Mystery Mine ride at Dollywood
Lori captured Lisa, Danny, Meg, and me on the the Dollywood Mystery Mine ride
Pre-fireworks sunset—good night and happy Independence Day, Florida
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When designing gas pumps, who decided, more often than not, that the hose has to hang in front of the part a customer uses the most?
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Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
Day 5
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Biltmore mansion gun room
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Biltmore mansion library
Nearly half of George's collection (22,000-23,000 volumes in total) is in this library. A chess set and gaming table in this room was once owned by Napoleon Bonaparte.
Day 6
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Ladies and gentlemen, I submit to you this nomination for the photo example of the 2019 edition dictionary listing for “redneck”
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I usually forget to use portrait mode, but I remembered this time
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Biltmore mansion upper floor hallway
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"Mama always said life was like a box of chocolates…"
During our return home on Monday, we made a pit stop in Savannah, GA, where the welcome center had a few exhibits including this representation of the famous Forrest Gump bus stop scene.
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber closet
None of the clothes displayed here were actually George's, but they are representative of the style of the day. Custom dictacted varying types of attire for different events, so George would often change clothes four to six times per day—a busy prospect for his valet. In George's time, it is generally understood this space was only used for hats and other accessories, with clothing stored elsewhere.
Sunday, the day after the anniversary party, our immediate family drove back to Pigeon Forge for a trip to Dollywood
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I had set a goal of meeting my 500-calorie goal for 365 consecutive days—blew past it and hit 400 days yesterday, so I’m REALLY ready for a break!
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Xander's vacation
First stop, Pet Paradise Resort where Xander spent the week while we traveled.
Recovery room
Photo by Lori Bennett
Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
My wife is part of the choir during two services today at Florida Hospital Church—live stream beginning at 9:30am. http://hospitalchurch.org/sermons/watch-live/
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Marvelous rainbow last night
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The energy of birthday sugar rushes cannot be clearly captured on camera
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Biltmore mansion third floor living hall
This was the common space used by special visitors who stayed in the guest accommodations located on the third floor.
The ancient Apple Cinema HD Display has been replaced by a Dell UltraSharp U2415 LED monitor—half as thick, much tinier bezel, and, at long last, adjustable height!
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Lunch with the family
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Still beachin’ it
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The masses of performers make their way to the stage
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Biltmore mansion tapestry gallery
This space was used for tea and music (given that the music room was unfinished in George Vanderbilt's day). The huge Flemish tapestries adorning the walls are part of a 1530s set known as The Triumph of the Seven Virtues, representing Charity, Faith, and Prudence. Among the art displayed here is a painting of George above the library door.
My office’s previous bulk cutter was 3-decade-old busted jawn and died a couple months ago—today, we had the new hotness delivered!
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Beautiful day for an outdoor lunch
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Wow—my Nissan Versa’s average MPG has passed the 40 mark (it’s rated 39 highway)
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The Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
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Ark Encounter
Retrieving the dove with an olive branch.
Geocaching First To Find
Collaborated with a seasoned player who placed a cache at my work property (with permission) enabling me to claim a coveted FTF.
If you’d like to hunt this cache, search for GC85N88.
Finally spotted some dolphin at the beach (excuse the grainy, digitally enlarged/zoomed video)
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Picked up a few new geocaches today with the nephews
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Whopper of a storm raced me home to Apopka from the west as I approached from the east—the storm won
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Dollywood's Harvey Water Clock
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Ark Encounter
This True History of the World board was a fascinating display. I kind of wish I had a print of it, which were available for sale, but I wasn't prepared to spend the money.
…with my sweetie
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I'm not quite sure how a metal box with no electronic parts can be "out of order"
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Biltmore mansion tiled loggia
Huge rear patio on the main level. It serves as an extension to the adjacent tapestry gallery when the French doors are opened.
Another popular station was the free kettle corn (yummy) set up outside along with several bounce houses
(Photo by Lori Bennett since my hands were full and couldn't easily snap my own shot here.)
Tiffani Casey, soloist for Florida Hospital Voices of Legacy, performing "Together"
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ALL. DAY. LONG. TODAY.
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Obligatory parting Spaceship Earth shot
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The neighborhood park lost an enormous tree #HurricaneIrma
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Just found out (typo notwithstanding) a submission I made to this year’s Society of Adventist Communicators annual awards was chosen as a winner (hat tip to Alicia and Heidi for letting me know)
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Biltmore mansion official photo stop—Winter Garden version
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Biltmore mansion pool
Though no longer holding water, the 70,000-gallon indoor pool was heated and still has its original underwater lighting. Call buttons located near the doors allowed swimmers to order refreshements or signal they were ready to leave and needed help changing.
Meeting Terry Benedict
Enjoyed a fabulous workshop day with special guest Terry Benedict, producer of Hacksaw Ridge and producer/director of The Conscientious Objector.
Managed a shot of the eclipse through a coworker's pair of glasses—not a great shot, but it's mine
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Biltmore mansion tapestry gallery
This space was used for tea and music (given that the music room was unfinished in George Vanderbilt's day). The huge Flemish tapestries adorning the walls are part of a 1530s set known as The Triumph of the Seven Virtues, representing Charity, Faith, and Prudence. Among the art displayed here is a painting of George above the library door.
Vacation Cross Connection
In planning our June 2019 vacation, it was fascinating to realize all our destinations collectively formed the shape of a cross.
