Hither & Yon

Thing #64 I Like About Living Where I Do

2012-03-07T18:34:00.000-05:00

I had some errands to run on Tuesday, which reminded me of one of the reasons I like where I live.

After leaving some outgoing mail to be picked up from our mailbox, I dropped off a FedEx package at the pickup spot in Staples...

Deposit a couple checks at the bank...

And fill up with gas at Meijer's gas station (I also bought a bottle of Diet Mountain Dew. And maybe or maybe not a Reese's Cup).

From beginning to end, it took less than ten minutes to do it all. THAT's why I like where I live.

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Pinch Me Places: Jerusalem

2012-03-05T10:44:00.000-05:00

The lovely Robin and I have been so blessed to visit Jerusalem four times (in 1988, 2000, 2005, and 2010), and I still can't believe it. We plan to return again in 2014 (see here), and I still can't believe it. And I can't believe that I've been there with my children, Aubrey and Aaron, as well as my niece Elissa (far left, above) and father-in-law Dick (far right, above). And to have shared the experience with so many other dear ones, Bill and Marty Francis and Susan and Billy, the Kellys, the Sellerses, Debbie, Willa, Carol, Barb, Betty, Dave and Millie, Susan and Brian and Ellen and David, and more. Oh, there's nothing better.

There is nothing like the sight of the Old CIty coming into view as we crest the Mount of Olives, and read aloud Psalm 48: "Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, in the mountain of our God, in the city of his holiness. Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion on the sides of the north, the city of the Great King."

There is no city like it on earth. And the sacred spaces and history are literally stacked upon each other, one next to the other, one after another. Calvary. The Temple Mount. Bethesda. The Pool of Siloam. The teaching steps of the Temple (excavated in the 1960s by a team that included another fellow-traveler, Dr. Ed Yamauchi). The Kotel (Western Wall). The streets of the Old City. The Garden Tomb. Gethsemani. Caiaphas's house. The Via Dolorosa. And so much more. It's mind-boggling. The person who's never been cannot possibly imagine it. And this person who's been there four times can only shake my head. It's a pinch me place.

Starbucks's Cheeriest Barista

2012-03-03T18:15:00.001-05:00

At the time I took this picture at the Starbucks I stopped at this morning on W. Paces Ferry Road NW in Atlanta, I didn't know I was about to meet Starbucks's Cheeriest Barista. But I was.

That's her, in the cap, the barista closest to the camera. I wish I'd caught her name, but I didn't. Still, nice job, Starbucks's Cheeriest Barista. I salute you.

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Atlanta Cumberland Center Courtyard Marriott

2012-03-03T17:09:00.001-05:00

Here in Atlanta for my brother-in-law's wedding celebration, we're staying at the Atlanta Cumberland Center Courtyard Marriott:

It's a very nice hotel in a very nice area.

The lobby and other ground floor areas are quite modern, among my least favorite styles of decor, but otherwise appealing and inviting.

Our room is comfortable and spacious. Though, like many other upscale hotels of this kind, free wireless Internet is available only in the lobby. I continue to be befuddled and flummoxed by such inexplicable lack of service at otherwise quality hotels (there IS free Ethernet in the rooms, however, so they've got 1994-era guest services down pat). And just don't ask me about the hotel parking garage.

However, having said all that, the staff has been helpful and our stay has been enjoyable. And, thanks to our hosts, we couldn't be staying at a better price!

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Location:E Pine Valley Rd NW,Atlanta,United States

A Weather Channel

2012-03-03T11:21:00.001-05:00

The lovely Robin, Aubrey, and I drove to Atlanta last night, through a lane of memorable weather: tornadoes, thunderstorms, hailstorms...and a rainbow.

Around Crittenden, Kentucky, we apparently missed a tornado (or it missed us) by mere minutes. It had cut a visible swath through trees, and deposited one in the right lane of I-75 South.

A semi had been turned on its side, which with the tree in the roadway slowed traffic to a stop.

The rain at times was torrential, and gave us no more than a few minutes of rainless driving. A tense 9-hour trip (instead of the usual 7.5 hrs), but we arrived safe and sound. That's what counts.

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Pinch Me Places: Machu Pichu

2012-02-27T10:26:00.000-05:00

This post debuts what I plan to be a regular feature on this blog, at least for a while: "Pinch Me Places." That is, the surprising (to me) number of places I can't believe I've actually been to, sights I've seen firsthand, travel experiences that make me say to myself, "pinch me."

The first "Pinch Me Place": Machu Pichu, Peru, which the lovely Robin and I visited together in 2009, following a wonderful mission trip to Arequipa, Peru, under the leadership of our friends Don and Christie Latta. Don blessed us so much by making the arrangements for our travel to Cusco, then to Machu Pichu. I don't know if we would have made it otherwise. Even then, it involved a nail-biting early morning cab ride, a train we caught just in time, a winding bus ride up the mountainside, and THEN a hundred-stair heavy-breathing climb from the parking lot to the site.

But once we got there, oh my. No matter how iconic it is, no matter how many photos I've seen before, it's nonetheless breathtaking to see it in person. Pinch me.

Machu Pichu (the phrase means, "Old Peak") is one of the most familiar symbols of the Inca Empire.The Incas started building it around AD 1430, but it was abandoned roughly a hundred years later, at the time of the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire. Though the Spaniards never laid eyes on the site (apparently never even knew about it), the Incas abandoned it to move further away from the conquistadors. It was "discovered" in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, an American historian.

Our guide said no more than eight hundred people lived in Machu Pichu at its peak. Though other theories have been advanced, he said it was a sort of university for noble Incas...they were sent there to be educated in the traditions and teachings of the Incas. It seems so strange that it was so relatively small, and its lifetime as a city was so short. It's just too majestic and impressive to be such a modest flash-in-the-pan, as cities and civilizations go. But the accomplishment of those who built it is a monument. It is truly breathtaking. A "Pinch Me" place.

My Great American Ballparks

2012-02-25T17:13:00.004-05:00

I love baseball. I've been a fan since I was a kid, and an obsessive fan from the Cincinnati Reds' 1970 pennant-winning season through the baseball strike of 1994-1995. Since then, I've remained a Reds fan and a baseball fan, but not particularly a major league baseball fan.

Still, I have some great baseball memories. Once upon a time, I hoped to visit all major league parks in my lifetime (but they keep building new ones, doggone it!). Though I've given up on that dream, I still treasure the memories of the eight major league parks or stadiums I've visited in my lifetime. They are:

1. Crosley Field, the home of the Reds from 1912 through June 24, 1970. In fact, I remember attending the last game at Crosley, won by the Reds with back-to-back home runs by Lee May and Johnny Bench.

2. Riverfront Stadium, where I attended countless Reds' games during its 1970–1995 life. Among my wonderful memories of this cookie-cutter stadium are seeing Tom Seaver come out of the players entrance after a 1979 playoff game my friend Bob and I couldn't get into. Also, taking my daughter Aubrey and son Aaron to many $1 clergy-pass games in the mid-80s and attending the game BEFORE Pete Rose broke Ty Cobb's hit record.

3. Great American Ballpark, (see photo above) the Reds' home since 1995. A nicely designed park with many nice features. Unlike Riverfront and Crosley, there's not a bad seat in the house.

4. Shea Stadium, the home of the New York Mets from 1964 to 2008. I attended a game or two there in 1979 and/or 1980.

5. Yankee Stadium.I'm so glad I made it to a game in "The House That Ruth Built" before this historic venue was demolished in 2008-2010. I was there in 1979, I think.

6. Fenway Park. Attending a Red Sox game in Fenway was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. Especially since the demolition of the original Yankee Stadium, there is no more hallowed place in baseball than Fenway (and Wrigley in Chicago; both were built in 1912).

7. Anaheim Stadium, now called Angel Stadium of Anaheim. I was ten-year-old boy attending an Angels' game here in 1968 with my grandparents, two years after the then-California Angels (one of the the first two American League expansion teams, debuting in 1961) moved into their new home after having spent four seasons renting Dodger Stadium.

8. Busch Memorial Stadium, the home of the St. Louis Cardinals from 1966 to 2005. I attended a couple games here in 1971 and/or 1972. I remember well persuading my dad to leave a game in which the Reds (my team) were down six or seven runs late in the game. On the way home, listening to the game on the radio, we heard as the Reds rallied and won the game in dramatic fashion. Since that day, I don't think I've ever left a game early.

Memory Lane

2012-02-22T14:05:00.002-05:00

Last night the lovely Robin and I took a drive down to the utterly gorgeous Gwen Mooney Funeral Home in Spring Grove Cemetery in Cincinnati. We visited with the family and friends of a dear friend from long ago, whom we hadn't seen in many years, and whom we won't see again until we are reunited in heaven.

On the drive down and back, however, I had the chance to reflect on how glad I am to live in an area where so much of my personal history and so many memories reside. On the drive to and from the funeral home, I passed the thrift store I've bought many books in, the theater complex I've taken Robin to many times since we were in our teens, and the church where I saw Annie Hering (of Second Chapter of Acts) perform, among others. I passed the GE plant a friend and I broke into one night in our teens (thank God for the statute of limitations), the old Erie Canal locks I've driven through countless times, the former home of two brothers we used to pick up for church activities, and the cemetery I've strolled through many times. And that's just the beginning. Nearly every mile of the trip down and back evoked a distinct memory of the past forty years, provoking gratitude that, while I have moved fifteen times in my life, I nonetheless live in and around the city I have always considered home.

Clifton Firehouse

2012-02-18T21:01:00.002-05:00

One of the signature sights of Ludlow Avenue in Clifton is the 106-year-old (and still serving the community) firehouse at the corner of Ludlow and Clifton.

It is a striking, historical building, which the lovely Robin and I admired on our recent date night in Clifton.

