, there is a church (now listed on the National Register of Historic Places), just off the highway, with a cemetery next to it. Adjacent to the church, a special memorial was erected in 2005. It was designed to be a replica of the U.S. Army's original 1859 cairn that was at the Mountain Meadows Massacre site in Utah. For decades, at our annual family reunion, I would hear the story told about the Mountain Meadows Massacre, and efforts that were taking place to get the site turned into a national monument, rather than a location owned and controlled by the Mormon church. This goal was realized just this year, and the announcement was made at our family reunion in July, 2011, the Mountain Meadows Massacre site is now designated as a National Historic Landmark.

I was glad to get to visit the site, so close to where I live, and thankful that the Mountain Meadows Monument Foundation is maintaining this location for posterity. As this photo shows, the cemetery adjacent to the church is very old, and a stroll through it, reading the dates on the tombstones if quite interesting. I also had the opportunity to visit the actual Mountain Meadows Massacre site in Utah, in 1999, when my husband and I made a motorcycle trip out west. We rode for what seemed like hours in rural Utah, trying to find the memorial site that we had read was just completed earlier in the year of 1999. We stopped at several places to ask for directions, but when I would ask (with my usual Arkansas drawl) "How do you get to the Mountain Meadows Massacre Memorial?", all I would get would be a blank stare and a shrug of the shoulders. Finally, one young woman, who was a waitress at a cafe in the area, said "I don't know about a Mountain Meadow Massacre site, but I can tell you how to get to Mountain Meadow". It was my first clue, that the word "massacre" was not included in their history of the area! You can see a photograph of the Utah site, as we saw it when we visited in 1999, by going to www.wikipedia.org and typing "Mountain Meadow Massacre" into the search box. The information provided there is a fairly reliable synopsis of the historical events, attempted cover-up, and progress toward resolution of the issues involved. It will link you to numerous sites for more detailed analysis of what took place during those days in September of 1857.

There have been volumes written about the Mountain Meadows Massacre, and the book shown in the top of this photo collage was the first one I read that went into great detail about the events of September 11, 1857. I also was able to attend a showing of a documentary about the Mountain Meadows Massacre at the historic Lyric Theater in Harrison, Arkansas. The film was very well done, and was awarded as the "Best of State" for the Utah 2004 Film Festival. The cover for that video is shown in the bottom two photos of the collage (http://www.buryingthepast.com/ ) I can also recommend the excellent website, www.mtn-meadows-assoc.com/ for further study. Being familiar with the tremendous amount of controversy involved in memorializing the location where around 120 people were murdered, it is not surprising that there is controversy regarding memorializing the site in New York City where thousands of innocent people were murdered. Yet rather than despair over the events of the past, involving 9/11, I suggest going to Psalm 91:1 for comfort. It says "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." We can be confident that, as verse 2 goes on to say "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Despite the world problems that rage around us, if we put our trust in God, we can still be confident of "miles of smiles"!! Tricia

Canopy Tour

2011-09-03T08:33:00.000-07:00

When I googled the phrase "Canopy Tour", there were 1,520,000 results!! Although I did not check out every single reference, my estimate is that most of those references dealt with the kind of Canopy Tour shown in this photograph. In the past decade, I have come to think of a Canopy Tour, as a trip through the treetops of a forest, largely because of the publicity received, when such tours started being offered in Costa Rica and other similar forests. The one in this photograph is actually at the Ferndale Center, near Little Rock, Arkansas. The tour was a part of a course I was taking there, called "Becoming an Outdoor Woman".

Another kind of canopy is the type shown in this photograph, that is a square of fabric, used to cover areas, such as this beautiful, Southern California outdoor patio.

Yet another type of canopy is the "canopy of shade" that this wooden arbor provides. This particular canopy is in that gorgeous neighborhood of Southern California, that I recently had the opportunity to spend time in. Because one of the areas in that neighborhood was called "Canopy", it got me to thinking about all the images that come to mind when one hears that word.

I called this post a "Canopy Tour", because, all but the first of the photos were taken on my recent visit to Southern California, that required me to put the word "Canopy" into my mapquest! The arbor pictured in the previous photo, is shown again here, from the bottom of the hill which it presides over in the "Canopy Neighborhood".

This expansive park that the neighborhood is blessed with, is just minutes from the Pacific Ocean---a definite plus, if you are a fan of going to the beach! On the day this photo was taken of me at the neighborhood park, I was content to be a "land lubber", and simply enjoy strolling on the well-maintained walking trails!

The glass roof shown in this photo forms a canopy of weather protection to the palm trees and people beneath it. What is above that glass roof canopy is even more wondrous! Isaiah 40:22 makes this statement about God's creation: "He stretches out the heavens like a canopy, and spreads them out like a tent to live in." I am thankful for the expeditions I have been able to take under the canopy God created, as well as expeditions involving the man-made canopies I visited in Southern California!! Hope you will keep on exploring all the amazing experiences YOU can have under God's canopy! Miles of smiles!! Tricia

Back to School Expedition

2011-08-31T08:11:00.000-07:00

It is September, and the marketing media has bombarded us with the phrase "Back to School", throughout its print, radio, and TV advertising campaigns. However, ever since my visit last year to the beautiful place shown on the photograph, hearing the phrase "Back to School", takes my mind "Back to Schoolhouse Beach"! I think one thing that makes Schoolhouse Beach so memorable to me, was the difficulty involved in getting there: Automobile drive to Branson Airport; flight to Milwaukee, Wisconsin; car rental in Milwaukee for drive several hours north to Door County, Wisconsin; boarding a ferry across Lake Michigan to Washington Island; boarding a tram on Washington Island that gave a circle tour of all that beautiful place had to offer---in particular, the memorable Schoolhouse Beach!!

There are lots of things about Schoolhouse Beach that make it memorable, not the least of which was the $250 fine PER ROCK, for removing any of their unusual beach stones, as warned in the sign at the bottom of this collage.

Even though we were not supposed to put any of the stones in our pocket to take home as a souvenir, kids (and adults, too!), were welcome to pick up the stones to toss into the water, to see if they could make them "skip" across the surface , in the age-old tradition of such activities. You might say that little children is how the beach got its name. That is because, in the mid 1800's, a log schoolhouse was built at the location, to educate the children of the hearty folks who inhabited Washington Island in those days. I found these words, written by Norbert Blei, on the Washington Island website (www.washingtonisland-wi.com ) that eloquently expressed my thoughts about the rocks on this beach: "Pick me up. Let me make a home in your hand. What purity of shape. Touch and feel. (But do not take, under penalty of fine.) Run your fingers around the smoothness, the satisfaction of being nothing more than stone. The wonder of white glowing within. Not another one like me in sight. Drop me, throw me elsewhere on the beach with a clack. Or pass me into the hands of a small child, to toss, to skip back to the blue waters where I was born. And will slowly make my way back to Schoolhouse Beach for generations to come, where historically, naturally I belong.....in that garden of white stone."

In addition to the activities suggested in the quote above, visitors can create whatever sculptures they wanted to, and leave them there for the next group of visitors to admire. I speculated that whoever made this design was familiar with the Canadian province that has a similar symbol on its flag.

The first time I saw a stack of rocks like this one was in near-by Canada, and I was told it was an ancient tradition of the native American tribes to place markers similar to this, along their trails, to identify locations. So you might think of this design as a precursor to our bright green signs and "mile marker signs", seen on Interstate highways in North America!

It took a lot of storms and wave action to smooth out these limestone rocks to make them the shiny, white sculptures they are today. The heart-shaped rock shown in this photo, made me think of the Bible verse that says, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." (Ezekiel 36:26 NIV) I am thankful that through lots of storms and "wave action" in my own life, God is, slowly but surely, removing my heart of stone, and giving me a new heart and a new spirit! (Disclaimer: PBPWMGINFWMY! That is a reminder to: Please Be Patient With Me. God Is Not Finished With Me Yet! ) Now it is time for YOU to take a "Back to School Expedition"!! What do YOU think of when you hear that phrase??? Miles of smiles! Tricia

Crystal Cove State Park

2011-08-15T15:22:00.000-07:00

Labor Day Weekend is often considered the unofficial end of summer, and time to pack away one's beach gear until the next season. However, there is a very special beach I was able to visit recently, that is popular year-round, and has a steady stream of activities, regardless of the season. I am speaking of the beach at Crystal Cove State Park, that is located between Laguna Beach on the south, and Newport Beach on the north, in beautiful Southern California. The top photo of this collage shows the logos of the two non-profit organizations that have made this possible. The bottom left photo shows a wheel chair with balloon tires, designed especially for use on the sandy beach, and is a reminder for me to mention that Crystal Cove State Park has several wheel-chair accessible activities, including a handicap-equipped, overnight rental cottage. The photo on the right is a reminder for me to mention, that there is a bus that takes visitors from the parking lot, across Pacific Coast Highway, and down into the ocean side, beach part of the state park.

The cottages at Crystal Cove started being built in the late 1920's and 1930's, and continued for the next couple of decades. The land was originally owned by the Irvine Company, which owned most of the area's coastal ranch lands. It was sold to the state of California in 1979, for preservation as a state park. Those who lived in the cottages (called "Covites" by the locals) could do so until 2001. At that time, the state awarded a private developer the rights, and a sixty year lease, to turn the cottages into a luxury resort. However, a certain third-generation "Covite" resisted the plan, and proposed an alternate plan, which "won out" in 2003. As a result, 22 of the cottages have been restored and are available for rental. This photo shows one of the cottages, with the top photo showing the plaque proudly displayed on its porch, and the bottom showing a view of the front of the cottages, that faces out onto the Pacific Ocean.

Even if you are not able to get an overnight rental cottage at Crystal Cove, be sure to at least try the Beachcomber Cafe located there. As the top photo indicates, they serve ice cream, burgers, sandwiches, and cold drinks. The view they have of the ocean is stunning!

In 1979, the Crystal Cove district was listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and that is also the year the land was sold to the state of California, to be used as a park. The placard shown in this photo is an illustration of placards located through the large park, to help visitors understand the rich history of the area. Part of that history includes the making of the 1988 movie, Beaches, with Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey. If you are like me, you may not remember the movie, but I bet you will remember its theme song---You Are the Wind Beneath My Wings--- which won a Grammy Award.

This photo shows the difference between a state park beach and the beach of a luxury resort. If you will recall the photos you have seen of beachfront resorts, they most likely had matching lounge chairs, lined up in perfectly straight rows, with matching beach umbrellas, matching towels, and matching tropical drinks. That is definitely NOT what you will find at Crystal Cove State Park! If you would like to learn more about renting a cottage here, check out http://www.crystalcovebeachcottages.org/ for instructions, along with links to other interesting attractions in the area.

The group I was with for the visit to Crystal Cove State Park is shown in this photograph. Everyone was studying their map of the park, to dream about which cottage THEY would like to rent, and, exactly which cottage was the one where the movie Beaches was filmed. As we visited the park, we felt the wind against our faces, saw the surfers riding the roaring waves, and listened to the sounds, as the waves crashed against the beach. It brings to mind Psalm 93:4 that says "The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea." That reminds me to be certain that I am relying on the LORD as the "wind beneath MY wings"!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Santa Anita Park Expedition

2011-08-13T14:12:00.000-07:00

On a recent trip to Southern California, I had the opportunity for a return visit to Santa Anita Park. Santa Anita is a thoroughbred racetrack in Arcadia, California. My previous visit there was as a guest of someone who had a box seat to watch the races, and who also knew statistics about the horses that were running that day. On my visit to the park last week, there were no races scheduled, but that in no way means that the park was closed down. It is a year-round operation for training and boarding horses, as well as a site for catering special events. There is also a food-service operation, called "Clockers", that is open to the public (lower right photo), and seemed to be doing a booming business, selling coffee and breakfast meals, on the day I was there. Considering the park's close proximity to the Hollywood film industry, it is not surprising that the facilities there have been used in the filming of many movies. For example, Santa Anita's vast parking lot and exterior served as the entrance facade for the fictional "Wally World" in National Lampoon's Vacation movie. That art deco-designed facade and grandstand (lower left photo of collage) has been designated as a historic landmark. That is because it was opened in 1934, and has---for the most part---been in operation ever since it opened, although not always for horse racing. For example, during the 1942-1944 period of World War II, Santa Anita was used as a Japanese American internment center, with up to 17,000 people living in the horse stables.

I was delighted to have the opportunity to tour the "behind the scenes" part of Santa Anita that contains the stables and other support buildings for maintaining horses. If one plans ahead, they too can take a peek at the stables area by signing up for the free, guided "Sea Biscuit Tour" that is offered at the park. The lower photo of this collage shows the tram that transports visitors on the Sea Biscuit Tour, on the multi-acre area that comprises the stables location. For those who may have forgotten, Seabiscuit is the name of a VERY FAMOUS thoroughbred race horse that is closely associated with Santa Anita Park(he raced there eleven times) and Santa Anita history. In fact, Santa Anita is known as the "Home of Seabiscuit", and there is a life-size statue of him in the paddock area of the park. Of course, the tour includes a visit to the statue, several filming locations for the movie, as well as to the "Champions" gift shop at the park, where one can find all types of merchandise related to horses, and Seabiscuit in particular. Sea Biscuit was stabled in "Barn 38" (middle and upper right photo), between the years of 1937 - 1940. Seabiscuit is most famous for winning the 1940 Santa Anita Handicap race. The horse became even more of a legend during the past decade because of the extremely popular movie made about it, simply entitled "Seabiscuit". In that movie, Tobey McGuire played the jockey who rode Seabiscuit to victory .

When you take the tour of the stables area, if you are like me, you may be surprised to see automatic washing machines sitting uncovered, outside many of the stables (lower photo). Apparently training horses can be a dirty business! I was also surprised to see how some of the stables area were "dressed up" with window boxes, decorative shutters, clever signage, and flowering plants. Notice the massive size of the trunk of the tree shown in the middle photo of this collage. I learned those are called Pepper trees, and these gorgeous, shade-producing trees line the roadways throughout the stables area.

Since Santa Anita is well-suited to handle large numbers of horses, trainers, athletes, and spectators, it is not surprising to learn that it was used as the site of the equestrian events of the 1984 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. I had the good fortune to get to attend some of the equestrian events at the Summer Olympics held in Atlanta, Georgia, and those events included a lengthy bus ride to get to the somewhat rural, venue. In contrast, Santa Anita is just east of Pasadena, in a densely populated area.

When you tour the stables area, you will get to see the horse hospital (middle left photo), the "detention/holding barn", the exercise boys and girls out (lower left photo), workers washing the horses, and workers toting off straw (new straw is put down in the stables daily, and the old straw is hauled off to farms where mushrooms are grown). Every horse I saw the day of my tour, had a bit and bridle on its head. Those terms reminded me of the First Place 4 Health memory verses I have learned that try to get me to see the power of the tongue, and the difficulty that us human beings have, in trying to control it! Although our tongue is tiny in comparison to the rest of our body, what the tongue says can influence the direction that our bodies take. That is what the Bible verse in James 3:3 is trying to show us: "When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal." If you would like to learn more about Santa Anita Park, just log onto www.santaanita.com/ and trot on out to So Cal for a visit you will never forget!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Expedition Celebrating 96 Years!

2011-08-12T08:11:00.000-07:00

I had the wonderful opportunity this past week, to fly out to Los Angeles, California, to attend a very special occasion. It was an all-day event to celebrate the 96th birthday of my Aunt Charlotte. She is shown in the bottom photo of this collage, with two of her grandsons. Notice that she is walking and smiling---two of her many wonderful traits, that have contributed to her longevity. The top photo of the collage shows the giant-sized banner that was hung between two of the massive oak trees that provided a cooling canopy of shade for our group. The celebration was held in a city park in the L.A. suburb of Glendora, California, which (if you know your Route 66 history) contains several miles of that very historic, U.S. roadway. My Aunt Charlotte was alive BEFORE that famous highway was even started, and she traveled it many times on trips she would make back to Arkansas to visit relatives there.

This photo shows Aunt Charlotte's two sons and their wives. Don is on the left, and Bill is on the right. For one of her previous birthday celebrations, a family member did some research to find out just how long she had been a licensed beautician. They learned that she had been licensed in the state of California for at least 50 years, AND that she held the record for that state, of maintaining her license (required to continue working---which she did up until a few years ago) for longer than any other California beautician license-holder. Furthermore, she held the record of being the longest, continually licensed beautician of ANYONE west of the Mississippi!! That is something to be proud of!!

