Location: Entrance to the New Elizabeth Williams Robinson Hall of Dinosaurs; The Schiele Museum of Natural History; Gastonia, North 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.
Mickey’s of Hollywood is located on Hollywood Boulevard in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a part of Walt Disney World Resorts in Bay Lake/Lake Buena Vista, Florida. It is in a prominent location for visitors to pick up souvenirs and gifts to take home.
The building has a charming Mediterranean Revival architecture style. The red awnings and ornate balconies help to transport tourists back in time to the golden age of cinema.
Dale, the host of theCosmic Photo Challenge, has challenged us to post a few images of Moss, Ferns, and Fungus for this week’s challenge. For this week’s challenge I needed to scour through my archives to see what I could find on this week’s theme.
Here is what I discovered …
Moss …
This Moss is growing on a tree branch at Riverside Park and Greenway in Cramerton, North Carolina.
Coleman is walking on Moss that has grown on rocks along the Nature Trail at The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Fungi …
Gilled Mushrooms, part of a vast network of fungi that are essential “recyclers” in nature. The Schiele Museum Gastonia, North Carolina
Russula, aka Brittle gills They have a unique, crumbly texture South Fork River Park McAdenville. Gaston, North Carolina
Ferns …
Athyrium filix-femina, Aka the lady fern or common lady-fern Kings Mountain State Park Blacksburg, North Carolina
Now to add a few non-typical Ferns …
Fern Forest, a loop trail at Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, South Carolina
Fern Trail It is considered an easy short trail that connects to other trails. Crowders Mountain State Park Kings Mountain, North Carolina
Fern is the mother of this baby colt. (No longer a baby, born in 2022).
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Be observant of all creatures large and small that call our Earth home. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This week my daughter has been spending time in Florida with friends while Coleman and I remain at home. These wooden carved bears are located near the Disney Vacation Club kiosk area of in Walt Disney’s Epcot Canada Pavilion.
The Bear Statues feature rustic chainsaw-style carvings of a mother Bear standing upright alongside a smaller cub. This is a quiet charming photo spot located near the pathway and seating elements close to Disney’s Vacay club information center. They are intended to highlight Canada’s rugged wilderness and wildlife, matching the rocky landscape, pine trees of the pavilion’s back gardens.
The Paroon Shark-Catfish at Disney’y Animal Kingdom is known affectionately as Mr. Catfish. He has been a consistent fixture, with his presence, on the Tree of Life circuit for approximately half a decade or longer.
Paroon Shark Catfish aka Pangasius sanitwongsei
For a long time he didn’t receive many visitors. Why do you ask? No one really knew he existed. He lives under a bridge constantly swimming in and out with rarely anyone looking down to notice him.
Signage for Paroon Shark Catfish Disney’s Animal Kingdom Walt Disney World Resort
People are looking downward and visibly seeing him nowadays, like my daughter saw him recently. Why is he just now getting noticed? He never had any signage to let people know he was there and what he was. Now he does as seen in the above image. Ever since the signage was put in place people are constantly stopping on the bridge, starring down at his swishy, enormous, cuddly tail. He captures people’s attention with his back-and-forth pattern.
Click on each image to enlarge. (By enlarging the image of the sign you should be able to read more about the Paroon Shark Catfish.
Location: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Walt Disney World Resort; 2901 Osceola Parkway; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA
God Bless. Have a pleasant and peaceful weekend. May it be filled with love, happiness, and laughter. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This week the Monochrome Madness is a free week (no theme) for us to make our own decisions on what to share in Monochrome. Following along with Leanne’s Night images without colour, I decided to also most nighttime images devoid of colour. I do not get out at night (except for the front porch) due to poor nighttime visibility. Therefore, I am sharing some images taken at night by my daughter while she’s “vacationing” without Coleman and myself down in Florida.
Here are my selections in Black and White …
The first stop on our journey devoid of colour is the Coca-Cola Rooftop Store & Beverage Bar. I posted a photo of the Coca-Cola Rooftop Store & Beverage Bar showing its signage on Wednesday for Wordless Wednesday. You may view it by clicking here.
Rooftop Beverage Bar with a souvenir CocaCola bottle
The next stop is at the Fall into Magic at Disney Springs, a part of the Walt Disney World Resort with mainly shops and entertainment venues.
Fall into Magic Disney Springs Lake Buena Vista, Florida
As we continue our journey devoid of colour at Walt Disney World Resort we come to the image below located inside Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion of an impressive pyramid structure is inspired by ancient Mesoamerican architecture and houses the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros boat ride.
