Big Blend Magazine - Vol 1, Issue 15 - Oct. 2023

CONTENTS

BIG WEEKLY BLEND

5. Editors Block

6. Say Hello to October 2023!

VISUAL ARTS

8. Immerse Yourself in Monet at Giverny

12. Classic Children’s Book Illustra�ons

15. Ar�st Ted DeGrazia’s Cultural Ties

BOOKS, AUTHORS & WRITERS

16. Four Fabulous Fall Reads

20. Jennifer Jewell – What We Sow

22. Travel Writer Talk

TRAVEL & EVENTS

24. Great North American Solar Eclipse

26. Discover Santa Ana, California

27. Sleepy Lobo Inn in Albuquerque, NM

28. World Records on the Jefferson Highway

30. Celebrate October in Natchitoches, LA

32. Visit Greenville, South Carolina

34. Park Road Trip – NC, WV & VA

Hans Langseth, aka the "King of Whiskers," who held the record for the world's longest beard, story on page 29.

EDITORS BLOCK

“October is a symphony of permanence and change.” Bonaro W. Overstreet

We’re celebra�ng the start of October by shining the spotlight on visual and literary arts, along with travel des�na�ons across the country.

When it comes to the arts, Debbie Stone takes us on her visit to Giverny, France, the home and garden retreat of Monet, and then we head to DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun in Tucson, Arizona where Lance Laber talks about the cultural �es that ar�st Ted DeGrazia had with the people of Mexico and the Desert Southwest USA. In between, ar�st Victoria Chick reminisces about classic children’s books like “Peter Rabbit” and “Alice in Wonderland,” and covers their talented illustrators, Beatrix Po�er, and Sir John Tenniel.

As columnist John Sinor once stated, “October is crisp days and cool nights, a �me to curl up around the dancing flames and sink into a good book.” We hope you enjoy the featured Big Blend Radio conversa�ons with authors and writers who discuss their cra� and inspira�ons. From crime and mystery to poli�cs and a children’s book that uniquely covers mul�ethnicity, hear about four fabulous fall fic�on reads by authors Ginger Pinholster, George Fraklin, Lyn Squire, and Mike Yam.

Adding a li�le nature connec�on to the mix, garden writer and podcaster Jennifer Jewell discusses her fascina�ng and �mely new book “What We Sow: On the Personal, Ecological, and Cultural Significance of Seeds." Plus, three travel writers, Elaine J. Masters, Lisa Evans, and Jo Clark, share some of the highlights and lessons learned from their careers and adventures.

Of course, travel is always part of the magazine, and this issue starts in vibrant and diverse Santa Ana, California and the Sleep Lobo Inn in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and then heads up the historic Jefferson Highway to focus on unique Guinness World Records that have to do with long beards, cars, and a gazillion s�ckers! Then we head east for fes�val fun in Natchitoches, the oldest city in Louisiana, and to hear about the fall and winter fes�vi�es in popular Greenville, South Carolina. Our front cover story focuses on an epic park road trip with Mr. & Mrs. Wild, that goes from North Carolina to West Virginia and Virginia, with a brief stop in Tennessee.

Happy October!

Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith Big Blend’s mother-daughter publishing, podcas�ng, and travel team

BIG BLENDMISSION STATEMENT: Big Blend is a company based on the belief that education is the most formidable weapon that can be waged against fear, ignorance and prejudice. It is our belief that education starts at home and branches outward. Education leads to travel, and travel leads to understanding, acceptance, and appreciation of cultures and customs different to our own, and ultimately to world peace. Our company is further based on the principle that networking, communication, and helping others to promote and market themselves leads to financial stability; thus paving the way to better education, travel, and the spirit of giving back to the community. This magazine is developed by Big Blend Magazine™, copyrighted since 1997. No part of it may be reproduced for any reason, without written permission from Big Blend Magazine. Although every effort is made to be accurate, we cannot be held responsible for inaccuracies or plagiarized copy submitted to us by advertisers or contributors.

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FRONT COVER IMAGE: Glade Creek Grist Mill, Story on Page 34

SAYHELLOTOOCTOBER2023!

From ghost stories to food, wine, and travel, celebrate the month of October with this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Big Weekly Blend” podcast that features a fun conversa�on covering some of the fall season’s na�onal and interna�onal holidays, pop culture, and historic happenings.

Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast. For our Big Blend Radio October Music Playlist, Reading List, and Recipe List, visit this page on our site: h�ps://�nyurl.com/yc576ym7

Featured Guests:

* Peggy Fiandaca – Co-owner of LDV Winery in Arizona. Visit: h�ps://ldvwinery.com/

* Glynn Burrows – Owner of Norfolk Tours in England. Visit: h�ps://norfolk-tours.co.uk/

* Kathleen Walls – Travel writer and author. Visit h�p://www.katywalls.com/ and h�ps://www.americanroads.net/

* Linda Ballou – Travel writer and author. Visit h�p://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ and h�ps://lostangeladventures.com/

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN MONET… … WITH A TRIP TO GIVERNY

by Debbie Stone

It wasn’t enough for me to stare in awe and drink in the beauty of Claude Monet’s ravishing pain�ngs of water lilies in Paris’ wonderful Musee de l’Orangerie - which by the way, is a must-visit a�rac�on for art lovers in the City of Lights. I needed to make the trip to Giverny, where the renowned Impressionist had lived and worked, and created over 250 pain�ngs of said water lilies in his garden.

