The River Trail at Ijams Nature Center, Knoxville, Tennessee

5 May 20243 May 2025

A beautiful canopy of hardwood forest, The North Cove Trail off of the Visitor’s Center leads to the River Trail at Ijams Nature Center. Depending on the season, there are blooms of silverbell and hydrangea or bloodroot and cut-leaved toothwort. In late spring, the strong scent of bugbane acts as a natural insect repellent as hummingbirds feed off of the sweet-smelling trumpet creepers.

Halfway through the .2-mile trail is a bridge. It is the scene of yellow-billed cuckoos and indigo buntings that look like blue, chubby cardinals. The sight of eastern box turtles during the warm summer months and sound of barred owls year around are what draw visitors to this trail throughout the year.

The River Trail was marked by a placard along the path and connected North Cove Trail with the Will Skelton Greenway. Along the .7 mile trek grew American bladdernut and the spicebush which produces bright red fruit in the fall. Yellow trillium and yellow celandine poppy come into sight during early spring, while Christmas ferns appear during the holiday season.

Located on the trail is the Boardwalk that runs along the Tennessee River. One of the highlights of this section of the walk is the geological rock formations and Maude Moore’s Cave.

A group of boy scouts paddle their canoes along the quiet, calm Tennessee River. It was a cool, peaceful morning for earning their badges as they identified plants and trees on the banks of the waterway. Along the river were sounds of the yellow and grey prothonotary warblers and swallows flying overhead.

Granite rock structures protruded from the cliffs. The serene landscape and solitude were interrupted by the sounds of birds perched in the nearby sycamore trees. The area is home to the white-eyed vireos, common yellow-throats, bald eagles and ospreys.

It was early enough in the morning where the coolness of the day appeared as a mist hovering over the river. We noticed a fisherman in a kayak trying his luck at catching bluegill and sunfish.

We soon approached one of the entrances to Cave Springs Caves, which were carved out by an underground stream. These entryways have been boarded up with wood to protect the bats and salamanders that live inside. Known by the locals as Maude Moore’s Cave, it was given this name because Maude, after having shot and killed Roy Harth, she hid in this cave system until giving herself up to law enforcement. She was later found not guilty for acting in self-defense.

On occasion, we looked over the side of the Boardwalk into the Tennessee River to see if there were turtles, lizards or snakes resting along the rocks. There was also the potential to see blue herons, belted kingfishers and crested cormorants that frequent the area to snack on a fish or two.

Although we couldn’t feel it, the earth beneath us was moving, creating faults and folds that are eventually exposed at the surface. Along the River Trail at Ijams Nature Center, there is a geological fold of rocks as a result of the pressure from the underground movement, but lucky for us, we hadn’t even noticed.

We came to a point where we had to decide whether to follow the River Trail or stay on the boardwalk. A set of rock stairs led up into the sugar maples, but we opted to continue towards the gravel road that leads to an old quarry and cedar glade. We eventually passed an obstacle course and noticed a placard that informed us of the meadow habitat up ahead.

We crossed through the field and found a small pond, home to frogs, salamanders and newts. The Visitor’s Center was within view, ending our hike and so we decided to go in for an opportunity to learn more about the Ijam’s nature center and its habitat.

Have you had the chance to visit Ijam’s Nature Center in Knoxville? What was the most fascinating aspect of your visit? I would be interested in hearing about your time spent at Ijam’s if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my hike and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ijam’s Nature Center
2915 Island Home Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37920
Telephone: 865 577 4717

Where to Stay:

Four Points Sheraton Knoxville Cumberland House
1109 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37916
Telephone: 865 971 4663

Where to Eat:

Babalu
412 S. Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
Telephone: 865 329 1002

Check out my write up on this fabulous tapas restaurant, Babalu.

What to Eat in Knoxville:

Brunch at Bistro on the Bayou
Chicken pot pie
Fried Green Tomatoes
Mac and Cheese
Meatloaf
Tennessee Whiskey

What to Read:

Historic Knoxville: The Curious Visitor’s Guide to Its Stories and Places, by Jack Neely

Photo Guide to Knoxville:

Bike Sculpture
Bridge Sunrise
CityView Sunset from SoKno
Fort Dickerson Quarry
Gay Street
Greetings from Knoxville Postcard Mural
House Mountain
Sunsphere
Tennessee Theater on the corner of Gay Street and Clinch Avenue
A View from the Bluffs

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio

4 September 202122 September 2024

I was so excited for the opportunity to visit the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio. Entering through the Gate Lodge, I was immediately welcomed by a lovely street lined with apple trees. I parked at the lot near the Carriage House and approached the stables to purchase my ticket.

