Turtle Island, VA

Originally, the plan was to visit a waterfall. I wanted to do that before the holiday season b/c it has been my experience (very dangerous experience) that the waterfalls and the trials tend to freeze due to the very frigid winter temperatures in the Blue Ridge Mtns. Sadly, most of the waterfalls are merely a drizzle due to lack of rainfall in recent months. Instead, my friends Summer, Aaron and I hiked a trail called, "Turtle Island." It sits right on Smith Mountain Lake about an hour and half from my VA home. I think the neatest thing about this hike was that the Fall foliage was peaking in mid November due to the recent drought. It was an unexpected beauty. The weather was very fall-like . . . cool, mid 50s with gentle rays of sun and the leaves so vivid with color. Of course, I captured the fun through the lens of a camera. Enjoy!

MU Alumni Day 2007

Last month, I particpated in Alumni Day just like I have for the last 2 years. I graduated from Marshall University in 2006 (a year and half ago) with my M.A.
Each day, I am reminded of how much I miss the college experience. I miss the learning, people and "randomness" that a`typcial day would bring into focus. During my undergraduate studies, my best friend talked me into joining the band. At first, I was not that enthused about the idea but I did it anyway because of my true love for music. It turned out to be one of the more memorable times during my four years of undergraduate study. We went on plenty of trips (away games) and we met some pretty interesting people.

This year marked my 3rd year to play in the MU Alumni Band. We have the priviledge to march in the Homecoming parade and play the opening tunes during the pre-game show. All in all . . . it is a good time. I have some pics from the parade and game to share with you ;)

Oktoberfest - Family Tradition

As a little girl, my Omi told me stories of Munich's Oktoberfest and every year, my family and I would travel to Cinncinnati, OH to attend the closest replication of Munich's Oktoberfest . . . For the weekend, Cinncinnati would turn into Zinnzinnati! Ohio does a great a job of hosting the Oktoberfest as a two day event! There is plenty of music, authentic food and imported beer! Of course, that combination leads to DANCING! I have fond memories but in recent years our Oktoberfest plans have changed. In 2004, my Omi was asked to host Huntington's first Oktoberfest. As hostess, her job was to lead the town's people in the "Enten Tanz" (Chicken Dance) as well as display literature and memorabilia that serves as way to educate those who attend the Oktoberfest about Germany and its rich culture. This year marked her third consecutive year as hostess and we both agreed that this year was the best so far :)

I would like to thank all my friends who made these great pictures possible . . . each of you grabbed the camera and started snapping away. You know how much that means to me and truly, I am thankful.

So many fun-filled moments captured . . . enjoy the slideshow!

FUN FACTS
Traditionaly, the Oktoberfest is a 16 day festival held each year in Munich, Bavaria, Germany during late September and early October. It is one of the most famous event in the city and the world's largest fair, with some six million people attending every year.

I acted as my Omi's sidekick. Together, we dressed traditional German apparrel called “dirndls.” We lead the “Enten Tanz” also known in the American culture as the “Chicken Dance" every hour on the hour!

My friend Ritter and I entered the BEER STEIN RELAY! We nearly took the title of CHAMPIONS :) We were named runners-up which I still very stoked about!

Women dress traditionally in dresses called "Dirndls."

Men wear traditional outfits called "Lederhosen."

Bavarian Inn: Shepherdstown, WV

Last weekend, I made a trip to see my dear friend, Anne. It was a nice trip to northern VA and just over the WV stateline (Eastern Panhandle). While I was there, we spent a day in Shepherdstown. I loved the feel of the town and def. main street. There small shops that were full of earthy goods and art of all kinds. It was great. Our day started out by having a delicious lunch at the Bavarian Inn. The Bavarian Inn was built in 1930. The famous Greystone Mansion in 1962. The Bavarian Inn has a "Bavarian Alpine Motif." All balconies overlook the Potomac River Bend. I loved it there and all I could keep thinking was, "I wish that my Omi could see this." I took plenty of pics of the Bavarian Inn and the Greystone Mansion (where we had lunch). I hope that you can enjoy the slideshow of my mini-trip to Germany just two and half hours from my VA home ;)

Camping on the New River, VA

For many who know me . . . know that I appreciate nature and love photographing its beauty. However, when it comes to "camping," I am not a big fan. I think it has alot to do with the idea of going without a shower. I could wake up at dawn and spend the entire day outside but that enjoyment can exist because I know that I will able to take a shower at the end of an active day ;)

Recently, I had the chance to camp on the New River in VA. I agreed to this experience because it entailed running (kayaking) the New River on the second day! The New River is so unique. It is the second oldest river in the world and one of the few flowing north. It was a trade-off that I was willing to do so my friend, Hogan and I packed the FJ, strapped the kayak to the roof and headed toward the great state of VA . . . Regardless of the fact that I did not have a shower for about a day and a half, I had a great time. I wish that I could explain the sound that you could hear from our campsite. Our tent was set right at a point in the river called "Foster Falls" so we would fall asleep to the sound of the waterfalls. Here is the only way that I can describe the falls . . .

