Gallery

Mar

2018

Disney’s Magic Kingdom – A Photo Gallery

There are only a handful of places on earth where millions of people plan for years to come and spend a week, and the Magic Kingdom is one of them. You would think that a simple amusement park wouldn’t hold so many in awe, but people come to see it, and come back again and again. It’s not just marketing either. For many people, it’s been a life long relationship. Walt Disney set out the rules for making an amusement park that everyone could enjoy over 60 years ago, and that foundation holds true today. After all it’s still the “happiest place on earth”.

Entrance to the Magic Kingdom

Camel
Camels at The Magic Carpets of Aladin, Magic Kingdom. Image by Bonnie Fink

Splash Mountain

Liberty Belle
Traditional paddle wheel reminiscent of those used along the Mississippi River. Image by Bonnie Fink

Chip, or Dale?
It's Dale. Image by Bonnie Fink

Sleepy Hollow Inn
Great fast food with room for sit down eating near the Haunted Mansion. Image by Bonnie Fink

Balloons

The Electrical Parade
Night time at the Magic Kingdom is about lights. Whether it's the Electrical Parade or fireworks, there's plenty to see. Image by Donald Fink

Goofy
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The Electrical Parade
The Electrical Parade has been retired at the Magic Kingdom, but lives on here in our gallery. Photo by Donald Fink.

Fireworks over the Castle
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Fireworks over the Castle
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Fireworks over the Castle
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Fireworks over the Castle
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Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
The newest ride at the Magic Kingdom, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train features cars that are gimbal mounted as they travel along the mine's tracks. Image by Donald Fink

Splash Mountain
There's a lot going on at Splash Mountain, from an easy floating log ride to a plummet through the briar patch. Image by Donald Fink

Tom Sawyer's Island
Go back to Mark Twain's day with a stroll around Tom Saywer's Island. Image by Donald Fink

Disney' Rail Road
Travel through all the lands at the Magic Kingdom on the Walt Disney World Rail Road. Image by Donald Fink

The Magic Kingdom
View of the Magic Kingdom from the Seven Seas Lagoon. Image by Donald Fink

Mar

2018

Downtown Disney, or is it Disney Springs?

Downtown Disney is in full construction mode these days. It’s rare to walk through and not see something new from the day before. It’s getting exciting because new businesses are starting to open, parking areas are in full construction mode, and things are just changing on a daily basis. Here are a few images of some of the newest developments at Downtown Disney.

Mario and Enzos
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Coca-Cola
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Characters in Flight
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Downtown Disney
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Disney Springs
Hints of the new Disney Springs name are starting to show up here and there around Downtown Disney. Image by Bonnie Fink

Art of Shaving
A new shop called the Art of Shaving recently opened across the walkway from Paradiso 37. They feature men's shaving accessories as well as a full service barber shop. Image by Bonnie Fink

Food Court
Food trucks have become exceedingly popular and that appears to be true as well at Disney. A dedicated food truck court has been recently constructed in the West Side between Starbucks and Bongos Cuban Cafe. Image by Bonnie Fink

Not Quite Open
A new shop, called the Sound Lion is set to open on Pleasure Island near Paradiso 37. Can't see in the windows yet. Image by Bonnie Fink

Lot 2 Demolition
Demolition of an administrative building in the old Lot 2 parking lot is underway. Image by Bonnie Fink

The Boat House
Scaffolding surrounding the lighthouse at the new Boathouse was recently removed revealing a new landmark at Downtown Disney. Image by Bonnie Fink

New Construction
If you walk over to Saratoga Springs and look back on Downtown Disney, you start to get a sense of the scale of the construction underway. Image by Donald Fink

Marketplace Boat Landing
A newly constructed boat landing at the Market Place serves boats from the Old Key West Resort as well as local water taxis that serve downtown. Image by Donald Fink

New Bridge
The new bridge at Downtown Disney's Market Place between The Rain Forest Cafe and T-Rex is very near completion. Image by Donald Fink

Bridge
Workers are finishing the handrails on the bridge between the Rain Forest Cafe and T-Rex. Won't be long now. Image by Donald Fink

Spring Construction
Construction along the side of T-Rex from the water to parking Lot #2 appears to be a combination of new shops and what appears to be the beginnings of a water feature. Could this be the new "Disney Spring"? Image by Donald Fink

