islandman

Jerk Center

2012-01-17T18:00:00.000-08:00

For good Jamaican food in Tarpon Springs try the Jerk Center...

...simple, good tasty food from the old country.

http://www.site.thejerkcenter.biz/Home_Page.html

Morean Arts Center

2012-01-16T09:38:00.000-08:00

Morean Arts Center in St Petersburg has galleries, classes and studios

that can be used by the public in addition to a glass blowing studio.

http://www.moreanartscenter.org/

Crislip Arcade

2012-01-14T15:52:00.000-08:00

During a recent trip to St Petersburg I came upon this innovative collection

of studios and shops in a re-purposed urban building

that had been sitting idle. Very nice light and airy central arcade...

http://www.83degreesmedia.com/features/crislip052510.aspx

Bullington Center

2011-12-16T18:31:00.000-08:00

The Bullington Center in Hendersonville recently had an open

house featuring their amaryllis sale, Christmas crafts...and...goodies.

This education center was very enjoyable in the winter

and deserves many more visits in the other seasons.

http://www.bullingtoncenter.org/

Dripolator Coffee Shop

2011-11-19T19:51:00.000-08:00

Great coffee shop in Black Mountain..

good coffee, food and atmosphere.

http://www.dripolator.com/

Town Hardware & General Store

2011-11-15T19:08:00.000-08:00

Entering Town Hardware is like taking a step back in time to

old toys, games, cookware and tools. You are

sure to find something you need ... or want.

http://www.townhardware.com/Default.aspx?tabid=111

Carl Sandburg Home

2011-10-31T19:12:00.000-07:00

THE MIST

I AM the mist, the impalpable mist
Back of the thing you seek.

My arms are long,

Long as the reach of time and space.

Some toil and toil, believing,

Looking now and again on my face,

Catching a vital, olden glory.

But no one passes me,

I tangle and snare them all.

I am the cause of the Sphinx,

The voiceless, baffled, patient Sphinx.

I was at the first of things,

I will be at the last.

I am the primal mist

And no man passes me;

My long impalpable arms

Bar them all.

Carl Sandburg

http://www.nps.gov/carl/index.htm

Drum Circle Redux

2011-10-20T19:05:00.000-07:00

Always popular..Drum Circle..Asheville on Friday night..

........the beat goes on....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e3fyeCQxnA8

Chikoro Marimba Band

2011-10-17T18:40:00.000-07:00

A recent Friday evening in Asheville....Art Walk at the galleries..

and a performance by Chikoro Marimba Band...

a typical evening in this mountain city.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=so481XPj5R8

West Asheville House

2011-09-26T18:02:00.000-07:00

Lots are at a premium in Asheville and this neighborhood utilizes

steep lots for several houses overlooking the River Arts District

in West Asheville.

A close up view of the steel support "foundation"

showing the heat pump on a pad and the sewer

line to the street below the driveway.

West Asheville Garden Stroll 2011 (Part 2)

2011-09-17T17:55:00.000-07:00

This garden was replete with plants and sculptures...

Another interesting sculpture in the same garden.

This garden was not open for the tour but looked interesting...

West Asheville Garden Stroll 2011 (Part 1)

2011-09-13T17:43:00.000-07:00

The third annual West Asheville Garden Stroll was held on September 10th

with perfect fall weather and happy crowds. This year the

gardens were concentrated in two areas and very walkable.

The Sunny Point Cafe was a good starting point on the tour with

vegetables for their patrons, cold lime-lemonade for the strollers, and clean restrooms.

http://www.sunnypointcafe.com/

This garden is concentrated in the front yard - no lawn - and the fence

and entrance gate design is excellent. Pine needles are used

for the pathway which meanders around the house.

Close-up of the entrance gate showing the path and porch.

Sister J SpiritVoice was spreading the word on

bees and her work. See http://thehoneybeeproject.com/

Elizabeth Leigh Inn

2011-09-05T14:59:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth Leigh Inn, a very nice B & B in Hendersonville, NC.

http://elizabethleighinn.com/

Urban Art

2011-08-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

Interesting wall mural on dance in an Asheville alley...

Old Europe

2011-08-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

Old Europe is a European style bakery in Asheville that

is small in size but large in delicious pastry and deserts.