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Esquire Theater, Clifton

2012-02-17T22:26:00.002-05:00

The lovely Robin and I concluded an already-full day (she: at a seminar on the UC Campus, me writing at Sitwell's, then both of us dining in Clifton) with a movie at the Esquire Theater on Ludlow Avenue in Clifton.

The Esquire, renovated and reopened in 1990 (it had fallen on hard times in previous decades) is now a wonderful little neighborhood theater. It has won awards as well as appreciation from the public. It ain't cheap ($9.50 a ticket, though some weeknights are $6) but it provided a memorable evening in a unique place.

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Olive's Restaurant

2012-02-17T18:47:00.002-05:00

Word to the wise, based on my visit with the lovely Robin to Olive's Restaurant in Clifton: when the server tells you they're known for their pizzas, order a pizza.

Olive's is a nice place, with a hopping bar upstairs:

And a restaurant downstairs.

I had a steak and cheese "deep dish," sort of an open-faced calzone. It was okay.

Robin had spaghetti and meatballs, which just didn't hit the spot for her (though she loved the salad). When she asked for more sauce, she was given cold sauce. "Cold," she said. "Can you believe it?" in a tone that would make Dame Judy Dench proud.

However, the server very kindly removed the entree from the bill, which we greatly appreciated. So maybe in the future, we might try Olive's again--for the pizza!

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Location:Ludlow Ave,Cincinnati,United States

Sitwell's in Clifton

2012-02-17T13:21:00.004-05:00

My writing perch this afternoon is Sitwell's Coffee House in Cincinnati's Bohemian Clifton neighborhood.

Sitwell's, located next door to the venerable Esquire Theater on Ludlow Avenue, is named for Edith Sitwell (1887-1964), a British poet and critic who once visited the U.S. (in 1948), but never made it to the Sitwell Coffee House. Probably because it didn't exist until many years later.

Above is my corner booth, with a cool "Convers-O-Call," an ancient intercom (methinks) device.

I ordered a brie snack with walnuts and craisins, and a yogurt fruit smoothie to fortify me for the afternoon's writing. Which I should be getting to. Any minute now. Seriously....

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True West Cafe

2012-02-16T19:20:00.003-05:00

A series of unfortunate events--well, just one, actually--resulted today in my first opportunity to pay a short visit to the new True West coffee shop on Main Street in Hamilton.

The establishment, across the street from Hughes Drugs in the 300 block, is quite homey, housed as it is in a former home.

It is much roomier than I expected, with ample seating downstairs...

And upstairs...

The "Milky Way" coffee (chocolate and caramel) was good. The cinnamon roll looked good but could have been better. But they served it on real china, so kudos for class.

In any case, I liked it, and plan to return.

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14 Reasons I Love Taking My Grandkids on Vacations

2012-02-09T15:11:00.015-05:00

1. They find interest and excitement in EVERYthing!

2. They don't hesitate to tell you what they like and what they don't like.

3. They make walks way more fun.

4. They are still learning about stuff I usually manage to overlook.

5. They even make timeouts look adorable.

6. I get to introduce them to things....like S'mores.

7. They make me laugh.

8. They make for amazing pictures.

9. They remind me how much fun it can be to throw stuff, climb stuff, jump over stuff, and stuff stuff.

10. They share with me (sometimes).

11. They get me (and others) to do things we wouldn't otherwise do.

12. They know how to suck the marrow out of each moment of every day.

13. They make even rainy days charming.

14. I love to see my kids loving their kids, and their kids loving them.

Potter's Ranch

2012-01-28T17:43:00.001-05:00

The lovely Robin and I had a lovely time last night with a lovely group of people.

The leaders of The Ridge church in Brookville, Ohio, gathered at Potter's Ranch in Kentucky for a leadership retreat, and it was my blessing to deliver a keynote for their weekend in the opening session.

Most stayed awake the whole time, as I spoke on "4 Questions for Leaders" from 1 Kings 19! And we had such a wonderful time of communion and fellowship afterward.

It was refreshing and restorative for us. It might even have been a help to them!

Some Signs Are More Necessary Than Others

2012-01-19T10:53:00.000-05:00

On Rt. 22 in Upland, Indiana.

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Can't Escape My Celebrity

2012-01-18T10:41:00.000-05:00

In Marion, Indiana:

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The Mill, Marion, Indiana

2012-01-17T20:43:00.005-05:00

I ventured out this evening into Marion, just a few miles west of my hotel in Gas City, and stopped for dinner at The Mill, on the eastern banks of the Mississinewa River.

Nearly the first sight to greet me as I climbed the stairs to the spacious second-floor loft of a restaurant was a "Miami of Ohio" banner. I asked my server about it, and she later (after inquiring) told me that the boss is an alumnus!

The Mill is, not oddly at all, an old mill, now operating as a deli on the first floor and restaurant/bar on the second floor. The fare, however, was nothing like bar food.

The crab cakes were quite good, if a tad too long in the deep fryer. The salad was also fresh and well presented.

For the main course, I had steak oskar and shrimp with vegetables and baked potato. These were all cooked just about perfectly.

I also tried one of the house's "dollar desserts," a creme brulee that, despite the foil wrapper, was a credible effort.

The server was attentive but not overly so. The soundtrack was seventies rock. And the scenery--even at night--of the river rushing past was very nice. A fulfilling (and filling) experience.

The Mill is located at 1001 N. Washington Ave. in Marion (765-664-4637).

More Taylor University

2012-01-11T14:05:00.002-05:00

I'm having a fine time this week at Taylor University in Upland, Indiana.

Taylor is an interdenominational Christian school founded in 1846. More than two thousand students attend classes on campus, and another 500+ study online.

Not far from my classroom is the distinctive Rice Bell Tower, just outside the beautiful Zondervan Library. The tower reaches more than 71 feet in height; its twin spires symbolize the integration of faith and learning.

Most impressive to me, however, more so than the spacious and growing campus (a new $41 million science building is under construction), are the students. They're tremendously bright, hardworking, and enjoyable. At least that's my story until their faculty evaluations are turned in.

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Location:W Reade Ave,Upland,United States

Ivanhoe's

2012-01-10T19:05:00.002-05:00

Ivanhoe's is a venerated local eatery in Upland, Indiana, best known (famous, they say) for their ice cream, sundaes, and shakes.

I stopped in earlier tonight for dinner: a Texan Burger and fries.

Unfortunately, I didn't sample the ice cream concoctions, but might have another chance, later this week or next. It's food...it's not like I'm gonna make myself a stranger.- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Depot Park, Upland, Indiana

2012-01-10T18:52:00.003-05:00

On my way through downtown (or uptown?) Upland, Indiana, these past couple days I've noticed a nice train station and surrounding area that is now the Depot Park and museum. The depot was actually relocated here from Muncie in 1993 through the combined efforts of the town and Taylor University.

It is one of three parks in Upland (which claims a population of 3,700). The park includes a caboose behind the depot.

The Depot Town Clock (below) was donated by the chamber of commerce in 1994.

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Payne's

2012-01-09T19:23:00.002-05:00

I had a delightful and unique dining experience tonight.

I stopped in for dinner at Payne's, right next door to my hotel.

It's a quaint and quirky place with seating for maybe 50 (the sign over the door once adorned a Pizza King but now announces the location of Payne's).

The menu says the restaurant was established in 2005. They roast all their own coffee, serve old-fashioned frozen custard, and use organic and local food and produce as much as possible.

The potato and onion soup I had was very tasty. I loved it.

The apple, walnut, and Brie panini was unique and enjoyable. Good chips, too.

Top it all off with peach cobbler a la mode and a decaf caramel macchiato, and it all adds up to QUITE a meal. Everything was beautifully served and thoroughly appreciated. If you're ever in the Gas City, Indiana, area (and who isn't, from time to time?), make sure to eat at the sign that says "EAT." You'll be very glad you did.- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Kay-bee Dr,Gas City,United States

Taylor University, Upland, Indiana

2012-01-09T18:11:00.002-05:00

I'll be blogging more on this over the next few days, but for now I'll just mention that I am a guest professor this week and next at Taylor University in Upland, Indiana.It's a beautiful, sprawling--and growing--campus, and this is my first time here. I'm excited to learn more as my stay progresses, and then get outta town before they realize how little I know.- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Cincinnati Museum Center

2012-01-07T20:37:00.010-05:00

It was my joy and blessing to spend most of today enjoying the CIncinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal with two of my grandchildren, Miles and Mia. Originally built in 1933 as a train station, Union Terminal is a National Historic Landmark and local treasure. The building became the Cincinnati Museum Center (home to the Natural History Museum, Children's Museum, Historical Society Museum, Omnimax Theater, and more) in 1990. Its art deco beauty makes it one of the country’s most popular buildings, according to the American Institute of Architects.

We started with the Natural History Museum, which to Miles was "where they keep the bones." But he and his sister soon discovered it's a lot more than a bunch of old bones (unlike their Crappaw).

We had a BLAST exploring the multiple levels of "The Cave," walking and crawling through one space after another.

Miles especially loved the Flying Bats program, where a museum naturalist took out nine brown bats in a netted area and let them fly around for the assembled crowd. Miles said this was his favorite part of the day.

We managed to pause long enough to gulp down a quick lunch under the building's gorgeous half-dome, surrounded by the historic mosaics and sparkling decor.

Then we headed for the Children's Museum, or as Miles and Mia might be tempted to think of it, "Heaven." A large room of soft balls afforded endless delights. Mia climbed up and might have spent the whole day feeding balls into a pneumatic tube if I hadn't promised her there were OTHER fun things to do.

She soon found the infant and toddler area, where she played happily with a doll, wandered around, and spent quite a bit of time playing in a sandbox as if she'd never seen one before.

Though it took him a while to succumb to the attraction, Miles eventually became inseparable from the "WaterWorks" section of the museum, which he may never have left were it not for the promise of ice cream in the vintage ice cream shop he saw on our way out of the Natural History Museum.

