Rowe Woods- Quick Walk with Rebecca

I wanted to hike during my time off and visit with friends. I was able to squeeze in lunch with Jeff Stechschulte which was long overdue. And Rebecca joined me for a short hike in Rowe Woods. The humidity makes it tough sometimes in Ohio, but the tree coverage was helpful.

We were on a time limit and both of us wanted something simple. We opted for a shorter route which took only an hour.

We got out early and arrived before most of the families. It was on Labor Day so many people were out looking for something to do.

Its great getting out with my beautiful friend. My time with Rebecca is always uplifting and allows me to consider things differently. She’s a perfect companion in life for me as we continue to get past divorce, launch our kids and embrace new relationships.

The hike had a lot more ups and downs than I recall from my past visit to this nature preserve. I really need to get my cardio back. Hoping once I get back into the full time one job rhythm I’ll be able to schedule some routine exercise.

Love the shade of the trees and the empty path.

We came across these stairs and I was so glad we were going down and not up 🙂

Root system creating a natural staircase.

Cincinnati Art Museum with Baby B

I was so happy that SKL suggested I take a week off before starting full time again.

My last day at DPI (the remote gaming job) was September 3. Worked there almost 3 years. I learned a ton, but also realized I honestly wasn’t passionate about gaming products (really hated the weapons and violent aspects) and remote work culture is tough to maneuver. Interesting working remote- the flexibility is awesome, but getting things fixed or done with everyone on different time zones is challenging. I’m not a patient person. I like to move and accomplish tasks. I’ll miss my friends there, but never got to see my boss’s face since she never once turned on her camera. All very odd to me. Working for a bubble on a screen. Technology… maybe I’m too old school.

My new/old job at SKL started full time September 9, so okay….3 days break. I really needed a detox. Should’ve taken the opportunity to clean my house or catch up on the stack of mail I haven’t bothered to look at, but it was such a gorgeous day!

While scrolling Instagram, I saw there was a Hip Hop Culture Exhibit at the Cincinnati Art Museum and Thursday evenings were free. I texted Sedona and she was open and we made plans to go that night.

Outside the museum I snapped this photo and loved how well Sedona’s top coordinated with the sculpture.

Inside the museum there were a couple shoes made out of car parts. Human creativity.

Ever wonder why someone was inspired to do such a thing?

I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I have never not liked an exhibit. It always opens my mind.

We learned how there was a language created for graffiti.

I’ve always been fascinated with street art. Loved reading that the hip hop culture communicated through this method.

This ceramic cluster fascinated me as well. Such symbolism in its parts.

Love him or hate him, you have to give credit to Jay-Z for all he has done for the movement and rights to empower. Reading about how artists used to represent fashion brands and even took some leadership in designing through those brands, but he took it to an entirely higher level labeling himself as the brand.

Gucci. Ever wonder why its so popular still? Those infamous Gs.

Pharrell hat’s designed by the late Vivienne Westwood. Always one of my favorite fashion designers.

I never considered how hip hop culture progressed fashion in terms of weaves, hair color, nails, jewelry and the influence on women’s rights and power.

Biggy. So instrumental to the movement, coming up from the streets of NYC.

The colors were bright on the walls and really read/felt warm and invigorating. I know Sedona got a lot more out of this exhibit than I did. Was a beautiful way to awaken me to the influences that when put together made total sense but I never really took the time to consider previously. Sometimes life just evolves and unless you look back, its easy to miss the reasons and pieces of the puzzle.

The setting sun reflected on the clouds and turned them an luminescent pink. We decided to try to find a place where we could catch the sunset.

The City View Tavern in Mt. Adams was perfect. The two small clouds did not move above the distant buildings for the longest time. It was if we were looking at a painting.

The sliver of a moon captured against the Cincy skyline. Perfect ending to a beautiful day.

Pompei Exhibit – Museum Center Cincinnati

Zoe came back to the city in July for her cousin’s/my nephew’s wedding. We both really wanted to see the Pompei exhibit in Cincinnati, which was closing at the end of the month. She purchased tickets for us to go together on Sunday.

Studying Latin in high school, she knows a lot more about the history of these ancient times. My only memory of the event was from a National Geographic cover I saw from my family’s subscription in the 80s which showed a woman carrying her child, running from the volcano. I recall reading about Pompei inside the magazine. It was fascinating and horrifying at the same time.