Check it out http://www.oldeuropepastries.com/Home_Page.html

There is something here for everyone - rum balls, tiramisu,

creme brule, carrot cake, ........

River Arts District Studios

2011-08-11T17:41:00.000-07:00

The River Arts District recently added more studios adjacent

to some new mixed use development.

http://www.riverartsdistrict.com/blog/2011/3/10/clingman-avenue-make-over.html

Holmes Educational State Forest

2011-07-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

Holmes Educational State Forest is located just outside Hendersonville

on Crab Creek Road and features several trails of

varying length and difficulty. http://www.ncesf.org/HESF/home.htm

Mountain Pie Company

2011-07-10T10:48:00.000-07:00

Mountain Pie Company in Hendersonville, NC is a great place for

breakfast - whether it be pancakes, waffles, a muffin or..a piece of pie.

This bakery has 20 pie selections in meringue, whipped cream,

crumb, lattice or double crust in four different sizes.

http://www.mountainpiecompany.com/

In addition to indoor seating you can take in

the view of the mountains from the rear deck while

you enjoy the great food.

Feed and Seed

2011-06-10T21:01:00.000-07:00

Feed and Seed is a family-friendly establishment that offers

bluegrass and gospel music that is down home in a comfortable atmosphere.

Seating incudes folding chairs and pews. This is a church

gathering on Sunday morning and music venue on Friday and Saturday

evening. Great place. http://www.feedandseednc.com/about.htm

A recent performance of Appalacian Song on a Friday evening

at Feed and Seed. http://www.graybeardgraphics.com/appbio.htm

Raulston Arboretum

2011-05-29T21:03:00.000-07:00

Located in Raleigh, NC the J.C. Raulston Arboretum is part of the

Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University and

a great way to spend an hour or two experiencing

plants in their varied gardens. This picture was taken on

the rooftop garden above the education center.

http://www.ncsu.edu/jcraulstonarboretum/about/about.html

The walkway below the rooftop garden leading to the

entry to the education center.

Part of the Japanese garden...very peaceful.

Saluda Arts Festival

2011-05-22T12:57:00.000-07:00

The annual Saluda Arts Festival was celebrated yesterday in...Saluda, NC.

The weather was warm, the artists were all there and there was music

and food. I am always amazed at the different places that

these artists hail from. There was a sculptor from France (now

living in NC), woodcarver from SC, and local

Saluda artists. Even met a couple from Nebraska!

http://www.saluda.com/events.html

This artist casts concrete using large leaves as the mold.

Makes a rather interesting bird bath.

NCSU Solar House

2011-05-20T19:45:00.000-07:00

The North Carolina State University Solar House was constructed almost

30 years ago and is located on the NCSU campus in Raleigh, NC.

The house incorporates both passive and active solar design including

a central sunspace, trombe walls and a solar hot water system.

The house serves as an educational tool for students, professionals

and the community. http://www.ncsc.ncsu.edu/solar_house_design.php

Bouchon Bistro

2011-04-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

Bouchon Bistro is one restaurant in Asheville that is on my list of

"favourite restaurants that I have not sampled yet." The

fare is billed as comfort food and the menu looks great! When

they are open for business the french doors/windows are

open and the diners are eating right at the window

engaged with the street crowd.

http://www.ashevillebouchon.com/

An outdoor seating area beside Bouchon main

entry shown in the previous photo.

Through the Window

2011-04-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

Taken through the storefront of an outdoor shop -

very wise instruction for the outdoors....

Yes, this one was in a dormitory window - at the

University of North Carolina Asheville.

Boca Restaurant

2011-04-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

Boca Restaurant is located on North Lexington Avenue in Asheville

and serves "tex-mex" fare in interior and outdoor dining rooms. A perusal

of their menu makes my mouth water. Check it out http://bocaasheville.com/

The outdoor dining area features an interesting wall

with the element of water...

Blue Ridge Parkway

2011-03-28T19:16:00.000-07:00

The Blue Ridge Parkway connects the Great Smoky Mountains National

Park in North Carolina with the Shenandoah National Park 469 miles

away in Virginia. The parkway was begun in 1935, completed

in 1983 and has a maximum speed limit of 45 mph. This

picture was taken near Craggy Gardens, about 30 minutes

from Asheville. http://www.blueridgeparkway.org/index.php

Rustic Carport

2011-03-23T18:27:00.000-07:00

This carport has a natural look with its posts fashioned from tree trunks.

