Tuesday Tidbits

~ Nancy ~ 4 Comments

I sit here thinking about my Dad. What a great Dad! During the Depression he was young and found that Printing brought him needed cash. Later, he and my Mom had a printing shop …along with a young family and a full time career for US Steel as a Metallurgical Engineer. When he retired he was more of a hobby printer. But with the ink running through his veins he printed a monthly newsletter called TidBits. He put that newsletter together one letter at a time on his printing press. Later he bought a McIntosh Desktop Computer and typed away using desktop publishing to make his newsletter. He sent his “Tidbits” to a Hobby Printing Association. Many others did the same and he would get a monthly “bundle” of all his “printing buddy’s” work. He loved sitting at the kitchen table looking at ALL his printer friend’s work! Ahhhh the memories…

Dad to me, Grandpa to his 7 grandchildren, Burl Ives to some and The Colonel to others.
A sample of his “Computer Published Newsletter” …that he actually had help with from my son when he was only 7… in Dad’s Man Cave called the “Captain’s Quarters!”

So I have decided to try to do the same. To follow in his great footprints! I wish to put together weekly or monthly thoughts or Tidbits. I am going to call these thoughts… Tuesday Tidbits! Who knows what you may find here on any given Tuesday. I will have fun changing it up. I hope that you will join me on Tuesdays for Tuesday Tidbits!

This Tuesday I am happy to have returned home from spending time with family in the Seattle area. We call the desert, home …and it welcomed us with opened arms.

We love our desert! We call it home.

Speaking of home… I am taking all my Fall decor down today. I hate to say goodbye to our Family Room all dressed up for Fall…

our fall patio as well…

…and don’t forget the kitchen!

It may be a tad early but travel has me out ahead of the bunches, except for the retail stores.

I’m off to fumble tubs from the attic. But first, a great big THANK YOU for reading my first edition of Tuesday Tidbits. “A Restful Pause for Busy People” as my Dad would say. Have a great week my friends.

Until Next Time ~Nancy

Friday Fun and Falling Waters

~ Nancy ~ 29 Comments

It’s been a very long time since I shared for my Friday Fun Page!

So why not today!

We are in the Pacific Northwest having family fun… and it’s Sammamish, WA. to be exact.

When the kids are at school… we get out and play! First off a Nature Walk! The trees are colorful and the leaves are falling.

The Trees, consisting mostly of Cedars, Pines, Cypresses, Big Leaf Maples and Cottonwoods are quite large and they create the Rainforest Canopy.

Moss covers many trees and ferns are all over this rainforest floor!

The trees are TALL!

Black Berries grow almost everywhere! Of course they are finished but I found a few still trying to ripen.

We did get out and saw this as we headed to the grocery store. Where we live in Arizona and Pennsylvania… we do not have Charging Stations for cars. Sweet Man decided to get All Charged Up! 😁

We tried getting down to Lake Sammamish but there are so many private properties this is as close as we could get. Supposedly there is a parking lot and an area that we can get closer. It’s a long gorgeous lake and we will try again.

After a few lovely evenings with family we set out and explored again. We went to Snoqualmie first to look at the Snoqualmie Falls. But this is what we saw when we got there.

It was early morning and we knew if we returned later in the day the sun would help with the fog and heavy mist.

We went further down stream of the Snoqualmie River. It was beautiful!

Right outside of Snoqualmie is Mt. Si of the Cascade Range. It has an elevation of 4100 ft.

The Cascade Range welcomes you as you come into Snoqualmie. Mt. Rainer was peeking above the Range!

After eating a darn good lunch at Roadhouse Inn …in a neighboring town, of Falls City. We decided to see if the Falls could be seen. The mist near the front of the park had us quite skeptical.

Then we saw them…

They were a beautiful sight! And quite powerful. It’s 268 ft. tall. It’s a popular tourist attraction and is also remembered appearing in the television show Twin Peaks.

The Snoqualmie Falls is a hydroelectric project ran by Puget Sound Energy. There is an underground hydroelectric power plant and an above ground power plant as well on the property. They supply electric for the region.

Stunning Falls!

The mist was creating a beautiful backdrop for some fun captures!

Enjoy the video of the falls and Happy Friday!

Thank You for joining me for Friday Fun!

Until Next Time ~Nancy

Durango to Silverton, Colorado

~ Nancy ~ 34 Comments

Bucket List! If you HAVE such a list… I have a TRIP for you!

It’s an old steam engine train ride from Durango, Colorado to Silverton,Colorado! The scenery is breathtaking. This train travels 45 miles crossing the Animas River and the railway has been in existence for 130 years. It was also the train used in the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. I highly recommend going in the fall, for peak leaf color season. We booked it for mid October. This way we had color and a little snow!

