Take an afternoon drive this weekend and enjoy the signs of spring. Life is just better along those backroads!

Tags:   Missouri Ozarks rural old barn spring backroads fence spring colors

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This fun sign was created by Missouri artist Lowell Davis. “Well known for his art depicting farm life in America, most especially in Jasper County, Lowell is often referred to as the “Norman Rockwell of Rural Art”. His artistic works include paintings, figurines, bronzes, metal sculptures and art storybooks that reflect small town life in rural Missouri, giving a glimpse into simpler and often sweeter times.

Among Lowell’s greatest contributions to the Carthage area is his recreation of his childhood hometown of Red Oak, the original now vanished. Red Oak II is a charming step back into a small rural town, complete with the original Phillips 66 gas station, general store, school house, blacksmith shop and the Belle Starr home he preserved, moved and restored on the property. Thousands of visitors traveling Route 66 make a special stop to visit Red Oak II….” I visited Red Oak II several years ago and had a fabulous time. I asked if we could visit Mr. Davis, but was told he was sick and not seeing anyone. He has since passed away, and I regret not having the chance to meet him.

Tags:   Missouri Ozarks Route 66 Lowell Davis artist Red Oak II sign old truck

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“The cathedral of Messina, also known as the Duomo, was built in 1120 by orders of the norman King Ruggero II. It took 77 years before it was finally consecrated from the archbishop Benzio whose ceremony was attended by the Swebian King Enrico VI.

The cathedral was damaged several times from fires and earthquakes but somehow they managed to maintain the ancient norman architectural structure. The oldest part still standing is the lower part of the facade with its linear marble bands. Inside the cathedral is marvellous. Covered with highly decorated marble, mosaics and wooden roof, this cathedral is a must see!” Such a feeling of peace and serenity inside this lovely cathedral!

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Tags:   Italy Messina Sicily Duomo di Messina cathedral

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At the end of the port of Messina, the statue of Our Lady of the Letter stands on a tall column. As symbolic, perhaps, as the Statue of Liberty is to the people of the United States. “According to tradition, Mary, the mother of Jesus, sent a letter to the citizens of Messina, which she rolled up and tied with a lock of her hair. In the letter, she blessed and thanked the people of Messina for their faith in Jesus, and promised that she would protect the city forever.
The lock of Mary’s hair is still kept in the Cathedral, while the original letter was lost. The citizens of Messina celebrate the feast of Our Lady of the Letter every year on June 3.”

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Tags:   Italy Messina Sicily La Madonna della Lettera harbor Mary blessing

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Such a picturesque Italian city! Siena is “famous for its cuisine, art, museums, medieval cityscape and the Palio, a horse race held twice a year in Piazza del Campo.” More about this crazy event later…..

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Tags:   Italy Tuscany Siena street scene colorful

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