Tina from travelsandtrifles is the host this week for the Lens-Artist Photo Challenge. Tina is giving us the opportunity for one Last Chance to share photos we have taken and loved throughout 2025 and hadn’t had an opportunity to share for one challenge or another.
Here are some of my favorites from this year that I believe I haven’t as yet shared with y’all …
Dan, the host for Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge is asking us to share photos of Winter, Summer or Both. Lately our weather has been so cold and extremely windy that it feels like winter. Yesterday morning our low was down to 14°, which for me, extremely freezing weather with the wind chill making it feel even colder. Our lowest temperatures of the day are when I need to wait with Coleman at the school bus stop. His bus always runs late, so I am always chilled to the bone by the time I get back to the house.
Enough talk about our current “Wintry” weather conditions and let’s move on to showing you some images from last Winter.
Here are my contributions for this week …
Northern Mockingbird February 2025Footprints in the Snow 02/2025Snow/ice covered plants 02/2025Deer eyeing me December 2024Christmas Lights December 2024Coleman enjoying the Snow ❄️ 02/2025Would you go barefoot in the Snow/ice? January 2025Coleman entering Goat Island 12/2024Coleman by the South Fork Catawba River December 2024Nativity Scene with extra figurine (aka Coleman) 12/2024CFFC – Looking Back Upon Winter
God Bless. Have a fantastic week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Note: You might want to take a look at this Friday’s Which Way Challenge (CWWC) (another one of Cee’s challenges) to see the new ideas for the new theme of Any Which Way with a Holiday theme. — Part 2 which will go live on Friday 12/19 just past midnight EST.
The Plunge in San Diego, California was originally called The Natatorium. It was constructed in 1925 as the centrepiece of Belmont Park, along with the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster.
Closeup of The Plunge’s Front Door
Belmont Park is located at Mission Beach. It was once the world’s largest saltwater pool. In 1940, The Plunge’s pool was converted from a saltwater pool to a freshwater pool. After the conversion, it became Southern California’s largest heated indoor pool. However, in the 1970’s, the pool and the rest of Belmont Park fell into disrepair. [It was during the 70’s when I was able to spend many days, especially in the summer, at Mission Beach enjoying the rides, the ocean, and the pool within The Plunge.]
In 2014, The Plunge was closed due to structural issues. After undergoing a major restoration, it reopened in 2019 as a completely modern, heated facility with a retractable roof and new amenities including floor-to-ceiling windows, while still maintaining its historical character.
The Plunge Belmont Park San Diego. California
The renovation was done in coordination with San Diego’s Historical Resources Board and the Save Our Heritage Organization. Great efforts were made to restore and replicate historic architectural features, including the original-style archways and decorative tilework.
During the mid-twentieth century, The Plunge served as a community gathering spot for swim lessons, school meets, and summer outings. The Plunge has been and continues to be a beloved landmark for Mission Beach residents and the entire city of San Diego.
Judy from Life Lessons blog hosts a weekly photo challenge called The Numbers Game.This week’s number is 222. Her instructions for playing along are listed below …
To play along, go to your photos file and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find under that number and include a link to your blog in Judy’s Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title.
Please click on photos to enlarge.
Here are my entries …
The Schiele Museum Cramerton Town ClockThe Cape Neddick Lighthouse Coleman The Billy Graham Library Roy Rogers & Trigger Wax Figures Alona Larry & meLake Haigler Anne Springs Close Greenway New Braunfels Railroad Museum Doyce Eileen Watson WatersDelia Green Maternal Great Grandmother Holmes County, Ohio
Dan, the host for Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge is asking us to share photos of Sporting Venues (actually I’m a week late), a specific type of Cultural Venue. Here are my contributions …
Typical Sporting Venues …
Stadiums …
Ohio State University Stadium Texas Rangers Stadium Old San Diego Jack Murphy Stadium
The top two (2) stadiums are ones my cousins and nieces attend to watch their local sporting events. The third (3rd) stadium in San Diego is the old stadium which served as a venue for both the San Diego Padres and the San Diego Chargers. I only attended Padre games here.