These are just a few of the dozens of snapshots taken at this happy occasion. The top photo shows the "Birthday Girl"; the two below that show Don's kids; the one in the center shows two of Bill's daughters; the photo to the left of that shows just a few of the grandchildren, great grandchildren, and one great, great grandchild! The photo to the right, shows some of Charlotte's nieces and nephews that were able to attend. The bottom two photos show more of her grandchildren and great grandchildren, with the one on the right representing FIVE generations!!

Trying to get a group that large, all posed for one picture, is sort of like "herding cats", but this photograph shows everyone who attended, that we could entice into the snapshot. The presence of all these people is a great tribute to the life that Aunt Charlotte has lived. She is a good example of someone who has followed the advice (and reaped the health benefits) given in Proverbs 3:7-8 (The Message) that says "Don't assume that you know it all. Run to GOD! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health, your very bones will vibrate with life!" I have gratitude in my heart for Aunt Charlotte's example, AND gratitude to all those cousins in California who worked to make this event so enjoyable ----providing me, and all who attended, with "miles of smiles"!! Tricia

Balancing Expedition

2011-07-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

Most people have seen photographs of the dramatic arch formations that give Utah's Arches National Park ( www.nps.gov/arch )its name. But equally dramatic are the towering spires, pinnacles and balanced rocks, perched atop seemingly inadequate bases. I took this photo of one of the more recognizable formations---simply called "Balanced Rock", on my last visit to the national park. There is a wheel-chair accessible, 0.3 mile, loop trail around the base of Balanced Rock. This allows people in varying degrees of fitness, and physical condition, to participate in the "expedition" to explore this example of "balanced living" in nature.

This photograph shows one of the large arches, that attracts visitors because it is relatively close to the main, paved road that winds through the park. It is easier to appreciate the size and weight of this mass of rock, when one is standing directly under it, like the person shown in the photo. It is a very delicate balance of conditions that keep this arch from falling down, and smashing whatever is beneath it. Some of the conditions that determine the stability of an arch occur over centuries. Other conditions may occur suddenly. For example, in 1991, a slab of rock about 60 feet long, 11 feet wide, and four feet thick, fell from the underside of Landscape Arch. The result was that Landscape Arch now has an even thinner ribbon of rock suspended in the sky.

Every time I have visited Arches National Park, I have been with a group of people who all had the same goal---getting to experience the beauty of this area of the Southwest (our motor coach is shown in this photo). The group became like family---looking out for one another, pointing out particularly scenic vistas or wildlife, directing fellow travelers away from potential hazards, and other things that made the expedition more enjoyable.

I was reminded of this photograph of Balanced Rock at Arches National Park because the title of the 2011 Fall Session of FBC's First Place 4 Health class, is called "Balanced Living". We live in a time when it is increasingly difficult to achieve this elusive state, called "balanced living". There is so much talk in the news about achieving a "balanced budget" for the U.S. economy, and a "balanced budget" in our personal finances, that sometimes the process of "balanced living" to achieve a healthier lifestyle, gets put on the back burner, where we deny there is a problem, and "pretend" that all is well. But that is a false balance. There is a verse in the book of wisdom (Proverbs 11:1) that says "A false balance is abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is his delight." However, just like the weight of the massive arch towering over the person in the photo, the weight of the world often seems to tower over us, as we seek to achieve balance in our life. One of the great things about the First Place 4 Health classes, is the group setting. Just like being part of a group on the Arches National Park expedition made the experience more enjoyable and more successful, being a part of a First Place 4 Health group can make the expedition toward a healthier lifestyle more enjoyable and successful. And just like the expedition to Balance Rock provided for various levels of fitness and conditioning, so the First Place 4 Health classes provide for various levels of fitness and conditioning. If you would like to learn more about this upcoming "Balanced Living Expedition", plan on attending the Orientation/Registration meeting at First Baptist Church, 400 Club Boulevard, on Wednesday, August 31, at 5:45 pm. You can also learn more about the program in general, by clicking on their website, http://www.firstplace4health.com/. For details about the Mountain Home classes, you can email me at triciaturnerfirstplace@yahoo.com . I hope you will join me on this "Balanced Living Expedition"!! Miles of smiles!! Tricia

Historic Railroad Expedition

2011-07-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

Whether you live in the Ozarks, or happen to be a tourist here, there is a wonderful attraction in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, that is well worth a visit. It is the ES &NA Railway---The initials stand for Eureka Springs and North Arkansas Railway. There are lots of historic railways around the U.S., but only a limited number have been able to keep operating year after year, to give their customers a glimpse of a bygone era in travel. I took this photo of my grand kids, Kaitlyn and Jacob, pictured with the Conductor of our train, on a visit we made to the ES & NA location earlier this week. The train engine that the kids are standing on, is one of many locomotives and rail cars that are on display on the grounds of the train depot. The management told us we could explore any of the old equipment that we wanted to, so Kaitlyn and Jacob had climbed up to perform a rendition of a "Do the Locomotion" dance, when the conductor walked by, and agreed to pose for a photograph with the kids. We later found out that this conductor, was a walking, talking encyclopedia of all things relating to trains. He kept us entertained on our trip with a plethora of train facts and history, that I found to be very interesting!

Photography is such fun around antique train equipment, and the grand kids did not complain a bit about all the pictures I wanted to take of them with the historic "photo props". At one point, we all three had climbed up to the roof of an abandoned rail car, and I imagined filming one of those chase scenes from a movie, where the performers were running along the top of a moving train. (Note to the parents: I was only imagining this---your kids did not REALLY chase each other on top of the rail cars!) Speaking of "filming", nine-year-old Jacob did a great job filming video (on his new camera) of the train engine, as it maneuvered into place to hook up with the passenger car that would carry us on our trip.

One advantage of being atop a parked rail car however, is the added height it gives you for viewing a scene. The top photo of this collage shows a good view of another locomotive, with the train depot in the background. This depot has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places ever since 1979, long before the grand kids were born! It was built in 1912 and an Arkansas Heritage publication lists it, as the one of the state's most elaborate applications of the Italianate style of architecture. The inside of the rail car that we rode in (lower photo) maintains the atmosphere of an antique rail car by having the windows up, and the old-fashioned ceiling fans adding to the breeze, that passengers feel, as they roll down the track. And in keeping with the design feature of rail cars in those days, your seat back would shift the direction it faced, which came in handy, when the engine of the train switched from the north end of the rail car to the south end.

When we arrived to the midway point of our excursion, the train conductor had a great diversion to occupy our time while the engine was unhooked from the north end of the rail car, and moved to the south end of the rail car. The conductor directed us to get out of the train, and gather along side the track. He then proceeded to give instructions on how we could take one of our coins, spit heavily onto the bottom side of it, lay it on the shiny part of the track (not the rusted part of the track, because rust meant that the train wheel did not touch that part of the track), step back several feet from the track, watch the train engine go over it, and then pick it up (after waiting a few moments to let it cool down.) The top right photo shows Kaitlyn and Jacob carefully placing their coins for this "experiment". The lower photo shows what a quarter looks like before, and after, a locomotive has rolled over it. It was a good example of why you sometimes hear folks who are feeling badly, say "I feel like I have been run over by a freight train." It is an expression that the Apostle Paul might have used (if trains had been invented two thousand years ago) when he said "Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea, I have been constantly on the move. I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers. I have labored and known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked." (2 Corinthians 11:25 - 28) He was telling this story to show how he had come to totally rely on the strength of God to get him through the tough times, not just his own power. Hopefully, we won't have to get "run over by a freight train" to come to the realization that God's grace is enough; God's strength comes into its own, in our weakness. The only thing that needs to be smashed flat, like that quarter in the photo, is my own ego! If you would like to perform this "freight train and smashed coin" experiment for yourself, just log on to www.esnarailway.com, to plan your visit. Besides the sight-seeing only excursions, the ES & NA Railway also offers a dining car experience, as well as an on-site food concession, gift shop, historic depot interior, and clean restrooms. So grab your striped overalls, bandannas, and engineer's cap, for miles of "choo-choo" smiles, on a historic railroad ride! Tricia

Wilson's Creek Battle to be Re-enacted

2011-07-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

In case you missed the Civil War Encampment Re-enactment shown in these 4 photographs (held in conjunction with the July 2, 2011, Parrish-Raley Reunion at Diamond City, Arkansas), you will have another opportunity to visit one in the Ozarks! That is because there is a HUGE re-enactment of the Battle of Wilson's Creek, just outside Springfield, Missouri, that is scheduled for August 12 - 14, 2011.

Whereas the Diamond City Re-enactment had two military personnel, and one civilian re-enactor, the upcoming event near Wilson's Creek National Battlefield, will have hundreds more participating. In fact, when the re-enactment of Wilson's Creek battle was staged in 1991, there were 2,000 re-enactors participating, and 30,000 spectators. It is estimated that there will be even more participants this year, since it is the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War.

In this photo, the re-enactor is demonstrating to observers, the type of firearms that were used during the Civil War period. The Wilson's Creek event will have both a Confederate camp of soldiers, and a Union camp of soldiers. At designated times, there will be replays of the battle scenes, including the firing of cannons. Hopefully, modern-day students of history can be reminded of the terrible consequences of brother fighting against brother, and the United States of America will never again experience the type of human carnage that occurred during that sad part of our history. When spectators view the hundreds of lifeless-looking bodies strewn out on the field after the mock battle is concluded, they will better understand the words of Jesus in Matthew 12:25 (NLT) that says "Any kingdom divided by civil war is doomed. A town or family splintered by feuding will fall apart."

These re-enactors (left to right: Gene Waters, Retired Judge Roger Logan, and Kevin Middleton) wore the attire that might be seen on soldiers and civilians of the 1861 - 1865 time period. Likewise, the Wilson's Creek Re-enactment weekend includes a fashion show of period costumes, plus they will stage a wedding, as it might have occurred and looked during the Civil War. In addition, there will be history exhibits and vendors selling authentic Civil War goods. Of course, there will also be some modern concessions, that will include souvenirs, food, and beverage vendors. Although a fee is charged to be a spectator at the Wilson's Creek Re-enactment, all the proceeds go to benefit the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation, and will also cover your admission into the museum operated by the National Park Service. To find out more, log onto www.WilsonsCreek150.com and plan to take advantage of this opportunity. Bring the kids, too! In the words of the ancient philosopher, Cicero----"To not know what happened before you were born, is to remain forever a child." So get out there and have miles of blue and gray smiles! Tricia

Laumeier Sculpture Park Expedition

2011-07-12T07:33:00.000-07:00

Although I have driven by the sign on Interstate 44 near St. Louis dozens of times, it wasn't until my most recent trip to that lovely city, that I took the exit that leads to Laumeier Sculpture Park. I am really glad that I did, because it is a lovely place of 105 acres to explore and discover new vistas. The complex showcases the outdoor collection of over 72 sculptures, available to the public year round. Many of the sculptures are in wide-open spaces, like the one shown in this photo. Such locations provide a wonderful way for families or individuals to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. In fact , the stated mission of the Laumeier Sculpture Park, is to initiate a lifelong process of cultural awareness, enrich lives, and encourage creative thinking by actively engaging people in experiences of sculpture and nature, simultaneously. Plus, it had two things I especially liked: It is free of charge AND, you can take photos of the outdoor sculptures, as long as your photos are not for commercial purposes. I am sensitive to the photography issue, because one time I was scolded by a security guard in an outdoor sculpture garden in San Francisco, for taking a photograph of a Henry Moore sculpture on display. It seemed ridiculous to me, but I put away my camera for the San Francisco experience, so as not to be a troublemaker.

Besides the wide open spaces that Laumeier contains, it also has many wooded acres; there is a nature trail through the woods, that contains various types of sculptures along the trail. Two of these unusual sculptures are shown in this photo collage. I didn't get to walk the entire trail, as parts had been flooded out from heavy rains the previous night. Since Laumeier partners with the St. Louis County Parks in maintaining its grounds, work had already started to get the trails back in shape for visitors.

The upper left photo of this collage shows the original Laumeier house, made of cut stone. It now serves as the office, gift shop, rest rooms and art gallery that showcases various special exhibits they host. The exhibit that was on display when I was there were paintings showing how humans interact with their domesticated pets. This went along with a promotion currently going on called "Dog Days of Summer". The event includes a monthly "Yappy Hour" that included refreshments (for both dogs and humans), and a NEW, artist-created trail designed to be experienced from the dogs' perspective. And of course, there are dispensers throughout the park of the plastic sacks a dog owner needs to pick up any little "souvenirs" their dogs leave on the lovely grounds. Also, located on the grounds are picnic tables, park benches, and explanations of each piece of sculpture that one is looking at. Likewise, maps are available in the museum shop.

When I saw this sculpture of a giant eye peeking above the hillside, my mind immediately started humming the old gospel song that says "His eye is on the sparrow, and I know he watches me." (That verse is based on Matthew 6:26 "Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?" ) I think it is very comforting to know that no matter what is going on in your life, you can be sure that the "Eye of God" is looking at you, and wanting the best for you. To plan your visit to the Laumeier Sculpture Park, log on to www.laumeier.org and for more FANTASTIC (and many free) things to do in that same area, visit www.explorestlouis.com . Miles of smiles!! Tricia

America----What a country!!

2011-06-29T15:23:00.000-07:00

(Editor's Note: I originally wrote these words in 2004, as part of a class assignment, when I was attending a writing workshop in Oregon, sponsored by the "Becoming an Outdoor Woman" program. I later found out that the giant flag I was seeing from miles away, is in the small town of Dorris, California. The plaque at the base of the Dorris monument says that when the flagpole was erected, it was the tallest flagpole west of the Mississippi River! I am adding this post to my blog at this time, in recognition of our country's celebration of another birthday on July 4, 2011 )

I was speeding along U.S. Highway 97 in California, going north into Oregon, in eager anticipation of seeing my son, Grover. The factory-fresh smell of the new Ford Focus was still strong inside the vehicle. It was the first time I'd ever driven a car that only had three miles on its odometer. Hertz had granted me one of their brand-spanking new rentals, and I was glad it was the so-called "economy" size, as gas was now up to $2.39 per gallon (or more!) at every service station.
As my mind day-dreamed, I glanced in my rear-view mirror to see that behind me, God had painted snow-covered Mount Shasta, in a soft pink glow. Out my left window, the sun was slowly setting behind the Cascade mountain range, on its journey to sink into the western horizon. At that very moment, an AMTRAK passenger train was nose-to-nose with me, as it traveled on the railroad track next to the highway. It was challenging me to a race, as we both accelerated toward the border, for our designated stops at Klamath Falls. Ahead of me, seemingly arising out of the point where the highway narrowed in the distance, I saw a flagpole with a gigantic U.S. flag, spread out by the wind, against a brilliant blue sky. I breathed a sigh of gratitude, for the thousands of persons in our armed forces, both past and present, who made it possible for that grand "Ole Glory" to brighten the future of our country. And then, just when I thought it could get no better, and I was thanking God to be at this very place, at this very moment, the familiar song came over the radio "I'm proud to be an American". As tears of joy streamed down my cheeks, I shouted, "AMERICA----WHAT A COUNTRY"!!!

Reenacting a Civil War Encampment

2011-06-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

Unless you have been completely blocked off from all types of media announcements, it has probably been brought to your attention that 2011 marks the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War. Furthermore, there is a very good chance that your ancestors were either directly, or indirectly, greatly affected by this war. If you live in the Ozarks, as I do, then you are close to where various Civil War activities took place. For these reasons and more, the public is invited to come and see a reenactment of a Civil War Infantry Encampment on the grounds of the Diamond City, Arkansas, Community Center, at the 2011 Parrish-Raley Reunion. Between 10:30 AM and noon, on Saturday, July 2, experienced re-enactors, Gene Waters and Kevin Middleton, portraying soldiers of the 14th Arkansas Infantry, CSA, will be present to meet and talk with those who attend, and tell about the life of the Civil War soldier in this area. They will demonstrate articles like those which were used in the daily life of the soldier and give insight into the sacrifices they made, and the heritage they and their families left. A company of men for the 14th Arkansas was raised at Lead Hill (which is near Diamond City) in the summer of 1861, and its first commander, Wm. C. Mitchell, lived in Sugarloaf Township (also near Diamond City). There is no admission charge for the reenactors' presentation.

