On our last full day in Myrtle Beach, Coleman and I walked a short distance along Ocean Boulevard. Instead of trying to jump over or walk through a crevice of water to reach the side of the beach with the 2nd Avenue Pier, we walked around it.
While we were walking along the sidewalk close to the sand, we noticed this building across the street. What drew my attention to it was the public artwork on the front of the building.
Beach Bar
The Beach Bar is a casual oceanfront bar located on the Boardwalk in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It is known for its lively atmosphere, specialty drinks, and beautiful ocean views. It has outdoor seating, however, we didn’t see it from our viewpoint. [Before you even question it, no I did not take Coleman inside.]
Beach Bar 211 S Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC
The artwork on the building is bright and draws attention to the bar with its captivating surfing scenery.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: Beach Bar; 211 S Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Take an Adventure. Capture the Beauty, the Ordinary, or whatever captures your eye. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Welcome back to another Which Way Challenge (CWWC). This week I have chosen Which ways on a cloudy or stormy day for this week’s theme. The Which Way can be any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
Whether traveling by car or hiking on foot there are times we run across storms and/or clouds in our pathways/roadways. These are a few examples of what we have endured in our adventures.
US 321 Blowing Rock, NC October 9, 2017
US 321 Blowing Rock, NC October 9, 2017
NC State Hwy 74 Charlotte, NC September 16, 2024
W. Wilkinson Blvd Cramerton, NC September 26, 2024
Camera: Apple iPhones 7 Plus; 14 Pro Max; and 16 Pro Max
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take a Hike/Walk. Enjoy Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Note: Next week we will be looking at Any Which Ways with People.
This week Leanne is hosting the Monochrome Madness challenge. She has chosen a theme of Movementto spark our interest and inspire our creativity.
Here are my selections for the challenge …
We arrive at the Town’s concert early not just to obtain our choice seats, but also to allow Coleman to run around with friends and burn off excess excitement and energy prior to the start of the concert events.
Coleman Rolling on the Grass SS 1/800s
Coleman enjoys rolling down the slight hill in our Centennial Center Park.
Coleman hopping on One Foot SS 1/320s
He was challenging a friend to hop on one foot and she was trying to show him how to do cartwheels. They had a fun time playing together last Friday evening.
SS 1/250sSS 1/1100sColeman and his friend Running around before the Concert SS 1070s
Before long it was time for the Rick Hubbard’s Kazoobie Kazoo Kids Show. Rick was an outstanding guest musician entertaining the audience and involving the kids in attendance in his show. Here he is playing both a banjo and a Kazoo while entertaining everyone in attendance.
Rick Hubbard Kazoobie Kazoo Kids Show SS 1/320s
The second event for the evening was a Concert by the Caleb Davis Band. Prior to any show the band warms up making sure their sound system is working properly and their instruments are properly tuned and ready for the show.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV filter attachment.
Location: Centennial Center; Downtown Cramerton; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy Nature. Capture the beauty all around you. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The Cramerton Police Department operates many different types of vehicles to maintain order in the Cramerton area. Besides Police cars, SUV’s and a Police boat; it also operates a Polaris Government and Defense vehicle which delivers performance and reliability for mission-driven demands regardless of what the need or terrain might be.
The Polaris off-road defense vehicle helps our Cramerton Police Department to protect our town and its residents safe. It is fully equipped with sirens, emergency lighting, and a PA system. The Polaris Police Off-Road vehicle is able to go places where a regular police cruiser wouldn’t be able to and is an excellent addition to our Police Department, especially in a town surrounded by the South Fork Catawba River and several Greenways out trails.
Cramerton Police Officer Demonstrates the Cramerton’s Police Polaris Off-Road Law Enforcement Vehicle prior to the Town Concert
The Police and the Polaris Police vehicle presence was highly visible out our Town Concert last weekend. The Policeman was kind enough to give some young curious Concert attendees a demonstration of the Polaris Police Off-Road vehicle and even allowed them to sit in the vehicle while he demonstrated all the vehicles amazing features. For his kindness I am eternally grateful. (If you look closely, Coleman is seated in the driver’s side of the vehicle.)
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV filter attachment.
Location: Centennial Center; Downtown Cramerton; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a fantastic weekend. Hope to see y’all on Friday for the Which Way Challenge. This week the Which Ways will be CWWC: Which ways on a cloudy or stormy day. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Sofia Alvesis the host for this week’s Lens-Artist Challenge. The basis for her theme this week is Looking Back to the past #20-Doors and Doorways hosted by Tina.
I have chosen to Look Back to past doors I’ve photographed in 2023 at the Daniel Stowe Conservancy. These are Artistic Doors painted by various local artists displayed with the Stowe Gardens.
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden; Belmont, North Carolina
Location: Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy all of Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The selections I chose were all taken at a recent town concert from early evening to mid-evening in Cramerton, North Carolina. The Town held a Back to School Kids Show and Concert. I discussed the Kids Show in my Six Word Saturday post you can check out by clicking here.For this CFFC post I’m mainly sharing scenes from the Evening’s Concert featuring the Caleb Davis Band.
Pre-Concert Centennial CenterKAOS Kids Appearing on Stage Kazoobie Kids Show Middle School Honourees Cramerton Mayor Honours Middle Schoolers Cramerton Mayor Honours Middle SchoolersCaleb Davis BandCaleb Davis BandCaleb Davis BandColeman with Neighbours Cramerton Concert 6pm —
The Caleb Davis with the Caleb Davis Band has an impressive musical background and training. According to his Facebook profile Caleb plays a wide range of musical genres and toured as a sideman with numerous Country, Gospel, and R&B acts. Around 2009 he formed the Caleb Davis Band with his long-time friend Justin Morehead. They have been working to form their own signature sound and groove.