Widely regarded as the poster boy for Impressionism, Monet strived to capture the sensory elements of a scene, using loose brushwork and a lighter pale�e. He, as did his contemporaries, aimed to capture the effects of light at different �mes of day, o�en pain�ng outside in “plein air.”

Monet le� the urban hustle-bustle of Paris in 1883 and moved to rural Giverny, located a li�le over an hour from the capital city. There, in the FrenchNorman countryside, he constructed an exquisite Japanese-inspired water garden. The centerpiece is a man-made, water lily-covered pond, surrounded by flowers and adorned with a Japanese bridge.

This sublime se�ng became a major inspira�on for the ar�st.

In Giverny, you’ll discover Monet’s garden actually has two dis�nct parts that contrast and complement one another: a lush flower garden called Clos Normand in front of the house and the above-noted Japanese paradise on the other side of the road.

The Clos Normand is all about colors and textures. It’s divided into beds with groups of flowers of different heights for volume. Monet liked to mix simple flowers like daises and poppies with rare varie�es. There are fruit trees and ornamental trees, long-stemmed hollyhocks, and mul�-hued annuals. The central path is covered by iron arches on which climbing roses grow. Other rose bushes cover the railings on the property.

It's obvious that Monet was not a fan of organized gardens, as the flowers are le� to grow freely and uncontained. This Edenesque landscape is a veritable feast for the senses and oh, the sweet fragrances! Con�nued on Next Page…

Monet’s house

The water garden was inspired by the Japanese gardens that Monet knew from the many prints he collected on this subject, here you’ll find the iconic green Japanese bridge, along with other smaller bridges, weeping willows, wisterias, the famed water lilies, and a bamboo forest. Monet was very proud of this garden and spent hours contempla�ng it. He also enjoyed receiving his guests there. It’s truly an enchan�ng place and easy to see how it cap�vated the ar�st.

Monet lived in his home at Giverny from 1883 to 1926 and made it his own, enlarging it with the addi�on of two wings. He chose all the colors in the house. He also designed a large kitchen for his family of ten plus all the frequent guests that he hosted and created his first studio in the barn next to the house, with an apartment above, where he could work and sleep.

Over the kitchen, Monet’s four stepdaughters had their bedrooms, while his two sons and two stepsons slept in the a�c.

The self-guided tour of the house begins in the blue si�ng room, where the dominant color is – you guessed it – blue! Japanese woodblocks collected by the ar�st are featured. He owned 231 of them and used them as inspira�on in his own work.

Nearby is the pantry where food was stored. There are two boxes hanging on the wall which were used to store eggs from the hens in the chicken yard. And if you wonder how popular eggs were in the Monet household, know that these boxes could store over 100 eggs at a �me.

I was curious about the buffet, as it had keys on each of the drawers. When I inquired, the docent told me that food was expensive and thus locked down.

Simply sublime

Monet’s water lilies

Monet Con�nued….

The studio, which later became Monet’s smoking room, was also where the ar�st welcomed his visitors and business associates. On the walls are reproduc�ons of the painter’s works, though back then, they were the real thing. Check out the bust of the ar�st Paul Paulin, which is a testament to the fact that Monet became famous during his life�me, unlike many other noted ar�sts who achieved recogni�on posthumously.

Take the staircase from the pantry to the upper floor, where you’ll find Monet’s bedroom. The simple bed was his and it’s where he died on December 5, 1926, at the age of 86. There are breathtaking views of the garden from the windows and pain�ngs by ar�sts of Giverny and reproduc�ons of work by some of Monet’s friends hang on the walls.

Monet’s wife Alice had her own bedroom, as was typical in the middle-upper class of the �me. It’s also decorated with Japanese woodblocks featuring female characters.

My favorite room in the house is the dining room. I loved the yellow-toned paint colors and the furniture, also painted yellow. In the cabinets are sets of blue earthenware crockery.

In the kitchen, blue Rouen �les decorate the walls, copper pots gleam and a large coal and wood stove occupies a prominent spot in the room. Everything seems to be wai�ng for the ar�st and his family to return.

Debbie Stone is an established travel writer and columnist, who crosses the globe in search of unique des�na�ons and experiences to share with her readers and listeners. She’s an avid explorer who welcomes new opportuni�es to increase awareness and enthusiasm for places, culture, food, history, nature, outdoor adventure, wellness, and more. Her travels have taken her to nearly 100

countries spanning all seven con�nents, and her stories appear in numerous print and digital publica�ons.

