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Showing posts from August, 2025

When did Stephen Foster visit Florida?

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  He never did. Here’s my experience visiting Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park. This part of North Florida attracts me because this area retains much of its historical character, with nearby attractions like White Sulfur Springs, Florida’s very early tourist attraction. This Florida state park deviates from the typical nature-themed parks. You might be surprised to see magnificent brick buildings and the largest carillon of tubular bells in the world.  After setting up my campsite Niki and I did some exploring. The park museum was closed so next time we will arrive earlier. In the campground we found a peaceful and private atmosphere, likely due to our weekday summer visit when only two other campers were present.  That evening Niki and I sat under our awning to celebrate the life and music of this famous composer, I played some Stephen foster tunes on my harmonica. In the background you may hear the rushing sounds of the Suwannee River. * * * Click Here * * ...

The Niki Effect

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  You may be curious as to why a retired man, standing six feet eight inches tall and weighing two hundred thirty pounds, would choose a small eleven-pound Maltese/Shih Tzu to be a therapy dog. It all started on February 28, 2019, when my wife and I decided it was time to welcome a new member into our family: possibly a French bulldog. We considered adopting a rescue dog but ultimately opted to buy a puppy from a trusted breeder. When we arrived, a tiny pup caught our eye. She was lying on her back, tail thumping, looking up at us with pure playfulness and trust. At that moment, all thoughts of a French bulldog vanished, and just like that, she was in the car on the way to her new home. We named her Niki, and for the next few years, we had wonderful adventures taking her on trips in our RV. Sadly, my wife passed away, leaving just Niki and me. I remember how much my wife valued Niki's visits in hospice. Reflecting on this, I realized that Niki and I could spread joy to others throu...