Coleman and I only managed to stay for the beginning portion of the Concert featuring the Caleb Davis Band. Even though their background information states that they play a wide range of genres, the music we heard the band playing lean more towards the heavy metal genre style of music. That style of music is definitely not what I consider my favourite genre of music. It was so loud and blaring Coleman was covering his ears, it was extremely difficult to listen. After leaving the concert, the volume was so loud we could still hear it from our house several blocks away. Their musical style may be fine for some who like that type of music, however, we will not be listening to it again.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV filter attachment.
Location: Centennial Center; Downtown Cramerton; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Enjoy the rest of your week. Hope to see y’all on Friday with the Which Way Challenge (CWWC). We will be discovering Which ways on a cloudy or stormy day for this Friday’s Which Way Challenge (CWWC). Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Judy from Life Lessons blog hosts a weekly photo challenge called The Numbers Game. This week’s number is 206. Her instructions for playing along are listed below …
To play along, go to your photos file and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find under that number and include a link to your blog in Judy’s Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title.
Location: Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Take time to admire Nature’s Beauty. Smell the flowers. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This American Green Tree Frog paid us a visit and chose to hang around for a while. It was to our surprise when we opened the front door and saw him looking at us looking at him. To him, it was the most natural thing in the world for him to hang around on our front storm door.
Dryophytes cinereus aka American green tree frog
The American Green Tree Frog is a common adaptable amphibian found in the Southeastern United States. [We had previously seen them in our yard blended in with the grass, but not usually hanging on our front door.] They are known for their bright green colour, large toe pads, and ability to change color based on temperature and activity.
The American Green Tree Frogs are often found near water sources like ponds, lakes, and marshes. [I know we live near a river and frogs are quite frequently spotted in the area, but on our door was unexpected.] They play a role in controlling insect populations. [This is always a good thing.]
These frogs eat small insects and other invertebrates like crickets, moths and flies. They can often be found clinging to windows or walls, trying to feed on insects that are attracted to light. [We learn something new everyday. Now we now that it is normal behavior for the Green Tree Frog to cling onto our storm door especially since it is a glass door.]
Location: Our Home; Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Be kind. Love your Neighbour (even strange ones). Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
In the evening while observing the full moon in the sky I inadvertently captured the Neighbourhood windows across the street from us. It seemed like an amazingly picturesque scene.
Leave No Trace means to carry out what you bring in to nature. Minimize your impact on natural environments. Leave an area as pristine as possible (even better than you found it). The idea is to ensure that the next visitor would barely know anyone else had been there.
Not everyone practises Leave No Trace as is recommended. Too often when we go hiking on various trails, regardless of whether the trails are in Greenways, Local, State, or National Parks, people will leave Litter by the side of trails, amongst the trees, and around campsites.
Worrells Walk, Carolina Thread Trail; Seven Oaks Preserve; Belmont, North Carolina Carolina Thread Trail; Goat Island Park and Greenway
“Please Take Nothing But Pictures Leave Nothing But Footprints”
Quote Origin disputed – Chief Seattleor James Brewer, or National Geographic Society
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF75-300mm and EF-S55-250mm lenses.
Location: As Stated in captions.
God Bless. Please be sure to Leave No Trace, no Litter left behind. Take only Pictures, kill nothing but time. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Location: AJSP Lake; Andrew Jackson State Park; Lancaster, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Get Outdoors. Take a Hike. Enjoy all of God’s Beautiful Creations. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Rick Hubbard’s Great American Kid Show was the pre-show for Friday night’s Concert Series in Cramerton, North Carolina on August 15th.
Rick Hubbard has performed nationwide in country, rock, folk, and jazz bands. He’s performed across the USA as a stand-up comedian in clubs, colleges, and cruise ships. His family entertainment show, “The Kazoobie Kazoo Show” has appeared at festivals, events, theaters, and resorts, including Disney World, The Seattle International Children’s Festival, and The Kennedy Center. In this show every kid gets a chance to be on stage, and for the grand finale, everyone gets a free kazoo and joins Rick’s marching kazoo band. It’s Kazoobie!
Kazoobie!
It’s Kazoobie!
Exceptional
Fun
Involving Everyone
Rick Hubbard puts on a show in Centennial Center entertaining kids and adults alike. He believes in KAOS. What does he mean by Kaos?
Kids
Appearing
On
Stage
Rick plays two guitars, a banjo, and a kazoo not all at the same time, but sometimes more than one at once. He is a talented entertainer who interacts effortlessly with his audience involving them in his show.
Cramerton’s kids being apart of his Great American Kids Show …
Coleman and other Cramerton kids following Rick’s instructions
While Rick is entertaining kids and adult audiences he is also educating them in word meanings, guiding them through his music about being friends and following directions.
Playing “Air guitars” and Maracas
In the last part of this Rick Hubbard’s Great American Kids Show he informs everyone about what a Kazoo is, where it is made, and how best to play a Kazoo.
Coleman and other Cramerton kids playing Kazoos on stage with Rick Hubbard.
Every kid in attendance received a free Kazoo they could keep after playing them as part of the show’s Grand Finale Kazoo Band.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV filter attachment.
Location: Centennial Center; Downtown Cramerton; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic weekend. Enjoy the great outdoors. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
To do so, simply share the photo (not a screenshot) you have set as your wallpaper; Provide as little or as much detail as you wish; Use a pingback, or post a link here so I know you have joined in on the fun; Then finally, share the fun around.
I am sharing my Wallpaper from both my Laptop and my Smartphone. I enjoy looking at different images each month. Most of which revolve around Coleman (my grandson) and nature.