I wonder what my car is counting down to
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Playing with night mode—China pavilion
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Silly nephew thinks he needs my glasses
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On Friday, the camp entrance road was the absolute smoothest I’d ever experienced, but after Saturday’s deluge, my Sunday departure was a 5MPH creep over the bumpiest I’ve ever seen
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More iPhone 11 Pro experimentation, using the super wide angle lens on this koi pond in the Japan pavilion after a tasty lunch
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Playing with night mode—China pavilion
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Biltmore mansion breakfast room
In spite of the breakfast room name, both breakfast and luncheon was served in this room. Portaits in this room include George Vanderbilt's grandfather, Cornelius "Commodore" Vanderbilt (the founder of the family fortune), and his father, William Henry Vanderbilt.
The two smallest paintings in this photo (bottom of the trio of art to the right of the fireplace) are by Renoir: Young Algerian Girl and Child with an Orange.
Good night, Florida
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Day 7
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Good night, Florida—and good riddance, Dorian
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I wore a new dress to church; "modest is hottest" LOL
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Good night, Florida
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It was probably for the best that I couldn’t use Flickr while it was down—I had a LOT of weekend preparation work to do
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More celebratory banners
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The kids—sillier
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So this happened today
A few insta-impressions:
(1) LOVE the size.
(2) When can I add Dark Sky to the middle and Fantastical to the top of the Infograph Modular face?
(3) Gonna miss Time Travel. I know people seldom used it but it was great for Dark Sky forecasts.
(4) Obviously I will wear it next time I’m swimming, but coming from a Series 0, I’m paranoid!
(5) Jury is still out whether I’ll keep Digital Crown haptics enabled.
Vacation officially begins now!
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Good night, Florida
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Sugar Mill Machinery
Two examples of sugar cane crushing machinery from the mid-1800s are shown. Dunlawton Plantation used machinery similar to what is seen in the next photo, but the mill was steam powered. Spring Garden Plantation (here) was the only water-powered sugar mill in Florida.
Preparing to sing
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My relocated workspace
It’s been a few months since I posted a photo of my workspace at the time of my relocation from Communication to the Service Center which showed my desk in a still-being-set-up state. Last week I finally finished making the new location my own space by getting my framed art and diploma on the surrounding walls (thanks for the help, Miguel).
Lori's selfie shots weren't turning out—night mode to the rescue!
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Terry Shaw, President/CEO of Adventist Health System
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1850s-1870s sugar mill ruins
Description in prior photo.
Ark Encounter
Japheth and Rayneh.
Happy Birthday, USA!
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Parent orientation for our new high school freshman—wait, what? We have a freshman‽
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Time to update my prescription—went with a whole new look with my frames
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Bulk paper cutter hilarity
Sometimes, my job amuses me.
Current status
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Ark Encounter
Noah's prayer.
Welcome to my weekend—video services for Women’s Ministries Annual Retreat #DareToShare2020
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Enjoying a trip on Dollywood's vintage steam train—except for the tiny specks of soot!
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Ark Encounter
As we were leaving, the girls pointed out that throughout the museum, there were marks in the floor as if they had been scratched by animal claws. Fascinating detail!
Biltmore mansion bowling alley
Automatic pinsetters didn't yet exist, so servants would set up the pins by hand and roll the balls back down the alley to the players.
Biltmore mansion pool
Though no longer holding water, the 70,000-gallon indoor pool was heated and still has its original underwater lighting. Call buttons located near the doors allowed swimmers to order refreshements or signal they were ready to leave and needed help changing.
This hired entertainer walked around demonstrating a variety of stunts including plate spinning, juggling, and stilt walking
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Hangin’ out on Orlando Wall Street Plaza’s Big Chair
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Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
Family outing to Crepevine
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And we're off…
We're loaded up in the Honda Pilot my sister-in-law graciously loaned us for the trip, ready for adventures.
Weekend video duty for 2018 Florida Pathfinder Red Zone
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Looking forward to this view every day this week—hopefully a few sunrises, too
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Does a flock of turkeys in my back yard mean Thanksgiving comes early this year?
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Luggage is Tetris'd into the van and we're ready to go
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Greek salad—who knew eating healthy could taste so good
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That feeling when you were doing oh so well with your hand lettering, until… 😖
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Meg gets her sugar fix
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Biltmore mansion master bedroom hallway
This hallway connects George and Edith's bedrooms along with the sitting room between the two bedrooms.
Tim Cook, Senior Vice President of Florida Hospital Apopka
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Scenery before tomorrow's storm
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Biltmore mansion banquet hall
I shot a panorama to show a full floor-to-ceiling view, but exposure often ends up yucky in panorama shots.
It’s been a long, busy weekend—I’m tired, but it’s been a wonderful Camp Meeting, and the last big meeting is over
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Moving day
I have officially transferred to a new department now that Communication has been deprecated. I'll tell more in a blog post next week. For now, I'm sharing a farewell image of my previous office and a glimpse at the early stages of setting up my new workspace.
Biltmore mansion—Edith Vanderbilt chamber
Purple and gold fabrics adorn Edith's Louis XV-style feminine retreat. Eighty years after the original fabrics were created, replacements woven by the same French company were installed during restoration of the room.
Family in the Biltmore Gardens greenhouses
It was wonderful that my parents could join us for this portion of our trip.
