Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-25mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment; Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Location: By Lake Crawford & Lake Crawford Trail; Kings Mountain State Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take a Walk/Hike. 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). I trust everyone has had a good week and able to spend some time to take a walk or hike in the vast outdoors. This week’s theme is CWWC: Any Which Way with Shadows . The Which Way can be any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. As always signs are always welcome.
For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
I hope y’all have had some lovely weather for getting out and about enjoying nature and capturing its amazing beauty. This week’s focus is on shadows in our pathways, the trails we explore, or wherever you may encounter them while you walk or hike in the vast outdoors. My shadows are on the trails Coleman and I hiked in Kings Mountain State Park. Enjoy.
Here are my entries …
Hiking Trails with Shadows Kings Mountain State Park
Click on each image to enlarge.
Thank you to those who have participated and supported the Which Ways Challenge. I appreciate y’all sharing your Which Ways with us.
For an idea of other’s Which Ways from this past week’s challenge, be sure to click on the following links below.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: The Living History Farm; Kings Mountain State Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Hope it’s not too hot for all y’all. Thank you for sharing your time and thoughts with me. I appreciate y’all very much.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-25mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment
Location: By Lake Crawford & At The Living History Farm; Kings Mountain State Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take a Walk/Hike. 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). I trust everyone has had a good week and able to spend some time to take a walk or hike in the vast outdoors. This week’s theme is CWWC: Any Which Way with Outdoor Steps or Stairs. The Which Way can be any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. As always signs are always welcome.
For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
This week I am continuing to show aspects of mine and Coleman’s hike in Kings Mountain State Park, beginning with the Steps to the Bathhouse and continuing along the Lake Crawford Trail and beyond.
Here are my entries …
Steps to Lake Crawford Stepping StonesSteps to Lake CrawfordStepping Stones Steps to Lake CrawfordBathhouse StepsStairsSteps to Lake CrawfordBathhouse Steps Bathhouse StepsCWWC 2026 Any Which Way with Outdoor Steps or Stairs Kings Mountain State Park
Click on each image to enlarge.
Thank you to those who have participated and supported the Which Ways Challenge. I appreciate y’all sharing your Which Ways with us.
For an idea of other’s Which Ways from this past week’s challenge, be sure to click on the following links below.
When Coleman and I went hiking the other week, we hiked from the Bathhouse to The Living History Farm (from one end to the other end) in Kings Mountain State Park.The Living History Farm at Kings Mountain State Park is a replica of a mid-nineteenth (19th) century South Carolina yeomen farm.
Yeomen Farms were run by small-scale independent landowners who worked their own land primarily using family labour. [Much in the same way the Amish farmers work, or farmers in the time period of ‘Little House on the Prairie’.] Yeomen farmers focused on subsistence farming, livestock, and self-reliance.
Enough of the side jaunt about the farmers, now back to The Living History Farm. It is an opportunity for visitors to explore an immersive look into the self-sufficiency lifestyle of the post-Revolutionary War era. It shows the period-appropriate buildings, heirloom gardens, and holds live demonstrations to illustrate how the farmers and their families lived and worked together during the post-Revolutionary War era.
These here are a fraction of the authentic replicas at The Living History Farm.
Anyone ever use one of these?
Outhouse
A Visiting Dog (not apart of the historical replica)
Under this building is a wagon and other equipment used on a yeomen farm.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV filter attachment.
Location: The Living History Farm; Kings Mountain State Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a wonderful week and weekend. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Note: This Friday’s CWWC theme will be Any Which Way with Outdoor Steps or Stairs. The Steps or Stairs maybe on any pathway, nature trail, or any other walkway or footpath. Be sure your Which Ways are clearly visible. Thank you for your participation.
Location: Lake Crawford; Kings Mountain State Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Love & Peace to y’all. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The Historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Bathhouse sits on the shores of Lake Crawford in Kings Mountain State Park. The Bathhouse was the location where Coleman and I began our hike. The height of usage for the Bathhouse was between 1930’s until the 1990’s. In its heyday it was an essential hub for park activities.
Side of Bathhouse
Currently, the Bathhouse is abandoned and in a sad state of disrepair. The exterior ofthe Bathhouse is available for viewing via the Farm Trail (or in our case, we parked in the parking area where the Bathhouse is located.
From the Backside
The Historic CCC Bathhouse is primary historical landmark within Kings Mountain State Park. It is known for its intricate craftsmanship.
Rear-side of Bathhouse
When you approach the main doors (currently locked) there is a QR code you may scan that will give you information about how to donate to the ongoing Bathhouse Donation Project to help aide in the Revitalization Efforts for the renovation of the Bathhouse.