Here are my Desktop Wallpaper and Screensaver for my Laptop:
From My HP Laptop:
Desktop Background Wallpaper
Coleman pointing at a Small Acorn
Desktop Screensaver
Coleman playing in Goat Island Playground
From My Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max:
Focus
Coleman at New Hope Elementary Open House 1st Grade
Personal Focus
Coleman Goat Island Park and Greenway Coleman
Reading Focus
Coleman leaning back on a tree
Hiking Focus
Coleman Tree Climbing Goat Island Park and Greenway
Welcome back to another Which Way Challenge (CWWC). This week I have chosen Any Which Way (Your Choice) for this week’s theme. The Which Way can be any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV & CPL filter attachments .
Locations: Disc Golf Trail; Goat Island Park and Greenway; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take a Hike/Walk. Enjoy Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with e. I appreciate y’all very much.
The Reed Gold Mine is the site of the first documented gold find in the United States. The discovery of gold from this mine gradually influenced gold mining to nearby counties and eventually into other southern states. During the gold mining peak years, it was second only to farming in the number of North Carolinians it employed. The estimated value of gold recovered reached over one million dollars a year. North Carolina led the nation in gold production until 1848, when it was eclipsed by the great rush to California.
Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site Reconstructed Building at President James K. Polk State Historic Site
The Reed Gold Mine is located in Midland, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and has been designated a National Historic Landmark because of its importance and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. At this location there is an underground mine that is open for self-guided tours, historic structures, a visitor center, trails, monuments, and outdoor exhibits.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens
Location: Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site; President James K. Polk State Historic Site; Pineville, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a fantastic weekend. Hope to see y’all on Friday for the Which Way Challenge. This week the Which Ways will be your choice. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Location: Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic rest of your week and weekend. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Location: Andrew Jackson State Park; Lancaster, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take time to smell the flowers. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This morning a flatbed tractor trailer came to deliver a pallet of wood to the house across the road which is be renovated from the inside out. Coleman with his natural curiosity and helpful nature decided to investigate. When the truck driver was done with his delivery he began to toss straps across the flatbed trailer to tie down the rest of his load. As I stood watching, Coleman thought he needed some assistance and proceeded to cross the street and give his willing assistance in fastening the straps from the other side of the truck hooking them together as the driver instructed. The truck driver was polite and good natured willing to allow Coleman to assist him and show him kindness.
Original
Sepia toned
Black & White
Faded, color focused with a slight splash of colour
Colour focused with a splash of Blue, & rim of Smoke effect & a tweak of swirling
Guess I got carried away experimenting with a few effects for the image. I’m leaving y’all with a collage of Coleman being a good assistant.
Location: Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy all of Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Who was Robert Palone and Why is the Palone Barber Shop in a Museum? Those are two excellent questions. Let me begin by telling you about the Palone Barber Shop in relation to Robert Palone.
Robert Palone owned a Barber Shop where he was a renowned barber for nearly sixty (60) years. [That’s a long time to successfully run a business and work in a field.] He was admired and respected by his customers and his community. Prior to owning and operating a barber shop, Robert served in the United States Navy during World War II and the Korean War.
Nowata Museum Delaware, Oklahoma
Besides being a Barber and owning his own successful Barber Shop; Robert and his wife, Lorene (McKee) Palone owned and operated the Landers Brothers Grocery Store in Delaware, Oklahoma. Robert Palone and Lorene McKee were married on June 26, 1950. In 2020 they celebrated their seventieth (70) wedding anniversary, a milestone in and of itself. Robert passed away just two shirt months after their 70th anniversary. [Side Note: I was supposed to be able to meet them in person and join the family in their celebration, however, with the COVID-19 lockdown that occurrence didn’t happen.]
Lorene McKee Palone lived another four years after his passing. After which the Palone family donated everything you see in the second image which was once owned by Robert & Lorene and was used and contained within the Palone Barber Shop to the Nowata Museum. The Nowata Museum is run by the Nowata County Historical Society in Delaware, Oklahoma. Everything that was furnished by the Palone family was used to construct a new exhibit depicting a mid century barber shop.
Robert Palone Robert & Lorene Palone (my cousins)
Let’s now move on to who Robert Palone and his significance to me personally. Robert connects to me through his wife Lorene’s mother’s side of the family. Lorene’s mother was my maternal grandmother’s sister. Therefore, Lorene is my maternal cousin making us family and hence, making Robert my family as well. Do you understand now who Robert Palone is and his story’s importance to me?
Let’s start off today by admiring our Sunday Afternoon Weekend Sky …
It was wonderful to enjoy an amazing afternoon with beautiful Skies after so many rainy days and with more rain expected.
Now on to capturing Coleman’s many antics and expressions as he meanders here and there through Goat Island Park and Greenway.
Coleman’s Meandering in Goat Island Park and Greenway
There is more to share of our adventurous Sunny Sunday afternoon, however, I’ll wait for Friday’s Which Way Challenge to share them. This Friday I am allowing y’all to choose your own Which Ways you’d like to share with us.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV & CPL Filter attachments.
Location: Goat Island Park and Greenway; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic week. Get Outdoors and enjoy Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Good friends of our are having their dream home built from scratch, the ground up.
The front of the home
They have been monitoring the construction progress from the beginning being observant and taking note to ensure everything is being done to their satisfaction.
The Back of the House
It won’t be much longer, barring complications or inspection delays, before they’ll be able to move in and add their own finishing touches the inside of their new home.
As Coleman and I walked through the woods and around the newly renovated playground at Goat Island Park and Greenway, I noticed all the lines and patterns in the equipment along with all the shades of tan, beige, and every shade of light brown imaginable.
Tan, Beige?, & all sorts of shades of light brown
The slide on this playground was once green, and very much broken after Hurricane Helene. It took months and months of waiting for a new slide to arrive and installation to be complete. The months and months of waiting due to delays upon delays was difficult and disappointing for the children (you know how impatient children of all ages can be). It doesn’t matter whether you call the new slide tan or beige or whatever floats your boat, it only matters that the children once again have a slide to play on.
Coleman excited to be able to slide down the new slide.