Biltmore mansion official photo stop
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Day 1
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
(My friend, Jeff's, shot) Edward James Olmos was back stage chatting up the theater attendants prior to the show and I had the chance to say hello and shake his hand
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The Fountain of Youth
To attract tourists in the 1880s, local business owners changed the name of this property from Spring Garden to Ponce De Leon Springs. The area was advertised in northern states as a winter resort with its own Fountain of Youth, pouring out millions of gallons of "deliciously healthy" water.
In the 1950s, this site became one of Florida's many roadside attractions. Again, the Fountain of Youth was featured. It included two structures. The wall in the next photo is said to have been the location of a small fountain where visitors could drink the water. About 200 feet south (up the hill, two photos after this one), you can see the second structure with basins at different levels. This created a waterfall effect then flowed down into the fountain wall here.
Biltmore Gardens Railway
Part of the railway miniature ran past an amazing scale model of the mansion.
Spectacular double rainbow over my home ahead of Hurricane Irma
I'm choosing to interpret this as God's way of telling me we're going to be okay through the storm.
Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
Ark Encounter
Inside looking at the bow.
Biltmore mansion pool
Though no longer holding water, the 70,000-gallon indoor pool was heated and still has its original underwater lighting. Call buttons located near the doors allowed swimmers to order refreshements or signal they were ready to leave and needed help changing.
Meg loves Winnie the Pooh
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Biltmore mansion rotisserie kitchen
A separate kitchen for roasted meat (venison, wild boar, and other game) was used to keep the smoke and grease out of the other kitchens.
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration—we had a yummy lunch at Hunter's Cafe
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Ominous weather bearing down on Central Florida
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Biltmore mansion organ blower
Near the kitchen is a small room housing this motor which powers the fan that provides are to the large organ above in the dining hall (photos earlier in this album).
Waiting in the green room tent
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Based on available information, let's take a guess what time Lee will get away for lunch
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Nissan advertises the 2017 Versa with highway fuel economy of 39 MPG—real life never reaches perfect testing conditions, but this is quite impressive
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Biltmore mansion main kitchen
Biltmore's chef led a team of more than a dozen kitchen workers. The copper pots are original to the house.
Biltmore mansion pre-tour
The sky was a bit wet and dreary when we arrived. I shot these exterior photos before the mansion tour, unsure that I would have another chance with sunnier skies after the tour.
Candlelight Processional performers in the holding tent ready for rehearsal
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Mary Poppins also made an appearance
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Current status
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Mac Mini Unboxing
Apple understands product packaging better than *any* other business. Fight me.
Centennial banners greeted incoming visitors
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I wonder if my coworkers will concur
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Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
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Smyrna sky 360
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Good night, Florida
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Ark Encounter official photo stop—evening lit-up version
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Ark Encounter
Live animal exhibit.
Views of Biltmore Gardens
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Biltmore mansion kitchen storage
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Lots of activities—including balloon artists
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The original sugar mill wheel
In the photo: Local residents pose at the mill wheel in the late 1800s. The building is no longer standing.
This artifact is all that remains of the original sugar mill wheel. The sugar mill was constructed in the 1830s and operated until 1864, when the property was Spring Garden Plantation. The wheel powered the machinery that pressed sugar cane for its juice. It was the only water-powered sugar mill in Florida!
In 1835, the mill was destroyed by Seminole Indians at the beginning of the Second Seminole War. In 1864, it was destroyed again, this time by Union troops during the Civil War because the owner, Thomas Starke, was supplying food to Confederate troops.
The abandoned mill deteriorated from insects and rot in the late 1800s. Around 1910 it was rebuilt, possibly as a tourist attraction. A project in 1998 removed this part of the wheel, replacing it with the current wheel, which is not operational.
Christmas at Epcot
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Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Fountain of Youth—upper portion
Description in photo two prior.
Ark Encounter official photo stop—daytime angle version
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Crazy—nearly 400 kids registered for VBS at my church with more than 200 volunteer staff!
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Thanksgiving family portrait
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Good night, Florida
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Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 1.
Sometimes I wish Sunpass transponders were available in black
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First time joining Lisa and Danny at the AHA Heart Walk
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Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 3.
Salted caramel pretzel—YUM
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Crowd Walk Life
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Biltmore mansion banquet hall
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Ark Encounter
Shem and Ar'yel.
Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
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Ark Encounter
A splendid index explaining what "kind" actually means and how the Ark could accommodate what was necessary. (Note that the Bible states Noah brought two—or seven—of every "kind," not necessarily of every single "animal.")
Playing with night mode—Mexico pavilion
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Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 2.
The neighborhood park lost an enormous tree #HurricaneIrma
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Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
In the background, a mirror in the bathroom doorway gives a glimpse of George's paw-footed bathtub.
Biltmore mansion banquet hall
Looking the opposite direction toward the organ loft.
Biltmore mansion detail
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Celebrating Adri’s 14th birthday during a walk around Lake Baldwin
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After leaving FLA, Lori and I stopped for dinner and I shot this evening sky before walking into the restaurant
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Colorful flag entrance
Photo by Lori Bennett
Meg learns about phone booths
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Biltmore mansion music room
Poor exposure in this dark room, but it shows the Meissen porcelain figures of the 12 Apostles from the 1730s-1740s, created by Johann Joachim Kändler. And to the left of the figures is the "Triumphal Arch of Maximilian," an 18th-century woodcut print Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I (1459-1519) commissioned from Albrecht Dürer and others about 1515.
Good morning, Florida—time to get back to work
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The apocalypse approacheth
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Sorting games at work
I have already stated that my new job is fun. I’m not saying it’s glamorous!
