Traveling Safely in your Car

Travel season is upon use, many families will be hitting the roads for vacation when the kids get out of school for the summer. We sometimes take travel too lightly, we forget the dangers involved. Be safe, travel safe and you'll have more fun when you arrive at your destination. Practice car safety, you life may depend on it.

But before you go review this list, make sure you and your car are ready for a safe journey.

• Have you checked your tire pressure?
• Do you a full tank of gas?
• Have you filled up the window washer fluid? Sometimes its' a good idea to have extra in the trunk
• Do you a window scrapper (depending on when and where you're going, like the mountains even in summer you may need it)
• Do you have a flash light for emergencies?
• Do you have a cell phone charger that works in your car?
• Does someone have your license plate number and the route you plan to travel?
• Do take frequent breaks to stretch your legs and give your eyes a rest, change drivers if you're not alone.
• Do you have a map along with written directions/GPS in case you run into road blocks, construction or changes that sometimes happen?
• If you're alone, don't travel late at night.
• Take your purse and cell phone with you when you stop to go to the bathroom, you may need them should an emergency arise.
• Lock the car at all times, when you're in it and when you're not.
• Do you have an extra car key in your pocket/purse? Or does the person you're with have an extra key?
• Don't run on fumes because you don't want to stop for gas, fill up when you still have at least 1/4 of a tank. You never know when you may get in bad traffic, or exists are closed or you run into construction. Any number of things can happen. The gas may not be readily available in certain areas.
• Many states have laws prohibiting the use of cells phones while driving without it being hands free. I love my blue -tooth for travel. You're connected if you have to make a fast emergency call, but you don't have to take your eyes off the road to make it happen. With that being said, limit your calls to necessary calls. I know I've been behind people for miles and miles who are chatting totally unaware they're changing speeds, crossing the line, and in general paying more attention to the call then the importance of driving.
• Buckle up ALL THE TIME!
• Don't drive barefooted. How many of you have seen someone with a foot out the window? I have, even the driver on a few occasions. That's not safe, it's just plain stupid.
• Don't have music on so loud you can hear a siren or emergency vehicle
• Be aware of your surroundings. Look where you are, notice who's around you. Don't walk to the restroom with your head down texting or changing your music with your earphones in. People unaware are an easy mark.
• Don't leave valuables visible in the car, like your mp3 player, your video games, your cell phone, your purse, your GPS, your IPod, or laptop. Those are call out to would be thieves who are watching and waiting for their opportunity.

Now enjoy yourself, and happy traveling.

Fish Hall Plantation, Barkers Field, Hilton Head, South Carolina

Odd you might think to see an historic marker along side a small community baseball diamond. Must admit as we pulled the car off the road, so did I. I wondered what the story behind Barkers Field was.
A close up of the sign indicates a Confederate Brigadier General named Thomas Fenwick Drayton fought the Battle of Port Royal in this area. The Battle of Port Royal was a decisive battle during The Civil War. 18 Union Warships bombarded the Confederates at Fort Walker. Under the leadership of General Thomas Sherman 13,000 Union soldiers landed on the beach and established an important blockade. This battle was one of the earliest amphibious operations of the war. General Drayton's brother Captain Percival Drayton remained loyal to The United States and fought on the side of the Union forces. He commanded one of those war ships, The Pocahontas. Brother against brother, families pitted against each other made this war so very personal. I can't imagine the heartache within a family; but know throughout history there are many examples of this.
Slightly to the right of the ball diamond along side the road is this fenced area with the above sign. This area had been a large 500 acre Plantation. The land originally given to Col. John Barnwell after The Revolutionary War. Historical research indicates early census's show's cotton was probably the primary crop grown here, as very little livestock appeared on the census. A description of the primary house said it was lordly. I've not seen a picture of it, but one count indicates early pictures of the main house agreed with the description. This was a prosperous plantation which owned 52 slaves according to the 1860 census. Thomas Fenwick Drayton married Emma Catherine Pope, the daughter of the plantations owner. Another account reported General Drayton owned 102 slaves. Perhaps he added his slaves to those already on the plantation after he and Emma married? Perhaps, as often happens there are a few discrepancies in the actual numbers.
This is one of two structures I saw, showing very little left of this once grand plantation. This is the tabby remains of a slaves' cabin, believed to be a fireplace. There's a 2nd one a short distance from this, perhaps 30 feet or so. Given what was learned from other tabby ruins, (Baynard Ruins) I assume it to be a 2nd fireplace. Seems common that 2 slave families were forced to share these cramped quarters.

