We woke up early to start another full day of adventure. A bike tour was scheduled at Mad Dogs and Englishmen in Caramel by the Sea at 10:30 am. I got up and around and left the motel to check out the Monarch Sanctuary which was located on a small trail directly behind where we were staying.
Cute little sign leading to the trail.
Now I understood why our motel was named the Butterfly Garden Motel.
These spikey looking fuscia flowers caught my eye. A new plant I was unfamiliar with.
I was fortunate to have seen a man with a very long photo lense pointed up in this direction. He informed me these were the butterflies even though they appeared as tan leaves in the trees. He explained that they get their coloration from the sun. They were not quite “ready to fly yet.
I thought it was interesting but wished I could’ve been there a few weeks later when they were fluttering about. Would have been fascinating to see their flight.
When I got back to the motel Zoe was ready to go and we drove along the coastline on our way to Carmel by the Sea. It was overcast and looked like it was going to rain. We stopped by Sunset Beach where I parked parallel next to a van, blocking it in. An elderly woman jumped out of the van, with no teeth and asked how long I was planning to park there. I told her we were just taking a look and would only be a couple minutes. That satisfied her as she wasn’t planning on taking off until later that day. I saw my future in her van-life demeanor.
Loved that Zoe was wearing the overalls I made as part of my senior project in college.
I can see so much inspiration coming from this coastline.
Zoe taking it all in.
It was the perfect season to go. Seemed desolate. I wondered if it was always like this.
We only walked a little way before hitting privately owned property. We headed out and saw many surfers lining up to catch the turbulent waves. Would have been a fun day to watch them conquer today’s surf challenge.
We google mapped our way to a pretzel shop Rhonda raved about. It was an adorable bakery. We purchased a few pretzels along with breakfast and sat and watched the Sunday crowds.
There was a quote above this photo that basically said that if the founders of Carmel by the Sea returned they would not be able to afford it anymore and would be mistaken as vagrants. This was written in 1962 so you can only imagine now with the million dollar homes, the judgement that would be cast onto them. I loved the reminder and the fact they placed this on their historic walls. My understanding is this community was originally started by artists, who are never in it for the income, but simply following a passion.
Zoe found our bike tour on Airbnb but we soon took the conversation off their site and booked directly. Interesting how businesses use websites to help promote but don’t want to endure the fees when booking through them.
We were paired up with a group of 8 who all knew each other. As the tour progressed, we learned that they had all met on a vacation many years ago and get together at various locations every year since. I felt a little tension between some of the members and it was tough maneuvering our playful way amongst them.
Zoe and I at the beginning of the trip.
Our first stop was to a Hansel and Gretle house which explained the original historic architecture of this city. According to our tour guide, this couple was one of the first to settle here and the woman had a doll collection. Her husband designed and constructed their home to look suitable for the dolls. He became a popular architect and his style is seen throughout the town.
The Hansel and Gretle home is now a historic landmark. They upgraded the house behind it to be livable and up to current codes.
It started to rain and it was fun but cold. Reminded me of Phuket and driving my scooter in the rain. We stopped by the courthouse to hear how there was no take- out allowed in this city prior to Clint Eastwood becoming mayor and changing a few rules, allowing ice cream to be eaten on the streets and to- go coffee lawful.
Interesting to hear how long this city kept community and eating inside a restaurant a priority.
I would stop occasionally and snap a photo and then catch up with my group who was pedaling way to slow to my liking. This was another home from the same architect. Hugh Comstock was his name. Of course one of the members in our bike tour’s house was designed by him. I was starting to see the wealth we were surrounded by and now understood the dynamics better.
Even though it was pouring we all voted to go up to see the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course. People were playing in the rain. Figured they were probably equally frustrated that they booked their tee time on the one day it was cold and rainy. We were told it only rains during the evenings.
We had gone quite a distance. I was beginning to wonder when the tour was going to end. It was definitely a great way to see the city and learn about it, but I was getting bored with the pace and started to get chilly.
Went down by the shoreline to see the infamous Frank Lloyd Wright’s ship home. This was one thing I wanted to see.
Surprisingly I much preferred this “Butterfly House by Francis W.Wynkoop.
It fits perfectly into the landscape.
I wish I had time to walk on the beach but in general felt I didn’t quite belong here.
Then we peddled up to Mission Ranch where there was a restaurant overlooking the bay. I am sure it would be beautiful on a normally sunny clear day. But the view was limited with the mist and overcast storm clouds.
Last stop was at an old monastery.
It was peaceful and I can only imagine the history inside these walls.