Chapel Hats
Chapel Hats is a recent arrival along the new walking area between Portabello's and Paradiso 37. Image by Bonnie Fink

Chapel Hats
One of the first shops to open along the walkway from Portabello's and Paradiso 37 is called Chapel Hats. You guessed it, they sell hats. Image by Donald Fink

More Hats
Chapel Hats seems to have a good selection of fun and interesting head gear. And, as a pleasant surprise, their prices are not exceptionally high. Image by Donald Fink

Aviation Themed Restaurant
Work continues on a new fast food restaurant along the water near Paradiso 37. The boat to the right appears to be a sitting area for the restaurant. Image by Donald Fink

New Parking Structure
The new parking structure at Disney's West Side is five stories tall. Not completely finished, the structure is already in use. Most days you can park on levels one through 3 while cast members park on level 4. Image by Doanld Fink

Parking Spaces
As you enter the parking structure on Disney's West Side, a sign depicts the number of parking spaces available on each level. Image by Donald Fink

Pedestrian Overpass?
A view from the new parking structure reveals what appears to be a new pedestrian structure being constructed over Lake Buena Vista Drive. Image by Donald Fink

Available Space
Signs overhead on levels two through five of the new West Side parking structure show how many spaces are available in each row. Image by Donald Fink

Parking Structure Pedestrian Entrance
An entrance to the West Side parking structure is nearing completion. This entrance will enter the structure on level two via elevators and escalators. Image by donald Fink

Second Starbucks
A second Starbucks at Downtown Disney opened late this summer. It's located near Ghirardellis in the Marketplace. Image by Donald Fink

Another Spring?
This "over the fence" view is near Paradiso 37 looking back toward Parking Lot 2. It appears at this point to be mainly a water featrure. Image by Donald Fink

Logo Serpent
The giant sea serpent at Lego's in Disney's Marketplace is the same, but the background has made a dramatic change in the last few months. Image by Doanld Fink

New Venue
A new area across from Ghirardelli's in the Marketplace has recently been carved out of the water and built on piers. Concrete floors are currently being poured. There appears to be a small area in the center where lots of plumbing and electrical conduit have been installed. Hopefully there'll be some additional seating. Image by Donald Fink

Lot 2 Construction
This is a view from the parking structure overlooking lot 2 and lot 1. You can see that quite a bit of construction is underway in the areas nearing the location of the old lot 1.

Oct

2017

Germany – Our 2017 Photo Tour

So far during our 2017 Germany trip we’ve made several stops in Germany, We’ve covered towns from the Baltic sea to the Austrian border, and a few in-between. We can talk all we want, but we really know that folks just want to see the pictures. We’re the same. So here they are:

Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein Museum
There's a museum capturing the years as a hunting castle beginning in 1580 qt the Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein. Photo by Donald Fink.

Room at the Jagdschloss Kranichstein Hotel
A typical room at the Jagdschloss Kranichstein Hotel near Darmstadt. Photo by Donald Fink.

Lounge and Bistro at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
The loungs at the Hotel. Photo by Don Fink.

Breakfast room and Bistro at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Breakfast room and bistro at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein. Photo by Don Fink.

Entrance to Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Entrance to Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein and hotel restaurant. Photo by Donald Fink.

Pond Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
A small pond next to the hotel. Phtot by Bonnie Fink.

Pathway Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
A pathway next to the lake. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Gate at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Old gate going into the hotels property. Photo by Don Fink.

Driveway Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Hotel Driveway. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Fire pit at Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Fire pit for guest enjoyment. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Stag Statue Hotel Jagdschloss Kranichstein
Stag Statue. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz
850 year old Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Restaurantat Burg Eltz
One of two restaurants at Castle Eltz. Photo by Donald Fink.