This is an approved event of the Arkansas Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission, and is listed on their Calendar of Events (along with a great deal of other interesting Civil War information) on their website, www.arkansascivilwar150.com/events/ Anyone interested is invited to attend, but especially those with connections to the Parrish, Raley, Buckley, & Dunlap families/friends. There will be a pot luck dinner and visiting. So, bring your favorite dish and come ready to have a good time with friends and family. There is a children's outdoor playground adjacent to the building. Besides the Civil War soldiers' camp demonstration and potluck, Dr. Kenneth Threet will talk to us about his career and experiences at 1:00 pm.; Master of Ceremonies for the event is retired Judge Roger V. Logan, and he can be contacted for further information by calling 870-743-4011 or emailing rvlogan@cox.net .

Besides the Civil War veterans that belonged to the various families that have been sponsoring this reunion for the last thirty-seven years, there are some "famous" people that have connections with these same families. For example, the large supermarket chain in California, called "Raley's", has roots with some of the same families sponsoring the reunion. Likewise, famous Hollywood costume designer, Rita Riggs, who designed for numerous television sit-coms, such as All In The Family, has connections with this group. Mrs. Riggs has attended the reunion in the past, as well as television actress Donna Douglas, who played Ellie Mae on the television series Beverly Hillbillies. And I certainly do not want to leave out this bit of trivia--- that former U.S. President Bill Clinton also attended one year!

One thing I enjoy about visiting with older members of the family, is hearing their stories about long ago. For example, this mural, depicting "Parrish Shoes -- since 1856", painted on an outdoor brick wall, in the town of Keene, New Hampshire, (and also a familiar scene in the movie JUMANJI ) could have been based on the same family of Parrishes that are my relatives! By listening to one of my elderly Parrish cousins tell stores of his childhood, I learned that in the early 1800's, some of the Parrish pioneers had been cobblers---leather craftsmen who make or mend shoes. If you have never been to a family reunion, and are not sure what the "social etiquette" is for such an event, here is an ancient guideline from Leviticus 19:32 that still applies today: "Rise in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God." SOOOoooo, I would encourage you to turn off your iPods, iPads, iPhones, and do an iPause! Ask an old person to tell you a story! You might be surprised what you find out! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Mt. Shasta Caverns Expedition

2011-06-18T13:14:00.001-07:00

Mt. Shasta Caverns is a most enjoyable attraction, located just off Interstate 5, a few miles north of Redding, California. It might be thought of as a "trinity" of attractions because it has three distinct parts: first, is the relaxing ride across Shasta Lake in a spacious catamaran, the Cavern Queen (bottom photo); second, is the ride up a very steep and narrow road in a specially designed bus, that takes one to the Visitors Center (middle photo); and third, is the actual walking tour of the cavern itself (top photo).

I was very fortunate in that I arrived at the attraction at 12:25 pm, and was able to board the 12:30 pm boat going across the lake for the next tour. After purchasing one's ticket in the well-supplied gift shop and ticket office, you walk down a shaded path to the edge of the lake, where the catamaran (with its much-appreciated roof to protect you from the sun) awaits (top photo). The skilled captain (middle photo) then navigates the boat away from the landing, while simultaneously giving you information over the loud speaker about the history of the lake, and the geology of the area. Photos on either side of the captain's photo, show that the mooring on the opposite side of the lake where the boat takes you, is just as inviting and pleasant as the first one. The great thing about the boat ride is that it affords you views of the lake and the mountains that you could not see, just by staying on the highway (bottom photo).

After disembarking from the catamaran, one boards the bus that will take you to the top of the mountain, via a very narrow and steep road (middle photo). The bus has large, clean windows that enable to to look straight down at the land and lake below. If one is afraid of heights, it might be best to sit on the "driver side" of the bus for the trip up the mountain! Once at the top, you can tour the Visitors Center, which has exhibits about the area (lower photo), as well as overlooks that give even more views of the lake and marinas hundreds of feet below the location. In addition, there are clean rest rooms located adjacent to the Visitors Center.

At this point, those who purchased a ticket that included the cave tour (which is an option for those who only want the boat ride and shuttle ride to the Visitors Center), take a short walk up some stairs to the door on the side of the mountain that leads into the cave. Once inside, you will see most of the formations typical of a limestone cavern (top photo), and enjoy the benefits of "nature's air conditioning", as it is considerably cooler inside the cave than outside. There are dozens of stairs to navigate inside the cave, but the well-placed hand rails (top photo) and landings with seats (bottom photo) make this a "doable" endeavor. Since one spends most of the time inside the cave, in the "climbing stairs mode", it is not surprising that upon exiting the cave, you are going DOWN steps built into the side of the mountain, which return you to the Visitors Center. Likewise, there are several landings on this part of the tour that provide good photo opportunities (middle and bottom photos). Whenever I visit a cave, I always think of Psalm 139, which I call the "Expeditioners' Psalm" becaue of its verses 7 and 8 that say "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there." People who are afraid of caves can be comforted by these words, reminding them that no matter how deep we go inside the earth, God is with us! Likewise, no matter how high up the mountain top we climb, God is with us! If you would like to plan a trip to Mt. Shasta Caverns, just visit their website, www.lakeshastacaverns.com for more information. In addition, you can print off a coupon from the Internet. The coupon was honored at the ticket office, and saved me three dollars off the admission price. A feature that the website advertises, but that I did not get to try is a "Sunset Dinner Cruise", available through the Mt. Shasta Caverns ticket office. Such a dinner cruise sounded like fun, but even if you could not arrange a dinner cruise, the snack shop adjacent to the ticket office/gift shop sells adequate supplies for having a picnic on their lovely, shaded grounds. There are plenty of picnic tables around the property for you to enjoy all the ambience that this mountain retreat provides. All in all, Mt. Shasta Caverns gave me "miles of smiles", and I would highly recommend it! Tricia

Mossbrae Falls Expedition

2011-06-17T08:55:00.000-07:00

Mossbrae Falls is described by Wikipedia as one of the most scenic waterfalls in California. It is 50 feet high, 150 feet wide, and tumbles over a wall of verdant green moss and ferns ("brae" is a Scottish word for "hillside"). The falls are created by springs high up the mountain, which run down the canyon wall and into the Sacramento River, creating the effect of many waterfall streams falling into the river. This collage shows some views of the falls, with my son and I in the foreground. I was thankful for the automatic setting on my camera to get the photo of both of us, since there was not another person there to snap the photo for us! It is a very quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life!

Part if the fun of getting to Mossbrae Falls is the hike to get there. A visitor walks along an active railroad track, that follows the Sacramento River, for about a mile. We only met two other hikers whenever we were there, and we were fortunate that no trains went by during the time we were walking along the tracks. The upper sections of the Sacramento River where the falls are located, often attract fisherman, as evidenced by the photo in the top part of this collage. The sound of the rushing water of the river, coupled with the falling of the spring waters into the the pool in front of the waterfall, bring to mind the words of Jesus that say "Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."

You will know you have arrived at the falls when you get to the railroad trestle over the river, with the date "1901" on it. Although you cannot see the falls from the tracks, you will hear them. Look for a trail off to the right through some trees (see lower right photo of this collage), and follow it through the woods a very short distance to the falls.

After we finished the hike, we came back to the charming town of Dunsmuir, California, to have supper at an outdoor cafe that had delicious food, as well as live music outside, on the night we were there (lower right photo). Dunsmuir is known as a "railroad town", and in fact, still has an active Amtrak station there. I have ridden on the Amtrak train that goes through this section of northern California, but it was dark and snowy when we went through, so I could not really get a sense of the beauty the area has. You can find out more about visiting the Dunsmuir area by visiting their website, www.Dunsmuir.com. However, due to safely concerns about hikers along an active railroad track, they no longer give directions to the hidden gem, known as "Mossbrae Falls"on their website. Yet, there are plenty of sites on the Internet that give directions, plus I read about it in a publication called 101 Shasta Things To Do, also available on line at www.101ThingsShasta.com. Next time you are in the mood for a little exercise, with seeing a beautiful waterfall, as the reward for that exercise, make a visit to Mossbrae Falls. Miles of smiles!! Tricia

RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATER

2011-06-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have been on a quest the last few years to visit outdoor amphitheaters, and of all those I have visited, the Red Rocks Amphitheater is the most spectacular, in terms of its natural setting. It is located a few miles west of Denver, Colorado; in fact, the Denver skyline is visible in the distance when one is sitting in the upper levels of the amphitheater. This is by no means, a new amphitheater, although its components have been updated to make it "state of the art", in terms of concert and performance venues. Its use as an amphitheater for performances dates back to around 1910, when John Brisben Walker produced concerts there on a temporary platform. Those early beginnings planted the "seeds" for the Red Rocks Amphitheater becoming a world famous entertainment venue. Famous artists have helped cultivate those seeds during the past several decades. This was most famously done because of a video put out by the band U2, from a concert event that they performed there in 1983. People around the world viewed the video, and were in awe, not only of the band, but also the scenic location of the concert. It was later listed in Rolling Stone's magazine list of the "50 moments that changed Rock and Roll." None of the famous concerts held there would have been possible, if the city of Denver had not purchased the property in 1927. With the help of the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) and WPA (Works Projects Administration), the amphitheater structures were built. It was formally dedicated in 1941.

This stunning scene from midway down into the amphitheater shows the seating that is bordered by a huge sandstone vertical rock, angled outwards from stage right. It is called Creation Rock.

The amphitheater holds 9, 450 people. This photo shows that there are other choices for concert viewing besides the typical bleachers. This biker couple is stretched out on the graveled and shaded plaza areas that border both sides of the bleachers. Judging from the number of families with strollers I saw using these same plazas, it is also a good location for a baby to sleep!

This 300 foot sandstone monolith sits at the top of the amphitheater, where there is as expansive concrete plaza with concession stands and restrooms, as well as a sit-down, air conditioned restaurant. It is noteworthy that the restaurant is open daily, even if there is not a concert scheduled. Likewise, one can take a guided tour of the amphitheater, on most days of the year. You can find out information on this, and about all the surrounding park has to offer (such as hiking trails, picnic areas, Visitor Center, etc) by visiting their official website, www.redrocksonline.com Since Denver has the nickname of the "Mile High City", and the rocks shown on these photos are even higher than that, I was reminded of the verse in the second part of Psalm 61:2 that says "Lead me to the rock that is higher than I." Of course, the psalmist is referring to God, yet I would also recommend being led to the high rocks (and rock concerts) of this gorgeous place! It will give you miles of (vertical!) smiles! Tricia

Pepper Sauce Alley Ghosttown

2011-05-28T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have been traveling through the small community of Calico Rock---located on the banks of the White River in north central Arkansas---for decades, but it wasn't until this past year that I ventured off the town's Main Street (also known as Highway 5) that I discovered an outdoor "museum" of sorts, that gives one a glimpse of days gone by.

Just east of Main Street is a six-block area called "Pepper Sauce Alley". In times past, it was considered a disreputable part of the town, where "good girls" did not go. Since all my trips to Calico Rock as a youngster, were with a church youth group, this part of the community was not on our tour itinerary! You see, the "Pepper Sauce Alley" name refers to the fact that "Pepper Sauce" was the local term for illegal spirits (the drinking kind), which the reader may have heard also called "home brew" or "white lightning". But now, it is a different kind of spirit that is revitalizing the area. In fact, the official website for tourism in Arkansas (www.Arkansas.com) says Pepper Sauce Alley causes Calico Rock to have the distinction of being the only community in the USA with an authentic "ghost town" within its city limits!

As you enter the ghost town, there is a large sign, explaining that the group responsible for the signage along the walking tour, is an organization called C.O.R.E., which stands for Calico Rock Organization for Revitalization Efforts. As you venture deeper into the area, one can read very well-done placards, telling about the history of the building it is describing, along with historical photos. It is fun to compare the actual building you are looking at in "real time", with how it looked decades ago, when the area was a thriving trade center. Each of the signs has a warning, however, that the buildings are on PRIVATE PROPERTY, and there is a strict NO TRESPASSING policy inside the buildings. The one exception is the old city jail. A tourist can go inside that tiny one-room, concrete block building, but I declined that wonderful opportunity. The fact that there are rumors saying the jail is haunted with spirits had nothing to do with my decision.

As I viewed the old weathered doors throughout Pepper Sauce Alley---some boarded shut, some locked and bolted, and some completely missing---I was reminded of a scene of a familiar painting that had hung in the home of my grandparents until they died. It was the scene of Jesus standing outside the door of an edifice, knocking, as if asking permission to come inside. It is based on the verse in the Bible where Jesus is saying "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." (Revelation 3:20) The imaginations of the folks who have told us the story of Pepper Sauce Alley must also have been stirred by the doors that they saw, and thought they were worth sharing with the rest of the world, by taking a walking or driving tour, through Pepper Sauce Alley. The area is next to a lovely city park, complete with a creek, walking trail, and picnic tables. Since the entire downtown of Calico Rock is on the National Register of Historic Places (and has served as a movie set!), I would definitely recommend a visit there. Ideas for additional area activities and history information is available at www.calicorock.us. Next time you are on a familiar drive, take the time to venture off the route you usually take, and see what you discover. It will likely lead to "miles of smiles"! Tricia

The "Quarterly" Expeditions

2011-05-23T06:53:00.000-07:00

This is the first in a series telling about my experiences visiting the places that each state in the USA has chosen as SOoooo significant, they want it to be printed as the symbol for their state, and placed on the special "state quarters" produced by the U.S. Mint during the first decade of the second millenium. I am starting with Indiana, because that state chose to recognize its famous event---"The Indy 500"--- as represented by the photo of an Indy-style racecar, shown in the top photo of this collage. It seems particularly timely since the race is held on Memorial Day weekend (which is just days away), AND it is the 100th anniversary running of the world's most famous race.

People come from all over the world to be a part of this---the greatest spectacle in racing. This photo shows the famous "pole" that indicates which drivers go where, when the familiar command "Start Your Engines" is given, and thousands of black and white balloons rise above the monstrous track.

When I made the Indy pilgrimmage some time ago, it was by motorcycle. My husband and I made the trip between northern Arkansas and Indianapolis in a leisurely two-day drive at the beginning of our Indy 500 adventure. However, because the race was delayed by a full day due to rain, we had to scurry back home all in one day, after the race was over. I guess that was the longest non-stop trip we made---a full 12 hours of riding, at the maximum speed limit, on a Harley-Davidson Softtail. After 12 hours of riding on that so-called "Softtail" however, I had a DIFFERENT name for it! At least, we did not have to drive to the various Indy event venues, once we arrived in Indianapolis. We had bought a package that included the hotel, race tickets, parade tickets, access to the garage and pit area, and motorcoach transfer (with a police escort!) to the "brickyard" (aka, Indianapolis Motor Speedway). I would definitely recommend the "package" route, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area, and will be needing to book some type of commercial lodging. It is not exactly easy to navigate the huge 253 acre park. It is so large that Yankee Stadium, Churchill Downs, the Rose Bowl, even Vatican City could fit inside the 2.5 mile track.

This photo collage is a reminder of some of the other famous race tracks I have had the opportunity to visit. The Kansas Speedway (just west of Kansas City, in the state of Kansas) was especially memorable. It is memorable not so much because of the race itself, as what happened AFTER the race, when my sister and I tried to find our car. It seems that in our excitement to get inside the speedway when we first arrived, we jumped out of our car to catch the parking lot trolley, without giving any thought to where we had parked. It was early in the day, so the grassy fields used for parking the thousands of cars was largely empty. Imagine our surprise when the race ended, and we exited the track to see a vast OCEAN of parked cars. We had no idea where to start looking, so we just went up and down every single row. As darkness approached, we were exhausted from searching, so we finally just stopped and sat down to rest, deciding our only option was to wait until every single car on the gigantic prairie they called a "parking lot", was gone. Lots of people felt sorry for us, however, and invited us to join in their tailgate parties. FINALLY, when there were only about two dozen cars remaining on the "prairie", a click of our car key made one of the car's lights come on, and we were reunited with our long lost transportation home!!! PTL!!! We learned a real lesson from that experience, however. We now take a photo with our cell phone of where we park! The lower left photo is a reminder of the Daytona Speedway, where I got to attend motorcycle races. The lower right photo is a souvenir from my time at the Charlotte Raceway. It was a special event there where I got to actually be timed while changing the tire on a racecar AND had the opportunity to ride around the track in a stock car, used to let tourists experience the "feel" of a NASCAR track. Not surprisingly, all this writing about races, has brought to mind one of the most well-known Bible verses about races: "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." I Corinthians 9:24 So for the big Indy 500 race coming up this weekend, I am rooting for the gal (Danica Patrick) to get the prize! Miles of (230 mph) smiles! Tricia

Hawaiian Sunsets

2011-05-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

There are SO MANY enjoyable activities that one can do when they are visiting the Hawaiian Islands, it is impossible to "do it all" in one visit to such a place. This photo shows the ever-popular surfing and boogie boarding on Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. The sailboat on the horizon is an example of another activity---taking a day-sail trip on one of the catamarans that are moored on the beach, ready to take on a new boatload of tourists several times a day. Yet another activity is strolling the beach with your camera, hoping to capture an incredible scene like this one: The sun seemed to have singled out this particular sailboat to shine down on and engulf in all its glory, in an otherwise cloud-covered atmosphere. When I was actually seeing this in "real life", I kept thinking, "This is amazing!! I wonder what the photograph will look like? Will it even begin to capture the beauty and the rarity of such a sight?" (Well, at least it was a rare sight to this viewer who lives in a land-locked state like Arkansas, where there are no oceans on ANY of the state's borders.) I saw the shining "glory hole" open up in the clouds on the horizon several minutes before the sailboat actually went through it. I was silently hoping that the hole would stay open until the sailboat passed through it, and to my great delight, it did! The result is this photo!