Looking carefully at the slide and playground equipment one may notice all the curvy lines all forming patterns in various aspects of the equipment.
Coleman having a grand time with every single asset within the playground equipment
Leavingthe playground for a short walk we encounter more tan, beige, & light brown as well as some interesting lines and patterns.
Coleman hiking along the Disc Golf Trail
Can you see all the lines, patterns, and various shades of beige, tan, and light brown? This afternoon was a pleasant and delightful afternoon spent with Coleman and his exuberance.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV & CPL Filter attachments.
Location: Goat Island Park and Greenway; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Get Outside and enjoy the beauty in Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Remembering a fun family trip with my daughter and granddaughter to the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina. This upcoming week my granddaughter will turn twelve (12). These are memories from when she was four (4).
Alona on an elephant sculpture
Her mom and I took her down to Columbia, South Carolina to visit the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. It was a special time and memories I will always cherish. [She currently lives with her father & he does not allow her to visit with us even though there is a shared custody agreement.]
Alona petting an Anglo-Nubian goat
Alona enjoyed being able to pet the goats and other animals in the children’s petting area.
Alona riding a Giraffe on the Merry-Go-Round
As well as the merry-go-round and all the amazing animals located within the Zoo.
Alona on a Gorilla sculpture
Every time we came near any of the animal sculptures she thought she had to go up and climb on them. It made for some interesting poses (or lack of posing).
Alona on Happy the Tiger in the Riverbanks main plaza
After a long tiring day, we stopped at the entrance/exit area for one final photo opportunity before traveling back home through Great Falls, Lancaster, and finally to get home in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Columbia, South Carolina with Alona
Location: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden; Columbia, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Memories are precious. Treasure your memories. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Looking back to a trip my daughter and I took to visit (meet in person) cousins from my mother’s side of the family in Coshocton, Ohio.
Memorial Garden Roscoe Village Coshocton, Ohio
There is an area in Coshocton known as the Historic Roscoe Village. The Historic Roscoe Village is an 1830 Restored Canal Town. Roscoe Village began as a small port town in 1816 after a bankrupt merchant bet that rural farmers would rather do business there than have to shell out 25 cents for the ferryboat to Coshocton.
Today, the restored Roscoe Village stands as a testament to Ohio’s bygone Canal era.
My daughter relaxing on a Welcoming Garden Bench
The Frances Montgomery Memorial Garden is one of nine gardens in Roscoe Village and is located near the Visitors’s Center. This Garden is dedicated to honor Mrs. Frances Montgomery and her passion for gardening. The Gardens are planted throughout this restored 1800’s canal town.
The flower beds were created in the early 1970’s by Frances Montgomery out of her love for gardening. Many of the gardens have historical significance and assist in the education mission of Roscoe Village.
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Commune with Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
God Bless. Stop and smell the flowers. Admire their beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The Moses Cone Carriage House is a significant historical structure located within the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and just a short hike from the Cone Manor.
The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and the Moses Cone Carriage House is located near Milepost 294 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Moses Cone Carriage House
The Cone Carriage House was part of the expansive Flat Top Manor estate, built by textile magnate Moses H. Cone and his wife Bertha at the turn of the 20th century.
The estate included the manor house, about 500 acres of farmland, Flat Top Mountain, Rich Mountain, and a vast system of carriage trails.
Carriage House
The Carriage House housed carriages and other equipment used to maintain the estate’s approximately 25 miles of carriage trails. The Carriage House has been preserved as a historical structure within the park, it might possibly be used for maintenance or interpretive exhibits related to the estate’s history.
Front of Carriage House
The Carriage House may not be a prominent visitor attraction on its own, however, it contributes to the overall historical and natural experience of the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which also includes the Flat Top Manor (the Cone’s former residence), orchards, lakes, and extensive carriage trails.
Note: This section of the Blue Ridge Parkway is open for the public.
Location: Moses Cone Carriage House; Moses H. Cone Memorial Park; Milepost 294; Blue Ridge Parkway; Watauga County, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic week. Get Outdoors and enjoy Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Welcome back to another Which Way Challenge (CWWC). This week I have chosen Any Which Way with Shadows and/or silhouettesfor this week’s theme. Shadows can be on any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
Here are my entries …
Coleman’s Shadows/Silhouettes
Coleman
Taken at Goat Island Park and Greenway at the end of the Riverlink Greenway Trail located in Cramerton, North Carolina.
Coleman’s arm over his Shadow/Silhouette
Trees and their Leaves Shadows
Coleman hiking down to the Spillway amongst many Shadows
The above Shadows were captured at the Lake Haigler Entrance of the Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
Thank you to all who have supported and contributed to the Which Way Challenge this past week or at any time. Be sure to check out other Which Ways by clicking on the links below.
Cameras: 1-2) Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV & CPL filter attachments; 3-7) Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Locations: As Stated Above
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy a hike/walk in Nature. Admire Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Look all around, there’s Brown everywhere you look out in nature. From the ground, to boardwalks, and even to the varying kinds of animals which roam around in the woods, in farms, and even in many greenways. Here are a few examples of Brown I have discovered.
Tree & Pinecones at ASCGBoardwalk at AJSPBench in the Sand at Riverside Park & Greenway Single Leaf on a limb at Goat Island Park & Greenway Single Leaf on a limb at Goat Island Park & GreenwayNorthern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) aka Bobwhite quailAnolis carolinensisASCG HorsesGiraffes at the Greenville ZooColeman on a log surrounded by Brown leaves
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Explore Nature. Capture its Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Location: Andrew Jackson State Park, Lancaster, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy all of Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Judy from Life Lessons blog hosts a weekly photo challenge called The Numbers Game. This week’s number is 206. Her instructions for playing along are listed below …
To play along, go to your photos file and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find under that number and include a link to your blog in Judy’s Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title.
