Photographing Inniswood Metro Gardens, Columbus

12 January 201614 September 2024

My first experience at Inniswood was shortly after I bought my new Nikon D3100 camera. I wanted to find a park where I could photograph nature, scenery and interesting creatures to broaden my portfolio. Looking for the chance to shoot macro, wide angle and experiment creatively, I could not believe all of the fabulous photo opportunities at this park.

Practicing some of the tips I had read in my camera’s manual, I was ready to explore the aperture and shutter priority settings. I came upon a bee flying around the flowers as I walked the tour. I waited for the right moment to frame the insect between the flowers and was eager to experiment with creating blurred images, focusing on the bee and the flower. Set on aperture, I adjusted the F-stop to f/5.6 and the exposure time to 1/40 sec. There was plenty of sunlight, so my ISO speed was perfectly set at 100 and my lens’ focal length was 55mm. It took me several shots, but in the end I was very pleased with the outcome.

I was so excited to see the waterfall because I could practice using the shutter priority setting, allowing me the chance to practice another photography skill. It took me several attempts before I found a shot that satisfied me, but I enjoyed the challenge and the result of freezing the waterfall perfectly.

I left the F-stop at f/5.6 and the exposure time was changed to 1/20 sec. There was plenty of sunlight, so my ISO speed was perfectly set at 100 and my lens’ focal length was 55mm. My exposure bias was +0.7 step. I was pleasantly surprised with how well this photo turned out.

For my first shots, I have to say that they came out fairly well. The image viewer on the back of the camera was not large enough to give me an accurate assessment of each photo. For example, I really thought I had captured the circular tips on the stigma of my flower, but in the end, they were still a little blurry. I hope that as I practice, I will become accustomed to improving the clarity of my shots and will learn to make the proper adjustments for shooting better photos.

Towards the end of my walk, I started to take some photos without setting up the shots. Surprisingly, I had a couple that turned out to be some of my most interesting and favorite shots. I shot this photo in aperture priority, with an F-stop of f/5.6, exposure time: 1/60 sec., an ISO speed of 200 using the 55mm focal length. There was an exposure bias set at +0.3 step. It seemed to one of those photos that I would never be able to recreate.

My favorite photo of the whole afternoon was taken at dusk when this tiny little raccoon peeked out from the brush as I was exiting the park. The park ranger noticed him as well and was trying to encourage him back into the woods. He allowed me a quick opportunity to photograph him, but of course, the grass was in the way of the shot. I hope that someday in the future I will be able to learn how to modify photos with software to preserve some of the great moments that did not turn out so well. And until then, I will continue to photograph all manners of landscape, animals, and architecture just for the joy of photography.

Are you a photographer or just have a love for documenting your adventures? Whether I am out traveling the world or in my own backyard, the digital camera has allowed me to capture some of the best moments in my life! I would love to hear any photo tips or to learn of some your most memorable photographic experiences! Please share your stories and tips on the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

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

What to See and What to Do:

Inniswood Metro Gardens
1069 West Main Street
Westerville, OH 43081
Telephone; 614 891 0700

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open daily from 7AM to dark.
Amenities: Family programs, hiking/trails, gardens, restrooms, Innis House, Wedding venue, tours and entertainment

Where to Stay:

Aloft Columbus Westerville
32 Heatherdown Drive
Westerville, OH 43081
Telephone: 614 899 6560

Where to Eat:

Northstar Cafe
109 S. State Street
Westerville, OH 43081
Telephone: 614 394 8992

One of my favorite menu items at Northstar is the Thai Burrito with roasted chicken, peanut sauce, crunchy slaw and brown rice served with a Thai dipping sauce and tortilla chips. When dining with a larger group, I prefer the Margherita Pizza with organic tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil and shaved Grana Padano.

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

NOTE: The following photographs were also taken on the same night as I “hiked” the 1.4 mile loop at Inniswood:

The Secret Garden at Inniswood

Exploring the Secret Garden at Inniswood

Peeking through the circular brick feature of the Secret Garden

The Secret Garden

Beautiful flower at Inniswood

Inniswood Metro Gardens

Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail

19 March 201531 August 2024

There was a dead quiet as I approached the trail head for the Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail. I had just completed the two and a half mile Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail and was ready to tackle the three mile hike through the gorge. Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve is a part of the Hocking Hills State Park near Athens, Ohio with some of the best hiking in Ohio.

The temperatures had been below freezing for several days. While the gorge sheltered me from the cold winds from the rim, the wintry conditions within the crevices and caves protected the spectacular frozen waterfall formations.