Mexico Pavilion at Epcot
Our nighttime journey began on Tuesday, so far we’ve viewed one for each day of the week bringing us to today (Thursday evening).
The first image below is of the outside of The Seas with Nemo & Friends …
The Seas with Nemo & Friends pavilion
The dome structure in the background is the Spaceship Earth. It is a slow-moving, 16-minute dark ride housed inside the iconic 180-foot geodesic sphere located at Epcot in Walt Disney World Resort.
This last image is of Leaping Fountains located outside the Journey Into Imagination! Pavilion.
Leaping Fountains
The vibrant lighting used on the fountains adds to the magical evening atmosphere making it an amazing experience to watch.
Location: Disney Springs; Disney World; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take a Walk/Hike. Enjoy Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
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 Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max:
Sophia Ruthann attempting to stand without holding on in her new shoes.
No, I’m not near a Buc-cee’s. My daughter took a trip with a coworker and Coleman and are left at home on our own. She gets the trip and all I get is a few pictures to share.
Buc-Cee’s #63 – BRUNSWICK, GA
This is the Buc-cee’s convenience store they stopped at in Brunswick, Georgia on their way down to Orlando’s Walt Disney World.
Location: Buc-cee’s #63; 6900 Hwy 99; Brunswick, Georgia, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic rest of your week and weekend ahead. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with w. I appreciate y’all very much.
Location: Coca-Cola Store Rooftop Bar; Disney Springs; Lake Buena Vista, Florida, 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 Dairy Barn at Anne Springs Close Greenway was once a working dairy barn in its heyday. It was built in 1947 specifically designed to supply the cafeterias of the once massive Springs Cotton Mills network across York, Chester, and Lancaster counties.
The Dairy Barn Dairy Barn Entrance Anne Springs Close Greenway
Anne Springs Close, daughter of Elliot Springs and heir to the Springs Cotton Mills textile empire founded by her grandfather, Leroy Springs. She dedicated herself to preserving much of the land and its historical structures. She protected 2,100 acres of family land from developers trying to establish suburban development areas. In doing so, she founded the Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
The Dairy Barn
The Dairy Barn, later became known as the Farm Founders Dairy Barn. It is a fully renovated climate-controlled landmark, now celebrated as one of the area’s premier backdrops for indoor and outdoor weddings, corporate retreats, and community gatherings.
The Dairy Barn is perfect for both indoor and outdoor events. The downstairs accommodates more than 200 people seated. Its lovely outdoor patio area can be tented and will accommodate an additional 200 people seated. The upstairs loft accommodates up to 300 people seated theater/wedding style.
Besides special events, the Dairy Barn serves as one of the primary gateways to the Anne Springs Close Greenway trail network. [The Dairy Barn entrance leads to the Blue Star Trail connecting to several other trails as well as historic cabins, the swinging bridge.]
When not in use for special large events, the Dairy Barn venue coordinates community programs including indoor yoga sessions—such as Mindful Slow Flow and Evening Power Yoga. Hikers often park at the Dairy Barn entrance to explore the Blue Star Trail, visit the Comporium Amphitheater, pass by the resident donkey pasture, cross the local swinging bridge, and watch the water flow down the Spillway. [Coleman enjoys playing in the Spillway when the it’s full. He also loves to hike the many trails and enjoy all the Greenway has to offer.]
Following along with Terri’s Autumn Floral theme, I took a Look Back into my archives for Autumnal Florals (not just Autumn colours, but taken in Autumn) taken in early Autumn. My selections were all taken at various times and locations during the month of October. I know it’s not October yet, however, it soon will be in only a few more days.
Taken October 3, 2023 …
Common Eastern Bumblebee on an Orange Sulphur Cosmos
… at The Garden in The Farm at The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Taken October 6, 2025 …
Panicle Hydrangea
… by the Bridge at Goat Island Park and Greenway in Cramerton, North Carolina.
Taken October 22, 2024 …
A Green Aphid on a Yellow Tickseed Sunflower
… near Lake Haigler along the Haigler Loop Trail at the Anne Springs Close Greenway’s Lake Haigler Entrance in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
Taken October 27, 2023 …
Gulf Fritillary Butterfly on Common Red Zinnias
… by the Gibson House at the Stables Entrance of the Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
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 (previously hosted by Cee Neuner). This week our theme is Which Way Challenge (CWWC) 2026: Any Which Way in the Evening (With or Without Rainy Weather) [09.25.2026]. Your Which Ways can be Outdoors, Indoors, Paved or Unpaved, Dirt Trails or any natural surface as long as they are in the evening. Your Choice is exactly that, Whichever Way you choose in the evening. As always Signs are always welcome.
