Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
2008 West Virginia Fall Colors
West Virginia Autumn Colors 2008Friday, October 10TH 2008
A friend and I traveled the mountainous roads of West Virginia photographing the vibrant colors of fall. I was a little concerned that it might be too early in the season for the colors to be at their best. However, in many locations, the colors are vibrant and captivating. The color is dependent on elevation and the types of trees in different locations. Many mountain sides reminded us of a painter’s efforts to canvas the likeness of a rainbow. Bright cheery reds and lemon yellows splashed across sloping mountainsides all along the roadways. Enough green remained to add yet another layer of color to the mosaic. We estimated the progression of color change to be at about 60% and in several locations even further along. About 700 miles of road running by Sam’s valiant driving yielded great photographic opportunities. His driving was so noble that even when he was burning rubber while passing a West Virginia Smoky Bear we got off with only a warning.
Our trip took us down route 79 south to 119 south into Philippi where the first land battle of the Civil War took place. A huge two lane covered bridge spans across the river in town. A late brunch was enjoyed on Main Street at the Medallion Restaurant a local favorite. Our waitress instructed us to Century Junction Road were another covered bridge resides. After spending some time photographing the area, we continued south along 55 skirting Monongahela National Forest. A little known natural area near the westward trek of 55 called Cranberry Botanical Area is photogenic woodlands, ferns, and old trees scattered about. We stopped to photograph a few stand out features along its roadway. It was all day going to Fayetteville across from the New River Gorge Bridge.Saturday, October 11th 2008
Early, before dawn we hit the road going to Babcock State Park to photograph Glades Creek Gristmill. This is the most perfect setting one could imagine with a working gristmill nestled along a creek with colorful trees framing it in. The creek leads up to the mill and a more perfect picture could not be wished. The park is located off 119 along route 44. When we arrived, the night sky offered a spectacular glimpse into the cosmos. Being away from city lights we looked up to witness a clear sky filled with countless bright stars and lights. Amazing, is not adequate to explain it.When the sun began to break and light bathed the area the view was uncloaked and the photography was on. Many other photography enthusiasts gathered with us. A few of them even spent the night in their car. The creek was not running much water, so the waterfall in front of the mill was not as impressive as I have seen it. However, with the water being relatively still the mills reflection was clear as could be.
After the sun shown its light hard on the mill the photography is no longer good and we moved on to the small lake above the mill area. Some reflections of colorful trees offered a challenge.
We decided that all that could be accomplished was, so we started back home. Our trek took us to Gauley Bridge along route 60 then onto route 39 back to 119 north. We then made time to 79 north. After making good time we decided to take one last detour from the interstate and hunt for a few more pictures. We found the West Virginia State Cemetery with Arlington like tomb stones of veterans in endless rows.
We discovered a few nice barns and farmlands and a few more spectacular stands of colorfully vibrant trees on back roads.We negotiated our way through the University of WV Mountaineer Football crowd and had a less than memorable late day lunch at a Shonnys.
All and all it was a great get away from the old grind and we got to see enough fall color to last until next year.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Pennsylvania Dutch Harvest Time 2008
Pennsylvania Dutch Harvest Time
August 9th 2008
August 9th 2008
It’s mid August and the weather is comfortably mild and sunny, I must comment about this time of year being when the growing season has begun to come to fruition. I took a ride north to bother the Amish otherwise known as the Pennsylvania Dutch for a few photos on the fly and to spare them the burden of some produce. What is so nice about having the Amish so close to home is that everything they grow is by the most part fully organic and at a very low cost. If you travel back into the nerve center of the community, where the buggy wheel has made a trail and horse waste liters the road, you will find great deals on fresh produce. Among the offerings that I found were just picked corn on the cob, blueberries, cantaloupe, vine ripened tomatoes, fresh baked bread, peaches covered in dew, green beans, and countless canned goods. It is a real treat to return home with a carload of these things and still have cash in the wallet. I went up with $40 in the wallet and returned with $6. I have made it a habit to stop at one particular home each trip that I make. The children run out to greet me, bare feet and all. One of the boys went out into the garden to cut a fresh cabbage for me. Another woman that lives nearby has a nice sized chicken coop and sells fresh eggs. I got a dozen organic eggs from her for $1.75. I feel so bad, almost as if I have stolen something so I offer her more, but she sternly refuses me.
Along the roadways, vast farmlands stretch out in all directions and countless harvest wheat stacks are arranged in patterns across the fields. The arrangement of each is the same interesting style that has Amish written all over them.
It is very difficult to photograph them when you know they disapprove for religious reasons. I make a few attempts but generally shy away from it. I worry that I may become marked as a troublemaker and they will refuse to sell me produce. If you think about it, if they did allow photography, every photographer this side of the Mississippi would be swarming over them day after day. Therefore, it is probably best that they take a stand on the issue. It is about the commandment of not creating any graven image and about vanity. Sad, a more wonderfully photogenic subject matter does not exist in my opinion. Lifestyle and diet has given most of them a healthy glow that is difficult to explain. The traditional clothing of blue and white with the straw hats or black hats and the bonnets is just perfect subject matter. The horse drawn buggies, and farm carts along with plowing implements is just perfect stuff for the photographer.
August 16, 2008
I returned to Amish country this weekend and the weather was again perfect. Cotton ball clouds adorned the bright blue sky. I picked up a bunch of produce and stopped to have a late lunch at the “Dumplin Hause” in Volant. This unpretentious eatery has six small tables inside and one accomplished woman home cooks everything using local farm goods. Make sure to order the chicken salad sandwich with the tomato dumpling soup. Also, ask if they have any cinnamon buns and get one to take home.
If you are interested in experiencing Pennsylvania Dutch country here is the perfect farmland route to take. From the Pittsburgh area, take route 19 north going on about 40 miles until you find Black Road. Turn left on Black Road going to Volant and get onto 208 west. Stay on 208 west. From Volant all the way to the Ohio boarder are countless back roads off 208 that will take you deep into Amish country. On these roads, the Dutch sell from their homes fresh produce and homemade items. My favorite family lives on Poverty Lane. It is well worth the trip. They disapprove of photography but a discreet sneak or two won’t hurt them.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Alaska Summer 2008 Adventure
Alaskan Adventure 2008
The Bear Paw festival in Eagle River was fun with street performer’s entertaining the crowds and the Slippery Salmon Olympics was in full swing. Contestants need to carry a wet salmon in one hand while in the other hand a serving tray with various items to the finish line. It looked like a lot of fun.
We took a ride into Anchorage to visit Hood Lake and the Aviation Museum. Hood Lake has the greatest concentration of small floatplanes in the country.
Today we hit the road very early in the morning and went north to explore the Glenn Highway. The weather was not favorable during most of the trip but it never is too bad for very long. The weather can change from one moment to the next but did remain generally overcast much of the week. The temperatures remained comfortably cool each day between 50°F and 65°F.
We stopped at Thunder Bird waterfalls and hiked the two-mile trail. The falls gushed with torrents of mountain snowmelt and the air was invigorating. It’s important to bring along deet bug repellent because of the innumerable small ponds and standing pools that help the misquotes breed. Anyone that reports little or no mosquito troubles obviously did not get too far away from the car during their trip.
Palmer is a relatively small town and from there we traveled to the Muskoxen farm. We took the tour and photographed these prehistoric survivors of the arctic. The combed fur of these animals, called Qiviut, is lavish and resultant fiber is costly and well sought after.
The Glenn Highway offered a plethora of photographic opportunities and slowed our progress considerably as we traveled down the famous road. Two frequently repeated words that we used, as we drove down the road, were “Awesome and WOW”.
The sun came out around two in the afternoon and we arrived at our destination, the Matanuska Glacier. This flowing river of ice is spectacular to view from a distance. It actually looks like a silver blue river flowing down the valley. We noticed the Long Rifle Lodge near mile marker 100 and it looks like a respectable place to stay. Another lodging option nearby is Sheep Mountain Lodge that also has a nice restaurant.
On our return trip to Anchorage we decided to stop at Independence mine and Hatcher pass. The first 10 miles back is not impressive if that is possible in Alaska. However, after the first 10 miles a mountainous region begins to appear lush with emerald green forest. Snow melt waters surge down a brook and across huge boulders all along the roadway leading to the mine. It is very much like a storybook fantasyland. A mysterious haunting atmosphere around the elderly mine was enhanced by low rolling clouds and fog. This unbelievably scenic route is highly recommended with pristine alpine brooks and verdant mountains.
Our first day of exploration was outstanding and regardless of imperfect weather was very enjoyable.
Monday, July 14th 2008
Early in the morning, we left the Eagle River area and started south into the Kenai Peninsula region. The landscape of Kenai Peninsula brazenly assaults new arrivals with a merciless and crippling array of breathtaking beauty. Majestic snow capped mountains tower above valleys on all sides, turquoise lakes and flowing streams adorn the low lands as wild flowers, and evergreens proudly boast their splendor. This ostentatious display made it difficult to travel to the destination we set out for in a timely manner. Although countless turnouts are provided along the way, they are not enough for the photographer. Many times we had to pull off the roadside to photograph outstanding views. It is just too big for the camera and some scenic wonders had to be passed by simply because the camera was powerless to capture it.
Along the Seward Highway are several pullouts that feature trailheads, waterfalls, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks of the Turnagain Arm.
We would have liked to travel up Girdwood road but time would not allow it. We did stop at the Portage Glacier area. The road back to Portage Glacier is stunning. Waterfalls and blue ice around the mountains abound. We arrived just in the nick of time to catch the boat going out. As soon as we got on board the ship left for the tour; this was a lucky time saver. There is just too much fresh air and the cold wind from the lake filled our lungs with life. The boat ride cost $30 and is well worth the price. The flashcard memory is being filled up too fast. One tip to photographers thinking about a visit is to bring double the flashcard memory that you think needed.
After our pleasurable time at Portage Glacier, we decided to go to Whittier by way of a one-lane mountain tunnel. The toll is $12 and each car needs to wait in line for the next group that takes turns going to and from Whittier. On the other side, Whittier is a working seaport that receives cruise ships and transports people and cars to Valdez. It is a run down community and in my opinion is too time consuming to visit, it is not recommended.
When we finally arrived in Seward, our dinner was enjoyed at Chinooks Waterfront. The lobster bisc was appetizing while the grilled stuffed halibut had crab cream cheese filling that set it apart from the common. Monty treated us to a toast of Crown Royal and we explored the Seward area. Fishermen brought their catch of halibut and other fish to nearby docks for processing. We noticed when driving down the road, south of town, along the bay, that sea otters were playing near shore.
We found Salmon Creek Cabins off Nash Road a little north of Seward. It was back along some rather rustic run down properties but once settled in, was not too bad of a cabin. The owner was not at home when we first arrived but the door was open and the welcome sign was out. Later I talked with some anglers staying in one of the other cabins and asked them about wildlife locations. It is always a good idea to ask locals where the best locations are. They gladly told me that just a few miles down Seward Highway off Bear Lake road is a small spot where a Grizzly bear and her cub have been frequenting. Well, once we found the place local children road their bikes around and several cars parked near the site. We stopped by the location several times but did not have a chance to see her. We walked around the salmon creek that she liked and it was somewhat spooky knowing that at any moment she might appear. I noticed that seagulls and a few Bald Eagles also frequent the location to scavenge scraps left behind. When the kids ride their bikes around a nearby blind curve on the road they make all kinds of noise as is common practice in bear country. A surprised grizzly with a cub is nothing to fool with. It’s much better to let them know you are coming beforehand. Many salmon congregated in the waters swimming up stream and we could see them jumping over nearby waterfalls.
The other wildlife location that a local told us of was just off our cabin on Nash road. A short distance down the road is a large marsh area that moose frequent to feed on the willows. Again, the wildlife eluded us at this site also. However, the marsh exhibits a perfect reflection of the mountain with wildflowers in the foreground. If time will allow traveling down back roads can be well worth the effort. Nonetheless, the best views are most often found when hiking on trails among mountains and streams; just be careful to make noise and do not hike alone.
Tuesday, July 25th 2008
This morning is our 6-hour tour of Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay. Our boat is the Aialik Voyager by Kenai Fjords Tours.
I was beginning to feel a little sleep depravation at this point. It will not get dark until about 11pm and the light returns around 4am but it never gets fully dark only twilight. This can have an effect on sleep and the light lets a photographer keep on keeping on longer than the old body would like. I was going on adrenaline from this point forward.
Resurrection Bay is a magnificent area. Mountains are all about and interesting sea stacks along with small islands populate the bay. The inhabitants of these fascinating rocky crags are all manner of wildlife. Sea otters play, puffins fly, and stellar sea lions huddle together sunning themselves among the rocks. Yes, the sun did show through the clouds every so often during our tour. The boat captain was keen to tell us his strategy in finding as much wildlife for us to see as possible. He had a colorful personality and did his level best with the short time he had.
I found that it is important to keep my hands free and warm as it is about ten degrees cooler in the bay and the wind created by the boats movement added to the chill. Bring gloves and do not get coffee while on board. Have a good breakfast at Seward diner before the trip.
We found several dolphin like swimmers putting on a show and a mink whale breached the water line with a big splash. We also got to see a humpback whale breach the water line and make an even bigger splash much to everyone’s delight. A few Bald Eagles perched above on tree tops looked valiantly down upon our boat passing by.
The boat arrived at Aialik Glacier and it was bigger and more imposing than Portage Glacier was. After the boat stops and is hushed, one can listen to the glacier crack and thunder with a cavernous drum like moan. The thick snow packed ice moves and cracks with a haunting voice that echoes across the frost cold waters. It is almost like being able to hear a giant that is approaching but cannot see it. Then suddenly heavy ice and packed blue snow falls to the frigid waters below sending out an explosive boom and a tidal wave big enough to surf on. Seeing and hearing an enormous glacier calve is a thrilling experience. Our boat tour was very well done and is recommended.
After our boat trip, we began our return trip back to Cousin Curt’s. It was slow going on the way home because of all of the overwhelming scenery. We decided to stop at the Alaskan wildlife conservancy to make double darn sure we got some wildlife photographs. The wildlife at this point has been more elusive than what was expected. When we arrived in Anchorage, we stopped at Little Italy for dinner and the food was great. The Greek spaghetti with feta cheese and olive oil was particularly tasty. It’s a place that comes recommended.
Wednesday, July 16th 2008
Today we drive 270 miles north to Denali National Park. The first half of the journey was, relative to what we experienced the last few days, not as picturesque. However, the closer we approached the park the landscape opened up to a completely new understanding.