Non-typical Sporting Venues …
Racetracks …
Cajon Speedway El Cajon, California
My dad loved watching car races. He grew up watching NASCAR races. The Cajon Speedway was an oval racetrack near El Cajon, California. The racetrack was originally a 0.25 mile dirt oval track which opened in 1961. In 1964 the track was expanded to a 0.375 mile dirt track and then was paved. The track was located between Gillespie Field and the San Vicente Freeway. The track held many Stock Car races throughout the years. Some of the more notable events were USAC National Midget Series, NASCAR Winston West Series, NASCAR Southwest Series, and the USF2000.
The Cajon Speedway ceased operations after the 2004 season and was demolished sometime after the lease ended in 2005. At this time it is unsure if or when a new NASCAR short track will be built on the property.
Horse Shows …
Horse Shows
The top two (2) are from a horse show held on the grounds of the Lake Haigler Entrance for Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina. The third (3rd) is of a horse show held at the San Diego Wild Animal Park (now known as the San Diego Safari Park) in 1978.
Water Sport Venues …
Water Sport Competitions
The first two (2) are of my eldest son’s high school CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) swim finals competition held in 1998 in Long Beach, California. My son competed in the butterfly event and the 4 x 100 meter medley and the 4 x 400 meter medley relays. The third (3rd) is from a paddling competition at the Port O’ Call, San Pedro, California.
Youth Baseball/T-ball Venues …
Here we have Coleman at his T-ball practice and one of his games on the local T-ball field. The last is of our local high school’s baseball field.
Good Sunday Morning to y’all. This week Debbie from Travel with Intenthas chosen Steering Wheels for the theme for One Word Sunday (OWS). I’ve scoured my archives searching for a few Steering Wheels and I’ve managed come come across a few.
Here are my entries …
Coleman behind the Steering Wheel of a Fire Engine
Coleman testing out the Steering Wheel of a Tractor at The Farm at The Schiele Museum of Natural History.
These next two are located at the North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer, North Carolina.
Coleman Turning a Steering Wheel outside the main Museum building.
Here Coleman is checking out the Steering Wheel of a Train.
Every Winter The Schiele Museum of Natural History converts the Block Party room into a Winter Holiday Themed Sock Skating area for kids of all ages, however, primarily for preschoolers and elementary age children.
The first time Coleman visited the Sock Skating area “rink” he was hesitant about “skating” across the “rink.”
This week Dan, the host for Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge is asking us to share photos of Churches, a specific type of Cultural Venue. Here are my contributions …
Galilee Baptist Church 1011 Briarwood St Abilene TX 79603 The Galilee Baptist Church was built in 1963.The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; Gastonia, North Carolina, USASt. Joseph Catholic Church Former Heritage USA Church Forest Hill Church Fort Mill, SCThe Church of the Holy Spirit (German: Heiliggeistkirche) is the largest church in Heidelberg, Germany.First Baptist Church of Abilene Abilene, Texas Located Third Street near my maternal aunt’s home.First Baptist Church of CramertonChurch of Christ 5th and Grape St Abilene, TexasCramerton Independent Presbyterian Church 51 8th Ave, Cramerton, NC 28032, USAThe Westfield Presbyterian Church Westfield, New JerseyGrace Church San Diego Formerly Known as Scott Memorial Baptist Church 4637 Oregon Street San Diego, CA 92116The Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest Abilene, TexasUnion church on Big Horse Creek, Ashe County, North Carolina. Trinity Baptist Church Abilene, TexasFirst Methodist Church Abilene, Texas South Side Baptist Church Abilene, Texas
Note: This Friday’s Which Way Challenge we will be continuing with Any Which Way in Black and White in memory of Cee and her Black and White Challenge (CBWC).
God Bless. Have a fantastic week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
This week I’m doing something a little different. I am joining Dan withNo Facilities and Marsha from the alwayswrite.blogin posting black and white photos (may include flowers) in memory of Cee Neuner. Cee hosted several challenges over her blogging career and as many know we lost a good friend and mentor earlier this year in March. Cee is missed tremendously, she is in our hearts, our thoughts, and her legacy lives on.
Dan Antion is continuing her Fun Foto Challenge and I’m continuing her Which Way Challenge. We are celebrating her birthday with black and white photos, with our memories, with flowers to remember Cee. I will continue the Which Way Challenge with the Any Which Way in Black and White for two (2) weeks to give anyone who wishes to join us in remembering Cee to participate.
