June 28-July 2, 2026 Spending time with AVA

 Day 1: 

We met Ava at Sky Zone for Hazel's fifth Birthday Party at 4 P.M. The kids enjoyed jumping and playing on all the equipment.

Next, they were served pizza, Cokes, and water, which some devoured quickly while others just nibbled.

Next, they sang Happy Birthday to Hazel Cate. After Hazel blew out all 5 of her candles, the cake was cut and served. There were cupcakes for those who did not want a slice of the strawberry cake. There were dipping dots for everyone. 

Next, Hazel opened all her presents while the kids crowded around to watch. 

After the party, we took Ava home with us.

Day 2:  

I went back to the dentist at 11 A.M., but it was the wrong day. So we rode into town to run errands.

We ate lunch at Captain D's. Ava ordered chicken and fries. I ordered fish and fries, and Hubby ordered salmon, which Ava ate some of.

Day 3: 

I was up early before it got too hot to plant some bulbs. I had to prepare the ground first. 

Ava was still in bed. 

We ate lunch at Cracker Barrel. Ava ordered Chicken fingers and fries. I ordered pinto beans, fried apples, and cornbread. Hubby ordered fried pork chops with creamed potatoes and broccoli. I paid the bill with my Christmas Gift cards for Cracker Barrel.

We went to Sam's Club for ice cream, but their machine was broken, so Ave ordered a Cherry Slushy and a salty pretzel.

We went to the Blue Door, a thrift store, where AVA picked out a couple of pairs of earrings, a pair of shorts, and a T-shirt.

On the way home, we stopped at Foodland. Hubby wanted some banana popcycles. We stopped to talk to Ronnie (Ava calls him Johnnie).

Day 4: 

Today, we rode to the Cooks Museum in Decatur. Ava and I walked through the museum (we have been there several times). The honey bees were back. We saw bats hanging in the cave. I climbed up into the treehouse. We watched the fish swim, and Ava took my photo in front of the jellyfish.

We rode to OH'Bryan's in Hartsell for lunch. I ordered a catfish plate with one piece of fried catfish, a baked sweet potato, coleslaw, onion, and hushpuppies. I could not eat the cole slaw because my mouth was still sore from having 3 teeth pulled.

Hubby ordered one trip to the salad bar, steak, and baked potato.

Ava wanted McDonald's, she ordered a hamburger, Chicken nuggets, fries, and Coke. She ate some of Hubby's steak and two of my hushpuppies.

Day 5: 

I went outside early and heard and saw a red-tailed hawk fly into a nearby tree. 

I went inside to get my camera, but saw him fly away before I could take a photo.

I went back inside to get the keys to the gator and my camera. I was going to ride around to see if I could find the hawk and listen for other birds.

I got on our John Deere Gator, and a red wasp landed on my inner leg and popped me a good one. I went inside to put some medication on the sting.

I went back outside, taking the wasp spray with me. I thought I would get that wasp if it was still flying nearby.

I didn't see it, so I cranked up the gator and out came several red wasps.

I got stung again on the top of my hand.

I sprayed and killed several wasps.

They must have built that nest late yesterday because I rode the gator yesterday.

Everyone, be careful before getting on anything outside, those red wasps could be hiding just waiting to sting you.

Ava wanted to go to the Splash Pad at Heritage Park, so I packed a cooler full of ice and Cokes.

I packed a bag with towels and sunscreen. We both put on our swimsuits.

When we arrived at the splash pad, no one was there, and the water was off. A couple of women were sitting on the sidewalk. They had been on the walking trail.

We asked why the splash pad was closed, and one said it was because of the drought.

So, we rode to Walmart to pick up a few items.

We ate lunch at Arby's. Ava ordered chicken fingers and cheese sticks; I ordered beef and cheese sandwiches; and Hubby ordered a roast beef sandwich, curly fries, and two peach pie rollups.

We rode to McFarland Park so Ava could play on the playground equipment. I walked to the restroom and back. I saw a Great Blue Heron, several Canada Geese, and several waterfowl. Hubby sat in the air-conditioned car, watching AVA. We did not stay long; it was just too hot.

Every day, Ava watched SpongeBob and played in the playroom we set up just for kids.

Nevada came to pick her up around 4 P.M.

