State Capitol 25: New York

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August 29, 2025. Albany New York. (And a little Hyde Park to go with it.)

We are officially half-way through our State Capitol bucket list! Another stamp made its way into our passport, making this State Capitol tour number 25!

You won’t want to miss this tour! It is filled with stories of intrigue, corruption, calamity, hauntings, prisoners, and some architectural eclecticism. It took a while to pull all this information together as recording is not permitted in the Capitol. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed re-visiting the Capitol through my research.

This State Capitol is…unique. But hey, isn’t all of New York? It has a lot of interesting “Easter Eggs,” pointed out by our tour guide, for example the Westchester marble, hand cut by Sing Sing prisoners; medieval, gothic, Islamic, and Renaissance themes; intricate carvings along the staircase and throughout the chambers. When work began, electric lighting did not exist, but by the 1880s the Capitol was one of the first public buildings in America to have electricity.

We didn’t get to experience the paranormal, even though we chose an evening tour which they offer during the months of July and August. The tour was well attended in our group. Choosing this tour gave us time to do other things during the day and save what we thought would be “the best” for last.

What were those “other things“? I’m glad you asked!

Unfortunately, time and space do not permit me to go into all of the details in this blog, but I can’t prevent myself from including a few pictures of some sites we saw in Hyde Park, with the owner of these establishments welcoming you personally. Join my high society friends from the Gilded Age, as well as our glimpse into the 1940s. (Feel free to scroll down to the picture of the Capitol if you want to skip this part, but you will truly miss out!)

Hyde Park

Welcome to the Vanderbilt Mansion, Dahling

I would be most gratified in welcoming you to our home for an evening replete with stimulating discourse and the finest of dining, as is customary among our circle.

Upon the occasion that Mr. Tim was engaged with affairs of commerce via his telephonic apparatus, Mrs. Cindy availed herself of the privilege to sojourn to our esteemed Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park. Imagine her delight to discover that, as a holder of the distinguished America the Beautiful National Park Pass, she was granted complimentary entrance to our revered National Historic Site.

Should one intend to frequent the splendid establishments of our nation’s parks, I assure you, acquiring such a pass is most prudent and shall serve you well. Otherwise, one must remit a modest sum of $15.00 to gain admittance—an entirely reasonable tariff, I should think—for no guest is permitted to traverse the mansion unescorted; a proper tour guide is requisite, and Mrs. Cindy was fortuitous indeed to arrive precisely as the tour commenced.

Vanderbilt Mansion, Hyde Park, New York—their beloved Hyde Park Estate—serves as a retreat, a sanctuary for the seasons, rather than a domicile for the entire year for Frederick and Louise.

We affectionately refer to this stately abode as our “summer cottage,” though your tour guide may find such a term risible given its grand proportions and opulent surroundings. Hyde Park is but one jewel in the diadem of our country homes along the graceful Hudson, complemented by our resplendent townhouse in New York City; seaside haven in Bar Harbor, Maine; and the celebrated “cottages” of Newport, Rhode Island. Our proclivities for travel extend even to the refined salons and estates of Europe.

The Grand Hall Entry, reserved for greeting esteemed guests such as yourself, directs one first to the washroom, discreetly situated just beyond the corner. Upon crossing the threshold of the mansion, one is enveloped by an ambiance intended to astonish and delight.

The hall itself soars to a height of two stories, adorned with lustrous marble floors, Corinthian columns of noble bearing, and intricate plasterwork of exquisite detail. Such grandeur was conceived to evoke the majesty of a European palace, drawing inspiration from the finest Italian Renaissance architecture, and thus, leaving a most favorable impression upon every guest who graces the threshold.

Pray, forgive me, dearest guest, for I must withdraw to attend to my toilette in anticipation of this evening’s repast.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum

Permit me to share a personal reflection, dear friends. The museum bearing my name—the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Presidential Museum—was, in fact, the very first of its kind ever constructed. It stands, quite fittingly, as a designated National Historic Site, echoing the enduring spirit and heritage of our nation. I am heartened to know that, even as annual memberships lapse, so many visitors—such as yourselves—are able to enter without charge, thanks to the privileges of the America the Beautiful Access Pass. Such unexpected generosity is always a welcome surprise to many of our guests. I firmly believe that access to the rich tapestry of American history and the grandeur of our natural landscapes should be within reach for all, so that each citizen may appreciate firsthand the legacy we collectively share, without the burden of frequent admission fees.

Thank you for that eloquent introduction, President Roosevelt! It was an honor to visit your Presidential Library and Museum.