This is a group shot of us by the shell mural. On the way back to the bike shop, one of the older ladies, who I suspected had slight dementia due to her coordination and inability to keep up- could not make it up a hill. The entire group rode on and I stayed back while Zoe got the tour guide to come back and help. None of the others knew how to directionally get back to the bike shop, and were stopped debating. I said I knew, but they started arguing, so I just pedaled ahead and at this point didn’t really care if they believed me or followed me. I got there. Eventually they did too.
Zoe and I drenched by the end of the tour. Had to change my pants in the back seat of the car in the parking lot. That was challenging.
In dry clothes we walked around a bit and shopped. I spent 40$ on a baseball hat to hide my wet helmet hair.
I started appreciating the thatched roofs and curved architecture I learned about.
And hearing how you should always wander down the alleyways.
The stone walls were so beautiful.
We decided to grab lunch before taking off toward Bodega Bay where our treehouse was located. Good thing we did, because there wasn’t much to get along the way.
More of those gorgeous tan mountains.
With occasional green broccoli like trees.
It was raining just enough to not be able to see and have your wipers on. The sun set quickly and next thing you knew I was driving down one lane windy country roads with no street lights or road lines. My stress level was sky rocketing. I was thankful the google maps was still working.
After going through three password gates and up a gravel road, we waited for the farmer to meet us. He then drove his truck down a narrower path over a creek and eventually to the treehouse. It was dark, wet and slippery. I just wanted to get inside.
He asked if we had a light, we admitted possibly not being properly prepared. We may not be cut out for this rustic stay. Inside there was no fridge or wifi, but remarkedly a shower and toilet. The kind accented host showed us a lantern we could use and how to use the electric heater.
We got into our warm jammies and sipped on the ciders and beers we packed while nibbling on the extra pretzels we bought earlier. Beer and pretzels- dinner of champions. We got under the covers and Zoe started reading a book she brought along. She read it out loud for my entertainment and I have to admit it was such a beautiful moment. Being read to. By a child I used to read to every night. I feel asleep to the words of her murder mystery.
The next morning was damp but the sun was coming through. I took a few photos to remember the place by.
It was so well done and such a fun stop along the way.
The tiny corner sink.
The spiral staircase up.
The view as you woke up in bed.
Zoe waving to me below. A memory for sure. One of many we are creating on this trip.
This was the quote we put onto the pint glasses we handed out at my mom’s celebration of life. Feel appropriate here as I continue to create road trip memories with my daughter.
I purchased tickets to see Saturn at the Observatory upon my return from the lake house and invited Sedona, knowing Ki usually works Saturday evenings.
Neither one of us knew what to expect. Our tickets were for 8 pm and we decided to get there a little early and just walk around until the official time. Getting there early was actually a blessing because we were able to view the moon through all the telescopes prior to Saturn making her appearance.
Sedona captured this great photo of the observatory as we pulled up.
The sky was perfectly clear and the moon was 1/2 full and bright as can be for the first day of fall.
They opened the dome and we waited in a short queue to look through this 1900s telescope.
Was fascinating to me. How old this was yet still fully functional.
No matter where you are, remember to look up.
Such an amazing history at this place. Sadly we learned how the light pollution, due to the growth in this area, has hindered this place’s ability to still function as a research facility.
Cincinnati has a lot of hidden treasures and history.
At 8 pm we were able to hear about the history of the newer telescope. It was fun to see how easy it was to maneuver and how opening the dome was as simple as pulling a nearby rope. They built this building to fit around the telescope.
There were three smaller telescopes outside positioned for viewing. Wondering what the differences were between them all, we took turns waiting in line to see if one had a better view than the other. They pretty much all showed the moon in fascinating detail. You could see the craters up close as if they were touchable. I’d never seen anything like it except from a photograph.
As the night sky grew darker, the telescopes started focusing on Saturn. Obviously this planet is much further away than the moon so I wasn’t sure what to expect.
We climbed the ladder to take a peak. It was so cool to be able to see this planet, with its rings clearly around it. But it was small like a sticker.
We both enjoyed the experience and would recommend it to anyone. It makes you feel small. So much of this world we don’t know.
As we were outside, we saw a stream of lights moving across the sky- about 10 in a row. I had no clue what it was, but there was an young engineer who explained it was Space X’s Starlight satellites. I’d never seen such a thing and wondered who owned space. Apparently billionaire Elon Musk who was now throwing things up in the sky too.
I am much more comfortable planted on Earth. But truly enjoyed looking out into the other world of possibilities.
I found my way miraculously to my Airbnb which was off an alleyway situated behind other houses from the main street. I had to park off the alley, walk down the stairs, then walk up the stairs to a sliding glass door entry. In the end, flipping beautiful place. Complete with some much needed laundry which was the priority on this Friday eve.
