Potsdam Germany

Potsdam Germany, a set on Flickr.

Potsdam Germany

A Little History-
Potsdam is located on the River Havel 15 miles southwest of Berlin. Its name comes from the West Slavonic word “Poztupimi” which means, “beneath the oaks.” Like the rest of Germany, Potsdam history is full of royalty, war, art, myths, beautiful castles, gardens and palaces. This jewel of Germany has been home to national and international notability, from Prussian kings to German Kaisers.
The earliest history we have of Potsdam goes to the Bronze Age and was part of Magna Germania. Soon the Slavs moved into the area and developed the settlement of Heveller after the 7th century. Emperor Otto III gave the settlement to his aunt Matilda.
In our visit there we spent our time at the “Historic Mill”, Sanssouci Castle and its gardens. It was a time well spent.
The windmill is often referred to as “Historic Mill” by the locals. It is a very important part of Germany history, yet the actually mill that you can see today is not very old. The first windmill was built as a wooden trestle mill that stayed in working condition until 1739. The second was built in 1790 and lasted until World War II. It burned down when hit by Russian bazooka’s. The current windmill began reconstruction in 1983 and was finished and opened to the public in 1993.
The windmill is just behind the Sanssouci Castle. King Frederick the Great like having the windmill saying that it added a rural look to the place. The mill was built 10 years before the Castle. The miller was not happy about the Palace being so close, he said that new building was blocking the wind.
Sanssouci is French and means “without cares,” and that is exactly what Frederick the Great felt when he took solace in this amazing palace. Sanssouci Palace is covered in detail stone carvings and statues. Large arched windows cover the front of the building so that when you were any room that faced the huge gardens you would have an un-obstructive view.

Our Visit-
If you ever have the chance to go to Berlin, you would be cheating yourself if you did not take the time to go to Potsdam. Even more so if you are a history buff like myself. The area is rich in culture among natural beauty.
From Berlin we crossed the river into Potsdam on an old bridge known for exchanging prisons back and forth between East and West Germany. We went straight to a parking lot near the “Historic Windmill,” and continued on foot.
The windmill was accessible with a stairs nearly to the very top. A few floors up, you can step outside to see the big sails a little closer, but not too close. There was a great view of the castle but most of the garden was blocked by it.
The Palace was impressive but for me the gardens were even more impressive. We had a great time walking around enjoying the flowers and statues. It was like stepping back into the 1700’s. I almost wanted to put on a gray wig. Uh, not really!
Here are few of the pictures I took that day. I will be adding more to set as time goes on, until then I hope you enjoy these.

First Water Fall Hike for 2012, Machine Falls

Started our hiking season today at SHORT SPRINGS RECREATION STATE NATURAL AREA http://www.tn.gov/environment/na/natareas/shortspr/! 

Short Springs is a State Natural Area that is less than 15 miles from our home and studio. We had a nice and warm day in what is still considered winter. Expecting very little vegetation and only moderate water flow, we couldn’t wait to hit the trails and see what the Creator has given us. We were not disappointed.

The first thing we do when we get to a hiking trail is to take a good look at the trail map. Short Springs has multiple loop trails that come off of a main trail that also makes a long sweeping hook. Two of the others lead to two other waterfalls, Busby and Adams. While one was dedicated as a wildflower hotspot. The main trail will take you to the massive Machine Falls and back.

Machine Falls is about 60ft tall and 60ft wide. She is a beautiful part cascading falls surrounding by bluffs, moss, ferns and a few wildflowers that were beginning to bloom. The trees were bare for the most part due to time of year, but we plan to return in a few weeks to see their progress and to follow the other loops.

Machine Falls surprised us in both size and the amount of water that fell gracefully from the 60ft cliff. Also, until recently we had not known that these falls existed and neither did many of the people we asked about it. With very little research I found four more water falls (not including Machine, Busby, Adams) within less than a 4 mile radius.

Machine Falls and the Short Springs State Natural Area is a jewel and we can’t wait to explore the other treasures of our great state.

Planning a visit? Use the following link for a topical map of the area.   http://www.tn.gov/environment/na/natareas/shortspr/shortspr.pdf

Scenic Sunday "Recon Mission"

Scenic Sunday #3 “Morgan’s Falls & Steep”

When-
Sunday Afternoon Feb. 20th.

Place-
Sewanee, TN

Driving Distance from Our House-
37 Miles

The Adventure-
This week had to make up for the last. We were focused on the trails location, the reliability of the maps and the address put in the GPS. So the bar was set, the plan was in motion and the homework was done to insure a more successful adventure. The only question now was if this time we were on the road to find that 5* location.