For this Friday, November 7th I am posting One Day/One Photo in memory of Cee.
A collage for Cee
The Black and White photos for the Which Way Challenge can be Any Which Way, but remember Cee loved bridges and old barns. As you might recall Cee loved photographing Flowers so you may include flowers in your which ways or anywhere in your posts.
Cee Neuner, Friend and Legacy Blogger
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.
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.
Dan Antion our host for Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge has chosen a theme of Cultural Venues for the challenge.
Here are some of my intakes on Cultural Venues we have enjoyed at one time or another. Some venues are close by while others are further away, but all are in my opinion interesting Cultural Venues.
Here are my entries …
Let’s first take a look at some Cultural Venues in our surrounding area …
The Schiele Museum of Natural History Gastonia, NC
The Daniel Stowe Conservancy Belmont, NC
Charlotte Symphony in the Comporium Amphitheater at Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SC
President James K. Polk Birthplace Visitor Center-Museum Pineville, NC
The Billy Graham Library Charlotte, NC
Now let’s wander a bit further out and a few other Cultural Venues of interest around the country.
Flat Top Manor Moses H. Cone Memorial Park Blowing Rock, North Carolina on the Blue Ridge Parkway
New Braunfels Railroad Museum New Braunfels, Texas
Hall of Presidents Colorado Springs, Colorado It Once was a Wax Museum featuring Wax Figures of the Presidents of the United States. The Museum was opened in 1969 and closed in 1996
God Bless. Hope you enjoyed the tour. Have a fantastic rest of your week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Note: This week’s Which Way Challenge (CWWC) will be focusing on Any Which Ways in Monochrome ( Monochrome doesn’t need to be strictly Black and White).
Judy from Life Lessons blog hosts a weekly photo challenge called The Numbers Game. This week’s number is 218. Her instructions for playing along are listed below …
To play along, go to your photos file and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find under that number and include a link to your blog in Judy’s Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title.
Please click on photos to enlarge.
Here are my entries …
Gastonia Bus Terminal Abelmoschus esculentus (Okra)Rooftop Garden Schiele Museum Adventure Center Anne Springs Close Greenway Railroad Trestle ASCGRailroad Trestle ASCGGarden Thyme Schiele Museum North Carolina Transportation Museum Schiele Museum of Natural History Schiele Museum of Natural HistoryColeman Trisha & AlonaAlonaAlona & Coleman Watson Family Reunion 2016John & Jeramiah Watson (My Great Uncle & Great Grandfather)
The Museum of Us in San Diego was formally called the Museum of Man. The name was changed in 2020 to be more inclusive and reflect the museum’s commitment to equity, anti-racism, and decolonization.
The large Tower to the left is known as the California Tower. It is a soaring, intricately detailed, portion of the CaliforniaBuilding and is an icon of San Diego which can be seen from miles and miles around. The California Building houses the Museum of Us (aka Museum of Man).
Growing up in San Diego, the Museum of Man in Balboa was a favourite and fascinating place to visit. The entire time I lived in San Diego the Museum was called the Museum of Man. [I’ll probably always remember it as the Museum of Man as that is what it was called in the special time I recall in my memories.]
The Museum of Us(Man) traces its starting point to the Panama–California Exposition, which opened in 1915 on the occasion of the inauguration of the Panama Canal. The central exhibit of the exposition, “The Story of Man through the Ages,” was assembled under the direction of archaeologist Dr. Edgar Lee Hewett of the School of American Archaeology (later renamed the School of American Research and since 2007 the School for Advanced Research).
Between 1935 and 1936, the museum’s name briefly changed to the Palace of Science to correspond with the California-Pacific International Exposition. During this exposition, the museum housed special exhibitions from a variety of sources, such as the Monte Alban exhibit, which featured many artifacts on loan from the Mexican government.
In 1942, the museum underwent a name change to the Museum of Man, reflecting its commitment to anthropological pursuits. The addition of “San Diego” occurred in 1978. The museum is housed in four original buildings from the 1915 Exposition. These include the California Quadrangle, which was designed for the Exposition by American architect Bertram G. Goodhue, and the California Tower, one of the key landmarks in San Diego. The main museum is housed in the California Building with its landmark tower.
The museum’s cultural resources and permanent exhibits focus on the pre-Columbian history of the western Americas, with materials drawn from Native American cultures of the Southern California region, and Mesoamerican civilizations, such as the Maya.
