Kim’s Photography Blog
October 24 to 26, Lynchburg, Virginia and Blue Ridge Parkway
After leaving Shenandoah National Park I headed to Lynchburg, Virginia to visit my Mother-in-law Cathy, Sister-in-law Jenny and Brother-in-law David. It was a bit overcast during my stay, which was just fine with me. More warm, soft colors of fall.
Cathy and Jenny took me for a lovely drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway and a lunch at Peaks of Otter Restaurant which sits along Otter Creek Lake. It was a gorgeous day with the autumn colors a bit brighter than Shenandoah the day before. I have sooo many photos from that day it was extremely hard to choose which to include in the blog!
Cathy also played tourist and took me around downtown Lynchburg to see the sites. The last time I visited Lynchburg I did not make it into town, so this was a treat! I also stopped along Riverwalk Trail on the way out of town and snapped a few photos. It was not on the agenda, but looked so nice driving by I couldn’t resist. Loved the “Love” sculpture!
As is with all the visits this one was also too short, but very meaningful. It has been such a gift to see so many people in person to give my love during my travels. We get so carried away with our busy lives we forget to take a breath and tell our loved ones how much they mean to us. I found it to be especially important after loosing a loved one to give a hug and say “I love you” in person. All my love McAden’s. Forever in my heart!
Onward to Gates, North Carolina to visit more loved ones. This visit will be to see my mom Jeanne’s family and a place I spent many a summer.
Otter Creek Lake at Peak’s of Otter Restaurant along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
My sister-in-law Jenny amidst all the autumn leaves.
Otter Creek Lake along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Otter Creek Lake along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Always wanted to find one of these painted rocks, but we left it. It reads, “May all beings be happy 🙂 May all beings find joy 💗 May all beings live in peace ☮️”
Otter Creek lake along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Sister-in-law Jenny and Mother-in-law Cathy in front of the Peaks of Otter Restaurant.
Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway
This was a dam, which I forget the name. Manmade waterfall, but just as beautiful as a natural waterfall!
Creek along the dam. Mike wanted me to include this photo as it reminded him of the creek that ran behind his home in Lorton, Virginia. He spent many a day with his dog Muffin and his friends playing in the creek. Happy memories.
Lovely James River along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Confederate solder at the head of Monument Terrace in Lynchburg. I read there is also a time capsule buried at the base of the statue. It was erected in 1900. When traveling through the South, especially Virginia, you are continually reminded of our hard fought war Civil War.
Lynchburg Courthouse, established 1855. It’s now a museum and I’d love to visit one day!
Monument Terrace. The terrace dates from the 1880’s and was completed in 1925. It has a series of 132 steps and overlooks the James River, Langley Fountain, and Lynch’s Ferry which was established in 1757.
A section of Monument Terrace. I’d have included a photo at the bottom, however, there was a film crew there that day.
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Cathy’s church. I believe Cathy said the church was made with Bluestone. Quite beautiful!
Villa Maria estate recently renovated. Circa 1863.
James River along the Riverwalk Trail
Riverwalk Trail
James River along the Riverwalk Trail
Riverwalk Trail. Aren’t I daring to balance myself out here for this photo? Lol, no, I’m on a deck.
Langley Fountain spouting along the James River. This marks the original location of the Lynchburg Ferry, circa 1757.
Loved this Love sculpture along the Riverwalk!
Jenny, Dave, Cathy and Riley
October 24 - Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
My trip from Porter Corner’s New York to Front Royal, Virginia was a long one, but considering I went through New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia to get there, I was surprised at how quickly the miles passed. I left New York in the morning, stopped in Kingston, NY to say goodbye again to Susan, and was in Front Royal, VA by sunset. Amazing!
The next morning I entered through the north entrance of Shenandoah National Park and proceeded down Skyline Drive along the Blue Ridge Mountains on the Appalachian Trail. Even writing this is emotional. Such profound American history I passed though! Some of you may know the Appalachian Trail runs north from Maine all the way south to Georgia and I’ve been fortunate to hike along portions in multiple states. I’m sure I’m not the only one reading this that considers it a dream to hike the whole trail, though I’m afraid those days have passed for me. I’m happy now to hike any portion.
The highlight of Skyline Drive are the views and I could not have asked for a better day to enjoy them. Clear, cool, and you could see forever. Do wish I had an earlier start as I was faced with pretty intense light for photography. It was also just a bit early for full Autumn color, but after the stunning display in New York, I was hardly concerned. For those following my blog for travel tips, if you love stunning views this is the drive for you!!
In keeping with my goal of seeing waterfalls, I picked out a waterfall to hike to, Dark Hallow Falls. Okay, one thing to keep in mind about waterfalls, unless you’re starting at the bottom there is uphill hiking involved. I started at the top and took all my gear, because I did not want to leave it in the car. Well, fun, fun, fun, 1.5 miles round trip. I swear my back still hurts. It was pretty dry as far as waterfalls go, but did manage to capture a few photos. The three waterfall photos below are different sections, its a huge waterfall! On the way back up I was super happy to play tag team with an older couple. I’m still dubious if they were actually keeping an eye on me. If so, I was thankful!
I exited the park through highway 33 (I think) on the way to Lynchburg, Virginia. On the way out of the mountains I passed an old Appalachian home along with a small herd of cows. So cute, so I stopped for a photo. The home had been long abandoned, but made me think of the days when we used to refer to inhabitants of these Appalachian homes as “Hillbillies” and how happy I was that times had changed. No sooner had I thought this when I passed a larger inhabited home which was not much different than the one in the photo below. So, times have not changed for some. Really wanted to stop for a photo of this home too, but I didn’t out of respect.
It was a great, albeit short, trip to the park and I look forward to returning one day with Mike. I’d love to see more of the park, camp, maybe even take a canoe trip along Shenandoah River. Onward to Lynchburg, Virginia to see my mother-in-law, sister-in-law and brother-in-law.
Stunning views
The lovely and relaxing drive you’ll experience along Skyline Drive.
More Stunning views.
Autumn colors just starting.
As the motto goes, “Virginia is for Lovers.” Just adored this older couple and their affection for each other.
More of the relaxing and gorgeous drive.
Cabin rentals, I say yes!! I believe this cabin was in the Skyline area.
Beginning of Dark Hallow Falls Trail. Deceptively flat, lol.
Upper section that was visible from trail. Right about here I heard a loud crash that sounded like a canon. It was a huge tree falling across a wooden platform. Scared me!!
Middle section of falls visible from trail.
Lower Dark Hallow Falls.
Old Appalachian home.
And the cute cows who clearly did not understand why I was not bringing them a treat.
October 20 to 23 - Porter Corner's, New York
I’ve been away from blogging for a few weeks because I was having so much fun I ran out of time to blog! Well, that and I was also feeling under the weather. My down times were reserved for resting to try and beat back a chest cold that came on strong. I didn’t win and it got me, darn it! Still recovering, weeks later.
