Posts by Kathleen Messmer
Lloyd Lake in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park
My latest story for Spotted by Locals. Check it out! https://www.spottedbylocals.com/san-francisco/lloyd-lake
Read MoreDiscovering the Eclectic Vibe of Placitas Café
Don’t you just love finding a new, fun place to enjoy your breakfast after a long morning of being out in nature? Well, have I got the place for you. Nestled in the charming community of Placitas, New Mexico, the Placitas Café offers a delightful blend of local flavor and eclectic ambiance that keeps both…
Read MoreSandia Cave: Intrigue and Controversy Wrapped up in Beauty and History
A while back, some friends of mine and I wandered out in hopes of finding wild horses in Placitas, New Mexico. They are said to roam free everywhere up in the Placitas hills. Alas, after spending a considerable amount of time searching for these mythical beasts, we gave up our search. Instead, we found ourselves…
Read MoreYates Mill Park: A Whimsical Journey Through Time
Nestled in the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, Yates Mill Park is a delightful blend of history, nature, and community. Covering over 200 acres, this park not only provides a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts but also offers a glimpse into the past with its iconic Yates Mill. Let’s take a stroll through the historical…
Read MoreBennett Place: A Beacon of Hope and Resilience, Even Today
I had never heard of Bennett Place, located in the heart of North Carolina, ever. Not in school, not in anything I read. Ever. It is a sobering historic site that carries with it rich stories reflecting the resilience and determination of its people. Known primarily as a pivotal location during the Civil War, Bennett…
Read MoreDiscover Southern Charm and Elegance at Heights House
Nestled in the heart of the historic Boylan Heights neighborhood, and formerly known as Montfort Hall, Heights House stands as a stunning testament to the charm and character of Raleigh, North Carolina. Recently renovated to provide a blend of modern sophistication and timeless elegance, Heights House is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience…
Read MoreNature’s Artistry in Mendocino County
Nestled on the rugged coast of Northern California in Fort Bragg, Mendocino County, Glass Beach is a mesmerizing destination that showcases the beauty of nature’s reclamation. Once a dumping ground for everything from cars to appliances and all manner of trash, glass, and debris between 1906 and 1967, this beach has transformed itself over the…
Read MoreRedlands Revealed: A Charming Escape in Southern California
Redlands, California, is a hidden gem that perfectly captures the charm of Southern California. The city is known for its historic architecture, with beautifully preserved Victorian homes dotting the streets. A stroll through the downtown area reveals buildings dating back to the late 1800s, showcasing unique styles such as Colonial Revival and Mission Revival architecture.…
Read MoreEnchant – Las Vegas
As I arrived in Las Vegas, I was drawn to a big, beautiful sign beckoning with “Enchant” in front of the hotel. I was curious so, I asked what it meant. The valet said, “You must enter to find out,” so enter I did, down countless corridors until I reached a world not unlike Alice…
Read MoreCelebrating Dia de los Muertos at the Famous Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Waiting in line to enter the 25th-anniversary celebration of Dia de los Muertos at the famous Hollywood Forever cemetery was, in itself, a surreal experience. Many people in line were in costume and some were very clever. The sign over the entrance was fashioned from the typical marigolds prevalent in Day of the Dead celebrations…
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