Talkeetna is an interesting stop along the way and worth the side trip from off Park Road. Talkeetna has several small shops and is a genuine frontier town. Along the only road going though town is the Roadhouse. This is a celebrated place to stop and have breakfast with its own bakery. We went inside to find an eclectic time-honored atmosphere that has a welcoming ambiance. Common large tables are set about in the dinning room where anybody can take a chair and sit with others; much like one might do at home. The food is promptly brought out once ordered and the hardy breakfast was quite good. If you choose anything that is not on the breakfast menu it is classified as “Not Breakfast” and selections are posted on a chalk board. The fresh baked goods are displayed in a case at the front counter and after sampling one of them, I must recommend them with my highest regards.
About 50 miles south of the park, the scenery becomes impressive. We stopped many times to make photographs and at the north and south lookouts of Mount McKinley. Much to our chagrin the legendary McKinley was shrouded in low clouds and could not be seen at all. Mount McKinley has a larger bulk and rise than Mount Everest. Even though the summit of Everest is about 9,000 feet higher as measured from sea level, its base sits on the Tibetan Plateau at about 17,000 feet, giving it a real vertical rise of a little more than 12,000 feet. The base of Mount McKinley is roughly a 2,000-foot plateau, giving it an actual rise of 18,000 feet.
We found the Perch Resort about 10 miles south of the park entrance. The cabins were rustic but slightly more refined than Salmon Creek Cabins. The establishment compensates for its rustic charm with a well refined dinning room. We enjoyed a hardy dinner of fresh broiled halibut over wild rice with dill sauce and grilled vegetables. The homemade blue cheese dressing was extra good and the warm bread added a touch of old country charm to the experience. Topping it off was the addition of a scrumptious homemade blueberry pie.
Thursday, July 17th 2008
It was a very early to rise day and crisp arctic air wished us a good morning. We had to make it to the Wilderness Access Center by 5am to board the first bus going into the park. When we arrived, all was in order and we set out into Denali. The bus is a basic school bus without any accommodations so it is important to bring food and drinks with you. We also had binoculars and our camera equipment. A tripod is of little use on the bus and stops are limited, unless one wishes to hike around. Since much of the photography is out of the window of the bus and hand held I increased my ISO setting to around 800 or even higher and used shutter priority at about 400-500/s. I also brought along a few Advil to take later in the day because the bus will shake rattle and roll most of the 85 mile trip and another 85 miles back. Only a single road traverses the park. Some folks brought along seat pads, which is not a bad idea if you have room for them. For a photographer it is important to find a window seat with a working window and that it is on the driver’s side of the bus. The driver’s side going into the park offers better views of the wild and untamed landscape.
Although the weather was not favorable, the park is so immense that it transcends weather conditions in its ability to awe visitors. The landscape is feral arctic tundra with low growing multicolored wildflowers all along the road and across the land. Mosaic hills and mountains rise above the tundra with remarkable form and shape. As the bus lurched into the park bouncing over rough road the driver spotted a moose feeding in a marsh just off to the side. Further along, the driver kept watch for other wildlife and found it. We saw artic hare, grizzly bear, caribou, red-tailed fox, eagles, and the Alaskan state bird the Willow Ptarmigan. About half of the wildlife was too distant to photograph. Several visitor centers and key overlooks are along the road and the driver stops to allow us to get out and stretch every hour or so. The bus was about half full on departure but was loaded on the return trip because it will pick up backpackers and others along the way.
By the time the adventure is concluded it was time for dinner that was again held at the Perch Resort dinning room. This time I enjoyed delicious sautéed Alaskan scallops with mashed potatoes and we shared a superb crab cake appetizer. Encouraged by my energetic cousins, I joined them in going back to the park after dinner to hike at Horseshoe Lake inside the park. A moose was feeding in the lake and we managed to get quite close to her and made several close up photographs of her.
All in all Denali was a fascinating adventure, however it is also quite a gamble in viewing wildlife and in its willingness to reveal the great one. Perhaps I will have another opportunity to see the celebrated mountain in the near future.
Another note to anyone planning a trip is that two accommodations are just outside the park entrance and looked nice. Denali River Cabins and a place simply called Grizzly Bear.
Friday, July 18th 2008
We decided it was time to sleep in for once during our trip and got up relatively late around 730am. We enjoyed our complementary breakfast and set out on a rainy morning. I felt a little let down because of sleep depravation, not getting to see Mount McKinley, and the continued dark overcast weather. Clouds can accent landscape photography nicely and have done so several occurrences during the trip but the continual overcast got me down. On the way south back to Anchorage we stopped at the Etluka Village to photograph the Russian Orthodox Church and cemetery. Each grave in the cemetery has built above it a colorful spirit house. Some of them are fairly ornate. We made good time back to Eagle River and stopped to have lunch at Carl’s Jr. a burger joint.
Later in the evening the whole family got together for dinner at a place in Eagle River called the Haute Grill. It was an outstanding eatery with sophisticated selections and hardy portions. All of the chosen entries looked mouth-watering. I had the Seafood Gumbo that was filled with shrimp, mussels, scallops, and clams.
Saturday July 19th 2008
At the last minute we all decided to make the 270 mile road trip to Homer and return in one day. It was doable and a long hard trip but we would discover well worth the added effort. Early in the morning we hit the road and traveled back down into the spectacular Kenai Peninsula. At the junction of where the Seward and Sterling Highway meet we took the Sterling Highway. The scenic mountain landscape is jaw dropping along the route; mountains after endless mountain embellish our course.
Near Cooper Landing we stopped at the Sunrise Café for a hardy Breakfast. A few local anglers talked of the fishing conditions and what was going on around the village. The Sterling Highway is a little different than Seward Highway in that more facilities and accommodations are along the road way. Many anglers are fishing for Salmon in the Russian River along the route. The river is a beautiful torques blue.
It was a crisp 45°F morning. There is simply too much beauty to cover in a single trip, the side roads need to be explored; we should be hiking on the trails, not enough time to cover the extensive region.
When we reach the southward stretch of the road going to Homer a sudden white snowcapped chain of mountains appears across Cook Inlet. They are distant enough to make them difficult to photograph but not so much that they are not appreciated by the human eye. All along the Cook Inlet going to Homer the wild lupine grows in abundance and they are at peak blossom. Fields and endless fields of lavender blooms are everyplace and along the roadway. The copious fireweed in this location had yet to start its bloom but was only a few days away from doing so. From what I have noticed it seems that when the lupine begins to fad the fireweed begins to bloom and that each location is different in when that happens by a week or two.
Just outside Homer on top of the hill where the welcome sign is located is a large pullout and scenic overlook. In this location is a perfect spot to photograph Bald Eagles in flight. At the far north corner of the overlook is a deep gully where the eagles like to ride the thermals. We saw many eagles, some two at a time riding the thermals then landing in nearby trees.
Along the Homer spit are old shipyards with rustic ramshackle fishing boats and interesting properties of local folks. Further down near the end is a menagerie of shops, fishing charters, restaurants, and other tourist attractions. The one place that stands out among the others is the Salty Daug Saloon. This light house style building has an interior with walls covered in one dollar bills. Each dollar bill has a story to tell, could they speak. It is a wild and landmark location on the Homer spit.
We had our lunch at an unpretentious restaurant across from the Salty Daug, explored the beach area as cold inlet wind chilled our bones, and slowly made our way back to the car. We could not linger too long because my cousins had to catch their flight back home.
On our return trip we stopped at several locations passed by on the way down. Among them was the Russian Orthodox Church at Ninilchik. This church and the high perch it sits on are exceptionally photogenic. It has a green Russian bochka-roof and white siding in the traditional style. The yard around it is populated with many orthodox tomb sights and crosses. Wildflowers grow among the tombs and along the white picket fence that surrounds the church. Across the inlet a volcano can be seen with steam at its crown. It is a photographers dream.
We stopped at Saint Elias Brewery near Soldotna and had the sampler of beers that they brew. We did not order any food but I could not help notice that what food they brought out looked very good.
There is a large marsh area at the junction of Sterling and Seward highways. A beautiful snowcapped mountain reflects into it and the grass and willows in the marsh make for a picture postcard image that shouts out ALASKA! Along the road home a huge rainbow appereard in the sky. The biggest and best rainbow that I ever saw. It was a sign of hope for the next visit to this great land.
When we reached Anchorage and before going to the airport we had a late dinner at Gwennie’s Old Alaskan Restaurant on Spenard Road. This is a cool place to have a bite to eat and portions are hardy. Inside is a wishing well and a collection of Alaskan frontier items.
All three of us were very sad to see each other go but such is life.
Sunday, July 20th 2008
The last day was relaxed a time to reflect on all that happened. On the way out to Anchorage off Eagle River Road, in the distance, we could see the great one. Its white snow covered beatuy greeting us and wishing us well until next time. Later in the day I returned the rental car and Curt, Roxane, me, and mother went to an Anchorage sushi buffet. Curt introduced me to sushi and I found it to be very good.
The flight home was uneventful but long and hard.
Some people give their hearts to a sport or a job or even a material thing to the exclusion of all else. But there are those that are captivated by a vast unspoiled land, a land of snow capped mountains and silver ice fields, a place where endless evergreens stretch across the valleys and wildlife runs free over vast tundra. A realm called Alaska. If you are smart, you will visit this land at least one time during this very short life. I intend to return very soon.
On this first Alaskan adventure, I was joined by my cousins from southern California and we visited our cousin and family whom live in Eagle River north of Anchorage. Curt, Roxanne, and Emily were the best and most gracious hosts anyone could ever wish to have.
During our weeklong odyssey, over 1800 miles were traveled by rental car and over 1200 digital image captures were made. We covered as much territory as humanly possible while time we had. All aspects of the trip are covered including photography locations and wildflower conditions and weather. A few good tips are also included to anyone thinking about a visit.
This trip log will most probably be the longest I have ever written; therefore, interested readers should print out a copy. Readers might find some useful information among the passages. Only a few images will be on the trip log the others will be in the gallery. In the gallery the image will first appear in low quality then in better quality, they are small to save time in uploading them.
http://picasaweb.google.com/ricklionheart222During our weeklong odyssey, over 1800 miles were traveled by rental car and over 1200 digital image captures were made. We covered as much territory as humanly possible while time we had. All aspects of the trip are covered including photography locations and wildflower conditions and weather. A few good tips are also included to anyone thinking about a visit.
This trip log will most probably be the longest I have ever written; therefore, interested readers should print out a copy. Readers might find some useful information among the passages. Only a few images will be on the trip log the others will be in the gallery. In the gallery the image will first appear in low quality then in better quality, they are small to save time in uploading them.
Please leave a comment after you have finished reading.
Friday, July 11th 2008
The daylong flight into Anchorage was by Northwest Airlines and Alaskan Airlines from Seattle Washington. Alaskan airlines were notably better than Northwest airlines in hospitality and service. The Seattle airport has a rather complex maze to navigate going from Northwest gates to the Alaskan gates. You need to travel by two different transport trains to reach the Alaskan airline gates.
Across this rich nation, farmlands stretch as far as the eye can see, even at 35,000 feet.
Curt met us at the airport and escorted us back to his home. Curt and Roxanne’s home is nestled among majestic mountains in the midst of Chugach State Park along Eagle River Road. Their home is arranged with a great assortment of elegant art. Curt is an accomplished outdoorsman and displays an impressive collection of hunting trophies that include a brown bear skin; that is luxurious to the touch. An enormous shoulder mount of an arctic Muskoxen that he received an award for, a black bear skin, several mountain goats, and other trophies.
Roxanne’s taste in art and her outstanding fabric art is on display all around the house. We found that Emily is a wonderful cook.
Later in the evening, Roxanne and I went to Chugach State Park and found a moose feeding in a roadside marsh then it was back to the airport to pick up Monty and Larry my wonderful cousins from southern California. It has been many a moon since last I spent quality time with them.
Curt and Roxanne’s miniature dachshund was a welcome high-energy bundle of fun and took a liking to me, as it should be with all those that I encounter.
Saturday July 12th 2008
Curt joined us for a day of good old fun. We enjoyed an early morning hike in the state park. We spotted a Bald Eagle perched on a treetop. The mountains along the hike are grand. Eagle River flows through the valley and bright fireweed grows along its banks.
Friday, July 11th 2008
The daylong flight into Anchorage was by Northwest Airlines and Alaskan Airlines from Seattle Washington. Alaskan airlines were notably better than Northwest airlines in hospitality and service. The Seattle airport has a rather complex maze to navigate going from Northwest gates to the Alaskan gates. You need to travel by two different transport trains to reach the Alaskan airline gates.
Across this rich nation, farmlands stretch as far as the eye can see, even at 35,000 feet.
Curt met us at the airport and escorted us back to his home. Curt and Roxanne’s home is nestled among majestic mountains in the midst of Chugach State Park along Eagle River Road. Their home is arranged with a great assortment of elegant art. Curt is an accomplished outdoorsman and displays an impressive collection of hunting trophies that include a brown bear skin; that is luxurious to the touch. An enormous shoulder mount of an arctic Muskoxen that he received an award for, a black bear skin, several mountain goats, and other trophies.
Roxanne’s taste in art and her outstanding fabric art is on display all around the house. We found that Emily is a wonderful cook.
Later in the evening, Roxanne and I went to Chugach State Park and found a moose feeding in a roadside marsh then it was back to the airport to pick up Monty and Larry my wonderful cousins from southern California. It has been many a moon since last I spent quality time with them.
Curt and Roxanne’s miniature dachshund was a welcome high-energy bundle of fun and took a liking to me, as it should be with all those that I encounter.
Saturday July 12th 2008
Curt joined us for a day of good old fun. We enjoyed an early morning hike in the state park. We spotted a Bald Eagle perched on a treetop. The mountains along the hike are grand. Eagle River flows through the valley and bright fireweed grows along its banks.
The Bear Paw festival in Eagle River was fun with street performer’s entertaining the crowds and the Slippery Salmon Olympics was in full swing. Contestants need to carry a wet salmon in one hand while in the other hand a serving tray with various items to the finish line. It looked like a lot of fun.We took a ride into Anchorage to visit Hood Lake and the Aviation Museum. Hood Lake has the greatest concentration of small floatplanes in the country.
The museum is a work in progress and has a nice number of interesting aviation exhibits inside and out.
We then proceeded to pick up the rental car at ABC RV and car rental near the airport. The car they had set aside for us was not the best on the lot to say the least. Monty complained and the owner’s wife instructed the service person to give us a better car. We were offered a newer but smaller car that worked out fine for the whole trip.
After the car pickup, Curt took us to a famous Anchorage Saloon known as Chilkoot Charlie’s. This rough around the edges saloon is a combination of many different themed bars all under one roof. Its eclectic atmosphere is a maze of fun. We all had a nice beer and caught up on lost time.