After leaving New York City Maya, Sky and I returned to Saugerties briefly for the evening and in the morning made our way to Porter Corner’s, New York, where Maya, Joe and Sky live. It’s near Saratoga Springs for any of you that may be familiar with the area. They live in a 200 year old farm house which they have made into a warm and cozy home. They are also in the process of building a larger home on their gorgeous property, photos below. Loved seeing all the progress they have made since the last time I visited!
My stay was short and I spent the time resting and walking around swooning over the stunning Autumn views on their property. I couldn’t help but think this would make a perfect BNB retreat. I could totally see the smaller farmhouse turning into a BNB when their larger home is complete.
I left on the morning 23rd to head south to Shenandoah National Park, but it was not without a little sadness as I’ll miss everyone in New York. Just have to say how lucky I am to have my sister Maya and that I love her to pieces! Big thanks to Joe for sharing her with me while I was there. It was so wonderful to see all three of you and it was so hard to leave. Hugs and kisses until we see each other again.
Pond adjacent to the farmhouse (not in photo) with a garage and workspace to the back. See my car out there?
Family photo: Sky, Maya, Joe and Moxie.
Such a good dog!!
Peaceful morning view out from the living room.
Love all the old rock walls in the north east. They have some beauties on the property.
Moxie, she’s battling cancer and was slowing down a bit when I visited. Still, just as sweet as can be. I enjoyed spending my days with her while I was there.
Pond again, so pretty.
Sun peeking through the autumn golden colors.
Driveway to the the larger farmhouse they are building.
New home in process.
Stunning autumn colors from the front porch.
I’m not from a cold climate, so I’ll call this the fireplace. It’s central to the inside of the house. I think it’s a stove of some sort? Spiral staircase behind leading up to a stunning view. Maya, what the name of the overlook at the top?
New rock wall, in keeping with character of the area.
Autumn, ahhh…
Farmhouse they are living in. So sweet and cozy.
Morning routines. Old and modern worlds combined. Sky is such a great kid about getting up in the morning!
Beautiful mural Maya made for the bathing area.
Okay, I purposely edited this photo to look extra scary. It’s actually not quite that bad, but still! It’s the stairs leading to the basement in the farmhouse. It was around Halloween time so I embellished.
Beautiful mornings!
Pond. Just love they have their own pond!
Sky playing
Road leading out of the property. I don’t think there is a bit of this property that isn’t beautiful!
Morning light.
Joe had made walking trails throughout the property. I wasn’t feeling well so didn’t get a chance to go on them, but I’ll be back for sure!!
Some of you might remember I really wanted to see waterfalls during this trip. Even though this is a manmade waterfall on the property, it counts, right? I forget what they call this, but it’s for water control. Maya?
Pond. Love the circle of the branches and cattails.
Pond. One more photo before I drive away!
I’m so glad I made it to Porter Corner’s just in time to hit the Autumn colors!
October 18 to 19 - New York City
How lucky am I to have family with connections to New York City? When my sister Maya offered to buy tickets to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for us I jumped at the chance. I did have to slightly revise my travel schedule, but how could I turn it down? It’s a chance of a lifetime to have a personal guide to the city as well as to these two American landmarks. If you have never been to NYC, or the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, add it to your list at the top. You’ll thank me!
We started our trip with brisk walk though the city to attend a prior appointment Maya had, then a lovely Autumn carriage ride through Central Park, followed by attending a squash tournament Maya’s father David was in at the New York Athletic Club. We had a delicious meal at the club with David, his wife Eileen, and a friend, then settled in at David and Eileen’s home in the evening.
The next morning I managed to get up before everyone to take sunrise photos on the roof of David and Eileen’s home. They live on the top floor of an apartment building in Greenwich Village in Manhattan with views for days and a lovely field of succulents to enjoy. Yes, a field growing right on a roof in Manhattan. It’s spectacular, sweet, and homey all at once. I’m grateful for their hospitality for offering their home for the evening.
David, Sky and I took a quick trip to the Farmer’s Market, then Maya, Sky and I had a lovely breakfast with Maya’s sister Carrie (kicking myself for neglecting to take a photo!), then off to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. All in all a fantastic trip which has really has been an anchor point to this whole journey. Already miss my New York family terribly!
This was me the whole time, running after Maya and Sky. I’m a notoriously slow walker (so they tell me), and Maya is a speed demon. They even tried to help me by carrying my gear, but to no avail.
In the big city now.
Sky’s beautiful lock’s.
The edge of Central Park. I suppose I should know the significance of this statue.
Sky relaxing on our carriage ride.
New Yorkers enjoy the respite from the city in Central Park. Where nature meets the skyline.
And boulders to play on.
View from the carriage ride.
New York Athletic Club, established 1868. I’m not sure of the history, but I think this location was established in 1927.
View near the entrance. Love the detail of the architecture.
We should all strive to be David when we grow up. He’s the guy in the white shorts up in front and he’s 80. Crazy great shape!
Maya and I on the rooftop of the club.
Sunset peeking through the high-rises.
NYC cabby. I’m not sure why I think this is cool, but I do. I felt like I needed to confess something, but held back.
Early morning sunrise from David and Eileen’s roof.
Sunrise from the rooftops.
David and Elieen’s rooftop cottage. It’s an oasis in the city, complete with a lovely field of succulents. This is the upper floor, with the main living space below.
Mockingbird singing its morning song.
Not sure, maybe a Ruby Crowned Kinglet?
Pretty mockingbird in the morning light.
When spending time with the older generation they tend to nonchalantly throw out little facts. On our walk to the farmer’s market, David pointed out this was Timothy Leary’s office for the League for Spiritual Discovery back in the day. What?! I’m over here walking by hippie history?
In every big city everywhere, the strange mix of old and new.
Maya and Sky on the subway platform.
Waiting for the subway to the ferry.
Ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Not the best photo imo. Skyline from the ferry.
There she is! How cool, right? Something I’ve only seen in books, movies and TV, standing right there in front of me.
As the photos below will attest, I kind of was rather enamored.
These photos were all taken from ferry.
Boat dock on the island.
Canadian immigrants. Just can’t understand why they keep flocking over our boarders!
Photos taken on the island.
I supposed I like this one the best.
Sky checking out a piece in the museum. I missed the best shot when he had his head up her nose, lol. Little boys…
Ellis Island. Many a weary traveler found this to be their first stop providing food, medical assistance, and if everything was in order, a new life in a new land.
First stop, the entry hall to process your papers and receive a medical check.
This is one of the original benches which you can sit in and imagine what it was like to immigrate to America through Ellis Island from 1862 to 1954. A little bit of our history I’m glad I saw. Thank you Maya.
Sky on waiting for the ferry back to NYC. To be young again…
New York City skyline from the ferry.
October 12 to 20 - Saugerties, New York
After leaving Medina, New York I headed to Saugerties, New York to see my birth family. For those of you who may not know, I’m adopted and my birth family located me in my mid 20’s. It’s been a gift to have them in my life.
