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Put down the loppers and step away from the crepe myrtles. PLEASE! Every season across America’s lawns and landscapes, these beautiful trees are the poor, unsuspecting victims of a "crime" dubbed Crepe Murder .  Although well intended, when the whiff of impending Spring is in the air, excited homeowners severely cut back crepe myrtles thinking they are helping the trees when in actuality, it’s the worst thing to do.  Instead of healthy trees with strong, bloom-filled branches, murdered crepe myrtles are stumpy with weak, dropping branches and large, arthritic-looking knots where repeated cuts have occurred.  Poor trees. They’re just resting all winter in a dormant stage and just when it’s about time to wake up and push out new growth and vibrant, beautiful blooms, they're hacked on with reckless abandon. It’s the gardening version of a horror movie. Mother nature designed crepe myrtles (often spelled crape myrtle outside the Southern regions) to grow in an almost perfect, open “V.” The tree grows up and slightly out with branches like outstretched arms to the sky. The branches are sturdy and easily keep heavy blooms upright.  This natural growth pattern allows air and sunlight to reach all parts of the tree, which helps prevent disease. Like most trees, crepe myrtles are low maintenance. Sure, they need some care, but not extreme pruning.  Why Severe Pruning is Bad for Crepe Myrtles Topping, which is severe pruning to remove the entire top of a tree, is harmful to all trees. Crepe myrtles struggle after topping for the following reasons: • Stresses the trees as they struggle to recover and rebound  • Makes the trees more susceptible to disease • New growth branches are weak, sag and easily break (branches should not drape way over like a weeping willow tree) • Delays blooming and shortens the total blooming time • Unattractive, unnatural looking trees with stumpy trunks and branches with knot clusters where annual cuts have occurred. *Images Left to Right from: N.C. Cooperative Extension Pender County and Henderson County Why Crepe Murder Happens The Crepe Murder crime spree is driven by two basic causes:  1) Misinformed Homeowner Assumption – A.K.A., ‘The neighbors are doing it, so that must be the right thing to do.’ Resist the temptation to follow suit! If your neighbor was topping off their dogwoods, oaks and elms would you do that, too? Nope. There is nothing unique about crepe myrtles versus any other tree that justifies topping. 2) Miscalculated Planting – Too often homeowners and builders plant trees, such as crepe myrtles, in spaces where they look good at the moment, but don’t factor in growth.  Within a few years, the trees have outgrown their space and are too close to a home or building, which causes problems aesthetically and physically (clogs cutters, impacts drainage, promotes structural mold/mildew growth, etc.).  Handling this latter problem actually requires either completely removing trees, digging up the trees and replanting them further from the structure or a drastic measure called reduction pruning. How To Safely Prune a Crepe Myrtle This is not to say crepe myrtles don’t need care. Of course, they do. But, that care is restrained and done in a way to enhance the tree's growth and natural shape. Some basic care tips include: • Prune in late February or early March before flower buds form (buds for the tree's summer blooms form on new spring growth). This is also the best time to easily see the overall shape of the tree since it's bare with no leaves. • Remove suckers from around the base of the tree. Otherwise, these new, baby branches will grow into new trunks. • Remove any low-growing side branches that are 1-3 feet from the ground. These are not main branches that will grow up and out. • Remove any branches that are dead or diseased.  • Selectively remove any branches that are growing inward towards the center of the tree (these can interfere with the growth of other branches) and/or have a strange shape and detract from the tree's overall shape. Damage from a branch allowed to grow across the center of a Crepe Myrtle tree N.C. State University's Cooperative Extension website has more detailed specifics about crepe myrtle care, including helpful pictures. Tips include how to determine what to prune, how to cut branches properly, what to do if a tree has outgrown its space and much more. Cooperative Extension Agents Can Help The USDA’s Cooperative Extension is a network of land-grant universities and colleges across the U.S. that provide resources, research, education and services to the public through county-based extension offices.  These colleges and universities share resources with extension staff who work locally with communities in every state. Can't figure out what’s causing sections of your grass to die? Contact the local extension office in your county for soil testing. Not sure what’s causing spots on the leaves of your favorite ornamental plant? Let a local extension agent check it out.  The expertise of local extension agents runs the gamut so you’ll surely find answers to your questions. Extension resources are ABUNDANT and typically free. To find your local extension office check here for links to extension services in every state. If you have already committed crepe murder, don't fear, there are solutions. Reach out to your local extension agent to find about local resources and advice. Daniel J. Leonard, an extension director with the University of Florida system, offered good advice in this 2018 article. If you need a tree-care expert, read this article for tips on hiring a certified arborist and other tree professionals by Sarah Christas with the N.C. Cooperative Extension. Picking the Right Crepe Myrtle for Your Yard Blooms on a Dwarf Acoma Crepe Myrtle tree If you want to add a crepe myrtle tree to your landscape, be sure to pick the right one for your intended space. The trees can range in height from seven feet to over 30 feet depending on the variety. Some shrub varieties stay between three and five feet. Bloom colors vary as much as the heights with choices such as lavender, red, white, fuchsia and more. Check out this comprehensive list from the Texas A & M extension office of different crepe myrtles, including information on growth patterns and colorful pictures of blooms With a little research, its easy to find the perfect crepe myrtle for a colorful, beautiful and low-maintenance addition to your yard.

Sullivan’s Island, S.C., is a tranquil escape overflowing with history and charm. Just 20 minutes from Charleston, this barrier island is the perfect destination for a relaxing day along the Atlantic coast. Sullivan's Island's iconic lighthouse, also called the "Charleston Light" Sullivan’s Island Background Sullivan’s, as it's typically referred to, was settled in the late 17th century by its namesake Captain Florence O’Sullivan, according town information. Sullivan’s is a beautiful residential beach community. There are no hotels and no overcrowding. Instead, you’ll find beautiful homes, many of which are historic restorations, on large lots surrounded by lush, natural growth.  The island’s beaches feel untouched, as if being discovered for the first time. It’s common to see beautiful, large twisted pieces of driftwood decorating the island’s wide beaches like natural, surfside sculptures. The island’s maritime forest is thick, the dunes are robust and, in the water and across the island, is an abundance of wildlife. Just a few blocks from the ocean is the heart of Sullivan’s - it’s charming downtown with just the right blend of things to do for a few hours on a warm afternoon or evening. Going to the Beach on Sullivan’s Island Sullivan’s beachfront is 3.5 miles. Beach access points are called stations and interspersed among residential homes (some of the streets are named for the beach access point they lead to). Each station (abbreviated as STA) and street name on the island is noted with a concrete pillar that stands a few feet high. Sullivan's beaches are open to the public, so find a place to park near a station and then hit the beach!  One of the most popular sections of the island’s beachfront is between stations 21 and 22 1/2. These stations are also the closest to Sullivan's downtown business district (just a couple of blocks away). It's a short 5-10 minute walk to reach downtown and all of its wonderful places to shop and eat. Interested in more than sunbathing or wading in the water? Then, consider a kitesurfing lesson by Sealand Adventure Sports . This Sullivan’s Island business has lessons for beginners and beyond. Or, rent a cruiser bike from Sealand for peddling along the shoreline. E-bike rentals are also available (must be at least 18 years old). Tips for Visiting • No plastic, styrofoam or glass containers. • No alcohol on beaches, streets or boardwalks. • No public restrooms. • Stay off the dunes and away from sea turtle nesting areas (this includes dogs). • Tents must be 10’ x 10’ or smaller. • ALL dogs, even those belonging to visitors, must have a license issued by Town Hall. Visit here . • Dog waste bags and trash cans at every beach path.  • For more complete list of dos and don’ts, visit here . Parking   • Designated areas (free) along streets.  • Do not block the street or beach paths.  • All tires must be off the pavement.  Beyond the Beaches: What Else to Do on Sullivan’s Island Edgar Allan Poe: Sullivan Island’s Legendary Resident Edgar Allan Poe, a 19th century writer famous for his macabre short stories and poems, including “The Tell-Tale Heart” and “The Raven,” was once a Sullivan’s resident and used the island as the backdrop for his story, “The Gold Bug.”  Poe came to Sullivan’s to serve at Fort Moultrie (more fort info. below) beginning in November 1827, according to online history by the National Park Service (NPS), which owns and operates the fort. While there, Poe was promoted to an artificer and served at the fort until he and a group of fellow soldiers were reassigned to a post in Virginia. Although Poe’s time on Sullivan’s was short, it left an indelible mark. Published in 1843, Poe’s “The Gold Bug” is about a man staying in a cabin on the island who becomes obsessed with a gold-colored beetle. Reminders of Poe and his work are celebrated and promoted across the island, such as the GOLDBUG clothing boutique and Poe’s Tavern. He’s also the namesake of the island’s library , which has programming and an area dedicated to his work.  The library is interesting on its own and worth a visit since it's housed in a renovated battery from the Spanish-American war. Plus, the librarians have plenty of Poe knowledge and fun trivia to share. Fort Moultrie National Historical Park Fort Moultrie , positioned to help guard the waters leading to Charlestown (the city’s name early on), was active during the Revolutionary War and its history continued through 1947. Today, the well-preserved federal fort is open for exploration by a guided or self-guided tour (brochure in the visitor center). Highlights for visitors include a diverse collection of rare cannons, batteries to walk through, and a WWII-era command post built to monitor the harbor. Thanks to the fort’s strategic position, it overlooks the Atlantic Ocean with tranquil views of Charleston’s waterfront, the famed Ravenel Bridge and historic Fort Sumter (the other historic harbor protector and where the Civil War began).  The visitor center has an extensive collection of artifacts and interpretive histories about the fort and military sea coast operations from 1776 - 1947. Just next door to the fort, is beach access  via Station 12, which includes off street parking just steps from the beach.  You can stroll down this stretch of beach all the way to one end of Sullivan’s for even better views of the harbor and Charleston. Like much of Sullivan’s, this beach is unspoiled. If you’re there in the morning, you might spot some dolphins. Adjacent to the visitor center’s parking lot is a large, grassy picnic area (with shade!) and a fishing dock along the intercoastal waterway. It’s a nice area to take a break and enjoy a water view. For more details on visiting Fort Moultrie, visit the NPS website . Tips for Visiting • Open daily from 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. • Check in at the Visitor Center to pay the $10 park fee. • On-site bathrooms. • Ample parking. • The dock is currently under renovation and closed until Spring, 2026. • Fishing is allowed off the dock with a license. Sullivan's Island Lighthouse Sullivan’s lighthouse, also called the “Charleston Light,” was dedicated on June 15, 1962, and the last major lighthouse built in the U.S., according NPS history. The lighthouse is 162.5 feet tall and features an unusual triangular design meant to withstand hurricane force winds up to 125 miles per house. And, apparently it can and then some!  The eye of Hurricane Hugo passed over Sullivan’s in 1989. Hugo was a Cat 4 storm with max winds between 135-140, according to the National Weather Service. The design proved itself since the lighthouse withstood the storm. The lighthouse’s beacon was at one point among the strongest in the world. The candlepower was reduced in recent years, but is still visible at least 27 miles away, according to the NPS. The lighthouse is part of the United States Coast Guard Historic District, which also includes preserved buildings related the island’s life saving history.  Life Saving Heritage The U.S. Life Saving Service (USLSS) began in the late 1800s. Prior to this time, there was no official apparatus or group to help distressed swimmers and boaters. The service opened on Sullivan’s in 1895 with a boat house, two 20-foot surf boats and living quarters for the duty men. The USLSS eventually morphed into the U.S. Coast Guard. Next to the lighthouse are several USLSS buildings with detailed historical markers. For more background, visit the NPS website . Trails on Sullivan’s Island The Sullivan’s Island Nature Trail passes through a maritime forest connecting the beach at Station 16 to the lighthouse and Fort Moultrie. The trail, which is two miles long, is also called the “Dunes Trail” since it follows along the coastal dunes. Also leading from Station 16 is a beach access trail loop and another trail maintained by the NPS, which connects to Fort Moultrie park. An interactive trail map is on the town's website. Thomson Park and the Breach Inlet Breach Inlet, an area between Sullivan’s and neighboring Isle of Palms, is the site of two major historical events.  Connecting the two islands is the H.L. Hunley Bridge, with views of the Breach Inlet on the ocean side and Inlet Creek and the intercoastal waterway on the other.  At the foot of the bridge overlooking the water is Thomson Park , where the Battle of Sullivan’s Island took place on June 28, 1776, during the Revolutionary War. A series of historical markers tell the story of the battle and how a small group of South Carolina men held off the British Royal Navy.  The Breach Inlet is also where the H.L. Hunley , the world’s first combat submarine, was put into action for a single and deadly mission. The Hunley was a Civil War vessel that successfully sank its enemy target. It was a death mission for Hunley’s crew since there was no way out of the submarine once inside. The Hunley was recovered from the water in 2005 and is now on display in Charleston along with other artifacts as part of a larger historical museum and research center.   The Breach Inlet area is especially nice for taking a walk and enjoying the views of boats and wind surfers further out in the water. In the mornings, you’re likely to see dolphins nearby chasing after schools of fish or maybe even a stingray leaping out of the water. Dolphins and humans enjoy fishing in this area!  Tips for Visiting   • Free parking adjacent to the park. • Beach accessible for walking. • Do NOT wade into the water. Swimming prohibited due to extremely dangerous currents. • Inlet beaches are small so plan walks and fishing from the shore around high tide. For more on Sullivan’s parks and playgrounds, visit here . For more information on the Hunley museum, visit here . Favorite Places to Eat, Drink and Shop in Downtown Sullivan’s Island The business district consists of a small collection of restaurants, businesses and recreation along Middle Street (between Station 20 and 22 1/2). The area has a laid back, chic quality that’s mixed with a big dose of southern, hometown charm. Considering the size, it's surprising how complete the downtown’s offerings are for visitors. There’s truly something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of Take Note & Go's favorites. Some of the restaurants and businesses along Middle Street in the downtown area of Sullivan's Island Restaurants Poe’s Tavern  - This casual restaurant is “all in” on the Edgar Allan Poe theme from the decor to the menu. Poe’s offers numerous entree choices, but really, it's all about the burger.  “The Raven” is the mainstay plain burger, which all others are built upon. Among the specialty burgers are the “Pit and the Pendulum” (a burger with applewood bacon and cheese) and “The Tell Tale Heart” (the same as the P&P but with a fried egg on top).   If the weather is nice - as in it doesn’t feel like the face of the sun - sit outside in the front patio area (tables have umbrellas). If choosing indoor seating, avoid the back area (kind of cramped). Instead, choose the main dining area that also includes the bar, which also opens to the outside. Personally, we like the long, high top tables in the main dining room near the fireplace (complete with a painting of Poe).   Republic Ice Cream  - Delicious ice cream in a fun and eclectic former house. Take advantage of outside seating and enjoy your cone while people watching. Obstinate Daughter  - From menu to decor, this award winning restaurant nicely blends refinement with comfort. It’s the perfect choice for a date night or family celebration.  The chef is a 2x nominee for a James Beard award - a culinary big deal - and the restaurant reflects this level of expertise. The menu  is lowcountry reimagined with a global influence. Frogmore chowder (delicious!), crispy duck leg and griddled octopus are just a few of the dinner highlights. If you can’t make it for a meal, stop in for a dessert. Try the cobbler! Reservation encouraged.  Home Team BBQ  - Fantastic place to kick back, relax and have fun. The barbecue is delicious whether dining in or taking out. While we enjoy Home Team’s barbecue, we absolutely love the dry rub wings with Alabama sauce. If there’s a big game on, arrive at Home Team early to find a spot because it gets crowded! Large screen TVs are everywhere so there’s not a bad seat in the house. Main room seating includes high top tables, booths and a long bar. The covered front patio area has tables and a small bar.     The Longboard  - Patrons of the Longboard can delight in seafood and other entrees featuring lowcountry and Caribbean flavors (the original Longboard is in the U.S. Virgin Islands).  The Longboard’s main dining room with its open, modern nautical design is anchored by a huge bar. Although we have enjoyed meals at the Longboard, we prefer to stop in for the creative selection of craft cocktails and an appetizer. Seating also includes a covered patio. Reservations for a table recommended. Shopping  • GOLDBUG  - Nice selection of women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories. Plus, home decor and gifts, such as candles. • The Red Collar  - Fun, on-trend resort and beachwear for men. • Bennie + Coco  - A tiny, charming boutique with coastal inspired clothing and swimwear for women. • Sandpiper Gallery  - Art gallery featuring a broad range of artists and mediums, including, glass, acrylics, oil, watercolor and more.  • Sealand Adventure Sports  - Need a swimsuit, sunglasses or gear for water sports, then this is your place! Sea Island carries cool Sullivan’s Island-themed t-shirts, too. Sealand specializes in kitesurfing, paddleboarding, surfing, cycling and skateboarding. Recreation After your family enjoys ice cream, let the kids burn off that energy at J. Marshall Stith Park . Located along Middle Street, the park has designated playground equipment areas for toddlers and older children. Other park features include a picnic area, a gazebo, and basketball courts (always kids playing ball).  Tips for Visiting   The charming atmosphere of downtown Sullivan's plus the quality of its restaurants and shops, makes it a popular place, especially in the evenings. For this reason, parking can be tricky if you don't know what you're doing. Parking options include: • Free spaces along Middle Street and side streets.  • Free spaces in large lots a block or two off Middle Street and still very walkable to downtown.  • Pay lots along Middle Street.  • Some restaurants have their own free lots for customers. Next time you're visiting Charleston, be sure to plan a trip to Sullivan's. It has something for foodies, history buffs and beach lovers all wrapped up in a small, yet perfect package.

“Discount” and “gourmet” are words that don’t usually end up in the same sentence. Well, when it comes to the food section of T.J. Maxx, they do. If you like specialty items at a great price, make the Maxx your go-to. Don’t just take my word for it, there are plenty of respected publications dedicated to food and fancy cuisine that break down the mystique that is T.J. Maxx gourmet, and, for that matter, its sister stores, Marshalls and HomeGoods. The biggest misconception is that all the food items are overruns or nearing expiration, so they find their way to the discount retailer. Wrong. Maggie Lane, a writer for Bon Appétit magazine, outlined in her 2016 article that “T. J. Maxx often acquires items that are specially produced just for them.” And, as she explains, the unique product selection is intentional. T.J. Maxx isn’t trying to compete with the local grocery store. It’s offering what is special and not on every shelf. These are the kinds of items you didn’t know you wanted, until you see them. I think there is something to the thrill and mystery of it all, as well. The entire shopping experience is based on a successful hunt. My close friend, Becky, and I call it “making a loop,” since we make the same route through our favorite sections of the store every time. When we arrive at the Maxx and the electric doors open, we wonder with excitement, “What will we find today?” Then, we separate, each on our own individual loop. We occasionally reconvene to share our finds until we are finally worn out, ready to check out and get lunch. Our hunts are focused and thorough. You have to move things around on the shelves and see what’s stashed in the back, especially in the gourmet section. And when you find something special, it feels like a prize. It’s fun. And, best of all, it comes without any spending guilt. There is something very satisfying about seeing the “compare at” on the label - makes you feel like a smart hunter-gather. Case in point, I made a loop recently and found a $12.25 oz jar of farmhouse strawberry jam for $5.99 by the specialty foods company Stonewall Kitchen. Similar strawberry jam on the company’s website retails for $8.95 and as much as $10 on Amazon. One of my sons loves strawberry jam, so in the cart it went. In the unique category, there was everything from glittery baking sugar to imported Italian balsamic vinegar dressing flavored with truffle oil. I passed on those, but did go home with a jar of Peruvian grilled artichokes marinated in brine for $3.99. I also bought dark chocolate covered California pistachios for $3.99, which were promptly opened and eaten after check out. Don’t judge, a girl needs sustenance when shopping. The Maxx food section is also a great place to find gifts. I was tempted by a big selection of cocktail infusion mixers – just add rosé for a sangria or tequila for a berry margarita! With no girl’s trip on the horizon, I passed. I’m starting to regret that choice now. If you’ve always dismissed the gourmet and specialty foods section at T.J. Maxx, give it a shot. It’s a great place to find gifts, discover new items and save money on brands you know. So, on your next trip out, happy hunting or as Becky and I like to say, “Make a Loop!”

If you plan to visit London, odds are you'll have cloudy weather. In August, the city's sunniest month, 55 % of the days are overcast and by December that number increases to 79 %, according to weather-and-climate.com. So, when you get a beautiful, clear day in London, it's best to spend it outside enjoying the gardens, courtyards and outdoor venues. Here are five fun ways to do just that. Dine on Street Food at Borough Market Arrive hungry and enjoy the sights, sounds and especially the tastes of Borough Market . This historic market, with a heritage dating back 1,000 years, is a food lovers' dream with more than 100 choices among the food stalls, carts, restaurants and bars. There’s everything from baked goods to burgers. Plus, selections of wine, olive oil, cheese, meat, seafood and more. A can’t miss is Humble Crumble where shortbread crumble is the star of a customizable dessert. When ordering, choose among the crumble fruit bases, such as apple and cinnamon. Then, choose among the more than 10 toppings including frozen custard, whipped cream and toasted marshmallow. If you want to top everything off with a garnish, try the edible rose petals or crushed meringue. Yum! Another market standout are the delicious meat pies by Pieminister . There’s everything from traditional English meat and ale pies to chicken pies with chestnut and portobello mushrooms. If you’re craving a unique and hearty sandwich, then check out The Black Pig . A delicious choice is the slow-roasted pork sandwich with honey-truffle mayo and apple slaw on toasted ciabatta bread topped with parmesan. The sandwich, which is huge, is toasted over coals, adding a nice touch to the flavor profile. Borough Market is just over the London Bridge. It's spread over several acres and divided into sections. The market is open-air, but mostly covered by the overhead train tracks. The tall, brick arches are a reminder of the market's Victorian past. There’s a deck platform in the Borough Market Kitchen section that’s a perfect place to sit on a sunny day. The market is open six days a week. Visit its website for operating times and vendor descriptions and locations. Have Drinks and Bites at the Claude Bosie Oyster Bar Head to the beautiful Chelsea section of London to The Oyster Bar of acclaimed French chef Claude Bosi, for a relaxing drink and delicious food. The restaurant, on the ground floor (street level) of the historic Michelin House, is a setting like no other. The art-deco building was once Michelin tire’s U.K. headquarters and even had a tire changing area out front. Today, the building is completely transformed and nods to its heritage loom large, including the stained glass window featuring a smiling Bibendum, a.k.a the Michelin man. The Oyster Bar has indoor dining, but on nice days the semi-open patio and street-side dining are especially nice. In the patio, light floods through the large windows for a warm and charming café atmosphere. The ambiance is relaxing and the people-watching is perfect. If having a neighborhood feel was Bosi’s goal, he achieved it. There’s even a small florist stand, Petals at Bibendum, tucked into the opposite side of the patio. During our meal, locals popped in for a bouquet. Charming! Of course, the food is delicious. It's also reasonably priced, which is a nice surprise considering Bosi is an award-winning chef whose name-sake restaurant (on the building’s first floor) has two Michelin dining stars. At the Oyster Bar, seafood and shellfish are the menu’s main focus. My crab orecchiette entrée tasted so good, it took all my restraint to eat slowly. The entrée offerings are wonderful, but you can also make a meal out of the starters and the wide selection of oysters on the half shell. Be sure to try something from the bar. My pre-dinner cocktail, a lavender cooler, was a yummy blend of Botanist Gin, lychee juice, lavender and lemon juice. To add to your experience, visit the Michelin Guide’s website to learn a little history about the Michelin House building before you arrive. You can also learn how a tire company became the preeminent reviewer of restaurants . Update: Sadly, Chef Bosi and his team were not able to work out a new leasing agreement for the Michelin House building resulting in the closure of both restaurants in August 2025. Bosi does have other restaurants in the city including Josephine in Chelsea and Marylebone. Relax in St. James Park The tranquil gardens of St. James Park, part of the Royal Parks system , are perfect for a sunny day and a more relaxing way to enjoy some pomp and circumstance without getting stuck among the crowds. We started our journey through the park near the Queen Victoria Memorial. This large gold and marble monument to the former queen is just beyond the gates to Buckingham Palace. You can’t see the palace guards from this vantage point, but you can enjoy the beauty of the royal residence and the memorial without being mobbed by people. St. James' Park is bordered by the processional Mall, Birdcage Walk and Horse Guards Road. The path through the park leads from the palace to White Hall where the Royal Horse Guard changes command. Along the way are grassy areas nestled among tall trees and lush, landscaped flower beds. St. James' Lake stretches through most of the park and is home to ducks and geese. Close to White Hall is St. James' Café overlooking part of the lake and Duck Island. The café serves breakfast and lunch, as well as delicious coffee, pastries, and grab-and-go items. The cafe has a large, indoor seating area, but on a sunny day, choose either the main patio deck or the rooftop deck. Both have a beautiful views of the tree tops, the skyline and the London Eye. If you time it right, after you enjoy a coffee, walk to the corner of the Mall and Horse Guards Road to watch the Royal Horse Guard march by. The regalia of the calvary and their horses is impressive and beautiful. Stroll Along the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk Following the memorial walk honoring Princess Diana is a wonderful way to see some of the most beautiful areas of London. The the seven-mile loop includes four royal gardens and sites significant in Princess Diana’s life. The walk, along with a playground in Kensington Gardens, celebrates Diana's love of children and the open spaces around Kensington Palace, her former home. The route is marked with medallion-like plaques featuring a rose emblem. The rose symbolizes Princess Diana’s "enduring image" and "Britain’s traditions and heritage," according to the Royal Parks website. The path winds through Kensington Gardens and then splits for a choice to go either over or around Serpentine Lake to reach Hyde Park. The path continues on through Green Park and then St. James' Park. In addition to the beautiful grounds and active wildlife, highlights along the walk include the Peter Pan statue, Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, the Rose Garden, the Spencer House and the Joy of Life/Four Winds Fountain statue. Spencer House , an 18th-century home revered for its architecture and grandeur, was built for Princess Diana’s ancestor, John, the first Earl Spencer. For a short detour along the memorial walk, you can tour the home’s state rooms and garden on Sundays (except in August) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Advanced booking is required and guided tours last one hour. Additional royal residences along the walk include Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and St. James’ Palace. For a downloadable map of the walk and additional information, visit the Royal Park's website . Check Out the Shopping and Public Art in Notting Hill Notting Hill is one of London’s most eclectic and diverse communities. It’s also home to the historic Portobello Market , one of the most famous street markets in the world. A trip to the market is an experience like no other. It pulsates with energy as crowds of people move among the vendors while music and the smell of food fill the air. Stall vendors along the street sell everything you can imagine including jewelry, art, antiques, food and vintage items, such as records and clothing. The buildings lining the street are home to interesting shops and places to eat, as well. We found ourselves captivated by botanical prints and antique maps from around the world in The Portobello Market and Print Shop . In addition to the market is the uniqueness of Notting Hill itself, especially its public art. The tall slim buildings are painted in pastel and bright colors, while others are adorned with murals. Art installations and street art are found throughout the neighborhood. Be sure to check out Graffik Gallery , which focuses solely on urban and street art. The market stretches for about a mile down Portobello and Golborne roads. Expect a crowd everyday, but the biggest market is Saturday, followed by Friday as a close second. The market is open Monday-Saturday, but times vary based on the season. Check out visitportbello.com for update-to-date operating times and news about special events.