The Bathhouse Backside
Once the Bathhouse is restored, it is intended to serve as a central visitor information hub. It will also allow the Lake Crawford swimming area to be reopen. Swimming has not been allowed in Lake Crawford since 2002. For over 20 years swimming in Lake Crawford and Lake York have been prohibited. Even though swimming is not allowed (hopefully it will be when the Bathhouse is renovated and reopened); there are other recreational activities which may be enjoyed … such as fishing, boating, and sightseeing.
XingfuMama hosts the weekly challenge Whatsoever Is Lovely. The challenge is simple. Just reflect back over your week and see what is lovely, whether a thing or a moment, share in a post what is precious and lovely to you.
Last Thursday, Coleman and I had an early morning adventure (dropped off at 8am) hiking in Kings Mountain State Park. Coleman loves the being out in the great outdoors surrounded by nature’s beauty.
We were dropped off near Lake Crawford and proceeded to hike down to the lake. We hiked along the Lake Crawford Trail and stopped for a short break to observe the Spillway. Watching the water flow from one side to the other is fascinating and captivated Coleman’s interest.
He hopped from rock to rock to cross the water slowly flowing from the Spillway. I, on the hand, crossed over via the bridge.
Here are the views Coleman and I thought were lovely and the memories we made are extremely precious.
The Spillway at Kings Mountain State Park Whatsoever Is Lovely Challenge 2026 – Week 15
Cameras: Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max and Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens & Altura UV Filter attachment
Location: The Spillway; Lake Crawford; Kings Mountain State Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Isn’t it lovely to Enjoy Nature. Admire Nature’s beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Location: The Spillway; Kings Mountain State Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Get Outdoors. 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). Let me first apologize for being a bit late in posting this week’s Which Way Challenge. Our internet was being wacky going in and out not staying connected for the longest time. Hopefully our WiFi will stay connected so I can complete and publish.
This week I have chosen (CWWC)/CFFC 2026: Any Which Way with Views from a walk or hike for this week’s theme. This week’s CWWC I’m combining with Dan’s Fun Foto Challenge (CFFC). Let’s see what we are looking at as we take our walks or hikes. The Which Way can be any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. As always signs are always welcome.
For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
This week Coleman and I took an early morning brisk hike at Kings Mountain State Park (not to be confused with the Kings Mountain National Military Park). We began our hike along the Lake Crawford Trail (Purple Trail Signs) then ventured onto the Historic Farm Trail (Yellow Trail Signs). Our starting point for the Lake Crawford Trail began at the Historic Bathhouse which was built in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). This Historic Bathhouse is considered to be among the finest examples of CCC rock wall and step construction in the Southeast.
Coleman walking towards the Bathhouse The Rock Steps and the Bathhouse Lake Crawford The Spillway The Water flowing down the Spillway Lake Crawford Coleman following the Purple Trail Signs attached to TreesNotice of Eagle Scout Project completed at Kings Mountain State Park Eagle Scout Project performed by Winston Strong October 2023No Biking Allowed Lake Crawford Trail Kings Mountain State Park
As we continued our Hike, we ventured onto the Historic Farm Trail in order to investigate the Living History Farm. In this next gallery will began on the Historic Farm Trail and end at the Living History Farm.
Coleman following the Yellow Trail Signs At this point we cross the road towards the FarmTrail MapKings Mountain State Park Living History Farm & Parking Who do I see? An Outhouse The chimney & Fireplace which once boiled sorghum stalks Coleman and a wagon Reminds my of the “Little House on the Prairie” wagonsHistoric Farm Trail Kings Mountain State Park
Click on each image to enlarge.
Thank you to those who have participated and supported the Which Ways Challenge. I appreciate y’all sharing your Which Ways with us.
For an idea of other’s Which Ways from this past week’s challenge, be sure to click on the following links below.
This week being a free week I thought I’d take you on a virtual journey through Kings Mountain State Park not to be confused with Kings Mountain National Military Park both of which are located in Blacksburg, South Carolina. The two are located right next to each other. The State Park is different and offers many more opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, fishing, and picnicking.
These are from a hike Coleman and I undertook back in 2020 when he was 11 months old. He is a trooper, for sure and for certain. We hiked down to the Waterfall at Lake Crawford.
Lake Crawford Kings Mountain State Park Blacksburg, SC
The Waterfall is an enormous staircase waterfall which is the overflow spillway for Lake Crawford. Lake Crawford is just one of two lakes within Kings Mountain State Park. The other lake is named Lake York which we have not hiked around as of yet.