She loves to come to our house, but she was ready to go home.

I think she wanted to spend the night with her friend Cloey.

2026 June 25-27 Kentucky Trip with Backroads Tours LLC

 Day 1: Thursday, June 25:

We loaded the car after feeding the cats and began on our adventure. We traveled to Gabe's in Madison, arriving a little after eight.

We made a couple of pit stops along the way, one at the Shell Station and one at McDonald's.

Two more couples were waiting for the bus in Madison. (Dawn and Rick) Everyone loaded on the bus by 8:30 A.M., and we were on our way to Kentucky. Our driver was Barbara Dudley on Eagle Christian Bus Tours, Rome, GA #3006, and our guide was Angie Himburg.

Our first restroom stop was the newly purchased  Travel Stop by Dolly Pardon. Their grand opening was June 24, the day before. Where Dolly Pardon was present to cut the ribbon. 

The travel stop has fuel pumps, EV charging stations, a general store, a truck driver's lounge, and a restaurant. Hanging from the ceiling is a chandelier featuring guitars. 

Outside, a muralled bus sits next to another mural, and a painting of musical notes leads away from the bus. You are greeted with a smile and warmth that make you want to stop and rest awhile. 

Our next stop was Farmwood's Dutch Bakery & Deli for lunch, where Hubby ordered a steak sandwich and fries, and I ordered potato salad. Just a few days before the trip, I had three teeth pulled and two implants, so I could only eat soft foods. $25.00

This was another great place to stop with warm hospitality, fast service, and homemade food. 

Their country store was filled with homemade items. We purchased a bottle of lavender lotion. 

We arrived at Tru by Hilton Lexington, Kentucky, room 417, to freshen up before going to Churchill Downs, Lexington, KY, for a buffet dinner and to watch the horse races. 

From the Chef's Table, I mostly ate Mac and Cheese and a small brownie, with a Diet Coke. 

A storm blew up, so the last few races were canceled. Everyone walked to the gift shop before heading to the bus in the rain.

It was late when we arrived at the hotel, and it had been a long day of travel, so we both went straight to bed.

Photos:

7794-7809 Dolly's Travel Stop Centerville, TN @ 9:18 A.M.

7810-7814 Farmwalds Dutch Deli and Bakery Horse Cave, KY @12:12 PM

7815-7817 Tru by Hilton Lexington, KY @4:34 PM

7818-7824 Churchill Downs, Lexington, KY @ 5:00 P.M.

Day 2: Friday, June 26: 

Breakfast at the hotel: Muffin, yogurt, egg, sausage, and kiwi juice. 

Today, we are going to the Louisville Little Slugger Museum. We were a little early, so everyone went to the gift shop. We purchased two baseball bats for two of our great-grandsons for Christmas.

We had their names engraved on each; both boys did very well playing baseball this year. One of the boys made the all-stars. $127.18

Next, we were taken on a factory tour where we learned the history of how baseball bats are harvested and made. $20.26. Our guide was Owen.

It was now lunchtime, so everyone dispersed in different directions, looking for a place to eat.

We stopped at The Main Eatery, 643 N Main St., Louisville, KY, a quaint sandwich-and-soup restaurant, where Hubby ordered chili with cheese. I ordered a baked potato with butter and sour cream, and we both ordered a soda. The food was delicious, and the service was great. The restaurant had a friendly, inviting atmosphere where you did not feel rushed and could relax and enjoy your meal.

Our next stop was the Louisville Art Museum, which had a gift shop and two upper levels of art display. The cost was $5.00.

On display was artwork by Stan Squirell, Threads of Influence, on view from March 20 to July 5, 2026.

The visionary art of Minnie Evans is on view April 4 through October 4,  2026. Minnie's art reflects on living and how our own history affects our own lives.

Our next stop was the Frazier History Museum, which cost $14.00. Inside the museum was the Spirit of Kentucky, The Commonwealth: Divided we fall, Stewart Historic Miniatures collections,  Cool Kentucky6, The Lewis and Clark Experience, Prusit of Happiness, Gounder's Gallery, Louisville to Liberty, the Blackburys ' journey, 120 Cool KY Counties, and the Kentucky Show in the Brown Forman Theatre.