My birth mother Susan, and her husband Peter, live on Cantine’s Island, a cohousing development. To quote right from their website.
We are an established community whose members foster deep neighborly ties by sharing meals, play and the work of maintaining and bettering our community.
Old-fashioned community values come in a new form at Cantine’s Island Cohousing, where members live cooperatively and people of all ages interact naturally in this family-friendly neighborhood.
It’s always a pleasure to visit my family in Saugerties, share meals with the community and run into all their lovely neighbors. The Cantine’s Island community reminds me a lot of my childhood visits to North Carolina on my grandparents farm, same feel in a way. However, the homes are closer together and the amenities of a small town nearby are also very nice. Every time I visit I think of how great it would be to live here. Really wish I had taken a wide shot of the community as it’s quite lovely.
My visit included meals with the neighbors and Susan’s great cooking of course. A trip into Saugerties for lunch. Light yard work (There’s drawback to all those pretty leaves.). A trip to Kingston to visit Susan’s art studio to take photos of her art and have a lovely lunch. A walk to the dam on Esopus Creek. A walk to the Saugerties Lighthouse (Posted earlier). A side trip to NYC with my sister Maya (Next blog post.). And of course, lot’s of great family time, which I’m immensely grateful for.
Some 30 years ago my birth mother Susan found me. Since then we have built lasting and loving ties together.
Susan’s husband, Peter, in his spot.
Back porch on a rainy day in Autumn. Just beautiful.
Monarch in the garden. Last of summer hanging on.
A neighbor playing bagpipes in the morning for a celebration. Susan and Peter live on Cantine’s Island in a co-housing development. Scenes like this seem to abound.
Susan’s art studio in Kingston, New York. Large loft studios in an old factory.
View down below from the studio.
Susan’s artwork. I’ve selected this one in thinking about the forest fires in California. Heartbreaking right now.
My favorite piece!
Susan’s newly completed work. Just love this one too!
Waterfall by the Esopus Creek dam which is part of the Saugerties Reservoir. It’s straight down from Cantine’s Island.
The dam is below Bridge Street.
And it’s lovely. I’ve been to Saugerties a few times and this is the first time I’ve taken the hike to the dam from the Cantine’s Island property. It was a tad difficult, but worth the walk.
Love the rock formations here, slate I think. Susan is interested in textures and since I was walking with her, I found myself thinking about textures as well.
More rock formations.
End of the season prep for plants.
I’m going to guess this is poison ivy. It’s lovely in the Fall, but not so fun for everyone. Doesn’t bother me thank goodness!
Some sort of shelf lichen/bracket fungus. I’m always attracted to its many forms.
Little mushrooms. Almost missed them and Susan pointed them out.
Lovely Fall colors at Esopus Creek. I really should have explored more during this stay.
Susan resting after our hike. So nice this swing is right near the trail!
Turkeys! I’ve seen turkey’s five or six times on my trip and each time I miss getting a photos of them. These were wandering around Cantine’s Island. Not a great photo, but had to include. I’m not so good at getting unexpected shots.
Peter: among other things, he is a Vietnam Vet, and RN nurse and member of VVAW. Peter shared some of his collection of articles from his activist activities. He has a fascinating history. Good man with a heart of gold.
Sky sharing some grandpa time.
Family photo: me, Peter, Maya, Sky and Susan.
Whoops, while leaving to Porter Corner’s we had a little mistake. The key’s got locked in Maya’s car and AAA saved the day! Off to my sister’s in Porter Corner’s. Bonus, the neighbor standing there had just been to the farmers market and shared a fantastic squash galette recipe we made later at my sisters.
After leaving Porter Corner’s (Maya’s and Joe’s), I stopped by Kingston to say goodbye to Susan before I headed to Shenandoah National Park. I’m including this photo a little out of the time sequence to share what the outside of the art studio looks like. Pretty cool place. Loved Kingston too. Just wish Kingston had a camera shop!
October 15 - Saugerties Lighthouse, New York
Well, I had another remote location delay and continue to be far behind. I’m so spoiled living in the city and I just can’t get used to spotty Internet! I have so many wonderful blog posts to share with you that are just backed up for days!! This post is from the lighthouse in Saugerties, New York. I have visited this beloved place before and it was good to see it again. It is just as pretty as ever. To note, I was in Saugerties visiting my birth mother, her husband, as well as my sister and her family.
The Saugerties lighthouse is located in the Hudson River at Esopus Creek. It was established in 1835 and was listed in the historical register in 1979. One thing I didn’t know prior to this visit is it is also Bed and Breakfast! Hum, sounds like something that would be really fun to do for a night or two in the future.
This visit I went out very early in the morning around sunrise and the fall colors were glorious! It is a bit of a walk to the lighthouse so best to go at low tide. This time around I also ran into one of the inn keepers and their son which was a suprise. What a lovely place to live and grow up!!
Beginning of the walk. It was actually a little dark so this photo really
View looking towards Esopus Creek.
Seems this bench may not be the best of seating areas now. It’s my understanding global warming has caused the water to continue to rise which may be the reason this bench had seaweed all over it. I read the water will continue to rise and eventually this lovely walk to the lighthouse will not be possible.
Downey Woodpecker.
Common Grackle
Just a beautiful morning walk!
October 10 to 12 - Medina, New York - Julie!!
Warning: This post contains a number of bug photos. Be prepared!
My path to Medina, New York from Battle Creek, Michigan took me by Chicago (do not recommend) and across the boarder to Canada. I’ll get right to it, the boarder crossing was strange. On the US side there was the person at the booth asking questions, typical, but also a row of border patrol officers standing in front of each booth/car looking somber, serious, and looking sternly right into every car. I don’t remember this from the last time. The Canadian boarder patrol agents were a little nicer with just the typical questions from the person in the booth with no armed guard looking suspiciously at you. Just was a bit odd on the US side.
Canada was much like all the land I’ve seen since leaving Yellowstone: corn, corn, corn, cows, farms. There were some small differences, like farms waving huge Canadian flags. I guess they’re super patriotic in Canada. And a bunch of farms with huge Amish quilt billboard looking things in their yards. I’m not sure what that was all about. Must signify something? However, all in all, the farmlands and farm houses looked exactly the same as they do from coast to coast in the United States. I couldn’t help think about how much we are the same all over the continent, maybe the world, and we just don’t realize it.
The boarder crossing back into the United States from Canada had no Canadian check point. Sort of, “Leave already, we won’t argue with you.” The United States check point was just the typical questions with no armed guards. They didn’t, however, like my leftover Tijuana, Mexico paperwork I had forgotten in my passport. They were suspicious I was traveling from Mexico on this trip. Almost, I guess, since I started out in San Diego, but not exactly.
