tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86838491049195582592024-03-22T13:33:57.268-05:00Expeditions by TriciaUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger604125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-5173077525790221292024-03-15T14:23:00.435-05:002024-03-22T13:33:25.624-05:00ALPINE HELEN EXPEDITION!<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Helen, Georgia is located in the northeastern area of the state. The German flag on their sign below, reflects the fact that the city made an economic decision, several decades ago, to brand itself like a Bavarian alpine town in the Alps Mountain Range, based on its proximity to the Appalachian Mountain Range.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUuuFfj86xy27PfcH408Ey2bzk6hZkn4z1IdaVNAfM0JPyQbEhjTGYMalx1-l6zkqxkmY2sSb-v4yxt0nArghBa_uRGnBZotLgG1JY5PjSv8Zrw5pVKC9ADz1SDW1Pg4fxQtxkatgPad9QK4hT1rDtg7x0OFtjKOLrLZpW11MryA-zxHBMMtf18xliIEs3/s3648/IMG_8841.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk7M-u2yw3f0mKgsXIBMPciQJCEvnjXAdSx9w0UCRnyBEjJ_rToh6p9k83372WhhM_hMoAKcPXWPoeoJfG__X1uLtgo_nWmSSsw108_WIxd7ElPxQJUdjINtF8s4WsPHwoiQ5og4ZOr1TWM8k9Acn9p3BY8S3-0PovGJQGL128zHp8sbi8i8N74BkUw6PX/s3648/IMG_8875.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk7M-u2yw3f0mKgsXIBMPciQJCEvnjXAdSx9w0UCRnyBEjJ_rToh6p9k83372WhhM_hMoAKcPXWPoeoJfG__X1uLtgo_nWmSSsw108_WIxd7ElPxQJUdjINtF8s4WsPHwoiQ5og4ZOr1TWM8k9Acn9p3BY8S3-0PovGJQGL128zHp8sbi8i8N74BkUw6PX/s320/IMG_8875.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The town is situated along the Chattahoochee River.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvhDhf62r8-RxTv9nuDp6rOC1UkipQnOrf7SSmfi-sBMZUflWQ-vNFSxioDhbbEqDierSJ9fl3hAt6eSl7uagdX8kkCVSeYusA21M6H3P1WREnQTpql26ZvRmfZnAAmtlB15-DEOCnzM-Ekp7TOppEPPAI_Iq3Lb6wnUyDk3CX1S_DYUZIDf5k9uUU0we/s3648/IMG_8847.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvhDhf62r8-RxTv9nuDp6rOC1UkipQnOrf7SSmfi-sBMZUflWQ-vNFSxioDhbbEqDierSJ9fl3hAt6eSl7uagdX8kkCVSeYusA21M6H3P1WREnQTpql26ZvRmfZnAAmtlB15-DEOCnzM-Ekp7TOppEPPAI_Iq3Lb6wnUyDk3CX1S_DYUZIDf5k9uUU0we/s3648/IMG_8847.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlLeOwSaoPW1xXo_LtFaa3C0njD11KLvvucboHGpwcmgHeCxJbKioooRDvpEcG6npaU0-y9_wNNCWIakGupNhy2bZ_3YmmwWNERquH30tDHVbs4Vk7BALXsgvZRLnxo7HhIvuJoxMmHQrLIBh8BGhJfPx8HE2ptJ5YeZVn2pRZI6QIXaaDTz4cI2qefHK/s640/IMG_1634%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlLeOwSaoPW1xXo_LtFaa3C0njD11KLvvucboHGpwcmgHeCxJbKioooRDvpEcG6npaU0-y9_wNNCWIakGupNhy2bZ_3YmmwWNERquH30tDHVbs4Vk7BALXsgvZRLnxo7HhIvuJoxMmHQrLIBh8BGhJfPx8HE2ptJ5YeZVn2pRZI6QIXaaDTz4cI2qefHK/s320/IMG_1634%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>A lovely Riverside Park provides a respite for visitors to the area.<br /><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvhDhf62r8-RxTv9nuDp6rOC1UkipQnOrf7SSmfi-sBMZUflWQ-vNFSxioDhbbEqDierSJ9fl3hAt6eSl7uagdX8kkCVSeYusA21M6H3P1WREnQTpql26ZvRmfZnAAmtlB15-DEOCnzM-Ekp7TOppEPPAI_Iq3Lb6wnUyDk3CX1S_DYUZIDf5k9uUU0we/s320/IMG_8847.JPG" width="320" /></div>The photo below, of me with a round hay bale, painted to resemble a jack-o-lantern, should be a clue that I was visiting in October.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9j5BX92fOURIxGv-Ha2wF3CIBXqRUpVnfh1zC7WmAMpdF1ICw18xPbg8DcILR2StL0mDlT9lakOrP0niN_xdB7W_g-jwhrJ3ZcTwSjV6geecYo02QC3DbU4uOEkhXErfUNs8-f3wRNx0mVMLH7SSYgo-F2hIOPi8XmscFf3pv6NN6K2AZYXBCsSq2hif/s640/IMG_1619.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9j5BX92fOURIxGv-Ha2wF3CIBXqRUpVnfh1zC7WmAMpdF1ICw18xPbg8DcILR2StL0mDlT9lakOrP0niN_xdB7W_g-jwhrJ3ZcTwSjV6geecYo02QC3DbU4uOEkhXErfUNs8-f3wRNx0mVMLH7SSYgo-F2hIOPi8XmscFf3pv6NN6K2AZYXBCsSq2hif/s320/IMG_1619.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>In keeping with Bavarian traditions, Alpine Georgia hosts an Oktoberfest that not only occurs in October, but also on the weekends of the month before and the month after!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRUR8IbJ6RJfezDIAW1YZNIrmsjKDjVvLZd-jmlagG_vSDTNao2zQ1Ded_0zNFFlsA02pB0CMa3bzlOiDPz1OjZkMUXs_mSQMLdBwKbExlCGZ7PZz5918VeNAhENVoS-OuIRXX4NrZNWJNI0KKC-3roPrHHchw5NHHUd9Psyx38_P3s2jQTk5R07wOLw4/s3648/IMG_8861.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRUR8IbJ6RJfezDIAW1YZNIrmsjKDjVvLZd-jmlagG_vSDTNao2zQ1Ded_0zNFFlsA02pB0CMa3bzlOiDPz1OjZkMUXs_mSQMLdBwKbExlCGZ7PZz5918VeNAhENVoS-OuIRXX4NrZNWJNI0KKC-3roPrHHchw5NHHUd9Psyx38_P3s2jQTk5R07wOLw4/s320/IMG_8861.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The photo below shows one of numerous Alpine-themed murals that are located throughout the town.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oFbWb9GnC9zG4KIyyNNA2NPkCuF6Wp4_lbOZkEfGXYPSLRFKUpF0SWfN-QmP1XA7pi2sNokE1H2ApF53rP5dKEFHE3hEMw0D0Vwe5G2Swpo0R0N3i5TRqXrU8w_95RxUmEC97ux_jlpQ68aiFmkIlA4ZYkiTcpUHioPtENVatiUS3uBELikXb0OblHEL/s3648/IMG_8859.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_oFbWb9GnC9zG4KIyyNNA2NPkCuF6Wp4_lbOZkEfGXYPSLRFKUpF0SWfN-QmP1XA7pi2sNokE1H2ApF53rP5dKEFHE3hEMw0D0Vwe5G2Swpo0R0N3i5TRqXrU8w_95RxUmEC97ux_jlpQ68aiFmkIlA4ZYkiTcpUHioPtENVatiUS3uBELikXb0OblHEL/s320/IMG_8859.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The murals provide a wonderful photo opportunity to remind people they are actually in the USA, and not Bavaria!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzmI6cpoCyvKqNVPz4ZILXkNAKt0Oe0W0rYEhFGAgTc-fjzsNQCGqxmaJwyhtcCWb5IKCI6XrIpKoheSbm7UsQXWD8Zn8iQYTF4HawI1ubgPwaDJX3_lD3xSjSq2T9CbJWpUOgRKMrHxa9yHKQyFiRZDA4RLmAyK06guyQa_ZeNSb5LjolKlLXtE2BbAtg/s640/IMG_1621.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzmI6cpoCyvKqNVPz4ZILXkNAKt0Oe0W0rYEhFGAgTc-fjzsNQCGqxmaJwyhtcCWb5IKCI6XrIpKoheSbm7UsQXWD8Zn8iQYTF4HawI1ubgPwaDJX3_lD3xSjSq2T9CbJWpUOgRKMrHxa9yHKQyFiRZDA4RLmAyK06guyQa_ZeNSb5LjolKlLXtE2BbAtg/s320/IMG_1621.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The couple below is wearing the traditional ethnic attire of Bavaria. The leather shorts with suspenders that the man is wearing, are called <i>lederhosen .</i> The female is wearing a <i>Dirndl</i>, that consists of a closefitting bodice with a low neckline, a blouse worn under the bodice, a wide high-waisted skirt, and an apron.<i> </i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-owOjRIqRPrkGF90GadZS6SG6Edk-ZGaGPoDgY3zrh6TlZ0O1SsRX3XR_yTvSocLvV6XQoP-PX5w6pXNJEdgy2USTHIbaxhvmAo9SN6zGP8uoti5NGZASv7U9HQg264wixCpfGdheRQWlG_ixBv4Q1W6q7SLtp9AUedejPhhTBQAC7bb404FUUBaatAG/s640/IMG_1629.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ-owOjRIqRPrkGF90GadZS6SG6Edk-ZGaGPoDgY3zrh6TlZ0O1SsRX3XR_yTvSocLvV6XQoP-PX5w6pXNJEdgy2USTHIbaxhvmAo9SN6zGP8uoti5NGZASv7U9HQg264wixCpfGdheRQWlG_ixBv4Q1W6q7SLtp9AUedejPhhTBQAC7bb404FUUBaatAG/s320/IMG_1629.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I could not resist having my photo made with these four young fellas, sporting their <i>lederhosen</i>, as well as the traditional Bavarian head covering, called a Tyrolean hat (because it originated from the Tyrol area of the Alps). <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWDGXANjWbTTeQSKKLHseeb7HleMUMJy4kd4edS03B5wobZFmThSjHjD9Dt0kpiDRx-Erh1OI_9eR03ckklB_cg0k7xUoE1XSDuWzW6vPi3MQtiIbSZWQBZw73ycS9tpWFTARSc8cBeMAex-zrhw63W5sIv6OiRBH_5VvkREba0-NYzV74iDX_LWuaZZ-/s320/IMG_1641%20(1).jpg" width="240" />Even if you do not have the traditional attire, there is a photo opportunity where you can put your head into the opening of the sign below, and be a "Bavarian for a Day"!<br /></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4G-91fLcIhFL3IHoBXzQUJQiPuULI8TqNOHM4JJbeMFtGCf0EwrTlRdFkjGBxDF7B4WRu_FFP4lRG-84PtgARULW5P80GHbD51yv_IvNWk-rcyP1SL-5laHhG5ar6Id8MS1ccLLa4X1-OWUSLuUcn-W28LFoqfumvgyLAwbcaEM9U8ctPPL43mBS-rMpg/s3648/IMG_8925.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4G-91fLcIhFL3IHoBXzQUJQiPuULI8TqNOHM4JJbeMFtGCf0EwrTlRdFkjGBxDF7B4WRu_FFP4lRG-84PtgARULW5P80GHbD51yv_IvNWk-rcyP1SL-5laHhG5ar6Id8MS1ccLLa4X1-OWUSLuUcn-W28LFoqfumvgyLAwbcaEM9U8ctPPL43mBS-rMpg/s320/IMG_8925.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Oktoberfest is an important part of Bavarian culture, having been held since the year 1810. It originally took place in the 16-day period leading up to the first Sunday in October. The Oktoberfest in Helen lasts much longer than the original!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-QWSe3Y0US8WhAdY2LTrPkcBvJ20A81Bh7w-2npHHhVX8Z3Wbn6NR9ypF96vodrn2PGFHP6sJJJ9BQ1ktttcFDYbkEzSPGOE3gKLblh9ypjVzQzwFVmfGvWl8srG6qitQiK-1SjMqWgCj57GP1Sfcwbt9h8E2BXwIk2z62unehoU9AMRziyVL9R-X0_O/s3648/IMG_8947.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo-QWSe3Y0US8WhAdY2LTrPkcBvJ20A81Bh7w-2npHHhVX8Z3Wbn6NR9ypF96vodrn2PGFHP6sJJJ9BQ1ktttcFDYbkEzSPGOE3gKLblh9ypjVzQzwFVmfGvWl8srG6qitQiK-1SjMqWgCj57GP1Sfcwbt9h8E2BXwIk2z62unehoU9AMRziyVL9R-X0_O/s320/IMG_8947.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />I read on Wikipedia that in 2014, 7.7 million litres of beer were served at the actual German event. I have not seen any statistics for amounts served at the Helen, Georgia event, although it appeared to be substantial! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxLbFNfLGZqr-OiyMBd0Y07g-pkjzEWKISrx5RXFOUiUKIWtUMIdj1PRxq_Hn4TTrEH6Qf_-jXQuJH4TJZvtGNV1XTp0tr8nvoEz7BgsrdwXTIOxZ34GQ3nJ9zLsNPSoWUE-i1ugTSA2SsxceymA2vxdjqd9cQ6LUmwumu25CBW_JELJhygqwLWbz0M-z/s3648/IMG_8949.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxLbFNfLGZqr-OiyMBd0Y07g-pkjzEWKISrx5RXFOUiUKIWtUMIdj1PRxq_Hn4TTrEH6Qf_-jXQuJH4TJZvtGNV1XTp0tr8nvoEz7BgsrdwXTIOxZ34GQ3nJ9zLsNPSoWUE-i1ugTSA2SsxceymA2vxdjqd9cQ6LUmwumu25CBW_JELJhygqwLWbz0M-z/s320/IMG_8949.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A 1969 zoning ordinance that was adopted in Helen, Georgia, mandated that all architecture must be a replica of that which would be seen in a Bavarian alpine town. The street scene below illustrates this concept. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxLbFNfLGZqr-OiyMBd0Y07g-pkjzEWKISrx5RXFOUiUKIWtUMIdj1PRxq_Hn4TTrEH6Qf_-jXQuJH4TJZvtGNV1XTp0tr8nvoEz7BgsrdwXTIOxZ34GQ3nJ9zLsNPSoWUE-i1ugTSA2SsxceymA2vxdjqd9cQ6LUmwumu25CBW_JELJhygqwLWbz0M-z/s3648/IMG_8949.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLsRHxFI_OY9wn5Sa9N53RxUY9kTuk8SQAjH0ol6q985gMhQPQ88BM9cxu5GSAgOkYVbHtstO6GneR5_WcfbJrxATtmNGMrnm703ZSgujGOw2eHhkZV-ZglhUtmTrs1gpmG4Z21WFrX75o9bNTTN38XjsFD73-Lv6L7QG6MVNMbbZriPW9vBkDFj7a5JXu/s640/IMG_1638%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLsRHxFI_OY9wn5Sa9N53RxUY9kTuk8SQAjH0ol6q985gMhQPQ88BM9cxu5GSAgOkYVbHtstO6GneR5_WcfbJrxATtmNGMrnm703ZSgujGOw2eHhkZV-ZglhUtmTrs1gpmG4Z21WFrX75o9bNTTN38XjsFD73-Lv6L7QG6MVNMbbZriPW9vBkDFj7a5JXu/s320/IMG_1638%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>Besides the unique shops and restaurants a visitor can peruse, there is also a town plaza, where one can enjoy the tunes played by street musicians, such as the one shown in this photo. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWlTYVmYbJ-q0jURox654fG7EvJc0Ht6aVFfiIt8Qn7zUE6NIl0bpvH35x4kRJrsRYKCaLT2MEy1eG5rp8CudrC0gA2XVW871JZscbZw0TAsrOConxRJWY_Svab0QcxmQUcNocQL9P32eeofS3JjFtH3amD7chuuo4DOH5FemF26oFXyol4Txof57k_t7/s3648/IMG_8935.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWlTYVmYbJ-q0jURox654fG7EvJc0Ht6aVFfiIt8Qn7zUE6NIl0bpvH35x4kRJrsRYKCaLT2MEy1eG5rp8CudrC0gA2XVW871JZscbZw0TAsrOConxRJWY_Svab0QcxmQUcNocQL9P32eeofS3JjFtH3amD7chuuo4DOH5FemF26oFXyol4Txof57k_t7/s320/IMG_8935.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>I did all my exploring on foot, but one can also choose a horse-drawn carriage tour around the village.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHoot8xJ6zjFHDgGxdi4a-8wvMo7gHMx2R-iMt5HW_HLbJ5umoaaVy-_NLg-Ap8DY1O3TF6mkSex68dBC5W_a-foAMNNU2Kzt5dTOkvQ0v5gzKcrMDIyGx9YhNCkdwA4yxr0IduqTR-Ip5UiEJgrtVrY7hdxoeC9dn3IO2qmrBkRCxfcP_csvGN7n5S27O/s3648/IMG_8936.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHoot8xJ6zjFHDgGxdi4a-8wvMo7gHMx2R-iMt5HW_HLbJ5umoaaVy-_NLg-Ap8DY1O3TF6mkSex68dBC5W_a-foAMNNU2Kzt5dTOkvQ0v5gzKcrMDIyGx9YhNCkdwA4yxr0IduqTR-Ip5UiEJgrtVrY7hdxoeC9dn3IO2qmrBkRCxfcP_csvGN7n5S27O/s320/IMG_8936.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you want a different type of "horse power", there is a miniature train to hop on!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHoot8xJ6zjFHDgGxdi4a-8wvMo7gHMx2R-iMt5HW_HLbJ5umoaaVy-_NLg-Ap8DY1O3TF6mkSex68dBC5W_a-foAMNNU2Kzt5dTOkvQ0v5gzKcrMDIyGx9YhNCkdwA4yxr0IduqTR-Ip5UiEJgrtVrY7hdxoeC9dn3IO2qmrBkRCxfcP_csvGN7n5S27O/s3648/IMG_8936.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4TxMf9l65KiZDq3RfNTWM1cgH98UKeLQk6Gk2wqD_enbkbvqVuTSIoD76wbK-vFJ3BaaTvLnvCnOCL0-bxssXRbfCyeSTJkvtnWEVXgsfwJgDQiS9iWtE0ZTKd5GWun3m5dnE1zOqEop43Q_20gMZ4-m5LxKiUyUrTLXVxtvN5Ui6_ixxB6f_icMjP8c/s640/IMG_1632%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4TxMf9l65KiZDq3RfNTWM1cgH98UKeLQk6Gk2wqD_enbkbvqVuTSIoD76wbK-vFJ3BaaTvLnvCnOCL0-bxssXRbfCyeSTJkvtnWEVXgsfwJgDQiS9iWtE0ZTKd5GWun3m5dnE1zOqEop43Q_20gMZ4-m5LxKiUyUrTLXVxtvN5Ui6_ixxB6f_icMjP8c/s320/IMG_1632%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>Tourism is a key economic activity in Helen, catering mostly to weekend visitors from the Atlanta area. Special arrangements can be made for parking motorcoaches.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53YoZvX7SP73CmGHlrVHwd4iIqpQue3NUqfcTtIc81wu8yuFg8nw4GHukL9VVNFme055ZHLJtX1jCBu0EZWmV3W_JJGfmKkT4tveFAgIxgizKEMg21Sf7K3ZYUN930Z2ZjuBelqUJRRrzWfW1TJAtZ0Ya0FwhBsnZ0N-c86iAn6uGxGrkQckTL-_edeb_/s3648/IMG_8870.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53YoZvX7SP73CmGHlrVHwd4iIqpQue3NUqfcTtIc81wu8yuFg8nw4GHukL9VVNFme055ZHLJtX1jCBu0EZWmV3W_JJGfmKkT4tveFAgIxgizKEMg21Sf7K3ZYUN930Z2ZjuBelqUJRRrzWfW1TJAtZ0Ya0FwhBsnZ0N-c86iAn6uGxGrkQckTL-_edeb_/s320/IMG_8870.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The village is also very popular for motorcyclists, who enjoy the amenities of Helen, as well as the beauty of the surrounding mountain roads. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1f5Ud0_OMVcS2-qHofz5WTGmqLhW_449SMk9ZETXngILGEgNi_wSQbLZj9y1ctJ64WR41aPY_Qo9rg3GyJMyJH3xWgkWEWC6Uvmp8uMd2MyPjcTwYcvjjM1KekvWM6_ABnLlcas8HwEnOidCg6OCQVXEVcPINi9GBJTNKmt-zK67Ffp8jMOmLMfoYRVUO/s3648/IMG_8909.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1f5Ud0_OMVcS2-qHofz5WTGmqLhW_449SMk9ZETXngILGEgNi_wSQbLZj9y1ctJ64WR41aPY_Qo9rg3GyJMyJH3xWgkWEWC6Uvmp8uMd2MyPjcTwYcvjjM1KekvWM6_ABnLlcas8HwEnOidCg6OCQVXEVcPINi9GBJTNKmt-zK67Ffp8jMOmLMfoYRVUO/s320/IMG_8909.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Since I was exploring on foot, I had no trouble accessing a lovely mountainside park, that sits on a hill overlooking the town. The picturesque gazebo provides a great meeting place!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxadc6S4XGDOsbavFoFYFvs_o38Mmt9pgcrrTFXFILs773Zmy37K15q2pUCn6Mcy0JEuiKqUFC0kirOCB5CfWa9bwDt_iIB_iOimmMjlkVhdHhw8sBd9gWirCueeYnGVKdY2HxRfpH6SkLU3wbldEJJiDB-QpE9s3wCPccUKqlrc-YbtTCg5GeTwbHKHR/s3648/IMG_8890.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvxadc6S4XGDOsbavFoFYFvs_o38Mmt9pgcrrTFXFILs773Zmy37K15q2pUCn6Mcy0JEuiKqUFC0kirOCB5CfWa9bwDt_iIB_iOimmMjlkVhdHhw8sBd9gWirCueeYnGVKdY2HxRfpH6SkLU3wbldEJJiDB-QpE9s3wCPccUKqlrc-YbtTCg5GeTwbHKHR/s320/IMG_8890.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Looking through the wreath of autumn leaves gives one a bird's eye view of the downtown happenings<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZRe-tIj0DJoVQhBEoqxYdOxICg4eP_2Ij39e3bkUpavL6X0SU3QVDbx7YcgxzeFh5s46mnpKfyweWGsCHCYFvhoQGHXZKft6DwhkbTe1fbwTMYUeO-pO7M2fVYtnfnWf1LaP9O5odpcbWUiaLcC_wplIW-hjebf6XZAMEwcEh5L04azAeIuNPVOxIkZ5/s640/IMG_1647.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZRe-tIj0DJoVQhBEoqxYdOxICg4eP_2Ij39e3bkUpavL6X0SU3QVDbx7YcgxzeFh5s46mnpKfyweWGsCHCYFvhoQGHXZKft6DwhkbTe1fbwTMYUeO-pO7M2fVYtnfnWf1LaP9O5odpcbWUiaLcC_wplIW-hjebf6XZAMEwcEh5L04azAeIuNPVOxIkZ5/s320/IMG_1647.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />The park is also a good place to enjoy the autumn colors of the many hardwood trees surrounding the park.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZFLNNuollDwZPoU-p9rhaNFk8H8-J5hxbj_pLxKYRH6JAn-8Z137J3aoifUC3anTSeHrKGSY_HvkB54V1HBJzbMrgVceelpo7kC0Cy04a1d-sk91yH8LQFuXv6koG1vwekAnNnZXxI_AE3kkkpWrXvu0ggfLB8JH5drQC1YRsY2AcQBsMRsrHWU77XXhR/s3648/IMG_8895.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZFLNNuollDwZPoU-p9rhaNFk8H8-J5hxbj_pLxKYRH6JAn-8Z137J3aoifUC3anTSeHrKGSY_HvkB54V1HBJzbMrgVceelpo7kC0Cy04a1d-sk91yH8LQFuXv6koG1vwekAnNnZXxI_AE3kkkpWrXvu0ggfLB8JH5drQC1YRsY2AcQBsMRsrHWU77XXhR/s320/IMG_8895.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>One can also take their picnic meal to enjoy in the park, if they prefer the woods to a restaurant!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyaeNFw3skz3ALKsuCUaztmU62cvak7bvEctq5bt_6ScyoZd1_W81STwC_0cfYjVx4-IidKoD8-L7nGlx1R3Ii0KhdMZC9XXGI-BlPjQSe7FZQv3mptt0pDS2iDr1l5xJHv9-lAaHSU77EY7ydGs9w0xFBacHKqX2h1KqOpU_qu1Jvz10UNIriHYwtAWT/s3648/IMG_8902.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyaeNFw3skz3ALKsuCUaztmU62cvak7bvEctq5bt_6ScyoZd1_W81STwC_0cfYjVx4-IidKoD8-L7nGlx1R3Ii0KhdMZC9XXGI-BlPjQSe7FZQv3mptt0pDS2iDr1l5xJHv9-lAaHSU77EY7ydGs9w0xFBacHKqX2h1KqOpU_qu1Jvz10UNIriHYwtAWT/s320/IMG_8902.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The park gives a good view of a very unique building, built with a windmill! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27ZdYtM9myMPQHxyN9JU22CYfmkJpye0IS81BhIH38U8mLwvf3NNPXS4eb3WtccVNZ9kGfH1vjYg_8IYnCck_cG9sHjAj6e9WuWkGBapuc2UgU9OIO0f3CpqUHc3Vbr5Pxh13PPIHtQrAKh12dUPTqIKTvxr8LwC4_mQgXl-IY_yDTRdGhpegNlz7o0Bl/s640/IMG_1649.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi27ZdYtM9myMPQHxyN9JU22CYfmkJpye0IS81BhIH38U8mLwvf3NNPXS4eb3WtccVNZ9kGfH1vjYg_8IYnCck_cG9sHjAj6e9WuWkGBapuc2UgU9OIO0f3CpqUHc3Vbr5Pxh13PPIHtQrAKh12dUPTqIKTvxr8LwC4_mQgXl-IY_yDTRdGhpegNlz7o0Bl/s320/IMG_1649.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimyaeNFw3skz3ALKsuCUaztmU62cvak7bvEctq5bt_6ScyoZd1_W81STwC_0cfYjVx4-IidKoD8-L7nGlx1R3Ii0KhdMZC9XXGI-BlPjQSe7FZQv3mptt0pDS2iDr1l5xJHv9-lAaHSU77EY7ydGs9w0xFBacHKqX2h1KqOpU_qu1Jvz10UNIriHYwtAWT/s3648/IMG_8902.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br /><br /></div>Outdoor dining can also be enjoyed at this riverside restaurant in the downtown area. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZLESLHBViEdqSKcHgKrm0-fcKIIxS8GAYbgZyVNFGKGdTdsFZSZXkVIf1-J8bk-ChrJgVHiGGr8_An5Dnq_OXu6SVarY828BGLeXZ7UQToWXyJUq8AQeiq1slub2I9KVv3xXolmybSITnP6xiUS3shfCy-pPOVlRP2RoY_NlsT4Jl0bxuf7nFv9ySgSQk/s3648/IMG_8960.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZLESLHBViEdqSKcHgKrm0-fcKIIxS8GAYbgZyVNFGKGdTdsFZSZXkVIf1-J8bk-ChrJgVHiGGr8_An5Dnq_OXu6SVarY828BGLeXZ7UQToWXyJUq8AQeiq1slub2I9KVv3xXolmybSITnP6xiUS3shfCy-pPOVlRP2RoY_NlsT4Jl0bxuf7nFv9ySgSQk/s320/IMG_8960.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The stores stay open later during weekend Oktoberfest, as illustrated by this twilight street scene. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZLESLHBViEdqSKcHgKrm0-fcKIIxS8GAYbgZyVNFGKGdTdsFZSZXkVIf1-J8bk-ChrJgVHiGGr8_An5Dnq_OXu6SVarY828BGLeXZ7UQToWXyJUq8AQeiq1slub2I9KVv3xXolmybSITnP6xiUS3shfCy-pPOVlRP2RoY_NlsT4Jl0bxuf7nFv9ySgSQk/s3648/IMG_8960.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRa2mFSVqArW_0ZDs7yqflhc7aYj5ovr9ZtMologCZYDlGh0s7IrH_Lnz3usV-_NMLK-Vbv3VX1m8VtEUyJ4XY_v_pobIbU_gra4nkth0Ft6j-Nz9jeAoz6q_eg2Pfi3kqFvcQ4_mY884P3S2wGtEDyFFSWoXFqUqckzi6PaIFE1hjbMzh77ollNoa51hi/s640/IMG_1652%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRa2mFSVqArW_0ZDs7yqflhc7aYj5ovr9ZtMologCZYDlGh0s7IrH_Lnz3usV-_NMLK-Vbv3VX1m8VtEUyJ4XY_v_pobIbU_gra4nkth0Ft6j-Nz9jeAoz6q_eg2Pfi3kqFvcQ4_mY884P3S2wGtEDyFFSWoXFqUqckzi6PaIFE1hjbMzh77ollNoa51hi/s320/IMG_1652%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>This bridge near downtown is a popular crossing used by pedestrians, and the lights add a festive atmosphere.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9kVR3ElWd86KINufYUcMJz9BFBXcvKwb6aLCtPe5TrKcOrt6Dp0h1wh1WlKxEn95ARVMAImW7TeUJAe2_qdQsWroO8vyf1gJkqjYIrW_9m2eWJWX3QDgFu2UYDXf2atyrTxzMdaBAPPn0yk-deGEU8hXaNDy-VKlo_TuzXTj5fZFHxe-79zmoYfMPGl1/s640/IMG_1656.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg9kVR3ElWd86KINufYUcMJz9BFBXcvKwb6aLCtPe5TrKcOrt6Dp0h1wh1WlKxEn95ARVMAImW7TeUJAe2_qdQsWroO8vyf1gJkqjYIrW_9m2eWJWX3QDgFu2UYDXf2atyrTxzMdaBAPPn0yk-deGEU8hXaNDy-VKlo_TuzXTj5fZFHxe-79zmoYfMPGl1/s320/IMG_1656.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Portions of the walkway beside the river are paved, and serve as access points to those who want to enjoy a restaurant beside the river, as opposed to a restaurant that sits above the river.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="640" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5kRDJDSdW6RB3mbiwgqrynQZTExrcSUDdqIoPeBbiKnI2Lotl_UPoW719g8Z-ChHLSh46k1JM-iSzndgxcT9eONHIfyIIlAir8BxcNovbK5_n9grSewVuldx6G51K2iQo31WVj8soaCw7WZOV75C9_ZZuv6IbDNhkhi_nwjqeojGKzJng_FrEAB-8NXwP/s320/IMG_1659%20(1).jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There is also a lodging property located adjacent to the river, which would be very convenient for festival attendees coming from out of town<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NptAXfaFemGRvIesE4l1e5JLocvRo5RJNdRtLXhh6cq_MYRU0eyT4EkLUTet9SdvinwKMsQG-PWa8mfyWPEg-rXWJEPBz-eY1ebElMZ8XXMEuiwuIb3og6Z8MC_XKmtZZTItowpstS-rxW1hwEw4TXwks23bD4AN8wvDjw9r-RiKQGOa0LnC9BEchTK1/s640/IMG_1657.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NptAXfaFemGRvIesE4l1e5JLocvRo5RJNdRtLXhh6cq_MYRU0eyT4EkLUTet9SdvinwKMsQG-PWa8mfyWPEg-rXWJEPBz-eY1ebElMZ8XXMEuiwuIb3og6Z8MC_XKmtZZTItowpstS-rxW1hwEw4TXwks23bD4AN8wvDjw9r-RiKQGOa0LnC9BEchTK1/s320/IMG_1657.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Another interesting feature along the riverwalk, is the section of "love locks", placed there by couples who want to "lock" this visit into their memories!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5xqjL_Awdarj2CzbNrclwXFKk2X6D5WEgT00hphDOLNxCxw5GI-kDCc5MXYLGpfeBnBq8wWK8tbuu8IcMvHiHAuC_UeL22Av5u-U8VrRWnCYRelZNwZX0yx2TKobGvJuHAryiFt35Bn3Xi4q-UAAvUzR0gsmeAIdEIlrBPRd9g6XNGmLCAVEmczdzjIvd/s640/IMG_1666%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5xqjL_Awdarj2CzbNrclwXFKk2X6D5WEgT00hphDOLNxCxw5GI-kDCc5MXYLGpfeBnBq8wWK8tbuu8IcMvHiHAuC_UeL22Av5u-U8VrRWnCYRelZNwZX0yx2TKobGvJuHAryiFt35Bn3Xi4q-UAAvUzR0gsmeAIdEIlrBPRd9g6XNGmLCAVEmczdzjIvd/s320/IMG_1666%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Because the main highway that goes through downtown Helen ( Georgia Highway #75) can be somewhat congested during weekend festivals, readers might be interested to know there is a bypass route, labeled Georgia 75Alt, that would enable a driver to avoid traffic jams one might encounter on autumn weekends. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUwaugAOy4YFnAjNcmSI-H1WXJLcEOHi-TajJcVLzby_N4sCpPTNePU5jAr0i04iVZU5vPSqaINQ5_TMbRXFITKKD6RJgHudMy5IczT3tWZPwwQHDEEiAl9-UZk0lUTUzPBMB7zy4UVuznkYsEtnQPpFPZOpwPiyzZ_36SKYKUsxhgF0dW0ze0MWogHLc/s640/IMG_1673.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="579" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUwaugAOy4YFnAjNcmSI-H1WXJLcEOHi-TajJcVLzby_N4sCpPTNePU5jAr0i04iVZU5vPSqaINQ5_TMbRXFITKKD6RJgHudMy5IczT3tWZPwwQHDEEiAl9-UZk0lUTUzPBMB7zy4UVuznkYsEtnQPpFPZOpwPiyzZ_36SKYKUsxhgF0dW0ze0MWogHLc/s320/IMG_1673.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>One can visit the website of www.helenga.org for information on activities available throughout the year.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFow8Dslr0dil1GCiiOJe_HhZ1hQLWL34OEH36uG8HMRBSjSxEC-WjcGYdQ7aCrqkgL_18mHUphseSJogexGonav8T12i4YIL_k7HY2EaCCHyq7eGzZX-cxHsrOHHcOk6aBRTqLR3AFXLIoKLXnzoLjb8BX_oJgBY0SfFr23OTyQR2eCcUcgbmyH2NkLf/s640/IMG_1668%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFow8Dslr0dil1GCiiOJe_HhZ1hQLWL34OEH36uG8HMRBSjSxEC-WjcGYdQ7aCrqkgL_18mHUphseSJogexGonav8T12i4YIL_k7HY2EaCCHyq7eGzZX-cxHsrOHHcOk6aBRTqLR3AFXLIoKLXnzoLjb8BX_oJgBY0SfFr23OTyQR2eCcUcgbmyH2NkLf/s320/IMG_1668%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I felt very blessed to be able to take a walking tour of this quaint location, and want to credit the Grace of God, and the encouragement I have received through a healthy living program, called First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) for still having the ability to walk. One aspect of the program (besides encouraging exercise and healthy eating) is to regularly work at memorizing Scripture. Something that helps me memorize, is to have a visual picture in my mind, of some aspect of the verse. I found such a visual aid in the hillside park, at Helen, Georgia, when I saw this paved PATH. The memory verse has the word "path" in it:--Hebrews 12:12-13 says, "So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong." (Week 5)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqIT91wbZSrXV8dwe9iVrKBVtgFxHgcktDvLHkzPsqsYtsAz4ZtfL0C4hm3nMGv0qD_ke87QM2rr7tCNDKqMHVK7Kqqbg17ADqwz8tqCwDxjStA8wDe-KT6QtNLWO_rwscbv3zN661J-yynCl590cy8HH9ap_KgrHanL8qJZVBQ0nMKqEukY8B5qrea3p/s3648/IMG_8891.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqIT91wbZSrXV8dwe9iVrKBVtgFxHgcktDvLHkzPsqsYtsAz4ZtfL0C4hm3nMGv0qD_ke87QM2rr7tCNDKqMHVK7Kqqbg17ADqwz8tqCwDxjStA8wDe-KT6QtNLWO_rwscbv3zN661J-yynCl590cy8HH9ap_KgrHanL8qJZVBQ0nMKqEukY8B5qrea3p/s320/IMG_8891.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I hope YOU can mark out a straight path for your feet, that will lead you to visit the Alpine Village, of Helen, Georgia. If you are like me, it will give you "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-90559642103904573642024-03-01T06:00:00.000-06:002024-03-01T06:50:06.675-06:00OZARK ISLE EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3bBm8sRQUGhxtaQBHq1ybpUz-UNd7lnBd0AxJwgn7OfZpVEsn5FPxgKakdVykAvZL2CKZEsU3vuwfqqhMYeess0myjJKKxYWHIw_clw9NGCyAxaxN-jSI6QEIrHfoRBuAi9NotNZsLHM97ZzYmunqP4fE-D7S0ixL0MNFSVkvE6OMFb5m5rUG_12X1qze/s320/IMG_8011.jpg" width="320" />Ozark Isle started out as a Corp of Engineers campground within Bull Shoals Lake in northern Arkansas. It was originally the top of a mountain that was made somewhat inaccessible, when it became surrounded by water, due to the dam across the White River, that led to the formation of Bull Shoals Lake. For this reason, a "causeway" was constructed by the Corp of Engineers that would connect the isolated island, the short distance that would link it to the "mainland". <br /></div><br /> A photo of the causeway is shown below, that also shows the locked gate that keeps unauthorized vehicles off of the island. Locals have known for years that the locked gate did not mean they were forbidden from walking on the island, but most visitors would not know this, since there are no signs indicating pedestrians are allowed. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_uU8yTWCm1UOU5nfSyTE1IvwrZp32vnRAP5h_wp24uZRV9we-zAiY-ZJmHov40091RjOA8E3XN44D_kSZy27KH8D-o2elMPTEuXMtP5LRAXnhkMdG1ld82sZAOSIC80k_mlcj22lX5NXTprWd0QNEI9FXDbyiPjq4ssG71gGOj08t3x_8pD0kjnGkd9g/s640/IMG_8051.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_uU8yTWCm1UOU5nfSyTE1IvwrZp32vnRAP5h_wp24uZRV9we-zAiY-ZJmHov40091RjOA8E3XN44D_kSZy27KH8D-o2elMPTEuXMtP5LRAXnhkMdG1ld82sZAOSIC80k_mlcj22lX5NXTprWd0QNEI9FXDbyiPjq4ssG71gGOj08t3x_8pD0kjnGkd9g/s320/IMG_8051.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Many people, especially those who live in the Oakland area, have continued to use the island as a place to walk, bicycle, and view wildlife, especially birding enthusiasts. Photo below shows Mary Beth Piorkowski (Ozark Isle Nature Preserve 501c3) and Roy Stovall (North Central Arkansas Master Naturalists), who led a walk, open to the public, that occurred at Ozark Isle, on January 1, 2024. Shortly after January 1, 2024, the Corps approved a plan submitted by the two nonprofit organizations they represent, to restore Ozark Isle as a day-use park, for hikers, bicyclists, dog walkers, birders, and paddlers. It is called OZARK ISLE NATURE PRESERVE, and you can see photos of the progress they are making on this project on the Facebook (www.facebook.com) page, under the same name. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5I8nqGjeAkIEdco7vL3kjUvD2G_sdnpxRJ_gE9ETEJX6My0SCmesZ8WcVAHdVw8XbROcozPJzMHGE1kyCesTFGcHjexrksT1WJUcpSJtmRvixzVy1p2v8xIlLSLFoYtDeOWAWDeVLgQOD8KkR9Z8wpwyS5xClN-5FQS_cJIOw1zhkyvDTflz1dNASDid/s640/IMG_7990.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5I8nqGjeAkIEdco7vL3kjUvD2G_sdnpxRJ_gE9ETEJX6My0SCmesZ8WcVAHdVw8XbROcozPJzMHGE1kyCesTFGcHjexrksT1WJUcpSJtmRvixzVy1p2v8xIlLSLFoYtDeOWAWDeVLgQOD8KkR9Z8wpwyS5xClN-5FQS_cJIOw1zhkyvDTflz1dNASDid/s320/IMG_7990.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Mary Beth ( who lives very close to Ozark Isle ) had the idea that the abandoned Corp of Engineers campground could be salvaged and made into a Nature Preserve, and she had faith that it was within the realm of possibility. For this reason, I am using this blog as my visual aid to help me learn one of my First Place 4 Health ( www.FirstPlace4Health.com ) memory verses that says, "<i>For we live by faith, not by sight."</i> 2 Corinthians 5:7 . A map of the island is shown below.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_yzjRPJEmT62rI7_XLzw_J21dZjmaIeJzs_M1AlhtunuLzwVuGL2yUgeq4iQwEmHyQKiQgSPvvf7wlYjqRwq_gMkI8H6HHNQyvFUILo5V689rDMQxC9cpNAXiHwkoH6Qot5Rj5cPL-FpO4SjgdiJvyR92j-aLDE2UDLm0mdNnxYJaCFakyMCfHSBiZzac/s640/IMG_8069.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="640" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_yzjRPJEmT62rI7_XLzw_J21dZjmaIeJzs_M1AlhtunuLzwVuGL2yUgeq4iQwEmHyQKiQgSPvvf7wlYjqRwq_gMkI8H6HHNQyvFUILo5V689rDMQxC9cpNAXiHwkoH6Qot5Rj5cPL-FpO4SjgdiJvyR92j-aLDE2UDLm0mdNnxYJaCFakyMCfHSBiZzac/s320/IMG_8069.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The AllTrails map below, shows the areas suitable for walking/biking/hiking/strolling.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2NeymzARwV0cM7rd5s4JF275duhRe6IbWa-aRt2TLp4FnFohyoIeRx5w1aZqPX2jQAS4hhrfQrEOz9_MeAOQ-nL074oxxaB-eHo188EbNDhf8cQ2BwdpfkVPAuNx4IrFgVNYus1iGDzkx_13Ey5XpXRnInpIc5VBFSWfCz7QyfjBsc5YmFku_E248-FM2/s640/IMG_8068.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2NeymzARwV0cM7rd5s4JF275duhRe6IbWa-aRt2TLp4FnFohyoIeRx5w1aZqPX2jQAS4hhrfQrEOz9_MeAOQ-nL074oxxaB-eHo188EbNDhf8cQ2BwdpfkVPAuNx4IrFgVNYus1iGDzkx_13Ey5XpXRnInpIc5VBFSWfCz7QyfjBsc5YmFku_E248-FM2/s320/IMG_8068.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><br />Photo below shows the group that enjoyed this "FIRST DAY 2024 HIKE". I had no trouble getting in my 10,000 steps on this outing, because Ozark Isle consists of 462 acres! There is no drinking water source on the island, so each person carried the fluids they would need for the day. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirE7ATwHDh98LQmtqtbLeijM3waQxOpij_3BeSDhZYuCMOC-uMqvV_JVaETPxsuNVL3ZY_USqgmMS_H2qN2nPQf3HS8vl-iLV_3JMVfJK71q7yiDVaZHl51g86ZGRezoy7eAHzHINK_UL2Akqe14bDpH-fBnFV1nwGk_3Xdj4JxGwbPVaRMzSTFCs0h-im/s640/IMG_8041.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirE7ATwHDh98LQmtqtbLeijM3waQxOpij_3BeSDhZYuCMOC-uMqvV_JVaETPxsuNVL3ZY_USqgmMS_H2qN2nPQf3HS8vl-iLV_3JMVfJK71q7yiDVaZHl51g86ZGRezoy7eAHzHINK_UL2Akqe14bDpH-fBnFV1nwGk_3Xdj4JxGwbPVaRMzSTFCs0h-im/s320/IMG_8041.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This photo shows Roy Stovall, who heads up the Trail Patrol, for the North Central Arkansas Master Naturalists. When Mary Beth talked to the Corp of Engineers administrative staff in Mountain Home, Arkansas, they told her they might consider her idea, but she would need to partner with a group like the Arkansas Master Naturalists, who are set up to do the volunteer trail work and trail maintenance, that such a project would involve. Hence, she contacted Roy. Roy gave a presentation to our Master Naturalist group, who endorsed the idea as a worthwhile project. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2799u9slQ6mAewzckhZCv9lfhaBOwcNJz9FPW8qPjEFkdP2oZj_nBh8ZVIg4QTHFrvPcOCFzjQlJoWEeNIrTIluQzIXuvkpXPKCQH_sb4rNsO93m5BW77fNY0yZyVOaqJsilfc-4vGrufyseGB88EADAKjrgwZePkd8imL5ZxmFGAVWihOtuWWn96NIDX/s640/IMG_7994.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2799u9slQ6mAewzckhZCv9lfhaBOwcNJz9FPW8qPjEFkdP2oZj_nBh8ZVIg4QTHFrvPcOCFzjQlJoWEeNIrTIluQzIXuvkpXPKCQH_sb4rNsO93m5BW77fNY0yZyVOaqJsilfc-4vGrufyseGB88EADAKjrgwZePkd8imL5ZxmFGAVWihOtuWWn96NIDX/s320/IMG_7994.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The "bump" you can see in the distance, in this photo I took while on Ozark Isle, is called Bull Mountain, located in the town on Bull Shoals, Arkansas. The tower that is visible on top of the mountains, used to be a tourist attraction, which I climbed decades ago with my family. It is no longer open to the public, but rather, is used as an elevated location for communication devices<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfM5Cj_O4l8J291z509wM_l_w6oMKNQpHlQdp5f4rZ0Fi3-cQNNRkvpwgkr8E4M3Fd5EF8a3TYd3NZi9CXEYBzuVro-fS3Ws-3Y74iAC1updiBRK2Yk453LkxdxzNHWNXEh-WlbXGFppqdxNyE7Wx7Pr54wo33mZ2qz2-ves0P2XNv2jZBiPQ7Tqvdjl4N/s640/IMG_8039.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfM5Cj_O4l8J291z509wM_l_w6oMKNQpHlQdp5f4rZ0Fi3-cQNNRkvpwgkr8E4M3Fd5EF8a3TYd3NZi9CXEYBzuVro-fS3Ws-3Y74iAC1updiBRK2Yk453LkxdxzNHWNXEh-WlbXGFppqdxNyE7Wx7Pr54wo33mZ2qz2-ves0P2XNv2jZBiPQ7Tqvdjl4N/s320/IMG_8039.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>One of the people in our group used their Garmin GPS device to show the location of Ozark Isle, in relation to where they lived, at a distant location on Bull Shoals Lake. Unlike Bull Mountain, they determined there was no "line of sight" from the island to their location miles away. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEXY54v0a3jYNTVfwTkU6w_VUZCqG3vtARmM0khPf2bvi8kHSKR7aRL-Xf0ru9LbsQOaGGPpsocB92tKFJ5i0ZI8cL8EO5Sx1ZWcbi5u2UPbwXquOWnTNZzzrogmR9-vdrsebQK_J7w6J1ifZ1p8KQLA3UDCkbFR_71Yi0ncJu69iRRL5vbUdynEWmyyo/s640/IMG_7991.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEXY54v0a3jYNTVfwTkU6w_VUZCqG3vtARmM0khPf2bvi8kHSKR7aRL-Xf0ru9LbsQOaGGPpsocB92tKFJ5i0ZI8cL8EO5Sx1ZWcbi5u2UPbwXquOWnTNZzzrogmR9-vdrsebQK_J7w6J1ifZ1p8KQLA3UDCkbFR_71Yi0ncJu69iRRL5vbUdynEWmyyo/s320/IMG_7991.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>These two avid birders, Tony and Heather, had their binoculars on our First Day Hike, and alerted us to the bird species they were able to spot. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7c4VpBfC4pBZ4pJpSDUGFsRJF2nyk4_PgyvnGqqmaywyeAWc6B5I-ledcoLQKJDp5kI9K6ay1gJg06k5zCQMdhd9IKLav7fFgqwV_WqwhKOt5m_XY7oslcwLY8BYbXYiCRYp5LGC7F_LquHw54dgcrhoTyiKpQICsLRXgTnbMKNiM9Ytp7nfGvILayQZ/s640/IMG_8020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC7c4VpBfC4pBZ4pJpSDUGFsRJF2nyk4_PgyvnGqqmaywyeAWc6B5I-ledcoLQKJDp5kI9K6ay1gJg06k5zCQMdhd9IKLav7fFgqwV_WqwhKOt5m_XY7oslcwLY8BYbXYiCRYp5LGC7F_LquHw54dgcrhoTyiKpQICsLRXgTnbMKNiM9Ytp7nfGvILayQZ/s320/IMG_8020.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Although you cannot tell it from the thick layer of leaves, there is actually a paved road that these folks are walking on. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-adTuNPBQwr45-vT7m2L59puoaiIVBCyHuuT0wQxbexbCqNQ6lacSBgFv5gHPXXv7ZV06yeO_pvBhHzN3oyG7NeqcbViiIACLD6u0Mq8ws22_aIXD_qu4gyCrd7Q5ruUQWs0mQS6mwUISEXXwL4zzSPjz3DFTteMiChhQ10zqFJC8HdwMEie1lmam1tPV/s640/IMG_8037.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-adTuNPBQwr45-vT7m2L59puoaiIVBCyHuuT0wQxbexbCqNQ6lacSBgFv5gHPXXv7ZV06yeO_pvBhHzN3oyG7NeqcbViiIACLD6u0Mq8ws22_aIXD_qu4gyCrd7Q5ruUQWs0mQS6mwUISEXXwL4zzSPjz3DFTteMiChhQ10zqFJC8HdwMEie1lmam1tPV/s320/IMG_8037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Besides paved roads, there are also some gravel roads on the island. Notice the lady in the blue coat on the left is carrying a white bag. That is because most members of our Master Naturalist group always have a bag with them when hiking, so we can pick up any litter that we find along the way. If you are not doing this already, please do so!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9isTlBJEj3mxeZguWDhURo7_WiYCcn0Je1IdWtQmAx3rFgxcyZBh5bnJkFkFEK2OU9Gu4j1WVvuakQSmmYrmCPqANf0yhDPXA-FKRTcXrJ1fUQvnLLi_0FZ1e4u9RMyLvbDMm58AugglqD2ug7UFBwb7hDEI4F7bZ7opokge8AWHxPwTS9BE_Jmgma4I/s640/IMG_8034.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9isTlBJEj3mxeZguWDhURo7_WiYCcn0Je1IdWtQmAx3rFgxcyZBh5bnJkFkFEK2OU9Gu4j1WVvuakQSmmYrmCPqANf0yhDPXA-FKRTcXrJ1fUQvnLLi_0FZ1e4u9RMyLvbDMm58AugglqD2ug7UFBwb7hDEI4F7bZ7opokge8AWHxPwTS9BE_Jmgma4I/s320/IMG_8034.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />On a chilly January 1 hike, there is a reduced risk of having one of those pesky ticks attach to your body! However, as the weather in the Ozarks warms up, the risk of getting ticks and/or chiggers increases. But, now, with the walkways on Ozarks Isle to be maintained by volunteers, one will be able to stroll on cleared and paved walkways in the summer, reducing the exposure to the itch-causing little critters!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMkX24Bz46dQg7Od7K7hNUc8t3KegQTvqfWHsQ3iK-OC1RNRX2dhWo8Twsv9PQ_cwBpPu9VqtJORDxZ9I4pmT-wywnMkgnEGLpQn6FbGHYKCM2yj4c4mgh0stk0gWQ0vZtKHiYSu1L23o-TFspy1LYA75egD1Q5cpUG3iIez71rYfXEzIEOkD-Ut9T1Y_/s640/IMG_8033%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMkX24Bz46dQg7Od7K7hNUc8t3KegQTvqfWHsQ3iK-OC1RNRX2dhWo8Twsv9PQ_cwBpPu9VqtJORDxZ9I4pmT-wywnMkgnEGLpQn6FbGHYKCM2yj4c4mgh0stk0gWQ0vZtKHiYSu1L23o-TFspy1LYA75egD1Q5cpUG3iIez71rYfXEzIEOkD-Ut9T1Y_/s320/IMG_8033%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />These concrete picnic tables have withstood decades of exposure to the weather, and now their future is looking brighter, as they will be a pleasant rest area in the newly named Ozark Isle Nature Preserve.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQvitId1-su9Dm5fdh41w7deqQFbO42ww_Sc7Lz3AkIuG0grCLUnTiYANdGaWToziXD2o3F-tJCqEQaJcHmwVireNLfzNAS702kw5tvx_GE5m_-FsRzU2hiERFQGLtinykTRmtoZrtwLlbXZqseeRN2CUgh3HJL4_gusY0L03BakqjuvHskN91As70o8PP/s640/IMG_8032.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQvitId1-su9Dm5fdh41w7deqQFbO42ww_Sc7Lz3AkIuG0grCLUnTiYANdGaWToziXD2o3F-tJCqEQaJcHmwVireNLfzNAS702kw5tvx_GE5m_-FsRzU2hiERFQGLtinykTRmtoZrtwLlbXZqseeRN2CUgh3HJL4_gusY0L03BakqjuvHskN91As70o8PP/s320/IMG_8032.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The playground on Ozark Isle is still in tact, and some of our group took a quick swish down the tan slide.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZG9BmqSbDKEZ11Sl2YGFsOiOlpxFKP9cUHcGHUbg9ZSgeiRwOLLTduXdhSa6Efei0pkyy5Yrh5R_BFy_v40n9DGqU4XU5kf7Kuntd4uX4sdsEjVIhtI64AgJPPrR-G4DbaUm8Wl9h4QI0tlKkhIUCsE110-NVXEmr5kUeX1FFEpY_IjZJppQjf7iEYurx/s640/IMG_8030.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZG9BmqSbDKEZ11Sl2YGFsOiOlpxFKP9cUHcGHUbg9ZSgeiRwOLLTduXdhSa6Efei0pkyy5Yrh5R_BFy_v40n9DGqU4XU5kf7Kuntd4uX4sdsEjVIhtI64AgJPPrR-G4DbaUm8Wl9h4QI0tlKkhIUCsE110-NVXEmr5kUeX1FFEpY_IjZJppQjf7iEYurx/s320/IMG_8030.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The photo below shows the bathroom facility that was in use, at the time the Corps of Engineers closed the park to camping, in 2004. <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXc2QHKrYfuSN6iHm5oAlLVByaa7kZ7Gdi0XEegNxMftPqdbpQzoxa-J1BKg2bAgBLWCz2wtALmH3wuHcu6TFXno0kXSCw7WxBvdywUQ-ltP8LiMHjm5qHHCfjaVxG6OF0jSHGfHQuRrtNYJMJEIFYxPzFP7QwNiRZSHEw77yUD0Mi8xP93-PedqXALIVb/s640/IMG_8028.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXc2QHKrYfuSN6iHm5oAlLVByaa7kZ7Gdi0XEegNxMftPqdbpQzoxa-J1BKg2bAgBLWCz2wtALmH3wuHcu6TFXno0kXSCw7WxBvdywUQ-ltP8LiMHjm5qHHCfjaVxG6OF0jSHGfHQuRrtNYJMJEIFYxPzFP7QwNiRZSHEw77yUD0Mi8xP93-PedqXALIVb/s320/IMG_8028.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The photo below shows what was probably one of the original rest room buildings that was built on the isle by the Corps. I remember this style of bathroom, from when I first started visiting Corps of Engineer parks on Bull Shoals Lake, in the 1960's.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3TH8G35yQMNSNGFJrKdjtyifV6pk5B6JXa8Gn_BDtMkn9QOerUUUXJQuRf9gAV4uDpzyCVzvd-FbBWlD29jwHRk8LlUyOlOo8l4ZyA1x0kxy5dSxav7pTV7Gy6gKBCNNyiiuSzG03_XqbTjA3_SqfNUUlaOqYbxXZgUxBuKrx850PZ_-pBj-NOFWFBw4/s640/IMG_8017.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3TH8G35yQMNSNGFJrKdjtyifV6pk5B6JXa8Gn_BDtMkn9QOerUUUXJQuRf9gAV4uDpzyCVzvd-FbBWlD29jwHRk8LlUyOlOo8l4ZyA1x0kxy5dSxav7pTV7Gy6gKBCNNyiiuSzG03_XqbTjA3_SqfNUUlaOqYbxXZgUxBuKrx850PZ_-pBj-NOFWFBw4/s320/IMG_8017.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />I was impressed by the efforts of the original park designers/construction workers, in the building of this "tree well", to protect this tree that stood beside one of the roads. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTsb6Q0Hjl6veqzJGWK2P_lDsHGXg7TTeXasNGRmpYDruAJ97DjgpLU7FDuwK3VsODKCFXNczIQs-IprYOOS41UMuGb_DPBWFJ9ceYaJMw04PzYZFo3zEeOmlYXiwaGlo7ARwUMVNFaYmLulgWfWyHTr_DgH5xmnVIoxAx205lDZlcf6os6HCpiBe_coA/s640/IMG_8015.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWTsb6Q0Hjl6veqzJGWK2P_lDsHGXg7TTeXasNGRmpYDruAJ97DjgpLU7FDuwK3VsODKCFXNczIQs-IprYOOS41UMuGb_DPBWFJ9ceYaJMw04PzYZFo3zEeOmlYXiwaGlo7ARwUMVNFaYmLulgWfWyHTr_DgH5xmnVIoxAx205lDZlcf6os6HCpiBe_coA/s320/IMG_8015.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />This photo shows one of the First Day hikers, beside the sign pointing to Camp Area C.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCl6AbYN16NaAx2k2osQapwGpE2ZVYKI5mBD44l96wd0lBTBFMxDKcHjyDprvYkltC2PhrAQtb4EDQy2YBmCxKLfDc_XWU5540SUfBKrUuP9W1OuU4nDMUNsIe-aJETHBM3ZfgOGfVMHeYZKHSfhkZG1hNv2MDM9Df0aNuxIdxjcEZrzE8Yuu6yhGQDVUC/s640/IMG_8018.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCl6AbYN16NaAx2k2osQapwGpE2ZVYKI5mBD44l96wd0lBTBFMxDKcHjyDprvYkltC2PhrAQtb4EDQy2YBmCxKLfDc_XWU5540SUfBKrUuP9W1OuU4nDMUNsIe-aJETHBM3ZfgOGfVMHeYZKHSfhkZG1hNv2MDM9Df0aNuxIdxjcEZrzE8Yuu6yhGQDVUC/s320/IMG_8018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This "Y" intersection shows the sign pointing to Camp Area D.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWp38fs-gqUmlngAImLsyX0alGnG5YyZ5qRgzvdsEGSNgo__tBTth5GFmvfvNVaIhzlG42y5WaIKy5ZW3LbMUgD0n2PexDTM5s95dRD-Nu7wvSo7GWtgKKhLJ2Xyu1VlNztVUo4evNSYCmb2JYZ3m81EiQxEyCk0nTROn3SzU1Ja5ELHr-Os6RVbrxPQHy/s640/IMG_8023.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWp38fs-gqUmlngAImLsyX0alGnG5YyZ5qRgzvdsEGSNgo__tBTth5GFmvfvNVaIhzlG42y5WaIKy5ZW3LbMUgD0n2PexDTM5s95dRD-Nu7wvSo7GWtgKKhLJ2Xyu1VlNztVUo4evNSYCmb2JYZ3m81EiQxEyCk0nTROn3SzU1Ja5ELHr-Os6RVbrxPQHy/s320/IMG_8023.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Besides the entry causeway, there is another shorter causeway, that forms one of two shallow lagoons that attract migrating waterfowl. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhym9LDiLih5orKW7BCaOvmiXq8dsFRp01G6gCsq3yxi8cU_3uythaEbesn5ogknkyXLsMcpr_mcD91vF8gRqu5ppgD3VttqvQLwFWPkyUhDVmoJHcuCKhIEeifTpFb8X5OUTvgOqIMAt5C3Zj7uqB-8pqBwH3muKX0H9lx0hfBvdrGrGiy1i2B5CxqCKrb/s640/IMG_8021.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhym9LDiLih5orKW7BCaOvmiXq8dsFRp01G6gCsq3yxi8cU_3uythaEbesn5ogknkyXLsMcpr_mcD91vF8gRqu5ppgD3VttqvQLwFWPkyUhDVmoJHcuCKhIEeifTpFb8X5OUTvgOqIMAt5C3Zj7uqB-8pqBwH3muKX0H9lx0hfBvdrGrGiy1i2B5CxqCKrb/s320/IMG_8021.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />This photo shows one of the former campsites, that included an RV parking space, concrete picnic table with benches, food preparation table, and grill for cooking with wood fire. There are no plans to re-open the former campground to overnight camping. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSyt7WXXELFryYysVDS3k0FsAt0mKAyItYm-swIWCsz85TeMmag9ibZFwXAuXMzQ7eJAq-HN9WPmtFtSZU0MKAekiCO7yaXFhX7BLibDrcyU7fONqoANRQLqFN5UZUy6qdlK0MDyiJtrRoZx6nwbh2BNFRiZwu6x8nRcyM8drG5vHxM_inVkKi6u2BLmme/s640/IMG_8025.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSyt7WXXELFryYysVDS3k0FsAt0mKAyItYm-swIWCsz85TeMmag9ibZFwXAuXMzQ7eJAq-HN9WPmtFtSZU0MKAekiCO7yaXFhX7BLibDrcyU7fONqoANRQLqFN5UZUy6qdlK0MDyiJtrRoZx6nwbh2BNFRiZwu6x8nRcyM8drG5vHxM_inVkKi6u2BLmme/s320/IMG_8025.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This photo shows the long walkway, as we leave the island, and start back toward the mainland, where our cars are parked. The island has almost five miles of roads (mostly paved), and 8 miles of shoreline. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRFoF4-44wYPuqVzdhgicxtbWKBz-Jeu2yFy1jsCU_9xk-Dj1atWW1IFj_haFpzfosX8S2BZNXEyI4k3qCTTW6legRDGWzQcny-dRqt4cH8goBMeQfAIm3InhwNdGncuGFuCOr-fDguQTgfIJuQ9fuCJjE_vq8C_l73fU0Ej8igjUcBDDI1I8YCD6WXYO/s640/IMG_8003.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRFoF4-44wYPuqVzdhgicxtbWKBz-Jeu2yFy1jsCU_9xk-Dj1atWW1IFj_haFpzfosX8S2BZNXEyI4k3qCTTW6legRDGWzQcny-dRqt4cH8goBMeQfAIm3InhwNdGncuGFuCOr-fDguQTgfIJuQ9fuCJjE_vq8C_l73fU0Ej8igjUcBDDI1I8YCD6WXYO/s320/IMG_8003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>However, there is another Corps of Engineers park in the Oakland area, across from Ozark Isle, where a marina is located, as well as a playground, boat ramp, rv/tent sites,and picnic tables. It also has a restroom building that is open seasonally. You can find out more details about the Oakland park, by visiting the official Corps website at www.swl.usace.army.mil<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelEGA4zyx5r4ya1ViBeDIzY5bGxZ19G12b5L8yadsLc1krIIJeOzGeNgD_0T7-tFUZzmHuVE-W_CRuQof1hAN6Kvjs53c2f8Tk0rNRvdPVr05Ht6AVK7J2wqMYLikafVBl8evcz4Nk5nn_UFPeJFePPsEMek3-OLTws1ifWK79Xn15Ru82ukxUEX-gGAw/s640/IMG_8053.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelEGA4zyx5r4ya1ViBeDIzY5bGxZ19G12b5L8yadsLc1krIIJeOzGeNgD_0T7-tFUZzmHuVE-W_CRuQof1hAN6Kvjs53c2f8Tk0rNRvdPVr05Ht6AVK7J2wqMYLikafVBl8evcz4Nk5nn_UFPeJFePPsEMek3-OLTws1ifWK79Xn15Ru82ukxUEX-gGAw/s320/IMG_8053.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The photo below shows why the area where I live is called the "TWIN LAKES" area. On the east side of my home is Norfork Lake, and on the west side of my home is Bull Shoals Lake. As you can see, both these lakes are predominantly in Arkansas, but they also extend northward into southern Missouri. Thus, Ozark Isle Nature Preserve will draw regular visitors from both northern Arkansas and southern Missouri. As it becomes more widely known, more visitors from other states will probably also enjoy activities there, when they are in the area. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgk89QGhEKxrFKiLYHBLeZbjwZekYPxlyyrdR3CNS_F4igpO3QP0UCdUbGOJECkrxEbY2-Mzp20rnqpisHkJ-JYd4me4T_DpuVPzIxb5t8AJVOiSmfReGD8RAGgWkn5B3dhytkqk3pxMjV7z4X6G2Z7LxqgVH8BhZpXv7bGefHd95pGYQq4bOwzam6cFH/s640/IMG_8066.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="410" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgk89QGhEKxrFKiLYHBLeZbjwZekYPxlyyrdR3CNS_F4igpO3QP0UCdUbGOJECkrxEbY2-Mzp20rnqpisHkJ-JYd4me4T_DpuVPzIxb5t8AJVOiSmfReGD8RAGgWkn5B3dhytkqk3pxMjV7z4X6G2Z7LxqgVH8BhZpXv7bGefHd95pGYQq4bOwzam6cFH/s320/IMG_8066.jpg" width="205" /></a></div><br />This is me, giving thanks to God, that I get to live in an area that values nature, and preserving spaces that encourage outdoor activities. This place gives me "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCqWQFe7O2VcStyqDdeuW-BFbNNsVydxYR5903MX9O3v9GRxFVXb8nYSRZov5M3XwFr5u9ptrKzsOo4-cR1ze1SDXse0ONrtARQRgeRIwruWB11tIMMZS-nJaB2RYXucaiZyzMgr-bzVkupZtIUOUbDXieuBfvJo0GocrzHmmxEHfPE_64APf9jC8AoXek/s640/IMG_8065.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="490" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCqWQFe7O2VcStyqDdeuW-BFbNNsVydxYR5903MX9O3v9GRxFVXb8nYSRZov5M3XwFr5u9ptrKzsOo4-cR1ze1SDXse0ONrtARQRgeRIwruWB11tIMMZS-nJaB2RYXucaiZyzMgr-bzVkupZtIUOUbDXieuBfvJo0GocrzHmmxEHfPE_64APf9jC8AoXek/s320/IMG_8065.JPG" width="245" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-87274942372344102152024-02-08T07:00:00.000-06:002024-02-08T07:34:18.879-06:00OZARK SHARE AND CARE EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I remember decades ago, when I lived in Harrison, Saturday morning was the day of the week set aside for local organizations to stage a fund-raising event in the center of the town. I first saw this put into practice when my Girl Scout troop would gather up donations from folks who had "too much", or had outgrown shoes/clothing, then have a "Rummage Sale". Back in the fifties and sixties of the last century, the courthouse lawn was the location for these Rummage Sales. We would string rope between the maple trees on the lawn, to make a place to hang up the clothes that were donated. The endeavor taught us girls that something we had grown tired of, could be a treasure to someone else. Over the years, as the economy flourished and Americans began to experience the "Affluence Affliction" (sometimes nicknamed <i>Affluenza)</i>, individuals began to have SO MUCH STUFF, there was no need to wait until an organization was asking for donations for an annual rummage sale. Instead, they could simply lump their abundant possessions they no longer needed, into piles in their garage, and have the then-trending "Garage Sale". However, most people who were having garage sales, did not sell everything. So, someone hypothesized that if there was a central place where people could take these unsold items, and they could be given away free of charge; or, if sold, the funds received could be used for charitable purposes. Eventually, a non-profit, 501c3, was formed, that would meet these criteria. That organization was called "Ozark Share and Care". A member of their staff is shown below, along with one of the trucks the organization uses to pick up large items being donated.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR27mRIrRMC3ErUMfNcLdK7me9djSX8cZvv3uojFoQmekYs1AWXQ80cIEVHak4D6IBapTSPQGjQGkeMD_TQGDnU4ZvUY9yFywFd7DjwUPUKmT6AQbgM4X10_2cgvPCOyRUiWofGgwJmOe8rsBbvR1CuZYdNkqw6BVXa9_HDvgiohlclR4nAlL7ory3n385/s640/IMG_5314.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR27mRIrRMC3ErUMfNcLdK7me9djSX8cZvv3uojFoQmekYs1AWXQ80cIEVHak4D6IBapTSPQGjQGkeMD_TQGDnU4ZvUY9yFywFd7DjwUPUKmT6AQbgM4X10_2cgvPCOyRUiWofGgwJmOe8rsBbvR1CuZYdNkqw6BVXa9_HDvgiohlclR4nAlL7ory3n385/s320/IMG_5314.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>But then they found that if they had a bigger truck, they could pick up bigger loads, and hence you see the truck below, that has an elevator lift, for loading large/heavy items.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmiDcy_eInvjPCksa6cFmC15vYFMUKckqrSJOJpZIRpebay-sycfcgyMtlYUxJsoKJ-V2m0uyXN9EkkFEbqC3TDSZhEPCH3L6dCWU4LD9ygpy1Lpp0FaRcd4h3SBOlIE6uRmYHbhv1xR3cc0k2MGgFG9eWZRY88ld9dQPwz5xpkYS2QDOd_6oL-XeI0M_B/s640/IMG_5331.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmiDcy_eInvjPCksa6cFmC15vYFMUKckqrSJOJpZIRpebay-sycfcgyMtlYUxJsoKJ-V2m0uyXN9EkkFEbqC3TDSZhEPCH3L6dCWU4LD9ygpy1Lpp0FaRcd4h3SBOlIE6uRmYHbhv1xR3cc0k2MGgFG9eWZRY88ld9dQPwz5xpkYS2QDOd_6oL-XeI0M_B/s320/IMG_5331.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>To maximize the effectiveness of the service they provide where they come to the donor's home to pick up large items, they try to schedule them only on certain days of the week.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Km632-DNJQ6U8FDNoUA3Dm6wT7rySsJ9KxVebsy9WW3EpyEn-lFqmLxe8d06mmrVXFr9Qcqa1wa5I_4bReB2KCkfffOLrvvZyQiddaHPMvQ0IK6n8_Jp6AOl63ZqcSFzY_O6IYTDQf0SwE0ct-9nbIkN2IQArQPSmdjjNRdovAL9PbiAHs6szVCrJ5aD/s640/IMG_5326.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Km632-DNJQ6U8FDNoUA3Dm6wT7rySsJ9KxVebsy9WW3EpyEn-lFqmLxe8d06mmrVXFr9Qcqa1wa5I_4bReB2KCkfffOLrvvZyQiddaHPMvQ0IK6n8_Jp6AOl63ZqcSFzY_O6IYTDQf0SwE0ct-9nbIkN2IQArQPSmdjjNRdovAL9PbiAHs6szVCrJ5aD/s320/IMG_5326.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The colorful cornucopia basket, with produce flowing out of it, is a familiar logo, for indicating abundance. It is a reference to the Share and Care main focus, of providing nourishing foods (at little or no cost) for families in Boone County, but will not turn away someone in need from outside the county. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tgsW28JeR7YNSIrpki0Kv8XeYqk2WZdkef0hIK4RR1mVSAkTHpRHZdOAE6TU_dTr144oEFTN4rOCfD5cIujJQ-T-whAzP96cW8QcM1YZ4B9aajWfYUEUiuz55yTiGku-oLJkmFzncLF2We7rKAs8734zCGbnwBmwiHbBfkAzP9ZUGzO9_wlDle7qHJo9/s640/IMG_5327.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tgsW28JeR7YNSIrpki0Kv8XeYqk2WZdkef0hIK4RR1mVSAkTHpRHZdOAE6TU_dTr144oEFTN4rOCfD5cIujJQ-T-whAzP96cW8QcM1YZ4B9aajWfYUEUiuz55yTiGku-oLJkmFzncLF2We7rKAs8734zCGbnwBmwiHbBfkAzP9ZUGzO9_wlDle7qHJo9/s320/IMG_5327.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />After the workers finished getting items out of the garage of the donor's home, they determined the items on the bottom floor could be more easily loaded, if they backed their truck down the slope, so that the lift attachment on the back would be at ground level.<br /><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3AyGSpzK73xH04AsKFAVQfSXbWL4iR0KyphDROxoKTr30N2wNlxp8JFLT9gEAwEa63mswjCqL_BFGkSWT1Q2In_B4wirw8TGadlRlj-fZFbuKiLCmQsINFpUZO7h_PFp3iCSTk2y5dEBAeFpmmio396mCIGBFbcAiOr1Q6U44pmxodx3vmgO0PuTQGnQ/s320/IMG_5328.jpg" width="320" /></div><br />These are the two very congenial Share and Care staff members, who came to assist our project. The photo was taken in front of the empty truck, BEFORE they had worked diligently to fill it to the brim. However, I can assure you they still had pleasant attitudes to the very end, despite the hard work! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyUaoKt-AYk1OgXT5oLMZCLzADHNnm92Y-g0zFgyjDY6Z7exDaNaqGa5hrzwoQwpwxBGV5cWjXidRZ7kzL3EZsQL177v937h5WMOyQ2AF48I8g72F902EbEJVHhTIYYYZepDeonFIf0xS65Ij4WMQdNcT7JDxcf2o76L_dERF-CrJJ6YEx62ZS2hzna8z/s640/IMG_5324.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyUaoKt-AYk1OgXT5oLMZCLzADHNnm92Y-g0zFgyjDY6Z7exDaNaqGa5hrzwoQwpwxBGV5cWjXidRZ7kzL3EZsQL177v937h5WMOyQ2AF48I8g72F902EbEJVHhTIYYYZepDeonFIf0xS65Ij4WMQdNcT7JDxcf2o76L_dERF-CrJJ6YEx62ZS2hzna8z/s320/IMG_5324.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Their kindness is especially remarkable, considering they were loading furniture from three stories, up and down these steps!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9bXTCLSy4rTe4KRdaJGUaInRNj8U3f02buEF7B6UrkoGJOsGUViwlRtsXNOFZ3dGWgfV__LRswikHpURIp4qB31JGnhUi4F6M0DIBeJfhDsO1pIXbvIs4vxPpmcZJLiPtXhdSHc1eD1RfgEV2KqsyGJXFkr6tpVtdJZDuYE1OOT-isBt_5y6QjR2hiEq/s640/IMG_5355.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ9bXTCLSy4rTe4KRdaJGUaInRNj8U3f02buEF7B6UrkoGJOsGUViwlRtsXNOFZ3dGWgfV__LRswikHpURIp4qB31JGnhUi4F6M0DIBeJfhDsO1pIXbvIs4vxPpmcZJLiPtXhdSHc1eD1RfgEV2KqsyGJXFkr6tpVtdJZDuYE1OOT-isBt_5y6QjR2hiEq/s320/IMG_5355.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />And there were several narrow hallways, twists, and turns they had to navigate as well!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXlaBFg2DR8p7cW0GtCWkrTsWd4zu9ss2Jf1_Z3Be_-w3fL3ofwpjnqCgciG321cPi4aRCVT7DCzRNjpdaK9LW6WWywKHCzX5F8CSlu3fNodENo46pp4NQajbv2lFsNEVbz0h67mg99KyQE7jSpC20cOoYBfWWjfIG2lqxn_mopErKP9Dxlr_CLMJtIkd/s640/IMG_5352.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXlaBFg2DR8p7cW0GtCWkrTsWd4zu9ss2Jf1_Z3Be_-w3fL3ofwpjnqCgciG321cPi4aRCVT7DCzRNjpdaK9LW6WWywKHCzX5F8CSlu3fNodENo46pp4NQajbv2lFsNEVbz0h67mg99KyQE7jSpC20cOoYBfWWjfIG2lqxn_mopErKP9Dxlr_CLMJtIkd/s320/IMG_5352.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p>So I want to commend the "pioneers" who originally saw the need for Share and Care, (way back in 1987!), and worked to bring it to fruition. Ozark Share and Care began, and continues to be "Faith Based". They are supported by at least 14 local churches, as well as several schools, businesses, organizations, and private donors. The services they provide, in the name of Jesus, are remarkable! You can find out more at their website, www.ozarkshareandcare.org or phone 870-741-3130. In addition, they post photos of new donations of items to their thrift store, as well as menus for the weekly meals they serve, on their Facebook page. <br /></p><p>One of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses relates to this attitude of "Share and Care". It is the quote from Matthew 19:21 : <i>Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven, and come, follow Me." </i>Perhaps this verse can be a reminder that Share and Care also takes CASH donations, and they are tax deductible, since this is a 501c3 entity. You can find them at 102 Highway 62-65 Bypass, Harrison, Arkansas 7260l, phone 870-741-3130. I predict helping this organization through donations of physical items, cash, or, your time as a volunteer, will give you "MILES OF SMILES", just as it did for me! Tricia<br /></p><p><i> </i><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbq3fQaM_3VeMvGfavUvfHv_N7yZcfTnzxK8PDhQec4PmNX1jxQz4JGZKlRpaONm3YOL9F3UXerETEBTefSylV6hN09H_kDN-K2fNJ_rU6CTpXmj4v_gaJTMNEn6MusM7UwtG1WvDGy7-nk6zyGdwuILP59Npc9J7Dg-9LiQl7KWXNFrjljjRcW-K-WlcW/s640/IMG_5323.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbq3fQaM_3VeMvGfavUvfHv_N7yZcfTnzxK8PDhQec4PmNX1jxQz4JGZKlRpaONm3YOL9F3UXerETEBTefSylV6hN09H_kDN-K2fNJ_rU6CTpXmj4v_gaJTMNEn6MusM7UwtG1WvDGy7-nk6zyGdwuILP59Npc9J7Dg-9LiQl7KWXNFrjljjRcW-K-WlcW/s320/IMG_5323.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-89150149703406220262024-02-01T08:00:00.000-06:002024-02-02T10:14:13.729-06:00SYMPOSIUM EXPEDITION!<p>Each year, the College of the Ozarks hosts symposiums for the students and the public, that feature well-know individuals, with a variety of backgrounds. This blog is about the visit I made to College of the Ozarks, to attend the program featuring James "JB" Brown. I arrived at the college several hours before the event start time, so that I could take a stroll around the campus, seeing some "new-to-me" locations, (and get in my 10,000 step activity goal!).<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjji_hlj2GZVcaECKzc2rMgQivHhkhTQKscC6khoxRDTQM4prOHNqhBmFw4ALQO2tTjbZkS6rYZBSj_lw9pmV5LWhvJCUcyGL6tJ0tpPIYg2sc8sGRe_AmCobsXogL_1y8WuBPY_A-Ohc9loLe-u3ERH51p0LxR0rXmA31CZUYN2jcsqSj-kPSN4F4cjAyq/s640/IMG_6320.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjji_hlj2GZVcaECKzc2rMgQivHhkhTQKscC6khoxRDTQM4prOHNqhBmFw4ALQO2tTjbZkS6rYZBSj_lw9pmV5LWhvJCUcyGL6tJ0tpPIYg2sc8sGRe_AmCobsXogL_1y8WuBPY_A-Ohc9loLe-u3ERH51p0LxR0rXmA31CZUYN2jcsqSj-kPSN4F4cjAyq/s320/IMG_6320.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">College of the Ozarks is a fully accredited, Christian, liberal arts college, located just outside Branson, Missouri. The vision of College of the Ozarks is to develop citizens of Christ-like character who are well-educated, hard-working, and patriotic. To achieve this vision, the College has Academic, Vocational, Christian, Patriotic and Cultural goals. The reminder of that patriotic goal , can be seen in Patriot's Park, near the entrance to the college. This photo shows a plaque at Patriot's Park.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-05s5gvttTP_s2U9u7jHHkMYkIo0kB9bV1jEsZPJz1ad0HBxvWs8WioJ2NmEq2qVujA24ttd02R0QOYr-OYF5W7l9B_qNiCFMaZSBYBj6EiJx7vdu4XUXI5LecsHYjqKO84rH3froRShbX-8AZHvIXwsPLpvhbaMd23r97I5dP64irPIdoNfJydh-3yDt/s640/IMG_1634.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-05s5gvttTP_s2U9u7jHHkMYkIo0kB9bV1jEsZPJz1ad0HBxvWs8WioJ2NmEq2qVujA24ttd02R0QOYr-OYF5W7l9B_qNiCFMaZSBYBj6EiJx7vdu4XUXI5LecsHYjqKO84rH3froRShbX-8AZHvIXwsPLpvhbaMd23r97I5dP64irPIdoNfJydh-3yDt/s320/IMG_1634.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />There is an impressive array of flags at Patriots Park. The park also includes other types of memorials, such as bronze monuments and a grove of over 100 sugar maple trees, planted in honor of specific veterans. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1kPNqRQPpfgdxGxLBA0RLDh2ThOpaoTdH4hNCuqeTJKNkj8bZi7DAfVM3KB4zkF3Fl_vmwK1GwLR-CSgTG3mkU-MV1StQLxMD2KW5dLPyNLNBINpBdnua4dETSEORYIbKsJOn9PmqBYyofvQYOnZidqDOjlDANlCdRFX7KDyachEsQ1XRBGFYsJ1B-5d/s640/IMG_1632.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1kPNqRQPpfgdxGxLBA0RLDh2ThOpaoTdH4hNCuqeTJKNkj8bZi7DAfVM3KB4zkF3Fl_vmwK1GwLR-CSgTG3mkU-MV1StQLxMD2KW5dLPyNLNBINpBdnua4dETSEORYIbKsJOn9PmqBYyofvQYOnZidqDOjlDANlCdRFX7KDyachEsQ1XRBGFYsJ1B-5d/s320/IMG_1632.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><p>The picturesque waterfall landscaping shown in photo below, can be found in front of the Keeter Center, the College's largest workstation (hence, a part of the vocational goal of the college). The facility was recently voted a <i>Top Small Hotel in the U.S., </i>by TripAdvisor.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZeZUUU_OGKZYNEtKqKETEj-ZsfJxCmESDxyL0TVJnc6R55BGbdYOWu8TlT8KxiBKC5ipNCZtOw7rlQHf3Q1uxLMM2oTrsDj6xnhrRIZGWOeTOq_UBS8b3Hu_RHNkaw4YKOR6FNUF28lEIEfq81UD2MzaQrmv-hAjvraaHEYRBuPwg2F0lwCww0jWt6n4/s320/IMG_6321.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Inside the Keeter Center, there is a gift shop that sells a wide variety of student-made products, such as those shown in gift box below:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZeZUUU_OGKZYNEtKqKETEj-ZsfJxCmESDxyL0TVJnc6R55BGbdYOWu8TlT8KxiBKC5ipNCZtOw7rlQHf3Q1uxLMM2oTrsDj6xnhrRIZGWOeTOq_UBS8b3Hu_RHNkaw4YKOR6FNUF28lEIEfq81UD2MzaQrmv-hAjvraaHEYRBuPwg2F0lwCww0jWt6n4/s640/IMG_6321.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoOI721uIKidVRSNpR8zcrAXw1s02iPgqC1pE2cRFyMBgAKSQKrkYRrXfbSqMqPPPViB0cuG6bpnHAaJh_HtyX4WL93yeGr6EAhJOmz9xyMS1OhUipLR-luSI8wGK31baO31kz0snDFjnwwOOUsb_h5TJJtLD8RLDeBms_mhdaz-7kYsQW5deuFcTHa_0/s640/IMG_4022.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfoOI721uIKidVRSNpR8zcrAXw1s02iPgqC1pE2cRFyMBgAKSQKrkYRrXfbSqMqPPPViB0cuG6bpnHAaJh_HtyX4WL93yeGr6EAhJOmz9xyMS1OhUipLR-luSI8wGK31baO31kz0snDFjnwwOOUsb_h5TJJtLD8RLDeBms_mhdaz-7kYsQW5deuFcTHa_0/s320/IMG_4022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Student-made fruitcakes are a signature item of the college, and I can testify that they are delicious! Groups and individuals who take guided tours of the campus, get to visit the fruitcake kitchen, and are given a complementary sample of this luscious treat!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBNWXkm0hZBfX_gPD5u6R_X4FDlYEE49eSFkuRdSA1VbptyiNVNGtLdLBHokoBTp6dQVuYmi5AVyZVw-KxNLCKrPVIwLFRlRHKCV_d3nhNp3x_T4xdaQK5QoqE3Ts2qA61srBUNaCnPCwBJSRdg0ij_jZeRUeiuu4UV5pJ36WjT-3QBbG_bm1W8gZp3AQ/s640/IMG_4010.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBNWXkm0hZBfX_gPD5u6R_X4FDlYEE49eSFkuRdSA1VbptyiNVNGtLdLBHokoBTp6dQVuYmi5AVyZVw-KxNLCKrPVIwLFRlRHKCV_d3nhNp3x_T4xdaQK5QoqE3Ts2qA61srBUNaCnPCwBJSRdg0ij_jZeRUeiuu4UV5pJ36WjT-3QBbG_bm1W8gZp3AQ/s320/IMG_4010.jpg" width="234" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The statue of our country's first president, George Washington, stands in front of the Center for Patriotic Education. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmBNWXkm0hZBfX_gPD5u6R_X4FDlYEE49eSFkuRdSA1VbptyiNVNGtLdLBHokoBTp6dQVuYmi5AVyZVw-KxNLCKrPVIwLFRlRHKCV_d3nhNp3x_T4xdaQK5QoqE3Ts2qA61srBUNaCnPCwBJSRdg0ij_jZeRUeiuu4UV5pJ36WjT-3QBbG_bm1W8gZp3AQ/s640/IMG_4010.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6g1mBoQqfHIS0zQbX4Yp_AQXxTWlf5zDXNxKy4dv6HECLjJBID90DgTquvKdIoxOGK8xVFulsulpenSI6ooS5S6KXpF09UHZwOOVdV8cuqqRi7OBlU2UXpIiqS197yIOp04QbpOxVS7XhiYC9MkS1Ps7-rrUe8HDWYeVjLHPMw7HiN8GKkVpjUHO7uFj/s640/IMG_6326.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha6g1mBoQqfHIS0zQbX4Yp_AQXxTWlf5zDXNxKy4dv6HECLjJBID90DgTquvKdIoxOGK8xVFulsulpenSI6ooS5S6KXpF09UHZwOOVdV8cuqqRi7OBlU2UXpIiqS197yIOp04QbpOxVS7XhiYC9MkS1Ps7-rrUe8HDWYeVjLHPMw7HiN8GKkVpjUHO7uFj/s320/IMG_6326.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Near the front door of this building is a metal partition, with stars cut out of it, in a nod to our nation's "stars and stripes" flag. I speculate that this custom item was made by students in the college's metal shop.<br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFMZopDxX3nw3qNrJiPY8vqyqlmzTkeOHpJv9TztsuqanwYPmxRN0w0mqIyf3k73xmPSQkvWZ6NeUJ0YNC-9PgR5YD21dtHpA8B1P7iVuSmuLxl-XyT0COr9uNluO4JDRgzOR5VbK8P6TeynZWLOfAwbYvDMLzPQYnfZ8Z3LB4jsx8rZx_naamkwgBkDUZ/s640/IMG_6332.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFMZopDxX3nw3qNrJiPY8vqyqlmzTkeOHpJv9TztsuqanwYPmxRN0w0mqIyf3k73xmPSQkvWZ6NeUJ0YNC-9PgR5YD21dtHpA8B1P7iVuSmuLxl-XyT0COr9uNluO4JDRgzOR5VbK8P6TeynZWLOfAwbYvDMLzPQYnfZ8Z3LB4jsx8rZx_naamkwgBkDUZ/s320/IMG_6332.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There was a charging station for electric vehicles that sat in front of the engineering building, and it had a Tesla hooked up to it. I asked a staff member inside the building if there were other charging stations around the campus, and he replied, "not that I know of." He went on to comment that the engineering department had received this particular charging station from a grant that was provided, to promote the use of electric vehicles. With thousands of cars, belonging to students, faculty, and visitors on the campus every day, there would be a very long line to use this one charging station, if, indeed, the use of gasoline-powered vehicles is completely outlawed!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2_e36jjPn73lIKszSgu7RBDwSD8gkQCXskokIlr4v_5vUBXjyh3F_8itv9soRgSJxW_B9wC0j7LQp6HGVmgZF6NNP8UulWhInJD9WWPOGQVJilB3RpGIs7XphTQ8AkAlasmc8WXHrnIcLiBrIUcIPxWDcm5UhVWUypRBNBM3zOKG8T0ajj-sAtCY_ceh/s640/IMG_6323.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2_e36jjPn73lIKszSgu7RBDwSD8gkQCXskokIlr4v_5vUBXjyh3F_8itv9soRgSJxW_B9wC0j7LQp6HGVmgZF6NNP8UulWhInJD9WWPOGQVJilB3RpGIs7XphTQ8AkAlasmc8WXHrnIcLiBrIUcIPxWDcm5UhVWUypRBNBM3zOKG8T0ajj-sAtCY_ceh/s320/IMG_6323.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><p></p><p>The symposium I was attending was being held inside Keeter Gymnasium, and the photo below shows the view I had from my seat on the gymnasium floor. This building has seen some very famous world figures as speakers, including Great Britain's Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, General Norman Schwarzkopt, Colin Powell, Newt Gingrich, Dr. Ben Carson, Tim Tebow, Arkansas Governor Sara Huckabee Sanders, and television personality, Mike Rowe. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPt7qC2qq5qrshYtDaZSNxGMHP6pfbKB2JTKE9Bc9GNh1j-XohRIFglwV7xCgzKtvcTt5mLDrUz3N7Li30jVUkpHQusGrIfD-k9FhGbp1QryWctLhzDxtzkf04ZdTmfM8Z5qTUvRHLY9zu9m9tm_qR-DgePA7pJxI75BD-KX4ImEaJzdKw9rnkzAxoWxxD/s640/IMG_6337.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="640" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPt7qC2qq5qrshYtDaZSNxGMHP6pfbKB2JTKE9Bc9GNh1j-XohRIFglwV7xCgzKtvcTt5mLDrUz3N7Li30jVUkpHQusGrIfD-k9FhGbp1QryWctLhzDxtzkf04ZdTmfM8Z5qTUvRHLY9zu9m9tm_qR-DgePA7pJxI75BD-KX4ImEaJzdKw9rnkzAxoWxxD/s320/IMG_6337.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Since I enjoy photography, I chose a seat behind the seat that was reserved for the official photographer of the event, because I thought it would be interesting to see what kind of equipment he was using, and to observe his "modus operandi" for capturing great images. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsaNn2-7JChCtxXo_Z3QQdH9YlHEiZGPfLtYsM7czZHGpyDhWsgP0r_ObuJ4AM8jeWoQPmkgpCUxIXhTPoZwSnZldVPnWiLoLMl8fSKq4gEkHGEfqXwC38MpPRexWds0zhzI0qZnUR2nxM6en46p0PksvzimFDJc26eXrjddANKTjGgWRjvPc6cYERCcH/s320/IMG_6335.jpg" width="240" />I was not disappointed, because I was able to observe him using a variety of lenses, and I carefully studied the "work harness" he was wearing, that had storage bags for a variety of cameras, back up batteries, flash equipment, etc. When I attended the Tim Tebow and Governor Sara Sanders speeches, I sat in the area cordoned off for the media, to the immediate left of the platform. Those seats put the media guest closer to the speaker, but I would agree with this designated event photographer's philosophy, that the "official photographer" gets the best view points, directly in front of the stage. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsaNn2-7JChCtxXo_Z3QQdH9YlHEiZGPfLtYsM7czZHGpyDhWsgP0r_ObuJ4AM8jeWoQPmkgpCUxIXhTPoZwSnZldVPnWiLoLMl8fSKq4gEkHGEfqXwC38MpPRexWds0zhzI0qZnUR2nxM6en46p0PksvzimFDJc26eXrjddANKTjGgWRjvPc6cYERCcH/s640/IMG_6335.