The San Diego Museum of Us is one of the best anthropological style institutions in the United States. It is centrally located in Balboa Park, at 1350 El Prado. Besides being a popular attraction for tourists that come to visit the city, it is also a wonderful historic landmark. It is a must visit if you ever get to visit the San Diego area.
Judy from Life Lessons blog hosts a weekly photo challenge called The Numbers Game. This week’s number is 217. Her instructions for playing along are listed below …
To play along, go to your photos file and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find under that number and include a link to your blog in Judy’s Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title.
Our Fallen Brothers is called Marine Corps Interrogator Translator monument, it honours those who died in combat. The monument is a 38,000 pound stone and is etched with the names of nine Marines who died in combat, some in World War II, Vietnam, Korea, and Afghanistan.
Marine interrogators and translators worked to question prisoners of war in their native language and translate the information for intelligiance purposes.
The Marine Corps Interrogator Translator Monument serves as a symbol of their sacrifice. This Monument is one of several Memorial Monuments honouring Fallen Soldiers located within the Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina near Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base.
Location: Marine Corps Interrogator Translator Monument; Lejeune Memorial Gardens; Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Remember the Fallen. Honour their Sacrifice. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
I became a mom to my first born son and I have loved you since you were a tiny baby growing inside of me. You are my first rainbow 🌈 baby and you may never understand the significance of your birth or the images I still carry in my mind and heart of your sister or brother who never came to live amongst us in this vast world of ours.
I have watched you grow from infancy into adulthood admiring each and everyone of your life’s accomplishments. I have watched you strive to, grow, learn, develop, and thrive in each and every aspect of your life and I am proud of the man you have become today.
I might not have agreed with all of your life’s decisions, but I will stand by you till the end of time. You are my son, a part of me, and no matter what I will always love you forever and always.
Happy Birthday John!
John Thomas Waters III My First Born Son October 7th, 1982 —-
God Bless. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with me. I appreciate y’all very much.
These ruin images were captured by my dad when he and my mom visited my brother stationed in Germany while serving in the United States Air Force. These are various perspectives of the Heidelberg Castle Ruins they saw during their visit.
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 Things. He has given examples of doors, windows, bridges, and more that subjects can be used to be framed.
Here are my entries …
The Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco, California San Francisco framed by the Bay Bridge Looking through Alpaca Viewing area at Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCCovered Walkway at Catawba River Trailhead Rock Hill, SCRailroad Trestle over the Blue Star Trail at Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCSouth Fork Catawba River through the Goat Island Bridge Cramerton, NCPump House Seen through a Bridge & a Trestle in Rock Hill, SCColeman through Autumn display at Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCColeman on the Ropes in the Goat Island Park and Greenway’s playground Cramerton, NCColeman poking through the slide at Goat Island Park & Greenway’s playground Cramerton, NC
Dawn from The Day After hosts this week’s Monochrome Madness. She has chosen a theme of symmetry. Symmetry refers to an objects balance and harmonious proportions, having its parts similar corresponding to one another. The image below I think is my favourite symmetrical photo I have and even though I have others I’m saving them for another time.
I had planned a different post for this week’s Thursday Doors, but then I realized this Thursday is 09.11. I therefore, decided to delay that post until next week and chose instead to Remember our Fallen Heroes from that fateful day on 09.11.2001.
I will never forget that horribly tragically devastating day of loss when 2,977 innocent lives were taken at the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and on Flight 93 in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Remembering the 343 firefighters, 60 police officers, 8 paramedics, and thousands of civilians, each one someone’s parent, sibling, friend, or child.
I Remember the Lives Lost.
I Remember the Sacrifices Made.
I Remember the Heroes Who Answered the Call.
I Will Never Forget.
North 321
Volunteer
Fire Department
I am thankful for our Firefighters, Police Officers, Paramedics, and the many Volunteers that serve to keep our communities safe. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to serve. Thank you for the kindness you demonstrate to everyone, especially the kindness shown to my grandson by several firefighters and police officers.
These were taken at North 321 Volunteer Fire Department in Lincolnton, North Carolina.
North 321 Vol. Fire Dept.