Curt and Roxanne along with Emily treated us all to a perfect Alaskan king crab dinner. The sesame cabbage salad was superb and the King Crab legs were huge. Curt then treated us to some sophisticated liquors.
Sunday July 13th 2008
We then proceeded to pick up the rental car at ABC RV and car rental near the airport. The car they had set aside for us was not the best on the lot to say the least. Monty complained and the owner’s wife instructed the service person to give us a better car. We were offered a newer but smaller car that worked out fine for the whole trip.
After the car pickup, Curt took us to a famous Anchorage Saloon known as Chilkoot Charlie’s. This rough around the edges saloon is a combination of many different themed bars all under one roof. Its eclectic atmosphere is a maze of fun. We all had a nice beer and caught up on lost time.
Curt and Roxanne along with Emily treated us all to a perfect Alaskan king crab dinner. The sesame cabbage salad was superb and the King Crab legs were huge. Curt then treated us to some sophisticated liquors.
Sunday July 13th 2008
Today we hit the road very early in the morning and went north to explore the Glenn Highway. The weather was not favorable during most of the trip but it never is too bad for very long. The weather can change from one moment to the next but did remain generally overcast much of the week. The temperatures remained comfortably cool each day between 50°F and 65°F.We stopped at Thunder Bird waterfalls and hiked the two-mile trail. The falls gushed with torrents of mountain snowmelt and the air was invigorating. It’s important to bring along deet bug repellent because of the innumerable small ponds and standing pools that help the misquotes breed. Anyone that reports little or no mosquito troubles obviously did not get too far away from the car during their trip.
Palmer is a relatively small town and from there we traveled to the Muskoxen farm. We took the tour and photographed these prehistoric survivors of the arctic. The combed fur of these animals, called Qiviut, is lavish and resultant fiber is costly and well sought after.
The Glenn Highway offered a plethora of photographic opportunities and slowed our progress considerably as we traveled down the famous road. Two frequently repeated words that we used, as we drove down the road, were “Awesome and WOW”.
The sun came out around two in the afternoon and we arrived at our destination, the Matanuska Glacier. This flowing river of ice is spectacular to view from a distance. It actually looks like a silver blue river flowing down the valley. We noticed the Long Rifle Lodge near mile marker 100 and it looks like a respectable place to stay. Another lodging option nearby is Sheep Mountain Lodge that also has a nice restaurant.
On our return trip to Anchorage we decided to stop at Independence mine and Hatcher pass. The first 10 miles back is not impressive if that is possible in Alaska. However, after the first 10 miles a mountainous region begins to appear lush with emerald green forest. Snow melt waters surge down a brook and across huge boulders all along the roadway leading to the mine. It is very much like a storybook fantasyland. A mysterious haunting atmosphere around the elderly mine was enhanced by low rolling clouds and fog. This unbelievably scenic route is highly recommended with pristine alpine brooks and verdant mountains.
Our first day of exploration was outstanding and regardless of imperfect weather was very enjoyable.
Monday, July 14th 2008
Early in the morning, we left the Eagle River area and started south into the Kenai Peninsula region. The landscape of Kenai Peninsula brazenly assaults new arrivals with a merciless and crippling array of breathtaking beauty. Majestic snow capped mountains tower above valleys on all sides, turquoise lakes and flowing streams adorn the low lands as wild flowers, and evergreens proudly boast their splendor. This ostentatious display made it difficult to travel to the destination we set out for in a timely manner. Although countless turnouts are provided along the way, they are not enough for the photographer. Many times we had to pull off the roadside to photograph outstanding views. It is just too big for the camera and some scenic wonders had to be passed by simply because the camera was powerless to capture it.Along the Seward Highway are several pullouts that feature trailheads, waterfalls, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks of the Turnagain Arm.
We would have liked to travel up Girdwood road but time would not allow it. We did stop at the Portage Glacier area. The road back to Portage Glacier is stunning. Waterfalls and blue ice around the mountains abound. We arrived just in the nick of time to catch the boat going out. As soon as we got on board the ship left for the tour; this was a lucky time saver. There is just too much fresh air and the cold wind from the lake filled our lungs with life. The boat ride cost $30 and is well worth the price. The flashcard memory is being filled up too fast. One tip to photographers thinking about a visit is to bring double the flashcard memory that you think needed.
After our pleasurable time at Portage Glacier, we decided to go to Whittier by way of a one-lane mountain tunnel. The toll is $12 and each car needs to wait in line for the next group that takes turns going to and from Whittier. On the other side, Whittier is a working seaport that receives cruise ships and transports people and cars to Valdez. It is a run down community and in my opinion is too time consuming to visit, it is not recommended.
When we finally arrived in Seward, our dinner was enjoyed at Chinooks Waterfront. The lobster bisc was appetizing while the grilled stuffed halibut had crab cream cheese filling that set it apart from the common. Monty treated us to a toast of Crown Royal and we explored the Seward area. Fishermen brought their catch of halibut and other fish to nearby docks for processing. We noticed when driving down the road, south of town, along the bay, that sea otters were playing near shore.
We found Salmon Creek Cabins off Nash Road a little north of Seward. It was back along some rather rustic run down properties but once settled in, was not too bad of a cabin. The owner was not at home when we first arrived but the door was open and the welcome sign was out. Later I talked with some anglers staying in one of the other cabins and asked them about wildlife locations. It is always a good idea to ask locals where the best locations are. They gladly told me that just a few miles down Seward Highway off Bear Lake road is a small spot where a Grizzly bear and her cub have been frequenting. Well, once we found the place local children road their bikes around and several cars parked near the site. We stopped by the location several times but did not have a chance to see her. We walked around the salmon creek that she liked and it was somewhat spooky knowing that at any moment she might appear. I noticed that seagulls and a few Bald Eagles also frequent the location to scavenge scraps left behind. When the kids ride their bikes around a nearby blind curve on the road they make all kinds of noise as is common practice in bear country. A surprised grizzly with a cub is nothing to fool with. It’s much better to let them know you are coming beforehand. Many salmon congregated in the waters swimming up stream and we could see them jumping over nearby waterfalls.
The other wildlife location that a local told us of was just off our cabin on Nash road. A short distance down the road is a large marsh area that moose frequent to feed on the willows. Again, the wildlife eluded us at this site also. However, the marsh exhibits a perfect reflection of the mountain with wildflowers in the foreground. If time will allow traveling down back roads can be well worth the effort. Nonetheless, the best views are most often found when hiking on trails among mountains and streams; just be careful to make noise and do not hike alone.
Tuesday, July 25th 2008
This morning is our 6-hour tour of Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay. Our boat is the Aialik Voyager by Kenai Fjords Tours.I was beginning to feel a little sleep depravation at this point. It will not get dark until about 11pm and the light returns around 4am but it never gets fully dark only twilight. This can have an effect on sleep and the light lets a photographer keep on keeping on longer than the old body would like. I was going on adrenaline from this point forward.
Resurrection Bay is a magnificent area. Mountains are all about and interesting sea stacks along with small islands populate the bay. The inhabitants of these fascinating rocky crags are all manner of wildlife. Sea otters play, puffins fly, and stellar sea lions huddle together sunning themselves among the rocks. Yes, the sun did show through the clouds every so often during our tour. The boat captain was keen to tell us his strategy in finding as much wildlife for us to see as possible. He had a colorful personality and did his level best with the short time he had.
I found that it is important to keep my hands free and warm as it is about ten degrees cooler in the bay and the wind created by the boats movement added to the chill. Bring gloves and do not get coffee while on board. Have a good breakfast at Seward diner before the trip.
We found several dolphin like swimmers putting on a show and a mink whale breached the water line with a big splash. We also got to see a humpback whale breach the water line and make an even bigger splash much to everyone’s delight. A few Bald Eagles perched above on tree tops looked valiantly down upon our boat passing by.
The boat arrived at Aialik Glacier and it was bigger and more imposing than Portage Glacier was. After the boat stops and is hushed, one can listen to the glacier crack and thunder with a cavernous drum like moan. The thick snow packed ice moves and cracks with a haunting voice that echoes across the frost cold waters. It is almost like being able to hear a giant that is approaching but cannot see it. Then suddenly heavy ice and packed blue snow falls to the frigid waters below sending out an explosive boom and a tidal wave big enough to surf on. Seeing and hearing an enormous glacier calve is a thrilling experience. Our boat tour was very well done and is recommended.
After our boat trip, we began our return trip back to Cousin Curt’s. It was slow going on the way home because of all of the overwhelming scenery. We decided to stop at the Alaskan wildlife conservancy to make double darn sure we got some wildlife photographs. The wildlife at this point has been more elusive than what was expected. When we arrived in Anchorage, we stopped at Little Italy for dinner and the food was great. The Greek spaghetti with feta cheese and olive oil was particularly tasty. It’s a place that comes recommended.
Wednesday, July 16th 2008
Today we drive 270 miles north to Denali National Park. The first half of the journey was, relative to what we experienced the last few days, not as picturesque. However, the closer we approached the park the landscape opened up to a completely new understanding.Talkeetna is an interesting stop along the way and worth the side trip from off Park Road. Talkeetna has several small shops and is a genuine frontier town. Along the only road going though town is the Roadhouse. This is a celebrated place to stop and have breakfast with its own bakery. We went inside to find an eclectic time-honored atmosphere that has a welcoming ambiance. Common large tables are set about in the dinning room where anybody can take a chair and sit with others; much like one might do at home. The food is promptly brought out once ordered and the hardy breakfast was quite good. If you choose anything that is not on the breakfast menu it is classified as “Not Breakfast” and selections are posted on a chalk board. The fresh baked goods are displayed in a case at the front counter and after sampling one of them, I must recommend them with my highest regards.
About 50 miles south of the park, the scenery becomes impressive. We stopped many times to make photographs and at the north and south lookouts of Mount McKinley. Much to our chagrin the legendary McKinley was shrouded in low clouds and could not be seen at all. Mount McKinley has a larger bulk and rise than Mount Everest. Even though the summit of Everest is about 9,000 feet higher as measured from sea level, its base sits on the Tibetan Plateau at about 17,000 feet, giving it a real vertical rise of a little more than 12,000 feet. The base of Mount McKinley is roughly a 2,000-foot plateau, giving it an actual rise of 18,000 feet.
We found the Perch Resort about 10 miles south of the park entrance. The cabins were rustic but slightly more refined than Salmon Creek Cabins. The establishment compensates for its rustic charm with a well refined dinning room. We enjoyed a hardy dinner of fresh broiled halibut over wild rice with dill sauce and grilled vegetables. The homemade blue cheese dressing was extra good and the warm bread added a touch of old country charm to the experience. Topping it off was the addition of a scrumptious homemade blueberry pie.
Thursday, July 17th 2008
It was a very early to rise day and crisp arctic air wished us a good morning. We had to make it to the Wilderness Access Center by 5am to board the first bus going into the park. When we arrived, all was in order and we set out into Denali. The bus is a basic school bus without any accommodations so it is important to bring food and drinks with you. We also had binoculars and our camera equipment. A tripod is of little use on the bus and stops are limited, unless one wishes to hike around. Since much of the photography is out of the window of the bus and hand held I increased my ISO setting to around 800 or even higher and used shutter priority at about 400-500/s. I also brought along a few Advil to take later in the day because the bus will shake rattle and roll most of the 85 mile trip and another 85 miles back. Only a single road traverses the park. Some folks brought along seat pads, which is not a bad idea if you have room for them. For a photographer it is important to find a window seat with a working window and that it is on the driver’s side of the bus. The driver’s side going into the park offers better views of the wild and untamed landscape.Although the weather was not favorable, the park is so immense that it transcends weather conditions in its ability to awe visitors. The landscape is feral arctic tundra with low growing multicolored wildflowers all along the road and across the land. Mosaic hills and mountains rise above the tundra with remarkable form and shape. As the bus lurched into the park bouncing over rough road the driver spotted a moose feeding in a marsh just off to the side. Further along, the driver kept watch for other wildlife and found it. We saw artic hare, grizzly bear, caribou, red-tailed fox, eagles, and the Alaskan state bird the Willow Ptarmigan. About half of the wildlife was too distant to photograph. Several visitor centers and key overlooks are along the road and the driver stops to allow us to get out and stretch every hour or so. The bus was about half full on departure but was loaded on the return trip because it will pick up backpackers and others along the way.
By the time the adventure is concluded it was time for dinner that was again held at the Perch Resort dinning room. This time I enjoyed delicious sautéed Alaskan scallops with mashed potatoes and we shared a superb crab cake appetizer. Encouraged by my energetic cousins, I joined them in going back to the park after dinner to hike at Horseshoe Lake inside the park. A moose was feeding in the lake and we managed to get quite close to her and made several close up photographs of her.
All in all Denali was a fascinating adventure, however it is also quite a gamble in viewing wildlife and in its willingness to reveal the great one. Perhaps I will have another opportunity to see the celebrated mountain in the near future.
Another note to anyone planning a trip is that two accommodations are just outside the park entrance and looked nice. Denali River Cabins and a place simply called Grizzly Bear.
Friday, July 18th 2008
We decided it was time to sleep in for once during our trip and got up relatively late around 730am. We enjoyed our complementary breakfast and set out on a rainy morning. I felt a little let down because of sleep depravation, not getting to see Mount McKinley, and the continued dark overcast weather. Clouds can accent landscape photography nicely and have done so several occurrences during the trip but the continual overcast got me down. On the way south back to Anchorage we stopped at the Etluka Village to photograph the Russian Orthodox Church and cemetery. Each grave in the cemetery has built above it a colorful spirit house. Some of them are fairly ornate. We made good time back to Eagle River and stopped to have lunch at Carl’s Jr. a burger joint.
Later in the evening the whole family got together for dinner at a place in Eagle River called the Haute Grill. It was an outstanding eatery with sophisticated selections and hardy portions. All of the chosen entries looked mouth-watering. I had the Seafood Gumbo that was filled with shrimp, mussels, scallops, and clams.
Saturday July 19th 2008
At the last minute we all decided to make the 270 mile road trip to Homer and return in one day. It was doable and a long hard trip but we would discover well worth the added effort. Early in the morning we hit the road and traveled back down into the spectacular Kenai Peninsula. At the junction of where the Seward and Sterling Highway meet we took the Sterling Highway. The scenic mountain landscape is jaw dropping along the route; mountains after endless mountain embellish our course.Near Cooper Landing we stopped at the Sunrise Café for a hardy Breakfast. A few local anglers talked of the fishing conditions and what was going on around the village. The Sterling Highway is a little different than Seward Highway in that more facilities and accommodations are along the road way. Many anglers are fishing for Salmon in the Russian River along the route. The river is a beautiful torques blue.
