tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-122171972011-11-02T18:39:43.023-07:00<img src="http://extraordinaryplaces.net/images/epmast.jpg" />Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comBlogger1581100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-442756987422167222010-04-25T07:47:00.001-07:002010-04-25T07:49:26.315-07:00

I'm happy to annouce that I've set up a new blog that's designed to support all of my work rather than just travel and etymology. I hope you'll continue to visit regularly by following this link.Thanks for your interest.

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-35168018633187578822010-04-05T17:28:00.000-07:002010-04-05T17:31:31.944-07:00

Photo: James Shrubb, Town Crier and Doreen Waters (both mentioned in Christmas Past in Essex ISBN #978 0 7524 4463 5)In days of old, when few people could read and write, the appearance of the Town Crier was a cause for much excitement. He would appear in a brightly colored outfit, white stockings, three cornered hat and ringing his bell to assemble an audience. He would unroll the proclamation

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-57003800217673998102010-03-29T18:27:00.000-07:002010-03-29T18:32:03.637-07:00

Do you want to control the fat and salt in your diet? Why not try a centuries’ old custom of keeping a stock pot? What could be better than a nutritious and flavorful base for soups, stews and sauces? It’s easy to do, full of goodness and may help reduce high blood pressure. Yes, I know it’s convenient to use a little cube or take a spoonful of paste instead of using a cup of homemade stock; I’ve

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-2633222352093907952010-03-19T07:51:00.000-07:002010-03-19T08:27:34.976-07:00

I came across this man on stilts walking through a park in Cozumel. Unfortunately, I did not get his name, but as you can see...he was wearing evening dress. I watched him stride across the park and literally had to run alongside him to catch up and ask for the photo. The man was very polite and accommodating, especially as he was on his way to work. He was advertising a shop called Diamonds (the

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-16211671697779862012010-02-21T09:30:00.000-08:002010-02-21T19:51:19.195-08:00

As I sat enjoying a meal at The Bell Pub in Purleigh, Essex, I had the distinct feeling this was the very place where the great-great grandfather of George Washington (Lawrence Washington c1633-1650) "...sat daily tippling there and encouraging others in the same beastly vice..." as was said by the Parliamentarians who wanted to oust Lawrence Washington from his post as Rector of All Saints

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-65715769645643314592010-02-13T08:43:00.000-08:002010-02-13T09:00:42.088-08:00

Care was taken during the restoration of Pompeii. Even the vineyards were carefully reconstructed in every detail. The following information was taken from a pamphlet in the area."Nearly 2,400 root holes of vines were plastercast in this large area, along with their supporting stakes: the plants were laid out along north-south rows at a distance of 1.20m from each other, with a 1.5m between rows.

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-17638269671925921732010-02-07T07:42:00.000-08:002010-02-07T10:47:17.359-08:00

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of giving an Extraordinary Places presentation to the Kum Dubl group, a fascinating and interesting study group. Many shared the stories of their lives, some remembering the dust bowl and how the sky "...turned black as though it were night...so dark was the afternoon..." said one woman. Most remembered stories their grandmothers and grandfathers had told

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-92206336580775787592010-01-29T10:08:00.001-08:002010-01-29T10:33:12.774-08:00

For almost two years, I appeared on a live radio show in Kansas City (The Walt Bodine Show) as part of a panel to discuss the Origins of Everyday Sayings. It was a fun time for me as many listeners called in and asked for a definition of a particular word or expression they had perhaps heard in a movie or read in a book. Later, I wrote a column for a weekly newspaper entitled Origins and once

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-11830646831062909232010-01-27T07:32:00.000-08:002010-01-27T07:51:41.175-08:00

Just when I thought I had seen everything in Sorrento, Italy, I came across the lemon grove. Located in the middle of town, it’s almost hidden from view. Away from the hustle and bustle, businessmen and women sat in their beautiful tailored clothes eating their packed lunches and reading their newspapers. It was so quiet and peaceful, I almost felt as though I were an interloper, disturbing their

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-51489538683075644242010-01-26T07:21:00.000-08:002010-01-26T07:40:40.492-08:00

A couple of months ago while touring Napa Valley sampling the wines, enjoying the fantastic restaurants and scenery, I noticed there were rose bushes planted along the rows of vines. Even though it was November, I could still see the remnants of roses - some red - some white. Curiosity got the better of me and I began checking out every single vineyard we visited, and saw rose bushes in many of

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-44453325050662431662010-01-21T07:41:00.000-08:002010-01-21T15:24:14.629-08:00

Photo courtesy - Kelly.Just last week my tennis buddy Kelly, and her family saw two very large moose meandering around their bungalow in Breckenridge in the early morning. Camera in hand, Kelly’s husband approached the animals, but kept a healthy distance knowing they would charge him if threatened.Most people associate the wild moose with a fictional cartoon character called “Bullwinkle" who

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-7181322020702881252010-01-20T09:50:00.000-08:002010-01-20T09:58:39.875-08:00

Photo: Sylvia Kent book signing event at Waterstone's Book Shop.I have the privilege of belonging to two of the oldest writing societies in the world. The Society of Women Writers and Journalists in London (1894) and The Denver Woman’s Press Club (1898) here in the United States. Both have so much to offer a writer that it is difficult to know where to begin. Suffice it to say, both societies

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-55737002025058730702010-01-19T13:00:00.000-08:002010-01-19T13:05:49.251-08:00