Here are my entries … a Wet and Rainy Evening …
CWWC Cee’s Which Way Challenge Deb’s Which Way Challenge
Click on images 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.
The Faires-Coltharp Cabin is one of the oldest structures in York County, South Carolina. This old log cabin is a significant piece of history for the area dating way back to the 19th century.
The Faires-Coltharp Cabin
This historic structure is often referred to as the Jesse Faires House. Jesse Faires was born in 1789 and was a prominent figure in the local community, serving as a Justice of the Peace and a commissioner of roads. His family was among the earliest settlers in the area, contributing significantly to its development.
Faires/Coltharp Cabin
The Faires-Coltharp Cabin is a fantastic example of early 19th-century log construction in the Carolina Piedmont. It’s known for its sturdy hand-hewn logs and a large stone chimney, which you can see on the left side of the photo. It offers a wonderful glimpse into the daily life and craftsmanship of settlers from that era.
Faires-Coltharp Cabin
The Jesse Faires House located on the grounds of the Anne Springs Close Greenway was not originally built at this exact spot. It was originally by Jesse Faires around 1814 approximately three (3) miles from its present location site.
A Close-up of the Sign about the Faires-Coltharp Cabin
This historic log cabin was moved here to ensure its preservation and to share its story with visitors of the Anne Springs Close Greenway. It was relocated from its original site in York County to the Greenway in 1994.
Coleman on the Faires-Coltharp Cabin porch
The Anne Springs Close Greenway is dedicated to preserving natural landscapes and historical structures, making it the perfect home for such an important piece of local heritage.
Location: Faires-Coltharp Cabin; Anne Springs Close Greenway; Fort Mill, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic rest of your week and weekend ahead. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with w. I appreciate y’all very much.
Dan with No Facilities, the host ofCee’s Fun Foto Challenge is continuing with the theme of Where/What/When we do various things. This week’s focus is on Where/What/When We Vacation. This new series will continue for approximately two (2) more weeks. We are currently in the sixth week of the Where/What/When CFFC series. This theme was inspired by Dawn M. Miller.
I have scoured my archives and gathered a few images of Where/What/When I’ve Vacationed over the years. Let’s see where all these images will take us on this Vacation Memory Journey.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park Carlsbad, New MexicoHume Lake Christian Camps Hume, Fresno County, CaliforniaThe San Diego Wild Animal Park Escondido, California Land of Oz Park Beech Mountain, North CarolinaKnotts Berry Farm Buena Park, CaliforniaStone Mountain Park DeKalb County, GeorgiaHocking Hills KOA Campground Logan, Hocking County, OhioSolvang, California ‘The Danish Capital of America.’Lake Fort Smith State Park Mountainburg, ArkansasAndrew Jackson State Park Campground Lancaster, South Carolina Guggisberg Cheese Millersburg, Holmes County, OhioCozumel Yucatán Peninsula Caribbean Sea Quintana Roo, MexicoCosta Maya Cruise Port, MexicoMile High Swinging Bridge Grandfather Mountain Banner Elk, North CarolinaColumbus Zoo and Aquarium Powell, OhioHotel del Coronado Coronado, California CFFC Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s Fun Foto Challenge Where/What/When We Vacation
Dale, the host of theCosmic Photo Challenge, has challenged us to post a few images of Fruits, Nuts, and Seeds for this week’s challenge. Some Fruits are edible for birds, but bitter or not recommended for humans. Seeds may be in seed pods and reproduce as flowers, while others may still be in fruit and if planted with produce more fruit. Nuts are not just for humans to eat, squirrels and other animals enjoy them as well. Coleman likes to gather nuts and seed pods when we hike along various trails.
Here are my contributions …
Cherry Tomatoes (Botanically a fruit)Coleman holding an unripe Black WalnutPrickly pears, fruits of the Opuntia cactusAcorn Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle)American Beautyberries, aka Callicarpa americanaBlack WalnutsUnripe Privet BerriesHolly Berries, for birds not humans Yellow WatermelonSweetgum tree seed podsJim’s Produce carries an assortment of Fruits, Seeds, and Nuts (also vegetables)Cosmic Photo Challenge #CosPhoChal Fruits, Nuts, and Seeds
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Be observant of all creatures large and small that call our Earth home. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
These are Mules, even though I heard their owner refer to them as Jackasses. They are Mules, a hybrid. Simply meaning they have one parent that is a male donkey (a jack) and one parent that is a female horse (a mare).
Mules receive their size, strength, and speed from their horse side and inherit their endurance, patience, and a surprising level of intelligence from their donkey side. Their feet a much tougher than those of horses, making them excellent for navigating challenging terrain.
