Wishing You A

Hurricane Sandy

We apparently dodged the bullet here at home. As you can see from the photos taken yesterday and this morning, there is no discernible difference in the landscape.

Monday, October 29, 2012 - around 5:45 p.m.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012 - around 8:45 a.m.

Friends to the north weren't so lucky, a number without power and possible damage to homes and offices. Our prayers are with them as we move forward to recover from this natural disaster.

Covered Bridges of Patrick County

Having been inspired by a posting on Facebook by one of my friends about the existence of Covered Bridges in Virginia, My mother & I began our adventure before 6:00 a.m. We gathered our camera equipment and hit the road for Patrick County and the covered bridges there.

Even with the impending arrival of Hurricane Sandy we struck out on our journey. Our route took us along Route 360 West, Route 58, and Route 8.

Along the way, as my dad was out hunting turkeys elsewhere, we saw eight turkeys of our own in a field near the road. Passing through Basset, VA we watched a couple of fisherman out in the river fly fishing.

Road Trip to Patrick County Photos

We reached our first destination, Jacks Creek Covered Bridge around 10:30.

Jacks Creek Covered Bridge

The plaque just inside the bridge reads:

JACKS CREEK COVERED BRIDGE 

This 48-foot span bridge build of oak crosses the Smith River. It was constructed in 1914 by Charles Vaughan of the Buffalo Ridge area and designed by Walter Weaver of Woolwine. This historic landmark, a silent reminder to the past, has been bypassed by a modern bridge but has been preserved by the County for future generations

The bridge was a little disappointing at first, as it is so close to the roadway that a guardrail had to be place virtually across part of the entry on one end. The bridge however, is extremely accessible and has multiple vantage point from which to shoot photos. One of the interesting aspects of the bridge can be found by taking a stroll through the bridge, inside there is graffiti from across the years the oldest (that we found) was a pair of initials carved and dated 1916.

Back into the car and down the road only a little over 2 miles is the Bob White Covered Bridge. It is off the roadway and is tucked behind an old home.

Bob White Covered Bridge

The plaque inside the entrance reads:

     BOB WHITE COVERED BRIDGE

This 80-foot truss constructed over the Smith River was built in 1921. It served as a connection between Route 8 and Smith River Church of the Brethren on the south side of the Smith River. Bob White Covered Bridge, designed and constructed by Walter Weaver of Woolwine, served traffic for more than a half-century.

There were multiple places along the pathway and off to capture this beautiful covered bridge from multiple angles. The river here is seemingly very shallow. Walking across the bridge from the Route 8 side, as you come out the opposite end there are mountain rhododendron on the side of the hill. The odd angle that is now present at the exit to the bridge makes one wonder how any vehicle or wagon ever was able to pass through.

Privately Own Covered Bridge crossing the Smith River.

Heading back along our route we spied a third covered bridge behind a home near the Jacks Creek Covered Bridge. The longer lens let us get a few shots from across the field and we even went so far as to take a few photos from the roadway in front of the property.

From what we could tell about this particular bridge a barn door appears to have been added to the rear so that it is only able to be used as a bridge when the owners open it up. Behind the back of the bridge is a hay field.

More Photos of the Covered Bridges

Beautiful Fall Foliage near the Smith River.

Between this bridge and the Jacks Creek Covered Bridge are a couple of fields at the edge of one this stand of trees has been planted. The foliage beautiful against the overcast sky.

Having accomplished our mission of seeing the Covered Bridges we turned to exploring other places of interest in the area.

Fairy Stone State Park was along our route, we popped in for a brief stop and found out where we would be able to hunt for fairy stones. If we had been able to stay in the area it would have made a great afternoon excursion.

Back along the way we followed the signs to the A.L. Philpot Dam. It was a great side trip the overlook area provide a terrific view of Philpot Lake and Dam. From the observation area we were able to see the lake as well as the mountains in the distance. To view the dam we drove around to the base of the spillway. Another visitor to the area arrived and told us of a 8-point buck that had crossed his path as he came down the road.

Other things along the roadside that caught our interest were old buildings, the awe inspiring views, fall foliage - full of color, even some old vehicle - some rusty and ready for someone to find them and give them new life.

Waiting for a new occupant!

We did a drive through of Uptown Martinsville. I couldn't resist adding a Romney-Ryan campaign poster to The Big Chair. I didn't leave it there, but then again maybe I should have.

Our final stop on the way back home was in Danville. I was specifically after a shot of the the mural honoring The Old No. 97. We did get the opportunity to go down to the river and shoot some photos of the bridges and falls.