The Staircase Waterfall & Spillway Kings Mountain State Park Blacksburg, South Carolina
The State Park offers more than twenty (20) of hiking trails and an additional thirty (30) miles of equestrian only trails. It also has one hundred fifteen (115) campsites equipped with water and electricity plus fifteen (15) equestrian campsites.
Kings Mountain State Park and Spillway were built in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). It contains approximately nearly seven thousand (7,000) acres for the enjoyment of all who wish to visit.
The Otherside of the Waterfall & Spillway Kings Mountain State Park Blacksburg, SC
U.S. Monument Kings Mountain National Military Park Blacksburg, South Carolina
The U.S. Monument in Kings Mountain National Military Park stands on the highest point in the park. It resides on Battleground Ridge in the northeastern part of the park’s and its highest point. It stands in line with the Centennial Monument (which you can learn more about by clicking here.
The U.S. Monument was constructed of white granite from the Mount Airy quarry in North Carolina. It towers eighty-three (83) feet high above Battleground Ridge and rests on a two-stepped marble base (16’ x 3” squared).
The obelisk’s interior is hollow and the white marble bricks are contrasted against black mortar. The diagonals of the obelisk approximately correspond to the four (4) cardinals of the compass. On each side of the Monument are bronze tablets that dedicate the Monument to the patriot victory at Kings Mountain. The bronzetablets discuss the significance of the battle, list the American and British commanders, and list the Americans killed in battle.
The U.S. Monument in Kings Mountain National Military Park was dedicated in 1909. Interestingly, the decision to erect an obelisk at Kings Mountain National Military Park reflects the cultural fascination with Ancient Egypt during the nineteenth century. Since the time of Ancient Egypt, the obelisk has been seen as a symbol of reverence, dominance, and patriarchy.
Each year on October 7th, the Park honours those who fought at Kings Mountain by holding a wreath laying ceremony at the U.S. Monument with a program held in the amphitheater at 3:00 pm, the time in which the battle began.
Click on image to enlarge. The featured photo shows the full length of the U.S. Monument in Kings Mountain National Military Park.
Cameras: Main image-Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment; Featured image-Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Location: U.S. Monument; Battleground Ridge; Kings Mountain National Military Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy Nature. Capture the beauty all around you. Have a wonderful week. 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 for thetheme – Any Which Way with Spring or Autumn Which Ways (Will Run for Two (2) Weeks [03.27-04.03.2026]) for this week’s theme. The Which Way can be any Dirt trail, road, pathway, sidewalk as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. As always signs are always welcome.
For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
Here are my entries …
I’m starting off with a Springtime hike at Crowders Mountain State Park in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. We entered Crowders Mountain State Park from the Boulders Access Point. After parking and gathering our backpacks with our water and snacks we checkered out the trail map.
We decided to hike the Ridgeline Trail. The Ridgeline Trail connects three parks, namely Crowders Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain State Park, and Kings Mountain National Military Park. The total length of the trail if you hike to all three is 15.1 miles with an elevation gain of 2,411 feet. The Crowders Mountain State Park section of the Ridgeline Trail is 6.2 miles long.
Coleman and I only hiked the Crowders Mountain State Park section of the Ridgeline Trail and then hiked back to the Boulders Access Point parking area.
Ridgeline Trail Boulders Access Point Crowders Mountain State Park Kings Mountain, North Carolina
Now that we’ve seen one of our Springtime hikes, let’s take a look at a variety of Spring Florals seen while hiking on various hiking trails.
Spring Florals on Trails
Click on each image to enlarge.
Thank you to those who have participated and supported the Which Ways Challenge. I appreciate y’all sharing your Which Ways with us.
For an idea of other’s Which Ways from this past week’s challenge, be sure to click on the following links below.
God Bless. Enjoy a stroll in the vast outdoors. Have a funtastic weekend. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Note: The theme for the next will be a continuation of CWWC: Any Which Way with Spring or Autumn Which Ways ( Will Run for Two (2)Weeks [03.27-04.03.2026]
Location: Tunnel Trail; Anne Springs Close Greenway; Fort Mill, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Enjoy the Great Outdoors. Take a walk/hike in 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 for the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) 2026: Any Which Way on a Nature Trail (Dirt or Paved) for this week’s theme. The Which Way can be any dirt or paved path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. As always signs are always welcome. For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
Coleman and I haven’t journeyed very far like some of y’all have, however, we do enjoy our adventurous journeys to Greenways, State Parks, and nearby National Parks. This past weekend we journeyed to Kings Mountain National Military Park for the sole purpose of hiking the Battlefield Trail.
The Battlefield Trail is a mere 1.5 miles long, but it seems a lot further when you’re hiking up hill on the trail, winding around the mountain, back and forth twisting this way and that way through the woods, hiking up and down continuously seems like you’re hiking forever.
