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.
Following along with Terri’s Autumn Floral theme, I took a Look Back into my archives for Autumnal Florals (not just Autumn colours, but taken in Autumn) taken in early Autumn. My selections were all taken at various times and locations during the month of October. I know it’s not October yet, however, it soon will be in only a few more days.
Taken October 3, 2023 …
Common Eastern Bumblebee on an Orange Sulphur Cosmos
… at The Garden in The Farm at The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Taken October 6, 2025 …
Panicle Hydrangea
… by the Bridge at Goat Island Park and Greenway in Cramerton, North Carolina.
Taken October 22, 2024 …
A Green Aphid on a Yellow Tickseed Sunflower
… near Lake Haigler along the Haigler Loop Trail at the Anne Springs Close Greenway’s Lake Haigler Entrance in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
Taken October 27, 2023 …
Gulf Fritillary Butterfly on Common Red Zinnias
… by the Gibson House at the Stables Entrance of the Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
God Bless. Admire the Flowers and the beauty found in nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Welcome back to the Which Way Challenge (previously hosted by Cee Neuner). This week our theme is Which Way Challenge (CWWC) 2026: Any Which Way in the Evening (With or Without Rainy Weather) [09.25.2026]. Your Which Ways can be Outdoors, Indoors, Paved or Unpaved, Dirt Trails or any natural surface as long as they are in the evening. Your Choice is exactly that, Whichever Way you choose in the evening. As always Signs are always welcome.
Here are my entries … a Wet and Rainy Evening …
CWWC Cee’s Which Way Challenge Deb’s Which Way Challenge
Click on images to enlarge.
Thank you to those who have participated and supported the Which Ways Challenge. I appreciate y’all sharing your Which Ways with us.
For an idea of other’s Which Ways from this past week’s challenge, be sure to click on the following links below.
The 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.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina
God Bless. Have a lovely weekend filled with love, joy, and laughter. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
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.
Hocking Hills KOA Campground Logan, Hocking County, OhioCozumel Yucatán Peninsula Caribbean Sea Quintana Roo, MexicoSolvang, California ‘The Danish Capital of America.’Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Powell, OhioGuggisberg Cheese Millersburg, Holmes County, OhioLand of Oz Park Beech Mountain, North CarolinaAndrew Jackson State Park Campground Lancaster, South Carolina Hume Lake Christian Camps Hume, Fresno County, CaliforniaCosta Maya Cruise Port, MexicoCarlsbad Caverns National Park Carlsbad, New MexicoStone Mountain Park DeKalb County, GeorgiaKnotts Berry Farm Buena Park, CaliforniaLake Fort Smith State Park Mountainburg, ArkansasHotel del Coronado Coronado, California The San Diego Wild Animal Park Escondido, California Mile High Swinging Bridge Grandfather Mountain Banner Elk, North CarolinaCFFC Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s Fun Foto Challenge Where/What/When We Vacation
Dale, the host of theCosmic Photo Challenge, has challenged us to post a few images of Fruits, Nuts, and Seeds for this week’s challenge. Some Fruits are edible for birds, but bitter or not recommended for humans. Seeds may be in seed pods and reproduce as flowers, while others may still be in fruit and if planted with produce more fruit. Nuts are not just for humans to eat, squirrels and other animals enjoy them as well. Coleman likes to gather nuts and seed pods when we hike along various trails.
Here are my contributions …
Coleman holding an unripe Black WalnutHolly Berries, for birds not humans Peruvian pepper tree (Schinus molle)Yellow WatermelonSweetgum tree seed podsAmerican Beautyberries, aka Callicarpa americanaBlack WalnutsPrickly pears, fruits of the Opuntia cactusUnripe Privet BerriesAcorn Cherry Tomatoes (Botanically a fruit)Jim’s Produce carries an assortment of Fruits, Seeds, and Nuts (also vegetables)Cosmic Photo Challenge #CosPhoChal Fruits, Nuts, and Seeds
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Be observant of all creatures large and small that call our Earth home. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Judy from Life Lessons blog hosts a weekly photo challenge called The Numbers Game.This week’s number is 753. Her instructions for playing along are listed below …
To play along, go to your photos file and type that number into the search bar. Then post a selection of the photos you find under that number and include a link to your blog in Judy’s Numbers Game blog of the day. If instead of numbers, you have changed the identifiers of all your photos into words, pick a word or words to use instead, and show us a variety of photos that contain that word in the title.