My trip to Medina, New York was awesome! It was so good to see Julie and Nigel again and so fun to be around a fellow photographer! I took WAY too many photos! Julie’s home was warm and inviting and filled with the happy chatter of dogs which, if you know Julie, is part of her DNA. There were 12 lucky souls with her at the moment. She is very active in helping out a rescue and her big heart was taking care of a bunch at the moment. Of course Nigel (an African Grey parrot) was there too, scaring me with his radio man voice. He talks on and on in a radio man creepy voice which you can’t understand a word. Tons of chatter from Nigel too. I love his northern accent, sweet calls for dogs in Julie’s voice, greetings, and his grumpy cussing. I miss Julie and her menagerie so much.
She is also helping a rescue that is situated on a farm so I’ll share some (not all!) of the animals she cares for. So awesome! She was also kind enough to show me around the Medina area: see the big Medina apple, going downtown to go antiquing, exploring an abandoned factory, breakfast and dinner, and of course the Culvert Bridge of Medina!! It’s in Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Fasten your seatbelts folks for that one!
All in all a wonderful stop and I hope I’ll be back soon with Mike in tow!
Overload of photos below.
Downtown Medina, New York. Now, if I were smart, I’d have taken a photo looking down the street! Perfect little town ready to bust on the scene as a homey, trendy, artsy place to live. Julie, you picked right!
The Medina Big Apple honoring the regions fruit growers. Erected in 2000 and made by Richard Bannister. It’s an, um, interesting roadside attraction, much like the culvert bridge latter in the photos.
Julie and one of the horses she cares for. This horse had cancer but doing well.
Farm kitty in the barn.
This goat has quite a story, Annie. Her mom had twins and after the birth the farmer went home and went to bed. Only it wasn't twins, it was triplets! When the farmer came back in the morning poor kid had its face frozen to the ground. Looks like things worked out okay though. She just looks a little like Shrek.
Update, Annie passed away Monday, October 28, 2019. I was told it was peaceful.
Fiona, the sheep.
Charlie, Julie’s favorite guy. He was a former Amish carriage horse I believe. I meant to include a photo with his old buggy, but forgot. I’ll add it in later. Check back!
Oh my, the yellow jackets!!
The yellow jackets were out of control! Didn’t seem to bother us tho.
Always heard these would not bite. Sure looks like it could bite to me!! I’ll look up the name in a bit and revise.
Me taking advantage of foraging. The farmer left rows and rows of lima beans unpicked along all the tree lines. Presumably because all the black walnuts around them? Maybe they would muck up the equipment? Don’t know, but I picked lots of lima beans. Just finished the last bit today. So good! Cell photo.
Julie doing what she loves, taking care of animals. This is Rosie.
Buzzards in the field
Aster’s I think.
Dried thistle.
More milkweed. Love them!!
Milkweed
Thistle
Queen Anne’s Lace
Queen Ann’s lace with lotsa ants!
Goldenrod with friends.
Ladybug and thistle
Hungry bee in a thistle flower.
OMG, these butterflies were amazing!! They were by the side of the road in hundreds, I guess migrating. The shots with multiple butterflies didn’t come out striking enough, but trust me, amazing. I did take some video too. I’lll have to see if this platform supports videos and I’ll include one. Check back later.
Yellow butterflies. They left the area after these photos were taken, but wow, what a sight!
Well, you’ve waited long enough. Here’s Medina’s famous culvert bridge that’s in Ripley’s Believe or Not. It’s a bridge under the Erie Canal. It’s literally in the middle of farmland, well away from downtown. So strange!
This culvert tunnel is the only place in all of New York where you can drive under the Erie Canal. It’s kind of the reverse of a typical culvert bridge where traffic drives over running water.
Now, I know you are truly amazed, right?! There’s a Ripley’s Believe or Not plaque on the wall of the outside of the bridge which I meant to get a photo of too.
The reason I forgot the Ripley’s Believe or Not plaque photo on the bridge was this plant, lol. Like it? Anyone know the name?
I don’t know if folks in the state of New York realize this, but you really can make things with these apples. Or maybe give them away. So, so many apples!!
Okay, California and Hawaii, get ready to drop your mouth. This house sold at auction for 40K. It’s being turned into a Bed and Breakfast. It’s right in downtown Medina.
And this house sold for 50K at auction, with acreage. Located just outside of Medina’s downtown.
Julie knows me well and let me play in an abandoned building just next to the big red apple.
Bridge in Medina over the Erie Canal.
The big red apple and Medina’s Erie Canal bridge.
And this guy. He needs a home. Anyone want to adopt a senior beagle from Medina, New York? He’s a sweetie!
October 8 to 10 - Battle Creek, Michigan and Shipshewana, Indiana
The stop in Battle Creek, Michigan to visit Aunt Carol and Uncle Arden was filled with love, family time, and a trip to Shipshewana, Indiana. We also had a lovely family dinner at Mike’s cousin Trent’s Restaurant, Lucky Rooster (dinner was outstanding!). After dinner we visited his cousin’s Tony and Kara’s home and adorable little farm.
Aunt Carol and Uncle Arden took me on a lovely drive to visit a sweet Amish community in Shipshewana, Indiana. I was instructed that photos were okay, but perhaps they did not want you to take photos of them personally. This made me quite shy to take any photos at all, but I did manage to take a few.
So, of course I had to look up a few things about the Amish, primarily because I was under the misguided notion they all lived in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Turns out there are 31 states that have a significant Amish population. Who knew? Also, in the last 20 years the Amish population has doubled to about 335,000. Such a surprise!
A great big thank you to Aunt Carol and Uncle Arden for the fantastic time and warm hospitality. All my love.
P.S. Gosh, they are great cooks! Uncle Arden’s cinnamon bread was delicious and Aunt Carol’s orange upside down French toast was the bomb!! (I stole the recipe)! No wonder Trent is such a good cook!
Shipshewana, Indiana Amish community.
Buggy parking outside of E & S Sales, a bulk food grocery store. It was an amazing experience grocery shopping alongside the Amish, just doing an every day chores. Their preferred store had similar aspects to a Sprouts in San Diego. All the checkers were Amish.
Where the modern world and the old world collide.
Loved this clothesline method. It’s on pullies and hoisted high in the air. How cools is this!?
Trent’s restaurant.So good! If you’re ever in Battle Creek, Michigan, it’s a must do!
Trent Mead, the chef!
Dinner with the Mead’s.
Aunt Carol and Uncle Arden.
End of summer sunflower in the Mead’s yard.
Sleeping bee’s in the morning.
Cleome blooms
Macy and her rabbit and pet goat. She’s very active in 4H.
Treysen’s showing the Mable syrup the made from their 17 maple trees in the backyard. Tapped their open maple trees!!
The Mead’s.
Macy’s adorable pet goat.
October 7 to 8 - Castle La Crosse, Wisconsin
After leaving Badlands National Park, the drive was straight through South Dakota, Minnesota, then to La Crosse, Wisconsin. I didn’t stop to take photos on the side of the road as it was Highway 90 pretty much the whole way. Lots of wide open spaces with corn, and corn, and corn, and cows. Somehow I seemed to miss most of the 10,000 lakes they talk about in Minnesota. Must be further north.