Another Presidential Museum is stamped in our book. Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

The Roosevelt Library is the only Presidential library ever used by a sitting president. When it opened to the public in June 1941, FDR was beginning his third term. The study remains almost precisely as FDR left it on his last visit here on March 28, 1945.

New York State Capitol

And now, the stories we’ve all been waiting for! Buckle up buttercup. There’s a lot of quicksand, er–ground–to cover in this one!

A Bit of New York History Sets the Stage.

New York was one of the original Thirteen Colonies on the east coast of North America, and was admitted as a state on July 26, 1788. Legislature met in various locations until 1797 when Albany was declared the State Capitol. A building was raised and then the old capitol was replaced by this one. The Old State Capitol no longer stands in Albany, as it was demolished in 1883; the land is now part of the East Capitol Park.

The Architects.

The current unique and exquisite Capitol in the State of New York was designed by five different architects. This is a bit of an anomaly for State Capitols, but each one kept running into debt, missing deadlines, and experiencing massive construction issues, so the Governors and other powers-that-be at their time of leadership released one in favor of another.

When the construction started in 1867, Reuben E. Fenton was the governor of New York. He was the 22nd Governor and was only in office for the first year of construction. However, eleven more Governors would be elected before building on the Capitol would stop. (Even then it remained incomplete, and is still left unfinished to this day.) I am including this piece of history because Fenton was responsible for overseeing the early construction of the building, yet it is interesting to see how each subsequent governor wanted to have a hand in the overall work.

In 1899, when Theodore Roosevelt became the 33rd Governor of New York, he deemed the construction of the Capitol complete and halted any further work. Crafters stopped in the middle of their stone work, which the tour guide pointed out to us in one of the chambers. Big blocks of stone meant to be carved into framing around the room remain as mere blocks next to beautiful filigree, flowers, and other carvings, as stone carvers were sent home before they finished the job.

The stone carving over the right arch in the Senate Chambers is a prime example of work that simply stopped mid-carving.

The Capitol was built by hand, with hand-carved stone that came from various part of the United States and around the world. Grover Cleveland was the 31st Governor. He hired Isaac Perry, the last of the architects who also led the building to its final form.

Hauntings.

Haunted? Many people think so. They even host haunted tours to “prove” it. The building was designed to look like a castle from the middle ages, with carvings of grotesques, The Green Man, and even a demon that is said to have placed a curse on the building. Perhaps the nature of the carvings lead people to believe it is haunted. Or, it could be due to the apparitions and sounds of chains frequently seen and heard by guests and staff.

The Capitol endured a fire in 1911, attributed to the curse of the demon. The fire destroyed nearly all of the library filled with rare historic documents that cannot be replaced, and the beloved night watchman lost his life as well. His body was not discovered until two days later, covered in ash from the fire. They recently installed a plaque to memorialize the watchman, partly because people wanted to honor him, and perhaps also because others were concerned that he continues to haunt the place. Also, a suicide occurred inside the building when a business owner lost his business during the depression, and people sometimes feel his presence when standing at the place where he died.

What do you think? Can a building be haunted? 👻

Let’s rewind the time clock a bit.

This bit of history is enough to make anyone say, “woah!” Even if you don’t like history, hopefully I have captured your attention if you are still with me.

Construction on the building began in 1867 as stated earlier, when the first architect (Thomas Fuller) won the bid with a guarantee to build it in 4 years with $4 million dollars. Remember those numbers. 4 years, $4 million.

Much to his chagrin, Fuller encountered serious engineering and financial problems. In Fuller’s defense, he witnessed some very strange things he never experienced on any of the major projects he had previously completed in Canada (like the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa) or elsewhere. As the foundation for the Capitol was poured, it quickly disappeared over and over and over again; they later discovered the building was being constructed on unstable ground, originally quicksand.

Can you imagine the head scratches as they tried to figure that one out?! “We poured the foundation here yesterday! Where did it go?”

This problem required extensive excavation and replacement with clay and concrete. Building the Capitol was a challenge as it was built with five-feet-thick, load-bearing masonry walls. Fuller is credited with finishing the first floor in the Classical/Romanesque style, but after 10 years and $10 million dollars already spent (not 4 years and $4 million as promised) with nowhere close to a building completion, the Lieutenant Governor at the time dismissed him (can we just say “fired” already?) and hired the second and third architects (Leopold Eidlitz and Henry Hobson Richardson), who built the next two floors in a Renaissance Classical style.

Our tour guide on the first floor.

It is claimed Richardson was imitating the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) in Paris, France. The legislative chambers, the fourth floor and roof work were all finished in Victorian-modified Romanesque that was distinctively Richardson’s design. “Richardson dominated the final outcome of the grand building, which evolved into his distinguished Romanesque style” (it later came to be known as Richardsonian Romanesque).

