This week I went back in time through my dad’s slides to find the photo(s) I was seeking to use for Monday Portrait. It is of a Chihuahua-Dachshund mix we had when I was in junior & senior high school in San Diego.
Our Chihuahua-Dachshund
My dad with my niece, Sherry and our Chihuahua-Dachshund.
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.
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.
Location: Sleeping Beauty Castle; Main Street U.S.A.; Disneyland; Anaheim, California, 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.
Dan withNo Facilities, the host of Cee’s Fun Foto Challengestarted a new theme series last week featuring Street Views. This new theme will run for approximately six (6) more weeks. This week Dan is looking for Street Views featuring Commercial Street Views.
Let’s take a look at some of the Commercial Street Views I’ve come across in my (or my family’s) neighbourhood and/or travels.
Ocean Boulevard Myrtle Beach, SC where Coleman and I walked during New Year’s weekend. This is the Ford dealership in Great Falls, SC where my dad worked at before he went in the US Navy. Early Days of San Diego. During beginning era of my families life in San Diego. My brother & parents walked this street shopping & sightseeing in Germany Main Street Lancaster, SC where my daughter & I used to live. Business District in Rock Hill, SC where we sometimes do business. My cousins & mom visited this area in Alaska after my dad passed. Downtown Lancaster, SC where my dad occupant time in his earliest years. Julian, California where I spent time with family or friends. A Postcard from my collection. I traveled on a bus with my grandmother down this street. Uptown Charlotte where My daughter, Coleman & I went out to eat. We visited the Julian Bakery and the surrounding area back in 1978.Pearson Ford on the Corner of Fairmont & ElCajon Blvd in San Diego, California. My dad worked here for over 35 years. Center Street where Coleman and I would hand out at Centennial Park or inside Confluence. Ashe County Cheese in West Jefferson, North Carolina. I visited here with my eldest son before we went hiking Mount Jefferson in Ashe County North Carolina. Across the street is their factory where we watched them making cheese. Streets of Solvang, California where my parents & I visited in 1978. My cousins & mom visited this area in Alaska.
Egídio of Through Brazilian Eyes is this week’s host for the Lens-Artist Photo Challenge. She has challenged us with the theme of Where Does it Lead? There are many ways to understand and interpret this theme, as some have shown literal, compositional, and/ or interpretive. There are also figurative/metaphorical approaches to interpreting the question “Where Does It Lead?
First, I will show a gallery of literal examples of expressing the concept of “Where Does It Lead?”
LAPC – Where Does It Lead?
Literal paths can make you wonder what’s around the corner, the next bend, or even what might be waiting at the what might be waiting at the edge of the trees , or possibly what adventures you might find when you walk through a tunnel or under a bridge to new horizons. Adventures come in many ways and they are not all achieved through literal pathways.
Where Does It Lead? When you read a book the story may Lead you on a wonderful or mysterious adventure. Following a character’s journey you might think Where Does this Dangerous Choice Lead them (or him/her)? Or What Future Does his/her decision Lead to? I love to read wholesome inspirational mysteries and in mysteries they share clues about the mystery that someone or a group is trying to solve. While reading, often times your curiosity gets the better of you and you try to guess (Where Does This Clue Lead?
This “Library” is from is from Magic Kingdom’s Swiss Family Treehouse
I do not know if any of you are interested in Ancestry/Family History and Research, but I’ve been reaching my family’s ancestors for many a years now. I’ve done my Ancestry DNA and every time I receive a new DNA match I ask myself “Where Does It Lead?” Does it Lead to known family connections or to family relationships, or countries beyond my wildest imagination. When I receive a new notice of a record, census, of photos; I think Where Does It Lead? Will it help me discover an unknown family member or branch? Will it lead to historical events my ancestors would have participated in? There are many different aspects of Ancestry Research where one might ask “Where Does It Lead?”.
Ancestral Origins
Another metaphorical example of “Where Does It Lead?” comes from seemingly ordinary events like Reunions. Regardless of whether it’s a school, military, or Family reunion; you can ask Where Does these Relationships Lead? Is there any future to these relationships? Sometimes people you meet at reunions are those you’ve had contact and connections with almost all your life. At other times like at family reunions, you might meet family members you’ve never met before and possibly have never even known about. Will it Lead to o regular communication? Will the connections at the reunion help to heal old wounds? Will it Lead to a new sense of belonging or possibly future annual traditions? Where Would a Reunion Lead You?
Watson/Greer/Trivette Family Reunion
Watson Family Reunion
Watson Reunion Descendants of Isham & Mary Hayes Watson
For further information about the Lens-Artist Photo Challenge and/or to participate click the link to Egidio’s post here.
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.
Dan with No Facilities, the host of Cee’s Fun Foto Challengeis continuing with the theme of Where/What/Whenwe do various things. This is the last week for this series. Next week Dan will begin a new theme series focusing on Street Views. I’m expanding on the theme of Where, What, When We Grow, I attempting to show Where We Grow our Minds, Bodies/Souls, and Relationships.