We arrived in Durango the day before our trip just in time for antiquing and dinner. There are many wonderful eateries but there were 3 different sports games on and we opted for a wonderful Brewery that had great Beer and Food. Steamworks Brewing Co. was perfect! A great happy hour and all the peanuts you wish.

The next morning we arrived at the train station early. Sweet Man purchased tickets ahead of time online. I highly recommend pre-purchasing tickets… to avoid lines and it assures you the right side of your train car which provides you the best views. We also wanted to sit inside as the temps were in the low 50’s when we started out.

We were in awe the entire trip!

There were stunning views around each bend.

We had coffee in tow but the train also provides a concession car for some snacks, coffee, beverages and adult beverages.

The train cars are quite comfortable and the windows can be easily opened for clear pictures.

Here you can see the open car. I was perfectly happy sitting inside. We were able to move along the train to get pictures, frequent the concession car and use the restroom. Coming back we even rode in the open air car for a short while.

If you have a fear of heights… you may want to sit in the aisle seat. However… I loved it!

Many ask why is the river so green? It’s supposedly from an algae bloom but in some cases it was slightly orange, as well, due to Mine run off.

Sights along the way could not be missed!

As the train rides along… many waterfalls add to the beauty.

Living in the desert we do not see trees of color during the Autumn. We definitely got our fill on this train ride!

The day is long but well worth it. We rode the train up and back. Many opt to take a bus back from Silverton. However, we saw even more sights coming back on the train.

The orange-brown color on the banks near Silverton is due to an old mine. The whole purpose of this rail was to haul silver and gold ore from the mountains down to Durango 130 years ago. Even though the mines are closed… the trail line remains because multitudes of passengers love the gorgeous views. The locomotive is totally coal fired and steam ran.

The above picture shows us coming into Silverton.

Like I said earlier, we stayed in Durango. Silverton is a very small Mountain town. With a population of about 150 in the winter… many establishments are closed. Not just because of few people but because the pipes tend to freeze. We did find a place open called Avalanche Brewing Co. with great craft beer and food! Sweet man had a pulled pork sandwich with homemade slaw. I enjoyed an amazing Tomato Bisque Soup. The craft beer was delish!

Silverton’s population grows in the summer. 600-700+ population. There are many ATV trails and hiking for their enjoyment.

It had snowed the night before we arrived and the Silverton Streets were muddy. Many establishments were closed and we were happy to see the train arrive to take us back to Durango.

I was thrilled to see more beautiful views as we headed back to Durango.

I hope that you are able to take this train ride! We loved it!

Listen to the train on this video!

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog! I so appreciate it!

Until Next Time ~Nancy

Back in Arizona

~ Nancy ~ 30 Comments

Always glad to get back to the desert! We enjoy the Southwest very much.

It’s amazing! Everywhere you turn there’s so much beauty to see.

We are especially proud of our saguaros. Pronounced “suh-wah-roe.” They are native to the Sonoran Desert and can grow up to 40 feet tall. Some have arms and some do not.

Some are also Crested… no one really knows why.

Old Ghost Towns are an iconic symbol of the Southwest.

When out in the desert it’s a treat to come across…

Petroglyphs

Native American Pit Houses

Wild Horses

Cattle grazing

And Arizona is proud of their Rocks and Minerals especially Petrified Rock!

Glad to be back in Arizona and it’s nice to be back in our neighborhood.

However, Home Sweet Home is the best!

And these Wide Open Skies gives us such beautiful sunsets…

Goodnight All… Thanks for reading along!

Until Next Time ~Nancy

Welcome In

~ Nancy ~ 32 Comments

It’s Fall, please stop in. We enjoy fall touches throughout our home.

Outside…

…as well as inside…

We enjoy our backyard owls so why not reflect them into our decor.

Come enjoy a meal…

These two small glass pumpkins were made by us. We took a glass blowing class. So fun!

Thank you for stopping by… and Happy Fall! Watch out for the ghosts and goblins!

Until Next Time ~Nancy

A Bike Ride Tour

~ Nancy ~ 34 Comments

Off I went with camera in hand. I want to give you a quick tour of Lakeside. It’s where we live during the summer here in Edinboro, Pa. It’s also where I grew up. Lots of memories here…

The lake is of course the focus of Lakeside. Edinboro Lake is a 245 acre lake with a depth of 30 ft. But I have heard from locals it’s 40 ft.

A peaceful lake for swimming, boating, fishing, water skiing, and of course winter fun such as ice fishing and skating.

Brrr… brrrrrr…

Let’s get back to summer.

Older cottages are being updated left and right. Beautiful homes dot the landscape.