Senate Chambers – Do you see the gold leaf?

New York State Assembly Chamber, the largest room in the State Capitol, designed by Eidlitz in the Moorish-Gothic style. The chandelier weighs over 3 tons and is lowered annually for cleaning.

The Assembly chamber was originally designed with the world’s largest open arched span, with two murals by a renowned artist. The current version looks quite dissimilar to this one.

This picture is borrowed from the archives of the State Capitol.

Within one year after opening, assembly members started finding dust and even a large stone on their desks due to a structural issue with the vaulted ceiling. One ton of stone was removed and replaced with 60 tons. Throughout the 1880s, several investigations delved into the structural failure. In 1888, it was decided to remove the open arched ceiling and replace it with flat coffers. Unfortunately, the beautiful paintings by artist Hall were covered by the lowering of the ceiling, placing them out of public view forever.

Eidlitz and Richardson were also dismissed in 1883 (can we see a pattern?) by Grover Cleveland upon his election to governorship, and his review of the increasing costs of construction. He hired architect Isaac G. Perry to complete the project.

Another Scandal

Rumors had surfaced that the contractor on the coffered ceiling in the Assembly had used paper maché and painted it to look like wood instead of real oak panels, turning an enormous profit. It turned out the rumor was true, which was established after the fire of 1911. While it confirmed the scandal, the paper maché turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Firemen poured water into the assembly chamber to prevent the fire from spreading throughout the rest of the building, and the paper maché absorbed the water, fell in pieces from the ceiling, and saved this room from destruction. Again, things that make you go “hmmmm.”

The fifth and final architect, Frederick Law Olmsted, came on board later. He is responsible for designing the landscaping and outside surroundings of the Capitol, including Central Park and Prospect Park.

The Million Dollar Staircase

The Million Dollar Staircase is probably the most notable icon in the entire building. The work of art rightly earned its nickname given by the public because it cost $1.5 million dollars to construct. If you do a self-guided tour, be sure you look for it.

The Great Western Staircase, nicknamed the Million Dollar Staircase, was designed by architect H. H. Richardson to help stabilize the building. Richardson is a noteworthy architect. Wikipedia says, “along with Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright, Richardson is one of ‘the recognized trinity of American architecture’.”

Structural problems arose during construction of the Capitol, but visionaries like Richardson call these opportunities. Stress fractures prevented the completion of a planned dome (which is why the building doesn’t have one), necessitating additional support measures. Thus the idea for The Great Western Staircase was born.

The staircase is not only structurally sound, a place to get from one floor to another, but it is also a work of art. The design was patterned after the staircase at the Opera House in Paris France. (Look it up and see if you notice the resemblance.)

The Staircase stands 120 feet tall and has 444 steps. It has a massive skylight dome ceiling, providing natural light during the early days of electricity as well as allowing for better airflow. You can also see the top of the Capitol building through the skylight.

The staircase was built of red sandstone imported from Scotland. The sandstone steps, however, were brought over from Medina in New York, famous for its use on the Brooklyn Bridge and Buckingham Palace. Sandstone is a soft stone which makes it easier to carve, but it hardens in the air over time, making it perfect for a functioning staircase and structure that has lasted well over a century.

Sadly, Richardson died before the staircase was complete. Construction of the staircase began in 1884 and was completed fourteen years later in 1898 under the direction of architect Isaac Perry.

Governor Cleveland’s love of carvings can be seen throughout the Million Dollar Staircase. Architect Perry directed carvers to use their imagination with one caveat: never repeat any of the carvings. There are more than 500 stone carvings of people, mythological creatures, flowers, animals, and foliage, carved directly into the stone. It features 78 famous faces. Heads of New York governors line the skylight, including governors who went on to become presidents. Other famous faces include Presidents Washington and Lincoln, war heroes, famous inventors, authors, poets, civil rights leaders, and more.

Six famous women were also added just above the second floor toward the end of construction, after much inquiry about why they only included famous men. In addition to famous people with names, there are many unnamed carvings, most likely family and friends of the sculptors or perhaps the first “selfie” of the sculptor himself.

In modern times, a Ruth Bader Ginsburg sculpture was unveiled on the walls of the Capitol’s Great Western Staircase, increasing the total to 78 famous faces. The Supreme Court Justice and Brooklyn native is the first person to be added to the staircase in over 100 years.

This looks like it could be the first picture I already posted, but look again. This is a different floor..