We have had several thunderstorms this week, so therefore we haven’t been out and about much. Instead I’m reminiscing about a trip I took a few years ago with my oldest son for his birthday adventure. Since he wanted to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, I was more than happy to ride along with him.
My entries for this week’s challenge are views from just one of our stops we sidetracked on during his Mountain adventure.
Taken at 10:54 am (late morning) in 2017
Bluff Mountain Overlook is located at Milepost 243.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a popular destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Bluff Mountain is visible from the Bluff Mountain Overlook. It offers breathtakingly spectacular views.
Foggy Morning Mountain View
On a clear day, Bluff Mountain’s visibility is remarkably satisfying and amazingly delightful to gaze upon from the Overlook. At this point in our adventure clear visibility was not to be had, but that did not deter ills from looking around or venturing on a short hike along the Bluff Mountain Trail which is easily accessible from the Bluff Mountain Overlook.
Alligator Back
Bluff Mountain Trail passes through grassy meadows and includes a challenging switchback ascent called Alligator Back. Alligator Back is a short twenty (20) minute walk from Bluff Overlook.
The Predators
Until recently Predatory Birds and Mammals, those which preyed on other animals or were in conflict with humans, were termed “Varmints” and killed on sight. Fortunately, modern Ecology proves the vital interdependency of all wild plants and animals. Today Hawks and Owls, Black Bears, Bobcats, Foxes and Snakes continue to roam Parklands like this and help preserve the delicate balance of nature. [Informational notice on sign.]
Panoramic View from Bluff Mountain Overlook
We hiked all around the overlook investigating the Predator area scenic views. To the right in the photo above and in the picture below is my eldest son, John. He is not normally into hiking, but he accommodated me in my thrill to explore the sights and perspective landscapes available to observe, explore, and admire.
My eldest son, John
As we drove further along the Blue Ridge Parkway our visibility improved dramatically unlike when we parked here at this location and the Air Bellows Overlook.
Air Bellows Overlook Parkway Milepost 236.9
Looking forward to checking out all your Morning Scenes. Hope to see y’all on Friday for the Which Way Challenge. This week we’ll be including Shadows in our Which Ways. Interested in finding more details about the Which Way challenge click here.
On a beautiful sunny summer day, who wants to eat indoors? Why not enjoy the beautiful weather and enjoy the delicious Greek Gyros at a dining table outside?
Outdoor Dining The Greek Grill Tega Cay, SC
That’s exactly what we did. We went inside, ordered our Greek Gyros with Grilled Veggies and went outside to enjoy our food under the shade of an umbrella in the beautiful sunshine.
The Yucca gloriosa species is known by the common names moundlily yucca and soft-tipped yucca. The Yucca gloriosa is also known as Roman candle, candle yucca, palm lily, and Spanish needle.
Close-up of the Yucca Flowers
Yucca gloriosa is caulescent, usually with several stems arising from the base, the base thickening in adult specimens. The leaves are long narrow, straight and very stiff. [The tips of the leaves are extremely sharp to the touch.]
Yucca gloriosa with Raindrops
The inflorescence is a panicle up to 2.5 m (8 ft) long, of bell-shaped white flowers, sometimes tinged purple or red. The fruit is a leathery, elongate berry up to 8 cm (3 in) long. [We have not seen or noticed the berries on the Yucca plant as of yet.]
Moundlily Yucca and Soft-tipped Yucca
The habitat for Yucca gloriosa is normally on exposed sand dunes along the coast and barrier islands of the lower East Coast of the United States. [There are two (2) of the Yucca gloriosa grown as ornament plants on our front lawn.]
Yucca gloriosa has been known to cause skin irritation and even allergic reactions upon contact. The leaf points are even sharp enough to break the skin.
We are very much still in winter even though we haven’t had anymore snow as of yet. We have had many freezing temperatures in the evenings and early mornings. The past couple of days warmed up, however, chilly days and rainy days are still in the foreseeable forecast.
Since Spring has not yet sprung this year I decided to look back upon a delightfully sunny Spring day in 2022(spring ended on June 21st in 2022). On this spectacular Spring day, Coleman and I hiked along the Catawba River in Rock Hill, South Carolina. We hiked along the Founders Trail which runs parallel to the Catawba River. And before you ask, Coleman did enjoy some refreshing playtime in the River.
Look closely to see people tubing down the River.
Kayakers enjoying the Catawba River.
Coleman wading, playing, & watching the tubers floating down the Catawba River.
Location: Catawba River; Founders Trail; Carolina Thread Trail; Rock Hill, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Here’s wishing for Spring. Have a delightfully wonderful weekend. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
God Bless. Admire the Flowers and the beauty found in nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Welcome back to the Which Way Challenge. This Week’s Which Way Challengeare theme is Any Which Way Capturing People Unaware. They can be Any Which Way on any Road, Pathways, Walkways, Sidewalks, Stairs, Trail or Dirt Path etc. as long as your Which Ways are clearly visible. As always signs are welcome anytime.
Here are my entries for this week …
CWWC Capturing People Unaware
Click on each image to enlarge.
Thank you to all who have supported and contributed to the Which Way Challenge this past week or at any time. Be sure to check out other Which Ways by clicking on the links below.
Tuesday was another free night at the Museum. Free nights are on the second (2nd) Tuesday each month curtesy of Duke Energy. I captured these doors with my iPhone as we walked through the museum.
Venus Flytrap Door Decor
We walked through every hallway and corridor viewing everything even though we’ve been there several times before.
Emergency exit door
Coleman zooms around every corner and nook and cranny faster than I can possibly imagine catching up with him.
Interpretation Division Staff Only
Soaring past this doorway and that doorway all the way to the final door to exit the museum.