The Battlefield Trail contains several story boards telling about the impact the Revolutionary War had on the Kings Mountain area and the Carolinas. It has monuments in various locations along the trail which have significant historical relevance to the Revolutionary War and the Soldiers who fought against the British. It is a semi-paved trail in natural surroundings.
After arriving at Kings Mountain National Military Park, Coleman and I checked out the museum prior to hitting the trail for our adventurous journey. Once we left the Museum/Visitor Center, we had to decide which way we wanted to go to begin our hike.
Do we go to the left or right?
We read the sign which indicated which way the Battlefield Trail was located. Therefore, we followed the signs directions and began hiking to the left. We ran across various signs along the way … some that instructed us on what not to do, some that told about a specific area, and a few that informed about park regulations or gave us hiking suggestions.
Battlefield Trail
Hiking along we see stone monuments dedicated to fallen soldiers, orange cones alerting us to dangerous areas, and Coleman discovers interesting places to Pull Up a Seat.
Sacred to the memoryof … Coleman Pulls Up a Seat on a logShoot Tree to TreeColeman Pulls Up a Seat on a Bench One of many Story BoardsBattlefield Trail
Hiking further up (and I mean uphill)along the trail we spot more monuments with information indicating their significance in history.
In Honor of the Three Known African-American Patriots…Coleman approaches the largest and tallest monument Coleman Pulls Up a Seat on a Monument This is a different monument Coleman is investigating In Honor of Lieutenant Colonel James Hawthorne …Coleman takes a break Pulling up a Seat on the TrailTo the Memory of Col. Patrick Ferguson …American Vanquished Battlefield Trail Directional SignThe end
Thank you to those who have participated and supported the Which Ways Challenge. I appreciate y’all sharing your Which Ways with us.
For an idea of other’s Which Ways from this past week’s challenge, be sure to click on the following links below.
Coleman and I had the opportunity to hike Battlefield Trail (more on that later) on Saturday, March 7th. The day started out gloomy and overcast with the possibility of rain. Luckily the rain held off until we were back home. It ended up being around 76°F and humid. Not too bad for hiking weather except my glasses kept fogging up making it hard to see.
Below are the windows we saw as we were approaching the backside of the VisitorCenter upon completing the 1.5 mile Battlefield Trail.
Windows on the Backside of the Visitor Center
Kings Mountain National Military Park Visitor Center and Museum
National Park Service Visitor Center Kings Mountain National Military Park & Museum
Camera: 1-2) Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment; 3) Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Location: Kings Mountain National Military Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a fantastic week. Get Outdoors. Enjoy Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Coleman playing Hide-N-Seek … Behind the Monument Peek-a-Boo Coleman On This Site President Hoover Addressed An Audience of 75,000 At The Celebration Of The Sesqui Centennial Of The Battle Of Kings Mountain October 7, 1930
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: The Battlefield Trail; Kings Mountain National Military Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic week. Take a hike and enjoy nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This week Dale has chosen a theme of A Winter’s Walk for this week’s Cosmic Photo Challenge. Instead of just one winter walk I decided to do a combination of several different Winter Hikes which Coleman and I have taken over the years.
Looking through my photos I ran across a bench from one of our hiking adventures I don’t think I’ve shared before, so I thought I would share it today.
As stated in my Monochrome Madness post, Coleman and I saw several horse owners at Anne Springs Close Greenway taking advantage of a beautiful afternoon to enjoy riding their horses on the trails.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: Dogwood Trail; Greenway Stables Entrance; Anne Springs Close Greenway; Fort Mill, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Enjoy your weekend. Spend time Outdoors and admire Nature’s beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Whenever Coleman and I have the opportunity to visit Anne Springs Close Greenway we almost always (but not always) visit the horses. Coleman loves horses. The Anne Springs Close Greenway has five different entrances to the Greenway for hiking, mountain biking, or just visiting.
Goats at the Children’s Farm
Last Saturday, Coleman and I went to the Greenway Stables and Farm Entrance to visit the Farm animals and (of course) the horses.
Cow & Goat in the Pasture at the Farm
We arrived late due to heavy traffic and congestion on the roads leading to the Greenway Stables. Therefore, we only had a short amount of time to visit the farm animals.
One last look at the Farm animals before venturing towards the horses.
Moving on to hiking and visiting the horses stabled at the Greenway. We saw and visited with several owners who were there to enjoy a ride on their horses along the trails.
Trailing behind a horse & rider down Dogwood Trail
Still hiking along Dogwood Trail. The rider is up around the bend.