Photos and a bust of Monet

Japanese Woodblocks

Photo of Monet in his studio

CLASSIC CHILDREN’S BOOK ILLUSTRATIONS

By Victoria Chick

Do you remember reading “Peter Rabbit” as a young child or, maybe, when you were a bit older, being fascinated by “Alice in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass?” New edi�ons of these classic books are s�ll being published with their original illustra�ons.

Peter Rabbit and other books were both wri�en and illustrated by Beatrix Po�er, born in 1866 in the rural Lake District of England. She and her brother were schooled at home by their mother. They had numerous pets and were familiar with all kinds of domes�c and farm animals. Drawing and watercolor pain�ng were especially enjoyed by Beatrix Po�er. She developed great powers of observa�on and was able to visually record not just details, but also the ac�ons of animals.

Po�er did not begin wri�ng and illustra�ng children’s literature un�l she was in her mid-30s. Prior to that �me, she used her drawing skills to scien�fically illustrate botanical specimens and was respected in the scien�fic community for her extensive study of fungi and reproduc�on by spores. It may seem then, a bit of a leap, to “Peter Rabbit.” But Beatrix Po�er had con�nued drawing animals for her enjoyment during her years of scien�fic illustra�on.

In 1901, “Peter Rabbit” was published with her drawings of Peter and his adventures showing her triple talent of storytelling, drawing anatomically correct animals, and giving the animals human characteris�cs that made children able to relate so easily to their experiences and feelings.

She was an excellent businesswoman who invented the “spin-off” idea of marke�ng other merchandise based on her book characters.

Victoria Chick on Big Blend Radio: Listen here in YouTube or download the podcast on Acast.

George Dunlop Leslie - Alice in Wonderland

By increasing her wealth, she was able to buy more property adjoining hers so that, when she died, her legacy to England was the gi� of her land to the Na�onal Trust which made it the core property that became the Lake District Na�onal Park.

Sir John Tenniel spent most of his life as an illustrator for the Bri�sh editorial magazine, PUNCH. As such, he had a great deal of influence in both reflec�ng and forming public opinion through his editorial cartoons. He was a master of caricature. In 1865, he met with Lewis Carroll, who already was familiar with his cartoons for PUNCH. Carroll presented him with the offer to be the illustrator of his fantasy books. Tenniel did 92 illustra�ons for “Alice in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass.”

His illustra�ons were done as wood engravings by professional engravers. As prin�ng technology changed, the wood engravings were used to make electroplate engravings. The publisher first printed 2000 copies but Tenniel was so dissa�sfied with the print quality, that he rejected them. When they were reprinted and appeared for sale for the first �me, they were an immediate success, and his reputa�on came to rest as much on these two books as on the over 2300 cartoons he did for PUNCH.

Peter Rabbi�

Beatrix Po�er

Alice in Wonderland

Later, Carroll asked him to illustrate other books, but he refused. From comments he made, it would seem the energy he put into “Through the Looking Glass” and the successful result of his illustra�ons either totally sa�sfied his desire to be involved in that genre, or he was burned out with the effort. Whichever way it was, he did not want to do any more book illustra�ons.

It is interes�ng to keep in mind that Sir John Tenniel, during his en�re career, had the use of only one eye. During a fencing exercise as a youth with his father, his father’s sword struck his eye, injuring it so that he gradually lost sight in that eye completely. It shows his own great compassion that he never let his father know the extent of the injury because he knew how sorry his father was already.

Literature and book illustra�on that has been enjoyed by mul�ple genera�ons for more than a century truly reflects intrinsic universal quali�es along with the talent of authors and illustrators that allow us to recognize their work as classic.

Victoria Chick is the founder of the Cow Trail Art Studio in southwest New Mexico. She received a B.A. in Art from the University of Missouri at Kansas City and was awarded an M.F.A. in Pain�ng from Kent State University in Ohio. Visit her website at h�ps://victoriachick.com/

Sir John Tenniel

ARTIST TED DEGRAZIA’S CULTURAL TIES WITH THE PEOPLE OF MEXICO & THE SOUTHWEST

From Diego Rivera and Jose Orozco to Padre Kino, Cabeza de Vaca, and the Yaqui and Tohono 'O’odham, this episode of Big Blend Radio features Lance Laber, Execu�ve Director of DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, who talks about the cultural connec�ons that ar�st Ted DeGrazia had with the people of Mexico and the Desert Southwest USA. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. Opened in 1965, it is home to over 15,000 originals of Ted DeGrazia art pieces including oil pain�ngs, watercolors, ceramics and sculptures.

There are six permanent collec�ons on display and several rota�ng exhibi�ons each year. Current Ted DeGrazia Exhibits on display un�l Jan. 24, 2024, include “DeGrazia’s Beggars,” “Scenes from the Revolu�on,” and “DeGrazia in Black & White.”