Once again we on a nearby mountain in Sewanee: a very small community that is the home of Sewanee University also known as the “University of the South.” This beautiful Episcopal founded campus perched on the Cumberland Plateau and is a jewel within itself. As a matter of fact, it was not for the University there would not be the Sewanee we know.

As impressive as the campus is, the school was not our goal. We will have to save that story for some other time. Our goal was Morgan’s Steep and Morgan Falls.

We had never heard of Morgan Falls and neither had anyone whom we asked. Many of our friends have lived here all of their lives and have not seen it. If you have been keeping up with our adventures, you can probably guess how we found it ourselves. That’s right; the program we found that used Google Earth to show different natural falls, bridges and caves. As you may remember, it had led us astray last week. We were willing to give it another chance.

The gamble paid off! We followed Marge (our G.P.S.) through the peaceful college, past the awe-aspiring chapel into a modest residential area, around a couple of blind curve to a small rugged pull off with a short rock barrier. Joyfully we had made it to the top of Morgan’s Steep.

The rock wall has a marker with the inscription Morgan’s Steep, but those words did not justified what we saw as we walked up. We have seen dozens overlooks and this was one of the coolest. Notice I did not say the coolest, but this was defiantly in the top 10.

As you may have noticed by this issues title “Recon Mission”, this trip was a dual purpose trek. The first is always, always, always family time. The second was to scout the overlook for spring and fall photos. I was looking for a vantage point that my family and I could picnic and easily see three different backdrops.

During the winter this overlook offered us a clearer view of the landscape below as it gradually met the fair sky miles away. Some may label it as bare, but I saw it as a valley of trees trying to breathe before it bloomed. This became one of our favorite overlooks east of the Mississippi. There are others deeper and wider but this is close and well worth the drive for a picnic. I cannot wait to see it in full bloom in both spring and the fall.

Our calmness was interrupted by a jogger trenched in sweat exited one of the two trails that sat at our feet. It was time to make a choice trail 1 or trail 2.

Trail 1’s physical aspect is where this trail gets the second part of its name. Morgan’s Steep is well; really steep! Facing the outlook and to the left is a dizzying rocky set of stairs. These constricted stairs seemed to go down the facade forever. Every riser was as compressed as its width.

I have seen high overlooks with steep slopes in the Rocky Mountains, the Smoky Mountains and all up and down the Blue Ridge. Here on this side of the Cumberland Plateau, it was not the height that made my head swim it was thought of scaling down this stair way to hell.

The other trail, trail 2 was a different story. This one had a rather smooth decline with trees all around us. After just a few minutes you can hear a brook flowing over the rocks. The Steep was beginning to fade out of my memory and my pale face began to retain its color. We were moving forward as well downward.

Once again joggers passed with smiles on their faces and a friendly wave reminding me that we picked the right trail. Why anyone would want to spend their Sunday afternoon jogging is beyond me. Yet here I sit in my chair, over weight and drinking my drug known as Coca-Cola writing this blog.

The trail had a very soothing effect on us. Every step that we took seemed to push us further back into time, while the rest of the world had gone on without us. With the naked landscape surrounding us, we had a clear view of the rocks and bluffs above us and the creek below. We could see how my ancestors the Cherokee could use this place to their advantage, either to live or to kill. I thought of the deer coming to water due to their thirst, while the mighty hunters used the cliffs to quietly sneak up on it prey. It must have been even more beautiful to the Native Americans who left it nearly un-touch and fully respected.

We were at the falls in no time, unfortunately it was dry. There were a few strains of moss guiding what little water there was falling from its edge. It was a far cry from the 25 foot water fall on the internet.

We were not surprised or discouraged. As we said before, this was a “Recon Mission” and a successful one. We cannot wait for the canopy of green and the racing of rain water over the falls and around the rocks in the streams.

The Heard family began this trip with a couple of Sub Way foot longs, a few bucks in gas and a curiosity of Morgan’s Falls. Now that we are satisfied we will defiantly be coming back in a month with confidence.

One day soon, maybe the Heard family can get a tour of the beautiful “University of the South”!

So get out there and have your own Adventure!
Robert G. Heard




The Travel Log-
Family Fun Rating: **** out of 5
Explanation-
We gave this 4 * simply because we know we have not seen it in all its glory. I can almost guarantee that when we return next month this will be a 5*, but you have to keep coming back to know.

