Peek-A-Boo: Now You See Me_Now You Don’t

Coleman
trying to
hide
behind
a
tree
Where,
Oh,
Where
Did
Coleman
Go?
Can
You
Spot
Him?
Coleman,
Says
“Here I Am.”

God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.

Mid-week Monochrome: MWM 8/11

Brashley Photography blog Mid-Week Monochrome challenge

ASCG
Marion Walsh
Outdoor Classroom
Stone Marker
My grandson
sitting on a
Slanted U
shaped tree
Mushroom
in the
Greenway
Close-up
of my
daughter
Taken
by my
3 year old
grandson
My grandson,
Coleman

God bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.

Black & White: Moving Water in the Greenway

Cee’s Black & White Photo Challenge: Moving Water

Splash ripples
Kerplunk
Coleman
threw a log
in Lake Crandall
Shimmering water
Glistening
water
movement

God Bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.

Monday Portrait: Coleman, my favorite subject

Coleman
on
Blue
Star
Coleman
in
his
favorite
place
ASCG
Coleman
Nana’s
Boy
Coleman
Color
Popped
Coleman
Happy
on
Timberline
Trail

God Bless. Thank You! Remember I appreciate y’all.

Cell Phone Selfie: By Three Year Old

Coleman’s
selfie

Coleman used my cell phone. iPhone 13 Pro Front camera— 23mm f2.2. ISO 250 1/40s

God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.

Shhh….Be Very Quiet….Look Closely….What Do You See?

Are you being very quiet?
Be sure to look closely.
Do you see what I see?

Did you see what my grandson, Coleman and I spotted on our afternoon hike? It is amazing what you can see out in nature if you keep your eyes open and observe your surroundings c l o s e l y. The only problem with our observations is that Coleman tends to speak real loud when he spots an animal that he scares them into running away.

God Bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.

ASCG Trail Passport: What does earning a Passport Certificate Entail?

The Anne Springs Close Greenway has a Trail Passport program that members and visitors may choose to participate if they so desire. The Trail Passport booklet is a guide for your benefit to assist you in exploring the over 40 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trials. The Greenway has 26 unique trails and points of interest. The Passport provides an easy way for you to keep track of which trails you have accomplished, and which trails you have yet to complete.

Trail Passport
Anne Springs Close Greenway

To earn the Passport Certificate, you need to participate in the Hiking Challenge. The following are the requirements for the Hiking Challenge.

  • Hike, bike or horseback ride a trail
  • Initial and date each hike that you complete
  • After you have completed all the trails bring your Passport to the Greenway to receive you completion certificate (subject to availability).

The Greenway has a Trail Map that is a guide to let you know where the trails are located and from which Greenway Entrance is best to take for your desired trail. My grandson loves to carry a Trail Map with him whenever we go for a hike. When he looks at it you would think he knows exactly what he is looking at and can figure out which way he wants to go next.

While some members choose to participate in the Hiking Challenge, there are many that do not. Completing the challenge is not something that everyone accomplishes, however, it is well worth it. It takes dedication and determination to complete all twenty-six (26) trails consisting of thirty-six (36) miles of hiking, biking or horse riding in the Greenway.

My grandson, Coleman, picked up a Trail Passport on one of our visits to the Greenway. He indicated that he wanted to participate in the Hiking Challenge. He did not let his young age deter him from taking up the challenge or completing the challenge. He loves the outdoors and loves to hike and spend time out in nature with me. Coleman just recently turned three. He completed all 26 trails of 36 miles in the Hiking Challenge before his third birthday. He is amazing, but then again you might say I am biased.

Some trails in the Greenway are as short as 0.4 miles while others are over 3 miles in length. On some days we combined several trails and we hiked 5-6 miles. Was he tired by the end of the hike? Definitely, but that never stopped him from keeping going and finishing each day’s hike. After completing each day’s hike, he would lift his hands up and yell “I did it.” He really loves hiking and would do it every day if he could.

Congratulations Coleman! You did it. I am proud of you, your love of hiking, the outdoors, and your determination to succeed.

God Bless. Thank You for stopping by. Take time to enjoy the outdoors. Take a hike, a walk, admire God’s creations along the way. I appreciate y’all.

Coleman: Birthday Boy Turned Three

Happy Birthday 🎂
Coleman 🎉
3 Years Old
Today 🎈
Coleman
Black & White
Portrait
Collage
Coleman
Birthday
Expressions
Coleman
My Heart ♥️
My Love
My Grandson
Coleman
Investigating
His Presents 🎁.
Bat, Ball, Puzzles, Pound Puppy
and Thomas the Train 🚂

God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.

ASCG:Greenway Stables Entrance-Part Two_Dogwood/Blue Star….

For our second day of hiking Dogwood at the Anne Springs Close Greenway Stables Entrance, we began on the Dogwood Trail on the right side after passing through one section of the horse stables.

But before we began hiking, we stopped to enjoy the Sweet Black Eyed Susan Seeds and the honeybees feasting on their nectar behind the Gibson House.

Sweet Black-Eyed Susan Seeds
and Sunflowers
@Greenway Stables
Gibson House

Shortly after we began hiking along the Dogwood Trail, we came upon the Airport Pond. We enjoyed the views of the water and the reflections within the water. Whenever possible my grandson loves to play in the water either with his hands or his whole body. Luckily on this day it was just his hands.

ASCG
Stables Entrance
Airport Pond
off Dogwood

After snapping a few pictures, we hiked on further down on Dogwood. My grandson, Coleman, loves to have his picture taken at the Trail Posts. The Trail Posts serve the purpose of letting people know where they are along the trail and which trail they are hiking on. Keeping track of the numbers on the trail posts allows us to know exactly where we are at and how much further we need to travel.

ASCG
Dogwood Trail
Coleman hiking
leading the way

We proceeded onto the Blue Star after we had been hiking for approximately 1.4 miles. This trail contains several mushrooms of varying heights and sizes. I have to watch Coleman, or he’ll swipe at them breaking them apart. O try to teach him about varying things along the trail and that we shouldn’t disturb them. Also, that what is in the park should remain in the park and what we bring in, we must also take out with us. Leave No Trace.

ASCG
Coleman
checking out his map
and the Trail posts
for directions

The Blue Star trail is mostly natural surface with some plank bridges and a couple of swinging bridges. At Blue Star H27, Coleman stops to check his map. He likes to carry his own map instead of just looking at mine. We venture off of Blue Star and onto Hickory Trail which leads us back to Dogwood.

ASCG
Dogwood
and
Hickory Trails
Which way should we go?

Once back on Dogwood, the trail leads us back to the horse stables and eventually back to our car (Mommy’s car as Coleman would say since I use her car to take him places.)

Horse Stables
(Not the same stables as we first entered)
Greenway Stables Entrance
Coleman petting and
loving on the horses.
The horses
instinctively
come straight
up to him.
They know
he is not afraid
and loves them.
Coleman Expressions.
My Heart ❤️ My love

God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy a hike, a walk, or any adventure communing with nature. Thank you for visiting. See you next time. Remember I appreciate y’all.

Plants 🪴 and Flowers 🌺: ASCG – Ford Gap_Lake Haigler Entrance

Lavender Flowers
Wildflowers
Sulfar cosmos
Indian Blanket
Indian Blanket
White Cosmos
coreopsideae
Garden Cosmos
Sulfur Cosmos
American Bumblebee
on Golden
Sulfur Cosmos
American Bumblebee.
Sulfur Cosmos
Coleman.
Jane Spratt McColl.
Wildflower Meadow

God Bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.

Wordless Wednesday: Coleman Nuzzling with Horse

God Bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.

ASCG: Greenway Stables Entrance: Part One -Horses and Hiking — Dogwood and Peach Loop Trails…..

My hiking 🥾 buddy, Coleman, and I drove to the Horse 🐎 Road Entrance of the Anne Springs Close Greenway on Thursday. It turned out to be a beautiful day. We’ve been having rain 🌧 showers off and on lately. So time on the trail without rain 🌧 interfering with our hike was fantastic.

The main point of interest at this entrance is of course the horses 🐎. Seeing the horses 🐎 is a highlight for Coleman. He loves seeing and petting the horses 🐎. Visiting the horses was not our main purpose on this day, even though very pleasant. Knowing Coleman, we had to stop and visit with the horses before we could begin our hike for the day.