Left to right: Marni Jameson and Susie MastersonThe Denver Woman’s Press Club hosted a scrumptious brunch last Saturday. The guest speaker was Terry Vitale, President of Colorado Expression. Upbeat and positive, Terry led the members and guests though her fascinating life, the continuous challenges of running a good publishing house, family and friends. After the meeting with Terry and hearing

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-54723441346433222852010-01-03T10:12:00.001-08:002010-01-03T10:22:24.192-08:00

For some years, I’ve heard about Pint’s in Denver. Last week, we had the pleasure of stopping by the pub enjoyed a meal and had a couple of drinks. Although I know relatively little about ale, my husband does! He remarked, on tasting his first pint of Lancer IPA ,“This is the best pint of ale I’ve had in America.” He followed with a pint of Dark Star Ale, which he said was typical of the darker

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-89739747353980601822009-12-07T05:58:00.000-08:002009-12-07T06:08:20.066-08:00

Extraordinary Places...Close to London comprises 30 chapters (with another 17 locations close by that may be of interest to travelers). Within the pages, there are short stories of kings and queens, witches, ghosts and Vikings. The book gives a brief history of the village or town and also what a visitor can expect today. Following is a short excerpt from Extraordinary Places...Close to London.

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-91651356626317475582009-11-17T07:51:00.000-08:002009-11-20T06:57:13.122-08:00

One of the first things that struck me when I visited Pompeii a few weeks ago was the pure size of the place. The site is absolutely huge and, instead of staying just a day, I could have stayed a week or more to explore the fantastic ruins. I could clearly imagine how the people lived, went about their everyday lives, and bought and sold their wares. Evidence of the extensive traffic can be seen

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-40316623440127925252009-11-15T09:25:00.000-08:002009-11-15T09:35:38.589-08:00

After publishing five non-fiction books, I was ready to write my first novel. I had this great idea of writing an historical novel based on an ancient Scottish legend. One hundred thousand words later, I knew I needed help, and found it in Laura Pritchett. Every writer should have an editor who is honest and kind, gentle with criticism, and generous with praise. However, Laura is no pushover, and

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-27399230525477571422009-11-06T18:20:00.000-08:002009-11-06T18:33:18.844-08:00

Sylvia Kent has written an account of Britain’s oldest society dedicated to women’s writing through its 116-year existence.Although the Society of Women Writers and Journalists was created very much with women in mind, the concept was the brainchild of a man – an enterprising London philanthropist and newspaperman – Joseph Snell Wood. From its introduction on 1 May 1894, the Society has attracted

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-90701017514886218922009-10-20T20:21:00.000-07:002009-10-20T20:35:22.867-07:00

On a recent visit to Acle, Norfolk, I had the pleasure of sampling a local beer that was being displayed at a small country market (in the Parish churchyard of St. Edmund no less.) I had to stop and visit with Jason who displayed a fine list of local brew. He gave me a brief history of the brewery.The Tipples Brewery of Norwich offers ten fine beers with another five that are produced for special

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-37615977998231543122009-10-08T15:21:00.000-07:002009-10-08T15:26:30.449-07:00

The Argo Gold Mine is a must to see if you are visiting Colorado. For years and years, I have driven by and only last week ventured inside. There is a great presentation about gold, silver and other precious metals which is followed by a self guided tour. The mine celebrated its 116th anniversary this year and although much of the 4.16 mile mine is now closed, it is still a fascinating place to

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-81644677437278904222009-09-27T07:12:00.000-07:002009-09-27T07:54:50.460-07:00

Photo courtesy: Nancy BishoffA regular visitor to my blog is Nancy Bishoff and her husband Al. Both are originally from Missouri and had their graduation class at the Auditorium (formally the RLDS Auditiorium). When in Missouri, they often visit the site because it brings back such pleasant memories. Nancy feels the Auditorium is a “must see” for anyone visiting the area.The following information

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-45924494019197445402009-09-06T06:25:00.000-07:002009-09-06T06:52:30.716-07:00

Just last Thursday night, I have the privilege of attending the second pre-season Broncos game of the season. Actually, it was my first ever football game since arriving in America all those years ago. In any case, there I sat in a suite at the 50 yard line (which I guess is really important) eating fabulous ribs, shrimp, crab and helping myself to a full complement of beers, wines and soft

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-12407661205423871462009-08-19T13:15:00.001-07:002009-08-19T14:13:34.275-07:00

The story of Baby Doe is fascinating! She must have been an exceptional woman, full of courage and determination, and well ahead of her time. She went from rags to riches and then back to rags. Honestly, Baby Doe's life is so interesting, I couldn't make it up if I tried. There's simply not enough room here to do her justice, so I encourage readers to purchase a book on her life, and also visit

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-37277919499287058452009-08-07T16:23:00.000-07:002009-08-07T16:40:19.174-07:00

Photo and text courtesy: Theresa Francis.On a warm July evening we join a few thousand others and stroll to the Arena de Verona. We climb the ancient stone steps to our unnumbered seats high above the stage set for Aida. As the seats are not numbered it is necessary to arrive well ahead of the performance. Along with almost everyone else we have a small picnic of cheese and wine. The atmosphere

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-40931525925171753632009-08-03T11:41:00.000-07:002009-08-03T11:54:52.068-07:00

Photo and text: Derek FrancisMontélimar – Le Ventoux17th edition – 170 kmJuly 20 2009“The sun was already shining in the streets of Montélimar this morning at 7am for the start of the 17th edition of the l’Etape du Tour Mondovélo.A record 8500 riders headed on to the roads of the Drôme and Vaucluse departments in their collective quest to climb the giant Mont Ventoux.Numerous family members,