“A growth mindset is about believing people can develop their abilities. It’s that simple.”
~ Carol Dweck
Where/What/When We Grow our Minds … by never stop learning, reading, listening at schools, libraries, and museums.
Warlick YMCA Gastonia. NCFort Mill Library Fort Mill, SCSan Diego High School San Diego, CASan Diego Air and Space Museum San Diego. CAEpiscopal Church of the Heavenly Rest Abilene, TXCramerton Historical Society Museum Cramerton. NCDaniel Stowe Conservancy Belmont. NCHerbert Hoover High School San Diego, CAThe Schiele Museum of Natural History Gastonia, NCGrowing our Minds
“To strengthen the body’s muscles, exercise; the mind’s muscles, read; the heart’s muscle’s, laugh; and the soul’s muscles, love.”
~ Matshona Dhliwayo
Where/What/When We Grow our Bodies … by staying active, participating in activities that keep our bodies moving while not forgetting to always get of proper rest and nutrition. Our Souls by embracing intentional habits of self-awareness, quiet reflection, spiritual connection, and compassionate living.
Growing our Bodies/Souls
“No one can live without relationship. You may withdraw into the mountains, become a monk, a sannyasi, wander off into the desert by yourself, but you are related. You cannot escape from that absolute fact. You cannot exist in isolation.”
~ Jiddu Krishnamurti
Where/What/When We Grow our Relationships… by making an effort to share honest and open communication, spending quality time together free from distractions, support individual growth, practice gratitude, keep a sense of humor, and absolutely navigate conflict constructively with understanding and apologizing whenever necessary.
This week’sMonochrome Madnessishostedby Brian from Bushboys World. He has chosen a theme of Boats. I’ve gone through my archives searching and thinking about what Boats I would use for this challenge especially since Boats has been a theme in the past for one or two challenges.
Thinking of family, I decided I would take us on a cruise to the past, clear back to the 1970’s and beyond. These are ships/boats that at least one person in the family has been on. Sometimes it was just to tour and other times it was to take a ride and enjoy the scenery. Ready to begin our cruise?
Our first stop is at the Port of Los Angeles off the coast of California on August 10, 1979 …
Vacant C’s Port of Los Angeles at 100 Swinford Street, San Pedro, California
This is a sailboat my dad took a photo of with his 35mm camera while he and my mom toured the Port of San Pedro. For you information, the “Port of San Pedro” is the main section of the Port of Los Angeles, called “America’s Port.” The Port of Los Angeles is one of the busiest and most significant seaports in the United States of America.
Cruisin’ on (actually not cruisin yet) to August 9, 1979 we Showboat paddleboat loading up with passengers to experience an afternoon on San Pedro Bay. It is docked at the Ports O Call Los Angeles in between tourist runs.
Showboat Port O Call Los Angeles
I’m not sure if my parents took the cruise or not, but I imagine they did embark upon the Showboat and had a lovely time cruisin’ around San Pedro Bay.
Cruisin’ on to January 1, 1979, my parents took a trip to Germany to visit my brother and his family. During their visit, being the dutiful host, my brother showed him all the fascinating places to see and do in his area where he was stationed in the United States Air Force.
“Schloss Heidelberg,” a river cruise boat Heidelberg, Germany
The River Cruise Boat is a passenger vessel specifically designed to give scenic tours on rivers such as the Neckar in Heidelberg. It allows passengers (like my parents, my brother and his family) to enjoy the views of historic landmarks from the water.
After all that cruisin’ we go back a few more years when we boarded a boat/ship together. Taking a look at July 1, 1974, my parents and I drive up to Long Beach, California to tour The Historic Queen Mary. Yes, I actually got to tag along on this trip. I had just graduated high school at The Starlight Bowl in Balboa Park in San Diego, California.
The Historic Queen Mary Long Beach, California
The Queen Mary is a historic British ocean liner. It is permanently docked as a floating hotel, museum, and tourist destination attraction. The Queen Mary officially retired from the ocean and made its final voyage in 1967. It arrived at its permanent location in Long Beach, California on December 9, 1967. The ship is rather large and impressive. By the time we toured her she had already undergone massive renovations. During its renovation, the engines were removed and the space was converted. She opened for public tours in 1971. It didn’t begin welcoming overnight guests until 1972. After major expansions including the Grand Hotel, 1974 marked the true official celebration of its opening operating as the Queen Mary Hyatt Hotel.
Cruisin’ on back another couple of years we come to July 1, 1972. This time we leave the west coast on vacation to drive the southern route cross country from San Diego, California to the Carolinas. After meeting up with my dad’s father, his sister and here family, we caravanned down to Stone Mountain, Georgia. Why go all the way to the Carolinas before traveling back down to Georgia? Why to spend time with family, of course. Actually, we all needed a rest from all the miles and miles of traveling before sightseeing with everybody.