Sunday Stills Animal of the Month Antlers, Horns & Hooves
Terri has recently started a new theme for the Sunday Stillschallenge called Animal of the Month. This month this theme is focusing on Antlers, Horns & Hooves. I’ve decided to share some that are on supper The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Here are my contributions …
Antlers, Horns & Hooves at The Schiele Museum of Natural History
Location: The Schiele Museum of Natural History; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Enjoy your week. Have a wonderful good and safe week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
These Canna Lily seed pods are on an Indian Shot plant which is overgrown since the landscaper hasn’t decided to trim it yet. Looking at these you might think they were dead. However, that is not the case with these Canna Lily seed pods.
This is perfectly normal for Canna Lily seed pods in late summer and early Autumn (late summer, almost Autumn here). These seed pods are maturing and drying out, which means the seeds inside are ready to be dispersed. It is a natural part of their life cycle.
Coleman by “The Passage” Sculpture Warlick Family YMCA Gastonia, North Carolina
“The Passage” was created by artist Andrew K. Crawford, is a truly thoughtful sculpture. The stacked boats are intended to symbolize the journey itself. Each boat represents a different stage or experience we encounter. The figure at the very top is usually interpreted as looking towards the future, reflecting on the path taken and the continuous process of growth and transformation. It embodies the spirit of community and personal development.
On Tuesday Coleman and I were enjoying a relaxing evening in the backyard. While waiting for Coleman to get our lawn chairs set up I noticed a rather nice size mushroom growing near the base of the tall shade tree in the backyard.
Not recognizing it I decided to look it up. I found out that it is a Dryad’s Saddle mushroom. It is also known as Pheasant’s Back mushrooms. It’s scientifically they are referred to as Cerioporus squamosus.
These type of mushrooms are saprophytic fungi which simply means they grow on dead or decaying wood, often growing at the base of trees or fallen logs. Typically when this type of fungi are at the base of a tree the tree is dead or dying. In this case the tree is still alive with green leaves in abundance. The other instance is that there could possibly be some compromised wood that the fungus is helping to break down.
Interestingly, these fungi help to recycle nutrients back into the soil making them a vital part of the ecosystem. If interested, the Dryad’s Saddle mushroom is edible , especially when it’s young and tender. Its flavour is described as mild and mushroomy, with a distinctive cucumber or watermelon rind scent carrying through to its taste when cooked. They are best to cook and eat when they are young, they tend towards toughness when they age.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a pleasant and peaceful weekend. May it be filled with love, happiness, and laughter. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Whenever Coleman and I visit The Schiele Museum of Natural History we almost always walk along The Nature Trail (we only miss it if we arrive too late and it’s already closed).
Coleman Style
at The Schiele Museum
of Natural History
Whenever Coleman and I visit The Schiele Museum of Natural History we almost always walk along The Nature Trail (we only miss it if we arrive too late and it’s already closed).
Walking around the Nature Trail, there are strategically placed benches for one to Pull Up a Seat and rest a spell if desired or needed. On this adventure Coleman pushed his sister, Sophia, along the dirt trail. While walking he came across a bench where he stopped and Pulled Up a Seat keeping the stroller with his sister by his side.
Here’s my contributions of Coleman Pulling Up a Seat …
XingfuMama’s Pull Up a Seat Coleman Style at The Schiele Museum of Natural History
This week Terri, our host for The Flower Houris focusing on Floral ABC’s concentrating on STUV. Let’s have some fun. Here are my STUV Florals for this week’s challenge. It wasn’t too hard to locate flowers beginning with S and T, but U was extremely difficult, henceforth, I didn’t find any amongst my photo files. V was hard to locate any type of flowers other than Violets.
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.
Being a cool early evening on Tuesday, Coleman and I spent some time
outside in the backyard. I relaxed while he played with his bat and balls. Take a look at some of his antics and expressions as you see trios of balls (not all are t-balls).
Thursday Trios Coleman’s Antics & Expressions Playing Ball in the Backyard
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take a Walk/Hike. Enjoy Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Today was slightly cooler than it has been all summer, giving us the perfect opportunity to photograph the surrounding foliage.
Dale, the host of theCosmic Photo Challenge, has challenged us to post a few images of foliage for this week’s challenge. Today was actually slightly cooler than it has been all summer, therefore, Coleman and I spent a couple of weeks in the backyard. While he was running around and playing I snapped a few pictures of the foliage surrounding us. I changed it up after a few minutes and shot in black and white.