We did not have time to watch the movie, but when we returned from our trolley tour, we did. The curator said once we paid, we could return after our tour.

Next, take our one-hour trolley tour of Louisville with our guide, Travis. 

After the trolley tour, we watched a movie at the Frazier Museum, then went to Mussels and Burgers for dinner. Hubby ordered a salad, and I ordered their bread pudding. Their motto is: " Who says 'Pub Grub' has to be boring? $24.37.

After dinner, we walked around until about 6:30 P.M., then boarded the bus and returned to the hotel. Packed, for we are leaving tomorrow.

Photos:

7825 Breakfast @7:34 AM 

7826-7833 Travel Lexington to Louisville, KY @8:41-9:18 A.M. 

7834-7896 Louisville Slugger Museum Louisville, KY @9:30-11:10 A.M. 

7897-7898 Lunch at the Main Eatery, Louisville, KY @11:32 PM

7899-7999 The Frazier Museu, Louisville, KY@12:02-1:41 P.M.

8001 Trolley Tour @1:47 PM

8002--8005 Dinner at Mussel and Burgers, Louisville, KY@4:39 PM 

8006-8068 Traveling from Louisville to Lexington, KY @ 5:48–7 P.M.

8069-8012 receipts @7:13 PM 

Big Cameras

8736-8755 Traveling from Lexington to Louisville, KY @ 8:27 A.M. 

8756-8786 Louisville Little Slugger Museum and Factory Tour  8:34- 11:07 A.M.

8787-8802 Louisville, Ky    

8804-8806 Art Museum, Louisville, Ky

8807-8814 Louisville, Ky    

8815-8933 Frazier History Museum, Louisville, Ky  

8934-9011 Trolley Tour Louisville, Ky

9012-9021 Churchill Downs, fifteen-minute break and gift shop, Lexington, KY

9022-9062 Traveling from Lexington to Louisville, KY 

9063-9086 Traveling from Louisville to Lexington, KY

Day 3: Saturday, June 27:

Breakfast at the hotel,l I ate a blueberry muffin with cream cheese.

I  was up at 6 A.M., took a shower, finished packing, wrote in my journal, ate breakfast, and was on the bus by 8 A.M.

Our first stop was Buc-ee's at 9:19 A.M. in Smith Grove, KY, for a restroom break and snacks. I was still hungry, so I bought eggs, bacon, cheese biscuits, and some Buc-ee's bites. I only ate a few bites and gave Hubbt half, but he was hungry, so most of it was thrown away. 

Our next stop was in Franklin, TN, to do some shopping and to eat lunch.

We decided to eat at Pucketts, where we ordered a meat and three veggies. We got chicken and dumplings, broccoli, green beans, and sweet potatoes with iced tea. We got an extra plate and shared the food, which was more than enough. After lunch, we walked up the sidewalk to the Williamson Archives and Museum. 

I took several photos and stopped to talk to the curator. We talked for several minutes about the different wars, genealogy, history, and families. 

We had to walk several blocks back to the bus,s so I had to cut our conversation short. I thanked her, and we began our journey back to the bus.

Loaded onto the bus by 1:30 and were on our way to Gabe's in Madison. Eight people got off in Madison; the rest were going to Scottsboro.

We loaded our car and began our journey home. We stopped at Chick-fil-A in Athens for a Dragon Fruit Tea, which was free with their app. 

Our next stop was Isom's fruit stand in Athens,s where we bought a basket of fresh peaches and several banana peppers. $19.00.

Our next stop was Lash's in Elgin for their Low Country Boil, which consists of Cajun boiled shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn.

We were home by 4:30 P.M.

 Unloaded the car, ate dinner, uploaded photos, and worked on the computer until time for bed.

Photos:

8073-Buc ees @9:19 AM

8074-8075 Pucketts @ 11:47 A.M. $24.09

8076-8164 Williamson Archives and Museum 12:12–1:07 P.M.

2026 May 21, Day Trip to McMinnville, Rock Island and Monteagle, TN (with Backroads Tours LLC)

 Day Trip to Falcon Rest, McMinnville, Rock Island State Park, and Mountain Goat Restaurant, Monteagle, TN 

6841-6842 Stop at Loves Hillsboro, TN @9AM

6844-6859 Travel Viola, McMinnville, Rock Island 9:41 A.M.