I tried to find the issue on Google searches but could not find it. Now I’m wondering if my memory is real or not. Either way. Pompei has always been something I was interested in.

When we first walked in, there were pristine condition statues which were uncovered from the ashes. Unbelievable.

Cannot imagine being part of that dig, discovering such amazing art- the entire city preserved. They also had jewelry and glassware that was in mint condition.

Even artwork on walls. This was a very progressive society. At the exhibit they revealed sexual art. Zoe and I opted not to stand in line to see, figuring its all in the Kama Sutra books too so nothing too shocking. Why sex became shameful is what is still a mystery.

There was a section in the museum where you watched a timelapse video showing all that probably happened the day the volcano erupted and how quickly the city was buried. It was pretty realistic with sound effects and physical rumbling. Helped since I am more of a visual learner. If only all history could be taught with visuals instead of words- I would probably be more interested.

After viewing the video, you were led to a section where the bodies were. This man literally still has his teeth.

These are real. Humans frozen in ash. Preserved in transition of death since 79 AD.

It satisfied my need to go to Italy to see it. So instead of Pompei Italy, maybe I could tour Japan instead. 🙂 or South America.

Such a great museum. Was told they are filming one of the new Superman films here. Will be cool to see.

Saturday Night- Fretboard, High Wire, MadTree, Rhinegeist Breweries, ending at Ghost Baby.

It’s been a hot minute since I have gotten on to blog. After returning from Arizona in March, I babysat an adorable tea cup puppy who wore me out and reminded me what a huge responsibility having a dog is- then straight to babysitting Jack, the brown loveable pitbull in Louisville.

I took on more work at my past company and am now overwhelmed with life decisions, time management and trying to keep sane. April is always a doozey regardless with taxes (which always give me anxiety for no reason), renewing driver’s licenses’, and birthdays (mine, my twins, and George’s!)

I had a couple of weekends scheduled prior to taking on the extra work hours and I was determined to prioritize them. Not use work as an excuse to cancel. Spending time with friends is why we all work so hard. Making memories is a priority as I age in life and sadly watch others fall to illnesses way too young. A gentle reminder of time and the non guarantee of it.

I’ve made two amazing friends in La Grange, Kentucky, a super fun couple, Angela and Dale. George and I put a weekend date on our calendars to host them up in Cincy for an evening out of brewery hopping. After all, Cincinnati is a brewery mecca whereas Louisville is a bourbon haven.

It was a perfect sunny April day so we started out in Norwood at Fretboard.

This location is a renovated area in Norwood that used to be a famous playing card factory. Its adorably decorated accordingly.

I made the three of them pose by the playing cards. George is a bit dramatic.

A cool shade wearing selfie to remember the moment. Hi Wire was celebrating its one year anniversary so there was a DJ, booths selling crafts and kids amuck.

Cheers to HiWire. I ended up buying a plant that came in a face planter wearing glasses. Just another challenge to keep alive.

We headed over to MadTree next as the sun was setting .

Yep, Angela and I getting goofy. George warned me to slow down a bit. Angela and I bought matching hunter green tees. I was due for a new one. Can’t wait to wear them together and watch the sunset from her patio this summer.

Headed downtown to Rhinegeist Brewery, a Cincinnati must see classic. We lost Dale for a moment who later texted he made his way to the roof.

Honestly these guys are so much fun and easy going. Was so glad they road tripped up.

The one thing about this brewery is they never have food. We bought a pretzel to tie us over.

Last stop was a 10 pm reservation at the underground Ghost Baby. I’ve now been there several times and have never been disappointed. It’s such a cool venue. I chose this time slot as the band was said to be New Orleans style. They were on target! I couldn’t sit still, kept bouncing to their jam in my seat.

Underground cave turned gorgeous night club.

My cocktail literally made my lips numb. Yumm!

You can tell I’m getting sassy with this look!

We Ubered home and sat up for a bit munching on some apps until I literally was like, I have to go to bed. I was exhausted. Am so glad I live close to all these places! Norwood, Oakley, OTR- which all have grown into wonderful destination spots. I remember when Oakley only had an HQ and no other major stores. Now its filled with shopping and great places to visit.