Scarlet O’Hara Paddle boat Riverboat Marina Complex Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain, Georgia
The trip to Stone Mountain Park included my parents (2), my brother and myself (2 more), my Aunt & Uncle (+2), their four children (+4), and my paternal grandfather (+1). Did you get all that? Add them all up and you get 11, 5 adults and 6 children all bombarding upon the Stone Mountain Park attraction.
Inside Stone Mountain Park is Stone Mountain Lake where visitors could board a classic paddlewheel Boat. At this time there were two (2) large commercial paddlewheel boats in operation. One was named the Henry W. Grady and the other one pictured here named Scarlett O’Hara Riverboat. The commercial paddle boats ceased operation around 2017-2018. They were officially retired due to their advancing age, the immense amount of maintenance required, and growing safety concerns.
Fun times were to be had make in the day cruisin’ on lakes, rivers, and oceans. Today’s cruises may seem to appear a little bit different, but actually not much has changed besides the type of boat/ship one chooses for a cruise.
I will leave you with one last final ship, one that brought my maternal grandfather home from France after World War I. Possibly the USS George Washington, or one similar to it.
The Ship that brought my maternal grandfather home
The USS George Washington was originally a German ocean liner which was seized by the United States during World War I. It was converted into a crucial troop transport vessel. After the Armistice, it played an incredibly important role in bringing hundreds of thousands of American soldiers home from France, just like my maternal grandfather.
This image is from a picture postcard that belonged to my maternal grandfather and later given to me to add to my post card collection. When it was first given to me in the late 1960’s I didn’t realize the significance of this photo and the ship that was portrayed in it. Now, I treasure it always.
The end of our Cruisin’ on Boats from the past has come to an end. Hope you enjoyed cruisin with me.
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.
Location: Central Ohio Technical College (COTC); Newark, Ohio, 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.
The Three Graces is a popular subject in classical art. The Three Graces have roots in Greek mythology, where they were known as the Charites. The Charites (known in Roman mythology as the Graces) were three goddesses who personified the ideas of beauty, grace, festivity, and joyous life in Greek mythology. They are often depicted embracing, as seen here, representing the unity and cyclical nature of giving and receiving.
The Three Graces Hearst Castle San Simeon, California
Antonio Canova, the renowned Neoclassical sculptor, created his famous version between 1813 and 1817. His interpretation is celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship and the way it conveys emotion and movement in the figures. There are two versions of Canova’s “The Three Graces”; one of which is at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the other is at the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg.
The Three Graces
This version of the “The Three Graces” located at Hearst Castle is a beautiful reproduction. It was selected by William Randolph Hearst to adorn his magnificent estate, tying into the classical grandeur he had desired to achieve.
Close-up of “The Three Graces”
William Randolph Hearst was an avid collector of art and antiquities, as well as classical sculptures like this one were a cornerstone of his collection, adorning the many gardens and grand rooms of his estate. It is truly a remarkable piece of sculpture to see as you tour the grounds of the Hearst Castle estate.
Location: Hearst Castle; San Simeon, California, 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.
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.
Hume Lake Christian Camps Hume, Fresno County, CaliforniaCarlsbad Caverns National Park Carlsbad, New MexicoCosta Maya Cruise Port, MexicoCozumel Yucatán Peninsula Caribbean Sea Quintana Roo, MexicoSolvang, California ‘The Danish Capital of America.’Hocking Hills KOA Campground Logan, Hocking County, OhioGuggisberg Cheese Millersburg, Holmes County, OhioAndrew Jackson State Park Campground Lancaster, South Carolina Land of Oz Park Beech Mountain, North CarolinaThe San Diego Wild Animal Park Escondido, California Hotel del Coronado Coronado, California Knotts Berry Farm Buena Park, CaliforniaLake Fort Smith State Park Mountainburg, ArkansasMile High Swinging Bridge Grandfather Mountain Banner Elk, North CarolinaStone Mountain Park DeKalb County, GeorgiaColumbus Zoo and Aquarium Powell, OhioCFFC Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s Fun Foto Challenge Where/What/When We Vacation
The Goethe House is famous as the birthplace and childhood home of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. He is one of Germany’s most famous writers. His most famous masterpiece literary work was Faust, a tragic play written in rhyme verse and split into two-part parts; it is about a brilliant scholar who makes a pact with the devil.
The Goethe House Frankfurt, Germany (colorized)
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born in this house in 1749 and continued to live there for the first twenty-six (26) years of his life. The Goethe House has had an interesting journey through history. The original house was largely destroyed during World War II. It was meticulously rebuilt between 1947and 1951. The rebuilding was based on the original plans, drawings, and furnishings that had been carefully preserved.