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlBe7XeGLzBiSEDIx-rxN2hWrKuLq05-BQ3UVM_uCDapk1sr3yM9kc_y-TTX-eMnp_KDkLSUPvvPBovl4xnyGCDL1AbkpHo_YvHBlMODAHMoN7bQNTGv6lHHIDRx0d88qXd677FYg3U7AtdbarIMt8w_5EwxrqAZBcJT63uiHZGCd6d5R-MLftdRzUAXv/s640/IMG_6344.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlBe7XeGLzBiSEDIx-rxN2hWrKuLq05-BQ3UVM_uCDapk1sr3yM9kc_y-TTX-eMnp_KDkLSUPvvPBovl4xnyGCDL1AbkpHo_YvHBlMODAHMoN7bQNTGv6lHHIDRx0d88qXd677FYg3U7AtdbarIMt8w_5EwxrqAZBcJT63uiHZGCd6d5R-MLftdRzUAXv/s320/IMG_6344.jpg" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The event moderator reminded the audience that James "JB" Brown comes from a sports background, and as an athlete himself in the past, was used to walking into a gymnasium with the roar of the crowd, led by cheerleaders and team mascots. So, College of the Ozarks had their cheerleaders and mascot, get the crowd "fired up", with applause and rousing rhythms, as Mr. Brown entered the room. It was a very fitting tribute, to an athlete with such a remarkable sports record!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlBe7XeGLzBiSEDIx-rxN2hWrKuLq05-BQ3UVM_uCDapk1sr3yM9kc_y-TTX-eMnp_KDkLSUPvvPBovl4xnyGCDL1AbkpHo_YvHBlMODAHMoN7bQNTGv6lHHIDRx0d88qXd677FYg3U7AtdbarIMt8w_5EwxrqAZBcJT63uiHZGCd6d5R-MLftdRzUAXv/s640/IMG_6344.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdibZW8jPX6Bmx3yyTuBDD6V41A-4HDoN-yx6hiP2mVa-wOwNwvs01bYgOK9hN1rH9MJvQ8O5VhiEa39mN77mbthhwibU2YJzgeBrYvFpHV4yClkTS2uYr3UbTYxSOFnixZ770rDE5peViAFKb5Na7YF6ywnnHPxKuuyDhsOX4Cvs2tE5gub-hrWWFhw7/s640/IMG_6342.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIdibZW8jPX6Bmx3yyTuBDD6V41A-4HDoN-yx6hiP2mVa-wOwNwvs01bYgOK9hN1rH9MJvQ8O5VhiEa39mN77mbthhwibU2YJzgeBrYvFpHV4yClkTS2uYr3UbTYxSOFnixZ770rDE5peViAFKb5Na7YF6ywnnHPxKuuyDhsOX4Cvs2tE5gub-hrWWFhw7/s320/IMG_6342.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Before I went to the event, I wanted to get background information, so I checked out Mr. Brown's social media platforms. Screen shots of these are shown below:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-G9aRFB0hdoqz3k8vz6IHm0S0lOtBB6UC5oPU1hzkO1B8jtdB8Kalwm8owpBLL6eIQ1x5Jxyk4nHuXj0c2MGDsMe3UsLzTusZwY260BqAqzyQYNx40BUPoEV2fdYSos7KAZnlHeht6NLX6u5lEOqv2xwZO28Apqh700s0zH2J8sQG6kSHmwSLyPYBhub8/s640/IMG_8274.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="396" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-G9aRFB0hdoqz3k8vz6IHm0S0lOtBB6UC5oPU1hzkO1B8jtdB8Kalwm8owpBLL6eIQ1x5Jxyk4nHuXj0c2MGDsMe3UsLzTusZwY260BqAqzyQYNx40BUPoEV2fdYSos7KAZnlHeht6NLX6u5lEOqv2xwZO28Apqh700s0zH2J8sQG6kSHmwSLyPYBhub8/s320/IMG_8274.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1PSKXwXupgj479VOPupHvCLdiOARdQYV0WcyYsyTbtwXYjfGcnttzrG-NFI37cXsNrYQFBNI9uc1oKK_xbiBawpeolkF3KYNQp3WplLjh23ze80lS2SWXGKvc0u23OGG2naGJQ7d4VfYJp8EqRuYNGfrYQ5NJbdv4fukWldJ9-zhaaQ1aAEFjK6R16M-k/s640/IMG_8273.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="408" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1PSKXwXupgj479VOPupHvCLdiOARdQYV0WcyYsyTbtwXYjfGcnttzrG-NFI37cXsNrYQFBNI9uc1oKK_xbiBawpeolkF3KYNQp3WplLjh23ze80lS2SWXGKvc0u23OGG2naGJQ7d4VfYJp8EqRuYNGfrYQ5NJbdv4fukWldJ9-zhaaQ1aAEFjK6R16M-k/s320/IMG_8273.jpg" width="204" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix1VC28aVDMiTy0xNIpRFpSYeMH7YE9V84yzklLmL3pHQG435J1iXWZphQrnmCPS73NZuHXah4ZMwZnROoqJ_t5acxnWnbjdXBJ9rQBtMr9gKx83HDFeLUElBIi3KaN0JdHln2_IaXbhrgX4gFzM6-vlmjWrWavLGJe-eQgWlyBauxGJKhEAhqAqBihZtz/s640/IMG_8272.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="398" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix1VC28aVDMiTy0xNIpRFpSYeMH7YE9V84yzklLmL3pHQG435J1iXWZphQrnmCPS73NZuHXah4ZMwZnROoqJ_t5acxnWnbjdXBJ9rQBtMr9gKx83HDFeLUElBIi3KaN0JdHln2_IaXbhrgX4gFzM6-vlmjWrWavLGJe-eQgWlyBauxGJKhEAhqAqBihZtz/s320/IMG_8272.jpg" width="199" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9g7lpEYtyK7xFWJbmf3_POXoP1pmMqQ7kRwaSLxKXtMIB_1yDzE0jakkM9KACUYn249rkr7OKbRIBTJnQWuk-K3DOvmZ7deUCH6Kfsyy75mzp_K9HtwXzDN-cuALL1lWlTckp6K45htXLidUo2W9CbQR5MeMde4fcAq6hKqxTaYo5icJjJYNpws-HX1E/s640/IMG_8271.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9g7lpEYtyK7xFWJbmf3_POXoP1pmMqQ7kRwaSLxKXtMIB_1yDzE0jakkM9KACUYn249rkr7OKbRIBTJnQWuk-K3DOvmZ7deUCH6Kfsyy75mzp_K9HtwXzDN-cuALL1lWlTckp6K45htXLidUo2W9CbQR5MeMde4fcAq6hKqxTaYo5icJjJYNpws-HX1E/s320/IMG_8271.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>The talk Mr. Brown gave that evening, through a "Q and A" type format, was informative and inspiring. I could see that despite his many accolades, he remains humble and service minded. Since one of the awards he has received is being named the recipient of the National Association of Broadcasters Distinguisheded SERVICE Award (the organization's highest honor), it seemed fitting to use this symposium featured speaker, as the visual aid for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses, that deals with SERVICE: "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave--just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:26-28<br /><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I felt doubly blessed because I not only got to be present at Mr. Brown's symposium appearance, but I was also invited to attend the reception afterwards, at the Keeter Center. Since my Master's Degree is in Foods and Nutrition, I find it intriguing to see the creative ways the food service team at the Keeter Center captures the eye, and the appetite, with their dazzling array of refreshments. For example, notice this custom-crafted metal "tree", designed to hold individual cones, packed with colorful appetizers!<br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYiAmvES925W0PPBEMjTpPoM-j2VVVZS-Z0ZNkdAGKGx8rprIlECs4sl2bWO-j0KOjgjD1QZMkhlgSOc4_kJG22iKRzcXKoIzwPGVCRwMiCcfap-t6JGSan0NmkAVYi32mrJaIZhFTPYCOEMGovlCt30sP7igM12-RsNUlarkoZJEZgsiUXkbzejwY9Tb/s640/IMG_6350.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYiAmvES925W0PPBEMjTpPoM-j2VVVZS-Z0ZNkdAGKGx8rprIlECs4sl2bWO-j0KOjgjD1QZMkhlgSOc4_kJG22iKRzcXKoIzwPGVCRwMiCcfap-t6JGSan0NmkAVYi32mrJaIZhFTPYCOEMGovlCt30sP7igM12-RsNUlarkoZJEZgsiUXkbzejwY9Tb/s320/IMG_6350.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Likewise, platters full of "S'MORES ON A STICK" were a perfect treat for a chilly fall evening.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMZ5t6K0DNPjkjsJfybn6mHq-qFE3GVoXgNuOBeGUb6cnR-VLfKYI8aShyphenhyphenEprCf3HIK9FLi5h6cu6gwRXu0Rnsu-QLsnVmhRmxpyZGsm4dN-YME5VbNsrZ-hTBwzCIBCeVXmepR9BycvZT0vwjF2tmD-Dy-aLBD9hNOAl9UCsbwmQq0F6ns_tDlPY1O-J/s640/IMG_6357.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMZ5t6K0DNPjkjsJfybn6mHq-qFE3GVoXgNuOBeGUb6cnR-VLfKYI8aShyphenhyphenEprCf3HIK9FLi5h6cu6gwRXu0Rnsu-QLsnVmhRmxpyZGsm4dN-YME5VbNsrZ-hTBwzCIBCeVXmepR9BycvZT0vwjF2tmD-Dy-aLBD9hNOAl9UCsbwmQq0F6ns_tDlPY1O-J/s320/IMG_6357.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The students in charge of the hot apple cider service, also had a lovely display. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhm4ixYybVMlbkYsQvMx0EU5r93O9D0ECytojlz0GhjemQbU_c1eywdMoXTGw9gyrgX5l3A_YkT16oSXX4xMbFj3i0wTF9CA5MKkRcj5MpkwTs9V0BmckuCfeLGp7WqvdNq9ok11vbjqhlb5djDQymXY1uwla5sta1SuP3a7MMR3ImETlCutJRRWiad0lm/s640/IMG_6349.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhm4ixYybVMlbkYsQvMx0EU5r93O9D0ECytojlz0GhjemQbU_c1eywdMoXTGw9gyrgX5l3A_YkT16oSXX4xMbFj3i0wTF9CA5MKkRcj5MpkwTs9V0BmckuCfeLGp7WqvdNq9ok11vbjqhlb5djDQymXY1uwla5sta1SuP3a7MMR3ImETlCutJRRWiad0lm/s320/IMG_6349.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The student shown below is the one I asked to take a photo of me, and she kindly allowed me to also take a photo of her, as well!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3clvzq1wqoBiRQvDRjplHS_gzhxOuR8W_veQTahTo-XfiLpjPTm2qAQiBJ_5trdRGTI_0yqrIKF5BSOKe53hB_pkoRXuQLfH4ERl6zkkChxUWTJlLT385BvKYVs3pvl_duGMGlfl6fNfPLdyTuB-hft7rT48gthE6XHrV4pEnKKVV6yuCabUAV2p_IjUf/s640/IMG_6356.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3clvzq1wqoBiRQvDRjplHS_gzhxOuR8W_veQTahTo-XfiLpjPTm2qAQiBJ_5trdRGTI_0yqrIKF5BSOKe53hB_pkoRXuQLfH4ERl6zkkChxUWTJlLT385BvKYVs3pvl_duGMGlfl6fNfPLdyTuB-hft7rT48gthE6XHrV4pEnKKVV6yuCabUAV2p_IjUf/s320/IMG_6356.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Besides wanting a photo to remember what I wore to the reception, I also wanted a photo that showed the variety of harvest-time produce and flowers, that the school grows on their own campus. Visitors can see a variety of plant species, including fabulous orchids, at the Hoge Greenhouses on campus. <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EjfHBKkhGwO34qLkcFcGEQHCYibH9lbQ5LGNWlGf_TBDj5A-aNNoFH3cMfREHGXqsD6sHbI3rQlV02qGSaet-typQcFsydIVBz7_dXDDyj99K12ExklwpMgAwIZ225o1RfytwG5uaDSM92ianItIraEKjily5ejapodV0t-RZQnBxlE-w0mzCkETg1WO/s640/IMG_6354.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EjfHBKkhGwO34qLkcFcGEQHCYibH9lbQ5LGNWlGf_TBDj5A-aNNoFH3cMfREHGXqsD6sHbI3rQlV02qGSaet-typQcFsydIVBz7_dXDDyj99K12ExklwpMgAwIZ225o1RfytwG5uaDSM92ianItIraEKjily5ejapodV0t-RZQnBxlE-w0mzCkETg1WO/s320/IMG_6354.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>There was another giant "centerpiece" arrangement in the reception area, that I wanted to remember with a photo. I hope the photo of the harvest-themed decor, and my smiling face, illustrates that this fantastic experience at College of the Ozarks, gave me "MILES OF SMILES"! Tricia<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLr8P8D_gGGZP7hxZUrUqPl13DtDk1zsIyzFVWM8UgDph6w93tuPtSBnSFcwBG32NdlwjceO_eOhZrmF5Kjtx4J7QrEiRoU9lxZUGVjvQdayRqZqLG3TA45PYrVR-0_u62RzJU_9ItbbQPtRbUGUmT5kL2ddGvOh6Xm1DBa1K1d14RFg33ofNtnCohqrkt/s640/IMG_6348.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLr8P8D_gGGZP7hxZUrUqPl13DtDk1zsIyzFVWM8UgDph6w93tuPtSBnSFcwBG32NdlwjceO_eOhZrmF5Kjtx4J7QrEiRoU9lxZUGVjvQdayRqZqLG3TA45PYrVR-0_u62RzJU_9ItbbQPtRbUGUmT5kL2ddGvOh6Xm1DBa1K1d14RFg33ofNtnCohqrkt/s320/IMG_6348.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-25440065435004534822024-01-01T07:00:00.000-06:002024-01-01T08:23:59.095-06:00WOKA EXPEDITION!This is the building and sign that you see, when you enter the campus of WOKA. The word "WOKA" is a reference to "the Waters of Oklahoma and Arkansas" Whitewater Park. <br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVIks2kcTDfJrVq8TZlGoUll-K0PytmrllVTnEJlNBBgXlW2S4xuNvSK1zexQR4wxYDknNhyphenhyphendSAwO7XUc_nJq02ksmdmGUHHQiVBh-k_VpY6QW_qqtfK5PENTkVPl33Bs3-GQZQjPIZea5uRWcWXne2bfdCLzlOoDuf1FLNMGPgV71mQvsEyU9Im5ceoX/s320/IMG_7194.jpg" width="320" />The photo below shows the entry gate cars must go through, to enter the park. It only accepts credit cards, as the park is listed as a "cashless" facility. As you can see from the photo I took through my windshield, it was raining on the day that I went, but the park does not close just because it is raining. However, on busy days when the weather is nice, there will be many visitors. To prevent the park from becoming dangerously overcrowded, the gate will not open when the parking lot is full. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQjARboM63PBhiRE4AeO2WDEzBvMIlv0sRFF39ekSID9kdWVVZutJVaOUQ-i_nkMfdzS91b5pbF16iRcCd72uaBkauKQaIGxPCks7U0PncgpFNToJOTNDhyphenhyphenOLqd8mIPDrgI6fGsImrl_0ulFdrClk9DGAMVjQdwZWvvKIHh0xy3PscGCymHukFRKSZ8T8B/s750/IMG_7398.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="750" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQjARboM63PBhiRE4AeO2WDEzBvMIlv0sRFF39ekSID9kdWVVZutJVaOUQ-i_nkMfdzS91b5pbF16iRcCd72uaBkauKQaIGxPCks7U0PncgpFNToJOTNDhyphenhyphenOLqd8mIPDrgI6fGsImrl_0ulFdrClk9DGAMVjQdwZWvvKIHh0xy3PscGCymHukFRKSZ8T8B/s320/IMG_7398.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I was the only one in the park that day, so this gentleman had time to come out and give me a tour. His name is Jared Skaggs, Director of Outdoor Experience. This waterpark is a result of a cooperative working arrangement between the city of Siloam Springs (www.siloamsprings.com), and the Grand River Dam Authority (www.GRDA.com). <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY4U-dPlQ2I1DViGtfErQJHd7RGrBYM1xzKudbGXjKjVOlzeT_jgbCaeZwE_jPdIsxy53yCDnOqHcyXbvVxsLpSKT0jHnNQZjohGTZgSVdwCdnIzD8IPnHojIjM_hcYv4sWhfIxF_L7To06V2GKYU8WMymkXCqKHWZiT9qPO4mr3hvaNnw1K5mUM-3kLAE/s320/IMG_7224.jpg" width="240" /></div><br />The rain drops clinging to one of the hand rails on upper viewing platform, serve as a frame for the waters flowing in the distance. Rain does not prevent the park from being open to visitors, UNLESS, there is so much rain that the Illinois River is in flood stage. The water level of the river is shown in real time, on the WOKA website (www.visitwoka.com).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtDrBITOm8HILn0fJE_bjp1uPaGLOXI4dYfgVEPweO4sPuNxyUcc6BZ9CaI_R4s5mnGlFi6H5zltYDLO48BdN2SpjAKrvXcg1MZWJGlZmyHCu-xJDs2Y3yG-wMeEgXmMJtfC4TAfDsI8hoT169iNwZr6We-qHg6XmcPqERgi1R1Bvsj1H6NYNBPzXmVb_/s640/IMG_7222.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtDrBITOm8HILn0fJE_bjp1uPaGLOXI4dYfgVEPweO4sPuNxyUcc6BZ9CaI_R4s5mnGlFi6H5zltYDLO48BdN2SpjAKrvXcg1MZWJGlZmyHCu-xJDs2Y3yG-wMeEgXmMJtfC4TAfDsI8hoT169iNwZr6We-qHg6XmcPqERgi1R1Bvsj1H6NYNBPzXmVb_/s320/IMG_7222.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The autumn leaves in photo below, serve as a reminder to say the park is open year round. I was there on a chilly day in November. Just three days earlier, on Thanksgiving Day, several paddlers came to the park (wearing wet suits), and enjoyed playing on the rapids . (I had seen photos of them on the WOKA Facebook and Instagram pages.)<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeOEWE_C_QFPO6I6BoJHblB0CgCcLIXs8C285FhkKce3YrBL9DHj2d1nGe909M_ZhyIBrIixQvVPdPejvQ2CfcqI8hEDyZxfH1gQZtODc6P6B6PH83Tg1c4GZFRvMW7mmUqOvQ8c5A-XJRhXIvhasxt2ZcBefb-v69BuESuJuBNslCk4ZM8ubDjiG3V9X/s640/IMG_7264.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeOEWE_C_QFPO6I6BoJHblB0CgCcLIXs8C285FhkKce3YrBL9DHj2d1nGe909M_ZhyIBrIixQvVPdPejvQ2CfcqI8hEDyZxfH1gQZtODc6P6B6PH83Tg1c4GZFRvMW7mmUqOvQ8c5A-XJRhXIvhasxt2ZcBefb-v69BuESuJuBNslCk4ZM8ubDjiG3V9X/s320/IMG_7264.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The repurposed railroad cars contain concession amenities, that are open during the warmer parts of the year. Stairs lead up to viewing decks on the roof of the concession stands, equipped with picnic tables. They provide a great overlook of the entire water park. The canopy on a stand at ground level can provide shade to the picnic tables underneath, on days when it is hot and sunny. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Flb4Dd10flQP92axUy8Sm96TMxiOzm65nk1nBeUIxmaMLIiM9gzTHGWXztQNG2Nza6LD3J7IiHNleL8FBGl0fSw89Jn8Ktyhht-eFsLZBA7zNzsBIQJKbxy77P_h4owK2na_E62yS3hL-TvQqiVUgDZS4oV-bKcT0RjBYLvRms70UuzvpQChznm9cWie/s640/IMG_7310.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Flb4Dd10flQP92axUy8Sm96TMxiOzm65nk1nBeUIxmaMLIiM9gzTHGWXztQNG2Nza6LD3J7IiHNleL8FBGl0fSw89Jn8Ktyhht-eFsLZBA7zNzsBIQJKbxy77P_h4owK2na_E62yS3hL-TvQqiVUgDZS4oV-bKcT0RjBYLvRms70UuzvpQChznm9cWie/s320/IMG_7310.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This is the view from the rooftop, when looking towards the beginning of the rapids. WOKA is a 1200 foot long, 100 foot wide, side channel of the Illinois River, and features 8 drops/whitewater features. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkprjliMRncxC45SHU6a_KTI8ExbewJwgvdOTpYE7cPhLD78bXhFEkl5TNDAQH6v3eDKxkjroIS_ce2LE3k3t15HaPSkkZsBYTwV5ys8Me724LZ6ujM2LR20GpFW7Qz3z4IaPJ5N_ExJJRBwgBigY_sBkOs0D4ay3NoaUQ0hZfjCQwW7H4mVlnvq7RTV9Z/s640/IMG_7220.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkprjliMRncxC45SHU6a_KTI8ExbewJwgvdOTpYE7cPhLD78bXhFEkl5TNDAQH6v3eDKxkjroIS_ce2LE3k3t15HaPSkkZsBYTwV5ys8Me724LZ6ujM2LR20GpFW7Qz3z4IaPJ5N_ExJJRBwgBigY_sBkOs0D4ay3NoaUQ0hZfjCQwW7H4mVlnvq7RTV9Z/s320/IMG_7220.jpg" width="320" /></a>The photo below shows the rapids, and boulders, that one must navigate to get to the end of the water park. These obstacles might be thought of as "trials of many kinds" to challenge one's paddling navigational skills on rough water. So I am using this as the visual aid for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses that says, "<i>Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing." James 1:2-4</i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkprjliMRncxC45SHU6a_KTI8ExbewJwgvdOTpYE7cPhLD78bXhFEkl5TNDAQH6v3eDKxkjroIS_ce2LE3k3t15HaPSkkZsBYTwV5ys8Me724LZ6ujM2LR20GpFW7Qz3z4IaPJ5N_ExJJRBwgBigY_sBkOs0D4ay3NoaUQ0hZfjCQwW7H4mVlnvq7RTV9Z/s640/IMG_7220.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1xEUj16pgpMJYkqKsnuEkGHkMOBjRsSPdvWFu_JuYWMs4WCfZ0v3JywNmaJ1hMPWZ5KvXmqUDuJ780z-AXQMOod0_-PxWJi8JKvbpez8ciJPXTe1eFaptJocK9lqHmPOrjIgUo7EKJrGL354fl9QBSs_hcAlQher9YkdupqvBUNme14JZACzokLSaqQv/s640/IMG_7272.GIF" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1xEUj16pgpMJYkqKsnuEkGHkMOBjRsSPdvWFu_JuYWMs4WCfZ0v3JywNmaJ1hMPWZ5KvXmqUDuJ780z-AXQMOod0_-PxWJi8JKvbpez8ciJPXTe1eFaptJocK9lqHmPOrjIgUo7EKJrGL354fl9QBSs_hcAlQher9YkdupqvBUNme14JZACzokLSaqQv/s320/IMG_7272.GIF" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>There is a very colorful mural painted on the side of the railroad car that faces the river. I like the way the artist incorporated the letters "w o k a" into the art work to make them "flow" with the river!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFwqujVGmEIlOxtcaaTtSFBaJ0b0yoXiFI-0fQSCBq1DCyNpZ6lwue3HT8TOEcGxCBSJ4sPm33ESHC_r_fIcFl9sj69a9dMTcZXD5JlzEtKPxXqz_U-AQ74V4oIs4EKY8Z_fa4xWG6MIDn4UIHpIP4F5mr6OZuHaBijYd2K_-goF06G_MEun7RjlhGexW/s640/IMG_7225.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFwqujVGmEIlOxtcaaTtSFBaJ0b0yoXiFI-0fQSCBq1DCyNpZ6lwue3HT8TOEcGxCBSJ4sPm33ESHC_r_fIcFl9sj69a9dMTcZXD5JlzEtKPxXqz_U-AQ74V4oIs4EKY8Z_fa4xWG6MIDn4UIHpIP4F5mr6OZuHaBijYd2K_-goF06G_MEun7RjlhGexW/s320/IMG_7225.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photo below shows the picnic tables and Adirondack chairs on the rooftop viewing area of the railroad cars. Visitors may bring outside food and drink, but no alcohol. This would be a very scenic location for a picnic in nicer weather!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFwqujVGmEIlOxtcaaTtSFBaJ0b0yoXiFI-0fQSCBq1DCyNpZ6lwue3HT8TOEcGxCBSJ4sPm33ESHC_r_fIcFl9sj69a9dMTcZXD5JlzEtKPxXqz_U-AQ74V4oIs4EKY8Z_fa4xWG6MIDn4UIHpIP4F5mr6OZuHaBijYd2K_-goF06G_MEun7RjlhGexW/s640/IMG_7225.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_hFCgKk5qlhQraK9ebfMzGNfDVMhcVsufpS31YNTH2cACpsu9Oqkf93scNNlASNZ5tcJbZ46nUcEfChaNqPAJhOmKbCBMjIRe2BbIZlrwI47rpE8l_eQz6W94sKt0OLmX_zT8JB2ptmA_yVhEgJXTzwFJGqkWnk0z7zkKOVerEVOCM4nj4GkIMSJSDTO/s750/IMG_7401.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="750" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_hFCgKk5qlhQraK9ebfMzGNfDVMhcVsufpS31YNTH2cACpsu9Oqkf93scNNlASNZ5tcJbZ46nUcEfChaNqPAJhOmKbCBMjIRe2BbIZlrwI47rpE8l_eQz6W94sKt0OLmX_zT8JB2ptmA_yVhEgJXTzwFJGqkWnk0z7zkKOVerEVOCM4nj4GkIMSJSDTO/s320/IMG_7401.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The second railroad car also has an appropriate message, since the park is located on a "channel" of the Illinois River! Likewise, a paddler needs to "channel" their concentration to make it though these challenging water features!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CqpAgzU_4PZsxHZRSQwyv4CvTRdhTd20jrEm6cSS4tOmEHTduYTdP0CQUvTmDcwpOibbZzYB7VAFnzIYp000vZaiWQvYu5ncRkPFF0UvJdn8NaCJDSFJgegqWIuv4CRXliapE07el71Tm-Cqj2QLaG616_rA6wOZ8Lm8EBz7J1yFx7Gmx9WoqY1l7ith/s640/IMG_7278.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2CqpAgzU_4PZsxHZRSQwyv4CvTRdhTd20jrEm6cSS4tOmEHTduYTdP0CQUvTmDcwpOibbZzYB7VAFnzIYp000vZaiWQvYu5ncRkPFF0UvJdn8NaCJDSFJgegqWIuv4CRXliapE07el71Tm-Cqj2QLaG616_rA6wOZ8Lm8EBz7J1yFx7Gmx9WoqY1l7ith/s320/IMG_7278.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><br />There are placards that show the elevation drops of the rapids, so that paddlers can know what exciting challenges await them!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_aKZPdxy5tpiuH15yZ62W5Yo0sXaUc-2oQAbeObzYZnZubWIx2fRyxG0LPaf0i5LpjVZtsO5QDXp_0Iw2LiUQL97lqGrghb_vPvALOEJgBKXvSzr0Tr53GUHWD8-3dqOdLzgthagbjaUrEkMCwqpEgAI20UigkPpDXJDr7Ph1ZQldsombNdAzeMZQhUJ/s640/IMG_7211.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_aKZPdxy5tpiuH15yZ62W5Yo0sXaUc-2oQAbeObzYZnZubWIx2fRyxG0LPaf0i5LpjVZtsO5QDXp_0Iw2LiUQL97lqGrghb_vPvALOEJgBKXvSzr0Tr53GUHWD8-3dqOdLzgthagbjaUrEkMCwqpEgAI20UigkPpDXJDr7Ph1ZQldsombNdAzeMZQhUJ/s320/IMG_7211.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>There are temperature-controlled restrooms, lavatories, and changing stations at the park. Likewise, water fountains are provided, that even have a place for refilling water bottles. A series of photos on a timeline, adorn the covered porch between the restrooms. I was thankful that Jared alerted me to these photos, because they answered many of the questions I had about the history of the park. I would encourage visitors to be sure to check out the history timeline when they visit.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIUIStaM4BG71MVtASrWdRF8nI6StBeZp2Tu2unBNtuDO83qOgJXyEi6avKQV6I1nC08Lo3XO7s-z5ctZ7LUh_79HPaLwxDNSTPZf5L-ZtjQDiTjIJOYGhamK6n2PJKsQm1ABdnlodNZ-tZUzlA6hQ9HwlZDYFQqzGpjuw13kYFoH237aV-n7s2XC6T1_/s750/IMG_7395.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="747" data-original-width="750" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiIUIStaM4BG71MVtASrWdRF8nI6StBeZp2Tu2unBNtuDO83qOgJXyEi6avKQV6I1nC08Lo3XO7s-z5ctZ7LUh_79HPaLwxDNSTPZf5L-ZtjQDiTjIJOYGhamK6n2PJKsQm1ABdnlodNZ-tZUzlA6hQ9HwlZDYFQqzGpjuw13kYFoH237aV-n7s2XC6T1_/s320/IMG_7395.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Jered told me the channel was blasted out of solid bedrock, to construct the whitewater drops. Since these are rocks newly exposed to running water, their edges have not been smoothed from hundreds of years of flowing water. Therefore, I determined when I return to "shoot the rapids" in warmer weather, I am going to wear the dive skin or wetsuit I had from scuba diving, to protect my skin from scrapes with the rocks. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMwsC0IP6AXiG2voChIxLXz3M8KuotYtvctNskv-Uy2rvUyF79WghQVKaNzedwDy-9Ih9aLfd0lnmwYx_wSXZ7cktsaome7lsC6TCOPHO28dniStLXg5hrklQjmEksQJDsLhF7VoDPqxNYn1wU5niAPrWeLFu7O4qHXkQwfWW2v3qbvbttXVxSK6kczj1Q/s640/IMG_7207.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMwsC0IP6AXiG2voChIxLXz3M8KuotYtvctNskv-Uy2rvUyF79WghQVKaNzedwDy-9Ih9aLfd0lnmwYx_wSXZ7cktsaome7lsC6TCOPHO28dniStLXg5hrklQjmEksQJDsLhF7VoDPqxNYn1wU5niAPrWeLFu7O4qHXkQwfWW2v3qbvbttXVxSK6kczj1Q/s320/IMG_7207.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>For those who do not want to come by car, you can walk or bike this three mile paved path between Siloam Springs and WOKA, then brag you walked from Arkansas to Oklahoma! The photo below shows the walking/biking path that you can use. As a reward for your efforts, there is no entry fee if you arrive at the park via walking or biking! The trail and the whitewater park owe a debt of gratitude to the Walton Family Foundation (aka, Walmart ) for the generous grant that made this a reality. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPW3ZGSz1HZtNfH_xqyqSwSl5mvhxscWwJlRo_UyMV1yzX_8KzNQxoDPTt0ZDVOJMIniGN5iRhGFk5RxnYhfxg_haN4FoQVgx2xfey5DJUsH8KreRzSUGpX2h2sAJYth195IGisbak5HqDHlaXFz8lPalXiUAu18GzzKZkxDOdAb_7Yab5ll1Xlk-6Jutd/s640/IMG_7400.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="640" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPW3ZGSz1HZtNfH_xqyqSwSl5mvhxscWwJlRo_UyMV1yzX_8KzNQxoDPTt0ZDVOJMIniGN5iRhGFk5RxnYhfxg_haN4FoQVgx2xfey5DJUsH8KreRzSUGpX2h2sAJYth195IGisbak5HqDHlaXFz8lPalXiUAu18GzzKZkxDOdAb_7Yab5ll1Xlk-6Jutd/s320/IMG_7400.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>WOKA is located in an area that used to be called Lake Francis, which was created by a dam across the Illinois River. There were numerous issues with the dam, so eventually, it was taken out. The orange balls on the left of this photo mark the boundary of the remains of Lake Francis, that leads to the remains of the former dam. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XL2mbTth8N5BpPxMLoLisz7NZBaJmAUIl97Zh33a2weL7dp6LuDJWsMWvqdQnLU0QzrvF607jSTzFG9MPW4744JzqZLsOx3ifsSRrNUBBBKBlKzgSoljX5_GixhpU7xZFZ8WCNz3I8AcRy9gpGfMrc28X8N-eIHwL4rPB66-6xv6e_Gm97EmpFRd4gEH/s640/IMG_7206.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XL2mbTth8N5BpPxMLoLisz7NZBaJmAUIl97Zh33a2weL7dp6LuDJWsMWvqdQnLU0QzrvF607jSTzFG9MPW4744JzqZLsOx3ifsSRrNUBBBKBlKzgSoljX5_GixhpU7xZFZ8WCNz3I8AcRy9gpGfMrc28X8N-eIHwL4rPB66-6xv6e_Gm97EmpFRd4gEH/s320/IMG_7206.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p>Photo below shows former Lake Francis Dam, that has been modified to "stair step" down to river below, so that if a paddler accidentally were to go over it, there is no strong undertow that might cause a drowning hazard. Speaking of drowning, there are NO LIFEGUARDS at the park. Each person is responsible for their own safety. Life jackets, secure footware, and helmets are REQUIRED. (This translates to "no flipflops".) One can bring their own kayak, IF it is designed for whitewater. Rental kayaks, standup paddleboards, helmets, and round intertubes are available for rental in season. Lifejackets are included with all rentals.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEruHs_iV3IhRHAAQLk3dGSszgqwGu5S1flBLGvX-njSJ5LrYYlUe8fDH3-rj_WoMo72FquPqOFqHayQgZ6UibpV2Oz_v3y2lAnAfB5u6QELcmLNrSugK988lIJWlLXNsnCmq2AzUhYSoFom9Wsf44A4rRVK92RP1Zo34Rub4WzsL8n9cu2vR3OFrwBS5/s640/IMG_7259.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEruHs_iV3IhRHAAQLk3dGSszgqwGu5S1flBLGvX-njSJ5LrYYlUe8fDH3-rj_WoMo72FquPqOFqHayQgZ6UibpV2Oz_v3y2lAnAfB5u6QELcmLNrSugK988lIJWlLXNsnCmq2AzUhYSoFom9Wsf44A4rRVK92RP1Zo34Rub4WzsL8n9cu2vR3OFrwBS5/s320/IMG_7259.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Paddlers know where to get out by this exit flag, which is very helpful!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPlBqwPCSnt8vPlvHQtGfIxZU16Cn38Ft6kUyWeTP3Jmk797pLPOuOt20v6zf5Keh31K99TXXSePfGfJMIVNKF4wU0h1_1i4vL9n4V7aL4WVPO_kGeihNU_Xzhf02GxrnaeiPEhe3VL4ampwZmfqDDoUVLZu1caVaYY9s8rpIiqvf7XHnoIL6ZRtqbbX3/s640/IMG_7256.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPlBqwPCSnt8vPlvHQtGfIxZU16Cn38Ft6kUyWeTP3Jmk797pLPOuOt20v6zf5Keh31K99TXXSePfGfJMIVNKF4wU0h1_1i4vL9n4V7aL4WVPO_kGeihNU_Xzhf02GxrnaeiPEhe3VL4ampwZmfqDDoUVLZu1caVaYY9s8rpIiqvf7XHnoIL6ZRtqbbX3/s320/IMG_7256.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />There is a very wide slab at the takeout location, which can accommodate more than one visitor at a time. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgECQzqLXkA1exhsy8iPd-i0EXN58ESi1bdn5_KnCIilNJ01xLiC5jhovgUKy7yJsfG4fh8bPLMWzqUefZMZmRXWbVvKvBkadj3jOKjgn-5-U1ghevd3uOJoMT9rl8SstyyiHFaVQH2mCtj7BywHqjpt9s6t7lsEOjWx2XHauvkklKklb2yayAV1pYQ-5JU/s640/IMG_7251.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgECQzqLXkA1exhsy8iPd-i0EXN58ESi1bdn5_KnCIilNJ01xLiC5jhovgUKy7yJsfG4fh8bPLMWzqUefZMZmRXWbVvKvBkadj3jOKjgn-5-U1ghevd3uOJoMT9rl8SstyyiHFaVQH2mCtj7BywHqjpt9s6t7lsEOjWx2XHauvkklKklb2yayAV1pYQ-5JU/s320/IMG_7251.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This is the view downstream, where the Illinois River continues its meandering .<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCZhPsCEL8p_IxHBSNHvKOCCq9ddh0l-s0frvK7sI3z_fm3kLfz8SOuyHCdHkkobt2vi7G6Vuo2nY5xSMyBBfEBlTADx_JE1UmFg12xVbrDhXjVR7BXTjeO-ZTp5_nLqJp5jmT0uyN_PB1Fy0_7_rqXucMxbeFTpnsASU6Vmq_AFoEy7OtbNfS8koH2sS/s640/IMG_7255.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCZhPsCEL8p_IxHBSNHvKOCCq9ddh0l-s0frvK7sI3z_fm3kLfz8SOuyHCdHkkobt2vi7G6Vuo2nY5xSMyBBfEBlTADx_JE1UmFg12xVbrDhXjVR7BXTjeO-ZTp5_nLqJp5jmT0uyN_PB1Fy0_7_rqXucMxbeFTpnsASU6Vmq_AFoEy7OtbNfS8koH2sS/s320/IMG_7255.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This is the only sign you will see, as you are traveling south of Siloam Springs, on Highway 59, to alert you to the place you need to turn off the highway to drive to the park. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBtactoIVq8FS4o0c_HhR1cDWTOEiWXVGZvy3pc5f7v_jh0R9xnnjciUE49i82ksFaIs0FzRsbU_cvBHSL2N4xExPR_pmxpj7mPp4ne8QEGc_9dpw0r7AILEwsqMl6hybj-mxKRwqSE02KOBNN1erN3QMPo0LDgmJ5B2Oe1hyphenhyphen-OXSfYb6kYfhX8FdxwN_c/s640/IMG_7314.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBtactoIVq8FS4o0c_HhR1cDWTOEiWXVGZvy3pc5f7v_jh0R9xnnjciUE49i82ksFaIs0FzRsbU_cvBHSL2N4xExPR_pmxpj7mPp4ne8QEGc_9dpw0r7AILEwsqMl6hybj-mxKRwqSE02KOBNN1erN3QMPo0LDgmJ5B2Oe1hyphenhyphen-OXSfYb6kYfhX8FdxwN_c/s320/IMG_7314.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>Before visiting, you will want to take a close look at the safety rules, and other tips, that are available on their website at www.visitwoka.com Some of these guidelines are shown in photo at end of this blog.<br /></p><p> The physical address of the park to put in your navigation system is 474986 Twin Falls Road, Watts, Oklahoma. Their email is woka@grda.com and the phone is 918-610-9652. </p><p>A visit to this new attraction in the Ozarks gave me "MILES OF SMILES"!!<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMkKOJWS-5GEsiPm1xA2PT_mbW0onMvSOjNacQmDAMgM0rhUY6uAD_E1bh1OaTRx6_z2IOpBG-bpYgRjsblJznfb1m59yrMzn3vjTFqepca24nXlvQLrahUl5cOz4JxsRmgr0JDV7HEBh3OAC4EmMfGTDqxohozmtIL0Lgq9vvku0eAA9EdEowmiqBxte/s640/IMG_7208.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMkKOJWS-5GEsiPm1xA2PT_mbW0onMvSOjNacQmDAMgM0rhUY6uAD_E1bh1OaTRx6_z2IOpBG-bpYgRjsblJznfb1m59yrMzn3vjTFqepca24nXlvQLrahUl5cOz4JxsRmgr0JDV7HEBh3OAC4EmMfGTDqxohozmtIL0Lgq9vvku0eAA9EdEowmiqBxte/s320/IMG_7208.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PPh9OhgI8K2SfRy7Ropu6f3yGJCTHxN0_uQAf7yxRkiF1s7P6wqlnXAussQX_yYehO2wx1CRG-vGI_UTtBqaDmyzt1IEJ8moFd4YKYGXC9Lq8C5qFDRcLZRHqJ39r3o6njJRIA6oeSxrBxdBLZFp9sUbdbPT6rPiAtEOU4iIh6tgT7VW-YiPQabyhUd4/s640/IMG_7208.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-75312737206191175422023-12-01T06:00:00.001-06:002023-12-01T06:34:15.723-06:00CAVE CITY EXPEDITION!<p><span style="text-align: center;"> A friend told me she had passed this sign on Highway 167 in Cave City, Arkansas, dozens of times, but never gave much thought to what it represented. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dVefR1oFfWjtyCajG1hNyQAcyVYKsgDGVc0VoA0qx6iiwBVlH8u8Gk47RcoWA9Pf69EASe4BuAFJyhshd1QDkyY6tmZGFVYWEwF5Rxp5YutREcX4btZtBN1ymZYioBhu8xfYHQ4W9wrEJyK7iASoi108LXuUSMzJOrFU9L8fGQSYjZeDDSGVeKKtaiPS/s1280/IMG_5086.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1074" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dVefR1oFfWjtyCajG1hNyQAcyVYKsgDGVc0VoA0qx6iiwBVlH8u8Gk47RcoWA9Pf69EASe4BuAFJyhshd1QDkyY6tmZGFVYWEwF5Rxp5YutREcX4btZtBN1ymZYioBhu8xfYHQ4W9wrEJyK7iASoi108LXuUSMzJOrFU9L8fGQSYjZeDDSGVeKKtaiPS/s320/IMG_5086.jpg" width="269" /></a></div>Although the sign was not familiar to me, I had been wanting to attend the Cave City Watermelon Festival for a long time, and, therefore, was following their Facebook page, to get a schedule of events. Seeing that a new event (a tour of Crystal River Cave) had been added in 2023, made me eager to learn more!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7zo77TanWAI5k5r0IH3cBE6RnZ2t_BcYG_ytblfMgDiMv03RxCMavXynwBPlDyHRBMe_vLd7YnQ0SQAUDzFLFRkRSx9nkD5L6LxG6OfPb6C6i4Zpm5HaJvppu_YLJ3FUhXvu_qAINcfxqnouDzo3OS0VkummpeauVn3wV64oRwGyOd9LMuUwQM4KfwY1/s640/IMG_5106.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7zo77TanWAI5k5r0IH3cBE6RnZ2t_BcYG_ytblfMgDiMv03RxCMavXynwBPlDyHRBMe_vLd7YnQ0SQAUDzFLFRkRSx9nkD5L6LxG6OfPb6C6i4Zpm5HaJvppu_YLJ3FUhXvu_qAINcfxqnouDzo3OS0VkummpeauVn3wV64oRwGyOd9LMuUwQM4KfwY1/s320/IMG_5106.jpg" width="320" /></a>From the Facebook page, I learned that there was a limited number of tour spots available, and all of them had already been filled.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But thankfully, the owner of the property was so encouraged by the overwhelming response to the tour opportunity, that she and her family decided to offer more tours, even after the weekend of the Watermelon Festival had ended. This photo is of Irma Carrigan, who became my contact person, for arranging to tour her amazing property. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKmYF6hELhywLlIdn3Hb8M2XQ4KzON2TMTj_fkDHYdGSpz5b_FDSJyNeSEay_pgQEvhUFaqhTktgVGmrceCbEUxtOlkJc6hyNYYFuWmLVohHpqbuxFSbU_SpeX1GJZGN5tWNqhm7G6VwUKrJrqPaPeAoIDCVb5H04S3jiRr9MUhq9Oed2unKBAhFjDLtQ/s640/IMG_5108.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKmYF6hELhywLlIdn3Hb8M2XQ4KzON2TMTj_fkDHYdGSpz5b_FDSJyNeSEay_pgQEvhUFaqhTktgVGmrceCbEUxtOlkJc6hyNYYFuWmLVohHpqbuxFSbU_SpeX1GJZGN5tWNqhm7G6VwUKrJrqPaPeAoIDCVb5H04S3jiRr9MUhq9Oed2unKBAhFjDLtQ/s320/IMG_5108.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div>And much to my delight, some of the famous watermelons were still available in Cave City, on the late summer day of my visit! So, of course I bought one!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrvE_0ZwSh5TpRPw5DeuRLVDQ8zd5PTYqFc1N3nfIg7nqJyFk0B5tjW-lK0278D7CgBEvurw5xMCIPLw9VzSCNh0AT97k6N3zpj9-jxgsmriMKzGjdxRyHMFJqsDVnJA9fytoN3EiVRvZxcLL-V96rkbiGmGRlxBtkg4mVCNS0aGMSvH2mzYdQihjrPuek/s640/IMG_4995.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrvE_0ZwSh5TpRPw5DeuRLVDQ8zd5PTYqFc1N3nfIg7nqJyFk0B5tjW-lK0278D7CgBEvurw5xMCIPLw9VzSCNh0AT97k6N3zpj9-jxgsmriMKzGjdxRyHMFJqsDVnJA9fytoN3EiVRvZxcLL-V96rkbiGmGRlxBtkg4mVCNS0aGMSvH2mzYdQihjrPuek/s320/IMG_4995.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>On the day of my tour, Irma's granddaughter, Lexi, led the tour . It was very helpful that she was wearing a voice amplifier microphone, so that everyone could hear, even though they were not right next to her.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1_1cJ_G2H5RFv7ciQlK5JnczTER-2T5VC8cobD0EsWFIDnOryj2TBxdMA55ekhiU6BYKPFuvDVboayH6_NrrCTywaukOGmY3aumrtBGpChjxWW3dp_R1zdVzrTYhl0Nwdhe1oudO-7mlVbAo5pvNyY-wR2lwLaY5no57VSFTbIA29XWTIHN3Ru9Vow3U/s640/IMG_5110.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB1_1cJ_G2H5RFv7ciQlK5JnczTER-2T5VC8cobD0EsWFIDnOryj2TBxdMA55ekhiU6BYKPFuvDVboayH6_NrrCTywaukOGmY3aumrtBGpChjxWW3dp_R1zdVzrTYhl0Nwdhe1oudO-7mlVbAo5pvNyY-wR2lwLaY5no57VSFTbIA29XWTIHN3Ru9Vow3U/s320/IMG_5110.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>We learned from her that the buildings were constructed in the 1930's, which is also known as the era of "The Great Depression", in the United States.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia4tPDVUbhOKY5awIFWq7vNbDbK_O2pYLGINOp496NXE4JaNTiBg9FvVK-D7iyEuKvgBZ58fYTUsjKCuVynRZiF3aeUkyLFK0oPulSMJorbPgr68YoHcTDtKD9G_Q3mXfaq2NxZ2V0yn8EVRqbH3FQKki2eAqsn3F3Pd6DC1c-sOQeZc7R5VcSs1zNWxjw/s640/IMG_5090.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia4tPDVUbhOKY5awIFWq7vNbDbK_O2pYLGINOp496NXE4JaNTiBg9FvVK-D7iyEuKvgBZ58fYTUsjKCuVynRZiF3aeUkyLFK0oPulSMJorbPgr68YoHcTDtKD9G_Q3mXfaq2NxZ2V0yn8EVRqbH3FQKki2eAqsn3F3Pd6DC1c-sOQeZc7R5VcSs1zNWxjw/s320/IMG_5090.jpg" width="320" /></a>We learned that Hubert Clarence Carpenter , a native of Cave City, bought the land at the mouth of Crystal River Cave, in 1934, for the purpose of building a tourist camp. The front of the tourist camp is shown in this photo, as one sees it when they are driving on Highway 167. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As you can see from the vintage postcard below, the basic structure of the attraction has not changed. The clue that the postcard was "vintage", was the fact that it only required a one cent postage stamp! The description on the back reads, "Crystal River Cave Camp on Highway No. 11. One of Arkansas' wonders. The coolest place in Arkansas for a vacation to suit the whole family." When one remembers that it was built before the arrival of air conditioning, its location near the entrance of the always chilly cave, may have contributed to the boast that it truly was the "coolest" (temperature-wise) location for a balmy summer evening in Arkansas! In fact, Crystal River Cave Camp is said to be the oldest motorcourt of its kind in Arkansas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2oab8dKpXmJqkcCz7CTSD8xj6IZm6vhhQSEbSRRVOE2G_URVOc-zKPei6fmhamBoeqTnhe71qukZxzDcQjFspH2NcLhpl8gzvqDTwhnw8ak6lVPeFn1S5ao6hXvpZgWt8DoSY6aYjBWe3fVbUwoUkuEncuFNpATZTu6F1bCLhePFj6IaZWUZulR4fR5GJ/s640/IMG_6680.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="406" data-original-width="640" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2oab8dKpXmJqkcCz7CTSD8xj6IZm6vhhQSEbSRRVOE2G_URVOc-zKPei6fmhamBoeqTnhe71qukZxzDcQjFspH2NcLhpl8gzvqDTwhnw8ak6lVPeFn1S5ao6hXvpZgWt8DoSY6aYjBWe3fVbUwoUkuEncuFNpATZTu6F1bCLhePFj6IaZWUZulR4fR5GJ/s320/IMG_6680.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mr. Carpenter put a local stone mason, named Prince Matlock, in charge of construction of the facility. Mr. Matlock built the elaborate stone exterior of mainly local fieldstone. If local stone also had quartz crystals, they were highlighted by use in arches, as in photo shown below.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhipyLmgd5Na3UuAnGEPv6C2P6iha56etPyuin9jOx7xYGk2gXohvIgyNcd4w-XfzmCcBd-ys6_5Fbum-beR0fB4k7KvkMBt2BuWxw7yIiuqMJlPbTm5OtNlX2SZH8qiu9MfBru8dpvBzNRhb1ruRHx1UXexDC2Cuf8Ttxs4M9d9084C8zx-PpO6pWzzt6L/s640/IMG_5094.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhipyLmgd5Na3UuAnGEPv6C2P6iha56etPyuin9jOx7xYGk2gXohvIgyNcd4w-XfzmCcBd-ys6_5Fbum-beR0fB4k7KvkMBt2BuWxw7yIiuqMJlPbTm5OtNlX2SZH8qiu9MfBru8dpvBzNRhb1ruRHx1UXexDC2Cuf8Ttxs4M9d9084C8zx-PpO6pWzzt6L/s320/IMG_5094.jpg" width="240" /></a>The builders made sure this was a "top of the line" tourist camp, by making the cabins have an arch-framed carport, entrance lamppost, exterior chimneys, decorative parapets along the roofline, and patios with low walls:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYiOJirgZcKUKkaG-MlDkRrWsL_BR4YasFE1xVLlp8h5wfHjyiQ9YGF4UiXvijdd7yAzWv_lgSlhls3oUwdE9RKTu8zjz1YnpQ9IZEvh8ATbvnRPQu_HmzgCOdeb8giShJiEMv4H00MxxaV-EreMoB2BbpEe9mKL_os4aIJ2l7QWLh0sSckHGIKbhKgX6Q/s640/IMG_5154.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYiOJirgZcKUKkaG-MlDkRrWsL_BR4YasFE1xVLlp8h5wfHjyiQ9YGF4UiXvijdd7yAzWv_lgSlhls3oUwdE9RKTu8zjz1YnpQ9IZEvh8ATbvnRPQu_HmzgCOdeb8giShJiEMv4H00MxxaV-EreMoB2BbpEe9mKL_os4aIJ2l7QWLh0sSckHGIKbhKgX6Q/s320/IMG_5154.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> There was also an outdoor, wood-burning fireplace, that could be used for cooking:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDOQ_tvvI4WUqqKVO140h3maTFo86ieSEk762BFVsoLFgo_JVOneG3yfm3-mOwwENxkHJQ5MMMqww-XCiOv5-wAA2CoYTtY78X4yXKvWFkMto7T6bUY1xwh4AagWlMFJLe0qX7yEq4DMsxIswVGBo2JU-7nwPEFM6ORj4iWh8t0rJNccoFouPywLdw7TG/s640/IMG_5064%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDOQ_tvvI4WUqqKVO140h3maTFo86ieSEk762BFVsoLFgo_JVOneG3yfm3-mOwwENxkHJQ5MMMqww-XCiOv5-wAA2CoYTtY78X4yXKvWFkMto7T6bUY1xwh4AagWlMFJLe0qX7yEq4DMsxIswVGBo2JU-7nwPEFM6ORj4iWh8t0rJNccoFouPywLdw7TG/s320/IMG_5064%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div><br /></div>Records indicate that the builders paid locals 50 cents per 15-gallon washtub full, for the round geodes that came from nearby Sharp County. Some examples of the larger of these geodes can be seen accenting the A-shaped roof line and door/window openings in this photo:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMS4z1NXr2302Rjhqm7erGpZBB6cG1XTnNwVQV0u7iEnXpp4ZoeWYsU24xxhKEFjIl8IZX1UU_L5_idk6XyxKxdhQO1l-AUU_bu7Os55OvGfYHikyRzxeELs6VEQkRzUAhznGmriIRY7LzRz_Tis3USAV6eBndL5EmGv-DEu6kf_rEdLPMsmK5lldNDyfX/s640/IMG_5093.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMS4z1NXr2302Rjhqm7erGpZBB6cG1XTnNwVQV0u7iEnXpp4ZoeWYsU24xxhKEFjIl8IZX1UU_L5_idk6XyxKxdhQO1l-AUU_bu7Os55OvGfYHikyRzxeELs6VEQkRzUAhznGmriIRY7LzRz_Tis3USAV6eBndL5EmGv-DEu6kf_rEdLPMsmK5lldNDyfX/s320/IMG_5093.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Smaller geodes were used to line the area under the arches:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2KA78CRx2EaSKM1KRBfr1vsQ0iySjSHGJOg4uiFIpTc-JPAuynVxuZwanOp5rDVnrREd9XrS1ONlTlUy1y5vErKA5FCuiLqKVufJPWdjGFe-v5OAsCwwRabn29vysJ0d0k-cQTYdIUgt1i2iEIVXAF6blUhW_sdr3gL3Q8RB9jXYmKUgw1B8ZrJECy0o/s640/IMG_5135.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL2KA78CRx2EaSKM1KRBfr1vsQ0iySjSHGJOg4uiFIpTc-JPAuynVxuZwanOp5rDVnrREd9XrS1ONlTlUy1y5vErKA5FCuiLqKVufJPWdjGFe-v5OAsCwwRabn29vysJ0d0k-cQTYdIUgt1i2iEIVXAF6blUhW_sdr3gL3Q8RB9jXYmKUgw1B8ZrJECy0o/s320/IMG_5135.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Geodes are also prominent above this arch. Note also, the rock arches constructed over the rain gutters.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4Dmie5zBbhuDc9L2FAIYpFrjlnqC1bZBZET_I5gEMA_n6wMkm_tbb4uTrWsGejnfC3VjMZkAjhCyOFDFc7jivryuuVuzCulrCAJaVyj6MmdsXIfG-1_jDgcrvlyf1pfVa9IF1G-yOwixpmvtFIu9JgVtPmlAlZvUdGvwpLca6RYrE2sebipRQsJ0qP8r/s640/IMG_5126.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4Dmie5zBbhuDc9L2FAIYpFrjlnqC1bZBZET_I5gEMA_n6wMkm_tbb4uTrWsGejnfC3VjMZkAjhCyOFDFc7jivryuuVuzCulrCAJaVyj6MmdsXIfG-1_jDgcrvlyf1pfVa9IF1G-yOwixpmvtFIu9JgVtPmlAlZvUdGvwpLca6RYrE2sebipRQsJ0qP8r/s320/IMG_5126.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I was amused at the makeshift device the tourguide used to point out particular features---the metal handle of a vintage flyswatter (now, most fly swatters are completely plastic!) No high-tech laser pointer would seem appropriate for a historical structure almost a century old! The guide is pointing out the crystal rock and geodes that the stone mason used to make one of several cross designs on the buildings. The guide told us the builders were people with a strong Christian faith background. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pEe-Z6BFNEMq7ykK958kHwwPDel1RJZkkKKEKuyjMmMyVLvw1Qiey9g1B5M2kfNwd0f5mMGaY4g6eYJjhwM2orvrPe6yf_ni1diunGMxANFYUdKwzWE_XZ53bCInAJ_BLkoX0UfBQJaMcIrPiJF08QvdNyF64IwJYysOfqWINM441zlLxVYIQgWWaKrI/s640/IMG_5116.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pEe-Z6BFNEMq7ykK958kHwwPDel1RJZkkKKEKuyjMmMyVLvw1Qiey9g1B5M2kfNwd0f5mMGaY4g6eYJjhwM2orvrPe6yf_ni1diunGMxANFYUdKwzWE_XZ53bCInAJ_BLkoX0UfBQJaMcIrPiJF08QvdNyF64IwJYysOfqWINM441zlLxVYIQgWWaKrI/s320/IMG_5116.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The photos below show two of several cross designs on the exterior. Can you see how one of these crosses has a masonry outline, and one does not? Thick wide mortar between stones was part of the style of some stone houses built in the 1930's in this area. They were nicknamed "giraffe houses" because of their resemblance to the pattern seen on giraffe skin. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-q1bwYWhCVmyqoonHc2dy4_FzWd0U76xPI9LK2f3GhdRqyeeFvKcFCgiSHG1MMKTmsO9RbjS_s6EdP2lNwqfxOiF8Mb3dvt5BI-b9DwSE8gjEdUh1mXJXYrEH4FlSDQk5VGy3ihSg4JWKuK65XLgFQb4AFZKIR38_M20JfiTwigFuyjvIKv09Bp6WNIf/s640/IMG_6683.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="611" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq-q1bwYWhCVmyqoonHc2dy4_FzWd0U76xPI9LK2f3GhdRqyeeFvKcFCgiSHG1MMKTmsO9RbjS_s6EdP2lNwqfxOiF8Mb3dvt5BI-b9DwSE8gjEdUh1mXJXYrEH4FlSDQk5VGy3ihSg4JWKuK65XLgFQb4AFZKIR38_M20JfiTwigFuyjvIKv09Bp6WNIf/s320/IMG_6683.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><br />Here one can see that pieces of petrified wood were used in the masonry. Notice also the large orange-colored round stone, incorporated into this column. These are called "Prim Round Rocks" because of the Arkansas location where they are most commonly seen. They are large, spherical sandstone boulders, commonly ranging in size from one foot to four feet. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJL3GfWhwPy5zXO7wVDpPlroEQHCGzg-HU5dNwTYhw0kcAzGEm33hPowa1bjt7aPyaUqeOrAVGrZKjoKIZhLOjeQtsgd4LUaDTum82jrT6ZuO2MFIs2I2PpuUoFzJZ86euWQbcqJAdtOPBH9jCnrP2d23Ccgkp8HnQuhrKOB956HJXGSnRFsj_8qKq7-f/s640/IMG_5136.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRJL3GfWhwPy5zXO7wVDpPlroEQHCGzg-HU5dNwTYhw0kcAzGEm33hPowa1bjt7aPyaUqeOrAVGrZKjoKIZhLOjeQtsgd4LUaDTum82jrT6ZuO2MFIs2I2PpuUoFzJZ86euWQbcqJAdtOPBH9jCnrP2d23Ccgkp8HnQuhrKOB956HJXGSnRFsj_8qKq7-f/s320/IMG_5136.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The tour guide mentioned that according to legend, there is at least one rock from every state in the union, as it numbered in 1934. Perhaps the builders wanted the guests to have a way to "connect" from what ever state they traveled from---like these arches "connect"one building to another, without serving any real purpose, other than a pleasing design to showcase more geodes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPp0toIPBsvkS8plMvQapOrEDEIVuakxrEj0uFT2QMZtnX8FPu7psE10uNSkU5-y0d-AItZJgnAAxWwnwT-kUmWLIZDW5Kf9cYu0UlEoGzCw2A6wNq6uDIgq7ufOvQcf4GE-SiG09PwW1nFVeIqTQOtuy-yOXsthO8uq25AjpG_Sry5Hb9MSVI3_PXj0S/s640/IMG_5146.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPp0toIPBsvkS8plMvQapOrEDEIVuakxrEj0uFT2QMZtnX8FPu7psE10uNSkU5-y0d-AItZJgnAAxWwnwT-kUmWLIZDW5Kf9cYu0UlEoGzCw2A6wNq6uDIgq7ufOvQcf4GE-SiG09PwW1nFVeIqTQOtuy-yOXsthO8uq25AjpG_Sry5Hb9MSVI3_PXj0S/s320/IMG_5146.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The guide told us the designs behind, and on either side of her, were intended to look like flames, shooting out from a torch.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DM71P-47OyoAR-fGk4AaHc9Sjiin0yuR9-9QQ6XaN_fP_azqpxtUlMsBP64LoU5M2-85jxBlxSjJSXu0rus2BfBgEVgpbZVldCHW6bc1yeVgzkaJZ86410YSAUs_DRwfNQyCU4n7_Y36pLOkkipCFPKezJLi55UPOwq3m0IB3blgFTRsR3m1MEYRSy6G/s640/IMG_5148.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DM71P-47OyoAR-fGk4AaHc9Sjiin0yuR9-9QQ6XaN_fP_azqpxtUlMsBP64LoU5M2-85jxBlxSjJSXu0rus2BfBgEVgpbZVldCHW6bc1yeVgzkaJZ86410YSAUs_DRwfNQyCU4n7_Y36pLOkkipCFPKezJLi55UPOwq3m0IB3blgFTRsR3m1MEYRSy6G/s320/IMG_5148.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br />The guide also said that the Smithsonian Museum had offered to purchase one of the stones used in the masonry, because it was a face effigy. They said they would replace the original with a duplicate. However, at this time, the owners had turned down their offer. Can you see a "face"?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GLiP5JVn70AfgUnU2LOhDoIPE700Uk-Ya3_1VzVx3yqRWImlcX17qeFrBYHkHLVZEhVBBi87OUtOdWaFIW7xaFcQsJmPL89co1noA1tIhYzOQBd84iDlU_RU_RNWE3UJ9VianJn0yY2GEPA8f_c0LlHi8Yd9UI4LZ4eIVpdBQsjXrq9Pb3A9eAwOCJfb/s640/IMG_5203.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2GLiP5JVn70AfgUnU2LOhDoIPE700Uk-Ya3_1VzVx3yqRWImlcX17qeFrBYHkHLVZEhVBBi87OUtOdWaFIW7xaFcQsJmPL89co1noA1tIhYzOQBd84iDlU_RU_RNWE3UJ9VianJn0yY2GEPA8f_c0LlHi8Yd9UI4LZ4eIVpdBQsjXrq9Pb3A9eAwOCJfb/s320/IMG_5203.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The stone masons used their craft for things besides just buildings. They made bird baths (now holding a fern), retaining walls, numerous arches, and chimneys.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMfM9y08tRKRWwZPgDfMUb1kg08VzzMU1AYWeir0pmlZ871NZa1-wG9kdhBE-ltybkTsoHRllAqoASEA07erR-C-KHmestUcekxceN08gnAw8QS3S0Jey9A9AWKT_Ih4lo6orq8wUQFKaLvGSscedmqd5RUGjoQIcKl1esFWfbX-jON3gV3gosd3yaZbT/s640/IMG_6682%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="630" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMfM9y08tRKRWwZPgDfMUb1kg08VzzMU1AYWeir0pmlZ871NZa1-wG9kdhBE-ltybkTsoHRllAqoASEA07erR-C-KHmestUcekxceN08gnAw8QS3S0Jey9A9AWKT_Ih4lo6orq8wUQFKaLvGSscedmqd5RUGjoQIcKl1esFWfbX-jON3gV3gosd3yaZbT/s320/IMG_6682%20(1).jpg" width="315" /></a></div>In some cases, the stone masons used the natural features near the cave entrance to form a base for their arch:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNZIDckJh0qm0klh8POc0MWiK8SyIc-Z-1T-qwlXMFAOkzZxppSZCEhzQMrrIKvqXOUsSUsgH1LCNwu09t0h8SQOTEY2cECws8hrPltVyC9j5iOxo-tEJpHRt0I7tJTReiyDEEiIZWPjnM1akOf_tZ-4JinbYcVInIzr-ukVsTIY02ypCFNl2FkElnS3F/s640/IMG_5016%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNZIDckJh0qm0klh8POc0MWiK8SyIc-Z-1T-qwlXMFAOkzZxppSZCEhzQMrrIKvqXOUsSUsgH1LCNwu09t0h8SQOTEY2cECws8hrPltVyC9j5iOxo-tEJpHRt0I7tJTReiyDEEiIZWPjnM1akOf_tZ-4JinbYcVInIzr-ukVsTIY02ypCFNl2FkElnS3F/s320/IMG_5016%20(2).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Although indoor restrooms were not included in the original tourist camp lodging, some of them later on, had a restroom added by converting the small carport into a rest room. Likewise, I was glad to see a men and women's restroom was available near the cave entrance, for those day visitors who came to tour the cave. The restroom building can be seen to the left of the arch.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIthcNc7eZB7RPm8JrCjzUfBjjqFi4Yn4PteTp0hWW1np5dkReC0mWuPI6AceiGeNicaNAIHQHzNSnJOCLWm-flmh0R9Z3PnLx3_XqV6z_QKYwRR_NCjeuk4VFl8iey4yfzprpnZgQN6z3IPVRGrdUC2tl6WlMh0Y0Em0C4KtyrO0iwC1E-arvpmenWIk/s640/IMG_5015.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIthcNc7eZB7RPm8JrCjzUfBjjqFi4Yn4PteTp0hWW1np5dkReC0mWuPI6AceiGeNicaNAIHQHzNSnJOCLWm-flmh0R9Z3PnLx3_XqV6z_QKYwRR_NCjeuk4VFl8iey4yfzprpnZgQN6z3IPVRGrdUC2tl6WlMh0Y0Em0C4KtyrO0iwC1E-arvpmenWIk/s320/IMG_5015.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Besides the developer wanting to be sure his Christian faith was evident in the facility design, he also wanted to page homage to the Native American heritage of the area (Remember their highway entrance sign, depicted a Native American in full regalia?). It is said that Native Americans used the cave for centuries as a gathering place, followed by pioneers who came to settle on the land. The builders used arrowheads they found, in some of the exterior wall designs, such as this "sunburst" design on one of the porches. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbmkX6-uTefeZY-pIxTeIQgTFbOTxnc70iORW3B7alZKfKPYGidCRirMxvk-MJ_tJvO27yiByz_BbRSNBb36CYAh_99C-amZr5jOahGGueKVhIRg1LOLA_chs7j3ohzRwouG61fuOib6tKMqRcWHS0-6zrRH_jYCCt7f99iYQtx_7DxYPj8jRUW10-seV/s640/IMG_5070.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbmkX6-uTefeZY-pIxTeIQgTFbOTxnc70iORW3B7alZKfKPYGidCRirMxvk-MJ_tJvO27yiByz_BbRSNBb36CYAh_99C-amZr5jOahGGueKVhIRg1LOLA_chs7j3ohzRwouG61fuOib6tKMqRcWHS0-6zrRH_jYCCt7f99iYQtx_7DxYPj8jRUW10-seV/s320/IMG_5070.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After the tour of the exterior structures, it was time to descend into the cave:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4I8IMTnnOM208utlJQ_NXuLpzE3-E7mIlcuqrPKl3XI9YpFsVcwvxWDabM6WbM6-0MH17dM4a9318qTtwoVUG6Z_v2QitLImVy0IfRAFLwWUmxxihBBXyxy6gckd9p9fEgqcTVeeNuqcg_NxrdSzgFu7vWJDM5NQ1G0acvULS6m27sNWCm_efYV0kItE/s640/IMG_5021.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4I8IMTnnOM208utlJQ_NXuLpzE3-E7mIlcuqrPKl3XI9YpFsVcwvxWDabM6WbM6-0MH17dM4a9318qTtwoVUG6Z_v2QitLImVy0IfRAFLwWUmxxihBBXyxy6gckd9p9fEgqcTVeeNuqcg_NxrdSzgFu7vWJDM5NQ1G0acvULS6m27sNWCm_efYV0kItE/s320/IMG_5021.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The tour guide relayed legends and facts about the cave to our group:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7MUSRgycLaqIB84zxhn9PVZmuEG1vUTavkzItwjy2NvjSwf_DyRpvs0J6Fk92QeTDEVc48clCLUU-6Wr6iCXXBN4ZQreZVJND4xo-w1AqpX90GEl2w9f8FpgSeUT1f5gVG8Xg14W2Ds_4scM1LZ7l2EEJVr94JBNd_Vuc9J4fET6sSDyzRno2LeQwS911/s640/IMG_5192.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7MUSRgycLaqIB84zxhn9PVZmuEG1vUTavkzItwjy2NvjSwf_DyRpvs0J6Fk92QeTDEVc48clCLUU-6Wr6iCXXBN4ZQreZVJND4xo-w1AqpX90GEl2w9f8FpgSeUT1f5gVG8Xg14W2Ds_4scM1LZ7l2EEJVr94JBNd_Vuc9J4fET6sSDyzRno2LeQwS911/s320/IMG_5192.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Although it is hard to see because the water is so clear, this photo below shows the Crystal River, as it flows through the lower room of the cave:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2RSkxrEHVn7uEOz0uRgX4YNTlIRuXDK5v0TmR8GSyzp9-dsxiWUFijIu67c_D1rD0c2RUqFZqmGl-Mw7-baFdphDvWpWTrypTumnkx0Yc0f4y5N9GqJuqomkjxodO0JiBzFOlO1s56OTL0DS4Xp8zNXSLtoGxdeuL8cdy6F6clK1f_MYC0y6AoQQRKS6/s640/IMG_5197.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2RSkxrEHVn7uEOz0uRgX4YNTlIRuXDK5v0TmR8GSyzp9-dsxiWUFijIu67c_D1rD0c2RUqFZqmGl-Mw7-baFdphDvWpWTrypTumnkx0Yc0f4y5N9GqJuqomkjxodO0JiBzFOlO1s56OTL0DS4Xp8zNXSLtoGxdeuL8cdy6F6clK1f_MYC0y6AoQQRKS6/s320/IMG_5197.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>It is said that no one has ever found the beginning or the end of the Crystal River that flows through here. However, the locals have observed that the river levels rise and fall in sync with the rise and fall of the Mississippi River, which is 150 miles away. Notice the pipe submerged in the water? In the past, the Crystal River supplied drinking water for the local school. There is a historical advertisement from 1902, announcing that sales from a lemonade stand set up for the annual Fourth of July picnic, would be used to buy a windmill, to pump water from the cave. History records also indicate that the room we were standing in served as the "town refrigerator", where many pioneer families stored their milk, butter, and perishables, to keep them from spoiling (this was before the advent of electric refrigerators). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> It is doubtful that warning signs such as the one below were there during days of the pioneers, but if a visitor to the area in present day is interested in seeing the property, they will need to know it is not a completely wheelchair-accessible place:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghkcb0GWFwb2pqlAYOkdJd7qZavtX6GUxDe3s7y47YKvRE8UJ90yU9h3IMjTZPQprXiEM4SoHzQlULljOPhWq7GYhk1_DywsuT9wXrUUZPROGrHy3b_W9YwmlNtFbRafOXOE2KB-EzFBc-G75Rj2ab-Y2pRBugkz5Zd4gcSqxJoOntKXQp_De6THQmM_bU/s640/IMG_5062.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghkcb0GWFwb2pqlAYOkdJd7qZavtX6GUxDe3s7y47YKvRE8UJ90yU9h3IMjTZPQprXiEM4SoHzQlULljOPhWq7GYhk1_DywsuT9wXrUUZPROGrHy3b_W9YwmlNtFbRafOXOE2KB-EzFBc-G75Rj2ab-Y2pRBugkz5Zd4gcSqxJoOntKXQp_De6THQmM_bU/s320/IMG_5062.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><i><br /><br /></i>Seeing all this fascinating rock work seemed like the perfect visual aid for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses that had the word "rock" in it. <i>"Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock." </i>Matthew 7:24-25 The Crystal Cave Tourist Court is definitely built on a rock!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmQWOY8cgPhRhM9EX7wM_UgamUByjrbSu2r-5o8aqRU2SR6Q7EtF6ncvvcS_nJWamx9SSy4UswifQu7y2kBqnex5YSrMhwexhvXu_eVjRBf2lC5Z-MQdRjXNiKagHn7ksvaxYpOOKU7TSXVwthtimJbnb0HDePOLkgbUTD3QN_Jd_KS9TSJGiHsK-QUhR/s640/IMG_5009.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="601" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnmQWOY8cgPhRhM9EX7wM_UgamUByjrbSu2r-5o8aqRU2SR6Q7EtF6ncvvcS_nJWamx9SSy4UswifQu7y2kBqnex5YSrMhwexhvXu_eVjRBf2lC5Z-MQdRjXNiKagHn7ksvaxYpOOKU7TSXVwthtimJbnb0HDePOLkgbUTD3QN_Jd_KS9TSJGiHsK-QUhR/s320/IMG_5009.jpg" width="301" /></a> Although a cross design is significant to me because of my Christian faith, a cross design like the one below might be significant to a geologist, simply because of the numerous geological specimens within its borders. I felt very <br /></div><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSKvlxIsXuywYjBHDwcQszfmK4sIKyyxXo-Hn_2FK_2VXRooSdyRqIHR-runAf59RYoCXq34XdylXFBmvcwBDkqmbuLg5nIHjU2gPrMNY14R4CsF4yOSaeflZk-0tDzpmyO76vzwiDIHigYKxnHW1hRwjko990d3-CwwXsk0qP0FgTpc3ygEmfacgVF59/s320/IMG_5074.jpg" width="240" />blessed to have the opportunity to visit this "geologists' delight", and it gave me "MILES OF SMILES"! TRICIA<br /><br /><br /></div><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-59108633561434693822023-11-28T16:46:00.195-06:002024-01-11T11:20:39.267-06:00"LOST AND FOUND" EXPEDITION!<p> <br /></p><h1 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">LOST AND FOUND DEPARTMENT<br /></h1><br /><p></p><p>Have you ever lost something, and then, have to make a trip to the "Lost and Found" department of a business or park? I certainly have---lots!</p><p>Hotel Del Coronado-lost Canon camera in California<br /></p><p>Hiking stick in Shawnee National Forest in Illinois<br /></p><p>Hiking stick in Redwoods National Forest in California<br /></p><p>My iphone at Dead Horse State Park in Utah <br /></p><p>Hiking stick at Buffalo National River in Arkansas<br /></p><p>Branson Boat Ride-lost prescription sunglasses in Missouri<br /></p><p>Life jacket at a Branson Water Park in Missouri<br /></p><p>Special book of my husband's at Missouri airport</p><p>Winter cap that I lost while hiking in the Ozarks<br /></p><p>Favorite sweater that I left at a restaurant somewhere Out West</p><p>Debit card provided by my medical insurance company<br /></p><p>Monogrammed jacket that I left at a family member's home</p><p>Monogrammed Yeti travel mug that I left at a family members home(see below)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctl-vwP7Nx3LRnqvbjeyi6oXOo7gssXwgM20vklbthAwzvhfqw-R91CNi8PBeEeDTtNjQVavxBQDgLWFyjEOwqK9wOAAhyjH2KoAQw1b4SoE90ps4mCWnyKZdOUbNvc5DySWJEECNCMv3f72pshyDXtzDoKEOX593dJgsJ6QfYYE3kYSeo0xlOWH2VrNe/s320/IMG_7171.jpg" width="240" /></div><p></p><p>Lost car at a gigantic parking "field" at NASCAR track in Kansas<br /></p><p></p><p>Purse and wallet that I left at an out of town home I was visiting</p><p>Lost my toddler's shoes, because I absent-mindedly hid them in the oven, when doing a quick clean up, for an unexpected visitor to my kitchen </p><p>Lost my toddler's sneakers, when I accidentally left them at a cousin's house we were visiting (the funny thing about this incident, is that the very generous cousin returned them to my grandparent's house, stuffed with twenty dollar bills!) Toddler's father joked, if we had known that was going to happen, we could have left his much larger cowboy boots, instead of tiny sneakers!)<br /></p><p>Lost sunglasses that fell into the lake</p><p>Lost glove while scuba diving in Monterey Bay</p><p>Lost camera tripod <br /></p><p>Lost homework that blew into the lake</p><p>Lost diamond ring at some still-unknown location<br /></p><p>Travel mug that I left at a relative's house in California</p><p>Lost pearl ear ring down a sink at a hotel</p><p>Lost cloth diaper, accidentally flushed down the toilet (this was 50 years ago, when cloth diapers were still in use) <br /></p><p>Flip phone that I left in car of a relative in California <br /></p><p>Lost my car in a large parking lot, until a sympathetic stranger suggested hitting the panic button on the remote key to make the horn honk<br /></p><p>Lost a twenty dollar bill out of my pocket while riding a two-person bicycle in Ponca, Arkansas<br /></p><p>Lost an important reservation slip that blew out of my pocket while riding a motorcycle</p><p>Something that has helped me tremendously in finding lost items, is a tip given to me by a hard-core motorcycle rider, at a Christian Motorcycle Association meeting, over 30 years ago. He shared with the group that he had just learned about "God's Telephone Number". Of course, we were all intrigued to know what he meant. He said another biker had told him about Jeremiah 33:3 that says, <i>"Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know." </i>So, I started calling on God, asking Him to show me great and mighty things I did not know---like where the lost item was!! And God answered those prayers so often, that I found I was praying very often about lost "things". Then I was convicted about how often I was praying for lost "things", and how seldom I prayed for lost "people". So I made a vow that every time I prayed to God about a lost item, I would also pray the name of a person I knew who was "lost", in that they had not accepted the forgiveness Jesus made available to them, through his death on the cross. This magnet in my kitchen keeps the verse foremost in my mind:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiukB1W5vJxhq4Xbz0xzxSKi_yHlponamQ0-VEbf9TI2XFd5wMlJbuDvWm35eHNT9FpJBjIqdsf_nzVTAcJ28byJHun1KljVy8tRNLBCkWrnGFiI1TtXh_3jH1i7yEqNmCmdLoSsGoSrrR8D9qshgvby3CB90-_FU4uDuqBFJbWL0Np-vmbHp0iPs_XsxhE/s640/IMG_8073.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiukB1W5vJxhq4Xbz0xzxSKi_yHlponamQ0-VEbf9TI2XFd5wMlJbuDvWm35eHNT9FpJBjIqdsf_nzVTAcJ28byJHun1KljVy8tRNLBCkWrnGFiI1TtXh_3jH1i7yEqNmCmdLoSsGoSrrR8D9qshgvby3CB90-_FU4uDuqBFJbWL0Np-vmbHp0iPs_XsxhE/s320/IMG_8073.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>NEEDLESS TO SAY, I HAVE A LONG HISTORY OF LOSING THINGS! However, sometimes losing something, is the only way to receive something better: <br /></p><p>When you see this photo of a burned tree, do you think "all is lost" for the future of this forest?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_ofl034SB_FZeIUlDLgNx34gTm17EqjSXCgnmOOua_MRrtxTIOKaoz95F5cK4r-HefmiGs3OGm2B0w9vkBfoau0Q9O966uZEyHMR38sJzFag-5MshGV-CeV5a_u2cWnvyQd9baMPJTLc7lBHj8tRj9HuoydYaRh7LS1EYRpaOnlhGw94a45qnaKrzRvJ/s640/IMG_7166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2_ofl034SB_FZeIUlDLgNx34gTm17EqjSXCgnmOOua_MRrtxTIOKaoz95F5cK4r-HefmiGs3OGm2B0w9vkBfoau0Q9O966uZEyHMR38sJzFag-5MshGV-CeV5a_u2cWnvyQd9baMPJTLc7lBHj8tRj9HuoydYaRh7LS1EYRpaOnlhGw94a45qnaKrzRvJ/s320/IMG_7166.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>Yet, did you know that without fire, this beautiful grove of sequoia trees would not be possible? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFT-kTOlopDthEJ0ZO8oddoUPqTFQWlyfEpyiomKb56vVosVGKpl6iAvptTFYYI8tolVvaNmSGsqcXuSnupOac7PrFyuNWKTxK3aoPqN3BK3H5El4G5ycq0Yb2cVoKpOlGzVq1cHhFNu6Z6uJ3-1iodkw0O9Lgc7t8IiszuM0riMknKG6DzPnmAXWHhfox/s640/IMG_7169.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="640" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFT-kTOlopDthEJ0ZO8oddoUPqTFQWlyfEpyiomKb56vVosVGKpl6iAvptTFYYI8tolVvaNmSGsqcXuSnupOac7PrFyuNWKTxK3aoPqN3BK3H5El4G5ycq0Yb2cVoKpOlGzVq1cHhFNu6Z6uJ3-1iodkw0O9Lgc7t8IiszuM0riMknKG6DzPnmAXWHhfox/s320/IMG_7169.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>That is because the tiny little seed of the sequoia tree ( as shown in photo below) will not germinate, unless there is fire!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLi8Z8o59do5dOIXJp6Xq2yD9eDdB1NMgtj7sTUhrFwfTawcDTKRZKTpG-0Reh9ezROolVigS83yTw2W_EtclSUr4SRincFjiLtQRRXFhTudAlqkL6lnQDTMm4tfnipIU0VX2BBqsiWOh00AWm_G6JSxW5FtQSIkg5L9XoAaNR7n9HYkExskawUTm0HVwF/s280/IMG_7167.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="224" data-original-width="280" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLi8Z8o59do5dOIXJp6Xq2yD9eDdB1NMgtj7sTUhrFwfTawcDTKRZKTpG-0Reh9ezROolVigS83yTw2W_EtclSUr4SRincFjiLtQRRXFhTudAlqkL6lnQDTMm4tfnipIU0VX2BBqsiWOh00AWm_G6JSxW5FtQSIkg5L9XoAaNR7n9HYkExskawUTm0HVwF/s1600/IMG_7167.JPG" width="280" /></a></div>And did you know that if a giant sequoia tree had not "given up its life", this massive sculpture of Paul Bunyon could not have been created?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicGDWgvABSzjy-R01ZF0_IwD01YlodpNzBr2-qcy9xmbJ77sgL9-_PeNeVMC4jO01eCX6xHJrRiOio-QHMX4Fm3Hu3R5MbYcLtw8F2EMs6XioX24g2TN_gWDgf4BIRT-rtQ8Ue0Aij2A73X3ZSnr517JNX0JZKAKxh2Bjifg700ivK8QOtlGULxis-jFkc/s640/IMG_7170.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicGDWgvABSzjy-R01ZF0_IwD01YlodpNzBr2-qcy9xmbJ77sgL9-_PeNeVMC4jO01eCX6xHJrRiOio-QHMX4Fm3Hu3R5MbYcLtw8F2EMs6XioX24g2TN_gWDgf4BIRT-rtQ8Ue0Aij2A73X3ZSnr517JNX0JZKAKxh2Bjifg700ivK8QOtlGULxis-jFkc/s320/IMG_7170.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>One of the memory verses for my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) deals with the concept of "Lost and Found". Matthew 10:39 says <i>"He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it." </i>It is the New Testament version of a "Lost and Found" verse!<br /><br />My history with the phrase "Lost and Found" caused me to stop and take a photograph, <br />of the sign I passed, outside a church I saw in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, that said "Lost and Found" Church. I "tongue in cheek" thought, "So THIS is where all those lost items can be found, that I have misplaced over a lifetime ! (Note: OD stands for Ocean Drive, and not implying that this is an "odd church"!)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpEl94Sy2CJDdbGn85kQk7aup-m9mU0Bh-Lj4xTluByI_sJc1i3ggDr1EGQCNyWJptySCOA2MAq1P9aaoYMICJapOoDfWSObEqf1Vcz8CnDIbuLax33mKJotEVrJRbkzngUQ9lJ0jFasrSQnZC_CpEaLoIzhVj8ngpqAGZrGNEXvOQ_TW4O8XMp6_PTCw/s640/IMG_8159.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="419" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpEl94Sy2CJDdbGn85kQk7aup-m9mU0Bh-Lj4xTluByI_sJc1i3ggDr1EGQCNyWJptySCOA2MAq1P9aaoYMICJapOoDfWSObEqf1Vcz8CnDIbuLax33mKJotEVrJRbkzngUQ9lJ0jFasrSQnZC_CpEaLoIzhVj8ngpqAGZrGNEXvOQ_TW4O8XMp6_PTCw/s320/IMG_8159.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><p><br />So even though I have lost many things, there is one "thing" it is good for me to lose---my tendency to want to control my life choices, versus allowing God to control my life choices. When I choose the latter, it gives me "MILES OF SMILES" Tricia</p><p>Note: In our First Place 4 Health Bible study, called <i>A Better Way, </i>the translation used for Matthew 10:39 says, <i>"If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it." (NLT) </i>However, with my career background being in Foods and Nutrition, every time I read that translation, my mind went down the thinking-about-food "rabbit hole" (see photo below). Therefore, I looked for a different translation that did not have the word "cling" in it, and learned the Jeremiah Study Bible version. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-b6JIPluw5PvDrYi-ZgqluAoUKKXc1KdXljNyVTjlHhriMuv3rsNMCSJLy6FzCxe61W0WwLyqflITM916EnJ5rGVn8OKoNdPhnsjl8ogsCtzYsZK_DLyEMS6FLHgynaBZ5ZjEGBxN4HgFego2HNhS7UFGt5IqnF_v1_TCBnaxfoBW8z-NZZ9b_H3G42cg/s640/IMG_7396%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-b6JIPluw5PvDrYi-ZgqluAoUKKXc1KdXljNyVTjlHhriMuv3rsNMCSJLy6FzCxe61W0WwLyqflITM916EnJ5rGVn8OKoNdPhnsjl8ogsCtzYsZK_DLyEMS6FLHgynaBZ5ZjEGBxN4HgFego2HNhS7UFGt5IqnF_v1_TCBnaxfoBW8z-NZZ9b_H3G42cg/s320/IMG_7396%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-69412643991526559032023-11-01T11:08:00.001-05:002023-11-02T09:54:43.859-05:00ARBOR DAY FARM EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH_fct2KCWdqwLkl9C4FOqLVC1D1uV23HjxSIoI6kFiCM1NDu1sK4UDjSNv1cPnO4hIMBIBn5bYd8rLUETubMO8jdOjL4Y6aMlozAq2xO5S6GZDbjfQpOTm_osQ_LGqfQDlq21qlqMbzWamDRvaDCQt0y4gGjIq7DwCKYwa5lNg-UcTE19_q4K8Qs6CEQE/s320/IMG_2717.jpg" width="320" /> One definition of the word <i>arbor</i> is "a leafy, shady recess formed by tree branches and shrubs." With that in mind, this photo could illustrate an arbor, with a paved path passing through it. If you want to see multiple examples of arbors, I would encourage you to visit Arbor Day Farm (www.ArborDayFarm.org).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6KdNsJFkCaumyth0kycNmVw757hqvYr3mxcz5JHMxKs4QDlRwXo4LYiYQVIDkOfHqNMf7XDt8UpW9D5RwCmHDNZA1FvarKu0rH_TlQTJC-RwrxKnEHzLMmX0QiTinQ-P1a6gfl3wJ4Eyu4YFUHM-76PT0dE5gB4Zb9zZXFeOP6Cv5SaU4Cnqwe_7XUpFa/s640/IMG_2700.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6KdNsJFkCaumyth0kycNmVw757hqvYr3mxcz5JHMxKs4QDlRwXo4LYiYQVIDkOfHqNMf7XDt8UpW9D5RwCmHDNZA1FvarKu0rH_TlQTJC-RwrxKnEHzLMmX0QiTinQ-P1a6gfl3wJ4Eyu4YFUHM-76PT0dE5gB4Zb9zZXFeOP6Cv5SaU4Cnqwe_7XUpFa/s320/IMG_2700.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>On road trips out west, I have repeatedly driven by the sign in Nebraska City (www.nebraskacity.com), pointing to the Arbor Day Farm, and the Lied Lodge at Arbor Day Farm. In 2023, I finally had the opportunity to stop and explore the property on my return trip between California and Arkansas. To be clear, this is not a hotel for people who have told fibs, or "lied". If that were the case, there would never, ever be any vacancies, because everyone has told some sort of lie during their lifetime! Rather, it was named after Ernst F. Lied, a successful Omaha automobile dealer who made millions by investing in Las Vegas real estate. He established the private, nonprofit Lied Foundation Trust, in 1972, and today the Lied name has come to symbolize philanthropic generosity nationwide. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiyQ9ouN46PjKr0fWvdM1E7p0fAxiZwjT02O8rqVzqKS4uwYES-QC2qFR2F4S9FEaw__dviNo2XHeHo9ip6n9nGzCeCCifFJOHRqtYg0SNqX976dr4gJjvg5qqCL2nVJDuRxAY0MSpcpNo95p6je2hOHilH2VOH10ELIgR-6tlSlwIhLgu14GHqyC4dTWw/s640/IMG_2730.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiyQ9ouN46PjKr0fWvdM1E7p0fAxiZwjT02O8rqVzqKS4uwYES-QC2qFR2F4S9FEaw__dviNo2XHeHo9ip6n9nGzCeCCifFJOHRqtYg0SNqX976dr4gJjvg5qqCL2nVJDuRxAY0MSpcpNo95p6je2hOHilH2VOH10ELIgR-6tlSlwIhLgu14GHqyC4dTWw/s320/IMG_2730.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Instead of a place for liars, Lied Lodge, is a place for those who support conservation. It is located on the 260-acre Arbor Day Farm (www.ArborDayFarm.org). Every dime the travelers spend here, goes toward the foundation's mission of planting, nurturing, and celebrating trees. The lodge has 140 guest rooms, including two suites. The decor in the rooms is nature-inspired, with the views throughout being scenic and soothing.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjow00ZeePrRn4vEX028YwYr5dhnzXJa4fADUhyphenhyphenI2xwS_49C2-bowd4tJ4niCv90J0iWdLCsA1Ot1sVu94GaZZXrJaGkQ0-m8fJ73uKmS3ICuT1hrsMQpzrVl35Q5X61sZEnj5CzgAPoOJ1u7jaJpQoprq8uo1dtYV9Ln1RsdbsJKyOikVrPd5VxSNOzpzU/s640/IMG_2664.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjow00ZeePrRn4vEX028YwYr5dhnzXJa4fADUhyphenhyphenI2xwS_49C2-bowd4tJ4niCv90J0iWdLCsA1Ot1sVu94GaZZXrJaGkQ0-m8fJ73uKmS3ICuT1hrsMQpzrVl35Q5X61sZEnj5CzgAPoOJ1u7jaJpQoprq8uo1dtYV9Ln1RsdbsJKyOikVrPd5VxSNOzpzU/s320/IMG_2664.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The different types of wood used in the interior are all identified, as is the wood used in the guest room decor. The Timber Dining Room is made from butternut trees.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhyphenhyphenCrjpBQ-f7oLxZ428hDlLzePi2WGaMbKowD5RKWT_WcZY1oJ6jNafVq06gTYTE_JJeTJMQ3sbbl1YM6R9lYRJxt3Q1fMGm3GlFS_lNo49Ly62toue1phpQrcjxDmFg-IqCiug1JbP3A_YPnFwKHjHTHm2axmt7s8M4KnO3kU_nBAE3MhdYTuDsschBY/s320/IMG_2665.jpg" width="240" />The upper section of the two-story lobby is made from pecan . </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One can enjoy the ambiance of a fireplace on either the lobby level, or the lower level.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyAnYFYY7_-9mvPdsmius6IP6EXh9JMgo-sYITt4YQ-DlZj2wqYMq2x-f6maE7BGNe60CgiqScoaldgWU0Vgxw01iHPeKuBF95oillqM0npTS0CNWJKd6glWWG9c26DE5A8ufG1cw1sC0dvFoLzAi-TUo3L3c3pZNiHmMVfRK_2fES7VBOU0mmyDGk7Ks/s320/IMG_2704.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The lofty lobby is a perfect space to highlight these beautiful chandeliers:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_k9ELDryRAY7l3_BfMigcgFD-ezq1A9y1yuVmcm7YgvmtCXj66MLxp_zdDxb_t0s7iFW58c5_bgczHfnZYcQPbMNx_HkQ6lqhs9K1AV8d5BMVclyLM5ssDSc4V6ahJ3Ozi8tNFtEbByNMHZfaXNcK18HaZbbg_7qA1C4ifH5Vral84FL1doLiSvipRN83/s640/IMG_2649.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_k9ELDryRAY7l3_BfMigcgFD-ezq1A9y1yuVmcm7YgvmtCXj66MLxp_zdDxb_t0s7iFW58c5_bgczHfnZYcQPbMNx_HkQ6lqhs9K1AV8d5BMVclyLM5ssDSc4V6ahJ3Ozi8tNFtEbByNMHZfaXNcK18HaZbbg_7qA1C4ifH5Vral84FL1doLiSvipRN83/s320/IMG_2649.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The souvenir items in the gift shop utilize wood and sustainable materials, as opposed to the items one usually sees in a hotel gift shop:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhellxCdvTzXjK5rcV8CvZn9kjOh7F8uB87KodbUgPSqNEr9XEojGTW9S0P3UKUziiaSlHvwMOup2iB5xTUbob5HMy_FnVrGldvY5VD-k8yAID0zPvcofgJ7vEbUyjUw86dVdPNXRg6bJ1g-uD_pduvnxsF_c28tJBi5S5qtrAeDwDnK3bM81K8_IRWXHuL/s640/IMG_2653.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhellxCdvTzXjK5rcV8CvZn9kjOh7F8uB87KodbUgPSqNEr9XEojGTW9S0P3UKUziiaSlHvwMOup2iB5xTUbob5HMy_FnVrGldvY5VD-k8yAID0zPvcofgJ7vEbUyjUw86dVdPNXRg6bJ1g-uD_pduvnxsF_c28tJBi5S5qtrAeDwDnK3bM81K8_IRWXHuL/s320/IMG_2653.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /></div>Wherever your eye looks, one sees creative use of wood in the decor, such as these stackable wood chairs seen in the Conference room. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RJu2HTVW_urZOUAQx9bWPq8vhxoOXvai6YQ1Zmdbu61caVF75s3LjLUeHSd_IwFBXpw3MZGCURd172kEu0J_0hRUVQp-oZ9fJesWBF6xSnyERsNQZCzqgIxGrp3WWgksk6I4Dhxun9HP6KX28fDyNIwAuwEUH9l1dZ6_kgxN_66j_fpAho2MYeFVfGQp/s640/IMG_2708.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0RJu2HTVW_urZOUAQx9bWPq8vhxoOXvai6YQ1Zmdbu61caVF75s3LjLUeHSd_IwFBXpw3MZGCURd172kEu0J_0hRUVQp-oZ9fJesWBF6xSnyERsNQZCzqgIxGrp3WWgksk6I4Dhxun9HP6KX28fDyNIwAuwEUH9l1dZ6_kgxN_66j_fpAho2MYeFVfGQp/s320/IMG_2708.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Each chair is a work of excellent wood craftsmanship.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN2FLoglYnoZiKfB_lj2WNyoBCv0c_jOwELJAfDwugAzeNTs0SQJGTaa_VcHdepU6eM8czTPG2gWwWAY4jGe6kOHRq3G2ErBCzjaOuCkc_yANoafcC9HoVrJaMd3TrFn7rRaa5yXi_b6ovhBZCq80ZytD_RNJeEBzb1HDy2aatEclRp30nZz2EyBMh4wiy/s320/IMG_2707.jpg" width="240" /> Although Arbor Day is a secular holiday, there is no denying that trees are indeed "The Gift of God". <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4Mp6HoWPOHshKXPkMm9mZkOCtdpU2COQE1wPHoKQYCnql78vwyaiZlav7flQtKw3esSgnvSwTViv29ym2IEAbKLbEG4Jrtnwq3ab5uPtT5YwIqueSrxcpPKBQL2KVuC1fIq6xca8agcfyqE3FSulBD1BZnGOm4-heGJEvXeA59VEZDRsE_IPdseutGdc/s640/IMG_2658.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="640" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4Mp6HoWPOHshKXPkMm9mZkOCtdpU2COQE1wPHoKQYCnql78vwyaiZlav7flQtKw3esSgnvSwTViv29ym2IEAbKLbEG4Jrtnwq3ab5uPtT5YwIqueSrxcpPKBQL2KVuC1fIq6xca8agcfyqE3FSulBD1BZnGOm4-heGJEvXeA59VEZDRsE_IPdseutGdc/s320/IMG_2658.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Lied Lodge has a sustainable type of heating and cooling system, called biomass. The biomass used here, utilizes wood chips sourced from old wooden shipping pallets. Guests can take a self-guided tour of the plant, which is open until 7 pm every day. In addition to that tour, the Fuelwood Energy Plant Gallery is a walk-through interactive exhibit, to learn about the process of turning trees into energy.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijifgR9xaVDJFqq0KefIrjU84xBiGyokqB_gnLHD1Dvr9a365kpVutHJmJB9oeD_zInrgwzIWgBSxN2LCWoQ1TnWsg4r_BoNLrMdIajt6cSSfei5BUn3va3o5zyyg-eczLa5gpLsJ45razmhs3UfcJtAIFuF1A1JPdPUwlT4kZ6rmQKj7j5wuzjWKMzHyl/s640/IMG_2690.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijifgR9xaVDJFqq0KefIrjU84xBiGyokqB_gnLHD1Dvr9a365kpVutHJmJB9oeD_zInrgwzIWgBSxN2LCWoQ1TnWsg4r_BoNLrMdIajt6cSSfei5BUn3va3o5zyyg-eczLa5gpLsJ45razmhs3UfcJtAIFuF1A1JPdPUwlT4kZ6rmQKj7j5wuzjWKMzHyl/s320/IMG_2690.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>Some visitors have described their visit to Lied Lodge, as having a "camp" feeling. It could be that singing campfire songs and sitting around an outdoor firepit enhances those feelings! The shrub-like planting between the firepit and the taller trees in the background is a 16-acre hazelnut grove. It is an experimental plot where researchers are trying to develop a hybrid hazelnut variety that can adapt to a variety of harsh environmental conditions. Hazelnuts are a good crop to study, because they are eaten by both wildlife and humans. <br /> <br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxyNr5bBW6hZ8rQlAq-ZooqDvmtpKu8dUlxJG0PCbg5liYeBYm9ar4wlfWze8WzC3DCNGC77_WxoJ9onhBYvsUEdrU6ImzPBlL5lqO03e_144hJ28ENpkDHJaxTyxtylzu8Zxl8d2RirL1MlM1zqSyV8BtdF573TtIuiA-Vxg-kLy7TWRPWrP4U_9GVro/s640/IMG_2670.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxyNr5bBW6hZ8rQlAq-ZooqDvmtpKu8dUlxJG0PCbg5liYeBYm9ar4wlfWze8WzC3DCNGC77_WxoJ9onhBYvsUEdrU6ImzPBlL5lqO03e_144hJ28ENpkDHJaxTyxtylzu8Zxl8d2RirL1MlM1zqSyV8BtdF573TtIuiA-Vxg-kLy7TWRPWrP4U_9GVro/s320/IMG_2670.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Likewise, outdoor dining and picnicking can be enjoyed on the spacious upper porch at the Lied Lodge. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqwceyoYOGy-J4wtPBHd9zGq_Yc132zWnHyJGjIGxmIDyrrF_AL_0Tuqij7DKCFeA87UV9eSnmLwhbJpP_PAuV8OUD8nCg5pfSawwgDjwWYpP84YTiE_tYoSoO-61zJ9whnDcHzZQV3PfquJtqNFxix2_3WhIopc_RR5dnZwx_-TLp5O0mfOmSCcpJ2cK/s640/IMG_2681.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUqwceyoYOGy-J4wtPBHd9zGq_Yc132zWnHyJGjIGxmIDyrrF_AL_0Tuqij7DKCFeA87UV9eSnmLwhbJpP_PAuV8OUD8nCg5pfSawwgDjwWYpP84YTiE_tYoSoO-61zJ9whnDcHzZQV3PfquJtqNFxix2_3WhIopc_RR5dnZwx_-TLp5O0mfOmSCcpJ2cK/s320/IMG_2681.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The white house that can be seen across the lawn and within the adjacent woods, is the original home of the Morton Family. It was here in 1872 that the idea for the first Arbor Day began. It was started as a way to encourage people everywhere to plant trees. On the very first Arbor Day. nearly one million trees were planted in Nebraska. The Morton home is now part of the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park and Mansion, and is under the direction of the Arbor Day Foundation. It consists of 72 acres and includes the 52-room historic mansion (designed to look like the White House in Washington, D.C.). Also one can visit an arboretum, Italian terraced garden, log cabin, carriage house, walking trails, plus more than 200 varieties of lilacs. It is possible to follow trails and sidewalks from Lied Lodge over to the state historical park. J. Sterling Morton came to Nebraska City in 1855. He and his wife, Caroline, were lovers of nature, and Morton served as Secretary of Agriculture under President Grover Cleveland's administration. It was in 1872 that he was instrumental in establishing the annual tree planting day, Arbor Day. The name for the Morton Salt Company, also relates to a descendant of the same family.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjwFjUNu3Uvj8WSuvvDjiTzge7-t0akljcvKE1YASS8J0LOtEnT0XbXRWbobxxBZLxFY1fXBxVWFe4d7eVq2jz1I_E_LkecVnhsFrEwZ3WN7LyezHbFhcfMWimTLSi6OZBTfUP3Ic-R-32SV8nzlx_igRFY2czkQDtQ52mtnXNMBQUYBdrt-Ir-rSrJvl/s640/IMG_2674.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXjwFjUNu3Uvj8WSuvvDjiTzge7-t0akljcvKE1YASS8J0LOtEnT0XbXRWbobxxBZLxFY1fXBxVWFe4d7eVq2jz1I_E_LkecVnhsFrEwZ3WN7LyezHbFhcfMWimTLSi6OZBTfUP3Ic-R-32SV8nzlx_igRFY2czkQDtQ52mtnXNMBQUYBdrt-Ir-rSrJvl/s320/IMG_2674.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />A VARIETY of walkways are available, and most are wheelchair accessible.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweCykAk0fuUUUiARuv0KkJaesLpMHRw9EHHc3lIsMOR4EVBSjEdQiVDiJZRASxY_n585XhcvYILaKawurWfv7DjoVage20G2GcQ9yt5l_yqjT1zXR5yDotG32EnLWZTlE2DrVIBFQ6w0RzaacgsFAmFVJk9Nj1Gqkv8mmt1VCQgDN3iKOiBbF12h6zpSZ/s640/IMG_2712.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweCykAk0fuUUUiARuv0KkJaesLpMHRw9EHHc3lIsMOR4EVBSjEdQiVDiJZRASxY_n585XhcvYILaKawurWfv7DjoVage20G2GcQ9yt5l_yqjT1zXR5yDotG32EnLWZTlE2DrVIBFQ6w0RzaacgsFAmFVJk9Nj1Gqkv8mmt1VCQgDN3iKOiBbF12h6zpSZ/s320/IMG_2712.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>One of the connecting trails between the Lied Lodge and the historic Morton mansion, has many types of surfaces, and passes through a variety of habitats.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvCTipvqM1KEkaCkJdVfClkyuoOpKvFIyxK7DIf3-sIc4eSPqmyskVI__T0Kt_N1mBr3fn5fj7u2WH3uBqU1ZxEW95xRiNw_QU48fbzK9JBz_V-dY_ulMfZKtp1s_NHZHqZOz3Qi4YWGzISlth5M5btPymPtvE9ynMqeaiFHmuO8E7GMdo-QlDh3JJPVy/s320/IMG_2726.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This boardwalk goes through a wetlands area,and using the provided hand rail, the rail would even be suitable for guiding a blind person. The photo below with the railing, is the image I am using for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses, that says, "We walk by faith, not by sight." from 2 Corinthians 5:7. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP397cL0MYcIMQXDICwgvFElW6ZqzdRBIYHmiqkN2hYh_lZIFuaPikD8DgoTloAN48XDgjPIHZQB_D_0-VZ4riJDixDpE5ngwW9i_8Y75AtZknRUcTJUT9wzSQ6wBZoo6yLnDADUK2LdnoM43txDOQ5E7uVxNljZN8ux0ToQfACEHvSCCluZOVEGfmhUtA/s640/IMG_2719.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP397cL0MYcIMQXDICwgvFElW6ZqzdRBIYHmiqkN2hYh_lZIFuaPikD8DgoTloAN48XDgjPIHZQB_D_0-VZ4riJDixDpE5ngwW9i_8Y75AtZknRUcTJUT9wzSQ6wBZoo6yLnDADUK2LdnoM43txDOQ5E7uVxNljZN8ux0ToQfACEHvSCCluZOVEGfmhUtA/s320/IMG_2719.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Another Scripture verse that came to mind as I was strolling through this forest, was Isaiah 61:3 that says, "They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD, to display His splendor." The "oaks of righteousness" phrase, is a metaphor for living in a way, that pleases God.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT6991eeR8A8Tc3eLIL3noYIjzuRZicrDTQAGDKHb7U_XEl0bw5SSWrJ5Vr06fhNiTxXl5URXY0Lv4mPzZ50oUXiPPRJO6sie1_Pw4OB3lwVg2gVC1Fdp71yeuVCbf33tG_RxrsrWR5QrxEmu49PmKKWOd1HTnO1fdi1fhHcHsVTzK5_RKO8U8QVtF7w9_/s640/IMG_2721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT6991eeR8A8Tc3eLIL3noYIjzuRZicrDTQAGDKHb7U_XEl0bw5SSWrJ5Vr06fhNiTxXl5URXY0Lv4mPzZ50oUXiPPRJO6sie1_Pw4OB3lwVg2gVC1Fdp71yeuVCbf33tG_RxrsrWR5QrxEmu49PmKKWOd1HTnO1fdi1fhHcHsVTzK5_RKO8U8QVtF7w9_/s320/IMG_2721.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />This visit to the Nebraska City Arbor Day Farm, increased my desire to live my life so I can be counted among the "Oaks of Righteousness", and it gave me MILES OF SMLES! Tricia<br /><br /><br /><br /> <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-66120164153153882382023-10-02T07:07:00.000-05:002023-10-03T11:01:07.716-05:00"GET YOUR SHIP TOGETHER" EXPEDITION!<p> The photo below shows a home-made print out (safely kept in a plastic page protector) of how to rig your sailboat, using a "get your ship together" list, compiled by a real "ship"man!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWArnpbRyIgXTegkOTuUy3TCCPjSQH80rHqnBboNUMSylYtIkrs-erCXlV90cMlkOqwiVq55FbUkcTNUXZB8naiYaZQArU89ULHQ7fFgAWCkjFeBDvsVP9eTj60qjTfzEzLDc0pbUNfnioSEyCa3hXkU-JWirFkrYaunAr90bUSRxY-GJ64fIg_n6vatJ6/s640/IMG_2219.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWArnpbRyIgXTegkOTuUy3TCCPjSQH80rHqnBboNUMSylYtIkrs-erCXlV90cMlkOqwiVq55FbUkcTNUXZB8naiYaZQArU89ULHQ7fFgAWCkjFeBDvsVP9eTj60qjTfzEzLDc0pbUNfnioSEyCa3hXkU-JWirFkrYaunAr90bUSRxY-GJ64fIg_n6vatJ6/s320/IMG_2219.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Most people have probably not given much thought about how a sailboat gets from being on a trailer, like the photo shown below:<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0o5VfEal7npzfY1Lf2SniroiJkJtNfLGJU0cgONe3yaxxnYPopfRsrwvRcR3r9Lqx692xumXNwQWYzIVAjXvj6lRTIZGNwDcn3VMNDBZoXdAP-z8vcfWSOxWPJu6LPiJ3x9rQ84DdC5SuNae3lALjdvTSc9UVGm6utSkQOgOWTECzt0djvfwZn1oTUvay/s640/IMG_2169%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0o5VfEal7npzfY1Lf2SniroiJkJtNfLGJU0cgONe3yaxxnYPopfRsrwvRcR3r9Lqx692xumXNwQWYzIVAjXvj6lRTIZGNwDcn3VMNDBZoXdAP-z8vcfWSOxWPJu6LPiJ3x9rQ84DdC5SuNae3lALjdvTSc9UVGm6utSkQOgOWTECzt0djvfwZn1oTUvay/s320/IMG_2169%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>To floating peacefully at the dock, as in photo below: How does one go about doing this complicated task?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjbI1AP5IjXN87jVS_sCRAfzRr64j9K7GzKrtjiI9SGvAQwoyFAKFPazpIZkOE3Z8UksvqxlUs-M6Y8PwHMXaJ-KGorkvJvEffI2Vk2e5AIM30I_27ZT8M9yMPuivzinSjptgBmX0zOI_tTpawREHfGD7DPzQWvqZ7ZaZMLbZePvwam3KldJUADGLcbHd/s640/IMG_2302.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjbI1AP5IjXN87jVS_sCRAfzRr64j9K7GzKrtjiI9SGvAQwoyFAKFPazpIZkOE3Z8UksvqxlUs-M6Y8PwHMXaJ-KGorkvJvEffI2Vk2e5AIM30I_27ZT8M9yMPuivzinSjptgBmX0zOI_tTpawREHfGD7DPzQWvqZ7ZaZMLbZePvwam3KldJUADGLcbHd/s320/IMG_2302.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The answer to that question is found in the sequence of photos to follow. As you can see, the mast is no longer resting in a flat position, but lifted up at a light angle. The owner of this sailboat (which I will call "Captain") has spread out the sail, and is attaching necessary sheets. {Note: In sailing, a sheet is a line (rope, cable or chain) used to control the movable corners (clews) of a sail, for the purpose of extension, or change of direction}. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVH4vR8C9nBf0Eq7KQNNrn1wydfTfLtFNJ9SaFCr-z5wb4SF40tCOM-1CzZT1rE8DevYPO6DuA-E2lcc6ejObssYM-23GvJGMOjtXjx57EEY7zJuG7HCSU9SqSMpBZT96OzGdYfZ2lHgdwv5xBagX0gogEWbTEHtyVohEUEP13ieONlMndtqM-fUV_k3gU/s640/IMG_2179.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVH4vR8C9nBf0Eq7KQNNrn1wydfTfLtFNJ9SaFCr-z5wb4SF40tCOM-1CzZT1rE8DevYPO6DuA-E2lcc6ejObssYM-23GvJGMOjtXjx57EEY7zJuG7HCSU9SqSMpBZT96OzGdYfZ2lHgdwv5xBagX0gogEWbTEHtyVohEUEP13ieONlMndtqM-fUV_k3gU/s320/IMG_2179.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The instructions say to slide the mast aft on the stern mast-support. (translated for landlubbers, "aft" means at, near, or toward the stern--the rearmost part of a boat). A device called the Stern Mast-Support helps support the mast during the rigging process. The next step was rigging the Whisker pole (which helps reduce wind noise in the sails).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6u5RHln1SFxThyNZX2UhlxPjpwERg6FBpo6NueUsksCixyn8G2gTWr7YlNm3vaWLhjqHk7eweH2hNC4FYElAyExLYu49T8vJS2q4Y5NlRnX9R_ed_KodHLtmuiFHy-3QCUBWc7MozGZBYvY3wLv6yTzh9u0qE1l11JbyGtFSIFnB8OoezF29KUBsUCQzR/s640/IMG_2181.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6u5RHln1SFxThyNZX2UhlxPjpwERg6FBpo6NueUsksCixyn8G2gTWr7YlNm3vaWLhjqHk7eweH2hNC4FYElAyExLYu49T8vJS2q4Y5NlRnX9R_ed_KodHLtmuiFHy-3QCUBWc7MozGZBYvY3wLv6yTzh9u0qE1l11JbyGtFSIFnB8OoezF29KUBsUCQzR/s320/IMG_2181.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Putting the fenders on the sides of the boat may be the easiest part of the rigging procedure!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSaBWAuikYLqZlwBKo2KBDjyfvGHfQ1LBKD5miyuLSlMLrkm0_sMC8xEWNF3r57N4n3KqOG-8a0jwDx_D5kg2TEW8orQk3PjzScby62BlaxsN1Ot5NE45JMJ4KQBQItJ-d4t0agWIGFUbagLMBuYwcqbZwGssbGWZjc0ZHBSnvDcZlKk3Gsh4fwCo3Hz5q/s640/IMG_2184.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSaBWAuikYLqZlwBKo2KBDjyfvGHfQ1LBKD5miyuLSlMLrkm0_sMC8xEWNF3r57N4n3KqOG-8a0jwDx_D5kg2TEW8orQk3PjzScby62BlaxsN1Ot5NE45JMJ4KQBQItJ-d4t0agWIGFUbagLMBuYwcqbZwGssbGWZjc0ZHBSnvDcZlKk3Gsh4fwCo3Hz5q/s320/IMG_2184.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It really helps to have an able-bodied crew, when rigging the sailboat for the first time, so it was very helpful that the Captain's First Mate arrived to assist in the process. (I volunteered to help, but the Captain asked that I limit my assistance to just taking photos! This was just as well, since the Annapolis Sailing School certificate I earned decades ago, did not teach about how to rig a sailboat!)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmkXKQdlj1vaZj04dSpDRosI0i5MHwVxrFa2PwyPtssq-Yi05iRgmXJomcZVVdIa2dKOTwGmvRJJKs5dJLmMMGFRdHboSTto3H8XzQ1XxyKT8AzvHHw0yigcTqVgAgsRwd4IADBoEo7i0kPvw-6Sf5IhUlxW8nrGEOd4GTxVDdhZa5eYfMOhIExBXOkNQw/s640/IMG_2185.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmkXKQdlj1vaZj04dSpDRosI0i5MHwVxrFa2PwyPtssq-Yi05iRgmXJomcZVVdIa2dKOTwGmvRJJKs5dJLmMMGFRdHboSTto3H8XzQ1XxyKT8AzvHHw0yigcTqVgAgsRwd4IADBoEo7i0kPvw-6Sf5IhUlxW8nrGEOd4GTxVDdhZa5eYfMOhIExBXOkNQw/s320/IMG_2185.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Before starting the hoisting of the mast, the Captain went over the instructions with the First Mate, so that they could synchronize their movements.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-KRPXX98QtMVkxBQtBSWoYtC-gz6hqZhEDyGw_HGvGa-E1PDzd64yfRVab1r8qQaGDPKllskkSjkQ5MqzUZa7KEk-6goEGztWhTdO73QM0QMZfA1IxQ-RHf9Bsj896WZqwL7UlP59SH5s_EXq85uddGqn02q-7tcjecOBZL62UjmggNNtkp5CuSwYSuI/s640/IMG_2187.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-KRPXX98QtMVkxBQtBSWoYtC-gz6hqZhEDyGw_HGvGa-E1PDzd64yfRVab1r8qQaGDPKllskkSjkQ5MqzUZa7KEk-6goEGztWhTdO73QM0QMZfA1IxQ-RHf9Bsj896WZqwL7UlP59SH5s_EXq85uddGqn02q-7tcjecOBZL62UjmggNNtkp5CuSwYSuI/s320/IMG_2187.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Attaching sheets, halyards, stays and shrouds can be confusing. A sheet is a word for a line being used to trim a sail. A halyard is a term for a cable used to hoist a sail. A stay is a piece of standing rigging which holds the mast up from the front and back (fore and aft). A shroud is a piece of standing rigging which holds the mast up from side to side. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CFoFlMzJvtA4GXmNYoVk9_8T0ZL0lkAGzVkIXyjgHGipBr8XJbP36ig-vxWqSkr3J8lIaM26ZIfcqqXBpQ8XXPvR28q769GbopQs1HueNmQsyT23s-FRvM3Xg2669uuvW2EbEIXk0G2riFm2A_0Ikd8p2elJiWNucQIQUGV4NwxgHExKknhOqElfUY8h/s640/IMG_2189.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8CFoFlMzJvtA4GXmNYoVk9_8T0ZL0lkAGzVkIXyjgHGipBr8XJbP36ig-vxWqSkr3J8lIaM26ZIfcqqXBpQ8XXPvR28q769GbopQs1HueNmQsyT23s-FRvM3Xg2669uuvW2EbEIXk0G2riFm2A_0Ikd8p2elJiWNucQIQUGV4NwxgHExKknhOqElfUY8h/s320/IMG_2189.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The First Mate is using a "block and tackle" system, to provide mechanical advantage to the Captain, as he raises the mast. A block and tackle is a system of two or more pulleys with a rope or cable threaded between them, used to lift heavy loads. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhC097zFPqmUipMSv7WajP7EMg7s9gdBF8v0hGK-CxlueXlmCE3YbX-QgEV3pDjLfvw1KosdhbpggxV_xZl6c6Dig6RnySlWevLYe_c9JzBaw2CMTYgt_Zuw-56io-0_E_4aIZNwUD7N94N4z1MiHHKUkd0Z4bAZiMBDlxeulvCrgoeKwUqZAKZnd6cMRi/s640/IMG_2194.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhC097zFPqmUipMSv7WajP7EMg7s9gdBF8v0hGK-CxlueXlmCE3YbX-QgEV3pDjLfvw1KosdhbpggxV_xZl6c6Dig6RnySlWevLYe_c9JzBaw2CMTYgt_Zuw-56io-0_E_4aIZNwUD7N94N4z1MiHHKUkd0Z4bAZiMBDlxeulvCrgoeKwUqZAKZnd6cMRi/s320/IMG_2194.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Success! The mast is finally upright!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdxYqckQgSxtqL92KJI3ewi2WcIqHRmvtbUm2V22lrCcL-8SNupUrQg90MAHp7S6HIgEVreJMahly5daQjLYxpuwzt6J7H3dSwFWxWRJYfmHf5DoCZxBZXaSLFnu_yOHO51D-ixhmF7KBcMrb3OnMnfaxzZkiOBYrDGsKR88WccfaCYlCEJxJk4-9CACH8/s640/IMG_2201.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdxYqckQgSxtqL92KJI3ewi2WcIqHRmvtbUm2V22lrCcL-8SNupUrQg90MAHp7S6HIgEVreJMahly5daQjLYxpuwzt6J7H3dSwFWxWRJYfmHf5DoCZxBZXaSLFnu_yOHO51D-ixhmF7KBcMrb3OnMnfaxzZkiOBYrDGsKR88WccfaCYlCEJxJk4-9CACH8/s320/IMG_2201.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Getting the correct amount of tension on the front support line of the mast takes some muscle!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhghCQ3i3GUBF7EE_b1115UKHdbtQZT7g54gCKyPzd5z9D2hy4qe_25pG3nCnqzJ6UBCEAKYksEAe5I04ulGfAYlBmCnhcX0IHXK-R-5w3PWOnolYTPSPDRDAzwWGnkCOE_fTiBQDTYEw4KrNUk7XMiOnp41xxAFMOgNIxL1iCJa9P0QYOTnuyvgS4HKaNP/s640/IMG_2214.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhghCQ3i3GUBF7EE_b1115UKHdbtQZT7g54gCKyPzd5z9D2hy4qe_25pG3nCnqzJ6UBCEAKYksEAe5I04ulGfAYlBmCnhcX0IHXK-R-5w3PWOnolYTPSPDRDAzwWGnkCOE_fTiBQDTYEw4KrNUk7XMiOnp41xxAFMOgNIxL1iCJa9P0QYOTnuyvgS4HKaNP/s320/IMG_2214.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>This photo shows why the sailboat cannot go down the highway once the mast has been put upright. It is too tall to go under bridges and would be knocking over power lines!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KSQnK-kpjYRCVOpVeUIWyUTY3cksy71CTDGv-ZR9qEYgLmor9Z4fOR0avExaGLpZYrVnOD2ATbAYdpDkIF442Uu3p0Ip9ZyiLiolAGaj3siY5qTNxFGe1ajI9LYWnORppZ22GtkNbsH4P4-kqpH0bzI8gB18yXo0gT8C6_AXxtUHnFvwz369ErHJal9x/s640/IMG_2218.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KSQnK-kpjYRCVOpVeUIWyUTY3cksy71CTDGv-ZR9qEYgLmor9Z4fOR0avExaGLpZYrVnOD2ATbAYdpDkIF442Uu3p0Ip9ZyiLiolAGaj3siY5qTNxFGe1ajI9LYWnORppZ22GtkNbsH4P4-kqpH0bzI8gB18yXo0gT8C6_AXxtUHnFvwz369ErHJal9x/s320/IMG_2218.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Sail is up! Hallelujah!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7H6Ow1IwHTKBQpy-8uKvmR2wKkuE7fIn6UqsUEe7eB8QMWzuAlYJ18j7Ni0OiMec1jIxXcht4A7CLoPMZ7rCsqItlHpPg5qX6njEPXTAfEhPZ38lYx9SvR7UFKxCBVFfu3wxI8Q6nRypPHpGuH9mesH_toORe2yGGFuAUwaYwOL_kX7yXLlSIxNu3C3g/s640/IMG_2225.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD7H6Ow1IwHTKBQpy-8uKvmR2wKkuE7fIn6UqsUEe7eB8QMWzuAlYJ18j7Ni0OiMec1jIxXcht4A7CLoPMZ7rCsqItlHpPg5qX6njEPXTAfEhPZ38lYx9SvR7UFKxCBVFfu3wxI8Q6nRypPHpGuH9mesH_toORe2yGGFuAUwaYwOL_kX7yXLlSIxNu3C3g/s320/IMG_2225.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />The First Mate looks happy that the sail is now fully installed!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBl7HuRCx5XDmBWLKdkVAhEf0AGL9XubYD0o2O4lQ0DAzGAPvll9mMn4gK6VqpLFSR5wfnVxlG-ceTyp47Fr2t-fs_4bUN58aFYcRFweMY3x7h_P9bo561qRP3x8C2-j9ItMpigMoy7kYtTwi3FaM5ORsh_RxJDFMrjdMmyZg9VFwtqBuPwpnO_seWO4PV/s640/IMG_2227.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBl7HuRCx5XDmBWLKdkVAhEf0AGL9XubYD0o2O4lQ0DAzGAPvll9mMn4gK6VqpLFSR5wfnVxlG-ceTyp47Fr2t-fs_4bUN58aFYcRFweMY3x7h_P9bo561qRP3x8C2-j9ItMpigMoy7kYtTwi3FaM5ORsh_RxJDFMrjdMmyZg9VFwtqBuPwpnO_seWO4PV/s320/IMG_2227.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>After the mainsail has been put inside its blue, protective cover around the boom, it is time to attach the jib. The jib is a triangular staysail ( triangular sail attached to the stay that holds the mast) that is set forward of the mast. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixxpjrLrnNcZc3ypD2pmHEcXiNVTnajavh0HaE4wiVmqZLduoGrDwrrQqCk40G7yu9HDqvHvhedQlaDzUjdGEUYxUQSgVN9C8YgKK2euQ0Pm2qkpMf6tZTA58q1-w9gI4WOfi9sCCbE07HfcQG2p5K7eGWfp4YdZ49n9BVuTYjWye3Tnkg5LU2-ywtsWby/s640/IMG_2229.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixxpjrLrnNcZc3ypD2pmHEcXiNVTnajavh0HaE4wiVmqZLduoGrDwrrQqCk40G7yu9HDqvHvhedQlaDzUjdGEUYxUQSgVN9C8YgKK2euQ0Pm2qkpMf6tZTA58q1-w9gI4WOfi9sCCbE07HfcQG2p5K7eGWfp4YdZ49n9BVuTYjWye3Tnkg5LU2-ywtsWby/s320/IMG_2229.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The jib is stored by wrapping it around the forward stay. Step 20 of the Captain's instructions say "Lace the Cunningham through the Cringle and keep it loose." I was not familiar with any of these terms, so I had to look them up, and this is what I learned: The Cunningham is a little string on the luff of the mainsail, just above the tack. If you pull it down it tightens the luff (edge of a fore-and-aft sail), and that is your upwind mode. You let it off for downwind mode. A Cringle is a loop or grommet at the corner of a sail to which a line is attached. In the photo below, the jib sail has been furled (wrapped) around the forestay.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIzAT2slPoK8lkH6mYMhyjsP51v6ztfLZ_HcmyxbXXRHNm3HEo7AEkSNht4cd7QcDQk9s8Lf6OMKG5_CKPQP6htg1RYUQxdkyACfHv2hvhzlkkPyzsJFhk5fOEsJdojtixipmQkTrWJJ4Imow--vLWXT61efpjbvK5JKlo4JHXSI0x8d_gvIlg3Oac4jFa/s640/IMG_2231%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIzAT2slPoK8lkH6mYMhyjsP51v6ztfLZ_HcmyxbXXRHNm3HEo7AEkSNht4cd7QcDQk9s8Lf6OMKG5_CKPQP6htg1RYUQxdkyACfHv2hvhzlkkPyzsJFhk5fOEsJdojtixipmQkTrWJJ4Imow--vLWXT61efpjbvK5JKlo4JHXSI0x8d_gvIlg3Oac4jFa/s320/IMG_2231%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The next-to-last step calls for attaching the Tiller and motor. A tiller is a lever used to turn the rudder of a boat from side to side. It is very important, because the boat does not have a "steering wheel"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ES1w4QckCPJb-cJ5E43QYUAyaq7DF4qFzKPtJPEk7TWmwdsPUUx5zIm31WsmWFbjWJjDq0Ou3Tz5G73dgdqb1u0ayHCXvxr3TdVdGzr0KceKAeaExwHunFfxnaBkkoar-kFbYIZglXFet8Fx6J3ggsQoAQMOhsdJ0g4ywXu0OW8wW76-iGDnGAMqHrzP/s640/IMG_2232.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ES1w4QckCPJb-cJ5E43QYUAyaq7DF4qFzKPtJPEk7TWmwdsPUUx5zIm31WsmWFbjWJjDq0Ou3Tz5G73dgdqb1u0ayHCXvxr3TdVdGzr0KceKAeaExwHunFfxnaBkkoar-kFbYIZglXFet8Fx6J3ggsQoAQMOhsdJ0g4ywXu0OW8wW76-iGDnGAMqHrzP/s320/IMG_2232.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Now it is time to back the trailer down into Lake Siskiyou, with the beautiful Mt. Shasta, in the background. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7nvz8JBazjd7MWB05vHzfJI5LJWQe96fSBw6fB38WWhiW_y6rWI_BQRh7gsbF4LWT_aTYugCmvWPsL97FZnnmLiHP6l-NMuJ0SvClmOaVeRC86zSa8bNBlg1m57E8yGtfWQ4k3UQzP-QHe_VU59PkHKl4u0fk4kFcyfblJurwAhIzpWXfzSMuWvuLdR6/s640/IMG_2242.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7nvz8JBazjd7MWB05vHzfJI5LJWQe96fSBw6fB38WWhiW_y6rWI_BQRh7gsbF4LWT_aTYugCmvWPsL97FZnnmLiHP6l-NMuJ0SvClmOaVeRC86zSa8bNBlg1m57E8yGtfWQ4k3UQzP-QHe_VU59PkHKl4u0fk4kFcyfblJurwAhIzpWXfzSMuWvuLdR6/s320/IMG_2242.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The boat is in the water, and the motor started ! This smile shows a happy Captain!<br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2mL9_UmsaTIgiEZSqBNw6uiS-aGTS_s3yrlVb5xmlPhpyCoXG99i3eO4aukQbaoKUGg7LYgVBcthxoxyexYUaUL_S0MnuNPDEYl1aRRZl-h__7bZDq-xjyfPmDa2JG1E5N64K95neM4KN4ibsVSeIDi9wWZNj2BzOmfSMcHvxEi_dGAYP2nLuju91GEl/s640/IMG_7240.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2mL9_UmsaTIgiEZSqBNw6uiS-aGTS_s3yrlVb5xmlPhpyCoXG99i3eO4aukQbaoKUGg7LYgVBcthxoxyexYUaUL_S0MnuNPDEYl1aRRZl-h__7bZDq-xjyfPmDa2JG1E5N64K95neM4KN4ibsVSeIDi9wWZNj2BzOmfSMcHvxEi_dGAYP2nLuju91GEl/s320/IMG_7240.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>As the mother of the Captain, I also have a big smile that the process went smoothly, with no injuries!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP0CaHjKqMpEDC_tTXIW5yk2x7-exfuNS0FWBS19lwIKh-VEDFnjXYuKUIeoVg6BUyjrRZLWpP4V7WNUcuBxVqzGXAx7pTECEbIoRMw0SajX9gxEhjQbu8xD9DBJd9bmw9VplEfrRLm-D9NK5h1gec-d1gQOZfBaLJXL43cKlCpWnm493DZeG3WcCwpbbX/s640/IMG_2250.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="640" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP0CaHjKqMpEDC_tTXIW5yk2x7-exfuNS0FWBS19lwIKh-VEDFnjXYuKUIeoVg6BUyjrRZLWpP4V7WNUcuBxVqzGXAx7pTECEbIoRMw0SajX9gxEhjQbu8xD9DBJd9bmw9VplEfrRLm-D9NK5h1gec-d1gQOZfBaLJXL43cKlCpWnm493DZeG3WcCwpbbX/s320/IMG_2250.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Captain and First Mate made a good team in rigging the boat and getting it in the water; and, those big smiles reflect their satisfaction!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAsKeKW782alwcEorZvTaRmdSaDWkhr0unr72aRnXEDMIlDoYRDA8qT8Wb-K-9eLCijWF7RrGjay0mBH2eGHx4_2IAy8TpIzzY7DazZcPyjFeb6kdgvQ3TjVlJjWOa7OFqT7nyJhZI08d4Nj-QpgiXmYRaOG3os6gqgLPh_Wbe8UU023FHTM9JnUyysJw/s640/IMG_2251.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAsKeKW782alwcEorZvTaRmdSaDWkhr0unr72aRnXEDMIlDoYRDA8qT8Wb-K-9eLCijWF7RrGjay0mBH2eGHx4_2IAy8TpIzzY7DazZcPyjFeb6kdgvQ3TjVlJjWOa7OFqT7nyJhZI08d4Nj-QpgiXmYRaOG3os6gqgLPh_Wbe8UU023FHTM9JnUyysJw/s320/IMG_2251.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>This photo shows the "furled" sail, lines, and stays, serving as a "frame"for Mt. Shasta. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucZxnf68pXxXRykUOKhHjHQoptVSFdjtW7NlOo9gcf98YgAtXvzNTChTJKCywN69dmgEZH0JC8Xb9JyPO6prHDUq2WKXLT_zMos5DRwOrzbkz-orww6LYRaJkagsYsyB1cnTX25RrokVr6NRwTZqSwZarBrCKhkDDGgUO1lmEOBLsGsYin9bgza5cLlT3/s640/IMG_2271.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucZxnf68pXxXRykUOKhHjHQoptVSFdjtW7NlOo9gcf98YgAtXvzNTChTJKCywN69dmgEZH0JC8Xb9JyPO6prHDUq2WKXLT_zMos5DRwOrzbkz-orww6LYRaJkagsYsyB1cnTX25RrokVr6NRwTZqSwZarBrCKhkDDGgUO1lmEOBLsGsYin9bgza5cLlT3/s320/IMG_2271.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Looks like the Captain or First Mate took a photo of me, as I sat on the bow enjoying snapping pictures with my phone!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRue5GHfRrVGAQ5ASwISfDolx4HW_sP-EaW6Kq9INmtWWjPQu-EcFCVeEXBfpIFRWVeI5RBCCWAVFYTka2NAMjpbQKEpbXLIcp973Hfx_Yh2lhIhYvfDxf0aam7tcqniXURfTrKx5Wrn0lSP8rhwwgpSu0_TdrUSApAOE1WfeizqrjMlTKsWFqloIvXsFU/s640/IMG_7244.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRue5GHfRrVGAQ5ASwISfDolx4HW_sP-EaW6Kq9INmtWWjPQu-EcFCVeEXBfpIFRWVeI5RBCCWAVFYTka2NAMjpbQKEpbXLIcp973Hfx_Yh2lhIhYvfDxf0aam7tcqniXURfTrKx5Wrn0lSP8rhwwgpSu0_TdrUSApAOE1WfeizqrjMlTKsWFqloIvXsFU/s320/IMG_7244.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The photo below shows the Captain and First Mate in the "aft" section of the boat, with Mt. Shasta in the background.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8lF91ZA1Cj68I3GqaRZy-M7gFUz_yxERu-XsMxcgU_Hb-woyLKuroi6SUczrVJwc_v1xug8Jk_vyStR_9PP0tmJ5RgpLXI_VruCER7-7NS9ZI72Cy1-etPpkfF3egTjDiD0zuybik-uraQQGrFenQuDqrrG9iQWBOQGA50t6S4UnV-Rcou4lFUpiOUWzw/s640/IMG_2287.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8lF91ZA1Cj68I3GqaRZy-M7gFUz_yxERu-XsMxcgU_Hb-woyLKuroi6SUczrVJwc_v1xug8Jk_vyStR_9PP0tmJ5RgpLXI_VruCER7-7NS9ZI72Cy1-etPpkfF3egTjDiD0zuybik-uraQQGrFenQuDqrrG9iQWBOQGA50t6S4UnV-Rcou4lFUpiOUWzw/s320/IMG_2287.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />After successfully maneuvering the boat back to the dock, it is time to set the mooring lines, to assure the boat will stay secure and ready for its next sailing. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0a4gw_3ojOkQ17Nw3EBGYKUz4HH-vSsmYkqRx_nRgzzaZ5pv7FbJM8vJWJmr0iT16d1EPgGBR3o_6eKkOK88Ta-d_2P4etijEd1Bc7xU3USP9o8JdPt8LMURa8VXpWVmTqIY-gbiSQiheBKEqIKMzcn-WrzEe5iEQtsm1xpNFV35HxHRUNcizjIHYCfC/s640/IMG_2300.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic0a4gw_3ojOkQ17Nw3EBGYKUz4HH-vSsmYkqRx_nRgzzaZ5pv7FbJM8vJWJmr0iT16d1EPgGBR3o_6eKkOK88Ta-d_2P4etijEd1Bc7xU3USP9o8JdPt8LMURa8VXpWVmTqIY-gbiSQiheBKEqIKMzcn-WrzEe5iEQtsm1xpNFV35HxHRUNcizjIHYCfC/s320/IMG_2300.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Procedures and guidelines written on the "How to Rig" instruction sheet, had to be "obeyed" in order to make the sailboat function as it was intended, so that it can be the "treasured possession" of its Captain. Likewise, God's Word has guidelines that will help us function as we were created to function. Thus, the sailboat rigging guidelines and photos, provide the visual aid for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses, that also talks about the importance of "obeying guidelines." It says, "Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession." Exodus 19:5<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVaLtnHkTGNOya66hMx04IzjmefvsSLUolK-qyQfEpMPIq72_Kui9-1mivM08g3ciBjuC4OMiA5GUBa6TNIrIIKQYlN3T-cN1LM95N8yGfURDA2MFg3EJMBwK45rNtsXEzfxzjStMtqB4zKyT01aoqsyUPQzpHoPcyPY2TILH6sFm1_CDDgqZLbgo64kj/s2016/IMG_2219%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVaLtnHkTGNOya66hMx04IzjmefvsSLUolK-qyQfEpMPIq72_Kui9-1mivM08g3ciBjuC4OMiA5GUBa6TNIrIIKQYlN3T-cN1LM95N8yGfURDA2MFg3EJMBwK45rNtsXEzfxzjStMtqB4zKyT01aoqsyUPQzpHoPcyPY2TILH6sFm1_CDDgqZLbgo64kj/s320/IMG_2219%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Getting to watch the process of rigging a sailboat, and then getting on board the boat, for a cruise with my loved ones, around an azure blue lake, with the majestic Mt. Shasta in the background, gave me "MILES OF SMILES!" Tricia<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-60570135052416357032023-09-12T07:00:00.000-05:002023-09-12T09:03:11.152-05:00MOUNT SEQUOYAH EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpvhWxfrz63qpATcDOK84aOCuc0nh1XBJJ0O2fRH1odJfDH8cqGPKGe1tePZN_AsU-kAasQ7ofRFRdeGm-n_7KLWM0Cj01xAtQfKKJjy-X80thlHXhUjgsXSXq9PWDuenkF7MHfjIhPX-0Pmuv7KjBflFFL-lYW0tMXqxRX-b9QtrOpOV0r7UxvrC787Z-/s320/IMG_4067.jpg" width="320" />The mural shown in this photo uses the space inside the big block letters that spell out Mount Sequoyah to show you glimpses of all there is to discover at this incredible location. Likewise, I will try to use this blog post to share with you, the enjoyable visit I spent on that famous mountain recently.<br /></div><br /> This photo shows the original native stone columns at the main entrance of the property, that hold the big swinging gates, purposely left open, to show that all are welcome. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4yLd4kv5Gbnsuv5dtam8OHjmAQofoH9PT-p7RfipiydXOC1ia0RjIaHEMNBjkReG00IqEWu9CqOXLR5TKhoOZFVq9GUNxmyPWQDc58bvhoYGOqKZqEuWzScCCx8BvR6ZtQcIASmZM0qmp-w2Q2_8srQrj1dV2MzW-Uj9gFUK2Ufqp9tvkVyHSpk4lBSn5/s640/IMG_4116.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4yLd4kv5Gbnsuv5dtam8OHjmAQofoH9PT-p7RfipiydXOC1ia0RjIaHEMNBjkReG00IqEWu9CqOXLR5TKhoOZFVq9GUNxmyPWQDc58bvhoYGOqKZqEuWzScCCx8BvR6ZtQcIASmZM0qmp-w2Q2_8srQrj1dV2MzW-Uj9gFUK2Ufqp9tvkVyHSpk4lBSn5/w320-h240/IMG_4116.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>If you are familiar with Fayetteville, Arkansas, the way it was decades ago, you may remember that this property used to be called the Mount Sequoyah Assembly. It was founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church as a summer retreat, spiritual center and training facility. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivG0j6URnCtPR64unJ9U2mEzOIxPNA5Wn3rdPXS1znJ4TO_t9iCUbPUH1CzKxVm23E4k4XIM96wwCBadhIVpkEQRB0EyQqr0gk-vcAQyHsaax8Ko1wmqI7EggGsZhu44x2I1Jb36-tg86mHspc6Hu9cqSGQpCrUR3FjTM6pSw3wy8SaiKVdMClviJs7sRq/s640/IMG_4034.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivG0j6URnCtPR64unJ9U2mEzOIxPNA5Wn3rdPXS1znJ4TO_t9iCUbPUH1CzKxVm23E4k4XIM96wwCBadhIVpkEQRB0EyQqr0gk-vcAQyHsaax8Ko1wmqI7EggGsZhu44x2I1Jb36-tg86mHspc6Hu9cqSGQpCrUR3FjTM6pSw3wy8SaiKVdMClviJs7sRq/s320/IMG_4034.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was there to attend a three-day, two-night conference on urban forestry. I was doing this activity to get the continuing education hours I needed to maintain my annual certification as an Arkansas Master Naturalist (www.arkansasmasternaturalists.org). My room was on the second floor of Yancey Lodge, built around mid-century of 1900. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxm1bK2dwKZKoVGdAE5fehKcg5ZaY0HfcRTXbCL35CosZri3Uk7tREeWiggeGJa3Aw4dVHq0-mnzJxdBe3Wy7eZLjKmqRBlwiOOtshgtCXNuc9FaKMXEC1-ufNz-IUZ7T5fQeM8HoEdvm_ndpwIKBxJdmr_FfvmuNvtcE94ZTgwqoqJfSoNhSQov_0wcGP/s640/IMG_4039.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxm1bK2dwKZKoVGdAE5fehKcg5ZaY0HfcRTXbCL35CosZri3Uk7tREeWiggeGJa3Aw4dVHq0-mnzJxdBe3Wy7eZLjKmqRBlwiOOtshgtCXNuc9FaKMXEC1-ufNz-IUZ7T5fQeM8HoEdvm_ndpwIKBxJdmr_FfvmuNvtcE94ZTgwqoqJfSoNhSQov_0wcGP/s320/IMG_4039.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div>I was glad to see, that like almost all the hotels I stay in, there was a Gideon Bible in the drawer of the bedside table in my room.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCbPXJQZlKid9iMZQ_XTVAeDTz_C6NhZOIk1Xt0xE3lDe_fzum6sdQ793lBMWTiavuyypQlxeQlt8u8Ba0Q8fXrMzgKiHBH8ZOFx0lMz3hgsDz8-VHCCuIiQgD12Us2b9FBbMvgKIVt0M1JnlLZTypeOzAmOti69VLxxdI4c7k6myl94o9JVcxvHUx4ga/s320/IMG_4038.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had a nice view of this sculpture from my room. If you look in the center of the sculpture, you will see the famous Mount Sequoyah cross <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIYGNbLSOVMt-cl6savgqKyd_Oag4g61nmJg3s5r5WSSc3NjUvOpNj_VLuseBtZr1HQoLwcn4fFe2-Fa05lXksY5TS14L2k3XMf-i54VYBNYuX5B4dZNQr1Eg6ncsyZnX9szNJCYca0qf0Xm9ZLYm-H9DUnVkeoanSlExPVdwmmOMzwxw36i9zHZ3NFys/s640/IMG_4047.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIYGNbLSOVMt-cl6savgqKyd_Oag4g61nmJg3s5r5WSSc3NjUvOpNj_VLuseBtZr1HQoLwcn4fFe2-Fa05lXksY5TS14L2k3XMf-i54VYBNYuX5B4dZNQr1Eg6ncsyZnX9szNJCYca0qf0Xm9ZLYm-H9DUnVkeoanSlExPVdwmmOMzwxw36i9zHZ3NFys/s320/IMG_4047.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />From my room in Yancey Lodge (which faces the street where the cross is situated), I could follow the stone sidewalk, walk between the native stone columns, and be at the location of one of the best outdoor viewpoints in all of Fayetteville, Arkansas!<br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8fUFbDm4rXcjFCjAMSIIf8ldMaZQnaa9D_YazUu_FSX45iOfx_IzWvgbGfITY_2JQllYpq0ZRKtshELuLUd4AWjectS1M97wLksidqEnKbIfxUXtXrFF470MQ2RmWxP_AuVCr8Q2R5-m6FrYih9C4D67cS5aHlySNbD_gC7TkH8hNxJm2IVbzM-woE1M/s640/IMG_4048.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8fUFbDm4rXcjFCjAMSIIf8ldMaZQnaa9D_YazUu_FSX45iOfx_IzWvgbGfITY_2JQllYpq0ZRKtshELuLUd4AWjectS1M97wLksidqEnKbIfxUXtXrFF470MQ2RmWxP_AuVCr8Q2R5-m6FrYih9C4D67cS5aHlySNbD_gC7TkH8hNxJm2IVbzM-woE1M/s320/IMG_4048.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>My room also looked out over the area known as Vesper Point. When I attended church camp, Vespers was what we called the evening prayer gathering. The word originates from Old French vespre, from Latin vesper ("evening star"). <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8oPv1k5ORvvF1xnZZZkdRVRVwMy1WSUkJjAqbU--5SRErYkkib86oqD9Ms7---bZXtyPIw_4LTm8dbx7O2zaKIox-NGFJmuYH_u4HdBiMYfDWoO7_cF8ZwZim80q7m7n-DDp0mx28R3EIFAb0tGa61cl_XZbf6XoCjLiL6nv_Fn9t6IORXseijho83tKl/s640/IMG_4042.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8oPv1k5ORvvF1xnZZZkdRVRVwMy1WSUkJjAqbU--5SRErYkkib86oqD9Ms7---bZXtyPIw_4LTm8dbx7O2zaKIox-NGFJmuYH_u4HdBiMYfDWoO7_cF8ZwZim80q7m7n-DDp0mx28R3EIFAb0tGa61cl_XZbf6XoCjLiL6nv_Fn9t6IORXseijho83tKl/s320/IMG_4042.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />When I was in college decades ago in Fayetteville, we could pull our cars up to the very edge of the wall, that was just high enough to keep your tires from accidentally rolling off the mountain. Now, large, metal, farm watering troughs, have been repurposed to serve as planters for flowers, and to block off the former parking lot, so that it is free for pedestrians to stroll through. Those who drive cars to the view point can park their cars within the Mount Sequoyah grounds, near the Vespers Point area. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeCInttI2Eyi9PuTj-ldqjTh3glweeAVGpF2WY5GtYD_ILEo3oVz6X-eZEKlRIFYgaTgKa24tMpJ_kZl7ibqV9D8DdgqyaM07tHv96LZZvJ080unXsnCZv7wca54iXga7itApNYt61ZblAY7CAp2KHaQQlg_TTsxcHCrPHGOatTajJkQYyhVka7MJKPOOj/s640/IMG_4058.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeCInttI2Eyi9PuTj-ldqjTh3glweeAVGpF2WY5GtYD_ILEo3oVz6X-eZEKlRIFYgaTgKa24tMpJ_kZl7ibqV9D8DdgqyaM07tHv96LZZvJ080unXsnCZv7wca54iXga7itApNYt61ZblAY7CAp2KHaQQlg_TTsxcHCrPHGOatTajJkQYyhVka7MJKPOOj/s320/IMG_4058.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>There are tennis courts on the perimeter of the property, and the MUCH larger than life tennis racket and tennis ball, assure that no one mistakes this area for anything but tennis!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArgUlrUPZwne-R-u17yYBhipucpzH4ZxbeUGWClHLyFehDX94_edz1isMEOcP9k7OQkiQXsFTS7cuqIX0-unttyOY7VsQarkwFL6kxnInvQsn8TYTB5QSCFXzldhlx8SxkE4HkXk36gTFsv01fyIF7badIA9yr3KWkNnH4CN3uBudyS68RBV0kMxuJ58m/s640/IMG_4072.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhArgUlrUPZwne-R-u17yYBhipucpzH4ZxbeUGWClHLyFehDX94_edz1isMEOcP9k7OQkiQXsFTS7cuqIX0-unttyOY7VsQarkwFL6kxnInvQsn8TYTB5QSCFXzldhlx8SxkE4HkXk36gTFsv01fyIF7badIA9yr3KWkNnH4CN3uBudyS68RBV0kMxuJ58m/s320/IMG_4072.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Although I was tempted, I did not attempt to ring the large bell at the Waddell Bell Tower. Back in the days before everyone had a cell phone in their pocket, a bell that could be heard from miles away, was a handy tool to alert folks that something important was happening!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kK7ClAp7hPiDKI02qdM8SGJzW3RVU5kmNyHig9LQRGGGUubphZHf7iK59-eXcIRdYkuIY_XBK2GXmjxtUHsUA0xYxjXp3FdJz07Zjikbq9oWqZ5Ho-kLn_GB0BO5097j9f-wqYb7UpEZ1o37vZ6gC1rBRsJ_T9eR66og-yzRN6gRpYBZHKPPImWDV9MZ/s698/IMG_4983.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="698" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kK7ClAp7hPiDKI02qdM8SGJzW3RVU5kmNyHig9LQRGGGUubphZHf7iK59-eXcIRdYkuIY_XBK2GXmjxtUHsUA0xYxjXp3FdJz07Zjikbq9oWqZ5Ho-kLn_GB0BO5097j9f-wqYb7UpEZ1o37vZ6gC1rBRsJ_T9eR66og-yzRN6gRpYBZHKPPImWDV9MZ/s320/IMG_4983.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>On my walk around the perimeter of the Mount Sequoyah property, I came across the unmistakable architecture of the well known Fayetteville architect, E. Fay Jones. I had to smile when I saw that the home also had a signature-designed E. Fay Jones mailbox, because back in the last century my husband and I were in our pickup truck, leaving a gathering at an E. Fay Jones-designed home in Harrison, Arkansas. Unfortunately, in the darkness (this was before the days of backup cameras on the dash board), my husband backed over our hosts' famous mailbox, and high-centered the truck on top of it, so that the tires were spinning in the air and going nowhere! The guests who were still inside the house came outside to see what the commotion was all about. One of the guests was an attorney. She handed my husband her business card, and said, "You have just destroyed the most expensive mail box in Boone County. You are probably going to need a lawyer." Fortunately, insurance helped cover the replacement costs! Later, I heard that the daughter of the host, who was a classmate of my son, was chatting with my son and others, and commented that "some redneck doctor from Mountain Home demolished our architect-designed mailbox Saturday night." My son never let on like he knew what she was talking about, or that he was well acquainted with that "red neck doctor" she referenced!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiSzSYQjcMLrEoczUnJMV7ZfrOA4PiN1PWefZDief8tMqgHl48VBK02_kBM5mOr5vpRJy6bnPCkh7KYL8JwMsJTrU2lkW-dKB_gaTQGmOuIKOvYCYAXjw1h13ns5gid9Fg3hSfBzL6th_l-ETnaDyhQoeO9YNaxmD5ZewwbzU34BEIMrBRV6TuNCL__BI/s750/IMG_4985.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="397" data-original-width="750" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXiSzSYQjcMLrEoczUnJMV7ZfrOA4PiN1PWefZDief8tMqgHl48VBK02_kBM5mOr5vpRJy6bnPCkh7KYL8JwMsJTrU2lkW-dKB_gaTQGmOuIKOvYCYAXjw1h13ns5gid9Fg3hSfBzL6th_l-ETnaDyhQoeO9YNaxmD5ZewwbzU34BEIMrBRV6TuNCL__BI/s320/IMG_4985.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Toward the east of the E. Fay Jones house, there is a hiking/mountain biking trail that leads from the top of the mountain, down to a public street, near Crossover Road in Fayetteville. I can assure you it is easier hiking down this mountain, than starting from the lower end, and hiking upward (which is what I had done a year earlier---at least till I gave out and turned back!)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIA8zrI9OaA0nd0MFxVVKnCFmhXJJmA_HzNzy91UGpwa-ePMXH3FUEzudDyot6PNTbaO0nEl6OpyFlurwLdamkVlBssKAUr5ZSt52edk0VUEWoZWWnSlvxAET2n0co8eobf8tvWoIJajuHXyxl2zfrw5aOoJ7rNql1_f6OSv5p_x0ipTFTDyDPku4al5Jc/s640/IMG_4064.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIA8zrI9OaA0nd0MFxVVKnCFmhXJJmA_HzNzy91UGpwa-ePMXH3FUEzudDyot6PNTbaO0nEl6OpyFlurwLdamkVlBssKAUr5ZSt52edk0VUEWoZWWnSlvxAET2n0co8eobf8tvWoIJajuHXyxl2zfrw5aOoJ7rNql1_f6OSv5p_x0ipTFTDyDPku4al5Jc/s320/IMG_4064.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The Arkansas pioneers built their fences out of what was readily available, and that was native stone, or trees. The perimeter of the Mount Sequoyah property, is defined by this old-fashioned split rail fence. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeiNBNp1EJNRqDQ3eepAhprprd9jFx1v7wMEO9I3RwUqOGod0hAFr4_kOoMM4EO3xwBMiaC3oiCVoHHCB9J8ahGor9HLOfkPJB_h_YDeBhAhI2p6aA_BpTl-2HL2n-XRcAZI-aZKixVjQDH66bqiTKojUNRJZCk2DYnjg0DDxMMhyAnXg_pWz8TNTRnx7H/s640/IMG_4112.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeiNBNp1EJNRqDQ3eepAhprprd9jFx1v7wMEO9I3RwUqOGod0hAFr4_kOoMM4EO3xwBMiaC3oiCVoHHCB9J8ahGor9HLOfkPJB_h_YDeBhAhI2p6aA_BpTl-2HL2n-XRcAZI-aZKixVjQDH66bqiTKojUNRJZCk2DYnjg0DDxMMhyAnXg_pWz8TNTRnx7H/s320/IMG_4112.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This newly-reconfigured seating area around the Mount Sequoyah cross has become a popular gathering spot in Fayetteville, for "Sunset Ceremonies", like the ones in Key West, Florida. It is even listed as one of the "Top Ten" free things to do in Fayetteville!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrSva9hNsE-zmQmCk7y1bFOyoxlX_nqANERLVNYdTVdeNLmyFDsj4hYhaQszENb96ofdw25QXpcd-szVG9AVmozUnjkpIXWVIWhFgAn1s_CewhHrvodo6R8GWw-bbodhobJ8n6-GyN5l97l7R3MhYX1y37iCZyPR0aYJjzMWQzs2SbOnwuSyrCWZFfOja/s640/IMG_4094.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrSva9hNsE-zmQmCk7y1bFOyoxlX_nqANERLVNYdTVdeNLmyFDsj4hYhaQszENb96ofdw25QXpcd-szVG9AVmozUnjkpIXWVIWhFgAn1s_CewhHrvodo6R8GWw-bbodhobJ8n6-GyN5l97l7R3MhYX1y37iCZyPR0aYJjzMWQzs2SbOnwuSyrCWZFfOja/s320/IMG_4094.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Lots of people were there, taking lots of photos; so it was easy to offer to take photos of others, after which they obligingly took a photo of me by the cross. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvXQf856PvMZVnDdGZRZodIY-vTbniTnmeNGTYdKPuNwbvITWxvGto6zATExbMAThQnt92Ecv_kGZvbY89fMRpAykHKsgbhn_prgjkQlVK71v_bUA3M7gbqN5EgT1LizN4ZIKw7lOHtwjb5_ajaluGvOwg3wNpakeO4APw3g4ekvjIYd_rKaTZ-U8fSat/s640/IMG_4091.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvXQf856PvMZVnDdGZRZodIY-vTbniTnmeNGTYdKPuNwbvITWxvGto6zATExbMAThQnt92Ecv_kGZvbY89fMRpAykHKsgbhn_prgjkQlVK71v_bUA3M7gbqN5EgT1LizN4ZIKw7lOHtwjb5_ajaluGvOwg3wNpakeO4APw3g4ekvjIYd_rKaTZ-U8fSat/s320/IMG_4091.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>When I was sitting on the rock wall that borders the street where the cross is located, I came across something I had never seen on my previous visits to this place. The metal marker was dated 1935, and had an address in Washington, D.C., one could write for more information. There was a warning about a $250 fine for "disturbing" the marker, so I left it as I found it! The geological marker is shown below:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldNFhkGha0qEa3ENlGHoMWCqg2Tvd_afBlP6wHmHtL6P7mqLA-Vce9tuJzmutevjls3uKF0IMJi4LlgRRb85N_SPtnyhaA19stp9HQ5NTBPSBON4hL4W9iMmxhzSsss56hmydnPNFjS027k98_GLgGXEadLN0CktRwuSoGnA6CmM2oVturZZSffsTfrBe/s640/IMG_4097.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldNFhkGha0qEa3ENlGHoMWCqg2Tvd_afBlP6wHmHtL6P7mqLA-Vce9tuJzmutevjls3uKF0IMJi4LlgRRb85N_SPtnyhaA19stp9HQ5NTBPSBON4hL4W9iMmxhzSsss56hmydnPNFjS027k98_GLgGXEadLN0CktRwuSoGnA6CmM2oVturZZSffsTfrBe/s320/IMG_4097.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />From the location of the cross, one can see the towers of Old Main adorned in light, on the campus of the University of Arkansas. It will tell you how ancient I am, by mentioning that I actually had classes in Old Main, which was my freshman Honors English class, taught by Mrs. Eisley. It was a wonderful class that I am eternally grateful to Mrs. Eisley for teaching. That is because she used the Book of Psalms as her reference for teaching poetry. Up until that point, the only psalm I could remember reading was the 23rd Psalm, so it was an eye-opening experience to go through that book with an English teacher, pointing out the similes, and metaphors and rhythmic chants found within the pages of the psalms. These days, classes are no longer held within Old Main, but it remains a treasured symbol of the University of Arkansas. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUoV7GSxWUF0T2j6MSoPB8FEC1P3MZFetzEAMMLx4pXr9jlaAK3KokS9dgG5iHlt1CvNsY9RWRaopplRNtAUktXHYlAcQUkkk_u1uwGH-Kxk7gV0q5XeJ43HaO3elK6HlHVHgMamcdGPF5lffP80kfZbfWfDK91y-FVXAll1nQkAXFEPTnYR6w529Sw9u7/s640/IMG_4100.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUoV7GSxWUF0T2j6MSoPB8FEC1P3MZFetzEAMMLx4pXr9jlaAK3KokS9dgG5iHlt1CvNsY9RWRaopplRNtAUktXHYlAcQUkkk_u1uwGH-Kxk7gV0q5XeJ43HaO3elK6HlHVHgMamcdGPF5lffP80kfZbfWfDK91y-FVXAll1nQkAXFEPTnYR6w529Sw9u7/s320/IMG_4100.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As I mentioned in the beginning, my reason for being at the Mt. Sequoyah center, was to attend a continuing education conference on Urban Forestry. So our group went to visit some "Urban Trees", that are SO remarkable, they get a special plaque proclaiming their prominence, and are called Champion Trees. You can learn more about them by going to the website for the Arkansas Department of Agriculture, at www.agriculture.arkansas.gov . The left photo shows me beside the marker for the Arkansas-record-holding sugar maple tree, which is located in the Confederate Cemetery in Fayetteville. Years earlier, I had taken my grandkids to see that same Champion Sugar Maple Tree, and their photo in front of the tree, is seen on the right. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8mpAkHA6sZlV-Em_rrsVnY2ewPbi4OZu93xls_8fzZgOAbURsrjZPKfNP1mw-da5BiaCHCPWxHCD2JuHJB3bw-7bbB_M1X3sLbHwzLmttKEb1r5n_c_dSc4nrgaBThEnmlrbqNT9UWLHutaHXDj7EJmkp8rOtm5uzKtPpGHAQFF3hnq9eGHDmz7kQ5o5/s736/IMG_4984.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="389" data-original-width="736" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg8mpAkHA6sZlV-Em_rrsVnY2ewPbi4OZu93xls_8fzZgOAbURsrjZPKfNP1mw-da5BiaCHCPWxHCD2JuHJB3bw-7bbB_M1X3sLbHwzLmttKEb1r5n_c_dSc4nrgaBThEnmlrbqNT9UWLHutaHXDj7EJmkp8rOtm5uzKtPpGHAQFF3hnq9eGHDmz7kQ5o5/s320/IMG_4984.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Our next visit was the incredibly designed Fayetteville Public Library. Our purpose at this location was to see the sustainable landscaping placed around the library, funded in part, by a grant from the Forestry Division of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture. A staff member from that agency guided our tour of the exterior. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8E5Yigs4WXyQDcygTVKoWeEFGExLZB-36Xw_QrSc7AVOWP-RgjslYOZa2ietxlOCVc_cvo-Vcculuozz1incKs8EEB4GTKzmB2qBMf4B8lpCRKF1Cxf1mEHKx7m2JMi01oNBfo2mnSddPRQaRGPFsuV44KEt-YSSFjAtHGGEYNTkb1ZesJXrBwC9muyZd/s640/IMG_4230.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8E5Yigs4WXyQDcygTVKoWeEFGExLZB-36Xw_QrSc7AVOWP-RgjslYOZa2ietxlOCVc_cvo-Vcculuozz1incKs8EEB4GTKzmB2qBMf4B8lpCRKF1Cxf1mEHKx7m2JMi01oNBfo2mnSddPRQaRGPFsuV44KEt-YSSFjAtHGGEYNTkb1ZesJXrBwC9muyZd/s320/IMG_4230.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>After the outdoor tour at the library, we headed indoors for a tour of the dendrology lab on the campus of the University of Arkansas. We were honored to get to meet the head of their dendrology lab, the world-renown, Dr. Davis Stahle, shown in photo below. He explained the scientific research that his graduate students are conducting using tree rings, as indicators of climate change and ecological conditions. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpiPxY4j_EGDUwme_1kSck9uLv2Sa53GCXfKkhCM8ip7AThcii23i7_VGUFxzA7XiTpEzEGAls5UR-kg5MIWVj_jCDR_QvPwvlK98O6E3OYaYv3F04lXdq6qDWyQLJpHTOIh-NZ5dvQllvyBjRSJApTV737rgcZb79qoUUSrU0ROcYSlkQT1kumDs958B/s640/IMG_4253.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcpiPxY4j_EGDUwme_1kSck9uLv2Sa53GCXfKkhCM8ip7AThcii23i7_VGUFxzA7XiTpEzEGAls5UR-kg5MIWVj_jCDR_QvPwvlK98O6E3OYaYv3F04lXdq6qDWyQLJpHTOIh-NZ5dvQllvyBjRSJApTV737rgcZb79qoUUSrU0ROcYSlkQT1kumDs958B/s320/IMG_4253.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>We were able to crowd together for a group photo in the hallway outside his office:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyCILkicWPPMbSP-CCaK2wIXxMmC7sPKW3pQDXPDDbVzO3uu6Wuxi-ioQI0ocFI3_eLzaySZnkQMoDdofFWfhKiGDHP-M91lPPCtji7LY0mhpmz0a-OdTaAp73_If-BQlStxx3YL7RBSkt0jz9eYH_ctNyjArHWsyB1gT7C7kj9greiQm-mHTCqlbj_Q1/s320/IMG_4295.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I liked having my photo made between these two massive tree cookies, because the number of rings on them show that they are even older than I am!<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFOxHXjvBX_QzCaXpPi8wSYTDyz5eTy0Rp9yHINFv7MOuRXXGHhk6R5EQLIyfVF1Io4e7b4Rhnkl8ZR0No5fc2E0UMA0vK-ygRsMHQAnfH6Kb1Btm9TqgeelZ_ZeWLhNEpZ9F4G7ane5NQ3GsY3o-ohqqOP_1g-SC4nqVmoC6efNueYTrYK1CxhCovZHP/s640/IMG_4304.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">I<img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFOxHXjvBX_QzCaXpPi8wSYTDyz5eTy0Rp9yHINFv7MOuRXXGHhk6R5EQLIyfVF1Io4e7b4Rhnkl8ZR0No5fc2E0UMA0vK-ygRsMHQAnfH6Kb1Btm9TqgeelZ_ZeWLhNEpZ9F4G7ane5NQ3GsY3o-ohqqOP_1g-SC4nqVmoC6efNueYTrYK1CxhCovZHP/s320/IMG_4304.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another part of our conference was learning about the work an urban forester must consider when it is time for a tree to come down, because it is diseased, or otherwise compromised. It is one thing to cut down a single tree in the middle of a field, but quite another to take down a tree with in a stand of tree, surrounded by historic buildings! It is not a time to use "guesstimates"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBJasiaydK2zYr3bZrNexT9KjNpKFSsTTP9Qzisq_gxUNNxrRnW_ANK8mwXEPFzfjxiBwYWfN7sLQxudeX3iKSb-Gxeox6FUBWvuSKnC-y461vKDQWMgpZ9z3HeMbIb3_xThw8nuIWvXA7crvL0-kcTHvP4DnU-nZaPVq3bO2ZfXJ4ogzDQexKxDQ3Uul/s640/IMG_4203.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBJasiaydK2zYr3bZrNexT9KjNpKFSsTTP9Qzisq_gxUNNxrRnW_ANK8mwXEPFzfjxiBwYWfN7sLQxudeX3iKSb-Gxeox6FUBWvuSKnC-y461vKDQWMgpZ9z3HeMbIb3_xThw8nuIWvXA7crvL0-kcTHvP4DnU-nZaPVq3bO2ZfXJ4ogzDQexKxDQ3Uul/s320/IMG_4203.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p>This professional gave us a presentation of all the equipment they use when taking down an urban tree, always keeping safety top of mind. (Notice the harness he is wearing, plus a protective eye shield and microphone extending from his helmet) The two-way radio system allows the operator on the ground to communicate with the operator within the elevated bucket. We learned the difference between a dendrologist, who does scientific studies of trees, whereas an arborist works with living trees.<br /></p><p> The sign in the photo below shows who the sponsors of this workshop were: The Arkansas Department of Agriculture Forestry Division, the Urban and Community Forestry group, as well as the Arkansas Forestry Educational Foundation (www.arkforests.org)<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_juFSGi3bmIs3rc2yDsWrdpcwdNpzGItGB4JpsDq-L31tlqUGXsjNujwGduuJL3kGREgkBI72RrdvP4RVOuUghxBLlTYNqSU68CrRVp_mn1DJ0j3b9_aKBZeeowjXP64DMjyQtMiDlC5JDJ_WIMcJrCLuwMwlRkAmDjrjioU1-qrboJbv4b8TmOyX6SBT/s640/IMG_4168%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_juFSGi3bmIs3rc2yDsWrdpcwdNpzGItGB4JpsDq-L31tlqUGXsjNujwGduuJL3kGREgkBI72RrdvP4RVOuUghxBLlTYNqSU68CrRVp_mn1DJ0j3b9_aKBZeeowjXP64DMjyQtMiDlC5JDJ_WIMcJrCLuwMwlRkAmDjrjioU1-qrboJbv4b8TmOyX6SBT/s320/IMG_4168%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>To find out about all the activities currently scheduled at the Mount Sequoyah Center, (and perhaps rent it for one of your future events, or overnight lodging), visit their website at www.mountsequoyah.org or phone 1-479-443-4531. And for all events/attractions in the Fayetteville, area, log onto www.ExperienceFayetteville.com . As I was enjoying my days and nights on this mountain in the Ozarks, I realized it provided to perfect visual aid for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses, because I had done what the verse said to do! In Exodus 24:12, the Lord said to Moses, "Come up to me on the mountain and stay here." Coming up to Mount Sequoyah and staying there, gave me "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-79951234877313968032023-08-01T15:22:00.001-05:002023-08-03T15:24:43.324-05:00PASSION PLAY EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If it has been a while since you visited the 667-acre campus of The Great Passion Play, (www.greatpassionplay.org), in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, I am hoping that this information will "put it on your radar", as a place you need to check out for the first time, or re-visit, if you have not been there in a while. You will see this impressive sculpture, fountain, flower garden, and columned sign as you drive on to the campus. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTHQteXU5DaOMqStSrVq8VnqkdN_qYv9q2C0_HaSFnJSLkDQQsZ5LBH_JNTJ7QWBKAYM0qTO4WsaDg5CFRG5iL4FDRNrYJal_rQyibuc_kd7g6e3exDJy-Han8ng-2KJzmytZfk8uOg2PguHYOCjoz8p2mMl9Y8WSmDuuLT4cU5THK6cWG26CMzHU-Zvj/s640/IMG_3433%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTHQteXU5DaOMqStSrVq8VnqkdN_qYv9q2C0_HaSFnJSLkDQQsZ5LBH_JNTJ7QWBKAYM0qTO4WsaDg5CFRG5iL4FDRNrYJal_rQyibuc_kd7g6e3exDJy-Han8ng-2KJzmytZfk8uOg2PguHYOCjoz8p2mMl9Y8WSmDuuLT4cU5THK6cWG26CMzHU-Zvj/s320/IMG_3433%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Shortly past this fountain, will be another sign, pointing you to the paved road, that leads to the Christ of the Ozarks Memorial Statue. All cars stop of the gate-keeper kiosk, where a staff member will welcome you, give you a map, and happily provide information on making donations to this non-profit entity. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhootUPIfYH2D-6_DRBLc9gNq0kiybaefQM_V5c3QgN8HdNxtNWuCZQIsvnDfp97sfQQ7XpDoyeKlAu2EafePajv1qmrazuRPTafTZr9ZBMBtZa2hN6A3tYSxH0jYqPS7_ZD0Tz9-ndTZ-uk1pA6sWGfp1gjj9o4HxHDJV4zdsK0qQOk2NJ7TuB0Xb5TgO2/s640/IMG_3429.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhootUPIfYH2D-6_DRBLc9gNq0kiybaefQM_V5c3QgN8HdNxtNWuCZQIsvnDfp97sfQQ7XpDoyeKlAu2EafePajv1qmrazuRPTafTZr9ZBMBtZa2hN6A3tYSxH0jYqPS7_ZD0Tz9-ndTZ-uk1pA6sWGfp1gjj9o4HxHDJV4zdsK0qQOk2NJ7TuB0Xb5TgO2/s320/IMG_3429.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>There is ample parking, and clean restrooms, in front of this sidewalk, that leads to statue. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMI7QqP-KA1MmSYHELSCnl4SkAww3jUqD7Vu-L_tnO8hRhTChwnho9R9pYYjJbg9tzmLcOrrfSDkoh1mtXYZvWfvYe9sEmYaWShIRcINet1-gSr0HgNLUifq2BxUwaV6gGOTVpfS_KALswT4W3d5IkGF1vHfmcdD7ztg30QnoOERZXsx8r6LpiXpjF1K7/s640/IMG_3103.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMI7QqP-KA1MmSYHELSCnl4SkAww3jUqD7Vu-L_tnO8hRhTChwnho9R9pYYjJbg9tzmLcOrrfSDkoh1mtXYZvWfvYe9sEmYaWShIRcINet1-gSr0HgNLUifq2BxUwaV6gGOTVpfS_KALswT4W3d5IkGF1vHfmcdD7ztg30QnoOERZXsx8r6LpiXpjF1K7/s320/IMG_3103.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>As you start up the sidewalk, the statue will become visible, framed by trees:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixoPky4fsAj_rUpFe2a-4X69xh-GFWK1iAOoAkBuCoRxbvWOAjCKKjFsodsHXCnCUN1mumWBEutSv1h-ht_PDdztX3pPts-EaSTlzM3IGR92MUkOIUAsZuqWng56l7rt5W46X_zIzdMtU7toEq8LqA4LX9Ajr5BNE2-zoWsxWmyXrua2-mY-ndCWfUjJH/s640/IMG_3104.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixoPky4fsAj_rUpFe2a-4X69xh-GFWK1iAOoAkBuCoRxbvWOAjCKKjFsodsHXCnCUN1mumWBEutSv1h-ht_PDdztX3pPts-EaSTlzM3IGR92MUkOIUAsZuqWng56l7rt5W46X_zIzdMtU7toEq8LqA4LX9Ajr5BNE2-zoWsxWmyXrua2-mY-ndCWfUjJH/s320/IMG_3104.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The memorial stands 67 feet high, which is about the same as a seven-story building.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWLuDGaEWCYDHrBr8qGa16S_Wb2Itlqh3hLQFVlyFRVazDvofXXOOLfelou7cw21rhsusUs2rZAJ06na5cvuy_euewlDnYposyDG9K2Cxj7rxuOgC1e-2_P3z8_miOLt0CzeeDhMT81gGw_-yyx_ya0JGpysu28m3wB44PUl9unywwK1ZZu8ZkLGssQg5/s320/IMG_3124.jpg" width="240" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the reasons I wanted to revisit this memorial, was to get a photograph that focused on the 65 feet arm span of the statue. I wanted it to serve as the visual aid to help me with one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses that says, <i>The Lord answered Moses,"Is the Lord's arm too short? You will now see whether or not what I say will come true for you." Numbers 11:23</i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXnSsNriJcnoWc81eyjIuIZWoWDCMka9zMHVDUH_WeGpDFhBhFlBZQPuinxb2rEc8JwkgDSaJL2i8tjeF3zZ1Cr3VgbfBxZmfXENAEbkyIKXRJOBlR1h2MZQc3QX0u18Rt2xCQO9H-5Bw1MnUEv0ESO8HgGXG2x8Xe6pK-5HVOFsVg2YrppXUabpJwx23V/s640/IMG_3118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="481" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXnSsNriJcnoWc81eyjIuIZWoWDCMka9zMHVDUH_WeGpDFhBhFlBZQPuinxb2rEc8JwkgDSaJL2i8tjeF3zZ1Cr3VgbfBxZmfXENAEbkyIKXRJOBlR1h2MZQc3QX0u18Rt2xCQO9H-5Bw1MnUEv0ESO8HgGXG2x8Xe6pK-5HVOFsVg2YrppXUabpJwx23V/s320/IMG_3118.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><br />To put the immensity of the statue into perspective, this photo shows me at 62 inches, and the statue at about 13 times my height!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lOa82vZKDlN_dH8i9jpIbn4acYgHtRnWzTdo5ZjM_s5RPKxL290DGV_68F_7QAP-ybkUkg3YuF8Yd0p_tgnqhyD0-eeypcIELaZ1lSNinNxuuxlXgPyf0XW3BbWntyTXKXa3KVPOZ8qZFwUnmMetkkTdOCojiqC93_T_LbV0yo2aYGAY3dCuNOjvDmsF/s640/IMG_3132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0lOa82vZKDlN_dH8i9jpIbn4acYgHtRnWzTdo5ZjM_s5RPKxL290DGV_68F_7QAP-ybkUkg3YuF8Yd0p_tgnqhyD0-eeypcIELaZ1lSNinNxuuxlXgPyf0XW3BbWntyTXKXa3KVPOZ8qZFwUnmMetkkTdOCojiqC93_T_LbV0yo2aYGAY3dCuNOjvDmsF/s320/IMG_3132.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Yet another reason I wanted to revisit this campus, is because when my grandson and granddaughter toured their Holy Land replica (See September, 2017, in blog archives) the tour guide mentioned that they had just been awarded a grant from the Walton Foundation, to build a vast network of mountain bike trails on the property. I was not surprised to hear this because I had read that the grandsons of Sam Walton (founder of the NWA-headquartered company of Walmart) were dedicated mountain bike enthusiasts, and had been heavily involved in making Northwest Arkansas, the mountain biking capitol of the USA. However, when I saw the trailhead sign below, I realized it was the biggest and best trailhead sign I had ever seen, in all my treks around the USA!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3x3zyif7tGRueqZlcd6uH14JFIDpH2SK2aWJ51RloNJG_jZM9mUS2NK5ZwrYpD5QUtm8tgi24skHTsNjoacWmBWTnCkC-KrRzlRYw7rWwm6vDT__np8Ec6xLU58fVdXN60kQIUp16NSt0PGe0vob5rP_FAe2e2_pbkWqZo4ViDrmwbcjaj3TVdqfCRQyj/s640/IMG_3212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3x3zyif7tGRueqZlcd6uH14JFIDpH2SK2aWJ51RloNJG_jZM9mUS2NK5ZwrYpD5QUtm8tgi24skHTsNjoacWmBWTnCkC-KrRzlRYw7rWwm6vDT__np8Ec6xLU58fVdXN60kQIUp16NSt0PGe0vob5rP_FAe2e2_pbkWqZo4ViDrmwbcjaj3TVdqfCRQyj/s320/IMG_3212.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I was impressed the way the creators of this massive structure, used bicycle wheels in both a functional and artistic way. The information here will tell you that the trails are FREE, designed for ALL ages and skill levels. One can go to www.GreatPassionPlay.org/trails to get up-to-date information on races, events, pictures, and trail maps. In addition, you can interact with other users by typing "Great Passion Play Trails" into your Facebook search window. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IiLqoklgp9r7qTljWhMbRAyojK8P2zfqh9yz4lbvlT2cN_XdUaGxEr18hewMa2g8L0Tau4KtTDlr8moo0MK5-kriQb2MuI1WOG_AXckLY0QQc6fh7kTtslGGVsOUq5rZMffF7jPtKt8ZRDgyu7Hn1VR-zJkFztXZG871xYFZfuszhfmecZZXY70UFBKx/s640/IMG_3222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4IiLqoklgp9r7qTljWhMbRAyojK8P2zfqh9yz4lbvlT2cN_XdUaGxEr18hewMa2g8L0Tau4KtTDlr8moo0MK5-kriQb2MuI1WOG_AXckLY0QQc6fh7kTtslGGVsOUq5rZMffF7jPtKt8ZRDgyu7Hn1VR-zJkFztXZG871xYFZfuszhfmecZZXY70UFBKx/s320/IMG_3222.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>One of the trails will lead you to the area in the woods (marked by where the trails make an "X") that is just a few feet from the paved sidewalk beneath the statue, and quick access to the covered pavilion.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA721PuoNr3IuTRNS3D8QZOBhlTHa72h59hyYqkWISGF2zaYyehDv8c5ksxLdQ9VXrWorA87nPkFLQ2oXHPgKLxzC7tvJW6bFgqMmD5-TBsa1D0uN9_JFdusj2yyIwZlq_Z3hjWkAe5xXQPGTxG5jLfyFVs405V3Z0M-IdJZyTfBbfKS98sIR-tz5CtcVl/s640/IMG_3127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA721PuoNr3IuTRNS3D8QZOBhlTHa72h59hyYqkWISGF2zaYyehDv8c5ksxLdQ9VXrWorA87nPkFLQ2oXHPgKLxzC7tvJW6bFgqMmD5-TBsa1D0uN9_JFdusj2yyIwZlq_Z3hjWkAe5xXQPGTxG5jLfyFVs405V3Z0M-IdJZyTfBbfKS98sIR-tz5CtcVl/s320/IMG_3127.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />It is good to know that the 20 miles of trails also have enough room for hikers, as well!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCT4wtxmR3u_UPRzUSr3wxsBPiO3r30b4cvapP0buxh5fCO7wL8WJnXfT5O_OODl5JoU5irUWXShNc0DDFUsFF2c_v9ttH34L0ku-7gsACApJ-0dl0Mt826iRYLQSoFfXDjYFtyawHxevlpGpXqozbLBfdtitDIsSZL_XCNwRWxfT9UFcFZI-FLpMWw7b/s640/IMG_3130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCT4wtxmR3u_UPRzUSr3wxsBPiO3r30b4cvapP0buxh5fCO7wL8WJnXfT5O_OODl5JoU5irUWXShNc0DDFUsFF2c_v9ttH34L0ku-7gsACApJ-0dl0Mt826iRYLQSoFfXDjYFtyawHxevlpGpXqozbLBfdtitDIsSZL_XCNwRWxfT9UFcFZI-FLpMWw7b/s320/IMG_3130.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br />Since there is a covered pavilion below the statue, that looks out over the town of Eureka Springs, you might consider this spot as a scenic place for a sack lunch! It would also be a lovely place to enjoy a colorful Ozark Mountain sunset. (The area is open from dawn to an hour after dusk).