6860-6923 Rock Island State Park Rock Island, TN @ 10:15–11:40 A.M.

6924-6937 Falcon Rest Mansion Museum & Murder Mystery McMinnville, TN @12:03-2:06 PM

6938-6945 Travel Viola, McMinnville @3:01-3:20 P.M.

6946-6960 Stop at Mountain Goat Restaurant, Monteagel, TN 4:01–4:30 P.M.

We were up at 3:30 A.M. and left the house at 4:30 A.M.

We stopped at Jack's in Athens for single gravy and biscuits and a Diet Coke. 

My biscuit wasn't done, so I returned, and they gave me one that was cooked.

But it still gives me gas, and I burped all the way to Tennessee.

Our first stop was the welcome center at Rock Island State Park. The park ranger told us about the park and offered to give us a guided tour. So we loaded back onto the bus and followed the park ranger. 

We stopped at the Beach Area, and everyone got out and walked around. 

Our next stop was the short waterfall and the old abandoned cotton mill. 

The ranger turned on his flashing lights and removed the roped-off area so we could park on the grass. 

Everyone got out to take pictures of the waterfalls and the surrounding area. We thanked the park ranger and began our journey to Falcon Rest, about an hour away, for lunch and a murder mystery show.

We arrived at the visitor center and were greeted by our guide and owner.

We were all led into the mansion and listened to the guide, then each was given a role in the murder mystery while we enjoyed our lunch.

Hubby played George Beech (the town drunk), and I played his wife, Marie Beech.

For lunch, we were served Strawberry Pretzel salad, Baked Chicken, Potatoes, green beans, a roll, and Chocolate cake topped with a cherry and a dab of whipped cream.

After lunch and a show, we were given a guided tour of the mansion. No photos were allowed inside the mansion.

We took a group photo on the mansion's front porch.

We shopped at the gift shop, thanked our guide, and headed to our next stop.

History of Rock Island 

Rock Island State Park is a state park in Warren and White Counties, Tennessee, in the Southeastern United States. The park is named after the community of Rock Island, Tennessee, which in turn was named for an island on the Caney Fork, upstream from the confluence of the Collins River and the Great Falls Dam. Rock Island State Park is centered on a peninsula created by the confluence of these two rivers and extends downstream to the headwaters of Center Hill Lake.

We stopped at Mountain Goat Restaurant and gift shop, located in Monteagle, TN., where Hubby and I enjoyed a slice of Chocolate Cheesecake topped with pecans and drizzled with chocolate and caramel, a Diet Coke, and a coconut chocolate bar. 

Took a few photos, then loaded onto the bus and headed to Scottsboro.

We arrived a little before 6 P.M., with a two-hour ride home. 

No stopping until we reached home a little after 8 P.M.

Another wonderful day trip with Backroads Tours LLC

Bus number 3004 on Eagle Christian Tours, Rome, GA, with Barbara Dudley as our driver. 

Angie, our guide. 

2026 May 15-16, Shoals Frontporch Storytelling Festival Shoals Theatre Florence, AL

Day 1: Friday, May 14, 

Melissa Foster did the opening, introducing each and every storyteller, beginning with Johnny Fowler. 

Eric Kirkman had a family death and had to travel out of town. He was to be our first teller, so Johnny Fowler stepped in to take his place. 8:55-9:25

Donald Davis followed with childhood stories. 9:25-9:55.

Next up was Jennifer Armstrong telling Folk Tales, along with singing and music, 9:55-10:25 

Next is Bil Lepp with his tall tales about traveling. 10:25-10:55

We have a twenty-minute break from 10:55 to 11:15 

My friend and I walk around the block and take a break at a restroom. The theatre is cold, so we need to warm up.

I bought a Diet Coke and a bag of M&M's in the snack bar. 

Back inside, we listen to Dolores Hydock tell a story about WWI, 11:15-11:50.

We break for lunch from 11:50–1:50 P.M. 

We decided to walk to Mugshots on Court Street. We both ordered hamburgers. I ordered a Bishop Burger with Mayo, Mustard, Onions, Pickles, Lettuce, and tomatoes with sweet potato fries and a cold glass of iced tea with lemon. 