Original after digitization
Today, The Goethe House is a museum offering a fascinating glimpse into 18th-century life and Goethe’s early years. It is complete with period furniture, his writing desk , and other personal belongings. The reconstruction ensures visitors will be able to experience the authentic atmosphere of Goethe’s childhood home.
“Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”
Welcome back to the Which Way Challenge (previously hosted by Cee Neuner). This week our theme is CWWC (2026): Any Which Way —Your Choice. Your Which Ways can be Outdoors, Indoors, Paved or Unpaved, Dirt Trails or any natural surface. Your Choice is exactly that, Whichever Way you choose. As always Signs are always welcome.
My choices for this week’s Which Way Challengeare a throwback in time to a trip cross country with my family in 1963. Back then we traveled by car in a 1962 Ford Galaxie 500 2-Door. These images were taken by my dad and originally developed into slides and were digitized after he passed. These were from our return trip to California after visiting family in the Carolinas.
Here are my entries …
CWWC Cee’s Which Way Challenge Deb’s Which Way Challenge Road Trip East to West
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.
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 …
Harris Teeter Charlotte, NCAmazon.comBaby General Hospital Cleveland, GeorgiaArtisan Open Market Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCThe Shop Antiques, Refinishing Abilene, TexasJulian Pie Company Julian, CaliforniaLehman’s Kidron, Ohio https://www.lehmans.com/Deep Gap Cash Store Deep Gap, NCAshe County Cheese West Jefferson, NC https://www.ashecountycheese.com/General Store Coshocton, Ohio Jim’s Produce Deep Gap, NCThe Trailhead Store Daniel Stowe Conservancy Belmont, NCCee’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.
The Roman Pool at Hearst Castle is astonishing with its incredible mosaic tiles which were designed to evoke the feeling of ancient Roman and Greek baths. It is covered from floor to ceiling with eight types of mosaic tiles. Some of those tiles included elaborate designs depicting marine creatures and mythological figures.
Roman Pool Hearst Castle San Simeon, California
The Pool was created using more than a million glass and gold tiles which creates a beautiful shimmering effect. It was built for William Randolph Hearst by architect Julia Morgan. The construction of the Roman Pool was primarily undertaken during the late 1920s and early 1930s, culminating in its completion in 1934.
It is a stunning sight to see and learn about all the intricate design details and the length of time it took before completion. It’s amazing to see the reflections of the windows and statues captured by my dad with a 35 mm camera back in 1979.
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-Oakland Bay BridgeSan Francisco–Oakland Bay BridgeGolden Gate Bridge, San FranciscoGolden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California San Francisco Bay BridgeSan Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, a double suspension bridgeSan Francisco Bay 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.
The “Birth of Venus” (Naissance de Venus) sculpture
Back in 1974 my family toured Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California. This trip was was approximately 5 1/2-6 hours long. The tour last around 60 to 75 minutes which doesn’t include the shuttle time from the visitors center to the hilltop. I’m not going to go into everything that is included in the tour for you to see. I’m only going to to tell you about the The “Birth of Venus” (Naissance de Venus) sculpture located in the Neptune Pool.
The “Birth of Venus” (Naissance de Venus) sculpture is a 20th-century Carrara marble work created around 1930 by French sculptor Charles-Georges Cassou. The sculpture was commissioned by William Randolph Hearst in 1927. Charles Cassou’s original marble group was exhibited at the Paris Salon in 1930 prior to being installed on the lower terrace of the pool opposite the Roman temple façade.
The “Birth of Venus” (Naissance de Venus) sculpture depicts Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty, emerging from seafoam while balancing on a scalloped shell. Cassou’s Birth of Venus serves as a focal centrepiece in its own fountain alcove against the hillside background. It is set apart from the Roman temple façade which features an older 17th-century relief of Neptune and two tritons.
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.
Beirut MemorialVietnam Veterans MemorialVietnam Veterans MemorialMontford Point Marine MemorialBeirut Memorial‘Our Fallen Brothers,’ featuring the insignias of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Marine Divisions.Vietnam Veterans MemorialFlags proudly representing the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and the POW/MIA cause.155mm M114 Howitzer, powerful tribute to military personnel, especially those connected to Camp LejeuneBeirut MemorialBeirut MemorialMontford Point Marine MemorialVietnam Veterans MemorialVietnam Veterans Memorial155mm M114 HowitzerEagle, Globe, and Anchor Reflection PoolLejeune 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.
This week the Monochrome Madness hostis none other than our beloved host LeanneCole. She does a terrific job coordinating all the hosts and themes for this amazing challenge. She has decided to challenge us with the theme of Urban Landscapes. She has shown some wonderful examples of Urban Landscaping.
I’m starting off with a couple of images my dad took ages ago when he and my mom visited Washington D.C.
The National Mall, often called ‘ America’s Front Yard,’
We had visited D.C. years before this as a family, but this was a trip for just the two of them after my brother and I had left home. This view of the National Mall stretching from the Lincoln Memorial to the U.S. Capitol encompasses many museums, monuments, and open green spaces making the National Mall more than just a Park. Capturing this view with a 35mm camera back in the mid-eighties is something astonishing.