Interestingly, the natural look does not extend to the roof material

although the floor is very natural...

Embracing Trees

2011-03-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

These two trees appear to be embracing but further study

shows that the wider trunk is supporting the thinner, gangly one.

These trees are in the front yard of an organization caled Open Arms,

a pregnancy counseling service in Hendersonville, NC.

One could also interpret this as the older matron giving

support to the younger wild woman - much like

the place of the strong mother in Jamaican society.

Or, you could take it in another direction and consider

it a rendition of Apollo and Daphne in

Metamorphoses by Ovid.....

Nah!

Wag Pet Boutique

2011-03-21T18:41:00.000-07:00

Downtown Hendersonville has many shops for all tastes and needs.

Wag is a very unique store for dogs and other pets in western

North Carolina. http://wagpetboutique.com/

One of the models for Wag showing

the latest fashion for St Patrick's day.

Gulfport, Florida

2011-03-15T17:38:00.000-07:00

Gulfport is a suburb of St Petersburg, Florida located on Boca Ciega

Bay which is part of the Intracoastal Waterway on the west coast of Florida.

With slightly less than 13, 000 inhabitants ( 12,740 as of 2004 ), it

feels like a small coastal town with a pier, dance hall and a main street

complete with shops, restaurants and bars. It is also home to

some quaint houses/cottages and numerous community activities.

The sort of town that would appeal to someone who is tired of

"big city" life. Check it out here http://gulfportflorida.us/

Poui Tree

2011-03-14T17:23:00.000-07:00

A poui tree in full bloom in St. Petersburg, Florida; also comes

in yellow and white. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tabebuia

Bird of Paradise

2011-03-13T19:22:00.000-07:00

While growing up in Jamaica I was always captivated by this beautiful

flower although I do NOT see its resemblance to a bird. This plant

grows in the front yard of my mother in St Petersburg, Florida.

For more info see http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg106

South Beach Miami

2011-03-12T20:01:00.000-08:00

An interesting parking garage in South Beach, Miami.

Winter Sunset in North Carolina

2011-02-25T08:07:00.000-08:00

Twilight's Last Gleaming

In twilight's last gleaming

The sky slides away

Leaving me here at

The edge of the day

Songs in the sand

Hand on the door

I've been here so often before

In twilight's last gleaming

So smoky and gold

Endless horizons

Glister and glow

I see you in strangers

In light on the sea

In twilight's last gleaming we'll meet

In twilight's last gleaming

At this time of year

Wherever you go to

Whoever you're near

Think of these times

Remember these dreams

And twilight's last gleaming and me

John Foxx Twilight's Last Gleaming

Johns Pass

2011-02-24T16:43:00.000-08:00

Pelicans waiting for the boat at Johns Pass. I assume they have

signed up already... http://www.johnspass.com/

Snell Arcade

2011-02-22T19:32:00.000-08:00

The Snell Arcade, also known as the Rutland Building,

located on Central Avenue at 4th Street is an

example of Mediterranean Revival architecture that

is quite popular in the city. It was listed on the National

http://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM1J86

Mazzaro's Italian Market

2011-02-21T18:36:00.000-08:00

On a recent trip to St Petersburg I visited Mazarro's Italian Market -

a true Italian experience in all things Italian; wine, deli foods,

coffee bar, pastries and a restaurant.

This Italian "samfia man" cart was parked by the entrance.

http://www.mazzarosmarket.com/

Downtown Saint Petersburg

2011-02-18T20:57:00.000-08:00

Downtown Saint Petersburg, Florida has experienced a rebirth with the

construction of condos, sidewalk dining, museums and a vitality that is

missing from other older cities that have left the city center for the burbs.

Very refreshing to see this in Florida. http://www.discoverdowntown.com/

Bier Garden

2011-02-09T19:10:00.000-08:00

Located on Haywood Street in Asheville, the Bier Garden

has an extensive beer selection and good food. Their

sidewalk signage isn't too bad either.

http://www.ashevillebiergarden.com/

Central United Methodist Church

2011-02-03T16:55:00.000-08:00

Central United Methodist Church in Asheville, NC traces its

roots back to 1837. http://www.centralumc.org/

Banana Moon

2011-01-30T16:37:00.000-08:00

An interesting retail store in Hendersonville, NC.