Saturday I decided to check out the town and walk to get some much needed bottled water. I wasn’t sure if the tap was safe and only had one can of coca-cola from the night before. So I headed out starved in search of brunch and a grocery.
This cactus was the landmark on my street to tell me where to turn in and get back to my place which you can see on the upper left with the balcony.
I found this cool spot called The Republic, which I later found out was a chain. I ate at the bar since tables were a 45 minute wait. I loved how the kitchen was located inside the RV in the background. I ordered a mac and cheese with bacon and scrambled eggs. It was filling, I’ll say that!
The waiting area downstairs.
Was a cute street with some local shops.
I met up with Don at 1pm and he drove me to a couple spots in our area to check out. One was a cave, which I would’ve loved to go into but the climb down was too steep and I wasn’t feeling up for the challenge.
This was the area where the cave was located.The landscape was amazing! Unlike anything I’d ever seen before.Down below this was the cave.Wow. Just wow. San Diego is amazing.
I found on Google Maps a location that was noted for whale watching so we headed that way after. It ended up being part of a National Park, and after much digging I found my newly purchased park pass which got us in for free. At first the officer at the gate was seriously doubting my word’ that I just purchased one. Since this was a new rent-a-car, I wasn’t sure where I’d placed it. I was totally impressed with myself pulling it out from under of all the pamphlets I had gathered for George. Always worth buying a National Park Yearly Pass when travelling out west.
The view after we parked and started walking up the hill to the lighthouse.Amazing historical lighthouse, called Old Point Loma. Well preserved.
Inside was a lot of history. But also this cool light 🙂
Down below is the New Point Loma lighthouse. We didn’t make it down there but thought it was cute with the added palm trees.
Gorgeous views from above, but no whales.
Wildflowers blooming everywhere. I was really loving San Diego. If it wasn’t so expensive I could see myself living here.
Historical Cabrillo monument about the man that most likely discovered this city. Found this on Google: It commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542
Looking down from that location, you could see the ships coming in and the military airfield across the way.
I made Don stop at the National Cemetery that we passed on the way in. We were both entertained that the wall was built from some of the remains.
I love the simplicity and symmetry of the military cemeteries.
Don told me that A Few Good Men scene was filmed here, or maybe Top Gun. I can’t remember which, but totally see why they would choose this location.
After walking and admiring the peninsula we found, Don wanted to take me down to see a city view of San Diego.
I loved seeing all the sailboats.
We went to a Bayview Park and sat for a bit looking across at the city. He told me how there was a huge naval base and how his father was in the Navy.
The Navy presence was more obvious when I looked around.
I asked Don what this kind of tree was and his joke was always a “birch tree. I think he’s never seen a birch tree before. I was telling him how fun it was for me to see all the different trees here because in Ohio the trees look different. I do think this tree was interesting, peeling, almost.
We ended up at a dinner spot that offered this view as the sun fell. It was a perfect day. A great tour of the city!
This quote made me think. Our focus. Our perspective. Our choices.
I’m learning a lot of lessons out here in California. Many that I wish could’ve waited. Many showing me how flying by the seat of your pants and not reading things thoroughly can bite you in the ass. Usually it doesn’t really get to me. I tend to roll with it. I tend to make decisions and stick with them, good or bad. But somehow there is a pause I was meant to learn here.
After moving Zoe into her studio, I wanted to get away for a bit. To allow her the time to settle. To get out of each other’s way for a break. And to explore a new area, since that was another reason for me to be here.
I randomly looked up Airbnbs that were affordable for a three night stay. I still wasn’t feeling well and thought getting my own space may help me to sleep more soundly and get the rest I needed. I booked a place at Big Bear Lake, while eating breakfast. Didn’t really even know how far away it was but knew I had a car and time.
I headed up there on Monday, President’s Day, a weird random national holiday that for some reason my company observes. Going to check out on Thursday, to get back to Zoe’s place since I knew she had the Image Awards to attend to. I wanted to make sure someone was going to be at her place to keep unpacking and being able to receive any furniture deliveries in route.
Driving up it was a sunny California day. Bright and happy. I was loving the palms with the mountains next to the colorful flowers. Picture perfect nature.
I stopped and filled my gas tank which put me into a bit of sticker shock. I am thankful to be renting a fuel efficient hybrid car. There are a ton of Tesla’s on the roads out here and I can understand why.
The entrance to the mountain. Hwy 18. I was excited to be seeing another national forest.