It was a crisp 45°F morning. There is simply too much beauty to cover in a single trip, the side roads need to be explored; we should be hiking on the trails, not enough time to cover the extensive region.
When we reach the southward stretch of the road going to Homer a sudden white snowcapped chain of mountains appears across Cook Inlet. They are distant enough to make them difficult to photograph but not so much that they are not appreciated by the human eye. All along the Cook Inlet going to Homer the wild lupine grows in abundance and they are at peak blossom. Fields and endless fields of lavender blooms are everyplace and along the roadway. The copious fireweed in this location had yet to start its bloom but was only a few days away from doing so. From what I have noticed it seems that when the lupine begins to fad the fireweed begins to bloom and that each location is different in when that happens by a week or two.
Just outside Homer on top of the hill where the welcome sign is located is a large pullout and scenic overlook. In this location is a perfect spot to photograph Bald Eagles in flight. At the far north corner of the overlook is a deep gully where the eagles like to ride the thermals. We saw many eagles, some two at a time riding the thermals then landing in nearby trees.
Along the Homer spit are old shipyards with rustic ramshackle fishing boats and interesting properties of local folks. Further down near the end is a menagerie of shops, fishing charters, restaurants, and other tourist attractions. The one place that stands out among the others is the Salty Daug Saloon. This light house style building has an interior with walls covered in one dollar bills. Each dollar bill has a story to tell, could they speak. It is a wild and landmark location on the Homer spit.
We had our lunch at an unpretentious restaurant across from the Salty Daug, explored the beach area as cold inlet wind chilled our bones, and slowly made our way back to the car. We could not linger too long because my cousins had to catch their flight back home.
On our return trip we stopped at several locations passed by on the way down. Among them was the Russian Orthodox Church at Ninilchik. This church and the high perch it sits on are exceptionally photogenic. It has a green Russian bochka-roof and white siding in the traditional style. The yard around it is populated with many orthodox tomb sights and crosses. Wildflowers grow among the tombs and along the white picket fence that surrounds the church. Across the inlet a volcano can be seen with steam at its crown. It is a photographers dream.
We stopped at Saint Elias Brewery near Soldotna and had the sampler of beers that they brew. We did not order any food but I could not help notice that what food they brought out looked very good.
There is a large marsh area at the junction of Sterling and Seward highways. A beautiful snowcapped mountain reflects into it and the grass and willows in the marsh make for a picture postcard image that shouts out ALASKA! Along the road home a huge rainbow appereard in the sky. The biggest and best rainbow that I ever saw. It was a sign of hope for the next visit to this great land.
When we reached Anchorage and before going to the airport we had a late dinner at Gwennie’s Old Alaskan Restaurant on Spenard Road. This is a cool place to have a bite to eat and portions are hardy. Inside is a wishing well and a collection of Alaskan frontier items.
All three of us were very sad to see each other go but such is life.
Sunday, July 20th 2008
The last day was relaxed a time to reflect on all that happened. On the way out to Anchorage off Eagle River Road, in the distance, we could see the great one. Its white snow covered beatuy greeting us and wishing us well until next time. Later in the day I returned the rental car and Curt, Roxane, me, and mother went to an Anchorage sushi buffet. Curt introduced me to sushi and I found it to be very good.
The flight home was uneventful but long and hard.
Some people give their hearts to a sport or a job or even a material thing to the exclusion of all else. But there are those that are captivated by a vast unspoiled land, a land of snow capped mountains and silver ice fields, a place where endless evergreens stretch across the valleys and wildlife runs free over vast tundra. A realm called Alaska. If you are smart, you will visit this land at least one time during this very short life. I intend to return very soon.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
Monday, June 30, 2008
South West PA Waterfalls
June 30, 2008A friend and I went to photograph nearby waterfalls. These falls are not well advertised in the southwestern PA location. We have had a good amount of rain the last few weeks so the water flow was strong.
While we explored, a group of Amish youth gathered at one of the waterfalls. They all arrived in horse drawn buggies. Three buggies in all delivered about six teens, all male. They must have been doing the Amish right of rebellion that the youth are permitted to engage in when they turn 16 or some age around then. They smoked cigarettes and seemed to enjoy hanging out with a few non-Amish friends that had rock music going out of their car.
My personal opinion is let them have fun. The Amish might not be perfect but they live a life much less displeasing to Jesus than most of the rest of us; that is for sure.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Cooks Forest State Park, PA
June 8, 2008
Several friends and I went to a French and Indian war encampment held at Cooks Forest State Park, Pennsylvania. We also found a few interesting old growth forests with carpets of wild fern growing everywhere. You can see the photographs on my photo gallery.
http://Picasaweb.google.com/ricklionheart222
Several friends and I went to a French and Indian war encampment held at Cooks Forest State Park, Pennsylvania. We also found a few interesting old growth forests with carpets of wild fern growing everywhere. You can see the photographs on my photo gallery.
http://Picasaweb.google.com/ricklionheart222
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Spring Time in PA
Pennsylvania Spring
May 24, 2008
Cotton ball clouds and rich blue sky made for a pleasant 65° day. A cool breeze danced thru new green foliage on the trees.
I went up to my favorite local park to finish reading “The Call of the Wild” while sitting at one of the picnic tables. You can learn a lot from the way authors write. Technique, story telling style, out of the ordinary descriptions of things or places is among a few of the author’s tools. It never hurts to have command of the written language also. I will now proceed to read “White Fang” and then onto Steinbeck.
It is well into springtime here in Pennsylvania, wild flowers are in bloom, farmers are planting the fields, and high school graduation parties are going strong.
Not too far from here is a State Park called Raccoon Park. Inside this park are woodlands that hold a treasured wild orchard that blooms around this time each year. The Lady- Slipper orchard is a natural beauty. It grows in several different species; yellow, pink, and showy. The showy Lady-Slipper is most rare around these parts and is found in bogs or swampland.
Cool spring air is blowing in the open window beside me. When the window is open the sounds of the evening clamor in. Trains rumbling down the track sounding the horn, riverboat fog horns, and nameless sounds not known are but a few. Later in the summer crickets will chime in. Then, early in the morning the song birds sing a blend of tunes, more so during spring than at other times of the year.
May 24, 2008
Cotton ball clouds and rich blue sky made for a pleasant 65° day. A cool breeze danced thru new green foliage on the trees.
I went up to my favorite local park to finish reading “The Call of the Wild” while sitting at one of the picnic tables. You can learn a lot from the way authors write. Technique, story telling style, out of the ordinary descriptions of things or places is among a few of the author’s tools. It never hurts to have command of the written language also. I will now proceed to read “White Fang” and then onto Steinbeck.
It is well into springtime here in Pennsylvania, wild flowers are in bloom, farmers are planting the fields, and high school graduation parties are going strong.
Not too far from here is a State Park called Raccoon Park. Inside this park are woodlands that hold a treasured wild orchard that blooms around this time each year. The Lady- Slipper orchard is a natural beauty. It grows in several different species; yellow, pink, and showy. The showy Lady-Slipper is most rare around these parts and is found in bogs or swampland.
Cool spring air is blowing in the open window beside me. When the window is open the sounds of the evening clamor in. Trains rumbling down the track sounding the horn, riverboat fog horns, and nameless sounds not known are but a few. Later in the summer crickets will chime in. Then, early in the morning the song birds sing a blend of tunes, more so during spring than at other times of the year.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Cuyahoga Valley National Park Spring Adventure 2008
Cuyahoga Valley is a natural area situated north of Akron and south of Cleveland Ohio. This location has many natural features that coalesce offering photographers a host of opportunities to practice their art.
About 30 members of our photography club enjoyed an adventuresome weekend exploring the park and creatively capturing its beauty in photographs. This is the story from my perspective. I am sure each has a story to tell.
Friday, May 2nd 2008
About 30 members of our photography club enjoyed an adventuresome weekend exploring the park and creatively capturing its beauty in photographs. This is the story from my perspective. I am sure each has a story to tell.
Friday, May 2nd 2008
The road trip began solo traveling at dawn from route 51W to 14NW to 303W into Cuyahoga Valley. These indirect routes lead through beautiful farmlands embellished with springtime colors. The journey is as important as the destination. The farmlands across Ohio are picturesque and I stopped many times to photograph bucolic landscapes. Among them was a gem of discovery along route 14. I happened across a huge sheep farm with hundreds of sheep, many of which were baby lambs frolicking in the fields. The sunrise lighting was ideal to work with. It was a perfect spring morning but dark clouds loomed across the sky.
I stopped at Carol’s Diner on route 62 west of Salem Ohio. It is a small Mom & Pop that offers a good country breakfast. It’s so small that I might have missed it if not looking for just such a place.
The prelude to what proved to be a weekend of inclement weather began with a few scattered rain showers during my approach to the valley on Friday. Thunder rumbled in the distance and I decided to stop the car and simply relax and listen to the rain falling. At this point I decided not to lament the spring storms but to embrace them. Unwavering photographers, like our group, will work in any conditions, as was the case during this excursion. After this short rest, it was close to lunchtime and the Winking Lizard on Main Street Peninsula fit the bill. I met Sam, Bob and there wives along with Val for a nice lunch. Much to my delight, the Winking Lizard offers a wide assortment of imported beers among them being a world champion called Celebrator, of Austria. My comments about this beer can be found in the archives of this blog. Well, I would not be satisfied without partaking of a freshly opened Celebrator beer. The food is colorfully named but familiar and good.
A mild break in the rain cleared after lunch and we joined up to explore the territory. One of several waterfalls in the region named Blue Hen Falls is a worthy side trip off Riverview road, the principal north-south road in the park. The rain muddied the waters but the flow was remarkable. The comment was made that not too many nuts were in the woods today due to the wet weather but a few hardy souls hiked around. Most of those hikers seemed to enjoy the rain. Photographers do have one problem with the sour conditions in that the instruments and equipment must not be damaged by water. We had to work while protecting the camera from the water. The images resulting from this can have a great deal of impact because of the moodiness but working in it can be tricky. Picture someone holding an umbrella with one hand and then adjusting settings and composing the perfect image with the free hand. This is all accomplished while climbing up and down forest embankments and wet rocks. I stopped for a short time to reflect in the ambiance of the moment rather than be melancholy about it.
Our next stop was Brecksville train stop. This is the classic train shot with the arched highway overpass framing the train as it approaches the stop. One needs to check the train schedule to time the moment to be set up for the shot. We did not stay for the 20 minutes needed in order to catch the next pass but will cover it later in the trip.
The prelude to what proved to be a weekend of inclement weather began with a few scattered rain showers during my approach to the valley on Friday. Thunder rumbled in the distance and I decided to stop the car and simply relax and listen to the rain falling. At this point I decided not to lament the spring storms but to embrace them. Unwavering photographers, like our group, will work in any conditions, as was the case during this excursion. After this short rest, it was close to lunchtime and the Winking Lizard on Main Street Peninsula fit the bill. I met Sam, Bob and there wives along with Val for a nice lunch. Much to my delight, the Winking Lizard offers a wide assortment of imported beers among them being a world champion called Celebrator, of Austria. My comments about this beer can be found in the archives of this blog. Well, I would not be satisfied without partaking of a freshly opened Celebrator beer. The food is colorfully named but familiar and good.
A mild break in the rain cleared after lunch and we joined up to explore the territory. One of several waterfalls in the region named Blue Hen Falls is a worthy side trip off Riverview road, the principal north-south road in the park. The rain muddied the waters but the flow was remarkable. The comment was made that not too many nuts were in the woods today due to the wet weather but a few hardy souls hiked around. Most of those hikers seemed to enjoy the rain. Photographers do have one problem with the sour conditions in that the instruments and equipment must not be damaged by water. We had to work while protecting the camera from the water. The images resulting from this can have a great deal of impact because of the moodiness but working in it can be tricky. Picture someone holding an umbrella with one hand and then adjusting settings and composing the perfect image with the free hand. This is all accomplished while climbing up and down forest embankments and wet rocks. I stopped for a short time to reflect in the ambiance of the moment rather than be melancholy about it.
Our next stop was Brecksville train stop. This is the classic train shot with the arched highway overpass framing the train as it approaches the stop. One needs to check the train schedule to time the moment to be set up for the shot. We did not stay for the 20 minutes needed in order to catch the next pass but will cover it later in the trip.
We proceeded to the Gorge overlook location near Bridal Veil Falls. This area has a very picturesque overlook into the gorge below. The trees are a mosaic of olive and emerald greens this time of year with new leaves emerging. A mystic cloak of fog seemed to weave its way up and down the vale in a slow motion ballet. One moment it appeared to lift away then returned with even more passion. This kind of gift is what resolute photographers hope to find during travel.
Bridal Veil Falls is located at the extreme north of park boundaries outside the park in the Bedford Reservation area along Gorge Parkway. It is an admirable destination and during this visit cascading water crashed over the edge in torrents. Both Blue Hen and Bridal Veil Falls is a short walk from parking. Again, the water was muddy but the thunderous sound of the falls was enjoyable.
We returned to Peninsula to enjoy dinner at Fishers Restaurant across the road from the Winking Lizard. The dessert was as appetizing as the crowd was boisterous.
Saturday, May 3rd 2008
Increasingly inclement weather did not stop us Saturday morning and we doggedly pursued the perfect photographic opportunity. I was proud to be tagging along with such a prestigious group of photographers. Sam, Bob, Val, Kal, David, and I arrived at Brandywine Falls early dawn. The crashing waters could be heard afar off. My intention was to attempt to go down into the ravine and photograph the falls from below. However, after a short study, decided against this treacherous struggle so early in the morning. The sides are abrupt and full of rocks, roots, mud, and a jungle of flora. What is normally a calm stream at its bottom is now a gush of rapids sweeping everything in there path to its unavoidable ruin.
I decided to go back up the walking path and join Sam in his commendable efforts to capture the perfectly composed shot of the falls from the edge of this ravine. Sam meets me half way and instructs me to go join the others. Perplexed I looked at him puzzled. He then continued to explain that his photographic set up, including not only the Nikon D200 digital SLR, but the lens, Manfrotto tripod, and attachment all fell over the side of the 100 foot cliff. It crashed to the bottom and was helpless, all alone and in full view to those that would dare to look. Photographic enthusiasts understand what a horror this is. To others, let me endeavor and explain it. Devoted photographers develop and emotional bond to their camera equipment but mostly to the camera. As an example, I refer to my camera as “baby or child”. I protect it from harm by shielding it from damage in protective containers. I clean it, talk to it, and even take it with me on long trips away from home. If I was going under water and sinking down my chief concern would be to keep it out of the water even while I gasp my last breath. To have it torn away suddenly and without warning from my loving embrace is synonymous to a crime. Custom car owners are the same way when it comes to the car they have worked on over many years.