Follow us!!!

Website @ http://state.tn.us/environment/parks/SouthCumberland/

Scenic Sunday "Sewanee Natural Bridge"

Scenic Sunday #2 “Not as Planned”

When-
Sunday Afternoon Feb. 13th.

Place-
Sewanee, TN

Driving Distance from Our House-
37 Miles

The Adventure-

The plan was simple, 2 waterfalls and a picnic. The falls was only a short hike from the parking areas, with the parking areas less than 10 minutes from each other. After a few moments of studying the G.P.S. and Google earth, we were confident about our destination.

Once again we packed up our gear and went to worship the Lord. As Believers we realize that the nature we enjoy so much is created by the One True God. Notice I said is created instead of was. God is constantly proving His existence with creation of every season.

On this trip the “Heard Wagon” was stocked with a cooler of sandwiches, drinks and bags of chips. A meal fit for a small budget. Remember these trips are meant to be fun and affordable family adventures.

The G.P.S. led us to the first parking area where we had intended on taking the short hike with our lunch in tow. Unfortunately, when Marge (our Magellan) boasted “You have arrived,” we were in the middle of the road in a brand new residential neighborhood with only private driveways available to park. The water fall was no longer on public land and accessible to the community. Needless to say, we were disappointed and still hungry.

We remembered that a few miles down the road was the office of the South Cumberland State Park. This park covers a huge part of southern- middle Tennessee. The park office is well equipped with all the current information needed to enjoy this beautiful park. The park is the home of Savage Gulf, Stone Door and the Fiery Gizzard Trail.

We went to the Park Office and ate our lunch on one of the many picnic areas. Once our stomachs were filled and our frustration calmed down, we went in and asked for the information and watched a great little film about the area. The second falls we were looking for was on the area of the map that was available to the public. Also, on the same trail was a natural bridge. When we had a hand full of maps and brochures we hit the road again. This time we were much more successful, well sort of.

We had no trouble finding the well marked parking lot for the trails and the natural bridge. There were two trails at this location, one to the falls and the other to the bridge. The bridge was a short hike and did not leave a fat man like me out of breath. The trail to the bridge was less than a 100 yards slightly down hill.

Walking down the wide, even and well maintained trail brought you to the top of the bridge. According to the information we picked up at the park office a natural bridge is formed when layers of hard rock are separated by soft sandy rocks. The water slowly pushes and washes the sand out between the two hard layers, leaving a void. Above that void is the bridge. Are you still awake?

Whether one is interested in how it was formed, there is no doubt in how cool it looks standing on top of the bridge or under it. The bluffs that surrounded us were beautifully, naturally decorated with wonderful layers of colors and steps.

At the base was what I would call a cove deep enough for a couple of adult’s comfortable shelter from rain. It even had a place to start a fire. Other hikers and campers had made their marks on the cave walls with the charcoal from their fire pit.

There is so much more to experience, however we wanted to get that last trail in. I was tired and so were the kids, but we were wanting to see a water fall. Once again however, we hit a snag. The trail to the other falls was not as easily found. After a total nearly four hours of frustration, hiking and making circles, we were ready to throw in the towel.

In the end I wish I could have photographed some falling water that day, but things did not go as planned. We still had a great time at the bridge and we learned a lot at the state park office. Most importantly we did it together as a family. We can’t fuss about that.

So get out there and have your own Adventure!

Robert G. Heard



The Travel Log-
Family Fun Rating: *** out of 5
Explanation-
I cannot really blame anyone for this “OK” rating. We used a program on Google that is updated by other users like me. The software marks different locations of natural areas. Unfortunately, for us we visited a place that has not been updated, it happens. We ended up being too tired to put any more effort into finding that other trail. If it was marked better, I would have given it a 4 *.

Website @ http://state.tn.us/environment/parks/SouthCumberland/

Sewanee Natural Bridge

Scenic Sunday "Falls Mill, Belvidere TN"

Our First “Scenic Sunday”

When-
Sunday Afternoon Feb. 6th.

Place-
Falls Mill, Belvidere TN

Driving Distance from Our House-
43 Miles

The Adventure-

The family started the day packing for our first Scenic Sunday. We had our Bibles, Sunday school projects, blue jeans and our hiking boots. Miraculously we were even on time that morning. We had a great start of the day by praising God and fellowshipping with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

We splurged with our lunch and chose to eat out so that we would be home early for game night with my brother and his family. We spent $30 with tip.