I took my time and pulled over wherever there was availability, courtesy allowing any locals who weren’t impressed by the scenery, to pass me.
There was bumper to bumper traffic coming down the mountain. I was smug with myself booking during the week, avoiding the weekend rental cost increases and crowds.
As I kept climbing I kept finding myself in awe of the views.
The entire drive up was one sharp 20 MPH curve after another along the edge of the two lane road. Nerve wracking to drive so I was thankful for the breaks.
It was fun to see some families enjoying the snow as if they had never experienced it before. They were touching it and kids were laughing.
Was truly pissed to see how humans spray painted the rocks here. I mean why? So sad the lack of respect and appreciation. I believe this is when we reached about 2000 feet altitude.
I watched a group start hiking down this trail and thought it would be fun to do maybe one evening after work. The confusing part was there was no parking anywhere along the streets, so they must have walked from their place nearby.
Crystal and I started hitting bumper to bumper traffic right as we entered the city limits by the lake.
Tried to see from Life360 how far apart Zoe and I now were.
On Tuesday, I texted a guy that I work with who lives in LA to see if we could meet for lunch while I am visiting out here, and he said probably better if we arrange a date after the storm passes through. I questioned, “what storm”.
Then Wednesday I got a text from my friend Susan who used to live out in California, but who is now appropriately back in NYC, who sent me a link to a huge winter storm warning for the mountains I was now in. I can see how not watching the news can be an issue at times like these. I texted my Airbnb to ask if there was concern and they said just be sure to buy tire chains. I was like….hmmmm- not going to do that. But then Susan informed that its the law and you were required to have them on in certain conditions in the mountains.
So, off I went to find tire chains. I had no idea what I was doing. I went to AutoZone, a familiar auto brand store and there was a line already with every person buying just that. Two ladies in front of me told me to go take a photo of my tires so they knew the proper size. Then I asked them if they knew how to put them on and they said no, but they were going to “you tube it”. That sounded right. I asked if they were alone and they said yes. They were also planning to leave on Thursday.
It was fun seeing fellow women out there braving it. Thinking we can handle such crisis. Gave me confidence. Only exception is they were wearing full snow suits and I didn’t even pack gloves.
I drove to at least see the lake before the snow fell. I found a nature reserve and took a few photos.
Clouds were quickly rolling in and the wind chill was dropping fast. Thought best to get my butt back to the Airbnb for the night with my 200$ chains in the passenger seat.
It was eerie seeing the clouds start swallowing the mountains.
The visibility kept getting worse on the drive back. At this time, I was thinking I was smart not to try to drive down the mountain tonight.
I watched from my dead end street cabin window as the snow started to accumulate.
It was picturesque with the icicles. It only looked to be about 8″ on the ledge. I am from northern Ohio, I got this right?
This is what I encountered on the morning I needed to leave. Luckily the Airbnb provided a shovel. My coworker, Chelsea, suggested I put socks on my hands since I didn’t have any gloves. That worked for a bit. Then eventually became sopping wet and freezing. I kept jumping into my car and warming up.
I had to drag a full sized suitcase up this hill which actually has steps below. At one point my foot sunk and the snow came all the way up to my knee. I had to grab onto the handrail to pull myself over the wall.
Was a cute place to stay.
After shoveling for 1.5 hours and trying to move my car, which did not budge a bit, I decided to convince the Airbnb to let me stay. They wouldn’t. Claiming they had new tenants coming up the mountain that night. Good luck to them! I couldn’t even get my car out of the parking space.
I decided to call a tow truck. One company charged 900$ minimum. Then I remembered I had AAA. Thank God that works everywhere in the USA. They hooked me up. The tow truck arrived but could barely make it down my road and then admitted they couldn’t get me out.
I was told to call another tow requesting a certain type of truck That was going to be an even longer wait than the 2.5 hours I just waited. I was at my wits end. But I called and got in the que.
Totally reminded me of Findlay winter high school days. No proper clothes. Just layers.
I want you to know I tried SO HARD to appreciate the beauty. I snapped a few photos, but my heart wasn’t in it. I honestly didn’t know how I was going to ever get out of my situation alive. 🙂
Trying to look up’ physically and metaphorically.
I started texting a few Airbnbs nearby to see if they would lower their rates for me to stay the weekend, IF I could get there. Then hearing the snow was supposed to get worse on Saturday I really just wanted to get down the hill.
I saw a man, obviously local not tourist, snow blowing out some driveways. I approached him and asked advise. He came over and said my parking spot was in a drop and no way I would get out without chains. I told him I had chains if he could put them on. So he did. I paid him 40$ cash. (just guessing what would be a decent thank you amount) He then brought his snowblower over and another shovel and finished digging me out. I told him I was waiting for another tow. He said they wouldn’t be there for another 3 hours. He asked if I would allow him to try to drive the car out. Absolutely! And he did!