Aerial view of Washington D. C.
I’m not sure how my dad managed this shot, but it looks good to me. It is a n aerial view of Washington D. C. highlighting the White House and the Washington Monument.
This next gallery of images are from our trip to San Francisco, California in the Spring of 1979.
The iconic Transamerica Pyramid anchors this stunning San Francisco skyline viewSan Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge San Francisco, CATransamerica Pyramid San Francisco, CaliforniaShips at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, CA San Francisco, California
Moving further along California’s coast driving Hwy 1 we come home to San Diego. The city I called home for many years growing up with many happy and memorable funtastic times with friends and family. From the beaches along the coast to the various inland attractions there’s always much to see and do in beautiful San Diego.
San Diego Harbor USS Midway Museum is located along the Embarcadero in San Diego California Tower and dome in Balboa ParkSan Diego Wild Animal Park San Pasqual Valley Escondido, CAA Postcard of mine of Broadway, San Diego, CA On Line of the San Diego & Arizona Eastern Railway“Unconditional Surrender” is a 25-foot sculpture replicating the embrace of a sailor and nurse at the end of World War II in Times Square. Embarcadero, San Diego, CASan Diego’s skyline, with a naval ship The San Diego skyline truly shines at sunset over the baySan Diego, California
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 Listen. This new series will continue for approximately four (4) more weeks. We are currently in the third week of the Where/What/When CFFC series.
Where/What/WhenWe Listen is as unique as our own individual personalities, perspectives, experiences, and conceptions. We may listen to nature, concerts in a park or in a building, or we may listen at a worship service whether indoors or outdoors is to our own preference and opportunities. We may enjoy listening to plays or other theatrical performances or we may just sit and listen to one another. We are all unique individuals with our own unique expectations or individual conceptions of what we prefer to listen to, where we prefer to listen, and when we prefer to listen.
I have gathered a few images of What/Where/When I’ve Listened to various music, plays, and/or performances that suited by desires and interests at one time or another.
To Nature while camping at Andrew Jackson State Park To Watch a Live Children’s Production of Charlie Brown Christmas To Listen to a First Grade end of year performance at Sadler Elementary To Listen to Worship Songs in an Outdoor Amphitheater To a Play in the Bundy Auditorium at University of South Carolina at Lancaster To Watch & Listen to the 1979 live stage production titled “Bugs Bunny’s Life Story” Starring Bugs Bunny & Wiley E CoyoteTo a Pastor present a message from the Bible To a Basketball game from high up in the balcony seatingTo Watch & Listen to Mickey & Minnie Mouse in Disney on IceTo Listen to Christian Music Artist outdoors in Lancaster, SCTo a Entertaining Performance at the Land of OzTo Watch & Listen to a Performance of Disney on IceCee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s CFFC Where/What/When We Listen
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.
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.
This weekend in the United States is Labor Day weekend. Unfortunately, some people still have to work on Labor Day (which is celebrated on Monday). Who really wants to work on a holiday during the Summer or for that matter any other long weekend.
Impressive catch of freshwater Bullhead Catfish, Crappie, and Bluegill
I am remembering a Summer in 1963 (not in September, but in July) when I was vacationing in Great Falls, South Carolina with my family. We drove out from San Diego, California to visit my paternal grandparents and my dad’s brother and sister.
Pictured from left to right: My Brother, Larry; my Uncle Eddie, and my dad.
On this particular weekend the men and boys went fishing 🎣 along the Catawba River in Great Falls, South Carolina. Why is it that the majority of times (at least back then) they never asked the girls or women to go fishing? However, they expected the women to cook up whatever fish they caught and brought home.
My brother with his River Catch
The Catawba River is just a short drive from my grandparents home. The “men“ landed an impressive catch of freshwater fish including Bullhead Catfish, Crappie, and Bluegill.
My dad and brother displaying their catch of the day.
I do not recall which one actually caught the most fish or if this was my brother’s first time fishing or not. I do know they definitely made sure to capture their catch with a camera for prosperity or probably to remember the funtastic time they had spending the day together.
My Uncle and brother holding up a string of freshwater fish.
Regardless of who caught what, or who caught the most, what mattered most was the quality time they had together. You better believe we had us a feast of fried catfish and other freshwater panfish for supper that night.
How do you like to spend a long holiday weekend? Do you get together with friends and family? Stay home and barbecue on the grill? Or just enjoy a relaxing weekend at home?
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.
The Historic Great Falls High School in Great Falls, South Carolina was built in 1928. It’s a beautiful example of early 20th-century school architecture, with its distinctive brick facade, large windows, and prominent central entrance. This was the building where my went to high school.. He was in the Class of 1947.
Location: Great Falls High School; Great Falls, South Carolina, USA
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.