Coleman
saying hi
to the horses

The Greenway Stables Entrance is also sometimes referred to as the Horse Road Entrance. The Greenway Stables are located at 1046 Horse Road, Fort Mill, South Carolina. On Horse Road you take a quick left on the road to enter the parking lot. When you first exit your car in the parking lot you will see the Gibson House. The Gibson House overlooks the pond and fields and offers a time for relaxing while watching the horses run. It is available for rent as a venue for wedding ceremonies, receptions, parties, picnics, and much more. Restrooms are located on the right-hand side of the building.

One of the paths to the trails is entered through the first horse stable location. After a short visit with the horses, we moved on down the path to the Dogwood Trailhead. We followed along left side of the Dogwood Trail. At this point, there were two choices to make to begin to begin the trail. We chose the path on the left. This trail passes through a scenic pasture area on the south end of the property connecting with Peach Loop.

Coleman
leading the way
to the Dogwood Trail

Coleman has a fascination of having his picture taken by the trail posts. Capturing the trail posts also reminds us of where we’ve been and what we encountered along the trail. we connected to Peach Loop after we reached trail marker 7. The Peach Loop breaks off from Timberline and the Blue Star trails as well. Dogwood runs into Timberline, so if you are not familiar with the trails you might get confused on which trail you are on or which direction you need to proceed on when the trails signs say different trails. The Peach Loop route keeps you inside the wooded area rather than being outside the timber line for this section. The loop takes you back onto the trail you started on. Therefore, after coming full “circle” on Peach Loop, it brought us back to Dogwood.

Back on Dogwood the trail wound around and led us back to the horses and the Gibson House where we began our day. The sights along the trail are amazing. The dirt surface can become muddy after the rains. On this day the trails were pretty good. The only things we had to watch out for were the tree roots sticking up along the path. If you’re not watching where you are going you could trip and fall over a tree root, so be careful as you hike the trails.

Naturally, we had to stop along the way back to the car to watch the horses in the pasture grazing about. The horses are beautiful creatures, and the views are spectacular.

God Bless. Get Outdoors and enjoy nature. There’s nothing my grandson loves more than being out in nature and hiking the trails. Thank you for visiting. Looking forward to your next visit. Remember I appreciate y’all,

Catawba Indian Nation Trail: Carolina Thread Greenway Trail

Catawba Indian Nation
Carolina Thread Greenway Trail

For our Wednesday Wanderings, Coleman and I visited a different local trail we had never hiked before. I had heard about the trail, and it really wasn’t that far away from us. I decided that we should change up our routine and hike something different, see what other trails existed in our area. With the yearning to change things up a bit, I drove us to the Catawba Indian Nation Greenway Trail.

The Catawba Inian Nation Greenway Trail is located in Rock Hill, South Carolina. The trail is a natural surface trail which runs along the Catawba River through the Catawba Indian Nation Reservation. The trail is open to the public to enjoy and learn about the area’s Native American Tribe. The Catawba Indian Nation is the only federally recognized tribe in South Carolina.

The Catawba Indian Nation Greenway Trail is a part of the Carolina Thread Trail. There are three trails on this reservation that connect to each other. One trail begins behind the Cultural Center called the Cultural Center Trail or the Yehasuri Trail. The Loop Trail leads towards the Government Center before the Greenway Trail ends. The third trail is the Catawba Indian Nation Greenway Trail. This third trail is the one Coleman and I hiked. It begins at the Government Center. The trail has benches located in various areas along it for a chance to rest a bit or to just sit, relax, and enjoy the views of the Catawba River. Parts of the trail are packed with gravel; other parts are a natural surface. When we hiked the trail, the natural surface portions were muddy after the previous days rain. One had to be careful not to slip and fall in the mud.

The Yehasuri Trail hosts interpretive signage about the importance of the land to the tribe’s cultural as well as Catawba dwelling, a bark house, dugout trees, story circle and active archeological dig. The Catawba Indian Nation Trail is 1.6 miles in length. This trail follows alongside the Catawba River. There are plenty of spots along the trail to not just view the river, but as my grandson loves to do, get in the river and play around. The Loop Trail is 0.3 miles long. If you begin at the Government Center, you hiked down a long green grassy meadow for approximately 0.6 miles bringing you down to the river and the Catawba Indian Nation Greenway Trail.

While hiking the trail we came upon an area containing a balance beam of sorts, bars to lift up on or in the case of my grandson, Coleman, swing on. A little further down the trail Coleman spotted a slide. I’m not sure the slide was actually on the trail or on private property. I wasn’t actually sure. After I allowed Coleman to have fun sliding down the slide and left the area, that’s when I thought it might have been on private property adjoining the trail.

The entire length on the trail is 2.5-miles one way. We did not quite hike the full 2,5 miles. We turned around shortly after hiking 2 miles one way and hiked back up to the Government Center and to the car. Whenever you hike make sure you bring plenty of water to drink, a hat to shade the sun, sunscreen on hot sunny days to protect your skin from burning, and possibly a scarf or rag to wipe the sweat off your face on hot and humid days.

My Grandson,
Coleman

God Bless. Take Care and stay safe. Get Out in Nature and Enjoy God’s Creation. Thank You for visiting. Looking forward to your next visit. I appreciate y’all.

City Walk on the Fourth to Riverwalk Park

The Fourth in our house was not a big day of partying or barbecuing or gathering of friends and family. It was an ordinary day for relaxation. However, my grandson, Coleman’s form of relaxing is to go for a walk. Short on gas money and his mom not wanting to do anything but rest, I took Coleman for a walk to Riverwalk Park so he could play.

You say walk, no problem. The only thing was Riverwalk Park, which is the closest park by the way, is 2.5 miles away from where we live. Think 2.5 miles isn’t that far. Be there in just a few short minutes, think again. Remember I said we walked to Riverwalk Park. Thinking about walking 2.5 miles makes it seem more exhausting, now wouldn’t you say?

Believe me, it was tiring. Not all of the route had sidewalks, so we walked at the edge of the road parts of the way. Did you do alright walking to the park? Absolutely, he is a trooper and had way more energy thank I do.

Riverwalk Park
with Coleman

I know I said he’s a trooper and he is. I don’t know how he has the stamina to walk the distance, but he manages just fine even in the high heat and humidity we’ve been having. When we arrived at the park, he said “Yeah we did it.” Meaning we made it there. After opening the gate to allow him to play on the various playground equipment, I checked the weather app on my phone. Temperature when we arrived was 87°. You might think that’s not too bad, but factor in the high humidity and that’s a different story. The 97% humidity made it feel like 96°.

Coleman
making
music
Coleman
sliding,
sliding,
and sliding
to his
hearts content.
Coleman
at Riverside Park
Spinning round
and around
and around.

Did he have fun? He had tons of fun. Wonder if we walked back home. Think about that heat and humidity……No we did not walk home. Instead I texted my daughter and asked if she’d come pick us up. Coleman continue to play and run around the entire time we were there. He didn’t know that he wasn’t going to be walking back home. At least not until he saw his mommy’s car drive up. His reaction when he saw her car wasn’t hooray. It was “Oh No.” However, when I asked him if he wanted to walk home, he pointed to his mom’s car and said “mommy’s car.” Which no doubt meant he wanted his mom to give us a ride back and that was fine by me.

God Bless. Stay safe. Stay cool. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.

ASCGREENWAY: Coleman hiking 🥾 the trails in his Trail Passport…… 5 Trails in One Day…… Loooong Hike.

The Anne Springs Close Greenway has a Hiking Challenge one can choose to participate in or not. I participated in the challenge earning mu Trail Passport certificate a year and a half ago in December of 2020. My grandson, Coleman, has been hiking the trails at the Anne Springs Close Greenway (ASCG) since March of 2021 when he was only a year and a half (1 1/2). A person earns the Passport Challenge certificate by completing all twenty-six (26) trails consisting of thirty-six miles (36) within and around the Greenway. There is a Trail Passport booklet that one can pick up at most any of the five (5) entrances to the Greenway. After completing a trail, initial and date verifying that you completed that trail. All the trails are listed in the passport. After completing all the trails, turn your initialed passport into the Greenway Gateway to receive your certificate.