Biltmore mansion—Edith Vanderbilt chamber
Purple and gold fabrics adorn Edith's Louis XV-style feminine retreat. Eighty years after the original fabrics were created, replacements woven by the same French company were installed during restoration of the room.
Cute little Mickey ear musical Ferris wheel
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Our destination…
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Biltmore mansion library
A brightened panorama photo of this very dark room gives a view The Chariot of Aurora on the ceiling, originally painted for the Pisani Palace in Venice in the 1720s by Giovanni Pellegrini.
Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Shelf cloud
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Enjoying a trip on Dollywood's vintage steam train—except for the tiny specks of soot!
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Been a while since I've driven beneath a Hyperlapse-worthy sky
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Biltmore mansion pool
Though no longer holding water, the 70,000-gallon indoor pool was heated and still has its original underwater lighting. Call buttons located near the doors allowed swimmers to order refreshements or signal they were ready to leave and needed help changing.
Lori and Meg in the Candlelight Processional performance
Photo by Jeff Krause.
Ark Encounter
Dining area.
Biltmore mansion breakfast room
Grainy and poorly exposed, my panorama shot of this dark room gives a glimpse of the elaborately decorative ceiling.
We found a Fazoli's!
After our Biltmore trip, we headed to Lexington, KY, intending to reach our hotel before terribly late. Unfortunately a nasty storm slowed us down, even pulling off on an exit for a while, and we arrived in the early morning hours the next day. We had a much-needed sleep-in, and then had lunch at a nearby Fazoli's—a rare treat for us ever since the chain pulled out of Florida except for one store in Pensacola. My meal was essentially free due to a promotion they were running on the overhauled chicken parmesan entree where I just completed a short survey about it.
Say whaaaaaat‽
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50,000 miles in just two years and 19 days—whew!
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Goofy was preparing to meet guests at the park, but turned around when it began to rain
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We successfully escaped Moriarty’s Game Room—SO MUCH FUN
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Anyone remember BitCam?
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Happy Thanksgiving from the Bennett/Bixby/Myers family
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Church picnic at Wilson’s Landing Park
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Candlelight Processional group photo at the church before leaving
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Danny and Meg ready to ride Dollywood's Wild Eagle coaster
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Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 1.
Arriving at Ark Encounter
After lunch in Lexington, it was just a 40-50-minute drive to the attraction. (Yes, it was an extremely windy day!)
Pouring pancake batter onto the in-table griddle
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Looks like my home has a guardian—guess it’s a good thing I don’t really tune in the satellite channels all that much any more
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Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 5
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Video clip of the closing portion of "Together"
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Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
The beach is devouring Mason
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Biltmore Gardens Railway video
90 seconds of miniature railway footage.
The Exodus away from the beach
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The ambiance inside the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
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Reaching the first drop of Dollywood's Wild Eagle coaster
I'm unsure whether we are on the ride vehicle in this particular shot. In any case, this was an amazing coaster. Smooth and fun. There was surprisingly not a long ride, so after the four of us completed one pass, we looped around and got right back on again for a second ride. Lisa and I sat in the front, and we agreed—Best. Coaster. Ever!
Candlelight Processional group photo upon arrival at the rehearsal area
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Dollywood's Harvey Water Clock
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Home for the next seven days
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Biltmore mansion smoking room
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Good night, Florida
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Enjoying the treat!
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My parents joined Lori and me for the trip
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I love relaxing piano “muisc” in the morning
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Sugar Mill Machinery
Description in prior photo.
Awww, poor guy must either be old/sick or hurt—found him on the sidewalk, wouldn’t move for nothing, and I didn’t know what to do :-(
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Biltmore mansion library
George's collection ranges from American and English literature to history, religion, philosophy, art, and architecture.
I'm a material witness to this "materiel" typo (seen on an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation)
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Biltmore Gardens Railway
Model train passing in front of the mansion scale model.
Biltmore mansion banquet hall
A seven-story high ceiling and Flemish tapestries from the 1500s was the scene of dinner parties and celebrations such as the annual Christmas party for Biltmore workers and their families.
I presume there was some sort of gas spill or leak (fire also?) at the intersection of highways 437 & 44—foam clumps flying around everywhere!
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You might think the packets in this themed container are mustard, but you’d be wrong #Hellmans #Mayo #Mayonnaise #fail
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Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
Forgive this horrible grainy exposure of this heavily brightened photo of what I believe was the darkest room of the entire tour. But the panorama shows the entirety of George's master bedroom.
Peeking at another performance of Candlelight Processional, this time with Lisa Ling as the narrator
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1850s-1870s sugar mill ruins
Description in photo two prior.
Playing with night mode—Canada pavilion
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Time for another installment of the post-dinner-family-outing-group-selfie series
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Biltmore mansion third floor living hall
This was the common space used by special visitors who stayed in the guest accommodations located on the third floor.
Biltmore mansion entrance hall
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Biltmore Estate Gardens
Following an all-day Tuesday drive to Asheville, NC, where we met up with my parents, we spent Wednesday touring the Biltmore Estate, starting with the gardens which was featuring a temporary attraction, Biltmore Gardens Railway with miniature train sets.
Afternoon beach time has been cancelled
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Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, final day
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Meg loves Winnie the Pooh
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Biltmore mansion Halloween room
Originally used for storage, the walls were painted over the course of several weeks by the Cecils, joined by family and friends, with this unusal theme for a New Year's Eve party in 1925—the year after George's daughter, Cornelia, married John Cecil, a British diplomat.