Here are some of the Foliage I captured …
In Colour …
#CosPhoChal Cosmic Photo Challenge Foliage in Colour
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Be observant of all creatures large and small that call our Earth home. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Dan with No Facilities, the host ofCee’s Fun Foto Challenge is continuing with the theme of Where/What/When we do various things. This week’s focus is on Where/What/When We Shop. This new series will continue for approximately three (3) more weeks. We are currently in the third week of the Where/What/When CFFC series. This theme was inspired by Dawn M. Miller.
I have gathered a few images of Where/What/When I’ve Shopped over the years. Most of my shopping these days are done online via Amazon, Walmart, and Harlequin. I do still get out for groceries and other necessary or essential various sundries.
Here are my contributions …
Deep Gap Cash Store Deep Gap, NCAmazon.comJim’s Produce Deep Gap, NCAshe County Cheese West Jefferson, NC https://www.ashecountycheese.com/The Shop Antiques, Refinishing Abilene, TexasHarris Teeter Charlotte, NCThe Trailhead Store Daniel Stowe Conservancy Belmont, NCGeneral Store Coshocton, Ohio Artisan Open Market Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCLehman’s Kidron, Ohio https://www.lehmans.com/Julian Pie Company Julian, CaliforniaBaby General Hospital Cleveland, GeorgiaCee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s CFFC Where/What/When We Shop
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Note: Outside the General Store in Ohio, the man on the left is my maternal grandfather. Coleman is outside the door of The Trailhead Store. Outside the Deep Gap Cash Store are my Great Aunt Sophrona (called Aunt Sophie, she’s my grandfather’s sister) and her husband (my great uncle.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina
God Bless. Have a lovely weekend filled with love, joy, and laughter. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Beth from Wandering Dawgsis this week’s host for the Lens-Artist Photo Challenge. She is asking us to select our favourite Bridges to share. She states that they “ any kind of bridge: natural bridges, foot bridges, swinging bridges, highway bridges, stone bridges, railroad bridges, or any other kind of bridge you can think of.” I’ve gathered a selection of Highway Bridges, Foot Bridges, Trestles, and a Swinging Bridge that I hope y’all will enjoy.
Swinging Bridge at Anne Springs Close Greenway can be trip to cross or fun depending on your outlook.
Swinging Bridge Lake Haigler Entrance Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, South Carolina
Foot Bridges oftenconstructed to accommodate crossing a creek or river to be easier and more accessible for animals, and humans. Coleman and I hike over these types of Bridges quite frequently.
Baxter Village Trail with Alona & Trisha Fort Mill, South Carolina
Glencairn Garden Rock Hill, South Carolina
Goat Island Park and Greenway crosses over South Fork Catawba River Cramerton, North Carolina
Trestle Bridges are made of many short spans supported by close frames. The purpose is usually to transport trains/train lines across a deep valley (like rivers and lakes) or ravines.
Showing both a Trestle and Highway Bridge Situated over the Catawba River Along the Piedmont Medical Center Trail from the Catawba River Trailhead Rock Hill, South Carolina
Other Trestles over the Catawba River …
Trestle Bridges Over the Catawba River Piedmont Medical Center Trail Rock Hill, South Carolina
Trestle Bridge over the Mississippi River …
Trestle Bridge viewed from the Tennessee Welcome Center after crossing the Mississippi River
Highway/Road Bridges are designed to a road and its traffic over an obstacle such as a river, a valley, or even another road. First, we’ll look at a Road Bridge that crosses over a creek and a trail. The trail is the Blue Star Trail, part of which runs parallel to Steele Creek and under a Road Bridge. The Blue Star Trail in one of 25 unique trails which allows hikers, bikers, and equestrian riders to explore over 40 miles within the Anne Springs Close Greenway.
Road Bridge over Steele Creek and Blue Star Trail
Now on to California Highway Bridges …
In the San Francisco-Oakland Area …
San Francisco Bay BridgeSan Francisco–Oakland Bay BridgeGolden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California San Francisco-Oakland Bay BridgeGolden Gate Bridge, San FranciscoSan Francisco Bay BridgeSan Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, a double suspension bridgeLAPC – Bridges California’s San Francisco Bay Bridges All taken in April 1979 by my dad.
And last, but not least, the amazing San Diego-Coronado Bridge which connects San Diego with the city of Coronado. Construction on the Bridge began in February of 1967 after years of debate over the need and logistics of a bridge being built to cross the bay. The Navy feared a bridge could collapse due to an attack or an earthquake thus trapping navy ships stationed at Naval Base San Diego. The Navy finally, in 1964, agreed to support a Bridge if there was a minimum of 200 feet (61 Meters) of 660 feet in the main span for sufficient clearance for the Navy ships operating out of Naval Base San Diego to pass underneath it. [Side Note: Before the Bridge was constructed the only way to Coronado from San Diego or vice-versa was by Ferry.]