Plan Your Visit: h�p://www.degrazia.org/

This Big Blend Radio "Tales of Ted DeGrazia" podcast airs every 4th Sunday. Follow the show here: h�ps://shows.acast.com/ar�st-ted-degrazia

Four Fabulous Fall Reads from Crime & Mystery to Mul�ethnicity & Poli�cs…

GINGER PINHOLSTER: SNAKES OF ST. AUGUSTINE

Award-winning Florida author Ginger Pinholster discusses her new novel ”Snakes of St. Augus�ne” (Regal House). This wild story keeps the pages turning with stolen snakes and a missing person that set off a chain of events ranging from thrilling to roman�c to deeply poignant. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast

A love story served up with a side of Florida weirdness, “Snakes of “St. Augus�ne” centers around unforge�able characters that will remain in your heart long a�er the final page.

More: h�ps://www.gingerpinholster.com/

George Franklin is a man who has worn many hats – lawyer, lobbyist, businessman, candidate, speaker, and author. His latest work of poli�cal fic�on, “A Feeding Frenzy in Washington,” draws from his career experiences to offer a hilarious take on Congress today. It's a rollicking tale of Washington lobbying that makes you think twice about our government.

The people and the story are all fic�onal, but there is a vein of truth in how lobbyists and Washington really work. Listen to the conversa�on here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

More: h�ps://www.georgefranklinauthor.com/

LYN SQUIRE: IMMORTALISED TO DEATH

Author Lyn Squire discusses he first novel in his Dunston Burne� mystery trilogy, "Immortalised to Death." Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

Death strikes England’s foremost novelist Charles Dickens, his latest tale only half told. Was he murdered because someone feared a ruinous revela�on? Or was it revenge for some past

misdeed? Set in the Kent countryside and London slums of 1870, Lyn Squire’s “Immortalised to Death” (Level Best Books) reveals the ending to Charles Dickens’s unfinished “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”, while diving deep into Dickens’ evolving and ul�mately tragic double life.

More: h�ps://www.lynsquiremysteries.com/

on Next

Books Con�nued…

MIKE YAM: FRIED RICE & MARINARA

Mike Yam, a sportscaster and studio host for NFL Network and SiriusXM Radio, discusses his new children's book “Fried Rice & Marinara” that celebrates and embraces mul�ethnic backgrounds. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast

Inspired by his experiences growing up with a Chinese immigrant father and an Italian mother, “Fried Rice & Marinara” demonstrates how a mul�cultural iden�ty can give you a unique, crea�ve perspec�ve.

Watch the animated version of the book here: h�ps://�nyurl.com/mr2fey9e

On The Personal, Ecological & Cultural Significance of Seeds

On Big Blend Radio, Jennifer Jewell who is a gardener, garden writer, and gardening educator and advocate, discusses her new book “WHAT WE SOW: On the Personal, Ecological, and Cultural Significance of Seeds." Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

u�lity, for the vast interconnected web we include in the concept of biodiversity and planetary health, for beauty, and for culture.”

Jewell explores:

• Natural history of seeds.

• Loopholes in the seed supply chain for growing “organic” plants.

• How agribusiness has patented genomes of staple foods like corn and soy.

• Efforts of ac�vists working to regain legal access to heirloom seeds that were stolen from Indigenous peoples and people of color.

As we navigate the climate crisis, a sharp decline in biodiversity, financial uncertainty, and social unrest, we must reconsider what humans need most.

One hope can be found in the humblest of forms— the seed. This �ny kernel can have an immense impact, providing us with community, family, clean water and air, and sufficient food.

In WHAT WE SOW Jewell reveals the power of seeds in our world "for food, for medicine, for

As Jewell marvels at the beau�ful, wild seeds she encounters on her daily walks, she shows how, “to know and care for seeds ourselves [is] one of the most proac�ve steps we can take to rebuilding our human food systems, our social systems, and the global ecosystems of biodiversity on which we all depend.” In WHAT WE SOW, Jewell shares personal observa�ons over the course of a year that begins at the autumn equinox, interviews prominent scien�sts and seed-savers, and proves how we must work hard to preserve our future by protec�ng the great natural diversity of seeds.

TRAVEL WRITER TALK

Three Big Blend Radio Conversa�ons on the World of

ELAINE J. MASTERS

This episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writer and author Elaine J. Masters, aka "Trip Well Gal." Elaine Masters’ storyteller’s heart unspools tales from a life dedicated to wanderlust. She backpacked across Sri Lanka just before their Civil War, explored Europe in a broken-down bus before van life was a thing, and traversed Switzerland and Egypt solo.

Along with being the author of the award-winning book, "Drive�me Yoga," Elaine writes about sustainable travel and planetary stewardship for various online magazines as well as her blog: h�ps://www.tripwellgal.com/

Travel, Wri�ng, and more…

From following the Mississippi Blues Trail to Exploring the Bay of Fundy in Canada, enjoy this Big Blend Radio conversa�on with Lisa Evans, freelance travel journalist, photographer, and author of "100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die" (Reedy Press). Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

Lisa has always enjoyed the outdoors and nature,

history, and music, and o�en includes them in her work. These passions, along with her admira�on for beau�ful, poignant photographs, pushes her to author stories and take photos to ins�ll a desire in her readers to explore the world and discover new places.