Biltmore mansion pastry kitchen
The chef used this kitchen to make elaborate desserts, protected from the heat of the other two kitchens.
For those who might ask, that’s a Blackmagic Design ATEM Production Studio 4K in the background of the previous photo
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Wekiva River at Wilson’s Landing Park
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Family dinner with bonus of my parents and brother
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I blinked, and the little girl I’ve known was suddenly a young woman
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Ark Encounter
Space utilization.
Ark Encounter
Water and waste technology.
The Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
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Biltmore mansion stone hallway
After descending through a narrow service stairwell below the grand staircase, this long hallway runs along the house's foundation toward the south side.
Good morning, Florida (bonus points if you can find Venus in this photo)
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Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Replica water wheel at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
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Lots of activities—including face painting
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms. This is one of the house's 43 bathrooms—a rarity in 1895 when many homes didn't have a single indoor bathroom.
The moon was super-moony tonight!
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Playing with night mode—UK pavilion
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I guess that explains the early morning power outage
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The kids—deceptively calm
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Biltmore mansion gymnasium
Rowing machine, parallel bars, Indian clubs, medicine balls, and needle bath shower massages.
Ark Encounter
Creation vs. evolution.
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Scenic moment at Church at the Cross
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Lars Houmann, COO of Adventist Health System
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If I fits, I sits
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A few days later, returning to Epcot for a full day of fun
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Ark Encounter
Feeding large animals.
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Chaperone meeting
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LOTS of awesome BOGOs at Publix right now—love it!
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Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
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Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
Ark Encounter
Live animal exhibit.
Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
Old Methuselah
This cypress tree, which is more than 500 years old, got its name in the 1950s when the park was the Ponce de Leon Springs tourist attraction. The tree somehow survived in the early 1800s when cypress trees throughout Florida were cut for lumber.
Parting singer group shot
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On duty all day since 7am to record the HR Summit hosted by my office
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Operating room
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Good night, Florida
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Z88.3 radio has a splendid beginner geocache perfect for introducing someone new to the game—the cache code to search is GC7TGTE
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Parting singer group shot
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Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 6
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Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
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Sears in Altamonte Mall is shutting down—more than half the upper floor is bare and looks creepy
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Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
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I clearly don’t live in a bear-free community, as evidenced by this guy hanging out in a retention ditch near my home
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Mystery Mine ride at Dollywood
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Biltmore mansion gun room
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Biltmore mansion Winter Garden
The atrium area has a glass roof illuminating the center fountain sculpture, Boy Stealing Geese, by Karl Bitter which was installed just weeks before George Vanderbilt opened the house to his family on Christmas Eve, 1895.
Biltmore mansion second floor living hall
The two large pantings on the far wall are of architect Richard Morris Hunt and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. The left wall features a painting of the Cecil family, descendants of George Vanderbilt.
Biltmore mansion music room
This multi-shot stitched panoroama is better quality/exposure than the next photo, but doesn't show as much of the complete room.
This was a bare/unfinished room in George Vanderbilt's time. Before it was completed in 1976 by George's descendants, it was used during World War II as a secret storage location for valuable art from the National Gallery in Washington, D.C.
Release of white doves
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Three down, seven to go
Actually, this was progress two days prior to posting this photo, but I sort of forgot to post it. The photo shows the process of manually adding front and back covers to 500 sets of a 20-page booklet. So yes, that means earlier I ran 11,000 sheets through the copier—21,000 impressions since the inside pages were double sided.
Ark Encounter official photo stop—ramp to door version
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Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
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Rock-painting craft at family camp
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A little sightseeing after the show, trying out iPhone 11 Pro night mode in the Germany pavilion
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Super thrilled to once again have a respectable-looking front lawn, with massive props to my father-in-law, Dean, and his colleague, Dave for the install
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Dad picked me up from college today and handed me breakfast
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The "cake" was a creatively decorated cardboard stand for holding cupcakes
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Picked up a geocache this morning—I hope its owner replaces the broken container soon
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Biltmore mansion entrance hall
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Finally enjoying a taste of the Christmas gift from my bro- and sis-in-law; wow, this stuff tastes wonderful!
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Good morning Mr. Hawk
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Ark Encounter
Deck floor plans.
A tech glitch prevented video to the system on opening night, but it’s now been resolved and media is ready for Friday morning at Camp Meeting 2019
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Happiness is a freshly washed car
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Ark Encounter
We're inside the door!
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 3
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More night mode experimentation—character greet facility at Norway pavilion
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Time to robe-up
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Ark Encounter
Scale model.
Not the worst hotel room view :-)
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The cotton candy station was extremely popular
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Brother-in-law Danny Myers joined us for the hospital tour
Photo by Lori Bennett
Ark Encounter
Three types of lighting.
Well this was definitely a project-and-a-half that I helped fabricate
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Prepping for performance
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Preparing to sing
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Good night, Florida
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
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It was a nice couple of hours at the beach, but then the clouds rolled in
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Biltmore mansion bowling alley
The house featured one of the nation's first bowling alleys instealled in a private residence.
Blue tungsten carbide
Don't worry, it's not a replacement. I still have my original. But, with my wife's blessing, I now have a colorful alternative wedding band. I don't impulse-buy things like this very often, but I found this beautiful ring at a Strawberry Festival vendor at an extremely attractive price.
Day 2
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Time to line up
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My view of the eclipse: probably could’ve done better if not for the lack of motivation—it’s COLD outside!