The New River goes through a series of shallow (1 to 3 feet) water falls over approximately a mile distance.

The shallowness of the river around the falls made is a great spot for wading!

4-H Camping & Kayaking in Wirtz, VA

During the second week of July, I committed myself myself to 4-H camp. The camp took place in Wirtz, VA. Wirtz is about 2 hours south of my home in VA and about an hour from the NC-VA stateline. I wasn't quite sure what I was getting into but I quickly found out that 4-H is something that children of all ages thoroughly enjoy! From an adult's perspective, some things are a little "hokie" but those are the exact things that children eat up and love! My responsibility at camp was to be an assistant to the main kayaking instructor. During my instructional kayaking sessions is where I had all my fun!!!! I had six periods that lasted approximately an hour each for 4 straight days. Needless to say, I def. got some WATER TIME! The equipment provided to us was AMAZING. The kayaks, helmets, spray skirts and paddles were all recently purchased at the beginning of the summer. The main thing that I want to scream from the mountain top is that I paddled a JACKSON KAYAK!!!!!!!!!!!!! Some of you, right now, are saying . . . "What's the big deal?" Here's the deal . . . It is a top of the line, FUN and simply, just COOL kayak line. I was thrilled to have the chance to paddle and I loved every moment!!! At times, I think I was more excited about it than the actually campers ;)

Crabtree Falls in the Spring!

This was my second visit to VA's largest waterfall and hands down, this visit was the greatest . . . The last time that I hiked the trail, I did not make it to the top which is considered the upper falls plus every cascade was frozen from the frigid temps of February. I can only think of one thing that might make this great visit the greatest of the great and that would be to see in the Fall when the greenery is vivid with the colors of Fall. Regardless, it was beautiful. My good friend Anne made the hike with me. We hiked "Crabtree Trail" all the way to the start of the waterfall which is a 1,200 ft. change in elevation within 2 miles from the head of the trail (bottom of the waterfall). I captured the hike through the lens of my camera . . . Enjoy! The only thing that I wish that I could bring to you in this blog would be the sound that you constantly hear as you hike up the fall and that is the sound of the running water as it rushes down the mountain. That is something that makes this hike one of my favorites.

1st River Run in VA

Today was an incredible day. The weather was near 85F and the sun was shinning brightly. That means only one thing: No excuses, it is time to paddle! I started at 10am at a place called "Alone Mill" and went 6 miles down river to "Bean's Bottom." This run was a great starter and it did prepare me (somewhat) for the next run that I would take. Nothing that I have ever paddled before even compared to the big water on this 9 mile run that I took in the afternoon. It was intense. There were parts of it that scared me and I can count 3 major incidents that nearly left me floating down the cold waters (50F water temperatures). However, every time that I got into a situation where the rapids almost GOT ME, I would do something that many paddlers call: Yell and power through. I was freaked and I did it. Oddly enough, it worked :) The 9 mile run started at "Rockbridge Baths" and ended at "Alone Mill." Essentially, we started in the middle of a the river and did the lower river first and then, the upper river in the afternoon. Sadly, I was unable to take my camera on the 9 mile run so all the pictures featured in the slideshow are from the 6 mile run in the AM. All together, we paddled 15 miles. Wild!

Giving a Little . . .

This year has been a journey . . . truly, I know that may come off as very cliche, but I believe it with my whole heart. One of the most trying times of my new career was when I lost a first grade student to cancer. It was that experience that helped me to make my decision to donate my hair. So . . . the first day of my spring break, I contacted a good friend from high school who is now a very talented beautician. She did a good deed . . . she gave up her day off and she opened the salon just for me. Then, she donated her time to a very admirable charity called, "LOCKS OF LOVE."

I encourage everyone to spread the word about this incredible organization and if you can, donate . . . it is a very easy thing that you can do to help a child somewhere. I was also inspired by this quote. At times, we can become very overwhelmed with the happenings around us and our instinct tells us to try to help. I guess this quote comes to mind: One person can't do everything but everyone can do something.

Of course, we documented the process through the lens of the camera :0)

Sharp Top Trail, VA

This hike almost did not happen . . . It was so odd. On Thursday, VA had record high temperatures in the upper 70's and then, the next day (day right before the scheduled hike), it snows! However, that did not stop us. One of my teaching friends from WV and her fiance came to visit and make the strenuous climb to the top of Sharp Top. It was a wonderful hike despite the drastic climate change half-way up the mountain. We enjoyed a picnic lunch at about 3,500 ft. above sea level. The hike is actually called "Sharp Top Trail" but many from the area call it, "Peaks of Otter." The mountain has two major rock formations: Sharp Top and Flat Top (This is on a completely different mountain in the area) . . There is one other rock formation that spurs off the main trail a bit but it is worth the climb, it is called, "Buzzards Roost. "

When we got to the fork in the trail, I said to myself, "It is not about choosing which one . . . it is about visiting both rock formations regardless." I could not rest easy knowing that I made that hike and did not experience the peak and Buzzards Roost. Hence, I went to both of them and the view from either point is breathtaking!