Before leaving the Children's Museum, however, he and Mia HAD to collapse into a giant spider web, of course. Happily, the spider was nowhere to be found (but we did see some ginormous Hissing Cockroaches from Madagascar on our way out!).

All that fun, and there was still so much more we could have done. We didn't even SET FOOT in the gift shop, God be praised!

Montgomery Inn, Cincinnati, OH

2012-01-01T20:32:00.003-05:00

The lovely Robin and I enjoyed a whirlwind visit from her sister Mariruth and husband Ron this past weekend. Despite the shortness of our time together, they got to see not only our newest grandchild, Ryder, but ALL our kids and grandkids, at one point or another.

While we didn't get to do everything we would have liked while they were here, we did manage to introduce them to one of Cincinnati's finest eateries, and one of our favoritest, Montgomery Inn, in Montgomery (try saying THAT five times fast). As Dora's backpack would say, "Yum yum yum yum, delicioso!"

Oxford's Community Arts Center

2011-12-19T17:42:00.006-05:00

I had the honor yesterday of presiding over a lovely renewal of vows ceremony for my friends, Nick and Kayla Danford, at Oxford's Community Arts Center.

This venerable old building is the former home of the Oxford Female Institute, later known as Oxford College and Oxford College for Women. It is a registered historic building in Oxford, Ohio, listed in the National Register since 1976.

The Oxford Female Institute's first president was John Witherspoon Scott, father of first lady Caroline Harrison, who graduated from the college in 1853. The move of the Scott family from Cincinnati to Oxford occasioned the transfer of Caroline's boyfriend, Benjamin Harrison, from Cary's Academy in Cincinnati to Miami University to be near her (Harrison was, of course, elected to be the twenty-third president of the United States in 1888). Miami University assumed ownership of the school in 1928 and used the building, commonly known as "Ox College," as a women's residence for more than sixty years. It is now the home of the Community Arts Center.

It is a beautiful building, with many fine details. It hosts numerous community and arts-related events, from ballroom dancing to concerts and art displays. To find out more, visit www.oxarts.org.

Krohn Conservatory Holiday Show

2011-11-20T23:49:00.001-05:00

The lovely Robin and I had a blast yesterday taking our three grandchildren to the annual holiday show at the Krohn Conservatory in Cincinnati's Eden Park. This year's display is called “Trains, Trestles and Traditions.”

As you can see from the photo above, we started out with Mia and Calleigh in strollers, but once we got to the awesome trains and trestles area, they eschewed the strollers for the rest of the morning.

The sprawling display featured numerous trains and trestles (as advertised), as well as signature Cincinnati landmarks like the Union Terminal and the Krohn Conservatory, as well as other historic landmarks like the Mt. Adams Incline and a couple churches (that will be mentioned on the Desperate Pastor blog tomorrow). All of this, of course, was amid gorgeous flower and plant displays.

All three loved waiting and watching for Thomas the Train to come through a tunnel, which was cheered every time as if it was the first.

They loved the rest of the conservatory, too, strolling along the paths and exploring among the many and varied plants.

They hid out for a few moments under a big giant leaf, and afterward enjoyed a holiday cookie and juice pack in the conservatory's snack area. Oh, and Mimi bought each of them a little toy flashlight to take home as a souvenir.

Upon departing the conservatory, all three wanted desperately to climb the "rainbow stairs" (as Miles had spontaneously dubbed them) behind the parking lot. So we took off together, each at his or her own pace.

“Trains, Trestles and Traditions” runs through January 1, 2012, from 10 am-5 pm daily (Wednesdays 10 am-7:30 pm).

City Chicken

2011-10-31T22:16:00.002-04:00

I had the joy today of sharing lunch with my son, Aaron, something we do as often as possible.

We met at the Riverbank Cafe by the Great Miami River in Hamilton, where the server informed me that one of the specials was "City Chicken." I had never heard of it. She explained that city chicken was really pork on a skewer. She couldn't explain why it was called city chicken. For that, I had to go to the internet. Turns out it's a real thing. Who knew?

So I had the city chicken, pictured above, and Aaron had the "California Club." And it was good.

Top Ten Hotels

2011-10-28T09:30:00.001-04:00

Over the years, the lovely Robin and I have traveled a bit, and enjoyed many fine lodgings, from the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls in Ohio to the lovely inn our friend Nigel booked for us in our 1995 sojourn in England (wish I could remember the name). But I thought I'd take a few moments to compile a list of the top ten hotels (not B&B, timeshare resort, or rented cabin, but hotels, this time around) we've enjoyed over the years. Here's what I came up with:

The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs
We stayed here in 2008, and enjoyed every minute. Luxury, comfort, class, all in the shadow of Cheyenne Mountain. Beyond words.

The Davenport Hotel, Spokane
I stayed at the historic Davenport Hotel, in downtown Spokane, in October 2011. It is named for Llewellyn "Louis" Davenport, who came to Spokane in 1889 at the age of 20, opened a restaurant, became successful, and opened this hotel in 1914. Closed in 1985 and revived by local entrepreneurs Walt and Karen Worthy in 2000, it has been restored to breathtaking beauty and vibrancy. And the bed was the most comfortable hotel bed I've ever slept in.

The Mills House, Charleston
Originally built in 1853 by entrepreneur Otis Mills and designed by architect John E. Earle, this is the only hotel in Charleston's Museum Mile. The lovely Robin and I stayed here in 2010, hosted by our friends Jim and Diane Lillibridge.

The Palmer House, Chicago
I stayed here one night. With my daughter, Aubrey, in 2004, I think, on a job-hunting trip for her. Absolutely spectacular.

El Tovar Lodge, Arizona
On the south rim of the Grand Canyon--tiny room, but everything else was wonderful.

Grand Hyatt Hotel, Denver
The lovely Robin and I stayed here in 2010, compliments of the Writing for the Soul conference. We had a suite. We had it made.

Olive Tree Hotel, Jerusalem
We've stayed in this unique hotel--with an Olive Tree in the dining room--three times on visits to Israel (2000, 2005, 2010). It is a home away from home.

Diplomat Hotel, Jerusalem
The lovely Robin and I stayed here on our very first visit to Jerusalem, in 1987 (yes, that's me in the photo above, with the camera bag and luggage tag; I was young and thin once. Long, long ago, in a galaxy far away). We checked in one evening, and awoke the next morning to a view out our window of shepherds tending their sheep on the hillside below. The hotel has since been converted to an SRO for Russian immigrants living in Jerusalem.

Pyramids Park Resort Hotel, Cairo
Our room was no great shakes (in fact, it took three tries to find one that was acceptable!), but the location of this hotel--right next to the pyramids--couldn't be beat.

The Golden Lamb Inn, Lebanon OH
This is a sentimental choice. Robin and I spent our first couple nights as a married couple in the John Quincy Adams room of this historic hotel, older than the state of Ohio.

I'm sure there are several I'm forgetting. But these I remember well. And fondly.

Most Memorable Meals

2011-10-18T19:02:00.005-04:00

I've enjoyed (and suffered) many memorable meals over the years. You can't live as long as I have and eat as much as I do without a few highs and lows. So I thought I'd take a few moments to reflect on some of the most memorable meals I've had on my travels hither and yon. These do not include the many amazing, wonderful, and memorable meals the lovely Robin has lovingly prepared for me (and one or two of my own concoction, like the burnt hot dog turds I cooked up in Dayton in December 1979). But here are five or so that rank as among the most memorable:

St. Peter's Fish, Magdala, Israel. Fish doesn't get any fresher than this and, while a gourmand might turn up his nose at its ordinariness, it was in 1987 quite an adventure for me and the lovely Robin. I can tell you that I enjoyed it more than she, even after she covered the head with her napkin. We've since supped thrice on such fare during subsequent sojourns in Israel, I think.

Falafel, etc., by the Dead Sea. That's (l to r) David Joyce, my son Aaron, my daughter Aubrey, my niece Elissa Hamon, and Ellen Joyce Hernandez on our 2000 trip to Israel when we ate lunch at this outdoor restaurant by the Dead Sea. And where I and one other of our company got food poisoning. Musta been the gyro.

Maricuya fruit, Arequipa, Peru. The lovely Robin wouldn't touch it, but I was offered a maricuya during our 2009 mission trip to Peru. They also call it passion fruit, and it's basically a bunch of goo-encased seeds in a hard shell, which isn't so much eaten as it is sucked out and swallowed. Once I got past the appearance and consistency of the thing, it wasn't bad. It also possesses considerable healing qualities, for headaches, insomnia, colic, diarrhea, hysteria, neuralgia, menopausal symptoms and hypertension. I must say, I haven't had any menopausal symptoms since I had just the one maricuya. So it worked.

Llama, Cusco, Peru. Another new experience on our trip to Peru was my first taste of llama, which I had at a very nice restaurant on the plaza de armas in Cusco. Robin tried a bite, but I ate the whole thing. Sorta like venison. Very good. In fact, looking back, I'd have to say that all the food we had in Peru was excellent...though neither of us tried guinea pig, a staple of the Peruvian diet. Maybe next time.

Spaetzle, Strasbourg, France. On our 2010 visit to Germany and France, the lovely Robin and I had many memorable dining experiences (including one, a dish of cold herring that, when I ordered it, prompted odd glances from our gracious hosts; I had no idea what I was getting into, and managed to swallow just one bite). Other than that, however, all our meals in Germany and France were quite good, including this spaetzle (noodle) dish, with cabbage and pork mixed in, at a wonderful bistro in the historic Petite France section of Strasbourg, France. And the creme caramel we shared for desert was a lot of oo with some la la thrown in.

There are, of course, many more I could list, from the glass of Radler I had in Mannheim, Germany and a champagne brunch on the Queen Mary in L.A. to the "throwed rolls" at Lambert's in Missouri and the butternut squash ravioli at Paesano's, just up the street in Oxford. But I'm getting hungry, so I'll stop, and go get something to eat.