I cried, hugged him, and asked if he’d take Venmo. He of course did and I sent another 100$. I asked him if he thought I could make it down the mountain. I was literally scared to death. He said take it slow and I’d be fine.
Never driven with these before. The guy that sold them told me not to use them on pavement ever. So….there’s that. Not sure what I was going to do once I reached the bottom of the mountain and need to get onto a highway to LA.
They had an officer positioned where you had to stop and he checked if you had chains and then waved you on. You could not see the road. It was completely white and the snow was blowing across off the trees and mountains. I only snapped these photos when I felt safe.
So excited to see some tire tracks and a car to follow. I will say the chains were miraculous. I never slid.
Again, may have been able to appreciate how beautiful it all was, if I wasn’t driving in this situation.
And then just like that (after 1 hour of 15 MPH) the landscape changed. I thought, people down here have NO idea what’s up there.
As soon as I started to question if I should be removing my chains, there was an entire police blockade where people were pulled over putting on chains to go up. So I pulled over and asked a guy to help take mine off and he said, okay for 20$. Thank goodness I had one more 20 in my wallet. Thank you George for teaching me to always have cash while travelling.
As I drove to LA there was a beautiful hole in the clouds.
Then a rainbow as I hit the city. I took a deep breath and thanked God and asked him to be great to that guy up the mountain who saved me.
I felt safe.
But as I pulled down the road two homeless men jumped out into the street and were fighting right in front of my car. The one had a knife and was stabbing, or attempting to stab the other. I didn’t know what to do, so I honked my horn and it must have triggered the knife holder to jolt back to reality and he ran away. Then the one left behind in his purple jogging suit got up and dropped his back pack and all the contents spilled out.
I’d love to end by saying I got out of my car and helped him. But I didn’t. I failed that test. Call it instinct. Call it my nerves were already shot. I don’t know. I wish I can do better. Help more people when challenged. Maybe awareness is just the beginning.
Friday was our day. Emotions were running high. Excited, nervous, worried, curious. Zoe found her apartment online after looking at several in various affordable areas of LA. She decided Koreatown was best to where she needed to be and after signing the lease and putting down the deposit, we still honestly didn’t know if it was legit or what it actually would look like in person.
I know from experiences in travelling, that “filth never photographs. Its interesting really, how you just can’t capture it. Made us both wonder and we set our expectations low.
We captured the sunrise with the silhouetted palm trees in the foreground as we left our Airbnb.
Going down the highway it occurred to me, with so many places in this beautiful world to see, I may never be back. I may never see this again. It oddly made me happy knowing I was able to experience all that I have, even if some was only from the car windows.
Made me appreciate nature’s wonder and how absolutely fascinating her history and survival are.
Zoe was driving since I did not want to try to handle LA traffic and I was working from the car.
On Instagram there is a background video audio that says “Seriously what is this place…..” and I kept hearing it in my head as I viewed the majestic world Mother Nature gave us to embrace.
I captured this for George since I knew his mom had a place there.
I wasn’t sure I liked seeing the windmills in front of the mountain views, but Zoe reiterated the contrast and natural energy this man made solution was capturing and it made me feel more satisfied.
I have never explored California. I honestly had no idea what it offered.
Palm trees and mountains combined. A new wonder for me.
Like a painting.
LA skyline.
We finally hit the LA streets and I started flipping out at the landscaping and houses on the hills.
This is Zoe’s street. Its a dead end which is great. As we moved in taking several trips up and down the steps, we talked to the construction workers and neighbors. One construction worker jumped in and took a heavy load off of me. Very friendly. We keep seeing the same faces and its a mixed group of old established families and new people moving into the renovated apartments.
Zoe’s building is an old building that is getting rehabbed. She is one of only a few tenants that moved in on the second floor. Most are still under construction. There are 20 total units here with a large locked gate outside the property, then a lock to get into the building.
Once you get to her door there is another locked gate and a solid locked door. Would take a lot for someone to come in. Made me feel safe.
Moving the van load up to her place was nonstop. Girl power for sure. Once we arrived, Zoe discovered the water wasn’t working. We later discovered the toilet wouldn’t flush, the heater was not functioning, the ceiling fan wasn’t programmed right and her wifi couldn’t be connected because the workers cut the wires.
It has not been easy. But her maintenance man, Rene, who visited us two days in a row, was the best! He fixed everything that the renovators messed up. Zoe blasted the apartment manager and hopefully no other tenant will have to deal with what she encountered.