Follow Lisa's adventures at h�ps://writerlisa.com/

This episode of Big Blend Radio features travel, food, and wine writer Jo Clark. Jo Clark calls South Carolina’s Grand Strand home. A month-long visit to the USSR spurred her love of travel. Her travels include domes�c and interna�onal des�na�ons. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

Jo's ar�cle topics focus mostly on food, wineries, and interes�ng facets of small-town America, especially those off-the-beaten path. An awardwinning photographer, favorite subjects include nature, wildlife, and beau�ful scenes throughout the country.

Follow her adventures on h�p://www.haveglasswilltravel.com/

LISA EVANS

JO CLARK

EXPERIENCETHEGREATNORTHAMERICAN SOLARECLIPSEIN2024

This episode of Big Blend Radio focuses on the Great North American Solar Eclipse that will occur on April 8, 2024. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

FEATURED GUESTS:

- STEVEN FREYSZ, who along with his wife Lisa, owns and runs historic Spencer House Bed & Breakfast in Erie, Pennsylvania, which will be in the path of totality. More: h�ps://spencerhousebandb.com/

- TIFFANY BERTRAM, who along with her husband Bob, owns and runs Tiffany’s B&B near Hot Springs, Arkansas, which is also in the path of totality. More: h�ps://www.�ffanysbedandbreakfast. com/

- EVA ELDRIDGE, writer and editor, who took an epic solar eclipse road trip the last �me the solar eclipse occurred in August 2017. More about Eva: h�ps://evaeldridge.com/

ELAINE MASTERS, travel writer and author, who is going to Mazatlan, Mexico for the Solar Eclipse in 2024. More about Elaine: h�ps://www.tripwellgal.com/ Plus, see Elaine's video from her 2017 eclipse experience in Woodburn, Oregon

A Southern California Getaway

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s Vaca�on Sta�on “Food Wine & Travel Show” with IFWTWA features Wendy Haase, President & CEO of Travel Santa Ana, who shares what visitors can experience in Santa Ana. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

Centrally located in Orange County, Santa Ana is an ideal des�na�on to stay in while experiencing all Southern California has to offer. Here you’ll discover a community rich in culture and pride. An art scene that is a mix of funky and folk. Restaurants serving authen�c flavors of Mexico, along with plant-based recipes. A�rac�ons that are hands-on and those that teach. Shopping for brand names and homemade. And events that celebrate all!

More at: h�ps://www.travelsantaana.com/

Featuring innkeepers Marjorie and Gene Trosterud, this episode of Big Blend Radio's 2nd Thursday "New Mexico Bed & Breakfast Associa�on" Show focuses on historic Sleepy Lobo Inn, a full service Bed & Breakfast in the heart of Albuquerque! Watch here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

From food and fes�vals to museums and mountain hiking, hear all about what you can experience in beau�ful and culturally diverse Albuquerque, while staying at the Inn, which is just steps away from the University of New Mexico and historic Nob Hill, a stone's throw to the Bricklight District, two miles from Albuquerque's Downtown, a block from the free Rapid Ride, and a short 10-minute ride from the Airport.

More: h�ps://www.sleepyloboinn.com/ Stay New Mexico True and Visit: h�ps://www.nmbba.org/

Sleepy Lobo Inn

Inside Sleepy Lobo Inn

From Beards to S�ckers, it's all about Guinness World Records on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Jefferson Highway" Show! Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

FEATURED GUESTS:

- ROGER BELL - President of the Jefferson Highway Associa�on, which originally founded the Jefferson Highway in 1915. This interna�onal highway is also known as "The Pines to the Palms Highway," that runs from Winnipeg, Canada to New Orleans, Louisiana. h�ps://jeffersonhighway.org/

- BETH HILBURN - Owner of the Hi-Way Cafe near Vinita, Oklahoma, which is on the turning point of the Jefferson Highway and Route 66. The restaurant is home to their 1963 AMC American Rambler that's covered with 60,066 unique 1/2ʺ s�ckers and is the current Guinness World Record holder for “Most S�ckers on a Car.”

More: h�ps://hi-waycafe.com/

- DAN BACKER - Great-great-grandson of Hans Langseth, aka the "King of Whiskers," who held the record for the world's longest beard. When he died, his beard measured 17.6 �. It was donated to the Department of Anthropology at the Smithsonian Ins�tu�on in 1967. Watch this historic video showcasing Hans Langseth with his beard: h�ps://youtu.be/4dVuK76dEkE

The Big Blend Radio "Jefferson Highway" Podcast airs every 4th Thursday at 6pm CT. Follow the show here: h�ps://�nyurl.com/yc2ur6mr

HI-Way Cafe

It’s All About Fes�ve Fall Fun in Louisiana’s Oldest City!