Coleman
exploring the
Nature Center
area prior to
starting our hike.

While you are out on the trails, be respectful and remember the Leave No Trace Principles.

  • Plan Ahead and prepare.
  • Dispose of waste properly
  • Leave what you find
  • Respect wildlife
  • Be considerate of other visitors.

These are very important guidelines everyone should follow no matter which Greenway trail, State or National Park trail, or even a local trail you choose venture onto to for an awesome hike. My grandson being only 2 1/2 doesn’t understand all the rules yet. I constantly remind him to leave what is in the park in the park, what is on the ground must stay on the ground. He usually will pick up leaves, rocks, or sticks off the ground and I remind him to put them down that they have to stay in the Greenway.

On Sunday when Coleman and I went to the Greenway, we hiked 5 trails:

  1. North Steele Creek Trail – This trail follows a portion of Steele Creek and connects two sections of Blue Star.
  2. Blue Star Trail – Blue Star is the longest trail on the Greenway (7.8) miles. This trail is dividing into 5 sections, and it connects to nearly every trail on the Greenway. It follows portions of the Historic Nation Ford Road. [We hike 2 sections on this day.]
  3. Muscadine Trail – This trail connects with Blue Star and Trestle Trail and Wagon Loop, Wild Azalea and Hickory trails. This trail is accessible from either the Lake Haigler Entrance or the Adventure Road Entrance.
  4. Wild Azalea Trail – The main point of interest along this trail is Lake Haigler. This trail is accessible to hikers via either the Wagon Loop or the Haigler Loop. This trail connects with Wagon Loop, Muscadine Trail and Haigler Loop. One may use Billy’s Walk as a short cut between Wild Azalea and Muscadine to be able to view the Lake Haigler Spillway.
  5. Haigler Loop – This is a very popular trail for most visitors. It loops around Lake Haigler, the largest scenic lake on the Greenway. It connects to Blue Star, Wild Azalea, Hickory and Timberline Trails and Wagon Loop.

We began our hike on North Steele Creek Trail and continued onto the Blue Star Trail. The Blue Star Trail led us to the Railroad Trestle. Coleman loves trains and was a little disappointed when a train did not pass overhead once we arrived at the Trestle. He has seen other Railroad Trestles, but this was the first time seeing the Trestle at the Greenway. Whenever he sees a trestle, he will say choo choo. He does not say train yet, but he says choo choo anytime he sees or hears a train.

The Blue Star Trail runs along one side of the Railroad Trestle and Muscadine runs along the other side. Upon leaving the Railroad Trestle area, we started on another section of the Blue Star Trail, across a swinging bridge on then ventured onto Muscadine to head back towards the Lake Haigler Entrance and the Canteen. On the Muscadine side of the Railroad Trestle, Coleman found an opportunity to get close to (and even in) the water. Being a hot and humid day, I did not object to him getting in the water. We skittered off of Muscadine and onto Wild Azalea which led us to Lake Haigler. Once down by the lake, we wondered over to the kayak launch area to obtain some information about renting a kayak on another day. I wanted to know if they had life jackets to fit Coleman. They assured me they did and informed me of the costs and for the length of time which you can rent a kayak. Coleman’s birthday is coming up later this month, so I will try to make it possible for him to go out on the lake in a kayak close to his birthday. He wanted to go out right then and there, but I let him know he’ll need to wait until another day. That we will try to kayak for his birthday.

Leaving the kayak launch area, he chose to hike part of the Haigler Loop before returning to the Rush Pavilion and the Canteen. Once at the canteen we refilled our bottles with ice and water. By this time, we had run out of drink from the 3 bottles we had on the trail with us and were in much need of replenishing our fluid intake. It was so good to just sit and relax for a couple of minutes before heading home.

God Bless. Stay Safe. Enjoy Nature. Thank you! And always remember I appreciate y’all.

Plants and Flowers at the Greenway: Lake Haigler Entrance

Sunday was a sunshiny day It a a blistering 96° in the Piedmont area of South Carolina. My grandson and I visited the Lake Haigler Entrance of the Anne Springs Close Greenway for our morning adventure of hiking and enjoying nature.

Anne Springs Close Greenway

As we walk/hike the trails we observe nature and the beautiful plants and flowers we see as we stroll along. There are plenty of plants and flowers in the Greenway, you just need to slow down and “stop and smell the roses.”

Plants and Flowers

From the entrance we walked down past the Rush Pavilion to the Nature Center and placed a book in the Little Yellow Lending Library. From there we hiked down to the Swinging Bridge and strolled over the the North Steele Creek trail. The was the first time hiking this trail with my grandson, Coleman.

The North Steele Creek trail winds around the left side of a creek. It is 1.5 miles in length and connects to the Blue Star trail. We hiked the North Steele Creek trail, the proceeded onto the Blue Star trail. The entire Blue Star trail is 7.5 miles long. We only hiked the portion of Blue Star which led us to the Railroad Trestle. My grandson loves trains. Unfortunately, however, no trains passed along the trestle while we were there.

Flowers
near the
Railroad Trestle

After a short break resting on a bench just passed the trestle, ( much needed for replenishing our fluids and a snack for Coleman), we continue on Blue Star crossing another swinging bridge and onto the Muscadine trail. The Muscadine trail portion we were on leads back towards Lake Haigler and the canteen. The whole Muscadine trail is 3.5 miles long. We hiked Muscadine until we approached the Wild Azalea trail. The Wild Azalea trail is 1.5 miles in length.

Coleman
showing
the way
to go

The Wild Azalea trail led us to the Lake Haigler Loop and to the kayak launch area. My grandson has now decided he wants to go out in a kayak one weekend ( the kayaks are only rented out on weekends.)

This was a long and tiring 6.6 mile hike ( at least for me.) After seeing the kayaks, my grandson got a burst of energy. Instead of going straight back to the Rush Pavilion from the kayak launch, he decided to stroll along a portion of the Lake Haigler Loop which passes by Lake Haigler. He loves the water, looking at it, playing near it, or if he can get away with it, playing in the water.

Once back at the Rush Pavilion canteen we had our bottles filled with ice and then filled them with water. We sat inside (his choice) to enjoy the color air and relax before heading home.

Flowers
along the path
to the parking lot.
Anne Springs Close Greenway

God Bless. Have a safe and fun-filled fourth. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.

Canon Photography: ASCG

Most of the time I hike the Anne Springs Close Greenway with my grandson, Coleman, I just use my iPhone13Pro to take pictures while we are hiking along the trail. Earlier this week I purchased new batteries for my Canon Rebel. Since I had new batteries, I thought I would give it a try to see how the lasted and snap a few pictures at the Greenway with my actual camera instead of just with my iPhone.

Lake Crandall
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Trekker Loop
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Flowering Tree
Trekker Loop
ASCG
Archers Loop
Lovely Purple Flower
Anne Springs Close Greenway

I hope you enjoy the photos. I’m still relearning how to use my Canon Rebel camera. I haven’t used it since before COVID-19 appeared in the United States. It will take time, but with practice, I believe I’ll be able to take some fantastic shots. Until then, God Bless. Thank you for visiting. Hope you’ll come back soon. Remember I appreciate y’all.

Thursday Traversing the Trails with Coleman: ASCG-Blue Star Entrance

Coleman is always wanting to go Bye Bye. He loves to spend time hiking 🥾 at The Anne Springs Close Greenway (ASCG). For our Thursday outing we went to the Blue Star Entrance of the ASCG. The ASCG is located behind the Y Complex. From the beginning of the trailhead there are two choices one can choose the hike. The Paradise Loop and the Blue Star Trail.

For our traversing I chose the Paradise Loop for us to hike. Coleman wanted to go on the Blue Star Trail. He got upset when I said we were not hiking 🥾 that trail. We had only hiked that trail before and he needed to hike the Paradise Loop to help complete all the trails on his trail passport.

Coleman
by the
Paradise Loop
trail post

The trail is full of ups and downs, curves, tree 🌳 roots, and rocks 🪨. Not a smooth trail, more of a medium level for hiking 🥾 status. Trail markers are placed every 1/4 mile along the trails. Around Trail marker B5 you can choose to traverse on the Avery Loop. The Avery Loop is 0.4 miles long and loops back into Paradise Loop.