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-73548907084132887772009-07-07T14:01:00.000-07:002009-07-07T14:13:27.506-07:00

The novel, Robinson Caruso by William DeFoe was inspired by a character called Alexander Selkirk who was born in Lower Fargo, Scotland in1676. He was the son of a craftsman, a tanner and cobbler who did well in life and wanted the same for his wayward son, but that life was not for Alexander. He yearned for adventure and excitement and found it sailing the high seas. He ran away to sea at a very

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-68140308436616931212009-06-20T13:38:00.000-07:002009-06-20T13:49:31.154-07:00

You can hear the fountain long before it comes into view. Walking with other tourists, I could almost feel the growing anticipation and excitement as we neared our destination – and once there, the sight did not disappoint a visitor. I remember a collective gasp as we rounded the corner and the full view of the Trevi fountain appeared before our eyes. It is truly a magnificent sight and one I

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-75532478223312354252009-06-14T08:22:00.000-07:002009-06-14T08:31:16.758-07:00

Most people understand the temperamental weather of the Rockies. During springtime, we can often experience sun, rain, hailstones and tornadoes, all in one day! Yesterday was just such a day! Even so, there was a steady stream of customers milling around the Barnes and Noble store at the Southlands Shopping Center in Aurora, Colorado. Last weekend the shopping center was hit by a tornado and,

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-56781279402370982032009-06-04T20:10:00.000-07:002009-06-04T20:22:14.926-07:00

It is believed the tiny church of St. Andrew at Greensted, Essex is the oldest wooden church in the world. Located one mile from Chipping Ongar and approximately 10 miles from Epping, it appears more like a residential home than a place of worship. The church has a rich and interesting history dating back to 1013 when an ancient chronicler recorded that the body of St. Edmund had been held

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-31226377263659940232009-05-27T11:49:00.000-07:002009-05-27T11:58:30.571-07:00

How did Nederland, Colorado get its unusual name? Well, it began in 1871 when Abel Breed bought the silver-rich Caribou Mine and shipped the silver ore from Caribou Hill, elevation 10,000 feet down to Middle Boulder at approximately 8,000 feet because it was “warmer.”In 1873, Breed sold the mine to a Dutch company, and the miners nicknamed the town Nederland. A year later, when the town was

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-51919804694944513502009-05-10T17:11:00.000-07:002009-05-10T17:33:14.788-07:00

Wild Bill suffered from consumption or TB as it is currently known, and so traveled west hoping the clean air would help his condition. It was not only medical reasons that drew him to Deadwood, South Dakota but also the lure of gold. Unfortunately, it would be the death of him because he died on August 2, 1876 at the hands of a drifter called Jack McCall who supposedly wanted to settle a score .

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-65746623719733829582009-04-29T06:34:00.000-07:002009-04-29T06:53:28.688-07:00

Last Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending the launch of Linda Berry's latest book Death and the Crossed Wires at the Denver Woman's Press Club. It was a wonderful afternoon as Linda read a short piece from her new book and then fielded questions about the six Trudy Roundtree Mysteries she has penned over the years. Besides being a member of the Denver Woman's Press Club, Linda is also a member

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-27808453415554241202009-04-21T09:34:00.000-07:002009-04-21T09:38:38.014-07:00

It was called the Golden Age of Piracy and had colorful characters such as Captain Kidd, Calico Jack, Blackbeard and Black Bart. These pirates roamed the open seas causing fear and creating havoc from 1698 to 1718. Just the sight of their flag, the Jolly Roger, could bring about the surrender of a much larger ship. Often, a captain would rather lose his ship and merchandise than the lives of his

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-61889372127555948732009-04-13T06:35:00.000-07:002009-04-13T06:43:23.667-07:00

When we see one, we know immediately what it means. The red, white and sometimes blue stripe on a pole outside a shop indicates that a barber is hard at work within. The Barber’s Pole has an interesting origin that dates from the Middle Ages. It was associated with the art of bloodletting, leeching, surgery and tooth extractions. After a procedure, the bandages were washed and hung on the pole to

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-55425576947991984472009-04-02T18:51:00.000-07:002009-04-02T19:21:37.350-07:00

Pub signs have been used in England since the 14th century when in 1393 King Richard II ordered landlords to put signs outside their premises so they were easy to identify. Some pubs have maintained the same name for centuries. The signs were highly graphical to make it easy for travelers who would neither read nor write to recognize the name of the establishment. Pubs (or inns if they offered

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-88695160973780729132009-03-22T07:39:00.000-07:002009-03-22T07:46:31.665-07:00

The Horsey Wind Pump located close to the North Sea was an important instrument in assisting smugglers of wool, brandy and other contraband to avoid the Revenue Men as they scoured the area. The taxes imposed on these items were so high; the local merchants did all they could to avoid paying them and so reverted to smuggling their goods in and out of Norfolk in a clever and ingenious way. If the

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-47153349565298305472009-03-19T08:58:00.000-07:002009-03-19T09:03:19.837-07:00

This wonderful church is approximately 1100 years old. It has a round tower and thought to be of Saxon origin dating from between 850 and 950 AD. It sits quietly in the village of Acle, Norfolk, England and is open daily to visitors. It is built mostly of local flint, brick and rubble, but has a thatch roof giving a pleasing look to this ancient church. Inside, the church is in excellent