The Greenway has several horse stables scattered along the Dogwood Trail and are maintained by the Greenway staff. Quite a few of the horses are privately owned and as the sign says you’re not supposed to pet or feed the horses. However, some of the owners will allow Coleman to pet their horses. If an owner’s horse is skittish the owner will not recommend petting it or coming too close.
Coleman visiting horses at one of the Greenway Stables.
We recommend checking with a horses owner before petting them. The owners are not always present, but when they are they are friendly and usually willing to answer any questions about their horses.
An AI sketch rendering of few Greenway horses enjoying their feed.
Camera: Canon EOS 2000D (Rebel T7) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV Filter attachment.
Location: Greenway Stables, Crandall Bowles Children’s Farm, and Dogwood Trail; Greenway Stables and Farm Entrance; Anne Springs Close Greenway; Fort Mill, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic rest of your week. Get Outdoors. Enjoy Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This week I am sharing our hike along the dirt trail at Ramsey Creek Park in Cornelius, North Carolina. Here are my entries …
Dirt Trail at Ramsey Creek Park Cornelius, North Carolina
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.
• NOTE: For the next two (2) weeks the theme for the Which Way Challenge will be CWWC: Any Which Way with a Holiday theme. (Will run for two (2) weeks).
One Day while hiking along a trail Coleman and I came across a section with textured wood that had seen better days.
Trail near Gardner Park Elementary Gastonia, North Carolina
One Day while hiking in Anne Springs Close Greenway we spotted a mysterious hole within a rotting tree stump that drew our attention.
At Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
One Day we decided to take a break in the shade to catch our breath before contour hike. (Coleman was just under 2 at the time.) we found some interesting shadows and a Dragonfly.
Chestnut Trail; McDowell Nature Preserve; Charlotte, North Carolina
One Day during a hike to Coleman’s favourite sandpit in Riverside Park and Greenway we noticed some interesting texture of Hypnum cupressiforme, (the cypress-leaved plaitmoss or hypnum moss).
Textured hypnum moss growing on a tree Coleman enjoys climbing.
One Day at Riverside Park and Greenway I was trying to locate the log I usually sat on while Coleman played in the sand. It took some looking around before we spotted it. Someone had decomposed our log by using it as a fire log. (No fires are to be built in the park especially during the summer fire season.)
Burnt Log destroyed by fire. So much for my sitting on it.
On Thanksgiving, my grandson, (Coleman) and I were joined by his mom for a lovely chilly afternoon. After devouring a delicious Turkey dinner (except for Coleman-He doesn’t like meat), my daughter (Trisha) drove us to a quaint park on the edge of Lake Norman called Ramsey Creek Park. At first, Coleman and I were not sure if his mom was going to join us hiking around the park.
Coleman and I started out walking by ourselves walking along the waters edges absorbing all the beautiful scenery. After a while, his mom joined us whilst he was picking up small seashells from the sandy seashore.
We noticed several Benches throughout our time walking around; from park benches to picnic tables and benches, they were scattered all around the park for visitors to relax and enjoy.
Here are some of the views and Benches we encountered …
Ramsey Creek Park; Lake Norman; Cornelius, North Carolina
Welcome back to the Which Way Challenge. I trust y’all had a lovely Thanksgiving week so far. I know we certainly did. Now we didn’t spend the day cooking over a hot stove or oven, but we did enjoy a delicious turkey dinner courtesy of Bob Evans Restaurant. Let me tell you they were doing a pretty good business on this (yesterday’s) Thanksgiving. I’ll tell y’all more about Bob Evans Restaurant during a future post.
We also didn’t stay home bored to death thinking there was anything to do. We might not have had any family or friends to gather with and enjoy the day together, but we (at least I think) enjoyed a tremendous afternoon together (my daughter, my grandson, and myself) visiting a park we had not been to previously and did a wee bit of hiking.
If you’ve read my posts before, you’ll understand my grandson loves to hike and spend as much time as possible in the outdoors among nature. After devouring our delicious turkey meal (Coleman only ate the vegetables (he doesn’t like meat) at Bob Evans in Huntersville, we (actually my daughter) drove to Ramsey Creek Park which is along Lake Norman in North Carolina.
This being a holiday weekend I decided to make this Friday’s Which Way Challenge theme; Any Which Way (Your Choice). Your Which Ways can be Any Which Way on any Road, Pathways, Walkways, Sidewalks, Stairs, etc. as long as your Which Ways are clearly visible.
Here are my entries for this week … from our Thanksgiving Day Hike …
Ramsey Creek Park Cornelius/Lake Norman, North Carolina
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.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S18-55mm lens and Altura Wide Angle Fisheye lens attachment.