Fun Fact:

Sharp Top is a jumble of house-sized boulders and it is the highest point of the mountain. Its elevation is at 3,875 ft. above sea level.

Buzzards Roost's elevation is somewhere between 3,000-3, 500 ft. Something that made Buzzards Roost exciting is that you have the chance to do some rock climbing because nothing is developed there. You can scramble up to the top of the huge boulders (much more fun than concrete steps and handrails) for another great view.

I def. won't forget my 2007 St. Patrick's Day . . . it was incredible!!!!!!!!!!!!

Crabtree Falls (Lower Falls), VA

I was taken back by Crabtree Falls. It was amazing. One thing that made it so special was that I went during a time that many would rather just stay in their homes where the warm and cozy fire is burning bright . . . not me, I was hiking upside the largest waterfall in VA. Some argue that it is the largest fall east of the Mississippi!

FUN FACT:
In about a 1/2 mile, the creek drops 1,200 ft. and there is one vertical drop of 500 ft. The death toll on the falls is marked at 23.

I went during the month of February and it was FREEZING and most of the trail was under ice. Needless to say, I spent most of the time falling on my bottom but that made the trip that much more fun :)

Scenic Views (VA)

Many times, I found myself driving and a view just captivates me. I am forced to pull over and of course, I have my camera with me to grab the shot! These pictures are a product of times like those . . . Some of these pictures were taken at a roadside scenic overlook and a couple of them were random shots where I pulled my car off-road to capture the countryside.

Natural Bridge & Lace Waterfalls, VA

This was a neat experience . . . I don't believe that I have encountered something so massive in nature. I was overwhelmed when I actually stood at the foot of this formation (natural bridge).
FUN FACT:
The natural bridge forming an arch 215 ft. and spans 90 ft. across.

Then, as I walked the hiking trail past the formation . . . I found that I could walk the trail to the end and find a WATERFALL called, "Lace Waterfall!"
FUN FACT:
50 ft. waterfall

Goshen Pass, VA

Goshen Pass . . . this is where most outdoor extremist get a thrill! In the spring time, the water rises and many paddlers get out there and do their thing. Quite frankly, I am not that brave but those who dare to take on the waters are skilled and def. seeking an adventure. The PASS will def. give them what they are looking for! I often go here to hear the water rush over the rocks and watch some crazies get in the water. There is one portion of the run called, "Devil's Kitchen" and only the experienced take this on . . . I have sat on the creekside watching these enthusiasts brave the rapids. It is blast to see their excitement when them finally make it through the run!

Roaring Run Falls, VA

This trip was the trip that started it all . . . I have always had a thing for water but I limited my interest to the obvious: streams, rivers, lakes and the ocean. Then, I hiked "Roaring Run" and found something that took my breath away. It was two weeks before peak season (Fall) but still, the leaves were stunning and it really made it a beautiful hike. Truly, what made the trip worth it was the sight of the falls . . .

FUN FACT:
30-foot waterfall, Roaring Run Creek races down the mountain in a series of small cascades and all this is leading to the James River.

Florida: Disney Trip!

My trip to Disney was in the HOT month of July 2006. Wow! It was a heat wave but that did not stop us from going to every park nearly everyday! My favorite things about the trip were:

*Fantasmic
Let me start by saying: If you brush this off in past years, make it a point to see the show next time it is well-worth it. During this July vacation, when I saw the show, I had a delicious dinner right before the showing and then, watched the production from the dining area in the outdoor theater. It was super!

*The FIREWORKS at the Magic Kingdom
This is unusual for me to name fireworks as a favorite thing (anyone who has ever been with me to a fireworks display knows what I am talking about) but the truth is these fireworks are like nothing that you have every experienced in your life (at least for me). The way the music and fireworks play off of each other . . . it truly is a magical experience.

*Mary Poppins
I save the last for the VERY BEST :)
I think this one speaks for itself but just in case, I have three words for you:
I HEART MARY POPPINS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

New York City

In May of 2006, I was asked by my traveling buddy to go to New York City! It was something that many might call a RED-EYE adventure. We boarded a bus early one morning and returned after two full days in the city. It was incredible! I was able to join many "parrotheads" in Rockefeller Plaza to enjoy a live concert from Jimmy Buffett (Today Show). I think the three things that I found to be most enjoyable were:

*The midday stroll in Central Park
*The MET (Art Museum)
*Spending the lunch hour w/ true residents of NYC

Italia

n April of 2006, I had the chance to travel to Italy. I visited five cities/villages in 10 days:

*Rome
*Florence
*Assisi
*Spaletto
*Venice

I feel like it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I loved every moment. I tried to capture it through the lens of my camera but really, my photos cannot capture the true sense of tradition and beauty of Italia.