San Diego-Coronado Bridge
The Bridge itself is 11,179-foot-long (3,407 m or 2.1 mi) and ascends from Coronado at a 4.67 percent grade before curving 80 degrees toward San Diego. The Bridge was finally completed and opened to the public on August 3, 1969. It opened during the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the founding of San Diego. When it opened, a toll of 60¢ was charged in each direction. The toll charges were supposed to end when the bond was paid, but continued until 2002. This Bridge has five lanes, two eastbound, two westbound, and a reversible middle lane which could switch to correspond with traffic needs.
An interesting fact: Before its official opening to vehicular traffic on August 3, 1969, the Coronado Bridge had a special “Bridge Walk” on August 2, 1969. Thousands of people, including many bicyclists, participated in this dedication event, getting a unique chance to experience the bridge on foot and by bike before cars were allowed on it. I had many friends that road their bicycles across the San Diego-Coronado Bridge on that special day celebrating the bridge’s completion and opening.
God Bless. Be Happy. Be Cool. Be a Blessing to those around you. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
For the first time since moving to our current neighbourhood (back in March), I heard the Caw Caw sound of our first visitor in a long while. I happened to have been sitting on the porch with my granddaughter waiting for Coleman to arrive on the school bus. When I heard the cawing I stood up to see where it was perched. It was being watchful (scoping out the surroundings) atop a weathered sun-bleached utility pole.
What did I see when I looked up? The gleaming black feathers of an AmericanCrow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). American Crows are quite common here and throughout North Carolina. They can be seen from our coastal areas and on into our mountains. They are incredibly adaptable, thriving in urban areas, farmlands, forests, as well as in our coastal regions.
Let’s take a look at some interesting fun facts about the American Crow.
They are Master Problem Solvers: They can solve puzzles and use tools to get food for example, they can bend a wire to hook something out of a tube.
They have Excellent Memory: Crows are known for remembering faces, especially those who have been kind or unkind to them. They pass information about “dangerous” humans through their flock.
They have Complex Communication: They have a wide range of calls, more than just a simple “caw.” It is believed that they have different call for danger, for finding food, or even to distinguish individual crows within their group.
They are Social Creatures: Crows live in tight-knit family units. Their young often stay with their parents for several years. While they remain with their parents they help to raise their younger siblings (much like in a human family).
They have “Crow Funerals”: Who would have ever guessed? Whenever a crow dies, other crows often gather around it, sometimes ever for extended periods of time. This maybe a way for them to learn about potential dangers within their environment and it gives them an opportunity to mourn.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a pleasant and peaceful weekend. May it be filled with love, happiness, and laughter. 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 Paved Walkways, Pathways, and/or sidewalks (not roads). The Which Way can be any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as thereare vehicles on theWhich Way and the 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 thinking about all the lives lost on 9/11. May they never be forgotten.
Remember the families of those killed in the 9/11 tragedy. Pray for them as they gather and remember on this 25th anniversary of 9/11. May they receive peace and comfort during this difficult time period.
Now on to this week’s Which Way Challenge (CWWC). I am venturing back in time to 2017 to a trip I made to Jacksonville, North Carolina to see my sons who lived there at the time. While my younger sign was on duty as a Marine at Camp Lejeune, my eldest son took me to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina. To find out more about the Lejeune Memorial Gardens feel free to click here.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial and others like it have special meaning to us. My husband and his brothers as well as my brother all served in the military during the Vietnam War.
There are memorials at the Lejeune Memorial Gardens, I believe, for every war the United States Military ever participated in.
Vietnam Veterans MemorialMontford Point Marine MemorialEagle, Globe, and Anchor Reflection PoolVietnam Veterans MemorialMontford Point Marine MemorialBeirut MemorialBeirut MemorialBeirut MemorialVietnam Veterans Memorial155mm M114 Howitzer, powerful tribute to military personnel, especially those connected to Camp LejeuneFlags proudly representing the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and the POW/MIA cause.Vietnam Veterans Memorial155mm M114 HowitzerBeirut Memorial‘Our Fallen Brothers,’ featuring the insignias of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Marine Divisions.Vietnam Veterans MemorialLejeune Memorial Gardens Jacksonville, North Carolina
Click on images 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.
These sunflowers are not the type of flower you’d normally picture if someone said Sunflower, however, they are still beautiful in their own unique way.
Tithonia rotundifolia
The Mexican Sunflower is a plant in the Asteraceae family whose native origins range from Mexico to Central America.