Burg Eltz
Some of the walls at Burg Eltz stand 30 or even 40 meters tall. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

River Eltz
Looking down at the valley below and the River Eltz. Photo by Donald Fink

Castle Eltz Private Chapel
Rooms for worship were often built high above the ground, outside of the main building. The rules requiring a private worship place were complex. One could not live above the chapel, for example, which is probably the reason they were attached outside the main building. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz
Looking up from the interior courtyard at Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Crest
Crest over door at Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Courtyard
Interior Courtyard at Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Dormers
Interesting feature on the roof. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Rain spout
An interesting rain spout at the Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Additions
The building the restrooms are in at Burg Eltz. It's not clear if this building is new, or simply part of the the original compound, re-purposed as a public toilet. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Walls
Exterior of Castle Eltz. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Siege Castle at Burg Eltz
Ruins of the siege castle that was built by Archbishop Balwin during the Eltz Feud of 1330. The ruins are approximately 230 meters away from Eltz Castle and uphill, which provided a good strategic position from which to launch a five year attack. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Siege Castle On The Hill
Ruin of the Siege Castle sitting above Castle Eltz. You can see from this view how it command a strategic advantage in the days when throwing rocks was a war plan. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Eltz Gate
Door in the gate of Castle Eltz. Photo be Bonnie Fink.

River Eltz
The river Eltz below the Castle. Photo by Donald Fink.

River View of the River Eltz
River Eltz. Photo by Donald Fink.

Castle Eltz From Below
Looking up at Castle Eltz from the river. Photo by Donald Fink.

Shuttle Bus at Castle Eltz
Shuttle bus that takes you from the parking lot to Castle Eltz. Photo by Donald Fink.

Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall
Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall. Photo by Donald Fink.

Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall, Schloss Burg
Stories about the Bergisch lords have been captured on paintings in the Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall. Photo by Donald Fink.

Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall Paintings
The walls tell the stories of Burg Castle in the Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall. Photo by Donald Fink.

Fireplace and Windows at Schloss Burg
Gallery of Ancestors and Knights Hall at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Suit of Armour
Suits of Armour from the Middle Ages are on display at the museum at Schloss Burg. Photo by Donald Fink.

Dining Room at Schloss Burg
This large room was set up as a dining room. Large pictures on the wall telling the story of the castle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Lion Shield at Schloss Burg
Lion painting, probably depicting a family shield. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Great Dining Hall at Schloss Burg
Another view of the dining room and paintings at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Stained Glass Schloss Burg
Stained glass in the chapel at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Carved Pews
Carved pews in the chapel. There were only nine of them, with benches lining the walls. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Suit of Armour at Schloss Burg
Suit of Armour ready for jousting. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Clock Tower
View of the clock tower from the castle at Schloss Burg. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Music Room at Schloss Burg
What a music room might have looked like in the middle ages. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Kitchen at Schloss Burg
Representation of a kitchen in the Middle Ages. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Thieves Tower at Schloss Burg
The outer wall of the castle looking at Thieves Tower. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Art Above a Window
Interesting figures above a window. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Main Street Cochem
The main street in cochem along the Moselle river. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Moselle River
Looking toward the town of Cochem on the Moselle River with the Castle Reichsburg on the hill. Photo by Donald Fink.

Old Town in Cochem
The old town of Cochem, Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Restaurants and Stores in Cochem
Restaurants and stores in the beautiful old town of Cochem, Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Brightly Painted Hotels
There are many small Hotels and Restaurants in Cochem, Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Flowers Are Everywhere
Germans seem to take pride in the appearance of their buildings. Here in cochem, we've routinely found bluming flowers decorating most of the buildings. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cobble Stoned Street
Once you step inside the town of cochem, you find narrow cobblestone walkways. The building with the round top is St. Martin Catholic Church. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

One of Hundreds of Interesting Buildings in Old Town, Cochem
Another beautiful old building in Old Town, Cochem. Notice the timber frame construction on the second floor. This seems to be common for the area. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cochem Restaurants and Stores
This appears to be a walkway between stores and restaurants in cochem, but of course it's actually a street. Usually closed to vehicular traffic, it does indeed serve mostly as a walkway as it probably did when this street was first constructed. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Town Square Cochem
Buildings around the town square. Notice the bells in the building on the upper right. They play a tune periodically. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Main Square, Cochem Germany
Row of old buildings in Cochem Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Inside the Town
Inside of the town of Cochem, Germany. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Busy Center Square
Near the town square. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