Coleman being shown the ins and outs of the Fire Engine
Coleman allowed to sit inside the Brush 100
Coleman delighted to see the inner workings of the Fire Department Vehicle
The Reed Gold Mine is the site of the first documented gold find in the United States. The discovery of gold from this mine gradually influenced gold mining to nearby counties and eventually into other southern states. During the gold mining peak years, it was second only to farming in the number of North Carolinians it employed. The estimated value of gold recovered reached over one million dollars a year. North Carolina led the nation in gold production until 1848, when it was eclipsed by the great rush to California.
Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site Reconstructed Building at President James K. Polk State Historic Site
The Reed Gold Mine is located in Midland, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and has been designated a National Historic Landmark because of its importance and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. At this location there is an underground mine that is open for self-guided tours, historic structures, a visitor center, trails, monuments, and outdoor exhibits.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T3i with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens
Location: Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site; President James K. Polk State Historic Site; Pineville, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a fantastic weekend. Hope to see y’all on Friday for the Which Way Challenge. This week the Which Ways will be your choice. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Who was Robert Palone and Why is the Palone Barber Shop in a Museum? Those are two excellent questions. Let me begin by telling you about the Palone Barber Shop in relation to Robert Palone.
Robert Palone owned a Barber Shop where he was a renowned barber for nearly sixty (60) years. [That’s a long time to successfully run a business and work in a field.] He was admired and respected by his customers and his community. Prior to owning and operating a barber shop, Robert served in the United States Navy during World War II and the Korean War.
Nowata Museum Delaware, Oklahoma
Besides being a Barber and owning his own successful Barber Shop; Robert and his wife, Lorene (McKee) Palone owned and operated the Landers Brothers Grocery Store in Delaware, Oklahoma. Robert Palone and Lorene McKee were married on June 26, 1950. In 2020 they celebrated their seventieth (70) wedding anniversary, a milestone in and of itself. Robert passed away just two shirt months after their 70th anniversary. [Side Note: I was supposed to be able to meet them in person and join the family in their celebration, however, with the COVID-19 lockdown that occurrence didn’t happen.]
Lorene McKee Palone lived another four years after his passing. After which the Palone family donated everything you see in the second image which was once owned by Robert & Lorene and was used and contained within the Palone Barber Shop to the Nowata Museum. The Nowata Museum is run by the Nowata County Historical Society in Delaware, Oklahoma. Everything that was furnished by the Palone family was used to construct a new exhibit depicting a mid century barber shop.
Robert Palone Robert & Lorene Palone (my cousins)
Let’s now move on to who Robert Palone and his significance to me personally. Robert connects to me through his wife Lorene’s mother’s side of the family. Lorene’s mother was my maternal grandmother’s sister. Therefore, Lorene is my maternal cousin making us family and hence, making Robert my family as well. Do you understand now who Robert Palone is and his story’s importance to me?
Remembering a fun family trip with my daughter and granddaughter to the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina. This upcoming week my granddaughter will turn twelve (12). These are memories from when she was four (4).
Alona on an elephant sculpture
Her mom and I took her down to Columbia, South Carolina to visit the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. It was a special time and memories I will always cherish. [She currently lives with her father & he does not allow her to visit with us even though there is a shared custody agreement.]
Alona petting an Anglo-Nubian goat
Alona enjoyed being able to pet the goats and other animals in the children’s petting area.
Alona riding a Giraffe on the Merry-Go-Round
As well as the merry-go-round and all the amazing animals located within the Zoo.
Alona on a Gorilla sculpture
Every time we came near any of the animal sculptures she thought she had to go up and climb on them. It made for some interesting poses (or lack of posing).
Alona on Happy the Tiger in the Riverbanks main plaza
After a long tiring day, we stopped at the entrance/exit area for one final photo opportunity before traveling back home through Great Falls, Lancaster, and finally to get home in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Columbia, South Carolina with Alona
Location: Riverbanks Zoo and Garden; Columbia, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Memories are precious. Treasure your memories. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Looking back to a trip my daughter and I took to visit (meet in person) cousins from my mother’s side of the family in Coshocton, Ohio.
Memorial Garden Roscoe Village Coshocton, Ohio
There is an area in Coshocton known as the Historic Roscoe Village. The Historic Roscoe Village is an 1830 Restored Canal Town. Roscoe Village began as a small port town in 1816 after a bankrupt merchant bet that rural farmers would rather do business there than have to shell out 25 cents for the ferryboat to Coshocton.