Red Sunflower
They’re beloved by gardeners for their bright, fiery orange or red-orange petals and yellow centers, which resemble small sunflowers.
Mexican sunflower
They thrive in full sun and warm weather, which is typical for Gastonia’s weather. They are attractive to pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds which absolutely adore them, making them a fantastic addition to any garden looking to support local wildlife.
Tithonia rotundifolia, the Red sunflower or Mexican sunflower
The Tithonia rotundifolia, aka Mexican sunflower is not actually a true sunflower from the Helianthus family. However, their daisy-like blooms give off a similar sunny vibe. They are quite resilient and easy to grow. These flowers are surrounding my neighbours mailbox giving colour and beauty to the neighbourhood.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Stop and smell the flowers. Admire them and the beauty found in nature. Have a fantastic week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
John from Journeys with Johnbois this week’s host for the Lens-Artist Photo Challenge. He is asking us to look at water a little differently to focus on the landscapes, structures, and stories that they might tell. John commented on my Cell Pic Sunday photo and suggested I could use it for this challenge. I opted to use it as my header image. It shows the landscape of trees surrounding Lake Haigler at Anne Springs Close Greenway.
I searched through my photos to determine which photos I wanted to use for this challenge. Let’s take a look at my selections.
The Blue Mesa Reservoir Curecanti National Recreation Area Gunnison County, Colorado
In May of this year my daughter flew out west to see her dad’s grave in Boulder City, Nevada. After meeting with her uncle (her dad’s brother) at the cemetery, she drove east into Colorado where she hoped to get a transfer (that didn’t work out for various reasons). She drove north on the I-15 leaving Nevada into Utah and transferred to the I-70 East and on towards Colorado. While driving she was kind enough to oblige me with stopping at a few site seeing spots along the route. One of those sites was The Blue Mesa Reservoir. It is a part of the Curecanti National Recreation Area. It is the largest body of water in Colorado and a crucial part of the Wayne N. Aspinall Storage Unit. This reservoir was formed by the Blue Mesa Dam on the Gunnison River. It is a focal point for recreational activities like fishing and boating. In addition, it plays a vital role in providing water and power to the region.
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina
Going backwards through the calendar year, my family and I took a mini-vacation for New Year’s weekend. We drove down to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and stayed for almost a week. Having not been to the beach in years and the kids first time to the beach, we took in some “touristy” activities. One of our first activities was to drive down to Murrells Inlet and go on a Dolphin Excursion via the Crazy Sister Marina. Pictured here is a portion of the boat dock to the left of the Crazy Sister’s boats. That was a fun adventure, one Coleman really enjoyed.
Lake Norman, Ramsey Creek Park Cornelius, North Carolina
Heading back another month to November of 2025, we went to Charlotte to try out a pizza place that served a specialty pizza known in some entices to induce labour. In my daughter’s case it didn’t have the expected outcome she was hoping for. The pizza was delicious despite that fact. After leaving Charlotte we decided to stop at Ramsey Creek Park to walk off our lunch and give Coleman time to run around and burn some excess energy. (He always has an abundance of energy). Ramsey Creek Park is a beautiful spot along the shores of Lake Norman in Cornelius, North Carolina. Lake Norman is North Carolina’s largest man-made lake. It is often referred to as “the Inland Sea” due to its vast size. While there Coleman and I walked along the lake shore and along the trail. (He loves to hike.) My daughter didn’t do as much walking (being about 36 weeks, she wasn’t up to much walking). It was a fun outing and a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the afternoon.
South Fork Catawba River Goat Island Park & Greenway Cramerton, North Carolina
In October, Coleman and I walked to Goat Island Park and Greenway for a bit of hiking and Funtime on the playground. This shot was taken from the Goat Island bridge looking back towards town. Once on the Greenway, Coleman hiked along the trail spotting the Autumn colours of the leaves and enjoying spending time together. Now of course, after a hike a boy still needs to burn off even more energy, so a stop at the playground was a must.
Coleman walking along the edge of Robinwood Lake Warlick Family YMCA Gastonia, North Carolina
Back in early 2024 the Gastonia Transit system still ran. In February, Coleman and I rode the city bus to the Warlick Family YMCA. The Warlick Family YMCA has three different hiking trails; Blue, Yellow, and Green. On this day, if my recollection is correct, Coleman and I hiked the Green Trail. The trails start near Robinwood Lake (pictured above). Robinwood Lake is a scenic 34-acre freshwater lake which the YMCA allows kayaking, paddleboarding, bank fishing (largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish). In order to fish in Robinwood Lake, you’dneed to purchase a North Carolina inland fishing license for anyone age 16 or older to fish. Coleman and I live to walk along the lake shores and enjoy its natural beauty.