Location: The Schiele Museum of Natural History and Planetarium; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a fascinating weekend full of exciting adventures. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Good Day y’all! This week Dawn from The Day Afteris the host for Monochrome Madness. She has chosen a theme of Circles. One may find circles or circular objects just about anywhere you look. Circles are all around us, from wheels, to bubbles, to water ripples, you name it circles are everywhere.
Here are a few circles of circulars I have found …
Circles in a Color AppMetal WheelJupiter Balloon ride at Carowinds Coleman trying to catch Bubbles Sculpture in Abilene, TexasCircles/Circular Water Ripples Coleman’s Toy Monster Truck Wheels
God Bless. Stay Warm. Stay safe. Take Care of yourself. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This week Terri WebsterSchrandt of Second Wind Leisure Perspectivescombines her Sunday Stills Challenge with her Sunday Stills Monthly Color Challenge for a theme of Amethyst. She has also created her The #Flower Hour post using shades of Amethyst flowers.
Spring has not yet sprung in our area as of yet, therefore, I perused my photo archives to find appropriate images to use for all three challenges in one.
Here are my contributions …
Platycodon grandiflorus; a species of herbaceous, Aka balloon flowerPurple PansyHydrangeaSeaside PetuniasViola bertolonii aka Bertoloni’s pansy
God Bless. Have a lovely week. Take time to observe nature’s beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The National Cash Register Company (NRC) was founded by John H. Patterson in 1884 in Dayton, Ohio. He pioneered the mechanical cash register to stop employee theft.
And even further back …
Letterpress on the USS North Carolina
The letterpress printing machine was invented way back around 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg in Mainz, Germany. The letterpress printing machine enabled mass production of books, revolutionizing the spread of information. It was a dominant printing method for over 500 years.
Quote by Charles Kettering
On to other inventions seen at various museums …
Robots anyone?
Early Robots as seen in The Discovery Center in Abilene, Texas in March of 2020.
The Joe Steinlauf Bed Bike
The Joe Steinlauf Bike, often referred to as the Bed Bike, is on display (at least it was in August of 2021) at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, North Carolina. The Bed Bike is an unconventional contraption designed by using a metal headboard.
“One rule of invention; before you can invent it, you have to imagine it. By James GunnOlympia typewriter
The Olympia Typewriters were produced by the German company Olympia-Werke AG (founded 1903 in Wilhelmshaven). This typewriter was donated to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum (St Simons, Georgia) in 1970 by Eileen Humphlett. It was one used by the author Eugenia Price.
God Bless. Stay Safe. Take Care. Have an adventurous week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
One day back in Time my daughter and I took a vacation to meet some cousins in Ohio.
One day our one of our cousins took us sightseeing. On another day, we visited Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) as a perspective future college for my daughter to attend.
One day we walked the vast campus viewing the luscious Green lawn with a fascinating Bronze statue called “Circle of Friends.”
Circle of Friends Statue by Gary Lee Price COTC Newark, Ohio
One day we learned that the circle represents the world coming together, ‘paws’ clasped in friendship and unity.
One day we were fascinated by Price’s use of one animal from each of the seven continents, representing the entire world and our need for interaction and cooperation.
One day we interacted inside the circle joining in with the “Circle of Friends.”
One day I pray the world will come together in friendship and unity interacting and cooperating with one another peacefully.
Over the weekend my daughter treated us out for supper at the Taxco Mexican Grill. This was a new (to us) location of the Mexican restaurant chain. Normally Coleman won’t eat meat except for vegetarian “meat.” However, he decided he wanted to try the grilled chicken strips off the kids menu and loved them.
The Didelphis virginiana, also known as the Virginia opossum, the North American opossum, and is commonly referred to as the possum.
Aka Virginia opossum
The Opossum is a solitary nocturnal marsupial typically about the size of a domestic cat. They frequently inhabit areas near food sources like trash cans, compost piles, pet food, and gardens. (If you live in a home with an unused dryer vent opening it’d be wise to close it off, possums will and have come into homes via those vents.)
Aka North American opossum
Not only have I seen Opossums come into a home we lived in, we have also known them to eat pet food we have set outside for cats and dogs.
Opossum or possum
Have you encountered Opossums in your areas? This one is housed at The Schiele Museum of Natural History to help educate visitors about the habits and behaviors.
Rosemary is a fragrant herb from the mint family grown in The Farm at The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Rosemary grown in the Garden in the Farm has several qualities that are beneficial for the Garden and the Livestock living in the Farm.
A Natural Pest Repellent to keep mosquitoes and cabbage moths away
Boosts health in crops like sage and cabbage
An aromatic, woody, low-maintenance drought-tolerant evergreen hedging
The aromatic stalks can be used in chicken coops to reduce insects
The leaves can be fed to livestock in small quantities to boost immune systems
It invites beauty and life into the garden by being a magnet for pollinators. It attracts bees, honeybees, bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
It can be added to feed for cows, goats, sheep, and pigs as a natural phytogenic feed additive.
How do you like to use rosemary? Do you plant it in your garden? There are many benefits of rosemary not only the health of farm animals, garden plants, and it has benefits for your health as well.
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Take time to relax and enjoy nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens
God Bless. Have a wonderful week filled with love, laughter and a warm sense of peace. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
We have had a few weeks of freezing weather producing Ice and Snow storms with little sight of the Sun.
Sunrise 7:21am
So far when the Sun has tried to peeked through the rain clouds have covered it up.
Hopefully the Sun will bring a little warmth to our area. However, even though 45°F is warmer than our freezing 9°F lows it is still not what I consider a warm day.
Location: Shot from Porch; Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Here’s praying for warmer days, brighter tomorrows, and love & peace for y’all. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Welcome back to the Which Way Challenge. This Week’s Which Way Challengeare theme is Any Which Way Displaying Winter or Summer. They can be Any Which Way on any Road, Pathways, Walkways, Sidewalks, Stairs, Trail or Dirt Path etc. as long as your Which Ways are clearly visible. As always signs are welcome anytime.