If the catamaran sailboat is not your "cup of tea", you can still experience a day-sail on a more traditional, V-bottom sail boat such as this one. They generally cost more that the boats that hold more people, but will probably give you more of a "crew sailing" experience. The first time I ever did one of these trips was with my husband and my son, down in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Part of the allure of that boat was that it had originally belonged to famous TV anchor-man, Walter Cronkite. It seems that being a "TV anchor" was second only to "lifting anchor" on his sailboat, in terms of his favorite activities! In this photo, I happened to be strolling the beach whenever the boat was returning to its mooring spot on the protected harbor near the end of the Waikiki Beach, just after sunset.

You can take one of the charter sailboat trips at any time of the day. The location of the sun in this photograph shows that this trip was in the late afternoon. Such excursions often include an opportunity for the guests on board to take a swim in the ocean for a short time, or perhaps even do a little snorkeling. Some even include a picnic on a near-by island.

I have had the opportunity to do many other activities in Hawaii, such as scuba diving, outrigger canoe rides, snorkeling, touring the coffee and pineapple plantations, submarine cruise, and attending traditional luaus. All these are wonderful and fun, but they can run up quite a tab, in terms of fees and equipment. That is why I am writing this blog to tell about an activity in Hawaii that was THE MOST ENJOYABLE of all of these, on my last trip to the islands. It was simply strolling the beach, watching the various activities, and photographing all the beauty that my eyes were seeing----ESPECIALLY the sunsets!! With a heart full of gratitude, I was experiencing Psalm 113:3 that says "From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised." Visualizing the beauty of a sunset on the ocean, is very relaxing----especially after days and days of rain and clouds like the Ozarks has experienced these past several days! So regardless of where you are, just close your eyes and let your mind go to a beautiful sunset or sunrise that you can remember! It will give you miles of smiles!! Tricia

Memorial Day History

2011-05-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

It was not until I started reading some of the news releases being circulated about the sesquicentennial (150 years) of the Civil War, that I found out the origin of the Memorial Day holiday. I knew that when I was growing up, my relatives would refer to it as "Decoration Day", and decades ago, "Decoration Day" was also a time they would have "dinner on the grounds" at some small rural church with a cemetery beside it. This month I learned that the holiday we now call Memorial Day, had its origin immediately following the end of the Civil War. (As you may recall, the Civil War was fought from 1861 - 1865; hence the sesquicentennial will run from 2011 - 2015.) The first known observance in the north was May 5, 1866, in Waterloo, New York. In the South, there is a record that a Decoration Day was celebrated on April 25, 1866, in Columbus, Mississippi. By 1868, general John A. Logan (Commander in Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic) issued a proclamation that "Decoration Day" should be observed nationwide. It was observed nationwide for the first time on May 30 in that same year. May 30 was chosen because is was NOT the anniversary of a battle. I had always felt a connection with the Civil War, because of the many oral traditions passed down in my family, telling of our relatives who fought in the Civil War. I knew my mother had been instrumental in working with a veterans organization to get an official marker for the grave of her grandfather who fought in the civil war, so I decided I needed to make a pilgrimage to that cemetery to see the marker for myself. My sister and I traveled to Pickins Cemetery near Green Forest, Arkansas, recently, and photographed the Rudd family grave sites, including the special bronze marker shown in the top photograph of this collage. The lower photo shows the educational tool that is being used in the state of Arkansas to teach Civil War history. You can get a passport of your very own (along with directions on how to use it to "earn" a commemorative coin or patch of the Civil War Sesquicentennial) by visiting http://www.arkansascivilwar150.com/ .

Even though my great grandfather, Civil War Veteran Benjamin Rudd, died long before I was born, I always felt a tangible connection to him because of the hand-woven items his wife made that have been used in our family's homes for generations. When Benjamin Rudd returned home after the civil war ended, he married a woman almost twenty years younger than him, which explains why she was still alive when I was born. She was a prolific weaver, and made the woven rug and pillow case shown in this photo collage, as a baby gift for me, shortly before her death in 1950. My mother often told the story of how her Granny Rudd received a small government pension (I think it was $25/month), because she was the widow of a Civil War Veteran. What is interesting about this, I think, is that her husband had been a soldier for the side that "lost"; yet, when the nation came together at the end of the war, all soldiers were considered veterans of the United States of America---not just those soldiers who fought on the side that "won". Furthermore, mom said that each month, her Granny Rudd would give a portion of that check to my grandmother, Mrs. Grover Parrish, (the former Effie Rudd). The top photo of this collage shows me, my daughter-in-law Stacy Shipman, and my son Grover Shipman (named after his maternal grandfather) holding the hand woven rug and pillow case made by Julia Rudd, the widow of a civil war veteran. Julia's tombstone (also at Perkins Cemetery) is shown in the lower photo of the collage.

This photo collage shows some of the many woven items that Julia Rudd made, that I have scattered around my home. Last year, I had a professional in the field of textile art, look at some of the items to teach me more about them. She seemed to be most fascinated by the history of the fabrics that were used to make the multi-colored rugs. (see middle left photo for a close up of these strips). She said these were most often made from old clothes that were no longer wearable, and hence were torn into strips that became the "yarn" that makes up the body of the woven item. I recall visits to the home of my great grandmother, Julia Rudd, and climbing the steep stairs to the second story room that contained the wooden loom where she made these items. I remember as a child, the loom seemed huge to me, appearing to take up an entire room with its framework.

There is a verse in the Old Testament (Joshua 4:6a) that starts out: For your children will ask in time to come, "What do these stones mean to you?" And you will say to them............. the words I have written above to tell the story of THEIR connection to the Civil War through their ancestors, Benjamin Rudd and Julia Rudd. Thanks to the Christian foundation laid by these ancestors, I have had an abundant life, full of God's many blessings. Why not use the 2011 Memorial Day holiday to discover the meaning of some of your "family stones"??!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

California Highway 1 Expedition

2011-05-02T15:26:00.000-07:00

CALIFORNIA CRUISING!!! I took this photo while riding in the front seat of Cousin Kathy's car, as we followed Cousin Linda in front of us, along the Sonoma County section of California Highway One. I know the car in front of me is my cousin's, because it has her name on the license plate. What I don't know, is how she can be going down this hill, pointed straight toward the Pacific Ocean, and not have her brakes on (as indicated by no brake lights shining!) It is not because the brake lights were not working, because just seconds before the turn, I have another photo of her car, where the brake lights are shining brightly, as she decided to go left, instead of straight! I was very thankful to be in the front seat for this long-awaited drive, because California Highway 1 is also known as "Dramamine Drive". I soon understood why! Our caravan was not the only group on the road that day. There was also a huge caravan---complete with eighteen-wheeler trucks, catering trucks, police escorts, food catering vehicles, roof-mounted movie cameras, and "gawkers" like us, wondering what they were filming. A very kind man with the group, explained that they were filming a commercial for the Hyundai Sonata car, that would be televised in South Korea. The man said they were trying to get a mental association of the "California lifestyle" and the Sonata car, in the subliminal mind of potential customers in South Korea. And who can blame them?? It is a gorgeous location to film anything, including a commerical for an automobile!!

One of the many good parts of the drive along California Highway 1, as it climbs up, down, and around bluffs above the sea, is getting to see the beautiful wildflowers in bloom along the route. The ones in this photo collage are just a sampling of ones that we DO NOT have blooming along the roadsides, that make similar twists and turns, where I live in the Ozark Mountains.

This is a collage of just a few of the pastoral scenes that our group of ladies enjoyed as we cruised along California Highway 1. Our eyes feasted on coastal mountains, agricultural lands, and great ocean views as we drove this famous highway, that hugs the shoreline and winds sharply around headlands high above the Pacific Ocean. I was quite amazed when I felt a loud rumble beneath the car, as we went over cattle guards in the highway, in this section of road. Shortly after going over the cattle guards, sure enough, there were cows on, and alongside, the highway. I suppose the official orange highway sign, warning of cows ahead, could also be taken as a "wake up call" for anyone crazy enough, to not be totally alert when driving this particular highway. Alertness is especially important because of the frequent closing of one lane of the road while road slides are being repaired by storms that regularly hit the coast.

California Highway 1 has had many names since construction of it was first begun in the early part of the twentieth century. Would you believe its first name included the word "Legislature" in it??!! Today, California Highway 1 is so popular, and so iconic, that it has been designated an "All-American Road", which, indeed, it is. Since it is a "path for cars", alongside the beautiful west coast of North America, and since it fills its travelers with joy, I think the verse from Acts 2:28 is an appropriate way to end this little story about this expedition: "You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence. " Miles of smiles! Tricia

Movie Location Expedition-Bodega Bay

2011-05-02T14:56:00.000-07:00

Folks who are as old as me, or perhaps younger generation aficionados of Alfred Hitchcock (the "Master of Suspense") movies, may recognize this building as the school that was shown in his 1963 classic movie, The Birds. As you may recall, the movie setting is the bucolic seaside village of Bodega Bay, along the California coast. The movie starts with just a single seagull attacking the female star of the movie. Unfortunately, it is the first of a series of attacks on humans, as the birds, rather than people, become the chief inhabitants of the village.

The building was originally called The Potter School, and it was constructed in 1870. It is not open to the public, and based on the fence around it (as well as the dog who was guarding the property) visitors are not exactly encouraged to stop for a look inside.

Adjacent to the Potter School, is St. Teresa's Church. It is even older than the school, as it was built in 1859, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings. It too, is shown in several scenes from the The Birds movie. Apparently, they are still having unwanted intrusions from non-human species, as a Pest Control worker was there the day I visited, and was going around the grounds of the building administering "deterrents" to such unwanted parishioners. Both of these structures are in the town of Bodega, California, which is a separate little village a few miles inland from Bodega Bay, California.

As you might expect, souvenirs are available to purchase as "proof" of visiting the location. My cousin had a Bodega Bay (The Birds) sweat shirt (middle left photo), and the house we rented had an official "Birds Movie Barbie Doll" in the bookcase, based on the iconic lime green suit the female star of the movie wore throughout the shooting. (That is because she had made the 2 hour drive from San Francisco to Bodega Bay, without the intention of spending the night. However, she was required to stay overnight after being injured in the seagull attack.) The "Birds Barbie Doll" was manufactured to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the acclaimed film. I thought the "Birds Barbie Doll", with her lime green suit, was a great visual aid to remind my Keeling cousins of the fact that the now-familiar green suit, had been designed by a "sprout" from our very own family tree! Famed Hollywood costume designer, Rita Riggs, also had roots in Lead Hill, Arkansas. She speaks of this, as well as the fact that her mother's maiden name was Keeling, in an interview that you can watch at www.emmytvlegends.org . The first time I ever heard of Rita Riggs, was when the show credits were running for the popular TV sitcom of the 1960's, All In The Family. A week did not go by of watching the show, that my mother did not point out the name "Rita Riggs - Costume Designer" when the show credits scrolled, at the end of each program. Although I was not present at the time, I am told she actually came back to the Lead Hill area for a family reunion several years ago. The bottom photo of the collage shows a picture I took of the DVD cover when I rented the movie shortly before making the trip to Bodega Bay. Although I saw the movie when it came out in the 1960's, I had not seen it again since then, so I wanted a "refresher" course before actually going to the set location. It was definitely suspenseful, especially the parts showing the mangled, dead, and bloody body of a farmer who had been attacked by the birds. One can't help but think of the phrase in Revelation 19:21b, that says "....and all the birds gorged themselves on their (the humans) flesh." The "extras" you get when you watch the DVD tells that, a short time before the script was written, there actually had been some cases reported in the local newspapers of birds attacking humans. It was when watching the "extras" with the DVD that I learned that my distant cousin, Rita Riggs, had been the costume designer for The Birds movie, plus LOTS of other interesting tidbits about how the scenes were filmed, long before the era of digital special effects. If you would like to learn more about the movie, or the area in general, visit www.BodegaBay.com for info and links to additional points of interest. SOOooooo, how about a little "bird watching expedition" now???? Miles of smiles!! Tricia

California's Kruse Rhododendron Reserve

2011-05-02T14:27:00.000-07:00

Yet another lovely place the "Keeling Kids" visited last week was the Kruse Rhododendron State Reserve. It is called "Kruse" because a Mr. Kruse donated the land in 1933 to the state of California. The area is now maintained by the California Department of Parks and Recreation, and you can learn more about the reserve on their website at http://www.parks.ca.gov/ . It contains second growth redwood, Douglas fir, tan oaks, and of course, rhododendrons. Our group is shown as we start out on one of the scenic hiking trails.

It was high noon when we arrived at the Rhododendron Reserve, and that means LUNCH! to the Keeling Klan. The forest provided a gorgeous, lovely area for us to spread out our picnic supplies, and enjoy some nourishment, before we started off for our trek through the woods.

This photo shows Martha, Brenda, Debbie, and Frankie enjoying their lunch in the shade of some very tall trees that inhabit the area. I read that the park service has to do a moderate amount of pruning of these trees in order to facilitate growth of the desired species. Apparently, the reason there is a wealth of rhododendron at this location is because of the direct result of normal plant succession patterns following a severe fire that occurred here some time ago.

Within the 317 acre reserve, there are 4 miles of hiking trails, and these trails will enable one to see a multitude of plant species---mosses, ferns, sorrel, and other forest undergrowth.. The photo on the right shows Cousin Debbie pointing to one of the pink rhododendron blossoms that occur in bushes up to 14 feet tall---much taller than I am! The photo on the left shows me studying one of the navigational signs along the trail. I find it helpful to take a photo of the directional signs when I am hiking, so if I get lost, I can look at the photos in my camera, to help me find my way back! When I read about the constant work that has to be done to maintain this picturesque place, as well as the fire that destroyed it, it brought to mind how "temporary" life on earth is. But the next thought it brought to my mind was the verse used by the Gideon Bible Society (http://www.gideons.org/) to explain why the Gideon organization does what they do: 1 Peter 1:24-25 says "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever." That is one of the reasons I like to give Gideon Bibles as memorial gifts, rather than flowers that will soon be wilted. One other great thing about visiting the Kruse Reserve is that it is FREE! So you can get some exercise, see incredible scenery, and have miles of flowery smiles! Tricia

VACATION HOME (RENTAL!) EXPEDITION

2011-05-02T13:54:00.000-07:00

For several years I have heard my California cousins talk about their experiences of renting a house on the Pacific Ocean, and I knew it was something I would love to do. I had the opportunity to do just that last month, when some of my girl cousins in California planned a 5-day trip to Bodega Bay, California. This group of siblings and sibling "wannabes" has a tradition of getting together for a trip when one of them celebrates a significant life milestone. Some of their past trips have included going to LA, to be in the Tonight Show audience; going to Chicago, and being in the audience of the Oprah Show (they were there the same month that Oprah gave a new car to every audience member, but alas, it was not the day they were in attendance!) Last year, they all went to Las Vegas---I did not get to go on that trip, and I have heard very little about it---no doubt, due to the travel motto for Las Vegas! The first trip I went on with the gals was a cruise to the Mexican Riviera, and it was a WONDERFUL experience! The last trip I went on with them was to the Portland, Oregon Rose Festival. That too, was a fantastic time of estrogen-infused entertainment! In my opinion, however, my best "estrogen expedition" with these ladies was this one that centered around a Monday through Friday rental of the house pictured in this collage. It was as close to the Pacific as one can get, without actually being IN the water! The middle photo of the property shows that it sits on a narrow bluff between the famous California Highway One, and the roaring surf below. The bottom two photos show our choices for scenery: The right photo shows the magnificent green hills of Sonoma County that were visible from the kitchen corner window, and the photo on the left shows the magnificent ocean that was visible from virtually every other window in the house. As you can see, even the hot tub in the bathroom had an incredible view of the ocean coast line! Not seen in the photo, is the "throne" of that particular bathroom, that also had the same fantastic view!