Thing #63 I Like About Living Where I Do

2011-10-11T14:09:00.003-04:00

63. Hanover Township Park and Playground. Just a few miles from our home is this wonderful, expansive playground and picnic area.

I love taking my grandchildren there. Today it was Calleigh's turn. In just over an hour, she got to play on a ship....

A train....

A giant SUV...

And more. She climbed and swung, slipped and slid, bounced and ran. It was a blast. It's well-tended and well-used, and includes a dog run and walking path, too.

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An Indoor Menagerie

2011-10-10T16:48:00.004-04:00

Just a couple doors down from The Salvation Army's Camp Gifford in Washington State (which I got to visit with a few new friends during last week's officers' councils in Spokane) is the home of Darrell and Joanie Rung, who were introduced to us by Kyle Smith, the Spokane Corps Officer. The Rungs's home is one of those lakeside houses with a long driveway and stone pillars at the entrance, which often prompt me to wish I could see the inside.

Darrell and his wife generously and graciously welcomed us into their home to gawk at its beauty. What a view they have. And what a beautifully designed and constructed home.

Even on this foggy, chilly day, the views were stupendous. Each lake-facing room boasted large windows with unobstructed views.

Most of our time was spent in the dining room/game room/trophy room, where Darrell has displayed some of his trophies from four or five safaris to Africa and Asia.

He had a story for every prize: elephant, zebra, hyena, lion, leopard, wild boars, antelopes, rams, and more.

It was a memorable visit with a kind and gracious couple. I expect to remember it for a long time to come.

Camp Gifford

2011-10-09T11:59:00.000-04:00

I had the opportunity last week to pay a visit to The Salvation Army's Camp Gifford, in Eastern Washington state, on the shores of Deer Lake. I'm glad I did.

The property was purchased in the early 1920s when the Deer Lake region was undeveloped (with the exception of logging roads and a few cabins around the lake). It was named Camp Cougar then, and the first camps took place in the mid-1920s, using tents and open fires. The first cabins were constructed in the 1930s, and more were built over the next decade. Also in the 1930s the name was changed to Camp Gifford (in honor of Commissioner Adam Gifford, the first territorial commander of The Salvation Army's Western Territory upon its formation in 1920).

Camp Gifford is run by The Salvation Army in the Spokane area, and serves a large area in Eastern Washington. As you can see from the photos I took while on a walking tour of the camp, it reposes in a beautiful setting...until the campers arrive, of course, at which time all repose ends.

2011 NAMI Walk

2011-10-08T20:51:00.004-04:00

This morning, for the second year in a row, I joined my wife, daughter, and all three grandchildren for the 2011 5K NAMI Walk to benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

The walk launched at the Fitton Center in Hamilton (above), and featured a festive atmosphere, complete with a clown, musician, food, and more.

Miles scored a sword, and Mia and Calleigh each received a "princess wand" (below).

Miles got a spider painted onto his hand, and Mia got a butterfly on her cheek (below). Calleigh demurred.

It was a beautiful day for a walk, if a bit warm. The kids all behaved themselves admirably, and by a little after 11:00, we were headed home, glad once more to contribute to a worthy cause, and to support the lovely Robin, who was the coordinator for the event at her workplace.

Luigi's, Spokane, WA

2011-10-08T11:28:00.000-04:00

Among the many highlights of my recent sojourn in Spokane, Washington, was the Tuesday evening dinner I enjoyed at Luigi's Italian Restaurant with Majors Doug and Sheryl Tollerud (below), the new divisional leaders of The Salvation Army's Northwest Division.

Luigi's is unique in that it occupies the former Spokane Corps of The Salvation Army, and the interior is decorated with many old black-and-white photos of the building decades ago, such as this one (below):

The food was absolutely wonderful, and the ambience just right.

The exterior still bears the red shield as part of the decor, as seen below:

Luigi's is located at 245 W. Main in Spokane, and is open every day of the week. I recommend it!

A Serendipitous Discovery

2011-10-07T13:20:00.003-04:00

One of the serendipities of The Salvation Army's Northwest Division Officers' Councils at the Davenport Hotel in Spokane, Washington, this past week was the discovery of this plaque in the lobby:

The poet Vachel Lindsay is best known for his poem, "General William Booth Enters Into Heaven":

I

[Bass drum beaten loudly.]

Booth led boldly with his big bass drum —
(Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?)
The Saints smiled gravely and they said: “He’s come.”
(Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?)
Walking lepers followed, rank on rank,
Lurching bravoes from the ditches dank,
Drabs from the alleyways and drug fiends pale —
Minds still passion-ridden, soul-powers frail: —
Vermin-eaten saints with mouldy breath,
Unwashed legions with the ways of Death —
(Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?)

[Banjos.]

Every slum had sent its half-a-score
The round world over. (Booth had groaned for more.)
Every banner that the wide world flies
Bloomed with glory and transcendent dyes.
Big-voiced lasses made their banjos bang,
Tranced, fanatical they shrieked and sang: —
“Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?”
Hallelujah! It was queer to see
Bull-necked convicts with that land make free.
Loons with trumpets blowed a blare, blare, blare
On, on upward thro’ the golden air!
(Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?)

II

[Bass drum slower and softer.]

Booth died blind and still by Faith he trod,
Eyes still dazzled by the ways of God.
Booth led boldly, and he looked the chief
Eagle countenance in sharp relief,
Beard a-flying, air of high command
Unabated in that holy land.

[Sweet flute music.]

Jesus came from out the court-house door,
Stretched his hands above the passing poor.
Booth saw not, but led his queer ones there
Round and round the mighty court-house square.
Then in an instant all that blear review
Marched on spotless, clad in raiment new.
The lame were straightened, withered limbs uncurled
And blind eyes opened on a new, sweet world.

[Bass drum louder.]

Drabs and vixens in a flash made whole!
Gone was the weasel-head, the snout, the jowl!
Sages and sibyls now, and athletes clean,
Rulers of empires, and of forests green!

[Grand chorus of all instruments. Tambourines to the foreground.]

The hosts were sandalled, and their wings were fire!
(Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?)
But their noise played havoc with the angel-choir.
(Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?)
O shout Salvation! It was good to see
Kings and Princes by the Lamb set free.
The banjos rattled and the tambourines
Jing-jing-jingled in the hands of Queens.

[Reverently sung, no instruments.]

And when Booth halted by the curb for prayer
He saw his Master thro’ the flag-filled air.
Christ came gently with a robe and crown
For Booth the soldier, while the throng knelt down.
He saw King Jesus. They were face to face,
And he knelt a-weeping in that holy place.
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

The poem was first published in 1913, the year after Booth entered heaven, so it is not among the poems Lindsay wrote while living at the Davenport. Still, it was a striking discovery during the gathering of 80+ officers in Booth's Army.

The Plaster Shop, Spokane, WA

2011-10-06T11:27:00.000-04:00

I came across this distinctive structure on a walk around downtown Spokane, Washington.

Clearly, it is the home of The Plaster Shop, Inc. But I'd love to know what it was BEFORE. A retail dairy outlet? Ice cream shop? Inquiring minds want to know.

Auntie's Books

2011-10-05T10:56:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to discover unique, locally-owned, one-of-a-kind bookstores. Like Auntie's Bookstore on Main Street in Spokane.

Auntie's is Spokane's largest independently owned book store, and it's nice and big. It is open seven days a week, and seems to be thriving. When I was there on a Sunday afternoon, the place was hopping.

The children's section (one of my favorites in any bookstore) is large and interesting and I wanted to live there.

I also love that Auntie's--like Powell's in Portland--stocks new and used books side-by-side. Why every bookstore doesn't do this, I don't know. Well, I probably do, but I don't like it.

If you're ever in Spokane, pay a visit to Auntie's. It's a great way to kill a few hours. Or days.

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Riverfront Park, Spokane, WA

2011-10-04T11:01:00.000-04:00

One of the pleasant features of my visit to Spokane so far has been my Sunday afternoon walk through Riverfront Park, a public park located along the Spokane River, not far up from the Spokane Falls.

It was created for Expo '74, a World's Fair event, and was being enjoyed on this beautiful day by bikers, walkers, families, and more.

The gigantic Radio Flyer slide made me miss my grandkids. I wish I could've watched their eyes widen at this sight.

The park is well known for the Riverfront Park Carousel (below, which I'm told used to have an honest-to-goodness brass ring), as well as an IMAX theatre, Clock tower (seen in the photos above), skyride over the falls, Spokane River Centennial Trail which passes through it, and more.

It was a great day for a walk, and a great place to enjoy the scenery, including the fountain sculpture (below) at the entrance to the park.

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The Davenport Hotel

2011-10-03T11:18:00.000-04:00

My digs this week are some of the most elegant I've ever enjoyed. I have been provided a room at the historic Davenport Hotel, in downtown Spokane.

It is named for Llewellyn "Louis" Davenport, who came to Spokane in 1889 at the age of 20. He opened a restaurant, and became very successful. The hotel that bears his name was opened in 1914.

Closed in 1985 and revived by local entrepreneurs Walt and Karen Worthy in 2000, it has been restored to breathtaking beauty and vibrancy.

The lobby and atrium are luxurious, and the many services in the hotel (including the pool, below) are first-class.

My room (below) is among the most comfortable I've ever stayed in. I like the terry cloth robes that are provided. And the complimentary soft chocolate peanut brittle. And the recliner. And the free wireless internet. And the--well, you get the idea.

I couldn't ask for better accommodations, and would rank the Davenport among the top few hotels in which I've had the pleasure of staying.

O'Doherty's

2011-10-02T19:13:00.004-04:00

I arrived in Spokane around noon, and after the kind folks at the Davenport Hotel (which I'll blog about tomorrow) let me check in early, I headed out to find a place for lunch.

I ended up at O'Doherty's, an Irish pub across the street from Riverfront Park.