If you have a child who has proclaimed their desire to write and make movies since the age of four, then at some point you find yourself driving across the country with said child sitting next to you. And so it was for me and my oldest son, Jack. We loaded the car and hit the road, I-40 specifically. As North Carolinians, I-40 with its eastern end point in Wilmington, N.C., is a direct route to Barstow, Calif., its western end point. Then, it's just a hop, skip and jump along a few other roads to La La Land. At 2,559 miles, I-40 is one of the longest interstates in the country and has a somewhat notorious distinction of being among the roads that by-passed the fabled Route 66, a.k.a. the “Mother Road.” Somewhere around Oklahoma City we saw the first sign proclaiming “Historic Route 66.” From that point on, the famous highway was either running somewhat parallel to I-40 or the two roads were merged onto the same path. We both got a little excited when we knew we’d intersected the fabled road. Fabled? Absolutely! Songwriters, authors and filmmakers have waxed poetically about Route 66 for decades . For generations of people, it was the artery they traveled from point A to point B, making memories along the way by stopping at unique, neon-lit businesses and attractions along the way.  For me, it was just part of Americana that seeped into my general knowledge. For Jack, it's the major plot point for “Cars,” the first movie he ever watched on the big screen, forever solidifying his love of the movies. “Cars” was a huge blockbuster hit when it debuted in 2006. For those who never saw this delightful animated film by Pixar, it's basically about a world inhabited by cars. And, in this world a famous race car, Lighting McQueen, finds himself stranded in Radiator Springs, a fictional town somewhere in America’s west.  This once thriving town along Route 66, is now run down and barely hanging on ever since an interstate was built just a few miles away. In the end, McQueen falls in love with Radiator Springs and its people, or rather cars, so he helps spruce up the town, bring much needed publicity and, ultimately, tourists. Radiator Springs is reborn!  It’s actually a fairly accurate depiction of what happened along Route 66. It was special—emblematic of America booming and expanding. Then, it symbolized how easily times change and once bright stars can be overshadowed by something bigger and better.  To explain how this came to be it’s important to understand how Americans traveled decades ago. The contiguous U.S. is big — 3,119,884 sq miles, in fact. It’s amazing to think we can jump into a car near the Atlantic Ocean and within days be standing on the shore of the Pacific without having to toil difficult roads. Thank you, President Eisenhower (more about that later). Prior to the interstate system Americans enjoy today, the country’s first federal highway system was basically the combination of existing local, state and national roads into a single system by the Bureau of Public Roads, according to the National Park Service’s (NPS) website. In 1926, one such road was renamed U.S. Route 66 and it was advertised as “the shortest, best and most scenic route from Chicago through St. Louis to Los Angeles.” The Route 66 highway stretched over 2,400 miles, connecting east and west. It started in Chicago, Ill., and ended in Santa Monica, Calif. The road was hugely popular.  In the 1930s, it was a major route for moving military equipment across the country and the main road for millions fleeing poverty in the Midwest and Southern Plains for California during the Dust Bowl of the Great Depression, according to history by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA).   John Steinbeck represented this migration through the fictional Joad family in his 1939 novel, “The Grapes of Wrath.” Just as it was for the Joads, Route 66 symbolized hope since it led to a part of the country promising jobs and prosperity. For this reason, Steinbeck gave Route 66 its popular nickname, “Mother Road.”  By 1938, Route 66, also commonly called “Main Street America,” was the first completely paved highway in the country. As one of the country’s main highways, its use and popularity continued to grow, mirroring changing times in the U.S.  After WWII, America was booming. From the end of the war to 1955, the number of registered cars grew from 25.8 million to 52.1 million, according to NPS’s history. Americans had more money and more leisure time, so they hit the road, especially Route 66.  As a result, mom and pop hotels and restaurants, often promoting roadside attractions, thrived. The attractions – unusual and whimsical by design to literally attract motorists to businesses – date back to the 1920s, but this was their heyday.  Thanks to its sites, landmarks and popularity, Route 66 was forever woven into America’s cultural fabric, certainly pop culture. Songwriter Bobby Troup was inspired during a 1941 trip along the road and wrote “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66.” The song is all about enjoying the journey along the road. The song talks about travelling to Amarillo, Joplin, Flagstaff, San Bernardino and more – all cities along Route 66’s path.  A few years later, The Nat King Cole trio recorded its popular version of the song and that was followed by numerous other artists, including Chuck Berry and John Mayer (for the “Cars” soundtrack). In the 1950s and 60s, television was also booming and the “Route 66” show was born. The popular drama, which ran for four seasons on CBS, followed two friends driving a Corvette along the popular road and stumbling into adventure in different towns.  Small towns and big cities alike catered to the Route 66 motorists and everyone was happy. Life along the Mother Road was thriving!  Unfortunately, the uptick in traffic caused problems for Route 66 and the other highways at the time, which were not well maintained and unsafe.   These two-lane roads were often not wide enough making passing difficult, and vehicles leaving and entering the road from homes and businesses created all kinds of headaches and accidents. These were among the problems President Eisenhower set out to eliminate with a brand new interstate system. Eisenhower had observed problems long before the 1950s. According to the FHA's history, Eisenhower was shocked to see the poor conditions of America’s roads during a cross country military convoy in 1919. In contrast, he saw first hand the impressive Autobahn highway in Germany during WWII. Out of these combined experiences, he made revitalizing the country’s highway system a priority when he took office in 1953. The interstate system as we know it today, began in 1956 in Kansas with I-70, according to the NPS. By June 2023, there were 46,876 miles of interstate highway in the U.S. and the number continues to grow today. These newly built interstates bypassed small towns and focused on larger metropolitan areas. Bypassing meant no off/on ramps leading to areas that were once popular stops. Local economies suffered. Plus, motorists were increasingly drawn to the growing number of national restaurant and lodging franchises popping up along the interstates.  Local gas stations, diners and tourist attractions became empty shells, sometimes sitting only hundreds of feet from the interstate. Things just dried up along the Mother Road.  In addition to I-40, Route 66 was also replaced by I-55, 1-44, 1-15 and 1-10 over the course of three decades, according to the NPS. As Jack and I experienced, sometimes these interstates are right on top of the original Route 66 path. In other sections, it runs alongside and you can just look out your car window and see it nearby as a frontage road.  The highway was officially decommissioned in 1984. But, nostalgia is a powerful thing and a movement to revive and protect the Route 66 corridor slowly grew among private citizens, communities and government agencies. In 1990, the U.S. Congress passed the Route 66 Study Act, which declared it a “symbol of the American people's heritage of travel and their legacy of seeking a better life.”  Through a series of subsequent studies and laws, the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program was created in 1999 . The program, which is administered by the National Park Service, is a collaborative effort among private, nonprofit and government partners to preserve historic features along Route 66. Other significant preservation moves included the The National Trust for Historic Places adding Route 66 to their “America's Most Endangered List” and designating it a National Treasure. Similarly, the World Monument Fund placed Route 66 on its Watch List for threatened cultural sites in 2008. This step eventually led to the formation of the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership, which still actively works to promote and revitalize the road and the areas along it. So, what does all this background mean? Well, there are still plenty of decrypted buildings along Route 66. We saw lots of abandoned travel plazas, restaurants and souvenir shops covered in overgrowth and decades of rust. It’s easy to imagine, though, their past as hubs of activity, places full of excitement and energy.  Thankfully, for every interstate casualty there seemed to be just as many Route 66 towns, attractions and businesses going strong and helping create memories for new generations.   There is no better example than Williams, Ariz. In 1984, this small town on Route 66 in Northern Arizona was the last one by-passed, in this case by I-40, before the road was officially decommissioned the following year. The Mother Road runs straight through the middle of downtown Williams. The community has embraced its Route 66 heritage and in some ways looks frozen in time with a certain retro, kitschy mid-century appeal. Jack and I stayed in Williams before our Grand Canyon visit the next day. We arrived just before sunset and after getting situated at our hotel, we walked toward the bright lights. Stretched over a few blocks, downtown Williams features a collection of souvenir shops and restaurants with nostalgic charm and neon signs. The downtown strip practically glows.   We ate dinner outside at the Cruiser’s Route 66 Cafe, surrounded by Coke-a-Cola advertisements, gas station memorabilia and a giant mural depicting a drive-in movie featuring Marlon Brando in 1953’s “The Wild One.” A local musician performed classic rock-n-roll songs and the crowd sang and clapped along.  We each had a burger with fries and an enormous shake – the only logical choice considering our surroundings. Afterwards, we decided to go back to the hotel and get our car, so we could enjoy the full effect of the Williams Route 66 experience at night.  Route 66 is a wide, one-way street through downtown. We worked our way to the far end and just as we started down the historic route, Jack surprised me with the song “Sh-Boom (Life Could Be A Dream)” by the Chords.  In the movie “Cars,” this 1954 song plays as the neon lights in Radiator Springs are turned on for the first time in years. In the movie, the cars cruise down the main street, just as Jack and I were doing.  As we bopped along to the song’s infectious melody, the irony and sweetness of the moment wasn’t lost on me. There we were. Jack, all grown up and going to LA to pursue a dream that all began with this movie. Would you believe me if I said I didn’t tear up? I’m not old enough to have cruised neon-lit towns along Route 66 during its heyday. My generation circled the mall. Yet, as Jack and I cruised down that road, I felt nostalgic for something I never experienced first hand.  Maybe it was about the past and the present being connected and forming a new future together? A hope of dreams coming true? Could a road really evoke all of that? My guess is, yes, based on all the people who feel an affection for Route 66.  But, sometimes it's best to just feel something and not try to figure it out. Whatever it was, this mother felt a certain kind of magic while driving the Mother Road. This story is the first in series highlighting some of the historic, kitschy and beautiful sites to see when driving coast-to-coast along 1-40 and Route 66, aka the “Mother Road.”