In some of my research it seemed there is evidence of a building, or parts there off from this plantation still in existence; but as it's behind a gated community here on the Island it's not accessible to the general public. I found this most irritating. There were several items I found, that I believe have markers and structures to see; but the public is not permitted to see them unless on a school tour or a paid scheduled tour. In some cases it seemed the tours are only once in a blue moon; not really a company or on going; but an individual that would schedule it. Hilton Head has the reputation of being snooty, a playground for the rich and famous. While much has been protected environmentally, I personally was put off that only those living behind these gated communities or only those playing golf there for the day had access. (We attempted to see what was left of Fort Walker and were turned away at the gate of one such gated community).

The sign indicates graves were moved from this area to Drayton Cemetery. Apparently at some point the family didn't want slaves graves near their home so set aside land for a cemetery. I read one report that said this wasn't very successful, another indicated the graves were in fact moved. However, I've not yet been able to determine who is buried there. That is to say, are there unmarked burials, or are there headstones in this cemetery? Is there even a sign indicating it's a cemetery? (I've seen a few cases where if you didn't know, you really wouldn't know by looking). I've not found evidence of the burials beyond the statement graves were moved there. If I ever get back to Hilton Head, I'd like to follow up and actually find the cemetery. The Union forces established a Freeman's Village here, the only one known to have been established by The Union forces. When The Union forces came ashore that November day in 1861, many of the slaves joined forces.

Flat Stanley asks, "Traitor or Hero?"

Flat Stanley here with a question, Traitor or Hero?

And now let me tell you a story. Ohio wasn't much more then the western frontier in 1823 when little Roswell Ripley was born. You see Ohio had only become a state in 1803, just 20 years before he was born. Roswell Sabin Ripley was born here, in Worthington Ohio. So this house is really really old. He grew up and attended the U.S. Military Academy and graduated from there in 1843. He served his country and fought in The Mexican-American war from 1846-1848, and received 2 promotions for his efforts.

He was stationed in South Carolina where he met a Southern Belle and got married in 1852. One short year later he resigned to attend to his wives estate in Charleston. He joined our enemy, The Confederacy and fought against us at Fort Sumter when the first shots were fired and The Civil War began. He fought in a series of battles in artillery units; and later in the Infantry under Robert E. Lee. He was wounded in The Bloodiest War, at Antietam in 1862. Though he recovered enough to return to Charleston and once again fight against The United States on the side of The Confederacy.



After the war he lived for 20 years in England, presumably alone as his wife and daughter had left him during The War Years. He returned to New York, where his parents had moved and died there of a stroke. He was not returned to Worthington, the place of his birth for burial. Nor was he buried in New York where he died. He was returned to The South and buried in Magnolia Cemetery.

He was elevated to Brigadier General in The Confederate States of America, quite an honor. He's one of the very few Confederates with a Memorial this far North in Ohio. He fought against his Uncle, James Wolfe Ripley who fought for The Union at Charleston Harbor.

And so, to some he's considered a Hero. He defeated The Union Forces and protected his Charleston. To others, a traitor for he fought against his country and his family.

I've been by this old house a number of times; but only recently noticed the sign and decided I needed to read it. Wow...what a surprise, and what a story. Heartbreaking, his wife and daughter estranged, fighting against his countrymen and his family. Sadly, that happened a great deal during The War Between The States.

So, what do you think; Traitor or Hero?

The topic here perhaps is a bit involved and serious; but what a good way to talk about people standing up for what they believe in, even when it's not easy. How bout a coloring exercise? Color and compare the two flags. Get the maps and see how far it is from Worthington, to Charleston, to England, to New York. Where's Mexico, after all he fought there. Talk about the difficulty of travel in those days vs now. Check out the hidden word puzzle at the bottom.

I'll bet many are surprised to see an Ohio connection to The Civil War, Ohio's pretty far north.

So if you look around and see an old house, take a good look and see if you too can tell a story about it, or the people who lived there.

Until next time, Friday May 7th, Flat Stanley out.

Find the following hidden words:(you should be able to click to enlarge and print)
Civil War
Robert E Lee
Union
Ohio
Mexico
Antietam
Infantry
South Carolina
Charleston
Confederate




If you missed Flat Stanley's First Adventure Here's the link

Look What I'm Packing! Thanks Clara

Getting organized today, I came across this picture.

A red carrying on. A while back I won a contest. I'm a person who's never one to win so was thrilled! Wanted to share with you my prize. I'll be packing this with yarn, water bottle, and book. That's my normal carrying on stuff. My debate is whether or not it will fit below the seat. I never put items up above on the the plane, as I like to have my yarn there. I usually carry a canvas tote; but that means I have to carry it. This has wheels and handle....much better for the back, the sore shoulder, the arthritis etc.