The walls and pillars inside the pub are plastered with dollar bills, each with a name or initials on it. I asked the bartender to explain, and he said that anyone who gets up to sing in front of the crowd earns the right to place their name and money among the others. I decided to save my voice...and my money.

I took a table outside and enjoyed the day and the traffic....and the shepherd's pie the server recommended (below).

It was quite good, and the service was friendly.

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Grapefruit Brûlée

2011-10-02T12:34:00.003-04:00

Maybe it doesn't sound good to you, but I had to try the Pink Grapefruit Brûlée listed on the menu at Max's, the excellent hotel restaurant at the Mirabeau Park Hotel here in Spokane Valley. It promised a pink grapefruit (bet you couldn't guess that part), peach liquor, caramelized sugar, and basil chiffonade.

I liked it. Light. Sweet. Tasty. Thought you should know.

Max's at the Mirabeau

2011-10-01T00:24:00.001-04:00

I had a great day here at the ACW Conference in Spokane Valley.

One of the pleasant surprises today is the top-notch dining provided in Max's, the restaurant here at the Mirabeau Park Hotel. The squash soup and salad in the photo above was not what I ordered, but Beverly let me take a photo of her plate. It looked so good.

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Welcome to Spokane

2011-09-29T23:00:00.004-04:00

It took just two cars, two planes, and three airports to get from scenic Hamilton, Ohio, to Spokane, Washington today. But both flights were on-time and trouble-free, and I even managed a few winks on the first leg. I will be speaking tomorrow and Saturday at the American Christian Writers Conference here in Spokane Valley, and then Tuesday through Thursday next week at The Salvation Army's Cascade Divisional Officers Councils in downtown Spokane.

My home-away-from-home these next three nights is Mirabeau Park Hotel and Convention Center in Spokane Valley. It's a sprawling complex of guest rooms, meeting rooms, restaurant, pool, spa, and more.

Though it's never easy to be away from the lovely Robin and my kids and grandkids, I'm looking forward to a blessed and fruitful week. If you're in the neighborhood, stop on by!

Chick-Fil-A and Play

2011-09-23T22:05:00.005-04:00

What a fun evening the lovely Robin and I had with our grandchildren, Miles and Mia.

We shared dinner at the Chick-Fil-A on Tylersville Road, all the while anticipating all the great fun to be had in the PlayPlace attached to the restaurant.

Once they finished their meals, they were released on the unsuspecting play area, and had a blast. For Miles's first twenty minutes or so in the playthingy, I never saw him. I thought it had swallowed him. Turned out, the top story of the thing had an "airplane" cockpit type area, that he flew to Timbuctu and back.

The photo above, by the way, depicts the face Mia makes when she says "Cheese" for the camera. Her face-modeling career is off to a slow start.

When playtime was over, we got ice cream and balloons and made our way back home, where we went potty, got into PJs, washed up, and brushed teeth before Crappaw read Barnaby's Book of Buttons and I Love You This Much prior to lights out. So fun.

Nafi's Springwood Cafe, Kenosha, WI

2011-09-11T21:37:00.003-04:00

It's a tradition of fairly recent vintage, but that's how they all start out, isn't it? This morning on our way out of Kenosha following the wedding of Vince and Amanda Montemurro, we gathered with family at Nafi's Springwood Cafe for a late breakfast.

Though not everyone was able to make it, those who did enjoyed coffee, comity, and comfort with companionable companions. As is our wont. Well, most of us, anyway.

My steak and eggs were very steak-and-eggsy, and a tasty conclusion to our visit. We got on the road around 12:30 (Eastern time) and were home at 6:10. It was a great visit and is, as always, great to be home again.

Infusino's, Racine WI

2011-09-10T11:11:00.001-04:00

Last night's reception following the wedding of Vince and Amanda Montemurro took place at Infusino's Banquet Hall in Racine, WI.

The festivities started at 5:30 and continued through the evening.

The food was excellent, and of course the company was exquisite.

A wrap-around two-tiered head table hosted the wedding party:

The lovely Robin and I left at about 10 pm to get our three grandchildren to bed and allow their parents to party a little longer with the bride and groom. We just barely managed to stay awake long enough to get them asleep!

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Haman/Montemurro Wedding, Kenosha WI

2011-09-09T13:45:00.001-04:00

It's my honor today to read Scripture in the wedding of my nephew Vince Montemurro to the wonderful Amanda Haman.

The wedding venue is Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church in Kenosha, WI.

My companion for the day is my grandson, Miles. He's behaving himself admirably.

It's going to be a fine day!

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Location:62nd St,Kenosha,United States

Red Onion Cafe, Racine, WI

2011-09-08T23:30:00.001-04:00

The lovely Robin and I were blessed to participate in a wedding rehearsal today for the impending nuptials of Vince Montemurro and Amanda Haman, in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Following the rehearsal, we enjoyed another fine dining experience (the first was a couple years ago at Ryne and Kelly Montemurro's wedding) at the Red Onion Cafe in downtown Racine.

The food was excellent: fish, chicken, broccoli, and mashed potatoes, with caramel apple cheesecake for dessert.

The staff did an outstanding job with a large crowd.

Occurring on the NFL's opening night as it did, the majority of the assembled company of roughly a bajillion people sported Packers jerseys, with lonely Saints, Vikings, and Bengals (yours truly) jerseys intermingled.

Thanks to Ron and Mariruth Montemurro for their exquisite hospitality, and to the bride and groom for their kind welcome.

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A New Cincinnati Area Tradition

2011-09-02T08:39:00.003-04:00

The lovely Robin and I have been having a great time visiting with Don, my oldest brother, and his wife Arvilla this week.

Anytime they visit, of course, we make a point to enjoy Cincinnati chili together. Often we'll also visit Graeter's and LaRosa's, too. This time, however, Robin and I took them to Walt's Barbecue in Hamilton, which is perhaps the newest Cincinnati pleasure. Walt's other locations are Colerain and Harrison.

The ribs, pulled pork, fried potatoes and other down-home delicacies offered at Walt's are top notch. It has become a favorite for Robin and me.

Culinary Delights in the Hoosier State

2011-08-27T21:29:00.002-04:00

The lovely Robin and I enjoyed a beautiful time with dear friends tonight at the home of Jim and Carolyn Seal, between the metropoli of Mixerville and Brookville, Indiana.

In the course of the evening, while I was sitting next to my friend John Cole, his loving wife served him a culinary concoction that amazed and intrigued me. John, who is both a gourmet and gourmand, praised this combination of chocolate cake, baked beans, and sliced onions as something special. Incredulous, I had just enough time to snap a photo before he dispatched it in no time at all.

While the meal and the company was uniformly exquisite, this may be the thing that most sticks in my memory. I hope not, but it probably will.

A Late Summer Midsummer Night's Dream

2011-08-12T22:20:00.002-04:00

The lovely Robin and I enjoyed a perfect late summer performance of Shakespeare in the Park tonight, at Seasongood Pavilion in Cincinnati's beautiful Eden Park.

This evening's performance was the first of the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company's scheduled offerings of A Midsummer Night's Dream, and the weather couldn't have been better. We enjoyed front row seats and a fried chicken picnic while we watched. Live Theatah, Fine Dining, Exquisite Company: what could be better?

The cast of Darnell Pierre Benjamin, Ian Bond, Cary Davenport, Miranda McGee, Jolin Polasek, and Maggie Lou Rader gave a delightful and varied performance of one of the Bard's most popular plays.

The free Shakespeare in the Park performances continue through September 25 at various locations in and around Cincinnati. Check out the full schedule here.

Barn 'n' Bunk

2011-07-31T16:51:00.001-04:00

After church this morning, the lovely Robin and I joined Kevin, Aubrey and Calleigh for a buffet lunch at Barn 'n' Bunk in Trenton.

There was no waiting and a good spread. The noodles were especially good.

All the time we've lived in this area, I'd never eaten or even stopped in there (though, of course, Robin had).

The gift shop and ice cream shop (above) was quite extensive.

And the produce section (below) was a lot of fun, too.

What a pleasant way to spend part of a Summer Sunday afternoon.

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The Torrey House

2011-07-27T16:39:00.001-04:00

A signature feature of the Montrose Bible Conference grounds is the Torrey House.

Once the home of preacher R. A. Torrey, it serves today as a conference facility.

The home's interior still holds some fine furniture and decor.

The first floor rooms function as lecture rooms and offices.

The woodwork throughout the home is beautiful.

A narrow winding staircase leads to the third floor prayer room.

Currently furnished with just a throw rug and two chairs, the tiny room is a great place to pray.

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Horizon Books, Traverse City, MI

2011-07-27T10:10:00.000-04:00

I meant to blog about Horizon Books in Traverse City, Michigan, soon after our return from a family vacation in the area, but...well, you know, life happened.

One of my favorite things to do when visiting a new place is to track down any bookstores--especially old ones--in the area and pay a visit. So, when we came across Horizon Books in Traverse City, the game was afoot! It's a magnificent bookstore, three stories of books (see the quilts hanging from the balcony in the photo above?) and more. It is very well organized, the staff is pleasant and knowledgeable, and I could easily have spent the day there!

From the sign to the lower level you can get a sense of the extensive selection in the place. And the cafe in the lower level happened to be hosting a writer's group (see them on the far right in the photo below), which of course did my writer's heart good.

Horizon Books was established in 1961 and is still family owned and operated. They actually have three locations in Northern Michigan: this former JC Penney building in Traverse City, the Milliken’s department store in downtown Cadillac, and a store in downtown Petoskey (which I think I visited a few years ago!). Each store has cozy fireplaces, coffee bars, long hours and a lot going on. A bookstore worth remembering.

Another Walk in Montrose

2011-07-26T20:38:00.001-04:00

This evening was another pleasant night for a walk around the historic (established 1799) town of Montrose, Pennsylvania (where I'm speaking this week at a writers conference).

The town is replete with stately old homes, like the sprawling manse above.