Long Beach, Calif., just 25 miles south of Los Angeles, is the perfect place to spend a relaxing, hassle-free, day along the Pacific Coast.  With almost 500,000 residents, Long Beach is big and thriving, yet still feels warm and comfortable when spending a waterside day in and around the city’s Rainbow Harbor. Here are Take Note & Go’s favorite 7 ways to spend the day in Long Beach. 1. Tour Queen Mary The proud grand dame of Long Beach is the Queen Mary . This former luxury liner was decommissioned and bought by the city in 1967. After some major renovations, it opened as a hotel and tourist attraction in 1971. The RMS Queen Mary, which set sail in 1936, was big and fast. The ship twice held the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing and, at 1018 feet, was longer than the Eiffel Tower is tall. These attributes proved useful during WWII when the Queen Mary was refitted and used as a troopship dubbed “The Grey Ghost.”  The Queen Mary’s history as a luxury liner is storied with a passenger list of the world’s rich, famous and powerful including Elizabeth Taylor, President John F. Kennedy and Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Although permanently moored, the Queen Mary remains a unique lodging and dining experience. You don’t have to be an overnight guest to visit and enjoy the ship and its restaurants, however.  The ship offers self-guided and guided tours for visitors ( admission fee required). Guided tour themes included its Hollywood connection, the ship’s inner workings and haunted encounters (Queen Mary is considered one of the world’s most haunted places). With its well-preserved art deco design and artwork, visiting the ship is an experience that still feels connected to its past. While walking its corridors, its easy to image the stars of Hollywood's Golden Age dressed for an elegant party and the hustle and bustle of crew members there to assist them. Throughout the ship are historic pictures, exhibits and signage that help tell Queen Mary’s story. If you visit, here are Take Note and Go’s must-do list of onboard activities:  • Walk the upper decks for the best views of the water. • Get a drink or something light to eat in the former first class lounge, The Observation Bar. This gorgeous bar also opens to a deck with equally gorgeous water and skyline views. • Admire art deco stylings throughout the ship, especially in The Observation Bar and the Promenade Deck, which was once the shopping area for first class passengers. • Visit the Ship Model Gallery with scale models of numerous luxury liners on display. The models with cut-aways are especially interesting since they feature an inside look at all of a ship’s levels and rooms. • Tour the huge engine room. In addition to seeing the mechanics and reading the accompanying information, you can also view the ship’s hull and one of its enormous propellers immersed in murky water.  • Consider taking a guided history tour. The tour is informative and includes access to areas you might not see otherwise. Plus, it doesn’t take long, leaving time to explore on your own. 2. Aquarium of the Pacific The blue jewel of Long Beach's Rainbow Harbor is the Aquarium of the Pacific . Many cities have aquariums, but this one is anything but typical and worth the visit. Aquarium of the Pacific in Rainbow Harbor Even the aquarium’s beautiful, blue glass design is unlike any other. Designed with natural forms in mind and covered with blue glass, the building is intended to represent the Pacific Ocean. Personally, I think it looks like a giant whale.  The glass changes color as the sun moves through the sky and is quite beautiful (steps were also taken to ensure the glass doesn’t reflect any surrounding trees so as to not confuse and injure flying birds). Inside the blue glass section of the aquarium is Pacific Visions, an incredible multimedia and interactive exhibit and theater space.  One of the aquarium's must-see exhibits is “Jellies.” This large collection of sea jellies is spread across numerous displays each with special lighting to accentuate the color and gentle movement of these ancient creatures. Another aquarium highlight is “Shark Lagoon” featuring numerous sharks of different sizes and types.  Overall, the aquarium features 19 major habitats and around 100 exhibits. A variety of Sea Jellies 3. Explore Rainbow Harbor A tree-lined, wide walkway hugs the waterline of Rainbow Harbor . The walkway stretches the entire length of the harbor from Shoreline Aquatic Park on one end to Shoreline Village on the other. The aquarium is somewhat in the middle. Along the walkway, about halfway between the aquarium and Shoreline Village, is an elevated platform that connects to a footbridge for the neighboring convention center. Take the stairs up to the platform for a bird's-eye view of the water.   For even better views, be sure to walk through Shoreline Aquatic Park . The park’s 12 acres of greenspace includes a replica lighthouse, officially called the Lions Lighthouse (representing the Lions Club’s efforts to help the blind). The lighthouse is atop a small hill - the perfect spot for 360° views.  4. & 5. Lunch and Shop Shoreline Village is a collection of restaurants and shops along the harbor and adjacent to two marinas (Rainbow Marina on one side and Long Beach Marina on the other). For the best outdoor seating, choose Parkers’ Lighthouse . The food is delicious, the restaurant is beautifully decorated and, best of all, it’s positioned on a peninsula right at the harbor’s entrance. Unless it’s super windy, sit outside and enjoy!  The shops in Shoreline Village are "mom and pop" and offer a variety of souvenirs and clothing. Kids will enjoy the pirate-themed store.  For national retail shopping and entertainment, visit The Pike . The Pike’s history as an entertainment destination dates back to the early 1900s. Today, it features outlets, places to eat and a Ferris wheel.  6. Water Activities Interested in water recreation? Numerous sightseeing boat tours depart from Rainbow Harbor and Marina . There are sports fishing options, dinner cruises and more. The city offers a listing here . Just next door to Rainbow Harbor is Rainbow Lagoon , where you can rent  swan shaped paddle boats. During the holidays, the paddleboats are illuminated with LED lights for a special night time activity. If you’d like to visit the beach while in the city, there are numerous choices, including a long stretch of beaches, one flowing right into another. Just around the corner from the harbor and marina is Alamitos Beach followed by Junipero, Long Beach City and Belmont beaches. A paved walkway, Shoreline Way, passes through all of the beaches. There also also beachside parking options and parks. These aren't Long Beach's only options, though. Check out this list that even includes a beach just for dogs.   7. Walk the Canals A few miles from the city’s center is the Naples neighborhood, which is a series of islands on the Alamitos Bay connected by canals. The neighborhood is named for Naples, Italy, hence its Italian street names. Not exactly sure why this is so because Venice, Italy, not Naples, has canals (but Naples, Fla. does). Doesn’t matter, the area is super charming!  To walk the canals, park in Colonnade Park and then stroll the sidewalk that follows the water's path. Lining the canals are beautiful homes, each uniquely different from the next. Enhancing the charm are the home's tiny yards, landscaped to perfection along with planting containers overflowing with flowers and greenery. During your walk you might see a gondola float by, which you can rent , too! If you're interested in doing more in this area of Long Beach, there are plenty of activities to pick from. Naples is also near Mother's Beach on the Alamitos Bay. Check out this listing for more details. Tips for Parking Despite the fact the aquarium and The Pike are near each other, they each have their own parking garage with various pricing. If you’re planning to visit the aquarium, it’s the best option - only $8 a day with validation. Shoreline Village is a short walk from the same parking garage, but it does have its own lot. The parking is fee based and most restaurants will validate. The Queen Mary is not walkable from Rainbow Harbor (its across the bay from the harbor). Ample parking is available next to the Queen Mary for a fee. Some activities, such as dining and attending certain special events, provide a parking discount with validation. For parking details, visit these links: Aquarium of the Pacific , The Pike , Shoreline Village , Queen Mary .

Poor apples. They’re like the middle child of produce. No one ever says they’re rock stars or calls them a ‘superfood.’ Mothers don’t brag about how they snuck them into recipes as they do with kale or spinach. No, apples don’t get that kind of attention, but they should. The old phrase, ‘an apple a day, helps keep the doctor away’ is not just puffery. Food scientists and nutritionists know apples are superheroes of overall health and fighting against disease. One large apple is an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber (contains 20% of the recommended daily fiber). They’re loaded with hydrating water, which is why they float, and considered a top source for antioxidants especially when eaten unpeeled , according to research by Rui Hai Liu, an associate professor of food science with Cornell University. Antioxidants are important to overall health and cancer prevention because they clean up cell-damaging free radicals in the body and therefore protect normal cells. The antioxidant power of apples comes from its phytochemicals . Professor Liu and his colleagues found that these phytochemicals appear to kill or inhibit the growth of colon , liver and breast cancer cells. Numerous studies show that apples promote good gut bacteria, which is a major topic these days since a healthy gut is tied to robust immunity and reduced inflammation. The ill effect of inflammation on the body is largely believed to be an underlying factor for a variety of health problems. Apples boast all these health benefits plus they're portable, versatile, easy-to-find and not nearly as expensive as some other produce. Best of all, they’re delicious. Numerous tasty varieties, including Fuji, Gala and Granny Smith, are harvested when late summer turns to fall and warm days are married with cool, crisp nights. It’s no wonder apples are a celebrated fall food and the perfect addition to any holiday table. With Thanksgiving coming up, be sure to celebrate and enjoy apples. Check out my easy, crowd-pleasing apple dip, plus some additional simple recipes. To keep your apples delicious and recipe ready, be sure to store them in the refrigerator as cold as possible without freezing. Apples ripen and turn soft 10 times faster at room temperature than they do in the refrigerator, according the North Carolina Apple Growers Association . For more apple facts, recipes and tips, visit USApple.org , which also includes links to apple associations throughout the United States. Best-Ever Apple Dip Delicious dip that's a snap to make Ingredients 3 Granny Smith Apples (use a tart apple) 1, 8 ounce package of cream cheese (Reduced fat variety and Neufchatel cheese work, too. Use 2 packages if you want more cream cheese to toffee bits for a less chunky dip)) ¾ cup light brown sugar ¾ cup powdered sugar 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract ¾ cup of toffee baking bits (ex: Heath brand) Directions Combine all ingredients using a mixer. It’s easier to mix if cream cheese is softened. Next, chill and then serve with sliced Granny Smith apples. -Take Note & Go TN&G Tip : Use the dip as an icing for baked apple recipes, like muffins or strudels. Apple & Goat Cheese Bruschetta Sweet and savory appetizer Ingredients 1 baguette 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil 1 medium Granny Smith apple sliced 4 ounces goat cheese 1 tablespoon of honey 1 ½ teaspoons of dried oregano Pinch of salt Directions 1. Mix together oregano, salt, honey and goat cheese. 2. If using a fresh baguette, cut into 12 slices, about ½ inch thick. Place slices on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil. Broil until lightly browned. 3. Top each with goat cheese mixture, then an apple slice and garnish with an additional drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of oregano. -Washington Apple Commission TN&G Tip : Save time by using a bag of snack size bruschetta toast, such as Bruscettini brand, instead of a cutting and broiling fresh baguette slices. May have to cut the apple slices in half to fit on the toast. Apple Cheddar Grain Bowl Bowl meal packed with protein, fiber and flavor Salad Ingredients 2 Gala apples 8 green onions 8 cups mixed greens 3 cups of cooked barley or other whole grain 12 ounces rotisserie chicken, skin removed and shredded or cut into bite pieces skin 1 cup of cubed sharp cheddar cheese ( ½ inch cubes) ¼ cup sunflower seeds Dressing Ingredients ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar ½ olive oil ¼ teaspoon salt ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Directions 1. Cook grain according to package directions. 2. Core and chop apples into cubes (don’t peel the apples). 3. Thinly slice the white and green parts of green onions. 4. Mix the greens, cooked grain and chicken. 5. Top with cheese and sunflower seeds. 6. Make salad dressing by mixing those ingredients in a bowl and whisking. -New York Apple Association TN&G Tip : Save time and use a store bought dressing. My favorite – on about everything – is Girard’s Champagne light vinaigrette (only 60 calories for two tablespoons) Three-Ingredient Caramel Apple Hand Pies Delicious dessert served warm with a side of ice cream Ingredients 14 ounce box of puff pastry, thawed according to package directions. 1 large apple cut into ¼ inch pieces ⅓ cup caramel sauce Directions 1. Place the oven rack in the center and preheat to 425 F. 2. Unroll/unfold pastry onto a flat work surface and cut out rounds using a 3-inch cookie or biscuit cutter. Should make around 18 rounds. 3. Place rounds on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment. 4. Place tablespoon of apple pieces into the center of each round leaving a ½ inch border. 5. Top apples with a teaspoon of caramel sauce. 6. Brush pastry border with pastry brush dipped in water. 7. Top each round with a second round and seal using a fork to crimp the edges. 8. Cut a few slits into the top of each pie so steam can escape. 9. Bake pies for about 15 mins, rotating the sheet halfway through. Pies are done when golden brown and puffed. -Epicurious TN&G Tip : If you can’t find puff pastry, use a refrigerated pie crust, such as Pillsbury brand Crock Pot Apple Butter Perfect breakfast topping Ingredients ½ peck (about 15 apples) of Winsap or Mutsu/Crispin apples 2 cups of sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon Pinch of nutmeg Directions 1. Peel and core apples then cut into quarters. 2. Place all the ingredients into a slow cooker. 3. Let simmer for 8-10 hours without lifting the lid. 4. Once done to desired consistency, allow to cool and then refrigerate. -Justus Orchard, a fifth generation orchard and farm in Hendersonville, N.C. Baked Apple Slices Easy side dish with the flavor of an apple crisp Ingredients 6 large apples (Crispin, Jonagold, Idare, Rome) ½ cup brown sugar ¼ cup sifted all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon ground ginger ¼ cup sweet butter or margarine ¼ cup apple juice or cider Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Grease large baking pan. 3. Core apples, cut into 6 wedges and arrange in a single layer in a baking pan. 4. Mix sugar, flour and spices together and sprinkle over apples. 5. Melt butter and mix with apple juice. 6. Pour over top of apples and toss to coat. 7. Cover with aluminum foil. 8. Bake for 20 minutes then uncover and bake another 15 minutes. 9. Serve warm. -New York Apple Association