Because we had incredibly good weather when we were there, we could take advantage of outdoor activities available at our doorstep. This included watching sea gulls and pelicans on the ocean side of the house (upper left photo) and wild turkeys on the side of the house looking out over the hills (upper right photo). The middle photo shows my favorite part---walking on the ocean beach below the house. (I have been a shell collector since I was ten years old!) The lower left photo shows my cousin Debbie gathering us a bouquet of calla lilies, which grow wild in the ditch lines of that area. The lower right photo shows another favorite outdoor activity---sitting on the deck and solving the world's problems as we looked at the beauty in front of us.

This photo collage shows some of the other activities we enjoyed: reading, putting together a jigsaw puzzle, playing dominoes, scrapbooking, playing cards, and CELEBRATING LIFE!! The lower right photo shows the stimulus for this years get-together: The matriarch of the family---Martha----celebrated her 70th birthday this year! She chose her favorite flavor of cake---carrot cake---for her birthday cake, and we all enjoyed joining her in celebrating another year of life.

This photo collage shows another big part of our get-together, and that was food preparation. The top left photo shows our grocery shopping expedition in Petaluma, where we ended up with two carts filled to the max, with foods that would nourish us for the next five days. My cousins had planned a menu, resplendent with "California cuisine" (note the fresh artichokes steaming in the middle photo), but also with a nod to our "Granny Keeling" who would make us "chocolate gravy" for breakfast, when we came to visit her. The lower right photo shows cousin Brenda stirring up a huge pot of this "Keeling Comfort Food", (beside Brenda, the photo shows Cousin Debbie taking the hot biscuits out of the oven) and the left middle photo shows how our Granny served this special version of Southern cuisine---over hot biscuits, with a pat of butter. Although she made her own butter (which us kids called "cow butter"), we settled for a store-bought version of the real stuff. Granny Keeling was also famous for her popcorn balls (maybe that was the start of my popcorn addiction), and cousin Debbie is becoming equally famous for her Caramel Corn, infused with sliced almonds and dried cranberries (lower left photo).

As I write this, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for God's many blessings in my life, not the least of which is a wonderful family. Likewise, I am thankful for his beautiful creation called "The Planet Earth", and for his awesome creation of the human body than enables us to see this beauty, and HEAR it as well! I echo the praise of King David in Psalm 98:7 that says "Let the sea roar, and all it fullness. . . Let the hills be joyful together before the Lord." If you would like to experience this joy in a similar location, check out http://www.coastalvistas.com/ for information on rentals and prices. Then gather up your loved ones, and experience an expedition you will never forget!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Fort Ross Expedition

2011-05-02T13:47:00.000-07:00

Near the town of Jenner, on California Highway 1, is Fort Ross State Historic Park. Our group visited there, and we are shown here at one of the entrances to the stockade. The place was the site of an 1812 trading post and fort established by Russian fur traders to protect their claim against the Spanish. Fort Ross was the southern-most settlement in the Russian colonization of North America, and was established as an agricultural base to supply Alaska.

This photo shows their reconstructed chapel, representing the first Russian Orthodox chapel south of Alaska. There is only one original structure on the site, and that is the Commander's House. It is listed as a National Historic Landmark. It is noteworthy, that Fort Ross was also the location of California's first windmill, and the inhabitants were also known as being skilled shipbuilders.

The historic park is a joint operation of both California state employees (shown on the left) and volunteers (shown on the right). These two were dressed in appropriate period costume in anticipation of a group of school kids who were making an overnight field trip to the fort. Outdoor cooking demonstrations were planned for them, as well as basket-making demonstrations, and talks on crop production. To find out about hours of operation and special events at the park, look for their name at the website of the California State Park system, http://www.parks.ca.gov/ .

Seeing this strong fortress, built on solid rock above the ocean, must have been what the psalm of David was referring to in chapter 31, verse 2 "...be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me." I am thankful that the people of California (along with the current-day leader of Russia), are taking steps to save Fort Ross--- this important location in our country's early history. So get out there and see it----better yet, volunteer at a state park near you, to preserve our history and land for future generations. Miles of smiles! Tricia

SD Sculpture Expedition

2011-04-21T06:36:00.000-07:00

The first time I ever had the opportunity to see the famous sculptures carved out of the side of Mount Rushmore, in South Dakota, was during a trip to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally on the occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of that event. Consequently, there were SO MANY motorcyclists also visiting on that same day, it was not possible to get fully acquainted with all this fabulous attraction has to offer. However, on a more recent trip (during a less crowded time of the year), I had the opportunity to go on a hike around the base of the mountain, that was led by a park ranger, who gave lots of interesting background information about the monument. In this photo, he is shown telling our group exactly WHO these guys were that were so prominently displayed above our heads. Although it might seem obvious to us folks from the USA, some in our group were from the tiny country of Suriname in South America, and were interested to learn that the faces represented four presidents of the USA---George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Besides some scenic hiking and walking trails around the mountain (many of which are handicap accessible), there is also a museum, a movie about the making of Mt. Rushmore, food service facilities, gigantic gift shop, picnic tables, clean restrooms, and the famous Avenue of Flags plaza adjacent to the massive visitor's center. You can make the best of your visit to Mt. Rushmore by studying their website, www.nps.gov/moru where you can get exact times for their night-time lighting ceremony of the faces, as well as dates for some spectacular fireworks, that are made all the more spectacular by using the face of the country's first president, George Washington, (and his buddies), as the backdrop for the pyrotechnic extravaganza.

Just seventeen miles from Mt. Rushmore National Park is the Crazy Horse Memorial (www.crazyhorsememorial.org). This photo shows the face of Chief Crazy Horse (completed in the 1990's), and the "chalked -in" drawings of what will be his outstretched hand, and his horse, whenever the monument is completed. Unlike Mt. Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial is not a national park, and receives no federal or state funding. It was commissioned by Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear, and started by a sculptor (Ziolkowski) who had also helped with the sculpting of Mt. Rushmore. The Lakota Chief stated he wanted visitors to know that , just as the "white men" had their heroes in history, so the "red men" had their heroes. And one of these heroes was Chief Crazy Horse. However, the official website for the memorial states that although the sculpture is the focal point, their true mission is educating visitors about American Indians and their culture. Besides the carving, the attraction includes an Indian Museum of North America, and a Native American Cultural Center, a school that is affiliated with the University of South Dakota, and an awesome restaurant, with one whole side of the restaurant being a glass wall that looks out upon the mountain sculpture and surrounding landscape. From these photos, it is hard to tell the scale of either Mt. Rushmore or the Crazy Horse Memorial, so here are the actual measurements: The head of Crazy Horse is 87 feet high, whereas the heads on Mt. Rushmore are "only" 60 feet high. Although the Crazy Horse Memorial was started in 1948, there is not a "scheduled date of completion". The family of the now deceased original sculptor continues the project, with the help of on-going fundraising efforts from the private sector.

As you would assume, the plans for blasting out sections of the mountain are intricately spelled out days in advance (along with press releases of upcoming blasting dates/times), so these periodic blasting events are attended by thousands from all over. I felt very fortunate to be visiting on such a day. Although I had not read in advance of the blasting, my first clue was the numerous video cameras, TV crews, and super duper Nikon lenses all poised and ready on the observation deck, obviously waiting for something to happen. By asking around, I found out that a blast was scheduled to be held within the next few minutes!

Although some had waited for hours, I only had to wait a few minutes to see the spectacle of a huge number of near-simultaneous detonations, and a great tumbling of rocks and dust down the mountain. I tried to capture this in the smoke and dust you can see in front of the mountain, in this photograph. The rocks I saw blasted out, could then be added to the more than 8 million tons of rock that have been removed from the mountain so far!! The reason I started thinking about my experience at the Crazy Horse Memorial was a verse I came across in The Message paraphrase of Psalm 139. As you may recall, that psalm describes how God created us in our mother's womb. However, it was a particular word that The Message used, that made my mind "leap frog" to South Dakota. It said "You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit, how I was SCULPTED from nothing into something. Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth;". Sooooooo, just as the Ziolkowski family keeps dynamiting, chiseling, and scraping, to make their masterpiece, so God kept working to form me in my mother's womb. And, just as the Crazy Horse Memorial is a work in progress, so am I, a "work in progress". The fact that all of us are subject to on-going transformations, makes it more important than ever to enjoy the "process" in our journey of life, as much as possible. One way to add enjoyment to the process is to visit some of the beautiful places that are out there beckoning to us. If YOU would like to find out more about a great place to do this, just log on to www.travelSD.com for some great travel itineraries. Miles of SD smiles! Tricia

Edifying Edifice Expedition

2011-04-10T10:28:00.001-07:00

This is a photo I took last week of "The Jewel Box" located on a 17-acre site in Forest Park, that was built by the city of St. Louis in 1936. Its original cost was $117,000, with 45% of the funds coming from WPA (Public Works Administration). It is considered to be an Art-Deco-style structure, and at the time was "the latest word in display greenhouses". It was unconventional for a greenhouse, in that it was built of cantilevered vertical glass walls, rising 50 feet high, in a pattern called "clerestories". (Defined as an outside wall of a building, carried above an adjoining roof, and pierced with windows.) One of the reasons for this design was to prevent damage from frequent hail storms that occur regularly in this part of the country. This was achieved by constructing only the walls of glass (to admit the greatest amount of light), while all of the horizontal surfaces are metal. Rolled awnings regulate the amount of light that can come through the windows.

The photo below shows a portion of the eight fixed arches that help support the building. It is interesting that the arches of the Jewel Box were in place decades before another arch---"The Gateway Arch" became a symbol recognized around the world, as the identifier for the city of St. Louis. The arch theme is further carried out in the constant stream of the fountains (seen coming out of the floor of the building) that provide a pleasing sound, as well as reflective pools and moisture for the greenery. This photo was taken from the rear of the building, looking towards the main entrance doors. A second floor balcony is above the entryway, and is accessible by two spiral staircases on each side. As you might imagine, a setting such as this is popular for weddings and other celebrations, and such arrangements can be made on the official website of the city of St. Louis. It only costs one dollar to go in and visit the Jewel Chest, but even that small fee is waived on Mondays and Tuesdays between the hours of 9 am and noon. when you can visit for free. The price seems VERY reasonable, considering the Jewel Box just underwent a 3.5 million dollar renovation. Since it is listed on the National Historic Register, this recent investment in its restoration will ensure that "The Jewel Box" will be a "St. Louis Jewel" for future generations. The website for The Jewel Box says the edifice obtained that name because visitors frequently commented that the glass and floral patterns reminded them of a glass box used to keep jewelry in. When their website used the word "edifice" to describe the building, it reminded me of a verse in the Bible that also refers to the root meaning of edifice, meaning "to build up or establish". Ephesians 4:29 says "Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers." I paraphrase that to mean that my words to others should be like "little jewel boxes" that build them up and minister to them. Thanks to my recent visit to the Jewel Box in St. Louis, I now have a pleasant mental picture to store away with that wise advise from the Bible.

The age-old use of a sun dial on the grounds in front of the Jewel Box, are a reminder that ANY time of day is good for a visit to this lovely site. Even if the interior is not open, just strolling the adjacent gardens and admiring the design from the outside is a worthwhile endeavor! If you would like to learn about the dozens of other attractions in St. Louis, Missouri, that will build up and edify YOUR spirits, just log on to www.explorestlouis.com You'll be glad you did! Miles of smiles! Tricia

"Girlfriend Getaway" Expeditions

2011-04-07T17:36:00.000-07:00

A travel market niche, known as "Girlfriend Getaways", has been growing in the last few years, and I recently had some first-hand experience in getting to plan and participate in a "Girlfriend Getaway", so I will be sharing my experiences with a few photographs and comments. With the proliferation of information available on the Internet, it is not surprising that there is a website, devoted entirely to the subject, with the address of www.GirlGetaways.com. Likewise, Lisa Kasanicky has written a book on the subject, called The Complete Idiot's Guide to Girlfriend Getaways. In it, she discussed the dynamics of why women travel together, and gives some step by step instructions for planning such an event.

Frequently, a particular theme or group activity is the "centerpiece" of an all-girl trip. The photo above gives a clue as to what my most recent trip involved---a professional hockey game---in a large performance venue. In our case, we had tickets for the "club level" of the match between the St. Louis Blues vs. The Colorado Avalanche, in the Scottrade Center in St. Louis, Missouri. "Club level" seats mean that the price includes all the food and beverage you would like, plus a "waitress" comes to your seat to take your order and delivers the food to you as well. The photo shows the four "girls" on our trip (Tricia, Anna, Lila, and Eva) as well as the vivacious young woman who assisted us with our food and beverage orders. The advantage of "club level tickets" for our group, was that it meant you did not have to wonder about how much your meal would cost, or how much your snacks during the game would cost, because it was all covered in the price of admission. A couple of years ago, I attended a different kind of event in this same Scottrade Center, which was equally enjoyable. That event was a "Women of Faith" conference, which is an example of another type of group activity that can serve as a "centerpiece" for a Girfriend Getaway. There are numerous faith-based ministries and non-profit organizations that offer weekend or week-long events that cater to women, so check their websites for upcoming events.

When choosing a location for your all-girl travel experience, consider concurrent visitor attractions that can be combined with the "centerpiece" or theme of the trip. In the photo above, the gals are shown in the magnificent hotel lobby of the St. Louis Union Station, which is nearby the Scottrade Center. One can not only experience shopping and dining at Union Station, but also it might be considered as one gigantic museum, because it has so many exhibits relating to its historic past. That is yet another reason that it is a frequent choice for school groups on tour.

Assuming your Girlfriend Getaway is going to include an overnight stay, you will want to consider activities that can be enjoyed on the second day of your trip. It would be helpful if you had both a "Plan A" for nice weather and a "Plan B" for less suitable weather. Such decisions are easily accommodated by visiting a location such as Forest Park in St. Louis. There are so many museums in the park, that one could escape any rain deluges, if necessary. Likewise, there are such numerous activities suitable for great weather outside, that the choices are endless. Plus, the great thing about Forest Park, and St. Louis in general, is that it boasts more free attractions than any other city of its size in the country. This is a definite bonus for people who still want to travel, but are limited in the amount that can be spent on entry fees for attractions at their destination. The photo above shows the St. Louis Art Museum (a FANTASTIC attraction at any time, but especially if the weather is bad outside!) presiding over the Emerson Grand Basin, a delightful area for outdoor strolling, when weather is suitable for such activities. The reading I did preparing to write this particular blog post, often referred to the "reasons" females like to travel together, and how travel providers can cater to those reasons when getting out publicity about their particular activity. I was reminded of a Bible verse that addresses this issue, and did so centuries before it became a topic of public relations professionals. The passages in verses 9 - 12 of the fourth chapter of Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament have this sage advice: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up. . . . Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." That sounds like a good reason to plan another "Girlfriend Getaway" in the very near future! If YOU would like some ideas to get you started on planning, I can think of no better place to begin, than by visiting www.explorestlouis.com for some terrific ideas on making your trip both fun, educational, and full of good memories! Miles of smiles! Tricia

"Blossom Trail" Expedition

2011-04-02T06:43:00.000-07:00

I have had the opportunity to visit several areas in northern and central California during the spring time of the year, and been very impressed with the beauty of the landscapes, as various types of fruit trees put out their splendor of color that precedes the production of mature fruit. It turns out that I am not the only one that enjoys viewing these glorious visual displays, and a large marketing promotion has developed to promote one of the most famous and extensive growing regions---loosely referred to as California's central valley. It is called the "Blossom Trail" and you can learn all about it at their website, www.gofresnocounty.com. There you can download a map, and see "live camera" shots of the orchards so that you can judge for yourself if it is prime viewing time. Many people use the blooms as a reason to take a motorcycle or bicycle trip through the area, as the scenery at this time is spectacular! The maps show where lodging and food service is available along the trail, for the convenience of those spending extended time there.

At the website, there is an explanation that explains what the various colors of the bloom signify, in terms of the fruit or nut the tree produces. According to their key, the pink in these blossoms would indicate a peach tree. The orchards shown in these photographs are actually in Boone County, Arkansas, along a "shortcut" road that connects Hwy 62 West to Hwy 7 North. It is called the Zinc-Harmon cutoff road, and runs along the top of the mountain ridges of the area. It is a beautiful drive at any time of the year, but especially when the orchards along the route are in bloom.