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-68021446480029656092009-03-07T07:23:00.000-08:002009-03-07T07:26:56.288-08:00

The dreaded Pink Slip - none of us want to receive one. I’ve been unable to find the origin of Pink Slip although the term has been used for nearly a hundred years. We can only assume that termination notices were once printed on pink paper. There are many work-related terms and phrases that have interesting origins. Some of these sayings we hear almost every day, others may be less familiar to

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-41479284890975549412009-02-26T06:50:00.000-08:002009-02-26T07:20:23.186-08:00

The concept for Extraordinary Places...Close to London came to me after almost 20 years of my American friends, associates and colleagues asking the question, “I’ve done all the usual tourism places in England and I’m ready to be more adventurous and seek out those unsual places off the beaten path...” The question was asked so many times, I began a file and handed it a potential visitor. It’s

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-16559912005519629792009-02-12T05:37:00.000-08:002009-02-12T05:42:32.508-08:00

February derives its name from the Latin februa, which signifies the festivals of purification so popular during Roman times.St. Valentines Day – When lovers traditionally state their affection for each other. Chaucer mentions this special day so we know the expression was used in the 14th century and it is thought to be the day the birds chose their mates for the coming season. The origin is

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-89246917503146949162009-02-10T06:59:00.001-08:002009-02-10T07:15:16.279-08:00

Mikael (Michael) makes his living ferrying visitors back and forth along the promenade in San Diego. For a modest fee (depends on the journey) the "human taxi" provides not only a relief on a hot summer's day and a running commentary on the history of the area, but he also gives advice on the best ferry rides and recommends a place to eat.

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-21376801154068818232009-02-05T06:53:00.000-08:002009-02-05T07:35:03.868-08:00

It is hard not to shed a tear when visiting Tuna Harbor Park in San Diego, California. The exquisite sculptures of the men and women who served our country and gave their lives is something not to miss.Here Bob Hope is captured in time as he entertains the troops in his Army fatigues. He holds a microphone from the 40s as he addresses 16 men and women all beautifully sculptured. Everyone is

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-1538405655777752042009-01-31T07:08:00.000-08:002009-01-31T08:27:44.179-08:00

As a fan of Stephen King and living in Colorado, I just had to go and stay at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park where it is reputed Mr. King wrote the blockbuster novel (and film) The Shining. As a writer, I stood outside the room he used and tried to imagine what it must have been like all those years ago when the idea for the novel came into his mind. I could envision him feverishly pounding the

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-85339447388750379892009-01-24T17:02:00.000-08:002009-01-24T17:26:21.187-08:00

Pocahontas was the daughter of Powhatan, a powerful chief of the Algonquian Indians in the Tidewater region of Virginia. She was one of many children born to the chief and his many wives, and was reportedly one of his favorite daughters. She was a loving and cheerful child with a pleasant disposition and was given the name Matoika which means “Little Wanton.” In 1607, Pocahontas and her

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-67063267927711517062009-01-14T11:53:00.000-08:002009-01-14T13:16:30.977-08:00

Imagine playing a game that if you win or lose it might mean the end of your life! Evidence of the Mayan Ball Game can still be seen in many ruins in the jungles of Mexico and Honduras as can be seen in this photograph I took at Chichen Itza in the Yucatan recently.It is believed the game was played with a hard rubber ball that participants had to through the vertical ring located at the top of

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-19130136720766248912009-01-04T15:02:00.000-08:002009-01-04T15:12:14.442-08:00

Pittenweem, ‘the place of the cave’ gets its name from the legend of St. Fillan, the 7th century missionary to the Picts. He is said to have lived in a cave in one of the wynds and had a luminous left arm by which he saw to read and write.The cave has traditionally been associated with St. Fillan although there are stories of other saints that have lived in the area. Some evidence found in the

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-31088714064511204612009-01-02T10:57:00.000-08:002009-01-05T09:09:43.305-08:00

On a recent trip to Scotland, I had the pleasure of taking a tour at the Dewar's Distillery in Aberfeldy. It was built by John and Tommy Dewar in 1898 and is a great place to visit. The heritage tour begins in the old malting barn where you can spend as much time as you wish exploring the history of Dewar's. The guided distillery tour then takes you through the whole craft of making whisky, from

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-86920347675602449522008-12-19T16:44:00.000-08:002008-12-19T16:58:05.056-08:00

Christmas Cards - A “fad” that continues to this day.The ancient Romans exchanged some kind of greeting or gift during the first week of January, so in essence they were New Year’s rather than Christmas gifts. Later, as Christianity took hold, the custom of giving gifts and cards became more popular, but they were still given during the first week of January. When the lithograph was invented

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-38753375027104516692008-12-15T09:38:00.000-08:002008-12-15T10:35:47.474-08:00

Another great book signing event at Borders Bookshop in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to purchase books and have them personalized and autographed.