More of Cochem across the river
Across the Moselle River is a continuation of the village of Cochem. Until the first part of the 20th century, the village across the river was called Cond. It was a smaller fishing village. With the completion of the Cochem Bridge, seen here on the left, the two villages combined. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Chocolates
Very cute chocolates. Notice the eyes and the chocolate sprinkles used for fur. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Aross the Cochem Bridge
There are more restaurants and hotels across the Moselle River. Many of the hotels across the river offer fabulous views of the Reichsberg Castle. There are lots of vineyards in the region too as you can see on the hillside behind the village. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Wine Statue
A statue in celebration of wine. There was a plaque telling you not to drink the water. It's not really wine. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

St. Martin Catholic Church
St. Martin's Church has a very interesting rounded steeple. The present church dates back to 1950, but there has been a church on that site since the 1500's. Some of the buildings in Cochem suffered bomb damage during World War II. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Pedestrian Walkway
At one end of the main street is a pedestrian walkway going past many stores and cafes. This area is actually on the main thoroughfare in cochem, but it's set back from the highway and safe from vehicles. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Stumberger's Hotel
Stumbergers Hotel. Quite a bit of parking and it's free. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Double Room at Stumberger's Hotel
Double room with balcony. Photo by Donald Fink.

Breakfast Selection at Stumberger's Hotel
Some of the breakfast selection at Stumberger's Hotel in Cochem. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Breakfast Bread at Stumberger's Hotel
Breakfast bread and condiments. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Beer Garden
In the summer you can enjoy the Beer Garden. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Breakfast Room at Stumberger's
A window seat in the breakfast room has a great view of the castle. It was a bit foggy on this morning, so the castle was somewhat obstructed. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

View From Balcony
We enjoyed the view sitting on our balcony at Stumberger's Hotel. Photo by Donald Fink.

Hofgarten Park, Dusseldorf
The Hofgarten Park, is the oldest public park in Germany, The oldest sectoion dates back to 1769. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Walking Paths
There are many walking paths through the park as well as old statues and modern ones too. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

St. John's Church
St. John's Church, a protestant church, was built in 1875. It was damaged in WWII but rebuilt and opened in 1953. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

High Fashion Stores in the Konigsallee shopping Area.
The popular shopping area seemed to always be busy. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Breuninger Store
One of the many modern stores in the Konigsallee shopping area. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Geese in the Hofgarten
You will find a wide variety of birds in the park. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Room at the Melia Dusseldorf
This is a typical room at the Melia Hotel in Dusseldorf. It was quite large and comfortable. We were on the 8th floor and had a nice view of the Hofgarten, Park. Photo by Donald Fink.

Melia Dusseldorf
Melia Dusseldorf is a very modern hotel, conviently located about 15 minute's walking time to the Konigsallee shopping area or a 15 minute walk to Altstadt, Old Town, through the Hofgarten, Park. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Juice Station at the Melia Hotel
Juice station at breakfast in the Melia Hotel, Dusseldorf. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Buffet Breakfast, Melia Hotel in Dusseldorf
The breakfast buffet at the Melia Hotel in Dusseldorf had just about everything needed for both a European breakfast preferance and an American choice. Photo by Donald Fink.

Desk Area in the Rooms
Desk Area in a room at the Melia Hotel in Dusseldorf. Quite a bit of room was used by a completely full minibar in a refrigerator. Photo by Donald Fink.

Charging Station in Garage.
Dusseldorf is on the leading edge of technology, so it was no surprise that we found this Tesla sponsored electric car Charging Station in the parking garage in the basement. It was unclear if a full charge was included in the 25.00 Euro parking fee, but we did see a Tesla parked in one spot getting a charge. Photo by Donald Fink.

Cobblestone Streets in Schwerin
Looking down a cobblestone street at the Schwerin Cathedral. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Old Buidlings in Schwerin
Old buildings surrounding the Market Square. Folks were setting up for a weekend festival and putting up bench seating. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Arts and Crafts Store.
A small half-timbered house from the 17th centurty survived the fire that nearly destroyed the city and has been preserved. Photo by Donald Fink.

Zur Guten Quelle
One of the many hotels in Schwerin. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Statue on Building in Schwerin.
The weight of this building is on this statue. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Mecklenburg State Theatre
The Mecklenburg State Theatre built between 1883-1886.