Wrapping Up

There were five architectural influences by the time they finished the State Capitol of New York 32 years (let that sink in) after it was started, at a cost of $25 million dollars–one of the most expensive buildings ever built in the country at that time. Each architect had their own unique style, creating additional delays and resulting in a final building which fuses French Renaissance and Victorian modified Romanesque styles that somehow works. New Yorkers are proud of the monstrosity, and rightly so. Though the combined efforts are a bit messy inside, the building has some extraordinary features that in some way work together to create an exquisite piece of art and a national Historic treasure.

Perhaps there is a personal lesson we can learn from this architectural review. Though we are all different, and have unique perspectives, if we work together we can create something beautiful and meaningful that endures even the most difficult times. And, the following Scripture also seems appropriate at this time.

Luke 14:28

“Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”

À la prochaine…hasta la próxima vez…until next time!

“I am the Lord, who heals you.”
Exodus 15:26

August 21, 2025October 15, 2025

State Capitol 24: Pennsylvania

August 21, 2025. Harrisburg Pennsylvania.

Welcome to the Pennsylvania State Capitol!

Nestled in the heart of Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania State Capitol is more than just a seat of government — it’s a magnificent piece of American history and architecture, designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2006. With over 600 rooms in the building, we will visit just a few. Join me as your tour guide for a memorable walk through this iconic building, where every corner reveals a story!

And, don’t forget to get your Passport stamped when you visit! #bucketlist

The Grand Entrance

As you approach the Capitol, the first thing you’ll notice is the stunning dome. *Fun fact: The dome was inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and rises 272 feet above the ground! In fact, it’s so impressive that President Theodore Roosevelt called it “the handsomest building” he’d ever seen when he dedicated it in 1906. The five-story exterior consists of Vermont granite and the roof is covered in green-glazed terra-cotta tile.

The sculptures that frame the main doors of the Capitol represent humanity advancing through work and brotherhood (left) and lives of degradation and spiritual burdens (right). They restored the statues to their original state during the Capitol preservation project after severe deterioration over the years. Created by Pennsylvania artist George Grey Barnard (1863-1938).

Bronze Doors.

Now that’s a door! Each 17-foot door at the Capitol’s main entrance weighs a full ton, but can swing open at the touch of a hand. Modeled after a pair of gilded bronze doors by Italian Renaissance sculptor Lorenzo Ghiberti, they feature portrait heads of individuals responsible for the Capitol’s construction.

Pennsylvania was the 2nd State to join the union, on December 12, 1787. The building represents the Beaux Arts/American Renaissance style designed by Joseph Miller Huston, Pennsylvania Architect, who had a vision for the building as a “Palace of Art.” It took four years to build, constructed 1902-1906 at a cost of $13 million. (This was not the first State Capitol building.)

The Rotunda

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in the breathtaking Rotunda. Look up: the central dome is adorned with vibrant murals celebrating the state and Pennsylvania’s history. Thanks to the Gilded Age, the 24-karat gold leafing seen on the rotunda can be found throughout the Capitol, making this one of the most stunning state buildings in the country.

The marble columns surrounding the rotunda come from four countries—Italy, France, Algeria, and Greece—showcasing Pennsylvania’s connection to the world.

Moravian Tiles

Don’t forget to look down at your feet from time to time as you stroll through history from one end of the first floor to the other. Colorful Moravian tiles cover the entire first floor, as well as its adjoining corridors. This floor has over 400,000 pieces of Moravian tile, with close to 400 tile mosaics illustrating the state’s history, animals, industries, and modes of transportation. They are thought to be some of the finest examples of Pennsylvania German folk art.

The Grand Staircase

Architect Huston borrowed the Capitol Rotunda’s features from the Paris Opera House, including the Grand Staircase and three-tiered gallery. The Capitol Rotunda serves as a popular public forum, providing a magnificent and symbolic setting for many types of gathers, from rallies and bill-signings to news conferences. About 25 weddings per year are also performed here, with use of the building being absolutely free! (The bride and groom must provide chairs, tables and other essentials for the ceremony.) A former Miss Pennsylvania was married here!

What a stunning backdrop for wedding photos!

The Senate Chamber

After you walk up the grand staircase, you will be on the second floor where the Senate Chamber is located on the north side of the Capitol. Pennsylvania has 50 state Senators who serve a four-year term (no limits), representing approximately 246,000 people each. Pennsylvania’s Lieutenant Governor services as the President, where they vote on legislation and resolution. Each Senator is assigned a desk, and they vote on amendments and bills the old-fashioned way with a verbal “aye” or “nay,” rather than using electronic tally boards as seen in the House of Representatives and other Senate Chambers.