We return from lunch to listen to Johnny Fowler tell stories and play several musical instruments from 1:50–2:20 P.M.

Next up is Tom Gordon, a storyteller from Centerville, TN. Tom tells a story about growing up with different women in his life. One of the stories he tells is about his first love in elementary school. He was playing baseball, and the girl he liked was watching. He hit a home run and ran all the way to home plate. When he looked up at his girlfriend, she was out cold because he had swung his bat after his hit and had hit her with it. 

Another story was about his first kiss, and he had closed his eyes only to kiss her on the nose, causing a bruise on her nose. The last story was about his first date, and he was pulled over by a police officer for speeding. 

Next up was Bil Lep 2:30 -3:00

Dolores Hydock talked about things she didn't know about the Statue of Liberty. Celebrating 250 years of our great Country. You can read the history of the Statue of Liberty on Wikipedia. 3:20-3:50

Jennifer Armstrong told folktales that incorporated musical instruments. 3:50-4:20 

Donald Davis was our last teller of the day with his funny stories of growing up. 4:20-5:00.

We dismissed for dinner, and Hubby picked me up, and we went home.

Day 2: Saturday, May 15:

Once again, Melissa Foster introduced the tellers, beginning with Johnny Foster.

Johnny told stories and incorporated music, with audience participation. 9:00-9:30 

Next up was Donald Davis and the story of the two-car family, 9:30-10:00 

a twenty-minute break for the restroom and to walk around town. 10:00-10:20 

Next was Jennifer Armstrong, who told folktales and incorporated music with audience participation, 10:20-10:50.

Next was Dolores Hydock, 10:50-11:20.

Dwight Henry talked about his dad in WWII and his visit to the house where his dad stayed in France. 11:20-11:50

Bil Lepp finished the morning with his talk at 11:50-12:00

Break for lunch 12:00-2:00. My friend and I ate lunch at Lost Pizza.

We both ordered a pizza and a drink.

I ordered a Hippi Pizza with cheeses, spinach, roma tomatoes, artichokes, green peppers, yellow onions, and black olives on a garlic buttered crust.

After lunch, we walked across the street to the  Arts Alive Festival located in Wilson Park, spilling over into the Florence Library and in front of the Church of Christ. 

We returned to the Shoals Theater for the final portion of the storytelling. 

Donald Davis began the storytelling at 2:00-2:30 

Next up was Johnny Fowler, 2:30-3:05

Break from 3:05-3:25

After the break, we continued with Jennifer Armstrong 3:25-3:55

Next Dolores Hydock 3:55-4:40 

Bil Lepp finished the day with his tall tales from 4:30-5:00.

Hubby picked me up, and we headed home. 

He stopped at the Chinese restaurant in Killen and bought a plate of food, some soup, and egg rolls. 

I am not a fan of this food, so I ate a hot dog. 

The end of Storytelling until May of Next year. 

 

Trip to the Islands of Greece April 15-25, 2026 Footsteps of Paul

Footsteps of Paul Hosted by Robert J. Morgan in conjunction with TriStar Tours April 14-25/2026

The Deutsche Lufthansa AG (Airline) went on strike, so everything changed.

We are no longer flying out on the 14th and no longer using Lufthansa. I am flying out on Swiss Airlines.

I had to change my Delta flight out of Nashville on the 14th to the 15th. 

Lots of problems with this trip. First, Voyager Discovery was trapped in the Strait of Hormuz because Iran shut the Strait. We were going to have a four-day cruise aboard the Discovery. The itinerary for those days was changed. We will now do a day cruise, a ferry to the island of Patmos, and a speedboat to the islands of Samos. 

We lost a day because of the Airline strike and lost our four-day cruise. Not sure what to expect now.

My first roommate canceled her trip, and I am now rooming with a seventeen-year-old (It will be like rooming with my granddaughter). 

My friend had to cancel because her husband found out he had kidney cancer and had to have surgery. I am going on this trip with 50 people, and most of them are strangers. 

It will be a good trip because I make friends easily.

Day 1: April 15: Wednesday: Travel 7 A.M. Nashville Airport to 10:32 A.M. JFK Airport 

First flight: Delta AIRLINES DL 4916 from Nashville BNA to JFK New York departing at 7:11, arriving at 10:46 A.M.