Chess Game in Town Square Schwerin
There was a festival happening this weekend and one of the events was a chest game. One man was playing all of these people. No idea how many games he won. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Timber Frame Building
One of the many timber frame buildings in Schwerin. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Street Scene in Schwerin
Street Scene in Schwerin. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Schwerin Cathedral
View of the Schwerin Cathedral from the Market Square. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cobble Stone Alley
There are many of these narrow cobblestone alleys in Schwerin, each one is filled with stores and cafes. Photo by Donald Fink.

Market Square Schwerin
The colorful Market Square is a great place to start your adventure in Schwerin. Photo by Donald Fink.

Market Square in the Rain
Tourist joining their tour groups in Market Square during a rain shower. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Early Morning in Schwerin
Early morning in Schwerin before the hustle and bustle of the day starts. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Restaurant in Weinhaus Uhle
A breakfast buffet is served in the morning. In the evening it bcomes a gourmet restaurant. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Comical Eggs
We had comical hardboiled eggs every morning for breakfast. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Knight's Hall
The Knight's Hall makes the perfect room for a family celebration or wedding. Photo by Donald Fink.

Weinhaus Uhle
Entrance to Weinhas Uhle. Parking is available underground. Photo by Donald Fink,

Junior Suite ”Parsifal”
View of the Junior Suite ”Parsifal”. Photo by Donald Fink.

Horse Carriage
A horse carriage going into town in front of Villa Ludwig. Photo by Donald Fink.

View of Neuschwanstein Castle
View of Neuschwanstein Castle from the patio. Photo by Donald Fink.

Hotel Villa Ludwig
Hotel Villa Ludwig and Neuschwanstein Castle. Photo by Donald Fink.

Front Patio
Front Patio and view of Neuschwanstein Castle at Villa Ludwig. Photo by Donald Fink.

Garage
The underground Garage at Villa Ludwig. This guest parking area has nineteen spaces. There are eighteen rooms in the hotel. Looks like they've got it covered. Photo by Donald Fink.

Breakfast and tea time seating
Breakfast and tea time seating. Photo by Donald Fink.

Breakfast and tea time seating.
Breakfast and tea time seating. Photo by Donald Fink.

Patio at Villa Ludwig
Patio seating at Villa Ludwig. Photo by Donald Fink.

Neuschwanstein Castle
Here's a view of Neuschwanstein Castle as seen from Villa Ludwig. Many of the rooms have a castle view from the balcony. Photo by Donald Fink.

Building in Schwangau
One of the many beautiful buildings in Schwangau done in the classic Bavarian style. Photo by Donald Fink.

Hohenschwangau Castle
Hohenschwangau Castle, one of the two castles in Schwangau. This castle was built by the then crowned Prince Maximillion II, who would later be King of Bavaria and father to Mad King Ludwig II. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Alpsee
Reflections in the Alpsee. Couldn't ask for a better day for a stroll around the lake. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Boat House
The Boat House on the Alpsee. Photo by Donald Fink.

Hohenschwangau Castle
Hohenschwangau Castle overlooking Lake Alpsee. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Walking around Lake Alpsee.
The path around Lake Alpsee, for the most part is flat and well maintained. There is a spot on the north side of the lake that climbs a bit and has a few rocks to negotiate, but most of the trail is as easy to negotiate as this trail segment shown here. Photo by Donald Fink.

ChangingLleaves.
We were lucky this year in Germany. We enjoy the autumn leaves anywhere we can find them, and while at Schwangau, the leaves changed almost instantly. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Walking Across the Bridge
This was one of the bridges that were on the hiking path around the Alpsee. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Hohenschwangau Castle and Neuschwanstein Castle.
For much of the walk along the south side of Lake Alpsee, you could turn back and see both castles in Schwangau. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Alpsee
Lake Alpsee in the morning. Photo by Donald Fink.

Lech River
The Lech River near Fussen. You can see the distinct turquois color of the water. We see that same turquios color in glacier fed streams and rivers in the northern US, near Glacier National Park. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Entrance to Schwerin Palace.
Entrance to Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Roof line of Schwerin Palace.
You will see several different archetucual styles on the roof line. photo by Bonnie Fink.

Schwerin Palace Through The Trees.
Schwerin Palace through the trees. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Garden at Schwerin Palace
The Palace garden in front of the Orangery. At one time the Orangery was a place to grow fruit trees. Today it's a very nice restaurant. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Golden Dome of Schwerin.
The Golden Dome dates between 1847 to 1857. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Side view of Schwerin Palace.
Side view of Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Domes of Schwerin Palace.
Several of the Domes of Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Lake Schwerin.
Lake Schwerin. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Statue at Schwerin Palace.
This is a sculpture of a shepherd being attacked by a panther. The expression on the face is unusually realistic. Photo by Donald Fink.