Avery Loop
with Coleman

Avery Loop is surrounded by plants and flowers close on each side of the trail. The trees and plants provide a cooling canopy that is calming to the soul.

Coleman
watching ants 🐜
on the ground
Stream
reflections

Hiking 🥾 back to the car (his mom’s car) Coleman is tired and ready to go to the grocery store so we could get him more Lactaid Milk. when he gets tired, he wants to stop every few minutes on the trail and wants to sit anywhere he can find to sit. When he’s tired I keep encouraging home to keep moving, that we’re almost “back to mommy’s car.)

Coleman
Hiking 🥾
back to
Mommy’s
Car

God Bless. Thank you for visiting. I appreciate y’all.

Wednesday Wanderings: Walking 🚶‍♀️ _Running 🏃 @ Riverwalk

Welcome to my blog. Today I’ll be talking about my Wanderings with my grandson, Coleman, yesterday. Coleman is 2 1/2 and loves to be out in nature and go hiking 🥾. He has been hiking for over year and a half now. He’ll be turning 3 next month. I have pictures of him on hikes since at least March 2021. There is no place he’d rather be then out on a trail, out in nature, walking, running, or hiking 🥾. Anywhere, Anytime outdoors is where he would rather be.

Wednesday morning we left the house ( actually our apartment) by 10 am. Getting him and me both ready takes time. I’m not alert too early in the mornings any more. Not only do I need to get us both dressed, I have to make sure we eat a healthy breakfast and have plenty of drinks and snacks packed fir our day of hiking.

On this outing we went to our local Riverwalk Catawba Trailhead to begin our day of wandering through nature. Riverwalk has two entrances to choose from. One on the north side and one on the south side. We chose the one on the south side closest to the railroad trestle. He loves choo choo’s (trains).

Coleman
at the
Riverwalk
entrance

Coleman is always ready for a hiking 🥾 adventure. He loves to have is picture 📷taken. As you can see, he also likes to climb. Shortly after we crossed through the covered bridge we were able to view the railroad 🚆 trestle.

Riverwalk
Catawba River
Railroad Trestle

Not only does he like to view the railroad 🛤 trestle, he also likes to go down to the water 💦 and watch the waters 💦 movements, and play in the water if he can get away with it.

Catawba River.
Coleman resting
on a park swing.

He enjoys a good swing and will run to one any time he sees one along the trail. Continuing along the trail, he spots a log 🪵 on the ground and immediately decides to climb on it. He then walked along the top of it like you would a balance beam ( he’s never seen a balance beam).

Coleman
balancing
on the log 🪵
and walking
across it.

Anytime there is an opening along the trail to go to the water 💦 or at least to view the water 💦, he is off and running 🏃‍♂️ towards it.

Catawba River

On the way back to the car, Coleman hears the train 🚂 whistle. He automatically says choo choo. I find an opening amongst the trees 🌲 along the trail for him to see the train 🚊 as it is moving along the railroad 🚞 tracks 🛤. He loves watching the train pass. He would have liked it better if we were closer to the railroad 🚞 trestle 🛤 , but he still hasn’t stopped talking about seeing the train 🚆.

We hiked for 2.6 miles round trip. This is one of his shorter hikes. If you have the opportunity, I would highly recommend you visiting a Greenway, a local park, a local trailhead and enjoy spending time hiking 🥾 (or walking 🚶‍♀️) and observing nature.

God bless. Thank you for visiting. Remember I appreciate y’all.

Monday Meanderings: ASCG With Coleman

Welcome everyone. I’m glad you could join me today.

On our Monday Meanderings, Coleman and I returned to the Anne Springs Close Greenway (ASCG) for some hiking 🥾. Coleman is my two (2) year old grandson. He has been 🥾 with my for approximately a year and a half (1 1/2) now. He recently has decided he wants to earn his certificate for completing his trail passport. The passport contains a list of twenty-six (26) trails which span a total of thirty-six (36) miles within the ASCGreenway.

Coleman
hiking 🥾 from
the Adventure Road
Entrance

Coleman loves to be outdoors. He loves to visit the Greenway. Does he get tired on the trail? Sometimes yes. Does he have fun on the trail? Yes, he definitely does.

Today, we parked at the Adventure Road Entrance. We began our meanderings on the Trekker Loop. We first spotted Lake Crandall and a group of young boys which are a part of the fishing 🎣 day camp offered to youth at the ASCG. He immediately went down towards the water 💦. He grabbed a stick and tried mimicked their fishing 🎣.

Coleman
at ASCG
prosiding towards
Fern Forest 🌳 Trail

Along the Archers Loop/Trekkers Loop trail we view the beautiful Lake Frances. He sorta got muddy as he was approaching the water 💦. He enjoys putting his hands 🙌🏼 (if not his whole body) in the water. When he stood up, his one hand ✋ and arm was all muddy.

We went along Fern Forest 🌳 and then back to Archers Loop hiking 🥾 back towards the car. Today was rather a short hike. But there is no place he would rather be than out on a trail hiking 🥾.

Coleman
taking a break
having a few sips
of his juice

We always bring bottles of water 💦 and juice 🧃 for us to drink along the trails. It can get hot, sweaty, and thirsty hiking 🥾 along the trails. We always remember to stay hydrated. That is very important when you go hiking 🥾.

God bless. Hope you’ll visit with us again on our next adventure. Thank you for visiting. I appreciate y’all.

Greenville Zoo_Family Outing

Entering the Greenville Zoo
Greenville, South Carolina

We woke up really early (at least for me) to get ready and leave for Greenville, South Carolina. We intended on going to the Greenville Zoo and then to an A & W Restaurant afterwards. This first half of the plan went as planned. However, the second half did not (I’ll explain later).

The Family

The Greenville Zoo is located in Greenville, South Carolina. It is set on 14 acres in the city’s Cleveland Park. The Zoo was founded in 1960. Compared to other parks, the Greenville Zoo is rather small in size. At the time of the opening, most of the animals were indigenous species who already called the Upstate region home. A monkey dome was added in 1962 and was populated with 26 Colobus Monkeys. The monkeys were not indigenous to the area, however, the became a tremendous hit with the park’s visitors. The Zoo is open year-round, but hours vary based on the season. The Zoo has several programs and events that provide a fabulous opportunity for adults and children alike to visit and learn.

After entering the Zoo, we first visit the monkeys and then the reptiles. My grandson enjoyed looking at the snakes, he doesn’t shy away from anything.

Lions, leopards are the cats in the zoo. Monkeys, South American Pampas, giraffes, and pink flamingos are some of the animals you’ll encounter if you choose to visit the Greenville Zoo. If you plan on visiting the Greenville area, I’d say go ahead and stop by the zoo for a visit. However, if the zoo is the only reason you are coming to Greenville, then I’d say pass on the zoo and visit one of the many parks and enjoy a hike. Save the Zoo trip for one of the Zoos in a larger city.

As you walk along the path to the various animal enclosures, the Zoo has canopies which one can walk through the sprays a mist of water to cool you off on a hot summer day. My grandson enjoyed running through the canopies and feeling the mist of water on his body.

Besides the various animals located throughout the zoo, it is also home to several tropical plants and flowers. I enjoy seeing the beauty of God’s creation regardless of it is out in nature, at the zoo, or in a lovely garden.

A map of the Zoo is located just inside the entrance for your convenience. The map will guide you to the desired locations of the animals you wish to visit. There are a few sights situated for capturing your loved ones sitting on a “bear”, or a “lion.” And before you ask, no they are not real but indeed statues designed to sit upon and enjoy. Of course, I had to capture my grandson sitting upon the statues.

Map of the Greenville Zoo
150 Cleveland Park Drive
Greenville, South Carolina
greenvillezoo.com

Our other purpose for visiting the Greenville area was to stop at an A & W Restaurant for a frosty mug of A & W root beer and to purchase a few A & W glass mugs to take home. Now for the disappointing part of our trip. The A & W Restaurant location we stopped at was drive through only (a disappointment especially since we planned to sit and enjoy some root beer after our visit to the zoo.) This location also did not have any of the A & W glass mugs on hand to sale (another big disappointment.)