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4DjwcTSjrnBRlrAuQ99iDZQw6Klg_YppdtkXOw_RwAQZnO8bkyTBQgRENyiWB1C1IobLsBaGcD09xYhiavQdDkPI7D2Xm5TjWajkSPd-h0Vab9Y01XgENGiDWfIklpJrzvn0iO9mqQvaNMzp02KRsSAJQ4gM3H9DpfBZiKZs437B54ywGIj82teZS8Js/s640/IMG_3138.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4DjwcTSjrnBRlrAuQ99iDZQw6Klg_YppdtkXOw_RwAQZnO8bkyTBQgRENyiWB1C1IobLsBaGcD09xYhiavQdDkPI7D2Xm5TjWajkSPd-h0Vab9Y01XgENGiDWfIklpJrzvn0iO9mqQvaNMzp02KRsSAJQ4gM3H9DpfBZiKZs437B54ywGIj82teZS8Js/s320/IMG_3138.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Visitors are encouraged to stroll into the Cross Prayer Garden, that is adjacent to the memorial statue:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYXdd4QNc5sR8toKst_DB9p67oZegDv4-eidgAPY_7ontoLEFkVj-klCBXcKH4KtGOtluSJ3xSR9UwvMTqakn05gNXFQaNuw3rS8EQHiKCPvPTe2juOCsfxyifL1QhmZK5tnf_PCLUhRpWkxrhJkynPI6Hvk4Amp6R5YT86on2UDjDaAlQuAXaJDpdmrCo/s640/IMG_3148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYXdd4QNc5sR8toKst_DB9p67oZegDv4-eidgAPY_7ontoLEFkVj-klCBXcKH4KtGOtluSJ3xSR9UwvMTqakn05gNXFQaNuw3rS8EQHiKCPvPTe2juOCsfxyifL1QhmZK5tnf_PCLUhRpWkxrhJkynPI6Hvk4Amp6R5YT86on2UDjDaAlQuAXaJDpdmrCo/s320/IMG_3148.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Nearby, one can also look into "Church in the Grove", which is reminiscent (both on the inside and outside) of many country churches I have visited:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7Ka_SFja02Ro0hbbj76fcWrSwJF2cOKgA92ZHOKlQnAplTgC6GiPndvfGXznlTxuD8Z8vm5GZcLIKrox-9oGfu63xtcWyYHl1vYsZquLLvsCpvgrmgLFYqZImma8aWInYAGYYBq0Ch5DnFKDk9e8Okl_VmM54h0JFagQdfHb0Rs41MxHHZVyT4391Io_/s640/IMG_3208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp7Ka_SFja02Ro0hbbj76fcWrSwJF2cOKgA92ZHOKlQnAplTgC6GiPndvfGXznlTxuD8Z8vm5GZcLIKrox-9oGfu63xtcWyYHl1vYsZquLLvsCpvgrmgLFYqZImma8aWInYAGYYBq0Ch5DnFKDk9e8Okl_VmM54h0JFagQdfHb0Rs41MxHHZVyT4391Io_/s320/IMG_3208.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />A few feet from this little church, is a section of the Berlin wall, which represented the dividing line between Communist East Berlin, and the free West Berlin. Notice the reference to the 23rd Psalm in the painting on it:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Jx6QIsj_It6xRZaiZz4FQ0UH_ZbVd-m6zEQXa_JT6R2DeZHhVKunYiEYTyzEVIX1_nGs0zvZ2vYdKw38TkS62Ia1SIPQ4nEpbI4HRWVsRE9yvJ8Vgs26vcNcqzS-Kwy4CezI5fIzGVUMCxpzT2CeoIrQ_mrrchnj8r0kHph3aiE98VnqwO_bG76dBQPt/s640/IMG_3192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Jx6QIsj_It6xRZaiZz4FQ0UH_ZbVd-m6zEQXa_JT6R2DeZHhVKunYiEYTyzEVIX1_nGs0zvZ2vYdKw38TkS62Ia1SIPQ4nEpbI4HRWVsRE9yvJ8Vgs26vcNcqzS-Kwy4CezI5fIzGVUMCxpzT2CeoIrQ_mrrchnj8r0kHph3aiE98VnqwO_bG76dBQPt/s320/IMG_3192.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /> <br /></div>Another campus site I revisited, was the Bible Museum. It is located beside the gift shop, and although there is no admission charge, donations are welcomed! My grandson and I visited here on one of our grandma/grandson outings, and I was very impressed with his knowledge of the history of the Bible, that he had learned at his Christian parochial school. He pointed out several items on exhibit that he had learned about in his Bible history classes! There was a great deal of publicity when The Bible Museum opened in Washington, D.C., a few years ago, but let me assure you, there are enough exhibits in this museum right here in the Ozarks, to occupy history buffs for a very long time!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmTWjJdxqOlTSE6oe_Z3jF2Xn1bDAC5FpoWJSM9ktI95mS8PphgMslkPwggNUnq5tHqdybptI55SAk7JJ1BDT9J7ZusfCsxaPdXE7ICg2IegYPi3Bw0X5M9rYJGiZJl35zbqz7gQ9gYHuV1aWwWVfgLzt3zjNn7aKB7gFV821VxXrE5eo7rbcptqxGpt9Y/s640/IMG_3398%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmTWjJdxqOlTSE6oe_Z3jF2Xn1bDAC5FpoWJSM9ktI95mS8PphgMslkPwggNUnq5tHqdybptI55SAk7JJ1BDT9J7ZusfCsxaPdXE7ICg2IegYPi3Bw0X5M9rYJGiZJl35zbqz7gQ9gYHuV1aWwWVfgLzt3zjNn7aKB7gFV821VxXrE5eo7rbcptqxGpt9Y/s320/IMG_3398%20(3).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>It was a very gifted (and patient!) artist that drew this picture of Jesus, using 181,253 words from the New Testament. The features of the painting are made to stand out by using variations of light ink and dark ink.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTm5KE7rPMgbH8SGD0Nnq8kHhZrB_xQarIEqQRIB3gq7--Mhi2iOAFz_9LPGov5xvomPMj02IDRQ6yGmRyW2HN486k2UU_yKFXzoOWZc8vNgQ3z-yElQ_NsU9ipS4bC_THaCTtYWbc1Wt7_q7w24kRzbG9La4o6grPVmblnEZERFDqOucOqch1W1Z7JW1/s640/IMG_3385.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTm5KE7rPMgbH8SGD0Nnq8kHhZrB_xQarIEqQRIB3gq7--Mhi2iOAFz_9LPGov5xvomPMj02IDRQ6yGmRyW2HN486k2UU_yKFXzoOWZc8vNgQ3z-yElQ_NsU9ipS4bC_THaCTtYWbc1Wt7_q7w24kRzbG9La4o6grPVmblnEZERFDqOucOqch1W1Z7JW1/s320/IMG_3385.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The Bible Museum has 7,000 Bibles in 625 languages and dialects. The one shown below is in Hebrew.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1lrhdsJrLgaO443ebUgBTXQRGzc-MjMTqPIhmvLMTzefpZU_iAYJkycKXg0Nd7SpzJIOiUpEP6WUdmG8nwRUxzReS7BwbbCrPPDjRDYg9kTdTOHDBcB0Kx8DO3wSO5HCW1VyM7jOC_HlnBfwJHoFN3ysCtIX32NRVm-DcMxRcuCd2fgWsCH7SowW_gkwJ/s640/IMG_3357.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1lrhdsJrLgaO443ebUgBTXQRGzc-MjMTqPIhmvLMTzefpZU_iAYJkycKXg0Nd7SpzJIOiUpEP6WUdmG8nwRUxzReS7BwbbCrPPDjRDYg9kTdTOHDBcB0Kx8DO3wSO5HCW1VyM7jOC_HlnBfwJHoFN3ysCtIX32NRVm-DcMxRcuCd2fgWsCH7SowW_gkwJ/s320/IMG_3357.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The artifacts in this display case include cuniform writings, carved stone memorials, and writing on parchment .<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcvP7KG7zwRrAMcHDT2aAmeJDc8wooNmy4zCGv95TY559Yp1WoZReBR5zvkjo45BwOLGKzwvMev__7PsHCn4SBcBu-Fp1ILYA7eTG-eWPFOMLe4Ag-1PK5zgvgtMI5xkbLNVpDmEZovyt2waVpAEORNyesiN_E-D-F2uL07cFtLGesEjlUm_N9d16YF3p/s640/IMG_3360.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlcvP7KG7zwRrAMcHDT2aAmeJDc8wooNmy4zCGv95TY559Yp1WoZReBR5zvkjo45BwOLGKzwvMev__7PsHCn4SBcBu-Fp1ILYA7eTG-eWPFOMLe4Ag-1PK5zgvgtMI5xkbLNVpDmEZovyt2waVpAEORNyesiN_E-D-F2uL07cFtLGesEjlUm_N9d16YF3p/s320/IMG_3360.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The Bible often talks about scrolls, and an example is shown in photo below. A tech-savvy teenager today might think that the word "scroll" only means the movements they make with their finger, as they peruse (scroll) through their social media accounts. But the word originated long before social media! <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7ugtPpApMa0Q4gPTkPN0lE4tmnccMsSPT0n5Aq5DBkqJQ36KjVRC9sQigwVM5uImpGSgmPS3tdSXlD_P1WV0ZnWFkI1qyR-_2M1LhQCL0yhWh_twC2zIF2F_68oebi63fxU5rVz_AECRJFpb12AaSB5jT5k7IgOuuWnFKkHJdZsvq9_yAzFuCz1zNg-w/s640/IMG_3356.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7ugtPpApMa0Q4gPTkPN0lE4tmnccMsSPT0n5Aq5DBkqJQ36KjVRC9sQigwVM5uImpGSgmPS3tdSXlD_P1WV0ZnWFkI1qyR-_2M1LhQCL0yhWh_twC2zIF2F_68oebi63fxU5rVz_AECRJFpb12AaSB5jT5k7IgOuuWnFKkHJdZsvq9_yAzFuCz1zNg-w/s320/IMG_3356.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The museum has a page of the Gutenberg Bible, and also this model of a Gutenberg printing press. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICLDgOaYpsdBHTjUXVLqRGdBNBXdQMXzJ6EGLm40dVcVA0-hz1mV5U8K1shgUSno3YdPKXXSkYbXNVlOtBYRP37MYQDf8Fmd4u2XZHpfTyRRfHlbj8Hn8toUzQCxLGvwLlqkINR7m5aLMzK2qCDoBLMDXmiTewevrQSnSiDGCPRDI24gVkDm0gzwHv0-o/s640/IMG_3377.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICLDgOaYpsdBHTjUXVLqRGdBNBXdQMXzJ6EGLm40dVcVA0-hz1mV5U8K1shgUSno3YdPKXXSkYbXNVlOtBYRP37MYQDf8Fmd4u2XZHpfTyRRfHlbj8Hn8toUzQCxLGvwLlqkINR7m5aLMzK2qCDoBLMDXmiTewevrQSnSiDGCPRDI24gVkDm0gzwHv0-o/s320/IMG_3377.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />There is also a copy of the Jefferson Bible. For this publication, President Thomas Jefferson only included the words of Jesus. He cut out texts and arranged them in order on blank pages. He retained statements that clearly were the words of Jesus. He did this for his own personal use, and it was not published until many years after his death.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjDAHtOoSfAQDWbUxUMQ0TfgHx8jFLXPv8hUQjqKv_yBVzucoHVbfSV8PXO9KmSR5CzvUMXy_eM6RdOZFkd36Ry3Gq320zLHg3OON3-OCnfpkoinflaVka0K9lNxu403QswlAlror7mO3g6_nyYVu8zqgsQSmhX7ELbYO7jLebDGdGI8mmF0keHpQGLJ5/s640/IMG_3414.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSjDAHtOoSfAQDWbUxUMQ0TfgHx8jFLXPv8hUQjqKv_yBVzucoHVbfSV8PXO9KmSR5CzvUMXy_eM6RdOZFkd36Ry3Gq320zLHg3OON3-OCnfpkoinflaVka0K9lNxu403QswlAlror7mO3g6_nyYVu8zqgsQSmhX7ELbYO7jLebDGdGI8mmF0keHpQGLJ5/s320/IMG_3414.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The photo below shows the Martin Luther Bible, from 1534. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrC-O4DK6xcvdg8WlVPNVLb4sZa16OHavLk_4dZyLICTc3STHyRopYstcRw4E8rH5WXQHFZCbKpKJ8o-i0tv7AWULZwDtu9ak3AiQWZJ-HWD2rCEzjDhwWeUbATAPsR1k9jWW16SL3ycg17Bh4KZwZMGnh8bfJJNDIxWXQewjG2DDU0jFmM5Ktnxaxz8g/s640/IMG_3379%20(5).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrC-O4DK6xcvdg8WlVPNVLb4sZa16OHavLk_4dZyLICTc3STHyRopYstcRw4E8rH5WXQHFZCbKpKJ8o-i0tv7AWULZwDtu9ak3AiQWZJ-HWD2rCEzjDhwWeUbATAPsR1k9jWW16SL3ycg17Bh4KZwZMGnh8bfJJNDIxWXQewjG2DDU0jFmM5Ktnxaxz8g/s320/IMG_3379%20(5).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Bibles brought over by the pilgrims are also on display. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIEGp6uLh-nHK4rA7Gn7PP6PkXFKX48V5wol55SlRHzEX9I4CI0pKeDWInqCSIDz4jrJewia5uX3Zd5QHCfG2uHaMfHNhqLtLjsUNH0iftfQvGN0SUVqaiAkzIUKWaM1aQIBcCztNQHL7ZcMxVDSMvcDaXBbbYB9ElgmeVO9aMmXqIiSOs2tRt4tXsVP9T/s320/IMG_3412.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">An exhibit on William Tyndale teaches that this man played a significant role in making Bibles as accessible as they are today.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLpH8R_Db4pTCC-5e_mqAFlMeSgg5pGjpgaxXLapm13E9794wX5hDKPEyHpnpnjOdEEYByVIZR-TqY3BnwS4Thsr3sk51WNxOdLSJHGkFFCqqFZUFwSZ26Q5zQN_9bHfVZbT8ueapsP51Hc0F-BfWykhaFSIICRUBwEKOicapbR_s7jCnEmPjeJvFH037/s640/IMG_3399%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLpH8R_Db4pTCC-5e_mqAFlMeSgg5pGjpgaxXLapm13E9794wX5hDKPEyHpnpnjOdEEYByVIZR-TqY3BnwS4Thsr3sk51WNxOdLSJHGkFFCqqFZUFwSZ26Q5zQN_9bHfVZbT8ueapsP51Hc0F-BfWykhaFSIICRUBwEKOicapbR_s7jCnEmPjeJvFH037/s320/IMG_3399%20(2).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>A display case of various forms of Gideon Bibles is on exhibit, and includes a one-of-a-kind 1898 Bible signed by all of the original Gideons. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8R8aJCwtGf2pfODaldob9sg2DPFSUAgYS8z08DmaN_plOlVZ5kwaMPnB8RaovKHmAVQfb09qhgI6JAn0dz8fkmPVOQ4fqjzqanQwa5ZWmr6qgu4xFqLx580xwq25mI_D0DJ6a4YuMEOlXSHYmCj17YGy7h83Ag2VC0r4EXKfRVpULc63eu6bLFtVX85-T/s640/IMG_3396.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8R8aJCwtGf2pfODaldob9sg2DPFSUAgYS8z08DmaN_plOlVZ5kwaMPnB8RaovKHmAVQfb09qhgI6JAn0dz8fkmPVOQ4fqjzqanQwa5ZWmr6qgu4xFqLx580xwq25mI_D0DJ6a4YuMEOlXSHYmCj17YGy7h83Ag2VC0r4EXKfRVpULc63eu6bLFtVX85-T/s320/IMG_3396.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Hope this blog has provided some ideas for an expedition to see all the interesting features available at The Great Passion Play attraction . To start planning your trip to Eureka Springs, visit www.EurekaSpringsChamber.com. A visit there is sure to give you "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-82126370532952144812023-07-01T08:00:00.000-05:002023-07-01T10:51:04.216-05:00SCRIPTURE GARDEN EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9qEelq709m-UM3t0IsGJ9fEqkBwIRcdp-_y1Xkh0eDxGAzjRkoTlsMmjtL_abQvSBWWs0dy1AOB1Kv9zm5hPPbt6BFFDp8FkurvnjvIOxV1THUS2YaURgiPs6FPoUyJnONHsgWQiC_souyAnIKYJByWNOxnyfIAEIlDa5lrCWT6GoW3qgCUFv-hxoA/s320/IMG_1581.jpg" width="240" />I recently had the opportunity to visit the (somewhat) new addition to the outdoor campus of College of the Ozarks (www.cofo.edu), in Hollister, Missouri. The arch in this photo marks the beginning of the sacred space.<br /></div><br /> This close up photo of the sign shows that one is entering a "Scripture Garden".<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITZRkmXSDIj6BIPHV0Pp58fnHHywsLJLq6Xjnd9qDIlWgbiRNfdL5_MFp-WgUuCwTJjNGlf6509q2mR78IV7cQKTLdVboE5ih1D0_-1VfVdkZ7BEMsAb4PoujRd8EX4KiJYEbS8CHypYcQ0giEBzv4JZHomQrVNs3BcqBYq00Zq-RbkMo6nkj_nBRxA/s640/IMG_1582.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITZRkmXSDIj6BIPHV0Pp58fnHHywsLJLq6Xjnd9qDIlWgbiRNfdL5_MFp-WgUuCwTJjNGlf6509q2mR78IV7cQKTLdVboE5ih1D0_-1VfVdkZ7BEMsAb4PoujRd8EX4KiJYEbS8CHypYcQ0giEBzv4JZHomQrVNs3BcqBYq00Zq-RbkMo6nkj_nBRxA/s320/IMG_1582.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The photo below shows that the sign can also be read by looking at its shadow on the sidewalk. I would like to think that the metal artist who fashioned the sign, knew this would be a benefit of cutting the letters out of the metal, instead of just painting them on the sign.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAHZAm6rSycjLOvxvkQJZZbUKEJMWQLuHuPFuclitejrIl1v_FAkdm4zmJ_KL8OIwzZ-o07KeTZpAGIlFBYGgwXArol6r66X7lOLVeF3mNbJAJPkUYtX7AgCrBiqd59mNmQ1bVTJIRwstmNpukoPVyvR2AHb4WwcGNb50zoH9fsosPEY-m5Sp4DbQjw/s640/IMG_1585.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAHZAm6rSycjLOvxvkQJZZbUKEJMWQLuHuPFuclitejrIl1v_FAkdm4zmJ_KL8OIwzZ-o07KeTZpAGIlFBYGgwXArol6r66X7lOLVeF3mNbJAJPkUYtX7AgCrBiqd59mNmQ1bVTJIRwstmNpukoPVyvR2AHb4WwcGNb50zoH9fsosPEY-m5Sp4DbQjw/s320/IMG_1585.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />I am part of a healthy living program (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) that encourages memorization of the Holy Scriptures, in that we are given the challenge of learning one new Bible verse by memory each week. This "Be still"verse is always a favorite for young parents to learn, so they can train a fidgety youngster "in the way they should go"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzl_lGqeaRho65tt8UAlhklO8ApzuTCS69WCFSd_mDVinhud3tImA-OV-jBIBiGv4OG5tUeG6OpWfYH9LULMWZf3nyC_kh0sSWsRPlPA51-WIzW3GoXFbzc1OmLyKlgH3VKf8UcD1-50ugdTWhjRFOr4tjMxiXbAxxjVz1v37Np7lT2HNEuQxWPaUHg/s640/IMG_1595.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzl_lGqeaRho65tt8UAlhklO8ApzuTCS69WCFSd_mDVinhud3tImA-OV-jBIBiGv4OG5tUeG6OpWfYH9LULMWZf3nyC_kh0sSWsRPlPA51-WIzW3GoXFbzc1OmLyKlgH3VKf8UcD1-50ugdTWhjRFOr4tjMxiXbAxxjVz1v37Np7lT2HNEuQxWPaUHg/s320/IMG_1595.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>There is a gazebo on the property, and the view it provides is breath-taking! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU741e2Le-wh-oaMyoFFe95R_qe_gtO6MmkqnwJKwqwNhAVdBVEYTvB4pU9stilyC3w8GDsb9I3zqIrnRxiyvCqUJRZtauy_gSrS3s7hb26EnlpZwEjJXfOzPEOkVI235rg8weVqAVNsjm0_wBHLEbieZJECm5o5-Fol6n_P1tXcFZzs1Qu-b49e0Y7w/s320/IMG_1568.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ever wonder about the definition of the word "faith"? This Hebrews verse answers that question!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkv61cbaRr8pcEYOiKmlOmltmmoyl1oaGcGFlKH1j2HXqZ6R44OjPMrX3_K98pVU3gOjByHUCebvB2Od6rfHEDiJxAMAVoiD9YzXXR3kJJpCt7WB-Z1icV4f1Wv1A_DfIjM3tOW__yX7mhQFSZRHQq7AjHz76IL3qgJEmSZI3gqXKO9bQdWcpOgs5-rA/s640/IMG_1562.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkv61cbaRr8pcEYOiKmlOmltmmoyl1oaGcGFlKH1j2HXqZ6R44OjPMrX3_K98pVU3gOjByHUCebvB2Od6rfHEDiJxAMAVoiD9YzXXR3kJJpCt7WB-Z1icV4f1Wv1A_DfIjM3tOW__yX7mhQFSZRHQq7AjHz76IL3qgJEmSZI3gqXKO9bQdWcpOgs5-rA/s320/IMG_1562.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>Every garden needs a water feature, and this one has a lovely pond, with a butterfly sculpture within it.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7t243wzRapGg1QGrsYrTWAfIAu0AaY1e3gczXNjYo2V9auwOdgjKjFNPtTJGwSUl2SlQC_p-wi3x9R3E53Ajl8t57qTYXC4eYb_rtYFc_ZPC2xDSOVMeJYd_2mfGW1LRFSO6VEprRCPtKfXgdtXFS2Y7W635sBQB9M87Djei15Xyilb3HlVmm-Um5w/s640/IMG_1570.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7t243wzRapGg1QGrsYrTWAfIAu0AaY1e3gczXNjYo2V9auwOdgjKjFNPtTJGwSUl2SlQC_p-wi3x9R3E53Ajl8t57qTYXC4eYb_rtYFc_ZPC2xDSOVMeJYd_2mfGW1LRFSO6VEprRCPtKfXgdtXFS2Y7W635sBQB9M87Djei15Xyilb3HlVmm-Um5w/s320/IMG_1570.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I need lots more Godly wisdom, so I ask God for wisdom very often. And even though my lack of wisdom sometimes causes me to make mistakes, God does not point out my faults in condemnation!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghsGzK-4usSMyAc9PJKtjsR-PRHGIHkMhhv03bXcRsltFf2Z4JGBH7LYUor9vkVwFusEDoY_t2k5BobY4wVq0IWMixfaukTG7J_cYUPC4mWOi1pYrtjldbQ4xiPz9iJHRB5fhLUo6es09IFY59nckK_WNOpti-CK9LF2ZsbiBUGwhfeKj29uTDKuFbbw/s640/IMG_1593.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghsGzK-4usSMyAc9PJKtjsR-PRHGIHkMhhv03bXcRsltFf2Z4JGBH7LYUor9vkVwFusEDoY_t2k5BobY4wVq0IWMixfaukTG7J_cYUPC4mWOi1pYrtjldbQ4xiPz9iJHRB5fhLUo6es09IFY59nckK_WNOpti-CK9LF2ZsbiBUGwhfeKj29uTDKuFbbw/s320/IMG_1593.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />If a student wants to "get away from it all", to study or meditate, all they have to do is tie up their hammock to one of the numerous trees adjacent to the scripture garden!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBI-m0tn1H4GakJ7TnW1mRdZwavP5FVdqr97lqO9buYKgtvZfr-hX-I1G8ukLjYzgc0vxQcI4i0u3a2rSdo59Hvd5i8OhilxQbSp6SGEBquWlZddwq2P8ZTnJLGICC8P6SSo-C3nzMD14L4LqkRXOI5rpmoyrpoj7SUvmDlD1QGiZl9neplfE_sj9fBg/s640/IMG_1587.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBI-m0tn1H4GakJ7TnW1mRdZwavP5FVdqr97lqO9buYKgtvZfr-hX-I1G8ukLjYzgc0vxQcI4i0u3a2rSdo59Hvd5i8OhilxQbSp6SGEBquWlZddwq2P8ZTnJLGICC8P6SSo-C3nzMD14L4LqkRXOI5rpmoyrpoj7SUvmDlD1QGiZl9neplfE_sj9fBg/s320/IMG_1587.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This verse is a reminder that I should be pure in heart, not prideful. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qJTZTgcHaK0JeTU6tSmd2fPdFmCgjCsat9uGTXTcZg1VE0VPkmBvn63f7AqchKnJIw2iiu3n6TaqhcO5NRmlUTKDXOxEUQ30EFvuVXT5wzbGiV-0Ss3f7VxnIMGyZ-o1n0mG9e1TEigFzDxhXZnpCwZTI75AkWcPt-Wbkqvw4e7JPbSCDpw5zsidAQ/s640/IMG_1563%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qJTZTgcHaK0JeTU6tSmd2fPdFmCgjCsat9uGTXTcZg1VE0VPkmBvn63f7AqchKnJIw2iiu3n6TaqhcO5NRmlUTKDXOxEUQ30EFvuVXT5wzbGiV-0Ss3f7VxnIMGyZ-o1n0mG9e1TEigFzDxhXZnpCwZTI75AkWcPt-Wbkqvw4e7JPbSCDpw5zsidAQ/s320/IMG_1563%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>When I was doing photography at the scripture garden, this pretty lady came strolling through. When I saw that she had on a College of the Ozarks shirt, I asked her what her connection was to the school. She told me she is a volunteer ambassador for them, perusing the campus to help visitors find what they are looking for, and to answer their questions. She is also happy to take photos for people who want to remember their visit to this amazing campus, but do not want to try to do it by taking a "selfie"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHra7K-lmwfsmHGYdeeMcEzm_29YR2ixAHCvViB1t12EQ_2aX9WJPe3Y0mIMkLXum80rs2EaGAFefKkUZWA2f9PloH-LiTnR5DPJkNi9dzVpdBMpdR8RpUCWlevZvMKQArsAUciLL7q-uSPcs-_gjOqJ8JqQ92tRKCs7EBy2gy_6LisyC1lpbWfXmMyw/s640/IMG_1589.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHra7K-lmwfsmHGYdeeMcEzm_29YR2ixAHCvViB1t12EQ_2aX9WJPe3Y0mIMkLXum80rs2EaGAFefKkUZWA2f9PloH-LiTnR5DPJkNi9dzVpdBMpdR8RpUCWlevZvMKQArsAUciLL7q-uSPcs-_gjOqJ8JqQ92tRKCs7EBy2gy_6LisyC1lpbWfXmMyw/s320/IMG_1589.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The dedication plaque at the garden, lets me know the name of the "human" behind the gift of these scriptures carved in stone. Thank you Helen D. McVey! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBXYKzqTjFQu-ewBjkQEBx4I9A0U0JFuOrui9IpbZ7fZgu87jgEMr5AeFsWpK5Wrgut3hcfyJ8D0wsFIQlEu_8FKqiRkCFG2ql9XUbmmxxJDPrBAhzdtVZAX5kPAYQAUpkcLDoG8hyJbthq-nwYGs3b_w_-VZZSGVlXFUyWSqLcDPYnq3Km8F8SGt0BQ/s640/IMG_1567.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBXYKzqTjFQu-ewBjkQEBx4I9A0U0JFuOrui9IpbZ7fZgu87jgEMr5AeFsWpK5Wrgut3hcfyJ8D0wsFIQlEu_8FKqiRkCFG2ql9XUbmmxxJDPrBAhzdtVZAX5kPAYQAUpkcLDoG8hyJbthq-nwYGs3b_w_-VZZSGVlXFUyWSqLcDPYnq3Km8F8SGt0BQ/s320/IMG_1567.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I want my bones to be healed, so it is better for me to speak pleasant words, than mean words, according to Proverbs 16:24.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbQc7Ux_fxNmmzQaQdx4qifOQE_gkoVgSKIJl_nZybnkHFfKEyccBT5u97eFEZBlhUcUn-KG-74iHoJlIoHCJOQWdPu0XHz-xNPqTVLEH2DK5M_LI8d1fsARjFT0KRWDj4_ulvqNeFLAbj3xd1U_JTa3XLB4WYR4pDiKRdyi2K11IpvxVhaRUi7hJLyA/s640/IMG_1566%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbQc7Ux_fxNmmzQaQdx4qifOQE_gkoVgSKIJl_nZybnkHFfKEyccBT5u97eFEZBlhUcUn-KG-74iHoJlIoHCJOQWdPu0XHz-xNPqTVLEH2DK5M_LI8d1fsARjFT0KRWDj4_ulvqNeFLAbj3xd1U_JTa3XLB4WYR4pDiKRdyi2K11IpvxVhaRUi7hJLyA/s320/IMG_1566%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This verse from Proverbs 5:5 references "directing our path", which is what the black fence is doing near the edge of the bluff---directing out path!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-kdd4kN-GU248gp6QupkjL-sHNOz-dp1M2X2lAppnhOPhn_BfaKu6RJNrue1szX_3t4KoIxsQVdR1MieBibcuh0rgfyFxv2yczcMWzCnJ9dCc8kFa7CRcuN3ipH9qnUIQgE7c-njIsfARe9ISTIUlc3m1Uzv1uYbplp0UOCwVla5BvUABmpCEoTT5Cg/s320/IMG_1576%20(1).jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Directing my path was this decorative black fence, that silently tells visitors, "Do not go past this fence"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivizbTKdaetT697k3Vnlg14CDar_5puwEV0Ff3oAyoHiALBCcbxOfkbXY8qBpWfR-IM9gvYACM6rELu97uqQMfYvSjapk8_dX62rp5wCr8MPuBTlQVxvCREwWgp8cyNbSDZTlqCqo22uq665Sztw2GR8AmtRBPIFnMiGBLXRO1MnHTT6QjUdUP-zGdzA/s640/IMG_1559.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivizbTKdaetT697k3Vnlg14CDar_5puwEV0Ff3oAyoHiALBCcbxOfkbXY8qBpWfR-IM9gvYACM6rELu97uqQMfYvSjapk8_dX62rp5wCr8MPuBTlQVxvCREwWgp8cyNbSDZTlqCqo22uq665Sztw2GR8AmtRBPIFnMiGBLXRO1MnHTT6QjUdUP-zGdzA/s320/IMG_1559.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The body of water one can see behind me is called "Lake Taneycomo". Although it may sound like an Italian word, it actually comes from abbreviating the words "Taney County Missouri". (The standard abbreviation for the state of Missouri is "MO".) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Au29TxeZQJaKkPU9sfAkxiHA86gLlD-5IBH_OPcoakDWBxDOvkScdDCeDJ_wGnVTALIRiEnlqAignxlBO3_pmu_P4tFnEzRrOXOEXbf2G83VjtrNquEjj5HUhaohzpI087GAxb5M3GFw73dvlztPn-I5eJ1ND7Qcq4mPqqPro2iWHJyqiUNd0j8kgg/s640/IMG_1597.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Au29TxeZQJaKkPU9sfAkxiHA86gLlD-5IBH_OPcoakDWBxDOvkScdDCeDJ_wGnVTALIRiEnlqAignxlBO3_pmu_P4tFnEzRrOXOEXbf2G83VjtrNquEjj5HUhaohzpI087GAxb5M3GFw73dvlztPn-I5eJ1ND7Qcq4mPqqPro2iWHJyqiUNd0j8kgg/s320/IMG_1597.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><br />How thankful I am for this promise, that no matter what happens, God can turn it around for good, for those who love God, and are called according to his purpose.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJ7A4rlIM9cJ0ybKwjF1hLGdSDvqjaxU7ucanBL6U0aKOAfF-hwnGC7rvWi6_Y7KrKbEfIP79rvQ0xDXhBF6zRN8f2Pu0JCgqwSEpAwEDODKXXmvcJ3SaYMETnqDPImYeHyQXX7A3SoYPN9_tONgGCp_zYxXRvLavyqmssHn5xzPZ4aaxFhxR64ICxQ/s640/IMG_1579.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLJ7A4rlIM9cJ0ybKwjF1hLGdSDvqjaxU7ucanBL6U0aKOAfF-hwnGC7rvWi6_Y7KrKbEfIP79rvQ0xDXhBF6zRN8f2Pu0JCgqwSEpAwEDODKXXmvcJ3SaYMETnqDPImYeHyQXX7A3SoYPN9_tONgGCp_zYxXRvLavyqmssHn5xzPZ4aaxFhxR64ICxQ/s320/IMG_1579.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This verse from the Psalms tells the reason we memorize scripture:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVLj2YGjOlft4PVyoSf356Ev11m35Of_AWh1FWs1uhiSLv0hg0s84sZZamAv35M80C4ILBXyRV_2LEiVLBaSqhzJp4Vg1z2TX1O4SFbsRbF_wywBN78cp_U54MjLq2b-IRr3bDM3vTVKPD6G-TAHVIpNL60mPXNk_seGAwi-o9wd_B0EiX3IUaJSwXRQ/s320/IMG_1575.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beside the gazebo, is a pleasant seating area, that looks down on farm property managed by the College of the Ozarks. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVyQM2VO65s4PwmiLb8kjlXKePlBRB-E0Ok65ISU7qQ8Oufm-BiEzMtu3iBAEcPezOSOo-aa55tWYF-suF55TM1lz1xhwuRn0dFV3HOMZMjLX0imKb-y0OYOi7yDV_jBEZF9rIAkmFQIw00fEag2j2wjjeFZ0Uk3fO6enml_4aY5fu_Twocs3Ec50mA/s640/IMG_1558.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVyQM2VO65s4PwmiLb8kjlXKePlBRB-E0Ok65ISU7qQ8Oufm-BiEzMtu3iBAEcPezOSOo-aa55tWYF-suF55TM1lz1xhwuRn0dFV3HOMZMjLX0imKb-y0OYOi7yDV_jBEZF9rIAkmFQIw00fEag2j2wjjeFZ0Uk3fO6enml_4aY5fu_Twocs3Ec50mA/s320/IMG_1558.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div>The way I remember the digits of the verse below, is by saying "to 911", as in when one calls 911 to get help.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjyUawQ9GG9sHth6cIIhCBk46JBjwVYrQ_UiCpbR0U2phpgAx6gkiO2MK1mPYKf50z4A1ZVXL1c_Co2acq5tRoxqwOYA-D1GE0rK_5UlHrhHIrse0qqZKa4JCKxVBfEvQALMQOyV9UUEHuxLjVREmg-28d8jfbT0Rm389UkXcvn0TTd7tMYsIsB9Hmg/s640/IMG_1573.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjyUawQ9GG9sHth6cIIhCBk46JBjwVYrQ_UiCpbR0U2phpgAx6gkiO2MK1mPYKf50z4A1ZVXL1c_Co2acq5tRoxqwOYA-D1GE0rK_5UlHrhHIrse0qqZKa4JCKxVBfEvQALMQOyV9UUEHuxLjVREmg-28d8jfbT0Rm389UkXcvn0TTd7tMYsIsB9Hmg/s320/IMG_1573.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This reference of Jeremiah 33:3 is sometimes called "God's Telephone Number". I use this admonition so frequently to help me find "lost things", that I finally realized, this could also be a reminder to pray for "lost people", who have not yet made the decision, to accept the salvation provided by Jesus. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNw-9E1HEicy8gQYFVo6AiLlKd6EcHl8PQfZZi9oh0G7M5M3OMCUHuuqybGtvllB1cm37YoIEIkVjO-XWb7a3x0LwkuxaxGQ6lmTPXnXatwkn5M6HMD5en-zMwIy6eWomOfBfgHJJ5NbgiW1o81GevYukp5PzziR9N3V3YQOnmgbIZKmtTmEKXERFStg/s640/IMG_1571.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNw-9E1HEicy8gQYFVo6AiLlKd6EcHl8PQfZZi9oh0G7M5M3OMCUHuuqybGtvllB1cm37YoIEIkVjO-XWb7a3x0LwkuxaxGQ6lmTPXnXatwkn5M6HMD5en-zMwIy6eWomOfBfgHJJ5NbgiW1o81GevYukp5PzziR9N3V3YQOnmgbIZKmtTmEKXERFStg/s320/IMG_1571.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Saying the Philippians 4:13 verse out-loud, over and over, has gotten me through some very touch situations, including the time I got stuck in my kayak on the edge of a small waterfall in a Missouri river. God answered my prayers for help, and his Divine Strength, finally enabled me to free myself from the torrents of fast-moving water, that were on either side of my kayak!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdpv2ogvRfIRt7DwW-SllYC73jdPHOoN6MYu2aZBlQUbGkSt1JatW7v6TmyGF14To_QedCw--vc8ugYzSO4CPjf6qXl-9dLN_Qx0wDWGOKdJCzMT1Pr9epL5g0gc9ZcGdEnxobaHIjkRuNQTo2i1heAQE-gf2GPddBnYPT133IBBRo9zJhbo9yCR1BA/s640/IMG_1564.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdpv2ogvRfIRt7DwW-SllYC73jdPHOoN6MYu2aZBlQUbGkSt1JatW7v6TmyGF14To_QedCw--vc8ugYzSO4CPjf6qXl-9dLN_Qx0wDWGOKdJCzMT1Pr9epL5g0gc9ZcGdEnxobaHIjkRuNQTo2i1heAQE-gf2GPddBnYPT133IBBRo9zJhbo9yCR1BA/s320/IMG_1564.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Scripture reference of this Bible verse from the Old Testament book of Numbers, is the one I am using as the visual aid to help me remember one of our First Place 4 Health memory verses for our current session. Numbers 12:11 says, "And he said to Moses, "Please, my lord, do not hold against us the sin we have so foolishly committed." It refers to when Moses' brother is asking to be forgiven for making the golden calf to worship, while Moses was up on the mountain for forty days with Yahweh. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVoX10wVXgdyzus5L8i5CHlIoJ2ntThxUYgmXrL3iAOwTcSjawfSYZQjJi97LiPeHXuWbqCUm-hyAujfbY9MYLvFXLx7u8iO5tt3krSVMZJUr6NEdvQl6bMdVgKFHN264nFciK658VpRMRoBg8irSlu9l4-_H0oNr-z-BA64BNqwG_Lcbv9l9eQfob0A/s640/IMG_1561.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVoX10wVXgdyzus5L8i5CHlIoJ2ntThxUYgmXrL3iAOwTcSjawfSYZQjJi97LiPeHXuWbqCUm-hyAujfbY9MYLvFXLx7u8iO5tt3krSVMZJUr6NEdvQl6bMdVgKFHN264nFciK658VpRMRoBg8irSlu9l4-_H0oNr-z-BA64BNqwG_Lcbv9l9eQfob0A/s320/IMG_1561.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The First Place 4 Health name originated from the verse shown here, of Matthew 6:33. That is because the verse advises what people should seek FIRST! In the program's beginning, it was simply called "First Place", because its mission was to train people what was the FIRST, and most important, goal for a healthy life. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPzmacc8IG5KHpfYEJt9oYbEmL0cldZIwW9cOevAyUvJNivQJ1_Uhu5mGNRIqwHhkJ-uQbQLnT9u1T_I_lNtJ_FF_oJqsDdPBN2I34-WoCoVWhP8U3VQati0F-tQGsZpDuXw85tPnMIOL2Dr3g3i8LN4uOzBmEmGMKKjP69pbfn9LBKUW1nOVHQ_X4_Q/s640/IMG_1565.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPzmacc8IG5KHpfYEJt9oYbEmL0cldZIwW9cOevAyUvJNivQJ1_Uhu5mGNRIqwHhkJ-uQbQLnT9u1T_I_lNtJ_FF_oJqsDdPBN2I34-WoCoVWhP8U3VQati0F-tQGsZpDuXw85tPnMIOL2Dr3g3i8LN4uOzBmEmGMKKjP69pbfn9LBKUW1nOVHQ_X4_Q/s320/IMG_1565.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Hebrew word for praise means, "Hands upward toward God", which is what I am doing here---praising God for the beautiful world he has created! Seeing the College of the Ozarks Scripture Garden gave me "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeTgNqkWbF2wfp44FafC8RKB3ry6HwVCr62F3G1xf6o_BKNIQfYo2s5J0TUMwrVt6T8S1cTN29-FPsrIhuqeyewRh_GPVltKSv4ERD74RRqj8crR9Ib4Q65CY8mUaOxRWQZr2WB8_qA5c0aah62XUDL-3rD0Zy3NuAgrpE_DFB5JP2L58RBj7xz5gH_g/s640/IMG_1602.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeTgNqkWbF2wfp44FafC8RKB3ry6HwVCr62F3G1xf6o_BKNIQfYo2s5J0TUMwrVt6T8S1cTN29-FPsrIhuqeyewRh_GPVltKSv4ERD74RRqj8crR9Ib4Q65CY8mUaOxRWQZr2WB8_qA5c0aah62XUDL-3rD0Zy3NuAgrpE_DFB5JP2L58RBj7xz5gH_g/s320/IMG_1602.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-65445364230706392182023-06-01T16:37:00.000-05:002023-06-01T18:52:15.469-05:00SIGHT AND SOUND EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Sight and Sound Theater in Branson, Missouri, opened in 2008.<img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYsD9iXjMskAlE_Aya_LgBLWxsshKvxQBXxvb0itzEWOr9UnEXdLfpRXPs5HBrpd-rUrnNss3bx3Fa9sRfPxMZNvex4M_LHI3PXQWvO34qIF0Fu1lZLwHMbCm_WicvyeD-zojOskULKErEfkf1qGHUXAvTFwPdKXtqk_hO0euIXdQoTcLwBezk-G-03g/s320/IMG_1646.jpg" width="240" />The theater is so expansive, that I could not get all of it to fit into my iPhone photo frame! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvdnT7PozXrAVP8wWid17vODHffuP3XLO-nQNFldD2PF-0LWZ8GrrwgaGJw8X7uqSycMraIxiLQEz0qKNoaAqxUBjHb7m-4pdce5wp_NziJ5IdI0jAmsyy2vmhwVPsUEHK8bghn_LD4eibGERtBbTf_dUGAFLeYsBcPsRLK1r9JZ1Wy1EwzLlcWIzJQ/s640/IMG_1639.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvdnT7PozXrAVP8wWid17vODHffuP3XLO-nQNFldD2PF-0LWZ8GrrwgaGJw8X7uqSycMraIxiLQEz0qKNoaAqxUBjHb7m-4pdce5wp_NziJ5IdI0jAmsyy2vmhwVPsUEHK8bghn_LD4eibGERtBbTf_dUGAFLeYsBcPsRLK1r9JZ1Wy1EwzLlcWIzJQ/s320/IMG_1639.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Most people get to the theater long before the production starts, so they can stroll in the beautifully-decorated lobby, have food from their concession areas, and shop the gift shop:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNjc3M4FTig4eSH-0ng6h67yjJadUqsc6pDo2wl7OH9gRLqpUZoWd5nvQQBxOa_thejyzOeJ_w1Y_4mgy7pIM1lOFri2Ky1o0f0jfiMWQErQSbjl4KybVmuQ6NvQQQTgXwv8x62xmdMmuFx0r27Vv4yRyntSuHDjx1XTOC-CkdSF93MljO_GKbXYMlA/s640/IMG_1648.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNjc3M4FTig4eSH-0ng6h67yjJadUqsc6pDo2wl7OH9gRLqpUZoWd5nvQQBxOa_thejyzOeJ_w1Y_4mgy7pIM1lOFri2Ky1o0f0jfiMWQErQSbjl4KybVmuQ6NvQQQTgXwv8x62xmdMmuFx0r27Vv4yRyntSuHDjx1XTOC-CkdSF93MljO_GKbXYMlA/s320/IMG_1648.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Moses production was one of the first performances I ever attended at this theater, and I was able to hear the actor that played Moses, reference this verse, that is one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses: "Moses answered the people, 'Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today', Exodus 14:13". Although it is no longer showing in Branson, this photo shows the DVD you can purchase in the gift shop theater, or on line.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwFDtuwcp8uDUh0CumyZxDj7bq1WmN9zI-9vCLLmjvzMDkz5ECXs-BQAaUyhkEgv0RLVWXo9CdOsZXjOv6dmQ9-V7PzCwyh0gsvL_-4r-SkSc62GwEyFMPkKHzv3apwypYPzcE8P3vbRATYrfLw73z1wIlSzEoPi6HXJ7PkWERGmjOAeIB_U7_XlSbA/s640/IMG_1650.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcwFDtuwcp8uDUh0CumyZxDj7bq1WmN9zI-9vCLLmjvzMDkz5ECXs-BQAaUyhkEgv0RLVWXo9CdOsZXjOv6dmQ9-V7PzCwyh0gsvL_-4r-SkSc62GwEyFMPkKHzv3apwypYPzcE8P3vbRATYrfLw73z1wIlSzEoPi6HXJ7PkWERGmjOAeIB_U7_XlSbA/s320/IMG_1650.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>The gift shop also has a plethora of Queen Esther-related gifts, including a costume for Queen Esther and King Xeres "wannabes".</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyRWQ68KvKTaXjnroKQUUgzeLUlcfWSudXcrAMkSH1InSgExFtNhlYwjnuFKQBWl7dnpkcdEx3Z-pTOZyew7RE-G-2p3k5f3wStrb4lecA2XAnUzBni9Pkl1BCx13OOI2xRTCeevy1BXYdSQXy-TQp68GdNuiZhOtAG52v1Q4r-4MmlEiV2jmiSXVpA/s640/IMG_1653.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="640" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyRWQ68KvKTaXjnroKQUUgzeLUlcfWSudXcrAMkSH1InSgExFtNhlYwjnuFKQBWl7dnpkcdEx3Z-pTOZyew7RE-G-2p3k5f3wStrb4lecA2XAnUzBni9Pkl1BCx13OOI2xRTCeevy1BXYdSQXy-TQp68GdNuiZhOtAG52v1Q4r-4MmlEiV2jmiSXVpA/s320/IMG_1653.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The costumes, when displayed on mannequins, show they are designed for children. The photo below also shows there are coloring books designed for children, that reference popular Bible stories. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7PTG_CB7V2enxs2q3L5aOaMR_JxjPEywLfvqPuZ7aGMcgTHAReejW6KnaG_P9MaNft21i_V3-pPpSvGTePAZZMgf0RXkP6yJgfTCulKEOPXpTGnO4L00eNepb2wNPUHwtjFCBcspcwKnucoibrI6PUOmnFz82vXE3ZPSZv2qI61nUmAiT_SwQaH4eQ/s640/IMG_1663%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR7PTG_CB7V2enxs2q3L5aOaMR_JxjPEywLfvqPuZ7aGMcgTHAReejW6KnaG_P9MaNft21i_V3-pPpSvGTePAZZMgf0RXkP6yJgfTCulKEOPXpTGnO4L00eNepb2wNPUHwtjFCBcspcwKnucoibrI6PUOmnFz82vXE3ZPSZv2qI61nUmAiT_SwQaH4eQ/s320/IMG_1663%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The Book of Esther in the bible was originally written on scrolls, and replicas are available in the gift shop.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMAwgVUDLMsc33tpTmVWKiZeukBaqJSY1U_CDo5n-g-2oq2zcl3gKkqEJcnY4jMatQCwv21-cR2y1Z-_cT4FHLkgakkH7f46Bwm5ztVOBnjK8xcXveLeaMlDK6CNkzhIywRb6mL1b4qaJh29EZM94ZXl0bK7BskkNNJnftC-Ws-Ej1AeWvgJe4pBcmEw/s640/IMG_1661.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMAwgVUDLMsc33tpTmVWKiZeukBaqJSY1U_CDo5n-g-2oq2zcl3gKkqEJcnY4jMatQCwv21-cR2y1Z-_cT4FHLkgakkH7f46Bwm5ztVOBnjK8xcXveLeaMlDK6CNkzhIywRb6mL1b4qaJh29EZM94ZXl0bK7BskkNNJnftC-Ws-Ej1AeWvgJe4pBcmEw/s320/IMG_1661.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Megillah definition is also explained in the gift shop. This blog will not tell "the whole megillah" of Sight and Sound Theaters, but I do want to mention that it had its beginnings over forty years ago, because Glen Eshelman had a passion for photography. Likewise, this blog started about fifteen years ago, partly because of my passion for photography! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7tBRrsIhd4a8JoYGWZDazlSSOlyPn3qeNPtriYJWJswRzWEBQ7vIsBO2nq2HJkR4X_XKNzTyz5dZjCUFgt0hMqdZCKBiIf_rC0eJ98iJ9vgt8PnnziexNvGJI0ty4udm5iS5LA_jdARlHvX-Pi0vdTwdOKGSqE473Brf0uyVZxpgAYQcaELQFXC4dQ/s640/IMG_1662.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7tBRrsIhd4a8JoYGWZDazlSSOlyPn3qeNPtriYJWJswRzWEBQ7vIsBO2nq2HJkR4X_XKNzTyz5dZjCUFgt0hMqdZCKBiIf_rC0eJ98iJ9vgt8PnnziexNvGJI0ty4udm5iS5LA_jdARlHvX-Pi0vdTwdOKGSqE473Brf0uyVZxpgAYQcaELQFXC4dQ/s320/IMG_1662.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This Queen Esther mug, available in the gift shop, would feel good in your hand, as you sit down with a hot beverage and your Bible, to read (or re-read) the book of Esther. I found it helpful to review the book of Esther BEFORE the performance, and then again after the performance. When I read it afterwards, I could better visualize the sentences on the written page. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUIKfTunbnKcjIZuMEBxkGloT9Wx97JdpBKs6QeRKCmDTp2rrdsWmicNLBSbYMhi5HQz4X9GqaXdKzC-1eKjd2G722g1clZdB-CAsci9ytz-DKKkcyEbGT-4UIycIrEFKpSmrPrOCL2zIvm_9Vmc-s_aaImxzM09GioUuvLFAQiGEpv18atoSMMbMDIg/s640/IMG_1654.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUIKfTunbnKcjIZuMEBxkGloT9Wx97JdpBKs6QeRKCmDTp2rrdsWmicNLBSbYMhi5HQz4X9GqaXdKzC-1eKjd2G722g1clZdB-CAsci9ytz-DKKkcyEbGT-4UIycIrEFKpSmrPrOCL2zIvm_9Vmc-s_aaImxzM09GioUuvLFAQiGEpv18atoSMMbMDIg/s320/IMG_1654.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This Esther 4:14 artistic wall hanging is a reference to this verse: "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?"<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZuoC_Y7bceNgTy0HrglAHZjYDCi8psa_RaYIA_fMI3Wy3scoAf1PwVlUp2qPZVzUIrU3rQt-EjBXhT2LhBSSbAVhQO_WHDh9v2ZYtvn7pGvFK7QSDaAVKbRDiCaREbvT8-dUnU-RF0fdyGKy_BT0OGxxCqH0xMl1E4XRpPq2QRmRW-v_xhtLhG4gRw/s640/IMG_1659.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZuoC_Y7bceNgTy0HrglAHZjYDCi8psa_RaYIA_fMI3Wy3scoAf1PwVlUp2qPZVzUIrU3rQt-EjBXhT2LhBSSbAVhQO_WHDh9v2ZYtvn7pGvFK7QSDaAVKbRDiCaREbvT8-dUnU-RF0fdyGKy_BT0OGxxCqH0xMl1E4XRpPq2QRmRW-v_xhtLhG4gRw/s320/IMG_1659.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>A fun photo opportunity for guests, is to have their picture taken with something indicating their presence at the Sight and Sound Theater. This year, it is a large banner, and I was able to get a photo with it:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ4XuvpKKQ7FyLvL_r0s11adNApMZZyPLy926tWKpuBHtJrStDq2nbTkdA-3KEN_Wd3mYLZyZlSKALcvbatl_ZyOl4yirjsQHAIEi2UIrQE4HHQkH5NvHnMROjYwIYmJnfoCLkY8IECO-wJytmcrwAQ2rjkDo8_5oSBY9BDfkP2JvewJjb8ULm3oQGgQ/s640/IMG_1677.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="521" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ4XuvpKKQ7FyLvL_r0s11adNApMZZyPLy926tWKpuBHtJrStDq2nbTkdA-3KEN_Wd3mYLZyZlSKALcvbatl_ZyOl4yirjsQHAIEi2UIrQE4HHQkH5NvHnMROjYwIYmJnfoCLkY8IECO-wJytmcrwAQ2rjkDo8_5oSBY9BDfkP2JvewJjb8ULm3oQGgQ/s320/IMG_1677.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><p><br />On a previous occasion, when I attended the Samson production at Sight and Sound Theater with my grandson, he agreed to pose with the statue of Samson, to make his grandma happy!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfqbjVm2-QJORbdeV-UU9PjL2wgUI5yg2kvjSdqUcFtWDOQGU39Q66pLcHa9BAQI245cIxnDh1Q60k9NqGFmSyQ8rFLjjcdwumpAdLNN7cx5j1xZHvbLeUhW_HyyS2LbiYPMzWqmdcJPOxKFbLCLlTf937UyPw1zIytbTg0vTHaWs6R6jGu-3lIZtuw/s960/IMG_1771%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="624" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfqbjVm2-QJORbdeV-UU9PjL2wgUI5yg2kvjSdqUcFtWDOQGU39Q66pLcHa9BAQI245cIxnDh1Q60k9NqGFmSyQ8rFLjjcdwumpAdLNN7cx5j1xZHvbLeUhW_HyyS2LbiYPMzWqmdcJPOxKFbLCLlTf937UyPw1zIytbTg0vTHaWs6R6jGu-3lIZtuw/s320/IMG_1771%20(1).JPG" width="208" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>There is a permanent statue inside the theater lobby (no matter the subject of the performance), you can use as a photo opportunity, if you have a hankering to be photographed with an angel:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8xFlBtdvdAf_SHDlPTuASLyEuT_K-sFbn5daU06qc_DAQ2MXNOdAhAoJU7qta_aafd_G8FpZMYqdVef0_vuUVCC5nDWlfah5mYFKiXTfKd_ziXG0LgALYpFHIlm9Odnn1zLtzLkH1PMNz_TOa5wfrYkYWE0mXCbDJpDU_dWXXjGMjZdpRUVu263fLw/s640/IMG_1675.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8xFlBtdvdAf_SHDlPTuASLyEuT_K-sFbn5daU06qc_DAQ2MXNOdAhAoJU7qta_aafd_G8FpZMYqdVef0_vuUVCC5nDWlfah5mYFKiXTfKd_ziXG0LgALYpFHIlm9Odnn1zLtzLkH1PMNz_TOa5wfrYkYWE0mXCbDJpDU_dWXXjGMjZdpRUVu263fLw/s320/IMG_1675.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I was trying to get my 10,000 steps in before the production, so I took the stairs (there is also an elevator) to the second floor balcony:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJk5sM0hwUksEW_vxo6jgRGEr7fWj4nvpZX-KwyLohYuk_YiZ_42frc3C3nnOYM1Q1ANXQ4lSBV2XKSOpiyxslYhAF35Q_C0Ag3hjpP_VTQSo2QSBmA5f_xTCzQVSdyQUN-aTIE4rYIweGOVFU6vI2aiCFcfzYUV15YDvOzjibdUDcW_1fOIbKenewA/s640/IMG_1666.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJk5sM0hwUksEW_vxo6jgRGEr7fWj4nvpZX-KwyLohYuk_YiZ_42frc3C3nnOYM1Q1ANXQ4lSBV2XKSOpiyxslYhAF35Q_C0Ag3hjpP_VTQSo2QSBmA5f_xTCzQVSdyQUN-aTIE4rYIweGOVFU6vI2aiCFcfzYUV15YDvOzjibdUDcW_1fOIbKenewA/s320/IMG_1666.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />There are banners from previous productions up on the balcony:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKOtNS6MOcDCB-t-0b6JFQrz17nnfIfAeNMOL3E8p1Ia8-2J9xlMWfY3aVz4BollsCtgXl7G6ir-NGxCSStuDr_FsmK_WFfqC5krKEDjF045XwJyly56vDbko9mTO1lpzccy8S7bDAxfJPeBEI-QtIu7G-ZwdDSPVuq3vLJU5M5hYbsPFmyd_GL83QZw/s640/IMG_1669.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKOtNS6MOcDCB-t-0b6JFQrz17nnfIfAeNMOL3E8p1Ia8-2J9xlMWfY3aVz4BollsCtgXl7G6ir-NGxCSStuDr_FsmK_WFfqC5krKEDjF045XwJyly56vDbko9mTO1lpzccy8S7bDAxfJPeBEI-QtIu7G-ZwdDSPVuq3vLJU5M5hYbsPFmyd_GL83QZw/s320/IMG_1669.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The balcony gives you an overall view of lobby:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkC4JNHGH-YapKDmGSomWElDrsIMb35jSLABC8YUKsT8CG_KvtO8bhEyabn_zM4Gi3cJ2pgb5CJwmcoHegoW7-qeZ0wjU26Aw42dycLx2UOq_pnOHMENQTBH_3455BQ3PBNEVW0kzWScwQpIoY6vL8wmoMPbSqQQFKfxShnWesd2qWiO14j8k3B1xnQ/s640/IMG_1744.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="482" data-original-width="640" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwkC4JNHGH-YapKDmGSomWElDrsIMb35jSLABC8YUKsT8CG_KvtO8bhEyabn_zM4Gi3cJ2pgb5CJwmcoHegoW7-qeZ0wjU26Aw42dycLx2UOq_pnOHMENQTBH_3455BQ3PBNEVW0kzWScwQpIoY6vL8wmoMPbSqQQFKfxShnWesd2qWiO14j8k3B1xnQ/s320/IMG_1744.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At the balcony level, you can also see a model of what the stage for the Noah production looked like:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaV2VNzIQVBGajsR9rRQWlziABt-KgldYIkRwvxIlyCHayioeyvxcThkOQklUXAqlOCtsR36UlJuhOrhM9zF0AhFyxgkAME7nMVA38pdu96aXs5sLZgkjxUAuhiW4JziA11o7SbBudN-kbKmYVZE2LRAge41oGITMKcN3b_IHiSlkJgxvdA9_3IYxidw/s640/IMG_1667.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaV2VNzIQVBGajsR9rRQWlziABt-KgldYIkRwvxIlyCHayioeyvxcThkOQklUXAqlOCtsR36UlJuhOrhM9zF0AhFyxgkAME7nMVA38pdu96aXs5sLZgkjxUAuhiW4JziA11o7SbBudN-kbKmYVZE2LRAge41oGITMKcN3b_IHiSlkJgxvdA9_3IYxidw/s320/IMG_1667.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />You can also see the ticket box office from upstairs. At the box office, one can purchase their tickets in person, or pick up a ticket one purchased on line with their credit card. If you have a group of 15 or more, be sure to inquire about the group price discount.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeLkld_znDagmPvxlfT0UCh5zsTApmtfhejgzU_HsRyqKCELUbQNcOYIa3hNGPKbZqPuZzqaMsbj7qU9DWlLCBvbYuQ8DAb9Mnk4K5elXgF2-meFoIZ-yyVVSRW_f8bmiA149E47Ejr4p5M4dmIaNaoLshAPXwjvp0Mk7ZZwzOrQbNQjGA764TF3nOEQ/s640/IMG_1668.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeLkld_znDagmPvxlfT0UCh5zsTApmtfhejgzU_HsRyqKCELUbQNcOYIa3hNGPKbZqPuZzqaMsbj7qU9DWlLCBvbYuQ8DAb9Mnk4K5elXgF2-meFoIZ-yyVVSRW_f8bmiA149E47Ejr4p5M4dmIaNaoLshAPXwjvp0Mk7ZZwzOrQbNQjGA764TF3nOEQ/s320/IMG_1668.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Be sure to visit the rest room BEFORE the production starts, because the line is very long at intermission! At intermission, the theater had female staff members inside the women's rest room to direct guests as quickly as possible to one of the dozens of stalls available, as soon as it became available. But even with their help, the line seemed to go on forever! However, waiting in line is a great time to visit with like-minded ladies who enjoy seeing the Bible come to life on stage! (You might even make a new friend!)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErM_KMye_7Ni12YFuer3SCXQLJMIpfdssSbfDu4noGoNGqvb3tIHP6DVPlNhcWyQ5NXWDz-yqiF73g66GNtlE1d0a06BZZM301vh3R9R4AedTPVyktXW7h7Pv7vaUDCtrBX2wR-8d8-2l91H4fi-to-jz3odFH4WIwdUOok4oQ1i2o9e3TmC_V1duBQ/s640/IMG_1665.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErM_KMye_7Ni12YFuer3SCXQLJMIpfdssSbfDu4noGoNGqvb3tIHP6DVPlNhcWyQ5NXWDz-yqiF73g66GNtlE1d0a06BZZM301vh3R9R4AedTPVyktXW7h7Pv7vaUDCtrBX2wR-8d8-2l91H4fi-to-jz3odFH4WIwdUOok4oQ1i2o9e3TmC_V1duBQ/s320/IMG_1665.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />About 45 minutes before the actual starting time of the performance, guests can go inside the theater to their designated seat. I liked where my seat was located, behind the sound board, with no one in front of me to obstruct the view:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RLa0_ofq-jslLKwJlsGgV8IhxUo_QTr2GvvW6ea_qt0K-oRlX-xAmYTZHKD3T7HVjQAeCunDVF1uJaumd40EabR8jEFL42x6WwMEOdZhCV0FN2WSTqA3sy0Z142_08DPt8KhlwKRBYBpH0E50TMGqFpbLyU7--vmJTbV8Ll__E_UGCdJy_h1XxHW3g/s640/IMG_1678.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-RLa0_ofq-jslLKwJlsGgV8IhxUo_QTr2GvvW6ea_qt0K-oRlX-xAmYTZHKD3T7HVjQAeCunDVF1uJaumd40EabR8jEFL42x6WwMEOdZhCV0FN2WSTqA3sy0Z142_08DPt8KhlwKRBYBpH0E50TMGqFpbLyU7--vmJTbV8Ll__E_UGCdJy_h1XxHW3g/s320/IMG_1678.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />One can request a listening device at no added cost, which I did:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="635" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiFmNtwVTgm2ur1anBMeSgZph8D7M6gjBsyYjZHZ_-MdsYjDJ-ykSRvvA134GhA3sBXKdqp-dO-ZOStV3-PhRrRlksgGYaMk8mQzEx1rPTuVcAnzfUFOnmRrAAhrJTVxFh6uUsUvhC8JtBRO-BK4VevoAU7vazrKXFR65Li4kBAmeyKmNnT6xgW8Lcw/s320/IMG_1679.jpg" width="318" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">While waiting for the performance to begin, a graphic was shown on the curtain, about the Sight and Sound Conservatory. The purpose of the conservatory is to mentor the next generation of Christ-centered performing artists through classroom instruction in acting, singing, dancing, and other relevant courses. The conservatory also provides an opportunity to perform in Sight and Sound Theaters Professional Stage Productions. Their overall goal is to cultivate a lifestyle of character, commitment, and competence, whether in the secular or Christian realm, of performing arts. <br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HA7k__KBdQY2-ZBX5yc2Fwx4ZsBImfkUQ7I2POWEq4pIqCYlbzl3j3rpg6nRk2-ep99JwMr2iDiqrsgwburZA8U29ySJbOWDwmdOoYWg5sjTyUkozzh9dMWCUqSEfG-3sPpnK5Eh8I_iLygnDL3DCUK46rj3vyTAAkhwOxgBbXzUgN6v23ktzrqeqA/s640/IMG_1680.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HA7k__KBdQY2-ZBX5yc2Fwx4ZsBImfkUQ7I2POWEq4pIqCYlbzl3j3rpg6nRk2-ep99JwMr2iDiqrsgwburZA8U29ySJbOWDwmdOoYWg5sjTyUkozzh9dMWCUqSEfG-3sPpnK5Eh8I_iLygnDL3DCUK46rj3vyTAAkhwOxgBbXzUgN6v23ktzrqeqA/s320/IMG_1680.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />Although no photography is permitted during the show, photos inside the theater are permitted at intermission:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vNq50F6_oNy1POguBnDkKECebKX3_eYnMMSpygvJkaPsqAhoXpvL_lFFik1jkdeIBGiuvKQO6vhM2Qgi-xUdm1Ik6Hsw0CtTJgNTKtBoOQEvPDy0sxnUj6lxdMh6FxN1HInH5mumBSQQkXOO96U_sjg8pYCp1Btf2WKyzA9rYu0gHsjMiOt7PvF91A/s640/IMG_1682.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4vNq50F6_oNy1POguBnDkKECebKX3_eYnMMSpygvJkaPsqAhoXpvL_lFFik1jkdeIBGiuvKQO6vhM2Qgi-xUdm1Ik6Hsw0CtTJgNTKtBoOQEvPDy0sxnUj6lxdMh6FxN1HInH5mumBSQQkXOO96U_sjg8pYCp1Btf2WKyzA9rYu0gHsjMiOt7PvF91A/s320/IMG_1682.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />These colorful lanterns are lowered from the ceiling, above the audience, during one of the scenes depicting nighttime, and they stay visible during the intermission. I have been at previous productions at Sight and Sound where angels were lowered from the ceiling for a Christmas production, and also a gigantic whale, for the Jonah production. You do not have to be a dramatic arts professional, to come to the realization that the scenes being portrayed before us, took a VAST amount of skilled and creative work to accomplish---engineers for lighting, sound, and animations; carpenters for set construction, costume designers and seamstresses/tailors; musicians; live animal trainers, concession workers; ushers; parking lot attendants, landscaping workers; box office workers; writers, website managers, etc., etc.! Yet, at the end of every performance, they give all the glory to God, and have volunteers/staff available for anyone who wants to remain afterwards for prayer or conversation. Just as these lanterns are providing light, Sight and Sound has the goal of providing light to a world in need of redemption. <br /><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGE_imBpWLEfOcgZZEJlvSq7bhs1qIyLWKb1bFj7EhCfzLYNjX8fFxGEHum52qkjGHw-C4CxvQRohB37tWuwu7H7jeYOZRYqGHAxgKhKfHr6Zt9tKUzUhoVAbMIFiT2prUBM6F9idzYeUNz0hsz90PdVQbfKLGH50m1CIeL3DuW85zNGSDEYTAT4AJg/s640/IMG_1684.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCGE_imBpWLEfOcgZZEJlvSq7bhs1qIyLWKb1bFj7EhCfzLYNjX8fFxGEHum52qkjGHw-C4CxvQRohB37tWuwu7H7jeYOZRYqGHAxgKhKfHr6Zt9tKUzUhoVAbMIFiT2prUBM6F9idzYeUNz0hsz90PdVQbfKLGH50m1CIeL3DuW85zNGSDEYTAT4AJg/s320/IMG_1684.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I am hoping these photos and this information will make you want to travel to Branson to see the Queen Esther production. You can find out everything you need to know by visiting their website at www.sight-sound.com . For information on other Branson attractions/lodging, check out www.ExploreBranson.com . Being a visitor in this magnificent facility, and seeing a Bible story portrayed on a magnificent stage, by magnificent performers, gave me magnificent "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuSxa4Q_cb2YDA2b2SjyuDG_XqpcjSKuQ2cD8A49YG8n5VsY5L5iJ8Cd5mH7HX7SQjr92OTQHgy1jxQwNOOd6S9Raguz5MQdbtT3xMC8b7t04VKb-CU0n_FhOxC5oiHFl2I3zmn_oYi8QWQ6tpHeVEbYvoq6Lv_L4pjNkLpFlS1O7saesO1_uRNBBXQ/s640/IMG_1655.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuSxa4Q_cb2YDA2b2SjyuDG_XqpcjSKuQ2cD8A49YG8n5VsY5L5iJ8Cd5mH7HX7SQjr92OTQHgy1jxQwNOOd6S9Raguz5MQdbtT3xMC8b7t04VKb-CU0n_FhOxC5oiHFl2I3zmn_oYi8QWQ6tpHeVEbYvoq6Lv_L4pjNkLpFlS1O7saesO1_uRNBBXQ/s320/IMG_1655.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-72648340129887059042023-05-01T01:00:00.000-05:002023-05-01T06:43:14.280-05:00BRANSON PINK JEEP EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I saw this photo on the 2023 Official Branson Vacation Guide, I knew immediately it was something I wanted to do! I first heard about pink jeep tours when I was in Las Vegas, and participated in the tour they offer to Hoover Dam. (See "Hoover Dam Expedition", February 20, 2012, in the archives of this blog)<img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="628" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjbOOWu5pQ7ldAfTNxd-bdQxAT0_fv1R4lE_cOSWFnYBVQW5D0JYKD3D1AbocBFwk5RLSYIV8rotkM6_iPLKM44IqH9DvosyojjI0nYUNsHI0daUENRIsfmPjBgkFE3fAQ4yNkyjkfSnGVLeSUci_ItdXHHb9wwavHon2C6knlv_LolmNMGHpdwEprzQ/s320/IMG_1335%20(1).jpg" width="314" /></div><br /> The opportunity came to reality when I attended the Select Traveler Conference, at Chateau on the Lake, in Branson, Missouri, on my birthday. I can tell you from first-hand experience, that getting to go on a pink jeep adventure, makes for a fantastic birthday outing!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Yiv7Tex57ZT4HvmN8XykKFKuSet9leHv6qAAapqN_vfOIhqg9qT3782cfis3LH4lTHxyqhCNhhZYWNgvEfSITb-DUudz471bCmReZ8lDHdKZmrMIJUTUwX79HfzIiqa3x9-_QKZ8ZceKrsK15lGQcXjCSnW8LzICCdUTU0GTPhUjTUCl7KASyPPelQ/s640/IMG_0821%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Yiv7Tex57ZT4HvmN8XykKFKuSet9leHv6qAAapqN_vfOIhqg9qT3782cfis3LH4lTHxyqhCNhhZYWNgvEfSITb-DUudz471bCmReZ8lDHdKZmrMIJUTUwX79HfzIiqa3x9-_QKZ8ZceKrsK15lGQcXjCSnW8LzICCdUTU0GTPhUjTUCl7KASyPPelQ/s320/IMG_0821%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The Branson company brought all seven of their pink jeeps to the Chateau, to pick up our very large group. Normally, guests go to the Pink Jeep office at 3310 West Highway 76, to start their tour. However, since you can see our hotel in the background in photo above, it is apparent, exceptions can be made! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5wxQWekazq0nkpLYfON-4cE48yb37VReCtjsWh9GkzI1Wg7mhbdi_DDaRY-VYZC1_-hE-HTl9Uot0DLAzTWMCG8TS2mjCTM-X6-Rn-td3NoT0w7qhNcB0irknC0hoF77yFBNEiPY-UTZ1mK0iHa5geeRXBm-w8Gg8mW5fpn0lKNASAPXqHlXV1uuCw/s640/IMG_0823.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5wxQWekazq0nkpLYfON-4cE48yb37VReCtjsWh9GkzI1Wg7mhbdi_DDaRY-VYZC1_-hE-HTl9Uot0DLAzTWMCG8TS2mjCTM-X6-Rn-td3NoT0w7qhNcB0irknC0hoF77yFBNEiPY-UTZ1mK0iHa5geeRXBm-w8Gg8mW5fpn0lKNASAPXqHlXV1uuCw/s320/IMG_0823.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I was so thankful to get to sit in the front seat--that is me pointing to the door sign. I also took a photo of our driver, Barry, and my fellow passengers in the back. The clear vinyl curtains were in use on the day of our tour, since it was still nippy outside. In warmer weather, the vehicle will be more "open air", so guests can enjoy some Ozark Mountain "wind therapy" on their adventure. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyy7sHo-85W804TFY2cXTrzOV903LMKhS7RtnIiJBnzL-tiMyvxbdNU68HLVcaia_aSxDMVrZhzDZSUObyKtLJ4cU80mWLm2kPQh4y05x7WiVYc4k6Q59eVQ-xWFgDiUSQn_cHc3GdNSdmHsVBNWmhzGCwgVWT7avlPjku7JhuyFwTVLgE9Xj0K35-w/s320/IMG_0824.jpg" width="320" />Did you know there are several legends as to the origin of the distinctive seven slots in a jeep grill? Several of them are listed on the official Jeep website, but the one I have heard for decades (I used to own a jeep) is that the Jeep was the first vehicle to drive on all seven continents before any other vehicle. Remember---Jeep was originally a military vehicle. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw-WfRVsYbqLmovJgJI9sKFu3pT105-31l99E1oM8zyIeDczAXzdEqzaOSkACXsStDpCAwGIr5vwWV0xTs5h7OWZ9x39RaNR20TcNzskfUIGQGYi1-fLe67c4j1I4hUD2u3uTe3f7yU6PG8DlBLWixSDjdPR06_c6NnW6eOOI953fOD7kc_F4z2fmJIw/s640/IMG_0994.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw-WfRVsYbqLmovJgJI9sKFu3pT105-31l99E1oM8zyIeDczAXzdEqzaOSkACXsStDpCAwGIr5vwWV0xTs5h7OWZ9x39RaNR20TcNzskfUIGQGYi1-fLe67c4j1I4hUD2u3uTe3f7yU6PG8DlBLWixSDjdPR06_c6NnW6eOOI953fOD7kc_F4z2fmJIw/s320/IMG_0994.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>As we left the Chateau, I felt like a celebrity, because a videographer was filming this "parade" of pink jeeps, as we drove down the beautifully landscaped driveway of Chateau on the Lake resort. Our first right turn took us out onto the land on the north side of Table Rock Dam, called Moonshine Beach, shown in photo below. It is not immediately apparent that these vehicles start out, as stock Jeep Wranglers. However, they are then fully customized, over the course of nine weeks, to equip them to seat passengers on an elevated viewing platform behind the driver. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGAWFdAOQ3JIULipyTLUR8nOfwPZigU47z8anCNqJFJp3zMZ9r2Ge8SfQ6wyuG662IJK28vUgB8nNXYvr3MNMGqMdc9Z8W_2RS1MbcttTdXihsAECSTSJcWIpwLZM5B65cFiKiTo1MAGnr75nw0qH9pQrPknYxCUaDe22NuruqBHXE86Wkv2M9ttYeVQ/s640/IMG_0839.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGAWFdAOQ3JIULipyTLUR8nOfwPZigU47z8anCNqJFJp3zMZ9r2Ge8SfQ6wyuG662IJK28vUgB8nNXYvr3MNMGqMdc9Z8W_2RS1MbcttTdXihsAECSTSJcWIpwLZM5B65cFiKiTo1MAGnr75nw0qH9pQrPknYxCUaDe22NuruqBHXE86Wkv2M9ttYeVQ/s320/IMG_0839.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Moonshine Beach is adjacent to a peninsula where you can see Table Rock Lake, on both sides, as seen in photo below. The photo below also shows a row of colorful rubber ducks on the dashboard. If you are a Jeep aficionado, you probably know the meaning of the ducks lined up on the dash board. If not, let me explain: During the depressing days of the COVID19 pandemic, a person who wanted to spread a bit of cheer, started leaving rubber duckies on Jeeps that appealed to them.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh358dkxFL6YeUnhfAWCyV3ZAEFv_ai0H_Uvw58XhqdetGrf1kw71LDRDqPhRvJ5Pi1QzW7lUgpwH-lJ2wI233CBH29kZjLCk2e7P4Nefs1F2k09FN6bndTBmgVoW2PpibusfvZFq8hkfSviubPLCfkBTkHWDeaJdJnbcCxi0EQfOp8dXsoDSEhpm4biA/s320/IMG_0834.jpg" width="320" />The phenomenon caught on via social media "share" posts, and now there is a whole line of merchandise to support these "random acts of kindness". The "Official Ducking Jeep Est2020" page on Facebook lists 71K members, and the Instagram page called "DuckDuckJeep" shows 48.2K followers! Both of these social media sites list a variety of similar groups, if you look in their search box.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the photo below, notice the "hand" logo with the two outstretched fingers. Some say this is the official Jeep "wave" to give to other Jeep drivers. Legend says it originated when Jeeps were first used for military transport, and the two fingers extended were a reference to a "V" for victory salute, for the U.S. military troops. If you look closely, you will see the palm of the hand outline is a graphic of the iconic round headlights and seven slot openings on a Jeep front grill. <img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlxV_dyd-EzPc8tP6LW3vErXFnPzFiKv6MR1_oWMsZ_zWN8bObNQOhpimA6TDv6bDMocMdBx4X6RJyzVh-OG4b_LznHlNiR_FnF5di8VACcymMNOSo1Kg0YtYgrNkDjJ64BoUIVN5RdAM-beu76vG8qmda7EZhAe1fSkrKe_wnZTbOCtC68gfedaH_7g/s320/IMG_1352.JPG" width="240" /></div><br /><br /></div>Another stop the caravan made was to go to the scenic overlook on Hiway 265. This is a popular place for both tourists and locals to visit, and its access is open to everyone. (That's me you see in the mirror, and the long "river-like" body of water in the foreground is called Lake Taneycomo). Table Rock Dam is visible in the distance, with Table Rock Lake behind the dam.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGimL4tHaeyxfTrH8GUYXGEeeA-_t9PpSfqT_Oxo1SBg2xmp_cCuqdd0nlXLA5kqdzQ5HYaI9btzHNACq74LX94Ygu5eZbbT3s4UZuFTrxJ2nbxK_AkBuYdng8ussYpPzCDOJY5OwRM8bn6bfs1UWCJdb51nDbxTlMpmlgjlvMZgX6Zvdmtdob44fOBg/s640/IMG_0843.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGimL4tHaeyxfTrH8GUYXGEeeA-_t9PpSfqT_Oxo1SBg2xmp_cCuqdd0nlXLA5kqdzQ5HYaI9btzHNACq74LX94Ygu5eZbbT3s4UZuFTrxJ2nbxK_AkBuYdng8ussYpPzCDOJY5OwRM8bn6bfs1UWCJdb51nDbxTlMpmlgjlvMZgX6Zvdmtdob44fOBg/s320/IMG_0843.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>You can see the for miles from this location, including the beautiful Chateau on the Lake, sitting on a distant hilltop. (See photo below)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCjqP7E9_9W8E0RWYvnP-dEOPdHn4H0FG_O68cKH_RpPPuomh08jcpsoEgMxW06QUY8gGly_1m7KQM2wQjEjRqVoAQR_l1UDz_WGPL2GiQukjWDMkYdwUOZF41qi480QaM_9eop8jfRF_XXMS5BOzyCznLbnXNCuIvxKx8RCM676uiBZlkbxMayJMlg/s640/IMG_0846.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrCjqP7E9_9W8E0RWYvnP-dEOPdHn4H0FG_O68cKH_RpPPuomh08jcpsoEgMxW06QUY8gGly_1m7KQM2wQjEjRqVoAQR_l1UDz_WGPL2GiQukjWDMkYdwUOZF41qi480QaM_9eop8jfRF_XXMS5BOzyCznLbnXNCuIvxKx8RCM676uiBZlkbxMayJMlg/s320/IMG_0846.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Next we accessed the private property on Baird Mountain, through a locked gate. Several years ago, I took a "Ride the Ducks" tour that also drove up to the top of Baird Mountain, but since then, new "4-wheeling" roads have been developed for customers on the Pink Jeep tours. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxIDL3d20jDR-0T33_lyeJoRQrdriSHe8zVrX_KQpTbxKa9XnKbn6vUa2JGjFDLVF5EdrTmjTx87braE6Vhmh6ux88eyI2j9s1vfDYubgtPL7QXfIVh0AMHPG9RPLZM47FOelxMfy4m-BUGqwBOGl1-_-ALxnoieDqqeF3vAI7Hrq2sef2GSr-wdnzg/s640/IMG_0856.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxIDL3d20jDR-0T33_lyeJoRQrdriSHe8zVrX_KQpTbxKa9XnKbn6vUa2JGjFDLVF5EdrTmjTx87braE6Vhmh6ux88eyI2j9s1vfDYubgtPL7QXfIVh0AMHPG9RPLZM47FOelxMfy4m-BUGqwBOGl1-_-ALxnoieDqqeF3vAI7Hrq2sef2GSr-wdnzg/s320/IMG_0856.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The new roads go through a hardwood forest, that will look completely different, once all these trees are leafed out. An advantage of going when it is still winter, is you can see the "lay of the land" better than when you are driving through a "green tunnel", where only a few feet on either side of the road can be seen through the undergrowth. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-rcJYcsECmt_OSBD4m8yULJ-YX2bYWIKEiKWLtEeHz-dHrSA7npA9OTawZ9hftcA1TVEk9ZSiGYSWkl0PdfS2JtAS-zOSeKls2-ITU0vwSl9XY7TwoXGLcWE5aoYi8ABs2-OlMtUa52iqwV-Ntq3IWGpPZb2Mb9J_HHCDl82BYFZSRZdldQ9xbVymw/s640/IMG_0868.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB-rcJYcsECmt_OSBD4m8yULJ-YX2bYWIKEiKWLtEeHz-dHrSA7npA9OTawZ9hftcA1TVEk9ZSiGYSWkl0PdfS2JtAS-zOSeKls2-ITU0vwSl9XY7TwoXGLcWE5aoYi8ABs2-OlMtUa52iqwV-Ntq3IWGpPZb2Mb9J_HHCDl82BYFZSRZdldQ9xbVymw/s320/IMG_0868.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Our driver told us about a new road that has been built (shown in photo below), that he was not yet allowed to use, because he had not been "tested and certified" for it yet. According to their website, the drivers are Smith System Driver Safety Trained. The new road (see the white upward incline through the driver's side window) has a degree of incline steep enough to qualify as a "sky climb", and will be equally thrilling crawling downward! Notice our driver has a microphone, so that the passengers in the back can hear the geographic and historical tidbits he shares during the tour. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCPGa7lLjPdxs2vdjhpf1kh0WcmfYNFxqLeC_vpoKPbX4e1VejObvt4mWd4YFbq-H0Hca24M63NJR56nEAWR3fB7BEFbACq0ZSVlmqNB7YVkngUdH2AMqIa1455cjvZqI8WOTcYZLLx_mCMgai0OkcJDFTVP2dhVEsVUqEoerD6-lFXlMGIuaNF9Kk9w/s640/IMG_0881.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCPGa7lLjPdxs2vdjhpf1kh0WcmfYNFxqLeC_vpoKPbX4e1VejObvt4mWd4YFbq-H0Hca24M63NJR56nEAWR3fB7BEFbACq0ZSVlmqNB7YVkngUdH2AMqIa1455cjvZqI8WOTcYZLLx_mCMgai0OkcJDFTVP2dhVEsVUqEoerD6-lFXlMGIuaNF9Kk9w/s320/IMG_0881.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>We drove to the top of Baird Mountain, where there is a flagpole. Our driver told us their sunset tour includes a very respectful flag lowering ceremony each evening. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbna9Glsh-swIedspm_W-01s9qXB-1mzO46z6oItRjoUeg4O3p8G0XibRdtTekAhWDUq91m-M7Do8zl1_WxfHfiKZ4JzZY4X8XXfmhsPejuyxkbixWvR6EGnOLMwvjmJtiFr4xdvVVhOPaQYi-aWBWGUbcg9WgXnw8AzV2p5UpmHKo3LBpcTy4Wgz2YQ/s640/IMG_0949.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbna9Glsh-swIedspm_W-01s9qXB-1mzO46z6oItRjoUeg4O3p8G0XibRdtTekAhWDUq91m-M7Do8zl1_WxfHfiKZ4JzZY4X8XXfmhsPejuyxkbixWvR6EGnOLMwvjmJtiFr4xdvVVhOPaQYi-aWBWGUbcg9WgXnw8AzV2p5UpmHKo3LBpcTy4Wgz2YQ/s320/IMG_0949.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />There are great views from the overlook. The very tall bluff in the foreground of photo below, has been made through the removal of tons of rock from this site, because this mountain was turned into the quarry, to supply the cement, needed to build Table Rock Dam. The rock was transported via a one-mile-long conveyor belt, between the mountain and the dam site. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZQXOvT5KhbgOIM4YKWUC3l9zb6pTSMQQiU0aUusbvzwPVDIOqImjf7QvelrI6VdLYpPjNJ0SlS8EDo3BKnb4cx40sS4amt2Bx3QN9WqqEUHhOmTw_IeJP4eyWhFHvbb12EA41ieTi9XBNKO5dWqTTMSjo8jM2tlf3Aq6Wetp7FQJnN6rpWPAjt53Yg/s640/IMG_0965.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ZQXOvT5KhbgOIM4YKWUC3l9zb6pTSMQQiU0aUusbvzwPVDIOqImjf7QvelrI6VdLYpPjNJ0SlS8EDo3BKnb4cx40sS4amt2Bx3QN9WqqEUHhOmTw_IeJP4eyWhFHvbb12EA41ieTi9XBNKO5dWqTTMSjo8jM2tlf3Aq6Wetp7FQJnN6rpWPAjt53Yg/s320/IMG_0965.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Baird Mountain is said to be the highest summit in Taney County, at an elevation of 1, 234 feet. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNPoPkZlEVGAQQkJv8brvHrojOS3XccUTMZrgq2761Him0bcYynDAULB8CXKMIqL-4cNdmAe_gSfoYeMcQTNbzzhR0J5BSq4Kyzf0P4Zj-dvbBZ5jkXjkBm6utg2osNGbAdAIxiKGygdfE2hlDrE8JZl8_C6zUZpcVHtttHnA1fACQ_BW4CnRueYRIYA/s640/IMG_0933.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNPoPkZlEVGAQQkJv8brvHrojOS3XccUTMZrgq2761Him0bcYynDAULB8CXKMIqL-4cNdmAe_gSfoYeMcQTNbzzhR0J5BSq4Kyzf0P4Zj-dvbBZ5jkXjkBm6utg2osNGbAdAIxiKGygdfE2hlDrE8JZl8_C6zUZpcVHtttHnA1fACQ_BW4CnRueYRIYA/s320/IMG_0933.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>In a nod to "Old Man Baird", an early prospector who lived on the mountain that now bears his name, a replica Ozark log cabin has been built at the site. One can go inside and see examples of pioneer furniture and tools that a prospector would have needed for a subsistence life, in this remote region.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA97pwizLutuyQ_COX3LWq6s07VewMe1V4j99EkJxlZyfS21CVKjV7vp5hZ9y30PVFxdT3pCFVZjP80ePmDm3FEW6oomtUfGVdkbAycKPAovRoHTpHV0NkncerB5GFrOBGoFHpdCBvLrcbakIlFhXCcywDqEbUKH9HzeyvnjNYQlCJ2wW1eyMgVgs-bg/s640/IMG_0968.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA97pwizLutuyQ_COX3LWq6s07VewMe1V4j99EkJxlZyfS21CVKjV7vp5hZ9y30PVFxdT3pCFVZjP80ePmDm3FEW6oomtUfGVdkbAycKPAovRoHTpHV0NkncerB5GFrOBGoFHpdCBvLrcbakIlFhXCcywDqEbUKH9HzeyvnjNYQlCJ2wW1eyMgVgs-bg/s320/IMG_0968.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Seeing a Pink Jeep Tour logo on this old-fashioned wagon, is a reminder to say that the company got its start in 1960, by a land developer Out West, who would drive potential clients around the area, to show them property for sale. Our guide told us that this land developer went on a vacation to Hawaii, and was so impressed by the eye-catching, bright pink color of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki (nicknamed the Pink Palace of the Pacific), he returned to the Sedona area, painted his vehicle bright pink, and called it "Don Pratt Adventures". He had changed his focus from selling real estate, to selling off-road tours, because he realized people were calling him up to schedule appointments---not because they wanted to buy land, but because they wanted to go off-road riding with him! Later, after the vehicles were all painted pink, the name was changed to Pink Jeep Tours. The company is now owned by Herschend Family Entertainment (www.hfecorp.com). Locals may remember that it was the Herschend family that originally developed Silver Dollar City, so it is not surprising that they added Branson to the Pink Jeep tour locations. The other locations are Sedona, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and The Smokies in Tennessee.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbIarQu21vVqKSSNYOq4oTaHYCkTOZR2xMPACkXrUG0Arj-pJuun_fDHYGryMXSabTn_4nXFG_vjBF_bZGSg8MMN3V-jA4l2jBZTGNwABAuLdLyLKmK4DGiu-GavO84hb25_EojnXA1ngOWBcnk68p7zipyBacv48bpmZwtfFi3PON2Jgkq6tfrMbciw/s640/IMG_0937%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbIarQu21vVqKSSNYOq4oTaHYCkTOZR2xMPACkXrUG0Arj-pJuun_fDHYGryMXSabTn_4nXFG_vjBF_bZGSg8MMN3V-jA4l2jBZTGNwABAuLdLyLKmK4DGiu-GavO84hb25_EojnXA1ngOWBcnk68p7zipyBacv48bpmZwtfFi3PON2Jgkq6tfrMbciw/s320/IMG_0937%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I never want to pass up an opportunity to lift up my arms in gratitude to God, giving thanks for the opportunity to see this magnificent view. By the way, "city folks" may not know the "barricade" I am standing in front of, is called a "split rail fence", and was a common way for the pioneers to set boundaries for their property and livestock, using the readily-available timber of the Ozarks.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidy0iX8oQZaPAfuG4lUxnsU_SnVPcjHrpqFok8cAkq10xpoaZAnPcN82sr-9nZNwa0L0H6Io_kwlZGoJh5zjs0N5KVyd4NIBEnnQVS-ILBsSkqwOzvnedKUDxnkYfghonPSEZgUApgPC2x35Jwo53V-G-IfGEjAb7oUfYm9nHoMKiQp17xc88tTqsDlw/s640/IMG_0944.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="640" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidy0iX8oQZaPAfuG4lUxnsU_SnVPcjHrpqFok8cAkq10xpoaZAnPcN82sr-9nZNwa0L0H6Io_kwlZGoJh5zjs0N5KVyd4NIBEnnQVS-ILBsSkqwOzvnedKUDxnkYfghonPSEZgUApgPC2x35Jwo53V-G-IfGEjAb7oUfYm9nHoMKiQp17xc88tTqsDlw/s320/IMG_0944.