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/We/They Worship. This new series will continue for approximately five (5) more weeks. We are currently in the third week of the Where/What/When CFFC series.
Where/What/When I worshipped didn’t always happen inside the walls of a church building. There were times in my youth when we worshipped at Mission Bay (a beach) in San Diego; usually on Friday nights during the summer. There were types I went to camp during the Summer with my church youth group and we would worship around a roaring campfire. Then when I went to college I was one of many students who worshipped together in the school’s chapel (required attendance). At other times we met in one home or another, on Sunday evenings, where we worshipped together in song and Bible study. However, I don’t currently have any photos of those occasions during my youth.
For lack of those images, I will show you some of the churches I been to or seen whilst working around town.
The church of my childhood, Scott Memorial Baptist Church (now called Grace Church San Diego) in San Diego, California.
Scott Memorial Baptist Church San Diego, California
I spent many a Sunday and Wednesday fellowshipping and worshipping here in and outside of the building. I still am friends with many of those I grew up with in this church.
Let’s pause for a moment of worship in song by Russ Adair and the Revelators.
Russ Adair and The Revelators
Here we have Stony Fork Baptist Church In Deep Gap, North Carolina. This is one of the churches that my maternal ancestors attended including my maternal grandfather and grandmother. I have visited this church and its cemetery when I’ve been in the area visiting with family (mostly cousins).
Stony Fork Baptist Church Deep Gap, Watauga County, North Carolina
In 2020 I spent several months in Texas including a couple in Abilene, Texas. The following are a few of the churches I saw while walking around my aunt’s neighborhood.
Trinity Baptist Church Abilene, TexasFirst Methodist Church Abilene, TexasFirst Christian Church Abilene, TexasGalilee Baptist Church Abilene, TexasBethel Temple Christian Center Abilene, TexasChurch of Christ 5th and Grape St Abilene, TexasCFFC Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s Fun Foto Challenge
Time for more worship in song, this time from a group I enjoying listening to and attending their concerts when I’m able. The quartet is called “Kings Cause.” Hope you will enjoy listening to them as much as I do.
Kings Cause
Now to look at a few closer to home …
Cramerton Independent Presbyterian Church Cramerton, North Carolina Zion United Methodist Church (now Zion Methodist Church) Lancaster, South Carolina Maranatha Church of God Gastonia, North CarolinaThe Living Water Chapel at Westminster Park Rock Hill, South CarolinaChurches in North & South Carolina Dan’s CFFC
And before you leave if you’re still with me, join me in listening to another worship song. This one is performed by Ivan Parker & his son Josh.
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.
This week Monochrome Madness is hosted by Dawn from The Day After. She has selected to challenge us with the theme of Horizons. There are many different ways we may illustrate Horizons through our photography. When we think of Horizons we normally think of a visible line off into the distance where the earth and sky seem to meet each other. We might select land and sky or water and sky, or we might offer a little of both. Which way we interpret or see the Horizon depends our own unique view and style.
Here are my selections …
Gulf of Mexico (now America)Captain’s Quarters Resort Myrtle Beach, SCSan Rafael Swell Emery County, Utah“Layers of Dusk” View from Pisgah Inn Blue Ridge MountainsCraggy Gardens Blue Ridge ParkwayDawn’s Monochrome Madness Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
At Andrew Jackson State Park stands an Historic Schoolhouse which was reconstructed for the site. It vividly represents the kind of simple, one-room schoolhouses that would have been typical during Jackson’s youth in the late eighteenth (18th) century.
Historic Schoolhouse Door
Andrew Jackson State Park’s replica Schoolhouse is open from med-March to November on Saturdays from 1pm to 5 pm and on Sundays from 2 pm to 5 pm.
Historic Schoolhouse at Andrew Jackson State Park
Tours of the one-room schoolhouse at Andrew Jackson State Park are actively hosted and led by the members of the Retired Educators of Lancaster County. While specific tour schedules can vary, the park generally offers interpretive experiences for visitors to learn about early 19th-century education.
Historic Schoolhouse Lancaster, South Carolina
You can also explore the schoolhouse interior on a self-guided basis, with informational signs providing context about the period and what school life was like.
Location: Historic Schoolhouse; Andrew Jackson State Park; Lancaster, 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 of Cee’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 Watch. This new series will continue for approximately six (6) more weeks.