In our neck of the woods, we are in the midst of ongoing back to back winter storms. North of the I-40 usually gets hit with Snow ❄️during the winter months, but south of the I-40 rarely receives more than a sprinkling or trace of Snow accumulation on the ground. This year we have been hit with an extreme Winter Ice Storm followed by an extreme Arctic Winter Snow Storm and winter is not over so there is opportunity for chances of more ice, sleet, or snow before the season is over.
This past weekend the Snow was packed on top of the ice that hadn’t had a chance to melt yet. This made the road (the one next to the railroad tracks) an excellent place for some neighborhood fun. Two of the neighbour families had sleds they brought out and invited Coleman to sledding with them. So naturally, I bundled him best I could (he didn’t have any snow pants, overalls, or any kind of snowsuit) and we met the neighbours at the corner by the tracks.
Here are a few examples of the Funtime Coleman enjoyed playing in the Snow ❄️ …
Coleman walking up to the cornerColeman checking to make sure I’m coming. The Sledding HillColeman When you play in the Street, you have to watch out for cars. Coleman Ms. Brenda pulling Coleman Ms. Brenda, Coleman, & RileyRiley & Coleman Riley & ColemanRiley & ColemanRiley & ColemanRiley & ColemanRiley up top & Coleman at the bottom. Coleman sledding solo Coleman sledding soloColeman sledding soloColeman sledding soloCee’s Which Way Challenge (CWWC) Winter 2026 — Winter or Summer
This was Coleman’s very first time to go sledding. (Pull Up a Seat on a Sled) In between runs the boys enjoyed throwing snowballs at the adults and Riley’s older sister. A wonderful good time was had by all.
Click on each image to enlarge.
Thank you to all who have supported and contributed to the Which Way Challenge this past week or at any time. Be sure to check out other Which Ways by clicking on the links below.
Looking back to February 2024, I took several shot of flowers in the garden at The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Aka Rocket
The Garden in the Farm at The Schiele Museum is filled with vegetables and flowers each year. New plants are planted from starters at the home of the Farm Caretaker and planted into the garden beds at the Farm. The vegetable plants and flowers are a beautiful sight to behold. The flowers are pollinated from the bees from the hives in the Farm located adjacent to the flower beds.
Aka Arugula
Before researching this plant, Eruca vesicaria, I had no idea that it had multiple common names including Rocket, and Arugula. I knew that Arugula is a green often used in salads, which when eaten has a slightly bitter taste. Arugula is a herb from the mustard family (not a lettuce even though I previously thought it was).
God Bless. Admire the Flowers and the beauty found in nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Tina of Travels and Triflesis this week’s host for the Lens-Artist Photo Challenge. She has chosen to Look Back at #174 and asking us to display images showing Shapes and Designs.
Here are my contributions taken from my latest jaunt out in the freezing cold … and some from our recent mini vacay at the beach.
Lens-Artist Photo Challenge (LAPC) Shapes and Designs
When we were at Myrtle Beach for New Year’s, I captured some of the resort buildings views facing the ocean. Yes, I was also fascinated by the Ring-billed gulls soaring through the air. However, looking closely I also noticed the sliding glass doors facing the ocean. [Our room only had a side view of the ocean, not a full straight-on view.]
Sliding Glass Doors Oceans One Resort
These are the beach side view of the Oceans One Resort in Myrtle Beach. It would have been nice to slide open those doors and relax on the balcony and watch the ocean views.
Beach View of Sliding Glass Doors Oceans One Resort 107 S Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: Oceans One Resort; 107 S Ocean Blvd; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Take an Adventure. Capture the Beauty, the Ordinary, or whatever captures your eye. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This week is a free non-themed week for Monochrome Madness. Seeing as we’vehad a few winter storms and we were inundated with Snow ⛄️ I am sharing a few monochrome images of Snow ❄️ Snow ❄️ Snow ❄️.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Stay Warm. Stay safe. Take Care of yourself. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Dan Antion from No Facilities , the host of Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge (CFFC)has chosen to continue his themes dealing with this, that, or both. This week’s them is Detailed or Abstract or Both to finish up the “This, that, or both” series.
Let’s go slipping and sliding into Details and Abstraction …
Cameras: 1) Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Telephoto; 2) Canon EOS Rebel 2000D with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: By the Railroad Tracks; S. Main St.; Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a warm day filled with sunshine, love, and happiness. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: By the Railroad Tracks; Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Be Safe. Be Courteous. Have a Splendiferous week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Beach Bums is a chain of beach clothing stores providing an array of beach clothing and accessories to suit your lifestyle and needs.
Beach Bums
This Beach Bums location also rents Luxury Golf Carts to satisfy your desires to get around the beach area more proficiently. Whatever your beach needs might be Beach Bums has what you’re looking for to accommodate your needs or wants.
Brian from Bushboys Worldhosts a monthly challenge called Last On the Card. His rules are simple to follow if you’re interested in participating.
Here are The rules: 1. Post the last photo on your SD card or last photo on your phone for the 30th or whenever your last photo was taken. 2. No editing – who cares if it is out of focus, not framed as you would like or the subject matter didn’t cooperate. 3. You don’t have to have any explanations, just the photo will do 4. Create a Pingback to this post or link in the comments 5. Use the tags The Last Photo and #LastOnTheCard
Here are my contributions …
From my Canon EOS T7 (2000D):
Photobombed by Coleman Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
God Bless. Enjoy your Winter/Summer days. Stay safe. Have a funtastic week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Eating small quantities of clean, fresh, white snow is generally considered low-risk for the majority of healthy individuals. Be cautious if you choose to eat fresh white snow or snow cream.
I chose to allow Coleman to eat safely obtained fresh white snow following recommended safety guidelines.
Here is a list of Safety Guidelines recommended to follow before Eating Snow.