Stan Hywet Hall was the home of Goodyear Tire and Rubber executive F.A. Seiberling and his five children for 40 years. The 64,500 home had 65 rooms, 23 bathrooms, 23 fireplaces, billiard room, music room and indoor swimming pool. Approaching this fabulous manor, it reminded me of a Downton Abbey Estate with butlers, cooks and other essential staff.

With so many details, it would take nearly 3000 blueprints and architectural drawings to complete its design. In addition, the building materials were shipped by train to the site by way of an additional railroad spur constructed solely for this project.

After exploring the gardens, I was ready to learn more about the Seiberlings by exploring their Tudor Revival estate home. The circular drive in front of the home would have welcomed such guests as Shirley Temple and Will Rogers who visited Stan Hywet to entertain their guests.

Above the entryway is the Seiberlings’ crest which welcomes guests with its Latin inscription “Non Nobis Solum” which translates to “Not for Us.”

From the entryway, the butler would have greeted the family’s guest and directed them to the reception room until one of the family members would have welcomed them to their home. According to the guides at Stan Hywet, ninety-five percent of the furniture within the manor are original to the Estate.

Leaving the reception area, visitors would take a left and walk down the Linenfold Hallway. This space was decorated with oak paneled walls that were ornately carved to look as though they were made of fabric. Straight ahead, guests would then enter the Round Room.

One of my favorite rooms of the Manor, the Round Room acted as a reception area before guests would be led into the Music Room to be entertained.

The Solarium is right off of the Round Room and was paneled with beautiful sandlewood and a diamond patterned overlay. The family used this space as a game room where they would play parlor games. Some of the games they would enjoy included bridge, rummy and dominoes. Exiting the Solarium there is a telephone to the right as one enters the Music Room. During my tour, I was able to pick up the phone, select a numeric code, and listen to one of the family members discuss their fond memories of Stan Hywet.

The Music Room measured a grand 2700 square feet and was the perfect size for hosting large events. It was here where their daughter Irene was married. The spectacular Aeolian organ, with its 2433 pipes could be played manually or automatically by using music rolls.

Towards the west of the home is the screened-in Sun Parlor. An effort to bring the outdoors inside is evident by the fountain and floor tile. Designed by Mary Chase Stratton of Detroit, Michigan, this fountain was based on the poem by Robert Southey’s “The Well of St. Keyne.”

The Library was decorated with gorgeous paneling of black walnut and oil paintings on the ceiling. This space, used for reading and relaxation, was often visited by Franklin who was well-read and had attended graduate school at the University of Chicago. The bookcase hides a secret passageway which leads to the Great Hall.

The Great Hall, measuring three stories high, is one of my favorite rooms in the Manor. Furnished with a large sandstone fireplace (1 of 23 in the home), mounted animal heads (see the 6-foot antler span of the American elk), oversized furniture and extravagant tapestries.

Stan Hywet Manor House was not only the residence of the Seiberlings but a central meeting place of distinguished political figures and decision makers. The Dining Room hosted a variety of attendees who were active in business as well as the arts.

The Butler’s Pantry was one of the most important rooms of the estate as it was where all of the dining activities took place. From polishing silver to coordinating the dinner parties, the butler would have certainly spent quite some time here.

Next to the pantry was the Kitchen. For its time, it was exceptional with a state of the art cooking range, refrigerators, steam table and chopping block. Updated with the latest technology, the kitchen also had a call board, a telephone extension and intercom.

The Breakfast Room, down the hall from the kitchen, was used for informal meals with the family.

I was amazed at the mention of a Flower Arranging Room. Used for the purpose of creating beautiful fresh and dried flower arrangements, this room in the house is where volunteers create floral masterpieces that are on display throughout the Manor.

Somehow I found myself passing a large painting of F. A. Seiberling and a beautiful stained glass window then entering the Billiard Room. Reserved for the men of the house and their guests, the space showcases a fireplace, refrigerator for cold beverages and a humidor for fresh cigars.

