Aristotle once said, “It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light.” I think that was good advice then and is particularly good advice today.
In the beginning of Covid, I knew it was going to be a rough ride and I would need to do some things that would help me stay positive. One thing I did was to create and publish a book for others called Encouraging Words 3 that blended my landscape photographs with famous empowering quotes. The other thing was to join and contribute to a Facebook group page that only features Positive News. Both of those things helped me immensely because I was constantly on the look for upbeat educational and motivational resources for those projects. As this pandemic drags on, I find myself becoming weary of the wait and saddened by what it is doing to others. So I am forcing myself to do new things - like taking this trip and creating this book in order to help me dissipate the dark clouds. It is my prayer that in doing so that it encourages or amuses you, and perhaps nudges you to do something that will help you and others focus on the light. Cover Home Stories Gigs Photos Topics Books While I was on the road, I got an unexpected invitation to visit some really fun, interesting people in Greeley, CO. We barbecued outdoors and then sat around a fire and swapped stories about life. Add in the fact that this was the sky we were looking at and you'll understand why it's hard for this traveler to imagine anything more perfect.
Cover Home Stories Gigs Photos Topics Books From the start I told myself that I wasn't going to make any long range plans until after I experienced a week of traveling during the pandemic. So that meant I found myself figuratively and literally at a fork in the road in Colorado when I had to decide which way to go. Fortunately, I felt safe enough to push on toward Michigan to see my friends and family there. And for many reasons, it turned out to be a good decision.
Cover Home Stories Gigs Photos Topics Books How much fun would it be to live in a place called Wahoo? Well, here's a cute story I found on Wikipedia that showcases the town's sense of humor.
"Beginning in February 1996, the city was denoted the location of the "home office" that produces the top-10 list for David Letterman's Late Show program, having relocated from Grand Rapids, Michigan. The town had lobbied Letterman for the status for months. It had the Nebraska legislature proclaim him an admiral in the Great Navy of the State of Nebraska, as well as inundate Letterman with letters, postcards, and bribes of flowers, clothing, animals, alcoholic beverages, shredded money, and free checkups at the Wahoo Medical Center. When Letterman jokingly said he wanted more, Wahoo sent him a '76 Ford Pinto with a sofa attached to the hood, a wall clock made of cow droppings, and two of the town's teenagers, brothers Jeff and Josh Price. This brought some degree of fame and tourism to the town. The nightly recap of the show on the CBS web site is titled The Wahoo Gazette." Cover Home Stories Gigs Photos Topics Books I took a wrong turn on a Nebraska country road and discovered this vintage tank. It appears to be standing guard over a cornfield with Old Glory proudly flowing in the wind. It reminded me, once again, of all the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country. If we don't say it often enough, we sure are grateful for you.
Cover Home Stories Gigs Photos Topics Books I never knew about the tiny town of Yutan, Nebraska until a friend moved there to get away from the crowded cities. The first time I visited her I thought about all the things it didn't have, like malls, movie theaters and trendy restaurants. Now, every time I visit there I think about all the things it does have, like peace, quiet, friendly people, and corn, lots of corn. So I'm beginning to see the wisdom of her choice. And I'm grateful she continues to welcome me when I need a break from the road and respite from the noise of city life.
Cover Home Stories Gigs Photos Topics Books One of the first places I went to in Michigan was one of the last places I left last year. It is the River Bends Park right next to what was once my boyhood home in Utica, Michigan. The home is now gone, but the park remains with it's extraordinary views. I feel so very blessed that I was able to play there as a kid and now hike there as an adult. And if truth be told, I often dream of it's peace and wonder.
Cover Home Stories Gigs Photos Topics Books With all the political signs throughout America, it was refreshing to see this sign along a Michigan country road. Once side said, "God Bless America" and the other said, "Be Safe and Kind, God Bless". I don't know who these good people were that made this, but I am thankful to them for their simple, powerful reminder.
Cover Home Stories Gigs Photos Topics Books Every once in a while GPS decides to randomly take me down a road les(s) traveled. I didn't mind getting lost this time when I found myself staring at this majestic tunnel of trees near Clarkston, Michigan. I doubt that I could find it again, so I am sure glad I took the time to capture it's beckoning serenity.
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