As I neared Wisconsin bits of trees started to appear around farm houses. I realized these trees were what was left of the original forests in the area, and I guess, in a way, I was thankful these little bits remained. For the most part the land was filled with vast amounts of corn. We sure consume a lot of corn in this country!
When I arrived to La Crosse, Wisconsin it was already dark and I preceded to look for the hotel Mike had so kindly booked for me. Only, it ended up not being a hotel, but a castle, no joke! Castle La Crosse, Holway House, a 19th century castle! The castle was built in 1891 in the Queen Ann style by a lumber baron and it was amazing. I didn’t drag my flash out, but did take a few photos of the interior to share. My husband is a prince for giving me this fabulous BNB gift.
The inn keepers/owners were lovely. Brandon also served as the chef and made an absolutely wonderful breakfast with scones, a frittata, regional sausage, salad, amazing caramelized potatoes and a lovely desert in a stemmed aperitif glass. I’m sure I’m forgetting something, but it truly was lovely. Breakfast was served buffet style in a spacious dinning room and was attended by all the house guests. We shared where we were from, stories, and pleasant morning conversation. What a way to start the day!
The morning was followed by a personal tour of La Crosse by Billy. First stop the Apple store to replace the mouse I lost somewhere along the way, followed by a visit to Grandad Bluff Park and Riverside Park. I don’t think I’ve ever met a kinder inn keeper, going out of his way to make me feel at home, solve a problem, and show me around his lovely little town.
A little bit about La Crosse: it’s a town along the Mississippi River in western Wisconsin. Famous for fur trading, lumber, and brewing. I have to say, I did not know the Mississippi was wide enough to support a lumber industry so far north, which was another change in my perceptions of the US.
On to Battle Creek, Michigan.
Castle La Crosse
La Crosse, Wisconsin taken from Grandad Bluff Park
Can you pick out the castle?
Bridge over the Mississippi River.
Riverside Park
October 6 to 7 - Badlands National Park, South Dakota
How lucky was I to be right in the pathway of Badlands National Park in my travels?! The Badlands is another place I’m saving for Mike and me to explore together and though I tried to pass it by, I could not help but peek a little.
I arrived in the Badlands around sunset through the Wall, South Dakota entrance. When visiting the Badlands you go from vast prairies to landing on the moon. It’s surreal. Immediately I was greeted by Prairie Dogs. Prairie Dogs!! I was beside myself with excitement. I had no idea I’d see them and they are adorable! I only stayed for a little while in the park to catch the sunset and planned to come right back at sunrise.
My stay in Wall was short, but nice. It’s an awesome little town which looks like they love their Harley Davidson motorcycle folks. If you’re a Harley person, you’d feel right at home. I didn’t have a chance to visit the famous Wall Drug Store, as it was closed. Nor the saloons that were dotted about, but did hit the only drive through they had, DQ. Hotel stay was fine and played around with the macro lens taking photos of spare change for Seena. Look, Seena, you’re in here as a trip note!
The next day I woke up bright and early and headed out around sunrise. Somehow lost my national park pass from the day before, bummer. I think the park ranger may have forgotten to give it back the afternoon before and did not realize it. Tried to see if they could find it, but to no avail. Worse things can happen, so oh well. The good news is they directed me to a herd of sheep they had spotted prior to my arrival. That turned into an amazing experience, watching them traverse the steep canyons.
I stayed in the Badlands until mid day and headed out. On to La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Arrived at Badlands National Park late in the afternoon and was immediatley greeted by Prairie Dogs! I was not expecting them and it made my day!!!
Seeing the Badlands you get a sense of the completely unexpected. You go from huge, long, grass prairies to omg, this! What the heck and where did this come from? It’s like you are suddenly on another planet.
Just caught the sunset and headed to the hotel in Wall, South Dakota after.
Arrived early in the morning the next day and the first thing I did was head to Roger’s Prairie Dog Town.
Discussing politics no doubt.
Sweet little thing.
I was told they almost went extinct because cowboys almost killed them off. Those holes are hard on horses.
Saw more bison! Interesting to see cows right up to the park enterence and on the other side of the fence in the park, bison. Idk, just a reminder on how much history has changed for the bison since Europeans arrived.
Lots of big horn sheep, some collared for tracking.
Being in the Badlands is a little like going to the Grand Canyon. Smaller, and it’s like you’re driving through the bottom of the canyon.
Morning light.
Yellow mounds.
Buffalo in the morning light.
Sheep doing what sheep do, defying gravity.
Ram.
This is where the sheep were all headed, to a pasture down below.
Seed heads of wildflowers.
Lovely colors.
Milkweed seeds. I’ve seen so many species on this trip!
Milkweed seeds.
Path to the moon.
Near the gate I exited. Such a short trip, but Mike and I will be back very soon, together.
Magical seeing these wonderful creatures. So thankful they are here.
October 5 to 6 - Home, Home on the Range
Queue the song, “Home, Home on the Range” because I just could not get it out of my head since heading to Yellowstone National Park. Leaving Yellowstone I REALLY could not get it out of my head!! Where the deer and the antelope play for sure!
The drive from Yellowstone to Badlands National Park was filled with adventure and childhood nostalgia. Adventure? Another Snowy pass through Big Horn National Forest. Scary and beautiful. I was glad to be out and in Cody, Wyoming. Upon leaving the snowy high elevation I was reminded I was a crazy woman, see photo.
Ended up on the set of, “Little House on the Prairie” from about Buffalo, Wyoming all the way to Wisconsin. Vast prairies with deer, antelope (pronghorn) and when I made it to the Badlands, buffalo (bison).
Which where my next blog post will be from, Badlands National Park. Another national treasure! I’m in New York right now, so this is a bit dated, but plan to be here for a bit and I’ll have a chance to catch up. Stay tuned!
Just outside of Yellowstone National Park. As soon as I left the park the snow quickly left and was replaced with touches of Autumn, mountains, steams and lakes.
Buffalo Bill State Park and Reservoir
Beaches?!? I’ve lived my whole life by the ocean so inland beaches always amaze me. This is at Buffalo Bill State Park and Reservoir
It’s a stunning place, Buffalo Bill State Park and Reservoir.
This photo was taken just as I was coming out of a very snowy and steep pass on the way to Cody, Wyoming. No way I was going to stop for photos!!
Read the sign. Yes, about at this point the sign was perfectly correct. I totally laughed when I saw it and turned the car around for a photo. The pass was in Big Horn National Forest.
Saw this (house?) on the way out of the park. Things you see on the side of the road are pretty incredible. I could spend the rest of my life taking photos just from the side of the road.
Magpie at a gas station in Cody, Wyoming.
Pronghorn, antelope, whatever you’d like to call them. They were cute and plentiful. White butts!!