Santa Fe, N.M, dubbed “The City Different,” lives up to its nickname. From historic sites and deep rooted traditions to a vibrant arts scene and incredible landscapes, Santa Fe is a unique, bucket-list destination. Santa Fe is the oldest and highest (approx. 7,000 feet above sea level) state capital in the U.S. The city was settled by Spanish explorer, Don Pedro de Peralta, between 1609 and 1610 — long before the Pilgrims reached Plymouth Rock. The area’s long history reaches even further back with Pueblo Indian villages between 1050 to 1150, although these sites were abandoned at least 200 years before the Spanish arrived, according to the city's economic promotional arm, Tourism Santa Fe. As the city grew and evolved, traditions were pushed forward. Today, Santa Fe is a city that perfectly blends old and new. Modern and historic. Nothing represents this better than the city’s cultural heartbeat —  the historic downtown. If you only have time for a short visit to Santa Fe, this is where to spend it. Santa Fe’s historic downtown is extremely walkable and every block is filled with something interesting to explore. The Plaza , the center of Santa Fe’s downtown area for more than 400 years, is a public square complete with shady trees and gathering places. An eclectic mix of shopping, restaurants, galleries and historic sites surround the Plaza and continue onto connecting streets and blocks. Pueblo-Spanish architecture is a hallmark throughout downtown and adds to the charm when exploring the area. The Tourism Santa Fe website has an excellent walking map of the downtown area. Downtown Santa Fe Must Sees With its long history and cultural influences, the buildings and architecture of Santa Fe are a must see. Simply walking around the downtown is an enjoyable way to spend the day and certain spots make most everyone's list. Cathedral Park and Cathedral Basilica of St. Fancis of Assisi  — Cathedral Basilica's beautiful front facade and large, landscaped exterior plaza are popular with visitors to Santa Fe. The picturesque cathedral opened in 1887, but the Catholic church’s history on the site dates back to an adobe church built the same year Santa Fe was founded, according to the parish's online history. Sunset against the cathedral walls Numerous church buildings were built and replaced on the site over the years. An adobe chapel still remains from when the church was rebuilt in 1714 and named for Saint Francis of Assisi, the Patron Saint of Santa Fe. Among its numerous historic features, the cathedral is home to the oldest statue of the Virgin Mary in the U.S.  Cathedral Basilica is an active parish with regular masses. It's open to visitors and operating times are posted on its website . There is also a gift shop. Next to the Cathedral Basilica, is Cathedral Park . This lovely, tree-filled public park features grassy areas and a wide, stone walkway lined with benches. The park is often the site of markets for artists and craftspeople.  The La Fonda on The Plaza Hotel  — If you can, stay at La Fonda . If you can’t, at least stop in for something to eat or drink and enjoy its atmosphere. The hotel with a history that stretches back over 100 years, offers a wonderful experience, and is quintessential Santa Fe.  The hotel is beautiful and thoughtfully designed throughout, but the star is the restaurant, La Plazuela,  located just off the main lobby. With its abundance of windows, the dining room is drenched with natural light. Adding to this ambiance is the central water fountain, green flora, and wooden tables surrounded by tall, ladder back chairs adorned with carvings.  The restaurant is an open space, surrounded by large sections of hand painted, glass panels surrounding French doors, so the room is easily admired even if you aren’t dining, but simply exploring the main hotel areas. In the evenings, the adjacent lobby fills with live music from the bar area, The Lounge .  If you stay at the La Fonda, an added bonus are the well appointed rooms with furnishings fitting with the hotel’s Adobe-Spanish style. Our double queen was a huge room with a generous bathroom and ample storage (basically a walk-in closet). Guests can also sign up for an Art & History Tour  of the hotel by a docent. The tour takes about an hour and highlights its history, architecture and collection of contemporary Native American art and hand crafted decor.  Shopping in Downtown Santa Fe Some of Santa Fe's popular shopping destinations are actually among its interesting historic sites, too. One, in particular, has an incredible connection to WWII and the development of the atomic bomb. But, first, let's focus on that special souvenir or gift you aren't likely to find anywhere else. No cheap trinkets here, Santa Fe's stores feature well-made, quality items from handmade jewelry to designer clothes. Store offerings can be pricey, which is to be expected for one-of-a-kind items in a town with resorts, but there are a variety of price points to be found. Around the Plaza   — Surrounding the downtown Plaza are a collection of retail stores highlighting contemporary fashion plus western style, decor, craft and history. For example, Maverick’s of Santa Fe  sells men’s and women’s western-inspired designer jackets, boots and accessories. Santa Fe Dry Goods, Workshop and Wildlife , on the other hand, features contemporary, global designers, home items and, of course, jewelry. If you want jewelry, especially that New Mexico look of silver and turquoise, there are an abundance of jewelry options in Santa Fe. Practically on every corner is a store selling jewelry. There are also outdoor artisan markets near the Plaza for buying a truly unique, handcrafted Santa Fe piece (more on that later). Courtyards Along East Palace Avenue — One of the most interesting shopping experiences in Santa Fe are the  courtyards along East Palace Avenue . Former haciendas along a section of this street are now home to specialty retail and dining experiences. The front doors to businesses in Sena Plaza , 125 East Palace Ave., look like any other that might line a street, except step inside and discover these connect to an interior plaza surrounding a lush open air courtyard.  Discover dozens of boutiques and stores with everything from southwestern silver jewelry to traditional New Mexican chimayo (rug) weavings. Some favorite spots include Gusterman Silversmith  with precious jewelry, the Zephyr  women’s clothing boutique, and Santa Maria Provisions  offering home decor and gift items. For kicks ( pun intended) visit Sock Magic  featuring all kinds of novelty designs and vibrant foot fashions.   Sena Plaza is just one section of stores within this historic collection of former haciendas stretched along East Palace Avenue. You’ll also find Bahanti Indian Arts  featuring sculpture, pottery, vintage pieces, textiles and more. The store/gallery also hosts events such as learning about traditional Indian sand painting and its connection to indigenous farming practices.  There’s also The Rainbow Man , a Santa Fe tradition since the ‘40s. The store specializes in antique and contemporary Native American arts, jewelry, and pottery, as well as Mexican folk art and original work by Edward S. Curtis, a famous photographer of Western life in the early 1900s. The Rainbow Man’s outdoor plaza is filled with an array of paper flowers and the large displays of colorful pottery and ceramics. Oppenheimer and the Gateway to Los Alamos  — Just as you enter The Rainbow Man’s outdoor plaza is a small sign with an arrow that points to the back. It reads “Los Alamos National Laboratory Historical Marker, Back Wall of Courtyard” in reference to the government's top secret Manhattan Project led by Robert Oppenheimer to develop the first atomic bomb during WWII. The sign is so nondescript and small, most folks probably miss it. If you walk into the plaza and wade past the paper flowers, pottery, and a coffee shop entrance you'll find a historic marker on the wall. The site, which once had the address of 109 East Palace Avenue, was the official check-in office for anyone working at Los Alamos.  Dorothy McKibbin is the Santa Fe resident who worked at the office and handled all the registering and providing of credentials to every scientist, military personnel and their families before they could go on to the Los Alamos site, which was about 30 miles away. The office closed in 1963. Today, the 109 address is assigned to the store Chocolate + Cashmere  (yes, they sell gourmet, craft chocolate and cashmere sweaters).  If you're curious and want to know more about the Los Alamos office, then step inside The Rainbow Man and ask about it. They’ll tell you all about the building’s history and how the store’s back office was periodically used by Oppenheimer himself. For more about McKibbin and this unusual part of the city’s history, read this story by the National Park Service. If you have zero interest in the historical marker, still explore the small courtyard. The ceramics are especially colorful and beautiful, especially the bundles of red, green and yellow peppers.  Food and Drink in Downtown Santa Fe   Santa Fe is famous for its food and drink. From James Beard award winning chefs to generational restaurants serving local comfort food favorites, there is something for everyone. Starring right alongside the meals is the atmosphere and, like the La Plazuela at the La Fonda hotel, the local eateries serve it up just right. Courtyards and Rooftops — Hungry for lunch? Well, if you're still near Sena Plaza and haven’t tied yourself over with a treat from Chocolate + Cashmere , then head straight for The Shed . Often listed as a must-try place to eat in Santa Fe, The Shed is popular. Thankfully, the friendly staff will put your name on a list and text you when it's your time so you can continue window shopping (the Shed only takes reservations for dinner). If you want to dine al fresco in the restaurant’s quaint courtyard expect to wait a little longer. The Shed’s interior dining room and bar has a cool vibe and the food tastes just as good there, too. We ordered a ginger limeade, chips and queso, a chicken enchilada plate and a taco plate. All delicious - not completely surprising since the restaurant was honored in 2003 with an "American Classic" award by the James Beard Foundation through secret ballot voting by hundreds of industry professionals. Any recognition by James Beard is a big deal, it's unanimously recognized as an authority on excellent food. We especially enjoyed trying the posole side dish that comes with the entree plates. Posole (Pozole in Spanish) is a traditional dish of nixtamal corn, which is similar to hominy, that is stewed with pork, red chiles and other spices. Nixtamal corn is prepared through a method that includes soaking corn in an alkaline solution, usually limewater. Beans and a delicious mix of posole with chile turkey sausage went along with the enchiladas that were a perfect combination of chicken, onions and cheese wrapped in blue corn and smothered in red chile sauce. The interior of The Shed, especially the bar area has an eclectic feel and the entire restaurant is authentic to its hacienda roots, especially some of the low doorways and, of course, the adobe walls. The restaurant’s outside courtyard with tables shaded by red and blue umbrellas is nice and relaxing, but for an even lushier outdoor experience, go next door to La Casa Sena . The Sena Plaza courtyard is filled with trees, flowers and plant life all surrounding a small water feature. The outdoor seating is nestled among it all, which is especially beautiful at night with twinkle lights and overhead lighting. La Casa Sena, which is a little more refined dining experience, also has indoor seating and a jazz bar.  Santa Fe is famous for its serene mountain views and sunsets. One of the best spots to appreciate those and have a bite to eat is the Bell Tower Rooftop Bar at the  La Fonda hotel. Located five stories high, the bar has practically 360 degree views, which always includes Mother Nature’s best show. Although the menu describes the food selection as “light bites,” one or two of the individual selections is plenty to fill you up. The two of us were stuffed after sharing margarita flatbread, watermelon salad, and chips with salsa and guacamole. The Bell Tower is open from May – October, from the afternoon until the sunset concludes.  Bell Tower Rooftop Bar Coyote Cantina  is another spot ranked among the best places to enjoy the sunset and a bird's eye view of downtown Santa Fe. At this rooftop bar and open-air dining area, specialty cocktails and Mexican dishes are the star, including Frito pie (a famous Santa Fe dish), plus fish tacos, enchiladas and more. Unlike the Bell Tower, the Cantina is open all year and past sunset. Below the Cantina is Coyote Cafe , an upscale restaurant with a modern take on Mexican food that matches the modern design and decor of the restaurant itself. Thunderbirds Bar & Grill  is the only restaurant on the downtown Plaza with an upper deck for dining outside. And, it's open year round. Just next door is the  Plaza Cafe  with outside dining on a large patio surrounded by plants and hanging flower baskets. There is also inside seating with a more traditional diner-style design. Both Thunderbirds and Plaza Cafe have a casual lunch and dinner menu with American dishes such as burgers and sandwiches plus enchiladas, tacos and other “New Mexican” dishes. The Plaza Cafe is also open for breakfast (try the breakfast burritos!).  Don’t have time for a sit down lunch, there are plenty of places scattered throughout the downtown to grab a quick to-go snack, coffee, ice cream, etc. Self-Guided Food and Drink Tours — Coyote Cafe and Cantina, The Shed, Thunderbirds and Plaza Cafe are among the restaurants and bars on the Santa Fe Margarita Trail . More than 50 Santa Fe spots are on the trail and ready to prove they serve the best margarita around.  The Margarita Trail is just one of several curated, self-guided tours by the city’s tourism department. Others include: the Breakfast Burrito Tour , the Chocolate Trail ,  Coffee Lovers   Tour , and the Craft Beer and Spirits Tour. To learn about them all, visit here . Downtown Santa Fe: A Hub for Creativity It’s almost impossible to talk about Santa Fe without talking about the arts. From fine arts and traditional craft to performances and concerts, the city is home to hundreds of galleries, exceptional museums, performance venues and special art-based events.  Outdoor Markets, Galleries and Museums — One of the things we enjoyed the most about the downtown Santa Fe area was the outdoor artists markets, such as those in Cathedral Park and at the New Mexico History Museum.  As part of the museum’s mission to protect and promote traditional southwestern Native American arts and crafts, artists display and sell their work along the museum’s covered walkway near the historic downtown plaza. Specifically, this is part of the Native American Artisans Program, which includes over 1500 artists. The museum is a collection of three buildings comprising a single campus downtown. Visitors to the museum can experience a collection of historic and rare objects and photography that tell the history of Santa Fe and New Mexico from Indigenous people through the arrival of the Spanish and Mexican governance to U.S. annexation and modern times. Admission is inexpensive ( New Mexico residents $7, nonresidents $12, and free to all under 16 years old). There are also free admission days and discounts for certain groups, such as military. In Santa Fe there are practically galleries along every street - Patina Gallery  on West Palace Avenue, Worrell Gallery  on Washington Avenue, San Francisco Street Art Gallery  and on and on. When visiting the galleries expect to find art and craft that spans the area's long timeline of creativity from the very old to the very current. The Georgia O'Keefe Museum , a definite must see for art lovers, is also in downtown Santa Fe. The museum is dedicated to the work of this preeminent modernist painter and transplanted New Mexican resident. Of the two current exhibits, one examines her repeated use of circles and spirals in her paintings and runs until Oct. 21, 2025. The other, showing until Nov. 2, 2025, explores O'Keefe's life as she evolved and curated her personal and artistic image. The museum is open everyday, except Thursdays. The museum is a popular attraction, so purchasing tickets in advance is recommended. Located a little further outside the main downtown area is Canyon Road  featuring a large collection of galleries, as well as restaurants and boutiques. Plus, there’s Railyard Park . What was once an active railyard has been transformed into a large entertainment and social district with everything from shopping and dining to working studios for artists and galleries housed in former warehouses.  Community Festivals — One of the largest downtown art events is the Santa Fe Indian Market  in August. This prestigious event, often dubbed as the greatest art market in the world, is hosted by the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) and features over 1,000 artists from 200 tribes. SWAIA was founded in the 1920s to support and foster Native Arts, artists, and education. In addition to the outdoor market, there is a juried art competition, a film festival, live music and more. When it comes to music arts, Santa Fe celebrates in a big way all summer long. The Santa Fe Summer Scene  is a free music series with concerts in the historic Plaza, the Railyard and across the city. From June – August, concert goers can enjoy national artists performing everything from rock to hip hop. The Summer Scene also includes free movies.  July 4th brings something a little more quaint — Pancakes on the Plaza . This community event is a 50-year-old tradition organized by the local Rotary Club to celebrate America’s independence and raise money for charity efforts. In addition to made-to-order pancakes and sides, the event brings together vendors, vintage cars and and music performances. A few blocks from downtown is the site of Santa Fe’s most unusual festival — the Burning of Zozobra . Basically, this long, held and hugely popular Labor Day tradition (2025 marks the 101st) is the burning of a giant, 50 foot tall creature called Zozobra to dispel worries and start along a renewed path.  Zozobra is made of wood, wire, and cloth. It’s stuffed with paper used by people to write down their woes or paper that represents something they want to move on from. Zozobra can actually move and is considered the world's largest marionette, according to the organizer's website. The Kiwanis hosts the family event to raise money for their charity efforts. There are also a variety of activities surrounding the burning, such as a fun run, live music, kids crafts, and more. To learn more about the tradition of Zozobra, visit here Exploring Beyond Downtown Santa Fe The downtown area of Santa Fe is packed with things to do, but it’s just a small portion of what’s available throughout the city. There are spas and wellness-focused businesses, farmer’s markets, distillery tours and tastings, and more especially when it comes to the outdoors. The city is nestled within an incredible landscape, perfect for hiking, biking, guided experiences, fishing, water activities and other outdoor excursions. Plus, even more festivals and special events throughout the year, such as the Angel Fire Balloon Festival .  The Tourism Santa Fe website has a section dedicated to the outdoors and special events, as well as for tips visiting the city. This story is part of a series that highlights some of the historic, kitschy and beautiful sites when driving coast-to-coast along 1-40 and Route 66, aka the “Mother Road.” Santa Fe is about an hour north of I-40, but Route 66 originally travelled through the city along the path of the Santa Fe Trail. The city was bypassed for a more direct route early in the road's history.