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Good night, Florida
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VIP grand opening of the new Florida Hospital Apopka
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It's been a very busy day
1,000 copies each of 10 Spanish-language Bible lessons, double-sided and folded in half, for a total of 20,000 impressions on 10,000 sheets of paper. WHEW!
Fortunately, these will last the evangelist a LONG time before I ever have to print more.
Oh, and for anyone who follows me on social media, lesson 2 of this batch is the one I was talking about a while ago that had two erroneous booger elements colored blue and causing the entire inside spread to want to copy in color instead of only B&W!
Family and guests visiting at the barn venue during rehearsal the day before the event
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Biltmore mansion servant bedroom
Most uncommonly for the period, Biltmore servants had a comfortably furnished, heated, private room. Most servants were allowed two hours off daily, but were still on call. They received one afternoon and one evening off per week as well as a half day every other Sunday.
Day 3
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
More night mode experimentation—Mexico pavilion
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Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Ark Encounter
Food supplies.
Hunted a simple geocache—first one I've looked for in a great many years
Crab Cakes
www.geocaching.com/geocache/GC3M3HY
Ark Encounter
Feeding and removing waste for large animals.
Caricature time lapse
Clearing old/unneeded files from my computer and realized I never shared this time lapse of Meg and Adri's caricature drawing at 2018 Strawberry Festival.
Biltmore mansion kitchen pantry
Both electric and manual dumbwaiters raised trays of food to the butler's pantry and floors above.
Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 4
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Shelf cloud
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Ark Encounter
Ark size and shape.
Ark Encounter
Welcome.
Sampling a few of Biltmore's wines
We ended up purchasing a bottle of dry rosé and Century™ Sweet Red which tastes amazing
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Biltmore mansion upper/exterior view of Winter Garden atrium
This view looks out from a window on the third floor above the master bedroom hallway.
Xmas door decor
I swear, this was my boss' idea, not mine! I only executed the production of it. (It might help to disclose that besides the print work I am largely responsible for, the Service Center also processes the building's incoming and outgoing mail.)
Back yard bear sighting at my sister-in-law’s home
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Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
Washing was aided by a belt-driven barrel washer.
Someone chose not to ride
This was hilarious. Adri not only had little interest in riding the more extreme Dollywood coasters, she totally owned her lack of desire. Aunt Lisa and Uncle Danny bought these shirts for the girls. Yes, Adri happily wears her "chicken" shirt.
Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Biltmore mansion gymnasium
Rowing machine, parallel bars, Indian clubs, medicine balls, and needle bath shower massages.
Ark Encounter
Twelve Stones Monument.
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 2
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Biltmore mansion laundry facilities drying room
Some of the damp laundry was dried indoors draped over rolling racks warmed by heating elements.
Turns out a colander does pretty well at showing eclipse shadows—pretty, too
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Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
This is my wife, Lori's, shot that she let me use in this album, taken later in our visit when a storm began brewing.
The Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant seen from across Ponce de Leon Springs
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
A very tired, but very happy family
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Info panel on how sugar was made at Spring Garden Plantation
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Biltmore mansion official photo stop—garden version
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Kids after dinner
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iPad on a monopod—that's a new one for me
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Lavender in Biltmore Gardens
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Panorama of the approach walkway to Ark Encounter
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Final positioning check
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Sun, moon, and stars (okay, sun, moon, and planet, but somehow that doesn't sound as inspirational!)
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We went Soarin’
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Daryl Tol, President/CEO of Florida Hospital and Adventist Health System Central Division
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Biltmore mansion—George Vanderbilt chamber
George's grand walnut bed.
Biltmore mansion billiard room
This room in the bachelors' wing on the main level (although it did not deter female guests) featured custom oak billiard tables made in 1895. There is also a doorway disguised to look like part of the wall which allowed gentlemen to discreetly retire to the adjacent smoking room.
Musicians for second song performance, "Healing Tower"
Terry Sampson, drums; and Kevin Sorensen, bass. Not pictured: Jason Salagubang, keyboard.
(Pre)Rehearsal dinner at FlameStone for my brother’s wedding on Sunday
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Ark Encounter
Feeding and removing waste for small animals.
Visiting historic downtown Sweetwater prior to the anniversary celebration
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The kids—silliest
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Playing with night mode—France pavilion
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Good night, Florida
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I’m only mixing for rehearsals and not the actual performances, but it was fun to get back into this seat after such a long time
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A great anniversary day at Magic Kingdom
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Biltmore mansion oak sitting room
This paneled sitting area connected George and Edith's bedrooms. The room is where they usually shared breakfast and was where Edith planned the day with the head housekeeper.
Biltmore mansion photo op
A spot in the Halloween room has cutouts of George and Edith from a popular photo of them on the main floor loggia.
As I always say, obligatory parting Spaceship Earth shot
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Biltmore mansion pre-tour
The sky was a bit wet and dreary when we arrived. I shot these exterior photos before the mansion tour, unsure that I would have another chance with sunnier skies after the tour.
“We Three Kings” by Florida Hospital Church Orchestra featuring violin soloist Jordan Jones
This video was an experiment. It’s a mash up of one primary video I shot of the second performance with insertions from the first performance and rehearsal. But my audio was subpar, so I synchronized the video with the house mix audio from the online streaming broadcast.
Apologies this video doesn't seem to play properly in Flickr's mobile app.
Found this relic of technology last weekend—a 3G iPod that sadly will not power up, even with a charge cable attached
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Joe Kilsheimer, Mayor, City of Apopka
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Biltmore Gardens Railway
There were several different separate railways throughout the greenhouses.