Seat 11D Zone 7 Class V flight DL4916.

Second Flight: JFK TO ZURICH, SWITZERLAND operated by Swiss Airlines JFK LX 0017 Gate 34 L007/104 Group 5, Economy Class 104 ticket 2202245012819 leaving at 15:40 P.M.

Third Flight: 

LX 1852 T April 16, 2RH-SKG Economy class 017 LX 1852 T to 0450 Seat 21 A Group 3 Operated by Swiss Airlines. ticket 2202245012819 from Zurich, Switzerland to Thessaloniki 

Depart from JFK to Thessaloniki, Greece via Zurich, Switzerland at 4:45 P.M. (this was for the first group, group two departed at 5:45, and the last group was at 9:45 P.M., and they flew into Frankfurt, Germany.

We didn't sleep much because we had to be up and on the road by 2:30 A.M.  

We stopped a couple of times for restroom breaks. 

Hubby dropped me off at the Nashville Airport, and I met up with Bettye and Mike Morris, who were going on this trip. 

We all went to baggage claim to collect our luggage. Our departing flight was not until 4:45, so we had some time to kill. 

 We went to level three and ate an early lunch at McDonald's. I ordered a fish sandwich, fries, and Coke. I paid cash. 

We rode the elevator down to the second level to meet up with our group around 1:15 P.M. 

Everyone checked in, picked up their bags, and proceeded to TSA Security, which took some time. 

We boarded around 3:30 P.M. and were on our way to Zurich, Switzerland.

We were served dinner of baked chicken, creamed potatoes, salad, roll, butter, and cheesecake, with Coke Zero. 

I watched several movies and fell asleep. I was awakened around 12:30 P.M. US time, but it was breakfast time in Zurich.

We had strawberry Yogurt, jelly, butter, a roll, and apple juice. 

We arrived around 6:05 A.M., disembarked from the plane, and rode a bus to the terminal. 

No Photos 

Breakfast: none

Lunch: McDonald's JFK Fish Sandwich, fries, Coke 

Dinner: airplane- baked chicken, creamed potatoes, salad, roll, butter, cheese cake, and Coke.

Day 2: April 16: Thursday- Zurich, Switzerland. 

Breakfast: on the plane-strawberry yogurt, jelly, butter, roll, apple juice.

Lunch: no lunch

Dinner: buffet dinner at Thessaliniki Holiday Inn-pasta, rolls, salad with fetta cheese, pork chop with gravy, baked potato, carrots, and chocolate cake. 

We left Zurich Airport around 9:15 A.M. on LX1852, arriving in Thessaloniki at 12:30 P.M.

Everyone went to luggage claims to get their luggage and meet our guide, who took us to the Bus and then to the hotel. 

On my first flight, I had a window seat but no window. I did not take any photos on the 15th. My cell phone battery was low, and there were no chargers for my iPhone 17. When we arrived in Zurich, there were chargers, so I charged my phone. It took some time to go through Immigration.

We are staying at the Holiday Inn Thessaloniki (room 509). We got to Thessaloniki a little early, so our guide took us to several sites there before dropping us off at the hotel. 

We had breakfast on the plane.

We had dinner on the plane the night before.

We are having dinner at the hotel tonight.

For dinner, we were served pork chops, carrots, Brussels sprouts, potatoes, and Greek salad. 

Before dinner, I walked to the 4-All Mini Mart to buy a toothbrush, a Diet Coke, and hand sanitizer. spent $3.95

Photos:

4813-4826 Zurich, Switzerland Airport 7:15 A.M.

4827-4832 Neidrehasf, Adlikon @ 9:24

4835-4841 Thessaloniki Airport 

4842-4892 Travel 1:19–2:10 P.M.

4893-4895 Thessaloniki @2:19 PM

4898 Hotel Thessaloniki Room 509

4899 Receipts

4900 -4902 Thessaloniki @7:24 PM

4905-4906 Dinner 8:11 P.M.

