Tuesday, May 28, 2019

Our First 5th Wheel Trip: Maysville, Kentucky Flood Walls and Greenup County Veterans Memorial

There are several towns along the Ohio River that have had murals painted on their flood walls.  We have visited the ones in Portsmouth; but, wanted to see some in other towns.  I had read about a small town on the Kentucky side of the river that had murals which told the history of the town. One afternoon, after visiting Ron's mother, we drove down to the town of Maysville, Kentucky.


One of the first murals has images of Rosemary Clooney on it. Evidently,
she started her career performing at a theater in Maysville.

The rest of the murals told the history of the area beginning with the time it was
a hunting ground for Native Americans. 

The town grew once it westward expansion began. One of the first ferries across the Ohio River was located at Maysville. 

As a result of the ferry, the town grew and many notable historic people traveled through the area.

The town eventually grew into a shipping port, to allow movement of goods. 

Eventually river boats began to transport people up and down the river, stopping in Maysville.

 Not only did the town have flood wall murals, they had several large quilt blocks mounted on the sides of buildings in town. The town itself was quaintly beautiful and very well cared for. Luckily, we were there on a Sunday afternoon and most of the business were closed. What a novelty!! As a result, there were very few people out and about; mostly people walking their dogs or enjoying the beautiful weather. We couldn't have picked a better day to visit.




There was a cute little park near the flood walls. There were people taking senior pictures there so we didn't have a chance to walk around in it. 

We did attempt a selfie beside the park. I'm not good at this type of photography.

One of the best examples of preserving the history of the town, was this building. It was originally a high school; which was turned into condominium style apartments. 

Most of the homes are built side by side, with alleys running behind them. The town was amazingly well cared for. 

This is one of the older homes in the town. I just loved the mosaic on the sides of the home.
The largest buildings in town were the churches! I neglected to take notes about which denominations they were, but they were all beautiful.




The is the theater shown in the mural. It is currently under renovation and the only performances being held at this time are for fund raising. 


This is a picture of the down town area where most businesses are located. 
 Another quick stop we made was at a memorial located outside the town of Greenup Kentucky. It is in an odd location; along the side of a state highway at the bottom of a hill facing the Ohio River. There is absolutely nothing else in the area so it just seems strange that this memorial is just sort of stuck in the middle of nowhere. Don't get me wrong; it is a really nice little memorial and well maintained. When we stopped, there was a family visiting and they happened to notice that Ron had his retired Army hat on. They graciously thanked him for his service, and politely listened as he told them, "I used to work on a tank just like this one."




The last picture is of a Veteran's Cemetery that was right next to our campground. I hold a special place in my heart for these; especially since Mom and Dad are buried at the one in Killeen, Texas. It is heartwarming to know that our nation appreciates the service of our armed forces.

Our First 5th Wheel Road Trip: Part 3 New River Gorge Bridge National River

Growing up in Ohio, we were accustomed to steel bridges that crossed the Ohio River and other smaller rivers in the area.  It seemed like most country roads had bridges of one size or another at one point.  In the 1970's, my parents started taking our family on Sunday road trips. We drove through state forests and small towns, climbing fire towers and crossing bridges that seemed ancient. Eventually, I got married and stopped going with them each week.  One of the trips they took after I got married was to a bridge over the New River Gorge in West Virginia.  Their experience didn't really mean much to me at the time; but, moving to Texas and seeing what they call rivers and bridges in this state, gave me a new appreciation for the vast power of rivers in the Appalachian area, and the efforts of engineering put into crossing them.

When we planned this trip, I noticed how close our campsite was to the New River Gorge. I figured we had the time and were in the area, so why not plan a day trip. It would only be about a 2 hour drive from Argillite; and it would give us a chance to mark off another National Park/Monument/Site.