God Bless. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I look forward to seeing y’all’s pictures forJudy’s Numbers Game. I appreciate y’all very much.
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.”
These are Mules, even though I heard their owner refer to them as Jackasses. They are Mules, a hybrid. Simply meaning they have one parent that is a male donkey (a jack) and one parent that is a female horse (a mare).
Mules receive their size, strength, and speed from their horse side and inherit their endurance, patience, and a surprising level of intelligence from their donkey side. Their feet a much tougher than those of horses, making them excellent for navigating challenging terrain.
Sunday Stills Animal of the Month Antlers, Horns & Hooves
Terri has recently started a new theme for the Sunday Stillschallenge called Animal of the Month. This month this theme is focusing on Antlers, Horns & Hooves. I’ve decided to share some that are on supper The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Here are my contributions …
Antlers, Horns & Hooves at The Schiele Museum of Natural History
Location: The Schiele Museum of Natural History; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Enjoy your week. Have a wonderful good and safe week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
These Canna Lily seed pods are on an Indian Shot plant which is overgrown since the landscaper hasn’t decided to trim it yet. Looking at these you might think they were dead. However, that is not the case with these Canna Lily seed pods.
This is perfectly normal for Canna Lily seed pods in late summer and early Autumn (late summer, almost Autumn here). These seed pods are maturing and drying out, which means the seeds inside are ready to be dispersed. It is a natural part of their life cycle.
Coleman by “The Passage” Sculpture Warlick Family YMCA Gastonia, North Carolina
“The Passage” was created by artist Andrew K. Crawford, is a truly thoughtful sculpture. The stacked boats are intended to symbolize the journey itself. Each boat represents a different stage or experience we encounter. The figure at the very top is usually interpreted as looking towards the future, reflecting on the path taken and the continuous process of growth and transformation. It embodies the spirit of community and personal development.
On Tuesday Coleman and I were enjoying a relaxing evening in the backyard. While waiting for Coleman to get our lawn chairs set up I noticed a rather nice size mushroom growing near the base of the tall shade tree in the backyard.
Not recognizing it I decided to look it up. I found out that it is a Dryad’s Saddle mushroom. It is also known as Pheasant’s Back mushrooms. It’s scientifically they are referred to as Cerioporus squamosus.
These type of mushrooms are saprophytic fungi which simply means they grow on dead or decaying wood, often growing at the base of trees or fallen logs. Typically when this type of fungi are at the base of a tree the tree is dead or dying. In this case the tree is still alive with green leaves in abundance. The other instance is that there could possibly be some compromised wood that the fungus is helping to break down.
Interestingly, these fungi help to recycle nutrients back into the soil making them a vital part of the ecosystem. If interested, the Dryad’s Saddle mushroom is edible , especially when it’s young and tender. Its flavour is described as mild and mushroomy, with a distinctive cucumber or watermelon rind scent carrying through to its taste when cooked. They are best to cook and eat when they are young, they tend towards toughness when they age.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a pleasant and peaceful weekend. May it be filled with love, happiness, and laughter. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
XingfuMama hosts the weekly challenge Whatsoever Is Lovely. The challenge is simple. Just reflect back over your week and see what is lovely, whether a thing or a moment, share in a post what is precious and lovely to you.
This week I am continuing with Whatsoever is Lovely to me; Beautiful Flowers & Butterflies #4. These images were taken on Coleman’s & my recent visit to the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont, North Carolina. The first area we visited was the Butterfly Bungalow. We had not previously visited the Butterfly Bungalowsince the times we’ve visited Daniel Stowe Conservancy before were in the Springtime.
For this post I am focusing on the Dryas iulia, Aka Julia Longwing butterfly,Julia heliconian, the flame, or flambeau.
Dryas iulia
Dryas iulia is often misspelled incorrectly as julia. It is theonly representative in the genus Dryas. It is a species of brush-footed butterfly, native from Brazil to southern Texas and Florida. In the summertime it can sometimes be found as far north as eastern Nebraska. They are considered rare immigrants or temporary strays in both North and South Carolina. That doesn’t mean they won’t be spotted though. During the warm summer months, individual adults occasionally migrate or drift northwards from their permanent breeding grounds in southern Florida and southern Texas.
Julia Longwing butterfly
The Julia Longwing butterfly was are known for their striking bright orange wings. They can have black markings, and their have notably long and narrow forewings which gives them that “Longwing” moniker.