Down the hall from the Billiard Room was F. A. Seiberling’s office. It was said that he had a phone that connected directly to the GoodYear company. There was also a side door entrance to allow for guests who were meeting him to conduct business.

The indoor swimming pool was only one amenity that focused on the family’s consideration for health and fitness. They also had an indoor gym, as well as a mini-golf course, tennis courts, walking and riding trails.

I had completed the first floor of my tour throughout the Stan Hywet Hall. So many exciting stops to my tour as I thought about how advanced technology had developed in the early 1900s and most certainly even in the early 21^st century. I was looking forward to exploring the living spaces of the Seiberling family as I climbed the stairs to the second story.

Have you visited Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens? What tours did you take? What was your favorite memory of your visit? I would love to hear about your time at this fantastic historical home if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for reading about my adventure to Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens and don’t forget to check out more photos of my visit after the information section. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
714 N. Portage Path
Akron, OH 44303
Telephone: 330 836 5533

- Admission Fee: Non-Members – Adults 18 and over are $15; Non-Member Youth (6 – 17): $6 and Stan Hywet Members are free. Visit their website for membership prices.
- Hours: Estate Hours: April – November/Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM to 6PM last admission at 4:30; Closed on Mondays; Please check the website as they are closed during the winter season after the Deck the Hall festivities.
- Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
- Tips for your Visit: Do not lean, sit on or touch collection items or the interior of the historic house museum as it is more fragile than it appears. Food, gum, beverages and drinks are prohibited throughout the house. Begin in the English Gardens as there will be a wedding that will be taking place at 1PM. Manor house hosts are stationed throughout the hotel to assist visitors with their tour. Stan Hywet welcomes motor coach travelers and other groups and an advanced reservation is required by calling Group Sales: 330 315 3284. Visit Stan Hywet’s website for December Hours and Deck the Halls Exhibit; Restrooms are located in the Corbin Conservatory and the lower level of the Manor House. Backpacks are not permitted in the Manor House but may be stored in the Powder Room.
- Photography is permitted in the Manor House, however, no flash or professional photo equipment or videography permitted; Photos only with cellphone or handheld cameras only. No photography permitted on guided tours but is encouraged on the grounds and in the Corbin Conservatory; Must have a photography membership to use monopods and tripods in the gardens, unless it is part of a pre approved commercial photography session; Selfie sticks not permitted; No private photography is authorized for commercial reproduction.
- Guided tours of the Manor House are offered on the hour between 11 am and 4 pm. Guests who prefer a more leisurely experience may choose a self guided tour of the Estate buildings, gardens and grounds, available anytime between 11 am and 4:30 PM. Experience one of their specialty tours:
  - Blueprints to Bricks (noon, daily, May 1 – September 30) highlights Stan Hywet from conception to creation
  - Nooks and Crannies tour (3 times daily) is a behind the scenes experience
  - Grand Estate Tour (noon, daily) provides information on the Estate’s historical landscape elements.

Where to Stay:

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
1420 Main Street
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Telephone: 330 926 1233
Website: https://www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/country-inn-cuyahoga-falls-oh?cid=a:se+b:gmb+c:amer+i:local+e:cis+d:us+h:OHCUYAHO

Where to Eat:

Molly’s Café & Shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm at Stan Hywet

The Blue Door Cafe and Bakery
1970 State Road
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Telephone: 330 926 9774

My favorite menu item is their Chicken & Waffles: jalapeno & cheddar buttermilk waffle, buttermilk & pepper brined southern style green circle, free range chicken, bourbon organic maple syrup, whiskey butter, house made hot sauce, organic blackberries

What to Read:

The Seiberling Family, by Julie Frey
The Gate Lodge, by Julie Frey

The Clifton Mill Holiday Lights, Ohio

31 December 202022 September 2024

Sometimes I find myself lost in the hustle and bustle of the holidays and realize that there is so much more to Christmas than mall shopping for gifts. I decided to take an evening to escape the madness and planned a visit to Clifton Mill for their spectacular light show.

Each year, the Mill sponsors a legendary holiday event that takes place in Clifton, Ohio. From the day after Thanksgiving to December 31^st, visitors can experience this over-the-top display with more than 3.5 million lights.

For over 20 years, the mill has been lighting up the holiday season by illuminating the mill, the bridge, the gorge, and the riverbank. In preparation for the event, it takes six men approximately three months to put up the light display.