This will be it's maiden voyage. Thanks to Clara. AND....I think I'm gonna buy myself a netbook which will fit nicely in this bag. Then hubby won't complain about me using his computer when we travel. Clara has a wonderful blog, please check it out.
And see ya tomorrow when Flat Stanley will have his 2nd Friday special post for you all. Remember, Friday Fun with Flat Stanley is for everyone, kids, parents, grandparents. PLEASE enjoy.

Walking the Beach, Hilton Island Is., South Carolina

A shot through the Sea Oats, pretty blue sky, white sand..........what could be better? Warmer temps that's what. Though the wind was better on this particular day, and I could walk the beach at Hilton Head without the worry of rain. Though the wind and rain were bothersome and I didn't get a tan while there; I did experience serenity and beauty that I think is probably lacking on a busy sun filled summer day. The views were more wide open without lots of sun umbrellas, lounge chairs, and people--leaving me alone with my thoughts to enjoy the true beauty.
It was quite a storm the night before I took this walk, and look at the left-overs from the angry tide. What amazed me is the fact that the Sand Dollars I saw weren't broken. They were smaller then most I've seen on trips to other beaches. I wondered if that was typical for this time of year. I passed along the warning to some folks who started to pick them up. Throughout Hilton Head the effort to protect and preserve nature is paramount. The fines for picking up shells, and seaweed, and other sea creatures is $$$. Even noted in the hotel tourist book.
Yet again, I marveled at this beautiful open, and unbroken shell. I've never seen one in tact before. Always half of it, or pieces parts. Look at the marks in the sand left from the tide. Click to enlarge to really appreciate it.
Sunlight glisening as the tide gently rolls in reflecting it's light and warmth for a lone bird. He/she seems to be on a slightly elevated patch of sand; higher and dryer but keeping a close watch.
Saw quite a few of these Blue Crabs. Really wanted to see one turned over, but didn't; and I certainly wasn't going to mess with Mother Nature and flip one. Wondered if it was more blue on the other side. Look at the in pretty blue claws. As I spotted these creatures they always seemed to be clusters of 2-4.(cropped one so you could see it better) Then there were places that revealed only what was left after something's lunch or dinner. Mother Nature, the food chain, and circle of life all evident.
And I pondered what this was. It looked jelly like. I wondered if the hole was created by human, using the little stick or the stick was thrust in when the tide deposited it; or perhaps the bird who's prints we see. I studied it awhile; but didn't come to any conclusion. What's your best quess?

Hope you enjoyed my exploration of The Beach and all it's beauty here on Hilton Head Island.

**And did you see Flat Stanley and his Friday Fun? It will be an ongoing Summer Series. Get the kids involved and enjoy.

Traveling Books and Parks, with Flat Stanley

Hello My Name is Flat Stanley, and I'm really excited to see you. This is our first adventure in Sandy's Summer Series of Friday Fun with Flat Stanley...me in other words. I'm dancing with joy as you can see, my arms stretched wide to show you how much fun we're going to have, how many places we're going to go, and how much we're gonna learn.
I need a step stool, I'm not tall enough. Will you please remember to pack one on our next trip? This is me outside a library. Now what's not fun about a library? Books on any topic, fun, serious and everything in-between. Did you know most libraries have summer reading programs? AND, did you know you can win cool free things? PLEASE make sure you get signed up, read alot and win neat things. Leave comments, or have Mom leave comments so I know what you read, and what prizes you won. Ask too about story time, you sit on the floor and someone reads a cool story to you.

But wait, there's more. Behind me is a fun park. Let's run and play and jump. Bring along the family pet. How many times do you go normal places like the park or the library and see a sign? Do you stop and read it? If not, why not? Here's my challenge to you. Stop, read and let's learn together.
Now here's a close up of the sign I couldn't reach. On this very spot (currently The Miller Park Library in Upper Arlington, Ohio), is this historic sign (historic...that means old). It talks about how this little community of Upper Arlington was born, sorta. It was planned which is unusual for towns and cities. Most just sorta grow around something. This was planned, streets designed to be curved with lots of green space and trees. It was molded after a place in Kansas. Mom, get a map and show the kids were Kansas is. They wanted to call the community The Country Club District. Doesn't that sound snooty? Miller Park and Library is named after James Miller who was a farmer and had lots of land here.

The sign talks about a Garden Community too. That means a residential area, and to this day there isn't much in the way of business in Upper Arlington. This area was right next to a community called Arlington (present day Marble Cliff), and since this area was north of Arlington it got the name of Upper Arlington. Whew, that's better than Country Club District.