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USS Consolation US Naval Port
This final image is of the USS Consolation. It is not a ship I have seen or visited other than in my dad’s photo album. Why is it so special to me? It is special because this is the hospital ship my dad was stationed on during his Korean War service in the United States Navy. I’m not sure which Naval port it was taken at, possibly in San Francisco, but really could be any U.S. Naval port. I like the visibility of the mountains behind the U.S. Naval ship.
God Bless. Be Happy. Be Cool. Be a Blessing to those around you. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The Tymco SM74C is a popular model for municipal and contractor street sweepings. It is known for its regenerative air system which uses a high-velocity air blast to dislodge debris and then vacuums it into the hopper, making it very efficient at keeping our curbs and streets clean without the need for water unlike other sweeper type models.
Azaleas differ from other Rhododendrons by only having five (5) stamens per flower instead of the typical ten (10) or more on other Rhododendrons. They are popular ornamental plants, known for their showy blooms in a wide variety of colours.
Their colours range from vibrant pink to white, purple, and red. I normally see the pink and red varieties in the gardens around town. They are always available to be seen in the Garden in The Farm at The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Whenever Coleman and I visit The Schiele Museum of Natural History we almost always visit The Farm (we only miss it if we arrive too late and it’s already closed). Walking around the Farm we visit the animals (the goats, the sheep, and Mike & Lucky, aka the cows) and admire the Flowers (at least I do anyway). Coleman likes to climb on the red tractor and other interesting things. What other things would interest a rambunctious little boy? An old wagon with a hay bale, of course. Yep, that’s right, he climbed up on the wagon and made himself at home by #PullingUpaSeat on a Hay Bale.
Here’s my contributions of Coleman Pulling Up a Seat on a Wagon’s Haystack …
#PullUpaSeat Coleman Style on a Haystack at The Schiele Museum of Natural History
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 Vehicles. The Which Way can be any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as thereare vehicles on theWhich Way and the 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.
CWWC Cee’s Which Way Challenge Deb’s Which Way Challenge
Click on images 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.
Liriope muscari is a species of flowering plant from the region of Easr Asia. It is also known as Big Blue Lilyturf, Lilyturf, Border Grass, and Monkey Grass.
A Trio of Liriope muscari
Lilyturf is highly valued for its beautiful striped leaves and its purple flower spikes. It is an evergreen perennial, meaning its foliage stays green year round. Gardeners tend to favourite as a border plant, ground cover (as it usually used here), or as a means to help prevent erosion. It spreads nicely and creates a dense mat.
Liriope muscari, Big Blue Lilyturf
Liriope muscari usually blooms in late summer to early Autumn/Fall. Coleman first notice the purple spike flowers a little over a week ago and insisted I take pictures with my phone. As the days progressed more and more of the lilac-purple flower spikes began popping up bringing colour to the garden.
God Bless. Stop and smell the flowers. Admire them and the beauty found in nature. Have a fantastic week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Portraits in Monochrome throughout the years of Coleman (beginning at age two (2)) in all his antics and expressions are what’s on display for this free week of Leanne’s Monochrome Madness.
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 Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max:
Lagerstroemia indica, aka Crepe-myrtle Gastonia, North Carolina
From my Canon EOS T7 (2000D):
Angora Goats Walk-thru Petting Area Lazy 5 Ranch Mooresville, North Carolina
I do not visit the beach as often as I did in my youth, however, I do have memories of being at the beach with family and friends over the years.
Going back in time to see A vintage family day with my Aunt and Uncle at Springmaid Beach in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Aunt Dalline & Uncle Shorty fishing at the beach.
In 2010, My “children” and I ventured down to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina to celebrate my daughter’s high school graduation.
In the foreground is my daughter, my sons are behind the wave waiting for the next one.
Moving forward in time to 2017, we (my eldest son and I) take a drive to North Topsail Beach from Jacksonville, North Carolina for a relaxing stroll along the waterfront.
My eldest son, John and myself at North Topsail Beach, North Carolina.
Let’s take a sidetrack from the East Coast Carolina beaches to visit west coast beaches in San Diego County, California.
Sea Lions on the beach at La Jolla Cove in La Jolla, California
Coronado Beach, Coronado, San Diego County, California
Now back to the East coast and our adventures at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Parks Recreation Sports Tourism Truck on Myrtle Beach Ring-billed GullsColeman having a splashing good time. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina with my daughter and grandchildren (Coleman & Sophia)
Well, that’s all folks. Till next time have a splendid week filled with love, happiness, and laughter. God Bless. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
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