Looking up from the gorge trail, I noticed the path I had just taken along the rim. As I took a moment in search of a hiker or two along the edge, I became more aware of the tall, still trees and the outcropping of rocks.

Through the trees there were several small crevices that were not reachable from the path. Escaping the cold, I wondered what animals could be hibernaring inside of them.

I passed a cave-like structure of sandstone to my right and then climbed the stairs to explore the beautiful colors and pitted markings unique to each of the rocks.

Looking up into the rock formations, the porous sandstone seemed to make a great home for insects.

Ice Formations

Several frozen water features seemed to be growing up from the rocks below.

One of the largest frozen waterfalls along the trail.

I enjoyed finding images in the rock formations.

The scenic views of hiking

Exposed root systems

What a spectacular sight

I looked up towards the sky one last time making my way back to the trailhead. I was reminded of the beauty of winter hikes and the unique features of the gorge. Considered a favorite of many, I have always made a stop along the gorge and the rim during my visits to Hocking Hills State Park.

The trail took nearly an hour to complete and I was ready to move on to Old Man’s Cave. What a great start to a beautiful day of hiking.

Have you hiked Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve Gorge Trail? I would love to hear if you enjoyed it as much as I did if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks and Happy Trails!

What to See and What to Do:

Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve
24858 Big Pine Rd.
Rockbridge, OH 43149
Telephone: 614 265 6561

Admission Fee: Free. All state parks in Ohio are free.
Hours: Open daily and closes at dark.
Tips for Your Visit: While there are no campsites nor lodges, cottages and cabins. There are several local business that offer these services. Stay on the trails to ensure you do not become lost. Wear appropriate hiking shoes/comfortable shoes for hiking. While dog are permitted at the park they are not allowed in the state nature preserves such as Conkle’s Hollow and Rockbridge.

Where to Stay:

Pine Creek Horseman’s Camp
23937 Big Pine Road
South Bloomingville, OH 43152
Telephone: 740 478 2520

While I usually stay with my sister and her family in nearby Athens, I learned about Pine Creek Horseman’s Camp for a local friend. This property offers gorgeous luxury cabins as well as campsites and is perfect for visitors bringing their horses for trailriding.

Where to Eat:

Cutler’s Restaurant at the Ohio University Inn
331 Richland Avenue
Athens, OH 45701
Telephone: 740 589 3714

If you visit the park on a Saturday, take time to enjoy brunch at the OU Inn.

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

Our Adirondack Family Vacation in Photos 2005

5 February 201531 August 2024

The Great Escape in Lake George, NY

Downtown Lake Placid

Saranac Lake

Young Life Saranac Lake

Beaver Meadow Waterfalls

My brother and I at the rental house in the Adirondacks

The Dock at the Lake House in the Adirondacks

The beautiful mountains in the Adirondacks

The Adirondack Mountains

Surrounded by mountains while on vacation

Driving through the Adirondack Mountains

Sunday Driving in the Adirondacks

Meeting my Brother’s Girlfriend, Emily, for the First Time

What to See and What to Do:

Six Flags Great Escape
1172 US-9
Queensbury, NY 12804
Telephone: 518 824 6000

Sixty miles north of Albany, Six Flags is not only an amusement park but a water park named Hurricane Harbor.

Where to Stay:

We stayed in a rental home that we booked through VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner)

Where to Eat:

Black Bear Restaurant
2409 Main Street
Lake Placid, NY 12946
Telephone: 513 837 5166

Cozy, casual lakeside American eatery offering meat, seafood & pasta dishes, plus cocktails.

What to Eat:

Chicken Riggies (Chicken Rigatoni)
Dry Rieslings from Seneca Lake
Egg Cream – milk, seltzer and chocolate syrup
Frozen Custard
The Garbage Plate – Originating in Rochester, this dish includes burger patties with baked beans, macaroni salad and home fries slathered with ketchup and hot sauce.

What to Read:

Books by Author, Julia Spencer-Fleming

Photo Guide for the Upstate New York:

Kaaterskill Falls
Letchworth State Park
Mount Marcy, Adirondacks
Chimney Bluffs State Park
The Egg, Albany

Exploring Central Costa Rica

1 December 201431 August 2024

We spent a couple of days hanging out on the beach, cooking fresh seafood and making daily trips to the grocery store. It was time for us to travel inland towards the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall and spend a night at Tabacon Hot Springs. Our route took us northwest up the coast where we would make a quick stop in Jaco before making the trek towards our first stop at the waterfall. We crossed the bridge saying goodbye to the alligators before stopping at the market for some road snacks then hopped on route 34 passing quaint little coastal towns along the way.