Located just outside of the mill is a miniature village that displays some of Clifton’s local, historic buildings as well as other structures that would be found in town. For example, there is a drive-in movie theater where a movie is actually playing on its “big screen” as well as the county fair with its moving ferris wheel. I watched the men working in the auto mechanics shop and firefighters climbing on a ladder to put out a fire at the village’s log cabin.

A 1950’s re-creation of Clifton Mill, and the Ohio State band creating its script Ohio as the Goodyear blimp hovers over the field are additional displays which are absolutely spectacular. Before Christmas, visitors can see Santa working out of his workshop. through the frosty glass, I stepped up to the window to see what kinds of toys he was making.

The Santa Claus Museum displays the Satariano family’s private collection of over 3,000 Santas. Some of the items date as far back as 1850 and has taken the family about 40 years to collect. You will find a wide variety of Santas from over the years that range from interesting, odd and elegant.

One of my favorite features was the 100 foot “waterfall” of red and white lights along the riverbank. From here I had a wonderful vantage point to view the synchronized light show that includes the covered bridge and gorge.

After perusing the fascinating holiday display, I strolled over to the mill where I had my choice of hot dogs, sandwiches, popcorn, soft drinks, cookies and pies. I just couldn’t resist a hot chocolate.

Have you made visiting the Clifton Mill’s Legendary Light Display a holiday tradition in your family? I would love to hear from you, so leave a message about your experience in the Comments section below! Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Clifton Mill
75 Water Street
Clifton, OH 45316
Telephone: 937 767 5501

The light display begins the day after Thanksgiving and open nightly through December 31st. Gates open daily at 5PM and the light show starts at 6PM. Gates close at 9PM and the lights are turned off 30 minutes after the gates close. Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, the gates close at 8PM.

Parking is free and there is an admission of $10 for guests, 7 years and older, while children 6 and under can enter at no charge.

Where to Stay:

Mills Park Hotel
321 Xenia Avenue
Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Telephone: 937 319 0400

Where to Eat:

Clifton Mill
75 Water Street
Clifton, OH 45316
Telephone: 937 767 5501

Clifton Mill is open on New Year’s Eve with a full menu from 5PM to 8PM, and open daily for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast is served all day.

One of my favorite meals at Clifton Mill is the order of pancakes. They are huge! Their pies are delish as well.

What to Read:

Not That I Could Tell, by Jessica Strawser

Photo Guide to Yellow Springs:

Clifton Gorge
Colorful, Artsy Streets
Glen Helen Nature Reserve
John Bryan State Park
Sunflower Field, located at 4625 US-68, Yellow Springs (The Tecumseh Sunflower Field)
Wall Murals
- Preparation for Life Work by Axel Horn hangs in the Yellow Springs Post Office
- Village Cyclery is the location of the oldest mural in Yellow Springs
- “Keith’s Alley” located behind the shops on the east side of Xenia Avenue between Cory and Glen Street showcases several murals
- Winds Cafe displays one of the largest murals in town
- Ohio Silver Co. displays a beautiful painting by Maxfield Parrish
- The patio of Sunrise Cafe
- The Smoking Octopus displays the works of Sarah Dickens
- The Xenia Avenue Shops’ painting was created by local Mandy Knaul (Mandy Sue)
- Corner Cone mural designed by Pierre Nagley
- Kings Yard murals

The beautiful Clifton Mill Holiday Light Display

The County Fair, Auto Mechanics Shop and Firefighters at the Scene

1950’s style diner

The Ohio State Football Game

A re-creation of the Clifton Mill

Santa and his reindeer

Cataract Falls, Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

25 September 202022 September 2024

All Nolan could talk about was our hike to Laurel Falls, so we decided to take the short walk to Cataract Falls the next day as it was listed as a perfect hike for small children. He had been so excited to explore the outdoors, so with his walking stick, Nolan led the way on the 3/4 mile roundtrip trail toward the falls.

The pathway was started out paved and shortly turned to stone with a bridge built over the Fighting Creek. Nolan loved having his photos taken, so we pointed out scenic spots for him to pose.

The floor covering was a beautiful green with plants and ivy. Thick trees provided shade from the sun bringing the temperature down a few degrees.