Needless to say, this was the beginning of a noteworthy escapade. Because of his bond to the camera and hurt pride, Sam was determined to go down into the abyss and retrieve his baby. Although he insisted upon me joining the others and continuing a day of photography, I oppose with my resolve to help him. My interest in this was two fold, on the one hand, Sam should not go where angels dare not tread without a friend to watch his back and on the other hand, I did originally intended to photograph from below until wisdom compelled my retreat. Now circumstance has forced my hand and I shall slide down into the darkness after all.
In order to have a slim hope of getting down into the ravine we had to hike away from the falls to find an access point then once down hike back up to the falls. The plunge down was dicey, as we held onto tree branches and made efforts to establish the best footing we could. Nothing but pain awaited us should we misplace our footing on the remorseless slope. After hitting bottom and regaining equilibrium, we hiked up toward the falls. I felt what it must have been like exploring these primeval forested lands before humans set foot here. The early light had yet to fully penetrate the ravine but enough to allow sight to where we were going. I watched out for Sam while at the same time set up my tripod to capture the striking image. The backdrop is a growling waterfalls hammering to the bottom, the foreground is flooding, swift moving water rushing along side near to us. We hiked as far as possible only to be turned back by an impenetrable jungle of trees, sheer walls, and vindictive waters, all of them forbidding passage.
With hope lost, we returned up the steep face of the ravine grabbing onto anything that would offer a hand of support. Once returned to the footpath, Sam called the park rangers to report the tragedy. Since I knew Sam would be safe with the rangers I joined the others to continue photographing. Kal was behind the wheel and he made sure we would get to our objective one way or the other, trust me. We put faith in our guardian angels and strapped ourselves in.
We explored the area returning to Blue Hen falls and then to Brecksville Station to photograph the train. Lunch was at the Winking Lizard again where Sam rejoined us. The gyro and home fries was tasty and Celebrator beer helped wash it down. After lunch we went down to the area in the park known as the Ledges off of Kendall Park Road. Sam rejoined our group for lunch and spent the remaining part of the day with us. I will return to the ledges again but this visit was short because the rangers informed us that the resident Bald Eagle was nesting and with hatchlings. The location was revealed to us as the same place we just came from. Along the bike path near the Brecksville Station is a Blue Heron Rookery were the resident Bald Eagle is nesting among them. We quickly traveled back to that location and found them. The rain was coming down steady at this time but being stubborn we continued to make an effort. A rookery is a heavy concentration of nesting birds in one location many in a single tree. This one had about two dozen nesting birds with a single large nest belonging to the eagle. In this location of the country, a Bald Eagle is celebrated because they are relatively uncommon.
Bridal Veil Falls is located at the extreme north of park boundaries outside the park in the Bedford Reservation area along Gorge Parkway. It is an admirable destination and during this visit cascading water crashed over the edge in torrents. Both Blue Hen and Bridal Veil Falls is a short walk from parking. Again, the water was muddy but the thunderous sound of the falls was enjoyable.
We returned to Peninsula to enjoy dinner at Fishers Restaurant across the road from the Winking Lizard. The dessert was as appetizing as the crowd was boisterous.
Saturday, May 3rd 2008
Increasingly inclement weather did not stop us Saturday morning and we doggedly pursued the perfect photographic opportunity. I was proud to be tagging along with such a prestigious group of photographers. Sam, Bob, Val, Kal, David, and I arrived at Brandywine Falls early dawn. The crashing waters could be heard afar off. My intention was to attempt to go down into the ravine and photograph the falls from below. However, after a short study, decided against this treacherous struggle so early in the morning. The sides are abrupt and full of rocks, roots, mud, and a jungle of flora. What is normally a calm stream at its bottom is now a gush of rapids sweeping everything in there path to its unavoidable ruin.
I decided to go back up the walking path and join Sam in his commendable efforts to capture the perfectly composed shot of the falls from the edge of this ravine. Sam meets me half way and instructs me to go join the others. Perplexed I looked at him puzzled. He then continued to explain that his photographic set up, including not only the Nikon D200 digital SLR, but the lens, Manfrotto tripod, and attachment all fell over the side of the 100 foot cliff. It crashed to the bottom and was helpless, all alone and in full view to those that would dare to look. Photographic enthusiasts understand what a horror this is. To others, let me endeavor and explain it. Devoted photographers develop and emotional bond to their camera equipment but mostly to the camera. As an example, I refer to my camera as “baby or child”. I protect it from harm by shielding it from damage in protective containers. I clean it, talk to it, and even take it with me on long trips away from home. If I was going under water and sinking down my chief concern would be to keep it out of the water even while I gasp my last breath. To have it torn away suddenly and without warning from my loving embrace is synonymous to a crime. Custom car owners are the same way when it comes to the car they have worked on over many years.
Needless to say, this was the beginning of a noteworthy escapade. Because of his bond to the camera and hurt pride, Sam was determined to go down into the abyss and retrieve his baby. Although he insisted upon me joining the others and continuing a day of photography, I oppose with my resolve to help him. My interest in this was two fold, on the one hand, Sam should not go where angels dare not tread without a friend to watch his back and on the other hand, I did originally intended to photograph from below until wisdom compelled my retreat. Now circumstance has forced my hand and I shall slide down into the darkness after all.
In order to have a slim hope of getting down into the ravine we had to hike away from the falls to find an access point then once down hike back up to the falls. The plunge down was dicey, as we held onto tree branches and made efforts to establish the best footing we could. Nothing but pain awaited us should we misplace our footing on the remorseless slope. After hitting bottom and regaining equilibrium, we hiked up toward the falls. I felt what it must have been like exploring these primeval forested lands before humans set foot here. The early light had yet to fully penetrate the ravine but enough to allow sight to where we were going. I watched out for Sam while at the same time set up my tripod to capture the striking image. The backdrop is a growling waterfalls hammering to the bottom, the foreground is flooding, swift moving water rushing along side near to us. We hiked as far as possible only to be turned back by an impenetrable jungle of trees, sheer walls, and vindictive waters, all of them forbidding passage.
With hope lost, we returned up the steep face of the ravine grabbing onto anything that would offer a hand of support. Once returned to the footpath, Sam called the park rangers to report the tragedy. Since I knew Sam would be safe with the rangers I joined the others to continue photographing. Kal was behind the wheel and he made sure we would get to our objective one way or the other, trust me. We put faith in our guardian angels and strapped ourselves in.
We explored the area returning to Blue Hen falls and then to Brecksville Station to photograph the train. Lunch was at the Winking Lizard again where Sam rejoined us. The gyro and home fries was tasty and Celebrator beer helped wash it down. After lunch we went down to the area in the park known as the Ledges off of Kendall Park Road. Sam rejoined our group for lunch and spent the remaining part of the day with us. I will return to the ledges again but this visit was short because the rangers informed us that the resident Bald Eagle was nesting and with hatchlings. The location was revealed to us as the same place we just came from. Along the bike path near the Brecksville Station is a Blue Heron Rookery were the resident Bald Eagle is nesting among them. We quickly traveled back to that location and found them. The rain was coming down steady at this time but being stubborn we continued to make an effort. A rookery is a heavy concentration of nesting birds in one location many in a single tree. This one had about two dozen nesting birds with a single large nest belonging to the eagle. In this location of the country, a Bald Eagle is celebrated because they are relatively uncommon.
After a short time with the Blue Heron, the storm clouds darkened and the rain came down in buckets. As explained earlier we all might have gotten drenched but our cameras remained dry by the most part. Sam and I got soaking wet and decided to call it a day and return to the Inn. A few hours of R&R was greatly desirable after such an adventuresome day.
Our entire group of 30 gathered for a rewarding dinner at the Holiday Inn across the road. Getting together with friends is always a nice way to conclude an enjoyable day of photography.
Sunday, May 4th 2008
Sunday morning I felt like a hyena after surviving a fight with a lion. Parts I forgot I had started complaining. Remind me to get more exercise.
Today is our last day for the weekend trip and I returned to a solo mode. In many ways going solo gives a creative photographer more freedom to contemplate his surroundings and find opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
I said my farewells and started out at dawn returning to the Ledges location of the park. This visit more time was spent here. At this early hour, I was alone walking among the gothic rock formations around the Ledges location. It was a cool refreshing morning and the song birds sang to beat the heavenly band. All kinds of songs filled the area. The natural ambiance of this place gave me a feeling of being renewed. The storms have passed and warm sunshine slowly filtered through the trees. I made several nice images while walking around very slowly among the features.
Our entire group of 30 gathered for a rewarding dinner at the Holiday Inn across the road. Getting together with friends is always a nice way to conclude an enjoyable day of photography.
Sunday, May 4th 2008
Sunday morning I felt like a hyena after surviving a fight with a lion. Parts I forgot I had started complaining. Remind me to get more exercise.
Today is our last day for the weekend trip and I returned to a solo mode. In many ways going solo gives a creative photographer more freedom to contemplate his surroundings and find opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
I said my farewells and started out at dawn returning to the Ledges location of the park. This visit more time was spent here. At this early hour, I was alone walking among the gothic rock formations around the Ledges location. It was a cool refreshing morning and the song birds sang to beat the heavenly band. All kinds of songs filled the area. The natural ambiance of this place gave me a feeling of being renewed. The storms have passed and warm sunshine slowly filtered through the trees. I made several nice images while walking around very slowly among the features.
Some wild mushrooms and young ferns caught my eye along the way. After about two hours another photographer from our group meets me and on returning to the parking area several others also arrived. David and Mary Lou informed me of another even more impressive Blue Heron Rookery along the side of the road at the southern tip of the park along Bath Road. This rookery has been given a name of “Heronry Wayside”.
I advanced to the location and spent about 20 minutes photographing the remarkable birds while in flight. This colony had many more nesting birds than did the other one; about three dozen nest. If one looks closely the blue of the wings is clearly noticeable even to being slightly indigo in color depending on how the light reflects. The noise that they make is more like a gawking sound than a song.
After experiencing the Heronry Wayside, I decided to visit the Hale Farm and Village off Ira Road inside the park. I am very glad to have done so. This location is packed with countless photographic opportunities. The village is a perfect setting of homesteads, barns, a steeple church, reflecting pond, blacksmiths brick kiln, and several other interesting buildings. A few farm animals meander about the ideal setting. I must return during the autumn months. The hours of operation are random so it’s best to look it up on the web and find out what events are scheduled. However, along the roadside is good enough to make image captures of this charming village.
After a worthwhile time at Hale Farm and Village, I started my back roads return home. I encountered several locations worth setting up the tripod for along the way. The contrast of spring flowers and tomb stones caught my attention.
All in all the Photography clubs spring weekend trip this year was ok. The weather could have been better but blue sky is not favorable ether, as it creates extreme contrast in light and dark. It would have been perfect with overcast some sun and no rain. Gathering with friends is the important memory. God bless Sam, he went back to the fallen camera with a grappling hook and rope to pull that baby out. Here is a photo of it.
After experiencing the Heronry Wayside, I decided to visit the Hale Farm and Village off Ira Road inside the park. I am very glad to have done so. This location is packed with countless photographic opportunities. The village is a perfect setting of homesteads, barns, a steeple church, reflecting pond, blacksmiths brick kiln, and several other interesting buildings. A few farm animals meander about the ideal setting. I must return during the autumn months. The hours of operation are random so it’s best to look it up on the web and find out what events are scheduled. However, along the roadside is good enough to make image captures of this charming village.
After a worthwhile time at Hale Farm and Village, I started my back roads return home. I encountered several locations worth setting up the tripod for along the way. The contrast of spring flowers and tomb stones caught my attention.
All in all the Photography clubs spring weekend trip this year was ok. The weather could have been better but blue sky is not favorable ether, as it creates extreme contrast in light and dark. It would have been perfect with overcast some sun and no rain. Gathering with friends is the important memory. God bless Sam, he went back to the fallen camera with a grappling hook and rope to pull that baby out. Here is a photo of it.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Niagara Falls Weekend Trip
NIAGARA VACATION TRIP
This most recent trip to the famous water falls and tourist attraction was a welcome get away. The weather was good and everything went smoothly.
• FRIDAY,
We road up Friday June fourth 1999 and took the Niagara parkway to the falls along the river. As we approached we were greeted by a magnificent rainbow arching across the length of the mist created by the Horseshoe Falls. It was a pleasant sunny afternoon. After settling in at the Holiday Inn we had dinner and took a short walk down to see the natural wonder. As evening approached colored lights illuminated the dense white water thundering over the edge of both the American and Horseshoe Falls. Every Friday during the tourist season Canada offers a small fireworks display at ten o’clock. Both the vivid rainbows and fireworks show got things off to a great start.
• SATURDAY
After a good breakfast at the Inn we walked down to the area where the “Maid of the Mist” is located and took a trip on the famous boat into the heart of the thundering mist of the falls. The spray showers everyone as if in a rainstorm. The seagulls fly around playfully diving into the churning waters for food. On returning, we proceed to the tour that takes one behind the falls by way of a man made tunnel through the rock then you can view the waterfalls through a small porthole in the rock from behind. We also walk out on a platform built directly at the edge of the falls. This offers a spectacular close up view. One can really feel the power of the falls from these vantagepoints. It’s best to have a good pair of sunglasses to help bring out the details and the colors. We then had lunch at the Victoria Park Restaurant. This restaurant has a very nice lunch buffet every day during the peak tourist season. It offers a great view and elegant surroundings. Following lunch we took the people mover to the Green House exhibit. This wonderful little green house has a variety of plants along with quite an array of tropical songbirds adorned with the whole spectrum of colors. We then took the small bus back to the falls and went back to the Inn to prepare for dinner at the top of Skylone Tower’s revolving dinning room. The dinner was good and the lofty view of the spectacle below is out of this world. We then went into town to Clifton Hill to enjoy some entertainment at the wax museum and fun house attractions there.
• SUNDAY
At Queenston Park we enjoyed a splendid brunch while appreciating the grand view of the river below. We then spent a greater part of the day at the Botanical Gardens and at a new attraction called the Butterfly Conservancy. This glass enclosure filled with water falls and tropical plants along with several hundred tropical butterflies is amazing. The butterflies are so numerous that they will fly right towards you and land on your shoulder. It’s worth the trip just to be witness to this marvel of cultivated nature. It got a little hot due to a heat wave so we returned to the Inn to escape the heat. In the evening we had a pizza cooked in a wood fired oven out on the patio of the Inn and walked down to see the falls once again. I am always fascinated with the diversity of people that come to Niagara. The Amish from New York and Pennsylvania come to see the falls along with British and Germans, Indians and Orientals, French and Arabians. It’s interesting to mingle with such a diversified crowd.