Settings: f/9 • 1/80s • 24mm • ISO100
Location: Baxter Village Trail; Baxter Village; Fort Mill, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Grateful for all of y’all for following, commenting, liking, and sharing your photos and stories with us. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This week John from Journeys with Johnbo is the host for the Lens-Artist Photo Challenge. He has challenged us to post photos of our being On the Move. He has shown us some of the typical ways that people choose to travel (Aka being On the Move). Some of the typical means of being “On the Move” are traveling by car, by train, by airplane, or by a cruise ship or another type of boat.
However, I am not going to show you any typical form of being “On the Move.” You might ask what are some other ways one can be “On the Move?” Well, some of the other methods are walking, running, skiing, skipping, skating, swimming, or our favourite hiking. Even though hiking is Coleman and my favourite method of getting from point A to point B and sometimes C in one day, that is not the method or means of being “On the Move” I am going to show you today.
What method of being “On the Move” am I going to discuss with y’all? Let me tell you. The method is called Curb Walking. Ever heard of Curb Walking? I hadn’t really heard much about it or how or why it is done.
Curb Walking is a unique type of walking which involves walking with one foot on the Curb and the other foot on the street. Ever tried Curb Walking? If you did; did you enjoy it? Was it Beneficial?
My daughter, Trisha, Curb Walking with Coleman close by (not that he’d be much help if she fell, but he’d try).
The uneven gait of Curb Walking is thought to help the pelvis (of pregnant women) to open and shift, which is predicted to encourage the baby to move lower and into a better position for birth.
Curb Walking around the playground at Goat Island Park and Greenway.
Curb Walking can help create flexibility in the hips and pelvic floor over time. It can also be a part of overall exercise for endurance. However, it is not a guaranteed way to start labor.
Trisha Curb Walking around the Playground
How long should you Curb Walking when you first start? It is recommended to begin with 10 minutes. When you are Curb Walking you should listen to your body and take it slow at first. You may gradually increase the duration and frequency (emphasis on gradual). It is suggested to aim for a total of 30 minutes of Curb Walking on the majority of days for overall fitness.
More Curb Walking Starring my daughter.
Before beginning Curb Walking (especially while pregnant), it is highly recommended (if not crucial) to consult your doctor or midwife prior to your first time. (My daughter, however, consulted her physician after her first adventure into Curb Walking). Everyone’s personal health and pregnancy situation is different, so it is best to consult with your medical professional ahead of time. ( I do need to mention she consulted her physician the next day & it was favorable for her to Curb Walk.)
If your doctor gives you the go ahead to begin Curb Walking, it is advised to start between 37 and 39 weeks to specifically try and induce labor. (She is so tired of being pregnant and so ready to meet her daughter.)
Location: Enroute & at Goat Island Park and Greenway; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Take Care. Be safe. And have some fun walking around your surroundings. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Shhh … my daughter doesn’t like her picture taken & doesn’t know I took these.
Squares are back hosted by Becky from The Life of B. Click the link in the previous line to Check out her post for details regarding the #NovemberShadows squares challenge.
Coleman by the South Fork Catawba River Cramerton, NC
Welcome back to another Which Way Challenge (CWWC). This week I have chosen Any Which Way with Autumn Coloursfor this week’s theme. Autumn Colours can be on any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as the Which Way is clearly discernible. This Theme will run for Two (2) Weeks. For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
Here are my entries … All of which were taken at Goat Island Park and Greenway along the Disc Golf Trail.
Autumn 🍂 and Colours in Goat Island Park and Greenway
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.
Camera: 1-8) Canon EOS 2000D with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens; 9-14) Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
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.
Next Week’s Theme: CWWC: Any Which Way with Autumn Colours Continued (Week 2)
Noteworthy News: For the November Challenge the Which Way Challenge on Friday, November 7th, we’ll be joining Dan Antionfrom No Facilities (https://noFacilities.com) and Marshafrom (https://alwayswrite.blog/), to post Black and White photos to remember Cee on her birthday. For the Which Way Challenge they can be Any Which Way in Black & White in memory of Cee’s Black and White Challenge (CBWC). It would be fantastic if you could include Bridges and/or Old Barns as Cee loved photographing them. If you desire include a thought or memory about Cee or your experiences with her challenges.
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 hiking in Goat Island Park & Greenway
Desktop Screensaver
Coleman Through the Trees Goat Island Park and Greenway
From My Apple iPhone 16 Pro:
Reading Focus
Coleman Leaning Back on a Tree Branch Goat Island Park and Greenway
Hiking Focus
Coleman Hiking along the South Fork Catawba River at Goat Island Park and Greenway
Personal Focus
Coleman Disc Golf Trail Goat Island Park and Greenway
Good Day Everyone! Welcome to my post for John’s Cell Pic Sunday. Previously on September 7th I ran a post introducing the Story Walk that was coming to Cramerton. At that time the Story Walk posts were in the ground waiting for the Story Walk story to be attached. You may view the original Story Walk post here.