I don't have nearly as many pictures as I would have liked. Ron isn't able to see very well; and, having never been the family photographer, he doesn't even think about taking pictures. Since I'm doing all of the driving, by the time I ask him to take a picture of something we see, the site is already passed. Hopefully, he'll be driving again some day.

That being said, here is what I managed to get at roadside stops through the gorge.

The first place we stopped was Kanawha Falls, at a local fishing area. The river flows along US 60 in West Virginia. The falls spread across the width of the river. They are only 15 ft. high, but still quite impressive. 

One of the prettiest towns we drove through was Gauley. I looked up information about the town when we got back to camp and discovered it is known for white water rafting. It is located at the convergence of the Gauley and New River, which forms the mouth of the Kanawha River. 

We drove across the lower section of the New River. In this area, it is still relative narrow and slow moving; with a few rocky area that also provide great white water rafting trips.

As we drove through the gorge, we passed several waterfalls. I hadn't realized there were so many in this area. I read about them at the visitor's center and have tried to remember their names. I believe this one is Laurel Creek Falls. It's a seasonal waterfall and depending upon rainfall amount, it can be between 10 and 25 feet high.

The visitor's center is really small but had nice displays. I actually took several pictures, but
when I looked at them, I realized I had a huge scratch on my camera lens!! Many of my pictures had hazy distortions right in the middle of them and I couldn't use them. The visitor's center told the history of the  gorge, the impact of the coal industry on the surrounding area, and about
how tourism has increased with the interest in white water rafting and rock climbing.

This is a picture of the bridge that spans New River Gorge. Before the bridge was built in 1977, it took people 40 minutes to drive down one side of the gorge, cross the river, and then drive up the other side. After the bridge was built, it only took 1 minute to drive across. The original roads still are used but we decided our truck was just too long and huge to be driving a road with so many switchbacks 
The visitor's center has large, enclosed seating areas that look out over the river. We were there in the spring, so the trees weren't completely leafed out. I don't imagine the view will be as unobstructed once they do. But, there is a walking path that goes out to a hillside deck with excellent observations points to see the actual bridge. 


Coming back down the mountain, into the lower portion of the gorge, gave us a chance to see another waterfall. This one is called Cathedral Falls and is one of the highest and most scenic in West Virginia. It is estimated to be 60 feet tall most of the year. Once again, the size of the fall is dependent upon rainfall and snow melt. There is a parking area and a path that lead back to the falls. It was a relatively easy walk, less than 5 minutes.  Ron was waiting for me at the parking lot so I didn't stay long. It was really peaceful, with the sound of the fall and the birds in the trees. I would have loved to stay longer. 

Another view of Cathedral Falls, from the walking path. 
When we got back to Texas, I told Scott that he really needs to get his fire fighter friends together and take a trip to the area. They would absolutely love the outdoor activities.

Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Our First 5th Wheel Road Trip (part 2 Ark Encounter)

The goal of our very first solo RV road trip was to get to Ohio for a memorial service, and do some sight seeing while we were in the area.  With that goal in mind, our route to and from was planned so that we would stay overnight in KOA campgrounds that had pull through sites. That way, we could remain hitched to the truck and be hooked up to water, sewer, and electric.  The next morning, we could just unhook from utilities, dump tanks, and head on our way.  For the most part, it was a good plan for our first trip. Eventually, we want to be comfortable enough to just start driving and find places to stay when we are ready to stop for the night. That thought still intimidates me a bit! But, we'll get there... right???

Since my previous post was about the memorial service and spending time with family, this post is intended to record some of the experiences we had while visiting in Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia.

Several years ago, I had read an article about an organization that was building a life-sized ark somewhere in Kentucky.  When planning this trip, it was at the top of our must see list.

The ark is located in Williamstown, Kentucky, which is between Cincinnati, Ohio and Louisville, Kentucky  We drove for about 2 1/2 hours from our campsite in Argillite to get to the ark. My cousin, John, had told me you could see it from the road if you knew what you were looking for. Unfortunately, I can't do a lot of "looking" while I drive; and, Ron is almost as blind as a bat so he never saw it either.