Playing with night mode—China pavilion
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I have a back-and-forth, love-hate relationship between the old Modular Apple Watch face and the new Infograph Modular face
The complication sizes on Infograph Modular are great on the Series 4, but I disdain Apple’s mandate for the small ones to be circular based. I really want the old style small Modular complications on the new Infograph Modular face.
Japanese drum demonstration
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Mary Poppins also made an appearance
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Sign shop: “Do you want that with or without typos?” / Customer: “Without.”
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Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Cooking pancakes and veggie sausage patties
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Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, final day
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My very yummy dinner at San Miguel Mexican Grill in Apopka
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Prepping my iced tea, I asked Meg to "hand me some yellow stuff" and this is what she gave me
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Biltmore mansion Halloween room
Originally used for storage, the walls were painted over the course of several weeks by the Cecils, joined by family and friends, with this unusal theme for a New Year's Eve party in 1925—the year after George's daughter, Cornelia, married John Cecil, a British diplomat.
Who Built the Sugar Mill?
The rubble in the next two photos is the sugar train, which was used to boil cane juice to produce sugar. Enslaved Africans constructed the bottom 5-6 rows of bricks in the 1850s. The ruins in the following two photos is all that remains of their work here when the area was Spring Garden Plantation from the early 1800s until the Civil War. Slave labor also constructed the original sugar mill building in the 1830s (rebuilt around 1900), as well as docks and storage buildings.
The top section of bricks was added in the 1870s. In 2011, park staff performed stabilization work, adding missing bricks and mortaring the joints to preserve this important part of the park's history.
Biltmore mansion tapestry gallery
This space was used for tea and music (given that the music room was unfinished in George Vanderbilt's day). The huge Flemish tapestries adorning the walls are part of a 1530s set known as The Triumph of the Seven Virtues, representing Charity, Faith, and Prudence. Among the art displayed here is a painting of George above the library door.
Biltmore mansion vegetable pantry
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Finally reorganized the shelves for large-size paper stock to something a bit more logical and even created room to get yet-to-be-opened cases off the floor
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I know—I put up a B&W version for the 7-day project, but I wanted to post the color version as well
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Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
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My wife and I labored on Labor Day, getting our garage straightened up sufficiently to bring the car inside for protection during Hurricane Dorian
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Biltmore mansion dressing room
Plenty of space for changing into bathing costumes, adjacent to the indoor pool.
Sweet 16 (photo by Lori)
Well, her birthday was actually last week, but a number of different celebrations at a number of different venues were planned.
Replica water wheel at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
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Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 6
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Ark Encounter
Panorama shot showing the opening between all decks—level 3.
Biltmore mansion—Edith Vanderbilt chamber
Purple and gold fabrics adorn Edith's Louis XV-style feminine retreat. Eighty years after the original fabrics were created, replacements woven by the same French company were installed during restoration of the room.
Got to catch up with these guys on vacation from Texas and have a wonderful lunch and conversation
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After 15 years, it is finally time to bid this workhorse behemoth Cinema HD Display—which only recently has begun to exhibit signs of failure—a fond farewell
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Biltmore mansion banquet hall—opposite angle
This photo was from later in the tour looking from the opposite corner of the room. It has a better view of the overall size.
The largest dinner held here seated 38 people at the large oak table. However, the Vanderbilts and family members often dined at a smaller table near the triple fireplaces in the background.
At the elegant dinner parties, guests were treated to fine linens, and family silver, china, and crystal including five wine glasses per person.
Calling grandma
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Florida Hospital Voices of Legacy, directed by Vivian Cook
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Biltmore mansion—Edith Vanderbilt chamber
Purple and gold fabrics adorn Edith's Louis XV-style feminine retreat. Eighty years after the original fabrics were created, replacements woven by the same French company were installed during restoration of the room.
Without the Mac Pro sucking power, my UPS should provide LOTS of iPhone and iPad recharge cycles if we lose power
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The next day we drove to Pigeon Forge and had lunch at Cheddar's with a few of the family members who would be attending the 50th anniversary party that weekend
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Biltmore mansion walk-in refrigerator
Several rooms used early forms of mechanical refrigeration instead of iceboxes or springhouses.
Day 4
7 days, 7 photos in black and white of your everyday life. No explanation. No people.
I was challenged by no one and I won't be challenging anyone. I just wanted to do this.
Famished after a long day at the mansion, we thorouthly enjoyed a late lunch at Cedric's Tavern—my sandwich was DEELISH
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We nearly didn’t go to Epcot today—torrential rain around 8:30am that cleared up very quickly
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At last, proper storage/organization of all my iPad accessories and gadgets thanks to Skooba Design products—thanks mom/dad for the birthday gift!
I. LOVE. THIS. BAG.
After a good many years, I have retired the too-small Case Logic tote which carried my iPad in one sleeve and an absolute hodgepodge of gadgets in another pouch. I had previously bought Skooba Design's Cable Stable DLX (the green-lined organizer) thinking I could use it for my stuff and simply lay the iPad inside and close up, but it was too full to close.
When Skooba confirmed the DLX would fit inside the largest pouch in the V.3 Satchel Mini, I knew I'd found my solution. Most of my gadgets are organized in the DLX with a few larger ones in pockets located in the Satchel's smaller storage pouch (top of photo). Then the iPad slides easily into the third pouch normally designed for a small laptop. My 10.5" iPad Pro fits nicely and I suspect a full size iPad Pro would fit instead in the unlikely event I ever choose to upgrade to that size. Besides not having enough room for my gadgets in the old Case Logic tote, the 10.5" iPad Pro only barely fit, whereas it easily slides in and out of the V.3 Satchel Mini.
