Pivot and Pause in New England

Inspiration: Whistle Near the Blindman

The title of this blog is not my own. When I was in my teens my boyfriend shared he one day wanted to write a book with this title.

He felt that folks needed to be reminded and/or taught that even with only sparing a moment you can support someone else. He thought that perhaps an easy picture book of short quips might help improve people’s behavior towards one another because he can help them find the opportunities that may not appear as obvious to them.

When my boyfriend would walk down the streets of NYC and see a blind man with his cane, he would whistle a happy tune just to make them aware he was there. If they needed him he has made his presence known and/or simply made the blind man aware he’s not alone.

But there was a bigger challenge it appears than sharing the ease with which one can support another person. The predecessor of course is to want to support others. What is the motivation behind helping others and how can that be encouraged? What are the benefits?

I try and employ some of his techniques on each of my outdoor adventures and I am happy to share many have done it for me as well! I will try and share some of the benefits that I have found.

1- By focusing on someone else’s needs for a few moments it may offer you a distraction from an issue you are experiencing. You may find that you return with an improved clarity to address your own issues.

2- You may make a new friend or contact. Who knows what you can learn from that person’s experience. With one brief life for us all it’s a great value to learn from others. I have often found that I am able to draw from other people’s experiences which have helped me make a decision in my own life.

3- I have had the benefit of experiencing people “paying it forward” when someone does a good turn. While it feels like only one person at a time, it’s awesome to hear when your good turn dominoes to others and watch as that kindness multiplies.

4- With many struggling financially, you can often impact someone’s life without any financial contribution and it simply makes you feel really good!

Now we all may not be like my prior boyfriend who was always predominantly focused on helping others even to his own detriment. We may need a little reminder and make a conscious effort to even recognize the opportunity. To ensure I am reminded I married that boyfriend over 30 years ago and he continues to find ways to help support people as a doctor.

Case in point there’s the pandemic of 2020 and the societal division about wearing a mask to protect not only yourself but others. I’m hopeful that the tide is turning and more of society is coming to better understand the importance.

Perhaps more people may better understand and appreciate the benefits of helping one another and want to find more opportunity such that Dr. Brian Sheets can one day write that best selling book, “Whistle Near the Blindman.”

Inspiration: Dancing Trees

At first I felt awkward going on some of my outdoor adventures on my own. I realized, however, that if I approached it a bit differently I could greatly improve the experience. I decided to make others part of the adventure through my lens. This was actually a huge and successful pivot.

Now as I go on my outdoor adventures, instead of turning away when others appear I look toward them and pause. I see how the light may be capturing their silhouette, if their reflection appears in the water or if the clothes their wearing complements the surroundings.

I admire the families teaching their children about nature or the many other individuals enjoying it.

I also love seeing the innocence of a child. To see the pride in their manner when they accomplish something or the love in their eyes when you appreciate them. I find these basic responses are similar for an adult yet somehow the parallelism is overlooked.

You see pride in an adult’s manner when they accomplish something and love in those adult eyes when you appreciate them. So why do many not respond to adults in the same way?

One day I met a recovering alcoholic who proudly shared his recovery with me. The sunrise that morning created the image of an angel as it rose behind the lighthouse as it was partially covered by clouds. We watched in awe and I turned to him and acknowledged his accomplishment once again sharing how hard that must have been and how I wished to recognize that strength in him. He smiled from ear to ear and was clearly touched.

What I used to shy away from as it troubled me now engages me. It has opened up new perspectives and brief yet encouraging encounters. Pivot your situation and pause and you too may find and benefit from the modified perspective.

The trees may start dancing for you too.

CT: Hartford County-Collinsville- Antiques on the Farmington

I have enjoyed Collinsville on so many different levels and opportunities over time I anticipate many blogs directing you to this area.

My first visit several years ago was based on my walking along the Farmington River trail. The following year I biked the trail. Third year I kayaked the Farmington River. So much to discuss on each of these outdoor adventures.

This time, I went to the Antiques store I had passed so many times. I was amazed by the sheer size of the facility packed with opportunity. Find your corner with the decade from your childhood and it’s sure to take you back.

The additional fascinating fact about this facility is that it originally was part of the Collins Axe factory which in the 1800s manufactured axes and had over 40 buildings in the area which ultimately named the town Collinsville! By 1871 they were making an annual $1million in sales!

This is definitely a place you could get lost in both literally and metaphorically as you bring yourself into the antique scene displayed.

Although I knew unlikely, I hoped I could find an antique menorah (Jewish candelabra used to celebrate Hanukah) as I like to collect different types. I ultimately found a handmade unique birdhouse which I am collecting to place around a nature path I hope to create at my home.

I definitely recommend a stop in Collinsville no matter what brings you to the area and allow yourself the latitude to bring you back in time.

CT: Fairfield County-Norwalk- Calf Pasture (Winter Solstice)

“Move to the left,” I screamed out to the ducks who were hanging out by the shore.