Two Swans
Two Swans. Schwerin Palace is a great place to bird watch, you will see swans, geese, mud hens, seagulls, and many other types of birds. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Two more Swans.
Two more Swans. Okay, probably the same two swans as before with a different pose. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Intricate Details
Everywhere you look you will find intricate details, including in the sculptures. Photo by Donald FInk.

Schwerin Palace and the Golden Dome.
The roofline of Schwerin Place is quite intricate. Photo by Bonnie FInk.

Golden Dome at Schwerin Palace
Closeup of the Golden Dome. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Tour Boats at Schwerin Lake
There are several tour boats to choose from if you want to spend time on Schwerin Lake. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Gardens at Schwerin Palace.
The Gardens at Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Different Styles on the Roofline.
Different styles on the roof line at Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Lamp Post
Even the lamp posts have intricate details at Schwerin Palace. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Statue of Obotrite Prince Niklot
Statue of Obotrite Prince Niklot who died in 1160. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Buildings on Galgengasse.
Hocher Hotel and cafe, one of our favorite places for dessert. The cafe is just down the street from the the Galgen Gate, one of the entrances to the old town. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Market Square
Town hall on Market Square. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Statue
One of the many wonderful statues on a fountain. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Flower building
Another beautiful building not far from the Galgen Gate. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Medieval Building
A beautiful medieval building. Photo by Donald Fink.

White Tower
Looking toward White Tower. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Pink House
A colorful medievel building with flower boxes on Galgengasse, near the Galgen Gate. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cobblestone Streets
Looking down the cobblestone streets. Photo by Bonnie Fink

St. George and the Dragon
Statue of St. George and the Dragon mounted on one of the buildings. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

St. James Church, or in German St. Jakob Church. This Lutheran Church was built between 1311-1484. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Statue
One of many statues at St. James Church. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Details of St. James Church
You could spend hours looking at the details on St. James church. Photo by Bonnie Fink,

Bakery Sign
Sign in front of one of the many bakeries. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Sunflowers
Beautiful sunflowers framing a beautiful yellow building. Photo by Donald Fink.

Jack O' Lantern
Even the Germanys like a cute Jack O'Lantern. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Sign
This sign speaks for it's self. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Burg Hotel
A Hotel in the old city, next to the city wall. Photo by Donald Fink.

Medieval Buildings
One of the Medieval buildings near the Casle Gate. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Garden
On this site in 1142 there was a castle. Today a lovely garden to stroll thru. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Castle Gate
The castle Gate was designed to protect the town from invaders from the west. They could also pour boiling pitch on invaders. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cobblestone Street
You will find shops and restaurants down every street in the old town. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Markus Tower and Roder Arch
Markus Tower and Roder Arch were build around 1200. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Merman Statue
Another interesting statue of a Merman. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Tower and Medieval Wall
The wall and towers around Rothenburg were built in the 13th century. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

View From the Wall Around Rothenburg.
You can still walk on the wall around Rothenburg, this is one of the views you will see. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

13th Century Wall
If you want to take a walk back in time you are able to walk the wall, built in the 13th century around the town. Photo by Donald Fink.

The Old Forge
The old forge is a half timbered house. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Galgen Gate
Galgen Gate of the entrances to the Old Town. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Cute Bear
Just a cute bear blowing bubbles. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

A Golden Merman
Another Merman Statue. Photo by Bonnie Fink.

Strange Fountain
Just an unusual fountain. Photo by Bonnie Fink

Jun

2017

Columbia State Park – A Photo Gallery

One of the California Gold Country must see places is Columbia State Park. Located in the foothills along Highway 49, just north of Sonora, this state park is rich in Gold Country Lore.

Relic Wagon
A restored cargo wagon on display at the Columbia State Park, California.

Main Street Columbia
Except for possibly the pavement in the street, Main Street Columbia looks much like it did in the gold rush days.

Businesses Along Main Street
Typical businesses along main Street in old town, Columbia state Park, California.