How blessed we are to not only be able to SEE this beauty, but also to benefit from the delicious food that these blossoms will produce! It is yet another reminder of God's creative gifts to the world: "Then God said, 'I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food'." Genesis 1:29 . Chances are that there are some blossoms along the routes you are traveling this week, so use them as a reminder to give thanks to God for the bounty He has provided! Miles of blossom smiles!!! Tricia

Val-Jalbert Expedition

2011-03-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

When traveling in Quebec, Canada recently, I had the opportunity to visit a fascinating location called "Val-Jalbert". I had read that the Ouiatchouan Falls, a centerpiece of the attraction, was higher than the more famous Niagara Falls, which I had also visited in previous years. The top photo in this collage shows the falls from a distance, along with the mill and production plant visible on the left. The bottom photo shows me out on the glass viewing platform of one of the lookouts closer to the falls. In fact, it was so close, I was thinking that a waterproof camera would have been a good idea! There is a cable car that can take visitors to the top of the falls, and hiking trails are also available around the falls. The park is called "Val-Jalbert" because the village was started by Damese Jalbert around 1901. Mr. Jalbert started the construction of a mill, to harness the energy of the waterfall, and the plant was operational, with pulp production in 1902. The "golden age" of the village was considered to be 1909 - 1922. It was a true "company town", that was using the most up-to-date principles of urban planning available at the time. In the early 1920's, the Jalbert village was known for its modern conveniences, and was the envy of the surrounding communities, because it had electricity and running water decades before other towns in the area.

The larger, center photo of this collage shows the exterior of the Catholic convent on the property, which also served as the school for the children of the workers. The building has been restored, and now serves as a museum to show articles of furniture from that period, as well as other historical artifacts (lower photo). The top two photos show the chapel used by the nuns (photo on the left), and the right photo shows the Director of the attraction, Dany Bouchard, as he tells our group interesting tidbits of history about the building. As has happened with some areas of present-day employment locales, the economic bounty did not last forever. There were administrative problem issues that caused setbacks, plus the fact that changes in the paper production industry made a plant that only produced pulp as its main product, less profitable. These factors led the pulp production to be permanently suspended in 1927. The Quebec government expropriated the property for unpaid taxes in 1942, and it lay dormant as a ghost town.

Fortunately, the ghost town was revived in the 1970's to be turned into a Historical Village, which slowed the deterioration of buildings on the property. Then their big break came in 2009 when the historical village received a grant for almost twenty million dollars for a complete overhaul of the infrastructure, interpretive activities, and improved tourist experience. This grant provided for the complete modernizing of the "company store" (top photo), and the construction of brand new "company-style" housing to accommodate all the needs of today's modern tourist. I especially liked how the new units incorporated articles from its historical past, such as the weathered wood that was used for the design of the new bed headboards (lower right photo). In addition, the design of the bathroom fixtures were a suggestion of the 1920's era, even though they are totally modern (right photo).

As I toured the area of Val-Jalbert where the employee housing had been, it was quite evident which houses had the benefit of preventive maintenance over the past few decades (top photo), and which houses had not had the benefit of preventive maintenance over the past few decades (bottom photo). These were good visual reminders to me not to be guilty of "deferred maintenance" on my own house, AND not to be guilty of "deferred maintenance" on the "house" that I call my body! Although this is a historical village, steps have been taken so that even younger generations, who go into withdrawal if they do not have an electronic device in their hands, can find an activity that interests them! The most fun and popular such activity is a "Georally" around the park, using GPS devices that are available through the visitor's center. I think the twenty-first century developers of Val-Jalbert Historical Village have done a magnificent job of exactly what is described in literature of the first century: Isaiah 61:4 says "They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations." I think the Catholic nuns that lived and taught in the Jalbert village would be pleased to see that their legacy lives on for future generations. If you would like to learn more about this fascinating time period, and plan a visit to this beautiful area of Saguenay-LacSaint-Jean, just log on to www.valjalbert.com . Miles of smiles! Tricia

"Wearing of the Green" Expedition

2011-03-17T08:22:00.000-07:00

St. Patrick's Day seems to be a perfect time to post this photo of shamrocks, that I took during a spring hiking trip in Vermont. Since Vermont was famous for being the "green state", long before "going green" was cool, it seems appropriate to put some additional photos of all the green they have to offer!

I read somewhere that church clergy "back in the old days", when what one saw in nature was the main teaching tool available, used the shamrock to teach the concept of the Holy Trinity. The shamrock has one stem, but the three petals are also a part of a shamrock. Likewise, the concept of the Holy Trinity is ONE, but also made up of three parts---the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

As a coincidence, this week's memory verse for the healthy living course I participate in (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) also refers to the Holy Trinity. It is from Matthew 28:19-20 and says "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations,; baptising them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Those of you who really want to latch on to the word in that memory verse that says to "GO", can plan their trip to the lovely green state of Vermont by visiting the state's official website, www.VermontVacation.com . Miles of smiles and HAPPY ST. PAT'S DAY from "PAT" (aka Tricia!)

Milwaukee Art Museum Expedition

2011-02-24T08:22:00.000-08:00

I first heard of the unusual design of the new addition to the Milwaukee Art Museum almost a decade ago, and I was intrigued by what I heard about it. I determined that this was a structure I wanted to see in person. My goal was achieved recently when Milwaukee was the city where my plane landed for a meeting I had in Wisconsin. The Milwaukee Art Museum is composed of several components, but the one I was interested in, is the one called the"Quadracci Pavilion". When I first saw the phrase, "Quadracci Pavilion", I assumed it was some sort of architectural term. However, further research taught me that it is called the Quadracci Pavilion because the Quadracci family is responsible for the $10 million gift from Betty and Harry Quadracci that kicked off the capital campaign to build, what the museum website calls, "a sculptural, postmodern addition to the Milwaukee Art Museum". It seems that the Quadracci family was able to make such a generous donation because of the success of the printing company they started in 1971, called Quad/Graphics. The company has been the printer of well-known publications, such as, Sports Illustrated, People Magazine, Newsweek, and Businessweek. The Quadracci Pavilion was designed by Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava, and was completed in 2001. Santiago Calatrava is the same architect who went on to design the famous Sundial Bridge (completed in 2004) over the Sacramento River, in Redding, California. I visited, photographed, and wrote about the Sundial Bridge in a March 13, 2009, post on this same blog (see archives). In being chosen to be the architect for the Milwaukee project, Calatrava said he was inspired by the original building, the topography of the city, and Frank Lloyd Wright's prairie-style architecture. (In fact, part of the Quadracci Pavilion reminded me of the magnificent Monona Terrace, located in Madison, Wisconsin. The original designs for Monona Terrace were created by Frank Lloyd Wright, although the designs were not actually implemented until decades after his death.)

The design of the Quadracci Pavilion incorporates both cutting-edge technology and old-world craftsmanship. In fact, its grand entrance hall is Santiago Calatrava's postmodern interpretation of a Gothic Cathedral, complete with flying buttresses, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and a central nave. The hand-built structure was made largely by pouring concrete into one-of-a-kind wooden forms. The museum's "signature wings", the brise soleil, form a movable sunscreen with a 217-foot wingspan. It is made of 72 steel fins, ranging in length from 26 to 105 feet. The entire structure weighs 90 tons. It takes 3.5 minutes for the wings to open or close. Sensors on the fins continually monitor wind speed and direction; whenever winds exceed 23 mph for more than 3 seconds, the wings close automatically.

I consider the fact that my short visit to Milwaukee was on a day that the bries soleil actually opened up, a gift of God's grace and I am extremely thankful! Since the bries soleil cannot be guaranteed to be open when you visit, there is a video of the process on the museum's website, http://www.mam.org/ . While their website is a "visual feast" for someone who likes architectural photography, there is nothing like SEEING IT IN PERSON to best satisfy one's curiosity! Although I only had a short time to visit the museum's lakeside location, before boarding my plane to return home, it was a gorgeous, sunny day with calm winds, and I arrived before the actual opening time of the doors to the museum. When museum visiting hours started, I suddenly began hearing music playing on the loudspeakers outside of the building, and I could see that the bries soleil was starting to move! HURRAH!!! I was blessed to be able to see it open up completely, and this collage shows that sequence.

As I pondered the experience of seeing the Quadracci Pavilion being transformed in appearance before my very eyes, I was reminded of the Bible's promise in Philippians 3:21, which says that Christ followers are in a constant state of transformation as well, to make us more like Christ. This is paraphrased in The Message to say "We're awaiting the arrival of the Saviour, the Master, Jesus Christ, who will transform our earthly bodies into glorious bodies like his own. He'll make us beautiful and whole with the same powerful skill by which he is putting everything as it should be, under and around him." So whenever you get impatient with me, just remember that I am in the PROCESS of transformation, and a LONG way from completion. So all of us might as well ENJOY THE EXPEDITION OF TRANSFORMATION! Miles of transforming smiles! Tricia

Caney Mountain Expedition

2011-02-17T08:05:00.000-08:00

The Caney Mountain Conservation Area (phone 417-256-7161 or www.mdc.mo.gov ) is in Missouri's Ozark County, five miles north of Gainesville, Missouri. It comprises 7,919 acres of a diverse landscape, that is characterized by unusual geology. This geology includes the roughest parts of a steep range of hills. These hills are the remains of an old elevated plateau that has been dissected by several feeder streams. At various locations in the Caney Mountain Conservation area, one has vistas of numerous prominent peaks, some of which are pictured in this photograph. In addition to the hills and limestone bluffs, there are unique plant communities---a result of the glades, savannas, forest openings, and old growth forests that cover the rugged terrain along the small creek bottoms. One can see the state record black gum tree, that is 106 feet tall, and has a girth of 10 feet, 3 inches! The occasion for my visit there was that it was the location for the weekly Wednesday hike of WHO---Women Hiking the Ozarks (for additional information on WHO, see the blog I wrote about the group in the 2010 archive on March 25).

Our group first explored the picturesque "Leopold Cabin", which is the subject of the photos in this collage. Folks familiar with the outdoors may also be familiar with the name "Leopold", as Aldo Leopold is considered a pioneer of modern wildlife conservation. It was actually the son of Aldo Leopold (A. Starker Leopold) who prepared the first wildlife management plan for the Caney Mountain Conservation Area, and hence, the name for the cabin. Because the state population of wild turkeys had dropped to less than 40 birds in the first half of the twentieth century, the Caney Mountain area was acquired as a turkey refuge in 1940, since it had been a stronghold of that species in Missouri. In addition, 30 deer were relocated here in the fall of that year, with the goal of building up the deer population. Before that time, the land had been repeatedly burned and subjected to open range grazing, with no real attention given to making the area sustainable for continuing wildlife populations. Although hikers cannot go inside the Leopold Cabin, the glass windows enable folks to see its interior. Also, there is a picnic table on the moss-covered limestone between the cabin and the edge of the bluff. It would make for an ideal outdoor meal retreat from "regular civilization". And conveniently, there is a privy on top of the bluff, as well, complete with the identifying crescent moon shape carved into the door!

The photo on the upper left shows members of the WHO carefully ascending the mossy stone steps that have been built into the side of the bluff to provide access to the Leopold Cabin. It should be noted, however, that there is also another trail (although it is longer) to access the cabin, that goes around the bluff, and winds it way up to the top. The main part of the Caney Mountain hike that the WHO did this past week was the Spout Spring Trail, and the other three photos of this collage show the ladies traversing that area. Considering the enormous numbers of downed trees and limbs from the 2009 ice storm that devastated this area, conservation personnel are to be commended for the clean up that has taken place to make the trail accessible. There was only one big tree that had fallen (probably recently) that the hiking trail went under, and which required some stooping to navigate. (lower left photo).

At the headquarters building near the entrance of the Caney Mountain Conservation area, one can pick up a brochure that tells about what is offered and regulations for use of the facilities. There are also handicap-accessible restrooms adjacent to the headquarters building. Throughout the almost 8,000 acres the area comprises, there are helpful signs that explain the proper way to go, and help explain what your eyes are seeing. I found that reading these signs greatly enhanced the experience--made the experience more abundant---that I was having at Caney Mountain. Later in the day when I had returned to "civilization" and I was reflecting on my enjoyable outdoor outing, I could see it as a metaphor for an even more significant outing---life itself. You see, the Caney Mountain Conservation Area is just about twenty miles from where I live, so it very close at hand. I was familiar with the name, had heard people talk about it, had driven past the entrance, but had never had a personal experience exploring its contents. The metaphor I speak of refers to the Bible: I had one in my home, I passed by it regularly, I heard a few people talk about it----yet I had never had a personal experience exploring its contents. However, once I started exploring its contents, I was amazed at what I had been missing out on! There were all sorts of signposts throughout the Bible (similar to the signs at Caney Mountain), that help direct me on the right path, explain what I am seeing, and make life more abundant. I have found great truth in the words of Jesus that say "I have come that you might have life, and have it more abundantly" (recorded in John 10:10 of the Bible). The verse is a reminder to me to take the time to explore all the wonders God offers through His Word as well as the natural wonders of the earth he created. So I would like to wish you "Miles and miles of abundant smiles"! Tricia

Strolling Mt. Shasta

2011-02-08T09:54:00.000-08:00

Mount Shasta, California, has been called a small city named for a tall mountain. This town of about 4,000 people (at an elevation of 3,500 feet) is located on the flanks of Mt. Shasta, which rises to 14,162 feet, making it a natural geographic landmark in northern California. This location has made it a magnet for tourists, as well as a beautiful place to live for locals. Out-of-towners may come for the Mt. Shasta Ski Park (http://www.skipark.com/), while locals enjoy their outdoor ice skating rink, and newly completed skateboard park (http://www.mtshastaskatepark.org/) that are pictured in the top three photos shown here. Residents who are runners are able to train on uncrowded city streets, as they prepare for the annual Fourth of July festivities that include a footrace (http://www.mtshastarunners.com/) and the photos on the lower left show Grover and Stacy heading out for a run on a recent winter morning. Downtown Mt. Shasta is a great place for strolling, or even riding a "cargo cycle", as shown in the lower right photo.

Just two blocks from downtown, one can enjoy a stroll through Sisson Meadow, which has great views of Black Butte (upper right photo), as well as Mt. Shasta (middle and lower photos on right side of collage). The meadow is named after Justin Sisson, who was a prominent land owner in the area. In fact, the town used to be called "Sisson, California" until it was changed to Mt. Shasta City, in 1924. Sisson Meadow is a restored 7.5 acre nature preserve that has year-round springs, wetlands, lush grasses, a pond, a home and breeding ground for local wildlife. There is a board walk and wooden benches located throughout the meadow, and it provided a great place for my daughter-in-law, Stacy and me, to take a walk with Stacy's sweet dog, Sadie (shown in middle right photo and lower left photo).

I read that the town of Mt. Shasta developed along the ancient trade and travel route of Native American footpaths between California's central valley and the Pacific Northwest, that was called the Siskiyou Trail. That early footpath has been replaced with Interstate 5, which supplies a steady stream of travelers to the businesses and lodging properties of this quaint area. (visit http://www.mtshastachamber.com/ for a list of available lodging and other services in the area). Stacy and I had an enjoyable afternoon visiting some of the unique shops along Mt. Shasta's main street, and I have pictured some of them in this photo collage. The top left photo shows Noam as he works at the potter's wheel teaching others the joy of "playing with mud" (claydancestudio@gmail.com). The top right photo shows the old-fashioned candy counter at a gift store called "My Favorite Things" (www.myfavthings.com). Another unusual store (to this Arkie from the hills, anyway!) was "Sereni-tea" (http://www.sereni-tea.net/). This store had dozens of varieties of tea for sale, as well as teapots, mugs, and all other things needed for a proper tea ceremony! The store manager, Monique, is shown in middle left photo, and a few of the tins of tea she sells is pictured in the lower left photo. I especially liked the motto of the tea shop, which was "Your Tea Store on the "steep" side of Mount Shasta". Clever, huh??!! The middle right photo provides a shot of the "Mount Shasta Book Nook", which is the very comfortable home of "previously loved books". Their website, http://www.mountshastabooknook.com/ has some fantastic photographs of the Mount Shasta scenes that would not fit into this brief blog. The lovely window sign (bottom right photo) of the Mount Shasta Trading Company (530-926-6782) serves as a mirror to reflect a view of Mount Shasta, which it faces.

