The time is getting close for us. We will head back to the NC mountains as soon as it seems safe and all the advisories look good. Today I am reposting one of my very early blog posts. I’m not sure what we will be able to do when we arrive, but certainly, we will be able to enjoy the mountain backroads we love to explore! Stay Safe, Karen
Near Banner Elk and Beech Mountain, NC the roads are curvy, the vegetation lush and the scenery pastoral. Today’s route took us past a few spots on local quilt trails. Each uniquely created quilt pattern is displayed on historic barns and showcases the mountain heritage of storytelling through artistic design. Each turn in the road holds the promise of a new surprise: an incredible view, field of Christmas trees, patch of colorful day-lilies, whimsical mailbox, or maybe, even a bear. No bear-sightings for us today, we had to settle for beautiful horses.
Be sure to look closely. Can you find the Nativity manger scene, complete with wise men (this was in July)?
I’m sure, like me, you are inundated with emails and messages with articles about all the things you can do virtually. So many creative people, companies, and organizations have stepped up and created so much content you could literally sit in front of your screen 24/7. It’s overwhelming.
I’ve been trying to do a few online classes, tours, and workshops and it can be daunting. Here are a couple of exceptional virtual experiences, including a podcast, webcam, train ride, and sounds of nature, for you to dip-in your toe and give it a try. I hope you enjoy them, Karen
Wildlife Viewing
This LiveCam website is fantastic for all ages, from this link you can explore an entire world of different wildlife webcams. Let’s start with the Gorilla Forest Corridor in Kasugho, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. On the page, scroll to POP LIVECAM; it will also show highlight footage. There are many options to explore on this incredible website by explore.org.
Celebrate America’s Story with the Tenement Museum Podcast
For one of my favorite podcasts, listen to stories of real families who settled into New York tenements from all over the world, courtesy of the fabulous Tenement Museum. Equally as well-done as this must-see museum.
Sounds from my neighborhood: The Everglades
For some quick gratification try out this interactive site, Sounds of the Everglades. You and pick and play different combinations of sounds from nature. This is another great one to share with kids.
Take a ride through incredible Alpine scenery
There are lots of virtual train trips, so let’s start with a great one through the Bernina Pass, from St. Moritz, Switzerland to Tirano, Italy – All Aboard!
A fleeting moment: Eye contact through the bush.
(Ngala Private Reserve, Kruger National Park, South Africa)
“Sunrise, sunset, sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears”
– from the Broadway play Fiddler on the Roof, written in 1964 by composer Jerry Bock and lyricist Sheldon Harnick.