Love sharing my city with friends. Can’t wait to do it again- there is so much more to see.

Wetlands Loop- Glenwood Gardens

Sunday was a beautiful sunny day so after having a relaxing brunch with Rebecca for a much needed catch-up, I forced myself to go out for a hike. The AllTrails app is getting annoying to me, with its constant pop ups with the ‘option to buy. But I can still maneuver my way around it enough to look for new trails.

I found Glenwood Gardens only 20 minutes away, one which I had never heard of before. This park is hidden, tucked behind a McDonalds restaurant. Very obscure location, but surprisingly well kept.

There were three trail options interconnecting. I decided to try them all which was only a total of about 3 miles.

I was able to snap this shot on the AllTrails app to understand a bit of direction prior to hiking.

The entrance to the trails was impressive. Clean open restrooms also available.

At the start of the trail you could see the acreage ahead and the wetlands below. Currently dry.

Shadow shot. There were a few people out walking their dogs and older couples running. The trails themselves were all gravel and easy to follow.

This gazebo has some educational information on the variety of trees in the area.

I’m sure its beautiful in the summer or spring once its green.

I noticed right away the sounds of the birds. Along the paths were many bird houses. Most of the trees also were marked. I felt like this area was preserved and used for studies.

Snow was still in some places escaping the sun that was finally shining bright today.

I loved the coloration of this view with the prickly branches, snow, aqua water and red toned leaves all against that awesome blue sky.

This bridge took you to the Wetlands Trail, which was off the Garden Loop.

Not a whole lot to see, but occasionally I would stop to appreciate the combination of textures winter was showing off.

As I walked I discovered how much people scare me vs being alone. I occasionally stopped to let a man pass me only to be sure I wasn’t being followed. If I were alone, I would have no fear. It makes zero sense except that the world these days seems tilted in mental stability.

Plenty of benches on this trail, which made me think bird watching over the grounds was possibly a summertime activity in this park.

Was a quick hour hike over easy terrain. A good pick to get me going again. Winter months are always difficult. I look forward to my end of the month escape to Arizona. Should provide some interesting landscape along with some warmer spirit lifting weather.

The Cincinnati Ballet’s Nutcracker

The Nutcracker is something that I have only caught glimpses of on tv performances and never really experienced live before. Sometimes I think people living/growing up in bigger cities are spoiled with so many opportunities. Coming from a small town, there was just one dance school in town and the ballet was something we never even thought about. When I was younger I remember a gymnastics’ judge telling my dad I would benefit from ballet classes. Other than that, never really considered this art form.

Fast forward Zoe asked to take ballet lessons when she was older (teen-aged) and had the very best experience. I watched her grow in her grace. Literally to this day she walks and holds herself differently. It’s an art form that I admire. Requiring so much dedication, strength and discipline.

This year I wanted to treat my daughters to an evening out for Christmas, just the three of us. It was my gift to them, and us. All seeing the ballet for the first time together.

The evening prior we went out for a Christmas cocktail at a new Irish Pub called The Leprechaun . They were delicious. I of course ordered The Grinch’.

We festively wore holiday head gear found in the Christmas bin in the basement that we dragged up when decorating the tree. Sedona kept commenting that I was putting my tree up with only 11 days left to Christmas. Better late than never.

Even Namki participated with a clip-on elf hat. He’s such a good sport. I love capturing the way he looks at her.

The next day, the girls and I headed to The Banks to eat at Ruth Chris Steakhouse. I wanted this night to be top notch. I don’t believe the girls have ever eaten at a nice steakhouse and I encouraged them to order whatever they wanted.

Selfie with the Roebling Bridge. Still wondering what Cincinnati is planning to do with the unfinished parking space, but for now, glad nothing is blocking the view.

It was a beautiful night, not too cold. We took an Uber from the river to Music Hall and arrived just in the nick of time to grab a cocktail and find our seats.

We were in the second row from the front. I loved it. Could see the orchestra and dancers up close. Was so incredible. The entire experience was magical. So much more activity on stage than I imagined. Never a boring moment. The show was incredible.

I wondered what it would be like in the pit.

Architecture of this place is stunning. I snapped this during the intermission break.