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-18475575253074327262008-12-04T06:10:00.000-08:002008-12-04T06:33:18.635-08:00

Despite the apparent "downturn" in the economy, the Borders Book Store was hopping on December 6th. The mood was great and everyone seemed to be in good spirits shopping for the holidays. It was a great afternoon and many books were sold - thank you!The next event:Borders Book Store2120 Southgate RoadColorado Springs, Colorado 80906719-632-0956Time: 2-4 PM

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-8881192330133016082008-11-16T07:11:00.000-08:002008-11-16T07:26:05.044-08:00

Borders Books will be hosting two events for my book Colorado Springs, Colorado on the following dates. Please feel free to visit either store and I will personalize your copy. Borders Book Store1710 Briargate Boulevard, #209Colorado Springs, CO 80920Telephone: 719.266.1600Saturday, November 22nd from 2-4 PM.Borders Book Store2120 Southgate RoadColorado Springs, Colorado 80906Telephone: 719-632-

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-3901354003069062752008-11-14T07:37:00.000-08:002008-11-14T07:40:51.166-08:00

Lady Bountiful - A generous woman.This expression is not always used in a complimentary fashion. For example, when an individual offers unsolicited advice the recipient might well respond with, “Who does she think she is…Lady Bountiful.” The original “Lady Bountiful” was a character in the comedy The Beaux Stratagem (1707) who gave away half her money to charitable causes.America - Named after an

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-83232348921330476072008-11-03T06:01:00.000-08:002008-11-03T06:36:25.592-08:00

Bowie knife - A formidable weaponThe knife is named after James Bowie (1799-1836) an adventurer and American soldier but it is believed that either his father or brother actually designed the Bowie knife. Due to his exploits, James became a hero to many as he defended his land and beliefs. In later years he became a colonel in the Texan army and fought against Mexico. In 1836, James Bowie and his

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-75921551997041390502008-10-29T07:12:00.000-07:002008-10-29T07:17:38.993-07:00

Halloween or Allhallows Eve – A boundary between the living and the dead.The custom of celebrating the end of summer and harvest time and the beginning of winter has been in effect for over 2000 years. It began with the Celts who lived in the United Kingdom, Ireland and some parts of northern France. They believed that on one particular night, October 31, the relationship between the living and

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-50484737348574102812008-10-12T12:49:00.000-07:002008-10-12T12:54:45.175-07:00

We can’t live without it and too much will send us to the gym or worse. Food and drink, a necessary requirement for our very existence has some wonderful and interesting origins that I’ve included in this post.Tea – The Brits have a special time for it - 4 PM with cakes and tiny sandwiches.The first pot of tea was believed to have originated with the Chinese emperor, Shen Nung who in 2737 BC was

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-73225317298567218702008-10-04T13:00:00.000-07:002008-10-04T13:05:37.339-07:00

From Wellington boots to bikinis, blue jeans to galoshes, the origins of these words are rich and interesting. Sometimes there is more than one theory to the source of these sayings or phrases; here are some favorites of mine… more to follow in the months to come.Bandanna – The Hindu word for dyeingThe Hindus called this kind of dyeing Bandnu but over the years the word, coming through the

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-23784224631955760592008-09-29T07:01:00.000-07:002008-09-29T07:07:32.075-07:00

Pink Slip – Dismissal noticeThe dreaded Pink Slip - none of us want to receive one. I have been unable to find the origin although we can assume that termination notices were once printed on pink paper.A Cushy Job - A great job with little effortDuring World War II a cushy job was one that did not involve danger or too much hard work. An Anglo-Indian term, cushy is derived from the Hindi, Khush,

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-80494422484480759352008-09-14T06:48:00.000-07:002008-09-14T06:51:49.417-07:00

Just mention the word cowboy to some people and a little smile appears on their faces. Perhaps they remember their favorite characters from television shows such as Rawhide and Wagon Train. The characters in these shows seem to have become part of our lives. In fact, we have never forgotten those men who sat high in their saddles, who conducted themselves by a code of ethics and who portrayed all

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-61330742573158194492008-09-11T19:16:00.001-07:002008-09-11T20:27:21.304-07:00

When Winston Churchill gave the victory sign after England won the Second World War, the sign was quickly adopted by many individuals around the world to show solidarity with a particular group or movement. This photograph, with the palm of the hand facing outward is the proper victory sign. However, I have seen many people on television and in newspapers making what they think is the victory

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-7129394328065843072008-09-05T08:19:00.000-07:002008-09-05T08:32:59.552-07:00

There is an old fashioned term to describe a person who is talkative and appears to be well versed in a particular subject - it is said that he has “all the patter.” I have heard the term for years, and wondered where and how this saying originated. Just recently, I found a reference to it in Henry Mayhew’s book titled Henry Mayhew’s London published in 1851.Mayhew describes the word ‘patterer’

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-58462874194040540042008-09-02T11:59:00.000-07:002008-09-02T12:02:31.628-07:00

It is said that England was built on the wool trade and, even to this day, the Chancellor of the Exchequer sits on a wool sack to signify how important the wool trade has been to the development of the United Kingdom. Many people today still refer to the beautiful churches in England as “wool” churches because it was the wealth of the wool trade that enabled the towns to grow and the churches to

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-82557239501518190592008-08-27T14:03:00.000-07:002008-08-27T14:12:09.696-07:00

When we hear the expression that an individual has “gone berserk” we instinctively know what that term means and therefore can visualize a man or woman losing control of their emotions. The name Berserker (ber for “bear” and serkr for “coat”) was given to an ancient Norse warrior who, rather than wear the standard chain mail attire into combat, instead wore a bear skin coat and therefore became

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-68012636378151654422008-08-15T08:50:00.000-07:002008-08-15T20:43:06.647-07:00

Some years ago, I appeared as part of a panel on the Walt Bodine radio show in Kansas City, Missouri. The concept for this particular show was an original idea from yours truly. For some time, I had been fascinated by the expressions and terms we use in everyday language, expressions that we instinctively know the meaning of -- but not necessarily the origin. Sayings such as, "Back to square one"