That being said, we worked our butts off unpacking, shopping for furniture and trying to get the studio functioning. We have a long ways to go, but were happy to discover Habitat for Humanities resale shop in LA where we scored some high quality stuff for minimal pricing!
I plan to stay out her for about a month. Exploring. Helping. Encouraging. Zoe already has a friend from work that moved here from New Jersey and we met up with her and her husband for dinner. It made me feel so good to see the quality of people she works with and knowing she already has a friend who has her back.
I decided to take off to my own Airbnb to give Zoe some space. I found a quaint affordable one bedroom at the Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains. Just in time for the blizzard. ……Stay tuned. Adventure is not over yet.
We left the Inn at 6 am and started our last trek to Joshua Tree National Park where we booked our last Airbnb.
As we drove we listened to a podcast about the lead singer of the Flying Burritos, named Gram Parsons, who was born into a family of wealth and how his body ended up being burned in the desert in Joshua Tree. He was an inspiration that had influence and followed his passion for music. It was such an interesting story about this man who died way too young (26) of an overdose in the 1970s. His friends then stole his body and set it on fire, thinking it would fully burn. Only to be found later by some hikers. Apparently they didn’t want his step dad to come fetch his body and bury him in Louisiana, a place where he didn’t belong.
Friends. What they do for each other, especially when intoxicated 🙂
Crystal’s windows provided most of the days photos as we oohed and awed at the ever changing landscape.
What do you see in this? I see a sleeping person on their side with their elbow up. Maybe I was just tired 🙂
We stopped right outside of Phoenix, where Zoe met up with one of her best friend’s from high school who is studying film at the University there. This was the view from the parking garage. I stayed behind and literally napped for an hour in the passenger seat of the car while she caught up and enjoyed a brunch.
We made it! Welcome to California!
The taller cactus were fun and had personality. I also loved the yellow flowers along the desert terrain.
I kept breathing it in.
It just kept changing on us as we drove.
Gorgeous blue skies again. Such a difference from the Ohio cloudy winters.
Are you bored with my photos yet?
I can see why artists retreat here. The singer that died came to Joshua Tree to reset and get inspired. But also to do a lot of drugs apparently.
I felt so fortunate that Zoe made the decision for us to stay one more night in Bisbee. I can’t image if we would have hit this area in the pitch black of night and missed all of this. God is on our side this trip. Honestly it was such a wonderful drive.
Once we arrived we grabbed a mediocre pizza, claiming to be NY Style, just to fill our bellies. As we were there, I googled and found an outdoor desert art exhibit only 1/2 hour away.
We decided it was worth trying to see’ one thing in Joshua Tree, since we would not have any time for hiking before the sunset. It was called Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum. I want to Venmo him some $ just to show how much I appreciate artists that express themselves and offer it to all for free. It was such creative display.
Everything was made of junk. Bottle bottom mosaic walkways, tire signage, old tvs and toilets – you name it.
It was down a dirt road but offered free parking. We were one of two cars there.
I love the coloration and the idea of the toilets lined up without the doors.
The sun was beginning to set and it created the perfect lighting.
Zoe popping a squat by the toilet sculpture.
The desert has my heart.
Inside this structure reminded me of the Back to the Future mad scientist’s lab.
I have never seen a tree like this before.
We had such an amazing trip. Zoe’s adventurous spirit didn’t fall far from this tree. She lights up when she explores and notices the special touches in all man and nature creations.
Me sporting my new desert inspired coat purchased in Bisbee. Perfect in this backdrop.
This morning with the time change, I was able to get an early start and decided to check out a few things closer to where I was staying. Saturday I drove about 45 minutes south to hike. Today I decided to stay within a 20 minute parameter.
In such a short radius, I conquered a lot. My legs are killing me. My first destination was Henderson Falls, I was eager to get some time beside water. I had no idea to get to this location, I would be taken down the most windy one lane road I’ve ever been on. It was fun since I was alone.
That’s one thing about travelling by myself. I answer only to my instinct, my needs and time is mine to waste. No consideration needed for others feelings or agenda. I pulled over several times to enjoy the views.
This was my first stop. I crossed this bridge coming over and now I was below it.
I foolishly stopped in the middle of these tracks to snap a photo. It was so beautiful to me how the train followed the river.
Crossing over this bridge made you restore you faith in man made structures. You had to believe it would hold despite the sound and feeling below your wheels.
As I was crossing the one lane rickety bridge I spotted the rapids below and had to reach them. I stopped and hiked though a treacherous slippery rock area to get to the water.