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Probably under normal circumstances, there are not this many people at the top of Baird Mountain at any one time, but this was a special event. Check out the Pink Jeep website at www.pinkadventuretours.com for details on tour options available in Branson, including customized tours, such as the one I was on. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2NIYsJ-DwVuY7_kvrcJW-sBPw9TP_9YgBo-81q0QhKOcWDQcjbt2lZJVnJ13oFAOxJ_-fDILuJTHpAGKMI6W7OYVTpP5fMKfKjc7S7g5XQkFReHGNUY4imFS_mUXpb04_93N6NPFX3fva71OXo4hgI8aPGwKQb_UEcfPc61umK-tflpTWtLVE8Sypfw/s640/IMG_0939.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2NIYsJ-DwVuY7_kvrcJW-sBPw9TP_9YgBo-81q0QhKOcWDQcjbt2lZJVnJ13oFAOxJ_-fDILuJTHpAGKMI6W7OYVTpP5fMKfKjc7S7g5XQkFReHGNUY4imFS_mUXpb04_93N6NPFX3fva71OXo4hgI8aPGwKQb_UEcfPc61umK-tflpTWtLVE8Sypfw/s320/IMG_0939.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The photo below shows the "rock crawl" hills that have been built, on the base of the quarry, to give the Jeeps a four-wheel "work out". <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUIs_ndCJc2AqEZRqTzgMm3tJkvcJvJC-s8ig5sSUjGCp9B7Ja6hafdcgQn8cJhGNjHT8YhO5LUipDVLfDyi1KWYl39VDC6JCyQkf6rP5Z1Gu00DH9FPo_s6Nk1J0x6Mgo5eJLSLZWRkIgcZAS2ZDF74MDUvMZoSv_l8adZ-VaITabR2xmehmB1Bbbg/s640/IMG_0920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUIs_ndCJc2AqEZRqTzgMm3tJkvcJvJC-s8ig5sSUjGCp9B7Ja6hafdcgQn8cJhGNjHT8YhO5LUipDVLfDyi1KWYl39VDC6JCyQkf6rP5Z1Gu00DH9FPo_s6Nk1J0x6Mgo5eJLSLZWRkIgcZAS2ZDF74MDUvMZoSv_l8adZ-VaITabR2xmehmB1Bbbg/s320/IMG_0920.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Although you can't tell it in this photo, the terrain on these hills is not smooth, rather made of up very big rocks that require the driver to proceed very slowly!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW5e0VVyUB9guPP5itigD9gxKK30uVdpmPto98WrvuKaP6Jz2RDWW-v_CVMeXqayWueE1EqgqduMa4JKG7izMsvs9TTqqhOJnwqeWHea_bmrwLnPgrwM2vxB0SeQB85vYaBmoqpffXbPi8iZLLdJZxvbRVuJuCYGO495cfv5o-1M8FI4ll4HL2sVlf-Q/s640/IMG_0919.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW5e0VVyUB9guPP5itigD9gxKK30uVdpmPto98WrvuKaP6Jz2RDWW-v_CVMeXqayWueE1EqgqduMa4JKG7izMsvs9TTqqhOJnwqeWHea_bmrwLnPgrwM2vxB0SeQB85vYaBmoqpffXbPi8iZLLdJZxvbRVuJuCYGO495cfv5o-1M8FI4ll4HL2sVlf-Q/s320/IMG_0919.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />At one point on the rock crawl, the driver said I would need to tell him when to turn the steering wheel, because the at the angle he was, he could not see the trail. That definitely made me sit up and pay attention!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VwXcp7TPKchVqR5AnffJjmMdOoTQetq5ZP_RJ1YY4s_2k-bu1GUajiB21o76a4nxGePPKrpPRg-l48MdMgoVxzA3Q94k0x3498yQ3AFikL-9ZLz46eQH0eh5s4jMUJD70jYd9bPlE5P4quEqEbJTFPD5f-EX5KZAkHV6kLzSA8MjmkqaI8wkSWQ1PA/s640/IMG_1337.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="619" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VwXcp7TPKchVqR5AnffJjmMdOoTQetq5ZP_RJ1YY4s_2k-bu1GUajiB21o76a4nxGePPKrpPRg-l48MdMgoVxzA3Q94k0x3498yQ3AFikL-9ZLz46eQH0eh5s4jMUJD70jYd9bPlE5P4quEqEbJTFPD5f-EX5KZAkHV6kLzSA8MjmkqaI8wkSWQ1PA/s320/IMG_1337.jpg" width="310" /></a></div>The flat surface at the bottom of the quarry had served as a basin to collect a shallow pool of water from recent rains, so we had fun splashing around in that for a while!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqs7aYHW4pS-kwqsKdwEXQ5ir6Ocs-y3OVZIdwYBH05bKTiWf2iRbGAZAaMsdWItC8QGACjYfRXYa-dRXCNZDXHtPJquqgy9EWDNJ_ei1d_rZ6_T-44YNbM2rJNAQhTbToJLnZXqZsOhwfQBvCiKSn9kLxh9cB7x2VQA6YF3YbHunxyv4ZUM3VUNfYQ/s640/IMG_0891%20(4).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglqs7aYHW4pS-kwqsKdwEXQ5ir6Ocs-y3OVZIdwYBH05bKTiWf2iRbGAZAaMsdWItC8QGACjYfRXYa-dRXCNZDXHtPJquqgy9EWDNJ_ei1d_rZ6_T-44YNbM2rJNAQhTbToJLnZXqZsOhwfQBvCiKSn9kLxh9cB7x2VQA6YF3YbHunxyv4ZUM3VUNfYQ/s320/IMG_0891%20(4).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Notice we were even "making waves" for the other Jeeps coming behind us!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSNSRFoHREI_EZDQZVhTRMT_31_UikKUwsyZCXAvDjEdS5cuKXqB5iddin-XlOD4XMv7i36824G0_H0Psbq5lLv6Ps1TYrKqQklpqbVIGjuxMLMwxIbgFe-lvNDCcthipR0KtWHXiLoiOzi0V46ijGKCOG6DeY2UQyyk8qLU3GzaCCGmUvxQMbLW-gKQ/s640/IMG_0892.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSNSRFoHREI_EZDQZVhTRMT_31_UikKUwsyZCXAvDjEdS5cuKXqB5iddin-XlOD4XMv7i36824G0_H0Psbq5lLv6Ps1TYrKqQklpqbVIGjuxMLMwxIbgFe-lvNDCcthipR0KtWHXiLoiOzi0V46ijGKCOG6DeY2UQyyk8qLU3GzaCCGmUvxQMbLW-gKQ/s320/IMG_0892.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />There was still a piece of heavy equipment in the bottom on the quarry, that I am assuming was used to make the recently-built "short cut" incline to the top. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjqVpRuf6lzP5bqTioaCBcFzXFwNsg7Vru5_VBYLkK5roOWElLMNY6NYOM6EoaAsySXxbVU6-AL9E9oEkL_JAI8R5JIXR1bpqJ5DIE83o790IxDDOahbMqjPqiPowA22japam-P3aWTb7xzMj-bqqHy5V6Xk1fYfkUueUjm-ojwJ6evPlxf29bu3FHg/s320/IMG_0915.jpg" width="240" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another stop we made was to the base of the Table Rock Dam, to see the somewhat rare sight of all the flood gates being open, to bring down the lake level. This is an illustration of why this dam, and others along the White River, were originally built---FLOOD CONTROL! Table Rock Dam was completed in 1958, at a cost of $65 million. It was made possible under the Flood Control Act of 1938. The long delay between Congressional approval and completion, was because of The Great Depression economic struggles, and World War II. The Flood Control Act was a response to the MISERY caused by The Great Flood of 1927, plus subsequent floods in the 30's and 40's. I am using that key word "MISERY" to serve as an aid to help me learn one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses that says, "And when they heard that the Lord was concerned about them and had seen their MISERY, they bowed down and worshiped." Exodus 4:31 Considering the Corps of Engineers estimates that at least 960 million dollars of flood losses have been avoided, because of the series of dams and lakes in the White River basin, we can be thankful for their development. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2euLgJdzkdm6dzZkvbYlJA4nuyPK1duhBSmuzjGeIj54mgAijKbucMOxcylVNFbLuJgr81H_qlI9e013zXSdIMQSdpFweRcnAJN0GUNHkBiwFZNAlVq4p8qsFModJCJ9k5WJeiwRbq7IZnS1ybSNjRMPv71FdiWs4kmhurlFV93EnRKtm-ruEIv5ONw/s640/IMG_0973.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2euLgJdzkdm6dzZkvbYlJA4nuyPK1duhBSmuzjGeIj54mgAijKbucMOxcylVNFbLuJgr81H_qlI9e013zXSdIMQSdpFweRcnAJN0GUNHkBiwFZNAlVq4p8qsFModJCJ9k5WJeiwRbq7IZnS1ybSNjRMPv71FdiWs4kmhurlFV93EnRKtm-ruEIv5ONw/s320/IMG_0973.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>If you are ready to start your own adventure in this beautiful part of the Ozarks, go to www.ExploreBranson.com to check out the hundreds of attractions this area has to offer. You may be sure that my first outing with the Branson Pink Jeep Tours, gave me "MILES OF SMILES"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvm-C8SHY448oLFS_MUz88zRDxVAO0RI-AIr6Jn_AmbTOwUyGVzik0lDkyE_QiDvlTkUQN56eX6KvGtRTF3chtsjGD8yqpnT2VzHVkQfsboR81kr-1pqfNM7poGJKc6nZNEgp08QhjXcUn4ThK6kACifdrVFZsC0cB6apvs-fAhBu4wEQp8A6w9dmBYA/s640/IMG_0979.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvm-C8SHY448oLFS_MUz88zRDxVAO0RI-AIr6Jn_AmbTOwUyGVzik0lDkyE_QiDvlTkUQN56eX6KvGtRTF3chtsjGD8yqpnT2VzHVkQfsboR81kr-1pqfNM7poGJKc6nZNEgp08QhjXcUn4ThK6kACifdrVFZsC0cB6apvs-fAhBu4wEQp8A6w9dmBYA/s320/IMG_0979.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-49914033083438529322023-04-03T08:00:00.000-05:002023-04-03T10:26:18.701-05:00MANGROVE KAYAKING EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_CNBK6DsLfM-Lw8IN6wrfLCM0YrKv64kdZuhHT8CcRe7gZxnL1ngxe8AAImQ57kgI6N50FBUUA2j7ZBBANj-gSRobosrbGcmkCs0IgYz6osSKiPs6wATBLajqkrdcjaMvYQ8huMP9NIJeQb1zYIVEdbd_E780FhnxLXrq2fOeESWWwt8-6aahcSqSA/s320/IMG_0278.jpg" width="320" />I first learned about kayaking through mangrove tunnels five years ago, when I was visiting Sarasota, Florida, for the first time. From that moment on, I put it on my "to do" list!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was able to book a mangrove tunnel kayaking trip on my 2023 return trip to Sarasota, using SRQ Kayaking Company (www.kayakingsrq.com), and this blog tells about my experience. One thing helpful to know on any trip to this area is the initials "SRQ" are used frequently to refer to the entire Sarasota-Bradenton region, because "SRQ" is the airport code you will see when you fly into the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (www.srq-airportcom)<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I waited until the day before, to book my trip, in part, because I wanted to assess the weather prediction before I committed. When I phoned their number to request a single-style kayak, the employee told me it was good I called when I did because it was their last single kayak. The high volume of their booking for the day I wanted, was probably because it was the federal holiday for President's Day, and the weather predictions were for magnificent conditions! My email confirmation ticket gave me the address to find the location to start (190 Taft Drive), and I got there early, not knowing how long it would take me to find the staging area, located in The Ted Sterling Nature Park. What I observed upon arrival was a plethora of watercraft outfitters, which is a good thing to know in case the first outfitter you try, is already booked up.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6uRMWJmPe9WBG2NOw0NP37hEfq5IHCX7SC7QJZ2Z0m2LJ84u7IOLgN-NLGUROvuGVaAvayb9YToEl_5ZoA7w6kVeG7-StAZdNELIkjmcHs-4ZGrA8KJhqM9Fn7ykv9XyYibLsKb4Tgt7esn06kpgVtTe2wYKDKn-wpwtAQMUBuNHOwS_xUPjMKa-AeA/s5152/IMG_1397.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6uRMWJmPe9WBG2NOw0NP37hEfq5IHCX7SC7QJZ2Z0m2LJ84u7IOLgN-NLGUROvuGVaAvayb9YToEl_5ZoA7w6kVeG7-StAZdNELIkjmcHs-4ZGrA8KJhqM9Fn7ykv9XyYibLsKb4Tgt7esn06kpgVtTe2wYKDKn-wpwtAQMUBuNHOwS_xUPjMKa-AeA/s320/IMG_1397.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />I took a photo of the sign showing a map of the park, which showed that the mangrove tunnels were numbered, and had suggested "directions of travel" for paddlers who would be exploring the park. Also located at the sign was a supply of life jackets for those who did not bring their own, or have one provided by the outfitter. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdUE4Xe6F8fBxVOjl5ino_2RDuy3r_8kmElQ9WdcIxZn39Fhnl6cbaRiedeYuXQsvDseUWU-7V804NPYliUlHC9HP_m5JVVUOQtQxAVkNGieELJ8MbBBZX1CAVAz5BZNaYXotRzOM60_XzxrWmQLLGAzlUpNPeE55BQrxValVSAygPi4qRdgs7SZVtw/s5152/IMG_1391.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdUE4Xe6F8fBxVOjl5ino_2RDuy3r_8kmElQ9WdcIxZn39Fhnl6cbaRiedeYuXQsvDseUWU-7V804NPYliUlHC9HP_m5JVVUOQtQxAVkNGieELJ8MbBBZX1CAVAz5BZNaYXotRzOM60_XzxrWmQLLGAzlUpNPeE55BQrxValVSAygPi4qRdgs7SZVtw/s320/IMG_1391.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>One thing I was happy to see was a wheel-chair accessible restroom building, with flush toilets and handwashing sinks:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8J4GzuCTeTza_vyr_F7kwEILVEQbiyiqj-azdrMMnAt3NUhsI3aV7PfIQw1cXFa1KxYHDlF9pxXMApDGwSz97En3lAl7a95INR33VF0-xLjAXE8qediRVtZ8C-szBfiDxKTxf6fUwh_TvL41CvKGvLRUXJvRF2uHtaZ4GBcOP0JgX6FnFGVduj8ADg/s5152/IMG_1395.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8J4GzuCTeTza_vyr_F7kwEILVEQbiyiqj-azdrMMnAt3NUhsI3aV7PfIQw1cXFa1KxYHDlF9pxXMApDGwSz97En3lAl7a95INR33VF0-xLjAXE8qediRVtZ8C-szBfiDxKTxf6fUwh_TvL41CvKGvLRUXJvRF2uHtaZ4GBcOP0JgX6FnFGVduj8ADg/s320/IMG_1395.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Nestled among the banyan trees, were covered picnic tables, and each one had a number.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWtOju99c-i4_zCtszpA22u_JkkOlTQpMR-YcaUe8VRweNOCnSX-L706wb3auVnXP8v83Xdh0VaIHNhHdphVSR4czy8rzOADhmJ8L3zcl7QIfC6U30xEu1RDLUvMkFYEe6lAPTZeodd6YVzzKUhgnjkZ4RGgkv7TDtA1lK0JF1-xUS1fQ4vfc8LcvRQ/s5152/IMG_1400.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZWtOju99c-i4_zCtszpA22u_JkkOlTQpMR-YcaUe8VRweNOCnSX-L706wb3auVnXP8v83Xdh0VaIHNhHdphVSR4czy8rzOADhmJ8L3zcl7QIfC6U30xEu1RDLUvMkFYEe6lAPTZeodd6YVzzKUhgnjkZ4RGgkv7TDtA1lK0JF1-xUS1fQ4vfc8LcvRQ/s320/IMG_1400.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The employees of the various outfitters were busy unloading the kayaks from trailers, to get them closer to their waterfront entry spot.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2gcmHqT2ygO8bNniHynDY364Dm5PR8FcwT0VdvjY2StlKk7BfJ30V-AmYTbVuwYV9xYhZh5LoxqGyHvMjEjwtDNDnEXZ9yTKViOosvS4aCx-jz81LGyHRR6vRNVfzc8nL3M9gjCe2nCY6jjpcaap2JATHISV-kp0LuRf3R9QSpAuT9B6gAD60dI-8Q/s5152/IMG_1398.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2gcmHqT2ygO8bNniHynDY364Dm5PR8FcwT0VdvjY2StlKk7BfJ30V-AmYTbVuwYV9xYhZh5LoxqGyHvMjEjwtDNDnEXZ9yTKViOosvS4aCx-jz81LGyHRR6vRNVfzc8nL3M9gjCe2nCY6jjpcaap2JATHISV-kp0LuRf3R9QSpAuT9B6gAD60dI-8Q/s320/IMG_1398.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />One VERY talented guy was able to push one dolly of kayaks in front of him, and pull another dolly of kayaks behind him, while he balanced on a device called "One Wheel" that propelled him across the parking lot so fast, you wanted to stay out of his way!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXw4KFDiTGHcTSY31kYOXRBzTCW21hIYEIhBRiq8hCmWqlFs7mITssFehT7kI29FtXn6XlLtgkRMNMAApzVuVrxVi9AfsLj8YVwlFT9QErZvnbeYGdlc2gRPWGAwe17uSgy5oKgyWRiWGZlHMZLbqRYxbUNR8iSNsI4RMHblzLHMfUSSBGo4rNoA_Pg/s640/IMG_0279.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXw4KFDiTGHcTSY31kYOXRBzTCW21hIYEIhBRiq8hCmWqlFs7mITssFehT7kI29FtXn6XlLtgkRMNMAApzVuVrxVi9AfsLj8YVwlFT9QErZvnbeYGdlc2gRPWGAwe17uSgy5oKgyWRiWGZlHMZLbqRYxbUNR8iSNsI4RMHblzLHMfUSSBGo4rNoA_Pg/s320/IMG_0279.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>When we checked in at the Kayaking SRQ trailer, we were given a number which indicated the picnic table we were to gather around, when it was time for the tour. There were dozens of customers on the day I went, but we were divided into groups of ten, so that the number of paddlers would be manageable for each guide . I was in a group led by a guide named Patrick, and he gave us a brief demonstration of how to hold the paddle, and a few safety tips to make our trip more enjoyable.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJig4KuK7xgTYQWF3OsF4Ba-FP1l-EM8QE1is15lfzwXYQRRo-16GBIOxpPE-S09tkcRftbKv6t0HrlgvGARMi_3ojsB_EHG3TrBGFH6eeOEH0L3r8YmaDOgD36BzQhHk0VSsLVEK8GYNL4G7xF2xJIt-Cj-BQGXyHxl9Hz6QRVmZEVBkbucohLV6nDA/s640/IMG_3588.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJig4KuK7xgTYQWF3OsF4Ba-FP1l-EM8QE1is15lfzwXYQRRo-16GBIOxpPE-S09tkcRftbKv6t0HrlgvGARMi_3ojsB_EHG3TrBGFH6eeOEH0L3r8YmaDOgD36BzQhHk0VSsLVEK8GYNL4G7xF2xJIt-Cj-BQGXyHxl9Hz6QRVmZEVBkbucohLV6nDA/s320/IMG_3588.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I was the first of our group of ten to launch my kayak, and he instructed me to paddle out into the open water, and wait for the rest of the group to arrive. Being "led forth" by his instructions, gave me great joy and a sense of peace, and made me want to break forth into singing and clap my hands! (Because it gave me plenty of time to take photographs!) Therefore, I am using this experience as the visual aid for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses that says, "For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands." Isaiah 55:12<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98rmmOMrT9qnllY915EE7fhrM9bVZ1MmAUXJsPXWXXh8JuD3zsCpHJ23KrKcKNEg25gs1SdWnNDo7uUzuvvsDrNgdOet-3Rn5EUWx2pSYOya42g_cVTahqyQNavWav9ryYBuhQH25Z6djzSFGdpauaUK3YpKq5EIV6ClYoMu6bIFtdmBDqjjlzRF-PA/s640/IMG_3637.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98rmmOMrT9qnllY915EE7fhrM9bVZ1MmAUXJsPXWXXh8JuD3zsCpHJ23KrKcKNEg25gs1SdWnNDo7uUzuvvsDrNgdOet-3Rn5EUWx2pSYOya42g_cVTahqyQNavWav9ryYBuhQH25Z6djzSFGdpauaUK3YpKq5EIV6ClYoMu6bIFtdmBDqjjlzRF-PA/s320/IMG_3637.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The time waiting for the rest of the group also gave me an opportunity to snap a photo for a Facebook page I enjoy, called "Look at the Front of My Kayak". It requires that the contributor show only the front part of their kayak, and the view beyond that. One can take a "virtual" sight-seeing paddle around the world on this site!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOPcWnncc7-KkAeQKg9HZ__aCd82pQ0F9q4RoH8FfTt52N__fvpOKeHpiBC0v7VDt1QyZzJrF2JPr2cW0i0x9F-cE0t91ZyZWcW6nJDV0MiaiL7sROTY6xLQyxE7gZOd6IACMI2UL6w-39sCaLLS-z1GSzWrr6lAb6eSHjSlZ_TQDh-f7-ZePWqJrwpA/s320/IMG_3639.jpg" width="240" />This wide expanse of open water is one reason the mangrove tunnels exist today. It used to be a small lake, separated from the sea water in Sarasota Bay. The stagnant water of the lake promoted the growth of mosquito populations, which carry malaria and other harmful diseases. Therefore, decades ago---before much was known about its hazards---a chemical substance was spread over the lake to kill the mosquitoes. It not only killed the mosquitoes, but all the flora and fauna associated with the lake habitat. The officials came up with the solution of making small canals, connecting the sea with the lake. Over time, this allowed the damaged lake water to flow out into the open ocean. As the habitat improved, mangrove trees begin to grow around the tunnels, eventually forming a canopy over them. Folks enjoyed exploring the green tunnel habitats, and "voila", a tourism attraction was created. The tunnels are very shallow, so the advent of lightweight, plastic-like kayaks that require just a few inches of depth in order to proceed, was also a factor in its popularity. Then, the increasing numbers of folks starting to do standup paddle boarding (SUP), brought another group of outdoor enthusiasts to the location. <br /></div><br />After all ten in our group had made it to the open water, the guide asked us to paddle up close to him, so he could tell us more about the habitat we would be exploring. Patrick had a specially-designed kayak that is suitable for either standing up or sitting down. When I booked the tour, I asked if the outfitter provided life jackets (they are required with the "WHOyaker" group of ladies I kayak with back in the Ozarks). He said every kayak had a lifejacket with it, but considering the water was no more than two feet deep wherever we paddled, it was doubtful I would need it. You can see in the photo below how shallow the water is.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZUkZlSlwwshiDLKoatwEhKgbJrAoKBFlWgfFKG9Nb0pc5Bv7ez0UgcemEkjZB79HN729n4e2CdYNBoHv1TBGf4khMnNccVPH2S8mK-9zr-gM6OFDdCX_ISELKq5CbwZ6Q5E6w4qBvfEEW_a647bGBZEFZj059M0L0i9PfYluD6GE0jgwVNxPYALezUA/s640/IMG_3638.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZUkZlSlwwshiDLKoatwEhKgbJrAoKBFlWgfFKG9Nb0pc5Bv7ez0UgcemEkjZB79HN729n4e2CdYNBoHv1TBGf4khMnNccVPH2S8mK-9zr-gM6OFDdCX_ISELKq5CbwZ6Q5E6w4qBvfEEW_a647bGBZEFZj059M0L0i9PfYluD6GE0jgwVNxPYALezUA/s320/IMG_3638.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Patrick also pointed out how clear the water was, and pulled up a "critter", that I had assumed was a plant. However, he called it an "upside-down" jellyfish (cassiopea), because the tentacles float above the body of the animal, instead of below it.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6D88WUUTtvWecpIlmVlUP4jegvq-OaXiams_aYXei1W5DqU-20W3Fpga6IBs5_iOfVLOLNsPuE-wcmTF-8nneDOc_bqvuPQrFzmUP8uXcJaDJnYo_66iiHObOIsK3nA8D4R0YwjC0mtNEiT6KuYNEQ9vslvyUWHXtwp9wQc8qs03I2_uxd_dNT6kepQ/s320/IMG_3618.jpg" width="320" />"</div>The jelly fish lay upside-down so that the algae covering it, is exposed to the sun, allowing it to photosynthesize. The jelly can sustain itself off just the byproducts of the algae, and capture zooplankton for additional energy to grow. I read later that these jellyfish may sting humans, but our guide did not appear to be bothered by this possibility. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimxs3_N6T_J7z4vWWmqAH4TiLRNA8QhK-_avgW5hHDb8o4uNfdapCq6H_BAt74qXt_jmvWbSHD1h-ffdvYGDUg4Ir05fAv2d5ZPsAh-d-M2bSeWrTE6ZT0euWqdZ0APwc4H9jmW0_l2KQEc2yZV6Lz8KYDfrMts7AZ6vjcPBvZOy2aLiv9jv1Y-7v_w/s640/IMG_3614.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimxs3_N6T_J7z4vWWmqAH4TiLRNA8QhK-_avgW5hHDb8o4uNfdapCq6H_BAt74qXt_jmvWbSHD1h-ffdvYGDUg4Ir05fAv2d5ZPsAh-d-M2bSeWrTE6ZT0euWqdZ0APwc4H9jmW0_l2KQEc2yZV6Lz8KYDfrMts7AZ6vjcPBvZOy2aLiv9jv1Y-7v_w/s320/IMG_3614.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The information plaque back at the park had explained this area had three main types of mangroves---red mangrove, white mangrove, and black mangrove. The leaves of the red mangrove are a darker shade of green on the tops than on the bottoms. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKjDeHyrsV-Qfd5mir1U-s5-en9Y1jhaHoAVg_rYKkueWhZO5fdRkbtYYTOY00czzRlHMGzimw8xpXgMxeMZPzEobX2JitYSTn0t7bIJ3tnHm_ZFCAv42p3wg4JdP60eIo3hbuMSxkCqGSeI_gRPgmzfcHPLRqv0UavwK4wvk0vr84DSU-Vj0izqmjA/s640/IMG_3595.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKjDeHyrsV-Qfd5mir1U-s5-en9Y1jhaHoAVg_rYKkueWhZO5fdRkbtYYTOY00czzRlHMGzimw8xpXgMxeMZPzEobX2JitYSTn0t7bIJ3tnHm_ZFCAv42p3wg4JdP60eIo3hbuMSxkCqGSeI_gRPgmzfcHPLRqv0UavwK4wvk0vr84DSU-Vj0izqmjA/s320/IMG_3595.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />I took the photo below of roots from a black mangrove tree, which are very unique, because they grow straight up like straws, for breathing. They usually reach heights of about 12 inches. These roots are called pneumatophores. I took this photo several feet away from the water's edge, because black mangrove trees grow on higher ground than red mangrove trees. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IJFfbGd6NHrp_mNAaCsj3m9x1QM1y6mHJe0PwWXIHxRfavrD-dwS3QzM9pnzgglXY0x1B4Y8SYhVs0jQSv0E16U4HwEPnGeU1p7nkHsVe0JGBWdg2qNPKks-CLOhzPxSQnh6pLbnEKQ722koUr2djgdSug1ju3l5Q5XTPKqnvCCmhSORc4HHVdwi5Q/s640/IMG_0277.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2IJFfbGd6NHrp_mNAaCsj3m9x1QM1y6mHJe0PwWXIHxRfavrD-dwS3QzM9pnzgglXY0x1B4Y8SYhVs0jQSv0E16U4HwEPnGeU1p7nkHsVe0JGBWdg2qNPKks-CLOhzPxSQnh6pLbnEKQ722koUr2djgdSug1ju3l5Q5XTPKqnvCCmhSORc4HHVdwi5Q/s320/IMG_0277.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The guide pointed out a wading white ibis, feeding among the mangrove roots, indicating another example of the success of this effort at habitat restoration.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6U6PjojX0s96Gndplfc0Sk63rkbG8VrFl5SaEIF502yvKo3FWJ_LuRNcVd5Z3Xgp3tVmvRnJK_ltMb__raXAAzRgo1GKigpBhBttfFCJdd38bp1-I4_o0-t97BVUWI6jcgt9EXD7hhn1O6KUsa5GYwM_06iYiXmJ4uS0OTxRKf7rIdkcK5eXLypkfg/s5152/IMG_1440.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM6U6PjojX0s96Gndplfc0Sk63rkbG8VrFl5SaEIF502yvKo3FWJ_LuRNcVd5Z3Xgp3tVmvRnJK_ltMb__raXAAzRgo1GKigpBhBttfFCJdd38bp1-I4_o0-t97BVUWI6jcgt9EXD7hhn1O6KUsa5GYwM_06iYiXmJ4uS0OTxRKf7rIdkcK5eXLypkfg/s320/IMG_1440.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />The group stayed single-file, once we started through the tunnels, because they are very narrow. I tried to stay as close to the guide boat as possible, so I could hear what he was saying. (By the way, it is not a requirement that you have a guide when paddling through the mangrove tunnels. One can rent a kayak and start out on their own to explore. However, since I was a "newbie" and knew nothing about the area, I preferred the added feature of a guided tour.) <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFegLSe7GZHbKSGWuUf0EZZB7hQ5Dx-n6hnoyjGx1RHGHkj6mn5OjD7G7Z5GROAGbaSZLpS7bMGmvM6aKzRuO3FyYv3Do21XIISXsHxrxXSggQuBXhsVQRP0pNBq49VrFv13nhhEGvX54q231Iy_sAT8hDa2FSrpfYjntK--7OyHzmGBSxi-srp53jw/s640/IMG_3625.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAFegLSe7GZHbKSGWuUf0EZZB7hQ5Dx-n6hnoyjGx1RHGHkj6mn5OjD7G7Z5GROAGbaSZLpS7bMGmvM6aKzRuO3FyYv3Do21XIISXsHxrxXSggQuBXhsVQRP0pNBq49VrFv13nhhEGvX54q231Iy_sAT8hDa2FSrpfYjntK--7OyHzmGBSxi-srp53jw/s320/IMG_3625.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The photo below shows a paddler as she is exiting Tunnel number 2. One would probably not even notice there was an opening in this mangrove forest, if it were not for the floating buoy. Notice how clear the water is, and how shallow it is. In fact, some folks plan their paddling adventure based on the tides. At low tide, you may be a "walker", instead of a paddler through the mangroves. At very high tides, you will be closer to the "ceiling" of the tunnel, than at other times. This means that a paddle boarder may not be able to go through the tunnels standing up, at very high tides. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFz_ZFA5WfWbsIYlgsN6XnF2PYzSfBRviAg-wv7GvupgQ1RndF39U5KEmV3lyHpSFSXO52I9yhnwLC-Gwpi1QHEHwxXNJwvdZyxlSXvwv4skXgvSukFxfJoenu5CMWUadZoGM45HOg7ZP7eS1swcJMxaUZK0XxX4-e2IIUbMXshRtQ5UxuQixVLFt4VA/s640/IMG_3635.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFz_ZFA5WfWbsIYlgsN6XnF2PYzSfBRviAg-wv7GvupgQ1RndF39U5KEmV3lyHpSFSXO52I9yhnwLC-Gwpi1QHEHwxXNJwvdZyxlSXvwv4skXgvSukFxfJoenu5CMWUadZoGM45HOg7ZP7eS1swcJMxaUZK0XxX4-e2IIUbMXshRtQ5UxuQixVLFt4VA/s320/IMG_3635.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Patrick told us that the roots of the mangrove trees serve as a nursery for starfish. Most of the ones he pointed out were about the size of a quarter, which I had trouble seeing. However, we eventually passed over one that was about the size of a hamburger bun, which even I could see!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpcC7pOHXAXiay0nYX_XKbaff9fwarVfls_8o5aboeOSANWutlGDtiASL4qvy4BP9WyVP63KaD2fEr6O_etQkLhWaJBupuTNG1ZfAGCmMU6op-YgMhGikYxqNiHjvYpPqqRMEZ2xkGgLQTUaxl-Ddi4DqOqzxEYZ8h-TAedYBHcBYMFnjuMg1i4b7q4g/s523/IMG_0337.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="523" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpcC7pOHXAXiay0nYX_XKbaff9fwarVfls_8o5aboeOSANWutlGDtiASL4qvy4BP9WyVP63KaD2fEr6O_etQkLhWaJBupuTNG1ZfAGCmMU6op-YgMhGikYxqNiHjvYpPqqRMEZ2xkGgLQTUaxl-Ddi4DqOqzxEYZ8h-TAedYBHcBYMFnjuMg1i4b7q4g/s320/IMG_0337.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>When we passed over that large starfish, the guide told me he wanted to wait beside it, so he could point it out to the other nine paddlers. He told me to go on ahead, and keep paddling until I came out on open water. I loved this, because it gave me time to snap a few photos without slowing down the group behind me! Can you see from the photo below how paddling through this aquatic labyrinth can be a little intimidating??!! However, I had read in the information provided, indicating this was NOT alligator habitat, so I found that reassuring. In the instructions Patrick gave us before we started, he alerted us that on some of the turns, we might get "hung up" in a root system, but he cautioned us to use our paddles to free us up, NOT OUR HANDS. This is because oysters attach to the mangrove roots, and the sharp, jagged surfaces of the oyster shell, can slice open the skin of someone who inadvertently grabs on to them. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1mQLpkCOJOHoQRaDQVicd79EappJxKITka_Y_MO5V3ODXnh2cg9fJz8S4UEKTrlkhzOKDktw-jcvGVl-WZ9SfVKDGE27ivO66eR0yWgeEdeU-TflnB4NT1P-CKEhymfKnfBI8CvLhYnJuZ1nWaKwZNHE1ICZF11c0nxEmLfT791jv0covzKN4ebVhg/s640/IMG_3629.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1mQLpkCOJOHoQRaDQVicd79EappJxKITka_Y_MO5V3ODXnh2cg9fJz8S4UEKTrlkhzOKDktw-jcvGVl-WZ9SfVKDGE27ivO66eR0yWgeEdeU-TflnB4NT1P-CKEhymfKnfBI8CvLhYnJuZ1nWaKwZNHE1ICZF11c0nxEmLfT791jv0covzKN4ebVhg/s320/IMG_3629.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Patrick turned around to tell our group that this area had much more sun exposure due to the damage done to the mangrove forest from Hurricane Ian, in September of 2022. Many of the trees were stripped of their leaves. Yet that massive root system for which mangrove trees are known, helps reduce the amount of beach erosion when violent storms/hurricanes hit the area.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />As I waited for all the paddlers to make it out of Tunnel #2, I could easily understand why the roots of the red mangrove tree are called "stilt roots" or "prop roots" They are literally "propping up" the trees in the harsh brackish water, in which they have to survive. I imagined that as the limbs on one side of the tunnel were reaching out to touch the limbs on the opposite side of the tunnel, they are "clapping their hands", as they form a <i>Arc de Triomphe</i> (arch of triumph) from which the victorious paddler can emerge!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiiWHUNvMdxz0O8f48XWZpt36NOUCakIbJ8DCSznMgYUTtYbyDLqxwUX3IE_-D9mZHVp5G8pvGBd-il7EydaUU7IQjbyakz8cZLR4l01-mGWyOicf7lxvAuGuMuFlWg-NXfZGGgYPIUSlbsllYvIR6b2JrRfPRfsm3sXWebOH-ZpTtGa7UtwL4JP8-DQ/s5152/IMG_1459.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiiWHUNvMdxz0O8f48XWZpt36NOUCakIbJ8DCSznMgYUTtYbyDLqxwUX3IE_-D9mZHVp5G8pvGBd-il7EydaUU7IQjbyakz8cZLR4l01-mGWyOicf7lxvAuGuMuFlWg-NXfZGGgYPIUSlbsllYvIR6b2JrRfPRfsm3sXWebOH-ZpTtGa7UtwL4JP8-DQ/s320/IMG_1459.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />About midway through our tour, we stopped at a sandbar, and got out of our kayaks to stretch our legs. Lest you think this was a "potty break", it was NOT! There are no toilets from the time one starts the 2.5 hour tour, until it ends, so keep that in mind when deciding how much coffee to consume before you start the tour!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXX-AySwYXuelSCuKh5JJwfiQIHB_DCZn8pjMe17fQZ0HjG9SgqptT7Xlg2HTtbUC_stTb7s6e4eTdH5hhYt9nWjY_cSUZnDG3N-aYIJan7-g14VVB3lVn0q-flVmx8RAVz6scHSyk3kS3L_4p5jzSgXI0sQK01OIzvfB8UKA5LVsEWjRRUftO8dGhcg/s640/IMG_3653.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="506" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXX-AySwYXuelSCuKh5JJwfiQIHB_DCZn8pjMe17fQZ0HjG9SgqptT7Xlg2HTtbUC_stTb7s6e4eTdH5hhYt9nWjY_cSUZnDG3N-aYIJan7-g14VVB3lVn0q-flVmx8RAVz6scHSyk3kS3L_4p5jzSgXI0sQK01OIzvfB8UKA5LVsEWjRRUftO8dGhcg/s320/IMG_3653.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>As I looked down at the sandy beach, searching for pretty shells, I saw the item pictured below. On a previous visit to Florida, that included a stop at the Bailey Shell Museum on Sanibel Island, I learned that this strange looking strand is the egg case of a whelk mollusk. Whelks lay their eggs in a long spiral-shaped casing that can reach up to 33 inches in length. The strand can have as many as 200 pouches, and each pouch can have as many as 99 eggs. I counted over 30 pouches on this piece, so that means this strand had the potential to produce about 300 whelk molusks! The female protects the string of eggs by anchoring one end at the bottom of the bay. Sadly, this string had become dislodged, and desiccated after being washed up on dry land. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33Mjhpdwdz28sZfVmiyLUyx26Eki4vLUG8q8CB_ebvneV6jeNKrh0LjGg5JiiPP-QS25uyzmm3f1ohD2_zlEeIm3UJxD_2ivzXoajHjBsSEuf1h0sQoE8uksNYb0arrof5lDO1dfLW6_w8mMyyOxePPPQGARMbvt3PuAqEJSnpHh79ND_LI-zynT71g/s640/IMG_3667%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg33Mjhpdwdz28sZfVmiyLUyx26Eki4vLUG8q8CB_ebvneV6jeNKrh0LjGg5JiiPP-QS25uyzmm3f1ohD2_zlEeIm3UJxD_2ivzXoajHjBsSEuf1h0sQoE8uksNYb0arrof5lDO1dfLW6_w8mMyyOxePPPQGARMbvt3PuAqEJSnpHh79ND_LI-zynT71g/s320/IMG_3667%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As I mentioned, the weather was perfect for being outside, and many of the participants took the opportunity to wade in and cool off, as they surveyed the area for interesting sea life features.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCpm9xViEspY-qu81fpfY6XVJ_QP8uWFcZl4-mAUVHRcZh9vmntN4cy--LX0cqS3jTZG-QkIy2bdrh4UdoFTUGffMi2639JnFrzYLK7cRMzwOnBodFsjtdeF0QOun5UQrccSvw9zcu6cjCDxIc8Z9pDS9_pxMu5jiqD_6ZJCpTYGLRNRfEj7lEYdHEQ/s640/IMG_3664.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmCpm9xViEspY-qu81fpfY6XVJ_QP8uWFcZl4-mAUVHRcZh9vmntN4cy--LX0cqS3jTZG-QkIy2bdrh4UdoFTUGffMi2639JnFrzYLK7cRMzwOnBodFsjtdeF0QOun5UQrccSvw9zcu6cjCDxIc8Z9pDS9_pxMu5jiqD_6ZJCpTYGLRNRfEj7lEYdHEQ/s320/IMG_3664.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Patrick also mentioned that he would be available to take photographs, if anyone had brought their cameras or cell phones on the trip. Naturally, I took him up on his offer!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGeHU6BjcPBNRJHhf54G175exf96sDlVjUCHf7lYdCSeqaClv9rI00jW4pSwCLu_yh-QKHgaySVCKVoXDOl3cMt5wuM_0eBXEovy4M3GMm4tA9zzjDLYLBJulVRdoFTwNGIf9lyAdWttfl-leOJQR8qXL85mmqwwfy7AjyjBlfdO0bQ3dIu_9FFjEEsw/s640/IMG_3658.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGeHU6BjcPBNRJHhf54G175exf96sDlVjUCHf7lYdCSeqaClv9rI00jW4pSwCLu_yh-QKHgaySVCKVoXDOl3cMt5wuM_0eBXEovy4M3GMm4tA9zzjDLYLBJulVRdoFTwNGIf9lyAdWttfl-leOJQR8qXL85mmqwwfy7AjyjBlfdO0bQ3dIu_9FFjEEsw/s320/IMG_3658.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>This photo of me with arms uplifted is an expression of gratitude and praise to God that I was able to have the long-anticipated experience of kayaking through the mangrove tunnels. Likewise, I have high praise for the job our guide, Patrick, did interpreting the ecosystem we were exploring! If you would like to try out this paddling adventure, or numerous other recreation opportunities here, check out the website of www.VisitSarasota.com for more details. I can assure you a visit to this area will give you "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNpdQfRhuFPxkpsqvSL6xcKfMkmWk-oTSS9DPZQoHjN5plBJ_TtdbQFW_0TW1ZQ3bEn8mM1PUEaPuYnLKwpEOrSN5Jwaf3ilCEeK-bfZM40LBdPXLHltODjVIs1zpAUIn1ojx0-14QTtcOthHLflxutApVo1O2db22EXBY2KImLRxigWYQ8tWPE-xpTg/s640/IMG_3656.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNpdQfRhuFPxkpsqvSL6xcKfMkmWk-oTSS9DPZQoHjN5plBJ_TtdbQFW_0TW1ZQ3bEn8mM1PUEaPuYnLKwpEOrSN5Jwaf3ilCEeK-bfZM40LBdPXLHltODjVIs1zpAUIn1ojx0-14QTtcOthHLflxutApVo1O2db22EXBY2KImLRxigWYQ8tWPE-xpTg/s320/IMG_3656.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /> <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-25018737904710307702023-03-01T07:00:00.001-06:002023-10-17T14:03:05.220-05:00EXPEDITIONS WITH GIDEON!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCo88QhW3djAcfKqDCk8rSjp6KuNAxJGRE07CdNyjiKLOHAUubYAjrUdQvNCL8mXegbWYmHcBjHc6PYnyj7j2ZP3Oh5Txvig1-A_644VpTBzMA-agNiEtR4QLCyl4oiE_LTKn7IOCx2f0M/s320/IMG_0749.JPG" width="240" />Since I like to travel, I often spend the night in hotel or motel rooms, and one of the first things I do after getting to my room, is look in the drawer of the bedside table to see if there is a copy of a Gideon Bible. <br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHi4Dj43l1XrV7vBwpLQXkpUap3R78pDjRZfQN5_kcFnjqU_JB4WQrF37jdeFOXVzuoYkuRF9SS1WJwo45Z86Tk-UH8PGpVRrOx6dZ7YPpulhA4IgsUSnGdQskKOws-tqvXCPW6z09pxTw/s1600/IMG_0747.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHi4Dj43l1XrV7vBwpLQXkpUap3R78pDjRZfQN5_kcFnjqU_JB4WQrF37jdeFOXVzuoYkuRF9SS1WJwo45Z86Tk-UH8PGpVRrOx6dZ7YPpulhA4IgsUSnGdQskKOws-tqvXCPW6z09pxTw/s320/IMG_0747.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The front of the Gideon Bible has a great deal of useful information, including the page references for specific events happening in one's life. For example, it has Scriptures you can read when you feel you are in danger: <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKBc-_R6Wq9gx8xx5NwxRWqtetcItA1qCGkyx7m7UxbkFnOnCaUrw4vRgUNiqPKSqLB62XFjFEWFQmooT-gxyBRnKexhp9FTkOu_u5uYvfTqvnqYAzZKrwq_wiRM2m6DkA6CO3BFuxuCpuDY7IUANYvBTy7xmT15VvEOU53ZljRftzuYfDZLkntSSsA/s640/IMG_0050.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKBc-_R6Wq9gx8xx5NwxRWqtetcItA1qCGkyx7m7UxbkFnOnCaUrw4vRgUNiqPKSqLB62XFjFEWFQmooT-gxyBRnKexhp9FTkOu_u5uYvfTqvnqYAzZKrwq_wiRM2m6DkA6CO3BFuxuCpuDY7IUANYvBTy7xmT15VvEOU53ZljRftzuYfDZLkntSSsA/s320/IMG_0050.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This came in very handy the night I was staying alone in a Tulsa motel, preparing to fly out to the Winter Olympics, in Vancouver, Canada, the following morning. I was on a ground level room, with a gigantic window, adjacent to the outdoor pool. It was dark, and I had the curtains drawn, but when I heard gun shots, that sounded like they were right outside my door, I ducked for the floor, and turned off the lights in the room, scared to death. I crawled to the phone sitting atop the bedside table, and dialed 911. Then I remembered the Gideon Bible in the bedside table drawer, so I grabbed it, my pillow, and a blanket, and spent the rest of the night in the bathtub---away from that plate glass window! After a while, the police dispatcher called back and said they had gone to check out the reason for the gunshots, and apparently there had been a disturbance in the hotel's bar/lounge, but the situation was stable now. But the Scripture the Gideon Bible referenced for a scary time was Psalm 91. (Pictured below) Now I am able to remember the Psalm 91:1 Scripture reference for times of danger, because it is the same phone number you call in an emergency---911 !<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWE2-fRiw_O9hTskyAHeHbvnxbzFbg7GXIm6zS0Y9xcncvXfN7TJZwONDlePDY6dIlmOtG26Zfe0Empe5X-EiykKif5zYZa-__uP7C5JBW7lA0EnextsjYjSgX1YZEu_8o9aw6ykY012mtZN0LeyTQzhuUEpG2GkR7aCjwnxPUpNf6Yli5DtdxHEozSg/s640/IMG_0053.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="477" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWE2-fRiw_O9hTskyAHeHbvnxbzFbg7GXIm6zS0Y9xcncvXfN7TJZwONDlePDY6dIlmOtG26Zfe0Empe5X-EiykKif5zYZa-__uP7C5JBW7lA0EnextsjYjSgX1YZEu_8o9aw6ykY012mtZN0LeyTQzhuUEpG2GkR7aCjwnxPUpNf6Yli5DtdxHEozSg/s320/IMG_0053.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><br />So I must have read Psalm 91 dozens of times that night, trying to calm down. The phrase that stuck in my mind (verse 5) was not to be afraid of the "terrors of the night", or the "arrows that fly by day". That is because being terrified by the gunshots that night, I was experiencing "terrors of the night". Likewise, I was concerned about leaving my room before daylight, in a few hours, to get to the airport. But verse 5 gave me hope! So the next morning as my plane lifted above the Tulsa Airport, I looked down and saw the the long terminal, with planes jutting out diagonally that gave the appearance of an arrow! The Lord knows I like visual aids, and He provided a great one that morning!(See overhead photo of an airport below)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGwPTAG4EmekoXzKFFtAPhAoMWHHDF-di9SBl0h3t2sbTt1cEInnYUHygeB5_Z1DU0XAk3hVBL9756v3KKJ31WGY0EU-GQ5TcIYsaVlCAVL9bp9v8sB5L5rdNzHYsSNu--IWoHA_4UejAV8azX22OQTJ8sKQU1xksKACmVTSvFo6pX0ZhB65Ru3ZwgA/s750/IMG_0054.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="750" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNGwPTAG4EmekoXzKFFtAPhAoMWHHDF-di9SBl0h3t2sbTt1cEInnYUHygeB5_Z1DU0XAk3hVBL9756v3KKJ31WGY0EU-GQ5TcIYsaVlCAVL9bp9v8sB5L5rdNzHYsSNu--IWoHA_4UejAV8azX22OQTJ8sKQU1xksKACmVTSvFo6pX0ZhB65Ru3ZwgA/s320/IMG_0054.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I also discovered on that evening holding a Gideon Bible, the part in the front where it shows John 3:16 in multiple languages. Also, something I saw when traveling in Quebec, Canada, where French is the first language, the Gideon Bible in my hotel room had both French and English translations in it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd4OQjQ4dFS6MmdEZoFtWk6KYDR0Cml6BZfhCO26hYHrubw8ynfDH7dEaWGMp29AyP763XMd2R7vICd7IFbI4wF-fXw9NA74YTBdj69enxjEIDU-8KjlOY3V8gjNdMMnnRZkkut_G3vao_Osn6qh8ubTryLxfQbRGNhMYmX9YmNw_fPO9aI3wAXvSRJw/s640/IMG_0056.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd4OQjQ4dFS6MmdEZoFtWk6KYDR0Cml6BZfhCO26hYHrubw8ynfDH7dEaWGMp29AyP763XMd2R7vICd7IFbI4wF-fXw9NA74YTBdj69enxjEIDU-8KjlOY3V8gjNdMMnnRZkkut_G3vao_Osn6qh8ubTryLxfQbRGNhMYmX9YmNw_fPO9aI3wAXvSRJw/s320/IMG_0056.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE1KpadD_18PUwNY9I_WXdMyxhmfnjMgNM0s8HZACM6i7Gl9HCwhoq_y-EnFLVrV6xS_UN80aDWBZdDmh28LmjlqKg4YU2b9BcsJf5Dt_p8BfPJOGySWEHaUFDNV096y-UHjl_D1LKvHcaECd7R-HrtFTq-zWrWyHgzfBNvF9wa2h76RwiqFLADG6ieg/s640/IMG_0055.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE1KpadD_18PUwNY9I_WXdMyxhmfnjMgNM0s8HZACM6i7Gl9HCwhoq_y-EnFLVrV6xS_UN80aDWBZdDmh28LmjlqKg4YU2b9BcsJf5Dt_p8BfPJOGySWEHaUFDNV096y-UHjl_D1LKvHcaECd7R-HrtFTq-zWrWyHgzfBNvF9wa2h76RwiqFLADG6ieg/s320/IMG_0055.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The Gideon organization was started by two traveling salesmen in Wisconsin, in 1899 (John H. Nicholson and Samuel E. Hill.) In 1908, their organization started "The Bible Project", which had the goal of placing a Gideon Bible in every hotel/motel room across the USA. The first Bible they ever placed, was in a hotel room in Montana. Now, their Bibles are distributed worldwide to all continents, including Antarctica! Decades ago, when I first became interested in Gideon Bibles, I asked a Gideon member if they could provide Gideon Bibles in Antarctica. He replied, "We only place Gideon Bibles where there are people, and there are no people living in Antarctica." Then I told him I had a friend who was currently living in Antarctica at McMurdo Station ( www.usap.gov ), the Gideon member apologized for his misinformation, and went about remedying the situation, by sending a Gideon Bible to that research station! <br /><br />
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Since that time, they have placed more than two billion Bibles and New Testaments around the world. It is the oldest association of Christian business and professional men in the USA. <br />
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The Gideon Bible that I show in these photos is not one I "stole" from a hotel room. Rather, it is the one provided to my husband's medical office waiting room. I took it with me on a solitary hike to the creek during the Covid 19 pandemic/quarantine, so I could read the passages aloud, in God's Great Outdoors, for purposes of comforting me during a fearful time. (If you have never read the Bible aloud outdoors---especially the Psalms---try it!) The Gideon Bible also recommends reading Hebrews 13:5 in times of fear. That verse has the same promise in it that is found in one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses: "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you<i>; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0EWHTiBgzayW4KyE1k0VE7DhNkRwuFU6HMSr9WLdMwtZqL77ifYdb0D-ckTBZk7I-6eYvNjpXCYMpYyTiaAytPzs1dt3_eUKWO1v4RDJZMBjtLMIhdGML0qyYSSMB8RpMq6szupeVYAgS/s1600/IMG_3483.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0EWHTiBgzayW4KyE1k0VE7DhNkRwuFU6HMSr9WLdMwtZqL77ifYdb0D-ckTBZk7I-6eYvNjpXCYMpYyTiaAytPzs1dt3_eUKWO1v4RDJZMBjtLMIhdGML0qyYSSMB8RpMq6szupeVYAgS/s320/IMG_3483.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPL55owNLdSUab6QGYJI9Dj5yjH1936btfo3GTEZjlh6C704k9-ODbWERIjYcWw2yXs_WGxU9txnSsvVZRpBVbnobL6bvmpvDg8crfJIrNhCr6c6M56O_wooknBTtHXugzSXwozNj6Mz1/s320/IMG_0748.JPG" width="240" />One reason I became interested in the ministry of the Gideons International is because I observed my husband spend about an hour looking through a Gideon Bible, when we were visiting the hospital room of my mother, back in the last century. After that I started noticing Gideon Bibles in the hotel rooms where I stayed, including luxury hotels, such as the one in French Lick, Indiana. One author called this "Hope found inside the bedside table"! I try to always leave a note to the hotel management in such properties, thanking them for providing a Gideon Bible in my guest room. Since the Bibles are provided free of charge to hotels, it seems this is a valuable amenity to offer their guests!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQivdediwIDL6V4eNLeP2seC2B5rCTdgr6PgkzpAd7zX2-sO1Vw2xr9CdEd0ykNPuW7_1aEn1JqF0zzFe5tosD5KTaZDg-oeD9m1uWBixdODSkFqn87wozsb7213zk182jJfTGMzl-9kU9HZ--fvkJq1a8VVJntcuQlHqa88UaImHUP1GSMxWOmTLIJw/s1600/IMG_3581.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQivdediwIDL6V4eNLeP2seC2B5rCTdgr6PgkzpAd7zX2-sO1Vw2xr9CdEd0ykNPuW7_1aEn1JqF0zzFe5tosD5KTaZDg-oeD9m1uWBixdODSkFqn87wozsb7213zk182jJfTGMzl-9kU9HZ--fvkJq1a8VVJntcuQlHqa88UaImHUP1GSMxWOmTLIJw/s320/IMG_3581.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />Also, the beautiful oceanside property of Avista Resort, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGy3IU26Hh4pjPjceNxH0q5K5HHCzt4wB7gmJZ0yDDIpUdhtjFS3bchokScd8hRYqxKTTnE3XloBOnVLv0akGJqBQMtJGDt9mJJnm0rxtUzDaHyirSqF9LKFYZbN0it8MaPJNg9VYkUi-vfMeWeStfTFwWDoHqiHjqEN9qnBtPmKF2JXSnJjIRFNeAxg/s320/IMG_0029.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGy3IU26Hh4pjPjceNxH0q5K5HHCzt4wB7gmJZ0yDDIpUdhtjFS3bchokScd8hRYqxKTTnE3XloBOnVLv0akGJqBQMtJGDt9mJJnm0rxtUzDaHyirSqF9LKFYZbN0it8MaPJNg9VYkUi-vfMeWeStfTFwWDoHqiHjqEN9qnBtPmKF2JXSnJjIRFNeAxg/s1600/IMG_0029.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, of course, there was a Gideon Bible in the Stone Castle Hotel, in Branson Missouri:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qdc8vqu8fKrN87uYIKdvKqhW1C9mqX97v4sNgXTJMtsvXcH8e6LkEGUhPlBHUheIkpE06p8DHtuSG1K6k5gVy3PgiDCikkWsWN2qN13v2da_t8BbLxcT50TkBchAPRN-fNqiPD7mT01mVqCE9I2_SWQjbVp6YuRYYvjPtDtfH61W5dXIVY58Q9_FPg/s2048/IMG_3833.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qdc8vqu8fKrN87uYIKdvKqhW1C9mqX97v4sNgXTJMtsvXcH8e6LkEGUhPlBHUheIkpE06p8DHtuSG1K6k5gVy3PgiDCikkWsWN2qN13v2da_t8BbLxcT50TkBchAPRN-fNqiPD7mT01mVqCE9I2_SWQjbVp6YuRYYvjPtDtfH61W5dXIVY58Q9_FPg/s320/IMG_3833.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>With the popularity of smart phone apps, the Gideon organization also has developed a Gideon Bible app, and often the hotel registration desk will have a small card holder, showing the QR code that the guest can scan with their phone to download the app.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5YllUGRB5AUyptowNT7aZiOappWmyvJtFQ22LNzh5z636aUCDdT0hfWgltBpQSUAFFO4KxUdPZgQ5FhhLAi8Loo8doqY8qpSLOgpeRycfz_feQM_9v-7pEZKRbVWBrzSJHWZ4Hl4ACGNcRt6xO-OXgQUarETuCBiQpncuF8Tk6EcFSCyX82quAgZXA/s640/IMG_0038.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5YllUGRB5AUyptowNT7aZiOappWmyvJtFQ22LNzh5z636aUCDdT0hfWgltBpQSUAFFO4KxUdPZgQ5FhhLAi8Loo8doqY8qpSLOgpeRycfz_feQM_9v-7pEZKRbVWBrzSJHWZ4Hl4ACGNcRt6xO-OXgQUarETuCBiQpncuF8Tk6EcFSCyX82quAgZXA/s320/IMG_0038.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> <br /> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> The Gideons also provide Gideon Bibles free of charge to public transportation modes. It was interesting to me that the one I saw on the ferry in Wisconsin, was in the room sat aside for persons who might not be feeling well, as it was next to the "emesis" bucket, one would use for motion sickness!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjA7LubZCv4vOR1Oq8kZ16LOjfqLSxPbX-beZVYdbE5YqcO3UNVL-8Mema70JKS9SxORxVJIBe0yJpgyE8FCe9Nflc2G4E9nEyi6PuNuvwOc0e3HF_wdHfjncC-FUVmNziJpRyZj1ZkZNj3iPMKsvm_H-Z7gcFdxcm2k0sBCPt9AvDKp-_KDCzBVNvUQ/s320/IMG_0028.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjA7LubZCv4vOR1Oq8kZ16LOjfqLSxPbX-beZVYdbE5YqcO3UNVL-8Mema70JKS9SxORxVJIBe0yJpgyE8FCe9Nflc2G4E9nEyi6PuNuvwOc0e3HF_wdHfjncC-FUVmNziJpRyZj1ZkZNj3iPMKsvm_H-Z7gcFdxcm2k0sBCPt9AvDKp-_KDCzBVNvUQ/s1600/IMG_0028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /> The torch light represented on the logo of Gideon Bibles is also referenced in a stained glass window in the Cadet Chapel, at West Point, in New York state. (See far right artistic representation of GIdeon in photo below, that I took when touring West Point. It is interesting to note that stained glass windows in places of worship started hundreds of years ago, before there were individual Bibles for each worshiper. The windows told the story of various Biblical events.) <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlcj3Z7KFIPsMd2rHooY5NyUN0i09oXgBMIrUxn36AcJR7kEGnedVKiHOsoEi0T0d8iJGCkmXqOy2AGEej4Hs-2Bn71DitTmTIqqTL_8r285KzOR3ZFvaM22LSWo0cWZTJcFBULEh_VNrn6jnrCH5Y6G2j6ahh4dSe_moFG_BpuRxppRY3K0SasPbqw/s1600/IMG_6377.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzlcj3Z7KFIPsMd2rHooY5NyUN0i09oXgBMIrUxn36AcJR7kEGnedVKiHOsoEi0T0d8iJGCkmXqOy2AGEej4Hs-2Bn71DitTmTIqqTL_8r285KzOR3ZFvaM22LSWo0cWZTJcFBULEh_VNrn6jnrCH5Y6G2j6ahh4dSe_moFG_BpuRxppRY3K0SasPbqw/s320/IMG_6377.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The torch light is significant in the story of Gideon in the Bible, which you can read in the sixth and seventh chapter of the Old Testament book of Judges. <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Throughout the Bible--from Genesis to Revelation--- God shows his love for all His works--the earth and its people. Therefore, I am using this blog about Gideon Bibles as the visual aid for my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verse from Psalm 145:8-9 that says, "The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy. The Lord is good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you would like to donate to the Gideon organization, they provide special occasion cards and memorial cards so that you can honor the name of someone with your donation. More information on this outstanding organization is available at www.gideons.org . A photo of the special occasion card rack that I see regularly at the church I attend, is shown below:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxTluFmf-YNzgbiB89OLfbbVweXUTQf2H3ub01op6oV9kX4Po8WilGsN5uZ_1E_evtwc8KdBrM5rf2upb1wK82yADIr_fKu0onJY1U-OUZ8eNM6y_dMth5ag9xECFO1zzjfsrXO_bt3fLYg_5hGgzTyHcx9-mGzzM6r8Yl2LAYHh4W6RhL8q7OtYQFQ/s640/IMG_0039.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFxTluFmf-YNzgbiB89OLfbbVweXUTQf2H3ub01op6oV9kX4Po8WilGsN5uZ_1E_evtwc8KdBrM5rf2upb1wK82yADIr_fKu0onJY1U-OUZ8eNM6y_dMth5ag9xECFO1zzjfsrXO_bt3fLYg_5hGgzTyHcx9-mGzzM6r8Yl2LAYHh4W6RhL8q7OtYQFQ/s320/IMG_0039.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Knowing that God loves me, and being able to help provide God's Word through the Gideon organization, gives me "MILES OF SMILES"! Tricia<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-87390505956353897902023-02-01T08:00:00.000-06:002023-02-01T10:55:53.932-06:00LITTLE ROCK EXPEDITION!<p><br /></p><p>Last summer, I had the opportunity to travel from north Arkansas, to central Arkansas, with a group of friends. After several hours of driving, we were happy to be able to get out and stretch our legs, to walk around T.R. Pugh Park, in North Little Rock. The park is the location of "The Old Mill", seen in the background of group photo below. The Old Mill is a backdrop not only for our group photo, but it was also seen in the opening credits of the 1939 movie, Gone With the Wind. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7uUGx0MlvyQrsok2LXhUe7ymd79nh1zKZBP5xma3hgTn8ckBY1TXDebPNBWfhQidUIs26shctijtLSVUGY7Mw7lNPAPyAdRfQ7tYbgoXX15voMUJfxkpQbh7vGBwCJsVF5Z8haBD8LxeMCmQl1sYHgXx1D0_qh7GTzSxzxPF2shCgh9TaebquDTS2g/s640/IMG_9829.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7uUGx0MlvyQrsok2LXhUe7ymd79nh1zKZBP5xma3hgTn8ckBY1TXDebPNBWfhQidUIs26shctijtLSVUGY7Mw7lNPAPyAdRfQ7tYbgoXX15voMUJfxkpQbh7vGBwCJsVF5Z8haBD8LxeMCmQl1sYHgXx1D0_qh7GTzSxzxPF2shCgh9TaebquDTS2g/s320/IMG_9829.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The Old Mill is a replica of an abandoned water-powered grist mill that would have been used by Arkansas pioneers, in the 1800's. Although the Old Mill never actually operated as a mill, the iron grist mill on the first floor of the building, is authentic and dates to 1828. Developer Justin Matthews wanted the Old Mill to appear as the ruins of a bygone era. The park is named after Matthews' business partner, Thomas R. Pugh, and Matthews stated the water wheel turning beside the mill, symbolizes Pugh's tireless energy. Matthews commissioned Dionicio Rodriguez, noted Mexican sculptor, to create the faux bois (or fake wood) style details, that accent this remarkable art piece. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGE-Db9JTiO3k6BzSTBe_Mt6AwT_lWcIjIaU6h92ybmJ34FBqZkUnlsr9Bi-syr98zZRsM0bo-Pih0NMK0s1C7wR5T9jkQ9q8MLS4mDlZqi3rM2PALqURrZ8IZfBH8rQey5XskZaJsGU7k3ksk32kqzsXdak78VwrsHAShq_-Ivx0BP9g4llGtoravg/s640/IMG_9830.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGE-Db9JTiO3k6BzSTBe_Mt6AwT_lWcIjIaU6h92ybmJ34FBqZkUnlsr9Bi-syr98zZRsM0bo-Pih0NMK0s1C7wR5T9jkQ9q8MLS4mDlZqi3rM2PALqURrZ8IZfBH8rQey5XskZaJsGU7k3ksk32kqzsXdak78VwrsHAShq_-Ivx0BP9g4llGtoravg/s320/IMG_9830.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />After a restful night of sleep, in a lovely home, situated on grounds as carefully landscaped, as that of the Old Mill Park, our group headed out to visit the Clinton Library, in downtown Little Rock. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_Px_fmw3QxTszUb0ffayxh74hg8w3BCzsI6R9iuhHP-8C4Pp5FqPZyi72su2rKYMU0zyCVEnKvGYutjJZMthOb7JW4ZYPYwQ6GY3mk6Zo59llrVMO6-Ri0Bwi0DEo9Hyc9JZ57FqxopBZjqsaznL7z6g64G0d1pFGHZUw9fepO0XZKNHHSgCqpaLZw/s640/IMG_9894.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_Px_fmw3QxTszUb0ffayxh74hg8w3BCzsI6R9iuhHP-8C4Pp5FqPZyi72su2rKYMU0zyCVEnKvGYutjJZMthOb7JW4ZYPYwQ6GY3mk6Zo59llrVMO6-Ri0Bwi0DEo9Hyc9JZ57FqxopBZjqsaznL7z6g64G0d1pFGHZUw9fepO0XZKNHHSgCqpaLZw/s320/IMG_9894.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>One of the staff members of the Clinton Library, took our photo, before we went inside to tour the exhibits. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHhOxPNKUknzMwMjRwbcbyXIsEQ8w4aNlCOqzEn4b4PY62umCnKl5o2isIj8NAnpDLDy2n1FJtUCiipnhgKU1s99iPxkf3V7q3CokciD7S05J47UYdaSlad2cJVwxToxVuJ6kCjGGHAt1TtjSTGXUYNjel4g1CCSMthK-gt9QvMQpYH-A06ISZtDHpw/s640/IMG_9851.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="513" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTHhOxPNKUknzMwMjRwbcbyXIsEQ8w4aNlCOqzEn4b4PY62umCnKl5o2isIj8NAnpDLDy2n1FJtUCiipnhgKU1s99iPxkf3V7q3CokciD7S05J47UYdaSlad2cJVwxToxVuJ6kCjGGHAt1TtjSTGXUYNjel4g1CCSMthK-gt9QvMQpYH-A06ISZtDHpw/s320/IMG_9851.jpg" width="257" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p></p><p>One of the first things you will see when you enter the library is the Presidential limousine.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3VSy_dXpD1DL4oZtZN508Hvb_GwPPkmCptVWHbNWONSVkl4eY94cgp6aoIPKQQwVu6Hl5Z7MRFAYU8W332EjZxOQHjBEMzTsWPAhBmNh3r29P-iSDKvjpZsUvtC7zJcgyUpe7w77GSvAryNDTIh_OE0LHDPSIPCjdzkfPqG7UOscGPfzlNfMLPOwwA/s640/IMG_9876.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3VSy_dXpD1DL4oZtZN508Hvb_GwPPkmCptVWHbNWONSVkl4eY94cgp6aoIPKQQwVu6Hl5Z7MRFAYU8W332EjZxOQHjBEMzTsWPAhBmNh3r29P-iSDKvjpZsUvtC7zJcgyUpe7w77GSvAryNDTIh_OE0LHDPSIPCjdzkfPqG7UOscGPfzlNfMLPOwwA/s320/IMG_9876.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p></p><p>The photo below, taken from an upper floor of the library, shows people on lower floor, at various sections of the exhibits. Each cubicle references a different year of the presidency of William Jefferson Clinton. Since I am a fan of Dale Chihuly glass artistry, I seldom miss an opportunity to photograph it! The Christmas tree-shaped art piece shown in this photo, was a gift to the Clintons. There are numerous other "Head of State" gifts on display, each one representative of the culture of the dignitary (or common citizen!) that presented the gift. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3S1MeHnZypkhIuXxbYKjFdo_jqnO3ihkbfFmJdP7Sd110HtTJ7i5cZwGXYmGVOqkY7AvtRC4Co2CXC2yP4GfVuGKq5V8xhfB_FlHIbbWQZUywGZWnqo7CXn9zQWDihVmhqHB1cQwLG2jb86cOIedMWtrKQ-FgKzRldVZC-hKojmdqD3n2QQDfatsTzg/s640/IMG_9858.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3S1MeHnZypkhIuXxbYKjFdo_jqnO3ihkbfFmJdP7Sd110HtTJ7i5cZwGXYmGVOqkY7AvtRC4Co2CXC2yP4GfVuGKq5V8xhfB_FlHIbbWQZUywGZWnqo7CXn9zQWDihVmhqHB1cQwLG2jb86cOIedMWtrKQ-FgKzRldVZC-hKojmdqD3n2QQDfatsTzg/s320/IMG_9858.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p></p><p>I have been to the Clinton Library on numerous other occasions (lots more photos in those blog entries, in the archives under the dates of October 27, 2008, and two separate articles dated March 8, 2012), but this was my first time to get to have a meal inside the private dining room of Restaurant 42. To find out if your group could have a meal in the private dining room, visit their website at www.ClintonPresidentialCenter.org . You will also see information of upcoming exhibits and other important visitor information. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xwe-NCDRIscoP4yvPxQM7SBNSzTN9vriOgGEFjh3RTXWC2Hw5yZhpTMNfx733bTdE9njnP9Y3h8zJOl21d7k85p1z8964PTb9w358fPVIm1TYURkMSz4luRm0HO3CFLHuMJdblRWCo7QVuiz5yymV0cfXOhFmyYRzfm0-AHUkVwQ4W8RYanLnc2q5w/s640/IMG_9860%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xwe-NCDRIscoP4yvPxQM7SBNSzTN9vriOgGEFjh3RTXWC2Hw5yZhpTMNfx733bTdE9njnP9Y3h8zJOl21d7k85p1z8964PTb9w358fPVIm1TYURkMSz4luRm0HO3CFLHuMJdblRWCo7QVuiz5yymV0cfXOhFmyYRzfm0-AHUkVwQ4W8RYanLnc2q5w/s320/IMG_9860%20(3).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />After lunch, we wanted to get some exercise, so we went to the adjacent Clinton Presidential Park, to take a stroll across the historic bridge above the Arkansas River. The sign at its entrance tells us that in 1899, the Choctaw, Oklahoma & Gulf Railroad (CO&G) built the Choctaw station and the railroad bridge over the Arkansas River at Little Rock. In 1967, passenger service ended and the Choctaw Station and surrounding land was bought by the Arkansas Gazette newspaper. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7Gw0s9DOgtYnnyTzEePfLX9ZUh8-yStbA7qvb9RdasAFr53OtzToSnxQ52PlKook8IEYCBvRqG3qmsVfBdUUKk1Gc3LMMbe-G4ZRANfa__HkP1wU4uYYT--5aMy5fnsBNnz5KTo8zpXIyaaLx_TwpST9sY7AB2Ku9ZKxXEDLmMKjeh0nvI4KE1JK-Q/s640/IMG_9878.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7Gw0s9DOgtYnnyTzEePfLX9ZUh8-yStbA7qvb9RdasAFr53OtzToSnxQ52PlKook8IEYCBvRqG3qmsVfBdUUKk1Gc3LMMbe-G4ZRANfa__HkP1wU4uYYT--5aMy5fnsBNnz5KTo8zpXIyaaLx_TwpST9sY7AB2Ku9ZKxXEDLmMKjeh0nvI4KE1JK-Q/s320/IMG_9878.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The photo below shows that the bridge is now wheel-chair accessible, which is also a benefit for wheeled baby strollers and bicyclists. The bridge ceased carrying railroad cars around 1980. The railroad company that owned the bridge in 1995 was making plans to tear down the bridge due to the liability it represented. However, in 2001, the City of Little Rock assumed ownership of the bridge and retains ownership today. <br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FvPMEo_0AhH4h-b6Oi-m3VrAG41mG9t-uokOU6u7O6xGGh4kDyZ0YopIdU63f0heBiAw1kKyRdFiPJNodimheK_nuxONG12Q7OGzjebPok_q4m9fBR0yzAZiRhZNJC4_LiSO-172_FJtYUJgtydpsFM6uUXOLgoipCX8btr99wP5KOOL9xiVn7O2cQ/s640/IMG_9886.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FvPMEo_0AhH4h-b6Oi-m3VrAG41mG9t-uokOU6u7O6xGGh4kDyZ0YopIdU63f0heBiAw1kKyRdFiPJNodimheK_nuxONG12Q7OGzjebPok_q4m9fBR0yzAZiRhZNJC4_LiSO-172_FJtYUJgtydpsFM6uUXOLgoipCX8btr99wP5KOOL9xiVn7O2cQ/s320/IMG_9886.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>In 20010 the City of Little Rock officially changed the name of the bridge to the Clinton Presidential Park Bridge as tribute to the Clinton Foundation's efforts to renovate it into a ramped pedestrian pathway providing the eastern link to the Arkansas River Trail System. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjByu5mw0vKFJhEubpHAiY8SzKPLWOC5Mt7z-dLrXjEjme6vRImG405hWtW5BUBVjE98BA3RRW6mzm1IMjrQFeaset09rJH5mrlsYj3YldsEJIbCNRomSAzxG2DckulsrGoy9DVVmBEw1r3Aa51R8pbCpRHDRkhNY16TcOqe-rFnXKXFRUhSoTZBLN8yw/s640/IMG_9884.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="640" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjByu5mw0vKFJhEubpHAiY8SzKPLWOC5Mt7z-dLrXjEjme6vRImG405hWtW5BUBVjE98BA3RRW6mzm1IMjrQFeaset09rJH5mrlsYj3YldsEJIbCNRomSAzxG2DckulsrGoy9DVVmBEw1r3Aa51R8pbCpRHDRkhNY16TcOqe-rFnXKXFRUhSoTZBLN8yw/s320/IMG_9884.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>In 2011, the renovated pedestrian bridge was dedicated by President Bill Clinton Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and their daughter, Chelsea Clinton, and officially opened to the public. (I took this photo so I could point out the area along the riverfront, to my friends, where my husband had asked me to marry him, back in the last century! The photo below of Fred and me, beside the Arkansas River, was taken on that memorable day we got engaged!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3WRXL2nbegGex_SgvNfb8cELqHnZQ8vBUUjTHiDMj39TS6SFCDDk-Grg3EUOYCCDtmiCHLZL6_HbqvldiwiXgWxHT9Fvt7I9-tExHjcMic27Gw7pthB7hkJEwFvC2SYfLRZ0LCtoSl5DTL4A8Mt7zDnfMRf8h-pr8SrpOPF7xmFObhZfgFPVcAW29Q/s640/IMG_3379%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3WRXL2nbegGex_SgvNfb8cELqHnZQ8vBUUjTHiDMj39TS6SFCDDk-Grg3EUOYCCDtmiCHLZL6_HbqvldiwiXgWxHT9Fvt7I9-tExHjcMic27Gw7pthB7hkJEwFvC2SYfLRZ0LCtoSl5DTL4A8Mt7zDnfMRf8h-pr8SrpOPF7xmFObhZfgFPVcAW29Q/s320/IMG_3379%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Notice in the photo below, how the Clinton Presidential Library (to left of railroad bridge) extends far out over the slope, that leads down to the riverfront, in a way similar to how a bridge would be built. In fact, that was part of the design concept, as the architect wanted to illustrate how learning from the past, can be a "bridge" to a better future. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKwp_ZdBPOpmgW4OXG-cvOoczvNy9y653xW83Bglx3_bOkWiUElK0ux8WrJYJR0_pMK6-9wBRxwel-uO0ebKp40bvZKb-yY0JFGYvRIQNOGV2AWQdqVmdqKpdb3qOjo0MDmdSCUqIYvthBfNcyTP9eTKBDiW4_zrBCwLdOPIz1-nXTu2oIyLaXtyCSg/s640/IMG_9891.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfKwp_ZdBPOpmgW4OXG-cvOoczvNy9y653xW83Bglx3_bOkWiUElK0ux8WrJYJR0_pMK6-9wBRxwel-uO0ebKp40bvZKb-yY0JFGYvRIQNOGV2AWQdqVmdqKpdb3qOjo0MDmdSCUqIYvthBfNcyTP9eTKBDiW4_zrBCwLdOPIz1-nXTu2oIyLaXtyCSg/s320/IMG_9891.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another stop we made on our tour was the Central High School National Historic Site (www.nps.gov.chsc). The photo below shows me and two friends, posing under the arches beneath the steps. Although the public was not allowed inside the school on the day of this visit, a previous visit I made there several years ago, allowed the tour group to go inside and take in the "ambience" of being in a very well-used school building. There is an excellent visitor center at the site, that gives a detailed timeline of the events that led up to the 1957 integration of the previously all-white school, by the "Little Rock Nine". There are both audio and video accounts in the Visitor Center (a separate building from the school) that are told by the people who were actually there at the time. Not surprisingly, this is a significant stop on the Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail. It is worth noting, that our current governor, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, graduated from Central High School.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLerjnoVw6BUph8PVkNF_16M6JTXxDQwz_1E_kPp8rFe_Pmlh_OD1-97Y6ir7hczSsQUC-sPX0HAHD6SAeiVCPDw0OyLxrRUXjVdQbqoQAm59kohNhRO65uda7_4BevCEWpqaS0LsyYJS165zZS5cMeNGCrmbL3qqhYbwxFE90bM0wCMIg-lFRlqA8lQ/s640/IMG_8766.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLerjnoVw6BUph8PVkNF_16M6JTXxDQwz_1E_kPp8rFe_Pmlh_OD1-97Y6ir7hczSsQUC-sPX0HAHD6SAeiVCPDw0OyLxrRUXjVdQbqoQAm59kohNhRO65uda7_4BevCEWpqaS0LsyYJS165zZS5cMeNGCrmbL3qqhYbwxFE90bM0wCMIg-lFRlqA8lQ/s320/IMG_8766.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />Another historic site we visited was the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History (www.littlerock.gov). This facility is located in the historic Arsenal Building in MacArthur Park--one of Central Arkansas's oldest surviving structures. It was the birthplace of a famous USA military hero---General Douglas MacArthur. In addition to details of his service, there are artifacts that relate to the military heritage of Arkansas, from the time it was a territory, up to present-day. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUplcCtM_y2qCGUfiK8-tnXIAFdsez-X1RvvQKFpJfKiiBk5RqotbbNBuXGNcUgwJbezyqhuObZTUK-1aHR4CmqzJufB2MUs8YXST9PzbX2_t3FNinDnfKUW763Suoo5flWXf1cRQBnJU15FzyyQR68GItvkdhnH18KQpvzRpgw3Go-idWUuLPi7g7g/s640/IMG_0033.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCUplcCtM_y2qCGUfiK8-tnXIAFdsez-X1RvvQKFpJfKiiBk5RqotbbNBuXGNcUgwJbezyqhuObZTUK-1aHR4CmqzJufB2MUs8YXST9PzbX2_t3FNinDnfKUW763Suoo5flWXf1cRQBnJU15FzyyQR68GItvkdhnH18KQpvzRpgw3Go-idWUuLPi7g7g/s320/IMG_0033.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />It is always a treat to be able to visit our beautiful Arkansas State Capitol. Most photos you see of the exterior show it from the front, but I took this photo, from the side, because our group was strolling the grounds, to see the memorials located there. This is the location of the iconic sculpture (shown in center of photo) of "The Little Rock Nine", and is the starting point of the Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGx6WMOxx-U_5foUvfbRbyvhc3YpGP4pkCilC-ISOQ9ySZS3oetM1s0RcmE-i4fAywmZkvDQ-FR-MyUsG5nY8fhrAF3MTmc4-vM9pn4ofH_Mbi7B5f4UyMa90yONc9bAXJXZ9Mh2WSw4jTGSkkHrRBCMmBgU3CcYEz5SI3n877yscd1rKCS8TkMAmACw/s640/IMG_9942.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGx6WMOxx-U_5foUvfbRbyvhc3YpGP4pkCilC-ISOQ9ySZS3oetM1s0RcmE-i4fAywmZkvDQ-FR-MyUsG5nY8fhrAF3MTmc4-vM9pn4ofH_Mbi7B5f4UyMa90yONc9bAXJXZ9Mh2WSw4jTGSkkHrRBCMmBgU3CcYEz5SI3n877yscd1rKCS8TkMAmACw/s320/IMG_9942.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>There are several sets of ornate bronze doors at the capitol, and I wanted to get my photo with some of them, because it was my grandson, who first alerted me to their significance! On a separate trip to Little Rock, when he was still in elementary school, he was insistent on going to see, and get his photo taken, with the Capitol's bronze doors, that he had learned about in one of his Arkansas history classes. So Jacob, this photo is for you!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLBOyzpu-PbMrVRgWYeTzciESoPOCzyoRTPT_uVDvkRX1Elpn7646Lw_PfjHi3jPCRli2CjUWTD5zzXwowPeR8B99lfeLlW9lF-IdQRUtwwrpbLFgKtGGBI9Gezh8-kIBimaT9ICQoGEuxoeuyoIkHjCNvghjm3PkQq7sXHn4YYGXVTK8_K5twASEONA/s640/IMG_8749%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLBOyzpu-PbMrVRgWYeTzciESoPOCzyoRTPT_uVDvkRX1Elpn7646Lw_PfjHi3jPCRli2CjUWTD5zzXwowPeR8B99lfeLlW9lF-IdQRUtwwrpbLFgKtGGBI9Gezh8-kIBimaT9ICQoGEuxoeuyoIkHjCNvghjm3PkQq7sXHn4YYGXVTK8_K5twASEONA/s320/IMG_8749%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p>Below is the photo of Jacob when he was a youngster, along with me and his sister. That smile on his face is because he had convinced his parents to take him by the Arkansas State Capitol, so he could see these famous doors, purchased from Tiffany and Company in New York!<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtoS1kkO5bnFwlKnkAEYnUcF-gTDOJmiTACNxSepEgUpdmgLw5SMnOzqqhPOrRwWIx2lyjZWCF6P1rZPLSQL1_SZSQNMUFxunxLFY4tS4nhflrR8gntOFOcLfVf08A9H4eKmboA9geIeUW736YcxYqpDer61Vx0EEfbJEgR2ytowInQ8MLBdNqDSRwOA/s640/IMG_3378.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="451" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtoS1kkO5bnFwlKnkAEYnUcF-gTDOJmiTACNxSepEgUpdmgLw5SMnOzqqhPOrRwWIx2lyjZWCF6P1rZPLSQL1_SZSQNMUFxunxLFY4tS4nhflrR8gntOFOcLfVf08A9H4eKmboA9geIeUW736YcxYqpDer61Vx0EEfbJEgR2ytowInQ8MLBdNqDSRwOA/s320/IMG_3378.jpg" width="226" /></a></div><br /><br />The grand foyer of the Capitol, under the rotunda, is illuminated by this amazing chandelier. There is a fascinating story about its history that you can learn, if you take the video tour offered by the Arkansas Secretary of State on their website. It is also the website you need to visit to find out about tour times, and parking access, if you make the trip in person. It is www.sos.arkansas.gov ; also you can phone 501-682-5080.<p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPmeHwF1FdZDlJ9WC8Uhn2bKKEkxfKR6XNsfTBk5xxTZe-v6VyKqTDWLeVt_0uTTcddLKKTbytyL1Cb69Kut5-Q7HpWOhpBFdVI-Jp0VnIk_0hunQqPBBtZURCyjCseRpT7u0f6u1H8Z4hGXP0H-piq4F6kI3H6ZtLS8fVNJcjWgGRfGftO0cvMwjVMQ/s640/IMG_9899.