The Senate chamber is equally lavish, with its bronze chandeliers and plush red carpets. Pay special attention to the murals here; they depict Pennsylvania’s history, including William Penn’s treaty with the Native Americans. Adding to the grandeur, the desks in the chamber are made from mahogany imported from Belize, dating back to the 1906 opening of the Capitol. The green marble that lines the Chamber’s walls is rare Connemara, imported from Ireland. And the four massive, gold-finished iron and glass floor lamps weigh two tons each.

The restoration project in 1994 was able to maintain the original design by Architect Joseph Huston and painter Violet Oakley.

The 24 stained glass windows in the Senate (10) and House (14), are framed in 24-karat gold leave embellishments.

The House of Representatives Chamber

Walking into the House chamber, you’ll spot the dazzling stained-glass windows previously noted, and murals created by artist Edwin Austin Abbey. Here’s a fun fact: Abbey never actually saw the completed murals in person—he passed away before they were installed! His painting The Apotheosis of Pennsylvania on the wall directly behind the Speaker of the House is the largest mural in the Capitol, standing 35 feet square. It includes prominent legislators, explorers, pioneers and others standing at the feet of a figure representing the “Genius of State.” All 29 figures are listed in the full-color Pennsylvania Capitol tour guide (which you can obtain for free at the visitor’s desk), with a statement about their role.

The ceiling is a circular mural entitled The Hours, representing passage of time in the form of 24 maidens revolving in an endless circle around the moon, sun, and stars.

Some major players on the mural include William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania; Speaker of the Assembly Benjamin Franklin, who also signed the Declaration of Independence and Constitutions of PA and the USA; and Daniel Boone, legendary “Pathfinder” of the Cumberland Gap and noted outdoorsman.

The Supreme Court Chamber

Did you know the Pennsylvania Supreme Court is the oldest appellate court in the United States? The chamber is designed to resemble a courtroom from the French Renaissance, complete with their own stain-glass dome (designed and executed by Pennsylvania native Alfred Godwin) and ornate mahogany woodwork, wainscoting and furnishings. The Chamber houses 16 intricate paintings by Violet Oakley, a grouping she called The Opening of the Book of Law. The painting, Divine Law – The Keynote hangs above the center door. Oakley used an intricate combination of images and letters spelling out the words Love, Law and Wisdom.

Our tour guide describes the painting, woodwork, and other interesting facts.

Supreme Court Dome with green stain-glassed windows reminiscent of the outer dome.

Governor’s Reception Room: It is open to the public. The grandfather clock on the right wall is over 100 years old.

Governor’s Reception Room is used for news conferences, receptions and bill-signings. The paintings by Violet Oakley depict the history of religious liberty in England and the rise of the Quaker religion, as she was part of the Quaker community.

A Few More Unique Details and Fun Facts

Secret Tunnels: Beneath the Capitol complex, there is a network of underground tunnels connecting various government buildings, originally built for moving records and protecting officials during emergencies. These tunnels allow politicians and staff to move between buildings without braving Pennsylvania’s unpredictable weather.
Hidden Mouse: A whimsical secret hides in the ornate tile floor of the main rotunda—a tiny tile mouse! Placed there by the craftsmen as a playful signature, it’s a favorite scavenger hunt for visitors and school children.
Enormous Art Collection: The State Capitol features more than 400 murals, sculptures, and stained glass windows. Its interior is a museum-quality display of Pennsylvania history and artistry, making it one of the most decorated legislative buildings in the United States. The Capitol houses one of the largest collections of Pennsylvania Impressionist art in the country.
Guided Tours: One of the few state capitols that holds tours during the week as well as weekends and most holidays. For more information, visit their website here.
Talented Artists:
- 1) The stained-glass works were created by William B. Van Ingen, a former student of the famous glass artist Louis C. Tiffany.
- 2) In 1908–09, Edwin Austin Abbey began an ambitious program of murals and other artworks for the newly completed Pennsylvania State Capitol. These included allegorical medallion murals for the dome of the Rotunda, four large lunette murals beneath the dome, and multiple works for the House and Senate Chambers. For the Senate chamber he finished only one painting, Von Steuben Training the American Soldiers at Valley Forge, after which he was diagnosed with cancer and subsequently died in 1911.
- 3) Violet Oakley (the first American woman to receive a public mural commission) was originally commissioned in 1902 only for the murals in the Governor’s Grand Reception Room, which she titled The Founding of the State of Liberty Spiritual. In the reception room murals, Oakley depicts the story of William Penn and the founding of Pennsylvania. She conducted extensive research on the subject, even traveling to England! After Edwin Abbey’ death, Oakley was offered the job of creating the remaining murals for the Senate and Supreme Court Chambers. She agreed as long as she could paint in her own style. It was a 16-year project. She painted a series of 43 total murals for the Governors Grand Reception Room, the Senate and the Supreme Court.