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-60557678786729268802008-07-31T12:30:00.000-07:002008-07-31T12:36:53.533-07:00

On a recent trip to Italy…I was awe inspired by the Coliseum. It is truly a magnificent structure, and one can only imagine how it looked 2,000 years ago. Today, it is merely a shell of its former glory, but is absolutely wonderful to see.The following information was taken directly from: www.italyguides.it/us/roma/colosseum.htm.The Flavius amphitheatre is the biggest and most imposing in the

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-2763993097775456392008-07-16T15:02:00.000-07:002008-07-16T15:35:09.062-07:00

If you plan on visiting Colorado Springs, Colorado, a trip through the Garden of the Gods should be on your agenda. The red rock formations with names such as Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock and Cathedral Spires are truly spectacular sights to behold. Picnics, hiking, biking and horseback riding are just a few of the wonderful things to enjoy when you visit the park. It is said the name Garden of

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-89749497284110929092008-06-10T08:46:00.000-07:002008-06-10T09:49:45.212-07:00

Photo courtesy: David LentellTravelling around Ireland, David Lentell took many photographs of green pillar boxes. Although the same shape as pillar boxes in England, many boxes in Ireland are painted green rather than the customary cherry red colour seen in England. I believe the colour change took place after the Irish independence in 1922. The pillar box shown in the photograph displays the

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-16917948202526498152008-06-08T16:26:00.000-07:002008-06-08T17:21:03.883-07:00

Native American Indians have performed their special dances for generations at the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. The dances are carefully designed to take into account the sun’s rays (see shadow of dancer). The traditional dances have been passed down from father to son and grandson, each bringing new life into their extraordinary customs that continue to this day.A visit to the Manitou Cliff

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-9799683837741184802008-06-03T08:13:00.000-07:002008-06-03T08:27:09.228-07:00

Central City is a great place to visit, not only for the casinos if one likes to gamble, but also to visit the little shops and diners around the town. It is also known for the wonderful performances that are held every year in the legendary opera house (c. 1877). The following information was taken from their official Opera House site.Central City Opera’s 2008 Festival Season offers three

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-18459526951219857312008-05-19T14:41:00.000-07:002008-05-19T17:30:54.744-07:00

They come in many different shapes, forms and sizes and are believed to have originated in France during the 12th century; however, a lion mask on the Acropolis in Athens dating from the 4th century indicates a much earlier history. In any event, strange and mysterious gargoyles can still be seen perched strategically on the corners of buildings as rainwater gushes from their mouths. Some

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-46993670545500303632008-04-29T14:26:00.000-07:002008-04-29T14:49:07.595-07:00

If you are looking for a great place to stay while touring in Norfolk, why not use the Amber Lodge Hotel as your base? Pride of ownership shows in this ten bedroom hotel, all with bathrooms on suite. It has about four acres of well maintained gardens with beautiful flowers and shrubs, plus a large patio. There is also ample parking accommodations. Located about one mile from the center of Acle,

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-27497955863430486942008-04-13T13:44:00.001-07:002008-04-13T13:50:59.070-07:00

An excerpt from Christmas Past in Essex (ISBN 9780752444635) by Elizabeth Wallace.Richard Peacock and Derek Oliver both members of the “Fabulous” Thameside Mummers describe how the group collects stories and maintains the tradition of Mumming plays.“Plays have been discovered from villages all over England, mostly collected by local gentry or churchmen and written in their diaries or books of ‘

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-87576883876752006922008-03-28T12:03:00.000-07:002008-03-28T13:46:27.332-07:00

Climbing the Grand Pyramid at Cobá was a truly wonderful experience. Hiking the 120+ steps to the top and then looking over the vast expanse of what was once a huge Mayan community was the highlight of my trip. At the top, there is a small temple with a carving over the entrance. There are many theories about the origin of the effigy over the mantle, but one is that it represents a “bee god” and

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-17729061995523749732008-03-17T07:16:00.000-07:002008-03-17T13:01:46.792-07:00

The Victorian Strater Hotel was built in 1887 in Durango, Colorado. It is an elegant hotel that combines the beauty of bygone times with the practical everyday conveniences expected by today’s visitors. There are 93 rooms each lavishly furnished with American Victorian antiques, and highly decorated ceilings with magnificent light fixtures. A visitor can sit by the fire in the lounge and then

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-28188482749116388332008-03-03T16:21:00.000-08:002008-03-03T18:38:42.241-08:00

The National Park Service describes The Ruins of Aztec as “Contrary to the name, these structures were not built by the Aztecs of central Mexico. The Aztecs in fact lived centuries after the building of this ancestral Pueblo community. Inspired by popular histories about Cortez’s conquest of Mexico and thinking that Aztecs built the structures, early settlers named the site Aztec. The nearby city

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-52176627687854283302008-02-15T07:48:00.000-08:002008-02-27T07:57:03.539-08:00

Kent is sometimes referred to as the Garden of England because of the pretty countryside and picturesque villages and homes with well tended and beautiful gardens. This is perhaps due to the rich, nutritious soil that provides farmers with plentiful crops of barley and rape and orchards full of fruit. But for centuries, Kent was known as one of the leading counties for its hop fields and, by

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-9590303504622178952008-02-06T08:44:00.001-08:002008-02-06T19:11:40.707-08:00