La Fortuna was an impressive 200 feet tall and we couldn’t wait to see one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls. The roar of the falls could be heard before we reached this magnificent cascade. This spectacular force of nature is one of the most popular sites in Central America. It didn’t take us long to descend the steps to the rocky base but took note that somehow we would have to make our way back the way we came down.

We had packed a picnic, so we found a space to admire the waterfall and the incredible mist that called us to take a swim. I couldn’t help but test out the water, but even in the tropics, I was surprised the water was so cold and decided against jumping in.

It was difficult to break away from this magical spot, but we wanted to hike up to the Arenal Volcano where we would find several viewpoints and scenic lookouts. The national park is the second most visited in the country and for so many reasons. This was once the most active volcano in Costa Rica, but it has remained dormant since 2010. The last time Arenal exploded was 1968 which destroyed the towns of Tabacon and Pueblo Nuevo. At the time of my visit in 2006, there were rumors that the top could blow off at any moment, but we decided not to let that stop us.

I was pleasantly surprised that there were only two trails and that they were so short with the maximum length measuring 2.1 miles. Hikers can pass through lava beds from blasts from the volcano’s past and capture scenic views of Lake Arenal.

While the hike in the park has a beautiful scenic area we decided to visit the Arenal Observatory for views of the volcano and lake. Both were stunning, impressive and worth the detour.

Lake Arenal is Costa Rica’s largest lake measuring 33 square miles. There are a wide range of activities that revolve around this large, man-made body of water such as boating, windsurfing, hiking, biking and of course spectacular fishing. Arenal is known for its guapote, a local fish with sharp teeth and aggressive attitude. I was surprised to learn that the ancient villages of Tronadora and Arenal are actually below the current lake, while newly built hotels around the volcano offer spectacular views and luxury accommodations.

It was getting late and we stopped at the Tabacon Hot Springs before checking into the Thermal Resort & Spa for the night. Sitting under the grandeur of Arenal Volcano, this gorgeous hideaway is the perfect location for exploring and experiencing the natural pools of Costa Rica. Visitors are not required to stay at the resort to enjoy a day of pampering and can book a day pass. While the Resort and Spa are family friendly, the Shangri-La Gardens is more private and accommodating for an adults-only experience.

The thermal spa was perfect for soothing our muscles after a long ride in the car and the luxurious bed was the perfect spot for an amazing night’s sleep, and what a restful night it was.

Have you visited Costa Rica? What was your favorite place and do you have any recommendations for where to spend my next stay in this beautiful country? I would love to hear from you if you would leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my journey through central Costa Rica and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

La Fortuna Waterfall
Alajuela Province
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2479 9515

Admission Fee: 18 US dollars to enter
Hours: All year around from 7AM to 5PM
Amenities: third party tours provide more details; check Viator for more information
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking. The busiest time is midday and early afternoon, so it is suggested to arrive in the morning.

Arenal Volcano
Alajuela Province, Costa Rica
Lake Arenal
Arajuela Province, Costa Rica

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
Noreste de Centro de la Fortuna de San Carlos 13 Km
Provincia de Alajuela, Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica
Telephone: 877 277 8291

Admission Fee: No charge to visit the hot springs at the resort.
Hours: Check with the resort for hours of operation
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bathing suit for enjoying the hot springs.

Where to Stay:

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
Noreste de Centro de la Fortuna de San Carlos 13 Km
Provincia de Alajuela, Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica
Telephone: 877 277 8291

Where to Eat:

Jaco:
Los Mahi Tacos de Cholo
Centro Commercial Urena, Local 3
Avenida Pastor Diaz Diagonal a Calle El Bohio
Jaco Central, Jaco, Garabito Municipality
61101 Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 8741 0562

La Fortuna:
Spectacolar Cantina
Meters west from La Fortuna Church 125
Arenal Volcano National Park
La Fortuna de San Carlos 21007 Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 8569 7676

What to Eat:

Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad. In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices. The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano. It is a popular breakfast dish.
Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup. Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping. In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

What to Read:

It’s Every Monkey for Themselves: A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
Oro by Cizia Zyke
Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

Climbing Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica

10 April 201431 August 2024

It was our one-year anniversary and my husband wanted to take a dive trip to Jamaica. We had decided to stay in Ocho Rios so that we could visit the Dunn’s River Falls, one of Jamaica’s most visited attractions. We found an all-inclusive resort that was close to the falls, offered fabulous amenities and provided an airline discount.