Tonight is the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, and also the evening when it’s said that we can view the planets Jupiter and Saturn to form the star of Bethlehem. Well that’s quite a good reason to go to the shore for sunset.

I was somewhat surprised to find a full lot of cars lined up I assume to see the sunset and potentially the star of Bethlehem to shortly follow.

There was a mother and son feeding the birds sending them soaring around the falling sun.

While there was still deep snow around, there were several fisherman fishing off the rocks and the dock. It was a funny sky. On one side were these heavy clouds as the sun set and the other side appeared quite clear. I was hopeful to see the Bethlehem star.

One thing I have come to better appreciate is the beauty of the barren trees. I love how I can see their true shape without the leaves and the colors of the sky beyond them. I’m drawn to photographing them. As I approached my favorite I found it was called a “Tree of Heaven.” This is actually a breed of tree that was brought over from China in the 1700s. It’s often used in urban settings based on its hardiness and takes in unique shades of bark in the winter.

I walked the dock and while it was quite cloudy the sunset colors were beautiful reflecting against the clouds and the water. I saw all the ducks crowding the shore. I wanted them to be more centered under the sun so I screamed “ok all the ducks move to the left!” How I loved the moment when they did with on lookers laughing and smiling. I quickly snapped the shots. I can’t tell you how that made my night.

I didn’t wind up seeing the star of Bethlehem as it was otherwise too cloudy, but I found the Tree of Heaven and some new dancing partners in the ducks. This is my respite. Join me!

NY: Westchester County- Katonah- Lasdon Park (Winter)

An under rated four season park with lovely child friendly events.

I posted about Lasdon park in the Fall where I also referenced summer and spring events. Recalling its many paths and one specifically to a Chinese Pagoda I was the first to break the trail during this last snow fall.

While many of the other trails had already been dug out by a snow blower, I loved this one hadn’t. I followed the slight divot in the snow which I assumed was hiding the trail. I saw animal tracks and trees reflecting in the untouched snow.

While there were several cars on the other side of the park for their special winter event, it was me and the song of the many blue jays playing for me as I made a grand entrance into the Chinese garden area. If you have little kids I highly recommend checking out their website for their many changing seasonal events.

The pond had an icy cover against which the surrounding trees reflected like the mirrors in a fun house. Amusingly I followed the now plowed path ensuring to keep the untouched snow unscathed.

Now I was at a metamorphical fork in my road. Do I cautiously return along my path or do I take that bamboo stick I spy and be the first to break through the snow?

Well I have a double digit birthday coming up so let’s try it out. Breaking the snow it is 🙂 What a gift to be present!

Check out the Fall blog on Lasdon Park which includes a trail map!

https://btographytravels.com/2020/10/31/ny-westchester-county-katonah-lasdon-park/

CT: Fairfield County- Greenwich- Holiday Stroll

Originally a cow path with a strong scent of manure in the air was the scene of the original Greenwich Avenue, then called Piking Lane in Horseneck.

Quite a difference a couple of centuries makes when you walk down the Avenue during the holidays. While the hometown spirit remains you can also feel the sense of grandeur from the cars, stores, people and community establishments – including the senior center, churches and restaurants.

While there are several chain stores where mom and pops were previously, they ensure to meet the Greenwich standards of bringing the Avenue to life to engage in a lovely holiday stroll.

There are several tributaries off the main trunk of the Avenue to which I encourage a little jaunt. Grab a hot chocolate and plum strudel from Starbucks, a crepe from Meli-milo or an eclair from the patisserie and participate even briefly in the grandeur of Greenwich.

I find often overshadowed by the stores, Greenwich Common Park on the Avenue is a lovely interim stroll about half way down. So easily overlooked but always lovely in each season.

There are so many opportunities for mini adventures and to feel a part of what at times may feel an untouchable area!

Inspiration: A Gift That Keeps on Giving

Last night was the final night of Hanukah 2020. I felt I should pause to remember the influence my father has had on me. My father told me since I was a child, “prevenir et mieux que guerir” (literally translated “prevention is better than healing”). Today with the pandemic this also easily translates to wear a mask.

For those who knew my father, he was an Egyptian-French Jewish hippie-like fun loving character. He was an “empath.” He would hear of how someone feels and wanted to find some way he could help within his capabilities and means.

He didn’t have much money so instead he gave his time and his humor and love of life. He felt that improving someones “espirit” or spirit would increase their level of fulfillment and by extension their health and happiness. He loved to distract people from their day to day issues and find a way to make people smile and laugh.

I started this blog in October 2020 as an outgrowth of the pandemic and the political turmoil. I found myself pursuing outdoor adventures instead of the gym. I would research and go hiking, biking and kayaking always at different venues taking pictures along the way.

My father had also enjoyed taking old movies and pictures. He always had the best gadgets. These all came in very handy when he was aging with dementia. The pictures and movies would often bring him to the present with us.

I felt I needed to find something to offer those who were feeling isolated or at political odds by emulating my father and finding a distraction to help. Hence the blog. It’s my gift to share safe opportunities to go out and foster improved health, happiness and well-being and in return I have received wonderful words of encouragement.