Yeoman Derrick Coyle lives with forty other Yeoman Warders in the Tower of London and has the unique assignment of Raven Master. He does not necessarily believe the legend that if the feathered residents left the Tower, then England would fall. But, on the other hand, he is not taking any chances. “The only time the Tower has been without the ravens" protection was during the blitz of WWII, and

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-27939562561396118862008-01-20T10:31:00.000-08:002008-01-20T10:39:53.832-08:00

I recently had a chance to revisit Achensee Lake, which I first visited in 1969. The main town on the lake is Maurach which is on the southern bank of the lake at an elevation of about 3,000 feet and offers a good selection of typically small Tyrolean hotels.Maurach is heaven for those looking for tranquil and peaceful relaxation during the winter months, where you find yourself next to a

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-44658809897049765362008-01-08T08:05:00.000-08:002008-01-08T10:08:30.908-08:00

Photo courtesy: Marion WatchinskiThe majority of sea faring business is still alive and thriving in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, but few tourists see that part of Baltimore. Instead, they see water taxis buzzing back and forth as they ferry passengers to the many attractions such as the National Aquarium or the Baltimore Maritime Museum. The USS Constellation, a restored 1854 wooden navel warship

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-86878945063484378432007-12-21T07:12:00.000-08:002007-12-21T07:57:22.958-08:00

The ancient town of Thaxted in Essex, England, boasts one of the best preserved guild halls in the country. It sits in the middle of a busy thoroughfare as cars and trucks maneuver around the extraordinary building. During the 14th century, Thaxted was known as a community with a high level of cutlers and those associated with the trade such as armorers, smithies and goldsmiths. Poll Tax records

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-9509059389353715542007-11-29T03:32:00.000-08:002007-12-01T04:20:59.138-08:00

Waterstone's Book shops hosted three events for the launch of Christmas Past in Essex. Along with other venues such as BBC Essex, Phoenix Radio, Barleylands, and several newspaper feature pieces, the word is out and the books are selling fast. Tempus Publishing are keeping up with demand by issuing a second print immediately and are hopeful the books will be available by December 1st.James

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-68713399246853641222007-11-12T18:43:00.000-08:002007-11-12T18:53:18.477-08:00

Photograph: Small riverside shop in Acle, Norfolk. The Norfolk Broads is one of the best kept secrets in England. The Broads offer 125 miles of free waterways with gentle, navigable rivers, dykes and locks. Along the extensive waterways are restaurants and pubs, shops and lodging. It seems that at every turn, there is a new place to be discovered as ducks and geese swim freely and completely

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-30496790128181670172007-11-09T05:42:00.000-08:002007-11-09T08:30:10.758-08:00

Photograph is one of more than 60 images and sketches included in Christmas Past in Essex. Photo courtesy: Sylvia Kent. The Motley Crew: Tony Motley (left) Jim Shrubb (center) Town Crier, and David Smith (right) as Father Christmas.Book Review by Frances ClampWhy is Elizabeth Wallace, one of our overseas members living in Denver, Colorado, writing a book about Essex? Well Elizabeth was born and

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-32010181016056598002007-11-07T07:23:00.000-08:002007-11-08T10:38:00.376-08:00

There is nothing like waking up in the morning under canvas in the Rocky Mountains. There is also nothing better than being able to walk to breakfast rather than have to cook it ourselves. The staff at Winding River Resort offer pancakes, sausage, juice and coffee served from their chuck wagons on Saturday and Sunday mornings. The staff wear western style outfits, country western music is played

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-30658127117719325962007-11-03T06:56:00.000-07:002007-11-03T07:08:16.466-07:00

An excerpt from Extraodinary Places...Close to LondonPhoto: The Leather Bottle Inn, Cobham, Kent.“Remember, remember the 5th of November, gunpowder, treason and plot.” This ancient rhyme is one that was sung by English children as they prepared an effigy of Guy Fawkes and place him atop a bonfire before setting the fire ablaze. An heir of the de Cobham family was tried for treason because of his

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-53949141718983759842007-10-19T13:07:00.000-07:002007-10-25T10:47:16.385-07:00

Barney Ford was born into slavery on January 22, 1822, but he died at the ripe old age of 80 years, a prosperous man.Ford was the son of a slave and wealthy plantation owner. As a young man, he was moved to South Carolina where he was taught to read and write by a neighboring servant. His mother, in an attempt to save her son from slavery, tried to contact a representative of the Underground

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-77095324417647611932007-10-09T07:45:00.000-07:002007-10-09T08:28:05.219-07:00

I am pleased to say that my latest book Christmas Past in Essex has just been launched in England and that I will be in the U.K. next month for book signings, radio and other events. As I collected the wonderful stories, traditions and customs of the people of Essex, I began to feel as excited as the interviewees who shared their most personal recollections. I was pleased to discover that

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-84577099461855979242007-10-01T09:48:00.000-07:002007-10-01T10:06:49.973-07:00

I must admit to being a little apprehensive about having a book signing event in a shop known for its resident ghost. Stories of assistants having their braids pulled from behind, feelings of “being watched” and experiences such as “I felt a sharp pain on my forearm and then saw bite marks” all seemed quite extraordinary and far fetched. Needless to say, I was a little nervous but intrigued.On

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-30880648597267822732007-09-24T07:10:00.000-07:002007-09-24T07:42:30.691-07:00

With literally hundreds of miles of bicycle trails, Colorado must be one of the finest places in the world to enjoy a ride, especially at this time of the year.The Rockies have so much to offer a cyclist. Spectacular views from the relatively low foothills to the impressive 14,000 feet summits. Whether you’re visiting Colorado on vacation or are a resident, you’ll find plenty of support from