Road Trip to Patrick County Photos

Weekend Wanderings

Fall along the highways and byways of Virginia and North Carolina, during my weekend wandering with Bounce.

The original journey was to have been a visit to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, but we all know how things happen sometimes a series of unexpected incidents caused a changed in plans. So having already mentally committed to getting out of Richmond for the weekend a new plan was hatched.  Instead of heading off to the shore without Bounce, it would be the mountains with him. He was thrilled that he was getting to go. I don't think I've ever seen him make a faster bee line to the car door than he did on Friday morning.

Bounce having fun a the lake.

On the first leg of our journey we were off to explore places along Route 360 West. We found two state parks that I had never been too before - Twin Lakes State Park and Staunton River Battlefield State Park. Bounce enjoyed getting out and exploring.  As you can see from the picture he took great pleasure in wallowing around the edge of the lake. He was so funny to watch trying to "smack" the water with his paws. Even though he's 100% bird dog, he was having a great time playing with the water. 
We also took the time to meander down the Business Loops to see those small towns that are normally passed along the way. There are some quaint shops, rail yards and parks that are tucked along those by-passes. Well worth the extra time to discover what is hiding there.

Our second leg was spent fully in North Carolina - visiting Hillsborough, Chapel Hill, Jordan Lake and Durham. Special thanks to my North Carolina tour guide for spending Saturday chauffeuring me around and even lapping the block a few times so that I was able to take photos. I even learned a thing or two about the area as well from my well versed tour guide.

Canon on the front porch - wonderful way to protect your home.

The UNC campus at Chapel Hill is beautiful. One could speed days just wandering the campus and capturing the architecture and elements of campus life. . Along one of the roads along the perimeter of Jordan Lake yielded the great home shown - what an interesting home security system that they have, a canon on the front porch ready to hold off intruders. I would surely think twice before even showing up if I was a door-to-door salesman. While in Durham I was impressed with the new courts building, I could have done a lot of interesting shots there utilizing the changing light throughout the day - the churches, old and new government buildings. 

Fountain on the James River at Lynchburg

The third and final leg our return trip home, took us into Danville and Lynchburg. The architecture the historic districts, of both of these cities, was impressive. It is amazing what you miss by taking the by-pass around a city. Both city have been busy developing their river fronts and old warehouse districts.

The diversity of architectural styles in the older homes in Danville was astounding. Even on the same block you can see five or six periods represented. The warehouse and mill district are being revitalized. I didn't make it along the whole trail along the Dan River, but the portion that I was on was nicely laid out and gave the opportunity to have a nice level walk along the river.

Lynchburg was a real surprise. I have whizzed past many times on my way further West never thinking about stopping. Sunday was different and I am glad that I decided to make the journey through the historic district. They have a great river front - parking near the railroad tracks (active) the James River has a terrific fountain producing rainbows during sunny days. Definitely not something that I was expecting to see. The old churches are remarkable in their design, the steeples painting the landscape each unique in style and presence.

I'm looking forward to making another trip back with the expressed purpose of just visiting several of these unique locations.

Photos from our Wandering Weekend.

Happy 20th Birthday Sean!

Road Trip - Colonial Parkway

Starting out with a little inspiration this morning, I loaded Bounce into the car and headed off for a drive down Colonial Parkway.

We dipped into several of the plantations along the way, stopping at the Berkley Plantation was awesome! On the road into the house there was a lovely pond on the side of the drive, with this colorful goose gliding along. I couldn't pass it up.

I hopped out and the next thing that I know he has swam right over to where I was. Not only did he just swim over to the edge of the pond, he climbed right out and walked over to me. All the while honking and carrying on, basis sass mouthing. He was quite intent on getting my attention and nearly came beak to camera lens. I could not have asked for a better subject.

All the while, poor Bounce is having a fit in the car. I can hardly blame the poor thing for wanting to get out and 'play' with this new creature. Finally getting back into the car, I was the one who was surprised. My new found friend didn't want us to leave. In fact he chased the car down the road for a short way. I felt sorry for him.

After checking out the plantation house and starting back up the drive, back past the pond and our friend. We arrived to find him holding a carload of visitors hostage. The driver had pulled all the way over in the opposite lane to go around, but he had moved out into the center of the road and was right next to the passengers door.

I hopped back out of the car with camera in hand which caused him to run right over. I really do think that he liked having his picture taken. So while I was pretending to take more photos of him, the girls were released from their captivity and passed by laughing as he 'talked' with me on the side of the driveway.