There is no fear of going hungry in Mt. Shasta, as several area establishments offer a menu that can please any palate. I had a delicious, cooked-to-order fritatta breakfast with Grover and Stacy at "Mount Shasta Pastry" (530-926-9944). It was a cheery place with one wall being completely glass, and the adjoining wall being a lovely mural of a street scene (top photo). From the day my son first moved to Mt. Shasta, I have been hearing about the legendary "Goats Tavern" (530-926-0209), shown at its strategic location of the "Y" intersection, with Mt. Shasta looming in the background. Although the meal we had there this time, was on the inside, I have had the opportunity to enjoy their outdoor dining, as well, which is often accompanied by live music entertainers. The center photo shows Stacy and me, enjoying a "tea toast" in the comfortable seating area of Sereni-tea. As good as the restaurants are in Mt. Shasta, there is nothing better than a home-cooked meal, and Stacy prepared a FANTASTIC feast for us, and what made it even better was that it was also very healthy! She used recipes from her new, favorite cookbook, "Dinner Tonight" from the Cooking Light publishing group, ( http://www.cookinglight.com/ ) pictured in the middle left photo. I know Grover's ancestors would be pleased that his bride is making use of the iron skillet that has been in the family for generations, and continues to produce some delicious food items! (middle right photo). My brief visit in Mt. Shasta left me with a heart full of gratitude for God's many blessings, and as I looked around at the gorgeous scenery that surrounds the town, it reminded me of these verses from Psalms: "I lift up my eyes to the hills-----where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV). I am very thankful to the LORD, for making Mt. Shasta a very special place, between heaven and earth! Miles of Shasta Smiles! Tricia

Groundhog Day Expedition

2011-01-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

Did you ever wonder what the connection is between the critter shown in this photograph (which I took in my front yard last spring), and the weather prediction about how much winter is left in a year? The connection is that this critter---known as a "groundhog"---is one of a group of rodent ground squirrels (called "marmots" in some locations) that goes into true hibernation during cold temperatures. The length of time it remains in hibernation is determined by the climate of the location where the groundhog lives. Likewise the size a groundhog achieves is determined by the number of predators (such as owls, snakes, human beings) that are within its habitat. The gray hair shown in this photo does not indicate that this is an "elder" groundhog. Rather, groundhogs have two layers of fur, one of which is a gray color. This characteristic is responsible for the "frosted" appearance of the fur of many groundhogs.

The stance of the groundhog in this photo is a common one, as you will often see them standing, nearly motionless, on their hind feet, watching for danger. Groundhogs are mainly found in North America, and the earliest recorded date of someone in the U.S. predicting the weather on the basis of a groundhog's activity is February 5, 1841. The basis they used for the prediction was that if the groundhog emerged from its burrow during its hibernation period, and saw its shadow, it went back down into the burrow and continued to hibernate (observers took this to mean there would be six more weeks of winter). However, if the groundhog emerged from its burrow during its hibernation period, and did not see its shadow, (i.e. the sky was cloudy), it will leave its burrow. This is interpreted as meaning winter will end soon. Some early pioneer in the U.S., probably suffering from a bad case of "cabin fever", decided to turn this characteristic of the groundhog into an annual ritual, and declare it as "Groundhog Day"! February 2 is the official "Groundhog Day" in the United States.

The earliest of these Groundhog Day Celebrations took place in Pennsylvania, particularly among the Amish. The Amish---many of which had a German heritage---may have had a similar natural phenomena in their country that indicated climate conditions. However, the hibernating animal was a bear, and not a groundhog, in Germany. There is historical data indicating celebrations were held to commemorate a bear coming out of hibernation, and hence the end of winter. One of the most famous and earliest Groundhog Day Celebrations has been taking place annually, for years, in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. It was this celebration that was the basis of the movie "Groundhog Day". What you may NOT know, however, is that most of the town scenes for the movie were not actually filmed in Punxsutawney, rather, they were filmed in the small town of Woodstock, Illinois, in McHenry County, just a short drive northwest of Chicago. I had the opportunity to visit the quaint little town last fall, and took this photo of their lovely courthouse, which is shown in numerous movie scenes.

This distinctive-looking building is the town's Opera House, but in the movie, it was transformed into the "Pennsylvania Hotel", and it, too, is visible in numerous scenes of the movie. Not surprisingly, all the activity of filming a major movie, brought lots of publicity to Woodstock, and they have capitalized on it, by starting their very own week-long celebration of "Ground Hog Day", which includes special meals, pageants, and walking tours, that will take you to various locations throughout the village where movie scenes were filmed. And of course, the movie is played in the town's theater during the celebration, over and over and over again! You can plan YOUR Ground Hog Day expedition to this lovely place by visiting http://www.woodstockgroundhog.org/ or http://www.visitmchenrycounty.com/

I have to be honest and confess that eighteen years ago, I did not see the moral lesson that the Groundhog movie teaches. But visiting Woodstock renewed my interest in the movie, such that I was reading a description of it in Wikipedia. Wikipedia points out that the TV weatherman character (Bill Murray) must live the same day over and over again until he can learn to give up his selfishness and become a better person. The authors state that is why the phrase "Groundhog Day" has ALSO come to represent going through a phenomena over and over, until one spiritually transcends it. In fact, this pop culture definition of "Groundhog Day" is the same principle that is the mission statement of the church I attend: "Turning Self-Followers into Christ Followers, One Step, One Life at a Time." (http://www.myfbcmh.com/ ) The Wikipedia article, plus a second viewing of the movie after many years of seeing it for the first time, led me to realize that the theme of the movie could have been taken straight out of the third chapter of James in the Bible! The Message paraphrases those verses to say it this way: "Live well, live wisely, live humbly. It's the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts." So get out there and take a "Groundhog Day" Expedition every day of your life!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

SuperBowl Stadium Expedition

2011-01-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

SUPERBOWL XLV (http://www.superbowl.com/) is scheduled for the Dallas Cowboys Stadium on Sunday, February 11. (If you are like me, and have forgotten the lesson on Roman numerals, XLV means "45"). The actual location of the stadium is Arlington, Texas, and when I asked the stadium employee I talked to on the phone, "What is the exact street address of the stadium, so that I can enter it into my car's GPS?", the employee told me that there wasn't an exact street address. But, instead, he gave me the street address for the WalMart store, that is across the street from the stadium (You can see the reflection of the WalMart store in the stadium's glass windows, shown in the lower left photo). He said that would be sufficient to get me to the parking lot that I would use to purchase a ticket to tour the stadium. He was right, and I found the very nice WalMart store, without any problems. ( However, I do have a "bone to pick" with WalMart Headquarters at the next stockholder's meeting in Fayetteville: The symbol for the Texas Longhorns was sculpted into the orange-colored brick that made up the walls of the Arlington WalMart store!! As a Razorback alum, I found this a bit offensive. The only remedy for this is for Fayetteville, Arkansas, WalMart stores to have a RAZORBACK sculpted into the RED brick walls of any new stores being built in that city!) Anyway, I guess I am not the only one asking for GPS directions to the stadium, as the stadium's website goes into great detail about using THEIR WEBSITE directions---not your GPS--- to get to your designated parking space for a stadium event (the parking space alone on REGULAR game days STARTS at $40/spot. I can only imagine what the parking costs will be on the day of the Superbowl!) However, the parking fee is probably only a drop in the bucket, compared to what a ticket for the Superbowl costs--- in the unlikely event you were even able to buy one! That is why, even though attending a Superbowl is on my "Bucket List", I decided to settle for taking a tour of the brand new stadium where the Superbowl will be played. And what a magnificent stadium it is!!! It is the world's largest domed stadium AND the world's largest column-free interior. These two world records are made possible by the 300 ft arches that span the length of the dome, and are anchored to the ground at each end. (You can see the outdoor sections of the arches in the top photo of the collage). The stadium was only completed in May of 2009; it seats 80,000, and has a maximum capacity of 110,000, including standing room. What this means is that you can purchase a ticket to an event, with or without, a seat! The tickets, called "Party Pass", are for standing in the open areas behind seats, in each end zone. There are so many video screens located throughout the stadium, that not knowing what is going on down on the field is virtually impossible!

Speaking of video screens, the Dallas Cowboys Stadium holds the Guinness Book of World Records distinction of having the largest video screen in the world! It spans from 20-yard line to 20-yard line! The photo in the upper left corner of this collage may help put its size into perspective: What looks like a tiny white box hanging beneath the video screen, is actually the "employee elevator" used to access the inside of the screen, and is shown in a close-up view on the upper right photo. Our tour guide pointed out an interesting fact about the work area INSIDE the gigantic screen: It does not have a bathroom, even though employees have to be in there for the duration of a game. OOOPPPS! Of course, the omission is understandable, as plumbing for such a bathroom would be almost impossible! The retractable roof of the stadium is shown in the "closed" position on the left photo. The two tiny black dots seen beneath the roof, are the two workers, shown in a close-up photo on the right of the collage. I was pleased (as would be OSHA) to see that the workers had safety harnesses on, since they were working at a height of hundreds of feet!

I would title this collage "Art and Advertising", because no matter where you go in the stadium, you will see plenty of both! The photo of me holding the rookie sign, in the upper right picture, shows the setting for where a tour guest could have their picture made, for purchase at the end of the tour. Note the AT&T logo prominently visible behind me. Likewise, the Ford Motor Company has a HUGE presence within the stadium with new Ford cars literally stacked on top of each other for display beside each end of a lovely fountain in the Party Pass area (center right photo). The top left photo shows a large sculpture which prominently displays the Dr. Pepper logo. But at least one of the logos on display DID show an organization whose goal is to "save", and not to "consume", and that was the Salvation Army logo, shown in the middle left photo. When you have the world's largest domed structure, it makes sense, you're going to have to have some MASSIVE art installations to fill part of those spaces, and the photo on the lower right shows one of those pieces. It is called "Blue Explosion", and fills the wall behind one of the escalators. The photo on the lower left shows an art installation simply titled "Win!" that shows all the words used in the sports world to achieve a winning mind set.

There is a gift shop at the stadium that is open daily, and you do not have to have a tour ticket in order to visit the gift shop. As you can imagine, there were numerous items you could purchase there relating to the Dallas Cowboys logo, as well as the Superbowl XLV logo, as demonstrated by the coffee mugs in the top photo of this collage. The bottom two photos of this collage show the gigantic bronze statue (located outside the stadium near the ticket office) of legendary Coach Tom Landry, who led the Cowboys for twenty consecutive winning seasons. Coach Landry was a leader not only on the field, but off the field as well. He was the "gentle giant" at the Highland Park Methodist Church for 43 years, and for many of those years he taught an adult Sunday School class there, juggling his Sunday morning responsibilities as a Bible teacher, with his Sunday afternoon responsibilities as a football coach. He is quoted as saying "Leadership is the ability to get a person to do what he doesn't want to do, in order to achieve what he wants to achieve . . . it's getting the best out of people." That is a lesson he first probably learned while teaching the writings of Paul, in the seventh chapter of Romans. Tom Landry very successfully applied these Biblical principles to every aspect of his life. What an inspiration to us all! I have highlighted just a few of the things you will see when you take a tour of the Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. There are also many "behind the scenes" aspects you get to see, including the players' locker room, as well as the locker room of those famous Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, and the private sanctuary of the Cowboys owner, Jerry Jones. Also, the tour is very reasonably priced, depending on which tour you are able to take on the day you visit. You can find out more about the experience on the stadium website, www.stadium.dallascowboys.com/ . SOoooooo, even though you may not be able to personally be present at the Superbowl game, keep in mind, that you CAN tour the location of that game---nicknamed the "Palace in Dallas", and I would highly recommend it! Miles of smiles! Tricia

A WALKING EXPEDITION!

2010-12-28T07:19:00.000-08:00

Have you ever stopped to think what a WONDERFUL blessing it is to be able to walk? Since I worked in health care for over thirty years, I saw early in my career, numerous instances of patients unable to walk due to injuries, birth defects, illness, accidents, amputations, paralysis, and various disease states. One of these disease states is obesity. Since I am a Registered Dietitian, it was my job to try to help obese patients reduce their body weight, so that they would once again be able to walk. I tried to educate patients on how to eat in a manner that would help them lose the extra pounds they carried, and I tried to educate them on the importance of physical activity. Unless they were completely paralyzed, I usually tried to encourage them to try to increase the walking that they did. Walking is not only a way to help your physical status, it is also a great way to help your mental status. If you walk with a friend, it can even improve your emotional status! But there is a fourth component to total well-being, and that is spiritual status.

Starting Wednesday, January 5, at 6 PM, I will be leading a new session of First Place 4 Health. The study book we are using for this 13-week session will address that fourth component of total well-being, which is the spiritual component. The book is called "Walking in Grace", and is pictured in this photograph. We will meet weekly for about one and one-half hours, on Wednesday evenings, and we would love to have YOU join us! If this is something that you might be interested in, you can email me at triciaturnerfirstplace@yahoo.com, and I will try to answer any questions you have about our meetings. You can also log on to www.FirstPlace4Health.com for general information about this very successful, healthy living program, that has been helping people around the country for over 3 decades. So come, walk with us, for miles of smiles! Tricia

Amtrak Overnight Expedition

2010-12-06T17:47:00.001-08:00

I don't know why we always seemed to be surprised when typical winter weather interferes with our winter travel plans! But that was the case that resulted in an unanticipated overnight trip on Amtrak recently. My original plans called for my plane to land in Sacramento, California, around noon, after which I would rent a car to make the drive to my son's house in Klamath Falls, Oregon, arriving in time for supper. The plane landed in Sacramento just fine and on time. However, the weather situation north of there had turned into heavy snow, and my son advised against my renting a car. He suggested instead that I take the Amtrak train up to Klamath Falls. Since I was determined to get to his home, I decided to give his suggestion a try. I had been by myself in a snow storm, in a rental car, in northern California a few years earlier, and it was definitely not an experience I wanted to repeat! I took a SuperShuttle from the airport to the train station in downtown Sacramento, and made myself at home in the train station's historic space. Its architecture reflects the year 1925, when it first opened, as the terminal for the Southern Pacific Railroad. The interior features a mural of the celebration of the completion of the Trans-continental Railroad (upper left photo). One of the most fascinating features of the waiting room was its unique, wooden church-pew-like seats with a heating unit built between the seats (upper middle photo). The very "thoughtful" designers of these unique pieces of furniture must have realized that, with the constant opening and closing of doors going on in a train station, it would be easier to keep the people sitting at the benches warm, by putting the heating unit inside the seats, instead of a more conventional floor or ceiling heat register unit. The upper right photo shows that the train station had modern, flat-screen monitors showing which trains were arriving and departing. The lower left photo shows the "automatic ticket seller" kiosk that was available at this station, as well as many other Amtrak stations. Using this kiosk, one could get their ticket, even if there were no "human" ticket agent available to sell them a ticket. One end of the waiting room had several vending machines, offering every type of food imaginable. And there were tables and chairs beside the vending machines, suitable for "dining" , if one chose to use them. The lower right photo shows one of the vintage and lovely chandeliers that were strategically placed around the high, vaulted ceiling. These unique features are probably one of the reasons that the station has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975.

I boarded the train in Sacramento at midnight, and woke up the next morning just outside Klamath Falls. Lots of people exited the train in Klamath Falls, not because that was their destination, but because the stop in Klamath Falls lasted long enough for people continuing on the train to get outside and stretch their legs. I took a photograph of one of these passengers because the man standing in the snow, shown in the photo on the left , dressed in his Russian type coat, boots, and hat reminded me of a scene out of an old Russian movie! The porter shown in the middle photo was in charge of the sleeper car, which I did not get to visit. The photo on the right shows the trackside entrance to the Klamath Falls station. It is also a historic structure, and its unique architecture, along with the building material of black, volcanic stone, made it a memorable stop for Amtrak passengers who had never seen it before.

The photo on the left gives you an idea of the size of the seats that a passenger in coach class has. Fortunately, I had two of these to stretch out in for the 7-hour ride, which enabled me to sleep like a baby! The porter passed out pillows to everyone, which I thought was a very nice amenity! The windows are large and provide a great view of the landscape you are speeding by. There are also curtains that you can pull, if desired, to made it easier for you to sleep. The photo on the right shows that the Klamath Falls station was keeping the walking area beside the train cleared of the constantly falling snow. This had not been necessary in Sacramento because the boarding area of the tracks had a roof over it. The photo on the left also shows how very long the train was, and the nature of its doubledecker superliner design. The bottom floor of my train car had restrooms, chairs and tables suitable for wheelchairs, and a small storage area for luggage. Then there was a very small, winding staircase that led up to the second level where my seat was located.