The Book Store
There's a book store on main Street in Columbia State Park that's worth a visit.

Blacksmith
There's a working blacksmith shop in Columbia.

Johnson's Livery
A restored Livery stable in Columbia State Park in California.

Main Street Storefronts
More storefronts along Main Street in Columbia State Park.

Fire Engine
You can't get too close, but you can view these restored fire engines at the Fire Department in Columbia State Park, California.

Fire Engine Papeete
This fire engine was purchased in 1852. It was originally built for the King of the Sandwich Islands, but the sailors who were to deliver it jumped ship in San Francisco in search of gold, leaving the engine stranded.

Main Street Columbia
Some buildings in Columbia State Park are in less repair than others.

Volunteers at Columbia State Park
Volunteers dress in period attire as they decorate the streets of Columbia State park, answering questions and telling stories.

St Charles Saloon
Selling all the favorites of the 1800s', the St. Charles Saloon is an example of how some folks made their money the old fashion way during the gold rush in California.

Butcher Shop
Imagine what a butcher shop must have been like in 1860.

Warehouse
This might have been a warehouse in Columbia, in the 1800s'.

Blacksmith
Inside the blacksmith shop is an anvil and fire for working iron.

Fallon House Theatre
The Fallon House Theatre is still in use today for performances and community meetings.

Columbia Gazette
The original Columbia office Gazette produced a local newspaper. Today it's used for much the same purpose, printing information about the State Park.

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Panning Gold
You can try your luck at gold panning along this sluice box just outside of town at the Columbia State Park in California.

Jun

2017

Colonial Williamsburg – Image Gallery

When the American Colonies were still young, when the United State of America was still just an idea in the minds of a very few, Colonial Williamsburg was a thriving city. It’s easy to walk among the streets, look through the buildings and talk with the volunteers who bring this place to life and imagine that this was a vibrant and energetic community. The artisans and craftsmen who lived and worked here were some of the most highly skilled anywhere, and helped to bring true civilization to the American continent.

Important history played out here too, and the people who work every day to bring that story to everyone do a great job of portraying the events and times of the American Revolution.

Governor's Palace
The Governor's Palace and Gardens in Colonial Williamsburg are generally open to the public. Photo by Donald Fink.

Windmill
This windmill depicts how a gristmill might have operated in Colonial Williamsburg. Photo by Donald Fink.

Red building
Beautiful old Red Building. Photo by Donald Fink.

Wagon Wheel
A wagon wheel being constructed in the Carpenter Shop in Williamsburg. Photo by Donald Fink.

Wood Lathe
An old wood lathe. Photo by Donald Fink.

Carpenters in Williamsburg
There's a complete cabinet and general woodworking shop in Williamsburg. Photo by Donald Fink.

Governors Building
Governors building against the blue sky. Photo by Donald Fink.

Horses
They're horses. What can you say about horses. Photo by Donald Fink.

Well
An old water well. Photo by Donald Fink.

Horse and carriage
Horse and carriage. Photo by Donald Fink.

Governor's Mansion
Inside the Governor's mansion in Williamsburg. Photo by Donald Fink.

More Horses
Again, horses! Photo by Donald Fink.

Williamsburg
Colonial Williamsburg. Photo by Donald Fink.

Tavern
Sign for a Tavern. Photo by Donald Fink.

Colonial House
A colonial house with two folks in character. Photo by Donald Fink.

Window display
A window display you might have seen in colonial times. Photo by Donald Fink.

Oak Tree
A beautiful old oak tree and brick home behind. Photo by Donald Fink.

Locks
Rusty locks and gate hardware in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. Photo by Donald Fink.

Colonial house
A colonial House. Photo by Donald Fink.

Horse drawn Carriage
A horse drawn carriage in front of a red colonial house. Photo by Donald Fink.

Colonial Williamsburg Courthouse
This original building served as the courthouse for the James City County Court and the Williamsburg municipal court. Photo by Donald Fink.

Horse drawn carriage
Another horse drawn carriage. Photo by Donald Fink.

Post
Humid conditions in Virginia makes for a perfect environment for lichen and moss to grow. Photo by Donald Fink.

Jun

2017

Capitol Reef National Park – Image Gallery

Capitol Reef National Park is one of the most interesting places in the southwest. The Waterpocket Fold opens up several hundred million years worth of geology in breathtaking sandstone layers. The wind sand, and rain have sculpted the landscape into a place worth seeing.