I’ve scoured my photo files to figure out which images would best represent the theme for this week. The following is what I’ve gathered to share with y’all. My featured photo is with Coleman waiting for a symphony concert to begin at Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
What: Watching a Killer Whale Show; Where: Seven Seas Marine Life Park; When: August 1972Where: Cajon Speedway in ElCajon, California; What: Stock car Races; When: September 1970What: Rick Hubbard’s Kazoobie Kazoo Show; Where: Centennial Park; When: August 2025What: Summer Concert Series; Where: Anne Springs Close Greenway; When: Days listed on BannerWhat: All about Dinosaurs; Where: Donosaferi Theaten, The Schiele Museum; When: October 2023What: Kids Concert; Where: Confluence, Cramerton, NC; When: November 2024What: Charlotte Symphony Orchestra; Where: Comporium Amphitheater; When: September 2022What: Watching an Equestrian Show; Where: San Diego Wild Animal Park; When: May 1978What: Early Explorers Storytime; Where: The Schiele Museum; When: October 2023What: Watching Airplanes take off; Where: Charlotte-Douglas International Airport; When: October 2024What: Symphony Concert; Where: Comporium Amphitheater; When: September 2022What: Movies in the Park; Where: Cane Creek Park, Waxhaw, NC; When: June 2018What: Rooted Rhythm Concert; Where: Anne Springs Close Greenway; When: May-July 2026What: Revolutionary War Reenactment (I’m in it); Where: Andrew Jackson State Park; When: November 2019What: Concert in the Park; Where: Hendersonville, NC; When: August 2019What: Watching Fireworks; Where: Centennial Park, Cramerton, NC; When: June 28, 2025What Monster Jam Truck Wars; Where: Carolina Speedway, Gastonia, NC; When: February 2026What: Watching Airplanes Land; Where: Charlotte Airport; When: October 2024Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s CFFC Where/What/When We Watch
God Bless. Have a lovely week. Enjoy a walk/hike if possible. Keep Cool. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
The museum at Andrew Jackson State Park has these Revolutionary War uniforms on display. Andrew Jackson State Park is located in Van Wyck, Lancaster County, South Carolina. It is his boyhood home place. Andrew Jackson was the Seventh U.S. President and played a keep part in the American Revolution.
On the left in the photo, is a meticulously recreated uniform of a British Redcoat from the Revolutionary War era. It is easily identified by its distinctive red jacket and white breeches. These soldiers were part of the regular British army.
On the right, is the more practical homespun attire likely representing a Patriot militiaman or frontiersman. This simpler clothing, often made of linen or buckskin, was common for American colonists fighting for independence. The canteen, powder horn, and axe are noticeable for visitors to see. They were essential gear for survival and combat during that time.
These American Revolutionary War uniforms offer a fascinating glimpse into the American Revolutionary War. The uniform on the left, with its distinct blue coat, red facings, and white breeches, is very characteristic of the Continental Army. Blue became the standard color for their coats, influenced by the French military, and was meant to project an image of a professional fighting force. The white cross belts held the bayonet scabbard and cartridge box.
The uniform on the right, in a darker, greenish-blue with gold trim, possibly represents a state militia, an earlier war uniform, or even a unit with different affiliations. Uniforms varied widely, especially early in the conflict, as states and individual units often supplied their own.
In the center of this photo is a tricorn hat. Tricorn hats were common military headwear of the era for both sides of the Revolutionary War. Also pictured is an antique dagger, representing a type of weapon used during the War.
Andrew Jackson State Park is a tribute to the seventh U.S. President, Andrew Jackson, who was born nearby in the Waxhaws region on the North Carolina-South Carolina border. As a young boy, he served as a courier for the Patriots and was captured by the British, enduring hardship that shaped his strong anti-British sentiments later in life.
Welcome back to the Which Way Challenge (previously hosted by Cee Neuner). Last week we explored Outdoor Steps or Stairs. This week we are looking at Indoor Steps, Stairs, and/or Escalators. Anytime you walk into a multiple story building you might have a choice to use the stairs, an escalator, or an elevator. We are only looking at showcasing Steps, Stairs, and/or Escalators for this week’s Which Way Challenge.
Here are my entries …
Atrium Health Charlotte, NCColeman on Stairs at Captain’s Quarters Resort Myrtle Beach, SCThe Schiele Museum of Natural History Inside Historic Cabin The Schiele Museum Billy Graham Library In the Planetarium The Schiele MuseumStaircase inside the Martinique Hotel NYCColeman on Escalator at Charlotte Airport 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.
Today’s Prompt for the Ragtag Daily Prompt is Cone. Cones, Cones, Cones, let me see how many ways and types of cones I might be able to find. We have orange street cones, Pinecones, maybe ice cream cones; some on the ground, and some in a hand. Cones on roads, some on trails, and even on signs. Coleman likes to bring Pinecones home (but his mom not). What kind of cones do you like?
Today was a little boring with nobody around home but me, myself, and I. I started exploring photos I’d taken several years ago and played around experimenting in a couple of editing apps to see how various effects would impact a particular photo of a place that is very relaxing to me.
Here are the different effects used during this experimentation …
Original Photo excerpt from a live iPhone video
Vintage effect via Pixlr
Watercolour effect Via Pixlr
Unicoloured effects Via Pixlr
Black and White Effect Via Pixlr
Transform into rich oil masterpiece Via Google Photo Editor
Location: By the Lake; Andrew Jackson State Park; Lancaster, South Carolina, USA
God Bless. Spread love, peace, joy, and happiness. Have a wonderful rest of your week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Back in 1970 Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln was an incredible experience, it was a classic Disneyland attraction that was a great marvel for its time.