This almost romantic sounded community has some not so nice history. When 2 brothers, named King and Ben Thompson bought some land from Mr. Miller way back in 1913, they had clauses that land couldn't be purchased by Blacks or Jews. It was to be a White Christian Community. Thankfully those clauses have been deemed illegal; but it's important to know history...even if it's not pleasant. Everyone needs to learn from mistakes.

In 1921 this same spot was a Trolley Line. (picture from Wikipedia)
So, it's pretty cool that right where this sign is--there's a story to be told. It was a land office for the farmer Mr. Miller when the two brothers Ben and King Thompson started planning their community, then it was a trolley stop, then it was a library-- the little building behind the car is where the library is. This little community didn't even become a city until 1941!

Kids of all ages can learn from everyday experiences. Think about where you walk, ride your bike, or drive on a regular basis. What's there to see, to explore? I'm betting it's easy to whiz by and miss the details.

This type of summer outdoor activity is suited to everyone, including the family pet. After all everyone likes to go for a walk, or spend time in the park.

Take a regular activity and make it a fun learning activity. If there's a sign, stop and read it. Then take time to learn about it. If children are too young to get involved that way, what do you see on the way? Count how many different flowers there are; then look them up at the library to identify them. Take the numbers represented in the dates add and subtract them. Equate it to something that has meaning. For instants I was born in 1950 so the community is only 9 years older then me. Doing things like this helps put things into perspective and make them more memorable. Take the opportunity to discuss how it isn't fair or nice to exclude certain people because of their skin color or their religion. Use this type of exercise to get out maps, point out where you are and find where you're going. How many miles is it? Again there's a math componet. Draw a picture about what you learned, depending on age write about it. Writing exercises can be fun, and they too can be taylor made to be age appropriate. Summer is a time for fun; but it doesn't mean learning has to stop.

Look for something near you, tell me all about it. That's all for today, but please come back next Friday April 30th, for another adventure.
Flat Stanley out.
**below is small version of me, a 125 x 125; you could add this as a badge to your blog as a reminder to come every Friday and see me. If I can figure out Mr. Linky it might be fun to do this as a meme. What do you think? Add the url of my blog which is: http://travelingsuitcase.blogspot.com/ with this cute badge. Click on me and go to my dedicated page where all our adventures will be listed as links. See ya Soon!
http://travelingsuitcase.blogspot.com/p/friday-fun-with-flat-stanley.html
that's the url for the dedicated page you could as well.

Special Traveling PUG

This is what I call traveling in style! Look at this PUG. It's perhaps not uncommon to take your dog for a walk, or for a ride in the car; but this is luxury travel for sure.

Spotted this scene while lunching with my SIL, and had to share with you all. Then it occured to me like a flash. Often my travel post say this is fun for the kids, this is best enjoyed with adults only, pets can go here. This special Traveling Pug is announcing a series that everyone can enjoy. Everyone including young couples, singles, older couples, kids, adults, and your furry friends.

Soon the kids will be out of school, people will be planning vacations. Kids will need things to do. The Pug pictured here is making an official announcement.

Sandy's Summer Series of FRIDAY FUN with FLAT STANLEY

Every Friday, starting tomorrow, April 23rd Flat Stanley will take you on a special summer adventure. These are adventures you might be able to ride a bike to, walk with a stroller to, things that take a few minutes. It's geared towards realizing and learning about things in our backyards, things in our neighborhoods. And it's educational. PLEASE join in, come and share. Flat Stanley loves to have fun, he loves to travel and he loves people to learn things the fun way, The Stanley Way.

The best part of all this is it's FREE, it's G rated and it includes everyone from your furry four legged friends, to seniors.

See you tomorrow, don't forget!

Myrtle Beach, North Carolina

Look closely, what's missing in this picture? YOU, that's right. Picture yourself there now; sitting on the edge of the pool soaking in the sun's warmth, sipping a cool beverage or reading a book in the lounge chair, with the sound of surf filling your ears. Soon all your cares will melted away.

Seaside, a luxury boutique Oceanfront Myrtle Beach Hotel, with exceptional 4 star service awaits you, your family, and or your "special someone". Take another look at how inviting that pool is; make it happen--you deserve it.

You can't go, but know someone who'd love to; buy a gift certificate so they can relax, shop, play golf, enjoy spa treatments and more at this Myrtle Beach Hotel. Convenience, affordability and something for everyone. Walk the beach in search of Sharks Teeth, take a day trip to one of the many interesting historical sites nearby. Don't forget moon light walks on the beach, or the fun of building sand castles with the kids. It's all here.