This episode of Big Blend Radio's 3rd Tuesday Vaca�on Sta�on "Go to Natchitoches" show features Arlene Gould, Execu�ve Director of the Natchitoches Conven�on & Visitors Bureau, and Halie Errington, organizer of the TappedTober event held on October 7, and hosted by the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center Founda�on. Hear about the upcoming TappedTober Event, Dark Woods Haunted Adventure Park, St. Augus�ne Creole Fes�val, Melrose Planta�on Fall Fes�val, Annual Pumpkin Glow, and more.

Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

Founded in 1714, Natchitoches is the original French Colony and oldest city in Louisiana. Celebra�ng a vibrant blend of French, Spanish, African, Na�ve American, and Creole cultures, this

charming city is part of the Cane River Na�onal Heritage Area and Louisiana’s No Man’s Land. Plan your Natchitoches adventure and get up-to-date event info at h�ps://natchitoches.com/

Follow Big Blend Radio's "Go to Natchitoches" show here: h�ps://�nyurl.com/yc8csn8b

This episode of Big Blend Radio's Vaca�on Sta�on "Food, Wine & Travel" Show with IFWTWA features Taryn Scher who gives an overview of what visitors can experience in Greenville, South Carolina, including during the fall and winter holiday season. Listen here in the YouTube player or download the podcast on Acast.

Plan your visit at h�ps://www.visitgreenvillesc.com/

From delicious food and drink to a charming Main Street, a bustling art scene, bike-friendly a�tude, picturesque parks, fun-filled fes�vals, and sweet Southern hospitality, experience what turned "America’s Friendliest City" into one of America’s ho�est des�na�ons and one of The New York Times' "52 Places to Go in 2023". Yeah, that Greenville!

Story and Photos by Steve & Karen Wilson, aka “Mr & Mrs Wild”

New River Gorge Na�onal Park

New River Gorge Na�onal

WEST VIRGINIA

New River Gorge Na�onal Park

The New River Gorge was given protec�on as a na�onal river in 1978 but was designated the New River Gorge Na�onal Park and Preserve in 2020. The park stretches over 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles of the New River from Bluestone Dam to Hawk's Nest Lake. The New River is among the oldest rivers on the planet. It is a rugged, whitewater river flowing north through deep canyons and has carved the deepest and longest river gorge in the Appalachian Mountains.

Fun fact: New River Gorge Na�onal Park and Preserve is the newest na�onal park and is the 63rd official park managed by the Na�onal Park Service.

Canyon Rim Visitor Center and Overlook – As one of the most photographed a�rac�ons in West Virginia, one of our must-do stops was at the Canyon Rim Overlook. A fairly easy quarter mile out and back from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center parking lot. The trail is easily accessible to the first overlook and a couple hundred steps to the lower overlook. The view of the bridge and gorge is not disappoin�ng.

A short jaunt down the road and you will arrive at Canyon Rim Gi�s. It's a large shop and a great place to pick up souvenirs, hand-dipped ice cream, or homemade fudge. The great selec�on of fudge and ice cream made it difficult to decide what to choose but, in the end, we opted for ice cream on a warm day.

Con�nued on Next Page…

New River Gorge Na�onal Park

Na�onal Park

Steve & Karen Wilson, and Sarah Edwards on Big Blend Radio: Listen here in the YouTube Player or download the podcast on Acast.

Canyon Rim Gi�s

Hiking Long Point Trail - This is an out-and-back 3mile hike that rewards you with some of the best views of the New River Gorge Bridge and the river below. I would rate this trail as an easy trail for most hikers and it takes approximately 2 hours at a relaxed pace. The beginning of the trail offered some pre�y wildflowers and a wildlife viewing pla�orm overlooking a large field. There were a few goldenrod blooms in this first sec�on of the hike but the fields of them in early Fall must be spectacular. The trail from that point is mostly shaded and passes through rich forest with diverse flowers and plants. There will be a rhododendron tunnel which must be beau�ful when in full bloom in June. The last sec�on of the trail will be a li�le steep but s�ll easy to manage. Keep in mind, this is one of the more popular trails so plan to arrive early in order to get a parking spot and be pa�ent to get your photo with the bridge in the background.

Hiking Endless Wall Trail - This is a 2.4-mile moderate hike that takes you through a hemlock forest, across a creek, and along the cliff edge. I would rate this trail as easy for most hikers and it will take approximately 1 1/2 hours at a relaxed pace. This trail can be taken as a loop, but also as out and back, to and from the overlook. About a mile from the parking area, there will be a wellmarked short trail that leads to Diamond Point Overlook.

Here is where you will find amazing views of the sandstone cliffs and where the gorge drops about 900 feet to the New River.

This is a great viewpoint to watch the whitewater ra�s bouncing through the river and rock climbers scaling the cliffs. This trail is another very popular trail so plan to start early to avoid the crowds.

I enjoyed both hikes for different reasons but if I had to choose just one, I would probably opt for the Long Point Trail.

Long Point Trail

Road trip Con�nued…

Concho Overlook

There were some pre�y wildflowers at the start of the hike, a lush forest, and then the rock outcropping with views of New River Gorge Bridge. As a nature lover, this trail offered more rewards to see, at least in the summer season.