Disappointments and all, the day was a good outing to spend with family. We ended up stopping to eat closer to home and chose to stop at The Greek Grill for some authentic Greek Gyros. They were super delicious by the way. If you are ever in the Tega Cay, South Carolina area I would highly recommend a stop for food at The Greek Grill located at 1143 Stonecrest Blvd. #101, Tega Cay, SC 29708. The hours are 11am to 8pm except on Sundays when they close at 7pm.

God Bless. Thank You for visiting. Till next time. Spend quality time with you family. Love and enjoy them while you can. Remember I appreciate y’all.

Coleman: Antics …Expressions

This afternoon Coleman tried on a new outfit we got him that is intended fir swimming. Does he care or even realize what the outfit is for? Absolutely not. But who cares? He put it on all by himself. He usually doesn’t dress himself completely, but then he is only two (2). He’s learning.

Coleman
Disregard his mom’s leg

Coleman loves to ham it up in front of a camera. He loves getting his picture taken. He also loves looking at himself in pictures.

Coleman’s
new swim outfit
Look at me.
See it fits.
Like Mother
Like Son

Coleman may love having his picture taken, however, his mom does not. The therefore, it is difficult to get really good shots of her and him together.

Coleman and Trisha
Mom and Son
Coleman
and
his expressions
Gotta love him

God bless. Take care and spend time loving your family. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.

Wordless Wednesday:

Grist Mill
History of Grist Mill
Garrison-Webb
Grist Mill
Coleman
trying to
open door 🚪
Coleman
checking out
the Grist Mill

God Bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.

PPAC: Metal Art Dog Statues

I saw this challenge on Aletta’s nowathome blog featuring the PPAC challenge from Marsha Ingrao’s Always Write blog.

Public art according to Wikipedia is art in any media whose form, function and meaning are created for the general public through a public process. It adds tremendous value to the cultural, aesthetic and economic vitality of a community.

Coleman checking out the statues
Each statue depicts a different breed of dog
From small, to medium, to large breeds
Jogger with her dog
Larger breed of dog
What do you think about this one, Nana?
That’s all folks…. time for some fun.

God Bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.

My Favorite Subject: My Grandson _Coleman

At the Dog 🐕 Park
Fence Climbing
He can’t resist climbing
Smile 😊
My Grandson _Coleman
Climbing the Fence
at the Dog
🐕 Park

God Bless. Thank you. Remember I appreciate y’all.

Canon Shots at the Greenway

I have an older Canon Rebel T3i that I was using on Saturday when I went to the Greenway with my grandson, Coleman. My battery is weak, even though it was fully charged before leaving home, it did not last very long. So, it seems like it is time for a new battery (I cannot afford a new camera right now).

These pictures were taken after we came to Lake Frances after hiking at the beginning of Archers Loop at the Adventure Road entrance of the Anne Springs Close Greenway.

Lake Frances
Lake Frances
Coleman
trying to use
my hiking stick
as a fishing pole.
Fishing on Lake Frances
Lake Frances Fishing

God Bless. Thank you! I haven’t used the camera for a little while, it’s been packed away and I recently unpacked it. I hope you’ll enjoy the photos. I appreciate y’all.

All photos are my own. (c)2022@gfpacificbee

Numbers at The Greenway: On Archers Loop

Today my hiking 🥾 buddy, Coleman, and I drove to the Adventure Road Entrance of The Anne Springs Close Greenway. We parked near the doggy park, Mary Warner Mack Dog Park, and proceeded on Archers Loop which begins to the side and behind the dog 🐕 park.

H52
Archers Loop

At various points along the trail are markers letting you know which trail you are on and at which point along the trail.

Coleman had a fun time hiking 🥾 and running 🏃‍♂️ along the trail.

H50
Archers Loop
H49
Archers Loop

Coleman discovered the outdoor learning classroom.

Chalkboard with Numbers
Outdoor Classroom

God bless. Thank you! Numbers are everywhere, you just have to be observant. Remember I appreciate y’all.

Terrible Two’s: Why? When will it end? Frustrations…..Help

It appears my grandson is in his “terrible two’s” phase. I sure wish it would end soon, but in all likelihood it is only the beginning.

You may wonder what the terrible two’s are, but if you’re a mom you’re fully aware of the terrible two’s. With some children you might hardly notice the phase and with others, like my grandson, you feel so frustrated you’d pull your hair out trying to cope.

What are the terrible two’s? Believe it or not the “terrible two’s” is a normal stage in a child’s development. It is a stage in which a toddler can regularly bounce between reliance on adults and a newly burgeoning desire for independence. The symptoms vary between children but can include frequent mood changes and temper tantrums.

Why do I think my grandson is in the “terrible two’s”? Take a look at the following picture and it’ll give you a small glimpse into his actions of late.

And this isn’t everything he’s been getting into or doing lately. So just yesterday he managed to also get into everything in his mom’s room, spread them all over the place which included her tampons and drinking a small portion of a small bottle of mouthwash. Not only that but he also got a hold of an electric razor and shaved part of the dogs hair off.

What are the signs to look for of the “terrible two’s”?

  • Tantrums that consistently include:
    • Hitting
    • Kicking
    • Biting
    • Or other forms of physical violence toward parent or caregiver (in this instance, me)
    • Child tries to injure themselves
    • Frequent tantrums ( occur around 10-20 times per day)
    • Last longer than 25 minutes on average
    • Inability of child to ultimately calm themselves

The terrible two’s can sometimes roll into the terrible three’s. By the time a child reaches 4, they can usually express themselves through language and motor development.

Remember not all children are the same. Some will barely show signs of the terrible two’s while others may show more than the average. Children are trying to develop a sense of themselves and a bit of independence. Keeping to a schedule and maintaining routines can assist in avoiding meltdown triggers. Examples would include sticking the the same meal and bed times. It also helps to focus your attention on the child and not cellphones.

Love ❤️, Patience, and Kindness

How do I know my grandson is in the “terrible two’s”? The changes in his behavior clearly indicate it. How might you ask? His defiance, talking back, constantly saying no, hitting and/or biting himself or others. In his curiosity, he destroys items he is not even supposed to have. He gets into rooms he is not to be in without permission to explore. I know he is curious (like Curious George), but constantly redirecting gets frustrating. He will mimic anything I do, and he will stop his feet at me when he doesn’t get his way.

I try not to get frustrated and yell, but sometimes it’s difficult when I keep correcting or redirecting the same unwanted behavior. I don’t remember it being this frustrating with any of my three (now grown) children. I know his vocabulary is still limited and it’s not easy for him to communicate what he wants, but I also want him to learn what is acceptable and what is not.

Prayers 🙏🏼 would be very much appreciated. I need to be more patient, showing him my love and using kindness in my interactions with him. He is my heart ❤️ and I love him so much.

I love ❤️
the times
when he wants
to cuddle 🥰

Founders Trail: Along the Catawba River

Yesterday, Sunday, 05 June 2022 we decided to try a different trail that I was told about on Saturday whil I was participating in the National Trails Day 1,000 Mile Challenge. The information was given to me by Debbie Zinsky Kiggans, the leader of the Anne Springs Close Greenway Hiking Club. She informed me about the Masons Ben Trail located in the Fort Mill area of South Carolina.

Following directions, we found the parking area to the Founders Trailhead, however, we did not locate the Masons Bend Trail. Afterwards, I looked at the trail map and it appears we did not hike far enough to venture off onto the Masons Bend Trail which appears to be a jaunt off of the Founders Trail.

Founders Trail
with my
hiking buddy,
Coleman

The Founders Trail is a 2.3-mile mostly natural surface trail provides connectivity between the Piedmont Medical Center Trail, (AKA Riverwalk), and the Masons Bend Trail. It follows a beautiful stretch of the free flowing Catawba River.

Coleman
taking a quick break,
on a bench
provided by Founders

From the North, users can utilize the trail parking at the end of Weir Court in the Masons Bend Neighborhood development. When you follow the trail southward, the trail runs along the River and provides a series of bridges and boardwalks. In various locations along the trail are strategically placed benches which allow hikers and other visitors to take a break and view the river. There is an overlook at the north end of the trail affording opportunities to be inspired by the marvelous views of the Catawba River. [We evidently did not go far enough along the trail, since we did not encounter the overlook.] The overlook area is stated to be around 1.9 miles into the trail. [We went 1.7 miles today before turning around to meet my daughter who just arrived at the trailhead.]