Today, the restored Roscoe Village stands as a testament to Ohio’s bygone Canal era.
My daughter relaxing on a Welcoming Garden Bench
The Frances Montgomery Memorial Garden is one of nine gardens in Roscoe Village and is located near the Visitors’s Center. This Garden is dedicated to honor Mrs. Frances Montgomery and her passion for gardening. The Gardens are planted throughout this restored 1800’s canal town.
The flower beds were created in the early 1970’s by Frances Montgomery out of her love for gardening. Many of the gardens have historical significance and assist in the education mission of Roscoe Village.
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Commune with Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The Moses Cone Carriage House is a significant historical structure located within the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and just a short hike from the Cone Manor.
The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and the Moses Cone Carriage House is located near Milepost 294 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Moses Cone Carriage House
The Cone Carriage House was part of the expansive Flat Top Manor estate, built by textile magnate Moses H. Cone and his wife Bertha at the turn of the 20th century.
The estate included the manor house, about 500 acres of farmland, Flat Top Mountain, Rich Mountain, and a vast system of carriage trails.
Carriage House
The Carriage House housed carriages and other equipment used to maintain the estate’s approximately 25 miles of carriage trails. The Carriage House has been preserved as a historical structure within the park, it might possibly be used for maintenance or interpretive exhibits related to the estate’s history.
Front of Carriage House
The Carriage House may not be a prominent visitor attraction on its own, however, it contributes to the overall historical and natural experience of the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which also includes the Flat Top Manor (the Cone’s former residence), orchards, lakes, and extensive carriage trails.
Note: This section of the Blue Ridge Parkway is open for the public.
Location: Moses Cone Carriage House; Moses H. Cone Memorial Park; Milepost 294; Blue Ridge Parkway; Watauga County, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a funtastic week. Get Outdoors and enjoy Nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
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.
Taking a hike through the woods surrounded by encompassing trees is one of the most invigorating and inspiring activities one could experience and one I truly love to undertake as often and as long as I am able to do so.
I find peace and tranquility while I am hiking through the woods. It is a fascinating opportunity to admire and explore all the beauty nature has to offer. It is a time to renew the(my) mind, relax one’s(my) body, and recharge the(my) spirit within you(me).
“Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.”
All the ins and outs, the twists and turns of a trail remind me that my path in life is not always (or necessarily) meant to be a straight pathway on life’s journey. Only God knows what pathway I should be on and whether I venture off the path or not, God is always there to guide me through life’s trials and triumphs.
“It is a surprising and memorable, as well as valuable experience, to be lost in the woods any time.”
Whenever I go into the woods I seek to obtain peace and tranquility. The woods are an escape from daily routines and aggravation. The calmness I feel amongst the trees is overwhelming and enhances a sense of calming relaxation, reflection, and revitalization.
“In Every Walk With Nature One Receives Far More Than He Seeks.”
This adventure into the woods was a solo (Coleman was on 11 months at the time) outing I took to get away from the stress and tension within my environment. I ventured onto the trails in Kings Mountain State Park for some time in the woods communing with God and nature.
I hiked along the Lake Crawford Trail twisting and turning along the natural path enjoying the beautiful views along the way. I especially liked viewing the spillway cascading downstream and the amazing views looking out over Lake Crawford.
Click on each image for enhanced enlarged viewing.
Location: Lake Crawford Trail; Kings Mountain State Park; Blacksburg, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy nature’s beauty. Thankful for the freedom to be outside and in the woods. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Judy from Life lessons hosts The Numbers Game . She has chosen the number 204 for this week’s #82” Numbers Game challenge. To play along, go to your photos file folder and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find that include that number and post a link to your blog in my Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title. This prompt repeats each Monday with a new number. If you want to play along, please put a link to your blog post here.
Here are my contributions to the album.
Germany Faires/Coltharp Cabin#SimplyRedNornal, Dalline, & Eddie WatersAlonaAlona & ColemanAtlantic Ocean Alex Marina Murrells Inlet, South CarolinaAmerican PekinDiscovery Center Creation Museum Abilene, TexasHylotelephium cauticolaAnne Springs Close Greenway Coleman McDowell Nature Preserve New Braunfels Railroad Museum Greenville ZooThe Schiele Museum of Natural History
I have not been to the ocean in years, but we venture to lakes and rivers which are nearby. Here’s a look 👀 at our “Seasides”.