This building is less than 12 feet wide.

River Arts District Studio Tour Encore

2011-01-20T15:20:00.000-08:00

Artwork by Jonas Gerard is an interesting backdrop for these musicians during

the 2010 River Arts District Studio Tour in Asheville, NC. http://www.jonasgerard.com/

Asheville Botanical Gardens

2011-01-13T17:09:00.000-08:00

A small shed beside a trail at the Asheville Botanical Gardens adjacent to the

University of North Carolina Asheville campus. http://www.ashevillebotanicalgardens.org/index.htm

Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration

2011-01-12T20:30:00.000-08:00

An example of Carpenter Gothic architecture, Episcopal Church

of the Transfiguration, in Saluda NC. http://www.transfigurationsaluda.org/

Downtown Living at the Rear

2011-01-11T16:53:00.000-08:00

The "outdoor space" for the living unit in the previous post.

Living Downtown on Main Street

2011-01-10T19:27:00.000-08:00

Second floor living unit on Main Street in Hendersonville, NC.

West First Pizza

2010-12-22T17:47:00.000-08:00

Interesting Pizza Restaurant in downtown Hendersonville, NC

http://www.mountainx.com/dining/2007/042507westfirst

Small House, Hendersonville

2010-12-20T17:00:00.000-08:00

A small house near downtown Hendersonville, NC with a

walkout basement at the rear.

Chimney Rock Cabin

2010-12-10T18:42:00.000-08:00

Small cabin off the beaten path in Chimney Rock, North Carolina.

NC Arboretum

2010-12-04T21:05:00.000-08:00

The North Carolina Arboretum has gardens, trails, educational

exhibits and integration of art throughout the grounds as shown in this gate.

http://www.ncarboretum.org/

Druid Hills Historic District

2010-11-23T19:36:00.000-08:00

An example of Craftsman Bungalow in Druid Hills Historic District

in Hendersonville, NC http://www.hendersonvillehpc.org/districts/druid-hills

Tryon Clock

2010-11-09T19:16:00.000-08:00

Clock on Trade Street in downtown Tryon, NC.

http://www.nc-mountains.org/towns/tryon.php?ref=firstpeaknc.org

Dry Falls, Highlands NC

2010-11-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

Dry Falls is accessible from Hwy 64 near Highlands, NC in

the Cullasaja Gorge of the Nantahala National Forest. The

winding road reminds me of driving in the mountains of Jamaica.

For more pictures see http://www.ncwaterfalls.com/dry1.htm

Nostalgia Courtyard Shops, Saluda

2010-10-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

An interesting smattering of shops that I recently stumbled

upon in Saluda during a lazy Sunday afternoon drive.

http://www.visitnc.com/journeys/articles/small-mountain-towns/2/saluda

St James Episcopal Church

2010-10-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

St James Episcopal Church in Hendersonville, NC has excellent

stonework and an enclosed courtyard.

There is a fenced English garden located beside the chapel.

Carl Sandburg Home

2010-10-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

Abraham Lincoln and his bodyguard were guests at the

Carl Sandburg Home National Historical Site in Flat Rock, NC.

A very good impersonation of President Lincoln.

For more on the Carl Sandburg Home see

http://www.nps.gov/carl/index.htm

Summer Music in Flat Rock

2010-10-06T17:44:00.000-07:00

Peace Out performed on October 2nd at the final concert in Flat Rock.

Their music is an eclectic blend of folk, country, African

and Celtic. It was a great occasion to listen to some

good music and look at the audience - kids,

retirees and young folk.

http://www.flatrockonline.com/flat_rock_events/summer_music_in_flat_rock.htm

Art on Main in Hendersonville

2010-10-04T17:18:00.000-07:00

The Art on Main show took place last weekend

in Hendersonville. This booth featured

the art of Michael Bedoian of Saluda whose

detailed paintings highlight local black bears.

http://www.peacefulcoexistence.net/

Creative Landscapes

2010-09-23T19:01:00.000-07:00

This little building really showcases its business of landscape design.