Many homes feature stacked stone walls like that above.

The home above wasn't large, but it is very nicely cared for.

The structure above, next door to the conference center, is no longer a private home (it houses the Community Foundation, from all appearances). But it is striking, nonetheless.

And these are just a few. There are many more, making a walk in the neighborhood a true pleasure.

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Location:Lake Ave,Montrose,United States

A Hill You Want to Climb

2011-07-26T14:01:00.000-04:00

I posted some time ago on this blog about our family's memorable visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (here). But my latest article on Examiner.com offers even more information about that place. It's a great place to visit. Check it out here. (And, in case you're wondering, you really hafta go to the Examiner article to understand the title of this post).

A Walk in Montrose

2011-07-25T20:22:00.001-04:00

I took a walk tonight in Montrose, Pennsylvania.

It's a lovely town here in the "Endless Mountains" of Pennsylvania.

The business area, closed up tight for the night, featured this thrift store (above) among CPA and law firms (Montrose is the Susquehanna County seat; that's the county courthouse below).

I was glad also to see the old-timey Montrose theater still showing films five nights a week.

Well-kept, stately homes proliferate throughout the town. The Rosemont Inn, below, is an example.

It was a fine night for a walk, cool and pleasant after several downpours today. I hope to get in a couple more walks before leaving at week's end.

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Location:Locust St,Montrose,United States

Where You Want to Stay on Old Mission Peninsula

2011-07-25T13:57:00.000-04:00

As a followup to yesterday's post, "Why You Want to Visit Old Mission Peninsula," I offer another link to one of my Examiner.com articles, highlighting the amazing accommodations we enjoyed while there on our recent family vacation. Check it out here.

Montrose Christian Writers Conference

2011-07-25T08:54:00.001-04:00

After a pleasant ten-hour drive (no, really) I arrived tonight in Montrose, Pennsylvania, for the annual Montrose Christian Writers Conference.

The conference is held every year on the grounds of Montrose Bible Conference, which began in the first years of the twentieth century by R. A. Torrey (that's the Torrey Home, now used for conference purposes, above).

Montrose is a unique place, and an appealing venue for a conference.

After checking into my room and freshening up (which for me consists of mainly looking in the mirror and deciding there are some things that are beyond hope), I headed to the chapel in Dreyer Hall (above and below) for the opening session.

Author Jennifer Sands, the speaker for tonight, did a marvelous job. Afterward, the faculty gathered for the annual dessert at the gorgeous Victorian home of conference director Patti .

So here I am, for the week. I hope to post more this week... between all the speaking and meetings and work of the week.

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Location:Locust St,Montrose,United States

Why You Want to Visit Old Mission Peninsula

2011-07-24T13:52:00.000-04:00

One of my recent articles on Examiner.com draws from the great time we had on our recent family vacation on Old Mission Peninsula. Check it out here.

Flub's Saturday Night

2011-07-16T23:11:00.001-04:00

The lovely Robin and I enjoyed a refreshing evening tonight with our friends, Scott and Julie Sellers.

Scott and Julie hosted us for dinner at Texas Roadhouse, after which we took ourselves to Flub's, a Hamilton tradition.

The place was crowded, as usual, but the line moved pretty quickly.

Scott had a boysenberry sherbet with cherry coating.

And practically next door, the new Flub's location looks practically complete (with a drive thru).

We enjoyed every minute, and could have gone on talking all night...but we eventually pried ourselves away from each other...until next time!

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Shooting the Hooch

2011-07-14T11:48:00.007-04:00

On our recent visit to Atlanta, the lovely Robin and I got to witness firsthand what locals call "shooting the Hooch"--rafting, tubing, or otherwise floating down the Chattahoochee River through Atlanta. We didn't partake ourselves, but after a spectacular Sunday brunch at Ray's on the River, we walked beside the river and saw people floating happily along on a toasty Summer day (as well as a couple guys fly-fishing from a canoe).

Twenty or thirty years ago, “shooting the Hooch” was a hugely popular way to beat the summer heat in metro Atlanta. As the city grew, however, pollution in the river deterred would-be "shooters." But now that the river is reportedly cleaner than it has been in decades, people have returned to the tradition in recent years.

It's possible to float a six-mile stretch of river from the Morgan Falls Dam to the Powers Island unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Maybe on a future visit, we'll join in the fun.

American Shakespeare Tavern

2011-07-10T22:03:00.001-04:00

This evening the lovely Robin, Glen, Rick and I shared a wonderful evening at the New American Shakespeare Tavern here in Atlanta.

We had fine seats on the main floor for the show "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)."

We couldn't take pictures during the show, of course, so I contented myself with a photo of the stage.

The hilarious show was ably performed by three actors--and was made even better when they called Rick onstage to play the part of Ophelia's ego.

Such an enjoyable time in a memorable venue.

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Location:Argo Rd SE,Smyrna,United States

Ray's On the River, Atlanta

2011-07-10T14:03:00.001-04:00

For brunch today, our hosts Rick and Glen took us to Ray's On the River, on the Chattahootchee River.

I asked our server to take a photo before we started:

They serve an extensive brunch buffet, one of the most extensive I've ever enjoyed:

After a few dozen platefuls, we strolled the gardens behind the restaurant. Beautiful.

Before leaving, we posed for a pic way down yonder on the Chattahooch.

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Location:Durley Ln SE,Smyrna,United States

South City Kitchen, Atlanta

2011-07-10T13:43:00.001-04:00

Saturday evening, after concluding the ACW conference in Atlanta, I joined the lovely Robin and her brother Rick for dinner at South City Kitchen.

We were seated quickly and enjoyed outstanding expert service.

The crab cake appetizer (accompanied by pickled okra) was delicious, as was the fried green tomato appetizer (below):

I ordered the trout, and they substituted the mashed potatoes at my request...didn't seem to harm the presentation a bit:

Robin enjoyed her spring chicken entree, and Rick his pork chop as well.

For dessert, I devoured pecan pie a la mode, with a cup of decaf, while Robin and Rick each had banana cream pudding.

It was a lovely meal of fancified southern cuisine with first-class company.

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ACW Conference in Atlanta

2011-07-08T09:31:00.001-04:00

The lovely Robin and I drove to Atlanta yesterday. I dropped her off at her brother Rick's house in Smyrna on my way to the Wyndham Garden Airport Hotel:

This morning begins the American Christian Writers Conference here in Atlanta, running through tomorrow.

Once the conference ends, I'll join Robin for a couple days with Rick.

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Location:College Park,United States

10 Favorite Things About Our Old Mission Peninsula Family Vacation

2011-07-04T17:28:00.010-04:00

Having just returned over the weekend from a wonderful, refreshing time with the lovely Robin, our kids and grandkids on Old Mission Peninsula in Michigan, I thought I'd take a few moments to list my top ten favorite things about that experience:

1. Introducing our grandkids to their first campfire-created s'mores

2. Evening fires on the beach

3. Climbing the dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

4. Playing in the sand with the grandkids

5. Sunsets

6. Compline (evening prayers) on the beach or the deck

7. Old Mission Lighthouse

8. The distinctive beach at Lighthouse Point

9. The view from Sunset Sands

10. Watching my kids with their kids

Other highlights included the Old Mission General Store, Horizon Books in Traverse City, the memorable Apache Trout restaurant, and more. Too many to mention, and of course, every single memory made sweeter by the presence of my amazing family. It was a truly memorable week.

Peaceful and Serene

2011-07-01T21:14:00.003-04:00

A line in a song by James Taylor tells of a place that was "deep, deep down peaceful and serene." That describes today, our last full day on Old Mission Peninsula at the wonderful resting and healing place called Sunset Sands.
We lazed around all morning and early afternoon. Each family had a different agenda today, so I took a short drive to Old Mission, where I stopped in at the amazing general store (above).
Then I stopped in at the old mission for which the peninsula is named (above).
The current building is a replica of the original mission, started by Rev. Peter Dougherty, who came from Mackinac in 1839 to convert the native peoples in the area. The bell in the tower (above) is original.
Right next door is a structure that used to be the Old Mission Schoolhouse (now a private residence).

This evening, we grilled out and had a great dinner meal, and one last bonfire on the beach.

It's been a memorable and restorative vacation for everyone. We will all be sad to leave, but oh so glad to have come.

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Location:Mission Rd,Traverse City,United States

Dune Day Afternoon

2011-06-30T21:35:00.001-04:00

While we've squeezed a lot of vacating into each day of vacation so far, today may be our most active.

After breakfast and vest treatments, etc., we left this morning for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on the northwestern shore of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. After a short stop at the visitor center, we headed straight for the climbing dune (above).

After a nice picnic lunch on the grounds, we started up the imposing slope, expecting an arduous climb...but the top was in sight. Wrong. At the point (above) where Calleigh is looking back the way we came, over Glen Lake, our climb had just begun!

About a mile later, Aaron, Nina, Mia and I reached the point where Lake Michigan (2+ miles from our starting point) came fully into view. And then we started the journey back.

Next we took a short drive to Glen Haven Historic Village, where we dipped a toe in the lake and toured a bunch of boats in a small museum.

Our final stop was the Sleeping Bear Coast Guard Station (1902-1942), where we viewed a short demonstration and then toured the grounds and station house, which included a one-room replica of a ship's pilot house (below):

On the return drive, we stopped for dinner at Apache Trout Grill, where the service was great and all the food was excellent. Not cheap, but good.

After dinner we got ice cream and played with the grandkids at Bryant Park at the foot of Old Mission Peninsula before heading up Peninsula Drive and back to Sunset Sands.

Kevin, Aaron and Nina went down to the beach for another sunset and fire in the fire pit...while the rest of us crashed. Another fine, fine day for which to be grateful.

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Location:W Grandview Pkwy,Traverse City,United States

"Vacation Is the Best!"

2011-06-29T22:23:00.001-04:00

"Vacation is the best," said my grandson Miles today...and that was when the fun had barely started!