• MONDAY
Before heading home we stopped at Moma Mia’s Italian Restaurant for a hardy lunch. The pasta is made from scratch and is a real treat. The service is very personable as well. Another important task that must be performed before leaving Niagara Falls is to find Portage’s bakery and pick up some fresh baked bread. Potage’s is located at 5845 Gladstone Ave and Ferry Street. They have lots of other things to delight the taste buds also.
It’s always nice to have a short get away and Niagara Falls Canada is one of the best places near by to do so. If you can avoid the souvenir shops and keep away from the tourist traps and watch what you eat, it can be a bargain also. It’s one of the great natural wonders of the world right in our own back yard.
Recommendations
1. Be sure to enjoy the Sunday brunch at Queenston Park
2. Be sure to ride the Maid of the Mist into the falls
3. Stay on the Canadian side
4. Get some fresh baked bread at Portage’s
5. Have a nice dinner at Mama Mia’s
6. Go to the top of Skylone Tower to see the view
7. Check out the Butterfly conservancy
8. Keep away from the tourist traps
This most recent trip to the famous water falls and tourist attraction was a welcome get away. The weather was good and everything went smoothly.
• FRIDAY,
We road up Friday June fourth 1999 and took the Niagara parkway to the falls along the river. As we approached we were greeted by a magnificent rainbow arching across the length of the mist created by the Horseshoe Falls. It was a pleasant sunny afternoon. After settling in at the Holiday Inn we had dinner and took a short walk down to see the natural wonder. As evening approached colored lights illuminated the dense white water thundering over the edge of both the American and Horseshoe Falls. Every Friday during the tourist season Canada offers a small fireworks display at ten o’clock. Both the vivid rainbows and fireworks show got things off to a great start.
• SATURDAY
After a good breakfast at the Inn we walked down to the area where the “Maid of the Mist” is located and took a trip on the famous boat into the heart of the thundering mist of the falls. The spray showers everyone as if in a rainstorm. The seagulls fly around playfully diving into the churning waters for food. On returning, we proceed to the tour that takes one behind the falls by way of a man made tunnel through the rock then you can view the waterfalls through a small porthole in the rock from behind. We also walk out on a platform built directly at the edge of the falls. This offers a spectacular close up view. One can really feel the power of the falls from these vantagepoints. It’s best to have a good pair of sunglasses to help bring out the details and the colors. We then had lunch at the Victoria Park Restaurant. This restaurant has a very nice lunch buffet every day during the peak tourist season. It offers a great view and elegant surroundings. Following lunch we took the people mover to the Green House exhibit. This wonderful little green house has a variety of plants along with quite an array of tropical songbirds adorned with the whole spectrum of colors. We then took the small bus back to the falls and went back to the Inn to prepare for dinner at the top of Skylone Tower’s revolving dinning room. The dinner was good and the lofty view of the spectacle below is out of this world. We then went into town to Clifton Hill to enjoy some entertainment at the wax museum and fun house attractions there.
• SUNDAY
At Queenston Park we enjoyed a splendid brunch while appreciating the grand view of the river below. We then spent a greater part of the day at the Botanical Gardens and at a new attraction called the Butterfly Conservancy. This glass enclosure filled with water falls and tropical plants along with several hundred tropical butterflies is amazing. The butterflies are so numerous that they will fly right towards you and land on your shoulder. It’s worth the trip just to be witness to this marvel of cultivated nature. It got a little hot due to a heat wave so we returned to the Inn to escape the heat. In the evening we had a pizza cooked in a wood fired oven out on the patio of the Inn and walked down to see the falls once again. I am always fascinated with the diversity of people that come to Niagara. The Amish from New York and Pennsylvania come to see the falls along with British and Germans, Indians and Orientals, French and Arabians. It’s interesting to mingle with such a diversified crowd.
• MONDAY
Before heading home we stopped at Moma Mia’s Italian Restaurant for a hardy lunch. The pasta is made from scratch and is a real treat. The service is very personable as well. Another important task that must be performed before leaving Niagara Falls is to find Portage’s bakery and pick up some fresh baked bread. Potage’s is located at 5845 Gladstone Ave and Ferry Street. They have lots of other things to delight the taste buds also.
It’s always nice to have a short get away and Niagara Falls Canada is one of the best places near by to do so. If you can avoid the souvenir shops and keep away from the tourist traps and watch what you eat, it can be a bargain also. It’s one of the great natural wonders of the world right in our own back yard.
Recommendations
1. Be sure to enjoy the Sunday brunch at Queenston Park
2. Be sure to ride the Maid of the Mist into the falls
3. Stay on the Canadian side
4. Get some fresh baked bread at Portage’s
5. Have a nice dinner at Mama Mia’s
6. Go to the top of Skylone Tower to see the view
7. Check out the Butterfly conservancy
8. Keep away from the tourist traps
Sunday, February 24, 2008
The Family History
Fathers Side of the Family.
The Ferree ancestry is documented back to 1265AD indicating that Ferree lineage is rooted in French Nobility. Only faded fragments of information are known from this forgotten time.
During the protestant reformation of John Calvin in 1550 the French protestants and members of the reformed church in France where known as Huguenots. From 1536 until 1685, the Roman Catholic Church waged savage and barbaric war against the Huguenots as heretics. French rulers at the time were in agreement with the Catholic Church and assisted in killing as many Huguenots as possible. Thousands of Huguenots were killed, burned alive and tortured. All reform church buildings were destroyed.
When this religious oppression became insurmountable, approximately 250,000 Huguenots fled France to various other European countries. The Ferree family was among them and fled to Germany settling in Stienweller. The date of their exodus is recorded as 1663. Michael and Mary Ferree with four children fled this religious oppression.
In 1708, Maria (Mary) and Daniel Ferree were granted passports to immigrate to America. It is worth noting at this point, if this were the same Mary Ferree that fled France, she would be about 60 years old now. It becomes very confusing keeping all the people in order but let it be said that many of the Ferree family immigrated to the British American Colonies. They first traveled to London where Queen Anne traditionally gave gifts to all those that immigrated to the English colonies in America. The English monarchy at that time encouraged immigration to the new land in an effort to establish it. Several Ferree brothers, relatives, and children moved to America. Among them were Andrew, John, Abraham, Joel, Jacob, Daniel, and Mary. It is difficult to sort it all out.
When Mary Ferree and her six children crossed the Atlantic Ocean they were on the stormy sea for 2 ½ months. Back in those times, it was not unlikely to spend such a long time at sea. It was winter and the Atlantic can be unforgiving during that season. The ship docked at New York harbor on December 31st. They lived in New York until 1710.
At the invitation of Pennsylvania Governor William Penn, many religiously oppressed or religiously nomadic people immigrated to Pennsylvania. Although William Penn’s “Holy Experiment” did not officially begin until 1720, this religious tolerance most probably had seeds growing earlier. William Penn was a Quaker and had a good deal of personal experience with religious oppression himself. Some time between 1710 and 1712, Maria and Daniel Ferree purchased 2300 acres of land in Lancaster County near Strasburg Pennsylvania for 147 pounds. The Indians in the area were friendly to the family and provided shelter to them until some log cabins could be built. Mary Ferree died in 1716. Many years pass with little recorded history. Abraham died at the age of 29 in 1735. John Ferree was appointed Sheriff of Lancaster County in 1773.
In 1775, Benjamin Franklin and a group of other revolutionists commissioned Joel Ferree to supply them with Guns. Jacob and Joel were Gun Smiths. Joel wrote a reply letter to them indicating that because of the new situation in America (The American Revolution) that Jacob and he would expand the operation and supply them with up to 40 guns a week. Jacob and Joel made guns, bullets, and their own signature gunpowder. Joseph Ferree was active in mustering revolutionary war troops from Pennsylvania. John Ferree purchases guns and ammunition for his battalion. Lancaster County was the home of one of the most famous weapons in American history -- the legendary Pennsylvania long rifle. This famous weapon, often called the Kentucky rifle despite its place of origin, was developed by local craftsmen working in small shops during the mid-1700's. The development of the Pennsylvania rifle was the result of a mixture of traditions from English and German or German-Swiss settlers of Lancaster County. These two cultural groups, the strongest among the early settlers, each contributed an important element of the eventual Pennsylvania rifle style.
The Germanic settlers brought with them the tradition of the "jaeger" or hunting rifle used in southern Germany and Switzerland. The jaeger was a relatively short, large-bore, usually unornamented weapon with a patchbox and, most importantly, a rifled barrel. Rifling involved cutting a series of straight or spiral grooves inside the gun barrel, a practice developed in Germany in the 15th or 16th century. A rifled barrel gave the ball or projectile a spin as it was shot out of the gun, improving both the range and accuracy of the weapon.
Jacob Ferree enlisted as a Private in Captain Jacob Klotz's Company, Colonel Matthias Slough's Battalion of the Flying Camp on 8 Jul 1776. On September 27, 1777, during the American Revolution, Lancaster served as the national capital when the Continental Congress held a session here after fleeing from Philadelphia. Jacob married Susanna Stickler in 1778. He served as a Private in Captain Mathias Slaymaker's Company, 1st Battalion, Lancaster County PA Militia in 1782. Some time later Susanna Stickler died (date unknown).
In 1783, Jacob Ferree and Alice Powel are married. During that same year, Patrick Henry, Governor of Virginia, sold Jacob Ferree 740 acres of land in what was then Washington County but is now Allegheny County. The area was Virginia at that time. This was known as the “Ferree Purchase” . As the family moved from Lancaster County to Allegheny County, they were considered pioneers since very few had settled this part of the country in those days. Jacob then purchased another estate near the Ohio River in 1804; believed to be in the area of what is now Coraopolis. This purchased land was called “Britannia”. It is unclear if this land purchase was near Coraopolis, but it looks like some land was purchased called the Montour Bottoms. Most likely, Jacob Ferree purchased this land adding yet another estate to his growing acquisitions. Jacob Ferree has been established as a key pioneering father of Coraopolis. It should be understood that at this early time in the nation’s history purchasing land and then selling it was a big deal and countless pioneer engaged business actions this way.
Jacob Ferree died in 1807 and was an active gunsmith to the end. It was said that Alice Powel Ferree was the best shot with a Pennsylvania Long Rifle in the county. Jacob had a Whisky still during the whisky rebellion and his original gun shop was near Paradise, Lancaster County Pa. Isaac Ferree took control of the belongings of Jacob and executed his last will and testament. After his death, the Ferree family had a house auction and sold many items. What a tragedy, today many of the listed items would be worth a fortune not to mention all the guns he still had. They also advertised in the Pittsburgh Gazette that he had plenty of signature gunpowder for sale as well. In addition to these possessions, he also retained possession of several estates in different states. The different states included North Carolina, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
In 1812, Joel Ferree was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army and issued draft orders. The war of 1812 was well under way and troops were needed. Joel Ferree published the names of deserters in the Pittsburgh Gazette at that same time.
Joel died in 1815. When Jacob moved to Allegheny County Joel remained in Lancaster County. What happened was that Joel traveled from Lancaster to visit his brother’s family in Coraopolis. While he was visiting, he went hunting and never returned. The family went to look for him and found him. He was scalped by Iroquois Indians and left to die. He is interred at the Ferree family cemetery in Coraopolis.
Jacob junior is mentioned at this time. He talks about the Napoleonic Wars in Europe and indicates he hopes the allies win the war. He was quite the poet and writer. An important poem about the war of 1812 is attributed to his gifted penmanship. Jacob Junior married Nancy Phillips and they had a daughter named Lillie Ferree. Jacob Junior died in 1823.
In 1825, William Ferree was made Major of the Volunteer Infantry Company called the “Intrepid Blues” of Pennsylvania. In 1827, he was made Captain. His fate is unclear.
The time after 1827 is not well documented or if it is, needs to be uncovered. I am sure the plethora of architectural projects that Great Grandfather worked on are documented somewhere. It is my understanding that he is responsible for the design of the two Presbyterian Churches in Coraopolis to name just a few. I believe Great Grandfather was in the Union Calvary during the Civil War. I am also certain that other family ancestors were involved with that great struggle as well.
The Stanton’s and Ferree’s were well off until the great depression during the 1930’s when countless lost all that they had. After the depression and the World Wars, the family was left with the one home. This home was one of several in the area that remained with the original Ferree estate. Grandfather was a skilled oil painter and furniture refinisher. He also joined the Army during the First World War. It was he, which brought the Ferree papers and documents found in the attic of 611 Ferree Street, there home, to the attention of the Pittsburgh Gazette.
The story is interesting and if one thinks about it somewhat surreal. Here come the French Protestants that have an ancestry of French Huguenots across a turbulent ocean to the New World speaking German and not sure what to do. They set up a homestead in Lancaster County Pennsylvania and work as Gun Smiths. War breaks out against England and one thing leads to another. Over 150 Ferree are interred in a graveyard around Strasburg Pennsylvania. I intend to go and check it out this autumn.
I have returned from my Lancaster trip and found the graveyard close to the railroad tracks. The graveyard is small. The one notable tombstone in the yard is that of Mary Ferree the noble matriarch of the Ferree lineage in America. Local historians keep special care of the site. The tombstone indicates her history of establishing a Huguenot settlement in Lancaster.
Leona Scobey married Harry Evans and begat Elva Evans. Elva Evans married Robert Stoner and begat Leona Stoner (Grandmother Scobey’s namesake)
Mothers Side of the Family,
The Evans family is Welsh immigrants that settled in Plane City Ohio. The Evans family worked as sharecroppers. The Stoner family is German immigrants that settled in the Altoona area of Pennsylvania. Great great grandfather Charles Stoner first lived on a farm then moved to McKee’s Rocks to fabricate heavy chain and his son Robert Stoner Senior also worked as a heavy steel chain fabricator. Robert Stoner Junior, son of Robert Stoner senior, was an adventuresome type that was a pilot. He flew bi-winged airplanes, and gave his grandchildren silver dollars. He married Elva Evans in Columbus Ohio. After a time he moved back to Pittsburgh and the family followed soon afterward. Robert Stoner Senior taught his son the fine art of heavy chain fabrication. Like grandfather, like father, like son and Robert Junior remained a skilled chain fabricator the rest of his life. Great great grandfather Charles Stoner worked his way into the Pittsburgh Industrial Age when steel and iron was king.