Ark Encounter is located right off an interstate so getting to there is really easy. We went on a Monday morning in the early spring so there were no crowds.  The entire facility in simply fascinating; regardless of whether or not you believe in the Bible.  Many, many exhibits have scientific facts to substantiate the events that took place, and prove that what Noah did was NOT impossible by man's standards. I highly encourage anyone who has the opportunity to go, to make the trip.  Nearby, there is a Creation Museum, which Ron and I chose to skip because I didn't know if his knees would handle so much walking.

At the entrance to the ark, there is an attendant that
will take your picture for you! We haven't mastered
selfies.

There are several life-sized topiary animals as you enter the
grounds.

The patina of the wood has started to change due to the weather.
It looks almost silver where the sun hits it.
The interior is still a more natural wood color.


There are no stairs inside the ark. You walk from one
level to another on wide ramps with a slight incline. 
This is one example of the feeding crates.
Small animals would be placed inside the crates. Food and
water were provided through the clay pots and
wooden boxes on the exterior.


Fresh water, oils, and grains were stored in large,
clay pots. There were also cisterns on the top
for collecting rain water.

Many scenes were built throughout the ark
to tell the story from the Bible; and, some
depicted daily life on the ark.

The center of the ark was open to allow light
to travel to each level.  

However, the passage ways were still very dim.
There were electric lights on the walls
built to look like oil lamps.

There is a LOT of reading to do. Most areas had
large diagrams and typed information to read. At first,
I thought it would have been nicer to have small
computer screens and audio to listen to. But,
after being in the ark for a while, listening to the whispered
voices with background music, I realized audio presentations
would have interfered with the reverent atmosphere.

Another shot of the ramps that take you from
one floor to the next.

Another depiction of daily chores that
kept Noah and his family busy each day.

One of the cages that represented where the
animals traveled. One interesting note: the animals
were modeled after fossilized remains that
are believed to have come from the time frame of
the actual flood. Thus, there were many unusual
looking animals that are now extinct.

The builders created separate living areas for each
of Noah's sons' families.

This is a depiction of Noah releasing the dove each
day to see if the waters had receded.
In addition to the displays, there is a theater at the end of each level. The films tell the story of how the developer funded and built the encounter. There are also numerous benches so anyone with mobility issues had plenty of places to rest.

When we left the ark, we discovered that there are several attractions on the grounds. They have a zip line set up on one side. There is also a petting zoo, vendors market, and monument walk. Because we were there during the off season and on a week day, many things weren't open. We did go to the all you can eat, buffet/cafeteria for lunch. The food was absolutely abundant and so good! The price is very reasonable as well. Ron and I ate for less than $30.

There was every salad you could imagine available.
None of it tasted like it was mass produced. It was
all fresh and delicious.

Ron stuck to his meat and potatoes favorites. He
said it was great; but, the man likes Spam so.....

I'm so glad we were able to make it to the Ark Encounter. We would love to take the grands so maybe we will add it to a family road trip itinerary one day.

Our First Road Trip in the 5th Wheel part 1

When looking back at our attempt to become full time RVers, I often think of the phrase, "The best laid plans of mice and men, often go awry." Our original plans were built on the assumption that Ron would be able to drive and I would act as navigator. Unfortunately, his vision has become a major hindrance when it comes to driving safely. Therefore, we were left with the choice of giving up and moving back into a sticks and bricks home; or, I would become the driver.
Our first road trip is now history; and, I drove every mile. I won't lie and say it was a breeze, enjoyable, or stress-free. In fact, it was the opposite.  However, throughout the entire trip, I saw God's tender mercies, and guiding hand watching over us. My hope and prayer is that in time, it will become easier, less stressful, and an enjoyable experience.