The trail goes under a bridge with stones on each side and is on average, four feet wide with a gentle grade. We had the trail all to ourselves and we reached the falls fairly quickly.

A few feet away from the bridge we could hear the falls. Nolan’s face lit up when he realized he was hearing the rushing of the water and started running down the path.

Once the newness of the falls wore off, Nolan was more than excited to play at the base of them.

Within minutes, Nolan was calling us over to show us the snail that he had found.

It was difficult to leave, seeing how excited Nolan was for the hike, the waterfalls and little creatures, but it was close to dinnertime and promising him we would be going to visit Margaritaville, you would have thought he would have sprinted back to the start of the hike. I guess that little guy was hungry.

Have you hiked the Cataract Falls? What was your experience? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Cataract Falls and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN 37738
Telephone: 865 436 1200

Where to Stay:

Firefly Chalet
Highway 321 North
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Website: www.vrbo.com

Where to Eat:

Bennett’s Bar-B-Que
2910 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN
Telephone: 865 429 2200

What to Eat:

Barbecue

Krohn Conservatory – A Photographic Tour

5 March 201614 September 2024

The roads had recently been cleared of snow and I was ready to leave the house to witness this wintery wonderland. What better place to spend a cold, wintery afternoon than in the warmth of a conservatory?

From home, I arrived at the Krohn Conservatory within twenty minutes. Bundled up for the cold, I entered the warmer temperatures to a humidity that only comes from the tropics. It was a wonderful contrast to the bitter freeze outside.

I paid the attendant my admission fee and learned that I had arrived between two exhibits. Having missed the recent Christmas Exhibit, the conservatory was preparing for the Hatching Spring Blooms Spring Show. Parts of the conservatory were closed during the renovations but I was able to explore The Palm House, Fern House, Desert House and the Orchid House.

I picked up the pamphlet for the self-guided tour and entered the Palm House located directly ahead.

Taking the ramp to the right, I was greeted by palm trees and the soothing sounds of water. Crossing the bridge, I walked towards the back of the room where I noticed the waterfall. The exotic trees surrounding me included the Rubber Tree, Coffee Tree, Banana Tree and the Banyan Tree. The path led behind the waterfall for a unique perspective and continued on towards the exhibit’s exit.

Exiting through the handicapped door, to my immediate right was the Fern House, I was fascinated with the trees named from foods such as the Chocolate Tree, Starfruit Tree, and the Pomegranate Tree. The unusual Powderpuff Tree bore bright pink blooms that could have easily been found in a Dr. Seuss book.

Because the showroom was closed in preparation for the next exhibit, I exited the main building to reach the Desert House. I couldn’t help but notice a light snowfall and snow covered trees.

The Madagascar Palm was the first beautiful tree I noticed when I opened the door. Is it a cactus or is it a palm tree? An unusual plant, this palm is indigenous to the large island of Madagascar off the coast of southeast Africa. The arid temperatures were the perfect climate for a variety of cacti that thrive in a humid climate. Various pieces of artwork from clay sculptures to metal images were strategically placed around the exhibit.

Leaving the Desert House, I was excited to see the intense red blooms growing among thick thorny plants. The placard identified it as the Crown of Thorns, the Euphorbia milii. Referred to as the Christ thorn, these thick spikes were driven into the skull of Jesus during His crucifixion. I was surprised by the thickness and length of the barbs and could not imagine the pain He must have suffered at the hands of the Romans.

The final exhibit, the Orchid House is a small, intimate display. Showcasing a handful of orchids, there were various species of its kind, each unique and beautiful. Hearty, drooping clusters as well as dainty, fragile exhibits were available in a wide array of color.

An interesting selection of Carnivorous Plants was also thriving within the Orchid House. The Pitcher Plant was one of the most unusual of species, similar to the Venus Flytrap. In fact, they attract, trap and digest their prey, both in the similar manners. Because of its bright colors and sweet nectar, the Pitcher Plant lures insects into its chamber where they are then digested at the bottom.

As I made my way towards the exit, I couldn’t help but think about the movie, “The Little Shop of Horrors.” Waiting for one of these meat-eating plants to bloom into a life sized human eating machine, I planned my way of escape and happy to be alive.