This lake is loved by many. Homecomings and family reunions are often found as you stroll on the small streets, in my case bike ride.

There’s a sunrise or a sunset depending on what side you are on.

Many a moonrise or moonset as well…

One of the last icons is still standing. As a teenager we hung out here mainly for dances but a some pin ball tournament games took place as well!

A few teenager hang outs have been torn down because of disrepair. But the Jukebox still stands. Oh the sweet memories…

This lake is well loved not only for its beauty but also because of its sweet memories.

Until Next Time ~Nancy

Fair Time

~ Nancy ~ 38 Comments

Out here in the Midwest this is the time of year for Fairs. County Fairs, State Fairs, and even town Fairs.

Many people bring their products in to get judged.

Who has the biggest or the best? For that awesome Blue Ribbon!

Who doesn’t love the animals at the Fair?

They all seem to love our attention.

Sweet Man almost brought the bunny home with us! 😊😳

We did learn about lambs and their wool from a nice lady who was knitting …using her lambs wool.

A Spinning wheel…

There’s always fun to be had at the fair…

And you never know who is keeping an eye on you…

Today, Ingrid of Live Laugh RV’s theme is Zoo for Wandering Wednesday . I know these aren’t Zoo animals today however…

Ingrid and I went to Wildlife World Zoo in Phoenix a few years ago. Do you think I can find those pictures right now??

I’m just as frazzled as this bird!

But I did share some animal friends from that day HERE! It’s a fun post. I hope you get a chance to click on it! You will be happy you did!

Thanks so much for reading. There’s more over at Ingrid’s!

Until Next Time ~Nancy

In the 216

~ Nancy ~ 35 Comments

Cleveland, Ohio is well known for its slogans. “The Land” is a famous one brought on by our Cavs and it’s still popular. But “In the 216” has been popular for many years. It’s the area code for Cleveland.

We have spent many a days in Cleveland as we both have lived here. This city has a special place in my heart and that will never go away …

no matter where I live.

The terminal tower is a beautiful icon of the city. Here it’s all lit up for my sons’ and daughter in laws wedding. This was their backdrop on the night of their wedding. A lovely day that will never be forgotten.

A night on the Cuyahoga River in downtown Cleveland is a sight to see and this was enjoyed by our wedding guests.

Cleveland has it’s Gorgeous Lake Erie.

It’s home to great food, sports teams and many beautiful places to see.

One of them is Lakeview Cemetery. It’s a must see destination because of its beauty, its intriguing buildings and many famous people are laid to rest here. Including President Garfield. His Monument is a sight.

President Garfield’s Monument

Inside you can see the beauty.

Another incredible building is the Wade Memorial Chapel that is in the center of the cemetery.

As you enter the Chapel you see the focus point of the Tiffany Glass which draws you in.

The walls of Wade Chapel are a mosaic of thousands of tiny pieces of Tiffany Glass designed by Louis C. Tiffany. One wall depicts The River of Life and one wall is the River of Death.

Above a woman explains what each part of the Mosaic means. The Chapel was built in 1901. The mosaic was put together in Europe but then disassembled and shipped to Cleveland and placed upon the walls. When Tiffany came to inspect his work that was put upon the wall… He said… “I am completely satisfied!”

Each pew was given more beauty as seen below.

The floor is also a beautiful mosaic!

Some weddings are held here.

Tours are also given of this beautiful Cemetery.

Along with President Garfield there are Many prominent people buried here. John D. Rockefeller, one of the founders of Standard Oil. John Hay Secretary Of State to Abraham Lincoln. Arthur Parker founder of Parker Hannifan. Harvey Pekar Comic Writer known for American Splendor. Henry Sherwin one of the founders of Sherwin-Williams Paint. There are many, many more but one that made me chuckle is James Salisbury inventor of Salisbury Steak.

After a tour in the cemetery we head down to Little Italy! Great places for great food! Actually I could do a whole post on the fabulous food in this city! It’s a fabulous Foodie Town!

So I will have to share much MORE about Cleveland, The Land, the 216, #CLE in another post!

We are Home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well.

The Newlyweds!

Thank you for enjoying my post and thank you for your comments. I do appreciate them.

Until Next Time ~Nancy

Unforgettable

~ Nancy ~ 40 Comments

There’s just something about staying in a warm and cozy bed… especially when you are retired.

I am in an early morning exercise class 2 times a week and we enjoy early morning desert rides when living in AZ. Then here in Pennsylvania we have lots of outdoor DIY projects that, especially in this current summer’s heat, are better done early in the morning. So…on the mornings I don’t have to move quickly… a sunrise is hard for me to experience… because this girl is staying put! When I saw Wandering Wednesday theme was SUNRISE… I sighed… and said, “not many of those in my archives.” 😏

I picked up my iPhone and opened up my Google photos App and searched, Sunrise. Well, of course every glorious sunset in my past popped up! Then I saw a few sunrises. Yay! This was one of them…

The above beauty was from our kitchen window here at the LakeHouse! One morning I awoke to see a bright pink light in the kitchen. At first I was puzzled and then I looked out the window and saw the most colorful sunrise …ever!