By the 1880s, Pittsburgh was an unrivaled industry giant. The city was producing one twelfth of the pig iron and one-fourth of the rolled iron in the county, while sixteen enormous steel works manufactured two-thirds of all crucible steel. Countless immigrants flocked to the smoky city for work. Andrew Carnegie and Henry Frick were more than happy to oblige them. Heavy chain fabrication was hard work and only hard working men of the Steel City could master it. Great great grandfather Charles Stoner moved back to the Altoona area of Pennsylvania and built his farm were his children and grandchildren would visit and enjoy the country setting. The place was known as Howard, PA but has since vanished because of a large body of water covering it.
Because of the Steel Works heavy smoke that enshrouded Pittsburgh in those times, Robert Stoner Junior succumbed to several lung ailments and died some time around 1980.
Elva Evans Stoner was a remarkable woman and the family matriarch having over 15 grandchildren and approximately 25 great grandchildren. Most of her long life she was a skilled cook and caregiver to all those she loved. Her strength was, many times, misunderstood and under appreciated yet she endured to the age of 89. She was a proud woman that took great pride in her Ohio background and the Evans name. She was born in 1907 and died in 1996. It is said that the “Bob Evans” restaurant chain was established by one of the Evans in her family.
The history of the Stoner, Evans, Scobey, and Stanton family’s are unclear to me at this time but much can be learned with time and effort. Many Evans yet live in and around Plane City Ohio.
The Ferree ancestry is documented back to 1265AD indicating that Ferree lineage is rooted in French Nobility. Only faded fragments of information are known from this forgotten time.
During the protestant reformation of John Calvin in 1550 the French protestants and members of the reformed church in France where known as Huguenots. From 1536 until 1685, the Roman Catholic Church waged savage and barbaric war against the Huguenots as heretics. French rulers at the time were in agreement with the Catholic Church and assisted in killing as many Huguenots as possible. Thousands of Huguenots were killed, burned alive and tortured. All reform church buildings were destroyed.
When this religious oppression became insurmountable, approximately 250,000 Huguenots fled France to various other European countries. The Ferree family was among them and fled to Germany settling in Stienweller. The date of their exodus is recorded as 1663. Michael and Mary Ferree with four children fled this religious oppression.
In 1708, Maria (Mary) and Daniel Ferree were granted passports to immigrate to America. It is worth noting at this point, if this were the same Mary Ferree that fled France, she would be about 60 years old now. It becomes very confusing keeping all the people in order but let it be said that many of the Ferree family immigrated to the British American Colonies. They first traveled to London where Queen Anne traditionally gave gifts to all those that immigrated to the English colonies in America. The English monarchy at that time encouraged immigration to the new land in an effort to establish it. Several Ferree brothers, relatives, and children moved to America. Among them were Andrew, John, Abraham, Joel, Jacob, Daniel, and Mary. It is difficult to sort it all out.
When Mary Ferree and her six children crossed the Atlantic Ocean they were on the stormy sea for 2 ½ months. Back in those times, it was not unlikely to spend such a long time at sea. It was winter and the Atlantic can be unforgiving during that season. The ship docked at New York harbor on December 31st. They lived in New York until 1710.
At the invitation of Pennsylvania Governor William Penn, many religiously oppressed or religiously nomadic people immigrated to Pennsylvania. Although William Penn’s “Holy Experiment” did not officially begin until 1720, this religious tolerance most probably had seeds growing earlier. William Penn was a Quaker and had a good deal of personal experience with religious oppression himself. Some time between 1710 and 1712, Maria and Daniel Ferree purchased 2300 acres of land in Lancaster County near Strasburg Pennsylvania for 147 pounds. The Indians in the area were friendly to the family and provided shelter to them until some log cabins could be built. Mary Ferree died in 1716. Many years pass with little recorded history. Abraham died at the age of 29 in 1735. John Ferree was appointed Sheriff of Lancaster County in 1773.
In 1775, Benjamin Franklin and a group of other revolutionists commissioned Joel Ferree to supply them with Guns. Jacob and Joel were Gun Smiths. Joel wrote a reply letter to them indicating that because of the new situation in America (The American Revolution) that Jacob and he would expand the operation and supply them with up to 40 guns a week. Jacob and Joel made guns, bullets, and their own signature gunpowder. Joseph Ferree was active in mustering revolutionary war troops from Pennsylvania. John Ferree purchases guns and ammunition for his battalion. Lancaster County was the home of one of the most famous weapons in American history -- the legendary Pennsylvania long rifle. This famous weapon, often called the Kentucky rifle despite its place of origin, was developed by local craftsmen working in small shops during the mid-1700's. The development of the Pennsylvania rifle was the result of a mixture of traditions from English and German or German-Swiss settlers of Lancaster County. These two cultural groups, the strongest among the early settlers, each contributed an important element of the eventual Pennsylvania rifle style.
The Germanic settlers brought with them the tradition of the "jaeger" or hunting rifle used in southern Germany and Switzerland. The jaeger was a relatively short, large-bore, usually unornamented weapon with a patchbox and, most importantly, a rifled barrel. Rifling involved cutting a series of straight or spiral grooves inside the gun barrel, a practice developed in Germany in the 15th or 16th century. A rifled barrel gave the ball or projectile a spin as it was shot out of the gun, improving both the range and accuracy of the weapon.
Jacob Ferree enlisted as a Private in Captain Jacob Klotz's Company, Colonel Matthias Slough's Battalion of the Flying Camp on 8 Jul 1776. On September 27, 1777, during the American Revolution, Lancaster served as the national capital when the Continental Congress held a session here after fleeing from Philadelphia. Jacob married Susanna Stickler in 1778. He served as a Private in Captain Mathias Slaymaker's Company, 1st Battalion, Lancaster County PA Militia in 1782. Some time later Susanna Stickler died (date unknown).
In 1783, Jacob Ferree and Alice Powel are married. During that same year, Patrick Henry, Governor of Virginia, sold Jacob Ferree 740 acres of land in what was then Washington County but is now Allegheny County. The area was Virginia at that time. This was known as the “Ferree Purchase” . As the family moved from Lancaster County to Allegheny County, they were considered pioneers since very few had settled this part of the country in those days. Jacob then purchased another estate near the Ohio River in 1804; believed to be in the area of what is now Coraopolis. This purchased land was called “Britannia”. It is unclear if this land purchase was near Coraopolis, but it looks like some land was purchased called the Montour Bottoms. Most likely, Jacob Ferree purchased this land adding yet another estate to his growing acquisitions. Jacob Ferree has been established as a key pioneering father of Coraopolis. It should be understood that at this early time in the nation’s history purchasing land and then selling it was a big deal and countless pioneer engaged business actions this way.
Jacob Ferree died in 1807 and was an active gunsmith to the end. It was said that Alice Powel Ferree was the best shot with a Pennsylvania Long Rifle in the county. Jacob had a Whisky still during the whisky rebellion and his original gun shop was near Paradise, Lancaster County Pa. Isaac Ferree took control of the belongings of Jacob and executed his last will and testament. After his death, the Ferree family had a house auction and sold many items. What a tragedy, today many of the listed items would be worth a fortune not to mention all the guns he still had. They also advertised in the Pittsburgh Gazette that he had plenty of signature gunpowder for sale as well. In addition to these possessions, he also retained possession of several estates in different states. The different states included North Carolina, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
In 1812, Joel Ferree was a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army and issued draft orders. The war of 1812 was well under way and troops were needed. Joel Ferree published the names of deserters in the Pittsburgh Gazette at that same time.
Joel died in 1815. When Jacob moved to Allegheny County Joel remained in Lancaster County. What happened was that Joel traveled from Lancaster to visit his brother’s family in Coraopolis. While he was visiting, he went hunting and never returned. The family went to look for him and found him. He was scalped by Iroquois Indians and left to die. He is interred at the Ferree family cemetery in Coraopolis.
Jacob junior is mentioned at this time. He talks about the Napoleonic Wars in Europe and indicates he hopes the allies win the war. He was quite the poet and writer. An important poem about the war of 1812 is attributed to his gifted penmanship. Jacob Junior married Nancy Phillips and they had a daughter named Lillie Ferree. Jacob Junior died in 1823.
In 1825, William Ferree was made Major of the Volunteer Infantry Company called the “Intrepid Blues” of Pennsylvania. In 1827, he was made Captain. His fate is unclear.
The time after 1827 is not well documented or if it is, needs to be uncovered. I am sure the plethora of architectural projects that Great Grandfather worked on are documented somewhere. It is my understanding that he is responsible for the design of the two Presbyterian Churches in Coraopolis to name just a few. I believe Great Grandfather was in the Union Calvary during the Civil War. I am also certain that other family ancestors were involved with that great struggle as well.
The Stanton’s and Ferree’s were well off until the great depression during the 1930’s when countless lost all that they had. After the depression and the World Wars, the family was left with the one home. This home was one of several in the area that remained with the original Ferree estate. Grandfather was a skilled oil painter and furniture refinisher. He also joined the Army during the First World War. It was he, which brought the Ferree papers and documents found in the attic of 611 Ferree Street, there home, to the attention of the Pittsburgh Gazette.
The story is interesting and if one thinks about it somewhat surreal. Here come the French Protestants that have an ancestry of French Huguenots across a turbulent ocean to the New World speaking German and not sure what to do. They set up a homestead in Lancaster County Pennsylvania and work as Gun Smiths. War breaks out against England and one thing leads to another. Over 150 Ferree are interred in a graveyard around Strasburg Pennsylvania. I intend to go and check it out this autumn.
I have returned from my Lancaster trip and found the graveyard close to the railroad tracks. The graveyard is small. The one notable tombstone in the yard is that of Mary Ferree the noble matriarch of the Ferree lineage in America. Local historians keep special care of the site. The tombstone indicates her history of establishing a Huguenot settlement in Lancaster.
Leona Scobey married Harry Evans and begat Elva Evans. Elva Evans married Robert Stoner and begat Leona Stoner (Grandmother Scobey’s namesake)
Mothers Side of the Family,
The Evans family is Welsh immigrants that settled in Plane City Ohio. The Evans family worked as sharecroppers. The Stoner family is German immigrants that settled in the Altoona area of Pennsylvania. Great great grandfather Charles Stoner first lived on a farm then moved to McKee’s Rocks to fabricate heavy chain and his son Robert Stoner Senior also worked as a heavy steel chain fabricator. Robert Stoner Junior, son of Robert Stoner senior, was an adventuresome type that was a pilot. He flew bi-winged airplanes, and gave his grandchildren silver dollars. He married Elva Evans in Columbus Ohio. After a time he moved back to Pittsburgh and the family followed soon afterward. Robert Stoner Senior taught his son the fine art of heavy chain fabrication. Like grandfather, like father, like son and Robert Junior remained a skilled chain fabricator the rest of his life. Great great grandfather Charles Stoner worked his way into the Pittsburgh Industrial Age when steel and iron was king.
By the 1880s, Pittsburgh was an unrivaled industry giant. The city was producing one twelfth of the pig iron and one-fourth of the rolled iron in the county, while sixteen enormous steel works manufactured two-thirds of all crucible steel. Countless immigrants flocked to the smoky city for work. Andrew Carnegie and Henry Frick were more than happy to oblige them. Heavy chain fabrication was hard work and only hard working men of the Steel City could master it. Great great grandfather Charles Stoner moved back to the Altoona area of Pennsylvania and built his farm were his children and grandchildren would visit and enjoy the country setting. The place was known as Howard, PA but has since vanished because of a large body of water covering it.
Because of the Steel Works heavy smoke that enshrouded Pittsburgh in those times, Robert Stoner Junior succumbed to several lung ailments and died some time around 1980.
Elva Evans Stoner was a remarkable woman and the family matriarch having over 15 grandchildren and approximately 25 great grandchildren. Most of her long life she was a skilled cook and caregiver to all those she loved. Her strength was, many times, misunderstood and under appreciated yet she endured to the age of 89. She was a proud woman that took great pride in her Ohio background and the Evans name. She was born in 1907 and died in 1996. It is said that the “Bob Evans” restaurant chain was established by one of the Evans in her family.
The history of the Stoner, Evans, Scobey, and Stanton family’s are unclear to me at this time but much can be learned with time and effort. Many Evans yet live in and around Plane City Ohio.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Ithaca NewYork 1999
1999 FALL VACATION
This year the decision was made to take a fall vacation trip up to Ithaca New York and the Finger Lakes region. We also stayed a short time in Wellsboro Pennsylvania and viewed the Pa. Grand Canyon.
October 18, 1999
The drive up to Ithaca was perfect. The weather was a combination of clear sunny skies with dark cumulus clouds creating a patchwork overhead. Also, the crisp autumn air was gently blowing. The forest was perfectly colored in a mosaic of Indian red and lemon yellow along with gold and raw sienna. Adding contrast to the bright colors came dark pine green and raw umber’s. As we drove down the country roads we could see the yellow leaves of a birch tree dance as the autumn wind swirled among its branches. Many walnut and chestnut trees dot the mountainsides among the evergreens.
When we arrived at the bed and breakfast it was a welcoming down home type place. The gardens out side contained herbs and vegetables and flowers of many types. Numerous gray squirrels scampered among the walnut trees near by. The thundering sounds of a close by waterfalls could be heard as we entered the front door. The interior is filled with charming Victorian antiques and federal style furniture. Original oil paintings adorn the walls. Our room was small but had quilt covered beds and a warm inviting feel to it.
Jan and I had a late dinner at a relatively new place near the B&B on route 34 called Branches. The food was very good and well prepared. We both had the stuffed shrimp and were unable to finish it all. On our return to the Federal House I was amused at the way the hard wood floors carried on, creaking and complaining enough to beat the band. I don’t want to give the wrong impression; the old boards are immaculately kept and well polished. The floor adds a charm to the place. I was later informed from our hostess Diane that the floors had a major restoration performed on them when she first bought the house.
October 19, 1999
In the morning I got up with the sun and walked a short way through a walnut covered lawn and past a playground. Following the melody of rushing water I found its source in a nice sized waterfall tumbling over a stone ravine. It was a frosty morning and a mystical fog embraced the water spray.
Breakfast was a wonderful experience with Victorian table settings and it was served in courses. It was the first time I enjoyed a candle light breakfast with music in the background. The freshly prepared items included homemade muffins and nut bread, a fruit cup and French toast prepared with extra care.
Jan and I spent the day exploring the spectacular state parks that are scattered nearby. The area of the Finger Lakes is a natural wonder due to the glaciers that carved out the lakes and many gorges over 10,000 years ago. In the parks, natural beauty surrounded us in heavily wooded forest along with abundant streams bejeweled with cascades. Among these parks are the Treman parks, Taughanock Falls and Buttermilk Falls. Each park has more than one entrance and both should be explored.