During the following Monday I had an amazing opportunity to meet up with John from Journeys with Johnbo blog and his lovely wife, Lynn. We met at the entrance to Goat Island Park and Greenway and walked the trail to the Riverlink Greenway Trail. We walked the trail together enjoying the time together and discovering each story aspect along the Story Walk trail.
Walk along with us as we visit the Story Walk together. Below are some highlights of the Story Walk.
Cramerton’s Story Walk with John& Lynn
Click on each image to enlarge.
Thank you John and Lynn for meeting up with me and letting me show you What Everyone Should See (LAPC #367). I really enjoyed our visit together.
I am linking up with John from Journeys with Johnbo blog’s CellPic Sunday. I am also going to link a day early to Judy’s Numbers Game.
Location: Story Walk; Riverlink Greenway Trail; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy Nature. Have a wonderful week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Dan from No Facilities hosts Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge each week beginning on Mondays with a new theme each week. Dan is doing an excellent job since taking over the challenge and is keeping it fresh and alive continuing Cee’s legacy. This week Dan has chosen the theme of Subjects Framed by Nature. He has given examples of doors, windows, bridges, and more that subjects can be used to be framed.
Here are my entries …
Lake Haigler Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCLake Trail Crowders Mountain State Park Kings Mountain, NCSeven Oaks Nature Preserve Belmont, NCLake Haigler Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCSeven Oaks Preserve Trail Belmont, NCRocky Branch Trail Cramerton, NCPrairie Trail Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCGreen Trail Warlick Family YMCA Gastonia, NC
As scene on our hike at Goat Island Park and Greenway. The Eastern Cottonwood stood out tall and strong amongst the surrounding trees along the trail.
Aka Necklace Poplar
The Eastern Cottonwood is native throughout the Eastern, Central, and South Western United States of America. It also can be found in the Southern Canadian prairies, the southernmost part of eastern Canada, and northeastern Mexico.
The Populus deltoides (Eastern Cottonwood) is a large tree which grows to 20-30 metres (65-100 feet) in height with a trunk up to 2.8 metres (9 ft 2 in) in diameter. It is one of the largest North American Hardwood trees. Its bark is silvery-white, smooth or lightly fissured when young, becoming dark gray and deeply fissured on old trees.
What stands out when you are out walking about in your area?
Location: Catawba River Link Greenway Trail; Goat Island Park and Greenway; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Enjoy the Outdoors. Have a rest under a shade tree. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Good Day! As I right this this evening it is trying to rain, we’ve seen the dark clouds rolling in, heard the thunder banging like drums overhead, but yet to see the rain. I am thankful for the lovely sunshine we enjoyed today.
It was such a beautiful day and we hadn’t been out and about for the past week with all our on again off again thunderstorms; therefore, it was an excellent day to wander down to the river for a bit of hiking and Coleman playtime in the sandy river banks. Coleman is fascinated by the rippling effects of the water when he throws wood into the river.
I decided to capture his water ripples in black and white thereby linking this post to Jez’s Water Water Everywhere, Debbie’s One Word Sunday-Repeat and Monochrome Monday.
Location: South Fork Catawba River; Riverside Park and Greenway; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take a hike/walk out in Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hiking along the Riverlink Greenway Trail at Goat Island Park and Greenway we tree y to observe everything around us. The objects along our foot path regardless of whether they are on the trail or along the side of its side.
Tree Leaves near the edge of a Trail
The sun bounces off the leaves differs slightly from one spot to another giving interesting contrasts that seem to stand out calling you to take a closer look.
Sun shining on Green Leaves
The glistening rays reflect varying shades of green in the river below. What captured my attention, at first, were the broken tree branches strewn across the waters of the South Fork Catawba River. The water reflections were an added bonus.
Green Water Reflections
Skipping down the road to another Greenway in town; (also apart of the Carolina Thread Trail) the Riverside Park and Greenwaywe encounter interesting plants and trees along the trail pathway.
Taxodium distichum Seed Pods (baldcypress, bald-cypress, bald cypress, swamp cypress)
I found these seed pods fascinating. I was not sure what they were when I first saw them, but they stood out and begged for me to capture them. Looking them up, I discovered these are Bald Cypress seed pods. The Bald Cypress trees are native to the Southeastern United States of America.