There is a special carnivore that only lives in an area stretching out from Wilmington, N.C., and nowhere else in the world. It’s a master at trapping its prey. It waits patiently to snap its clutches shut and then slowly dissolve and consume its victim over time.  It sounds like the stuff of nightmares, but don’t fear. This carnivore is not a huge blood-thirsty creature, but rather a 3-to-5 inch tall plant. The Venus flytrap to be exact.  Venus flytraps — dubbed "one of the most wonderful plants in the world" by Charles Darwin— is indigenous to the longleaf pine savannas of North Carolina’s Coastal Plains and Sandhills within a 75-to-100 mile radius of Wilmington.  The areas within this radius are mostly in N.C. plus a few counties in neighboring South Carolina. Although Venus flytraps have been planted and naturalized in some other states, such as Florida, they don’t grow naturally in the wild anywhere else in the world. Pretty cool! Finding Venus flytraps in the wild isn’t easy, so consider visiting these N.C. spots to see them. When you do visit, keep in mind the once threatened flytraps have rebounded after federal protection, which was only lifted in 2023. To ensure continued success, the state legislature made it a felony to poach the plants. So, admire and enjoy the flytraps, but don’t even think about touching or removing them. Want to learn more about what makes the Venus flytrap so intriguing it fascinated Darwin and was immortalized by Hollywood? Then, check out the trivia below this sightseeing list.  Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden Wilmington, NC For a sure bet to see Venus flytraps, the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden in Wilmington is the place to go. The garden was cultivated by its namesake over a 25-year period and is part of the Piney Ridge Nature Preserve, a special, 39-acre oasis tucked into one of the city’s suburbs.  The garden itself is small (just under an acre) and it’s collection of carnivorous plants also includes sundews and pitcher plants. Getting to the garden is a snap — easily accessible from the city and just a few miles from I-40. From the parking area, a shaded, paved path leads to the garden. There are two observation areas and a path leading through the middle of the garden.  You can enjoy an overview of the garden and the taller carnivorous plants from the observation decks, but to easily see the fly traps it's best to walk the path. The flytraps’ required habitat — a longleaf pine forest and adjacent pocosin (a shrubby wetland) — are part of the area’s beauty, as well.  Throughout the park is informational signage about the plants and their habitat by the North Carolina State Parks Department.  Tips For Visiting • Free and open everyday during daylight hours. • Bring a camera — it’s so pretty, especially when the picture plants are blooming (April/May to late summer depending on the variety). • The garden is in a low-lying, wetlands area and the path is narrow, just a line of two square pavers side-by-side. If there’s been any rain expect the pavers to be muddy, so bring old shoes. • Stay on the path since the Venus flytraps grow right next to the pavers and would be easily crushed underfoot. • Bring water. The garden isn’t very big, but the area can get super hot and humid. • Parking lot and the pathway to the garden’s main observation deck are wheelchair accessible, but not the path through the middle of the garden. Carolina Beach State Park Carolina Beach, NC Carolina Beach State Park (about 12 miles south of Wilmington), offers self-guided and guided tours along its Flytrap Trail to see and learn more about the plant.  The trail is a half-mile loop through pocosin wetlands and longleaf pine forests. Park rangers regularly host “Carnivorous Plant Hikes” along the trail. The tour focuses on the flytraps, as well as the other plant and animal life within the park's habitats.  The park’s beauty is spread among 13 different coastal habitats and 8.5 miles of hiking trails. The park features a host of recreational activities including camping, canoeing, hiking, boating and biking.  Tips for Visiting  • Free admission and the park is open every day (except Christmas Day), Hours vary seasonal. • Flytrap Trail is fairly flat (as are most of the park’s trails) and wheelchair accessible. • The park's website includes trail status updates and events, such as the Carnivorous Plant Hike schedule. • Prepare for the elements (sun, heat, bugs, etc.). • The park fronts the Cape Fear River and other waterways with accessibility to the Atlantic Ocean, but there are no designated swimming areas. The public, oceanfront beaches are only about two miles away. Green Swamp Preserve Supply, NC To feel even closer to nature, head to Green Swamp Preserve in Brunswick County. Owned by the Nature Conservancy, the preserve is huge — 17,000+ acres — and considered one of the best examples of longleaf pine savannas in the U.S. It’s a beautiful area.  The preserve features a large variety of carnivorous plants, but don’t expect to just hop out of your car and see them. The preserve is large and it will take some trekking to find the plants.  Most of the preserve isn’t what comes to mind when you hear the word “swamp.” In fact, 13,000 of its acres are pocosin shrub bogs. The path, which goes through a small section of the preserve, leads through a series of savannas and pocosins. In addition to flytraps and other carnivorous plants, the preserve is also home to a variety of orchids. The path through the preserve isn’t long (2.5 round trip), but it is primitive. The preserve is remote and not attended by rangers like a state park. The preserve’s website notes the local sheriff’s department has had to rescue people who veered off the marked paths. Make it more fun and err on the side of caution, go with a friend.  Tips for Visiting • Prepare for the elements (sun, heat, bugs, etc.).  • Wear closed-toed shoes. • The preserve is in a coastal area, so alligators may live in the ponds. • Parking at the trailhead is a gravel lot just off Hwy 211, a two lane road with some fast traffic. There’s a pretty good bump moving off the asphalt road into the lot, so slow down. If there’s been heavy rains, expect some standing water in parts of the lot.   • Check out the preserve’s website and the onsite informational kiosk for tips on how to enjoy the preserve safely and where you’re most likely to find Venus flytraps and other carnivorous plants.  What Makes Venus Flytraps Viciously Cool Venus flytraps are unique, rare and rank among the most unusual and coolest plants on Earth. People are fascinated by the idea of a plant with an “appetite,” so to speak. It’s no wonder a giant human-eating version was immortalized in “Little Shop of Horrors” for Broadway and the big screen. So what makes this carnivorous plant so interesting? Consider this flytrap trivia: • One of the few plants in the world that uses motion to trap its prey. • Grows in areas with nutrient poor soil, so they eat insects and arachnids, such as spiders, ants and grasshoppers, to supplement their diet. It can also digest a small frog. • Catches prey by snapping together two hinged lobes found on the end of each leaf.  • Ultra-sensitive trigger “hairs” on the surface of the lobes signal when prey is on the plant. The “hairs” can tell the difference between prey and non-prey. For instance, it won’t close on a drop of rain water. • Bristles on the edge of the lobes prevent bugs from escaping once it closes. • The flytraps digest prey over 5-to-12 days. • As a flowering plant that requires pollination to reproduce, the flytraps flower grows away from its leaves so it doesn’t eat insects that help with its pollination. • Flytraps live in longleaf pine savannas on the edges of pocosin, which is a type of coastal wetland bog characterized by sandy, peat soil and low growing shrubs.  • The savannas are a fire-dependent ecosystem, meaning they needs fire to thrive. Fire maintains an open understory (area beneath the forest canopy), which flytraps require to meet its sun-loving needs. Longleaf pines and the flytraps have adapted to survive fires.  - National Wildlife Federation and the North Carolina State Parks Department This story is part of a series that highlights some of the historic, kitschy and beautiful sites when driving coast-to-coast along 1-40 and Route 66, a.k.a. “The Mother Road.”

“Thank you, thank you very much.” This oft-spoken phrase by Elvis Presley ran through my head after touring Graceland Mansion. Even as a fan, I wasn’t sure a visit to Elvis’ Memphis, Tenn., home would be worth the hype, but it was. In fact, it exceeded my expectations. A visit to Graceland is actually a home tour combined with an entertainment complex featuring museum-quality, curated exhibits. Together they perfectly capture American culture during Elvis' reign as the King of Rock-n-Roll as seen through his movies, music, fashion, cars and more. The time capsule aspect of Graceland is why even the most casual fan will enjoy a day there. Elvis' home is so significant to America’s cultural fabric that it was designated a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service in 2006. The designation proclaims Elvis’ home is a site that “possesses national significance in commemorating the history of the United States of America.”  There is no doubting Elvis' cultural influence. He was a superstar who changed the trajectory of popular music and entertainment on stage and screen. To put it in perspective, The Beatles were nervous to meet him for the first time in 1965. John Lennon even credited Elvis as the reason he fell in love with rock-in-roll. That really says a lot. To read more about the biggest rock legends of all time meeting each other, check out this LA Times article. Elvis bought Graceland, officially called Graceland Mansion, and the surrounding 500 acre farm, in 1957 at the age of 22, about a year after his career took off, according to estate history. Elvis died in 1977 and Graceland Mansion tours started in 1982. The mansion is in the Whitehaven suburb of Memphis. Over time, commercialism crept in around the mansion. At that time, Graceland's tour operations and the souvenir shops were based across the street in an ‘80s strip mall, which was a pretty sad situation and not worthy of Elvis’ shine. Thankfully, over $137 million was poured into revamping the area and the result was Elvis Presley’s Memphis, a 200,000 square foot art and entertainment complex, which opened in 2017. A Visit to Graceland: What to Expect We were impressed with the overall quality of the tour and the exhibits. Everything from the landscaping to the air conditioned trams are well managed and maintained. The staff was friendly, too (a major plus for tourist sites). We learned a lot, saw cool memorabilia and most importantly, had a great time. Simply put, it was fun. Graceland Mansion sits atop a beautiful hill that’s shaded by stately trees. The home’s first floor and the grounds are open for tours. The property also includes a pool, racquetball and exercise building, memorabilia building, a still active horse stable (managed by Elvis’ cousin), offices, family burial plot and another building housing special memorabilia only certain VIP tour levels can see.  Guarding the property is a stone wall and the famous metal gates adorned with music notes. You can walk and/or drive up to the wall and the gates, but only official tour trams are allowed through and up the hill. Across the street from the Graceland Mansion is the Elvis Presley’s Memphis complex. This includes the main ticketing office, tram departing/arriving stop, Elvis’ airplanes and a collection of buildings featuring different themed exhibits related to Elvis' life (tickets required to see those). This area is designed to look like a city street complete with a movie theater marquee and street lights.  The Elvis-themed museums and exhibits in the complex include: • Entertainment career (music, movies, and television) • Legacy and Influence on Other Performers • Military Service • Transportation Collection (cars, motorcycles and other vehicles) • Airplane Collection Additionally, there is a exhibit dedicated to “Elvis,” the 2022 biopic movie directed by Baz Luhrmann. The complex also hosted the movie’s premiere party. The exhibit is designed like a backlot featuring sets depicting historic moments in Elvis' life through various bio-pic TV series and movies. Like any good tourist attraction, the complex includes gift shops and places to eat. Both are well-done with plenty of price points to pick from. Lots of visitors were donning replica gold sunglasses bought during their visit.  Inside Elvis' Historic Home Personally, I think touring Graceland Mansion is a must. You can opt to buy tickets only for the collections across the street, which offer a TON to see and do. But, the mansion is a must to really capture Elvis and that unique time in America.  The mansion’s 1960s-70s decor is of its time and I loved every minute of it. Sure, some of it is gaudy, but some of it is quite nice, including the beautiful chandeliers, artwork and stained glass.  My favorite room was the basement TV room/den and bar that’s awash in yellow, navy and white. The entire room is lined with mirrors and features a bank of TVs, Elvis' signature lightning bolt and an unusual monkey figurine on the coffee table. Everything is so over the top, it's retro-fabulous!  This is also the room where Elvis listened to his record collection. Recreation continued just past the bar in the globally-inspired and fabric covered Pool Room. The Jungle Room is probably the most talked about part of Graceland. With it's over the top Hawaiian-inspired theme, it's no wonder. The Jungle Room's furniture and accessories were picked because they reminded Elvis of Hawaii, his favorite vacation spot. The room features shag carpet on the floors and ceiling, which provided soundproofing for at-home recording sessions. The big round chair near the water feature was Lisa Marie's favorite place in the room as a little girl. The mansion tour is definitely a way to appreciate a bygone era, but more importantly it gives every visitor a sense of what was important to Elvis, especially his family. The Trophy Room exhibits, for instance, focus on Elvis’ personal life as a father, husband, son and citizen. Elvis and Graceland Fun Facts Interesting facts courtesy of Graceland followed by tips for making the most of a visit. • Elvis started making movies at age 21. His first film was “Love Me Tender” released in 1956. He starred in 31 feature films (plus two concert documentaries) and was one Hollywood’s highest paid actors for numerous years. His movies were usually box office hits and he worked with top directors, including Michael Curtiz of “Casablanca” (1942) fame who directed him in “King Creole” (1958).  • Elvis owned numerous TVs. There was even one in the dining room. In the basement den Elvis had three TVs because he read that President Johnson simultaneously watched all the major network news shows and he wanted to do the same. • Elvis loved to read and took trunks filled with books onboard his airplane when he travelled. • Elvis was nominated for 14 Grammys. He won three, which were all in the Gospel Category. Elvis feel in love with gospel music as a child in church. • The Jungle Room didn’t get its name until after Graceland was opened for tours. Up until that point, it was simply called the den by Elvis and his family. The room was originally a screened porch. • The second floor is not part of the tour because that’s where family members stay when they visit Graceland to this day. • Elvis kept his 1955 pink Cadillac Fleetwood for his entire life. The paint job was custom and he used the car for touring until he gifted it to his mother. She couldn't actually drive the caddy because she didn’t have a driver’s license. • The sink onboard the Lisa Maria airplane contains flecks of 25K gold. • Stained glass is used throughout Graceland, including light fixtures and around the front door. The famous stained glass panels featuring peacocks in the living room, were made by a local company in Memphis. All of the work cost $9,345 in 1974. Elvis, who was a religious man, picked peacocks because they were ancient Christian symbols of eternal life and resurrection. • Graceland features examples of beautiful, modern art pieces made during the 1970s by esteemed artists. Among them are Yigal Zemer and Marino Marini. Zemer's work was an abstract intaglio (printmaking technique) called "Yellow Corner." Marini's piece was an abstract figure drawing of three women. • “Heartbreak Hotel was Elvis’ first # 1 single on Billboard’s pop chart and his first gold record. The record also charted # 1 on the country singles chart, # 5 on the R&B chart and # 2 on the British pop chart.  • Elvis enjoyed all kinds of sports, especially racquetball. In the 1970s, he added a racquetball court building to the backyard.  • The Pool (table) Room in the basement is lined floor to ceiling in approximately 400 yards of fabric. The design's intricate fabric pleating took a team 10 days to cut, piece together, fold and hang. Tips For Visiting Graceland Must See Highlights – In addition to Graceland Mansion, be sure to check out all the attractions in the Elvis Presley’s Memphis entertainment complex. Among the must sees is the Elvis The Entertainer Career Museum . These exhibits explore his music career, including his early days at Sun Records and his time making movies in Hollywood. The Elvis: Dress to Rock exhibit featuring an incredible collection of stagewear, jewelry capes and jumpsuits is amazing! Every wall is lined, floor-to-ceiling with mannequins wearing Elvis' colorful and glowing performance costumes. Movie fans will especially enjoy the areas dedicated to Elvis’ acting career featuring a variety of memorabilia, posters and props. The mock "Jailhouse Rock" set with the famous movie's namesake musical number playing on repeat is a fun selfie-spot! Also be sure to see the Elvis ‘68 Enhanced  exhibit, which is all about his famous television special, which marked a comeback in his career. If you’re a car or airplane enthusiast, don’t miss the Elvis Presley Automobile Museum . His cars are beautiful and mint. Elvis is quoted as saying, "Life is too short to drive boring cars," and this museum collection proves he didn't. Elvis’ legendary 1955 pink Cadillac Fleetwood, called “The Special,” is a must see. You can actually walk through his largest airplane, a 1958 Convair 880, named the Lisa Marie, after his daughter. Elvis bought the plane in 1975 and gave it a full renovation complete with gold touches everywhere, even on the seat belt buckles. The plane includes a dressing area, sleeping quarters, bar, game area and TV lounge.    Mansion Audio Tour – Listen to it! The audio tour, narrated by actor John Stamos, adds a richness to the mansion tour. It provides entertaining and informative details about every room in the house and how Elvis and his family lived there. The audio tour is loaded onto an iPad. Headphones are provided or use can use your own (standard jack). All tours are self-guided unless you upgrade to a private tour led by a guide. Tour Ticket Options – Graceland offers a multitude of tour options. We only had a few hours and were able to tour the mansion, the airplanes, several of the museums and have a relaxing lunch. To save time and avoid waiting in long lines (can be extra hard in Memphis heat), get at least the first VIP level ticket, Elvis Entourage Ticket ($139 per person, children under 4 are free). It's worth it! This gets you to the “front of the line” for a special tram bus to and from the mansion and for entrance into the mansion. Having this VIP level also includes a special memorabilia room (that's air conditioned). VIP level ticket holders meet at a special check-in desk in the main ticket building. From there you’re escorted as a group to the tour tram, passing by all those folks standing in the turn stalls. Again, worth it!!! Visit here to see ticket offering from the basic to the ultimate VIP experience (see and hold exclusive memorabilia like Elvis' guitar), current pricing and available discounts for seniors, veterans and other groups. Although a ticket is required, there is no set time for entering and walking around the various attractions in Elvis Presley’s Memphis. Once you enter that area you can freely go from one building to another exploring the exhibits. Best Times to Visit – For less crowded visits, pick a weekday or the afternoon. We arrived  Saturday morning of Memorial Day weekend and the crowd was very manageable. But, Memorial Day weekend is more of a "stay home and grill out with friends" kind of holiday, so I’d expect other holiday weekends to be busier. Book Tour Tix and Parking Online – Graceland is popular especially on the weekends and in the summer. Book in advance online to avoid waiting in line for tickets and insure a parking spot. The parking lot, which is adjacent to the entertainment complex, is large and there were plenty of spots when we arrived, but I can see how it would fill up quickly on a busy day. Options to Change Tours – Tours booked in advance online are non-refundable and for set days/times. But, if your plans necessitate a change, you can make one. You’ll either get rebooked for the next available tour that works for your schedule or you’ll basically have a raincheck to claim within the year. Be sure to call and speak with a representative. When booking a tour keep in mind that Graceland has limited hours, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The last mansion tour begins at 4 p.m. Food Options – Onsite food options include a diner, an ice cream shop, a coffee shop and a BBQ restaurant. We chose Vernon’s Smokehouse and it didn’t disappoint. I expected no less considering Memphis’s famous BBQ history. The overall menu theme was Southern comfort foods and we choose chopped pork BBQ, mac-n-cheese, corn bread and broccoli casserole. The portions were generous and everything was clearly cooked fresh onsite.  Ease of Travel – Graceland is about 20 minutes after exiting Interstate-40. From there it’s an easy drive via a series of main highways. Lodging – There is a brand new hotel, The Guest House at Graceland , right next door. The hotel has 450 rooms, a ballroom, pool, theater, fitness center and specially designed themed suites. There is also a campground and RV park near the entertainment complex.    Special Events – Concerts, designated theme weeks, shows, excursions and so much more fill the programming calendar at the Elvis Presley's Memphis complex. Check here to find out what's happening when you're planning to visit Graceland. Day Visit Lockers – Don’t count on these. They are big, even big enough for small luggage, but good luck getting one. The ones with working locks were taken by the time we got there around 9:30 a.m. Either don’t bring valuables or place them in your trunk out of sight before you arrive. The parking lot does have a gate attendant.   No Video At All – Still photography (no flash inside Graceland) is fine, but no videos are allowed in or around the mansion or inside the Elvis Presley's Memphis museums. For more information, visit the Graceland FAQ . For more information about visiting Graceland Mansion and the Elvis Presley's Memphis entertainment complex, be sure to visit the website . It’s packed with information. Or, call the customer service line and get a real live person on the other end. A real live customer service person on the phone – that’s even retro cool!  Also, check out Graceland's FAQ  for additional helpful details. That’s about it for my tips on visiting Graceland. In the spirit of Elvis, I leave you with, “TCB!” If you know, you know! This story is part of a series highlighting some of the historic, kitschy and beautiful sites to see when driving coast-to-coast along 1-40 and Route 66, a.k.a. the “Mother Road.”

Mount Pleasant, S.C., a bedroom community of Charleston, is anything but “sleepy.” Great views, great drinks and great adventures are ever present and easy to find. Although a large area with typical suburban sprawl, the community still offers plenty of historic sites, waterfront views, places to convene with nature, and lively spots for food and drink. Follow these tips to curate your perfect day in Mount Pleasant from sunrise to sundown. Vicious Biscuits Get up and get out early so you can beat the crowd at Vicious Biscuit. This fast-casual spot is hugely popular! The creative and award-winning biscuits and breakfast offerings are delicious and will fill you up. Carb loading for sure! My favorite is The ‘Mater, a buttermilk biscuit with fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese and bacon jam. A southern delight! There’s seating inside and on a covered patio, but it fills up quickly. Avoid the queue by ordering your biscuits to-go online. If you're in Mount Pleasant after Labor Day, then the crowds are really not a problem until later in the week. Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park and the Ravenel Bridge With your belly full of biscuit, you might want to work off some calories or at least take a stroll. Tighten your laces and head to Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park and Pier . Located at the foot of the Ravenel Bridge, the park offers the perfect spot for a morning walk while taking in the water views. Bonus–there’s ample parking! The park’s pier has a wide, flat walkway that’s 1,250 feet long and stretches out into the Cooper River. The pier runs almost parallel to the underside of the bridge, so you can really appreciate this engineering marvel (and the shade it provides). On select summer evenings the pier hosts live bands for “Dancing on the Cooper.” The pier’s River Watch Cafe and Gift Shop offers snacks, ice cream, milkshakes and sandwiches. Plus, clean bathrooms! The cafe/gift shop also has fishing passes and related gear. FYI, keep Fido at home, no pets allowed at the pier. The park includes a playground, a memorial dedicated to veterans, and an additional paved walkway that makes a loop around a grassy lawn. While visiting Waterfront Park, keep your eyes open for the 4-foot replicas of oyster shells decorated by various artists. My favorites were "Bell Diver" by Philip Hyman and "Tangled in Enchantment" by Zoe Hyman. The oysters are part of “Art on the Half Shell,” a curated initiative by the Town of Mount Pleasant. If you want to the see all the shells in the community, then check out the town's online guide . If the weather isn’t too stifling, check out the views from the Ravenel Bridge by foot or bike. Access to the bridge walkway is near the park. The views are incredible–the U.S.S. Yorktown at Patriots Point, downtown Charleston, Fort Sumter National Monument, activities on the Cooper River and the bridge itself. The Ravenel is the third largest cable-stayed bridge in the Western Hemisphere. The supports take the shape of giant sails–it’s truly beautiful and an incredible feat of architecture and engineering. The bridge is 2.5 miles long and has a sloping incline to reach the middle. In the summer, it can be extremely hot and windy on the bridge. I recommend stopping halfway at the “sails,” taking gorgeous pictures and then doubling back. Be sure to carry water. Historic Old Mount Pleasant For quaint Southern charm, head to Mount Pleasant’s Old Village Historic District . The area, part of the National Register of Historic Places, features lovely homes, views of the water, and streets shaded by large oaks dripping with Spanish moss. If you've worked up an appetite, visit the lunch counter inside Pitt Street Pharmacy (an actual working pharmacy) and enjoy a grilled cheese, hot dog or another lunch counter favorite. My go-to treat is a Coke float with vanilla ice cream. The pharmacy, which opened in 1936, is rich on nostalgic charm complete with vintage signs and décor. Another dining choice along Pitt Street is the Gala Bakery featuring desserts, coffee, and full menu of other options. Indoor seating is available, but on a nice day the bakery's front porch and outdoor courtyard are lovely. For a more refined sit-down, make a reservation at the The Post House , a small, historic inn and restaurant. The building, which dates back to the 1800s, was updated in 2020 featuring a beautiful, modern take on the coastal-tavern look. Also on Pitt Street is the Wine Shop and the "Out of Hand" collection of boutiques featuring women's clothing, gifts, décor, and floral design. The Pitt Street merchants are part of the historical business district, an area included in the The Mount Pleasant Historical Commission’s Old Village Tour . The online tour map is easy to follow. Informative historical markers are also placed throughout the district. Alhambra Hall is among the tour locations. Take your lunch counter milkshake to-go, and drive just a few blocks to this historic building that was once a dance hall and now serves as a recreational facility for the town. Behind the hall is a wide, grassy lawn–a nice spot for walking dogs, having a picnic and enjoying views of Charleston Harbor. There are only a few benches, so bring a picnic blanket if you want to relax for a little bit. Across the street from the hall is a shady playground. There's ample parking available. One of my favorite spots in the Village District is Pitt Street Bridge and Pickett Park . The bridge, which once connected to Sullivan’s Island, now ends in the middle of the water providing beautiful views in every direction. In this area, the waters of the Cove Inlet and Charleston Harbor come together. The paved greenway is lined with palm trees and leads to a pier. The area is popular for walking, biking, fishing, crabbing and photography. Along the way are park benches if you want to sit and enjoy the views. It’s worth a visit, but don’t expect any shade and parking (along the edge of the road) is tricky. The sunset views are gorgeous. Shem Creek Waterfront The waterfront area of Shem Creek is the perfect spot for a Margaritaville-kind of afternoon or evening. A collection of restaurants and bars line the banks of Shem Creek. If you’re lucky, a pod of dolphins may swim by while you’re enjoying some fried shrimp and a creative cocktail. We checked out the restaurant, Saltwater Cowboys , for drinks and starters. The chilled, crab dip appetizer–the owner's family recipe–hit the spot! I have a weakness for fried green tomatoes, so I had to try those, too, and my tastebuds thanked me. The Shem Creek area also includes a boardwalk that extends into the marsh and past fishing boats for gorgeous views. It’s a great setting for sunset pictures. Shem Creek is also a popular spot for renting kayaks and setting out on boat tours and fishing charters. Patriots Point and Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina If you love military history, then Patriots Point Navel & Maritime Museum is a must. The centerpiece is the U.S.S. Yorktown, a World War II aircraft carrier. Inside the Yorktown and on its flight deck is a collection of aircraft and informative historic displays about various battles and war-time events. Walk through the maze-like belly of Yorktown to learn all about life at sea. Everything from the officer’s quarters to the kitchen and everything in between, is preserved to look just as it did when in service. In addition to the Yorktown, Patriots Point includes a museum about Medal of Honor winners, a submarine, and a destroyer. There is also an immersive Vietnam War exhibit, which is set up like a base camp with a mess hall, observation tower, helicopter, patrol boat and more. Expect to spend several hours on the Yorktown if you plan to explore the entire ship. Plan to spend at least a half day if you also want to explore the other Patriots Point exhibit areas. The inside of the Yorktown is hot and humid. Be sure to bring water and a snack. The only food is via vending machines. Patriots Point requires paid parking. Next door to Patriots Point and just a short walk along the waterfront boardwalk, is the Charleston Harbor Fish House within the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina . For expansive views of downtown Charleston and the harbor, beeline to the rooftop Bridge Bar at the Fish House. This is another perfect spot for pictures–the Ravenel Bridge and the Yorktown to the right, downtown Charleston straight ahead, Fort Sumter National Monument to the left, and the many boats and yachts docked below or jetting by. Walking along the marina boardwalk is my favorite way to enjoy the water views and the beautiful boats. During my last walk, a pod of dolphins were just a few feet away corralling fish among the docked boats. If you aren’t going to Patriots Point and therefore, don’t park in its lot, you’ll have to buy a parking pass to the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina lot. The restaurant provides parking vouchers with a meal purchase. Charleston Water Taxi The ferry service by Charleston Water Taxi is one of the easiest and best ways to get an on-the-water experience without devoting a lot of time or money. Keep a look out for dolphins while on board, they like to come by to say “hello.” The taxi runs a route among four stops–Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston, the South Carolina Aquarium, Patriots Point, and Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina. Taxis operate between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., revisiting stops every hour. A one-way pass for a single ride is $10 (children 3 and under are free). The best deal is an all-day pass for $14, which allows you to hop on or off as much as you want. No advanced reservations needed. Strollers can fit in the boats. Ride the taxi for an enjoyable trip around the harbor or use it as a quick and easy way to see sights near the drop off points and avoid the hassle of re-parking a car. The entire loop is about four miles. Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens The drive into Boone Hall Plantation is gorgeous as you travel under the huge branches of Live Oaks lining each side. Founded in 1681, a visit to Boone Hall is a historical look at life on the grounds then and now. Activities include various self-guided and guided tours of the main house, the surrounding estate buildings, the gardens, the butterfly pavilion and the farm. I enjoyed the landscaped grounds as much as the historic talks and exhibits. The gardens are skillfully designed and beautifully maintained. The guides and educators do an excellent job outlining the history of the plantation, especially the lives of its residents from the enslaved people to the plantation owners. You'll also learn about the evolution of the main house (four have stood on the footprint) and the industry tied to the resources from the adjacent marsh creek. In the 1800s, Boone Hall produced around 4 million handmade bricks and was the largest producer in the low country. The Black History in America exhibit is housed in the nine original slave dwellings. Each cabin exhibit centers on a specific timeframe in black history from slavery to modern times. On the Boone Hall website it states: "The discussion of slavery is often difficult, but it is an important topic that must be discussed openly and honestly whenever plantation life is addressed. At Boone Hall Plantation we believe there is a responsibility to present the history of slavery in an accurate and educational manner each day in a way that pays honor and respect to that history and the progress of Black Americans." Boone Hall also has a live, outdoor theater presentation about Gullah culture presented by direct descendants through storytelling, dance and song. The Gullah people are descendants of Africans enslaved on plantations in the low country regions of South Carolina and Georgia. Boone Hall is one of the oldest continuously working farms in America. For the farm tour, you ride in a wagon that's pulled by a tractor. The wagon's seats are padded and comfortable. The tour travels the entire estate (over 700 acres) and takes about 30 mins. It was a relaxing ride and the guide's insights are interesting. The heat index was in the upper 90s during my ride, but I was still comfortable. The wagon has a canopy and the tour path includes shaded, wooded areas. It's still a good idea to bring water, though. The indoor spaces, such as the main house, are air conditioned. The Butterfly Cafe offers snacks, hot dogs, premade sandwiches, ice cream and drinks. You can sit indoors or under the covered outdoor front patio. My only complaint about the cafe is how dark it is inside. Not very inviting. The cafe has a nice selection of Boone Hall products, such as hot pickled okra, marinated artichokes, honey and a variety of pickles. You can buy fresh, seasonal produce from Boone Hall's roadside market on Highway 17, which is just around the corner from the main entrance to the plantation. Palmetto Islands County Park Palmetto Islands Country Park is a wonderful way to enjoy Mount Pleasant's natural beauty. The 943-acre, public park is just a 5 minute drive from Boone Hall Plantation. For a $2 fee, you gain entry to a park so lush it feels more like a nature preserve. The park offers a multitude of recreational options. During my visit, I walked the marsh boardwalk to Nature Island, followed the Story Walk path, and went to the top of the 50-foot Observation Tower overlooking the marsh and a tidal creek. Story Walk is perfect for families with curious children. Along the path are permanent fixtures, each one featuring a "page" of a story about a tree changing with the seasons. The story engages readers with requests, such as blowing a kiss to make the leaves blow away. Another learning opportunity is the Phone Tour. You can hear details about your current location in the park by scanning the QR code or dialing the number on the phone tour sign. At my stop, I learned more about salt marsh vegetation and wildlife. The park has a total of five paths/trails. Each is clearly marked with color-coded, diamond-shaped signs affixed along the way. Path surfaces include wooden boardwalks, asphalt pavement and loamy soil. Other park features include a multi-age playground, large grassy fields, picnic shelters with volleyball nets nearby, kayak launching areas, fishing and crabbing docks, and the Splash Island Waterpark. Visitors can also rent paddleboats and bicycles. Rentals are reserved at the Park Center building. The center also has a snack bar and restrooms. Besides drink machines at the picnic shelters, the snack bar is the only option for snacks and drinks. Please remember, just because this is a public park doesn't mean it's free of alligators. There are ponds around Park Center and near part of the Big Toy Playground. Gators could absolutely live there, just as they warning signs state. The park is a nice option for appreciating the low country's beauty while getting some exercise or gathering with friends and family. And bonus–lots of shade! This is a municipal park with some wear and tear. But, I noticed several newly built picnic tables, so it looks like the weather-worn areas are being addressed. Palmetto Islands and Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park are among the Charleston County parks and facilities that include community centers, pools, piers, beach parks, campgrounds, trails and more. For community information and more ways to spend a day in Mount Pleasant, check out the town's official website .

If you catch a glimpse of a beautiful, orange and black monarch butterfly resting in your garden this summer, you’re actually witnessing something incredibly special. That singular butterfly is one of millions that migrate across North America annually, a journey so arduous and long it’s considered a natural world wonder. With a few simple steps you can help that butterfly along its way and join efforts across the country to support the monarch population, which is having a tough time these days.  A monarch butterfly on the blooms of a blazing star plant What is the Monarch Butterfly Migration? “Snowbirds” is a common term for people who spend their summers in cooler, more comfortable temperatures and winters in warm, inviting climates. Monarch butterflies are the ultimate insect version of a “snowbird.”  Monarchs summer in southern Canada and the northern United States until the August temperatures rise and the days get longer. When this happens, monarchs instinctively know it's time to head south.  Monarchs that follow the Western North American migration path overwinter along the California coast while monarchs migrating along the Eastern North American path travel to the mountains of central Mexico. When heading south, individual monarchs will fly the entire route covering 50-to-100 miles a day for thousands of miles collectively to reach overwintering sites. By late fall, the monarchs reach their destinations and it’s time for a little R&R. Their “resorts” of choice are trees where they roost until early spring when vacation is over and it’s time to head home.  Unlike the fall migration, the spring trip home is made by multiple generations of monarchs. As these monarchs travel back north, they mate and lay eggs along the way producing offspring that are the first- and second-generation descendants of the overwintering monarchs.  Once these monarchs are finally home for the summer, they continue to breed, producing two to three more generations until August comes and the migration south starts over. By pure instinct, this new generation of monarch butterflies, which has never traveled the migratory path before, knows exactly where to go when it's time to go south. Monarchs migrate further than any tropical butterfly, according to researchers with Monarch Watch, a non-profit based at the University of Kansas . Plus they are the only butterfly to annually complete a two-way migration over such a great distance. This is true for all monarchs except those living in Florida permanently. Habitats, Highways and Byways Traffic on the monarch migration "highways" has declined over the past 20 years leading to concerns for the monarch's survival. To determine population size, researchers focus on the number roosting monarchs in overwintering sites and those counts have significantly declined according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFW). As a result, monarchs are now under review by the USFW for possible inclusion on the Endangered Species Act.  The problem for monarch butterflies is habitat lost to urbanization. As a result, monarch conservation efforts center around creating habitats along the migratory paths that provide food (nectar), places to rest and milkweed for laying eggs (milkweed is the only food source for monarch caterpillars). Collectively, these habitats work together like rest and refueling stops for monarchs as they travel. Communities, non-profit organizations and government agencies across the country have developed habitats and on-going programming to support them. Many of these programs use transportation themes as a nod to the monarch’s flight path and habitat locations.   For instance, the Monarch Highway program by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) focuses on habitats along the Interstate 35 corridor, which corresponds with the butterfly’s central flyway. The NWF works with state transportation departments to support the program. Another example is the Route 66 Monarch Flyway . Route 66 is a legendary part of America's travel history and this habitat corridor follows along it's scenic by-way from Chicago to St. Louis. Individuals can get involved by creating habitats in their own backyard and registering them with organizations working toward monarch and pollinator conservation. Among them is the national Monarch Waystation program by Monarch Watch (“Waystation” literally means a place to stop along a journey). In North Carolina, residents can register their habitat with the Butterfly Highway program by the N.C. Wildlife Federation, an affiliate of the NWF. Importance of Monarch Butterflies And Other Pollinators Monarchs, other butterflies, birds, bees and moths, are among animals and insects called pollinators because they help spread pollen among plants.  Pollination facilitates plant reproduction, which is why pollinators are a crucial part of maintaining our food supply. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture , pollinators are responsible for “one out of every three bites we eat” and “essential to our ecological survival.” Basically, no reproduction, no food.  As with monarchs, pollinators - especially bees - have declined significantly in recent years. Creating nectar-rich habitats that monarchs enjoy also attracts and helps other pollinators (hence the “pollinator-friendly” description commonly used for plants and habitats these creatures love). How to Help Monarch Butterflies Creating a habitat to help monarchs along their journey is easy and doesn’t require a lot of space. Habitats of all sizes are beneficial. If you have a backyard, you can fill it with flowers and plants monarch butterflies love. If you don’t have time to maintain a larger garden or only have a small outdoor area, simply fill a plant container or two with monarchs in mind.  Follow these suggestions for creating the perfect monarch rest stop: • Plant a variety of brightly colored, nectar-rich flowering plants that attract monarchs and other pollinators, such as black-eyed Susan, cardinal flower, goblin flower, and varieties of sage and aster. Nectar provides monarchs energy. • Plant flowers with staggered bloom times so there is a nectar source available from spring through summer.  • Monarchs drink (and need) water so provide a source, such as a birdbath or a small dish. • When possible, use plants native to your area. The lifecycle of plants and pollinators native to where you live are in sync since they evolved alongside each other. This is the magic of mother nature: first, plants blooming when birds and insects need nectar and, second, the plants needing those creatures to come and spread its pollen for reproduction. Local plants nurseries and even big box garden centers now have sections dedicated to local, native plants. • Include native milkweed in your habitat. Look for common milkweed, swamp milkweed and butterfly weed. Butterfly weed is best for small areas and containers since it spreads by seed versus runners. If you notice signs of rabbits snacking on your butterfly weed, consider planting in a tall container as a deterrent. • Do not plant tropical milkweed, which is not native to the U.S and carries harmful parasites. • Once you create your habitat, consider registering it with a pollinator habitat program in your area and/or with a national organization such as Monarch Watch . Aside from their habitat programs, these organizations, as well as government agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service , also offer a wealth of online information about pollinators and creating pollinator-friendly habitats. Another valuable resource is Monarch Joint Venture , a partnership of organizations, agencies, businesses and higher education based programs across the country that support monarch conservation. The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation , a non-profit dedicated to helping pollinators (and named for an extinct butterfly), offers online resources and pollinator-related programs for communities, as well. I Spy - Monarch Butterflies! Seeing a monarch in your habitat is exciting, so share the news and help ongoing research efforts! Here are some ways you can do just that: • Participate in Monarch Watch’s tagging program , which helps track and understand migration. The organization’s website has information about tagging kits, how to tag monarchs and record sightings online. • Track your monarch sighting with Journey North , a program with the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. The program relies on everyday people to report monarch sightings, along with descriptions of the butterfly’s activity and photographs. For this reason, Journey North is considered one of the largest citizen-based science programs in North America.  How to Identify Monarch Butterflies Not sure that's a monarch in your yard? You're not alone. Other butterflies with similar coloring are often mistaken for monarchs, especially the viceroy. Here are some things to look for to easily identify a monarch, even its sex: • Monarch wings are deep orange with thick black veining. The wings also have white spots along the edges. The underside of the wings, visible when the wings are closed, are mostly pale orange and black. • The black veining is thinner on the wings of a male monarch than a female. The male also has a single black dot on each of its hindwings. A male monarch • Viceroy butterflies look nearly identical to monarchs except they have black line that the crosses the lower part of the wing. Monarchs do not. • The wingspan of a monarch butterfly is about 3-to-4 inches wide and bigger than those of the viceroy. Want to know more about pollinators and growing gardens they love? Check out this Take Note and Go story.