Enthralled by the Eclipse

Living in the “Path of Totality” seemed to be more aggravating than exciting over the year leading up to the eclipse on August 21st.  The only hotel rooms available were going for outrageous prices, rental cars were sold out in the entire western area, grocery stores double stocked in preparation for what locals came to call the ApocEclipse. Much to everyone’s delight, the hordes did not materialize, supplies didn’t run out, the skies were clear and the Eclipse was absolutely phenomenal. Continue reading “Enthralled by the Eclipse”

Wyoming | Where the Wildflowers Are

There’s so much more to the Wild Wild West than cowboys, bison and open spaces. This year, we were lucky enough to be directly in the solar eclipse’s path of totality! I didn’t get any photos of the eclipse itself, but I posted some fun shots on instagram. While I can’t count on another such experience in the near future, or maybe ever, I do know that year after year, Mother Nature shows her true colors in many other ways, right here in Jackson Hole. Continue reading “Wyoming | Where the Wildflowers Are”

Sheik Lotfollah Mosque, Isfahan, Safavid Era, travelmagnolia.me

Iran | A Virtual Visit

If I have learned anything from current events, it is that one cannot and should not equate the words or actions of a government (or its leader) with its people. Not everyone in Great Britain voted for Brexit, for instance.  Before I went to Iran, many friends and family members expressed dismay and disbelief that I would travel there.  Continue reading “Iran | A Virtual Visit”

Anticipation – Pre-Trip Prep

Summertime and the living is  wonderful in Jackson Hole. With so much to do in my fabulous backyard, I won’t be venturing afar or for long. A wedding in Boston,  a few days in Montana, and a return to our favorite ranch in the  Rocky Mountains are the only excursions over the next few months. Come autumn and I’ll be off again on some big adventures. In the meantime, I’ll be getting ready.  Continue reading “Anticipation – Pre-Trip Prep”

Boston – Better than Ever

One of the oldest cities in the United States (although a relative youngster globally), Boston has managed to retain its historic charms and increase its attractions. In fact, one of my favorite places in Boston is not even ten years old!  The Greenway  is 1.5 mile ribbon of parks constructed above the Central Artery Tunnel, popularly referred to as the Big Dig. [Full disclosure: I served on the Greenway Board of Directors for six years!] Continue reading “Boston – Better than Ever”

Charming Charleston, South Carolina

Husk Planter copyOne day in Charleston and it is easy to understand why this city continually garners accolades and tops many “Best of” charts, including Travel and Leisure World’s Best City 2016.  Charleston is steeped in history and tradition. The city was founded in 1670 (which makes it old by U.S. standards) and is famous for its well-preserved architecture, distinctive cuisine and the locals’ deeply-ingrained hospitality.   Continue reading “Charming Charleston, South Carolina”

NYC | Take a Ride on the Second Ave Line

72nd Street Station Mom and Stroller
Vik Muniz Complete Strangers

What continues to amaze me after all these years of visiting New York City, is its continual evolution. Over two millennia ago, Heraclitus observed that “the only thing constant is change.”  That could serve as the city’s motto.  Not all change is good — I am not a fan of the so-called “finger” buildings — but there are many causes for celebration including the long-awaited opening of the Second Avenue subway.   Continue reading “NYC | Take a Ride on the Second Ave Line”