Day 3: April 17: Friday: Philippi: 

Breakfast was yogurt, peaches, cheese, olives, and pastries (Holiday Inn Thessaloniki)

Lunch: pork chop skewers, bread, sour cream, slaw, and water

Dinner: Fruit custard with chocolate. The food was good, but I was not hungry. (Holiday Inn Thessaloniki)

Today, we visited the site where Lydia was baptized and the place where Paul was in prison. We spent most of the day traveling. We stopped for lunch at Kalamonas Restaurant near the Philippi Archaeological site. 

We visited the Philippi Archaeological site. 

And I bought Coke and candy at Olympus Plaza, and spent 11:50 for lunch. 

This morning, we'll drive east to Philippi. The New Testament records a visit to the city by the apostle Paul during his second journey. Accompanied by Silas, Timothy, and possibly Luke. Luke is believed to have preached for the first time in Philippi, a city in European Greece. We will visit the magnificent Acropolis, the marketplace, the Theater, and the two early Christian Churches. On the way, we will stop at the town of Kavala (Neapolis), where Paul first landed in Europe. 

Return to Thessaloniki for dinner and an overnight stay.

Holiday Inn Thessaloniki (room 509).

Photos:

4906-4908 Breakfast @7:07 AM

4909-4911 Travel 

4912-4917 Pastry Shop Lefas Station Moostheni 

4918-4921 Travel @9:51 AM Platanotopos, Moustheni 

4922-4953 Lydia Baptistory of Saint Lydia @10:32 AM

4956-4882 Runs of Phillipi @ 11:36-12:29

4983 Lunch at the Best Station $23.70 

4984-4991 Kauala @ 2:22–2:48 P.M.

4992-4996 Olympus Plaza Rest Stop @ 5:40 P.M.

4992-5020 Travel @6:31-7:55 P.M.

5021-5023 Hotel Amalia @7:55 PM room 109 

5024-5026 Receipts 

Day 4: April 18: Saturday: Veria/Vergina/Kalambaka - 

Breakfast: Yogurt, Pastries, peaches, and cranberry juice (Holiday INN)

Lunch: English peas, carrots, rice, potatoes, pastries

Dinner: buffet rolls, beets, slaw, pork, chicken, pasta, Chocolate eclairs (Hotel Amalia Theopetra, Greece)

Morning sightseeing in Thessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, with over 1 million inhabitants and the capital of Greek Macedonia. Our sightseeing this morning will include the Arch of Galerius, St Demetrius, St Sophia, and the White Tower. We continue to Veria (Berea) to see St Paul's Berna. Apostle Paul famously preached in the city, and its inhabitants were among the first Christians in the Empire. From here, we continue to Vergina and view the breathtaking Tombs of the Macedonian Kings. Continue to Kalambaka for dinner and an overnight stay. 

Amalia Hotel Theopetra, Greece, room 109, one night 

Photos:

5027-5030 Breakfast @ 7:02–7:44 A.M.

5031-5067 Visiting the Monks' Monastery @9:32-10:44 A.M.

5068 Lunch Chatzia Post $13.60 

5069-5078 Leonidas Monument @ 3:15 P.M.

5079-5100 Travel @ 3:29–3:53 P.M.

5101-5104 Rest Stop Goody's Tanagra @ 4:50 P.M.

5105-5108 Receipts

5106-5107 dinner Wyndham Grand Hotel @ 7:41–7:55 P.M.

5108 Receipts 

Museum: Holy Monastery of Varlaam ticket 066939 costs $5.00.

Day 5: April 19: Sunday: Kalambaka/Athens. 

Breakfast: at the Hotel Olives, peaches, water, cookies, roll, cheese (Amalia Hotel Theipetra, Greece)

Lunch: Shrimp Jumbo & fries, water, cash $25 to (Perama Restaurant) 

Dinner at (Wyndham Grand room 423), pasta, salad, chicken nuggets, rice, potatoes, Caramel cake, chocolate cake, and whipped cream.

We boarded the Bus at 9 A.M., and our first stop was the canal at Loutraki Perachoras for a restroom break and to take photos.

Our next stop is the archaeological ruins of Corinth at 10:57 A.M. 

We walked through the ruins and used the restrooms. Then we visited the museum. We stopped at the Temple of Apollo. We ate lunch at To Perma Restaurant. I ordered fried shrimp with fries and water spent $25

We traveled back to Athens for a couple of hours' rest.