Regional architecture (sort of), two water features, accessible design,

and of course landscape design.

http://www.creativelandscapesbydrew.com/index.html

Garden Gate and Fence

2010-09-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

An interesting fence and gate at a house in

Hendersonville, NC. Gravel drive, nice plantings,

natural materials and a suggestion of mystery beyond...

The fence at the neighbor's house - gravel drive,

stone wall, plantings and the fence repeated. It all seems

to go together very well.

Mike's On Main Street

2010-09-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

Mike's on Main Street in Hendersonville. NC is a coffee/sandwich

shop that is located in an old pharmacy/soda shop. The prices are

very reasonable and the decor is interesting.

Soda counter with stools, booths and a case with old

pharmacy bottles and containers....

Heavenly Hogs

2010-09-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

An interesting shop in Chimney Rock, NC.

Yep, it's all about bikes...

Lexington Avenue Arts & Fun Festival

2010-09-12T19:15:00.000-07:00

Each year Asheville does a good job with numerous fairs and festivals.

The Lexington Avenue Arts & Fun Festival (LAAF) takes place

on North Lexington Avenue and engages the community with

art, crafts, childrens activities, food and music.

This group was very good with a bohemian/indie/rock genre.

One of the couples dressed for the festival doing

their part to "keep Asheville weird."

Hendersonville Depot

2010-09-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

The historic Hendersonville Depot is located on Maple Street at 7th Avenue

in Hendersonville, NC. The structure was constructed in 1902 and replaced

the first depot which was built in 1879.

The Hendersonville Depot is home to the Apple Valley Model

Railroad Club which features over 1700 feet of track running through

model areas of Hendersonville, Asheville, Canton, Saluda as well

as several other NC towns. For more info see the link http://avmrc.com/

Local Color, Brevard

2010-09-03T18:27:00.000-07:00

Interesting sign for a shop in Brevard, NC.

See more at this link http://www.localcolorshop.com/

Looking Glass Falls

2010-09-01T14:44:00.000-07:00

Looking Glass Falls is located in the Pisgah National Forest

in North Carolina. If you like waterfalls you will NOT be

disappointed as this forest has several.

Looking Glass Falls is easily accessible from the

road and is one of the most popular of the falls in the Park.

For more information see http://www.ncwaterfalls.com/pisgah1.htm

Natural Bridge, Chimney Rock NC

2010-08-22T18:04:00.000-07:00

A very natural bridge spanning the Broad River

in Chimney Rock/Bat Cave. The railings would have

been better if "natural" wood pieces were used...

Fishes in Brevard

2010-08-18T16:44:00.000-07:00

Birds gotta sing, fish gotta climb...

Interesting public art in Brevard, NC.

Brevard Jewelry Store

2010-08-17T19:53:00.000-07:00

Diamond Rush Jewelry in Brevard, NC.

Interesting sidewalk treatment at door sill.

Summer Vegetable Garden

2010-08-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit.

Wisdom is not putting a tomato in a fruit salad.

Flat Rock Shops - Part 3

2010-08-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

Smokestack ornament on the BBQ restaurant.

Flat Rock Shops - Part 2

2010-08-05T16:17:00.000-07:00

Bakery cum restaurant cum gift shop.

Flat Rock Shops - Part 1

2010-08-04T18:16:00.000-07:00

Flat Rock, NC is a small village near Hendersonville

that has several small shops, restaurants and galleries that

are very interesting and unique. These establishments will be

featured over the next few days.

Surf Fishermen

2010-07-28T18:07:00.000-07:00

Interesting sign/sticker on a

building in the Montford Historical District.

Yes, it is a valid website.

Bele Chere 2010

2010-07-26T19:21:00.000-07:00

The Bele Chere festival took place in Asheville this past weekend.

Lots of people, arts and music. This group was very

entertaining and featured local musicians. There were also

some big acts like Toubab Krewe; good vibes...

The ever popular Drum Circle was set up outside the Lexington Avenue Brewery

(Lab) on Lexington Avenue. They had some great chicken/pork

tacos/burritos for $2.00 each - delicious.

Check them out at http://www.lexavebrew.com/

Jammin' in Pritchard Park

2010-07-19T19:16:00.000-07:00

A typical Saturday afternoon in Pritchard Park, Asheville.

