Put a Little Gravel in Your Travel
June 30, 2022
There is a lot of wisdom to be found in country songs. For instance, there are so many country songs that talk about back roads. It’s like the words to Rodney Atkins’ song, Take A Back Road. The chorus goes like this, “And it makes me wanna take a back road, makes me wanna take the long way home, put a little gravel in my travel, unwind, unravel all night long.” I know one of my favorite things to do on a warm summer evening or weekend is to travel the back roads of Juniata County. The expansive landscape comprised of rolling hills and valleys, surrounded by beautiful mountains, is dotted with stately stone farmhouses, winding creeks, grazing animals, as well as the occasional wandering deer or turkey. There are many historic, food, leisure, and shopping opportunities along the way. One of my favorites, no matter the time of year, is a stop at the Pomeroy Academia Covered Bridge for a casual stroll and photo taking. Learn More
Bears and Baskets
June 15, 2022
A tisket, a tasket, what is it with bears and baskets? I grew up watching Yogi and Boo Boo Bear terrorizing Jellystone Park as they attempted to steal visitors’ picnic baskets. So obviously there must be some innate correlation between the two, right? As we are now in the throes of prime picnic season here in Central Pennsylvania, I am reminded of one very special picnic experience I had with my family. It was a warm summer day and we had packed the car with all our favorite picnic necessities and piled in, the whole family including the dog. Our destination, as was often the case, was Alan Seeger Nature Center, located in the Rothrock State Forest. I had been visiting the area since I was a child and was always excited when I had the opportunity to share this beautiful area with my children. Learn More
The Humble Poppy, A Symbol of Remembrance & Resilience
May 25, 2022
I have very fond memories of strolling up my grandmother’s walk in late spring and pausing to enjoy her bed of brightly colored poppies. Watching their brilliant crimson heads swaying in the breeze always brought a smile. It wasn’t until much later that I learned of their significance and connection to Memorial Day. Learn More
The Legend of Bird Rock
May 25, 2022
A hike to Bird Rock, perched high above Route 322 in the Reedsville Narrows, is definitely on my bucket list. I am always envious when I see others post pictures standing by this majestic natural wonder, which is shaped like an ever-watching bird, through now a bit marred by graffiti. Learn More