Views
of the
Catawba River

If one chooses to head north on the Founders Trail, it will connect directly into the Masons Bend Trail allowing the user to travel an additional one and a quarter mile along the river.

Views
of the
Catawba River
from Founders Trail

If one chooses to begin at the south end, trail users can utilize the trailhead of the Piedmont Medical Center Trail. Follow the trail north on Route 21. from there, the Founders Trail begins as a sidewalk along the Route 21 Bridge over the Catawba River. The sidewalk section runs for approximately 2000′ and transitions by making a “U-turn” to the right just after the guardrails and follows the old road back and travels underneath the Route 21 Bridge.

Views from the Founders Trail
Pump House and stairs
are across the river from our location

The Founders Trail consists of Natural surface, Gravel/stone, Boardwalk, Sidewalk, and Pavement. [ we never encountered the sidewalk or pavement on this hike.] The Trail is located both in the Rock Hill and the Fort Mill areas of South Carolina. The difficulty level of the Trail is designated as easy. [It was fairly easy for my two-year-old grandson.] Dogs are permitted on the trail with a 3-foot leash. If you choose to bring your dog, be sure to pick up after them. Remember to Leave No Trace, what you pack in, Pack out with you.

The Founders Trailhead has no restroom facilities, so it would be wise to plan ahead. The Trail is open from Dawn to Dusk. Parking is limited, only 15 spots available. [Parking was not crowded, and neither was the trail. So, if you which to practice social distancing that is not a problem along this trail.

Trail Map

I encourage you to find a local trail and get outdoors and enjoy nature. God bless. Thank you for visiting. Till next time, Remember I appreciate y’all.

Piedmont Medical Center Trail: Day Two – From the Pump House

Piedmont Medical Center Trail
Hiking with Coleman
View of
Catawba River
near the
Pump House
Piedmont
Medical
Center
Trail
Coleman
playing
in the
Catawba River
Catawba River ~ Riverwalk
Coleman
on the
Piedmont Medical
Center Trail
Catawba River
6-02-2022
My
hiking
🥾 buddy
~ Coleman
Catawba River
Beautiful Views
on a
Beautiful Day
Bridge
over
Catawba
River
Coleman
Playing
in the
Catawba River
Pump House
and
Views of
Catawba River
Riverwalk
Park
with
Coleman
Coleman
sliding
at
Riverwalk
Park

My grandson, Coleman, and I visited the Riverwalk area in Rock Hill, South Carolina for the second time today. We parked by the Pump House and hiked a portion of the Piedmont Medical Center Trail. We hiked at a leisurely pace, enjoying the views of the Catawba River. We took a slight detour off the asphalt pathway and onto a dirt and gravel trail which looped around back to the main pathway. Coleman enjoys hiking off the beaten path. We hiked 1.5 miles along the trail and turned around and went back the direction we came. Several spots along the way, Coleman ventured into the river for some fun time in the water. Once back at the car, we drove a short distance to the Riverwalk Park. There he enjoyed making “music”, swinging, and sliding.

God bless. Hope you enjoyed viewing our day. Make time to get outdoors and enjoy nature. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.

Last Photo: Cell Phone Pic

Brian from Bushboy’s World is asking us to share the very last photo on our SD cards for May 2022 .

The rules are simple:
1. Post the last photo on your SD card or last photo on your phone for the 31st of May.
2. No editing – who cares if it is out of focus, not framed as you would like or the subject matter didn’t cooperate.
3. You don’t have to have any explanations, just the photo will do
4. Create a Pingback to Brian’s post here
5. Tag “The Last Photo”

The Last Photo
on my
Cell Phone
is a collage
My Last Photo
that’s not
a collage
Coleman
expressions

God bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.

Riverwalk Greenway Trail: Piedmont Medical Center Trail

Coleman’s ready to go hiking

The Riverwalk Greenway Trail is located in Rock Hill, South Carolina. It is 2.25 miles of easy walking exercise. As you walk along the paved asphalt trail you can observe fabulous views of the Catawba River.

Riverwalk Trestle

The Riverwalk Trail has been recently renamed the Piedmont Medical Center Trail. The asphalt pathway is approximately 10-foot wide. It is located just minutes away from I-77. This trail is key segment of the Carolina Thread Trail. The Carolina Thread Trail is a regional network of trails and greenways spanning 15 counties across North and South Carolina.

Along the trail you’ll encounter various historical landmarks informing you of some of the local history that is contained within the pathway of the trail. They mention the Nation Ford trestle, the usage during the Civil War, the usage by the Catawba and Cherokee Indians, and was even crossed by President Jefferson Davis in 1865.

Coleman
resting a bit
before continuing
along the trail.

Mile markers are placed at intervals along the pathway to help you keep track of how far you have walked, hiked, ran, or cycled. You have to remember that regardless of which trailhead you park at, it is 2.25 miles up and back. If you need a short break to catch your breath along the way you’ll encounter several metal benches, sitting areas made from tree trunks, and also a few swings. My grandson really enjoyed taking breaks anytime he came upon one of the swings.

Coleman
enjoying himself
along the trail

The trail is accessible to anyone on foot, wheelchair, skateboard, or bicycle of any age and ability. Dogs are welcome to tag along, but must be on a 3-foot leash. And remember you must pick up after your dog. Leave no trace.

Located along the route are short dirt paths that you can venture on to enable you to have better views of the Catawba River. If you so choose from the north trailhead, you can launch a kayak, a tube, or raft and enjoy a leisurely trip down river.

Please note that the trail is located in a floodplain and during inclement weather you should use caution and avoid the trail during those times. All cyclists should observe the 10 mile per hour speed limit.

My grandson and I spent a couple hours leisurely walking along the trail and enjoying the fabulous views of the Catawba River. We went on Friday (1st day of a holiday weekend), and lots of people were out and about. The watering hole was crowded so he couldn’t get in the water, maybe he’ll be able to on another visit. We plan on going back on Wednesday. I’ve been informed that not so many people go there during the middle of the week. If you desire to avoid crowds, I’d suggest coming here on a weekday and avoiding the weekends.

Our adventure
via Relive.com

God Bless. Enjoy nature. Get outdoors. Walk. Bike. Hike. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.

Cell Pic Sunday: my Grandson petting a horse

John’s Cell Pic Sunday

Coleman petting a horse
@ Anne Springs Close Greenway
Horse Stables

God bless. Thank you. Remember I appreciate y’all. Have fun sharing your Sunday Cell Pics.

Exhausted and Frustrated: My two-year-old grandson is not sleeping through the night…

My
Two-year-old
grandson,
Coleman

In a previous post entitled Recovering and Moving Adjustments, I discussed our moving and the adjustments being frustrating. For Coleman, it appears he is not adjusting too well yet to sleeping in a new place. He has the same bed, but has not been allowed, so far, on the top bunk. We/I have concerns about his safety on the top bunk. In his room in the new apartment, we now live in, there is a ceiling fan where the fan blades stretch across part of the top bunk.

Coleman is rambunctious and curious. He loves to climb, turn lights on and off, and investigate anything and everything he can get his hands on. I’ve already discovered him tuning on the fan from the top bunk after climbing up. I, myself, had difficulty turning it back off without getting hurt from the blades. So how can I allow him to sleep 💤 on the top bunk he enjoys being on when I’m concerned he’ll get hurt?

He’s been waking up after only a few hours of sleep, and exciting his room. After leaving his room, he proceeds to turn on every light in the kitchen, hallway, and living room. Then he rummages through the kitchen drawers and the boxes yet to be unpacked. When he gets bored with that he comes into my room. Thus, preventing me from sleeping. Hence, I am exhausted during the day from lack of sufficient sleep.

I want my energetic cooperative little boy back. The problem is I am not sure how to achieve his sleeping through the night again and staying in his own room all night to sleep. The rest of us, especially myself, would appreciate a full night of uninterrupted peaceful sleep.

Coleman
this morning
after being awake
half the night
(or more).