The back side of the building is just as beautiful with its series of staircases leading up from a courtyard fountain.

Wrap-Up

The Pennsylvania State Capitol isn’t just a building—it’s a living museum, a testament to craftsmanship, history, and the Pennsylvania jewel. Whether you’re marveling at the marble, tracing the murals, or standing beneath the magnificent dome, there’s always a new story to discover.

Thanks for joining me on this tour! I hope you enjoyed these fun facts and feel inspired to visit in person for an even deeper dive into the heart of Pennsylvania.

À la prochaine…hasta la próxima vez…until next time!

“I am the Lord, who heals you.”
Exodus 15:26

_{*Many thanks to the Pennsylvania Capitol Preservation Committee for providing the historical information in their State Capitol Tour Guide, as well as good ol’ Wikipedia.}

August 20, 2025September 23, 2025

Adventure, Awe, and Abundant Life: Our Day at Cuyahoga Valley National Park

August 14-15, 2025. Finding Joy on the Trails, in the Shadows, and in Christ

What if I told you that a diagnosis, even one as sobering as metastatic (stage 4) breast cancer, doesn’t have to mean the end of adventure? That it might, in fact, be the beginning of a new kind of abundant living? Different, yes, but abundant. I want to share one story of joy, love, and a little mystery from a recent trip with my husband to Cuyahoga Valley National Park—a place where wild nature and the whisper of hope wind along every trail.

The Ledges Trail: Where Wonder Meets Stone and Sky

We started our day with the Ledges Trail, a 2-mile loop famed for its dramatic rock formations, sun-dappled moss, and secret caves. My husband and I laced up our tennis shoes and set off with hearts full of anticipation.

Tip: Come prepared! I would have pulled out my hiking poles and worn my hiking boots if I had realized how many rocks we would scramble over. It’s not a difficult trail, but can be a little tricky for someone with balance and joint issues.

Nevertheless, while I didn’t expect the rocky terrain on the trail, it became a chance to adapt and push my limits. Instead of being discouraged, I embraced the challenge, and we managed to boost our daily steps while discovering new strength in ourselves.

Stepping into the quiet cathedral of pines, it struck me: this is what it means to live—really live—even with cancer as a quiet companion. More importantly, I get to live this life with the best caregiver as my hiking buddy, who stretches out his hand to catch me if I stumble.

The trail meandered through forests that felt ancient and wise, the scent of earth and leaves mingling with laughter and the promise of adventure. We ducked under boughs, hopped across roots, and marveled at the towering cliffs, their sandstone faces streaked with green and gold.

At the overlook, we caught our breath, gazing out over a patchwork of treetops. The world felt big and beautiful, and at that moment, thoughts of cancer or medical appointments slipped away.

Holding hands with the one I love, I was reminded: abundant life isn’t found in the absence of trials, but in the presence of Jesus Christ, guiding and sustaining each day. In every moment, we have the power to create memories, to savor the light filtering through the trees, and to claim joy on this side of life. Let us walk on, hearts open, knowing that each step is a testament to courage, faith, and the unwavering will to live abundantly.

Every step forward is an act of hope, no matter where you are in your cancer journey. With each breath of fresh air and every stride—even when challenged by neuropathy and fatigue—the Holy Spirit prompts, the heart grows stronger, and the soul more resilient. Life is still full of wonder worth fighting for.

Here’s a little compilation of our hike on the Ledges Trail. Let us know what you think in the comments!

Down the Eerie Canal Towpath

Of course, we couldn’t resist the allure of the Erie Canal Towpath. Echoes of history lace this path, where mules once pulled canal boats, the Underground Railroad was actively present, and the shadows seem to hold a thousand secrets. It was the perfect atmosphere for a little playtime.

Eerie Canal, rushing water in front of the Canal Exploration Center.

Canal Stop and Tavern (Currently the Canal Exploration Center)

Hi, I’m Blossom. During the canal days, mules like me walked the towpath, pulling heavy boats behind us. We were strong engines, able to haul 60 tons or more of freight. Mules worked in teams of two or three. Cargo boats had a middle cabin to stable a second team The two teams switched every six hours.

Some people say mules are stubborn, but I think we’re just smart. Horses can work themselves to an early grave. Mules have sense enough to stop when we’re tired. And we refuse to do anything dangerous. Over time, horses will get mouth and harness sores. Not mules. We are also cheaper to feed. Now I’m not saying horses are all bad. They are faster than mules. Early passenger boats used teams of horses when speed was more important than endurance. After the Civil War, canal boats became family businesses. One of the captain’s children was often the muleskinner, leading the team along the towpath.