Having completed my mission, back to the car I went followed closely behind by my friend. I started down the drive and he ran along side the car - I was doing 10 mph and he was keeping pace. I gunned it just a hair and he started flapping his wings. I thought for sure that he was going to take flight and follow me all the way out.

Bounce settled back and really seemed to enjoy the rest of the trip. We stopped at a little beach area along the Colonial Parkway to allow him some stretching time. He hadn't ever been near the river or on sand before. Oh my goodness! He had a blast.

You would have thought he was practicing his football moves. He had his front paws spread apart and then zig zagged from side to side, broke to the left, ran down the beach, ran up and tried to bite the wave coming to shore, jumped in the air and shot back the opposite direction.

The biting the waves part was the most amusing thing he did. He'd dive right in to the water, try to bite it and then jump sideways back out of the water. I could tell him to get the water and he'd actually repeat the process. I nearly cried from laughing so hard.

We made it all the way to Yorktown, but there were a few too many people there. Not if it had been just me but with Bounce it was better with smaller crowds. I did make a stop back to the beach area on the return trip where I was equally as entertained as the first time.

The last BIG experience on tap for Bounce was a trip on the ferry. He did great getting onto the ferry yet he was sitting in the back seat shaking until I got him out and walked him around the deck. He did so well and was quite popular with a number of the other passengers. He received loads of compliments on how handsome he is.

Once finally back home, he promptly plopped on the sofa and has been sleeping like a rock since.

Check out the pictures from our adventure.

Gunshot to the Head

Linda Burnett, 23, a resident of San Diego, was visiting her in-laws and, while there, went to a nearby supermarket to pick up some groceries.

Later, her husband noticed her sitting in her car in the driveway with the windows rolled up and her eyes closed, with both hands behind the back of her head. He became concerned and walked over to the car.

He noticed that Linda's eyes were now open and she looked very strange. He asked her if she was okay, and Linda replied that she had been shot in the back of the head and had been holding her brains in for over an hour.

The husband called the paramedics, who broke into the car because the doors were locked and Linda refused to remove her hands from her head. When they finally got in, they found that Linda had a wad of bread dough on the back of her head.

A Pillsbury biscuit canister had exploded from the heat, making a loud noise that sounded like a gunshot, and the wad of dough hit her in the back of her head. When she reached back to find out what it was, she felt the dough and thought it was her brains. She initially passed out, but quickly recovered.

Linda is a blonde, a Democrat, and an Obama supporter, but that could all be a coincidence.

The defective biscuit canister was analyzed and the expiration date was in 2008, so it was determined to be Bush's fault.

Political Humor

Nearly fell over laughing when I was shown this package of gum today!
Turns out that this is a real product that can be purchased from Perpetual Kid.

Judy Smith Photography

 Judy Smith Photography is now on Facebook. Be sure to like to keep posted on the latest photos.

Pre-Obama Gas Prices

This morning a local radio station, WRVA 1140 was offered gasoline to the first 150 lucky drivers at $1.84 per gallon. The average price for gasoline before Obama took office.

What an eye opener! Here we sit today with gas prices nearly double with no sign of the price coming back down in the near future.

Sure would like to see the US utilize more of our energy resources and drive the price down even further than that, maybe back to under $1.00 per gallon. We can only hope!

The line put me in mind of the gas lines of the 1970's. I still can remember the odd and even days method of gas rationing. But back then gas was under $0.50 per gallon.

More Photos of Those Waiting

Fiery Friday

It has been some kind of crazy week and threats and violence has broken out all over. One local DJ called it "The World On Fire Friday". Just looking over the headlines that are on the Drudge Report make one wonder if he isn't right.

Let’s see what do the following have in common:

• Terror scare in Kansas City 
• University of Texas - Classes Canceled by ‘Al Qaeda Threat’ 
• North Dakota State University Bomb Threat 
• Threat at Valparaiso University 
• Nuke Reactor Evacuate in Austin 

Word is that these threats are not connected. Then there is the US Embassies Under Seige, as reported on Drudge & Fox News, in....

• Casablanca, Morocco 
•  Tel Aviv, Israel 
•  Tunis, Tunisia 
•  Benghazi, Libya 
•  Khatoum, Sudan 
•  Cairo, Egypt 
•  Sana’a, Yemen 
•  Baghdad, Iraq 
•  Tehran, Iran 

Hmm.... and the official word on this that the protest are not directed at USA.

Borrowed from a Facebook posting.