Thurmond (ghost town) – I knew the ghost town of Thurmond was a place we had to visit even though the majority of our �me would be spent in the northern part of the New River Gorge Na�onal Park. A�er all, this is the only na�onal park to have a ghost town as part of the park.

The town remains untouched by modern development and is listed on the Na�onal Register of Historic Places. In the early 1900s, it was a booming town with huge amounts of coal moving through from the mines in the area. Fi�een passenger trains a day came through town and the depot served as many as 75,000 passengers a year.

Fun fact: Thurmond has the smallest popula�on in the state of West Virginia. According to 2020 census data, the popula�on of Thurmond is only five people. 80% of the town is owned by the Na�onal Park Service.

Cathedral Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in West Virginia. Located just outside of New River Gorge Na�onal Park & Preserve in the town of Gauley Bridge, this 60-foot natural beauty drops over a rocky ledge of sandstone and shale. It is easily accessed and viewed from the small parking lot right off the road. There is also a paved path to a bridge and a short dirt trail that leads you closer to the falls.

Fun fact: West Virginia has an official Waterfall Trail. You can download the mobile Waterfall Trail Passport and check in at waterfalls on the list to earn prizes.

Concho Overlook - From the first �me I saw a photo of the Concho Overlook, I immediately fell in

love with the unique view. This overlook is simply awesome as it gives a panoramic view of the horseshoe bend of the New River.

The historic town of Thurmond is below and surrounded by green, lush mountains and rail tracks. It is one of the best viewpoints of the New River Gorge. This overlook is owned and maintained by ACE Adventure Resort in Oak Hill, West Virginia but it is open to the public. We recommend checking out this overlook before or a�er visi�ng the town of Thurmond. We were fortunate to share this special spot with only a family of deer. We watched birds fly over the gorge, listening to the rushing water of the river, and the occasional horn of a train echoing as it goes around the mountain. This overlook provided us with the beauty of nature and moments of peace and relaxa�on that together we will cherish.

The Overlook trail provided a nice walk in the woods with some pre�y wildflowers but not as exci�ng as the overlook itself.

Hawks Nest State Park

This park provides a scenic bird’s eye view of the rugged New River Gorge Na�onal Park below in the heart of whitewater ra�ing country. This State Park is a 270-acre recrea�onal area with hiking trails and one of the most challenging whitewater ra�ing runs in the U.S.

Cathedral Falls

Thurmond

There is also a nature museum, aerial tramway (currently closed in 2023 for renova�on), and jetboat rides. Unfortunately, we did not have �me to explore this park more than the overlook but definitely plan to come back for the excitement of the jet boat tour, aerial tram, and hiking.

Fun fact: Hawks Nest State Park gets its name from the hawks that ride the thermals between the high cliffs.

Babcock State Park (Glade Creek grist mill)

As avid shu�erbugs and a�er seeing many photos of this grist mill, the Glade Creek grist mill was on our must-see list. We just had to photograph this

weather-beaten mill set on a mountain stream.Hundreds of mills once do�ed the landscape in West Virginia. The highlight of Babcock State Park is the Glade Creek Grist Mill, the most photographed mill in the United States. Not only picturesque, but it is s�ll also a real working mill. You can tour the mill and learn about the process that grinds corn into cornmeal.

Built in 1976, the Glade Creek Grist Mill is a replica of the original Cooper’s Mill that was located nearby. Recrea�on at this state park includes hiking trails, fishing, and boa�ng.

Cathedral Cafe

Babcock State Park

Babcock State Park

Road trip Con�nued…

Fun fact: The “Almost Heaven” swing at Babcock State Park is one of nine swings throughout West Virginia that are photo-worthy spots with the best scenic views in the state.

New River Gorge Bridge Walk

Adver�sed as the "walk of your life," it sure did not disappoint. The guided tour lasted approximately 2 hours as we walked 3,030 feet from one end of the bridge to the other on the catwalk 25 feet beneath the bridge.

We are "Mr and Mrs Wild" for these types of exhilara�ng adventures, so of course, afraid of heights and all, we knew that this was another must-do. We were securely fastened on a safety cable before the walk started. Our guide provided us with interes�ng facts and history about the bridge.

I must say my favorite parts of the tour comes down to two things. First, the shaking you feel from the traffic above made it creepy, yet exci�ng. The adrenaline was definitely pumping as we were looking down 876 feet below at the breathtaking gorge and whitewater. Second, the opportunity to sit on the catwalk and hang your feet over the edge. I wasn't sure if I could do it, but we are both always up to a challenge and facing our fears.

Si�ng on the catwalk intensified the vibra�ons of the bridge and made it a bit more unnerving. However, it made for even more of an adrenaline rush and a fun and unique photo opp. We highly recommend making the �me to take this tour for a different perspec�ve of the bridge and gorge while enjoying a new sense of adventure.

Fun fact: The New River Gorge Bridge is the longest single-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. It is also the second-tallest bridge in the United States.

