NASCAR Hall of Fame

I'm not a racing fan, but decided to visit to get a glimpse of history in the making. If you're a fan there were interactive exhibits to keep you busy for hours.  Racing got its start during  the prohibition era, when bootleggers needed to keep a step ahead of law enforcement.  The thrill of the chase expanded into speedways that sprouted all over the world as drivers reach speeds over 200 mph.  In addition to the hall-of-famers, the winning cars are also on display on a track circling the outer wall to give you a feel for the steep banking.  

Ivar and I on the donor pavers

Ivar and Caroline on simulated track

Charlotte skyline from the light rail

Tribute to Billy Graham

Billy Graham, a longtime resident of NC, died recently at age 99. In 2007, a library was opened in his honor. Now he and his wife Ruth are buried on the grounds. It was an interesting place to visit, with exhibits and videos documenting his life from 1949 when he began his ministry, until his death.   

Ashland to Asheville

I've been visiting my brother Ivar and wife Caroline who live just south of Charlotte in Fort Mill SC. They moved here a year ago from CT. This area has experienced a real boom in development, so there's construction everywhere and subdivisions galore.  We spent a weekend in Asheville, which is a nice town with lots of outdoor activities in the Blue Ridge Mts.   I did some  research to check it out as a possible place for me to live.  It's comparable to Ashland in housing and rental prices.  There's an active downtown with five distinct neighborhoods, each with their own character.   

The "Before I die..."  wall

Ashland revisited

After spending two years abroad visiting fifteen countries, I returned to Ashland in early February.  I was greeted with warmth by my Ashland family and in some ways it felt like I've never been gone.   Alissa, my Latvian "sister" has been gracious to let me stay with her. It's been great to take a breather from travel and settle back down to a routine of hiking, yoga, dance and healthy cuisine.