This small, urban park is the scene of the Drum Circle

on Friday nights as well as the impromtu

gatherings of music, arts and crafts.

A couple of free spirits gettin' down..

Iron Horse Legacy, Lincoln

2010-07-14T15:39:00.000-07:00

The Iron Horse mural/bas relief in the Haymarket Historical District

is an excellent representation of the westward expansion

of the railroad. This piece was sculpted by Jay Tschetter

of Yankee Hill Brick, fired and then erected on site.

Pack Place Railing

2010-07-12T19:24:00.000-07:00

A very interesting, artistic railing at the new Pack Place Park

in Asheville. I like the way the ball/globe appears to

be escaping the confines of the railing as

the top rail attempts to hold it in check.

Residential Fence Design

2010-06-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

Build me a fence, open and closed.

Wood would be nice, or metal.

Give it a cap; match the roof, maybe..

Step it down the hill nicely.

Be sure to make it interesting and different.

Alright!

Asheville Pizza & Brewing

2010-06-21T21:26:00.000-07:00

Pizza, beer and a movie all together. What more could you want?

And the movie admission is only $3.00 with the food and beverage

delivered to you while watching the movie. Great pizza too.

Check it out here http://ashevillebrewing.com/archived%20old%20site/index.html

Small House

2010-06-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

I recently saw this vehicle in downtown Asheville which is

still under construction. The chap working on it

said that it is a house, albeit a very small one. It could be

used for camping or a a temporary abode by someone

who is able to get by without the trappings of society.

Or it could be used as a small office.

An interior view showing incorporation of recycled

materials on the "porch" and the use of various wood species.

There is a small loft over the small area at the front

that could be used for sleeping. Notice the small space

heater on the right wall.

Montford Houses

2010-06-16T19:32:00.000-07:00

The Montford Area Historical District has many fine examples of

historical architectural styles as well as some new interpretations on

design. This house has Arts and Crafts as well as Asian influences.

I especially like the deep roof overhangs which negate the need

for gutters. Not too sure about the curved wall on the left though.

Totally different design - more contemporary in volume and materials.

The space in front of the vehicle is a home office and the main

entry is to the right of the wood wall.

Wedge Brewing Company

2010-06-13T18:55:00.000-07:00

The River Arts Studios were open this weekend in addition to the food and

drinking establishments in the area. Wedge Brewing Company has an

excellent outdoor drinking/eating location with a "fence"

that is a work of art.

Another view of the drinking patio showing

the sun shade and incorporated parts welded together

to form the enclosing fence.

Kenilworth Neighborhood

2010-06-06T13:04:00.000-07:00

One of many historical residences in the Kenilworth neighborhood

in Asheville. This house uses a lot of stone and relates well to the site.

Garage with apartment above; notice the matching mailbox.

Montford Arts Festival

2010-06-01T16:21:00.000-07:00

Reggae music at the Montford Arts Festival last month

provided by Pure Fiyah Reggae Band.

Good vibes and lots of people were moving to the beat.

One of the hulahoop ladies present doing her thing. Hulahoops are quite popular in Asheville and are custom decorated. The little guy at the extreme right found a hole in the asphalt, filled with water, and had a great time pushing that stroller through it. I tell you, children really know how to have a great time...

Asheville City Market

2010-05-19T16:28:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning, about 11:30 am, not too hot, lots of plants, flowers and veggies..

Some crafts, jewelry and green information..

Grilled rainbow trout samples - ya mon!

Coronado Heights Park

2010-05-11T17:33:00.000-07:00

Coronado Heights Park is located in central Kansas near Lindsburg, a Swedish community on the plains. The park is named after Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, who visited the area in 1541, looking for gold. This structure is known as the Spanish Castle and offers an excellent view of the surrounding countryside. For more information see the following link http://www.kansastravel.org/coronadoheights.htm

Edge Gallery

2010-05-10T15:35:00.000-07:00

Interesting signage for a gallery in Asheville; the letters wrap the corner/edge of the building.

Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center

2010-05-03T15:15:00.000-07:00

Completed in 2008, the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is located at milepost 384 of the 469 mile parkway that stretches from Virginia to the extreme southwest corner of North Carolina. This award winning building showcases the history, construction and attractions of America's most scenic highway. For more information see the following link http://blueridgeparkway75.org/

An interior view of the Center looking towards the main entry.