Petroglyphs
Petroglyphs, or rock art, were often left by the Anasazi and Fremont people. many of these examples are over 2,000 years old.

Chukar Partridge
A beautiful Chukar Partridge decided to pose.

Red Rock formation near Capitol Reef National Park
Red Rock formation with sage brush

Capital Reef National Park
A sandy trail at Capital Reef National Park

Southwest
Red rocks and blue sky with a green plant in front

Capital Reef National Park
Red sand hiking trail in Capitol Reef National Park

Hiking Trail in the Red Rocks
A hiking trail in the red rocks of Utah

Cactus in Rocks
The white appearing rock formation in the background is known as Navajo Sandstone.

Red rocks in Capitol Reef
Capital Reef National Park, Utah. Scenic Drive to Grand Wash and Capital Gorge.

Thrust Fault
Capital Reef got its name, in part, because of a huge thrust fault jutting up from the landscape, forming a "reef", or barrier to travelers.

Drilling rig, Cathedral Wash, Capital Reef National Park
An abandoned water drilling rig sits rusting along the roadway in Cathedral Wash, Capital Reef National Park

Cathedral Wash
Cathedral Wash, Capital Reef National Park, Utah

Red rocks and blue sky
Red rock formations in Cathedral Wash, Capitol Reef National park

Cathedral Wash
Entrada Sandstone spires at Cathedral Wash, Capital Reef National Park.

Fruit Trees
The early pioneers planted fruit trees

Capitol Reef National Park
Red and Pink Rock Formation in Capitol Reef National Park

Red rock formations
Incredible red rock formations against the blue sky of the southwest

Hiking trail
A sandy trail

View overlooking the National Park
View overlooking the road and park lands

Hiking trail
Hiking trail thru the red rocks

Red Rock Formations
Everywhere you look at Capitol Reef National Park, there is beauty

Jun

2017

Bodie State Park – A Gallery

Bodie State Park is located along California Highway 395, south of Reno near the town of Bridgeport. It’s an easy day trip from Yosemite over Tioga Pass. Bodie is almost unique in that it is one ghost town that, even though only a small percentage of the original buildings are still standing, it looks like it was a vibrant town only yesterday. Well worth the time to visit.

Old Door
One of many beautiful old doors.

wagon
One of the many wagons used when Bodie was a working town.

Window Display
Display mannequins as they might have been in use in Bodie, California, now left to the dust and ghosts of another time.

Fire Station
The fire station at Bodie State Park, California.

Old Mine
Abandonded mine buildings at Bodie State Park, California.

House
One of the many abandoned homes.

Window Display
Mannequins left for the ghosts.

Fire Station
What's left of a once active fire station.

House
At one time a family lived here.

House
Another house abandoned, all that's left are memories.

Fire Hydrant
A fire hydrant still in the ground at Bodie State Park, California.

Outhouse
An abandoned outhouse.

Outhouse
One of many abandoned outhouses.

mining equipment
As you walk the grounds, you will find a lot of mining equipment just laying on the ground.

Old Mining equipment
Old mining equipment at Bodie Ghost town.

Outhouse
One more outhouse.

Jun

2017

Cochem, Germany – A Gallery

When we arrived in Cochem, there were probably 1,000 bikers in town, plus a compliment of other tourists from tour companies, boat excursions, and folks like us, who just drove in for the day or weekend. It apparently was a German holiday, and the Germans were out in full force.

There were bikes, boats, old cars, new cars, just about every kind of recreational vehicle you would expect to see in the US, but in German style. Bikes, for example, are overwhelmingly Harley Davidson at a typical US motorcycle rally. In Cochem, there were a few Harleys, but the bikes were a mixture of other brands. Many European brands including BMW and Triumph, but many Japanese bikes too. Continue reading →

Gallery

Disney’s Magic Kingdom – A Photo Gallery

Downtown Disney, or is it Disney Springs?

Germany – Our 2017 Photo Tour

Columbia State Park – A Photo Gallery

Colonial Williamsburg – Image Gallery

Capitol Reef National Park – Image Gallery

Bodie State Park – A Gallery

Cochem, Germany – A Gallery

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