Myrtle Beach SeasideRankin LakeAndrew Jackson State Park Lake w/AlonaAndrew Jackson State Park Lake w/ColemanColeman by the South Fork Catawba River Riverside Park and Greenway
The Black-crowned Night Heron was previously described as Ardea nycticorax, based on specimens from southern Europe. The Swedish naturalist, Carl Linnaeus, placed it in the genus Ardea; the same grouping as herons, cranes and egrets.
It is currently placed in the genus Nycticorax that was described in 1817 by the English naturalist Thomas Forster.
The Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) is a medium-sized heron found throughout a large part of the world, including parts of Europe, Asia, and North and South America.
Black-crowned night herons do not fit the typical body form of the heron family. They are relatively stocky with shorter bills, legs, and necks than their more familiar cousins, the egrets and “day” herons. When they are in a resting position their posture is somewhat hunched, but when they are hunting they extend their necks and look more like other wading birds.
These Black-crowned Night Herons can be spotted along Paradise Point at Mission Bay in San Diego, California.
To play along, go to your photos file folder and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find that include that number and post a link to your blog in my Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title. This prompt will repeat each Monday with a new number. If you want to play along, please put a link to your blog in comments.
Here are my contributions to the Numbers Game Challenge … Click on photos for enlarged and enhanced viewing.
To play along, go to your photos file folder and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find that include that number and post a link to your blog in my Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title. This prompt will repeat each Monday with a new number. If you want to play along, please put a link to your blog in comments below.
Here are my contributions to the Numbers Game Challenge … Click on photos for enlarged and enhanced viewing.
My dad is the very first military veteran I ever met. I have of course had other very close friends and relatives who were also military veterans, however, they do not compare to the importance of my very first military veteran.
In honor of the United States Celebration of Memorial Day and in memory of my father’s birthday I am dedicating this post to my late father, Nornal Hule Waters.
Nornal Hule Waters was born and raised in South Carolina. After completing high school he joined the United States Navy on September 24, 1948 when he was nineteen (19) years of age. He attended basic training in San Diego, California at the Naval Training Center (NTC) located in the Balboa Park area. His specialized training was conducted at the Balboa Naval Hospital.
After completion of his training at Balboa Naval Hospital he was stationed on the USS Consolation where he served as a hospital corpsman. Nornal dedicated four (4) years of his life to the United States Navy before his discharge on September 12, 1952.
HN Nornal Hule Waters US Navy 1948-1952 Korean War Veteran
He served his country with honor aboard the USS Consolation during the Korean War. During his time of service he was issued fuel rations which he had to use sparingly.
Fuel Rations
Nornal Hule Waters, my father, my Forever Hero, my Korean War Veteran. He loved his country and his family. He was a man of Honour.
God Bless. Thank you for visiting, for listening, and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Welcome to my Week #10 Floral contribution to Dawn’s Spring Festival2025.
Beautiful Sea Lavender and Red Maidsof are a Spring delight along the La Jolla Shores for visitors and locals to enjoy and admire. [In my youth I used to spend a tremendous amount of time along the sands and in the water at La Jolla Shores. At that time I didn’t pay no mind to the floral landscape, but I greatly appreciate its beauty nowadays.]
Limonium perezii aka Perez’s sea lavender and seafoam statice
Sea lavender blooms intermittently for months and nearly year round in frost-free coastal climates. Their dry, papery petals retain the colour well, making them an excellent choice for dried arrangements. They are also ideal for seaside gardens or decorative containers.
Perez’s sea lavender & Red Maids
Sea Lavender (Limonium perezii) is primarily pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other flying insects. These insects are attracted to the beautiful clusters of small, fragrant flowers that grow on the plant.
Red Maids Aka Calandrinia ciliata
Red Maids might be considered weeds in some places, however, in the majority of areas they are considered wildflowers. Red Maids sure have beautiful deep pink flowers that open mostly in the afternoon.
The leaves are edible and cattle love them, but the black oil-rich seeds are what made the plant a substantial part of Southern California Indian diets. The leaves, especially the young leaves and young shoots, may be eaten fresh, although due to their content of oxalic acid, should be eaten sparingly.