We flew into Montego Bay and took a bus to the hotel. The drive seemed to take forever but after an hour and a half, we finally arrived to a welcoming staff at this luxurious, gorgeous estate. The hotel was absolutely stunning and we could not wait to explore the exquisite grounds. Renting a villa away from the main house, we were offered plenty of privacy and our own private pool.

Ciboney Ocho Rios was considered one of Jamaica’s most luxurious hotels with a AAA Four Diamond Rating. Located on the northern coast, east of Montego Bay, it sat on 45 acres offering a long list of unbelievable amenities to include watersports, concierge, on-site basketball, golf, and volleyball, a salon and spa, gift shop, boutique, and several fabulous restaurants.

We made reservations for the Italian restaurant and decided to stay on the resort for the remainder of the day to enjoy all of the complimentary offerings. We were excited to check out the resort’s entertainment and found ourselves dancing until 3 o’clock in the morning. Each night was based on a theme, and we just happened to arrive on disco night.

We awoke for breakfast and had several hours before meeting our tour group for an afternoon snorkeling excursion. The restaurants served fantastic food with so many options. We loaded up on fresh fruits and made to order omelets that kept us full until lunch.

Heading back to the room after breakfast, we took a short nap and then sat around the pool until it was time to meet our tour in the lobby.

Our afternoon snorkeling trip was a bit uneventful but we were able to see horseshoe crabs and handle sea urchins. I was hoping that our dive in a few days would provide more excitement with colorful fish or sea rays and sharks. It would be Mike’s first underwater dive and I was hoping he would be hooked to finish his underwater certification.

We had a free day before returning home and scheduled a trip to Dunn’s River Falls. We were excited for the opportunity to climb up the 600 foot waterfall surrounded by lush, tropical forests. From the bottom of the falls, we posed for photos and then carefully made the trek behind a large group of tourists as a local guide directed us through the climbing process. The water was refreshing and it took us about an hour and a half to reach the top.

We boarded the transport back to our hotel and enjoyed an afternoon at the small beach across from the resort until it was time for dinner.

Placing an early reservation, we changed out of our swim gear and showered before enjoying a lovely Italian dinner. The food was excellent and we took advantage of our last night at the resort enjoying the entertainment with drinks and dancing.

We absolutely loved our vacation at Ciboney in Ocho Rios, Jamaica and would highly recommend the resort. We later learned that the Ciboney had been purchased by Sandals Resorts and had been renovated and renamed the Sandals Ochi.

Have you been to the new Sandals Ochi or perhaps you had actually been to the Ciboney resort? 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 celebratory visit to Ocho Rios and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Dunn’s River Falls & Park
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Telephone: 876 974 2857

Admission Fee: Adults: $25; Child: $17 (ages 4 – 12).
Hours: 8:30AM to 4PM daily (regular hours); When cruise ships are in port, the facility opens at 7AM
Guided Tours: Included in the admission price
Amenities: Guide during the falls climb, tubing, beach bar, dolphin swim, zipline, catamaran cruise and city tours are included in the Dunn’s River Falls Tour Packages
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: If you are staying at a local resort on the island, schedule your visit when the cruise ships are not in port. Wear comfortable old tennis shoes or water shoes for climbing the falls. Bring your camera and the guide will take photos for you. Tipping is not included in the fee for visiting the falls and the guides expect more than what you would expect to pay in the US, so be aware.

Where to Stay:

Sandals Ochi
130131 Main Street
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Phone: 888 726 3257

Where to Eat:

ValenTino’s Cucina Romana
Sandals Ochi
130131 Main Street
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Phone: 888 726 3257

What to Eat:

Bammy was one of my favorite treats in Jamaica. Made from cassava or yucca, this sweet dish is then soaked in coconut milk and deep fried.
Coco Bread is made with coconut milk, giving it a lovely sweetness.
Jerk Chicken is the national dish for the island of Jamaica. Made with a blend of spices, the Jamaicans also provide jerk pork, jerk fish, etc.
Jamaican Curry Goat is another meal that is popular with Jamaicans, but is difficult to find at touristy restaurants. Half Moon is highly recommended for trying this Jamaican delicacy.
Jamaican Meat Pies are similar to empanadas, a pastry filled with meat.
Jamaican Scotch Bonnet Pepper is a staple in making the island’s hot sauce.
Rice and Peas are really a dish of rice and red beans and is a popular side dish that goes well with Jerk dishes.

What to Read:

Jamaica Me Dead, by Bob Morris
Wide Sargasso Sea, by Jean Rhys
Rasta Heart, by Robert Roskind

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