Our route took us through parts of East Texas, across Arkansas and up into the south-east corner of Missouri.  From there, we drove completely across Kentucky.  We broke the trip into 3 segments, stopping overnight at KOA campgrounds in Hot Springs, Arkansas; Paducah, Kentucky; and our turn around point in Argilite, Kentucky. At each campground, we reserved pull-through sites with full hook-ups. We left the 5th wheel connected at overnight stops; just to eliminate re-hooking and make getting back on the road easier.  For MOST of the trip, the sites were relatively level and easy to get in and out of.  That doesn't mean it wasn't still nerve wracking! Thankfully, Ron gave me a blessing of comfort each morning, and we relied heavily on prayer to keep us aware of our surroundings and guide us on our way.


My navigator, Ron

Our home on wheels at the Paducah KY KOA site.
This campground was so easy to get in and out of; and, it  was
located near a small pond. Unfortunately, it isn't right off the
highway; which made for a slight detour just to get there. 

We knew stopping for fast food and at convenient stores for fuel weren't options because of the size of our rig.  So, we packed picnic lunches for each day's travel and stopped at road side rests along the interstate. To refuel, we used truck stops; which made us realize we needed to adjust our travel time significantly.  Waiting your turn at the diesel pumps with an army of semi trucks eats up the minutes on your travel clock! But, I learned that truck drivers are polite, helpful, and safety minded. It is more expensive to buy diesel at truck stops; but, our Good Sam membership gave us a discount at Pilot truck stops. Now we need to find a way to get a discount at Love's.

While our main purpose for the trip was to attend the memorial service for my mother's sister, Nora Lee, we were able to visit with Ron's family and do some sight seeing. Our trip was early enough in the year that we were able to see so many beautiful wildflowers and spring blooms such as tulips, daffodils, lilacs, and dogwood trees.  For most of the trip we were able to enjoy pleasant temperatures. We did have some incidents of rain; but, prayer helped us through those as well.

Texas wildflowers

dogwood blossom

small lake at our campsite


Nora was buried in South Webster, next to her first husband, Lawrence. In the same area, I found the grave sites for Uncle Bud, Mom's brother; her parents Oscar and Minnie, and a cousin that died of sudden infant death syndrome. There were also many extended Veach relatives buried there. I took pictures of their grave sites; but, there are far too many to add to this post.





Many of my Veach cousins still live in Southern Ohio.  Most of them attended the memorial service and we spent the afternoon at a local restaurant, just catching up with one another.  I believe the last time I saw them was when our grandmother, Minnie, passed away. I can't even remember how many years ago that was; probably close to 30. The faces have changed; we are all gray and wrinkled now. But, the love is still there and as we shared memories, the years seemed to drop away. It was a bittersweet gathering and I am so thankful we made the trip.

Karla, Allison, John, Denise, and her husband, Jim

Jane's husband Doug, Jane, and their son Ethan

Norie's great-grandchildren: Lexie, Logan, and Shelby
with their mother, Raquel

My brother, Bob and our cousin Billie

Bob's son Christopher and his wife Kathy Lee

Ellen, Jane's daughter Emily and her husband, Mary Ann

John, Billie's husband Mike, John's daughter Danielle and his wife Marilyn

My cousins John Wesley and Billie Lee; Norie's
two children. 

During lunch, Allison told me that Grandma Veach's house is for sale. She said it has been on the market for quite a while. She asked if any of the cousins would be interested in buying it. If so, she would be willing to make sure it is taken care of. She thought it would be a great place to have for family that live far away to stay in when they visit. She also mentioned using it as a family reunion location. Those are wonderful ideas; and, if I had enough money just laying around I'd consider it.  However, that just isn't practical for us.  I will always cherish the memories of sleepovers there with my cousins, dressing up in Grandma's vintage clothes collection, and helping grandpa feed his dogs or pick raspberries.  I'll forever be thankful for those special childhood memories and hope to provide my own family with opportunities to create their own cousin memories.