I got my intelligence from my father. He’s a donkey. I got my athletic ability from my mother. She’s a horse. What is the best trait that you inherited from each parent?
Mule Power: Towing Canal Boats, from the placard at Cuyahoga Valley N.P.

Tim whispered in my ear as the towpath curved between thick stands of trees, their branches creaking in the gentle breeze. The path met the boardwalk into Beaver’s Marsh where wood ducks greeted us. He grinned while squeezing my hand. Even if you don’t get to see what you had hoped for (in this case, beavers), there’s something thrilling about embracing the unknown.

Cancer brings its own shadows—uncertainty, fear, the uninvited “what ifs.” Yet I’ve learned that through faith, even the darkest paths can glow with hope. Jesus walks with us, turning every challenge into an opportunity for courage, laughter, and connection.

Abundance in Every Step

The most beautiful part of our day wasn’t just the scenery, but the sense of freedom and joy. We climbed stairs, walked through a covered bridge, witnessed butterflies and colorful flowers, ate farm fresh corn while swinging on the double swings, swapped silly jokes, and learned that adventure is less about where you go and more about who walks beside you. Whether you have a caring partner on earth or not, Jesus is there each step of the way.

I want to say this, to anyone facing a difficult diagnosis or season: abundant life is possible—yes, even now. Through my journey with metastatic breast cancer, I’ve discovered that life with Jesus is not about scarcity, but overflow. He gives peace that surpasses understanding, and joy that bubbles up in the least-expected places—like a trail at sunset, a beautiful waterfall, or a quiet moment on the towpath with someone you love.

Come, Take the Next Step

If you’re ever near Cuyahoga Valley National Park, I encourage you to lace up your boots, grab a loved one, and walk the Ledges Trail. Let the stones steady you, the trees shelter you, and the adventure—yes, even the eerie ones—remind you that life is still here for the living.

Because abundance isn’t measured by days, but by the love, faith, and wonder we choose. Through Jesus Christ, I am learning to live—truly, joyfully, abundantly—one trail at a time.

We added another stamp to our Passport on this trip, and checked off our 18th National Park.

Pro tip: The America the Beautiful Access Pass is free for anyone who has a disability (terminal cancer is a disability, even if you don’t “feel” disabled). It provides free entry to all National Parks and Historic Sites for the pass holder and family who travel with them. It’s a great way to live life without the added pressure of the financial burden of entrance fees. Check it out!

Just One More Thing

Having terminal cancer is a different experience for everyone, and I do hope this blog is accepted as it is intended. Not everyone can do the things we can do. I get that. Depending on where you are with your diagnosis and whether you are the patient or the caregiver, you will make those determinations. Given the thousands of types and subtypes, cancer treatment is challenging. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t. I am fortunate to have cancer treatment that works!

I don’t say this lightly, as not everyone is as fortunate to add years to their life. My mother was in a Hospice House for two weeks at the end of her life. This disease does take people’s lives. Yet even there, in her setting, we enjoyed the beautiful gardens outside her window together. She also enjoyed life with what energy she had as they brought in therapy dogs, listened to people read Scripture, held hands and even encouraged people who came to visit. She taught me how to live life abundantly now as well as when we transition to our eternal Home. That is why I say, as long as I have breath, I intend to live!

Ask God to give you energy. He will provide strength to walk, even if it is just a few steps to your backyard.

À la prochaine…hasta la próxima vez…until next time!

August 1, 2025October 17, 2025

State Capitol 23: Michigan

July 31, 2025. Lansing Michigan.

This is not your typical capitol tour. We were unable to connect with a guided tour (timing was off and we were pulling the Airstream), so Tim served as our tour guide. Again. 😂

This building does have some interesting history, as well as beauty. Listen to the videos as Tim shares some of the highlights from the Full Color Michigan State Capitol Tour Guide.

Driving by, looking for a place to park.

On our way from Grand Rapids to Detroit.

For the History Buffs

The Michigan State Capitol recently opened its new welcome center, Heritage Hall. The facility serves as a multi-purpose space featuring an Atrium for luncheons and ceremonies, a Stateroom for meetings and events, and an Exhibit Ramp with museum displays for visitors and tour groups. Included in the exhibit cases are over 200 artifacts, documents, and photographs that show the chronological history of Michigan’s Capitol.

This is the third capitol building since Michigan declared herself a state in 1835 and was subsequently admitted to the Union as the 26th state in 1837. The first two Capitol buildings were destroyed by fire, but they are still displayed on souvenir plates and ornaments.

