Blogging From A to Z Challenge – N

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Guard against the impostures of pretended patriotism. ~ George Washington


Blogging From A to Z – N

“N” is for National, as in National Mall in Washington, D.C.

The National Mall consists of areas that are part of the West Potomac Park and Constitution Gardens to the west, and refers to the entire area between the Lincoln Memorial and the United States Capitol, with the Washington Monument providing a division slightly west of the center. The Mall is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and receives approximately 24 million visitors each year.

I snapped this photo from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial facing the Washington Monument with the Reflecting Pool separating the two.

There is so much to see and do in the nation’s capitol! For further information on the National Mall and Memorial Parks click the link.


Blogging From A to Z Challenge – M

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The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only object of good government. ~ Thomas Jefferson


Blogging From A to Z Challenge – M

“M” is for Monticello, as in the home of Thomas Jefferson.

I had the opportunity to visit this historical home while my son was attending law school at the University of Virginia. What a fascinating tour it was! Not only the home itself, but the surrounding grounds all had so many interesting facts and stories. If you enjoy history you will definitely love learning more about Monticello.


Also, Charlottesville is a wonderful tourist destination; below are just some of the reasons to visit this great city:

  • Tom Tom Founders Festival
  • UVA – The Lawn & Rotunda
  • Historic Downtown Mall
  • Monticello
  • Virginia Craft Breweries
  • Spectacular Virginia Wine
  • Shenandoah National Park
  • Michie Tavern
  • Monticello Artisan Trail

For more details check out Charlottesville, VA


Echoes of My Neighborhood

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Echoes of My Neighborhood

I wanted to join in Jackie’s Echoes of My Neighborhood, so I chose some photos of the beautiful Buhl Park back home in Pennsylvania. 

Frank and Julia Buhl, pictured above, were local philanthropists who donated their money and time for the betterment of the surrounding communities. Through their generosity they developed the 300 acre park, a social/fitness club, and a public library, among other things. Another proud accomplishment is the nine-hole Buhl Farm Golf Course. Fondly called the “Dum Dum” by locals, it is the only free golf course in America!

Anyone who enjoys history and would like to read further can click on this link:  Buhl Park legacy


When you grow up with easy access to things we tend to take them for granted. “The Park” was always there, for as far back as I have a memory. We enjoyed the swimming pool, ice-skating rink, sled riding, bicycling, kite field, fishing in Lake Julia, and so many other wonderful activities.

It wasn’t until I grew older that I realized many communities don’t have these wonderful opportunities. Decades later, the locals continue to enjoy the beneficence of Frank and Julia Buhl. Thanks to them I have many happy memories growing up in the Shenango Valley!