Checking out the UK pavilion
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The requisite silly snapshot
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Fire!
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Lee: “Since when does Eeyore smile?” Lori: “Since someone fed him Prozac. It’s wonderful stuff!”
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Biltmore mansion servant bedroom
Most uncommonly for the period, Biltmore servants had a comfortably furnished, heated, private room. Most servants were allowed two hours off daily, but were still on call. They received one afternoon and one evening off per week as well as a half day every other Sunday.
Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Biltmore mansion canning pantry
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I officially no longer have to avoid spoilers!
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Florida Hospital Voices of Legacy
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The neighborhood park is a mess #HurricaneIrma
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Y’all are just a bunch of turkeys!
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Views of Biltmore Gardens
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Plenty of photo-op locations
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Door cam belonging to a neighbor not far from my house caught an image of this guy about the same time I was walking out the house to the car to go to work this morning! 😱
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Never knew Uno made a version with these huge cards!
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Meg believes she can fly
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Biggs house
One of Sweetwater's oldest still-standing homes, occupied by Sweetwater pioneers, Isabella Rankin and her husband, Alexander Biggs.
The gang's all ready
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Obligatory departing SSE shot
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Biltmore mansion post-tour
The weather was much more pleasant when we exited the house after our tour, enabling me to capture a few nicer shots of the exterior.
Storm clouds swirled most all of the afternoon, but a fair portion of the afternoon avoided rain
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Hello from Florida Camp Meeting
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Pediatric emergency room suite
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The view from the Biltmore mansion's main level tiled loggia
The patio has splendid views of Biltmore's Deer Park and Blue Ridge Mountains.
Biltmore mansion tiled loggia
Looking across the patio toward the tower that houses servant quarters in the basement (behind the stone portion), the music room on the main level, George Vanderbilt's chamber on the second level, and guest chambers above.
Biltmore mansion salon
Edith Vanderbilt, George’s wife, had a love of drama throughout her life and often hosted masquerade parties and theatrical events in Biltmore House. After setting aside her plan to convert the Salon into an auditorium, Edith furnished the room as a Turkish Sitting Room, complete with Persian rugs, oversized cushions for guests to lounge on, and a draped fabric ceiling treatment that remains today.
My 2017 Versa is averaging ½ mile per gallon higher than the maximum rated highway economy—way to go, Nissan!
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Fountain of Youth—lower portion
Description in prior photo.
First time geocaching for my nephews
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Good night, Florida
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Biltmore mansion banquet hall organ loft
A 1916 Skinner pipe organ looms over the banquet hall. A large motor for the fan providing air to the pipes is in the basement—photo is later in this album.
Entrance to Biltmore Winery
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Biltmore mansion laundry facilities
Washing was aided by a belt-driven barrel washer.
Replica water wheel at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant
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Good night, Florida
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Ark Encounter
Ventilation.
Rehearsal day at the Barnett ranch in Sweetwater, TN, for the Hunt's 50th anniversary party and vow renewal ceremony
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Figment went upside down (the only night mode shot on the moving ride that turned out well)
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Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 2
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The apocalypse approacheth
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Four family members, one chair
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Biltmore mansion grand staircase
Inspired by the staircase at the Chateau de Blois in the Loire Valley, Biltmore’s grand staircase is a marvel of physics built using counterbalance. The weight of each of the solid limestone slab steps is offset by the weight of the wall bearing down.
There is a 1,700-pound electric light fixture suspended from the middle of the grand staircase. It hangs from a single bolt that runs through steel girders under the dome roof. The bolt has been replaced only once since the house was built. Wisely designed, the copper dome opens for easier access to the fixture.
Time to line up
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Newly remodeled Altamonte Apple Store is SWEET
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Sunscreen application #fail
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Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, day 3
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Ark Encounter
Kitchen.
Entrance to Ponce de Leon Springs State Park
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Pediatric section
Photo by Lori Bennett
Good morning from New Smyrna Beach, final day
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Cuckoo clocks in the Germany pavilion
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Marvelous rainbow last night
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Good morning, Florida
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My neighborhood sits high above three enormous, deep retention ditches—virtually zero flood risk #HurricaneIrma
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Family pose
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Sun not visible, skies are dark—why travel to Tennessee? There's a total eclipse happening right here in Florida!
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Good night, Florida
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Good night, Florida
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When there are 1,645 letters with a two-page enclosure to mail out, having a machine to fold and stuff them all is a godsend!
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Biltmore mansion guest accommodations
A scene from within the numerous guest rooms.
Fast group photo of Florida Hospital Church choir prior to Candlelight Processional rehearsal
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Holy cannoli iPhone 11 Pro night mode is unbelievable—top is standard, nonHDR shot of very dark outdoors, bottom is night mode of same scene!
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I offered to Facebook Live my brother’s wedding next weekend—my “compensation” is getting to keep the Glif mount and iRig Pre he bought that will make the broadcast much better (I just tested them and they work flawlessly)
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The Barnett ranch is a beautiful property with scenic views
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Good morning from New Smyrna Beach
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Biltmore mansion servant dining room
Between 30-35 servants ate three meals per day in this room.
Good night, Florida
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Time to line up
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25-year recognition
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