It reminded me of Phuket when Jason did this sort of rock climbing in his flip flops with ease. Here I was testing every step with caution.
I made it! The roar of the water was perfectly deafening. I love watching the water move over the rocks and dip into pools created by the depth.
The sun was shining the other way making it difficult to capture with my Iphone. Time I trade my old version in. The only real reason for me to upgrade is the quality of the photos. I cherish my photo memory log.
Downstream was a perfect view of the bridge.
It was fun feeling so small below the traffic. Hidden from view. Beyond where most dared to climb.
The rocks were slick with moss and dampness. Only the larger rocks were secure to step on.
I drove onward and stopped at this cute cascade after I crossed a small bridge.
Further down the road I pulled over to hike a trail. I ran into a woman who told me the waterfall was worth the incline. She joyfully explained how you could feel the water. I could tell she loved nature as much as I do. Her husband patiently waited in the car.
The view when crossing the walking bridge.
Of course I had to climb under for a different viewpoint. I wonder if I will ever be too old to be childlike in my hiking adventures.
The woman didn’t lie. It was amazing! I was giddy. I was taken back by the sound, immersion and beauty. The moss structure added such a dimension to it all.
Nature. It goes without saying. Just amazing. My imagination could never have created such a site.
From a side view, it seems weak. But once you were in front of it you felt its power.
On my way back, I hiked beyond the bridge to see the mini waterfalls.
It was lush and moss covered from the moisture.
I headed back to the welcome center to see what other trails there were to hike. I noticed they had a multi level walkway so I decided to take the – way too many steps down- to check out the view.
My legs were still in decent shape so what the heck. The day was young.
The view of the New River Bridge was perfect.
I decided to head over to this view point which was within 20 minutes. But I got lost and ended up at the ACE adventure stop which was totally crowded. Obviously a popular facility for families.
I found my way out of that parking lot and up to this viewpoint. Was interesting to see. I watched a couple kayaking around the bend wondering how they would know when to stop and who would get them.
You can see the railroad tracks following along.
The West Virginia mountains are non stop. As difficult as they are to hike, its worth the climb.
I planned a weekend alone within driving distance a couple months ago, knowing I would need rest. I couldn’t have timed this trip any better. Literally. I just finished up a freelance project which felt rushed, then my boss was let go on the same day I was training a new hire. Thank God the new hire was someone I knew from my past job at SKL, who I trust fully and with her by my side, made the chaos seem more tolerable.
But I was at my wits end the day before I left for West Virginia. I took my daughter’s advise and looked on TikTok for places to see- and that’s how I found Castle Rock Trail.
In typical style, I only saw a recommendation for this trail but didn’t research it any further. Once I started on the trail, I learned it connected to another.
I had all day to explore and the weather was amazing so I decided to continue the hike to the Turkey Spur Rock Viewpoint.
Driving into the park.
I knew my timing was bad, as a big group arrived at the same time and I wondered how their walking on the trail would affect me. I was hoping for some quiet time. They were a couples group obviously enjoying a weekend away together.
There was a sidewalk that took you from the parking lot to this viewpoint immediately. I imagine most people just drove around and checked out the views. I figured that may be me when I get older.
I saw the entrance to the trail and hustled to hopefully get a jump start as the group continued to gather.
It was difficult to see the trail with all the fallen leaves.
Surprisingly the walk was tough from the start with a lot of rocks and unsteady terrain.
I heard the group behind me and felt pressured to keep moving. So I decided to climb and sit on a perch for a bit until they all passed.
I saw a large rock and tried to figure out how to get up there.
The rocks started forming as a natural wall making the path even narrower.
I was able to climb up, grabbing onto sturdy vines and I sat on this ledge for about 15 minutes. One of the women had two knee braces on and all of them had their walking sticks. They had no idea I was with a birds-eye view and I overheard the disabled woman and husband start fighting. I wondered if she was going to make it or turn back. Later the men went ahead and a couple of her girlfriends came back to walk with her. Made me sad how couples lose sight of each other.in life. He even said, “I am sure this is going to end up my fault.” Why. Why is anyone at fault?
As I walked able bodied, I truly respected the woman who seemed to manage this trail with each step cautiously being placed.
Back in my game. Feeling like myself again. Loving nature.
It didn’t get easier. Whenever I would catch up to the women ahead, I would sit and pause for a couple minutes to give them space.
I imagine just a couple weeks ago the colors would have been amazing here.
Looking up to gain perspective.
Rocks rocks and more rocks.
An occasional cave would appear.
Along the way on the right was the river. I would sneak peaks from the different viewpoints.