Miles and Mia (with their parents in tow) had arrived at 3:30 am today; the family went straight to bed, and the kids were no worse for wear this morning. After breakfast, Crappaw took all three grandkids down to the beach, where they played happily in the sand until lunch!

After lunch and naps, we all journeyed to Mission Point, where we viewed the 1858 Hessler log home, the unique lighthouse, played on the swings and walked on the beach (and IN the lake as well!).

We returned home for a late dinner and then (while Aaron and Nina grabbed some twosome time in Traverse City) built a fire on the beach and introduced Miles, Mia and Calleigh to homemade s'mores.

I then tended the fire while the kids were bathed and put to bed. I enjoyed a beautiful sunset Compline by the fire:

Aaron and Nina returned in time to see the waning sunset, and joined Aubrey and Kevin for some time by the fire on the beach while Robin and I stayed in the house with the grandkids and read til bed...proving the truth of Miles's declaration: "Vacation is the best!"

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Location:Shorewood Dr,Traverse City,United States

A Lazy Hazy Day

2011-06-28T19:51:00.001-04:00

This morning was a rainy one on Old Mission Peninsula, and the whole day was windy and chilly, so we stayed indoors and read, napped, and played with our Porcelain Princess.

At midday I ventured out from our lakeside castle for a walk on the beach.

The day's beauty was unabated. A killdeer followed me up the beach and down, never straying far but never letting me get close.

Whitecaps added drama to already beautiful scenery.

This evening the lovely Robin and I get to spend quality time with our Calleigh Lily while her parents enjoy a date night in Traverse City. And we will be joined in the wee hours by Aaron, Nina, Miles and Mia for the rest of the week! So fun!

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Location:Shorewood Dr,Traverse City,United States

OMP and Traverse City

2011-06-27T20:21:00.001-04:00

The lovely Robin, Aubrey, Kevin, Calleigh and I spent another fine day here in Northern Michigan. I started the day by getting up with Calleigh (letting everyone else sleep in). She and I had breakfast together and watched some Yo Gabba Gabba and Sesame Street Silly Songs. She was chillaxin' (below) with her blanket and James Taylor in her Tinkerbell folding chair:

After naps and lunch we headed into Traverse City where we cruised the shops.

Following the advice of one of the locals, we had dinner at Mackinaw Brewing Company.

This brew pub and restaurant is housed in the historic Beadle Building. It was built in 1892 as a harness shop and restored in the 1980s, exposing the solid 18" thick walls made with bricks from nearby Greilickville.

We didn't sample the beer, but everything we tried (from salmon to pasta to brisket) was delicious.

On our walk back to the car, Kevin, Calleigh and I paid a quick visit to the beautifully retro'd State Theater:

We also stopped into the three-story Horizon Bookstore (which I will blog about later, in greater detail).

Oh, and we picked up a small cherry pie at the Grand Traverse Pie Company to take home with us.

The last hours of this fine day will be spent reading and relaxing and, for me, complining in the swing down by the water as the sun goes down. Perfect!

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One Fine Day on OMP

2011-06-26T22:26:00.000-04:00

We spent a lovely day today on Old Mission Peninsula, north of Traverse City, Michigan!

After a pancake breakfast (thanks, Kevin) and a leisurely morning (I enjoyed morning prayer on the deck), we headed to Haserot Beach.
Calleigh preferred not to venture off the blanket into the sand (and even less in the water), but busied herself with pouring sand and water ON the blanket...and herself.
It was an absolutely gorgeous day. After returning home for showers and lunch, we all took naps. Ahhhhh. I was thrilled when Calleigh consented to take a walk with her baby and her "Boppaw."
We walked far and wide, and enjoyed every minute. Not sure about the baby's reaction (she slept most of the time).
Dinner and a movie later, a subdued sunset ushered in the night, and concluded a lovely day on Old Mission Peninsula.

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Old Mission Peninsula

2011-06-25T21:13:00.001-04:00

After three days and two nights in Grand Rapids, speaking to writers at the ACW Christian Writers Conference, I drove three hours north to meet the lovely Robin, Aubrey, Kevin, and Calleigh at our vacation spot on Old Mission Peninsula.

A beautiful setting, provided by dear friends. We get to enjoy this (and each other, with Aaron, Nina, Miles, and Mia joining us mid-week) all week!

I arrived at 8 pm, and Robin and I walked down onto the beach, sat on the swing together, and enjoyed the setting sun.

Calleigh retired just before I arrived, so I won't get to see her smile until morning.

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A Great Grandkids Day

2011-06-11T19:16:00.000-04:00

No, I'm not a great-grandpa...yet. But today was a GREAT day with three GREAT grandkids. It started this morning when Miles, Mia, and Calleigh--one by one--joined me in my prayer chair. They were soon followed by Aubrey and the lovely Robin.

After lunch, I got to take birthday-boy Miles (who turned four yesterday) to a matinee showing of Kung Fu Panda 2. He took off his 3D glasses about 15 minutes into the movie, but didn't seem to enjoy it any less for all that.

Miles and I returned to the house, got into swimsuits, and with Calleigh and Mia joining us, got into the pool...where we stayed the rest of the day. Well, Miles and I did. Mia and Calleigh came and went in the water. But Miles (like his dad at that age) was a fish.

It was a wonderful day with the best grandkids in the world. And the best wife. And the best daughter.

Mariemont Date Night

2011-06-11T18:08:00.002-04:00

Had a wonderful date night last night with the lovely Robin. We drove to one of our favorite locales in the area, the beautiful village of Mariemont (just a few miles from where I grew up).

We shared a delightful meal in the National Exemplar, next door to the Mariemont Inn:

After a fine meal, we walked through the hotel lobby, and across the street to the Mariemont Theater (featured elsewhere on this blog) for a showing of Jane Eyre, which we both enjoyed tremendously.

Everytime we go to Mariemont, we lament that we don't make it there more often. Maybe next time we'll get back sooner!

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The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls

2011-06-10T11:55:00.005-04:00

Check out my latest article on Examiner.com: Rustic charm awaits atThe Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls.

The lovely Robin and I were blessed to spend last Sunday at Monday at this awesome spot in the Hocking Hills (one of my favorite places to visit). I'll be blogging more about the experience over the next few days.

Great Strides Walk, Hamilton, Ohio

2011-06-06T22:08:00.003-04:00

This past Saturday was our family's long-awaited Great Strides Walk at Joyce Park in Hamilton on behalf of our granddaughter Calleigh McCane and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

More than twenty of Calleigh's team members (some had to leave before the photo) participated in the walk on a beautiful Saturday morning, raising (so far) more than $5,128 toward research to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. And that was just our team. Altogether, 72 people walked that morning and raised more than $9,000 total on the day...with hopes that late-arriving donations might still push the Hamilton total over $10,000.

Aubrey and Kevin McCane did a great job spearheading the effort, and we're all soooo grateful to everyone who donated and participated! It was great fun, and we're already looking forward to next year.

Calleigh (on the left in the photo above with her friend Ezzie Keeton) extends her thanks as well. Or she will, as soon as she's finished with her drink.

Fresh from the Nest

2011-05-22T10:37:00.000-04:00

I met this little guy in our back yard yesterday. Fresh from the nest and a little disoriented. Let me approach quite close and snap this photo before we parted company.

Too Close for Comfort

2011-05-21T22:30:00.002-04:00

I went to church last Sunday in Denver with my cousins and friends the Bakers. It was wonderful worshiping with them.

I had much to grateful for that day. Among those things was the fact that I had the men's room all to myself after worship. I believe in Christian community, but I think the configuration of the men's room would have resulted in a little more closeness than I would have liked:

Estes Park, Belmar, and Lakewood

2011-05-15T10:54:00.001-04:00

What a powerful finish we had yesterday to the Colorado Christian Writers Conference at YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park:

It was my honor to deliver the final keynote, which I think was well received.

I was picked up afterward by my cousin, George Baker. He and his wife Jeanne (who on August 1 will be the new divisional leaders for The Salvation Army in Alaska) took me to Ted's Montana Grill in Belmar:

After spending the night at their lovely home in Lakewood, I'll be worshiping with them in Denver this morning. After worship, I'll fly out of Denver airport this afternoon.

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Rocky Mountain High

2011-05-12T11:51:00.000-04:00

It's a blessing and an honor to be speaking this week at Colorado Christian Writers Conference, in the shadow of such luminaries as Bill Myers, Andy Scheer, Linda Evans Shepherd and others.

It was snowing heavily as we arrived yesterday, and flurries appear every so often. The surroundings are beautiful, the company is awesome, and the Lord is in this place. Looking forward to a great time.

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Hail, Camp Swoneky

2011-05-10T10:06:00.001-04:00

I spent a lovely day yesterday at one of my favorite places on earth: The Salvation Army's Camp Swoneky, near Lebanon.

I had the honor of speaking three times to the assembled officers (pastors) of the Swoneky division on the subject of self-care. We met in the beautiful, expanded, and highly adaptable dining hall:

Just before lunch we all had some time for reflection. I took a walk, and one of my stops was to say a prayer of thanks at the spot where the lovely Robin and I shared our first kiss.

It was a wonderful day, thanks to God, the Majors Foreman, and the officers of the Swoneky division.

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"The Wiz" at MU

2011-04-16T11:10:00.005-04:00

The lovely Robin and I attended last night's performance of "The Wiz" at the Center for Performing Arts building on the campus of Miami University in Oxford.

It was an enjoyable evening. Since we couldn't take photos of the performance, of course, I just snapped the above pics on my iPhone, and poached the photo below from Miami's website.

The cast turned in some solid performances. Carli Wright was charming as Dorothy, and Ryan Knapper gave a delightful, athletic, and consistent performance as Scarecrow. Robert Stimmel (Tinman) and Alex Sedlak (Evillene) delivered the strongest vocal performances of the night, and the dance corps added immeasurably to the performance. The SoftLED screen (explained in the program by Scenic Designer Gion DeFrancesco) was employed to great effect.