So, so, so many deer!!! Mule deer I think. This photo only shows part of this huge flock.
Show off them big bucks!! Cool horns dudes!
These next two photos were great. I assume the antelope with the horns is a male and he’s herding his little flock of females.
He’s doing a good job too keeping them perfectly in line! This was a small group. I saw herds as large as 20 to 30.
Baby pronghorn!!
Saw a long train in South Dakota pulling lots of coal Eastward. For some reason I didn’t consider coal is mined in other parts of the country outside of the typical areas such as Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Looked it up and my goodness, it’s all over the nation!
October 3 to 5 - Yellowstone
Finally getting back to the blog! Between spotty Internet service and, well, having too much fun, I’m behind. So, so much to share, and I’ll catch up as soon as I have a little down time coming up. Right now I’m leaving Battle Creek, Michigan and I’m on the way to Medina, New York. I’ve been having a blast seeing new places and giving love to family and friends.
My trip to Yellowstone was amazing! The park is huge and has so much to see and do. Mountains, wildlife, volcanic energy, gorgeous trees, and lakes, streams and waterfalls. Everything you could ask for in a National Park and more! I can’t wait to come back with Mike one day soon. I saved going to geysers like Old Faithful so we can go together.
Upon entering the park my plan was to go straight to the cabin, check in, drop off my bags, and go off and explore. Instead I was immediately greeted by a herd of elk. It’s rutting season and the male was quite interested on all his ladies. Of course I had to stop and grab my camera!
Next I was greeted by a herd of buffalo! I’ve said this below in the captions, but to MY utter surprise I saw herds of buffalo (bison)!! The mythical buffalo you heard and saw in photos is real! It was hard to believe my eyes seeing them so close you could hear them breathing, and crunching grass, and walking through wet marshy grass. It’s like a story book American fairytale. It brought tears to my eyes seeing this magical sight.
The Internet and cell service in Yellowstone was spotty at best. Recently the park service allowed five cell phone towers to be installed, however, the one by Lake Yellowstone had an osprey couple nesting on the tower and cute as this sounds, it really disrupted service. It’s funny how much I’ve adapted to the new world and suddenly did not know what to do. Out came the paper maps, land lines, radios for weather reports or front desk, non electronic reading material. I guess I needed the reminder!
The other unexpected thing was snow. I swear I checked the weather and it was clear. Out came the snow chains Mike gave me, road closures, delays, alternate plans. It all worked out in the end and really it was just a little blip. New lesson, learned how to put on snow chains with a lot of help from the Park Rangers.
So, I had to say goodbye to Yellowstone so quickly. It was a wonderful experience and one I’ll ever forget. So much more in front of me too. Next, I’m on the way to the Badlands. See you on in the web soon!
Arrived in Yellowstone National Park and immediately I was greeted by Elk. I was so surprised to see animals right in plain sight so quickly as I expected to drive to the cabin and wander out from there.
It’s rutting season and the elk are looking for love. You can hear elk bugling all over the park. It’s an amazing and eerily comforting sound in the middle of the night.
The chase is on!
Stalking elk
Didn’t catch her, but almost. I was thrilled to see this behavioral display!
Hanging out of with some of his ladies.
Then to my utter surprise I saw herds of buffalo (bison)!! The mythical buffalo you heard and saw in photos is real!
It’s was hard to believe my eyes seeing them so close you could hear them breathing, and crunching grass, and walking through wet marshy grass. It’s like a story book American fairytale.
If it’s rutting season for the elk, maybe the same for the buffalo?
Canada geese flying low at sunrise on Lake Yellowstone.
Frost. Those of you in the northern regions, please post more photos of snow and ice! So fun to photograph and unless I take photos in my freezer, I just don’t have the chance often.
Ice crystals in the snow giving a pretty bokeh effect.
Mud volcano’s near Lake Yellowstone. I purposely did not go see geysers like Old Faithful. I’m waiting for Mike to go with me, but these were on the side of the road. So much volcanic energy in Yellowstone and it makes for a spectacular visit.
Herd of buffalo with one getting a morning drink.
Young males sparring.
Beautiful images abound all over the park. I hope Mike and I can come back soon.
Upper Yellowstone Falls in in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Adding a gorgeous waterfall to my waterfall series.
Upper Yellowstone Falls in in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
I was surprised by a couple that took my photo. So nice!! They airdropped it to me.
Beautiful Trumpeter Swans. I thought the ones in the water were white buoy’s, lol.
Drive back to Lake Yellowstone with snow lightly falling.
Lake Yellowstone Lodge in the evening. Dinner was lovely. Had locally sourced lamb and it was delicious!
Lake Yellowstone Lodge early the next morning. Breakfast was locally sourced smoked salmon.
Well, I did not actually stay in the lodge above. Way too expensive! I opted for a more economical choice, this little cabin and I loved it!!
Male elk in the falling snow.
Lake Yellowstone early in the morning.
So, this is what the roads looked like when I went out in the morning. I stopped for this photo and when I got back in the car to leave it started slipping and sliding so…
This is me putting on chains. Don’t be fooled! There are six National Park Rangers standing behind me directing. Chains were required in order to drive to Cody, WY. Since I slipped around earlier, I believed it and installed them.
Photos showing the stunning holiday greeting card beauty of the morning I left.
Photos showing the stunning holiday greeting card beauty of the morning I left. Take 2.
Photos showing the stunning holiday greeting card beauty of the morning I left. Yes, I repeat!!
Road out of the park. If you have height concerns, this may not be the place for you to drive. Thankfully that’s not me, but the ice and snow did give me pause!
October 2 and 3 - Drive from Washington State to Butte, MT to Yellowstone!
I’m back online with a few new lessons under my belt. Sorry for the delay in posting! One lesson, the places you land may not have Internet or cell service. This was a new challenge as I have already forgotten how to literally survive without having these services. Had to resort to paper maps, weather updates from front desk (I should have turned the car radio on), landlines, reading paper material for pleasure and not my cell phone. It was horrible!! Kidding, it was a really good lesson to learn and a safe place to have the refresher.
Traffic out of Seattle through Tacoma was miserable, as is with most cities. I doddled too long leaving Burien and got sucked into a Fred Meyer store. Never been in one and was curious. Should not have doddled as the traffic put me seriously behind schedule and ended up arriving to Butte, MT in the dark, which I swore I would not do.
I think I mentioned on this trip I really wanted to see waterfalls across the US. Maybe growng up in Miami I was denied. Florida, flat land, where natural waterfalls basically don’t exist, or maybe they do, like in a sink hole or something and I just never saw one. Then I went to Hawaii where I met gorgeous waterfalls and totally fell in love. Driving towards Butte, MT, while still in Washington, I passed a sign that said “Snoqualmie Falls.” Suspecting a waterfall, duh, I went to check it out hoping it would have an easy access and it did! Stunningly beautiful and historic falls with a history of energy output. The area around is gorgeous too and full of fun things to do, like train museums, camping, and such. I did go at the absolute wrong time of day to take waterfall photos, 11a. Harsh back light and the falls were in the shadows. It would be perfect at sunset. Hum, we’ll have to go back!