Obviously something is going on and leadership is lacking. We all need to be vigilant and prayerful.

A Word from Ben Stein...

Paradoxical Quote of The Day From Ben Stein: "Fathom the hypocrisy of a government that requires every citizen to prove they are insured... But not everyone must prove they are a citizen." Now add this, "Many of those who refuse, or are unable, to prove they are citizens will receive free insurance paid for by those who are forced to buy insurance because they are citizens."

Remembering

National Empty Chair Day

Labor Day 2012

Remember to keep your chair out on the lawn from now until Election Day. Let's remind everyone of the lack of leadership that we have had for the last four years; and the millions of jobs that have been lost during that time.

Weekend at the Lake

The weekend started early on Friday afternoon. I hopped in the car and head out to the lake for the weekend. The further south I went the cloudier it became, by the time I had arrived at my destination, it was sprinkling rain.  No worries, it was time to relax.

We headed out to a local restaurant for dinner. It was a great evening of food and conversation. A really awesome start of the weekend together.

Saturday morning we were greeted with a downpour early in the morning. I enjoyed listening to the rain hitting the skylight. Very peaceful. With the rain came a drop in temperature. I was sure glad that I had taken jeans with me. Brr.  Of course as the skies cleared the temperature rose to a more seasonable level. We did get down to the dock for a while in the early evening, just long enough to let Borla chase a few balls in the lake and I even saw an Osprey across the lake.

The sun rose Sunday morning shining brightly. The sky was only slightly cloudy and promised us a day of sun and fun. We were able to spend a good portion of the day swimming, hanging out of the dock and riding the jet ski. Borla had a great time retrieving the tennis ball from the lake, over and over again.

I'm just a little sun kissed this evening it should be all good in the morning. The ride home was uneventful, although I don't think I ever make the trip down and back the same way. Some day I maybe able to make it using the same route. All in all it was a great weekend at the weekend with friends.

Lake Photos 

Brownie for One! Yum!!

I've been searching around on Pinterest lately and came across several different recipes for cakes, brownies, and such in a mug. There are a multitude of variations on this basic recipe theme.

I tried this one this evening and it came out pretty well. The original recipe calls for a scoop of ice cream. That might have made it a bit more "gooey" but if I had thrown in a Hershey Kiss or two and it would have been awesome!

Mug Brownie 

1 egg
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar (a little bit more would give it an extra punch)

In a mug, whisk together the egg, cocoa, and powdered sugar until a batter forms. Zap the mug full of batter in the microwave for 60 seconds (can be up to 90 seconds). The key is to watch it through the window of the microwave door, cake is done when it rises to the top of the mug and then just begins to fall.

Great Lightroom Presets

Mom passed on this link to a great set of Lightroom Presets by Matt Kloskowski. Here's a before and after using just one of them.

Before

After

Congratulations Dr. Goldberg!!

My dear friend, dentist and author, Dr. Michael Goldberg was interview by dLife about cosmetic dentistry and about the various types of cosmetic dental procedures and the potential risks they may have for a person with diabetes.

His interview is full of information for the diabetic.

Read Dr. Goldberg's Interview Here

A Hunting We Will Go

I had a wonderful morning, albeit a very early one, with Dad today. We headed out to the middle of no where for him to help judge a dog competition. I thought that it would be good opportunity to get out and get some different types of photos.

We headed out bright and early this morning, at 2 a.m.!!! The temperature was nice for a drive without AC. I never thought that we would ever get there. We twisted this way, turned that way, and a couple of times seemed to be making a circle. We even saw nine deer on the side of the road as we were on the last leg of the journey to our destination.  Thought there for a few minutes we were going to be taking home a deer with us (they were very close to the edge of the road).

It was amazing how long these dog kept at it trying to search out what they were looking for. A few of them reminded me of Bounce, with their ears flapping as they trotted along and their tongues all lolled out seeming to be four times their normal length.

At one time several came trotting along in a line when they were passed by a dog going in the opposite direction - they seemed to question why he was going that way. Then a couple popped out of the woods acting like they had found something, that was until they hit the road. There they had that look of "Where did it go?"

Although we didn't see a whole lot of activity at the corner where we were sitting. I did get some nice pictures of the flowers (aka weeds) and the sunrise.

On our trip back home, Dad spotted a turkey - he even turned around so I could take some photos of it. Finally there were some calves, who came right out to the fence for photos. One even "mooed" at me.

I really enjoyed spending the time with Dad, it is something we haven't done in years.

Outing with Dad Photos