Eat & Drink

Our favorite place to eat was Cathedral Cafe. This quaint, turn-of-the-century church is nowacool li�le artsy cafe. It is located in the heart of the historic town of Faye�eville, West Virginia, and is a local favorite for breakfast and lunch, coffee, and espresso.

The food was incredible, and the se�ng of cathedral ceilings and beau�ful stained-glass windows added to the charm and ambiance. Cathedral Cafe offers homemade foods that are sourced locally and responsibly.

I had a delicious bacon, egg, and cheddar Asiago bagel while Mr Wild had a carnivore fri�ata. They serve breakfast, and lunch and have a full bar.

7 Dogs Brewpub

7 Dogs Brewpub

Free Folk Brewery

Road trip Con�nued…

Free-spirited beer for free-spirited people is the perfect way to wind down a�er a full day of outdoor adventures. With 9 beers on dra� and a varied menu with something for everyone, we visited Free Folk Brewery. Drink Freely is the mo�o here and it is a taproom with lively artwork and murals, an outdoor beer garden with fire pits, and an outdoor stage with live music. We were lucky enough to spend a li�le �me talking with Sarah Edwards, co-owner of Free Folk Brewery, over a couple of their delicious beers, the Haller Blackberry Sour for me and the Moon Dog Blonde Ale for Mr Wild. Although Free Folk Brewery has only been opera�ng for a few years, they have a great place with great beers, great food, and great people.

They have a newly opened Brewhouse and Tas�ng Room that is their produc�on facility complete with a full tas�ng room, 8 beers on tap, and a permanent BBQ food truck. We look forward to returning to check out this loca�on and take a brewery tour once they are available later this year.

Fun fact: Why is West Virginia called Almost Heaven? The words are taken from John Denver's famous song, "Take Me Home Country Roads" which has been an unofficial West Virginia anthem since 1971.

a�er the rescues the owners have adopted. We absolutely loved the story and dog theme, so we had to stop in for a bite and a beer. The food pairs well with their beer choices and the biergarten is the perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors with your fur babies. They even have a pup menu, so our boys were lucky enough to share a burger pa�y made just for them. My fish tacos were delicious and Steve’s bacon burger was good as well.

Grayson Highlands State Park - Our goal at Grayson Highlands was to see the wild ponies. From the

Free Folk Brewery

Wild Ponies

�me I read about the ponies, this park has been on my radar. Star�ng at Massie Gap, we chose to take the Rhododendron Trail to Wilburn Ridge in hopes of finding some wild ponies.

A�er a couple of miles up to the ridge with some detours to rock outcroppings and views of the “balds,” we, unfortunately, did not find any ponies up there. It was such a picturesque spot, but we were not lucky enough to get the money shot of a pony grazing the highlands. We took a por�on of the Appalachian Trail back down the ridge figuring we would at least get a be�er hike if we did not come upon any ponies. Just as we were ge�ng closer to finishing up our five-mile search, we happened across a pony. This four-foot-tall beauty was grazing in front of a field of wildflowers, and it was magical to share a few minutes watching him.

Coming down the mountain, we drove along the Virginia Creeper Trail. This trail starts in Abingdon, VA, and ends near the NC border 33 miles later. It is a very popular trail with mountain bikers too.

The Damascus Brewery is a short distance down the road from Grayson Highlands State Park. Great local spot to cool off with a beer a�er hiking in the park. I had the Honey Mango Sour which was an easy-drinking, subtly tart and fruit sour. Steve had the Sweet Beaver Apricot Hefeweizen which was excellent!

THE HOME STRETCH

The last day we hit the road back towards Asheville. We decided to make a li�le stop in the town of Bristol, VA/TN.

This town straddles the VA - TN line and is a nice place to stop for lunch or just stroll around the li�le downtown area. We made a stop at Michael Waltrip’s Brewing Co. You might think that this place would be your typical tourist trap. Not so. They brew their own beers, and the inside is not gaudy or cheesy at all. The beers are very good and so is the food. We stayed on their outdoor pa�o which is nice and spacious. A�erward, we headed

downtown and took the boys for a walk. Of course, we did take the typical tourist picture of us straddling the state line. How can you not?

A�er we got our fill of Bristol, it was back to the road and home to Asheville. If you get the chance to take this road trip, do it!

Steve and Karen Wilson, aka “Mr & Mrs Wild of Asheville,” own and run The Lion and the Rose Bed & Breakfast, a stunning pink lady Victorian Mansion in the heart of the Mon�ord Historic District, known for its over 600 historic homes. This 1898 residence is in a quiet residen�al neighborhood within walking distance to Asheville and its many a�rac�ons. The Blue Ridge Parkway and Biltmore Estate are just minutes away. Plus, on your arrival, you are invited to enjoy a glass of Steve’s popular homemade cra� brew, and to meet the inn mascots, Shih Tzu pups Ozzy and Oreo! Steve & Karen also cohost Big Blend Radio’s 1st Tuesday “Adventures in Asheville” Podcast.

Bristol

Damascus Brewery Free Folk Brewery