We had a marvelous lunch at the Ithaca bakery, which is also a great New York style deli. The bakery is in town along route 13 and 34 north. It offers about fifteen different types of bagels and all kinds of sandwiches. It carries many unusual food products as well. I had the Ruben sandwich and it was one of the best in flavor that I can remember. We then drove east on route 79 and stopped at the Six-mile Creek winery. The place was small but we enjoyed a wine tasting and purchased a bottle of their wine. We then went to have dinner at Maxis Harbor Inn along route 34 near the Federal House.
October 20, 1999
Early in the morning I went down stairs and created a fire in the fireplace while I waited for breakfast to be prepared. Breakfast was as enjoyable as it was the morning before. It included fresh baked pumpkin bread and pair muffins.
Along country and county roads we drove to Hammondsport. The vistas were spectacularly illuminated by morning sunshine. Jan and I enjoyed a peaceful boat tour of Keuka Lake aboard the Keuka Maid. The buffet lunch was good and the service was excellent. The paddle wheeled boat was spacious and comfortable. The captain entertained a few children by allowing them to sit at the helm and ring the bell and blow the foghorn. A good many of the summer homes along the shore are extravagant.
After the boat tour we drove to Watkins Glen State Park and walked the gorge trail. The trail has 822 steps we walked about 350 to 400 of them. On our return to Ithaca Jan had a stuffed Portabela mushroom and I an onion bagel with cream cheese at the bakery. As the coolness of evening enfolded the land we settled into our new room. We decide to upgrade our last nights stay at the Federal House and moved into a wonderful and more spacious suite. It was like living the life style of the rich and famous just for a moment.
October 21, 1999
In the morning and after another great breakfast we said our goodbye and went into town to pick up some cheddar and chive bread from the bakery. The bread came highly recommended and has chunks of cheddar cheese in it. We stopped at one of the State Parks to take in its beauty a second time and started on the road to Wellsboro Pa. Our ride down route 13 and 15 to Wellsboro was unexpectedly scenic. This area of Pennsylvania is more mountainous than most other areas of the state. As it has been throughout the trip, the autumn colors were perfect. On arriving in Wellsboro we had dinner at the famous Wellsboro diner. The hot roast beef sandwich is made with real roast beef and the red raspberry pie was superb.
Not far from town we found Kaltenbach’s B&B. It is a ranch style structure on farmland with a basic but comfortable setting. Kaltenbach’s is as informal as the Federal House was formal. Sheep graze in the field outside the bedroom window and white tailed deer venture out at dusk to do the same. Our spacious room had a walk-in closet and the large rectangular closed in porch was perfect for sitting in and watching the deer.
October 22, 1999
Lee, our host, prepared a nice country breakfast for us including homemade sausage and homemade jam. Our road trip around the countryside to the canyon was pleasantly scenic. Harrison and Colt Point State Parks offer a grand view of the canyon from their overlooks. On our return to Wellsboro we had a good lunch at the diner. The macaroni and cheese was like grandmother used to make. The homemade beef vegetable soup was also very good. The street lamps in Wellsboro are gas fueled and each holds four mantles. We returned to the B&B and relaxed, as it was a rainy afternoon. We later returned to town and explored the shops. On Central Ave is a bakery and deli combination with a good-sized area for eating in. A folk singer named Ray Owens performed for a small crowd there. He put on an entertaining show. Our dinner at the Penn Wells Hotel had potential but missed the mark. We finished the evening with a movie at the old time Movie Theater in town.
October 23, 1999
It was a typical fall morning with cool temperatures and darkly overcast sky’s. The colors are more advanced here in Tioga County with a good many trees stripped of their leaves while in the north around the Finger Lakes it was peak. However the landscape in late fall has it’s own charm. Our last day was rainy and it set the mood of melancholy. It was a time of thoughtful reflection and it does the soul good to listen to the pitter-patter of the raindrops. Our day was sadly uneventful because the train ride we planed to take was cancelled due to an accident that occurred the night before. We drove home down back roads in the rain. We stopped at Saint Mary’s Pa to have lunch at a wonderful Inn but it was closed for lunch. Along the way we managed to see a few Elk. Then we stopped at the Clarion River Lodge to have dinner but could only have lunch. The lunch was good and the lodge has a nice fireplace to take the chill off. Cook Forest was beautiful and the Clarion River was flowing through it gracefully. I stopped to take a few photos then we took route 80 and 79 home.
This year the decision was made to take a fall vacation trip up to Ithaca New York and the Finger Lakes region. We also stayed a short time in Wellsboro Pennsylvania and viewed the Pa. Grand Canyon.
October 18, 1999
The drive up to Ithaca was perfect. The weather was a combination of clear sunny skies with dark cumulus clouds creating a patchwork overhead. Also, the crisp autumn air was gently blowing. The forest was perfectly colored in a mosaic of Indian red and lemon yellow along with gold and raw sienna. Adding contrast to the bright colors came dark pine green and raw umber’s. As we drove down the country roads we could see the yellow leaves of a birch tree dance as the autumn wind swirled among its branches. Many walnut and chestnut trees dot the mountainsides among the evergreens.
When we arrived at the bed and breakfast it was a welcoming down home type place. The gardens out side contained herbs and vegetables and flowers of many types. Numerous gray squirrels scampered among the walnut trees near by. The thundering sounds of a close by waterfalls could be heard as we entered the front door. The interior is filled with charming Victorian antiques and federal style furniture. Original oil paintings adorn the walls. Our room was small but had quilt covered beds and a warm inviting feel to it.
Jan and I had a late dinner at a relatively new place near the B&B on route 34 called Branches. The food was very good and well prepared. We both had the stuffed shrimp and were unable to finish it all. On our return to the Federal House I was amused at the way the hard wood floors carried on, creaking and complaining enough to beat the band. I don’t want to give the wrong impression; the old boards are immaculately kept and well polished. The floor adds a charm to the place. I was later informed from our hostess Diane that the floors had a major restoration performed on them when she first bought the house.
October 19, 1999
In the morning I got up with the sun and walked a short way through a walnut covered lawn and past a playground. Following the melody of rushing water I found its source in a nice sized waterfall tumbling over a stone ravine. It was a frosty morning and a mystical fog embraced the water spray.
Breakfast was a wonderful experience with Victorian table settings and it was served in courses. It was the first time I enjoyed a candle light breakfast with music in the background. The freshly prepared items included homemade muffins and nut bread, a fruit cup and French toast prepared with extra care.
Jan and I spent the day exploring the spectacular state parks that are scattered nearby. The area of the Finger Lakes is a natural wonder due to the glaciers that carved out the lakes and many gorges over 10,000 years ago. In the parks, natural beauty surrounded us in heavily wooded forest along with abundant streams bejeweled with cascades. Among these parks are the Treman parks, Taughanock Falls and Buttermilk Falls. Each park has more than one entrance and both should be explored.
We had a marvelous lunch at the Ithaca bakery, which is also a great New York style deli. The bakery is in town along route 13 and 34 north. It offers about fifteen different types of bagels and all kinds of sandwiches. It carries many unusual food products as well. I had the Ruben sandwich and it was one of the best in flavor that I can remember. We then drove east on route 79 and stopped at the Six-mile Creek winery. The place was small but we enjoyed a wine tasting and purchased a bottle of their wine. We then went to have dinner at Maxis Harbor Inn along route 34 near the Federal House.
October 20, 1999
Early in the morning I went down stairs and created a fire in the fireplace while I waited for breakfast to be prepared. Breakfast was as enjoyable as it was the morning before. It included fresh baked pumpkin bread and pair muffins.
Along country and county roads we drove to Hammondsport. The vistas were spectacularly illuminated by morning sunshine. Jan and I enjoyed a peaceful boat tour of Keuka Lake aboard the Keuka Maid. The buffet lunch was good and the service was excellent. The paddle wheeled boat was spacious and comfortable. The captain entertained a few children by allowing them to sit at the helm and ring the bell and blow the foghorn. A good many of the summer homes along the shore are extravagant.
After the boat tour we drove to Watkins Glen State Park and walked the gorge trail. The trail has 822 steps we walked about 350 to 400 of them. On our return to Ithaca Jan had a stuffed Portabela mushroom and I an onion bagel with cream cheese at the bakery. As the coolness of evening enfolded the land we settled into our new room. We decide to upgrade our last nights stay at the Federal House and moved into a wonderful and more spacious suite. It was like living the life style of the rich and famous just for a moment.
October 21, 1999
In the morning and after another great breakfast we said our goodbye and went into town to pick up some cheddar and chive bread from the bakery. The bread came highly recommended and has chunks of cheddar cheese in it. We stopped at one of the State Parks to take in its beauty a second time and started on the road to Wellsboro Pa. Our ride down route 13 and 15 to Wellsboro was unexpectedly scenic. This area of Pennsylvania is more mountainous than most other areas of the state. As it has been throughout the trip, the autumn colors were perfect. On arriving in Wellsboro we had dinner at the famous Wellsboro diner. The hot roast beef sandwich is made with real roast beef and the red raspberry pie was superb.
Not far from town we found Kaltenbach’s B&B. It is a ranch style structure on farmland with a basic but comfortable setting. Kaltenbach’s is as informal as the Federal House was formal. Sheep graze in the field outside the bedroom window and white tailed deer venture out at dusk to do the same. Our spacious room had a walk-in closet and the large rectangular closed in porch was perfect for sitting in and watching the deer.
October 22, 1999
Lee, our host, prepared a nice country breakfast for us including homemade sausage and homemade jam. Our road trip around the countryside to the canyon was pleasantly scenic. Harrison and Colt Point State Parks offer a grand view of the canyon from their overlooks. On our return to Wellsboro we had a good lunch at the diner. The macaroni and cheese was like grandmother used to make. The homemade beef vegetable soup was also very good. The street lamps in Wellsboro are gas fueled and each holds four mantles. We returned to the B&B and relaxed, as it was a rainy afternoon. We later returned to town and explored the shops. On Central Ave is a bakery and deli combination with a good-sized area for eating in. A folk singer named Ray Owens performed for a small crowd there. He put on an entertaining show. Our dinner at the Penn Wells Hotel had potential but missed the mark. We finished the evening with a movie at the old time Movie Theater in town.
October 23, 1999
It was a typical fall morning with cool temperatures and darkly overcast sky’s. The colors are more advanced here in Tioga County with a good many trees stripped of their leaves while in the north around the Finger Lakes it was peak. However the landscape in late fall has it’s own charm. Our last day was rainy and it set the mood of melancholy. It was a time of thoughtful reflection and it does the soul good to listen to the pitter-patter of the raindrops. Our day was sadly uneventful because the train ride we planed to take was cancelled due to an accident that occurred the night before. We drove home down back roads in the rain. We stopped at Saint Mary’s Pa to have lunch at a wonderful Inn but it was closed for lunch. Along the way we managed to see a few Elk. Then we stopped at the Clarion River Lodge to have dinner but could only have lunch. The lunch was good and the lodge has a nice fireplace to take the chill off. Cook Forest was beautiful and the Clarion River was flowing through it gracefully. I stopped to take a few photos then we took route 80 and 79 home.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Best Beer in the World
There is a tavern outside Pittsburgh, Pa called the Sharp Edge near Crafton Ingram. The owner was knighted in Belgium for having such a broad selection of true Belgian beers. These beers are rich full bodied brews, and some brewed by monks called trapist beers. 
The Sharp Edge also carries my personal favorite on tap, a Bavarian double bock affectionately nicknamed “ Old Goat” because of the artwork on the outer label but its true name is “Celebrator Double Bock” brewed by Ayinger brewery. It is not an easy brew to find but if you do spot it by heavens do give it a try. It is a beer that has a dominant malty taste. This beer’s origins are in a monk’s recipe and reflected in its heartiness. It is also known as The Pope of Beers, Conrad Seidl, describes it as: “Almost black with a very slight red tone, a sensational, festive foam and truly extraordinary fragrance that at first summons up visions of the Austrian Alps. The first taste is of mild fullness with an accompanying coffee tone, which becomes more dominant with the aftertaste. There is very little of the sweetness that is frequently to be tasted with doppelbock beer.” The Ayinger Celebrator has been ranked among the best beers of the world by the Chicago Testing Institute several times and has won numerous platinum medallions.. 11.2 oz brown bottle with a plastic trinket goat tied around the neck. No freshness date, not to worry as this brew has a longer shelf life that normal beers. It is also described as having an earthy, nutty-bordering-on-woody nose with sweet roasted malt accents. A rich, frothy entry leads to an off-dry, full-bodied palate with intense raisin, dried fruit compote, roasted nuts, and mild molasses flavors. Finishes with an earthy mild hops and toasted dark nut bread fade with a lingering vinous note. A distinctive and delicious doppelbock Celebrator is the finest German beer. It is a bottom-fermented, dark double buck bier.Alcohol content: 6.7 %
The Sharp Edge also carries my personal favorite on tap, a Bavarian double bock affectionately nicknamed “ Old Goat” because of the artwork on the outer label but its true name is “Celebrator Double Bock” brewed by Ayinger brewery. It is not an easy brew to find but if you do spot it by heavens do give it a try. It is a beer that has a dominant malty taste. This beer’s origins are in a monk’s recipe and reflected in its heartiness. It is also known as The Pope of Beers, Conrad Seidl, describes it as: “Almost black with a very slight red tone, a sensational, festive foam and truly extraordinary fragrance that at first summons up visions of the Austrian Alps. The first taste is of mild fullness with an accompanying coffee tone, which becomes more dominant with the aftertaste. There is very little of the sweetness that is frequently to be tasted with doppelbock beer.” The Ayinger Celebrator has been ranked among the best beers of the world by the Chicago Testing Institute several times and has won numerous platinum medallions.. 11.2 oz brown bottle with a plastic trinket goat tied around the neck. No freshness date, not to worry as this brew has a longer shelf life that normal beers. It is also described as having an earthy, nutty-bordering-on-woody nose with sweet roasted malt accents. A rich, frothy entry leads to an off-dry, full-bodied palate with intense raisin, dried fruit compote, roasted nuts, and mild molasses flavors. Finishes with an earthy mild hops and toasted dark nut bread fade with a lingering vinous note. A distinctive and delicious doppelbock Celebrator is the finest German beer. It is a bottom-fermented, dark double buck bier.Alcohol content: 6.7 %
Saturday, February 9, 2008
New Gallary
New Gallary at
http://picasaweb.google.com/ricklionheart222
Those with dial up will need to wait for the site to load. Double click on the donkys then double click the pic it will appear in poor qualtiy at first then clear up.
Enjoy
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