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPmeHwF1FdZDlJ9WC8Uhn2bKKEkxfKR6XNsfTBk5xxTZe-v6VyKqTDWLeVt_0uTTcddLKKTbytyL1Cb69Kut5-Q7HpWOhpBFdVI-Jp0VnIk_0hunQqPBBtZURCyjCseRpT7u0f6u1H8Z4hGXP0H-piq4F6kI3H6ZtLS8fVNJcjWgGRfGftO0cvMwjVMQ/s320/IMG_9899.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />One of the reasons our group chose this particular time to visit the State Capitol, is because they were showcasing a special exhibition to celebrate the 50 year anniversary of the nation's first national river, now called Buffalo National River. In the photo below, the ladies are admiring the amazing textile artistry of an artist who created a "painting" of one of the iconic Buffalo National River bluffs, using fabric applique and embroidery. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMsWZXR2Yn8rTNlcgYVBWqMxTSd0DEdB5FZr6huOs-9APcQq-ZV48Dwnkj-ZzcXxuLYJVnrN_3ddrLdE334hCR84r_0UD1Xbi36OhoUieOnGLrS1OrsKcCTZ1VPKMUl-BO6JCLHMiqiOioFlIiVLt2v4S3kkcLt6IXNzsArMs4TsDfUMUBD0wOf2DEKg/s640/IMG_9901.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMsWZXR2Yn8rTNlcgYVBWqMxTSd0DEdB5FZr6huOs-9APcQq-ZV48Dwnkj-ZzcXxuLYJVnrN_3ddrLdE334hCR84r_0UD1Xbi36OhoUieOnGLrS1OrsKcCTZ1VPKMUl-BO6JCLHMiqiOioFlIiVLt2v4S3kkcLt6IXNzsArMs4TsDfUMUBD0wOf2DEKg/s320/IMG_9901.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />We were able to go into this expansive room with the name "Governor" above the door, to see the recent renovations that had been completed there to bring it back to its original grandeur. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf5XDnWsQrBP1wbmmawI8ON60F9VZ-wbFnJhgSEBWvbMKWCwHY2KaKsGcXUVn78AxrvepTEUWeqP23rR3uUARtG3etereqJmMNNbVFhWX2rsX_NoIhuvhVq0kpN7_a5wK-zLYgtrFnp5BEkV7p4Ji7grhd1KqKe-e1fUlAogtcH0Fr5DqVd4PfLB8Mg/s640/IMG_9914.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf5XDnWsQrBP1wbmmawI8ON60F9VZ-wbFnJhgSEBWvbMKWCwHY2KaKsGcXUVn78AxrvepTEUWeqP23rR3uUARtG3etereqJmMNNbVFhWX2rsX_NoIhuvhVq0kpN7_a5wK-zLYgtrFnp5BEkV7p4Ji7grhd1KqKe-e1fUlAogtcH0Fr5DqVd4PfLB8Mg/s320/IMG_9914.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />A tourist can also make arrangement to visit the office of the Arkansas State Treasurer, and get your photo made, holding half a million dollars!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6qG1LeloP62LqF3HzpfI7ufJciL5ymmy427AhIuRhP6coZBKKyaDHZB4miIDYJgHhiOzwNI9AnpmeLkt0p3S8qw5EaVemb7oNyzSd18ZbMRURWPoHylAqQ9WtEIkwsNMHVrTpa317PsVb8BZkVcMviCv68vDubc1QBx1ZfH3mfeLF7ASohUI6rDjROA/s640/IMG_3219.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="640" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6qG1LeloP62LqF3HzpfI7ufJciL5ymmy427AhIuRhP6coZBKKyaDHZB4miIDYJgHhiOzwNI9AnpmeLkt0p3S8qw5EaVemb7oNyzSd18ZbMRURWPoHylAqQ9WtEIkwsNMHVrTpa317PsVb8BZkVcMviCv68vDubc1QBx1ZfH3mfeLF7ASohUI6rDjROA/s320/IMG_3219.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I did not look close enough to see if it was real money on the inside, hidden parts of the stack, but it certainly made for some fun photo opportunities. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWxrhsb5oBK7ztcYg1ifsGaYWmpbPuGFoef1uSODA_1a-8W4NUSvnBwn21o_0eSWFx1ctEVWEqKLz4MtHd0Ujm07ZUKRNAE_seVVtU8esPrU9adzouXKgoJfCSxJwtwJE0BPOVdCNAPjYrD-QTUirxZnaKytJiOr5louKH0bQRbWqgnChXZfpofmNBQ/s640/IMG_8727%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCWxrhsb5oBK7ztcYg1ifsGaYWmpbPuGFoef1uSODA_1a-8W4NUSvnBwn21o_0eSWFx1ctEVWEqKLz4MtHd0Ujm07ZUKRNAE_seVVtU8esPrU9adzouXKgoJfCSxJwtwJE0BPOVdCNAPjYrD-QTUirxZnaKytJiOr5louKH0bQRbWqgnChXZfpofmNBQ/s320/IMG_8727%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>When I was looking for a photo to serve as a visual aid, to help me learn one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses (about how Jesus gave up his riches in heaven, to come to earth as a tiny baby, in order to one day die on the cross, taking the penalty for my sins), these large stacks of money came to mind. Jesus gave up much more than all the money in the Arkansas State Treasury, and He did it for you and me! 2 Corinthians 8:9 says, "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich." These are the ETERNAL riches that give me "MILES OF SMILES!" Tricia<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-92224020641992966782023-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:002023-07-01T10:49:05.915-05:00ISLAND HIKING/KAYAKING EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5o4vCjvrA15rPRY2WAIumrmibSR6uZdZ9iyjMnPvBn52gkRDg7O73uvobsT0Kf6-we6Ssn-Y0fO3c6gBq5ehPCGtTGNWDnks8OgzICjFJIvpTHAGkdQ6-KA6vp1dSQobL5ujfodWzDTnctavyPLwqtjH1YQFAg0LuB9BgcJhsLmhPcRH4IBpB-yRtQ/s320/DSC05351.JPG" width="320" /> This is a photo of me at the top of Sugarloaf Mountain Island, the first time I visited there, in June, 2016.<br /></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdHn8dzKnq-f0M1qtapq7RUUsy6mCdaGhJtQ1tgQ7v6X43yGuYaCv8sj_AK7X1HxNLaKykkABLqEDU9bGOKYbqXnCMkP6gT1IDnHJt7lkgUgHkaD7iM4vfA0P3BY1ruiqxK7veBz_mRaRgLriBnCjKe6BaN2r256SBcL7Fsv59xQSgjMBEnzj7tgkyg/s320/DSC05329.JPG" width="320" />That experience was made possible, because of the free boat shuttle being provided by Fairfield Bay Marina. They were partnering with the Fairfield Bay Chamber of Commerce (www.ffbchamber.com) , for an event called "Surf the Bay Watersports Festival", which was celebrating a 50-year anniversary of the formation of the Fairfield Bay Community. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE45d3Z07J1QaauFX3ff_l6xSCiUJOOE3iH-SPac86PWtt5W1SJ6NOAIq5mH7BYG20OLV4S5NLm6eW_KhpL36P_FhJm_aUpw5bI_kEmRYav9zgzK2wPDppGvK3M7gTlFD7sFTWsfbPvEocRr1kMPH9d7R6iBOfM-ClwLaguwzEbr33SNLF0M9DunVLCg/s2592/DSC05330.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE45d3Z07J1QaauFX3ff_l6xSCiUJOOE3iH-SPac86PWtt5W1SJ6NOAIq5mH7BYG20OLV4S5NLm6eW_KhpL36P_FhJm_aUpw5bI_kEmRYav9zgzK2wPDppGvK3M7gTlFD7sFTWsfbPvEocRr1kMPH9d7R6iBOfM-ClwLaguwzEbr33SNLF0M9DunVLCg/s320/DSC05330.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The shuttle transported us to the boat dock, that is located on the east side of the island. As we approached, we could see there was another boat moored there, so that its occupants could explore the island. Our shuttle boat dropped us off, then told us they would be back to pick us up, in 3 hours.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> A short distance from the drop off location, one sees a sign that shows a satellite view of the island, with markings showing where the trails are located, as well as other features, such as benches. <img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElAjHW2A1C3RljM-bQRDnZmlNxV-c2FBhXZGlpaFsQ_y8IECfATCkrWYou9kaf2YexV4xT0vH7F44iHSjIIQFUscVxyFc9jCL1mGxYf2M1q60uHZhika-DMqxKlW1PnaDdz0AKVfMJkpJDKX4JdawL16B8l4EEzD7pMHNa27cHuQIGt6TnMwnuwMtPA/s320/DSC05338.JPG" width="320" />If you are interested in making this trip, but have no boat of your own, you can contact the Fairfield Bay Marina (501-884-6030), to find out the hours and fees for the island shuttle service they operate. Also, you can read about their rental boats and other amenities on their website at www.visitfairfieldbay.com/marina<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLu5KIHiDVRe1a1NRpj6Q7sPj5PzcvYrh38WQ6qQWc3ObcCwkwzcQX2odnbnaD3alpsRpeRFRrDCo5Aq9ktqyWOgWlyGB-_CXJfSfh3Kpjvgh4gdIc48OACGk6B_Un72TiGpK12CAESUZd4kowSYOr4kHDzCbn0N3cwjvpR_qI8f3fqbIPrKWJcfB35w/s2592/DSC05337.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLu5KIHiDVRe1a1NRpj6Q7sPj5PzcvYrh38WQ6qQWc3ObcCwkwzcQX2odnbnaD3alpsRpeRFRrDCo5Aq9ktqyWOgWlyGB-_CXJfSfh3Kpjvgh4gdIc48OACGk6B_Un72TiGpK12CAESUZd4kowSYOr4kHDzCbn0N3cwjvpR_qI8f3fqbIPrKWJcfB35w/s320/DSC05337.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The sign at the trail head also has boxes to hold print copies of a map of the trails, but there is good cell phone service on the island, so you can also see maps on your phone. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3Esh1lm_v4UYNkrRFtBDzNLfBPWVtxOs8iZX9YM2dv6EL125BotV3bnZ7lNm4JTYtIJfvYgl4s1tGYk-mDys1dsMe3k4JnxPwUQF_4strnj53SvqWGxTWLgtpE3w4MDTKNk_dO-eL_VCtmV8n7_yJQNSEqaCwVCF6KlpbSqlc-NzYCUjg5O2WisjQw/s2592/DSC05336.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3Esh1lm_v4UYNkrRFtBDzNLfBPWVtxOs8iZX9YM2dv6EL125BotV3bnZ7lNm4JTYtIJfvYgl4s1tGYk-mDys1dsMe3k4JnxPwUQF_4strnj53SvqWGxTWLgtpE3w4MDTKNk_dO-eL_VCtmV8n7_yJQNSEqaCwVCF6KlpbSqlc-NzYCUjg5O2WisjQw/s320/DSC05336.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This photo shows our 2016 group, starting up the trail, that leads to the top. As you progress up the trail, you will see several more of these signs, indicating you are on a National Recreation Trail. <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />In some places, the terrain and elevation change, necessitated the building of wooden staircases :<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLftHQRLk4rYxQqKO3jKGUAsrIFNWs2rR8fgcQxXdujRyoeRfFCVMpYQwhbN83JP15Wt1180-BYQUpjvm1EDEawOaXAnIiQ-uQIhqrmSMyLXRzIpt3cF6IN1NIrKwVeOG1Z9hLAXFi714SAHuBcXfz52grFtoygUevYcoi-2816G2QoKvsNfFMVVdFg/s2592/DSC05347.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLftHQRLk4rYxQqKO3jKGUAsrIFNWs2rR8fgcQxXdujRyoeRfFCVMpYQwhbN83JP15Wt1180-BYQUpjvm1EDEawOaXAnIiQ-uQIhqrmSMyLXRzIpt3cF6IN1NIrKwVeOG1Z9hLAXFi714SAHuBcXfz52grFtoygUevYcoi-2816G2QoKvsNfFMVVdFg/s320/DSC05347.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Other improvements along the trail had wooden crossbeams, to prevent trail washouts from heavy rains. The photo above shows that some of these also have handrails. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GIJNo5bJJOBtXKH7uMqZ75R9KU17ChNyDfXi_F5mEPMU9abtZWxVUkl3xo523se-YVC2Mna-WJ4jpcUGDlHUDTirFO61xFOm1vyUDxQ79o63eVN-C1SoLAlme4967Sq-3C2kdrt41_hlR86A_MMhqaoqKRM0ycMUeBbJFAE1mYhN2XDPNHTNhWfUYg/s2592/DSC05345.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GIJNo5bJJOBtXKH7uMqZ75R9KU17ChNyDfXi_F5mEPMU9abtZWxVUkl3xo523se-YVC2Mna-WJ4jpcUGDlHUDTirFO61xFOm1vyUDxQ79o63eVN-C1SoLAlme4967Sq-3C2kdrt41_hlR86A_MMhqaoqKRM0ycMUeBbJFAE1mYhN2XDPNHTNhWfUYg/s320/DSC05345.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Although the crossbeams take some energy to step over, they are a vital aspect of trail building.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-vKyOMy13O53ivkrs-gICGjpOXv1MGi_OhMBSkXGa3_y5JwJOHlfKvIEEyrpL4_RpKmBWXx_T_wQF9cTaKGe94SvRI4Vmzak22tSmci2NNNXcDtQ5veI7rbTrXiWmOzRC4I0kqkfX-MIBDtX_twwqTCrcMH-QNT86J6vO5CHIRAww1xw7UBHk_fP9g/s2592/DSC05346.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="1944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-vKyOMy13O53ivkrs-gICGjpOXv1MGi_OhMBSkXGa3_y5JwJOHlfKvIEEyrpL4_RpKmBWXx_T_wQF9cTaKGe94SvRI4Vmzak22tSmci2NNNXcDtQ5veI7rbTrXiWmOzRC4I0kqkfX-MIBDtX_twwqTCrcMH-QNT86J6vO5CHIRAww1xw7UBHk_fP9g/s320/DSC05346.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />I was very thankful to make it to the top of this island mountain in 2016 (because it was on my Arkansas bucket list for a long time!), so I wanted a photo of me with hands uplifted in gratitude to God.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHVWThAEE28H6DYtm1bJ-yXZ__LjIf5e9OzFA810LVw5J3NgGlbaC2oKgGxg3eJX3SIdSRrwxWO19B3Ji8QgimMJO9ePriOcb0nbqYe-UsdBeEyV0wPZgpfYCmbc2DVgrADvM2daNZtAdS2Zsou-YImzHL-aANJFwMDmLZXpwVI_cYNSGTEPAPKHC-ng/s2592/DSC05362.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1944" data-original-width="2592" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHVWThAEE28H6DYtm1bJ-yXZ__LjIf5e9OzFA810LVw5J3NgGlbaC2oKgGxg3eJX3SIdSRrwxWO19B3Ji8QgimMJO9ePriOcb0nbqYe-UsdBeEyV0wPZgpfYCmbc2DVgrADvM2daNZtAdS2Zsou-YImzHL-aANJFwMDmLZXpwVI_cYNSGTEPAPKHC-ng/s320/DSC05362.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />The next time I went to the island was in September, 2022, and it was via self-power, paddling my kayak! My WHOYAKER group carpooled in trucks, to haul all these kayaks down to the closest public ramp to the island, (which is not Fairfield Bay Marina). Rather, it is in a Corps of Engineers public launch, with concrete ramps, and ample parking. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sV01azFQUUnboI-irCeNzzk5oeRrQR3xxkAs0bSKKhbXDLEvEJub46LyhcQUaZrCcsLOCPweQuQL3W0k5T4VhTlbcRzUqU775_v7sHCDK5uzbCO7Qhgx4PvI8He3XU7R5C-HLXPbkwrjVzTPpGMCg452nU32Dp53uKHkqoC5tYA9b6Db1X3rnwp_0w/s640/IMG_1128.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7sV01azFQUUnboI-irCeNzzk5oeRrQR3xxkAs0bSKKhbXDLEvEJub46LyhcQUaZrCcsLOCPweQuQL3W0k5T4VhTlbcRzUqU775_v7sHCDK5uzbCO7Qhgx4PvI8He3XU7R5C-HLXPbkwrjVzTPpGMCg452nU32Dp53uKHkqoC5tYA9b6Db1X3rnwp_0w/s320/IMG_1128.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>This photo below shows our group, on September 29, 2022, preparing to paddle to the island behind us. We were all very thankful it was a sunny day with no rain! One can tell our group members are smart and safety conscious, as we wear life jackets when we are paddling.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbshA0zR_XtVgD83VGpBN9O7U8FY8cMQtVFUR2rE9v_ST92OwPFxP05ZPQHeI71Zz7QuKX24RLFEwoBgVlUJFzICiBOJ_ICuVoiZ7MM7zD9VgWHrgvpm7H4lyldYNL-2kuNYoeSOx1sY5iysNVwEruAPIT_RedTALTr7dSBnSciXk_YA-pviooNOD5Q/s640/IMG_1039.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="397" data-original-width="640" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwbshA0zR_XtVgD83VGpBN9O7U8FY8cMQtVFUR2rE9v_ST92OwPFxP05ZPQHeI71Zz7QuKX24RLFEwoBgVlUJFzICiBOJ_ICuVoiZ7MM7zD9VgWHrgvpm7H4lyldYNL-2kuNYoeSOx1sY5iysNVwEruAPIT_RedTALTr7dSBnSciXk_YA-pviooNOD5Q/s320/IMG_1039.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We paddled across the lake for about 45 minutes, then landed at the island shore. It was refreshing to see how clean the shoreline was, and I found out later the reason for this: It is because the first public, organized shoreline clean-up in the NATION, was held here in 1969. It served as the national model for environmental cleanliness. It was the model for the "Great Arkansas Clean-up", and the nationwide effort called "Keep America Beautiful" and "National Public Lands Day". <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8UT6ZEv0N89kDri3PYmAyYaMinsYDGQoClcEyTZesWOT-cFQe-cwGO0hAfWattOuTMO4PgEWKAp9qzaczYdCYDbRD1XhBOtTAUI9ufvotjt1rsgOXc3wzBhckFdLVe7ETVqSWd5s_JKT31J9GtSVOSewQsRB3jYu7rAelOzDjPXxh1HFhw6aGTM7MQ/s640/IMG_1125.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb8UT6ZEv0N89kDri3PYmAyYaMinsYDGQoClcEyTZesWOT-cFQe-cwGO0hAfWattOuTMO4PgEWKAp9qzaczYdCYDbRD1XhBOtTAUI9ufvotjt1rsgOXc3wzBhckFdLVe7ETVqSWd5s_JKT31J9GtSVOSewQsRB3jYu7rAelOzDjPXxh1HFhw6aGTM7MQ/s320/IMG_1125.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>When I was here in 2016, I barely noticed the part of the sign indicating the trail we were on, was part of an Eagle Scout Project, spearheaded by Riain Andrew Florczak of Batesville. So a big THANK YOU to him and his team for taking on such a worthwhile endeavor! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4WN5dIjh70xvnEuH41G9aI2dETuGvvacc8398vF_V0e-MQQHoUkKTz0ZIK_5tcNabbWcNmM7BrjRbdh3faCE0ig1H_qTdOLtLqPp3u0yBJRC4pcjAZ7_zJABdd7PObTB4cBQAy5PtvoNTuDv-xPy3M5ysj19m-4HcVV8I1aHK27AylKHwJjzZnW7gQ/s640/IMG_1051.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO4WN5dIjh70xvnEuH41G9aI2dETuGvvacc8398vF_V0e-MQQHoUkKTz0ZIK_5tcNabbWcNmM7BrjRbdh3faCE0ig1H_qTdOLtLqPp3u0yBJRC4pcjAZ7_zJABdd7PObTB4cBQAy5PtvoNTuDv-xPy3M5ysj19m-4HcVV8I1aHK27AylKHwJjzZnW7gQ/s320/IMG_1051.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />An interesting feature you will see along the trail is this curved tree. It has an official sign on it, to make sure no one misses it. Often when trails are being laid out, they purposely route the trail to go by interesting/unusual natural features, and this definitely qualifies!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7hgJR6H84Lph84dRIcbtJ4u11gSY3EKtRuUbZUe1L-XsrWrW6N8A6rQeZ-VVV40n8YxK02LTR1vn9sSqBtpbxverh8eBf719pYO5bsZrbMQRrV2WZiSU8CK-dR41YSPQxLs55jZwUbVQrTotXrIDSYDjSj8QADVLg2Zw3wacIgFJOdHpgE9LdigeF7g/s640/IMG_1061.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7hgJR6H84Lph84dRIcbtJ4u11gSY3EKtRuUbZUe1L-XsrWrW6N8A6rQeZ-VVV40n8YxK02LTR1vn9sSqBtpbxverh8eBf719pYO5bsZrbMQRrV2WZiSU8CK-dR41YSPQxLs55jZwUbVQrTotXrIDSYDjSj8QADVLg2Zw3wacIgFJOdHpgE9LdigeF7g/s320/IMG_1061.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />I asked for a volunteer to pose on the tree, and Diane M. kindly volunteered:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAfcPuqcd8BlBu9fy2z1V586aP5goMsIaewwusbcSzpYEv8lLmy7q76hbaLyKCrpHIwzjXNjEEuKNs5ZgE9-qE1pz1VeLrJIln7o1MpgrGXbAXstiB23hd2A8p6hVQQ5G-jd5cy8jDsfbpIeuhGqsdMDgAul1yDqtVJiotNbEVRluGPRaozLXMNZPVg/s640/IMG_1062.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZAfcPuqcd8BlBu9fy2z1V586aP5goMsIaewwusbcSzpYEv8lLmy7q76hbaLyKCrpHIwzjXNjEEuKNs5ZgE9-qE1pz1VeLrJIln7o1MpgrGXbAXstiB23hd2A8p6hVQQ5G-jd5cy8jDsfbpIeuhGqsdMDgAul1yDqtVJiotNbEVRluGPRaozLXMNZPVg/s320/IMG_1062.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Then she asked if I wanted my photo with the tree, and of course, I said "YES!". Our fellow hikers waited patiently while we took advantage of this photo opportunity. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6OA1vNarK4_cgRx7J3D8tvob7hULCoKM6pm36PLdyZMt19S622Ad4QcoPDCymM0LuJoCsSsyO18VFTErZAntEapmw3MOG7ZPx38dXigWOBm7gisgu1KIo8DgjfiVdzzMyHZOfVO89Opejo8JZB4eAEt-lNeJ8-4YRDBb32LO6Zc1WydAATjhTYsF4g/s640/IMG_1064.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6OA1vNarK4_cgRx7J3D8tvob7hULCoKM6pm36PLdyZMt19S622Ad4QcoPDCymM0LuJoCsSsyO18VFTErZAntEapmw3MOG7ZPx38dXigWOBm7gisgu1KIo8DgjfiVdzzMyHZOfVO89Opejo8JZB4eAEt-lNeJ8-4YRDBb32LO6Zc1WydAATjhTYsF4g/s320/IMG_1064.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Stairs have been placed strategically, so that no actual "bouldering" (hand over hand climbing over big rocks) is required. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizi88eSaw8HPNmR7NZPWsfftQX3GEBCLY4UEdH-S2FlZAdXb_YVygy3l75A4XFauee-NVXtm6RhKBagvI4-wjv6p2nDvGWU0RYiZAsY2BckzcBpUfu-fmaQDm3KpOxO5F22urZxt0t6mVFYyFEgCkC8WEMAzYOMWCKs2NuSCGTW1Qv-3pcbV8afcq4nw/s640/IMG_1078.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizi88eSaw8HPNmR7NZPWsfftQX3GEBCLY4UEdH-S2FlZAdXb_YVygy3l75A4XFauee-NVXtm6RhKBagvI4-wjv6p2nDvGWU0RYiZAsY2BckzcBpUfu-fmaQDm3KpOxO5F22urZxt0t6mVFYyFEgCkC8WEMAzYOMWCKs2NuSCGTW1Qv-3pcbV8afcq4nw/s320/IMG_1078.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />My friend, Penny, is shown posing for me, on one of the stair landings.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA5Ca40Lypx3rrWuvVzKVU3W28z1k-3BGBpv1bJGEWJvdCFis69U5zNGgOEA6E-qMQ3dpW4d3dk7ODQVvhyRtrx6Y6cem3fdOYNlNj8ot1U8HPdycHHntHX0kXI7Jcoj-LGI-kFL_Vqs8-yzTrLAH_hvPlZRUuLNUsb6AsF24pGKhRzDXLlnmHC5WQxA/s640/IMG_1079.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA5Ca40Lypx3rrWuvVzKVU3W28z1k-3BGBpv1bJGEWJvdCFis69U5zNGgOEA6E-qMQ3dpW4d3dk7ODQVvhyRtrx6Y6cem3fdOYNlNj8ot1U8HPdycHHntHX0kXI7Jcoj-LGI-kFL_Vqs8-yzTrLAH_hvPlZRUuLNUsb6AsF24pGKhRzDXLlnmHC5WQxA/s320/IMG_1079.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Once on the top, the views are stunning, and you see why it earns the name on the sign: The graphic shows mountains, shore, and water, and spells out USA. National Recreation Trails (www.nps.gov) are existing land-based and water-based trails that provide recreation opportunities on Federal, State and local lands. National Recreation Trail designation promotes some of our country's highest-caliber trails with the intention of providing recreation access to rural and urban communities, economic development through tourism, and healthy recreation opportunities. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn507t8UUo5ufyiddLkKF7wU34nHMuEsFgWsXn_A4ICFZneLNpYLmOROMQ3xbbk6IiEzEgI21j3vaJ7Uyw3-afmF8WLl2Cd0qkNdxOzVWb2Oq9LHWbJyaeSCuPe3wPjLcpT9-5IGa5Z5mNEd2JSYBVTSGAnq2EJinu39EDbcy6d2qF5DrHXHWGI7XTRw/s640/IMG_1113.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn507t8UUo5ufyiddLkKF7wU34nHMuEsFgWsXn_A4ICFZneLNpYLmOROMQ3xbbk6IiEzEgI21j3vaJ7Uyw3-afmF8WLl2Cd0qkNdxOzVWb2Oq9LHWbJyaeSCuPe3wPjLcpT9-5IGa5Z5mNEd2JSYBVTSGAnq2EJinu39EDbcy6d2qF5DrHXHWGI7XTRw/s320/IMG_1113.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>These two ladies are enjoying a view that is unbelievably gorgeous, and FREE for all to enjoy. It is a "Million Dollar View", but you do not need a million dollars to enjoy it, for (almost) as long as you want! (I say "almost", because overnight camping is NOT permitted on the island). <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH13eI7acSXV3wfUqc12EPJaNKzRn8DtegGFL2LlQKubOF3cUI5QAxLgYmX-_naedbbkMqVaXqmH2Ka3RMeX_NOy0r-aXpKxaALTr8D_iVKdxe-KoES6_TvF2qQ75QiKe9AA1BS_I3j712QQiRCT1rLKAD2QiH9u7cbND7qk3LmUUF89jwI0sykUyRGQ/s640/IMG_1110.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH13eI7acSXV3wfUqc12EPJaNKzRn8DtegGFL2LlQKubOF3cUI5QAxLgYmX-_naedbbkMqVaXqmH2Ka3RMeX_NOy0r-aXpKxaALTr8D_iVKdxe-KoES6_TvF2qQ75QiKe9AA1BS_I3j712QQiRCT1rLKAD2QiH9u7cbND7qk3LmUUF89jwI0sykUyRGQ/s320/IMG_1110.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>When you are at the top of the mountain island, you have a "bird's eye view", of the many marinas that service Greers Ferry Lake. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYJOzbSL-uC1SUdhNHc9lfysOnp6shonZsG7tuPf4ROFQqkUiHjW85dGZmA2rlz1_TjEvAcdfy4mVnIh-B1gL14yi8s40N25pManBw6X810db8-FaTSl2tkFwtKVcmm4HTLgvy89cMzfOv7sQpuZ978uuzIPkFaX_URIQoSNNd1qstu_q35sF9kRwWQ/s640/IMG_1089.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdYJOzbSL-uC1SUdhNHc9lfysOnp6shonZsG7tuPf4ROFQqkUiHjW85dGZmA2rlz1_TjEvAcdfy4mVnIh-B1gL14yi8s40N25pManBw6X810db8-FaTSl2tkFwtKVcmm4HTLgvy89cMzfOv7sQpuZ978uuzIPkFaX_URIQoSNNd1qstu_q35sF9kRwWQ/s320/IMG_1089.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>In the photo below, Laura is pointing to some trees just below her that have already changed to their "autumn auburn" leaf color, although most trees still have on their summer green "outfits"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4NoSv0wHkteCxJ_1glHJCChanKdBhngjcL7AV-ZJXkP2Zg9VbF5dECeqOmvCRcMw7rykAjh-HPglFbWDTYkkPzLgmFsBOZZlqSJq_dnWzghJ4ggdSCCkihaVube65_GArSvrZ1Vtu81b8CHAAj-JTPD45mbv7QDzOd2jts8s6C6e7pkNGkD0VIoA2g/s640/IMG_1102.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4NoSv0wHkteCxJ_1glHJCChanKdBhngjcL7AV-ZJXkP2Zg9VbF5dECeqOmvCRcMw7rykAjh-HPglFbWDTYkkPzLgmFsBOZZlqSJq_dnWzghJ4ggdSCCkihaVube65_GArSvrZ1Vtu81b8CHAAj-JTPD45mbv7QDzOd2jts8s6C6e7pkNGkD0VIoA2g/s320/IMG_1102.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Greers Ferry Lake has 340 miles of shoreline, and much of it can be seen from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain Island! The fact that there are TWO Sugarloaf Mountains in this area can be confusing to tourists. This blog article is about Sugarloaf Mountain Island. I wrote about the hikes our group did on the other Sugarloaf Mountain (closer to Heber Springs, Arkanasas), in a blog dated December 26, 2020, that you can find in the Archives.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVv-XxQaH-RvHUperRoVC84ocG9UxkDk6hYNEbnd5kh6HHRHE6whiK6C4T49laQ9eQO1qw8FOe8D9Xbvm7NiULhDPXp-kWouOa9OZ02Dv55FObykg4IFpcE1wAetCQyyqUEXluNUIUCeTLQU37mogks2l_pViaQhBoJnb-tYb8pwYjDLE7oPL89IhKA/s640/IMG_1112.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVv-XxQaH-RvHUperRoVC84ocG9UxkDk6hYNEbnd5kh6HHRHE6whiK6C4T49laQ9eQO1qw8FOe8D9Xbvm7NiULhDPXp-kWouOa9OZ02Dv55FObykg4IFpcE1wAetCQyyqUEXluNUIUCeTLQU37mogks2l_pViaQhBoJnb-tYb8pwYjDLE7oPL89IhKA/s320/IMG_1112.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Greers Ferry Lake was formed when a dam was constructed across the Little Red River in Cleburne County, Arkansas. It opened in 1962, and was dedicated in October, 1963, by President John F. Kennedy. It was his last major public appearance before the president's assassination in November, 1963.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7YZe0r26mEWw3aif3ReaXl4lP2QDmZhcBO47h7uw8lkqJPtN1ZndQwc0kcbnNTC1Zm4AmzZr857P-VFnRcJwah0C2eupbbfMw4eLyPpxcmRDimCziuGiTJfVuxeMVqO98wXia4L7_150SE8ne63XKjRYVkA02yZFedpWBwGV5ccJEdLH3ktA4BljdA/s320/IMG_1097.jpg" width="320" />The jubilant gestures the hikers show in the photo above, express our joy in getting to have this magnificent experience together, in such magnificent weather, and with such magnificent views! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWkD2C-ywzgMjzC-7MrxUq_u-rteSqv5axdc3fqJV9_EdlRDw1_CojBgrDjX5_NVoiCO9hj-237jM4dluYjDzHqlH6uiwtEJE6wztufejHrSpiLeIt-ad4DYzx5IEWTiJogV6nS_KakbnaNmbI5RtO4SoaPUxRmZCeNRoUlN7Ha3V_uoPnThjJz3yIQ/s640/IMG_1081.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWkD2C-ywzgMjzC-7MrxUq_u-rteSqv5axdc3fqJV9_EdlRDw1_CojBgrDjX5_NVoiCO9hj-237jM4dluYjDzHqlH6uiwtEJE6wztufejHrSpiLeIt-ad4DYzx5IEWTiJogV6nS_KakbnaNmbI5RtO4SoaPUxRmZCeNRoUlN7Ha3V_uoPnThjJz3yIQ/s320/IMG_1081.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The Hebrew word for praise means "HANDS UPWARD TOWARD GOD", and that is the meaning I want for the photo of me, shown above. When I reach a summit after a hike, and lift my hands, let the interpretation be praise to God, NOT praise to Tricia! One of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses from 1 Corinthians 1:31 says: Therefore, as it is written: "Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord." I do not want to boast about myself or my accomplishments, but rather boast about the undeserved grace of God on my life. <br /></div><br />I saw this graphic below on social media, and it captured my feelings about living a joyful life, where God is at work, with every step taken!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcigx9HqWohxXOzy0_Q9TD2ZhAnfSUevy0UR6P5hXhB9rb_-wQl4MLug7sjKVpkIAUWgB7zNPc48XrGTrAEMtSJBfiET04isIL_IfU_YJ2ujnEfH5BTRLQe7i3nGf0oKArdwKXhjMkqyB0wHXMSR3wy7AQcKunx8qg3viiLbirkr2ByIT3izh4F7nGwg/s320/IMG_0673.JPG" width="320" /><br /></div><p>MILES OF SMILES! Tricia<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-69128400811141143092023-01-02T15:14:00.004-06:002023-01-31T15:06:22.068-06:00CROSS EXPEDITIONS!<p>One can see representations of a cross all over the planet, and they are especially prevalent in the Ozarks area of the South, where I live. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9euokmHQQe2otyUdyZFvVdnKD7LKMMukO5Vr_JasZSSmRQs3ghPv6m5k2HbA5FYfzyIWvIEbcpldwErP_puSK7E9DDTO4oH_uYXCP91QgobGF74gsQ2bfgnWELyq-fX1blkR5WPGP2toULE1AQxPJqctXoTYM48Ngmgkglbm00hXAmrHYZy-e4LXtA/s320/IMG_5368.JPG" width="320" />For example, a sacred pilgrimage site in Branson, Missouri, called Shrine of the Holy Spirit, has a silver-colored, metal cross, perched on a pedestal beside their entrance wall. The site has an indoor chapel, plus dozens of Bible verses dealing with the Holy Spirit, etched on stone tablets in the outdoors, surrounding the shrine. Perhaps these tablets could be thought of as modern-day "petroglyphs". A petroglyph is an image created by removing part of a rock surface by incising, picking, carving, or abrading, as a form of rock art. Petroglyphs are estimated to be thousands of years old, and classified as protected monuments and have been added to the tentative list of UNESCO's world heritage sites. Petroglyphs are found worldwide, and are often associated with prehistoric peoples. Perhaps, thousands of years from now, someone will come across these words carved on stone in Branson, and be intrigued by the civilization that made them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg22tOSBfE2J99GCUIPugpfbQ_Vd5-XHXcMBs3Tl6ZavGY5tAAWKDpwUUPTFGZFUw8OZyd9CsY19I7n-QA6iJc7H-2WJScbNbca7RvlUGwUw2ZbyQMs-XRRmgfeZIQ53E49LBZG1pTTQC2T6wBQjiJXvyBrmLAlZcNaVVZv74Xoqf8HATl5AtFhpmafOQ/s860/IMG_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="860" data-original-width="583" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg22tOSBfE2J99GCUIPugpfbQ_Vd5-XHXcMBs3Tl6ZavGY5tAAWKDpwUUPTFGZFUw8OZyd9CsY19I7n-QA6iJc7H-2WJScbNbca7RvlUGwUw2ZbyQMs-XRRmgfeZIQ53E49LBZG1pTTQC2T6wBQjiJXvyBrmLAlZcNaVVZv74Xoqf8HATl5AtFhpmafOQ/s320/IMG_0005.jpg" width="217" /></a></div> More info on this very inspiring Branson location is available on their website at www.shrineoftheholyspirit.com </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another attraction near Branson is a "hard to miss" roadside anomaly, with the name "Images of the Cross". <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFy77P3sSq0_x74uJ-mKxGtYOwoR9dE498sise3q72Njgk8HdVWUIMC6AueY1mtAs0yzm_ThwMM2k3x1dGlDzLvskU_uOEiJzh6ZdJ31cz3vhifSWw_qWcGhwLE7uTF_bMYEF7JYNaTgHG-LOJUarRcxPmXCgGy7r8EmaR5QzdLaH9OxeDWXj8GAKwQ/s320/IMG_5371.JPG" width="320" />This photo was taken when I visited in March, 2020, shortly after my California cousin Lynette, posted a photo she took of the cross in the dark, on their way to the airport, in January, 2020. Although I go to Branson often, I had not been on the highway north of Branson, since the cross had been erected. The photo she took from a moving vehicle is shown below:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJ_1Ji5Ybv3mKb-U3wZn70yNJdXoyUP4tFJ4FGtMxs_FUmSJi7HxLSGzVH40_d7fsEowMxZEM3LHmwyPF7PUrj6M7MxnEOpuwnQT6If7g2vomih-ichBkVkW4iIqBeb27Nh7L8lqwE934h9xZkK1LJwfj90ZOIYGNe4OpQNEEve5qc2148OMtDccXuw/s2015/IMG_0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2015" data-original-width="1513" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJ_1Ji5Ybv3mKb-U3wZn70yNJdXoyUP4tFJ4FGtMxs_FUmSJi7HxLSGzVH40_d7fsEowMxZEM3LHmwyPF7PUrj6M7MxnEOpuwnQT6If7g2vomih-ichBkVkW4iIqBeb27Nh7L8lqwE934h9xZkK1LJwfj90ZOIYGNe4OpQNEEve5qc2148OMtDccXuw/s320/IMG_0006.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After some searching on the Internet, I found the directions to the Missouri site she had photographed. Surfing the Internet to research "crosses along the highway", I was reminded of a long road trip my family took out to Southern California in the 1950's, to see our cousins and their parents. My mother always referred to the road as "Bloody 66", so I remember in my childhood naivety, being fearful of the drive to California on "Bloody 66". I insisted on taking along the life jacket I used for swimming at the lake, so that I could sit atop it in the back seat, thinking it would be beneficial, if we had an automobile accident. (Remember, this was before the advent of seat belts in consumer automobiles). It was not until much later that I learned there was another name for the road we were on, and we were one of many families who used this famous road between Chicago and the California coast. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0G12azDFc4JIKxFHMl_ImlUzHGaAROZ05DfPniIP1Tdq-akXDuGLkfaUkIwkQvBQhK4UGMexyXlMh7C9VUgH-nLi6CFceygOHZudKJcw0Qpgew85Do5l1z_xj0T_xqkhvfefXGWFQlK1V0E4PVEAEXdCjA9JqZyJRMzv_62WVKkXxFmbqDg6m9eYUYw/s361/IMG_0007%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="361" data-original-width="361" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0G12azDFc4JIKxFHMl_ImlUzHGaAROZ05DfPniIP1Tdq-akXDuGLkfaUkIwkQvBQhK4UGMexyXlMh7C9VUgH-nLi6CFceygOHZudKJcw0Qpgew85Do5l1z_xj0T_xqkhvfefXGWFQlK1V0E4PVEAEXdCjA9JqZyJRMzv_62WVKkXxFmbqDg6m9eYUYw/s320/IMG_0007%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The reason Lynette's photo "struck a nerve", was because when our family made that trip on Route 66 in the very hot summertime, my father planned it so that we drove across the Southwest desert at night, (recall that the 1950's was before the days of air conditioners in cars). Being unable to go to sleep, I sat in silence in the back seat, with the window rolled down so I could feel the wind. For hundreds of miles, I sat in the dark, wide-eyed, as we drove by dozens of small white crosses along the roadside, being illuminated by our headlights. This was not something I had ever seen in the Ozarks, and it really "spooked" me, as I had no idea why they were there!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJI_dvbgAQhZt7w8D7XXhcOeH_N5_bR1vUtTOryH45iVKSTbM9np0xanuusnNoZ07o7NLoIq_yvXG08I1o4udoNDo40l4kMD797T8MSLZp36YKpqIcr8DFJ9Is2mxmDjTJ7XRAVlBu7G_UI1Kks_1Co_LUQ6DQ969u7wluFEjTP7lnTfn_DjaWT20X1Q/s723/IMG_0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="618" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJI_dvbgAQhZt7w8D7XXhcOeH_N5_bR1vUtTOryH45iVKSTbM9np0xanuusnNoZ07o7NLoIq_yvXG08I1o4udoNDo40l4kMD797T8MSLZp36YKpqIcr8DFJ9Is2mxmDjTJ7XRAVlBu7G_UI1Kks_1Co_LUQ6DQ969u7wluFEjTP7lnTfn_DjaWT20X1Q/s320/IMG_0008.jpg" width="274" /></a></div><br /> It was not until I was an adult, and the practice of "memorial crosses" at the site of a traffic fatality, had made its way to the Ozarks, that my fear of driving in the desert at night, became manageable! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Back to present day information regarding the Branson cross, I read an article in the Springfield, Missouri, newspaper that gave the information I needed on the Missouri cross, and learned that its physical address is 4180 U.S. Highway 65, Walnut Shade, MO 65771.<br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9FbkXPzcfzqdMq5307QL1JpgBCRKSWE2OBSFZlO-FjwcMF6ZBj0l7CnpvknMgtOMYBd93JNxjgjC2M-27mgDCHhPxFY8VvChH3aYLFhlI1aqEotIyQTvZpTb0dYKKbXVwVQISRjO0a9wC9rdt8rKU1PdB6bn1J9iZr-vvVAKgev5KjMQ25UWSZXK9nA/s320/IMG_5370.JPG" width="240" />Due to ongoing construction at the time I visited, I could not get close to it, so this photo was taken from the parking lot. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>When you are a long distance from this roadside cross, you cannot see the 8 blue "tear-drop-shaped" designs painted vertically on the cross. They represent the Grace of Christ, and are representative of new beginnings. Because of God's Grace in the Old Testament, 8 people were saved in the Ark---Noah, his wife, three sons, and their three wives. (see the April 8, 2017, article in the archives of this blog, for info on the Noah's Ark replica in Kentucky). The 5 horizontal tear drops are representative of the 3 nail wounds, the spear in the side and the crown of thorns that Jesus suffered. This photo is serving as the visual aide for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses that says, "He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness: 'by his wounds you have been healed'." 1 Peter 2:24<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is almost <img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLjRcoE81WhRailx1ewnErI8BJCmCaUGaBllOejwikQoCyrdlwIHCHkY72qIM_c6iQJs1OO0e3SnWX7QxCEyOdH5Ix0NHgXKfWoAZXo2Hy44-QQxnbwUR2r98X934alQgizWMUVuVKsTSsNQfzuUaz--vULnBqkGCxJmRlmmHM8WwgIciIamb_cG1tg/s320/IMG_5369.JPG" width="240" />the same photo, but I included the truck in the picture to give it a sense of scale. <br /></div><p>After visiting their website, I learned that the cross memorial is a father-son project (one might think of Jesus' association with the cross, as a "Father/Son" project!) Mr. B. Dean Brown (born in 1932) is the author of the book, "Turning Points: From the Outhouse to the Penthouse" had the original vision for a cross on property he owned at this location. His son, Kerry Brown, a former attorney, continues to oversee the project, which is located on the west side of the intersection of U.S. Highways 65 and 160, in the Walnut Shade, Missouri, community. The cross shown here is now listed as the tallest roadside cross in the USA. It is 218 feet tall (any structure over 200 feet tall must have a beacon at its apex, according to FAA regulations.) More information and photos are available on their website at www.imagesatthecross.org .<br /></p><p>Before the Missouri cross was built, a roadside cross in Effingham, Illinois was the tallest. I remember the first time I drove that highway and set my eyes on the gigantic cross in the distance, I was awe-struck! Although I did not stop at the time (because I did not know which exit to take to access it), I determined to find out more about it. Thanks to the Internet, I learned that it is sometimes called "Cross at the Crossroads". On Facebook, their page is called The Cross in Effingham. The crossroads referenced are Interstate 57 and Interstate 70. It stands 198 feet tall, and was built around 2001. In the summer of 2001, plans were made to have a dedication and nighttime illumination ceremony on the darkest night of mid-September, the evening before the new moon. Then the terrorist acts of destruction on September 11, 2001, (known as the "9/11 Attacks) in New York City, Washington, D.C., and rural Pennsylvania, made the need for a symbol of hope especially important for the throngs of people that gathered at the base of the cross, for its initial lighting ceremony, on the evening of September 16, 2001. <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQgqkuAqWZX3uIp3M1OgBePnRTH7qqSww0pe-QQDKmitw3TC1kNJnCqsC4iZZFkPYznfP_-IXRemQZ3A_P-JbdLwANT1Orc1TBVBAWIRttSVqbIwLqz6_ygZLAvmNao-skTzGAB0ryLv9fBbH0102oWE3W53tpJZabxs90kK0-KPRB1bRt1uq3Xvi3g/s468/IMG_3398.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="468" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilQgqkuAqWZX3uIp3M1OgBePnRTH7qqSww0pe-QQDKmitw3TC1kNJnCqsC4iZZFkPYznfP_-IXRemQZ3A_P-JbdLwANT1Orc1TBVBAWIRttSVqbIwLqz6_ygZLAvmNao-skTzGAB0ryLv9fBbH0102oWE3W53tpJZabxs90kK0-KPRB1bRt1uq3Xvi3g/s320/IMG_3398.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another place where you can find a cross sculpture, at an angle seldom seen, is in Saint John, Indiana, where you will see the cross laying on the ground, instead of standing up. The location is The Shrine of Christ's Passion, which I did an article on in this blog (available in archives with date of Sept 16, 2019). It shows life-size sculptures of Jesus laying on the cross, with a soldier hammering nails into his hands. This sculpture is one of several the visitor can meditate on as they walk (free of charge) along the half mile winding pathway that allows you to journey through the Passion of Christ. This is a very worthwhile site to visit, and you can learn more about it at their website, www.shrineofchristspassion.org<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWSuPKvlu-fzBs2RNCW-HWKsgo4Ry3ni_uGHWxYzr5rsCJJjkl0FUWDiPvOWzmggBiW5ReD70ZyssuifVwqdtNsFdQr7H1XZka4ptN0Tk0ehwizGfCT4wwm-irnApBZ7PvMLhGiA2bZ94nzpzK0OtgRrjTWxyTaHhQgG_NcFDsRsd9xol0xnvjk2qZA/s640/IMG_3399.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJWSuPKvlu-fzBs2RNCW-HWKsgo4Ry3ni_uGHWxYzr5rsCJJjkl0FUWDiPvOWzmggBiW5ReD70ZyssuifVwqdtNsFdQr7H1XZka4ptN0Tk0ehwizGfCT4wwm-irnApBZ7PvMLhGiA2bZ94nzpzK0OtgRrjTWxyTaHhQgG_NcFDsRsd9xol0xnvjk2qZA/s320/IMG_3399.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Another cross that I have visited that was part of a "winding path" (aka, switchbacks ascending a very steep mountain in the Ozarks) is the one on top of the bluff overlooking Buffalo City, Arkansas. I had observed the cross from far below several times, while kayaking at this site on the White River, where the Buffalo National River empties into the White River (shown in background of photo). When a friend offered me the opportunity to hike to the cross, via a boat her husband navigated across the river to a drop-off location at the bottom of the mountain, I jumped at the opportunity! My arms are uplifted in heart-felt gratitude to Jesus for dying on the cross for my sins, and to Dave and Carol, who facilitated the opportunity, and Marilyn who took the photo!<br /><p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1286" data-original-width="965" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQi_I_zKNqfrO7fzU255ACwyTS9HVX81VE3RveIDowOFwHG3owXZSaSySatz2rgWgCyWT851RI--yfPtkjRhBe1ygiwx6IC0g06kB46vUJrFqYu3J8Nkk_ZldT-ZFNfucYlo_3UqAEizmUTnEYLV01wZeOVHyFLZaQB2Lr1GGEaBkg88JuJkNrei_H0g/s320/IMG_3557.JPG" width="240" /></div><p> </p><p>Another location in northern Arkansas with a cross landmark, is Cross Church (www.crosschurch.com), in Rogers, Arkansas. Anyone who has ever driven the very busy I-49 corridor between Fayetteville and Bella Vista, has seen this landmark, that is located in front of the main sanctuary of Cross Church:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSAY3t7tKnT1zX3CmDNjn8V-EeuB9cj_JAXfis2cgXgIZIZSul6WtxsiPPUFsU2KViSOzn2V98zi4jURkkfDOlZ9NUVbhz1wRP_kPUwFr1379ygFwM_ZmYfghWtIIK0Rnhw8VjtOOs97pqpwHi6iHxX_f-FgXJn6Ei1o0wT-viERmA99Rlg_MD2xTbw/s960/IMG_0010%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="623" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSAY3t7tKnT1zX3CmDNjn8V-EeuB9cj_JAXfis2cgXgIZIZSul6WtxsiPPUFsU2KViSOzn2V98zi4jURkkfDOlZ9NUVbhz1wRP_kPUwFr1379ygFwM_ZmYfghWtIIK0Rnhw8VjtOOs97pqpwHi6iHxX_f-FgXJn6Ei1o0wT-viERmA99Rlg_MD2xTbw/s320/IMG_0010%20(1).jpg" width="208" /></a></div><br />The cross atop Mt. Sequoyah in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is another "destination" cross that many people drive to, as it makes a stunning addition to a sunset photo, like this one taken by Mary French. The "Cross at Overlook Park" was part of the Mount Sequoyah Retreat and Conference Center, founded in 1922, by the Methodist Episcopal Church. The location continues to be available for retreats and other events, which you can learn about at their website, www.mountsequoyah.org .<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1YTFENVW6YSDstpw6obrG_lrLjxt3hJuub7RdjjSsY7mjBz-eRJ72vPEi8srvOnSmymI3uhT3iQIngxm1RKxH1Q-5fbaPoADpXopoI0bNvszOotWKGLNG3rbtASqdPAMio0lr_nWxaI5QI9iFi76lNvzmLX0IgbtUjc8qVhkl4QjW_XWheMxM2_qkg/s960/IMG_3397.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="782" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1YTFENVW6YSDstpw6obrG_lrLjxt3hJuub7RdjjSsY7mjBz-eRJ72vPEi8srvOnSmymI3uhT3iQIngxm1RKxH1Q-5fbaPoADpXopoI0bNvszOotWKGLNG3rbtASqdPAMio0lr_nWxaI5QI9iFi76lNvzmLX0IgbtUjc8qVhkl4QjW_XWheMxM2_qkg/s320/IMG_3397.JPG" width="261" /></a></div><br />This photo with two of my grandkids illustrates the reason we share the good news of the Gospel---so that others can experience the abundant and eternal life that Jesus' sacrifice on the cross made possible. We especially want that for our loved ones, like the ones shown in this photo!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMm52L55QH90KjsXoISkvOu1x0x2FIcLYh05EeKJ9BhR_9hXljz_-lqVfHVxQMNGjmhmpO9AAACMIQyhM1dDhwC0WaTzOY8gERSvwML2zuYziKjuVG_qr3aHjK-KSIl30mj78N2zOmiEBoceaHHdb5g7Oc2NCBR5IzpUQDwXe_OBykSagC9XT_nu5xxQ/s640/IMG_1316%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMm52L55QH90KjsXoISkvOu1x0x2FIcLYh05EeKJ9BhR_9hXljz_-lqVfHVxQMNGjmhmpO9AAACMIQyhM1dDhwC0WaTzOY8gERSvwML2zuYziKjuVG_qr3aHjK-KSIl30mj78N2zOmiEBoceaHHdb5g7Oc2NCBR5IzpUQDwXe_OBykSagC9XT_nu5xxQ/s320/IMG_1316%20(1).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Thanks to Jesus willingly dying on the cross for my sins, then being resurrected from the grave, I can rejoice in the good news (aka, "Gospel") that the cross remind us of! That gives me "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-65641404735405580282022-12-14T10:00:00.002-06:002023-01-03T15:58:53.709-06:00ILLINOIS RIVER KAYAK EXPEDITION!<p>I enjoy kayaking, and I enjoy learning new things, so when I found out that the Illinois River Watershed Partnership (www.irwp.org) was sponsoring an educational float trip on the Illinois River, I applied to be a participant. As you can see from the number of boats in the photo below---dozens of other folks also wanted to participate!<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZ1si4c2TVLc3mauqT9mhD4YYC47stblHcQ7Eeqsir4yRXYCVPe0zPcI9DEY6gj2JxTwSjMW3Q54UchdiBnmWpM0qm9oZI-_UTfstP46vrfy6B8Tcwn3Qaaq5En3ThyQ1uQR_whtT1HwC6C44USydo_JxBGc8bebsTCyH_ih5WrTw1LulVkyHP99U5A/s5152/IMG_1259.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZ1si4c2TVLc3mauqT9mhD4YYC47stblHcQ7Eeqsir4yRXYCVPe0zPcI9DEY6gj2JxTwSjMW3Q54UchdiBnmWpM0qm9oZI-_UTfstP46vrfy6B8Tcwn3Qaaq5En3ThyQ1uQR_whtT1HwC6C44USydo_JxBGc8bebsTCyH_ih5WrTw1LulVkyHP99U5A/s320/IMG_1259.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Our group started at the Siloam Springs Kayak Park (www.siloamspringskayakpark.com), on a beautiful autumn day:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRp8NNW1fr-GJ2s84fzeWexHqrdh-dlOQD9V19dM9S1lFVS4RGinZzDPYsuPybjiIJnnOqbd_LbxVvnckFjia2vT3N83FF-2fK1zhuD4_nX23Bdp63BoTvcM2Qksbw-TzdncxG1USahT7I6OtEsWmjTjcXfaCLvgRaZYQjXLd5q1DHYxuD2BvMnENCPA/s5152/IMG_1258.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRp8NNW1fr-GJ2s84fzeWexHqrdh-dlOQD9V19dM9S1lFVS4RGinZzDPYsuPybjiIJnnOqbd_LbxVvnckFjia2vT3N83FF-2fK1zhuD4_nX23Bdp63BoTvcM2Qksbw-TzdncxG1USahT7I6OtEsWmjTjcXfaCLvgRaZYQjXLd5q1DHYxuD2BvMnENCPA/s320/IMG_1258.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>There is an expansive parking lot above the park, lined with sidewalks, and steps that lead down to the river. I took the photo below from the sidewalk above the put in location:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbxYaB6Gx9o_R8K4e0FlixLeIYcNSVtBDGvQGOmqoL1YoW-Mr0fAOYEK0vAq3VEujyzOFY4bn4VR0YrLAryXM6FD4iwIKuPT6hriyv4Jx0d5Pa6lCV3xI9Yt-6DRD-_auurL8jf6wazes5ehHazxINvpbzqscHfMf2zkvbX9XUWUGdDeV_toN2dgulA/s5152/IMG_1257.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibbxYaB6Gx9o_R8K4e0FlixLeIYcNSVtBDGvQGOmqoL1YoW-Mr0fAOYEK0vAq3VEujyzOFY4bn4VR0YrLAryXM6FD4iwIKuPT6hriyv4Jx0d5Pa6lCV3xI9Yt-6DRD-_auurL8jf6wazes5ehHazxINvpbzqscHfMf2zkvbX9XUWUGdDeV_toN2dgulA/s320/IMG_1257.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Improvements have been made since I visited there on July 31, 2015, with my grand-kids (they are shown in photo below)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6tmHm9KpfqmaxM9O6l24F63XO5hH-VezcEVImlHew0-RIYUaAvCT_5CR2Vpr1gk-bbf21gCg2Jt_zGV323GjurFrgJDdRbhmyAZ_wBA2cDcu4_vP3i05ChmZ9GQkWAq2SCgggNukLya2A6k2I3APyhjHFLnGHVQpmpVG1bOGiEJP6xGFD2pKMuJXzsw/s640/IMG_1317%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="640" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6tmHm9KpfqmaxM9O6l24F63XO5hH-VezcEVImlHew0-RIYUaAvCT_5CR2Vpr1gk-bbf21gCg2Jt_zGV323GjurFrgJDdRbhmyAZ_wBA2cDcu4_vP3i05ChmZ9GQkWAq2SCgggNukLya2A6k2I3APyhjHFLnGHVQpmpVG1bOGiEJP6xGFD2pKMuJXzsw/s320/IMG_1317%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We saw feet protruding from this hammock shown in photo below, but we never saw the bodies attached to them, so I was not able to "tag" them on Facebook seven years ago, since the social media platform only has "facial recognition" software, and not "foot recognition" software!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjb_0Km8RLsjGkfgyXS4I-F8fi5amKD-ktBLoERovik6oxMsK_O6ia20-3Wuihn5X2ZXia_0XouTQR21Mow701r5bLbs9vybA99ZAtn94rgfF6v4Ng5Uxb5VSMjmxZPYrSfhZzU7cBv0r5dLeSBOwgWVbWUFkrTAGI_DitcD8UjluZj6GtYtYyoFZeg/s714/IMG_1315.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjb_0Km8RLsjGkfgyXS4I-F8fi5amKD-ktBLoERovik6oxMsK_O6ia20-3Wuihn5X2ZXia_0XouTQR21Mow701r5bLbs9vybA99ZAtn94rgfF6v4Ng5Uxb5VSMjmxZPYrSfhZzU7cBv0r5dLeSBOwgWVbWUFkrTAGI_DitcD8UjluZj6GtYtYyoFZeg/s320/IMG_1315.jpg" width="287" /></a></div><br /> <br /><br /><br />When it first opened, there were no restrooms at the park, but that has changed. Now there are restrooms adjacent to the parking lot, and they can be seen in photo below, behind the gentleman giving us our "river float plan"<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6cdAB7Kn-lpW6QLuhXHP33xcaorcJQdxqiOhdcDE5vV_oD2Yb53stHd78-QSAnyntMocxczyXyj0W5qTh1vTscxNWESROU5ipZOfI06FHveTGu5TvTLTFqEuPnNbLL7Xv5zZXZ5MU0OTMWPNF_dDZuQr3D7DO157OAdtxn-xi3TBG55sECw2jFQmfA/s5152/IMG_1264.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6cdAB7Kn-lpW6QLuhXHP33xcaorcJQdxqiOhdcDE5vV_oD2Yb53stHd78-QSAnyntMocxczyXyj0W5qTh1vTscxNWESROU5ipZOfI06FHveTGu5TvTLTFqEuPnNbLL7Xv5zZXZ5MU0OTMWPNF_dDZuQr3D7DO157OAdtxn-xi3TBG55sECw2jFQmfA/s320/IMG_1264.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The photo below shows participants putting their gear into whatever kayak they chose, from the line-up.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XZDxaCXCUX4baUCskn9VdD9PGgtCMQda12x17Hh2MceYNugBFg6dyEbh3L1mjrvUt14VusyXdRAJVPyElxZsaZcrkiIfpsxusIVdLendnX576cj2qyJS8jp5qhpfAYzTJPzCAqxOJKc-JPpnonr24AVyCmYKd_ZLi9qlCYXFgdenIqQ823_uqKloOA/s5152/IMG_1260.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XZDxaCXCUX4baUCskn9VdD9PGgtCMQda12x17Hh2MceYNugBFg6dyEbh3L1mjrvUt14VusyXdRAJVPyElxZsaZcrkiIfpsxusIVdLendnX576cj2qyJS8jp5qhpfAYzTJPzCAqxOJKc-JPpnonr24AVyCmYKd_ZLi9qlCYXFgdenIqQ823_uqKloOA/s320/IMG_1260.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The outfitter for this trip has the name 37 North Expeditions (www.37northexpeditions.com) and they did a great job of having all the kayaks unloaded, and equipped with a personal flotation device (aka, life jacket)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_I5uksd85Xy3IRtjdaZGTYc0Lc5EU2fe02uITBUnA9l2d_iiqJHJN7W2dk_1c5N9xo6inGJytplU6vvHh4ft5RSumzdDEIweOG4SRHLyPP80mLH9OjOqf9z0FPoY4_Rv6cX2u4ksZCgkHdMQP_mipggHpXYhElr0SY36jIylpn83mnbaaYv1LSDByqg/s640/IMG_1271.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_I5uksd85Xy3IRtjdaZGTYc0Lc5EU2fe02uITBUnA9l2d_iiqJHJN7W2dk_1c5N9xo6inGJytplU6vvHh4ft5RSumzdDEIweOG4SRHLyPP80mLH9OjOqf9z0FPoY4_Rv6cX2u4ksZCgkHdMQP_mipggHpXYhElr0SY36jIylpn83mnbaaYv1LSDByqg/s320/IMG_1271.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I was so thankful to get to have this experience, that I wanted a photo of me with arms uplifted in gratitude to God, and the IRWP, for making it possible! That is because Arkansas Master Naturalists, such as myself, were not the top priority for selection. Rather, the priority was to get NWA city/county officials, NWA water/sewer department directors, and Eastern Oklahoma representatives in those same positions, "up close and personal" to this important body of water. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnqvh5ia-Ztr1spP7PVRrENnp56zhQhCdOv_DoH9AxtcgIrj_xp-6agMW31XFSwhOPCsiAznwEON8-yIvV72Orv8hBn3lDq0GuQG9SnTzidauKW-DC5ILSHXHpCZ9w53Inh9tNBnmtUYHdLiz_9484vzuj0G6HhWBQHusHcfAA7u7gqnxXfPfvlXG0EA/s640/IMG_1270.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnqvh5ia-Ztr1spP7PVRrENnp56zhQhCdOv_DoH9AxtcgIrj_xp-6agMW31XFSwhOPCsiAznwEON8-yIvV72Orv8hBn3lDq0GuQG9SnTzidauKW-DC5ILSHXHpCZ9w53Inh9tNBnmtUYHdLiz_9484vzuj0G6HhWBQHusHcfAA7u7gqnxXfPfvlXG0EA/s320/IMG_1270.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I do not know if this large expanse of rock levees and "piers" shown below are natural or man-made, but they provide countless opportunities for guests to the park, to explore and experiment, during various seasons of the year. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIssP36lKq-UMSLiRbyCoQpP9NRsSuAglXffGyetuKg01n5GTLU3uNw6b3C4zJKV5ZUTWHgcZXnX7FJnEk2EjJUN9geU_WItoKTRx2_3-Q7OSnHGBvYdDUhC-Y2RUTOjuql3-Loli0LbPtrOY7702-_NfEAHhN6WtLIjU-N8RoWlYG9DHwFdKTVrCsw/s320/IMG_1263.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The photo below shows the rocks extend well out into the river, and create a bit of a "white water" channel for the more adventurous paddlers. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhtPOBJB8DKtc3bb4ENtTQQ3gDxZ5wsIoCigMquWo3VnbcrGgBSyyVugs0LVheSl_5uHAozVT9kP1u9VYr7Z4HuQ0Wy8n2Cqomlzs6XQKQjq8IhsOwgox7nO_oYphlHysAZh0k3zJyobTJtFcBRALSBFeIg9hpslfJunc0_8iD7fr158ldemT3-pn8A/s640/IMG_1269.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxhtPOBJB8DKtc3bb4ENtTQQ3gDxZ5wsIoCigMquWo3VnbcrGgBSyyVugs0LVheSl_5uHAozVT9kP1u9VYr7Z4HuQ0Wy8n2Cqomlzs6XQKQjq8IhsOwgox7nO_oYphlHysAZh0k3zJyobTJtFcBRALSBFeIg9hpslfJunc0_8iD7fr158ldemT3-pn8A/s320/IMG_1269.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>There is a second "white water" channel farther down the stream, and some folks chose to put in below that "challenge opportunity" (including me!)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpR1heezpvBsH4zxlfazSCmbPADAV_ASAQGuRp_3n6FCnu7fS7POi2qPBA0KYdGORs1djUKuPb22Ou37bDDUhxEDHAkA_YnRCQ7pupxFAyIdubWhIto1nCuwroBhHjaCwpmZG2SjUQHQEewQU61fGqA15yuh8yjD2LCBRuIkVkYaRBDnFGBzRMFrMJQ/s640/IMG_1268.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpR1heezpvBsH4zxlfazSCmbPADAV_ASAQGuRp_3n6FCnu7fS7POi2qPBA0KYdGORs1djUKuPb22Ou37bDDUhxEDHAkA_YnRCQ7pupxFAyIdubWhIto1nCuwroBhHjaCwpmZG2SjUQHQEewQU61fGqA15yuh8yjD2LCBRuIkVkYaRBDnFGBzRMFrMJQ/s320/IMG_1268.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Thankfully, I made it into the middle of the stream successfully, and one of the leaders took this photo of me, giving a "paddler's victory salute"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpX-Ywy4OgXupi2eaq-MEnfgSrHuWWL833z19Gtsg7u5F7bl7lQ9CznhCilx-pXZ2mTY2McgQCWRjOLxLG1ra_k3HUI-TspyXmre41MaD7als9sWsE5BN-jvJ27ikJzX1xuHk81rLhh8Ktqu9dGUnlb2kp4Ib6EZLc-tbaytJEcGUsIAKGQiWt9lqxCg/s640/IMG_6272.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpX-Ywy4OgXupi2eaq-MEnfgSrHuWWL833z19Gtsg7u5F7bl7lQ9CznhCilx-pXZ2mTY2McgQCWRjOLxLG1ra_k3HUI-TspyXmre41MaD7als9sWsE5BN-jvJ27ikJzX1xuHk81rLhh8Ktqu9dGUnlb2kp4Ib6EZLc-tbaytJEcGUsIAKGQiWt9lqxCg/s320/IMG_6272.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>One of the first questions I had is, "Why is it called Ilinois River, if it is not in the state of Illinois, rather just Arkansas and Oklahoma?" The illustration below, from the book by Kenneth L Smith, called Illinois River, shows that the 145-mile long, spring-fed river starts in northwest Arkansas, flows into Oklahoma, and then flows into the Arkansas River. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKRecyPaULBgOQnx87DcVBqpuAVo-JJfenX_aCujUPuJrYwS2L1T0Fjd2vk06O6GSnTLEqUKfJ6QGC4vU1cldoMiTgHMtFH1CoQ1GBSpTOXr-sn9xemkNGBSdSsdSZNryD69J3rCp9pPUEVZX4Zq_hIuauI8OvLfn50SLWF2Mtp__kEbOMYzMRcGXTIQ/s624/IMG_2691.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="585" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKRecyPaULBgOQnx87DcVBqpuAVo-JJfenX_aCujUPuJrYwS2L1T0Fjd2vk06O6GSnTLEqUKfJ6QGC4vU1cldoMiTgHMtFH1CoQ1GBSpTOXr-sn9xemkNGBSdSsdSZNryD69J3rCp9pPUEVZX4Zq_hIuauI8OvLfn50SLWF2Mtp__kEbOMYzMRcGXTIQ/s320/IMG_2691.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>If you follow business trends, then you know that the northwest corner of Arkansas is one of the fastest growing areas in the USA. With that comes concerns about the effect of population growth on water quality. So, a short ways down the river, all the boats pulled over onto a gravel bar, so we could hear a variety of experts illustrate some of the problems being experienced. Those in kayaks could easily exit their boats without assistance, but folks in rafts (who had less experience as paddlers) were quickly assisted by the 37 North personnel. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopRLYSRMMfWc7Ix47OzYjixgnjSGBIJ0qrTqf1RPcCqzYkuDnDigRemwursjBqHX7L5jxYadZKqGmvML1Oi6p8NZw-8-SbJecp9uvNl3Ybl1yWQRpVONphqem7Ovs55zbnDijb4qZMSV15Pq-I5dJ0wfd0HKz9pr2_Wn3dsJZdoI61PIvOcnEyPPGrA/s5152/IMG_1281.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhopRLYSRMMfWc7Ix47OzYjixgnjSGBIJ0qrTqf1RPcCqzYkuDnDigRemwursjBqHX7L5jxYadZKqGmvML1Oi6p8NZw-8-SbJecp9uvNl3Ybl1yWQRpVONphqem7Ovs55zbnDijb4qZMSV15Pq-I5dJ0wfd0HKz9pr2_Wn3dsJZdoI61PIvOcnEyPPGrA/s320/IMG_1281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Our instructor shows us the kicking/digging maneuver, that is used to sir up the tiny critters that live in this water habitat, so they can be scooped, using the net he is holding.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3Guz-whLTDgKUxjfyrraQamv01oNXLUmljSqpSIsYWcWbaTOPd9XD32dUWFt73ISHqlWcnWKhXd9yzyljRXZO4yPOl7obm8PGo9dL73zuQHGwt5SKvDRHC2FsQCwMU_a47sGilOZhUNvB8cBjb4CVjVTDOUBudlAK2bRRY-jDg7_RgOQJlcFUOpVEA/s5152/IMG_1290.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3Guz-whLTDgKUxjfyrraQamv01oNXLUmljSqpSIsYWcWbaTOPd9XD32dUWFt73ISHqlWcnWKhXd9yzyljRXZO4yPOl7obm8PGo9dL73zuQHGwt5SKvDRHC2FsQCwMU_a47sGilOZhUNvB8cBjb4CVjVTDOUBudlAK2bRRY-jDg7_RgOQJlcFUOpVEA/s320/IMG_1290.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />Then using a strainer, we put the creatures in a white container, so they could be easily seen:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisv1ijpVZ3RfJEy13Tun9RaywqeudVMOGCeTtDc7HIG-XXnqFDkmggJ3VH-A8lwyljVaaH1OT-s6gcMrIxy9d94d-iCY2PjxX_ELRmtvgzW2bIUJDR2GR7X9e2G-xRKCV--eRgMjVoD3-oYQ4cBWr5ivqPQvPbcGHxEGLUqPfnhXzt8n8A_kTQv1-NlQ/s5152/IMG_1294.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisv1ijpVZ3RfJEy13Tun9RaywqeudVMOGCeTtDc7HIG-XXnqFDkmggJ3VH-A8lwyljVaaH1OT-s6gcMrIxy9d94d-iCY2PjxX_ELRmtvgzW2bIUJDR2GR7X9e2G-xRKCV--eRgMjVoD3-oYQ4cBWr5ivqPQvPbcGHxEGLUqPfnhXzt8n8A_kTQv1-NlQ/s320/IMG_1294.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />We inspected the results, throwing out the leaves and sticks and pebbles. (If you have been through the Arkansas Master Naturalist training program, this procedure is an integral part of your classes)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3DZVMxmEZ1jBySHVjaNhfkPBQuhlDOBR-0iDccMuSp8kzBDYgY0jy-W-03BlVi3a6TooaD1j9GAajAT4n7ylqpmomxfadFTKlA7i1Ue9Pie5hMTdPXcrI7XxwtM83BP8Z9zoX0FEb9kD1bSYkDLR3lCXpBy1kfrEqYZsGrFXdrAUaq__PPXm5X1QCg/s320/IMG_1298.JPG" width="240" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Notice all the spectators below are wearing different colored hats, which I thought made an "artsy-type" photo opportunity! The photo can also be a metaphor for all the different "hats" stake-holders wear within the Illinois River Watershed. When a river runs through more than one state (which is the case for the Illinois River), there are usually inevitable conflicts between the "upstream" vs. "downstream" users. This has certainly been the case for the Illinois River, with extensive litigation occurring since the 1970's, that even ended up in the Supreme Court. One can read more details on the various lawsuits, on www.wikipedia.org and www.EncyclopediaOfArkansas.net. <img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtHsLN3VR9AEIx3HKRnKwMyrBw7q4_rFgQcS6nTvK2rkY5O_ZhX1FwowcjeKHLAxJjbwXQgpsp2aDkG3fSjpDPxan8FbrPxrIKfd9O-PVxiGEQMl-XaNIzLsl7JzjKbVEi3Etund2PjaxjSvMSTwQGO2qJVYebNSjROrRy66T3zaB6wI0dG5HT6qfGQ/s320/IMG_8129.JPG" width="240" /></div><br /><br /></div><br />One of the major issues discussed on our trip, was stream bank erosion, and its effects on water quality. This photo below shows an example of how the stream is eroding away a pasture, and exposing tree roots. The degradation on the ground results in the tree falling across the river, impeding floating by paddlers. The erosion also affects land value. A long-term study showed that Northwest Arkansas is losing 20 acres per year, along this watershed, due to stream bed erosion. This calculates into 102,822 additional tons of sediment going into the river per year!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxUdLhejn1HCQSGPfVngoEc4GpU-UKK8Zkl7xoQcXXcaDjQU7yBYgGC5jFnRx_0Dnv0a-bOI_3GoQaRJA36-18fxkwX9g7vF2n0GMl0V6uI-gecXXA7Qh3rNkxv4yTKBjcFFeby7BpvPdCnSHBOU0x1Q06nnuFOv8206QJiAGBbA6CmOeNNrIHQFULw/s5152/IMG_1320.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxUdLhejn1HCQSGPfVngoEc4GpU-UKK8Zkl7xoQcXXcaDjQU7yBYgGC5jFnRx_0Dnv0a-bOI_3GoQaRJA36-18fxkwX9g7vF2n0GMl0V6uI-gecXXA7Qh3rNkxv4yTKBjcFFeby7BpvPdCnSHBOU0x1Q06nnuFOv8206QJiAGBbA6CmOeNNrIHQFULw/s320/IMG_1320.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /> The speaker's comments caused me to notice that I am also losing acreage on my property, from steambank erosion. (photo below). Knowing the effects of sediment buildup in rivers, a Scripture verse I came across took on new meaning. The prophet Isaiah warned "The rivers will turn foul; the brooks of defense will be emptied and dried up." (Isaiah 19:6) None of us want that to happen!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDC_oCcPgZ6r7cbdJVvOsYXfr8r62z_ONN2Lj1nybsIegVlu2vrEH6QqmX_emVI55M52Y4yJrmlNOKHhU3bmOlMuVZ8VcCVw2YgDYFuB7IwZKezJexyEjWhwsSdBhulg3Q7vg_g9l5ARA7aUtX5BxEnNEgngWb3NHwlmME5CHxHwZD3u_NXLZUBx7SMA/s640/IMG_1487.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDC_oCcPgZ6r7cbdJVvOsYXfr8r62z_ONN2Lj1nybsIegVlu2vrEH6QqmX_emVI55M52Y4yJrmlNOKHhU3bmOlMuVZ8VcCVw2YgDYFuB7IwZKezJexyEjWhwsSdBhulg3Q7vg_g9l5ARA7aUtX5BxEnNEgngWb3NHwlmME5CHxHwZD3u_NXLZUBx7SMA/s320/IMG_1487.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Stream bank erosion is more prevalent in habitats that do not have a lot of bluffs. Unlike the Buffalo National River, I saw fewer bluffs along the Illinois River, and one of them is shown in photo below:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchxVL3B3NRbzEEBylYi5ISfDENGB5_LBjYN7U9ALUxrO-FWdDLA5HPwkkyA8KbniSQL2oOMZpNwLx6uFl7oZ1XwyUHK8gm0B4LTJdG9XS7nKHTZUl3Yrp8lE_NOjuFA441yo2h5cEhbqNl9isX3-ea09dujeSiB3LW6AKChP9oPIcYUEREgNdeZUuUg/s5152/IMG_1332.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchxVL3B3NRbzEEBylYi5ISfDENGB5_LBjYN7U9ALUxrO-FWdDLA5HPwkkyA8KbniSQL2oOMZpNwLx6uFl7oZ1XwyUHK8gm0B4LTJdG9XS7nKHTZUl3Yrp8lE_NOjuFA441yo2h5cEhbqNl9isX3-ea09dujeSiB3LW6AKChP9oPIcYUEREgNdeZUuUg/s320/IMG_1332.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />After measuring water quality during out stops, we got back in our boats and continued our float down stream. Photo below shows I am still dry, and I have managed not to roll over, so far. However, those downed trees I mentioned earlier did cause me an issue. A huge one was hidden, slightly submerged under water, such that I floated over it, and the inflatable kayak I was in "high centered" on top of it. In my normal kayak, I can usually scoot and rock my body to get me off of such an obstacle. However, it was a different story in an inflatable kayak! I would probably still be there, if one of the rafts carrying four people, had not drifted by and pulled me off the submerged log!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7cVKKlqiJZsvjW1xQIAAm62NRCMVNk5MGQaxTCHyun1ETmjQ20NbD38Jl8SLBfsDADwADOoQYC1RLb1N5MPI5IiYsY4jNI4pLKp-DsNcm7KGp0_3pyjaSCeCfk7dB6AYxiubVe5xzZvevC1Xt64lhpvr16-Qu8ph_MVphzMLZFlIXNixmBzBAhaLr_w/s320/IMG_8114.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7cVKKlqiJZsvjW1xQIAAm62NRCMVNk5MGQaxTCHyun1ETmjQ20NbD38Jl8SLBfsDADwADOoQYC1RLb1N5MPI5IiYsY4jNI4pLKp-DsNcm7KGp0_3pyjaSCeCfk7dB6AYxiubVe5xzZvevC1Xt64lhpvr16-Qu8ph_MVphzMLZFlIXNixmBzBAhaLr_w/s1600/IMG_8114.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I took this photo below, of Morgan Keeling, who is a staff member of the IRWP. She does a fantastic job of planning programs and events for IRWP that fulfill the mission of the IRWP. On their website, they describe that mission as working to improve the integrity of the Illinois River Watershed through public education, outreach, and implementation of conservation and restoration practices throughout the watershed. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7Dhi7vHat0r2lxPb0uQuJ_21K8AezjTssWVMJUnRG_nVh6Y7OWaNYrWw8gX4jl2efCZuAibq7hovnDvn1b7drmAEM2qw6uYsP5ylrYN7LBb0YVJyaZFMXmwZx_-XDYwUJAkgjCkZVzep5TlsleUvo_TBrAXw_XCXCgDo9y50bXrlBc86hzoDP3QerA/s5152/IMG_1317.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv7Dhi7vHat0r2lxPb0uQuJ_21K8AezjTssWVMJUnRG_nVh6Y7OWaNYrWw8gX4jl2efCZuAibq7hovnDvn1b7drmAEM2qw6uYsP5ylrYN7LBb0YVJyaZFMXmwZx_-XDYwUJAkgjCkZVzep5TlsleUvo_TBrAXw_XCXCgDo9y50bXrlBc86hzoDP3QerA/s320/IMG_1317.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />The IRWP works to promote good water quality, promote storm-water friendly practices to help avoid flooding/stream bank erosion, to help farmers, to assist with septic tank remediation issues, to provide both in-person and on-line educational programs, and to maintain a website with information on best management practices, easily accessible. Thanks to their efforts, folks are able to recreate on a clean stream, framed by the changing seasonal colors, of the deciduous trees along its banks. <br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht66hj13HnObWXv8OfVMJ7TAKWrIDNXKte8cdL3wuL2elguborItYWkXB-LrbScIYoMmUEAGCJMkIPYNEvjn8-Us0PF5zSITHQdTVPZo4AEN2I6an9UKb_f7rz1njmOMF0lnloRDo8CqNyN5tcsndCeBs8-AR9otsKxw1W8OFCeGLGr7sTnAar0o7bQA/s1600/IMG_8109.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our group exited on river right, very close to the Highway 59 bridge:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjyDuL1FX-FkurKeDrfKixOLz4IW6y8ZVZnRpUN3TvfYpTmE1vAre5KXGAMKILp_mjfJt0l_Zy3XgGBdSyBmLxEsif5IU4V-9XFqQIdweVFNza2de8aIbOI_Jsul2ndEiGww2i9kqkDQfvjP4T3OKTGQLBcGH2v1MvUYS7uRwcZzQ7WVIFRT6_LaUJ0A/s5152/IMG_1325.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjyDuL1FX-FkurKeDrfKixOLz4IW6y8ZVZnRpUN3TvfYpTmE1vAre5KXGAMKILp_mjfJt0l_Zy3XgGBdSyBmLxEsif5IU4V-9XFqQIdweVFNza2de8aIbOI_Jsul2ndEiGww2i9kqkDQfvjP4T3OKTGQLBcGH2v1MvUYS7uRwcZzQ7WVIFRT6_LaUJ0A/s320/IMG_1325.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />There was a sign telling us where to exit, which is very helpful because I have been on river floats before, where we missed the takeout location because there was no sign!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTickHy-YFDLC2FGPOGmtqZ-tPpV_edGDj5wd7phYWyg5MI8WtI2n4cMNn36J8a_pG1FUBwa4YjwouMUwoJatdRH8-hlx139_M-LtBluv1e3xwVxh6_BACjVLvBR1ZIIJD8yqZzsLOsYP6PxmM0Sb0Av-MRLQGvP3Q6tbG_a_6gKaLybScRo4L63Rr6g/s5152/IMG_1335.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTickHy-YFDLC2FGPOGmtqZ-tPpV_edGDj5wd7phYWyg5MI8WtI2n4cMNn36J8a_pG1FUBwa4YjwouMUwoJatdRH8-hlx139_M-LtBluv1e3xwVxh6_BACjVLvBR1ZIIJD8yqZzsLOsYP6PxmM0Sb0Av-MRLQGvP3Q6tbG_a_6gKaLybScRo4L63Rr6g/s320/IMG_1335.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This simple word "Gypsy", is a clue that we are at Gypsy Camp and Canoe (www.gypsycampcanoe.com), which is an outfitter that rents kayaks and canoes. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYl_gBWG5uSGtn52dD12HWgHYTJQt9EexUMKaZefMMw2oTkjF9kxcB-kKTZw5wT1VdBqzZroOSAFeEqYJ9c9rp9K3K7Mp-YG8Ry7qd9ZSP7zgkulUIs8lZO8SA1sgRVW62l-gxpqeFfkSIyx6ev77sjmaAYtL594Z1ulzfBRWIpwEhSMnhOl3SQjnHOw/s5152/IMG_1334.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYl_gBWG5uSGtn52dD12HWgHYTJQt9EexUMKaZefMMw2oTkjF9kxcB-kKTZw5wT1VdBqzZroOSAFeEqYJ9c9rp9K3K7Mp-YG8Ry7qd9ZSP7zgkulUIs8lZO8SA1sgRVW62l-gxpqeFfkSIyx6ev77sjmaAYtL594Z1ulzfBRWIpwEhSMnhOl3SQjnHOw/s320/IMG_1334.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The vans and kayak haulers from 37 North Expeditions were awaiting our arrival:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnggZRQZg0ULcL8pvwgOctT_jZ3Ozy4CS3ErxOBTwqBEbEDoN9paDiXI5_4qno6j86wv5WJ_NneNP-NZZFeFsQE2RayvzzjykTpBauSEWieW4E1PSpbZmkOM5kkX6nVVNpxukDlDD3chs_Y7LFS52Zei_GwfM0e0m4-ZcD7ATGUL4GxaTQqM_wOcKKQ/s5152/IMG_1336.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnggZRQZg0ULcL8pvwgOctT_jZ3Ozy4CS3ErxOBTwqBEbEDoN9paDiXI5_4qno6j86wv5WJ_NneNP-NZZFeFsQE2RayvzzjykTpBauSEWieW4E1PSpbZmkOM5kkX6nVVNpxukDlDD3chs_Y7LFS52Zei_GwfM0e0m4-ZcD7ATGUL4GxaTQqM_wOcKKQ/s320/IMG_1336.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Our group then took the short stroll up to the Gypsy Camp Historic District, which you can see many more photos of, on their Facebook page. I had read some on the history of Gypsy Camp, and learned that it was a summer camp for girls, started in the 1920's. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZkBwbyWog1398RiXMdUOcptKLsfyKDPAf5-POq2P3awh2GWUDQ4ZNwunzKl4zuJeOlIBTb13XKr-BA5wSaaA_-jAJfR_libzJrcOlQ7HydAnVZwpEkt-d_SioEDAnzXWN1eexwXAjzxoAShycERadNQ0evviL3Y3Lh-FJACUp-ekEM7udsiFzKogbbA/s5152/IMG_1374.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZkBwbyWog1398RiXMdUOcptKLsfyKDPAf5-POq2P3awh2GWUDQ4ZNwunzKl4zuJeOlIBTb13XKr-BA5wSaaA_-jAJfR_libzJrcOlQ7HydAnVZwpEkt-d_SioEDAnzXWN1eexwXAjzxoAShycERadNQ0evviL3Y3Lh-FJACUp-ekEM7udsiFzKogbbA/s320/IMG_1374.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The camp consisted of four cabins for campers, a dining/recreation hall, and three residential structures. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7x2m900Kw6qxCvmRiWtPo7ebtGgyjQwCA0RWuu2zVJuPX0Q-EBnyNyYGKfwlZ4hUHA5bIPw89WmyP6clvVjdujLbJJ12xp9SzkXF3HEcBFQKk6P367CnsoFqqCe5l1wb1GCfQcBtvQDlzHeUrIB5QOvATl72u_dm9h8EMyqCXz4G0utQQNivTFGqS7A/s5152/IMG_1352.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7x2m900Kw6qxCvmRiWtPo7ebtGgyjQwCA0RWuu2zVJuPX0Q-EBnyNyYGKfwlZ4hUHA5bIPw89WmyP6clvVjdujLbJJ12xp9SzkXF3HEcBFQKk6P367CnsoFqqCe5l1wb1GCfQcBtvQDlzHeUrIB5QOvATl72u_dm9h8EMyqCXz4G0utQQNivTFGqS7A/s320/IMG_1352.