The Door to Peace

IMG_3350, originally uploaded by cinda marie.

In memory of 9/11, I'm posting this decay picture taken in Bisbee, Arizona. One symbol says it all "Let there be Peace". How can we accomplish it? We can all work together to make peace in our families, among our friends and co-workers. Just allow it to happen, overlooking the small stuff....and go into the Door of Peace. We have to start somewhere and why not in our own personal environment?

I would like to make a tribute and honor those brave souls on Flight 93. If they had not taken the leap of faith, the attacks would have been even more of a disaster with many more fatalities. I can't even imagine what was going through their minds in the final moments. Selfless acts like this is what makes America so great. Thank you passengers of flight 93. My hat goes off to you today!

Peace be with you!

Two Harbors Lighthouse, Minnesota 2008

Two Harbors, Minnesota 2008, originally uploaded by cinda marie.

Two Harbors Lighthouse was a pleasant surprise, nestled on the harbor of Lake Superior. Mining ships would load up and take the ore to the steel factories. There is a great deal of history in this area, several interesting sites. You can actually stay at the Bed and Breakfast in this lighthouse for a unique experience. A museum located at the lighthouse that talks about the history of the area and the house is filled with decor that shows us what the lighthouse keepers home might look like in yesteryear.

Just a few blocks from here there is a Train Depot that has been rebuilt with several steam engine trains and a museum. Back in the day; trains were an important means of transportation and on this trip I have noticed that trains are being used more than in the past decade due to high gas prices.

Near by is Gooseberry Falls State Park with a great water falls and a nature walk. Then there is Split Rock Lighthouse the ultimate in lighthouses, peeking over the ridge over looking Lake Superior., just a few miles down the road.

I felt as though I had stepped back in time when I took this picture. The two chairs sitting out in the front. I could just imagine overlooking Lake Superior waiting for the ships to come in.

Black Hills 1880 Train Ride 2008

Black Hills 1880 Train Ride 2008, originally uploaded by cinda marie.

This steam engine train would take supplies to the mining camp back in the 1880s. On our trip to the Mount Rushmore area, we took a ride on this 1880 Black Hills Train; it's starting point was Keystone, Wyoming to Hill City at a 10 mile per hour rate of speed. This ride was a step back in time, along the train route you would see the old mining camp, nature at it's best, abundant wildlife and unspoiled artifacts. The viewing from the train was great for taking several pictures. There was a nice stop for lunch in Hill City and back on the return train ride.

This is narrated tour, so you do learn many facts about the area and interesting points along the way. This is an attraction that the kids just love. I have several pictures on Flickr, so please take a peek and enjoy! Cinda Marie

Yellowstone National Park Wyoming 2008

Yellowstone National Park Wyoming 2008, originally uploaded by cinda marie.

Buffalo, leader of the pack...I have my eyes on you!

As we drove on the main road of Yellowstone Park the traffic came to a halt. After a few minutes of trying to figure out exactly what was happening ahead we came across several buffalo slowly walking on the road. Fortunately, they were on the oncoming side of the road because traffic was backed up for miles, as the quietly tromped along. How often can to open your window, reach out and touch a buffalo. Now that doesn't happen every day!

There are real adventures in Yellowstone, not the commercial kind, but the good old fashion kind. Hiking, fishing, boating, camping and cabins for those of us that like that hot shower in the morning.

There are many interesting and beautiful sights here that will take your breath away. I'm in awe at the natural splendor that I found here. It will rock you... To see more flickr picks Google- Cinda Marie Photography.

Mount Rushmore National Monument South Dakota 2008

Mount Rushmore National Monument South Dakota 2008, originally uploaded by cinda marie.

I thought it would be a good idea to bring a little politics into my blog, since the TV is bringing the campaign to us in such a dramatic manner... I wonder if they will add George W. Bush to this great monument? NO. John McCain or better yet Sara Palin, will she be the first woman to be added? I don't think so.... it's Obama that is going to bring us out of the economic mess we are in.. If it's CHANGE you are looking for then put Obama up here. I think that if you take Lincoln and make a few minor changes it might just work. What do you think... can we do it in 60 days?

Seriously, I was moved by the greatness of this Mount Rushmore National Monument. A tribute to our Presidents of past. We are very lucky to live in America, it's almost like winning the lottery to be a part of this great country. Let Freedom ring... Speak your mind, stand up for what you believe in and take the time to vote. Your vote does count!

Several men worked on the piece of art that is a symbol of our freedom. Some even lost their lives blasting out the images on this project so we all may be reminded of how we got to be a nation of greatness and how we must work together to regain our strength.

Grand Teton National Park Wyoming 2008

Grand Teton National Park Wyoming 2008, originally uploaded by cinda marie.

Hey... This picture was taken this past summer when I was on a month long journey to fourteen states and fifty-eight hundred miles. This is Jenny Lake, Wyoming.. breathtaking scenery and wildlife. In this area you would see herds of buffalo and elk just grazing in the grassy hills The snow capped mountains in June, what a treat when you live in Arizona! There were great photo opportunities here! You don't have to wonder why I have over 30 thousand pictures on my MAC.

When I took this picture I could feel the stillness in the crisp misty air, smell the pines and experience the calming of the soul. We don't often take time to appreciate the great beauty of this earth. We all need to slow down and enjoy!

Shamu Shamu 2008

Shamu Shamu 2008, originally uploaded by cinda marie.

The crowd roars Shamu Shamu and they perform. How amazing are these killer whales? They have grace, beauty and personality. They can make that audience come to their feet if you are in the soak zone. The trainers are serious about the soak zone, but how much fun is it to get wet on a hot day? The show would not be the same without it.

There are lots of great pictures to be taken here at Sea World. If you love sea animals, the water and the great out doors it is an educational trip for your family. There are many hands on attractions and special events to bring you closer to these sea creatures. This is well worth the stop to enjoy the near perfect San Diego weather.

I only wish that I could jump this high. Shamu Shamu....