John Lennon Educational Tour Bus

2010-04-29T17:58:00.000-07:00

The John Lennon Educational Tour Bus was recently in Asheville during one of the many festivals in the city. It has a state of the art recording studio for music and video. Staffed by some 20 somethings who travel the country from coast to coast. They sleep on board; bathroom but no kitchen - they eat out at restaurants. For more info see http://www.lennonbus.org/about_the_bus

A view of the interior of the bus showing some of the recording equipment.

Chicken Hill Residence

2010-04-28T18:48:00.000-07:00

This residence is located in the Chicken Hill neighborhood which is adjacent to the River Arts District in Asheville. The exterior finish is called pebbledash - stucco featuring exposed aggregate. The roof is metal, adding to the sustainability of the architecture. To the right of the picture is a vegetable garden and if you look carefully you can see some chickens near the bottom left of the picture. Overall a rather interesting house with a dose of whimsy. For more info on the area see http://www.chickenhillnc.com/about.htm

Thyme in the Garden

2010-04-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

Today's temperature was in the 70's (F), sunny with a slight breeze and no rain in the near forecast. A perfect afternoon for a Sunday drive outside Asheville - just outside - to Woodfin and a visit to a very interesting garden and gift shop.

Interesting items for the home, lots of plants, a babbling brook and some chickens out back.

I will be back. For more info check out the link http://thymeinthegardenasheville.blogspot.com/

Lots of plants and containers of all sizes.

Earth Day 2010

2010-04-19T18:42:00.000-07:00

Earth Day was celebrated early in Asheville last Saturday - the official day is April 22nd.

The faithful gathered at Martin Luther King Jr Park and took part in music, food, beer and enjoyment.

A nice clear day with a hint of whimsy in the air. Hempcrete, solar panels, natural food....

Hula hoops were a big hit with all ages.

Something about the folks in Asheville....

Gothic Birdhouse

2010-04-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

As is the garden such is the gardener,

A man's nature runs either to herbs or to weeds.

Francis Bacon

The School of Athens

2010-04-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

The School of Athens was painted by the Italian Renaissance artist Raphael between 1510 and 1511 in the Apolostic Palace in the Vatican. This recreation is in the Cafe of the student union at the University of North Carolina in Asheville. Under the leadership of S. Tucker Cooke, retired UNCA art professor, students, faculty, alumni and community artists spent over 18 months and 15,000 hours to recreate this masterpiece on 60 separate canvases. In true artistic license two English bulldogs were added to the lower left corner of the mural as a tribute to Rocky, UNCA's mascot.

A close up of the mural - each 4 foot square panel was painted by a different artist.

Public Service Building

2010-04-06T16:47:00.000-07:00

The Public Service Building, constructed in 1929 just before the Stock Market crash, has a beautiful terra-cotta exterior in a neo-Spanish Romanesque design.

The stone and tile work at the top of the building is very

intricate and exceptional.

Kanuga Cottages

2010-04-03T21:04:00.000-07:00

I recently came across these cottages in Hendersonville, NC in an area of town known as the Kanuga Cottage district. These cottages have been painted in bright colors (inside and outside) and house a bookstore and a specialty fashion shop.

A painted car with part of a painted lady in the back seat.

Beaver Lake Path

2010-04-02T13:41:00.000-07:00

I stood upon a path today,

and realized that the fork

I followed led away

from hearth and comfort.

I strode on into chaos.

seeking for adventure,

swept up in currents

of destruction and despair.

I struggled forward

against the howling storm

until—exhausted—I stopped

and realized I was a fool.

I stayed my course no more,

turning back, and hurried home

to you—sped onward by

remembrance and dreams of warmth.

The Path

Rie Sheridan Rose

Grove Arcade

2010-04-01T18:33:00.000-07:00

The Grove Arcade was once owned by the federal government but has been reborn as a multiuse building with retail, restaurants, offices and apartments. See the link for more http://www.grovearcade.com/

Classic Lotus

2010-03-30T17:50:00.000-07:00

On a recent walk around Beaver Lake I saw this classic Lotus racer parked in the lot. A nice piece of work,

totally selfish but nice...

Very simple controls and dials but does the job well. Notice that the steering wheel is on the right for British drivers.