It first debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair as a highlight of the Illinois pavilion before Walt Disney himself decided it needed a permanent home at Disneyland in 1965. When we went as a family in June of 1970, the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln had only been at Disneyland for approximately five (5) years.
It was groundbreaking at the time because it featured one of Walt Disney’s first full-scale audio-animatronics figures, bringing President Lincoln to life with incredibly realistic movements and a powerful speech. The show combines a historical presentation with a speech delivered by the animatronic Lincoln, using recordings of his actual words. It aims to inspire guests with Lincoln’s legacy and the ideals of the United States.
Entering Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln at Disneyland June 1970
Entering the beautifully designed theater, often called the Main Street Opera House, the anticipation waiting for the show to begin was part of the “Disney” magic. Then, President Lincoln’s figure, so lifelike with its movements and expressions, would rise from his chair and begin to speak. We were amazed at how realistic he looked and sounded, delivering a powerful address compiled from his actual speeches, focusing on themes of liberty, union, and the importance of preserving the nation.
The building itself is a fantastic example of Disney’s immersive theming. It’s designed to look like a classic turn-of-the-century opera house, perfectly blending into the nostalgic atmosphere of Main Street, creating a sense that you’re stepping back in time. Architecturally, the facade you see, which houses the attraction, is a brilliant example of Disney’s Main Street, U.S.A. design philosophy. It’s crafted to evoke a grand, late 19th or early 20th-century opera house or theater. This style, often referred to as Victorian or Edwardian, features ornate details, classical proportions, and a sense of historical grandeur, all intended to transport guests to a romanticized turn-of-the-century American town. The prominent marquee, the arched windows, and the decorative elements all contribute to this immersive illusion, making it feel like a real historic landmark.
This attraction was one of the very first to showcase Walt Disney’s revolutionary innovation. Audio-Animatronics are essentially sophisticated robots, specifically designed to mimic human or animal movements, with their actions precisely synchronized to pre-recorded audio tracks. For the Mr. Lincoln figure, this meant intricate hydraulics and pneumatics controlled the movements of his head, eyes, mouth, arms, and even subtle shifts in his posture, making him appear incredibly lifelike as he delivered his speech. The audio was meticulously matched to these movements, creating a seamless and convincing performance. This was incredibly advanced for 1964 and 1970 giving audiences an unprecedented experience of history brought to life through robotics, far beyond simple static mannequins. It was truly a marvel of engineering and storytelling that we enjoyed watching every time we visited Disneyland.
[I’m not sure where I was at the time (probably standing near my dad who took the picture), but the three prominent figures (two looking this way, at the camera, and the lady in the red and white tank top) are my mom, my cousin, and my brother.
Good Day everyone! This week Terri with Second Wind Leisure Perspectives has given us the prompt of Smoky for the Sunday Stills Challenge . I’m demonstrating two different spelling variations for Smoky, also using Smokey with my selections for this week.
SMOKY …
The Dirt Track was Smoky
Can you see the Monster Truck through the Smoky arena?
Shark Attack blew his engine causing a Smoky atmosphere.
SMOKEY …
Smokey says, “Remember… Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires”
Preventing Forest Fires prevents Smoky skies across the vast regions and Smokey needs all our help.
Good Bless. Pray for clear skies, wildfires to stop spreading. No more Smoky air clouding our atmosphere. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Dan with No Facilities, the host of Cee’s Fun Foto Challengehas had the theme of Crayola Box of 8 for the past few weeks and continued it with pairing colors and now we are done with the Crayola Box of 8 challenges. Since we are done with colours for this theme, he has challenged us to post Monochrome photos this week.
I scoured high and low through my archives and came up with (to me) a weird mixture of monochrome images of This and That, From Here and There, some from Past and others are more recent.
Here are my selections for this week’s CFFC …
Rock Hill SC October 2022San Francisco Bay Area 1979Nature Trail Andrew Jackson State Park August 2019Coleman March 2025Germany January 1979Myrtle Beach Boardwalk January 2026Crowders Mountain State Park March 2023Zinnia at The Farm-The Schiele Museum August 2023Collage of Family at Myrtle Beach in 2010Planter Flowers in Cramerton NC April 2025Flowers in a Vase November 2024My first 35 mm camera 1974Adventure Road Entrance Anne Springs Close Greenway January 2023Goat Island Bridge February 2023Lake at Andrew Jackson State Park October 2019Germany January 1979Rock Hill SC October 2022Landsford Canal State Park April 2022Lake Wylie Seven Oaks Preserve Trail November 2022Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s CFFC
God Bless. Have a lovely week. Enjoy a walk/hike if possible. Keep Cool. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
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