I enjoy meeting some of the strangers in my pictures and then sending them the photograph. Since I’m not a photographer and the blog is not a business I feel a sense of freedom in what I write and of what and how I take pictures and then can share it all freely. I love to hear of why people like a certain picture, place or piece of history. It’s a gift to see strangers support one another on an adventure regardless of race, gender, religion or political affiliation. So the blog is symbiotic- we support one another virtually. Such a gift for me and others.

For me its a gift that keeps on giving. This is a gift I got from my father which I share with my children and with all those who may wish to have similar experiences.

Find a distraction for your mental health, wear a mask for your physical health, smile and be kind to others in their similar quest.

Prevenir est mieux que guerir. Thank you for all your gifts Papa.

Virtually join me so we can encourage one another. Happy Holidays.

CT: Litchfield County-West Cornwall Bridge

One of the last vehicular covered bridges in Connecticut, this iconic landmark spans 172 feet long and runs over the Housatonic River.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it still carries vehicular traffic on Connecticut Route 128. Designed by Ithiel Town, it has been in continuous service since 1864.

I have enjoyed touring several of the covered bridges in Connecticut – both vehicular or pedestrian as they make great photo ops from the inside and out! I enjoy peering out their windows to the rivers below as well.

Connecticut Covered Bridges

Some of the covered bridges- vehicular or pedestrian- I have enjoyed in Connecticut include:

West Cornwall Bridge, Cornwall CT- 1864, vehicular (this blog)-
Bull’s Bridge, Kent, CT – 1842, vehicular (blog pending)
Kent Falls, Kent, CT – pedestrian (refer to blog on Kent Falls in Litchfield County)
Southford Falls, Southbury, CT-pedestrian (refer to blog on Southford Falls in New Haven County)
Comstock Bridge, East Hampton, CT- pedestrian (blog pending)
Devil’s Hopyard Bridge, East Haddam- pedestrian (refer to blog on Devil’s Hopyard)
Johnsonville Village Covered Bridge, East Haddam CT- pedestrian (refer to Johnsonville blog)- NOTE: This one should be viewed by the road as its on private property but is unique as it’s a double tunnel bridge.

Join me on the other covered bridges of Connecticut!

CT: Litchfield County- Kent Falls Park

Kent Falls is a 250-foot drop through a staircase of water falls of about 1/4 mile through the Housatonic River.

I must admit that while I have been here several times before, I am now seeing this through my “new eyes” which makes this a completely new experience. I am intrigued by the designs created by the foam of the water beneath the splashing falls. I am blinded by the bright green moss reflecting off the slippery rocks. Was this really always here to see?

The entry to the park is through a covered bridge to commemorate the period.

There is a paved trail to the base of the falls with a stone terrace encouraging visitors to pause and reflect. For this portion therefore this is handicap accessible!

There is a staircase built to the side of the falls with periodic platforms each offering a unique experience as the falls differ throughout.

While I have been here in a prior summer, I much preferred today’s visit which was a balmy day in December after a recent rain. The water was flowing and the naked trees allowed a full viewing of the rushing waters throughout. In the summer you feel the heat walking up the stairs and there are crowds. I prefer “stick” season for this location.

It’s incredible what you can see when you look. A lesson I only very recently learned.

I hadn’t recognized before how very different each stage of the falls were as you would reach each viewing platform. I wondered if I had reached the top the last time as I didn’t recall the strong rush of water coming out like a faucet from a spigot turned up high. I saw people even higher so decided to continue beyond the staircase and found the other side of the spigot as well as the Housatonic river.

If you get here, take your time and take it all in. Stay present. This was likely my fourth time here but it was the first time I really saw what it had to offer.

Follow the blog as there’s more coming on the many other sights in Kent.

CT: Hartford County- Farmington- Hillstead Museum (Holiday Event)

The only live Nutcracker experience in CT during the pandemic is featured here as the Ballet Theater company dances within the glass enclosed front porch as a few on lookers watch from the outside. It’s like watching a real life snow globe!

It was a nice respite for a rainy day. I stood in front of the glass front door so I had the protection of the roof overhead! They only allowed four little groups so each has their own safe zone from which to watch.

Unfortunately they would not allow any pictures to be taken of the performance or inside the house.

After the performance you take a self guided tour through the house which was impressively choreographed to one group per room with a bell that would ring to allow you to go to the next room.

“Through the Tulle” was a tour of the actual and exquisite detailed costumes created over the years for the ballet. With your phone you can hear the recorded guide provide a description of the costumes and related performances.

Additionally, within the museum are impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Degas, Manet, Whistler & Cassatt. I was unaware of these before the tour and was so pleasantly shocked to see them! There they were a real Monet!

This museum is also part of the Connecticut Art trail. You can purchase a one year passport to all CT Art trail museums currently at only $25 for their standard entry. Below is a link to the museum.

Through the Tulle Virtual Tour

Where to next?