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The camp operated from 1921-1978, and its 11.5 acres have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1988. According to historical data I read on line, the camp was attended by some girls who went on to become well-known citizens, including actress Mary Martin, Walmart heiress Alice Walton, and attorney Dana Daniels Nixon. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI4fO9Bjjvz0do4Sb90cx3XsGKMqU3SOvXSG89yfc6kRZzS82vH5O6ljVynWZ7flNmnTO0NGvo1iZU5x9Op_IiFx0_hMECA5bkPQqw5J_O4uHOhgrEc4EH18yplTb-I4oeudEL4YqrVGZMmQ5JCnWHoILiYTPBwqDHSOYxVuOifgs1m1Dm_-mR4lChmA/s5152/IMG_1347.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI4fO9Bjjvz0do4Sb90cx3XsGKMqU3SOvXSG89yfc6kRZzS82vH5O6ljVynWZ7flNmnTO0NGvo1iZU5x9Op_IiFx0_hMECA5bkPQqw5J_O4uHOhgrEc4EH18yplTb-I4oeudEL4YqrVGZMmQ5JCnWHoILiYTPBwqDHSOYxVuOifgs1m1Dm_-mR4lChmA/s320/IMG_1347.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Remember the camp was started before electric air conditioning was common in rural areas, so these gals had some formative experiences of "roughing it", through the hot and humid summers of Arkansas!<br /><br />37 North Expeditions had set up tables and chairs for us at the camp, so we had a delightful outdoor catered lunch:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3teF9KFvdJ6KQcmHSVR_vWumJHFI6vW0rpcaDKA02kqA6y5oo3jmaXBmgZHoJNBxiGx5nJiIZC6_D2plaAULJ7UlG_nSIlBcS5atTuYEOegIHDJhJe7hbT98FhVXEy281gss-jEspoGVZBgK8mT4R9x1LSnde6IU5Ks7e_qDxX9PQQgIZddm8CvDlQ/s5152/IMG_1364.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3teF9KFvdJ6KQcmHSVR_vWumJHFI6vW0rpcaDKA02kqA6y5oo3jmaXBmgZHoJNBxiGx5nJiIZC6_D2plaAULJ7UlG_nSIlBcS5atTuYEOegIHDJhJe7hbT98FhVXEy281gss-jEspoGVZBgK8mT4R9x1LSnde6IU5Ks7e_qDxX9PQQgIZddm8CvDlQ/s320/IMG_1364.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />After our lunch, one of the officials from the Oklahoma side of the Illinois River, told us about the work her agency is doing to promote water quality in their state. In that state, the Illinois River is designated as a "scenic river", and has a bigger impact on tourism there, than it does in Arkansas. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDm1zpyjQED8tGKjLW1S_NeP1rBHyRS2KrkBmpJvPMA7BraCJS_az4-BTgsEuU59UFhMEFl61Op22y2BWduL4qWUy9PBSdArFO5OGFQ94RzmCQubBxh9KE9o5hqYehZtCN8jOS2Qxj_n6XIJTMNUUorIOHAK3dhQKfpCdjzjrwyEozVD2-mPbsJvPiFw/s640/IMG_1273.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDm1zpyjQED8tGKjLW1S_NeP1rBHyRS2KrkBmpJvPMA7BraCJS_az4-BTgsEuU59UFhMEFl61Op22y2BWduL4qWUy9PBSdArFO5OGFQ94RzmCQubBxh9KE9o5hqYehZtCN8jOS2Qxj_n6XIJTMNUUorIOHAK3dhQKfpCdjzjrwyEozVD2-mPbsJvPiFw/s320/IMG_1273.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The rock arbor shown in photo below is part of the Gypsy Camp Historic District, and I read that "The Arch" was often the designated "meet up" location for various camp activities.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgSLRn0aSGzNNWzqw5wYUnWNOUJDYxg4gVWYNlbqqoC1rKzF9ochyORD5KqXqFCgNwI9rlRKZADCk9Bxf2k8fPiL5_KtwkhUOT09t-L89u3GCjhLNwCT3MwtSOUQyWsRAlsT5hPxIYIMTA7ThJA2NzzpEj3lVy8ZUNyCkeDCB2_JNaf_l1dywn_u7_A/s640/IMG_1277.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgSLRn0aSGzNNWzqw5wYUnWNOUJDYxg4gVWYNlbqqoC1rKzF9ochyORD5KqXqFCgNwI9rlRKZADCk9Bxf2k8fPiL5_KtwkhUOT09t-L89u3GCjhLNwCT3MwtSOUQyWsRAlsT5hPxIYIMTA7ThJA2NzzpEj3lVy8ZUNyCkeDCB2_JNaf_l1dywn_u7_A/s320/IMG_1277.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The view of the blue waters of the Illinois River is seen in the distance, framed by that arch, and the goal is to KEEP it blue! Let's all do our part to make that happen, so that like me, the generations to come will be able to have Illinois River paddling trips that give "MILES OF SMILES"! Tricia<br /><br /></div><p>Addendum: </p><p>While doing research for this article, I learned from Facebook, that one of my Kappa Alpha Theta sorority sisters from college, Dana Daniels Nixon, had a connection to Gypsy Camp for Girls. She graciously texted me copies of some of her vintage photos from that place, and gave me permission to include them with this blog.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiddlNWm984ZY9Dxvoiaz9d-3xFDRFcUlgBOBJ0WxtjWUi8q6CCKc7cS8bLnIuL9wqKUpfAFDcAZiVTfKQu4T2JfftmR3lCfzo52yQC4sKOebPyms_lqyC8UMX5q2oNtvQ06c_12jJgCcdn9RP9jFj4FmKDGZ8pBkql8FhgU8XNACbXICqhJLSRVQTuRg/s640/IMG_2084.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiddlNWm984ZY9Dxvoiaz9d-3xFDRFcUlgBOBJ0WxtjWUi8q6CCKc7cS8bLnIuL9wqKUpfAFDcAZiVTfKQu4T2JfftmR3lCfzo52yQC4sKOebPyms_lqyC8UMX5q2oNtvQ06c_12jJgCcdn9RP9jFj4FmKDGZ8pBkql8FhgU8XNACbXICqhJLSRVQTuRg/s320/IMG_2084.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The name labels in the photo below point out which one of the "gypsies" is Dana. Dana said she originally had her mother's costume, who also attended Gypsy Camp as a youngster, but it became too fragile for Dana to wear. Therefore, Dana's great grandmother made her the new costume you see in the photo.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZjnSciFyH-jVfrc2wFpTE2Oe2DoJsRbMtVpmCg2__Eqir_TvbufuQOT1gDqihossMm2V2WvNptTHotnyO6husHE0KB57GQd_QbtKqGluvzrEKRXnmdadCm071xjRUEQoMXJuaY80dBpy9jf6-DI3xb7qA3UEGAgjrUw2C3AlnXSqNVZlCGBO2A-TN_Q/s640/IMG_2087.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZjnSciFyH-jVfrc2wFpTE2Oe2DoJsRbMtVpmCg2__Eqir_TvbufuQOT1gDqihossMm2V2WvNptTHotnyO6husHE0KB57GQd_QbtKqGluvzrEKRXnmdadCm071xjRUEQoMXJuaY80dBpy9jf6-DI3xb7qA3UEGAgjrUw2C3AlnXSqNVZlCGBO2A-TN_Q/s320/IMG_2087.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Photo below shows Dana's mom, when she attended the camp in 1939.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxprvXiA7gmF-FC-N0P-DRFg6TRgEXSdKg1YhBrobYdcgEfv3TtjwVrnjIXG-YiYlOKa7JjFw5PVRHsxyKiJrHfQRPgxtl_BfkxGpXxKNtzQ9xHyqfQln1unsp-j-Rn6FjBsg_FwDcSnt7WrHLats1jZxlguKs7H6_JOB3U8Zmnh9yhwfeYU0CWfFE2Q/s640/IMG_2088.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxprvXiA7gmF-FC-N0P-DRFg6TRgEXSdKg1YhBrobYdcgEfv3TtjwVrnjIXG-YiYlOKa7JjFw5PVRHsxyKiJrHfQRPgxtl_BfkxGpXxKNtzQ9xHyqfQln1unsp-j-Rn6FjBsg_FwDcSnt7WrHLats1jZxlguKs7H6_JOB3U8Zmnh9yhwfeYU0CWfFE2Q/s320/IMG_2088.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Photo below shows expansive yard in front of the camp buildings. This is the same space my IRWP group used decades later, to have our outdoor catered lunch.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-m0LgBAygVw_MxisY9APtn0nKAnEraQq2yeq-REqhPbOR8eaTQpysqvxQNuNaxu99LVxD3XEZaAakLFDxUzi1h5yv9LNOoaNJ5opd7yh624RV9uiTUMBr8QPMfpb68b02s1yM_phLQohe4vnvfzJkvWfZ55IOo5EJ0CA2p5pDCW7lg9jWdfRT9LiPQ/s640/IMG_2083.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-m0LgBAygVw_MxisY9APtn0nKAnEraQq2yeq-REqhPbOR8eaTQpysqvxQNuNaxu99LVxD3XEZaAakLFDxUzi1h5yv9LNOoaNJ5opd7yh624RV9uiTUMBr8QPMfpb68b02s1yM_phLQohe4vnvfzJkvWfZ55IOo5EJ0CA2p5pDCW7lg9jWdfRT9LiPQ/s320/IMG_2083.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Photo from Happy Birthday celebration for camp founder:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCjthB-PDmkp6qbaC3eSBIFWIHfgmO3HJoTFCgCSYKpBsrYTKltwixq2lzC4JBZ4TkxbccL8TbzlVtPz2Hj_XOLXlKc6jm9nFaQtb1QLTB7_0jMOELUy1WUkV5BLhysSsQbKGN0VYxEsmYUSwwpgwx2O1u80dz0qxg96Io9m9g-SZsrVZ4_0mVYrmNA/s640/IMG_2085.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCjthB-PDmkp6qbaC3eSBIFWIHfgmO3HJoTFCgCSYKpBsrYTKltwixq2lzC4JBZ4TkxbccL8TbzlVtPz2Hj_XOLXlKc6jm9nFaQtb1QLTB7_0jMOELUy1WUkV5BLhysSsQbKGN0VYxEsmYUSwwpgwx2O1u80dz0qxg96Io9m9g-SZsrVZ4_0mVYrmNA/s320/IMG_2085.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />The names on this photo show Dana Daniels, and fellow camper--Alice Walton--, standing in line for hot dogs. Although I was not a camper with Alice Walton, I did have the opportunity to visit the home she grew up in, at Bentonville, Arkansas. Alice's mom, Helen Walton, hosted several youngsters from our Harrison, Arkansas, Presbyterian Youth Group, for an overnight retreat at their expansive home. As Mrs. Walton was showing us where our sleeping quarters would be, we got to take a peek inside Alice's room. All I remember about that room was that the walls were covered with blue and red silk prize ribbons/medallions she had won demonstrating her equestrian skills at horse shows and fairs around the country. The other thing I remembered from the Sam and Helen Walton home was that Mrs. Walton said we could use any of the seven bathrooms she showed us. I was overwhelmed and amazed, because the house where I lived only had one bathroom. This church youth retreat took place in the midst of the sixties civil rights disputes, when many people of faith were working to show that God loves every one---"red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in HIS sight". Since the Harrison church youth group only had Caucasian kids, the church leaders of Northwest Arkansas wanted us to meet some Christian youth, that were a different color than we were. Mrs. Walton did her part in making that a reality for us Harrison kids. I am very thankful to her for her gesture of hospitality and improving race relations. I read in the newspaper some time after that weekend experience in the Walton home, that it burned to the ground, but the family rebuilt a new one-- bigger and better, with even more restrooms! Decades later, Alice Walton built Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, in Bentonville. I have been there many times, and it is my goal to go to each ladies' rest room on the campus there, which I can assure you is considerably MORE than seven!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4PwGN1xtYoBEtkjAF_f8e9DY83Q_K4nmSq-GqF_MUGf5LXd0BS15HW0yapmhC6f2B4YPt02nu5ngTn81qcbKNO0YTarM9kFXcwbSp_HXRd8u-8FIqCn8EnPTbHmG-3Gv07aycpbq-2PnvygB7Amrm05NM7cGBRxv9_nPZzSH30AbtIw2wlsTmjqMQw/s640/IMG_2086.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4PwGN1xtYoBEtkjAF_f8e9DY83Q_K4nmSq-GqF_MUGf5LXd0BS15HW0yapmhC6f2B4YPt02nu5ngTn81qcbKNO0YTarM9kFXcwbSp_HXRd8u-8FIqCn8EnPTbHmG-3Gv07aycpbq-2PnvygB7Amrm05NM7cGBRxv9_nPZzSH30AbtIw2wlsTmjqMQw/s320/IMG_2086.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br />Dana said it was okay to quote her regarding what she learned during her time spent on the banks of the Illinois River, participating in Gypsy Camp activities: "To respect the awesomeness of nature and humankind at the same time. To embrace competition and learning, while learning to lose gracefully. To be independent, but to support teammates. To love with all one's heart." A big THANK YOU to Dana for these photos and her remembrances about Gypsy Camp for Girls. <br /></p><p>Likewise, on the IRWP educational float trip, I was reminded of the awesomeness of both nature and humankind, and how it is up to us humans to be good stewards of the awesomeness of Arkansas, THE NATURAL STATE! </p><p>MILES OF SMILES!! Tricia<br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-35738136141250459562022-12-01T10:19:00.001-06:002022-12-03T09:03:30.108-06:00APPALACHIAN TRAIL EXPEDITION!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In October 2022, I left Arkansas to drive to North Carolina, to participate in Road Scholar program ( www.RoadScholar.org) #17288, called "Nature Hiking in the Southern Appalachian Mountains". I had participated in this same program in 2017, but many of the hikes that were planned for the 2017 trip got cancelled because of severe weather as a result of Hurricane Irma. ( You can read all about the adjustments that were made in that itinerary in the article I published on this blog, dated October 12, 2017, and titled "Southern Appalachian Hiking Expedition.) As I was driving on a stretch of highway between Helen, Georgia, and Hayesville, North Carolina, I came across an expansive parking area that was designated for Appalachian Trail hikers, and their shuttle drivers. I wanted to get a feel for what lay ahead, so I stopped to take a few photos, including this glass-covered map at the trailhead beside the highway:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlti0c53MuNv7l_UVSVnOMF0TrWCEQq6hL-6fw5-g1D10wlnW8xEtg7l8UzAsmAKF5Xr4-8xzRA4LKwjrf7I8jSeQHe7_QkVXQ0cMAPQDTjcLH1WOnc0xW7HqFLO8NjlKPHMDNH906B1o8E15cwqmRu7Bv78T4PVnVrlCjcAuUUEd04JgUl6V1Bd9Vxw/s3648/IMG_9040.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlti0c53MuNv7l_UVSVnOMF0TrWCEQq6hL-6fw5-g1D10wlnW8xEtg7l8UzAsmAKF5Xr4-8xzRA4LKwjrf7I8jSeQHe7_QkVXQ0cMAPQDTjcLH1WOnc0xW7HqFLO8NjlKPHMDNH906B1o8E15cwqmRu7Bv78T4PVnVrlCjcAuUUEd04JgUl6V1Bd9Vxw/s320/IMG_9040.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /></div><br /><br /></div>There was a table there supplying "Trail Magic" for exhausted through-hikers, and a group of hikers resting while they waited on their shuttle drivers. A "through hiker" is defined as a person who hikes the entire trail during a 12-month span of time. The Appalachian Trail (abbreviated A.T.) is a 2,194 mile-long footpath that crosses the hills, valleys, and ridgelines of the Appalachian Mountain Range. It has the honor of being the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, and traverses 14 states. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EImzdgyjfvneNa7K5JHS8PnMuDZ4AZTyIadsOydIyQfYU9kaG4dDHjAm-1FSGtoIviRw7-A2ht_sGxXYsSi_Gnk4zqJ_BYoAIUH7dpasLzGLjuHN7rwxvraoPI4Z57uLdkd9qVfECj5-W4xpzapgVC8r8e9u13DdG8QGdT59THSahh9vXaD2UqrYrg/s3648/IMG_9039.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EImzdgyjfvneNa7K5JHS8PnMuDZ4AZTyIadsOydIyQfYU9kaG4dDHjAm-1FSGtoIviRw7-A2ht_sGxXYsSi_Gnk4zqJ_BYoAIUH7dpasLzGLjuHN7rwxvraoPI4Z57uLdkd9qVfECj5-W4xpzapgVC8r8e9u13DdG8QGdT59THSahh9vXaD2UqrYrg/s320/IMG_9039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>"Trail Magic" refers to the act of a "Good Samaritan" volunteer, setting up a relief station with water and other treats for hikers as they pass by the area. Such assistance is just a small sampling of the 240,000 volunteer hours per year, that enable the A.T. to endure about 3 million visitors per year!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrTNw71BUf-l0GmJF7_Dz9I2BDoBCgkdYOJRdTpcy92EUJR4qJFmInCs3aoSngnotmLEWXhoSHuIrh-zKGqV7LKTMYcjeWxyMDNF_RT82n7F9T-hq5RZB3TaI5x5pBXSAiUUDHriW0eZhXJtt_6xkaQd0IphTONlYvskKvYgQcb1tYY_BU50EWzB28Q/s3648/IMG_9041.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrTNw71BUf-l0GmJF7_Dz9I2BDoBCgkdYOJRdTpcy92EUJR4qJFmInCs3aoSngnotmLEWXhoSHuIrh-zKGqV7LKTMYcjeWxyMDNF_RT82n7F9T-hq5RZB3TaI5x5pBXSAiUUDHriW0eZhXJtt_6xkaQd0IphTONlYvskKvYgQcb1tYY_BU50EWzB28Q/s320/IMG_9041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p>Part of the trail came down to the area on the same side as the parking lot, and then continued across the highway. Intersections such as this--where the trail intersects with a highway--are popular as MEET UP locations. A foot trail as long as the A.T. is going to have LOTS of "intersections" with state borders, various government agencies, volunteer organizations, etc.; I consider it a miracle that this trail, conceived in 1921, built by private citizens and completed in 1937, still exists today, in a society that has increasingly lost the desire to spend time outdoors!<br /></p><p>And speaking of MEET UP locations, I was happy to MEET UP with other Road Scholar hikers on a Sunday afternoon, at the Hinton Center, in Hayesville, North Carolina (www.hintoncenter.org). It is worth noting that this facility is also open for lodging for individuals, and not just groups. I would highly recommend you consider it, if you are ever in the area! As we did every morning during the week, we met on the deck of the dining hall before sunrise on Monday morning, so that we could do stretching exercises, as we watched the sun come up over the lake:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnPWYV_x6D5zUVd0B2dW3MgB0ygV2l8CEQkabd9AnYNlGXifZoMMjBU9A9fOP3hlPctH3SWM47sF5z6W6pnxNS_l2Xzu3-SxZSTuSm1iSe6bkJ0RiZsXBnOl0QDBbsCIwDLKfx8kecIDW_viXjjw9dXUZx8gy4ht16CPEz76psFvFvI5E5GCffQYosQ/s3648/IMG_9063.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnPWYV_x6D5zUVd0B2dW3MgB0ygV2l8CEQkabd9AnYNlGXifZoMMjBU9A9fOP3hlPctH3SWM47sF5z6W6pnxNS_l2Xzu3-SxZSTuSm1iSe6bkJ0RiZsXBnOl0QDBbsCIwDLKfx8kecIDW_viXjjw9dXUZx8gy4ht16CPEz76psFvFvI5E5GCffQYosQ/s320/IMG_9063.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The deck where we stretched is adjacent to the Hinton Center Chapel, which has this amazing view to those who are seated inside::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr07nPN4hHqhOpEGiN_WdnOj8X40xoR2t0uFpVHlKkPEJYxRzkKKu4GICYwu3h53eEEvsZ4U_IVupaDG9q1Cw-twWXa-eNPv9Tjxic3eE2qIQuFc_9wvw-DmRPbDGs1foHrqXpVgkYeD2STN4vVrCG-fDyp1JUG90HbtH70Q-qJPRGtkIsVvZ2CwWjOw/s640/IMG_1738.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="476" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr07nPN4hHqhOpEGiN_WdnOj8X40xoR2t0uFpVHlKkPEJYxRzkKKu4GICYwu3h53eEEvsZ4U_IVupaDG9q1Cw-twWXa-eNPv9Tjxic3eE2qIQuFc_9wvw-DmRPbDGs1foHrqXpVgkYeD2STN4vVrCG-fDyp1JUG90HbtH70Q-qJPRGtkIsVvZ2CwWjOw/s320/IMG_1738.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>In addition to serving the purpose of stretching our muscles, the early morning time on the deck gave us the opportunity to listen carefully for bird sounds, which naturalist Liz would then identify for us, as to the name of the bird making that particular call. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIAtPlqa97FConnkwYobLYRf5cXRlq1B9BPWdibW150DjSn8u-CsCYAuDVePAZn2YjzcUoBvechbqFA322BWHvpn2XMs8_hV8fyzAF4K12jDUGukAIgbJUioJS9sJgUei8Aa9j-Xbo6Msb2YH37W6ujKGMrtLDGLCErBb6B6xLoHOU6AdcBsHO4mIpA/s3648/IMG_9061.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBIAtPlqa97FConnkwYobLYRf5cXRlq1B9BPWdibW150DjSn8u-CsCYAuDVePAZn2YjzcUoBvechbqFA322BWHvpn2XMs8_hV8fyzAF4K12jDUGukAIgbJUioJS9sJgUei8Aa9j-Xbo6Msb2YH37W6ujKGMrtLDGLCErBb6B6xLoHOU6AdcBsHO4mIpA/s320/IMG_9061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After breakfast, we would gather in front of our lodging, beside the vans, and get a review of the area we would be hiking on that particular day:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qKV16YHtRpFZz-7piWGsjjTPG6nnpw_1PzzBdQmOYJFD5RThSBTrKjbX4IuTHKOQgB0QJ_IQwzoPKJBo7FwBZ37hmz6Hnzd1gUYnVIvsKrR_-nMsTMlP0ZI6YhkMjd5SkADxHjR0VKAAEO5taXqvgSuooxW5suDPFuBqMOygWjxKh3LI3HKxLA6inw/s3648/IMG_9065.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qKV16YHtRpFZz-7piWGsjjTPG6nnpw_1PzzBdQmOYJFD5RThSBTrKjbX4IuTHKOQgB0QJ_IQwzoPKJBo7FwBZ37hmz6Hnzd1gUYnVIvsKrR_-nMsTMlP0ZI6YhkMjd5SkADxHjR0VKAAEO5taXqvgSuooxW5suDPFuBqMOygWjxKh3LI3HKxLA6inw/s320/IMG_9065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />At the time of this program, Road Scholar was requiring masks when we were indoors, riding in the vans, or in close contact with others. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoNOX2LVXkUINbYcFT29E0YSyro-TEGC4G7GWA6HNsWgAgD1FJL6RoEzYrz63O9KTZbgINPe9EU933biSJdki90jYv5miFZOqveFijW8rpSJAxI7TpIbWEy4a6MVuGopvImU7qvrmbX4KcILPrXyhSf_erOowIEH3D2k1Lozwfu6zVDGe-xkhw6OFI1A/s3648/IMG_9066.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoNOX2LVXkUINbYcFT29E0YSyro-TEGC4G7GWA6HNsWgAgD1FJL6RoEzYrz63O9KTZbgINPe9EU933biSJdki90jYv5miFZOqveFijW8rpSJAxI7TpIbWEy4a6MVuGopvImU7qvrmbX4KcILPrXyhSf_erOowIEH3D2k1Lozwfu6zVDGe-xkhw6OFI1A/s320/IMG_9066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />This is a close-up of the map:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPjx3Gy6AT_49dqNEL8FaCqK-oAhNBePDq1eyNKpVvtTItiiZZXYZ4QAf5QzB8Qo3De4IdKSfEEyI2j29T86xdLF6Aj9FZz_Y6ryL0w7F-NB60rXbP6P0EkTCJZKDDfIJwqiWlbUKnSCdLILDqLHKpX37WL8BuSEVjVWy51DlaZntb9m6qxiUbnr7VA/s3648/IMG_9067.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPjx3Gy6AT_49dqNEL8FaCqK-oAhNBePDq1eyNKpVvtTItiiZZXYZ4QAf5QzB8Qo3De4IdKSfEEyI2j29T86xdLF6Aj9FZz_Y6ryL0w7F-NB60rXbP6P0EkTCJZKDDfIJwqiWlbUKnSCdLILDqLHKpX37WL8BuSEVjVWy51DlaZntb9m6qxiUbnr7VA/s320/IMG_9067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p>I will not give a detailed account of the Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday's hikes, but will state that we hiked a different part of the Appalachian Trail each day, and the following were "place names" listed for the week: Standing Indian basin, Rock Gap, Glassmine Gap, Long Branch Trail, Deep Gap, Standing Indian Summit, Glade Gap, Chunky Gal, Boteler Peak, Winding Stair Gap, Swinging Lick Gap, Panther Gap, Siler Bald, Wayah Crest, and Winding Stair. It is a very good thing that I was with a trained, and experienced hiking guide, because after the first "Gap" nomenclature, I was confused, even though I had seven more "Gaps" to navigate!</p><p>One of the mountains we summited I am able to remember because there was a marker at the top that showed its name and elevation. (the marker is next to my feet in this photo)<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PEPGErTR7twcUMJs5gjOFOsQgkj7Ko4wQeKN-PqFkVhmEBGJ1BGJ6iGEl79XJdSurFW0pG8bxLggby5D1q0H2Le_qrHlYaj8AMW0uSYBtTAGr-95ZdikClVKp4pJYCNsicEc9a-pZuuuiib2Wy2OpwKSjK0CUDghAWMXdhRvRLCX423BFwwt9AnVYg/s640/IMG_1940.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PEPGErTR7twcUMJs5gjOFOsQgkj7Ko4wQeKN-PqFkVhmEBGJ1BGJ6iGEl79XJdSurFW0pG8bxLggby5D1q0H2Le_qrHlYaj8AMW0uSYBtTAGr-95ZdikClVKp4pJYCNsicEc9a-pZuuuiib2Wy2OpwKSjK0CUDghAWMXdhRvRLCX423BFwwt9AnVYg/s320/IMG_1940.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>There were several other hikers at the summit, so we were able to get a group photo:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMcKBDXA9EtemUsIRuQ9OV00lf2LcyxINVcxMF7ZBCL7m3a2zPsEQn-un8bJAg3sKmqeQ-ukLSFi-T5lTEo2cmfQiiUzMp_nwPmkVFtIiNa2oh9l4I-eYbHfOQASPm9MIrmSLBqpaZct0W4Z03B7n5xHUygYS2gKI_QNaCI8B7QZCDVVBBx3cZirf4A/s640/IMG_1988.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMcKBDXA9EtemUsIRuQ9OV00lf2LcyxINVcxMF7ZBCL7m3a2zPsEQn-un8bJAg3sKmqeQ-ukLSFi-T5lTEo2cmfQiiUzMp_nwPmkVFtIiNa2oh9l4I-eYbHfOQASPm9MIrmSLBqpaZct0W4Z03B7n5xHUygYS2gKI_QNaCI8B7QZCDVVBBx3cZirf4A/s320/IMG_1988.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /> <br /><p></p><p></p><p>The following photos are just some interesting features of nature that we saw along the trail, that I want to remember, and so I am including them in this blog. After all, the name of this program was "NATURE HIKING", and our leader was Naturalist, Liz Domingue (www.JustGetOutdoors.com). My goal was to enjoy (and photograph!) some of the fascinating aspects of the natural world---not just race from "Point A to Point B"! The other hike leader was Linda Flynn, and both ladies were valuable sources of information about the outdoors. I used both a Canon pocket-size digital camera, and my iPhone. The nice thing about the iPhone, is that you can easily get that "fuzzy" look for a waterfall, without having to use a tripod (which is the way it was done in "days of old"!) <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5DiXRijehk13EHd2jpLBkavIq16WZJcTGLvJ9fSQPgbhJNrr9d-tpO9Ye4anyhiS_noTprZiJAJ_Q56tT5j4ONnYp5GcqJICDoLAQeD2kCOQ1JyuVD1GzyMTI3Kinf56bxmM-z4NAPBPrJGLWnmifSEV0OqolwYdo1Lq5OTMwEvijuIOZ-jz_b4m7g/s640/IMG_1905.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR5DiXRijehk13EHd2jpLBkavIq16WZJcTGLvJ9fSQPgbhJNrr9d-tpO9Ye4anyhiS_noTprZiJAJ_Q56tT5j4ONnYp5GcqJICDoLAQeD2kCOQ1JyuVD1GzyMTI3Kinf56bxmM-z4NAPBPrJGLWnmifSEV0OqolwYdo1Lq5OTMwEvijuIOZ-jz_b4m7g/s320/IMG_1905.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I remember my high school science teacher, Mrs. JoAnne Rife, teaching us that where we lived in Arkansas, was part of the "Oak-Hickory Biome". However, the area in North Carolina where we were hiking, was part of the "Oak-Heath Biome or Forest". This is a type of deciduous forest with well-drained, acidic soil, containing plants from the oak family and the heath family (Ericaceae). Ericaceae would include heath plants, mountain laurel, blueberries, huckleberries, sourwood, azaleas, and rhododendron. There are numerous sections of the A.T. in this area that pass through "Rhododendron Tunnels", and the photo below shows a hiker entering a rhododendron tunnel. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8a58k1iH4I7clT5aNRFlMCEC_RmKZ7LHMSeOHP1gY1fva4-Hb5j5dWDNM3jEkkU257I2nWFT-dXfEVfGQyf4FHXO9zHrMqfFCCJuWXnMtKB0JxeBEfjsXWyS19DkRnKBrxtN7frVD1F1EciLv89jKV-JCASaP2U-MGH6nVYnwSI1JCZRjspVY30aRJA/s640/IMG_1869.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8a58k1iH4I7clT5aNRFlMCEC_RmKZ7LHMSeOHP1gY1fva4-Hb5j5dWDNM3jEkkU257I2nWFT-dXfEVfGQyf4FHXO9zHrMqfFCCJuWXnMtKB0JxeBEfjsXWyS19DkRnKBrxtN7frVD1F1EciLv89jKV-JCASaP2U-MGH6nVYnwSI1JCZRjspVY30aRJA/s320/IMG_1869.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />One of the interesting features Linda pointed out along the trail was the "Eiffel Tower Tree":<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSbWEuLIRFC6shP_70vWlEmB4IwChWNCVYNoN--AdAB6nXaE7XWTNYYWDbNcIfOapkO1N39QBpnshYNSWZKb0uyDdWpwii5pFr-_PpRAysG7sY-aU34PoSkui_DBj5s3KWPKUKz0pUzJa4-OsKVPeykgGJVGGg3ILMvIXQLy4og6_h35-3WjaLergvmA/s3648/IMG_9260.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSbWEuLIRFC6shP_70vWlEmB4IwChWNCVYNoN--AdAB6nXaE7XWTNYYWDbNcIfOapkO1N39QBpnshYNSWZKb0uyDdWpwii5pFr-_PpRAysG7sY-aU34PoSkui_DBj5s3KWPKUKz0pUzJa4-OsKVPeykgGJVGGg3ILMvIXQLy4og6_h35-3WjaLergvmA/s320/IMG_9260.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> Another tree I spotted along the trail, had an unusual "crossed fingers" formation near its top:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7Jn8nxj6qWZ1N7IErR4Qt_3RJKZ1WswPv3ZrHhH7L-KW8WAHWe7X6A8Lp5tADjxcQJlCXG62WR0vjmXRcu5DPfWv87z7O-5k2XKpDBIX0dbMb4um9sKzhGiFZprygFL_owC7kASNubZs0A-V-N7v5EJ028IGv3QATvl3xszsiXi1viG2iNzYmljQAA/s3648/IMG_9425.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7Jn8nxj6qWZ1N7IErR4Qt_3RJKZ1WswPv3ZrHhH7L-KW8WAHWe7X6A8Lp5tADjxcQJlCXG62WR0vjmXRcu5DPfWv87z7O-5k2XKpDBIX0dbMb4um9sKzhGiFZprygFL_owC7kASNubZs0A-V-N7v5EJ028IGv3QATvl3xszsiXi1viG2iNzYmljQAA/s320/IMG_9425.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>We learned about a substance called "Rock Tripe", that our leader said was used by early settlers for food, whenever all other rations had been depleted (aka, a "famine food"). Several of us tasted it, and did not find it delicious, but perhaps acceptable if nothing else was available. I would describe the taste as "bland", and I read later, that it is often used in Asian cuisine, as well as traditional Chinese medicine. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQRroTo-KbIJJE7F36zDMBzfCYaqv5ZrMu759rsL-Yy4gP59Y7HIhUGxroaaQB_5AYF3atumC7ATkgAcSXlvMIn9KryTUolTqs0m0PhM0N5znUW2YLKV9e_EBN4yWskE3ZGnFgtPZEGZdHXWGCJ1eGmGQ8B_s8b3sv7QOgsm-mY4tMhhmLPNmfUEpaw/s3648/IMG_9224.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQRroTo-KbIJJE7F36zDMBzfCYaqv5ZrMu759rsL-Yy4gP59Y7HIhUGxroaaQB_5AYF3atumC7ATkgAcSXlvMIn9KryTUolTqs0m0PhM0N5znUW2YLKV9e_EBN4yWskE3ZGnFgtPZEGZdHXWGCJ1eGmGQ8B_s8b3sv7QOgsm-mY4tMhhmLPNmfUEpaw/s320/IMG_9224.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Rock tripe looked like "dark chocolate" peeling off a rock, as seen in photo below:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRoCG_cX9HqPGtDGraezj3pxEODRIGAnSBWdUKcxJzdrp-1QmeSd3n_nLU6tQAFamYRGbeCNy3cnQEE8g87DgnO7GOFCZy-SKZnCmmde4e80J0Lg-iEkydzmF9yLwJGGdL5SxFHOc3Nt31pLUcMKHCekoIiWH7ZJMJjtQDw12-f9Gp_6fhX2jNXA20w/s3648/IMG_9222.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCRoCG_cX9HqPGtDGraezj3pxEODRIGAnSBWdUKcxJzdrp-1QmeSd3n_nLU6tQAFamYRGbeCNy3cnQEE8g87DgnO7GOFCZy-SKZnCmmde4e80J0Lg-iEkydzmF9yLwJGGdL5SxFHOc3Nt31pLUcMKHCekoIiWH7ZJMJjtQDw12-f9Gp_6fhX2jNXA20w/s320/IMG_9222.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />Our leader also pointed out this unusual "art work" of nature along the trail, that resemble hiking boots!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUautvHWheCStS8J8KXO986G84LyDJ961EY1_Tqgj8vOWAFoyFyHjlm7aM6y7KzTE6qQ_HwTj9DUl5GDxJxYBfB8ixjiirXtUywwsIZ8R71VkOmfb80-jPv9t_TeJpqTU_-08iuqQsYkzFgks9GTKGBidjRJJ-LHoeKPrBq0UnmDUHYn1b6KuqShE5g/s320/IMG_9218.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This profile photo of a hiker with her two hiking sticks (also called "trekking poles") is a reminder to encourage the use of these walking aids when doing the A.T., as they can help take pressure off your knees as you ascend and descend. Plus, they are very helpful for stability when doing water crossings. <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69Bm4ilIiog9brYuJYMFe1ldChsYBSv2i46r4QTMlIlcwR43aDLbeCUcIdncdks61JPZPPrx-IRo56frEVUIXuc0hvvLQ2zJ1IFBEGIVFNy3ZM_H9nbQGPGBmlw2WnaJRh7fcHqRIof6Ywt9lP-5gUI9B4D-QcIwN1zKdVvtIrrMQFSZ0xE2trZJIeA/s640/IMG_1898.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69Bm4ilIiog9brYuJYMFe1ldChsYBSv2i46r4QTMlIlcwR43aDLbeCUcIdncdks61JPZPPrx-IRo56frEVUIXuc0hvvLQ2zJ1IFBEGIVFNy3ZM_H9nbQGPGBmlw2WnaJRh7fcHqRIof6Ywt9lP-5gUI9B4D-QcIwN1zKdVvtIrrMQFSZ0xE2trZJIeA/s320/IMG_1898.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div>The photo below shows our entire Road Scholar group: <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEbvV-IFzfVW_KJCOslgglvoqW63EZLGfc13tYFgyFhi8l8TVZG7gtCJEpxUH0jloqnNckMu_mcDsSEOnXfEjETUzckqFG8xNCzjawDsxaNQhZXcufOBRpNbWpWz77R_Fj8c5tzvxqbkVmB1FFy3LoBD3i9WtxgjsxsgwncKGIgNqW6WeSTX98yaJaw/s800/IMG_6277.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEbvV-IFzfVW_KJCOslgglvoqW63EZLGfc13tYFgyFhi8l8TVZG7gtCJEpxUH0jloqnNckMu_mcDsSEOnXfEjETUzckqFG8xNCzjawDsxaNQhZXcufOBRpNbWpWz77R_Fj8c5tzvxqbkVmB1FFy3LoBD3i9WtxgjsxsgwncKGIgNqW6WeSTX98yaJaw/s320/IMG_6277.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The group photo of all of us was taken by Bev Richardson, who along with her husband, Rod, had the role of "Host Couple" for our Road Scholar program. They are pictured below, with birthday cake, as we got to celebrate Rod's birthday during our week at the Hinton Center.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbQBWGgxBN3pq5NGOJfmXn55msvySLpMRGt2zR1dJuCQCCDyjddwTTfH0pJwTQ8QJrSdGE0RNGUgeOXX1q82XkLhUI5GcwplIQTfXzG5cVammVwDvy_qbUsJ7PyTm63hKuRKcn2TrGQg40DXZj_BaQX5XX-On7V96HGueBXcg0JuL74VeDKGPAdXKjA/s640/IMG_2005%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbQBWGgxBN3pq5NGOJfmXn55msvySLpMRGt2zR1dJuCQCCDyjddwTTfH0pJwTQ8QJrSdGE0RNGUgeOXX1q82XkLhUI5GcwplIQTfXzG5cVammVwDvy_qbUsJ7PyTm63hKuRKcn2TrGQg40DXZj_BaQX5XX-On7V96HGueBXcg0JuL74VeDKGPAdXKjA/s320/IMG_2005%20(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p> Appalachian Trail guidelines recommend no more than ten people to a group, so each day, we split into two groups of ten each. This photo shows one of the groups of ten, that I was with on the first day.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gzrknC6rGWgkXyHebElRBs9K38rVaxwdYeEiNiveFZyrTfzPz96bY1xBm7VdybcoA7lpHXRw-V_ek155gf21wFJ1XZ3IEtMbTzMTU2zNiZ9IaOFBKZaVqTlXmlUm0eXdhbKgCNq3CojUkoOZhwiWbCNsnbYAeAUfRRG7UDdrHn52oXP1vH8fIYYBKw/s3648/IMG_9110.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gzrknC6rGWgkXyHebElRBs9K38rVaxwdYeEiNiveFZyrTfzPz96bY1xBm7VdybcoA7lpHXRw-V_ek155gf21wFJ1XZ3IEtMbTzMTU2zNiZ9IaOFBKZaVqTlXmlUm0eXdhbKgCNq3CojUkoOZhwiWbCNsnbYAeAUfRRG7UDdrHn52oXP1vH8fIYYBKw/s320/IMG_9110.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />When you are hiking the Appalachian Trail, it is POSSIBLE that there will be a sign as you enter the trail. However, don't count on it!<br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuCtpV_v7Ja8AxkVspuwviS8a7a1ihQCkdC4sSjA1FVIWgGhMFfQjieenp14GW7KXay3r3ySVgffZqA4xtM9nYCMi8I-5ilpp4ZZt50awmgpuFKbLAebazm5t-6Mb5JP8FiQg4vig_OfqvCqmSOET1AbpXPPKMjo0yCK54a2hCdJ2oH4XE1gh2ZsaN0Q/s320/IMG_9109.JPG" width="320" />Some of the trails show a sign on a post at the trail head, with AT standing for Appalachian Trail, and N, standing for North. That is what I am pointing to, in the photo below:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKtqNzt2bDjURp2tzvnfR4uoPVrv9m0ncuEkrz_JniHoSzY2keu9bkK5-ioLWimYAs6PgmowBtuVdZdIv8L0WGHa6bLPtX19G4lX8_DJRS5m_jsJ_5V4sw4xf52h7k9YU56NclhFum1xFRAVJOvpD0c1zVxMh9hkrWMv8u9SI4yTdvE2jHe9XUL4PuA/s640/IMG_1798.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="438" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKtqNzt2bDjURp2tzvnfR4uoPVrv9m0ncuEkrz_JniHoSzY2keu9bkK5-ioLWimYAs6PgmowBtuVdZdIv8L0WGHa6bLPtX19G4lX8_DJRS5m_jsJ_5V4sw4xf52h7k9YU56NclhFum1xFRAVJOvpD0c1zVxMh9hkrWMv8u9SI4yTdvE2jHe9XUL4PuA/s320/IMG_1798.jpg" width="219" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>Most "through hikers" on the A.T., start their trek at the southern end, at Springer Mountain in Georgia. They go in a northerly direction, to where the trail ends in Katahdin, Maine. Signs like the one below are very helpful, but one also needs a paper map to help navigate the numerous twists and turns the trail makes (many necessitated to circumnavigate private property, and keep the hikers on public lands). Skill in using a GPS would also be a valuable asset for backpackers!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmkmM_oa3D4KoYWdZaRs4RPHc8DIxfgiF_RxftYCg7PC6WrD566JjQ3ru-PCEHrefEqvM4mGiHGDKt5EFo2DAmKWlDlVcmYVgE0YXcss4xv2IGbyoAfoN9G5qNsFUd_aM-THVruhu4mL1CXV7-yDpXKbDBvAukHsVhOlMz4jNb9OdtgBGd3xLaK8iRA/s3648/IMG_9073.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmkmM_oa3D4KoYWdZaRs4RPHc8DIxfgiF_RxftYCg7PC6WrD566JjQ3ru-PCEHrefEqvM4mGiHGDKt5EFo2DAmKWlDlVcmYVgE0YXcss4xv2IGbyoAfoN9G5qNsFUd_aM-THVruhu4mL1CXV7-yDpXKbDBvAukHsVhOlMz4jNb9OdtgBGd3xLaK8iRA/s320/IMG_9073.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Since friends I know who backpacked on the A.T. said they preferred to sleep on the exterior of an A.T. shelter, rather than the interior, it made me curious what they looked like, so I was glad that our group was able to take a side trail to examine a shelter:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQJfRLfjEGzXGGwUcc2UqodTOpUoRQIQk9ph2ThnnBWyT1lx56khHW6TDND4cYPIzOUGq6NP80VgLhoXwJgYUhItUn4FRk51gsu6lYNnhAjYqoc_h5J5Mg_U1zE10NfQImrUJijwgaP_ypo0wZPEbURvucB3-tnvo4o3ux9P_fn-fvd3H4KTPjFS35w/s320/IMG_9169.JPG" width="320" />The shelter had an elevated area in the back, (presumably for placing a sleeping bag), a sitting bench, a counter-height bench, a roof, and a concrete floor. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1pMXUm_-x3rH4q4xSjdbJUuEH9YsveaxuwXuG33uJKvi5q8FQtm6x5fCjTf97gBH869NdTZURkDLnKOSbmXXA_XEQK-XCAIHa3GNR09Cshr2V2JbrdVtoRQTK6cBOT4lMHsRat4CtFkj0jDiqEkdmR4woniZY5nBDd5yCTqx5acXHKEjhWZz1ITH8A/s640/IMG_1803.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1pMXUm_-x3rH4q4xSjdbJUuEH9YsveaxuwXuG33uJKvi5q8FQtm6x5fCjTf97gBH869NdTZURkDLnKOSbmXXA_XEQK-XCAIHa3GNR09Cshr2V2JbrdVtoRQTK6cBOT4lMHsRat4CtFkj0jDiqEkdmR4woniZY5nBDd5yCTqx5acXHKEjhWZz1ITH8A/s320/IMG_1803.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>This particular shelter also had a "potty" of sorts, several yards away from the roofed in structure:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSG5eywnbM7G41-HSrm1S9f4KsEHpPr0ldD_SHsz5h2coikx0NYrmdanOVayXCtxFdAM55D9oxXGBrJBOnQPOgTolCLJrfRCIGGkblaYq-oX14DSWkjWDxAyF5C8YhFJxAbjktsDx4l0-dW6e-T8mdHq8CqVseSMb4GHxfz1pbwlKSpKjJA7k31GwnQ/s3648/IMG_9171.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSG5eywnbM7G41-HSrm1S9f4KsEHpPr0ldD_SHsz5h2coikx0NYrmdanOVayXCtxFdAM55D9oxXGBrJBOnQPOgTolCLJrfRCIGGkblaYq-oX14DSWkjWDxAyF5C8YhFJxAbjktsDx4l0-dW6e-T8mdHq8CqVseSMb4GHxfz1pbwlKSpKjJA7k31GwnQ/s320/IMG_9171.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />For the most part, The A.T. trail is marked by white rectangular metal "blazes", nailed to a tree. The blue blazes could indicate a side trail to a shelter for overnight use:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcypT9vbpqyFIZpqI4G63Ll8zCBDt1OHVVrw9sfbFlrYKzEm8ZMXH8btwLgz8TbyH02ZJFeJuMcenLVgFBxWTOJBBZb-ihqJ5NOT0-UKaYqojurtH6R6VuB8HkQ3P6sCFWCo8EH0e7CKAA2uFHr28-3dmAFSNZXxvTbqBhgHIxQ8NIA5qRZMyBnMFSA/s3648/IMG_9261.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcypT9vbpqyFIZpqI4G63Ll8zCBDt1OHVVrw9sfbFlrYKzEm8ZMXH8btwLgz8TbyH02ZJFeJuMcenLVgFBxWTOJBBZb-ihqJ5NOT0-UKaYqojurtH6R6VuB8HkQ3P6sCFWCo8EH0e7CKAA2uFHr28-3dmAFSNZXxvTbqBhgHIxQ8NIA5qRZMyBnMFSA/s320/IMG_9261.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />I used my Fit Bit to record the steps I took each day, and every day was a new personal record for me! The most steps per day I ever logged was 28,143. I was feeling really proud of myself, UNTIL I came across this figure, as I was researching information for this blog: "It takes roughly 5 MILLION steps to hike the entire Appalachian Trail"!! Those numbers reminded me of the verse in the Psalms that talks about "steps". Psalm 37:23 says, "The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him." I was delighted I was able to complete the number of A.T. steps that I did, even though they are a LOOOOOOOOONG way from five million! Making it to four separate summits, on the four days of A.T. hiking, means four photos of me with hands uplifted to God, in gratitude for being able to take the steps needed to make the summit! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuOXWtk1AIHaJTkbBPEb06jy3ESXqwH8udEIF5c7mcGweEmXYG68Jljlk35wjSv8FnushvmsaEbJMKmBLronbaYV7n2gslGbYi5fJa8dYiwU80gjwFrCIPgoUacMuSiPaKT3k36AScbdqYIou-TBFRhxEEG4Riga1El59IdX-GCux4ssb4X7Gu8V274g/s640/IMG_2176.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="640" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuOXWtk1AIHaJTkbBPEb06jy3ESXqwH8udEIF5c7mcGweEmXYG68Jljlk35wjSv8FnushvmsaEbJMKmBLronbaYV7n2gslGbYi5fJa8dYiwU80gjwFrCIPgoUacMuSiPaKT3k36AScbdqYIou-TBFRhxEEG4Riga1El59IdX-GCux4ssb4X7Gu8V274g/s320/IMG_2176.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>One reason I was so joyous about participating in the 2022 program is because so many of our hikes were cancelled when I did the same program in 2017. However, one aspect of both programs included a visit to the Wayah Crest area. Hence, I was able to get my photo with the same sign, but with me five years older, in one of the photos!:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU79KZ2lylPrwzS8UchLzZARUxeE8Pe3ArChwihBK3UXQm7IsgZPxh3bkWzlqUTprPJQqMv37a_zs6ulOBT_ATA7Wb910R8p6HipweLceD4DbLzr-nsEYuUU4Jml5K-If25KCCVXnK-LumEPdqD8OO1ZTKjWP-r3vlhL_zS1V-8CdYORdbazzozlR-6w/s640/IMG_2175%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="491" data-original-width="640" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU79KZ2lylPrwzS8UchLzZARUxeE8Pe3ArChwihBK3UXQm7IsgZPxh3bkWzlqUTprPJQqMv37a_zs6ulOBT_ATA7Wb910R8p6HipweLceD4DbLzr-nsEYuUU4Jml5K-If25KCCVXnK-LumEPdqD8OO1ZTKjWP-r3vlhL_zS1V-8CdYORdbazzozlR-6w/s320/IMG_2175%20(2).jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />To find out more about the Appalachian Trail, check out the website for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (www.appalachiantrail.org) and the National Park Service ( www.nps.gov).<br /> I am thankful for every step I was able to take on the Appalachian Trail for this program, and it gave me "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><br /> <br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-80450740736058542252022-11-01T11:31:00.001-05:002022-11-02T11:37:45.131-05:00SILVER FALLS STATE PARK EXPEDITION!<p><br /></p><p>Silver Falls State Park is located near Silverton, Oregon, which is about twenty miles southeast of Oregon's capitol city of Salem. It is the largest state park in Oregon, with an area of about 9,000 acres.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnL9nCpuJrY1DDZzR4hismtPOB4F6AIkfr7RsRBLk4J1uwfmu3TTODC3BveLV_uTrUjZfWECUSDA5ywLqjbOCNYOX_oUKuugKeZ8nAj9C6yofUeghYH-LQC3UhFjuPFukzCcraY2qYWy8tMqEiCj8HtVi2jPMeCmg0ujE0ybziZkSCO5r5nseKKsP0FA/s3648/IMG_8212.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnL9nCpuJrY1DDZzR4hismtPOB4F6AIkfr7RsRBLk4J1uwfmu3TTODC3BveLV_uTrUjZfWECUSDA5ywLqjbOCNYOX_oUKuugKeZ8nAj9C6yofUeghYH-LQC3UhFjuPFukzCcraY2qYWy8tMqEiCj8HtVi2jPMeCmg0ujE0ybziZkSCO5r5nseKKsP0FA/s320/IMG_8212.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />About six months before my visit, I had gone to their lodging reservation site (www.reserveamerica.com) to rent a cabin, in hopes that family members living near there, would be able to meet up with me at the park. Sadly, those family members developed COVID, and were still in their quarantine period on the night the cabin was reserved. So I was on my own for exploring this new-to-me destination!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Z-HklSMXh9HFsZtd8aK0bMKjoPk0BfHWL9jz9O6GWO6YfLsjkDDOC-2ZdiymopAbrvpPxAXcEC76v5sUtaSv3uRR4PcI628-iiNfkVEylgBPeg-x1oOcDcXbaEPNrHa9ivzM2RKzpkH7lvOg5B_Uma__mF0slnReHl0ZNqTOPCE9FooE5vszXzZ4Qw/s3648/IMG_8221.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Z-HklSMXh9HFsZtd8aK0bMKjoPk0BfHWL9jz9O6GWO6YfLsjkDDOC-2ZdiymopAbrvpPxAXcEC76v5sUtaSv3uRR4PcI628-iiNfkVEylgBPeg-x1oOcDcXbaEPNrHa9ivzM2RKzpkH7lvOg5B_Uma__mF0slnReHl0ZNqTOPCE9FooE5vszXzZ4Qw/s320/IMG_8221.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />As soon as I scoped out the cabin location, I headed to the main parking lot, for the hiking I wanted to do, on the Trail of Ten Falls. The photo shows the kiosk where one needs to purchase their parking permit, and this can be done with a credit card. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhktQXV30FKkPeF0hMgIKHgzUcWCdGHrBo7IPo6F-0B7zLqQEfr9O1Axl2EpQtJpOpsUm1o1VygKW9iGLXJtxUOh7sXlvrSrELW7ChP5UeQvIcQDYMJeTaf0Q8_ENTUqmcOtJyq8J2aj2qS1fqkgeg8mrjXCqwsY-zbx_OPzVSy8K3to5yhoj4r5tkwyg/s3648/IMG_8225.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhktQXV30FKkPeF0hMgIKHgzUcWCdGHrBo7IPo6F-0B7zLqQEfr9O1Axl2EpQtJpOpsUm1o1VygKW9iGLXJtxUOh7sXlvrSrELW7ChP5UeQvIcQDYMJeTaf0Q8_ENTUqmcOtJyq8J2aj2qS1fqkgeg8mrjXCqwsY-zbx_OPzVSy8K3to5yhoj4r5tkwyg/s320/IMG_8225.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>On the way to the trailhead, one will pass this historic structure, now known as the Silver Falls State Park Concession Building Area. It was originally called simply, "Silver Falls Lodge". It was started in 1934, and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. In 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced that the Silver Falls area would be turned into a Recreational Demonstration Area.. This was a program during the 1930's run by the National Park Service that built 46 public parks, in twenty-four states, chiefly near urban areas. The NPS used labor from a variety of Great Depression federal relief programs, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps and the Works Progress Administration, to build these recreational demonstration areas. This building's architectural style is called "National Park Service Rustic", sometimes called "Parkitecture".<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixt8QiuOW8t6gkkg1QvPw_0wGa0-ifbEShs7WfkzlK8CsqrU0NjrSt0BdrP80smC8n38FYJPiuh8IaaDNHLTg1Rp_NlRFo1br-frfWy7KDYtvaBZxMSKrlnSZWiRg-zgOwCEd5kbAxRb9XkZ27DaH7cfOhqF16CfCOcOS_bNzfNrMmNKsBVCwbrF11Q/s3648/IMG_8227.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjixt8QiuOW8t6gkkg1QvPw_0wGa0-ifbEShs7WfkzlK8CsqrU0NjrSt0BdrP80smC8n38FYJPiuh8IaaDNHLTg1Rp_NlRFo1br-frfWy7KDYtvaBZxMSKrlnSZWiRg-zgOwCEd5kbAxRb9XkZ27DaH7cfOhqF16CfCOcOS_bNzfNrMmNKsBVCwbrF11Q/s320/IMG_8227.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The goal of "Parkitecture" is to create buildings whose interiors and exteriors, harmonize with the natural environment. By the end of World War II, the recreational demonstration areas had all either become National Park Service units, or been given to their states for use as state parks, which was the case for Silver Falls. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFzULFdlNBVGvxXwWK_hHh8-iQxQYySqxkr8ZXN-bxrU7RgN8QLGEGM2yw9pkkJ3X2SDmrHhUiykhxVF5130DnT8XYEgoWue-p6GJmr5v-ETFGMDJdNpFYPFA_rL70P4TCVvlTz2NP9baRZ06dDOhGns3u5pvKQ-PD5VxAR5AwVbRsCzhfF1I1focKkQ/s3648/IMG_8233.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFzULFdlNBVGvxXwWK_hHh8-iQxQYySqxkr8ZXN-bxrU7RgN8QLGEGM2yw9pkkJ3X2SDmrHhUiykhxVF5130DnT8XYEgoWue-p6GJmr5v-ETFGMDJdNpFYPFA_rL70P4TCVvlTz2NP9baRZ06dDOhGns3u5pvKQ-PD5VxAR5AwVbRsCzhfF1I1focKkQ/s320/IMG_8233.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The South Falls theater shows how native stone and native wood can blend into the landscape, more than a starkly modern, neon-colored structure would. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisE1VTEDDdIoXNuIAXisz0q8pYqZdV8U3AW6y2Am6fgkyxX1tKE8YtmiEg4UNljVZUTnrbInavD6iSiGpRn0NKlKqaur6GB6JRrybPWAY28wClCmariYVynV0IAiWdPv6K6iFTsfWbkoNBa4L3gnkENbJRQfsydrGHvgzFJmAShkLsE-u5iokKv7vtIQ/s3648/IMG_8238.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisE1VTEDDdIoXNuIAXisz0q8pYqZdV8U3AW6y2Am6fgkyxX1tKE8YtmiEg4UNljVZUTnrbInavD6iSiGpRn0NKlKqaur6GB6JRrybPWAY28wClCmariYVynV0IAiWdPv6K6iFTsfWbkoNBa4L3gnkENbJRQfsydrGHvgzFJmAShkLsE-u5iokKv7vtIQ/s320/IMG_8238.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Inside the South Falls theater, there was a wonderful display of native wildflowers and plants, with the names and descriptions, accompanying each clear glass display vase. As a certified Arkansas Master Naturalist (www.arkansasmasternaturalists.org), I have a great appreciation for the amount of work that must have gone into preparing this exhibit! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-98_fZptyWWnh8-qbpxnhyFHm3Lr1H-VwJkBcdEzgysijfd08TCp7lOzZBjXdnxcooaW_Wiu1X9cN2gnpwA2Yv1f3UGliRTOjnwi1jM3yEJlpD1eW5Mv1FcYxHwVyBub3Ald2D1_zQVf_sS5AsXVLWSNvR72q7A46874tB6BwCH_bFWKXtTrcZIpig/s3648/IMG_8244.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-98_fZptyWWnh8-qbpxnhyFHm3Lr1H-VwJkBcdEzgysijfd08TCp7lOzZBjXdnxcooaW_Wiu1X9cN2gnpwA2Yv1f3UGliRTOjnwi1jM3yEJlpD1eW5Mv1FcYxHwVyBub3Ald2D1_zQVf_sS5AsXVLWSNvR72q7A46874tB6BwCH_bFWKXtTrcZIpig/s320/IMG_8244.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I made a slight detour from my path to the trail head, to visit the Silver Falls Nature Store. My goal was to purchase a souvenir metal hiking stick medallion, and I was delighted to find out they had them in stock! Of course, there was also myriad of additonal souvenir items, snacks, and camping supplies. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHlzG2kUySIVK8VQm4eP8_b01C8aMXCu6uiVdQLH__MJHxsezVQmlYxQj5tsx3pfKqziEhUClejZ7oTF5og5IhIdMIsCfMlh3qOebwllz4Fj0zklh8c1C3P1Y-dyEWvhatOa8tQ7Q53L2cm8tvZ04kSBiLB3G2PX0sPYnrfzE10c_RfxJZwMPx7jqGQ/s320/IMG_8249.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yKht__k0KgwywDFOz0kBnB8-LOwJmsugRPLF5WgA_8731bJBy73hkVbY_dUeINMdOmh6Tv1MFyqi3erDLU_iegYZxEa4qS79rsYZgZbGkeOeKLkgCFUZE1DRGUptwPd2ow0Ah4lxOEmfUu4PDQ0OlVSZedih4QzB9QqASMjbZrqWxOnLn_-2ri7E6Q/s774/IMG_9602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yKht__k0KgwywDFOz0kBnB8-LOwJmsugRPLF5WgA_8731bJBy73hkVbY_dUeINMdOmh6Tv1MFyqi3erDLU_iegYZxEa4qS79rsYZgZbGkeOeKLkgCFUZE1DRGUptwPd2ow0Ah4lxOEmfUu4PDQ0OlVSZedih4QzB9QqASMjbZrqWxOnLn_-2ri7E6Q/s320/IMG_9602.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br />Next I started on the path that was the beginning of the Trail of Ten Waterfalls, and within just a few feet, I could see one of the viewing areas for the mighty and majestic South Falls. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWmDkuYT047FOVK5kssClsx7nqfwlaLSBftNISq8Sfko6jlH8or6_SuvPHeIepnlf_6hEmnr62bHjTV206MjtB7hk948NHsjyTj6bbXcDDLRGr6Ij3JIhH61AMOisJIP8oHq9WivzGP7YKqbL7f5AdovCrj_Ew5E6xzgWz_p6zLPtwR7MzrdYbDcSEGg/s320/IMG_8255.JPG" width="240" />When I made it to the view point, where tourists were taking turns getting a photo in front of the falls, I was so happy to be at this long awaited location, I lifted my arms in gratitude!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRlRmxwMEV8auFQk2FmW0CR0FJS_o7q00hZSjYmb8O9iYJhun7ZRMDHCYlor11_K0dcU0T29bQa3WYWAkWpxMA0KsCWgd6sviqzeWSoQ695mDIh_J0-oqYGHj_nzUi4M9gPk5MTwZ65oys5wmbhfjOKL3mvbfD2GNPaebrQb8u6MROzPJR6jLL4NkDyw/s640/IMG_8070.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRlRmxwMEV8auFQk2FmW0CR0FJS_o7q00hZSjYmb8O9iYJhun7ZRMDHCYlor11_K0dcU0T29bQa3WYWAkWpxMA0KsCWgd6sviqzeWSoQ695mDIh_J0-oqYGHj_nzUi4M9gPk5MTwZ65oys5wmbhfjOKL3mvbfD2GNPaebrQb8u6MROzPJR6jLL4NkDyw/s320/IMG_8070.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /></div>I have visited waterfalls in other states where I was able to walk underneath the falls, but none of them had such well-designed pathways, complete with wood and/or stone railings. The South Falls is a 177-foot cascade, has an average flow rate of 75 cu ft/s, and is the park's most visited waterfall. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzVXZCiK1sSZ7Z5DSwoAf745wR9LiDkgRgRvU328KxeVwEEVyQpQucRV80FM99krIHzyFmz5cfecconos9XnpNfGnWY2wNl7phRU2f23jErHyhwfogsWaxVEmM4LSyVPg9ttV8F7LQaK9-5baP3LNB_aXa2ExVGePOT9P1p6aW_HjXIzcZxZ_-fvDHxg/s3648/IMG_8259.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzVXZCiK1sSZ7Z5DSwoAf745wR9LiDkgRgRvU328KxeVwEEVyQpQucRV80FM99krIHzyFmz5cfecconos9XnpNfGnWY2wNl7phRU2f23jErHyhwfogsWaxVEmM4LSyVPg9ttV8F7LQaK9-5baP3LNB_aXa2ExVGePOT9P1p6aW_HjXIzcZxZ_-fvDHxg/s320/IMG_8259.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />I read stories that said before this was a state park, a local entrepreneur sold admission to the falls area, with attractions such as pushing cars over the falls, and even hosting a stunt, with a daredevil riding over in a canoe. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOky-gus5MwVxiUghBOmTdD9m9KWKtU5JLUacmn6_EJcFNlkqJfsShDVXxdbWy53PJ1OUJq1wc3nCQJPGVTPNtWP_0pW_tKMPfc7pRcADrr2O0vBht9WoNhA5dM0pd4gSURzfRBCsWAx6Wrrv6c8vUWxa2X_IuAsGGHNKp0DjHvnkXPkm88NUc4HJSpQ/s3648/IMG_8260.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOky-gus5MwVxiUghBOmTdD9m9KWKtU5JLUacmn6_EJcFNlkqJfsShDVXxdbWy53PJ1OUJq1wc3nCQJPGVTPNtWP_0pW_tKMPfc7pRcADrr2O0vBht9WoNhA5dM0pd4gSURzfRBCsWAx6Wrrv6c8vUWxa2X_IuAsGGHNKp0DjHvnkXPkm88NUc4HJSpQ/s320/IMG_8260.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Around 1900, a Silverton photographer, named June D. Drake, began to campaign for park status, using his photographs of the falls, to gain support. However, in 1926, an inspector for the National Park Service rejected the area for national park status, because of the numerous unattractive stumps left, after years of logging. Thankfully, a decade later, the area did finally come under government protection. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dlO0ZmRaW5uXFxUKTWddpJnssx7HtR0Q6Gsv6c1yObX--auQddmqXB1AwKVwOLimHmP1neH05V5I77bqmMB4fR60c8vTdthIrN5fqBEsR_8aw_fvccuLuxS2KK0IBpILhiPpPq0M_WnE0-slmnOQPrftNgy7EWC3DMuk3hPDgY32yIpUJcZDlKK25A/s3648/IMG_8265.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dlO0ZmRaW5uXFxUKTWddpJnssx7HtR0Q6Gsv6c1yObX--auQddmqXB1AwKVwOLimHmP1neH05V5I77bqmMB4fR60c8vTdthIrN5fqBEsR_8aw_fvccuLuxS2KK0IBpILhiPpPq0M_WnE0-slmnOQPrftNgy7EWC3DMuk3hPDgY32yIpUJcZDlKK25A/s320/IMG_8265.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />The Trail of Ten Falls is not wheel-chair accessible, although I did see one couple with a stroller enjoying the scenery with their toddler, near the beginning of the trail. No other strollers were seen the rest of my hike. (It should be noted, that the mom and dad were carrying it over several spots along the trail, rather than bouncing their stoller-bound child on the very rocky surfaces.)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAp47dvwqfMkn01uNECbEeAh1TD5rvWhqxDivFMwtBPdjf7MCdpKGF01GenalBUL-GGkISPLRwWS22TsT3ikijBCwaOg93pf835WgkhybaOvhp3QVfCe-yCoLaiQFnGWrsPYbQGfLB0AI_vojfy0-l124R8O3bPxg_qviLpmt2v5BO4DAodnkgb8LDmQ/s3648/IMG_8269.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAp47dvwqfMkn01uNECbEeAh1TD5rvWhqxDivFMwtBPdjf7MCdpKGF01GenalBUL-GGkISPLRwWS22TsT3ikijBCwaOg93pf835WgkhybaOvhp3QVfCe-yCoLaiQFnGWrsPYbQGfLB0AI_vojfy0-l124R8O3bPxg_qviLpmt2v5BO4DAodnkgb8LDmQ/s320/IMG_8269.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After the bridge that crossed South Fork Creek, the trail made its way beside the creek, and between massive evergreen trees.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfhvjUfJBbzuuC5O2FdTKNyZ6lHp2dO_RwxrwoL-WYOlbJHxykyJ-Y3Sd41gP7bLNcQHv2IrCnvK5ne9zKjjMTybazB9g8J3Pz0UefTWdX_FQMb-EAJe0cPBDFJee7kfzfFibu-Ybm7bGTbrrq-dhepCVp8WW6djU__qG6PnEcDitwZ2LW2nmCNvgwUQ/s3648/IMG_8274.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfhvjUfJBbzuuC5O2FdTKNyZ6lHp2dO_RwxrwoL-WYOlbJHxykyJ-Y3Sd41gP7bLNcQHv2IrCnvK5ne9zKjjMTybazB9g8J3Pz0UefTWdX_FQMb-EAJe0cPBDFJee7kfzfFibu-Ybm7bGTbrrq-dhepCVp8WW6djU__qG6PnEcDitwZ2LW2nmCNvgwUQ/s320/IMG_8274.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />If you have an area with ten waterfalls, then you can assume that means there are several areas of extreme elevation changes to navigate! Fortunately, the CCC and WPA built stairs that made this possible, without the need for rockclimbing gear!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI1_8nTCNzQssVW5JErj7GrQyT4HEG-uOvONJdb0LQOdVJvIKNBzzF8o2Gw9Xx-VLqaqdjXMAFpHsQZZgzqrwv8TvkW9fiugfjyRd-DrX_HR88tMo-E8P2TfkRgW1g2XSdL-66a3ItrxoYzzt0Tema1f31HtB6c1CYJyy2gDfrEDM11P8MSPgwWKR0cQ/s320/IMG_8277.JPG" width="320" />This was my first time to see a hiker with a hula hoop! I asked her what it was for, and she replied, "FUN!"<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4GxuyMBmu1XtTyASBVXa4DIe9ETQON1hlJ6RtLxUMISSYV8gZv4OkOWH6xUF8WsWhykDxCqqYAPetWlkEvHIsMJoXGdiK48LSNlNrIJE5Q4NJycyTqTFfaMAtUl4mn5tv6kAu_apQJ_vA7YUEE8ZYI6c7HEOUq5xk2Rpz1yLmaF1zRcYKpPzp8NBiA/s640/IMG_8110.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4GxuyMBmu1XtTyASBVXa4DIe9ETQON1hlJ6RtLxUMISSYV8gZv4OkOWH6xUF8WsWhykDxCqqYAPetWlkEvHIsMJoXGdiK48LSNlNrIJE5Q4NJycyTqTFfaMAtUl4mn5tv6kAu_apQJ_vA7YUEE8ZYI6c7HEOUq5xk2Rpz1yLmaF1zRcYKpPzp8NBiA/s320/IMG_8110.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><br />There is another set of stairs that leads to the Lower South Falls, which has a height of 93 feet..<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVVIRVr0Nv0mylYr6ZlTuYSqbLH8xBIUjZkxdGIwx5qzrKdBgr0clPgq0FMrR-no5zOfgausAwuVePa_M0VOdUPxRs2nc2SH2Ogy2vzrvHjUqCykwuQzmzqDE4Vv30_mwHItR1h5hWjWM354E0kk_263_n_MHxBB1acn86HB1UqV2jKLwJpdRwtq4WWg/s3648/IMG_8280.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVVIRVr0Nv0mylYr6ZlTuYSqbLH8xBIUjZkxdGIwx5qzrKdBgr0clPgq0FMrR-no5zOfgausAwuVePa_M0VOdUPxRs2nc2SH2Ogy2vzrvHjUqCykwuQzmzqDE4Vv30_mwHItR1h5hWjWM354E0kk_263_n_MHxBB1acn86HB1UqV2jKLwJpdRwtq4WWg/s320/IMG_8280.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Lower South Falls is one of four waterfalls in the park, that has an "amphitheater-like" formation underneath it, which allows visitors to walk behind the falls. Can you see the people underneath Lower South Falls?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgD6lKUdMZPRfHTOGxXaTMQihzfz9kPyLr9RSoVzoKVlUtamL75unbzOpNub1SyhIlTLIYKFcf1be5MqZGKdR61rEJMZjXz4eyGrx_0dNJHFVmEjqgCww3khHGNt61SNLAkPBX3Hql4rdASgtBSJEZArOkvfIO1oBt-Ypcnk1VH_BH9dyrbu0EPhEUtw/s3648/IMG_8284.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgD6lKUdMZPRfHTOGxXaTMQihzfz9kPyLr9RSoVzoKVlUtamL75unbzOpNub1SyhIlTLIYKFcf1be5MqZGKdR61rEJMZjXz4eyGrx_0dNJHFVmEjqgCww3khHGNt61SNLAkPBX3Hql4rdASgtBSJEZArOkvfIO1oBt-Ypcnk1VH_BH9dyrbu0EPhEUtw/s320/IMG_8284.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Several creeks gush their way through the narrow canyon, often causing the hiking trail to be muddy in some low-lying locations.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhziYZaMXjsls9GE8pRuKUew1kvFSEtNB-GxIjuAwK925wetAh5O1tldEdMHOOrGrUXhGAkttn9ToxSFV-TzVH5OzmaxvuME2W7S49M2OJJopNh3j9LTdIEIpW3WOqXCzvFvC-oBOfey5ss2Vkn0p67YSbKO0fPIAl1-amyvFPHEdUGdPspLlYlXcn36w/s3648/IMG_8289.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhziYZaMXjsls9GE8pRuKUew1kvFSEtNB-GxIjuAwK925wetAh5O1tldEdMHOOrGrUXhGAkttn9ToxSFV-TzVH5OzmaxvuME2W7S49M2OJJopNh3j9LTdIEIpW3WOqXCzvFvC-oBOfey5ss2Vkn0p67YSbKO0fPIAl1-amyvFPHEdUGdPspLlYlXcn36w/s320/IMG_8289.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>There are no "Golden Arches" along the trail, but this arching evergreen tree provided a nice archway that I could easily pass under. Taller folks would probably need to bend over a bit.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTuHMLolEeHH09K1mtgqUYfVHtQlEyQZcYnatbpCi9RXZ3kb13H9qLW0IoRwplk7MNux2UXYfULYz_chGV-2NJ2QCZVzJuAvqn64Gk_WLVW-d9PcsqgRZw2vOkRnrZ3UH_amCa2fL1UTbtfhSgrsfWq-0JmJpsunhrSogfKg65lHNvfGhMZbxnTGNOg/s3648/IMG_8295.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRTuHMLolEeHH09K1mtgqUYfVHtQlEyQZcYnatbpCi9RXZ3kb13H9qLW0IoRwplk7MNux2UXYfULYz_chGV-2NJ2QCZVzJuAvqn64Gk_WLVW-d9PcsqgRZw2vOkRnrZ3UH_amCa2fL1UTbtfhSgrsfWq-0JmJpsunhrSogfKg65lHNvfGhMZbxnTGNOg/s320/IMG_8295.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This photo shows another one of the ten falls, that is formed from the run-off of a small tributary creek into the canyon. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQ4Y4jfQPJnNYN6GnZXUrr8kArJnaBKmxdSTeZ-2PUOtGq9d6krFxOAQ4eV1r1a2vKZQCpWvJ0_OIZBuPywZoIVCFg2qCRDyFyfqJfe_O6xJwi8qpm4PtTrM8U54E4OdeB0fUNCWR0lK6UC2Pcc3vmCeihOND1Scov3YuL-hAm7J6fM2sZr6eDZDO7g/s3648/IMG_8303.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQ4Y4jfQPJnNYN6GnZXUrr8kArJnaBKmxdSTeZ-2PUOtGq9d6krFxOAQ4eV1r1a2vKZQCpWvJ0_OIZBuPywZoIVCFg2qCRDyFyfqJfe_O6xJwi8qpm4PtTrM8U54E4OdeB0fUNCWR0lK6UC2Pcc3vmCeihOND1Scov3YuL-hAm7J6fM2sZr6eDZDO7g/s320/IMG_8303.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />Notice a bridge has been built across the top of the waterfall in photo below. It is called Drake Falls.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicLSk2IKmGIcIxpRU4fy5eN4MaLPOTgJxkPLr1SAAkuICUnzilYSHz-lOA1FEAcpXiBWCGNbuYdFvAQA20iKpuxhVHDgWxcTfhEIlqRGb2tqJMpe5zO-nr4XXYs7YWxq1PPmWZ25bJiYnbBHSE7Nn_F3pn1SCf_Pfkx_R4M4_1wYLVx2mQZSER3xLDug/s320/IMG_8311.JPG" width="320" />Since Drake Falls was named after a photographer who promoted the park, I wanted to have my picture made with it! (See below) Drake Falls is called a "Plunge Type" waterfall, and has a height of 27 feet. Its average flow rate is 100 cu ft/s , and is the smallest of the ten waterfalls along the Trail of Ten Falls. If you reach Drake Falls, you know you have hiked a bit over two miles, past Lower South Falls.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim1myVMGjBGcrWu019ZbX09ak4F-m5eBVU1-QxZkseluJqJfc2JvVKXs4Wq6mCuAfvoE9oXY98AoT4Hvh9Q5_fFjfXeWMJ7BOXMzAKO77oo5qJC840xpGHIrXEIPrwKvQ8K91TrdRLzbOkWZUSi-DCK9SNsu1D04ikD-exbf8GYUT9Cw__VRpUtTJQng/s640/IMG_8104.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim1myVMGjBGcrWu019ZbX09ak4F-m5eBVU1-QxZkseluJqJfc2JvVKXs4Wq6mCuAfvoE9oXY98AoT4Hvh9Q5_fFjfXeWMJ7BOXMzAKO77oo5qJC840xpGHIrXEIPrwKvQ8K91TrdRLzbOkWZUSi-DCK9SNsu1D04ikD-exbf8GYUT9Cw__VRpUtTJQng/s320/IMG_8104.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div>A "long shot" view of yet another one of the ten waterfalls in the park:. (I have to admit, I lost track of which fall I was seeing at some of the locations, even thought the trail map listed all of them in sequence. I wanted to experience looking at the actual flows, instead of a written guide, telling me the statistics of each flow!)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfwquwzg8foEW1nuTHLWvPDB76mG3xPDDTUTVJzCCPSjVJqZYdASF9HV7DBsf7me9NvMNAO8phV0XmVXfy0q_f03mQmZqJZ084oB_JN0ID_Qr_4odEE3SnHvalNMLpSOucdoaV5h4OJNofLkcHXdm9E_vNRlyGcUn570aWYok2BNlc9axzIVX93TCfig/s3648/IMG_8319.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfwquwzg8foEW1nuTHLWvPDB76mG3xPDDTUTVJzCCPSjVJqZYdASF9HV7DBsf7me9NvMNAO8phV0XmVXfy0q_f03mQmZqJZ084oB_JN0ID_Qr_4odEE3SnHvalNMLpSOucdoaV5h4OJNofLkcHXdm9E_vNRlyGcUn570aWYok2BNlc9axzIVX93TCfig/s320/IMG_8319.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />I was also concentrating on NOT missing the sign leading to the WinterFalls Trailhead, because that is the "cut-off", that would make my hike about seven miles long, instead of about eleven miles long. My plan was to complete the hike that would include the North Falls location, on the next morning.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV2DWUT-8zfF5wSRHCrq5RzGZAaV6TXo7qfE2dNJm33ggIwvwQmJIOGJKZGuDIFYI-kosmFsoe8pgClPGhRxOS1QPzHNW0ffhk9b5ID0EFkEhalD0immFCfmxPe2rUQxNkx25kAvzFeEk0TSYlyRAs91JEUN2zKgLnC459wWzXT0bi8gmILxNRRT4r1w/s3648/IMG_8326.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV2DWUT-8zfF5wSRHCrq5RzGZAaV6TXo7qfE2dNJm33ggIwvwQmJIOGJKZGuDIFYI-kosmFsoe8pgClPGhRxOS1QPzHNW0ffhk9b5ID0EFkEhalD0immFCfmxPe2rUQxNkx25kAvzFeEk0TSYlyRAs91JEUN2zKgLnC459wWzXT0bi8gmILxNRRT4r1w/s320/IMG_8326.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />Winter Falls has a height of 134 feet, yet it is not the tallest in the park. It has an average flow rate of 100 cu ft/s . In researching information about this park, I learned there are several different types of waterfalls: Plunge; Horsetail; Cataract; Multi-step; Block, Cascade; Segmented; Tiered; Punchbowl; Fan, and Ephemeral. Definitions of these various classifications can be seen on Wikipedia (www.wikipedia.org)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3qex5H03g3LZXH7TByPAQkgXTCcAjTckvvHr1lESTEfNc5rk0WpimHEja0Nmuvc9K_iSfndkKEJw5NzdWfBS3Yn5HZtruK6U4m7ktO0iJ7BR2Zm6N0L8BSGpQS26VwLsY23UUYSwel7yEGPX7ICjEVAH6x-jfX0RgXmuZObY9hgIyVZZ9U5veJUI9A/s3648/IMG_8329.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3qex5H03g3LZXH7TByPAQkgXTCcAjTckvvHr1lESTEfNc5rk0WpimHEja0Nmuvc9K_iSfndkKEJw5NzdWfBS3Yn5HZtruK6U4m7ktO0iJ7BR2Zm6N0L8BSGpQS26VwLsY23UUYSwel7yEGPX7ICjEVAH6x-jfX0RgXmuZObY9hgIyVZZ9U5veJUI9A/s320/IMG_8329.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>As I started my ascent out of the steep canyon, the trail has many switchbacks to "soften/decrease" the angle of climbing!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxdmmdl0TkK8qV5ylILj6c4FGxynZMQ4W4rIlI65MUcm81vP2xgDfs1KLHunKz0s3Nct-SMGH8jMwu_nFoPLbchp4sLWc9NGPG5zzEIexatkLl2GIqsQj8RGIO_hDiqVAO33iyUmXFkK3MCmbVOMUjFlpDbVaj_V4iD1deHnw03xOHVkX0HGbOOgd8A/s320/IMG_8331.JPG" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As I reached the higher elevations, the trail began to flatten out, and there was more the feel of a rain forest, than what one experiences at the bottom of the canyon. Notice the trees are shrouded in moss, and ferns are abundant.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4_6PZey8g2T-y6icZSEThaSkuc6kkWV33C-z9w2kLUrWkH8SdABCE9XaB_MdDiljRan7U8_2fTYEzPxdO0NSRuW9oBflrrSvBURXNVyKzQgUYuQkb4BONsXjGOER9x2DCem7ShH9w9XTZVjL4-G-sVHi6Eo2DmNeEq-vhDbyYiMuLVdo_fbaZsk4cQ/s3648/IMG_8335.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4_6PZey8g2T-y6icZSEThaSkuc6kkWV33C-z9w2kLUrWkH8SdABCE9XaB_MdDiljRan7U8_2fTYEzPxdO0NSRuW9oBflrrSvBURXNVyKzQgUYuQkb4BONsXjGOER9x2DCem7ShH9w9XTZVjL4-G-sVHi6Eo2DmNeEq-vhDbyYiMuLVdo_fbaZsk4cQ/s320/IMG_8335.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br />I could tell I was getting close to the lodge area, when the trail turned from dirt to bricks. This paved trail took me back to the parking lot, where my car was awaiting!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTib_pAgb_3jO9OTLacxcCaOB8g3ixKmxc_Z5bRQa4h0cDkPXFz5KomGaE24NGWL1YCvaPra7mFzt8021UwCrSdexMUwyJuWGxZMUMDGIZPQcb_2qvYYLQdZanlMvbUmzvmWNb-6mH1K62OVcGvnQLgpTiDbVNDray0_JemotUiXWxnyOGjhkGHw_bxA/s3648/IMG_8340.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTib_pAgb_3jO9OTLacxcCaOB8g3ixKmxc_Z5bRQa4h0cDkPXFz5KomGaE24NGWL1YCvaPra7mFzt8021UwCrSdexMUwyJuWGxZMUMDGIZPQcb_2qvYYLQdZanlMvbUmzvmWNb-6mH1K62OVcGvnQLgpTiDbVNDray0_JemotUiXWxnyOGjhkGHw_bxA/s320/IMG_8340.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Now that I was able to get into my rental cabin, I snapped a few photos, before I had it completely covered with my hiking gear, sleeping bag, and luggage strewn everywhere! I enjoyed a quiet and restful sleep there, and awoke the next morning ready to have another trek into the park.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIeyPne-j82lid2mSGKcmLzEPWH7iVxjMfNZ5EpUmRSfv9HeTaxu37ivqqA1b6YXQPTYhjOJOQ_ay6WjjL5RH81UPgqITAxn296WGJBcbLMfpl0sdBVfU9MOJcNkKJ2abm3snB_ndnxdaXcJKY5ZIG9iUo-Tew0MCPliL8CDqJQH6bZaDJO-DDo6NR5g/s3648/IMG_8346.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIeyPne-j82lid2mSGKcmLzEPWH7iVxjMfNZ5EpUmRSfv9HeTaxu37ivqqA1b6YXQPTYhjOJOQ_ay6WjjL5RH81UPgqITAxn296WGJBcbLMfpl0sdBVfU9MOJcNkKJ2abm3snB_ndnxdaXcJKY5ZIG9iUo-Tew0MCPliL8CDqJQH6bZaDJO-DDo6NR5g/s320/IMG_8346.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />However, the weather did not cooperate, so I decided to explore the remaining areas of Silver Falls State Park, by car---rather than on foot---since a steady downpour of rain was making it evident why everything here is so green!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-wLZUesrBBmQa3qAPyseXidTva6dYrfJJ-NCRI12sfhYDT0YPgL2aeWiLZ-3P0kfKGcke9xO-T8jE3FOfWNFycyOcQeiB0vWmouBVIrFVp17rbUHboCz9CpZLEtMPX2XmT2guYkIzZ00_Q3YvJY4XbNk8DEqq58W51_6h1Ye03Z-QJZiiNdjNhASTWg/s3648/IMG_8358.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-wLZUesrBBmQa3qAPyseXidTva6dYrfJJ-NCRI12sfhYDT0YPgL2aeWiLZ-3P0kfKGcke9xO-T8jE3FOfWNFycyOcQeiB0vWmouBVIrFVp17rbUHboCz9CpZLEtMPX2XmT2guYkIzZ00_Q3YvJY4XbNk8DEqq58W51_6h1Ye03Z-QJZiiNdjNhASTWg/s320/IMG_8358.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Although I did not get to hike to North Falls, there is an excellent view point I was able to drive to, for the photograph below. North Falls is 65 feet in height, with an average flow rate of 100 cu ft/s .<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg--Ql-HPLa8RIrAo4vX0-sgo1QYKCivQbA41EN5Yyk8aJEXq0WTvve1EWGjDyna1IIKqArU-5IR9s7TJVhViRYB1dPr7CXW8w1OmfT_Q8A0jnGsNdCQn8hhtGjBVzDmOWVy9_mgfQLJfbhx-qR4m3XJuBC91uCBpd0chVclH67I_Yw3FO-_LtCSYdZEA/s3648/IMG_8361.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2736" data-original-width="3648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg--Ql-HPLa8RIrAo4vX0-sgo1QYKCivQbA41EN5Yyk8aJEXq0WTvve1EWGjDyna1IIKqArU-5IR9s7TJVhViRYB1dPr7CXW8w1OmfT_Q8A0jnGsNdCQn8hhtGjBVzDmOWVy9_mgfQLJfbhx-qR4m3XJuBC91uCBpd0chVclH67I_Yw3FO-_LtCSYdZEA/s320/IMG_8361.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After a most enjoyable exploration of Silver Falls State Park, it occurred to me that I had searched the park, trying to get to know its heart. Being along its well-marked trails, had helped me get rid of my anxious thoughts. I saw nothing offensive within the park, and I pray that it will be a parkway everlasting, for generations to come. Hence, this blog post serves as the visual aid for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses that says, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRNR9l9pdKfvsGRuy8BjD_TEjcNpdeQV7zdT-_C5VBrfTepxw30R2J-Y6e8W8b6qhlAsOd_arKkRQisiAzIbryryFz4BEiBJgyWzKD4d7ZMTSutd0rbIWvo0J-mIIGiJpbphYshWY4925iFKK7ZAQ8eeXpdQRB_sAE9hCpNfImpWFldXFA_GrZw53Nlg/s3648/IMG_8359.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="2736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRNR9l9pdKfvsGRuy8BjD_TEjcNpdeQV7zdT-_C5VBrfTepxw30R2J-Y6e8W8b6qhlAsOd_arKkRQisiAzIbryryFz4BEiBJgyWzKD4d7ZMTSutd0rbIWvo0J-mIIGiJpbphYshWY4925iFKK7ZAQ8eeXpdQRB_sAE9hCpNfImpWFldXFA_GrZw53Nlg/s320/IMG_8359.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />If you would like to plan a visit to this amazing location of numerous waterfalls, you can learn more at their website of www.stateparks.oregon.gov . This trip gave me "MILES OF WATERFALL SMILES!" Tricia<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-10824074832280838612022-10-08T15:47:00.183-05:002022-10-10T11:55:59.506-05:00LOGAN SPRINGS PRESERVE EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is the stone that has the metal letters, spelling out Logan Springs Preserve, located at 15300 Osage Hill Road, Siloam Springs, Arkansas, and serves as the marker for this 210 acre, historic natural area. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR_jCa87sVsSMaLgjbf_JR0Die-pLmMemQgXpOK9cICf7zDUOEZeFgYRDssULnCSdt7yxUpN8ibsTlTyYGdx_DhYBkfMzKgqRpScyKHL86BE17Z8rG0k7w5ca_msMnrevjR_G83iU8dNV7YbJgmOukkGob5SUkChdpCgn2Uo7UCEnDVRbWgdQDezVoZQ/s320/IMG_1389.JPG" width="320" />s</div><br /> It is a property owned by The Nature Conservancy, (www.nature.org) with the mission of protecting the Logan Spring water source, that leads into Osage Creek.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1YcSw7buJrc3lLzn9C4iXzheR4t7uaL69V4pZNMnUMXtPB9coYvuhxlq7S8jKGIBZwt4cCPYDpNKzBnxBX4u_N0ZCCeH7fOAxaZ3mTABk_Z4c25sp_upSbzNivLsDCSMA5CBNFpSvCRea3zmCToqjS8uHjpwViRfeS5trW-28l-c9jPWg0W5-dGkScA/s5152/IMG_1173.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1YcSw7buJrc3lLzn9C4iXzheR4t7uaL69V4pZNMnUMXtPB9coYvuhxlq7S8jKGIBZwt4cCPYDpNKzBnxBX4u_N0ZCCeH7fOAxaZ3mTABk_Z4c25sp_upSbzNivLsDCSMA5CBNFpSvCRea3zmCToqjS8uHjpwViRfeS5trW-28l-c9jPWg0W5-dGkScA/s320/IMG_1173.