The current Capitol was designed in Beaux Arts/American Renaissance style by Eljah E. Myers, Illinois Architect, constructed 1872-78. He was relatively unknown at the time, but won the bid with his plan titled “Tuebor,” meaning “I will defend.” This would be his first capitol, but certainly not his last. The successful construction of Michigan’s Capitol vaulted Myers to nationwide fame. During his long and prolific career, he designed five capitols – more than any other architect in American history. He modeled this structure on the recently enlarged U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. The final cost of the Capitol totaled $1,427,738.78, which was about $200,000 over budget but a modest cost for capitols of that day. (According to one inflation calculator, $1,427,739 of 1878 dollars would be worth: $57,109,551.20 in 2025.)

Although the millions of bricks that make up its walls and ceilings were locally made in Lansing, the stone facade came from Ohio, the cast iron for the dome and floor beams from Pennsylvania, and the marble and limestone floors from Vermont.

Tim tells us about the walls.

And he shares some interesting facts about the chandeliers.

How the Government Works

Michigan has an entire room set up to educate its citizens on civics, including the Levels of Government, Branches of State Government, and Legislative process. (I should have paid better attention in high school.) This is probably the best visual I have seen describing our governmental functions. Not all states do it exactly the same way (e.g. some have fewer Senators or more Representatives; Nebraska is unicameral), but this is an excellent visual to best understand the overall process. So often people get confused about why our states do not intervene in some matters, or why the federal government doesn’t touch others, etc. Maybe this visual can help someone who reads this blog.

Preserving the Colors

The following information was found on the plaque in front of a worker who was preserving a flag behind a glass enclosure. It’s a tedious process!

“Battle flags played an important role in Civil War combat, serving as a rallying point amid the confusion of battle. Soldiers performed incredible acts of bravery to protect their tattered, bullet-ridden flags.

“During the Civil War Centennial (1961-1965), the State of Michigan had the flags stabilized by stitching them between layers of polyester netting on a sewing machine. While state of the art at the time, this method put thousands of tiny holes in the flags and the abrasive net is beginning to damage the original fibers.

“To preserve the flags for future generations, this netting must be removed by cutting each individual zig-zag stitch. Next, the flag can be gently vacuumed to remove dust and other loose particles. Finally, the flag can be conserved with more modern techniques.”

On to the Tour

The tour starts here (after Heritage Hall).

NOT the Rotunda. It’s actually the floor below the Rotunda. You can see people walking on the glass floor above. In the next video Tim describes the Block Glass and Dome.

THIS is the Rotunda. Also notice the Hall of Flags that surround the Rotunda.

THE CHAMBERS

Now that you know how the legislative process works, no tour would be complete without a peak inside the chambers. Legislatures were in the rooms when we went through Lansing, so we were not permitted to go inside the House on the main floor. However, if you go up one floor and step into the Gallery, you can get a bird’s eye view of the entire room.

The Michigan State Capitol has a foyer leading to each Chamber, designed to compliment one another. We haven’t seen this type of entry in other State Houses thus far.

Senate Chamber ceiling contains ninety pieces of glass to make up the skylights overhead. The skylights were originally installed to bring more natural light into the room. The original tiles started creating safety concerns and the mid-20th century era had also come to an end. Builders took out the hand-etched glass tiles and (unfortunately) threw them in a dumpster. During restoration (years later) they were able to bring the ceilings back to its original design, but instead of including 38 states as were present when Michigan entered the Union, all 50 states seals were included.

Old Supreme Court Chamber, currently serving as the Senate Appropriations Committee Room.

A FEW FUN FACTS

Although it has been Michigan’s capital since 1847 (it was in Detroit before that), Lansing was not actually incorporated as a city until 1859.
Some of the best surviving displays of Victorian painted decorative arts in the U.S. are found here.
The Capitol has led the state in technological advancement, from the lighting of the dome in 1905 to show off the power of the new electric light bulb, to installation of the nation’s largest state capitol geothermal system in 2019.
The glass and crystal chandeliers in the Senate Chambers are the original ones installed in 1878. They were converted from gas to electric, and now have 42 lightbulbs each, which have to be changed by dropping the chandeliers 40 feet to the floor and disassembling the unites.

SO-LONG LANSING

Hopefully you enjoyed this tour of Michigan State Capitol and learned a few things about our government as well. On the way out of town, I asked Tim to tell his what he thought of this Capitol, and here was his reply. He later said he liked the walls, and the design of the building as part of his reasoning for ranking it so high. What did you think?

À la prochaine…hasta la próxima vez…until next time!

“I am the Lord, who heals you.”
Exodus 15:26