After stuffing our faces we hit the road for a short drive though the beautiful Tennessee country side. Halfway there we began to regret over eating and the sky was threatening rain with clouds gathering over our heads. However, we were not discouraged and we stayed on task. In no time we were turning onto Falls Mill Road where we were greeted by a canopy of trees. Within a block we found ourselves in front of the old water powered mill and country store.

The building was a beautiful late 1800’s building with our state and U.S. flags on each side of the front door. Across the road was a comfortable log cabin with picnic tables in the front lawn. To say that Falls Mill was charming would be an understatement. We were immediately drawn into a historic industrial era.

After a soothing and relaxing tour of the grounds and the building, I wanted to take my boots off and prop my feet up. I could have sat there and listen to more on the history of this wonderfully restored factory for the rest of the day. The whole family felt the same way and loved this little jewel in Belvidere as well.

The motion of the wheel motorized by the water was calming and enjoyable. Watching the machines being powered by the wheel gave you a sense of going back in time. We are defiantly planning on going back, but this time to stock up on the freshly ground grits and flower. Also, the player piano is a must do. It was tons of fun.

The Travel Log-
The admission price of $10 covered the 5 of us and was well worth the money and the time. On this trip we ate out for lunch and burned about $5 in gas, with a total- $35.

Family Fun Rating: **** out of 5
Explanation- On the day that we visited the mill, the printing press and the dog-powered butter churn were not being operated. The hikes that we found on our own were not challenging. However, this place was great. Get off the couch and find an adventure.

See more on Falls Mill below and on their website @ http://www.fallsmill.com.



FALLS MILL

Operating Water- Powered
Grain Mill and Museum
Belvidere, Tennessee
Nestled in a lush green cove along the banks of beautiful Factory Creek stands historic Falls Mill. Built in 1873 as a cotton and woolen factory, the mill was later converted for use as a cotton gin, then as a woodworking shop. Today the water wheel powers millstones that grind cornmeal, flour, and grits.

Falls Mill is open to the public for tours each day except Wednesday. Visitors begin with an introductory history of the mill, then take a self-guided tour of the building and scenic grounds. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Antique machinery related to the mill's history is exhibited on two floors of the building. The millstones, printing press, and the ever-popular dog-powered butter churn are on the first floor. The country store and weaving room are on the second floor. Hand looms, spinning wheels, and a rare collection of 19th century power looms and wool carding machines are on display.

Scenic Sunday- Intro

There is a good reason that many call Tennessee "Land of Falling Water." There are other states that may boast spectacular waterfalls, but I am partial to the ones near my new hillbilly home. Within a 50 mile radius of my house there are well over 100 waterfalls. There are very, very few of the other states that can make such a claim. With so much beauty around us, it would be a shame not to trek out with the family to experience God’s creation.

As a photographer I have the pleasure of working from home. We home school our kids, so I get to spend more time with them. Other advantages are traveling across the country and getting paid to photograph landscapes, people, animals, real estate and much more.

However, like everyone else we know, our business has felt the unpleasant effects of the unstable economy. Dollars are harder to earn and even harder to keep. Gasoline prices have risen and fell like the oceans tides all over this great country. Lately fast food is no longer cheap or even very fast for that matter. To feed a family of five at McDonalds, we are lucky to spend $20 or less.

On top of that, for the most part fast food is not even good for us. I can almost feel my arteries clogging up just thinking about it. Personally, I have developed a weight problem that fuels bad cholesterol, tiredness and high blood pressure.

Therefore, as a family we have decided to take advantage of the days with warmer weather and hit some cheap if not free adventurous locations. With this in mind we asked friends who have been here most of their lives for ideas. Their responses were surprising. Some had suggestions but have not been there themselves. A few had a place or two that have gone and enjoyed some our beautiful state. Yet others had no idea where we could go.

We decided to go at least one day a week to someplace new. We wanted to experience and document where we have gone. We wanted to hike as a family and photograph our life’s adventures. We also wanted to do all of this on a small budget.

In conclusion, on the behalf of our studio “Creative Images “and the Heard family, we would be honored to share with you what we have learned on our trips through this blog- “SeeScapes”. Hopefully, you will be inspired to go out (with your family) and find new adventures. Book mark this site, read our stories, share them with others and support Missionaries around the world by shopping for the things you normal by anyways at MissionsMall.org (go to the directory). If you have any photography needs, please give us a call @ Creative Images by Robert G. Heard- 931.570.4152

God Bless,
Robert G. Heard

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