Are you looking for local attractions and educational opportunities to visit in Ohio during the winter season? I would love to hear your recommendations of places to visit if you would kindly leave your suggestions in the comments below! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Krohn Conservatory
950 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 5707

Admission Fee: Admission for adults is $7, for youth $4 (ages 5 – 17) and children 4 and under are free.
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5PM, closed on Mondays. Special hours on December 18 – 23: 10AM to 7:30PM; December 24: 10AM to 5PM and December 25: 10AM to 2PM
Amenities: rainforest, desert, butterfly show, seasonal exhibits, special educational programs
Scenic View: Interesting plants and exhibits
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There may be an additional fee for exhibits in addition to admission. The holidays are the best time to visit for the decorated displays.

Where to Stay:

Renaissance Cincinnati Hotel
36 E. 4th Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 333 0000

Where to Eat:

Mt. Adams Bar & Grill
938 Hatch Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 621 3666

During my recent visit, I started out with the jalapeno ravioli, which was spicy and delicious. Depending on my mood, I will either order the grilled Yellowfin Tuna Steak or the grilled Mahi Mahi which are both served over wild rice with peppers and onions.

Teak Thai Cuisine
1051 St. Gregory Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 665 9800

UPDATE: This restaurant is now closed.

What to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 2337

Books to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

Coming from the westside of Cincinnati from 50, heading east

Driving through downtown Cincinnati, heading towards Eden Park

The African Statue at the Krohn Conservatory

The Outside Snowy View from Krohn Conservatory

The Desert House

The Orchid House

The View of the Ohio River from Eden Park

A View of Covington, Kentucky and the Ohio River from Eden Park

The Madagascar Palm

Dyer’s Mill, Hiking at Battelle Darby Creek

23 April 201531 August 2024

With below freezing temperatures and a couple of inches of water at the start of the trail, I almost considered turning back to reschedule my day hike at Battelle Darby Creek. The Dyer Mill Trail starts at Darby Creek Drive in Galloway and is a 2.5 mile loop trail that takes about an hour and a half to complete. I wanted to test out my new hiking boots anyway, so this would be the perfect opportunity.

Towards the start of the trail, there was a fork in the road but regardless of which path I took, I would return where I started on this loop hike. Surrounded by trees and woods for nearly an hour, I arrived at a clearing. The scenery was what I gad expected from a winter hike and I was hoping to catch a glimpse of wildlife brave enough to venture out in the cold. I happened upon a few birds, but up until that time, there was no sign of life. I continued along the path of sallow greens and browns, and searched through my binoculars to see eagles, hawks or even vultures among the soothing silence.

The pathway was a mix of grass and gravel and perfect for cross-country skiers after a winter snowfall. Ranked as moderately difficult, there were a couple of hills that were somewhat steep but not incapacitating.

The snow struggled to blanket the field as it melted under the warming temperatures. I could hear the crunching of ice under my boots as I made my way towards a bridge on the trail. I stopped to check how my boots were holding up and put my scarf in my backpack.

The snow-covered trail widened under the trees and cleaned the dirt out of my boots. I was surprised at how comfortable I felt in the cold and was happy my feet were surviving the breaking in of my new boots. By the visible impressions in the snow, I was hoping to find some animal prints.

Walking further along, Little Darby Creek appeared to my left and I could hear the faint sound of its rippling downstream. I managed to walk down to its bank to touch the water and it was absolutely freezing. There were islands of ice in several spots along the waterway and I realized, that in just a couple of weeks, they will have melted and the scenery will have changed.

I finally reached the steep climb, and I was thankful that there was neither ice nor snow on the hill. The fallen leaves provided great traction and I felt the remainder of the trek should be easy.

I approached another patch of snow and decided to follow it into the woods where it remained untouched by hikers. I finally came upon some animal footprints which made me think about the hibernating wildlife and those who have ventured out into the cold for food. I felt a happiness knowing that these nature preserves protect the adorable creatures and nearby land so we can enjoy them for years to come.

I was near the end of the trail coming back to where I had started. This was the section of the trail that was flooded, but lucky for me, my waterproof boots had passed the test.

I was satisfied that my boots had passed the waterproof test and spending time in the outdoors during winter was especially invigorating. I was happy that I continued with my hike that day and it was a beautiful, quiet afternoon to explore Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park.