Can you understand my frustrations and my being exhausted? Pray for us that a solution can be found to remedy this problematic situation.

God bless. Thank you for listening. Remember I appreciate y’all.

Coleman Selfies: iPhone camera

My grandson, Coleman, loves to get ahold of my phone 📱 and snap multiple pictures. Just gotta love his expressions as he hams it up in front of the camera.

God Bless. Thanks for visiting. Remember I appreciate y’all.

Living With a Covid-19 Positive 2 Year Old: Update

Coleman
—- 6 Days after
Covid-19 positive diagnosis

Apologies for being absent from posting. Since last Monday night, I’ve been primary caregiver for my two year old grandson who was diagnosed with being Covid-19 positive. The first two days he was really really sick, upset stomach, vomiting, high fever, lack of ability to keep food or drink down, lack of energy and an overall feeling irritability. It had been difficult seeing him so miserable.

Last Tuesday we took him to the doctor at the Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte where a Covid-19 test was run. We received notice of his being Covid-19 positive on Wednesday. Not much could be done besides giving him Motrin for his fever, and pushing fluids. Sometimes he didn’t want to drink, but had to keep trying.

Thursday and Friday were days of sleeping off and on. Rest he much needed to help him recover. Rest I also needed, having been up off and on all week, I was exhausted. Saturday, he wake up with more energy than he’d had all week. His fever gone. His appetite also started to improve.

Overall, I suppose you can call his case a mild one. It’s also high allergy season here and with a being driven to exhausted taking care of him, my sinuses have taken a toll on me. My allergy medication is working, however, I’m not up to par and he now has more energy than I do.

Coleman
—— six days after
Covid-19 positive diagnosis
Good to see a smile
Cheese

Thank y’all for praying for him and all of us throughout this experience. I pray we won’t have to go through it again. I pray y’all will be safe and healthy. God bless. May He watch over you and surround you with His love and protection.

Coleman
—- feeling better.
Thank you God!

Living With a Covid-19 Positive 2 Year Old:

Coleman is sick

Yesterday I posted that I’d appreciate prayers 🙏🏼 for my grandson who is really sick. His mom and I took him to Levine Children’s Hospital in downtown Charlotte to have a doctor check him out. You might ask; “What prompted that action?” Well, let me tell you.

Approximately around midnight the day before ( Monday evening) he woke up and came out of his room all irritable and making groaning noises. We didn’t think much of it at the time ( he has woken up in the middle of the night before). So we ( his mom and myself) comforted him, had him use the potty, gave him some milk and some yogurt. He seemed okay ( looking back, maybe 🤔 not fully). After some cuddle time we put him back to bed.

The next morning, Tuesday, he was lethargic, running a high fever, irritable, not able ( or interested in eating), barely drinking fluids. For him that’s extremely unusual. Normally, by 9:00 am he has drunk 2 cups of milk, had some cereal, and either French toast, waffles, or pancakes. The cereal is mainly to tide him over until I get his breakfast cooked. I do not use frozen breakfast items. He is allergic to dairy and soy, so any store bought items need to have the ingredients examined before purchasing to ensure they do not contain those ingredients.

Back to Coleman’s condition, he was not able to keep food or drink down and he was running a high fever. I tried to cool him down with a cold bath, however, that did nothing to bring his fever down. I had already given him children’s Tylenol. At that point I texted my daughter asking her to come out of her room. [She had been in bed not feeling well herself]. She had the thermometer with her which she brought out. His temperature was 102 °. At which time I asked her to call his doctor. His doctor’s office stated they could not get him in to be seen for 2 days. They suggested, if we wanted him seen sooner, we take him to Levine Children’s Hospital.

At the hospital, they took his vitals, his temp after we arrived was 103°. The children’s hospital is a little over a half hour, longer if there’s a lot of traffic. The nurse gave him Motrin and a anti-nausea medication. That seemed to temporarily make him feel a little better.

Once the doctor saw him he ordered a couple of tests, one of which was a test for Covid-19. By the time we got back home, he was back to running a fever and not feeling very good. Luckily ( for me anyway), he slept through the night. And so far no more vomiting, I’m am very glad. Yesterday he threw up all over me. Not the situation one exactly wants.

Coleman has Covid-19.

I will update as the week goes along. For now, my time is all taken up with caring for my grandson. Please keep him in your prayers. Thank you!

Prayers would be appreciated:

I’d appreciate prayers. My daughter & grandson are sick. Both throwing up. Grandson is running a fever & very irritable. Not eating. Not sleeping hardly at all.

My grandson, Coleman

On way to Levine’s Children’s Hospital to have him checked out and probably given fluids. Thank you!

Portrait Mode: Coleman

Playing with his whisk
~ Gotta love his expressions
HEIF
Wide camera — 26mm f1.5
ISO320 1/60s Apple 13 Pro
Portrait Stage Light Mode
He loves the camera
He’s a ham
My grandson
—- Coleman

God Bless. Love ❤️ my family. Love your family. Appreciate them while you have them. Take care of each other. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.

Monday Meanderings: Short walk with Coleman

Today’s current forecast

Today was kind of dreary. It started out with a downpour of rain 🌧. Only in the low 40°’s in the morning. Coleman always loves to go outside, but since it was chilly, wet, and a little windy I managed to have him wait until the afternoon to go for a walk.

Plants
seen along
today’s
walk
Monday Meanderings
with Coleman
Deer stand
amongst
the trees

Kept the Monday Meanderings to a minimum today. It was still cool and a little windy in the afternoon, however, the rain 🌧 let up for our walk.

Hope y’all had a blessed Easter Sunday. I appreciate y’all. Encourage you to spend time outdoors. Thank God for his many blessings.

Thanks for visiting. Please feel free to like, comment, and follow.

Tuesday Hiking: Coleman Ramblings

Tuesday Ramblings with Coleman through the woods and across the meadows we went hiking and traversing through nature observing God’s beauty and marvelous creativity.

Coleman and his hiking stick exploring nature.
Various Trees observed today.
Tuesday Ramblings with Coleman.
Through the meadows we went
……Tuesday Ramblings
Coleman full of energy —
enjoying being in nature.
Spring Growth —
Plants in bloom

The following link is to a video of our Tuesday Rambling hike Coleman, and I enjoyed together.

http://www.relive.cc/view/v8qVBnmNd3q

God Bless. Enjoy nature. Get Outdoors. Go for a walk or a hike and spend time with a friend. Thank You! I appreciate y’all. Hope you enjoyed your visit and come again soon. 

Coleman: Selfies

Today while I was occupied with mundane housework my grandson, Coleman, confiscated my phone. While the phone was in his possession he opened the camera. Mind you the phone was in the locked position. That did not stop him from taking random pictures including pictures of himself.

Coleman selfie….
loves
the camera

Random shots …. I deleted the ones of the floor and his feet.

Say Cheese
Look 👀 maw …
my #ASCGreenwayshirt

He loves modeling his new clothes. He’s growing up so fast.

See Nana ….
I love my
new clothes ….
Thanks
I’m ready ….
Go ahead …
Take my picture
See Nana ….
I’m rockin
my new duds
Gotta
love ❤️
my grandson.
Love ❤️ U
Coleman!

Selfies are not new for Coleman. He constantly swipes my phone. I never no what pics are gonna turn up after I get the phone back from him. Even though I don’t like him taking my phone, I love ❤️ him so much. I would be lost without him.

God bless. Love y’all. Remember I appreciate y’all. Thank you for visiting with me and my grandson.

Bunk Beds: For Adults? For Kids?

When were they invented? What age range were they designed for? Have you ever used bunk beds? These are just a few of the tidbits I’ll be sharing with you.

Bunk Beds with stairs

A bit of History behind bunk beds they were invented way back around the 1400-1500. Did you know the bunk bed has been around for centuries? (I don’t know they existed that far back in time.) They we’re made too be able to save space in homes. They have also been used by the military too save space and accommodate more recruits/soldiers in barracks and in ships quarters.

Military Style Bunks

The invention of the bunk bed hasn’t been narrowed down to any particular person. It is believed, by some, that they originated from ancient Egypt. While others tend to believe the origin is possibly Scandinavian.

Besides in homes and use by the military, they’ve been used on Ranches and Farms to provide housing for Ranch and Farm hands.