Prioritize Fresh Snow:
Eat only Snow that has just fallen (it is preferable to wait a few hours after a snowfall begins, after initial air scrubbing.)
Ensure it’s White:
Only eat pristine, white snow. Avoid any snow that is yellow, red, green, gray, or black, as this indicates contamination by urine, algae, or pollutants.
Avoid Ground Contact:
Scoop snow from the top layer or collect it in a clean bowl placed outside as it falls. This is to prevent any and all contact with ground contaminates, dirt, or animal waste.
Avoid Disturbed Areas:
Never ever eat snow from roadsides, driveways, sidewalks, or areas with heavy foot traffic. These areas often have high contaminations of chemicals and pollutants.
I assure you we collect fresh snow from a clean container we placed outside long past when the snowfall had begun (especially considering it began when we were still sleeping).
God Bless. Have a warm (or cool if you’d rather) day and week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
What a difference a year makes in our view, weather, and our activities.
Our view from our porch 2025
January 31, 2025
This time last year Coleman were hiking in Goat Island Park and Greenway. He was playing in the playground having a wonderful good time. Our high was 54°F, not too hot but also not extremely cold either. Our low was 32°F during a time when we were home. What was this time last year like you y’all?
Coleman swinging at Goat Island Playground January 31, 2025
January 31, 2026
This year we are having an extremely cold winter storm with a mixture of Snow and Sleet alternating off and on all day and night. Our high today was 21°F below normal with a freezing temperature of 29°F and a feel like temperature of 14°F. [I don’t know about y’all, but to me, that is extremely freezing cold.] Our low was 17°F with a feel like of 2°F.
Coleman doesn’t like being cooped up inside any time of the day. He is a hyperactive person who prefers to be out in nature. With today’s extreme cold temperatures and dangerous weather conditions he has had to find other options to keep himself occupied and entertained. Luckily, he has several options to play with like his new Hot Wheels City play-sets and additional orange track.
Coleman with his new Hot Wheels City Play-sets safe at home. January 31, 2026
What’s it like for y’all in your area right now? Are you experiencing extreme cold winter conditions? Or are you experiencing the hot summer days?
Oops, sorry forgot to be silent. Forgive me for being vocal, I’ll remember it’s a Silent Sunday next week.
Camera: 1) Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max; 2) Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens; 3-4) Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max Fusion
God Bless. Have a wonderful week filled with love, laughter and a warm sense of peace. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The Smoke Pit is a casual contemporary barbecue restaurant that is known for its massive proportions and slow-smoked meats. [We enjoyed their smoked turkey and their pulled barbecue chicken (I don’t eat beef).] We were flabbergasted at how large our proportions were and we needed to bring part of our dinners home to eat later.
Counter Seating
The Smoke Pit is highly renowned for its Texas-style beef offerings and generous side dishes. We went in the late afternoon (before the dinner rush) when prices are slightly discounted. They offer a trio combination where you can choose three different types of meat as well as two or three side options.
Table Seating
The Smoke Pit offers nine different flavours of barbecue sauce to satisfy your taste buds. The flavours range from Southern Sweet to Sizzling Hot. Coleman prefers a honey barbecue sauce, but decided to try the Southern Sweet and was satisfied with its taste. Myself, I chose the Southern Sweet Carolina-style Mustard barbecue sauce on my barbecued pulled chicken.
The Smoke Pit
We highly recommend The Smoke Pit for anyone near one. The food is delicious, the portions are enormous, and you won’t leave hungry. You’ll be well pleased with the quality of the food and the customer service.
Location: The Smoke Pit; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic week. Get Outdoors and Enjoy Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Location: Old Town; Riverside Community; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Stay Safe. Stay Warm. Have a fantastic weekend. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Welcome back to the Which Way Challenge. This Week’s Which Way Challengeare theme is Any Which Way (Your Choice). They can be Any Which Way on any Road, Pathways, Walkways, Sidewalks, Stairs, Trail or Dirt Path etc. as long as your Which Ways are clearly visible. As always signs are welcome anytime.
This week we have been inundated with below freezing temperatures and extreme winter weather inhibiting our ability (too cold for us to go walking about outside) to adventure on an enjoyably beautiful hike. (Sorry, not sorry, below 20° or slightly above with the feel like temperatures even lower is not my cup of tea). These are from what we saw from Winter Storm Fern …
Thank you to all who have supported and contributed to the Which Way Challenge this past week or at any time. Be sure to check out other Which Ways by clicking on the links below.
God Bless. Stay Warm. Stay safe. Have a wonderful weekend. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Note: Next Week our theme will be Any Which Way with Winter or Summer Which Ways. Let’s see what you’re experiencing and enjoying this season.
Judy from Life Lessons blog hosts a weekly photo challenge called The Numbers Game.This week’s number is 231. Her instructions for playing along are listed below …
To play along, go to your photos file and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find under that number and include a link to your blog in Judy’s Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title.
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Live life to the fullest. Make lasting memories. Take Care. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Dan Antion from No Facilities , the host of Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge (CFFC)has chosen to continue his themes dealing with this, that, or both. This week’s them is Up or Down or Both. I can’t imagine anyone being eavesdropper to hear on our discussion about my past family vacations to Stone Mountain in DeKalb County, Georgia. Memories are precious to recall regardless of whether they’re from long ago or just a few weeks ago.
I’ve drawn from the past and present to bring together a few Ups and Downs to meet this week’s challenge theme.
Here are my contributions …
Flying Upward Soaring Down Close to the GroundUp, Up, & Away Coming Down for a LandingTraveling Up & Down the Long Road (SC21)Riding Up in the air in a Gondola Up on top of Stone Mountain, Georgia Looking Down Below Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge Up or Down or Both
God Bless. Have a fantastic week. Stay warm. Keep looking Up. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Gfpacificbee’s Insights & photography 