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-508478463364208932007-09-17T09:26:00.000-07:002007-09-17T11:38:03.001-07:00

In 1859, Alcatraz Island or The Rock as it is still affectionately known by some people began life as a military fortress and prison. From 1934-1963, it was a federal penitentiary and in 1969-1971 the site was occupied by Native American Indians who staged a protest. Today, Alcatraz Island is a State Park that includes historic gardens, bird colonies and of course an excellent tour of the

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-46146299826618944952007-09-07T07:45:00.000-07:002007-09-07T07:52:19.188-07:00

An excerpt from Extraordinary Places…Close to London.Castle Bodiam in East Sussex, England rises majestically out of the moat like the legendary sword Excalibur. It is a romantic, magical castle that inspires fairy tale images of knights, princesses and sorcerers. In 1086, the Domesday Book notes a Saxon hall on the site, but it was Sir Edward Dalyngrigge who built the present structure 500 years

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-26432680047847744372007-09-04T09:32:00.000-07:002007-09-04T10:31:54.119-07:00

Elizabeth Wallace has produced a very informative, valuable and comprehensive book, a guide to some interest and historical places to visit all within easy distance from London. The book covers the Southeast of England and includes travels to the Counties of Essex, Kent and East Sussex all steeped in history with many a tale to tell. Elizabeth has relayed much information of the places not to be

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-6560373266798706222007-08-29T07:38:00.000-07:002007-08-29T07:58:43.993-07:00

There is perhaps not one home in America that has not at one time had Tollhouse cookies or M&M candies in the cupboard for a snack or treat. These products came from entrepreneurial people who saw the need for a different kind of treat, but one came from a culinary mistake.Take for example the Tollhouse cookie. In 1933, Ruth Graves Wakefield, who owned an inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, decided to

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-18696468108779421402007-08-26T07:32:00.000-07:002007-08-26T07:57:47.923-07:00

By coincidence, we found ourselves in Siena, Italy on the very day of the Palio race, an annual horse riding event in the Piazza del Campo. At first, we wondered what on earth was happening as one group of people appeared to challenge another with loud music and boisterous behavior. They each held a colorful flag from their particular district draped over their shoulders as they cheered and

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-78949049304800687202007-08-20T15:13:00.000-07:002007-08-21T06:43:47.529-07:00

The old ways balance beautifully with the new in Tokyo. The peace and quiet of this garden is in direct contrast to the busy streets, skyscrapers and underground railway of this wonderful city. Taking courage in both hands, I decided to use the subway to explore Tokyo. Foolishly, I thought the destinations would in English (albeit small print) under the Japanese symbols, but they were not. Just

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-25049668626823687922007-08-09T20:04:00.000-07:002007-08-09T20:20:18.160-07:00

My dad and I got up early, a long day filled with excitement ahead of us. Having to wake up at 5 in the morning surprisingly didn’t hamper our spirits one bit, and we quickly got our stuff together to head out. After filling up the camelbacks and getting all of our gear in the car, we set off. The only stop would be to grab some Starbucks on the way to our destination. I felt anxious and nervous

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-86074093363350464332007-08-07T09:58:00.000-07:002007-08-07T10:01:56.216-07:00

The medieval house commonly known as “King John’s Hunting Lodge” sits on the corner of the High Street and The Square in Axbridge, Somerset, England. Other than in name, there is no connection to King John since it was built fully 300 years after his death. The building dates to approximately 1500 and looks as though it should be protected by a stout wall instead of sitting precariously on a

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-70850849253113828952007-08-03T07:13:00.000-07:002007-08-03T07:19:21.441-07:00

It is a craft that is said to have decorated the robes of Pharaohs, the ancient Greeks and the Romans who edged their togas with lace made of gold thread. Later the kings and queens of Europe wore exquisite, delicately crafted collars and cuffs of lace as they sat for their portraits. How many visitors to the Louvre or the Royal Academy of Arts have stood before a painting by one of the Masters

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-59257617789257060812007-07-30T14:15:00.000-07:002007-07-30T15:02:34.928-07:00

Excerpt from Extraordinary Places…Close to London.The Guinness Book of World Records (1998) has Pluckley in Kent as being “the most haunted village in the country.” There are perhaps 12-16 ghosts that are said to appear in and around the village depending on who is telling the tale, but the village has a rich history beyond the ghosts.At least 50 men from the village participated in the Jack Cade

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-55324768770504881152007-07-27T14:47:00.000-07:002007-07-27T14:51:48.605-07:00

An Excerpt from Extraordinary Places…Close to London.(Photo: Biddenden Village and church in Kent).The surviving twin said, “As we came together, we will also go together.” Mary and Eliza Chulkhurst were conjoined twins born in the village of Biddenden in 1100 and there they died 34 years later. On their death, they bequeathed 20 acres of land to the poor of the village and began an unusual

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12217197.post-68886721279017515402007-07-23T19:45:00.001-07:002007-07-24T06:03:39.211-07:00

Over the past 40 years, I have camped in various campsites in Spain, Italy, France, Austria, Germany, and in the U.S. Years ago, camping provided an inexpensive holiday where my children could run freely and enjoy the surroundings which sometimes included a park or pool. At the end of the day, a quick shower, supper round the fire, a card game and put the kids to bed was my idea of a good

Elizabeth Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204815847927328174noreply@blogger.com