This trail was challenging but beautiful. Reminded me a bit of Red River Gorge in Kentucky.
Look at that art.
The angles of these trees with the rock wall was interesting.
Looking down at the river made me realize how high up we were.
Sometimes I felt I was on a fairytale trail through the woods.
The landscape changed and become much easier.
The clouds rolled in with the wind but it was still humid.
Trying to understand my location in comparison to the park and where I am staying. I am in Fayetteville at a Big Foot themed Airbnb. Complete with a book of his local sightings. Highly recommend!
One bright yellow tree standing proudly around all the bare branched friends.
Really was beautiful everywhere you turned.
Made it to the end viewpoint, but wasn’t happy to see all the steps. Was hoping my calves would hold out for me and not freeze in a cramp.
Came this far, had to get to the top.
I felt sorry for the disabled woman, who I ran into here. They thanked me for being patient with them. They noticed me all along.
Mountains as far as you can see.
Was worth the climb.
I loved how these leaves were remaining colorful as if they were planted flowers along the walkway.
This branch entertained me with its dancing legs.
On the way back, to avoid the rocks, I took the road for most of it.
Felt appropriate to do one touristy thing while visiting Chattanooga. I wanted to ride the incline which dates back to the late 1800s. It’s a mile long incline up a 72.7% steep grade to the top of Lookout Mountain. Its the steepest passenger railway in the world.
It was pretty tricky to get on and walk down to the front seats. We wanted the view from the windows going up. Most passengers took the first seats they found probably to avoid the climb or odd descent.
Cost 15$ per person to ride.
They close it during May for maintenance, so we were lucky to catch it at the end of April and before the summer crowds.
Was pretty wild being pulled up backwards with us facing the tracks left behind.
The views from the top were amazing.
We decided to walk around the neighborhood at the top for a bit and passed this tree which was making a statement outside one of the historic homes.
Imagine living on the top of the mountain with a view out the back. This little neighborhood was so well kept and preserved, but I would hate the attention from all the tourists mingling about. Most homes were gated in.
At the end of the block was this fortress built of course for the Civil War times.
It cost 20$ per person to get into this Point Park but it was worth it just to see the landscape, history and views.
Many of the historic cannons left behind.
Was great seeing how windy the river was from this height.
Historic monument.
Then there were trails to Sunset Rock and other points of interest off this park. We walked down a few but decided not to do the steep mile long hikes, assuming the views were all the same in the end and there was so much more to take in on this short weekend trip.
Limestone rocks lined the way.
I walked to the edge of this one to admire that feeling. Wondering what it must have been like to have this as a lookout point.
A beautiful view and a clear sky day.
George was trying to get me to turnaround, so I snapped this selfie capturing him trying to capture me.
Then he captured me.
Almost takes on an animal shape.
This rock mound was gated off to protect it possibly from any climbers.
Looking down at those that dared to venture on the trails further.
The way the trees survive among the rocks. So cool. Will never cease to amaze me.
A bridge walk away from Louisville, across the Ohio River, is a small town called Jeffersonville.
It poured down rain on Sunday, so instead of hitting the wooded trails, George and I opted to hike a paved route to get outdoors for a bit in an attempt to stop being sloths.
We hiked on an old railroad bridge that has been converted into a pedestrian bridge which was pretty cool. Much longer in length than the Cincinnati Purple People or Roebling bridges.
Beautiful day for a walk across the river.
Surprisingly there were tons of people out taking advantage of their Mondays. Or was it Tuesday? I’ve lost track on this long weekend.
While walking there were plenty of beautiful views of the other bridges crossing into Indiana.
Looking back at Louisville.
A cool shot capturing the angles of the both bridges.
Love me some shadows.
A history lesson which was actually quite interesting.
Never forgetting to look up.
First welcome as we crossed over.
Do you see the heart shapes in the landscape?❤️💚
As we exited the bridge ramp there was a map showing off the different businesses in the area.
This flowering bush caught my eye.
And then there was this sweet park.
So nicely said.
In the park there was a mosaic fireplace, a small library and some garden art. Very creative.
George being George.
A cool bike sculpture with a planter baby along for the ride.
A red yeti. Interesting theme.
We walked down by the river on the Indiana side.
A historic clock showing off the time this town was established.
We decided to have a drink at this playful bar/restaurant/kiddy playground.
There was bocce.
Table tennis, aka ping pong.
And a great outdoor seating area where families seemed to enjoy a bit of relaxation in the shade.
Heading back to the Kentucky side I snapped this selfie. It’s always a good day when I have time with George. Wherever it takes us- Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana🌎. Our little adventures never disappoint.
Tonya Takes Thailand 