Another place I stopped along the way Quincy, Washington. I crossed a lovely valley and bridge and ended up on a bluff on the other side. The valley and bridge photos were not good, so I won’t bore you. Again, harsh light and into the sun, but behind me was an art installation in the middle of nowhere, “Wild Horses Monument.” It actually made me quite sad and would love to see them in real life. Maybe one day. Still have an outside chance on this trip.
Stayed in Butte, MT overnight. Lovely town, with snow capped mountains. Stepped on my only pair of glasses in the hotel (queue a Christmas Story, “Oh no, not my glasses!”). Went to Walmart and fixed for free by a great staff. So many great people everywhere!
In Butte though, I was reminded once again of the problem we have all around the US, homelessness and drug addiction. It knows no bounds. No state, city, or even small town is immune. I have my guesses as to what’s causing this epidemic, but rather, my compassion for those affected comes first. I’ve heard folks say they are moving from this place or that place to get away from it. You can’t, it’s everywhere. A systematic change on a national level needs to happen.
Left Butte and on the road to Yellowstone and I passed the Continental Divide, I-90, in Montana. Soon I landed in the foothills by Yellowstone. Gorgeous with beautiful rolling hills, trout steams and autumn colors. I couldn’t believe people lived in this, idellic. Should have stopped by to take a photo of these sweet homes nestled by the steams with fly fisherman casting in the filtered light. Makes you want to pack up and move! Ran across what looked to me like Bonnie and Clyde’s old car. It was cool so stopped for a pic. Then saw something off in a field that did not look like a cow, horse, or sheep. Nope, a pronghorn!! So exciting! So, I swerved to take a picture. On to Yellowstone and I hit the north entrance to the park.
You all excited to see the Yellowstone photos? That will be the next blog post. OMG, amazing experience! I arrived late afternoon, stayed one day and left following morning. Or at least I tried to as some of you know. Stay tuned!
Snoqualmie Falls, Washington. Recommendation: for best light, go at sunset.
Wild Horses Monument, Grant County, Quincy, Washington. Art installation. Would love to see live wild horses!
Continental Divide, I-90 in Montana.
Foothills before Yellowstone
Bonnie and Clyde’s car. No really, I have no clue. Just a cool old care on the side of the road.
Omg, omg, omg!! I saw a pronghorn! And before I even got to Yellowstone!
Hum, this one didn’t turn out was I had hoped. Never-the-less, it’s pretty cool. I’ll try again as I’ll have plenty of roads to practice on.
October 1 and 2, 2019 - Leaving Washington State
Our stay in Washington was magical and was so sad to leave. Loved seeing Nick, Kelly and Elwood, seeing their new home, and some of the places they love. It was also great seeing old friends and seeing a bit of the wonderful things Washington has to offer. Nick and Kelly were great hosts and Nick was wonderful showing us all around. It’s nice when a mom can see her child’s favorite spots and can envision them them working, living, and enjoying their play time. I can really see why they love Washington so much. Mike and I will be back, hopefully sooner rather than later! I’m leaving a little piece of my heart behind.
Nick’s worksite in Downtown Seattle. For those that don’t know, Nick’s a Journeyman Electrician.
My friend Julie’s mom moved up to Bellingham, Washington and her mom’s home looks like it’s set state park! It was great seeing her, but hard too. When visiting people, you really do realize how much you miss and love them. I’m glad to see Jean is living the good life.
One of Nick’s favorite parks, Cedar River Park.
Cedar River Park
Cedar River Park. Nick and Elwood ❤️
Cedar River Park
Nick and Kelly’s first home in Burien, Washington. It’s a lovely home, on a lovely street, with great neighbors. What more could you want? So happy for them!
The “Poet’s Nest” we stayed in. It’s in Burien, Washington on the Puget Sound.
View of Sunset and the Puget Sound from the Poet’s Nest. Off to Yellowstone for a very brief visit.
September 28, 2019 - Burien, Seattle and Graham, Washington
It was so wonderful to see Nick, Kelly and Elwood and their new home in Burien, Washington. Nick took us all around and showed us all his favorite places such as Seahurst, and Pike’s Market. We also traveled out to Graham to see Kelly’s sister’s place. To say I’m happy to see them is an understatement. Love my kids so much and so proud of them both!
View from breakfast. It’s Autumn!!
My Nick and his beloved Elwood.
Seahurst Park starting to show autumn colors.
Nick, Mike and Elwood at Seahurst Park.
A boy and his dog.
Nick and Elwood. So happy they found each other!
Seattle skyline and foreboding clouds that dropped snow in the mountains I’m about to go over.
Seattle skyline.
Seattle skyline.
Pike’s Market
OMG, no really, OMG!! Pike’s Market.
No, really, I mean it, OMG!!! Pike’s Market.
Pike’s Market
Streets of Seattle outside Pike’s Market.
The Graham Farm, Kelly’s sister’s chickens.
Kelly and a chicken friend.
Chickens in the backyard.
Rachel’s silky chicken.
Rachel’s goats having a munch.
Autumn really arrived on this trip. Rachel’s has a stunning view in her backyard of color!
September 27, 2019 - Multnomah Falls, Oregon
On the top of my list for this trip is to take photos of waterfalls. This first stop in Multnomah Falls, Oregon was breathtaking. It’s very near Portland, Oregon and surprisingly only a few hours from Seattle, Washington. We were only there a few hours in the morning, but we really made the most of our short stay. Purportedly Multnomah Falls is the second highest falls with year round water in the US. The water sources are springs, rain and snow.
We will be back soon Multnomah. Onward to Seattle to see Nick, Kelly, and Elwood!!
Multnomah Falls
Stream near Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls
Mike near Bridal Veil Falls
Some sort of shelf lichen
Horsetail Falls
Mike sighting up on the bridge. Courage!!
Bridal Veil Cottage. I’m in to come back in stay!!
September 26, 2019 - Unexpected path
As you can see I’m already behind with my grand ambitious on daily blogging and trying to catch up. This entry will be more about the photos than the words. This day was devoted to driving from San Jose to Multnomah Falls near Portland, Oregon. I think it was something like a 12 hour car ride, so a very long day! Because I have Mike with me right now I was able to take photos out the window again. Tricky for sure!!
The direction we headed was unexpected. Foolish me, I let google maps decide our fate and it took us straight through the middle of the state on 5 North. I really thought we would be headed by San Francisco, Napa Valley, and Santa Rosa to begin the trip so I was really disappointed. Frankly, I didn’t even look at the wide view of the map before we left, I just followed like a lemming. It was a pleasant surprise after we left the endless farmlands and hit the Mount Shasta area. Wow, miles and miles and miles of views of Mount Shasta! Gorgeous! I’m sure much of the trip will be like this, unexpected surprises.