Bunk Beds used on Farms

Bunk beds are two or more beds stacked one on top of the other. Most commonly there are two beds stacked together, although, on occasion you’ll see three beds stacked on top of one another.

Bunk beds are used by children and adults. However, it is not recommended for children under the age of six (6) to sleep on the top bunk. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends bunk beds be used for children between the ages of 6 and 16. They also recommend for toddlers to outgrow their toddler bed before having them sleep on a bottom bunk.

Why do they suggest children under six not to sleep in a top bunk? The main reason for not allowing children younger than six to use the top bunk is a concern for safety. It is felt that younger children might roll off the top bunk while they sleep.

Approximately 36,000 bunk bed related injuries have received emergency treatment. Even though some injuries tend to be mild, there are others that are extremely serious with concussions and fractures. It is stated that half of these injuries occur to children younger than six years of age.

These suggestions are only guidelines. You must use your own judgment on whether your child or children are ready to sleep on bunk beds.

Coleman
on top
of stairs
to
top bunk.

Even though my grandson is younger than six, he is very comfortable climbing ladders and stairs. It wouldn’t matter if we put him to bed in the bottom bunk or not. He would be in the top bunk before morning. While we are comfortable with him sleeping in the top bunk, not everyone would be for their child.

God bless. Take care. Stay safe. Make wise choices. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.

Monday Meanderings: Love the Greenway

This is Love the Greenway month for the Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Today, I was fortunate enough to be able to spend time at the Greenway with my grandson, Coleman. It was a beautiful day, the sun was shining, with no rain in sight. It was truly a blessing to get ourselves outdoors to enjoy nature and do a little bit of hiking.

Coleman
— my hiking buddy

Anne Springs Close Greenway has 2,100 acres to enjoy and explore. It is a natural preserve that offers activities such as hiking, horseback riding, biking, picnics, and much more. They have 36 miles of hiking trails that can be used for hiking, biking, and /or horseback riding.

The Greenway also has a 28-acre lake. Lake Haigler has a fishing dock for those who like to fish. If you wish to fish at the lake, you must possess a South Carolina fishing license. The lake has beautiful views to enjoy, Geese swim freely upon the lake and occasionally come out of the water to greet you. You can observe turtles sunning on logs, or you can rent a kayak for an adventure of your own on the lake.

The top ten things to do at the Greenway for an enjoyable day with friends, family, or by yourself are as follows:

  • Eat at the Greenway Canteen – The canteen features a seasonal menu and offers local beer and wine for your dining pleasure. One can dine indoors or outdoors in the covered patio area. The canteen is located at the Lake Haigler entrance. The food is excellent, and I highly recommend it.
  • Live Music and Events (Seasonal) – Every Friday and Saturday evenings from 6-9 pm feature Sunset Sessions with live music on the Greenway lawn. Bring a lawn chair or bring a blanket and sit on the grass and relax and enjoy listening to a variety of live music. The Greenway holds special events like the Blue Star Blitz and Earth Day Celebrations. A fun time can be had by one and all.
  • Yoga – Yoga is offered two to three days a week. The workouts are taken place at the Amphitheater. Sessions are $12 for non-members, and 50% off for members.
  • Hiking – 36 miles of hiking trails ensure you will not get bored hiking at the Greenway. The trails range from beginner to intermediate and there are various points of interest to see as you hike. There are a few swinging bridges along the trails. The most popular Swinging Bridge is located at the Lake Haigler Entrance. The Loop around the lake is the most popular trail for hikers and is easily maneuvered by the young and old alike. My two-year-old grandson manages it quite nicely.
  • Mountain Biking – There are mountain bike trails for every level of bikers. You can bike on your own, take a beginner clinic, or have a private lesson. Just grab your bike, come on down and get to riding the trails. All the mountain bike trails begin at the Adventure Road Entrance. To ride your bike on the trails you must be a member of the Greenway or pay a minimal fee at the trailhead kiosk.
  • Mary Warner Mack Dog Park – This park in the Greenway features 12 acres of enclosed natural space for dogs of all sizes to play and socialize. It is located at the Adventure Road Entrance and is open seven days a week. At this time, it is open to Greenway members only. Amenities include a Dog-washing station, Hydration stations, and a mile-long off the leash trail.
  • Kayaking & Paddle Boarding – Located at the Lake Haigler Entrance. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available on weekends beginning in June. The cost is $15 dollars (Prices subject to change) for non-members and 50% off for members. If you own your own kayak or paddleboard, you are more than welcome to bring it on down and spend some quality time on the lake. Please only non-motorized are allowed.
  • Fishing – Offered exclusively for Greenway members.
  • Horseback Riding – The Greenway offers equestrian summer camps, group riding lessons, guided trail rides, and lead line rides. We took my two-year-old grandson on a lead line ride just before he turned two. He thoroughly enjoyed it and would love to do it again.
  • History – Nations Ford Road, and The Graham Cabin both hold significant historical ties to the area. When you come to visit you can learn more about their history.

Our afternoon hiking in the Greenway took place at the Lake Haigler Entrance. We started our hike by the canteen and proceeded walking down to Lake Haigler. It was a beautiful sun shiny day. We walked part way around the lake, past the kayaks, and over to the spillway, traversing the Billy Walk and Wagon Loop trails. We took a short jaunt on Muscadine Trail and back to Wagon Loop and Billy Walk. Then we hiked over to the Swinging Bridge where my grandson ran back and forth across the bridge. The swinging didn’t faze him at all this trip. The first time he walked on it he was scared, but that was a year ago.

God Bless. Get outdoors. Stop by the Anne Springs Close Greenway if you get to the Fort Mill, South Carolina area. If you, do you won’t be sorry. You’ll have a fantastic time. Thank You for visiting. I appreciate y’all.

Miracle Park: Afternoon Funtime

Miracle Park is a fairly new city park located in Rock Hill, South Carolina. The park is designed for all people is ALL ages and abilities to be able to play together, a place where everyone can feel like they belong.

Coleman checking
out the
playground equipment

Miracle Park is being developed in three phases. The first phase was completed, and the park opened to the public in September 2021. It is located between Cherry Road and Eden Terrace. The park has an inclusive playground, sensory wall, and the Miracle Ball Field.

My daughter, grandson, and I visited Miracle Park on Wednesday, March 30, 2022. This was my first time visiting the newly developed park. My grandson, Coleman, was fascinated by all the different aspects in the park where he could touch, climb, swing, and make music.

Only phase one of the park project is open at this time. It is One-of-a-kind inclusive Playground. It was developed so that no matter your age, your physical or mental ability this park is one you will surely enjoy. It has a music section, resistance equipment, an area for interactive games, sensory walls, and a pathway that addresses all five of the senses. The park also maintains a family restroom, Adult changing station, Concession area, One Miracle League Field, A Traditional Baseball field and plenty of unique universal design elements.

Pictured here is the hexagonal climbing apparatus. There is rope and metal areas for children to use to climb to the top as demonstrated by my grandson. Parts of it he had difficulty climbing on his own, so my daughter and I lent a helping hand.

Coleman is discovering how to make sound from the various equipment in the music area of the park. This area also has various sizes of pipes for the children to hit with attached mallets or drumsticks to make music. He really had a fantastic time playing and discovering the innumerable aspects that are a part of this well thought out, planned, and developed park.

My daughter and grandson are interacting on this modern designed Spinner or Merry-go-Round. Not exactly what it is called, but it is similar to a metal merry-go-round I played on as a child. As you can see it was designed for “kids” of all ages.

These swings are not your ordinary swings. They swing from one end to another and back again. The park also has regular swings, toddler and baby swings, as well as a heavy-duty disc swing. The swings were designed for adults and children of all ages and abilities to be able to enjoy and have tons of fun.

If you find yourself in the Rock Hill, South Carolina area and would like to visit Miracle Park, I encourage you to do so. The address is 1006 Eden Terrace, Rock Hill, South Carolina 29730.

God bless. Enjoy the video. Take time to get outdoors and enjoy life. Visit your local, state, or national parks and discovery new and exciting things to do and be sure to include fun in your outings.

As always, I appreciate y’all and hop you’ll stop by and visit with me again. Remember to like, comment, and follow. Have a great day!