Julia heliconian
The Julia heliconian butterflies are extremely fast and erratic fliers; they were quite a challenge to capture with my camera. Their fast movements prevented me from being able to catch all of them clearly, however, I still did managed to catch a few good shots with my Canon.
Julia Butterfly
Besides being very fast fliers, they frequent clearings, paths, and margins of forests and woodlands. They feed on the nectar of flowers, like lantanas (Lantana) and shepherd’s-needle. They drink the tears of caiman, the eye of which the butterfly irritates to produce tears.
the flame
The Dryas iulia butterfly species is real popular in butterfly houses similar to the Butterfly Bungalow at the Daniel Stowe Conservancy. Their popularity is due to its longevity and its activity throughout the day. They were intensely fascinating to watch them zipping to and fro, hither and yonder faster than your (at least mine) eyes could follow them.
flambeau
These pictured here are maintained in the controlled environment of the Butterfly Bungalow inside the Gardens of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont, North Carolina. The Dryas iulia are a featured seasonal resident of the Butterfly Bungalow at Daniel Stowe Conservancy. Since these butterflies thrive in tropical environments, the Garden imports them chrysalides as part of their summer pollinator exhibition. The warm, humid greenhouse enclosure provides an ideal environment for them to fly alongside other native and tropical species like the Zebra Longwing and Malachite.
Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T7 (2000D) with Canon EF-S55-250mm lens.
Location: Butterfly Bungalow; Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden; Bely, North 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.
Whenever Coleman and I visit The Schiele Museum of Natural History we almost always walk along The Nature Trail (we only miss it if we arrive too late and it’s already closed).
Coleman Style
at The Schiele Museum
of Natural History
Whenever Coleman and I visit The Schiele Museum of Natural History we almost always walk along The Nature Trail (we only miss it if we arrive too late and it’s already closed).
Walking around the Nature Trail, there are strategically placed benches for one to Pull Up a Seat and rest a spell if desired or needed. On this adventure Coleman pushed his sister, Sophia, along the dirt trail. While walking he came across a bench where he stopped and Pulled Up a Seat keeping the stroller with his sister by his side.
Here’s my contributions of Coleman Pulling Up a Seat …
XingfuMama’s Pull Up a Seat Coleman Style at The Schiele Museum of Natural History
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.
This week Terri, our host for The Flower Houris focusing on Floral ABC’s concentrating on STUV. Let’s have some fun. Here are my STUV Florals for this week’s challenge. It wasn’t too hard to locate flowers beginning with S and T, but U was extremely difficult, henceforth, I didn’t find any amongst my photo files. V was hard to locate any type of flowers other than Violets.
God Bless. Admire the Flowers and the beauty found in nature. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Being a cool early evening on Tuesday, Coleman and I spent some time
outside in the backyard. I relaxed while he played with his bat and balls. Take a look at some of his antics and expressions as you see trios of balls (not all are t-balls).
Thursday Trios Coleman’s Antics & Expressions Playing Ball in the Backyard
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Take a Walk/Hike. Enjoy Nature’s Beauty. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Today was slightly cooler than it has been all summer, giving us the perfect opportunity to photograph the surrounding foliage.
Dale, the host of theCosmic Photo Challenge, has challenged us to post a few images of foliage for this week’s challenge. Today was actually slightly cooler than it has been all summer, therefore, Coleman and I spent a couple of weeks in the backyard. While he was running around and playing I snapped a few pictures of the foliage surrounding us. I changed it up after a few minutes and shot in black and white.
Here are some of the Foliage I captured …
In Colour …
#CosPhoChal Cosmic Photo Challenge Foliage in Colour
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Be observant of all creatures large and small that call our Earth home. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Dan with No Facilities, the host ofCee’s Fun Foto Challenge is continuing with the theme of Where/What/When we do various things. This week’s focus is on Where/What/When We Shop. This new series will continue for approximately three (3) more weeks. We are currently in the third week of the Where/What/When CFFC series. This theme was inspired by Dawn M. Miller.
I have gathered a few images of Where/What/When I’ve Shopped over the years. Most of my shopping these days are done online via Amazon, Walmart, and Harlequin. I do still get out for groceries and other necessary or essential various sundries.