The Gates-Abegglen Theatre (the CPA's Mainstage) is always an enjoyable venue, and the crowd on this night was enthusiastic in its support of the cast and their performance.

Morning in Spring Valley, Evening in Hermitage

2011-04-10T22:09:00.001-04:00

The lovely Robin and I had a wonderful morning at The Salvation Army's Spring Valley, NY, Corps.

We renewed fellowship with many old and treasured friends. The band, songsters, worship band, and congregational singing were all beautiful.

After church, we jumped in the car and headed west, arriving at our hotel in Hermitage, PA, a little after 7 p.m.

After settling in our room, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at the memorable Hickory Grille just a few miles up the road.

Tomorrow we hope to finish our return trip home, on the eighth day after starting.

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SFOT, Suffern, NY

2011-04-09T21:09:00.002-04:00

The lovely Robin and I spent the afternoon at The Salvation Army School for Officer Training in scenic Suffern, NY.

A beautiful day outside, and a mind-boggling tour was provided for us by our dear friend Toni Cameron, the school's assistant principal.

Above is the lobby of the main building, which did not exist when we went to school here, 1978-1980.

We got to see many dear friends who were arriving for a holiness seminar in the lecture hall, which also did not exist when we were matriculating (don't worry, no one ever caught us).

Above is Colonel Toni herself in her office. Nice digs.

The chapel, above, is simple and stately...not ornate like the chapel we worshipped in as cadets.

The library is in the same spot as when we were cadets, but quite a bit larger.

The duck pond is still central to the campus. I remember many prayer times here, on a bench (which they've moved!), early in the mornings when weather was nice.

It was a great day, and so fun to see and talk to so many fine folks. Thanks, Toni (and Joy, who accompanied us!).

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Writers Conference Finale

2011-04-08T15:42:00.003-04:00

Today was the final day of The Salvation Army Eastern Territory's Writers Conference in Nyack, New York.

The day began (like yesterday) with Lt. Col. William MacLean's thoughtful and sensitive devotions, and then featured the last of the week's workshops. Then we all gathered for the closing session, which included a tribute to Col. Henry Gariepy by three former National Publications staff members: me, Warren Maye, and Dorothy Post (above; Warren is the only one of us who is still gainfully employed).

The finale also included a fascinating presentation (above) by Kenya's War Cry editor Marion Ndenta on the life and culture of Kenya. I wish I could have gotten a photo of her in front of the podium, as she wore her traditional garments, but she moved too fast.

I'm so blessed to have been a part of this conference, and to reunite with sooooo many dear friends.

The lovely Robin and I will stay in the area a couple more days. We visit with our close friend Joy Slye tomorrow, and then I preach at the Spring Valley Corps Sunday. Then, we will start the long drive home.

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TSA East Writers Conference

2011-04-07T17:20:00.001-04:00

The lovely Robin and I are having an amazing time at The Salvation Army's Eastern Territorial Writers Conference at THQ in Nyack, New York:

It was a shock to realize, upon our arrival here, that we had never been in this THQ, which is now nearly twenty years old!

The conference has been very well attended, and beautifully executed.

And what a joy to renew fellowship with sooooo many dear friends, some of whom we hadn't seen for many years! How we have missed their fellowship.

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Nyack, New York

2011-04-05T21:25:00.001-04:00

Arrived this afternoon for what promises to be a great writer's conference at The Salvation Army's territorial headquarters in Nyack, New York.

Soon after checking into the Nyack Comfort Inn & Suites, we linked up with my brother Don and his wife Arvilla, in town for meetings at THQ. We went together to the Nanuet Diner (above).

After dinner, we drove to the nearby Palisades Mall:

That's a lotta mall!

While there we dropped into the Apple store (of course), and ran into our dear friends Wayne and Cheryl Maynor, who leave tomorrow "on assignment."

The conference starts tomorrow, and I'm looking forward to a great week!

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Julius Caesar at CSC

2011-03-26T11:41:00.002-04:00

I again had the joy of attending a production with the lovely Robin and Aaron and Nina at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company on Race Street in downtown Cincinnati.

Opening night at the CSC is always exciting and rewarding, and this evening offered Julius Caesar like it's never been done before. The male and female roles were reversed. Julius Caesar was a woman. So was Brutus. Also Cassius. Also Mark Antony. And so on. And vice versa.

The whole cast (as always) performed ably, with Kelly Mengelkoch as Cassius and Sherman Fracher as Brutus leading the way. Sara Clark's delivery of Mark Antony's funeral oration hit the play's high notes beautifully. It was extremely interesting to see the play's meaty roles performed by women--although so much of Julius Caesar relies on powerful speech, it suffered a bit simply from the physiological limitations of the female voices. Still, it was for me a fun evening, and very likely an unforgettable performance.

Seven Ways to Save Money for Travel this Summer

2011-03-24T12:14:00.000-04:00

Everything seems to cost more these days, making it tough to make travel plans. But my latest article (here) on Examiner.com offers seven ways you can scrounge for some travel this summer.

10 (Nearby) Places to See Before You Die

2011-03-21T19:07:00.000-04:00

My latest article on Examiner.com, posted this morning, was a FUN article to brainstorm, research, and write.

What would be on YOUR list of 10 nearby (within a day's drive, say) places to see before you die?

Top Ten Reasons to Use a Good Tour Company

2011-03-20T11:35:00.000-04:00

My latest article on Examiner.com lists ten reasons to use a tour company when traveling overseas (here). The lovely Robin and I have personally proven the validity of each of these ten reasons. Ignore this sage advice at your peril.

Art Deco Masterpieces in Cincinnati

2011-03-19T14:46:00.000-04:00

With the Union Terminal building, Cincinnati possesses one of the fifty most architecturally significant buildings in the United States (according to the American Institute of Architects). More than that, the Queen City is a fine place to take a walking tour of some of the most beautiful Art Deco masterpieces (including the Union Terminal) in the nation.

What would such a walking tour look like?

I'm so glad you asked (check my latest Examiner.com article here).

Rabbit Hash and More

2011-03-19T10:10:00.000-04:00

One of my recent Examiner.com articles (if you haven't read them all, what's the matter with you?) maps out a route for a scenic ride (or drive) through some lovely country with a stop in beautiful downtown Rabbit Hash, Kentucky.

Check it out here.

Great Place to Walk, Picnic, Hike, etc.

2011-03-18T10:07:00.002-04:00

With the weather warming and Spring just a couple days away, it's a good time to post about some great places to walk and picnic, etc.

So I did.

Check out my latest Examiner.com post here.

YOU Can Help a Poor Writer Out. YES YOU CAN!

2011-03-16T14:55:00.004-04:00

I posted today another "Scenic Tour" idea for a motorcycle ride (which will also work on four wheels, especially if it's a convertible or a car with a sunroof) that includes the memorable town of Rabbit Hash, Kentucky (pictured above....not the whole town, just a portion). Check it out in greater detail here on Examiner.com.

And for all you folks who are wise enough and tasteful enough to like me and want to do me a favor, I'll take a minute to explain the payment structure of Examiner.com:

I can't.

It's mysterious. I think it's kept under lock and key in some vault guarded by blinded mummies or something like that. But this much I do know: it has to do with the following things, things you can help with:

1. Subscriptions. Any time you go to one of my Examiner articles, you'll see a "Subscribe" link by my photo. If you subscribe to my articles, I will be your friend forever. Or at least five years.

2. Traffic. The more people who visit one of my articles, the more I get paid. So you can help not only by clicking on those links, you can help also by "tweeting" an article link, "liking" it on Facebook (using the "like" button on the article page), and emailing the link to friends to invite them to read the article(s), too. The links above and below the article title make that super easy.

3. Comments. At the very bottom of an article page is a space for comments, which can also be automatically posted to your Facebook page. The more comments, the merrier. Comment, comment, comment.

4. Session length. Somehow (I think the blind mummies have stop watches), a visitor to one of my articles who stays for two minutes benefits me more than someone who visits for ten seconds. I think because the idea is for people to actually read my articles. I know, I know, that's a heavy price to pay. But do it for the children.

5. Ads. If you see an ad on one of my article pages that appeals to you, by all means, click it! It might just put a penny in my pocket, a percentage of which I'll share with you.

6. Sponsorship. Examiner.com offers the option for businesses (or just very nice people, for that matter) to sponsor me for a month or more via the "Sponsor an Examiner" link near my photo on my Examiner page and on each of my articles. When you do that, your ad will appear prominently to everyone who views my articles. Which will make you rich. And your business, too. Oh, and I would be your friend then for at least the rest of my life, maybe more.

So any of you who want to help a struggling writer out, feel free to do one or all of the above. And help me spread the word, so others can do it, too. And I promise, when I win a Nobel Prize for my Examiner.com writing, I will invite you to the ceremony. You'll have to pay your own way, of course, because it's in Stockholm. I mean, I'm not made of money. Yet.

A Blast in the Past

2011-03-15T19:07:00.000-04:00

A couple summers ago, the lovely Robin and I were on a return trip from a wonderful vacation in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, when we decided to stop at a place we had seen advertised on billboards, but had never checked out. I'm so glad we did.

It's the Museum of Appalachia, in Clinton, Tennessee (20 miles north of Knoxville), and it's a memorable place to spend a few hours--or a whole day. Check out my article about it on Examiner.com here.

Ravenwood Redux

2011-03-14T16:44:00.001-04:00

I wrote recently on this blog (here) about a favorite destination of our family, Ravenwood Castle, in Vinton County, Ohio. At the time, I didn't know I'd be writing travel pieces for Examiner.com, and posting a related and well-illustrated piece there.

It's a great place to stay, a wonderful place to eat, and a fantastic place...to play "pretend." No matter how old you are.