The Ballet Director tells you at the beginning of the show not to post any photos of the actual performance without consent. I wanted to honor that. I only took a photo at the end to remember it by. The sets and costumes were fantastic. I was shocked by all the families in attendance with small children but totally understood how this tradition, if affordable, would be one to continue.

I do wonder though, as children are given so much more than we ever had growing up now, what their futures will look like. Kids these days expect to travel the world, take vacations in Europe, see Broadways shows all before high school. Will it be harder for them to be in amazement and awe of what the world offers? Seeing so much so young and expecting that its easily accessible. Or will exposing them at a young age to all the luxuries be the launching pad for which they are inspired and aspire to do more?

I consider that I did not grow up with many vacations but was determined to travel the world and find a job that would pay for me to do so. (knowing I could not afford it on my own) Are you born with this drive. Or does lack inspire it?

I know it seems I do a lot, which is mostly because as I age, I know my time is limited. I can appreciate seeing my parents early in life slow deterioration which to this day reminds me to live my life while I still have health and abilities. It doesn’t help that my Instagram reels are filled with beautiful natural places to see and encouragement to live irresponsibly 🙂

Sedona snapped this natural capture of ZoZo and I.

It really was a beautiful time for us to cherish. We very much enjoyed and appreciated our Christmas evening out together.

Zoe and Sedona each bought a nutcracker ornament as a reminder of this night. We took the Connector back down to The Banks. Cincinnati has so much to offer. I love this city. In the 35 years I have been here, its been wonderful seeing the city’s transformation into the magnificent, urban, culturally artistic city that we all knew it deserved to be.

Cincinnati Observatory- Saturn Viewing

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.

Fretboard and Hi-Wire Brewery- Cincinnati

The playing card factory located in Norwood, directly across from my daughters’ home softball field from back in their elementary days, is a fabulously renovated area now including breweries, shops, sports, and apartment complexes.

The kids had been there previously and suggested I check it out so we all headed out for happy hour on Friday.

First stop was Fretboard Brewery. I immediately wanted to purchase a tee shirt but they were out of my size. Darn being XL. We arrived right after 5 so the crowds had not started filtering in yet.

Sedona screamed out loud when she got into the car with Zoe and I as she noticed she was wearing the exact same top as her sister. What are the chances? Great minds unite. I love that they didn’t change and wore their twin pride with smiles. I am so fortunate to have raised twin girls.

Inside was big and beautiful. I definitely want to go back when I have more time to hang out.

There’s a huge outdoor park. I made my girls and Ki go pose by the playing cards sculpture. Nice tribute to the past manufacturing here.

Can’t believe the amount of work that went into this place. Go Norwood!

I hope this area does well and stays for awhile.

I wanted to climb this old tower in front of Hi- Wire Brewery. So glad they didn’t knock it down. Appreciate how architects are keeping the history.

Inside Hi- Wire. This was the first brewery George and I went into when we were in Asheville. That’s where this brand originated. Amazing watching breweries expand from their local roots.

We climbed up to the second floor but sat inside to avoid the humidity. They have an amazing lemonade sour beer that’s my favorite.

Looking down at Namki as he goes for a smoke.

13 Below Brewery- West Side

The week before the wedding, Zoe and I drove along the Ohio River to check out this brewery on the west side. Neither of us had been to it before. Cincinnati is filled with new breweries, I am honestly not sure I will ever get them all crossed of my list, but I am trying.

They had beer mixed with juices which was a very interesting combination. We tried them all.

We sat outdoors and my view was looking out toward the marina. I thought to myself what a waste it was to have a boat that was barely utilized. Definitely a luxury item.

It was fun. Just to get out to someplace new.

Inside would be a fun trivia venue. I am not sure if this gets crowded on the weekends but I read it has been open since 2017.

Outside was this food truck which was great! Unexpectedly good quality.

The name ’13 Below’ came from the location being 13 miles down the Ohio River from Cincinnati.

The sun was starting to set so we headed to Sayler’s Park next door to watch it leave us.

Sunset photo was captured by taking it through the lenses of my new cheap sunglasses. Sometimes things do look better with rose colored glasses.

April Flowers

One thing that can help anyone get out of a funk is spring time. The flowers that re-appear and brighten the landscape everywhere you go while the weather is not yet unbearably hot. Its such a beautiful time of year and is a highlight of the changing of the season.