The other Amtrak trips I had taken had just been a two or three hours in length, and I had never had big luggage on those other trips. However, on this trip, I had a giant rolling duffel bag, because I was carrying some Christmas presents for family. I was very reluctant to "check" my luggage, because I did not have any experience with doing so on a train. However, another traveler I met in the Sacramento station, who had been on several cross country train trips, said she always checked her luggage, and had never had it lost. So I handed over my big bag at the Sacramento station, and I was pleasantly surprised when I spotted it on the luggage cart that was loaded down with bags at the Klamath Falls station. It was covered in snow, but at least it was not lost!! It was interesting to me that the cart hauling the luggage out of the train and to the station at Klamath Falls was so similar to a cart that I had seen at an "antique" or vintage train ride in Eureka Springs. I guess some things never change! Speaking of baggage, sometimes there is lots of emotional baggage that goes along with visiting old friends and family. All that emotional baggage can keep one from enjoying the blessing of being reunited with loved ones. But just liked I checked my baggage at the train station so I wouldn't have to deal with it during my trip, so I need to "check" my emotional baggage so I don't have to deal with it during my visit. There are some words of wisdom in Ephesians 4:3 that say "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace". That is my prayer for you during this holiday season---may you have miles of PEACEFUL smiles! Tricia

"Parcs Quebec" Expedition

2010-11-16T13:50:00.000-08:00

There is a Canadian National Park that is just minutes from downtown Quebec City, and it is called "Parc de la Chute Montmorency". The top photo of this collage shows the cable cars that go to the elegant dining facility at the top of the falls. The lower left photo shows the Montmorency Falls, which are 272 feet high (100 feet higher than Niagara), with the pedestrian bridge showing in front of the falls. It is part of the historic site that encircles the park, along with an interpretation center and restaurant. In addition, the falls are lit up on some occasions at night, which makes them even more spectacular to look at. The large white "polar bear" likeness on the lower right photo, is in the Interpretive Center, and serves as a useful visual aid, whenever school children come for a visit.

Just 30 minutes, by car, north of Quebec City is the "Parc national de la Jacques-Cartier" (top photo). As you may recall from your history books, Jacques Cartier was an early explorer in Canada. The Jacques Cartier National Park is a vast mountainous plateau, measuring 258 square miles with deep gorges, at the bottom of which are rivers whose steady flow is interrupted by the occasional rapids. One of the mountain ranges is called the Laurentian Mountains, and offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. In the lower left photo a park ranger is using the large map in the Visitor's Center to explain to our group the geography that lies within the park. She explained that we were in a glacial valley with the Jacques Cartier River running through it. In some places that river is calm, and in other places, it is turbulent.

Because river activities are so popular, and because the park is so close to a major urban center, they keep a huge inventory of both kayaks (upper right photo) and canoes (lower photos) on hand. The park also provides shuttle service for river runners, as evidenced by their van in the upper left photo. But the park does not shut down in the winter! You can explore the snowy wilderness as you go backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking. The main website for all of Canada's parks (including Montmorency shown in the first photo collage) is www.sepaq.com The specific website to check on activities at Jacque Cartier Park is www.sepaq.com/jacquescartier and you can click on which language you want the site to appear in.

Besides traditional tent camping and cabins, the park also offers "yurt" camping. The advantages of yurt camping is that they are fully equipped with cooking utensils, beds, cook stove, table, and chairs. The park ranger in the lower left photo showed our group what they looked like on the inside. In addition, each yurt campsite is equipped with a picnic table, outdoor grill, and wooden porch. A centrally-located bathhouse provides showers and toilets for a group of about four yurts. The pretty blond in the upper left photo, ponting to the French sign for the yurts, is a new friend I made on the trip. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to her speak in perfect English, even though she grew up in Germany. What I found fascinating about her story, is that she grew up in East Germany, during the time when it was still under Communist rule. She lived through the experience of seeing the Berlin wall come down. She could tell me about her life before the wall came down, and after the wall came down. She was so kind and congenial and helpful, not only to me, but to each person in our group, that she made quite an impression on me. Romans 8:35 says "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?.......No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." This beautiful German lady, is indeed, more than a conqueror! Meeting people like her when one travels, and getting to see the majesty of God's creation in a place like Jacques Cartier National Park, makes me even more of a believer in the quote by St. Augustine that says "Not to travel, is like reading only one page of a book". So get out there and enjoy some more miles of smiles!! Tricia

"Okwari Aventures" in Seguenay, Quebec

2010-11-16T13:07:00.000-08:00

If you would like a Canadian "north woods" experience, but would like it to be in a somewhat "controlled" environment, then Okwari Aventures is just the ticket! (Okwari means "bear" in the native language.) Located not far from the city, yet on the border of a magnificent forest, it is an exceptional site for observing the black bear and other wildlife. Observation of the bears takes place in its natural habitat with qualified guides. Spectators are within an area with electrified fences (to keep the bears away from the spectators), and they can stay cozy inside heated shelters with large windows that look out onto bear habitat. There is even a "portable john" adjacent to the shelter for those inconvenient times "when nature calls"! During the hours preceding the bear observation time, visitors to Okwari Aventures have a variety of options available to them, some of which are pictured in this collage. The upper left photo shows the nature trail you can take with an experienced naturalist as they point out unusual plants (lower left) and ponds created by beavers, with their signature "beaver dam" engineering (lower right photo). The red maple leaves in the middle right photo show why it is very appropriate that the Canadian flag be emblazoned with a red maple leaf. The day I was at Okwari Aventures, the forest floor was completely carpeted in the beautiful red maple leaves!

Your day at Okwari Aventures can also include a visit to a serene lake (top photo) with a Scandinavian type log cabin built on its shores (middle right photo). There you can warm up by the wood stove (as I am doing in the middle left photo) before you enjoy a feast on a meal of foods typical of the region. The lower photo shows another activity you can engage in---a Rabaska canoe ride. Different from canoes one sees on the Buffalo River in Arkansas, a Rabaska canoe is an 8 meter long boat that seats about ten people. It is the method used by yesteryear's "coureurs-des-bois", or pioneers, on Quebec's lakes and rivers.

Another extremely enjoyable and educational option at Okwari Aventures is visiting an aboriginal site. There you will meet a French Canadian "mountain man" with his native American wife (upper left photo). They will give you an in-depth explanation of not only the clothing they are wearing, but also the various tools they use to survive in the wilderness (upper right photo). The lower left photo shows their fire pit, where they prepared herbal teas for us to sample, along with various medicinal herbs they were in the habit of using. The photo on the right shows the shelter they built of available native materials that was used as their home during the long, cold winters.

Okwari Aventures is located along a river the French Canadians call "Riviere a Mars". This photo collage shows the suspension bridge we were able to cross above the river, to the observation deck on the other side. It is easy to see (and hear!) the power created by the rushing water, and it illustrates why "the power of flowing water" has a long history of being useful in Quebec. This location beside the river is another reason for the success of Okwari Aventures as a natural habit for moose, bear, beavers, and deer. It reminded me of the verse in Psalms 42:1 that says "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my heart pants for you, O God". Perhaps it is a lesson to us human beings that just as the animals need to be near a water source, so we need to stay near the source of our sustenance---a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. If you would like to learn more about Okwari Aventures, you may visit their website at http://www.okwariaventures.com/ Since it is in the area of Quebec known as Saguenay, you can also visit http://www.ville.seguenay.qc.ca/ to learn about other nearby attractions. I can assure you that you will experience miles of smiles on the highways and byways of Seguenay! Tricia

Quebec City Expedition

2010-11-15T14:06:00.000-08:00

Quebec City is in the province of Quebec, in Canada. It is situated on the St. Lawrence River (upper left photo), and has been a strategic location for that country for centuries. Quebec City is considered the "cradle" of French civilisation in North America, and French, is in fact, the official language of the province of Quebec. Most travel brochures of the area will use the "signature image" of the famous Chateau Frontenac (a Fairmont hotel property) to identify to the viewer that they are looking at Quebec City. Because the hotel's history is so tied in with the history of Quebec City, I would recommend visiting Chateau Frontenac, even if you are not using that property as your lodging. I was extremely thankful to be able to participate in one of the guided tours of the Chateau. It is such a popular activity, that the tours are offered on the hour, with a duration of 50 minutes. However, even with so many departures offered, reservations are still recommended. Check their website for details on this and other services offered: http://www.tourschateau.ca/

The historic district of Quebec (referred to as "Old Quebec) is renowned for a unique European charm and its beautiful, and well preserved, architecture. In fact, Place Royale (lower left photo) was the site where a, supposedly European street scene, from the Leonardo DiCaprio movie-- Catch Me If You Can--- was ACTUALLY filmed! Quebec is also known for its fine cuisine, and some statistics show it to have the highest number of restaurants per person of any city in the world! Many of these fine culinary establishments are located in Old Quebec.

A short distance from Old Quebec, the city's growth to the north is highlighted by the Parliament Buildings (top & lower right photos). Since Quebec City is the capitol of the Canadian province of Quebec, one might think of this Parliament building as you would think of the capitol of one of the states in the USA, (e.g. like Little Rock is the capitol of Arkansas.) The fountain on the left of the photo collage was a gift to the city in more recent years from one of the province's largest retailers, and makes a beautiful addition to the stately Parliament Buildings.

The upper left photo in this collage shows the entrance to the City Hall of Quebec City. It was adorned with beautiful autumn decorations when I made my visit there back in November. The upper right photo shows "The Plains of Abraham" which was Canada's first national historic park. It was the site of the confrontation between the French and the British Empires, including the 1759 Battle of the Plains of Abraham, and the 1760 Battle of Sainte-Foy. The middle photo shows one of the "gates" of the original fortifying wall, that is still in use on the street entering into Old Quebec. The lower left photo shows the unique sculpture that designates Old Quebec as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the reasons it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is because of the wall (fortification) that forms a 4.6 kilometer-long defensive belt around the old city, and the fact that it is the last fortified city remaining north of Mexico City. On top of the wall is a sentry path (lined with interpretation signposts) that runs atop the ramparts and gates, allowing the visitor to understand the evolution of the defensive wall system. One can also get a historical perspective about the importance of a wall around a city, by reading the book of Nehemiah in the Old Testament. The story is about a people who worked diligently to rebuild a wall that had been destroyed by attacks of their enemies. They were so intent on getting the repairs done, that they rebuilt it in record time because, as Nehemiah 4:6 states: "So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart." Likewise, the tourism officials of Quebec City work "with all their heart" to make your experience in their beloved city a most memorable and enjoyable one. Read how to get the most out of your trip to Quebec City by visiting http://www.quebecregion.com/ and as they say in their part of the world "BIENVENUE QUEBEC"!! Miles of smiles! Tricia

Quebec Canyon St. Anne Expedition

2010-11-14T11:53:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe that such a short distance from the bustling streets of Quebec City, there could be such a magnificent natural wonder as Canyon Saint-Anne. The canyon is grooved by an imposing 74 meter waterfall, and the photo on the lower right shows the rainbow above it, that was the treat for the visitors to the canyon on the day that I was there.

In addition to being able to cross the canyon on the highest pedestrian bridges in Quebec (55 meters high), the more adventuresome traveler can go across on the ever-popular "zip line" and/or cable bridges. The photos on the left and upper right show one of the zip line technicians with the tools of his trade, which of course includes a helmet for him and any of the customers that choose to try their various adventure offerings.

These photos show the "vias ferratas" operated by the same company as runs the giant zip line and cable bridges. The "vias ferratas" are a type of climbing whereby the climber is hooked onto a cable that is secured to the side of the rock being ascended or descended. They are currently more common in Europe than in North America.

The upper left photo shows one of the 3 suspension bridges that cross the canyon, while the photo on the right shows the mighty "Sainte-Anne-du-Nord" River that flows through the gorge. The river was used extensively by loggers at the turn of the century, and it was a former logger who, in 1965, told Jean-Marie McNicoll how to reach the Saint-Anne River falls. At the time, there was no road to the river, but later with the help of his brother, Laurent, they leased the immediate shores of the river from Hydro-Quebec and purchased the wooded lots between Route 138 and the leased riverbanks. Over time, an access road was built , and the first visitors were welcomed to the area in the summer of 1973. That first summer, tourists could reach the river on a 1.5 kilometer road through the woods. Since then, the walkways have been extended, while other lookouts and the three bridges were built. In the lower photo, I am standing on one of the sturdy, and strategically placed, observation platforms above the falls. Today, more than 100,000 people from around the world visit Canyon Sainte-Anne each year! The day that I visited, I had the privilege of walking with one of the original family members involved in developing the canyon, Helene McNicoll. She taught me a new word as we made the circuit around the canyon. The word is "vertiginous". The word has a meaning besides its reference to "having vertigo". It also means "very high or steep". It is a very appropriate word to describe the incredible Canyon Sainte-Anne. But don't let the word scare off someone who may not think of themselves as the outdoor type, or think they are too old to be hiking around in the Canadian woods. And, you don't have to be a young thing to try your hand at a zip line or cable bridge. I am a grandmother, and I have been on one (and even lived to tell about it on a blog post!)! In fact, Canyon Sainte-Anne is named after a grandmother----- Sainte-Anne, according to Christian traditions, is the grandmother of Jesus! (The Canyon is only 5 minutes from the famous Basilica of St. Anne). For additional information on visiting the canyon, visit their website at http://www.canyonsa.qc.ca/ and for information on the zipline or climbing experiences in the canyon, go to http://www.aventurex.net/ When you have studied these, and visited the canyon for yourself, you will see why it was a national winner of "Attraction Canada", and the site of the filming for a John Travolta movie. So get out there and you will have miles of canyon smiles (or kilometers, if you speak in their vernacular!) Tricia

Egyptian Pyramid Expedition

2010-10-12T13:00:00.000-07:00

Did you know you do not have to go all the way to Egypt to experience the wonder and mystery of an Egyptian pyramid? As a matter of fact, there is one you can tour in northern Illinois near the town of Wadsworth, Illinois, in Lake County. The gold pyramid house was built in 1977 by Jim and Linda Onan, and they have used it as the home where they raised their children, as well as, periodically opening it up to the (very curious) public for tours. They were inspired to build the pyramid home after reading a University of Wisconsin study, suggesting that pyramids generate energy. In addition, Mr. Onan had a long-standing interest in all things Egyptology, such that when combined with his skills as a builder, and access to capitol, he is said to have built the largest 24 karat gold plated object in the world! This photo collage shows that water forms a moat that encircles the entire structure. The moat is 20 feet deep and spring-lake fed. Therefore, the pyramid could be said to be on an island, and you have to pass over a causeway to get into the home. The middle photos of the collage show the 80 stone sphinxes that line the driveway, as well as the "three-pyramid" garage (right center photo). Since Mr. Onan is said to have made his "fortune" by building garages, it is not surprising that HIS garage was built to hold FOUR automobiles. The collage also shows the 64 foot-tall and 200-ton statue of Ramesses II, near the entrance to the property. There is a tall, security fence, with large gates, that surrounds the property. So even if it is not open for tours on the day that you drive by, one can still take photos of the pyramid through that bars of the security fence.

In this photo collage, Linda Onan is showing our group, their family photos of the the children that were raised in the pyramid house. Don't you know that was a hoot for those kids, when explaining to their friends where they lived??!! Jim Onan is shown in these photos as he walks about the property, visits with guests, and unlocks the door to the recreated burial tomb of King Tutankhamen that is on the property. I was able to tour the simulated tomb, with someone who had actually been to REAL burial tombs in Egypt, and she said this recreation was as authentic-looking as the real thing.

The top left photo of this collage shows the "theater" where Onan greets entering tour groups. This area was originally meant to house a swimming pool, until water table problems interfered with that idea. Although there were signs posted inside saying "No Photography", Mr. Onan gave our group permission to take photographs of their living area. It was furnished much as any nice home might be, with the addition of NUMEROUS accessories/designs that would be called "Egyptian". The walls are hand-painted with hieroglyphs, as was the large window looking out towards the moat (upper right photo).

The property also contains a gift shop (middle right photo shows the interior, and the lower photo shows the exterior of the gift shop). When I was looking at the sarcophagus inside the recreated tomb of King Tut, I was reminded of the significance of the EMPTY tomb of Jesus Christ in Israel. The Bible verse in the gospels (Luke 24:34), relays the good news for Christ-followers, that "He is risen---He is risen, indeed!" If you would like to learn more about the Gold Pyramid House, and perhaps plan to go there for a tour, visit their website at http://www.goldpyramid.com/. For additional activities in the surrounding area, visit http://www.lakecounty.org/ You will be surprised to see how many treasures (Egyptian and otherwise) this scenic county has to offer! It is there you will find----miles of smiles! Tricia