What to See and What to Do:

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
1775 Darby Creek Drive
Galloway, OH 43119
Telephone: 614 891 0700

Admission Fee: There is no admission fee for visiting the park.
Hours: Cedar Ridge Area: Open daily from 6:30AM to 10PM (April through September) and from 6:30AM to 8PM from October through March; All other park areas close at dark year-round
Amenities: shelter rental, lodge, biking, canoeing/kayaking, cross country skiing, fishing, hunting, ice skating, natural play areas, nature centers, picnicking, pets and sledding
Scenic Views: Viewing area for bison watching
Length of your Visit: 2 – 3 hours for hiking, nature center and bison viewing
Tips for Your Visit: Check the metro park’s website for special events, shelter rentals and trail maps.

Where to Stay:

Courtyard by Marriott Columbus Grove City
1668 Buckeye Place
Grove City, OH 43123
Telephone: 614 782 8292

Where to Eat:

Ann & Tony’s Restaurant
211 East Main Street
West Jefferson, OH 43162
Telephone: 614 879 8897

I absolutely love Ann & Tony’s Fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp, served with a tossed salad, rolls and garlic butter.

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
North Market: A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
The Thurman Cafe: The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village. There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant: While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read:

Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus:

Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
Columbus Museum of Art: the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
Everal Barn and Homestead: landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
Frank Fetch Park: gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
Franklin Park Conservatory: beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
Gantz Park: barn, beautiful trees,
German Village: brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
Grove City: brick roads, small town, shopping area
Hayden Falls: wooden walking path, waterfall
Historical Village of Hilliard: a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
Inniswood Metro Gardens: gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
Ohio State University: campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
Park of Roses in Clintonville: various types of rose gardens
Riverfront Park: city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Schiller Park: gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
Scioto Mile: city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Scioto Park in Dublin: statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
Short North: restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
Topiary Park: depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo

San Francisco’s Iconic Golden Gate Bridge

26 January 201514 September 2024

Whether it is the Arch of St. Louis, the Alamo in San Antonio, or the Space Needle in Seattle, very few iconic images compare with the glorious representation of a city than San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.

It is impossible to imagine San Francisco without thinking of its spectacular bridge. Regardless of the number of times I travel to San Fran, I am not satisfied until I drive over it or walk the span for breathtaking views of the city. Once the largest suspension bridge in the world, visitors can walk, bike, drive or ride over the two-mile platform that connects the city of San Francisco to Marin County.

It was an overcast day on my last visit, but I layered up and made sure I would be comfortable for a stroll across.

The Golden Gate Bridge was not named for its color but for the strait that it spans, Opening in May of 1937, this steel suspension bridges retains a main span measuring 4,200 feet.

As cars drove across the bridge during my walk, I could hear the whirring sound of the tires and the hollow thumps from the grates that offer views into the water below.

The men who designed the bridge were Joseph Strauss, Irving Morrow, and Charles Ellis. But it was Joseph Strauss, a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, who provided oversight for the day-to-day construction of the bridge beginning in January of 1933.

It is said that Strauss became fascinated by bridges during a hospitalization in Cincinnati. With a view of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge from his hospital room, he would later be employed by a company that specialized in building them.

The view of the bridge from the southeast side visitor parking lot shows the roadway straight through to the other side. The visitor’s center, gardens and café are accessible from this lot and it is a great starting point for enjoying scenic overlooks and vistas.

The Golden Gate Bridge is open 24 hours a day and it is estimated that approximately 110,000 vehicles travel over the bridge on a daily basis. That does not include the 10,000 pedestrians and 6,000 cyclists that cross as well.

Tolls are only collected in one direction as you head into San Francisco from Marin County. There is a toll charge of $7.25 for 2 axles and motorcycles (as of this writing).

Enjoy the San Francisco rite of passage by walking or biking the Golden Gate Bridge and you will see San Francisco from a whole new perspective.

Have you visited San Francisco and was the Golden Gate Bridge on your itinerary? How did you cross it? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my short post about the Golden Gate Bridge! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Golden Gate Bridge
P.O. Box 9000, Presidio Station
San Francisco, CA 94129-0601
Telephone: 877 229 8655 or 415 486 8655

Admission Fee: Walk or bike the Golden Gate Bridge at no charge. There is a fee to travel by car, so check the website for the most recent information.
Hours: The Golden Gate Bridge is open 24 hours, seven days a week.
Amenities: Parking, welcome center, cafe, bookstore, historical site
Scenic View: From several vantage points from the Golden Gate Bridge, explore the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains.
Length of Visit: 1 – 5 hours depending on how you explore the park
Tips for Your Visit: Access the bridge from both the north and south. Where comfortable shoes for walking across the bridge. The six lanes for cars is tight, so be mindful of other drivers and keep your eyes on the road.