Cameras: 1-3) Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens and Altura UV & CPL filter attachments; 4) Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
Locations: 1-3) Riverlink Greenway Trail; Carolina Thread Trail; Goat Island Park and Greenway; 4) Riverside Park and Greenway; Carolina Thread Trail; Cramerton, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a fantastic week. Get Outdoors and enjoy Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Hope y’all have had a fantastic week so far. It’s Friday already and time for another Which Way Challenge. This week we are continuing with the theme of(CWWC): Any which way with lines. This is the Second (2nd) week of the Which Way Challenge of Any Which Way with Lines. Remember your Which Ways should be clearly discernible. Signs are always welcome in your Which Way post. The photos can be ones you’ve taken recently or from your archives. Let’s all have fun!
Here are my Which Ways for this week’s challenge …
Coleman on Goat Island BridgeColeman waiting for me to catch up. He’s looking through the fence lines hoping he can go play on the playground. Another Bridge & fence rails in Goat Island Park and Greenway Coleman checking the lines in the wood planks is a bridge. A Blooper – It does show the lines in the wooden sitting area at the end of the trailColeman + all sorts of linesColeman at Goat Island Park and Greenway
For enhanced/enlarged viewing click on each image.
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.
Good Day! This being an off week for Monochrome Madness I am doing my own thing, not following with Sand patterns or fence posts like Leanne or Brian. Hope you will not tire of seeing my grandson, Coleman.
Today I am continuing the Coleman’s adventures in the Greenway from his birthday adventures. After cooling off in the Spillway, it was drying off time which (for Coleman) meant playtime in Schroering Forest Playground.
The Schroering Forest Playground is nestled amongst trees a short distance from the Domtar Forest Porch (featured here) where we relaxed sipping cool refreshing water.
Climbing Structure for ages 5 and Up
The climbing structure is Coleman’s favourite area to play in the Schroering Forest Playground. He has always loved to climb and is not afraid to climb anything (even though, I think his mom is sceptical). She’s probably worried he’ll fall, however, I’m not worried he climbs anything and everything anytime anywhere.
The Schroering Forest Playground was constructed in the Lake Haigler Entrance to Anne Springs Close Greenway in 2024. The intention of this unique playground is to reteach children how to play in the woods.
A mom (aka Coleman’s mom) watching her son enjoying the Playground.
The playscape and structures are specially crafted to help activate sensory skills, foster creativity and problem-solving through free play, reduce stress, increase physical activity, develop confidence in the outdoors, improve cognitive abilities and facilitate outdoor learning. Key features of the Schroering Forest Playground include a central climbing structure for older children and a corresponding structure for younger guests.
Coleman
I’ve been taking Coleman to play in the woods and interact with nature since he could walk. He prefers being outdoors and in the woods over being in the house any day. He enjoys hiking all the trails in Anne Springs Close Greenway and if he can combine hiking with playing all the better as far as he is concerned.
Located on the property of Anne Springs Close Greenway is the Garrison-Webb Grist Mill. The Garrison-Webb Grist Mill was established in 1780 and operated for approximately one hundred (100) years.
Garrison-Webb Grist Mill Sign
The mill was located along the banks of Steele Creek by Isaac Garrison and Theodoric Webb, who bought the land from Thomas Spratt. The mill was located near the first of four sanctuaries of Unity Presbyterian Church, a log structure built in 1788. This small collection of homes and other structures was named “Little York.”
The Garrison-Webb Grist Mill
In 1830, it was decided to name the town Fort Mill referencing the Indian Fort near the Catawba River and the mill, referring to the Garrison-Webb Grist Mill along Steele Creek.
The Rear of the Garrison-Webb Grist Mill
After extensive research archaeological evidence of the gristmill was found in the northwest section of the Anne Springs Close Greenway. Over the 100 years the mill was operational its ownership passed through to several owners, including John Springs and William E. White. The original mill burned down in 1889, and it is unclear if it was ever rebuilt.
The Spinning Water Wheel of the Grist Mill
In 2008, the Anne Springs Close Greenway began efforts to recreate the mill in its original setting. The mill was designed to have a moving water wheel, but the wheel was not attached to any gears and was never intended to actually grind grain. The Greenway was mainly intended as a learning opportunity and to honor the history of the industry in the region.
Visitors to the Anne Springs Close Greenway may visit the Garrison-Webb Grist Mill by hiking the Blue Star Trail beginning at the Blue Star Entrance to the Greenway. Once on the Blue Star Trail you’ll cross foot bridges and Steele Street (a paved public road) and continue down a hill to the mill, which was constructed in 1780.
Location: Garrison-Webb Grist Mill; Blue Star Trail; Blue Star Entrance; Anne Springs Close Greenway; Fort Mill, South 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.
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