Sign up for discounts to appear right in your email box, enter to win free accomodations. Retired, check out the monthly rates. Special are available for those special romantic times in your life, fun and excitement is yours when you book The Medieval Times Special Package.

Girls, schedule a girl friend get away and don't forget the Spa Escape!

Oceanfront Myrtle Beach Hotels show their patriotism, and respect and honor our men and women in The Military. A Military Discount of 20% for active duty, reserve, and retired military personnel. A special way to say thank you.

Carlisle in Chillicothe, Ohio

Look at the beauty of this by gone era. This fabulous piece of art, (by Michael Warth) shows you what The Carlisle Building looked like, back in the day. Can you picture yourself walking down an un-busy street with parasol in hand? This fabulous building is at the corner of Paint and Main Streets in Chillicothe, Ohio.
A marvelous Pen and Ink drawing also by local artist, Michael Warth who was gracious enough to let me post here on my blog is copyrighted. This unique historical structure has been a part of Chillicothe for many many years. Look at the grandeur of this building so well captured in his art work.
My photo taken about a week ago shows the sad deterioration of the building. In addition to it being empty for a good many years, an arson's fire in 2003 halted a plan to restore it to it's former beauty. The fire caused $600,000 to $700,000 of damage.
When it was built in 1885 it was indeed a crown jewel, with it's unique architectural features. Standing tall it was seen from almost everywhere in Chillicothe. It was at one time the tallest building in the city, and possibly the state, (several different accounts there, so one can't say for certain). Over the years it has served the city with distinction-housing many different businesses. Sadly it seems this 125 year old building will not be preserved. Funds to restore it aren't forthcoming from the absent land owners who let the building continue to stand vacant and fall further into disrepair. Some locals would love to see it restored, others feel the cost is too great. There's some talk that it may become a parking lot for other downtown business, while some feel that would be a waste of space. In many old photo's, post cards and historical views of the city this building is seen. What a pity it appears it will not go forward with the downtown revitalization in Chillicothe.

Do take time, walk and drive by and see this marvelous piece of history before it's too late. Because of the history in the area, Chillicothe has more then it's fair share of places listed as haunted places in Ohio. This building is included, though I did not come across a specific story to tell you about it.

Drive through The Park, (Yoctangee Park), formerly known as City Park and you'll see The Armory, used for many years to train National Guard and protect Chillicothe. The canon in front is a Civil War Canon. Chillicothe is truly full of interesting old architecture, and historic places to visit. I encourage you to take in Chillicothe, the States first Capital. All areas are suitable to all ages.

Other posts of things to see and do while you travel in Chillicothe:
Indian Mound
Courthouse, and site of the first Capital in the State
Eat at Historic and Haunted Cross Keys Tavern
Knoles Log House and Adena

Knole Log House, Adena, Chillicothe Ohio

Knoles Log House, built originally in 1820 now opened to the public.
This log house was first built on land now owned by The Mead Paper Mill. It's been moved twice, dismantled and reconstructed. Touring it gives one a real feel for early life in Chillicothe in 1800-1830's. It's owned and operated by The Ross County Historical Society.
The log house is located at 45 West Fifth Street in Chillicothe, along with Franklin House, McKell Library, and The Museum Area. Hours by appointment from Jan through March, open Tuesday through Sat from 1 pm til 5 pm for a minimal fee from April through December.
This old watering trough is behind the log house. There is much to see here from the early days of Chillicothe. Franklin House focuses on women in history.

This photo was taken years ago of me in front of Thomas Worthington's home, Adena. I'll be posting more about this in detail later, so stay tuned. Thomas Worthington's home is also opened to the public and well worth the time to tour it. He's known as The Father of Ohio Statehood. It's from his home on 2000 acres the seal for The State of Ohio was seen. His home was designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe, America's first professional architect. You might also know that name as the architect who designed The US Capital for Thomas Jefferson.

Chillicothe is steeped in history, first founded in 1796 by Nathaniel Massie, housing the WWI Army Training Camp, Camp Sherman (named after The Civil War General, William Tecumseh Sherman) where 200 German Sailors were held captive. Chillicothe's history goes back to The War of 1812 when it housed 300 prisoners at Camp Bull from The Battle of Lake that were captured by Oliver Hazard Perry and his men.

Yes there's much to see and do
Indian Mound
Courthouse, and site of the first Capital in the State
Eat at Historic and Haunted Cross Keys Tavern

I'll be posting more in the days to come about The Carlisle Building, Adena, Lucy Webb Hayes Heritage Center and more.