Where to Stay:

Sheraton Palace Hotel, now The Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Telephone: 415 512 1111

Where to Eat:

Castagnola’s – The restaurant is known for its soups served in bread bowls. Select the clam chowder bread bowl or the lobster bisque bread bowl.
Ghirardelli Chocolate Company – The world famous hot fudge sundae is the best seller.

Where to Drink:

Iron Horse – Their signature drinks include the James Bond Martini, Goldfinger, Alice in Wonderland, Tiki Temple and Happy Fortune.

What to Read:

Cool Grey City of Love by Gary Kamiya
San Francisco Stories by Jack London
Zodiac by Robert Graysmith
Alcatraz-1259 by William Baker

Photo Guide for San Francisco:

Aquatic Park is the best place to photograph San Francisco’s waterfront
Broadway Street in North Beach for its neon signs and was formerly known as the area’s “red light district”
Chinatown is absolutely amazing for taking photos of America’s oldest Chinatown.
Coit Tower for 360 degree views of San Francisco and the harbor
de Young Museum Observation Deck located at Golden Gate Park is perfect for panoramic photos of the city. Bypass the line to enter the museum to reach the Hamon Observation Tower to take your photos.
Fort Point is a decommissioned military base on the waterfront which provides outstanding views of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge
The Marin Headlands is one of the best places to photograph the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge
Treasure Island for spectacular views of San Francisco’s skyline
See the entire city of San Francisco from Twin Peaks

Checking out the Costa Rican Coast for the First Time

10 November 201431 August 2024

I remember the excitement I felt when the plane touched down in San Jose, Costa Rica on a beautiful February morning. My best friend Melissa was going to pick me up and we were going to head out to the beach house in Playa Palo Seco. It was my first time visiting, so I wanted to see as much of the country as possible, not knowing that I would eventually visit several times.

The open air airport was so small that it was easy to see Melissa as she and our friend David met me in baggage claim. I took in deep breaths of air enjoying the mild humidity which was such a contrast to the snowy weather I had just left behind in Cincinnati. I couldn’t wait to explore this magnificent country in Central America and to experience the local food and culture.

We drove through the city of San Jose because we wanted to try to make it to the beach before nightfall with a couple of stops along the way. We took for a few minutes to enjoy the architecture before beginning our three-hour journey.

The drive was absolutely stunning with endless forests and majestic mountains. We drove through coffee fields and tropical plants as our rental car continued its climb heading south east towards the Pacific Coast. Before reaching Palo Seco, we drove through the mountains on 301 where the road began to narrow and hugged the steep cliffs.

Frequently the scenery would disappear as the clouds clung to the surrounding peaks. We were happy to finally reach the small town to pick up a few items before reaching the beach house. The house was not air conditioned so we relied on fans to cool us down at night. We also stopped by the local grocery to pick up some Imperial beer and food for the next couple of weeks.

We stopped short of the bridge so that we could see the local alligators and it became a favorite stop on our annual trips. We lovingly referred to the crossing as Crocodile Bridge which crossed the Pirris River. These bad boys measured over 13 feet long and there were at least a dozen of them basking in the sun as we drove over the bridge. No one dare go riverside and it’s quite obvious why.

Bidding farewell to the reptiles, we headed west towards the beach until reaching a dead end. We could see a large, abandoned water park to our left and made a southern turn here to reach the house. By now, we were traveling on a dirt road, having passed a small restaurant, we could soon see our beloved shack on the left. Across the street we had access to endless beach, so I couldn’t wait to wake up early and catch a few waves.

Our plans were to hang out at the beach for a couple of days before heading back inland and then travel over to the gulf side to Puerto Limon near the Panamanian border. I had been looking forward to exploring this amazing country, and so far, it has been spectacular.

Have you explored the beautiful country of Costa Rica? What were some of your favorite places? I would love to hear from you with any suggestions or questions if you leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my first visit to Costa Rica and wishing you many Happy Travels!

The Costa Rican Countryside

The famous Crocodiles