Leaving the Hilton in San Jose
Cows in dried artichokes
Watermelons
Lake Shasta
Mount Shasta
Milkweed
Grave Creek Covered Bridge in Josephine County, Oregon. Built in 1920. Located just off the 5 freeway.
Storm coming in. This storm dumped a bunch of snow east of here. I’m now terrified to drive!!
Love my country!
September 25, 2019 - Water is essential
This fist leg of the trip from San Diego to Seattle is on the fast track with a tight schedule so we are trucking up there as fast we can. I’m lucky on this leg to have Mike driving so I can take photos out the window. It’s teaching me about high shutter speed and thinking fast!
After looking through the photos from yesterday I realized almost all of them were about water. Essential for life to exist. Traveling through the San Fernando Valley you realize how implausible it is we live in this desert. Signs everywhere marking our efforts to control water, live on water, grow in water.
It was great to see a few friends already, Candy in San Pedro and Liz in San Jose. I hesitate to take people photos unless I’m asked, but should rethink this as I’m missing sweet opportunities. Never fear, if see you on my travels I’ll ask if it’s okay to take your photo and if I plan to post them on this blog or on any of MK’s Photography Collection sites, I’ll seek your formal permission with a release. That said, please do ask me to take your photo. I’d love to!
Vincent Thomas Bridge in Long Bleach
Shipping docks in Long Beach
Pacific Palisades (I think).
Water transportation to LA
Irrigation piping transport
Death of fruit or nut trees in San Fernando Valley
Water reservoir near Gilroy. Notice the water level drop.
Home is where my story begins…
Home is where my story begins…
Tomorrow I begin my journey across the United States so I guess it’s fitting to post a few photos from around my home in San Diego. Spider webs and butterflies, a few things I have loved my whole life, so here are a few from around the yard. I’ll miss San Diego while I’m gone as I do love it here so much.
Many people have asked why I making this trip so I thought maybe I’d try my best to explain the reasons. My mother was stricken with malignant melanoma the last three years. She fought like hell, but this past February the melanoma hit her spinal cord and within a few weeks of the initial symptoms, she was completely incapacitated and needing 24 hour care. I stepped into this role, albeit unequipped for what I was facing. In the end, my mom lost her battle with cancer April 21, 2019, Easter Sunday. She was strong of mind and determined to make her own decisions until the very end. She was an inspiration to many and a true warrior!
After my mother’s death I was finally able to look up for a minute and realize I still had a mountain in front of me. So much to do and I knew there was no way I could return to my job before my family leave ran out. Sadly, I had to resign my position. As sad as it was, this left me with the gift of time. Time to calm my shell shocked brain and time to reevaluate which direction I wanted my life to go. So began the questions.
Do I sell mom’s house, rent, or keep it and live in it? Mom’s wish was for Mike and me to move back to Hawaii and live in the house. Such an intriguing idea! Is this even possible? This blog would go on for 10 pages listing all the pros and cons of each of these decisions, but bottom line is, what do I want and what does Mike want? What is the best choice given all the variables? Most know how much we love San Diego and most know how much we love Hawaii. It’s just so hard to make a decision!
After taking care of all the necessary things one has to do when a loved one passes, such as the memorial arrangements, will distribution, bills, changing utilities, and a much needed rest, I found a house sitter and came home to San Diego, but with a few plans. One, change directions with my job and two, take a trip, a very long trip.
Changing jobs. I’ve been in corporate Purchasing since about 1986. Although I’ve loved my career, I’ve always felt like a square peg in a round hole. Raised by a hippies, so I’m going to blame them, lol. I’m not sure if I have ever fit into the corporate American culture and over the years I’ve had people actually tell me this. As hard as I’ve tried, I could never disengage my feelings. My nature is to be kind, fair, and honest; sometimes this can be a challenge in a corporate setting. That’s not to say the vast majority of folks are not just this: kind, fair and honest and with some of those folks I have made life-long friends. However, after 30 years, I think it may be time to just throw in the towel and try something new. Maybe I should turn something I love into a new career, photography. I have no idea how I’m going to do this, but I’m starting to put things in place to give it a go!
Long trip. Since I’m not going to be working in the traditional sense, chained to my desk Monday through Friday and some weekends, I think maybe I’ll have more flexibility with time. Well, especially now, since I’m just starting out. Plus, I really need to get away from Hawaii and San Diego for objectivity about the house as well as giving myself time to heal. And there are so many family and friends I’d love to see, so why not just jump in my new Honda and head out! Take a long trip around the United States! Yes!
Tomorrow I’m leaving on this grand adventure and headed North. I’ll be back home in San Diego by November with a decision on the house in Hawaii. I think I counted something like 26-30 states I’m traveling through so maybe I’m passing your way! I’d love to book a few photography sessions on my trek, so please contact me! Also, take a peek at my blog often as plan to document my journey photographically 📸
Spiderwebs in the morning light
Overnight spiderweb creation in the morning mist.
Gulf fritillary butterfly on a passion flower.
Spiderweb tea
The journey begins… Taking mom’s ashes with me and will place a little by her mom, my grandma, in Gates, NC and little in Miami when I get there.
Morning on Coronado Island
Morning on Coronado
This past week has been a little rough. Maybe it boils down to my expectations? There were so many instances the last few weeks of unexpected outcomes which were not planned or expected, including this first photo. I missed the perfect moment of sunrise by just a few moments. This was the start of a long day of slightly missing the mark, followed by the rest of the week of slightly missing the mark.
Lessons this week:
Challenge: Late for sunrise due to unexpected traffic. Though it’s been a long time, I thought the closure of the toll booth on Coronado would alleviate the the traffic jam, especially at 6:00am.
Lessons: 1. The more things change, the more they stay the same. Do not second guess what you already know. 2. And be prepared! Give yourself an extra 45 minutes to an hour.
Challenge: Did two good deeds for others which were both soundly rejected.
Lessons: 1. It’s not up to you to fix the world. 2. Understand your role. 3. Not everyone kind.
Challenge: Camera equipment failure, ugh!!
Lesson: Always bring your back up camera and extra SD cards. In other words, be prepared! I’m glad I’m learning this so early!
Challenge: Credit card malfunctioned right before my trip!
Lesson: Don’t want until the last minute to get things in order, especially if you haven’t used them in a long time. In other words BE PREPARED!
Looking back, the main lesson is obvious, be prepared. Nothing in life goes perfectly, but we can mitigate some of the misery by slowing down, thinking things through, and preparing the path.
Which is exact what I plan to do today. Prepare for the road!
Sunrise on Coronado Island
Marbled Godwit and maybe a Greater Yellowlegs on the beach, Coronado Island
Beautiful wide Coronado Beach. Lifeguard tower in the distance.
Mussel shell on the beach
Black and white mood, Coronado Island
Point Loma as seen from Coronado Island