Here are my contributions …
Artisan Open Market Anne Springs Close Greenway Fort Mill, SCAmazon.comDeep Gap Cash Store Deep Gap, NCJulian Pie Company Julian, CaliforniaBaby General Hospital Cleveland, GeorgiaThe Shop Antiques, Refinishing Abilene, TexasLehman’s Kidron, Ohio https://www.lehmans.com/Ashe County Cheese West Jefferson, NC https://www.ashecountycheese.com/Jim’s Produce Deep Gap, NCHarris Teeter Charlotte, NCThe Trailhead Store Daniel Stowe Conservancy Belmont, NCGeneral Store Coshocton, Ohio Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge Dan’s CFFC Where/What/When We Shop
God Bless. Have a wonderful week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Note: Outside the General Store in Ohio, the man on the left is my maternal grandfather. Coleman is outside the door of The Trailhead Store. Outside the Deep Gap Cash Store are my Great Aunt Sophrona (called Aunt Sophie, she’s my grandfather’s sister) and her husband (my great uncle.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina
God Bless. Have a lovely weekend filled with love, joy, and laughter. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. Mark 6:31-32
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 …
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, a double suspension bridgeSan Francisco–Oakland Bay BridgeSan Francisco Bay BridgeSan Francisco-Oakland Bay BridgeSan Francisco Bay BridgeGolden Gate Bridge, San FranciscoLAPC – 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.
For the first time since moving to our current neighbourhood (back in March), I heard the Caw Caw sound of our first visitor in a long while. I happened to have been sitting on the porch with my granddaughter waiting for Coleman to arrive on the school bus. When I heard the cawing I stood up to see where it was perched. It was being watchful (scoping out the surroundings) atop a weathered sun-bleached utility pole.
What did I see when I looked up? The gleaming black feathers of an AmericanCrow (Corvus brachyrhynchos). American Crows are quite common here and throughout North Carolina. They can be seen from our coastal areas and on into our mountains. They are incredibly adaptable, thriving in urban areas, farmlands, forests, as well as in our coastal regions.
Let’s take a look at some interesting fun facts about the American Crow.
They are Master Problem Solvers: They can solve puzzles and use tools to get food for example, they can bend a wire to hook something out of a tube.
They have Excellent Memory: Crows are known for remembering faces, especially those who have been kind or unkind to them. They pass information about “dangerous” humans through their flock.
They have Complex Communication: They have a wide range of calls, more than just a simple “caw.” It is believed that they have different call for danger, for finding food, or even to distinguish individual crows within their group.
They are Social Creatures: Crows live in tight-knit family units. Their young often stay with their parents for several years. While they remain with their parents they help to raise their younger siblings (much like in a human family).
They have “Crow Funerals”: Who would have ever guessed? Whenever a crow dies, other crows often gather around it, sometimes ever for extended periods of time. This maybe a way for them to learn about potential dangers within their environment and it gives them an opportunity to mourn.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Have a pleasant and peaceful weekend. May it be filled with love, happiness, and laughter. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
Welcome back to another Which Way Challenge (CWWC). I trust everyone has had a good week and able to spend some time to take a walk or hike in the vast outdoors. This week’s theme is CWWC: Any Which Way with Paved Walkways, Pathways, and/or sidewalks (not roads). The Which Way can be any path, sidewalk, trail, or road as long as thereare vehicles on theWhich Way and the way is clearly discernible. As always signs are always welcome.
For further information regarding the Which Way Challenge (CWWC) feel free to check out the home page here.
This week I am thinking about all the lives lost on 9/11. May they never be forgotten.
Remember the families of those killed in the 9/11 tragedy. Pray for them as they gather and remember on this 25th anniversary of 9/11. May they receive peace and comfort during this difficult time period.
Now on to this week’s Which Way Challenge (CWWC). I am venturing back in time to 2017 to a trip I made to Jacksonville, North Carolina to see my sons who lived there at the time. While my younger sign was on duty as a Marine at Camp Lejeune, my eldest son took me to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville, North Carolina. To find out more about the Lejeune Memorial Gardens feel free to click here.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial and others like it have special meaning to us. My husband and his brothers as well as my brother all served in the military during the Vietnam War.
There are memorials at the Lejeune Memorial Gardens, I believe, for every war the United States Military ever participated in.
Vietnam Veterans MemorialBeirut MemorialVietnam Veterans MemorialVietnam Veterans MemorialFlags proudly representing the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and the POW/MIA cause.Beirut MemorialBeirut MemorialBeirut MemorialMontford Point Marine MemorialVietnam Veterans Memorial155mm M114 Howitzer155mm M114 Howitzer, powerful tribute to military personnel, especially those connected to Camp LejeuneMontford Point Marine MemorialEagle, Globe, and Anchor Reflection Pool‘Our Fallen Brothers,’ featuring the insignias of the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Marine Divisions.Vietnam Veterans MemorialLejeune Memorial Gardens Jacksonville, North Carolina
Click on images to enlarge.