The wildlife-friendly plant grows up to about 8″ tall and makes a good ornamental in the garden that is easily plantable by seed.
Location: La Jolla Shores; La Jolla, California, USA
God Bless. Admire the flowers, watch them grow and bloom. Nature is a beautiful artist painting amazingly beautiful flowers and beautifully colourful landscapes. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
We all use and/or see items made of Fabric every day.
From Quilts:
Quilt made by my Maternal Grandmother Berlin Village Antique Mall Berlin, Ohio
To Dolls:
BabyLand General® Hospital Cleveland, Georgia
To Clothes:
Coleman
And Even Flags:
American Flag at Biltmore Historic School My FlagsGod Bless America!
I’m sure y’all can figure out and find many other Things Made of Fabric. For information regarding joining in the Fun Foto Challenge check out Dan’s Fun Foto Challenge Home Page Here.
Ford introduced the Model T in 1908. It was Ford’s universal car that put THE WORLD ON WHEELS. Henry Ford wanted the Model T to be affordable, simple to operate, and durable. The vehicle was one of the first mass production vehicles, allowing Ford to achieve his aim of manufacturing the universal car.
Ford Model T
This particular Ford Model T was owned and operated by my late maternal grandfather, Harvey Martin Watson. It is one of the earliest automobiles which I have photos of that were given to me by my maternal grandmother after his passing in 1968. I cherish all of my grandfather’s photos, they contain so much family history within them.
1925? Ford Model T with my Maternal Grandfather, Harvey Martin Watson and oldest son Marvin Houston Watson
On another note; my Paternal Great Grandfather, Thomas E. Waters also owned a Ford Model T. I have a photocopy (somewhere in my files) of a newspaper article from June 1928 which states that my Great Grandfather, Thomas E. Waters was racing his Model T against a car my Grandfather, John Thomas Waters drove. They were racing down the old country road between Lancaster and Bethune, South Carolina when the Model T flipped killing him and injuring his daughter, Francis Penelope Waters (My Paternal Aunt). This is a sad, but true story which I hadn’t known about until I began researching our family history. Model T’s were not designed for speeding down old country back roads.
God Bless. Be careful driving through the back country. Be safe. Have a fantastic week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Good Day everyone! I pray everyone and everyone is blessed, safe, and happy.
Judyfrom LifeLessonsis the host for The Numbers Game. This week’s number is 193. Her instructions on how to join the Game and play along our listed below.
To play along, go to your photos file and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find that include that number and post a link to your blog in my Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title.This prompt will repeat each Monday with a new number. If you want to play along, please put a link to your blog in comments below.
Here are my contributions to the album.
Disney on IceSymphyotrichum lanceolatumBaccharis halimifoliaAlice in Wonderland in Disneyland 1979Coleman May 2022OB Caribbean Sea, Costa Maya, Mexico Coleman September 2022Goat Island Park and Greenway RhododendronHemerocallis lilioasphodelus DaylilyJerusalem artichoke Helianthus tuberosusColeman May 2021
There are two ways in which you can participate: Leave your answers to this week’s questions in the comments box below or create your own post and link back to this one. Ping-backs are activated, but don’t always work properly, so to play safe, leave a link in a comment or if you prefer, leave just the link so that I can see it.
Here are this week’s questions:
Have you ever danced round a maypole? The only time I can remember dancing around a Maypole was one year in elementary school.
Does the month of May hold any specific memories or events for you? The month of May holds memories and events special or significant to me.
1) 8th — my sister-in-law’s birthday
2) 2nd Sunday — Mother’s Day
3)10th — Loss of my Maternal Grandfather
4) 19th — My Day
5) 24th — My Dad’s Special Day
6) 30th — Birth of my Daughter
Does your country celebrate a May Day holiday? I haven’t heard or seen anything regarding May Day holidays here in America. I think it is more of an individual or family event with some giving out May Day baskets.
Have you booked a vacation for this year? I have not booked a vacation for this year. I have dreamed about the possibility of taking a vacation. We all know that is not the same as actually taking a vacation. In reality, I have not had a vacation since 2020.
Gratitude:
“Gratitude opens the door to the power, the wisdom, the creativity of the universe. You open the door through gratitude.”
Gfpacificbee’s Insights & photography 