Unforgettable… perhaps.

But not if you were having this conversation with our Arizona friends and Sweet Man.

One morning we ALL set our alarm clocks for O’Dark Thirty!(Which means it was in the wee hours of the morning and no one should be awake!)

We all climbed into our Jeeps and climbed our favorite mountain to view the Lunar Eclipse and Blood Moon.

It was amazing! An experience we will never forget. We decided to stick around for the moon set.

We were all so focused on the moon set that we did not realize what was going on behind us! A colorful Arizona sunrise!

It’s amazing how that sky changed in minutes!

I have seen many a sunset and sunrise that were more beautiful and colorful. However… this one we witnessed all together on top of a mountain with the Lunar Eclipse! That my friends is…

Unforgettable!

How about you? Have you experienced any unforgettable sunrises?

Sharing for Ingrid’s Wandering Wednesday theme Sunrise at Live Laugh RV

Until Next Time ~Nancy

PS The very first photo of this post is a sunrise from our hotel in Monument Valley. It ranks up there with unforgettable as well!

Chautauqua Institute

~ Nancy ~ 28 Comments

Get ready to take a walk along with us through the Chautauqua Institute. It’s a 750 acre area where people go to rest, relax, learn and listen. Many come for educational, musical, artistic, and theatrical retreats. However, because of its location… on the beautiful Chautauqua Lake in Chautauqua, New York many come to vacation here as well.

Many of the houses

are of Victorian Style which are surrounded with fabulous floral gardens. Some may be rented but most are owned.

We went to visit a friend here and loved her charming home. We shared a bottle of rose wine which fit perfectly with her front porch pink decor!

So many houses with such charming details!

The lake…

is 17 miles long and 2 miles wide. Lots of area for boating, skiing, and fishing.

The Miller Bell Tower is an icon at the Institution.

Many residents depend on its chimes for the time of day. It is a memorial to one of the Institutes founders, Lewis Miller.

Come along to view more of the beauty that you may find on your visit here.

I hope that one day you will be able to visit the Chautauqua Institution and see all its charm!

Thank you for spending time here with us at Two Trails One Road.

Until Next Time ~Nancy

Linking up with Pam from Everyday Living And her Garden Party. Click on image below to see more amazing gardens.

Time to Reflect

~ Nancy ~ 40 Comments

If you are new to following Two Trails One Road… we live very close to a lake, during the summer, so capturing reflections is easy here at the lake. I took the following picture just the other day on Edinboro Lake. (Do you see some of the leaves starting to turn…!)

When I am down at the lake I too will reflect and give thanks for all that we have!

Here in Pennsylvania clouds are appreciated by me as the desert seems to only have clouds during Monsoon season. Clouds on the water here make for a Monet Moment.

A special treat is seeing the Autumn colors reflect upon the lake…

Speaking of Autumn… soon we will return to our desert home where we can find reflections there as well.

Take time to reflect… it does a person good. Todays reflection fills my heart with gratitude for all that we are blessed with!

Sharing today for Wandering Wednesday over at Live Laugh RV.

Until Next Time ~Nancy

Reflection in a glass door of me!

Maple Syrup

~ Nancy ~ 32 Comments

We went for a ride in the country and ended up touring a Maple Syrup Farm! I really enjoy REAL 🍁 Maple Syrup …so this just made my day!

That’s a Soybean field in the foreground. The Maple Syrup Farm also farms Soybeans and corn.

This is the young farmer who is showing us how they tap acres upon acres of Maple Trees! It’s all done with tubing and the sap all runs down hill to the Sugar House.

I was amazed that it is done this way …as I thought the sap was still collected in buckets. Some smaller operations still do collect the sap in buckets.

Sweet Man is learning how it’s all done!

Maple Trees Store starch in their trunks and roots. During January/February/March when the days are warmer the sap flows up into the tree trunk and flows out into the tubing. Then during the night when it is cold the sap flows back down into the roots of the tree. This is an ongoing process through the spring. The sap gets collected and is boiled down into Syrup.

I was given this fabulous Syrup yesterday by the young farmer. We enjoyed it immensely on pancakes today for lunch.

I hope you get to enjoy REAL Maple Syrup on your pancakes! It tastes soooo much better then the kinds found on your grocery store shelf. Most of them are made from corn syrup.

Until Next Time ~Nancy