Thank you to those who have participated and supported the Which Ways Challenge. I appreciate y’all sharing your Which Ways with us.
For an idea of other’s Which Ways from this past week’s challenge, be sure to click on the following links below.
These sunflowers are not the type of flower you’d normally picture if someone said Sunflower, however, they are still beautiful in their own unique way.
Tithonia rotundifolia
The Mexican Sunflower is a plant in the Asteraceae family whose native origins range from Mexico to Central America.
Red Sunflower
They’re beloved by gardeners for their bright, fiery orange or red-orange petals and yellow centers, which resemble small sunflowers.
Mexican sunflower
They thrive in full sun and warm weather, which is typical for Gastonia’s weather. They are attractive to pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds which absolutely adore them, making them a fantastic addition to any garden looking to support local wildlife.
Tithonia rotundifolia, the Red sunflower or Mexican sunflower
The Tithonia rotundifolia, aka Mexican sunflower is not actually a true sunflower from the Helianthus family. However, their daisy-like blooms give off a similar sunny vibe. They are quite resilient and easy to grow. These flowers are surrounding my neighbours mailbox giving colour and beauty to the neighbourhood.
Location: Unity Community; Gastonia, North Carolina, USA
God Bless. Stop and smell the flowers. Admire them and the beauty found in nature. Have a fantastic week. Thank you for visiting and sharing your time and thoughts with us. I appreciate y’all very much.
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.
California Tower and dome in Balboa ParkThe San Diego skyline truly shines at sunset over the bayUSS Midway Museum is located along the Embarcadero in San Diego A Postcard of mine of Broadway, San Diego, CA On Line of the San Diego & Arizona Eastern RailwaySan Diego Harbor San Diego’s skyline, with a naval ship San Diego Wild Animal Park San Pasqual Valley Escondido, CA“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, 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 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 Listen to Christian Music Artist outdoors in Lancaster, SCTo Listen to a First Grade end of year performance at Sadler Elementary To Watch & Listen to a Performance of Disney on IceTo a Basketball game from high up in the balcony seatingTo a Entertaining Performance at the Land of OzTo Watch & Listen to Mickey & Minnie Mouse in Disney on IceTo a Pastor present a message from the Bible To Nature while camping at Andrew Jackson State Park To Watch a Live Children’s Production of Charlie Brown Christmas To Listen to Worship Songs in an Outdoor Amphitheater Cee’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.
The Tymco SM74C is a popular model for municipal and contractor street sweepings. It is known for its regenerative air system which uses a high-velocity air blast to dislodge debris and then vacuums it into the hopper, making it very efficient at keeping our curbs and streets clean without the need for water unlike other sweeper type models.
Brahman cattle originally came from India and are a hybrid of four different Indian cattle breeds. They are well-suited for the hot climates like we’ve been experiencing this summer.
We saw this one and others like it at The Lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville, North Carolina. Their loose skin, short, sleek hair, and ability to sweat efficiently are the reasons they adapt so well to our hot and humid summer climates. Their distinctive hump on their shoulders is the key feature which helps store fat. They are known to be gentle temperament creatures.
Azaleas differ from other Rhododendrons by only having five (5) stamens per flower instead of the typical ten (10) or more on other Rhododendrons. They are popular ornamental plants, known for their showy blooms in a wide variety of colours.
Their colours range from vibrant pink to white, purple, and red. I normally see the pink and red varieties in the gardens around town. They are always available to be seen in the Garden in The Farm at The Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia, North Carolina.
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.
Whenever Coleman and I visit The Schiele Museum of Natural History we almost always visit The Farm (we only miss it if we arrive too late and it’s already closed). Walking around the Farm we visit the animals (the goats, the sheep, and Mike & Lucky, aka the cows) and admire the Flowers (at least I do anyway). Coleman likes to climb on the red tractor and other interesting things. What other things would interest a rambunctious little boy? An old wagon with a hay bale, of course. Yep, that’s right, he climbed up on the wagon and made himself at home by #PullingUpaSeat on a Hay Bale.
Here’s my contributions of Coleman Pulling Up a Seat on a Wagon’s Haystack …
#PullUpaSeat Coleman Style on a Haystack at The Schiele Museum of Natural History
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