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><p><br />In a "previous life", a small dam was built at the beginning of the spring, and the water from the spring was used to supply fish ponds, that were located across the gravel road from the spring. </p><p>An opening in the dam makes for a closeup view of this man made waterfall:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPsoXL8uY81nAYwkBj3hbMwU2_012TiBIGCA6PoYdoG4sBvghwHteTLquZAXvdErz2MFNBX3cVbQF_OC4JhCd67avOOQ94H8sSsLZbe_W-TgVBjOztRUaO33Z1iJTLjl0HQcu4ot5B-oVlDIZAqadQqulg7fguaW3ta_LCoxJLL6nyydn0MmGuySJGg/s640/IMG_1267.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPsoXL8uY81nAYwkBj3hbMwU2_012TiBIGCA6PoYdoG4sBvghwHteTLquZAXvdErz2MFNBX3cVbQF_OC4JhCd67avOOQ94H8sSsLZbe_W-TgVBjOztRUaO33Z1iJTLjl0HQcu4ot5B-oVlDIZAqadQqulg7fguaW3ta_LCoxJLL6nyydn0MmGuySJGg/s320/IMG_1267.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The Logan Springs Preserve is adjacent to the Logan Cave National Wildlife Refuge, which is the home of some endangered species of cave-dwelling creatures. The entrances to the caves are fenced off, to prevent damage caused by humans trampling through the underground environments. Seeing the word "REFUGE" brought to mind one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.org) memory verses that says, "But let all who take refuge in You, be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." Psalm 5:11<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbye9PYKuYw2Y6iQjd3d94NWTvDHoqMpYlvBRQOdJvfIcxXlkxuGwcqVc1vFKFO9WIvDGx76yV80p6GDp777zGw8hvbI2dnCIREP-QZrdO5kYBtnMQ_6vbZxR2S4BfUjjDAJWHY7lSpfopjOTPLCmHJ7JQbBkaWPmbE_J_2WLDsgmRlzHXn3JB7W6vGA/s5152/IMG_1185.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbye9PYKuYw2Y6iQjd3d94NWTvDHoqMpYlvBRQOdJvfIcxXlkxuGwcqVc1vFKFO9WIvDGx76yV80p6GDp777zGw8hvbI2dnCIREP-QZrdO5kYBtnMQ_6vbZxR2S4BfUjjDAJWHY7lSpfopjOTPLCmHJ7JQbBkaWPmbE_J_2WLDsgmRlzHXn3JB7W6vGA/s320/IMG_1185.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /> <br /><p></p><p></p><p>A generous donation enabled The Nature Conservancy to erect a deck adjacent to the spring that can be used by the public, and that is where I gathered with a group of people assembled by the Illinois River Watershed Partnership (www.irwp.org), to learn about water quality in northwest Arkansas. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlRByW24kvxGAuszq-4WOIhz0vN7XbO0YiWvMAE4gYrGd5f5eXvfdlYiM7IdyG6Lu74_rrN2wc9HKcaSfWMQ-HXUAO193MFZKQG0CIZQ9AuUYnZbZteP-OXChkOrx8WSid7I4PBu0ny-rA-z9sjm3xPxKr7HXdCc55ZvQb-06QW1znP0gG6qmTTZT63w/s5152/IMG_1182.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlRByW24kvxGAuszq-4WOIhz0vN7XbO0YiWvMAE4gYrGd5f5eXvfdlYiM7IdyG6Lu74_rrN2wc9HKcaSfWMQ-HXUAO193MFZKQG0CIZQ9AuUYnZbZteP-OXChkOrx8WSid7I4PBu0ny-rA-z9sjm3xPxKr7HXdCc55ZvQb-06QW1znP0gG6qmTTZT63w/s320/IMG_1182.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>There is a plaque on a large rock adjacent to the deck, that expresses gratitude for the generosity of the donors, who made building the deck possible. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHVN6cDxLg9kTfeEbQECuqSQOujZtb2rRTTGHbDAGQsu4e3IVccA3Vg34peFVfDhqQZa2S4RyvZP1BcBJZnIEl3AMbLniq04j5QoOO6jGDdcT5eBkdcXsUwqvcrQ9FRCtpGcaInK3tWrtLrP0Hd5Lz5eKXLM5_nXtvtHz3d-MMsZRXlbur1lTpNgkRw/s5152/IMG_1172.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHVN6cDxLg9kTfeEbQECuqSQOujZtb2rRTTGHbDAGQsu4e3IVccA3Vg34peFVfDhqQZa2S4RyvZP1BcBJZnIEl3AMbLniq04j5QoOO6jGDdcT5eBkdcXsUwqvcrQ9FRCtpGcaInK3tWrtLrP0Hd5Lz5eKXLM5_nXtvtHz3d-MMsZRXlbur1lTpNgkRw/s320/IMG_1172.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Since we were gathering at 8 am on a crisp October morning, the coffee and breakfast they provided was very welcome!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0clUU5xPxfgIWCaalngep_bzvtYSCYZ10Nf6foeVJUXSDd1tmWnltyQGJaVBwWsoaFnuATpaYislwmZOLHtsiw-8fiYQ84JxCyacj6FFJ5q1Xj0bdjUDNHBIsDqDOYEMIKcPGACoTnDVEg4rjGSMbyyvRQJ0jjCfTGnhnXnN5tcEzlUnMd4eGsNv__A/s5152/IMG_1171.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0clUU5xPxfgIWCaalngep_bzvtYSCYZ10Nf6foeVJUXSDd1tmWnltyQGJaVBwWsoaFnuATpaYislwmZOLHtsiw-8fiYQ84JxCyacj6FFJ5q1Xj0bdjUDNHBIsDqDOYEMIKcPGACoTnDVEg4rjGSMbyyvRQJ0jjCfTGnhnXnN5tcEzlUnMd4eGsNv__A/s320/IMG_1171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />As we sipped our coffee, in front of the deck and scenic pond, we had a very informative presentation by an expert on the use of native plants to help stop stream back erosion. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFRPt3QHBhB-GqPPl8tUVr-BNOOEfio7OXTQtD4RQ4V1bLZLjKMCwWA3cVw3oev46LgPIh_C3HfBk7eA5SoK5zsNYlWxZNG2xkeBoRVeYgr28rGgQ6KBhHuT29xqThbVAjXUgeYjvjNUZ5VrjEPnMrhAbtjPZOassdg0mOAtAAL9D62BlUTJiSTcnXw/s5152/IMG_1192.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFRPt3QHBhB-GqPPl8tUVr-BNOOEfio7OXTQtD4RQ4V1bLZLjKMCwWA3cVw3oev46LgPIh_C3HfBk7eA5SoK5zsNYlWxZNG2xkeBoRVeYgr28rGgQ6KBhHuT29xqThbVAjXUgeYjvjNUZ5VrjEPnMrhAbtjPZOassdg0mOAtAAL9D62BlUTJiSTcnXw/s320/IMG_1192.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /> The speaker told us how long the roots were, of some of these native plants, and why they were so good at reducing stream bank erosion. Before I took Master Naturalist training, I always appreciated the way trees leaned over a stream to make for a pleasing photograph. <br /><p></p><p>But now, I realize this occurs because one side of the tree's surrounding soil is eroded away quicker than the other side. Notice how the trees leaning over the pond at the springs are each leaning towards the water, so much so, that they form an "X" over it! If this erosion takes place too quickly, and over an extended period of time, the result is a fallen tree into the stream, which eventually may cause flooding, and additional degradation of the banks of the flowing water.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XJ10W9AVjpj7X1xeGzetvUUZziX_GBsY5MyZLkyoVW-WBb9QMArqnIgVFfE2QQ9MkmVuD4Zo5Y3vLhusHtGdwrzNcp6THj_82zmCtOrKtR7OQdC5Gsj_CHbRDTQ0UJg0vg-P237UwD7_3THUXGhCRmFHQlunU_x6Sgb2HKHXW7cTLzhhTzCziMB1sA/s5152/IMG_1187.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0XJ10W9AVjpj7X1xeGzetvUUZziX_GBsY5MyZLkyoVW-WBb9QMArqnIgVFfE2QQ9MkmVuD4Zo5Y3vLhusHtGdwrzNcp6THj_82zmCtOrKtR7OQdC5Gsj_CHbRDTQ0UJg0vg-P237UwD7_3THUXGhCRmFHQlunU_x6Sgb2HKHXW7cTLzhhTzCziMB1sA/s320/IMG_1187.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />From the deck beside the spring, we strolled by the building that used to be the fish hatchery, in the 1950's. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2O3MxAhIQ988xmNnxT1FTSWVNms6ii0iftYnor9ZZBGX7gbcH51QiMYrcy4ovYGxRnDEsvKjQZrMbv5xPzo-o74m2FJk-b8M3tHtp6FQmgS0kVXCTupvXPB9Z_360-MaGlZLLKKsqJMAn4v_fXTQ08BZn7lGsHEBJARdC9hUYN-FXl_g1H_lnQvWMg/s5152/IMG_1197.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2O3MxAhIQ988xmNnxT1FTSWVNms6ii0iftYnor9ZZBGX7gbcH51QiMYrcy4ovYGxRnDEsvKjQZrMbv5xPzo-o74m2FJk-b8M3tHtp6FQmgS0kVXCTupvXPB9Z_360-MaGlZLLKKsqJMAn4v_fXTQ08BZn7lGsHEBJARdC9hUYN-FXl_g1H_lnQvWMg/s320/IMG_1197.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />If you have ever visited an active fish hatchery, you can imagine what these cement tanks would have looked like whenever the hatchery was active:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50jqjYan6MSPEOiz1iJwfPjwfsTA6cO5hNDfSGoyWWjeeCR7IOce1IAQzCQePPEx2BGP4YW_6L3mfyfT501tHFlo9SIom8FYzdzkI9-c6nq1JyGbQsepm0uzgkQL4SyWTl-Ev7H7RWJWIHa-sUjaxaDNfXTq8IxbHCOnnnUjFaIYN0dhdMQINuu4K4w/s5152/IMG_1204.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50jqjYan6MSPEOiz1iJwfPjwfsTA6cO5hNDfSGoyWWjeeCR7IOce1IAQzCQePPEx2BGP4YW_6L3mfyfT501tHFlo9SIom8FYzdzkI9-c6nq1JyGbQsepm0uzgkQL4SyWTl-Ev7H7RWJWIHa-sUjaxaDNfXTq8IxbHCOnnnUjFaIYN0dhdMQINuu4K4w/s320/IMG_1204.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Our group then crossed the gravel road, to start our trek along the hiking trails that have been developed on top of what used to serve as pond levees to hold the fish that were being raised:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuLY_Ie8nNAjGqkNip83oHamb57bPUb5rpO3uz1drIRXkP-L1RAi2CDsYO9cgXKH1XqAHqozb6yiJAmcWG8IX9SUVZfK24KPqg3EWeg8EjVPhpa4VRrPs0rCG5isliKPy6z1JVdi46RIR3dieUO7zgjUn6YV0RQ-U85FqmHBQiS0AvyO9c4Buh-K8Rw/s5152/IMG_1209.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuLY_Ie8nNAjGqkNip83oHamb57bPUb5rpO3uz1drIRXkP-L1RAi2CDsYO9cgXKH1XqAHqozb6yiJAmcWG8IX9SUVZfK24KPqg3EWeg8EjVPhpa4VRrPs0rCG5isliKPy6z1JVdi46RIR3dieUO7zgjUn6YV0RQ-U85FqmHBQiS0AvyO9c4Buh-K8Rw/s320/IMG_1209.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />A pipe goes under the road, to supply water to the water features within the preserve, that have been repurposed for recreational purposes. A water wheel pumps this water throughout the preserve:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixidu95GZSsonZhdy78T0bR8L15Mo-eOYHHzY4hziuuevhNEgR-tgaagUKCZ6KhAWWnfa8IT3_4i9X2_AXgk6ciEcqflQjkxDWbYj4LFqHJVFC7DePEerp4Un4v-7NkjY6dMgJrm5Q49HQmkA9jh3SIBRiC1bmGOwPOg-vtSvmc1zKJdzmEcJAjgwCSQ/s5152/IMG_1210.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixidu95GZSsonZhdy78T0bR8L15Mo-eOYHHzY4hziuuevhNEgR-tgaagUKCZ6KhAWWnfa8IT3_4i9X2_AXgk6ciEcqflQjkxDWbYj4LFqHJVFC7DePEerp4Un4v-7NkjY6dMgJrm5Q49HQmkA9jh3SIBRiC1bmGOwPOg-vtSvmc1zKJdzmEcJAjgwCSQ/s320/IMG_1210.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>There are Interpretive plaques along the walking paths that explain what you are looking at, including one that tells the history of the fish hatchery:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIc4PnF4lP3qiFM3woitel1DJxHcqJd0PUqB8aK1PPVuG-OBEDwftUhbP1OcNYm93YB9W3pyt6AASbgjPeQ5gXm946RnAyLhpsf3hcWL5klqVWu8ul0yhWXR5VxE3y4ceO5epWEXQ_NkIlZYfTR_wdhippIjM5S0MRxMRyyMImuwBRRL1kwrK7SuhTvQ/s5152/IMG_1220.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIc4PnF4lP3qiFM3woitel1DJxHcqJd0PUqB8aK1PPVuG-OBEDwftUhbP1OcNYm93YB9W3pyt6AASbgjPeQ5gXm946RnAyLhpsf3hcWL5klqVWu8ul0yhWXR5VxE3y4ceO5epWEXQ_NkIlZYfTR_wdhippIjM5S0MRxMRyyMImuwBRRL1kwrK7SuhTvQ/s320/IMG_1220.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />We walked along the levee trails, with experts pointing out various features of the flora and fauna. In the original baitfish hatchery, there were about 36 different ponds, so that makes for many miles of levee trails!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih0dayMYySu2MNUwAf854AfNlFZDN25bTQHxJrrwhor6_VTykTWS426XE_EaCTaysJh3Kt2pbf5PKyZee0KpnGrEPz0Q84avHCzIIRCtra_39-3Sqw8boLAT_hxMBK-4C7tleQpZqATlEIcswa23nJCh_az2LXUoCYVoUnxe0PFpp5OQQ2GfVIOnKerQ/s5152/IMG_1223.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih0dayMYySu2MNUwAf854AfNlFZDN25bTQHxJrrwhor6_VTykTWS426XE_EaCTaysJh3Kt2pbf5PKyZee0KpnGrEPz0Q84avHCzIIRCtra_39-3Sqw8boLAT_hxMBK-4C7tleQpZqATlEIcswa23nJCh_az2LXUoCYVoUnxe0PFpp5OQQ2GfVIOnKerQ/s320/IMG_1223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Birds that like fish in their diet have always been drawn to fish hatcheries, and this area still has a multitude of bird species, making it a fun trek for bird watching enthusiasts, and placards along the trails point out some of the bird sightings.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxUCLweZsjpbWanu5suQOIKtdi9eDnE7e2bl5NHWLmzH83nTPg6qeFsGiRq68umF6uZV68_DJz2AUdQJWAlfb2SKzNgdica_Welxq8aUMimyxOXz77Wjcip2OP9p6uXvjzLpmc96EcM3LDtZg9E1xIRKR3cJ_q-m4w9UVYkcevxtSd2oFJELqjcyrR6Q/s5152/IMG_1226.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxUCLweZsjpbWanu5suQOIKtdi9eDnE7e2bl5NHWLmzH83nTPg6qeFsGiRq68umF6uZV68_DJz2AUdQJWAlfb2SKzNgdica_Welxq8aUMimyxOXz77Wjcip2OP9p6uXvjzLpmc96EcM3LDtZg9E1xIRKR3cJ_q-m4w9UVYkcevxtSd2oFJELqjcyrR6Q/s320/IMG_1226.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The Nature Conservancy is a non-profit organization, and generous donations from area corporations have made the preservation of this area possible:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp4d6j02qRck-j-w2LWNJlqNJU7fG2fumLRLDn9DiySe9pUncqjInwsi1GFfDXhW_e3KyTIJaOjcxT_u4CAheTJcexsK2f_DgJ-7nLIQYd_jsFjDDVmhxTfUiy76O_hB_5RqYQnB1n-Ay0gD0AZHrVlwkWEArmlJzjBP2UR8dY2FoY_iJIbxOtFUAtBw/s5152/IMG_1229.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5152" data-original-width="3864" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp4d6j02qRck-j-w2LWNJlqNJU7fG2fumLRLDn9DiySe9pUncqjInwsi1GFfDXhW_e3KyTIJaOjcxT_u4CAheTJcexsK2f_DgJ-7nLIQYd_jsFjDDVmhxTfUiy76O_hB_5RqYQnB1n-Ay0gD0AZHrVlwkWEArmlJzjBP2UR8dY2FoY_iJIbxOtFUAtBw/s320/IMG_1229.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>For those who want to rest or have a picnic at a scenic outdoor location, there are picnic tables strategically placed throughout the property:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkx9h5hh6yvdMywk5tVxlHhvxiGkzasYti0AgbXJ08FAc5gF3V4dBJvIWG1_jpfsjcmiYHJIbT5MD5TRynx19lbgjU8KZ8JcNOjEUIL46B4qUG88npIEzbIHCAv3VNr9egP1RV4NjJ8M-0B-oVLN13lGxw4nm1ugccN8O82Abacu6f2u0AY7Pux-pfag/s5152/IMG_1228.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkx9h5hh6yvdMywk5tVxlHhvxiGkzasYti0AgbXJ08FAc5gF3V4dBJvIWG1_jpfsjcmiYHJIbT5MD5TRynx19lbgjU8KZ8JcNOjEUIL46B4qUG88npIEzbIHCAv3VNr9egP1RV4NjJ8M-0B-oVLN13lGxw4nm1ugccN8O82Abacu6f2u0AY7Pux-pfag/s320/IMG_1228.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>One of the larger water features at the Preserve is an oxbow lake that has a floating dock, built to withstand the fluctuating water levels possible within the property:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUf8169ttCBIgF8_hYS_Vgt5-6Lu88qFsfyHk2A9PCH5534_7OmU-DraEfM5MlwHaBaeVbkIUos3aK_CnorABwIvcAr1ZpcuqFEedSE63Mj5voevBiyJqD5dEBy3Lbp_GnZLefNXU3C1-2NUL2qkXiEb64KPE0JIi2nEhLCP2d5fhsMhZpiN9sNOELQ/s5152/IMG_1239.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUf8169ttCBIgF8_hYS_Vgt5-6Lu88qFsfyHk2A9PCH5534_7OmU-DraEfM5MlwHaBaeVbkIUos3aK_CnorABwIvcAr1ZpcuqFEedSE63Mj5voevBiyJqD5dEBy3Lbp_GnZLefNXU3C1-2NUL2qkXiEb64KPE0JIi2nEhLCP2d5fhsMhZpiN9sNOELQ/s320/IMG_1239.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />This little lake is the largest water feature at the location, and would be an enjoyable spot to sit with a pair of binoculars to observe how many species of wildlife one could see!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYNWBEIogZOgUSV8lNDw1ehPXjJjGH3L13h4D9N8LvxHX1Nt9vVh-x1SnH30BMewtlJz1roeY95yVmp0enVojipJf1nt6S90jm4E93Pb6vKia1d4I3fSb6HlYRz6jgW_ZT8A63of4iG4hwcLeIM02QiHjRHYg-wGhJjQRWH2XLxdNGOVlKS5m0qa5Jw/s5152/IMG_1235.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYNWBEIogZOgUSV8lNDw1ehPXjJjGH3L13h4D9N8LvxHX1Nt9vVh-x1SnH30BMewtlJz1roeY95yVmp0enVojipJf1nt6S90jm4E93Pb6vKia1d4I3fSb6HlYRz6jgW_ZT8A63of4iG4hwcLeIM02QiHjRHYg-wGhJjQRWH2XLxdNGOVlKS5m0qa5Jw/s320/IMG_1235.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Next our group crossed a bridge that connects the levee areas to a flatter area, adjacent to the entrance:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSShKyNpHkDA-Nk5GGsg7m5TsagaerMvGhB8ehz2X7zFNUTWGiRVuYcdJFoL5WjAlpCg7C0v9qiun9rXqKjGXKfXCaVtHeS1TrQ6pxIgSfUvS4qJxA4Fn_KIs9xwkvGFexyVOG4Ut9FQCcXut1_rJFBIeISHEfHzBaiw2rKgvt_LZZjjTmpro5GgXig/s5152/IMG_1246.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSShKyNpHkDA-Nk5GGsg7m5TsagaerMvGhB8ehz2X7zFNUTWGiRVuYcdJFoL5WjAlpCg7C0v9qiun9rXqKjGXKfXCaVtHeS1TrQ6pxIgSfUvS4qJxA4Fn_KIs9xwkvGFexyVOG4Ut9FQCcXut1_rJFBIeISHEfHzBaiw2rKgvt_LZZjjTmpro5GgXig/s320/IMG_1246.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This path will take you by some greenhouses that an area botany group is leasing from the Nature Conservancy, for the purpose of growing Arkansas native plant species:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmIEafNv4L9sv4xptdzctWG6hfdkycS0886kuwDnoBawu4L5ij9TcRHdJw702koicWqHeNh_r5b1TZmlND1QoGXkB24Av2dPW0pHcTxPmCJzqrwn9prfhmJQgItQXtajzOn3H7xe99AOqDL8a8vjiqWcsn1Lx3SUfntLF-rueQzHDEsw66T37D6e3nQ/s5152/IMG_1247.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmIEafNv4L9sv4xptdzctWG6hfdkycS0886kuwDnoBawu4L5ij9TcRHdJw702koicWqHeNh_r5b1TZmlND1QoGXkB24Av2dPW0pHcTxPmCJzqrwn9prfhmJQgItQXtajzOn3H7xe99AOqDL8a8vjiqWcsn1Lx3SUfntLF-rueQzHDEsw66T37D6e3nQ/s320/IMG_1247.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Near the green houses, one will encounter a wetlands area, with board walks;<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgOTPHmETMBj0FVyLU2G7rIaKMevYwt3leKwwnDgGC13J4Mldxp3RXf2oB42l2Q__xII_3csJ0pty_L76dG1CpN94g_cnzzwUZ2zd4Su-LnjmrVBvqSYvkir5VCEO77hSsju5l2pMK-Dp_N77cvB5V_XyPT9q0I9SGKVtsO4VHquHsP_ouRb60bvp0w/s5152/IMG_1383.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgOTPHmETMBj0FVyLU2G7rIaKMevYwt3leKwwnDgGC13J4Mldxp3RXf2oB42l2Q__xII_3csJ0pty_L76dG1CpN94g_cnzzwUZ2zd4Su-LnjmrVBvqSYvkir5VCEO77hSsju5l2pMK-Dp_N77cvB5V_XyPT9q0I9SGKVtsO4VHquHsP_ouRb60bvp0w/s320/IMG_1383.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Some of the boardwalks do not have railings, so watch your step!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyMV09B7XHn0Rs8kansdq16TC8JRZAy7YMH16UAw5GqGqMVxKSBYt8PbnRP5go4MK0LDfoRB3EnE_kWKQBwfEFweb01VNW0fPl4e9ucE0-_2B4Ge19KA9O6o_eK-PEKkspzQ5OEKN2QekGvnkkHxKJeIJfuP_IHh2Hvvt-MFdIeOQlTMGFqmIyzil2g/s5152/IMG_1381.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSyMV09B7XHn0Rs8kansdq16TC8JRZAy7YMH16UAw5GqGqMVxKSBYt8PbnRP5go4MK0LDfoRB3EnE_kWKQBwfEFweb01VNW0fPl4e9ucE0-_2B4Ge19KA9O6o_eK-PEKkspzQ5OEKN2QekGvnkkHxKJeIJfuP_IHh2Hvvt-MFdIeOQlTMGFqmIyzil2g/s320/IMG_1381.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Youngsters are encouraged to use these areas to try their hand at fishing, since no fishing license is required for those under a certain age. A placard shows the type of fish they might see:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ZDdRgB0tmDRVbgN-P8ixu_7SubeznRKsbuohDQci3aCPsct2CLql3qXgKAJ6fZptrtym4JKYXfTivUaMVthGy-H3PJF_oqXwYYkKa7drRM18a1XF7MbskklkpN40CBGxYsZU2Lxk1fMNWbPnArGxZ5sPbLYc4J8RntuJQXpLvjsEVQtwySebmICGYw/s5152/IMG_1380.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ZDdRgB0tmDRVbgN-P8ixu_7SubeznRKsbuohDQci3aCPsct2CLql3qXgKAJ6fZptrtym4JKYXfTivUaMVthGy-H3PJF_oqXwYYkKa7drRM18a1XF7MbskklkpN40CBGxYsZU2Lxk1fMNWbPnArGxZ5sPbLYc4J8RntuJQXpLvjsEVQtwySebmICGYw/s320/IMG_1380.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>A picnic table near the Children's Fishing Pond would enable a place for a parent to sit, while observing their little one get acquainted with the outdoors:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8jayDDnMXcWku54m76MHAxXYwVHG3eCniqdlo8kSVENEGLoLbpYlm--Mx4bSjHBnHXKHQsPq5wH-fWL2XuExOBN0PDTC9RhFvUkzGHSD_UPiul6NRsNBMyrdtImOzjRu_LqCWBF_KHbFJVnvq7th2pH5Zr1j5Agiayj0S_Ip4dOepNJ2dDnngKx5EQ/s5152/IMG_1386.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8jayDDnMXcWku54m76MHAxXYwVHG3eCniqdlo8kSVENEGLoLbpYlm--Mx4bSjHBnHXKHQsPq5wH-fWL2XuExOBN0PDTC9RhFvUkzGHSD_UPiul6NRsNBMyrdtImOzjRu_LqCWBF_KHbFJVnvq7th2pH5Zr1j5Agiayj0S_Ip4dOepNJ2dDnngKx5EQ/s320/IMG_1386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />A set of interpretive plaques, written in both Spanish and English, give a good overview of the entire area, and they are located adjacent to the parking area:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Lbml8tyyFng_P2qLg0B9jFxrnJlwSepTqJY5Df5XdBLe8_JKJL2r_JcY7Q6vE23JFbfMaznAOCRo7vilgMAgkL3CE1LIKmUS-IFI9Ha7wm_SaYJr-wH7_Gpu-VpyjAumn9gxj3cwmemSF9lPoNXOmOpj7dCj9y-Qcyic-4o6RgZ-Z604L6LUKo6rIg/s5152/IMG_1168.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3864" data-original-width="5152" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Lbml8tyyFng_P2qLg0B9jFxrnJlwSepTqJY5Df5XdBLe8_JKJL2r_JcY7Q6vE23JFbfMaznAOCRo7vilgMAgkL3CE1LIKmUS-IFI9Ha7wm_SaYJr-wH7_Gpu-VpyjAumn9gxj3cwmemSF9lPoNXOmOpj7dCj9y-Qcyic-4o6RgZ-Z604L6LUKo6rIg/s320/IMG_1168.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />I would definitely recommend a visit to this newest Nature Conservancy acquisition in Northwest Arkansas. My visit there gave me "MILES OF SMILES"! Tricia<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-12725040262057099912022-10-03T07:00:00.001-05:002022-10-03T09:00:17.035-05:00FRITZ'S ADVENTURE EXPEDITION!<p></p><p><br /> <br /></p><p>If you are not bothered by heights, there is an attraction in Branson, Missouri, that can give you plenty of thrills and challenges. It is called Fritz's Adventure and advertises itself as "80,000 square feet of explorable space, that brings outdoor adventure into The Great Indoors." </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpBbdncx3Yirj3rs5IBpezTUz9bLakbgS14uNLCy3Rn3DA6qyL2HOScx6ZqtvDNZkt5PZdm8qzFYyN5bIYv9-LFcVXBHIkHe4a8h1JOxV-zwe3bSjimqyty2gYTI7mcboL8nMkKycVDf5d9BOxn7le1SY58SHS9xaTYqd9tmCWoU5FjUZ_CteZVdZSaw/s640/IMG_0452.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpBbdncx3Yirj3rs5IBpezTUz9bLakbgS14uNLCy3Rn3DA6qyL2HOScx6ZqtvDNZkt5PZdm8qzFYyN5bIYv9-LFcVXBHIkHe4a8h1JOxV-zwe3bSjimqyty2gYTI7mcboL8nMkKycVDf5d9BOxn7le1SY58SHS9xaTYqd9tmCWoU5FjUZ_CteZVdZSaw/s320/IMG_0452.jpg" width="240" /></a></div> I went there recently with these friends to check it out, and we got a "before" photo, as we approached the entrance, located just off Hiway 76 West in Branson. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3iQKwy8XGb-5jrA3OBG9IxrSnO5ehvlvVCm2wO7StFxOsLtEGSwTmarssFzhnAYttwtLF0-EhaQ9C5yOHb3BaRaSUbnzu3EspI5MQGAv_Hc6WbAcSPBxCflRz_PMqnJz4V8U1-3oHGSPAOTMnjcFWTmksYOUjdDeFcx6UaiegJcmlSTPh_IpQFlQJEg/s640/IMG_0397.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3iQKwy8XGb-5jrA3OBG9IxrSnO5ehvlvVCm2wO7StFxOsLtEGSwTmarssFzhnAYttwtLF0-EhaQ9C5yOHb3BaRaSUbnzu3EspI5MQGAv_Hc6WbAcSPBxCflRz_PMqnJz4V8U1-3oHGSPAOTMnjcFWTmksYOUjdDeFcx6UaiegJcmlSTPh_IpQFlQJEg/s320/IMG_0397.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Diana took a selfie of all four of us:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FHd0W-q-PZDbtia4jnSNCAEii5e6SVvBifaGxJyF-PePjnt1sC5pu_5_5u2Dk17NGVSkDSbQuWL68MGGLPQovallqPeJJ58eJEY5QuTuc2yLm3jeE1c2vNBUdD-dycJUBSZ15cPK7NJETpCPhmzM8km1lO0cUHIyuHwsQstJWK2ABueb72H9dPzEgA/s640/IMG_8926.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="640" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FHd0W-q-PZDbtia4jnSNCAEii5e6SVvBifaGxJyF-PePjnt1sC5pu_5_5u2Dk17NGVSkDSbQuWL68MGGLPQovallqPeJJ58eJEY5QuTuc2yLm3jeE1c2vNBUdD-dycJUBSZ15cPK7NJETpCPhmzM8km1lO0cUHIyuHwsQstJWK2ABueb72H9dPzEgA/s320/IMG_8926.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />When you first enter the building, you will use the touchscreen computers to complete the liability waiver that is required of all participants.<p></p><p>Then you will head to the cashier to pay the entrance fee. You can go to their website (www.fritzsadventure.com), to see the fees for your specific needs, since the fees vary, depending on your age, and several other categories of discounts one might qualify for. There was a small group ahead of us in the cashier line, so we took advantage of the "waiting opportunity" to get our picture taken in the "Campsite Photo Opportunity" they have set up in their gift shop, adjacent to the cashier line. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpqVx2iHiv-FKA4jddRThTuyw74uZrxtCpuPPMOMl2OucZowWHTFequrscB44rPaNBgP4PbZvyy0ZfXIEZ2plIQ8C4nAidYYagjyu_kjXcIWi1YlBW2SRqzg1p-FUDqcURYIqbaf_DL2ek4A8iLxpV5-4hf5GMFfZ7DacbO7iDmamb9uNedXW_4W3-gQ/s640/IMG_0403.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpqVx2iHiv-FKA4jddRThTuyw74uZrxtCpuPPMOMl2OucZowWHTFequrscB44rPaNBgP4PbZvyy0ZfXIEZ2plIQ8C4nAidYYagjyu_kjXcIWi1YlBW2SRqzg1p-FUDqcURYIqbaf_DL2ek4A8iLxpV5-4hf5GMFfZ7DacbO7iDmamb9uNedXW_4W3-gQ/s320/IMG_0403.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Of course, the gift shop sells tee shirts, and they have very clever designs:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIT5oKtaiIG47nG63mGReOsctZx6TRaXIv2NYCHE7Ue7wkOIRXB_OaUpWj0w7_jASyy1-ghT6uWIhC0yDY5vZi_rvkJtAHgYvOsjraWCBzM8K8DY6MddwaB2S8TVyVCD4Dwfj5h2wWD43HnJDnrIGaCk0Z5l-crLy-xQt8HFAwTL9B3j1Rg3A4k-Ta7g/s640/IMG_0407.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIT5oKtaiIG47nG63mGReOsctZx6TRaXIv2NYCHE7Ue7wkOIRXB_OaUpWj0w7_jASyy1-ghT6uWIhC0yDY5vZi_rvkJtAHgYvOsjraWCBzM8K8DY6MddwaB2S8TVyVCD4Dwfj5h2wWD43HnJDnrIGaCk0Z5l-crLy-xQt8HFAwTL9B3j1Rg3A4k-Ta7g/s320/IMG_0407.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />One of the tee shirt displays, shows a Branson banner, with tee shirts suspended on large industrial hooks.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwI4CP8ca6WRVfXWHRS_wGMyaaJfYlJ1jzKpiQ1_JPatopxWCY2C1pqRaR8t4CGm3vEBlBBn3SFK2UJqeS3caJ2y_3HbP--ExUUr-u_ejgRZ-JNGRniNrrCW0ZRdQYVu5w8sb6J2tvd6RDYwBT9NptxCXN3eqW7bfypCJr_3BGzsEmGY6avMHjMHTefg/s640/IMG_0461.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwI4CP8ca6WRVfXWHRS_wGMyaaJfYlJ1jzKpiQ1_JPatopxWCY2C1pqRaR8t4CGm3vEBlBBn3SFK2UJqeS3caJ2y_3HbP--ExUUr-u_ejgRZ-JNGRniNrrCW0ZRdQYVu5w8sb6J2tvd6RDYwBT9NptxCXN3eqW7bfypCJr_3BGzsEmGY6avMHjMHTefg/s320/IMG_0461.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Our group started out on the Sky Trail Ropes Course. This is a four story ropes course with 40 differnet paths of varying obstacles, such as a tight rope, rolling log, suspension bridges, and more. This course requires harnesses, but no helmet or gloves. Helen waited down below in her wheel chair, and snapped this photo of us waving good by, as we were about to start our elevated experience: (Note: There is no charge for spectators, which is what Helen was, in her wheel chair. Spectators are not allowed on the upper floors.)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_cl0AsNKL_e0ZCCzXvDhzbHLV6gUIEV-2wqvQnr9dfGkFzYJwQK1XipPM72Xm4I5efnLScuRb7-OWM1FFU32dDL7LT94NIkxEl2bWVs-pg8gystlfz58VmUO0eZH-a7flZsGGjpTC8vL8A7yPl4jyxJNlIaEBOFk7gbCcMSs0wJAAzxweV_gciNrR9g/s640/IMG_8935.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_cl0AsNKL_e0ZCCzXvDhzbHLV6gUIEV-2wqvQnr9dfGkFzYJwQK1XipPM72Xm4I5efnLScuRb7-OWM1FFU32dDL7LT94NIkxEl2bWVs-pg8gystlfz58VmUO0eZH-a7flZsGGjpTC8vL8A7yPl4jyxJNlIaEBOFk7gbCcMSs0wJAAzxweV_gciNrR9g/s320/IMG_8935.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After that, Diana asked another spectator, who was more mobile, to take some photos of us with her phone, once we got up on the Sky Trail course. (Phones/cameras are not allowed on the challenge floors or ziplines, so I am indebted to a kind gentleman spectator, who walked around with Diana's phone below us, taking these photos)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsE6gnpXHIAhk_4wEciARHL3Nhy2-cJFeC5HswZiqvdsVtAkzwRFxM83UQlUAcB6_oPgpER0vpMAfBhVXOl1JAdok5pTxvvNDrAkDrfmP42YE9kpC5ausF3NUBo2gp0eXDjkKJZJmOn67hahQVGPD_Yp0Ua8GSAFAYWsdT1b3hQ7OQ_wxtTDm3athfQ/s640/IMG_8940.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsE6gnpXHIAhk_4wEciARHL3Nhy2-cJFeC5HswZiqvdsVtAkzwRFxM83UQlUAcB6_oPgpER0vpMAfBhVXOl1JAdok5pTxvvNDrAkDrfmP42YE9kpC5ausF3NUBo2gp0eXDjkKJZJmOn67hahQVGPD_Yp0Ua8GSAFAYWsdT1b3hQ7OQ_wxtTDm3athfQ/s320/IMG_8940.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />Photo below shows Peggy on the platform, ready to start a ropes challenge. Our harnesses were tethered to a pole, with metal slots on it, and one could only go where the slots were connected to a challenge obstacle. It gave me a new meaning to the phrase "playing the slots"! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RaMaGEZve8EyGTQ1yzoBJSEupUmMHU24LVAkzVMlnhcJCV-rcsWWTBZLUe3Ajv7f9p0lWYXvqd8BNPq2d4T5N-aJ3kbjeNicHhdlJFULZiv8KIGgVQuszLXlsX-Ftlq7b-fSL3qcsbhnnbf72cjupDHE5xSdPeEEOQw2siwXUWoGXw_FcA5CfBfuNw/s640/IMG_8941.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RaMaGEZve8EyGTQ1yzoBJSEupUmMHU24LVAkzVMlnhcJCV-rcsWWTBZLUe3Ajv7f9p0lWYXvqd8BNPq2d4T5N-aJ3kbjeNicHhdlJFULZiv8KIGgVQuszLXlsX-Ftlq7b-fSL3qcsbhnnbf72cjupDHE5xSdPeEEOQw2siwXUWoGXw_FcA5CfBfuNw/s320/IMG_8941.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Photo below shows how our hiking group can get in shape for water crossings on wobbly stones, by practicing on the wobbly boards Diana is traversing:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr-0XaB88xAjvikbo73migdc6HO4WCFtBes4ZzIdAcIsCsSEt7iNkUKnZSPMuWz-IN3dEbAZ9td_ltb3xb3QiawZAEXHpxGlB6c8PjCQ7Mt0vR3KcGb6FJ-2ZchcGW7NCH1t5bL1lR3hpS4VfkaKw3BGgrGVSDDvHKQrkCBW_9QqPBWyUTGuVFScpZmw/s640/IMG_8942.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr-0XaB88xAjvikbo73migdc6HO4WCFtBes4ZzIdAcIsCsSEt7iNkUKnZSPMuWz-IN3dEbAZ9td_ltb3xb3QiawZAEXHpxGlB6c8PjCQ7Mt0vR3KcGb6FJ-2ZchcGW7NCH1t5bL1lR3hpS4VfkaKw3BGgrGVSDDvHKQrkCBW_9QqPBWyUTGuVFScpZmw/s320/IMG_8942.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Photo below shows that Peggy is making progress scaling across the rope wall, while Diana is almost finished with the "wobbly stepping stones" obstacle:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCS4AMyBQnacAHIRN8Wb-NnH7KHz3ElMsoOrZzQN8O-FuuwlHEQRqJ5_uD6Zrq9wXDvqwfoppq_7EDqvIr6ydf3I2vE9vVkkIismytL6ozLyL_VBGgpdoI62slckbQlA7nFHj1--7toS5b-E8aYxs_Z-h7qtGLjkQyH5omLyZtD3x_absamjguGRsVeg/s640/IMG_8944.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCS4AMyBQnacAHIRN8Wb-NnH7KHz3ElMsoOrZzQN8O-FuuwlHEQRqJ5_uD6Zrq9wXDvqwfoppq_7EDqvIr6ydf3I2vE9vVkkIismytL6ozLyL_VBGgpdoI62slckbQlA7nFHj1--7toS5b-E8aYxs_Z-h7qtGLjkQyH5omLyZtD3x_absamjguGRsVeg/s320/IMG_8944.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />I followed Peggy attempting the rope wall, as she started the balancing act, required for the "wobbly stepping stone" maneuver:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKUWDDuQbhNAetlm4A90vhqNKKRN2jDAsECyNM44wNeavkzA8oM1DgQn6PfYptnUtKNpSinNoZHYKRtILGQC597RBeLp6ukNghaA27mLK_jVKeTzyxbR2JM6fuqAz1cEKtWrLJvKz_oPBY3r5KzM-p3H1mm_UcBxTm7yqP_B7GrFnW94FROSbigoTwrQ/s640/IMG_8945.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKUWDDuQbhNAetlm4A90vhqNKKRN2jDAsECyNM44wNeavkzA8oM1DgQn6PfYptnUtKNpSinNoZHYKRtILGQC597RBeLp6ukNghaA27mLK_jVKeTzyxbR2JM6fuqAz1cEKtWrLJvKz_oPBY3r5KzM-p3H1mm_UcBxTm7yqP_B7GrFnW94FROSbigoTwrQ/s320/IMG_8945.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />This photo below, of Diana and I on the platform, shows you how the harnesses are fitted on sturdy tethers, attached to metal sliders, that move along the slots in the metal beams:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN4xlKfbTm1BW6QacMdmdBcAx3Z1APo9PI4Cvle0qVT_GODzI1qk1kM_VdxSJ5Yp3iopNmCpxk06p_x-KSYZ7WcqeZj3ERRpddwCjs0kKdXUCg-JeHZHe-9M64fFOB8XRE96rqfPAwX5jtIZFXGuJI5OlTZP1No1PiqpoC52bYxgfI18AMAidc8P09Yw/s640/IMG_8946.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN4xlKfbTm1BW6QacMdmdBcAx3Z1APo9PI4Cvle0qVT_GODzI1qk1kM_VdxSJ5Yp3iopNmCpxk06p_x-KSYZ7WcqeZj3ERRpddwCjs0kKdXUCg-JeHZHe-9M64fFOB8XRE96rqfPAwX5jtIZFXGuJI5OlTZP1No1PiqpoC52bYxgfI18AMAidc8P09Yw/s320/IMG_8946.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />In the photo below, all three of us are on the platform, with the understanding that we could not stay there indefinitely! We were going to HAVE to trust those harnesses to be our "life line", as we slowly inched a our way, across the shaking suspension bridges, <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmSgVPfC_rbw-offR8p3UPZ1nLThLbx1qOIGBwiu3nGH6JWk7ctlIbaubiM91pW7du8VGQXmFCkZL2KC4qftAjj4cLX5zkLSmFNnrzNDTb-uMzUghVIeJgW9jHyeoRvRMFxfLRD7iXYJ0pXRwY5V4-s0i0tN8X5-jCzaVfWgNUKkoxDkB27mhbkCo0Q/s640/IMG_8947.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLmSgVPfC_rbw-offR8p3UPZ1nLThLbx1qOIGBwiu3nGH6JWk7ctlIbaubiM91pW7du8VGQXmFCkZL2KC4qftAjj4cLX5zkLSmFNnrzNDTb-uMzUghVIeJgW9jHyeoRvRMFxfLRD7iXYJ0pXRwY5V4-s0i0tN8X5-jCzaVfWgNUKkoxDkB27mhbkCo0Q/s320/IMG_8947.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Our (anonymous) photographer took this "long shot", that shows the maze of obstacles that one can tackle on the four-story Sky Trail. Since the photo does not show my feet, I have no memory of which obstacle I was on. Participating in these challenges took every bit of concentration I had, so I was oblivious to anything going on around me! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzWOoKFJjF8XJ-ii8eGVZNBhx3989dtKBdFfcignxLG4IbicAcnqq0xtOz6-m0DK0eOQla3Q3V0SwvmN-H6bk-iZ5rlbKAL3UxgxQ3ur9aub_JzsHrqeZAGKTNb0UXq3W_xN6PXq3tCh2G8bLFuyUnqdhgrK2JXbAuzSZK21F5W0U7kkUFhzIjp-lS8g/s640/IMG_8954.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="640" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzWOoKFJjF8XJ-ii8eGVZNBhx3989dtKBdFfcignxLG4IbicAcnqq0xtOz6-m0DK0eOQla3Q3V0SwvmN-H6bk-iZ5rlbKAL3UxgxQ3ur9aub_JzsHrqeZAGKTNb0UXq3W_xN6PXq3tCh2G8bLFuyUnqdhgrK2JXbAuzSZK21F5W0U7kkUFhzIjp-lS8g/s320/IMG_8954.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />There is one spot on the Sky Trail, where there is an automatic camera that will take your photo! Then you type in your cell phone number, and the device will text you the photo! I took a "trial shot" to practice, not realizing that my uplifted arms were covering up Diana in the background!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmR9rTTpLiTrJ6a_jbH3-9bwQsZ0kMeLilgW66UnIcNdnH_v-kXhnFyWZbNv864k9JuuQYXwlbDF4MHLZ_IE4pEGiTshjeusEb3dCg-gi6GmpFg_OLNdWAsD2q5GcI7smjMkaG_IYzS0t4iGbzi8H2jeTNcVSdGvZN6lsjmJz6DmegDCD8rbU7IYPuhw/s640/IMG_0464.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="467" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmR9rTTpLiTrJ6a_jbH3-9bwQsZ0kMeLilgW66UnIcNdnH_v-kXhnFyWZbNv864k9JuuQYXwlbDF4MHLZ_IE4pEGiTshjeusEb3dCg-gi6GmpFg_OLNdWAsD2q5GcI7smjMkaG_IYzS0t4iGbzi8H2jeTNcVSdGvZN6lsjmJz6DmegDCD8rbU7IYPuhw/s320/IMG_0464.jpg" width="234" /></a></div><br />For the next attempt, we scrunched up together, so we could all three be in the photo:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbpYIAjUVEe5mR7u4H98IA_uL1tWpzg-BWk9UrZZ-8Ww1U5Kv3_Hf9-PBA6NKsmwCnc3f6ZBKmp4jxfb5_fBxHQHG7bVDRZKQ3_Ot07_dCDkLwhvq8R1X1C2gNb2g9oKULX2RFkZqVmrIyarqushy871F1kzGl4bCjuae9UtY06iaeyJw1I_XZxdl6A/s716/IMG_0410.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="521" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbpYIAjUVEe5mR7u4H98IA_uL1tWpzg-BWk9UrZZ-8Ww1U5Kv3_Hf9-PBA6NKsmwCnc3f6ZBKmp4jxfb5_fBxHQHG7bVDRZKQ3_Ot07_dCDkLwhvq8R1X1C2gNb2g9oKULX2RFkZqVmrIyarqushy871F1kzGl4bCjuae9UtY06iaeyJw1I_XZxdl6A/s320/IMG_0410.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><br /><br />After we finished the mid-level course, we paused to re-hydrate, visit the ladies room, and look around to see what was available to do next. We discovered they have a great meeting room/dining room for large groups, that looks out over the entire recreational facility, as well as windows to the outside.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUU_ed-fMg-6WYSGQjX9-EYffdyK2LPr1bc8wLoqG94fyNCM6hRGT3slO67T7IasfJ-LJWCeT7-JkDNJ8E6kwOiRmN1pWez1zZ9C5G9ubL8tya4BodZUD3dgyv2_9loZ5Q4m7M6qaz1l7B0Kt1wrppHpH2fG1VX7_JqNv7oltsG0FnjC6n_k98ZC40g/s640/IMG_0439.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimUU_ed-fMg-6WYSGQjX9-EYffdyK2LPr1bc8wLoqG94fyNCM6hRGT3slO67T7IasfJ-LJWCeT7-JkDNJ8E6kwOiRmN1pWez1zZ9C5G9ubL8tya4BodZUD3dgyv2_9loZ5Q4m7M6qaz1l7B0Kt1wrppHpH2fG1VX7_JqNv7oltsG0FnjC6n_k98ZC40g/s320/IMG_0439.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>There is also a clever mural that provides many photo opportunities, with the invitation that says, "Let's Go On An Adventure!. (Note a wooden plank suspension bridge mural is painted on the floor)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSF0HrwD9iG74b204W5Shyy6SWnIfdlmMfHB_RPIWUVcCoCimE2bocOW0s0v8S6RUr__JxlQ0SSFnb-q1l1PBQg58CF5ETT7n2wzaSlCi-l82SRVm3kfQNKaohnOEtiYQBsMssJYPk-N5eqMFEbZXFhEDqApiqqnM5-wNnygARdU0JVq0BqWFyqHulzQ/s640/IMG_8977.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSF0HrwD9iG74b204W5Shyy6SWnIfdlmMfHB_RPIWUVcCoCimE2bocOW0s0v8S6RUr__JxlQ0SSFnb-q1l1PBQg58CF5ETT7n2wzaSlCi-l82SRVm3kfQNKaohnOEtiYQBsMssJYPk-N5eqMFEbZXFhEDqApiqqnM5-wNnygARdU0JVq0BqWFyqHulzQ/s320/IMG_8977.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />There is a walkway where you are on eye level with an airplane. (Peggy took this photo of me on the walkway). One of the activities guests can do, is crawl through a maze of small metal cages, that will eventually get you into the airplane's cockpit (a 1959 Twin Beech) where you can listen to air traffic controls. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn2JeUvoMcli0VN1gKYila4eJWvmsU2rKTQW8tuWrPdrPD0-pGddwg2EkiXkobOx2Xnc8Ddxw-Ogp6p_c_j3SmqjMmmUqwB1KbNhkLB4sxZ2Pyvxhsrb9XrYCn7JGCFrR1ORA-4LvUjrKpdu4IsarDrQAr08jIABeAmIFYviYtRsgls5nP2JKs1ZmhKA/s640/IMG_3966.JPEG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn2JeUvoMcli0VN1gKYila4eJWvmsU2rKTQW8tuWrPdrPD0-pGddwg2EkiXkobOx2Xnc8Ddxw-Ogp6p_c_j3SmqjMmmUqwB1KbNhkLB4sxZ2Pyvxhsrb9XrYCn7JGCFrR1ORA-4LvUjrKpdu4IsarDrQAr08jIABeAmIFYviYtRsgls5nP2JKs1ZmhKA/s320/IMG_3966.JPEG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The entrance floor is also where group photos can be taken, and instructions given. Fritz's Adventure routinely promotes days that are designated "Home Schooler Days", and we happened to be at the Home School Day promotion for August.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEW_3s3kh8oL4GnIUx8mDpONm-b7kWl2iA9Nv56l2qsHt6sWrTRmJwdBPsv3t3Bjv4jWL0H-MwyWBHngAmYhxF3sB348ILv3nepR-zE5sNCb6VggA1gsDDjspplxX9_oeVf_ZxDwk1q0J9C7K3QUniaz1QoGUNqyZjG5OGZ8yOmqimyFLUiuIN19EpDw/s640/IMG_0440.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEW_3s3kh8oL4GnIUx8mDpONm-b7kWl2iA9Nv56l2qsHt6sWrTRmJwdBPsv3t3Bjv4jWL0H-MwyWBHngAmYhxF3sB348ILv3nepR-zE5sNCb6VggA1gsDDjspplxX9_oeVf_ZxDwk1q0J9C7K3QUniaz1QoGUNqyZjG5OGZ8yOmqimyFLUiuIN19EpDw/s320/IMG_0440.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>A pretend swinging bridge painted on the floor provides additional photo opportunities:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1tfwQesHAhwDmB7d6DtxlOM8ed2qHxRFfGRX6wOjLdxlS4c0b59YfU_gHlfZ5mSalFSzGFKcbKTZNdYXj1XXa9B_wOR4YyS3O1Li8rgaRaX4wHILs0xzddrqx4Adv099KitrUZslf-AENNOSVqPc8gGehtFt3bcC3VDSroHlZS-quqD1yZdczA9uCpw/s640/IMG_8973.GIF" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1tfwQesHAhwDmB7d6DtxlOM8ed2qHxRFfGRX6wOjLdxlS4c0b59YfU_gHlfZ5mSalFSzGFKcbKTZNdYXj1XXa9B_wOR4YyS3O1Li8rgaRaX4wHILs0xzddrqx4Adv099KitrUZslf-AENNOSVqPc8gGehtFt3bcC3VDSroHlZS-quqD1yZdczA9uCpw/s320/IMG_8973.GIF" width="240" /></a></div>There is even a ladder that the photographer can climb, so they will be above the people on the floor mural:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sOusV-naJZ4puQrKLQFzCwpRbqnB9tMrwbYD9jcYrgSxmbRJ_3ubTPVLLs_50aIVpP3eOG_auieRq6LEs_3n93fzbK29EeEaHbJVtkAUJjr6OfxnavFCrm5jrvsnRz1quYrCHiE9r2QHoqd_XLKdxQYBXJK8fo8-oDDP3hc-SUggrqvKCgXWKRKKcg/s640/IMG_8967%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sOusV-naJZ4puQrKLQFzCwpRbqnB9tMrwbYD9jcYrgSxmbRJ_3ubTPVLLs_50aIVpP3eOG_auieRq6LEs_3n93fzbK29EeEaHbJVtkAUJjr6OfxnavFCrm5jrvsnRz1quYrCHiE9r2QHoqd_XLKdxQYBXJK8fo8-oDDP3hc-SUggrqvKCgXWKRKKcg/s320/IMG_8967%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>After this, we ordered lunch from their snack bar, and took it outside to eat on their patio, (which fortunately had sun umbrellas), and is right below the doors that zipliners use to start their outdoor aerial adventures, called "The Treetops Escape":<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKv-2VTXFP75CVi_AVmJpX0S-_Yes3BqTJZup2iERdopjes0_hPSLKH8GW_UW2S-nFYhnxJprHsLEGGppUWzumx_DURRUcmApq31MqyB_q_OPgpQAc0E1RcZfCICAmxdtSKYT9zekwC2Tb241ZUJxLK5_0K5mNHnZ3Cp5Y4CDb_cBe1hGrmWhrvblttQ/s640/IMG_0442.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKv-2VTXFP75CVi_AVmJpX0S-_Yes3BqTJZup2iERdopjes0_hPSLKH8GW_UW2S-nFYhnxJprHsLEGGppUWzumx_DURRUcmApq31MqyB_q_OPgpQAc0E1RcZfCICAmxdtSKYT9zekwC2Tb241ZUJxLK5_0K5mNHnZ3Cp5Y4CDb_cBe1hGrmWhrvblttQ/s320/IMG_0442.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Here is a gal about to land:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRX1tWGXxZ7W18Nl2L1W-8OIrUdWaEy2bEznf6-q3qeYv9OfpIbpIex1eDrWgOkqYPrPtgXSalvmcKOkaR_ZJvDZXFGSedKySaNksPvRzE3m8PfPtrO0G8lpjTRq25YIqn_VLNvaxR4xuLVKHXxCdvQoq3g7J36fl4NY1WcMi8e03_Rak6JPib-T6Dzg/s640/IMG_0453.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRX1tWGXxZ7W18Nl2L1W-8OIrUdWaEy2bEznf6-q3qeYv9OfpIbpIex1eDrWgOkqYPrPtgXSalvmcKOkaR_ZJvDZXFGSedKySaNksPvRzE3m8PfPtrO0G8lpjTRq25YIqn_VLNvaxR4xuLVKHXxCdvQoq3g7J36fl4NY1WcMi8e03_Rak6JPib-T6Dzg/s320/IMG_0453.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>We also stood by listening to a group getting their safety instructions for starting the treetops course . This is called "Ground School", because you get fitted with your harness/helmet/gloves, and you are taught how to use the zipline/treetops equipment. Each person must then take their feet off the floor, and slide down a zipline that is just inches above the floor, with the purpose of getting the participant to trust that their harness will hold them. We learned that it might take two hours to complete, so we realized it was more time than Peggy, Diana, and her mom had available before they started their drive north to Illinois to participate in their next adventure, called Floatzilla.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO6V6_ZZ-iIHy5gWnzcJYZsPOhkPvtkXFdtHn6RyEIzbqXrd5a-lVC3AYZb0E6zkD-gwPIseTDmuilUI_LB9ZF1zRWVwBhkvzSUDlf12S8NB1REwF2xq3fn_beqU62mMaKKYjD9fbRbLt0VbZCcsMWDhmEZEuKBjoAsff-TJERjSy2ge4R4FcrBhIDQw/s640/IMG_0437.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO6V6_ZZ-iIHy5gWnzcJYZsPOhkPvtkXFdtHn6RyEIzbqXrd5a-lVC3AYZb0E6zkD-gwPIseTDmuilUI_LB9ZF1zRWVwBhkvzSUDlf12S8NB1REwF2xq3fn_beqU62mMaKKYjD9fbRbLt0VbZCcsMWDhmEZEuKBjoAsff-TJERjSy2ge4R4FcrBhIDQw/s320/IMG_0437.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />I did not have a time constraint, so I continued on with the treetops course, and realized that one of the activities I had seen when I was on the easier course, but could not access, was because it was a part of the more difficult treetops course:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYVrjKOtEku-XliBcoFf3_m4gHhYbDF4-NGanJT7HNXyaUMrdrsMWvvXc8Z0HOgT8OGgYL6IBAEViisx7ZoAYL6kTxjO21FsomkoVan3v54KD8eOJRWQC5FPM3cbtcfMiGf_ZmUmzkN93UVW9RZvFUowZDckhHh_HDE8-MRlJXgT1ygTEdGokNLYVOQ/s640/IMG_0438.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYVrjKOtEku-XliBcoFf3_m4gHhYbDF4-NGanJT7HNXyaUMrdrsMWvvXc8Z0HOgT8OGgYL6IBAEViisx7ZoAYL6kTxjO21FsomkoVan3v54KD8eOJRWQC5FPM3cbtcfMiGf_ZmUmzkN93UVW9RZvFUowZDckhHh_HDE8-MRlJXgT1ygTEdGokNLYVOQ/s320/IMG_0438.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p>It was when I saw this photo of a participant with gloves and a helmet, I realized why I had not been able to access that portion. I had not yet been through the safety course, where the gloves and helmets were issued.</p><p> One activity to "save your energy" for, is a climb to the "Crow's Nest", outside near Highway 76. After your first outside zip line, you will have the option of climbing the pole that leads to this, as pictured below:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAbuARbDj-fwsRRmze4_nRdlSsPyKua1-qMyn6U33-Ap7LywTTzWrSYU8KWxUQAEovvlKByUDb70q0ylLUd09PWCIrmcA076t6lIg_6ABN5gdghIVTOY70Wmqe0R9Fep-u0HKgzApl5W25ggh5Nt12dAw5-9qjeCVffAL1fTt2SjgqypjyYVr3L7MvQ/s640/IMG_0694.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyAbuARbDj-fwsRRmze4_nRdlSsPyKua1-qMyn6U33-Ap7LywTTzWrSYU8KWxUQAEovvlKByUDb70q0ylLUd09PWCIrmcA076t6lIg_6ABN5gdghIVTOY70Wmqe0R9Fep-u0HKgzApl5W25ggh5Nt12dAw5-9qjeCVffAL1fTt2SjgqypjyYVr3L7MvQ/s320/IMG_0694.PNG" width="180" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>One climbing activity I have been wanting to try for a long time, is a Via Ferrata. The first time I saw a Via Ferrata was on a massive granite bluff in Quebec. I asked my rock-climbing son about it, and he said they were very common in Europe, and consisted of metal pegs hammered into rock walls, that allowed the climber to traverse a vertical wall, without having to rely on cracks in the rock to get footholds and hand holds. There was a simplified version of this on the treetops course, and it is pictured below: (I was able to make the traverse successfully, although there are no photos of my very awkward movements to "prove" it!)<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0R-AXIE4Tj_-qoZgQcQz7Rkdt3d6hN5jg_uI8AALL6AL0dNkarDQY2SjpMbP2R6d5jxW5Z_Vpf8ftNGrODMcv1j21UbUhCDbaHjhiPfX_oVt7I8O6Dw6okSGr5fG-hn6Y6z8_M_iR5aG2WS6wvoo_gb8WZJboeupiS-8vUIkrCGYoVrcwvyMFB7Tkg/s640/IMG_0456.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0R-AXIE4Tj_-qoZgQcQz7Rkdt3d6hN5jg_uI8AALL6AL0dNkarDQY2SjpMbP2R6d5jxW5Z_Vpf8ftNGrODMcv1j21UbUhCDbaHjhiPfX_oVt7I8O6Dw6okSGr5fG-hn6Y6z8_M_iR5aG2WS6wvoo_gb8WZJboeupiS-8vUIkrCGYoVrcwvyMFB7Tkg/s320/IMG_0456.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This climbing obstacles, which had a certain WAY, they had to be completed, serves as the visual aid for one of my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) memory verses that says: "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, 'This is the way, walk in it.' ."(Isaiah 30:21) There was only ONE WAY to access the ziplines that led you outdoors, and if you did not go that way, you could not access the outdoor zip lines. Thankfully, I had a voice behind me telling me how to access that outdoor zip line! I was baffled because I was at the upper story door that led to the outside, but it was closed! The voice behind me said, "This is the way, press this button." And voila! The door opened!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thankfully, I managed to do all three ziplines outside, without having to do the "hand over hand" maneuver that I was forced to do on my very first indoor zipline, because I did not accelerate enough at the beginning, to take me to a successful landing on the platform at the other side!<img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiO3SGggqAXWqo5_iVSJNKOVyE3rbH219r6OmqeQr_9IPsb0WJbSliRTtEPT8PWQxbs93VZITeqBVOkXQI-3RkCBiwWv_A8uXb1ErzzHIC3kI64Xv8w_dSJrVSfYqVDwhh8MQA9ijqywLw8fQs-kXxDXwP5jWGIbGG0ji86x97Vh-LRnJz-t5pm1xNqQ/s320/IMG_0450.jpg" width="320" /></div><p><br />In addition to the photos of activities on this blog, there are additional activities that you can try out. There are underground tunnels, laser room, climbing wall, telephone poles to climb, giant treehouses, multi-story slides, and warped walls. Be sure to check out the Fritz's website for more information, including weight and height limitations. For example, for the Treetops Zipline course, the weight minimum is 44 pounds, and maximum is 285 pounds. The height requirement is 55 inches. <br /></p><p> I am very thankful for the experience I had at Fritz Adventure. It gave me "MILES OF SMILES!" Tricia</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdCT2pM26vqNtUUZVm1KNkVsoTeK_arhlZ_UBqkvY5-yxgLB7KKlzbd-Y_1cKP7wLwRg7B4NdIX8XHJm4Ei8r-prXHVI_gMo5H5ocfGvBY-y7mBJmfEtoaDGwoDX07Nr3PDd4uCW8qXeMH8nFeyYoGHnNX834C5yASN3vsY1sW-HWmhChSvYY6_C-SQ/s640/IMG_8966.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="640" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdCT2pM26vqNtUUZVm1KNkVsoTeK_arhlZ_UBqkvY5-yxgLB7KKlzbd-Y_1cKP7wLwRg7B4NdIX8XHJm4Ei8r-prXHVI_gMo5H5ocfGvBY-y7mBJmfEtoaDGwoDX07Nr3PDd4uCW8qXeMH8nFeyYoGHnNX834C5yASN3vsY1sW-HWmhChSvYY6_C-SQ/s320/IMG_8966.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p><p></p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8683849104919558259.post-16497171609903632982022-08-29T10:48:00.001-05:002022-08-29T19:09:10.806-05:003D LESLIE EXPEDITION!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A few years ago, several members of the hiking group I am in (WHO-which stands for "Women Hiking the Ozarks) purchased convertibles, and were looking for "excuses" to take their convertibles out for a spin, as a group. Since a <span style="color: red;">D</span>rive somewhere would call for a <span style="color: red;">D</span>ining experience, followed by a <span style="color: red;">D</span>essert experience, the name "3D" was coined, to stand for Drive, Dine, and Dessert. Each lady took responsibility for planning an outing once per month. Over time, some of the ladies that had convertibles, have sold them, so now just about any kind of car can participate! This blog is about a trip planned by Kim, who is shown in photo below, with her beautiful Corvette:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHt8oxYvjzvDI58Gkcg2_aVFYZbrArk4KukN2QVh2yuSbxUApV5tAkn6hprNeeLEnsjIq9bF6VuUAl4k72_NBSqFp39r80ydvFzKmX-WAwCq9w5vYiiqTAOV4we33YKBIDsqwhuUoVRy2Lt9ZvMA-ix-bCeyfs9W0_bExJGPbiwak9E9boxdZyO5SGQ/s640/IMG_0540.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHt8oxYvjzvDI58Gkcg2_aVFYZbrArk4KukN2QVh2yuSbxUApV5tAkn6hprNeeLEnsjIq9bF6VuUAl4k72_NBSqFp39r80ydvFzKmX-WAwCq9w5vYiiqTAOV4we33YKBIDsqwhuUoVRy2Lt9ZvMA-ix-bCeyfs9W0_bExJGPbiwak9E9boxdZyO5SGQ/s320/IMG_0540.jpg" width="240" /> <br /></a></div>Recently, our 3D group of ladies made a trip to Leslie , Arkansas , on a very warm day in August, to enjoy shopping and dining. We parked behind and beside the Skylark Cafe, and posed for a group photo, taken by a tourist from out of state, that we convinced to take our photo:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVVeAknBPKwCBnq5xaGtBvhG6VUyokC6MhKocaerCGWVYMp9fVGPup1asiwNaCe44ad1zl5vSWFN_nddceu-UTWKRxGcXWxDe0llX646EuvtvJI2If6Kxz1StD8xc0VbiJ4fJewLvppXbSTfVgZFMRS-ewWb8ponJOZjwH0vWO3EZmUVgdKrHwE1uGg/s640/IMG_0541.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVVeAknBPKwCBnq5xaGtBvhG6VUyokC6MhKocaerCGWVYMp9fVGPup1asiwNaCe44ad1zl5vSWFN_nddceu-UTWKRxGcXWxDe0llX646EuvtvJI2If6Kxz1StD8xc0VbiJ4fJewLvppXbSTfVgZFMRS-ewWb8ponJOZjwH0vWO3EZmUVgdKrHwE1uGg/s320/IMG_0541.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>After she took our group photo, I asked the out of state tourist if she would like for me to take her photo by the sign and the house. She said "yes", so while the rest of the group headed for shopping, I stayed behind to do my favorite thing---take photos! After seeing how striking the photo was of the tourist on the front porch, she also took my photo on the cafe's front porch---with me showing arms uplifted in gratitude:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbZiF7i2QIbNfU_6saJtFjkXOJy9b7RPo3_RSKpeQs16xdKiYlUUWykDqro50z0Xk7k20i5aW-Vzx5Z4w4yYop0GiTfmjRhNFVaUv3aUpwiyLc8Vsu8xrxl1qNULR0TeUZA5lLpXdsFOAiQwlv-Xvl_BMCBzSAiKnXHE6haHLBtm5XvuJAumfPQE9UQ/s640/IMG_0544.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbZiF7i2QIbNfU_6saJtFjkXOJy9b7RPo3_RSKpeQs16xdKiYlUUWykDqro50z0Xk7k20i5aW-Vzx5Z4w4yYop0GiTfmjRhNFVaUv3aUpwiyLc8Vsu8xrxl1qNULR0TeUZA5lLpXdsFOAiQwlv-Xvl_BMCBzSAiKnXHE6haHLBtm5XvuJAumfPQE9UQ/s320/IMG_0544.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Since it was an hour until the cafe opened, we walked the one block down to Leslie's main street, to see the unique vernacular architecture, and look inside the shops that were open. We passed by the original Serenity bread store location, which sadly was damaged when a large truck hit its corner post, and damaged the exterior. Fortunately, I was able to remember the store from a visit I made there in the early 2000's, on a trip between North Arkansas, and Little Rock. I was going to visit my son, who had just started medical school at UAMS, so I stopped to check out the store, which I had read about in travel magazines. It was located in a building listed in the U.S. National Register of Historic Sites, and has a unique exterior. This was one of the town's first brick buildings, constructed in 1907, and originally served as a bank. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJM5jin80jRxp01UAgIsCqXzlWrtAr4P4gqdIIzsdz0nXt_3lVRt6tN8G3WyM-3WnjYoDDvsG8pd8clo1Ph-CdaoRRNvL69Maf-I53Dtj1uoSM4em3I8BKFQWw2SWG-PSa4lzE4RSlQU0l5gvgX5VMWB6_lu6SKfoUvf-hLyip4XDuUPcF86RU2NpGw/s874/IMG_0583%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="874" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJM5jin80jRxp01UAgIsCqXzlWrtAr4P4gqdIIzsdz0nXt_3lVRt6tN8G3WyM-3WnjYoDDvsG8pd8clo1Ph-CdaoRRNvL69Maf-I53Dtj1uoSM4em3I8BKFQWw2SWG-PSa4lzE4RSlQU0l5gvgX5VMWB6_lu6SKfoUvf-hLyip4XDuUPcF86RU2NpGw/s320/IMG_0583%20(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Even though I paid the most I had ever paid for a loaf of bread, my son was not impressed, when I proudly presented him with the gift . He was not used to seeing round bread, instead of sliced loaf bread!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzH7Xe6gxeopuNeX8_LvId4n4A8UT35SAV8PoMOIUvEPmEZ6-twvRM1foW5AP2SdypphvedRAllDlBDgxamL2hhuYj3lOe1HUnz70L1Kdnwl96KKqGV1WhGofBcElfxJGK0cKwD0nceoHdIodSdsglvtAhk31YNl4FmLDAQHwn9ztDIo1YcbZish7IHQ/s960/IMG_0585.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzH7Xe6gxeopuNeX8_LvId4n4A8UT35SAV8PoMOIUvEPmEZ6-twvRM1foW5AP2SdypphvedRAllDlBDgxamL2hhuYj3lOe1HUnz70L1Kdnwl96KKqGV1WhGofBcElfxJGK0cKwD0nceoHdIodSdsglvtAhk31YNl4FmLDAQHwn9ztDIo1YcbZish7IHQ/s320/IMG_0585.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />Just past the former bakery, our first stop was the L.A. Salon and Boutique (870-447-2207), which had dozens of unique items, not seen in "big box" stores!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcuMTYylxTY6o1lgki1JfGBsSbsGZWqWfGdccqHguL7FfaohwG-IHcNmMPBCg9g39e1MG7S_QsMuVEVML-07zpdbE89jRADkUAyj17Y-0JI9QsGCkVL5au_unQLcTPcUrvGqFRjeILuPsmqYp35mdpdVUnRu4l9_iAGU9lCRvLX-Njmd03_SM2WDSXOQ/s640/IMG_0577.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcuMTYylxTY6o1lgki1JfGBsSbsGZWqWfGdccqHguL7FfaohwG-IHcNmMPBCg9g39e1MG7S_QsMuVEVML-07zpdbE89jRADkUAyj17Y-0JI9QsGCkVL5au_unQLcTPcUrvGqFRjeILuPsmqYp35mdpdVUnRu4l9_iAGU9lCRvLX-Njmd03_SM2WDSXOQ/s320/IMG_0577.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />The store had some cute, unique tee shirts I had not seen for sale anywhere else! The design shown in this photo incorporates many aspects relative to this area. Leslie is in the Ozarks, people from Arkansas are sometimes called "Arkies", the town is close to Buffalo National River, and the shape of Arkansas forms the border for the big "A" in the center! Kudos to the artist who designed it!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAy3JEEmDEW9IXhUkTmTdgeNBfmEjJL0B575Bzj6QJPhniCX3-uGLIpQZaAkbGOmFneDK6DcU19ytO7ktK8KkvlI5xrl3-Z4-PkCy5Hu1WISHgbrdHP00zCmLr4P76r63shLWY3wvSVj5KXDmKC2ZPAh39feQiMXPrRTxruYOFLV_C45eNKylt9CcFA/s640/IMG_0549.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVAy3JEEmDEW9IXhUkTmTdgeNBfmEjJL0B575Bzj6QJPhniCX3-uGLIpQZaAkbGOmFneDK6DcU19ytO7ktK8KkvlI5xrl3-Z4-PkCy5Hu1WISHgbrdHP00zCmLr4P76r63shLWY3wvSVj5KXDmKC2ZPAh39feQiMXPrRTxruYOFLV_C45eNKylt9CcFA/s320/IMG_0549.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>My friend named Leslie needs one of these tee shirts, as well as some physicians I know as "Dr. Leslie"!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqF7DELujaHixEun0Kr0gWRaL9sBA7JEvwkXnpBt2lmGKScNpY9jy0nm96f25F_kfr3OIAUvQsZewn58zG64t2pq_st0DUyE0rC2CNAcOa2bgBjS9IasgVdSShKm_mRLe5qmxubU9WqDJa_7I5weyMbW8wR9M47NiwfRiA8QXD4zBnN8ncNOpoZ_-Sg/s640/IMG_0548.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsqF7DELujaHixEun0Kr0gWRaL9sBA7JEvwkXnpBt2lmGKScNpY9jy0nm96f25F_kfr3OIAUvQsZewn58zG64t2pq_st0DUyE0rC2CNAcOa2bgBjS9IasgVdSShKm_mRLe5qmxubU9WqDJa_7I5weyMbW8wR9M47NiwfRiA8QXD4zBnN8ncNOpoZ_-Sg/s320/IMG_0548.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />From the boutique store, we sauntered along Main Street to a corner brick building, listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. My friend Cindy took this photo of its exterior, which contained all kinds of wooden gift items.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZb8ZqeBl-MotjSQrQRENCI4iiBoSw8sIoz-md8LPq0GkWcK51B2XR09zd8IoqMkpM9SB_k5WzAcL-XZ3XcU_B-obETCI9FoR8WC47syDVtNUtX4fiE9-N6dpu6UuVn9ncr2xi2EMsXS5LDOPEMjkq9y4FL3R7pAyAGPMZz5SO3GTItsqbtcRkA7Kllw/s640/IMG_0576.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZb8ZqeBl-MotjSQrQRENCI4iiBoSw8sIoz-md8LPq0GkWcK51B2XR09zd8IoqMkpM9SB_k5WzAcL-XZ3XcU_B-obETCI9FoR8WC47syDVtNUtX4fiE9-N6dpu6UuVn9ncr2xi2EMsXS5LDOPEMjkq9y4FL3R7pAyAGPMZz5SO3GTItsqbtcRkA7Kllw/s320/IMG_0576.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>By this time, the cafe had opened, so we walked back to fulfill the "Dine" requirement for our trip, and Cindy took our photo as we waited for our meal to be served. If "walls could talk", imagine the stories that could be told by these walls that are over 100 years old! This home was owned by Dr. J.O. Cotton, who died at the age of 87, in 1959. During his career, he delivered more than 3,000 babies---some of them (probably) in this very location! <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3s5rb8EKzRHXG8_fOWT_u0rQZZBnnE35lh3aYEXFjq3rILsJoL_UshjToZJG2ZsXhEeuu9Pew4SQNy0xc7gNDr9kdNE7JClz5o596aBbZilbXJ2Ir3mPcukneEzJBRm8sFNTjVxghMqHd_PMlWnPjyNrUvlwbgjnCmkBcHlXLUBzlR_qcMwEbj0e3Q/s640/IMG_0574.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE3s5rb8EKzRHXG8_fOWT_u0rQZZBnnE35lh3aYEXFjq3rILsJoL_UshjToZJG2ZsXhEeuu9Pew4SQNy0xc7gNDr9kdNE7JClz5o596aBbZilbXJ2Ir3mPcukneEzJBRm8sFNTjVxghMqHd_PMlWnPjyNrUvlwbgjnCmkBcHlXLUBzlR_qcMwEbj0e3Q/s320/IMG_0574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Everyone enjoyed their meal, and wanted to remember the occasion, by taking more photos on the front porch of the home. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglO6OeUHc9yRTFNs8lK6cohIKahlV4RPahfnb7nXeWJvsrY4Y5MQN8vGoWCBaBv-TiFhD2jmtNI0RCvhW7hJelo05VWlqTNpQuh-DV3-Zthq3yLFPZTUjyDu9Hnvkz0L9RYnYe-0FnSwcSLns5dV2bmwYr7FEzv_upuwrdAYn-stxdFeeGZ7Nf4pltRA/s640/IMG_0553.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglO6OeUHc9yRTFNs8lK6cohIKahlV4RPahfnb7nXeWJvsrY4Y5MQN8vGoWCBaBv-TiFhD2jmtNI0RCvhW7hJelo05VWlqTNpQuh-DV3-Zthq3yLFPZTUjyDu9Hnvkz0L9RYnYe-0FnSwcSLns5dV2bmwYr7FEzv_upuwrdAYn-stxdFeeGZ7Nf4pltRA/s320/IMG_0553.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />I have mentioned my photographer friend, Cindy, so the photo below shows her in the orange dress, with her ever-present fancy camera in tow:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvWjBXN6t5Am5jHhD1ugrGJw9rwdWLNhZ5y6jnMn5hN5IkKLg7l7sv5ZzXfQbESc0u97OHVrMKcjQsArT6hbjUpHfD_UjIW-qHPgAxpc46DkscvXeQ07Q3C0MzRS-0ljeFWdd8QLZCGTjtGoiPxxkOSNwirG-nCpsLsUKa9RMON7TCeSrOBH3Q23ulQ/s640/IMG_0551.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvWjBXN6t5Am5jHhD1ugrGJw9rwdWLNhZ5y6jnMn5hN5IkKLg7l7sv5ZzXfQbESc0u97OHVrMKcjQsArT6hbjUpHfD_UjIW-qHPgAxpc46DkscvXeQ07Q3C0MzRS-0ljeFWdd8QLZCGTjtGoiPxxkOSNwirG-nCpsLsUKa9RMON7TCeSrOBH3Q23ulQ/s320/IMG_0551.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This "long shot" of the cafe shows its location at 401 High Street, in Leslie, and also gives an idea of its structure. The home is a 1915 Craftsman-style house. Notice on the side next to the sign, that the long, exposed "rafter tails" are visible. The front porch is supported by two large brick and wooden posts. A wheel-chair ramp has been added on the right side of the porch to make it handicap accessible. When James Oliver Cotton first came to Leslie, he was a school teacher. Later he took the training to become a physician, and was kept busy by the various maladies/accidents of those involved in the very busy lumber business of the town, back in the last century. At one time, Leslie was the home to the largest wooden barrel producer in the world, the Williams Cooperage Company. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EAC7Fz1n8FC_aag0O0AkJdl1AbJpaUqQQ7wt3R4n7wGSAaebzM8gQuCnz5KnZp5gymEJR1KxZQsuBRq9cQjAKGTAIx-kLmW-mRWmzGs47oHXKfc1K9WGNwRr8WI3mw7WEunRUJczVHqRgFT9smpkOibKOw4WRLPR2zxoQnZcGNeiW1MNcs8v9yXoUg/s640/IMG_0550.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EAC7Fz1n8FC_aag0O0AkJdl1AbJpaUqQQ7wt3R4n7wGSAaebzM8gQuCnz5KnZp5gymEJR1KxZQsuBRq9cQjAKGTAIx-kLmW-mRWmzGs47oHXKfc1K9WGNwRr8WI3mw7WEunRUJczVHqRgFT9smpkOibKOw4WRLPR2zxoQnZcGNeiW1MNcs8v9yXoUg/s320/IMG_0550.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />After the photo session, it was time to load back up in our vehicles, and drive to our next stop. This led to the part of the trip Mark Twain would define as an "adventure". The famous author wrote, "You can tell you are having an adventure, if, when it is happening, you wish it weren't!" The vehicle I was in, started backing up, and as soon as the vehicle started to beep, indicating we were getting close to an obstacle, the driver stopped immediately, and put it in drive, to go forward. Sadly, it was too late, as the passenger side back wheel had dropped into a hole, and was suspended in mid air. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ40Bz7zN2rqe4Vg0Gq0_2AnguQiDT1CpmzWgUTi1Gbdth9-DxvtkeNeG4NU9qZuT6ew4116Lo9ST9wexvBXyo20nHoXbe_112l6hV0YwH70E62qJcyl9wDw56DkyFhYNMSedyMjlrvTA9q75jWC6mDx6Iom2Beoqk_G6oZYhNZtV1PM2So5t8T18auw/s640/IMG_0555%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ40Bz7zN2rqe4Vg0Gq0_2AnguQiDT1CpmzWgUTi1Gbdth9-DxvtkeNeG4NU9qZuT6ew4116Lo9ST9wexvBXyo20nHoXbe_112l6hV0YwH70E62qJcyl9wDw56DkyFhYNMSedyMjlrvTA9q75jWC6mDx6Iom2Beoqk_G6oZYhNZtV1PM2So5t8T18auw/s320/IMG_0555%20(3).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The crooked position of the driver side rear wheel made us concerned there might be a damaged rear axle, and a wrecker was probably going to have to be summoned! It was at this point, that I uttered the "Lightning Prayer of Nehemiah", that I had learned when my First Place 4 Health (www.FirstPlace4Health.com) group studied the book of Nehemiah. The prayer is basically a plea to God, for immediate help in a time of need: "So I prayed to the God of heaven." Nehemiah 2:4b<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVGY3DSZmr7Gk3G5hO5BW8OiGa3JlocnqTlNUW_tKRSLdJFoIBTObGY5DESDBITuPgmFhMLtgJ5yC5lOMiQQKEEYKnLWkbV8HVT4X9-CIQkJtI_GZJLFJLW-D0avYcVn3hk7nLHDyOBpdzFcCI4xwPJgKyNj2KQAbvCjCJlZlXTb-pHN4SMGITVtAjw/s640/IMG_0556.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVGY3DSZmr7Gk3G5hO5BW8OiGa3JlocnqTlNUW_tKRSLdJFoIBTObGY5DESDBITuPgmFhMLtgJ5yC5lOMiQQKEEYKnLWkbV8HVT4X9-CIQkJtI_GZJLFJLW-D0avYcVn3hk7nLHDyOBpdzFcCI4xwPJgKyNj2KQAbvCjCJlZlXTb-pHN4SMGITVtAjw/s320/IMG_0556.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Seconds after I prayed, a man appeared, and said he thought he could help us. He had noticed the giant decal on the end of the truck, indicating it was a 4X4 Off Road vehicle. And we were, indeed, "off the road", in that one wheel was not touching the road! He told our driver, the truck could be put in fourwheel drive and maneuvered out of the situation. Sensing the driver's hesitancy, he offered to do the job for her. And he was successful! He managed to engage the front wheels enough, to pull the truck forward, and out of the hole! Prayers answered, and no need for a wrecker or tow truck!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AGgXf5n8xQMiqmr9rjFFir9MUdJfk_eOFPpUt9XSHJXh8waFNdHhYApEXLxzoh8HtOP6MvhefPx7PEMaVvFzjgtA8_qqUe2lmsUSL846TI2TJPFK0WZyWMXm7U71C0E2KeG98VRpjK7w5SZiB4nBaEavpbqe6b4PoaXAoodRYWdggdOk6n7XmZDqiA/s640/IMG_0558.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7AGgXf5n8xQMiqmr9rjFFir9MUdJfk_eOFPpUt9XSHJXh8waFNdHhYApEXLxzoh8HtOP6MvhefPx7PEMaVvFzjgtA8_qqUe2lmsUSL846TI2TJPFK0WZyWMXm7U71C0E2KeG98VRpjK7w5SZiB4nBaEavpbqe6b4PoaXAoodRYWdggdOk6n7XmZDqiA/s320/IMG_0558.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Later, after the man got out of the truck, our driver offered to pay him for the vital assistance he had provided. He said he did not need any payment, but asked for the opportunity to pray with the driver. This happened just as I was walking up to thank him, so I quickly snapped a photo of this sincere act of kindness that I was witnessing. The gentleman, who told us his name was Ryan, and was from Texas, will never know what a blessing he was to our group that day!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJHyOf4mfJ3wTAXDtoryTU9C6ksC7CS-gMYhyEluWgj9kmbZZeJHLBe2XBp4vU8FEdaRO4hC0dPRgtWIrIpdqHKyFDCPQS6BIrWnyA6-r1aWedNpY1Vl3b18deCCjJPHwbKJ3YaaPc6bmevwZ6VgENEMgazopDmlZXGTAAkPGT0uXexU3Y2laXGcbXg/s640/IMG_0559.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJHyOf4mfJ3wTAXDtoryTU9C6ksC7CS-gMYhyEluWgj9kmbZZeJHLBe2XBp4vU8FEdaRO4hC0dPRgtWIrIpdqHKyFDCPQS6BIrWnyA6-r1aWedNpY1Vl3b18deCCjJPHwbKJ3YaaPc6bmevwZ6VgENEMgazopDmlZXGTAAkPGT0uXexU3Y2laXGcbXg/s320/IMG_0559.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>After sufficient time to calm our nerves, we headed for the downtown area again, for more antique shopping, and then over to our dessert location at Ryan's Main Street Grill (870-447-2264), which is famous for its homemade pies. The photo below shows the group at Ryan's.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih83qXONEtyyd2vMCTH6G1i_Ltbh2ny--5bElIyFxvT5ZnHxrftVk5U1TPtPjQAMAIatJrXDbn6M_HgGndItWL5pGSKugHWr8vYK40mV6iMfNdLB7IWgg9DKL3BD1ZXzp8INugnj6nU9DTOSKNDEcFikzQ9uPcupEcteWmoO5zu-sumRLP3nCYhl1ZuA/s640/IMG_0575.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih83qXONEtyyd2vMCTH6G1i_Ltbh2ny--5bElIyFxvT5ZnHxrftVk5U1TPtPjQAMAIatJrXDbn6M_HgGndItWL5pGSKugHWr8vYK40mV6iMfNdLB7IWgg9DKL3BD1ZXzp8INugnj6nU9DTOSKNDEcFikzQ9uPcupEcteWmoO5zu-sumRLP3nCYhl1ZuA/s320/IMG_0575.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Some of the ladies ordered carrot cake, some ordered strawberry pie, and some ordered peanut butter pie. Everyone agreed they were all fantastic.<br />Since the downtown location of the Serenity bread store was not fully operational, we made the short drive to the historic home located along Cove Creek, adjacent to Highway 65.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfV24TOuURU72weckVkKJdOom6YOip7ShFp-vFj0P2qV8HDuhsxNtyguLCuy2uYgQOhdpLMDXiQgHHjAmp0eeCmKtutnUqIORQOm0FCO7D4p4mBbJY31ozwh8zLivyTGfpiYhJE4CDODN-xz9WH56YQbVNK7-A69d5Vdji7CztvJk98wYn1K_Kvigd_g/s640/IMG_0562.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfV24TOuURU72weckVkKJdOom6YOip7ShFp-vFj0P2qV8HDuhsxNtyguLCuy2uYgQOhdpLMDXiQgHHjAmp0eeCmKtutnUqIORQOm0FCO7D4p4mBbJY31ozwh8zLivyTGfpiYhJE4CDODN-xz9WH56YQbVNK7-A69d5Vdji7CztvJk98wYn1K_Kvigd_g/s320/IMG_0562.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />The house is a 1920s Sears and Roebuck Kit House, and has been turned into a delightful stop for those traveling Highway 65, between the Arkansas State line and Little Rock.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9WY_TNayX3MVDDqKJQwvZyOWZOwVlu90WrjrvJAgZI-LRWI8PeBmxI6Gw-WIT4POOjiSxjqkJ3HU8MUi-pupEqIjEAiACgyoKFy2C6xIEnWDbeNE18XnvJ5DUIQvTM4R9e7Ldp6ZQIgM-BLozfG4S5_h-Cf6SnqUAjRmjKOGenUygG3vlnQFJluyUQ/s640/IMG_0563.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9WY_TNayX3MVDDqKJQwvZyOWZOwVlu90WrjrvJAgZI-LRWI8PeBmxI6Gw-WIT4POOjiSxjqkJ3HU8MUi-pupEqIjEAiACgyoKFy2C6xIEnWDbeNE18XnvJ5DUIQvTM4R9e7Ldp6ZQIgM-BLozfG4S5_h-Cf6SnqUAjRmjKOGenUygG3vlnQFJluyUQ/s320/IMG_0563.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br />There are delicious pastries to be found inside, plus many specialty teas and coffee products:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Rmefo6zdS2pJJlgU-SfJ0UGUi8mcvQkRzj5LB2HzuJQUqHIfN9H6eqaybLoJ8neSC03VPvNHM7wu-4gFhy-Q_tXfIjHpxfcyT4JWG7s8z-LDSQo2y03pKmBFrQlUCJmKm1vO5eIINdn1FkDtnsovPMBeNik2vASItX5qvxz-HWwXq9ipNpRavXhFIw/s640/IMG_0565.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Rmefo6zdS2pJJlgU-SfJ0UGUi8mcvQkRzj5LB2HzuJQUqHIfN9H6eqaybLoJ8neSC03VPvNHM7wu-4gFhy-Q_tXfIjHpxfcyT4JWG7s8z-LDSQo2y03pKmBFrQlUCJmKm1vO5eIINdn1FkDtnsovPMBeNik2vASItX5qvxz-HWwXq9ipNpRavXhFIw/s320/IMG_0565.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />As we were leaving, I noticed that the tables on their porch were made from treadle sewing machine bases, which my family has used for decades for the same purpose!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQg1mzPx_Ok6jEB-DOYRYJg8sF4L1sxOMm4rdb29Tr2WOCAUFaR4es0jsVoTuSSEHTeGTCaZzKrC1yDDQFFPopyDV9X8ir98uuakZrl08SpYCBeP0rT5xyDe2Tz99vKh1pLY4uHIz4emsgVm0mM1TwclxU4MY7r8DWncMdtqB-3_nmdjnowGctsKPKA/s640/IMG_0566.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQg1mzPx_Ok6jEB-DOYRYJg8sF4L1sxOMm4rdb29Tr2WOCAUFaR4es0jsVoTuSSEHTeGTCaZzKrC1yDDQFFPopyDV9X8ir98uuakZrl08SpYCBeP0rT5xyDe2Tz99vKh1pLY4uHIz4emsgVm0mM1TwclxU4MY7r8DWncMdtqB-3_nmdjnowGctsKPKA/s320/IMG_0566.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>If you would like to plan a "culinary tour" of this area, check out these websites: www.skylarkforever.com and www.serenityfarmbread.com for more information.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />This 3D Expedition to Leslie, Arkansas, gave me "MILES OF SMILES"!! Tricia<br /><br /></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com