A Break in the Weather

Winter in southern Ohio has been interrupted by a few days of warmer temperatures this week. Wednesday was sunny and sixty degrees. Tuesday wasn’t quite that warm but the sunshine made it feel better.

So for the last few days I’ve walked at lunch and after work, soaking up the rays and enjoying a good stretch of the legs. After all, we know it won’t last so it’s a good idea to take advantage of it while we can.

Believe it or not, the above image is in the village where I work- the road through the cemetery winds along a hill, perfect for getting the heart pounding! And, in case you’re wondering, that hill is much bigger than it looks in the picture.

I would much rather be on a hike in the woods but this is a nice alternative when that’s not an option. Sometimes we just have to do the best we can with what we have and be glad for it.

Niagara Falls: A Tale Of Two Trips

P9307683_editedPretty, isn’t it? I took this picture of Niagara Falls years ago. I was there with my husband at the time and we had a lovely long weekend being tourists in a very touristy town. We went home and split up three months later.

Fast forward a little more than a decade. I went back to Niagara Falls with a guy I had been dating for several years and expected to someday marry. We had a fantastic visit, went home and three months later  – we split up.

Seriously, friends, you can’t make this stuff up.

I’m not a superstitious person but I have to say – if I ever find someone to love again, I’m not going with them to Niagara Falls. I’m getting too old to keep losing mates.

However, if you’re looking for a fun little long weekend, Niagara is a great place to be. Just remember, if you wish to visit the Canada side (which is the best, you have to do it) you’ll need a passport. Your best bet is to actually stay on the Canada side. There’s more to do and great hotel rates. The last time, I stayed in a room with a falls view and it was a sight to behold, especially at night when the falls are lit up.

I have no idea why I felt compelled to tell you this story but maybe you’ll find it interesting. I’m sure it won’t happen to you especially considering that Niagara has long been a destination for honeymoons and lovers’ getaways. So, go. Have fun. Take pictures and let me know how it all works out for you!

The Right Light

Cool old truck with great patina + a pretty sunset = a Happy Brandi. It takes so little to please me. I caught these pictures with my phone on the way home one night!

The last picture was a happy accident in which I look like a complete psycho. I was trying to get the sky in the rearview and instead captured myself. Nonetheless, it’s a sort of neat picture. Better luck next time!

Amesville Presbyterian Church

IMG_6853.JPGOld churches, cemeteries and barns are my favorite places to find on my journeys. I never tire of reading headstones in old cemeteries or of admiring stained glass in otherwise simple churches.

Just a block or two off Rt. 550 in Amesville, Ohio you’ll find this pretty little Presbyterian Church. I love every part of it – the steeple, those lights, the windows – it’s all lovely.

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A Lunchtime Stroll

I’ve been dying to get outside and breathe some fresh air so when Thursday was sunny and warm(er), I took a walk on my lunch break. My town has a large cemetery on a hill with roads that are perfect for walking.

It may sound odd, but I rather enjoy cemeteries. They are usually peaceful and are filled with history and stories and mysteries. Here’s one that I always wonder about. Isn’t he handsome? And so very young….

It was just a mile and a half walk but it was enough to clear my mind and energize me for the rest of the day. I felt so much better for it and only wish it could be an everyday habit.

And for good measure, here’s a barn that’s visible from the cemetery. Cause you know how I like my barns!

Happy Saturday, friends.