Dinner at the Hotel at &PM

Sat and talked to Bettye & Mike returned to my room, took a shower, and dressed for dinner. 

This morning, we visited the Meteor. It is a rock formation in central Greece that hosts one of the largest and most precipitously built complexes of Eastern Orthodox Monasteries, second in importance only to Mount Athos. The ageless Byzantine monasteries stand suspended between earth and sky, their interiors filled with priceless, sacred treasures. From here, we drive to Kamena Vouri to visit the monument to the Leonids. Continue to Athens for dinner and an overnight stay. 

Wyndham Grand Hotel, Athens, Greece, room 423 

Photos

5109 Breakfast 8:45 A.M.

5110 Police Car @9:16 AM

5111-5121 Travel to Corinth @9:21 AM Poikilo, Oros Aspropygas, Mandra, Megara, Agio Theodoroi

5123-5124 Canal Loutraki Petachoras Restroom Stop

5125-5157 Archeological Ancient Corinth @12:11 PM

5158-5199 Archaeological ancient Corinth Museum @12:31 PM

5200-5220 Ancient Corinth @12:46

5221-5225 Travel @1:13 PM

5226-5234 Archaia Korinthos, Temple of Apollo Shop, Corinth

5235-5236 Canal to Perama Restaurant lunch $25

5237 Receipts 

5238-5239 Dinner Wyndham Grand Hotel @ 7:08 

Pasta, salad, nuggets, rice, potatoes, caramel cake, and chocolate cake with whipped cream. 

Day 6: April 20: Monday: Corinth. 

Breakfast: snacks (Wynham Grand)

Lunch: on the boat, buffet chicken leg, pasta, salad, potatoes, bread, cookies 

Dinner: Wyndham Grand (not very good)

We will spend the entire day in Corinth, return to Athens for dinner, and overnight.

After breakfast, we depart for Corinth. Visit the Archaeological Museum, Berna, the Marketplace, and the Temples. After a short stop at the Corinth Canal, return to Athens. In the afternoon, visit the Areopagus (Mars Hill) and the Acropolis, featuring its magnificent ruins from Athens' Golden Age, including the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the famous Parthenon. View the Agora and the Ancient Hill of Pnyka after a short orientation tour of Athens. Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Only snacks for breakfast.

We had a new bus driver who took us to the port, where we boarded a boat to three islands: Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. 

We visited the Dormition Church and saw the clock tower. Ate lunch on the boat. We stopped in Proso. We bought an ice cream

cone and walked to the church in Aegina. We had to return by 5:35, and the buses were late. We began our journey back to Greece. It was after 8, dinner was from 8:30–9 P.M.

Came back to our room, packed, and wrote in this journal.

Set luggage outside our room @ & have breakfast at 7:30 A.M. We are going to do a tour of Athens tomorrow. Bought a T-shirt, a cat key chain, and a Pepsi. 

Photos

 5240-5243 Boat Cruise @7:33 AM 

5244-5281 Hydra @ 10:58 A.M.

5282-5283 Lunch @12:45 PM

5284-5297 Proso @1:54 PM

5298-5345 Aegina @ 4:28PM

5346-5348 Greece Bus @5:56 PM

5349-5355 Hotel rooftop @8:22PM

5356 Dinner @ 8:30 PM

5357 Receipts 

Day 7: April 21: Tuesday Full Day Cruise

Breakfast: Wynham Grand, Athens

Lunch: Greek Salad at Arcadia Restaurant, Athens, Greece

Dinner: Wynham Grand, Athens, Greece 

I was sick all night, so I did not eat any breakfast. We have to take our luggage with us today. We are going to the island of Patmos. We will take the ferry #@3PM for about 8 hours

This morning, we will set sail for three beautiful Saronic islands.

Hydra is one of the most enchanting islands, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and captivating light. Over the years, the island has inspired poets, artists, and celebrities from around the world, becoming a haven for creativity. The island's car-free policy adds to its tranquil charm, offering a serene atmosphere in the bustling port. While vehicles are absent, transportation on Hydra is provided solely by donkeys and water taxis, with donkeys serving as the island's traditional means of transport for its 1,900 residents (as of 2021). For adventure seekers, Spilia is an iconic spot, where you can dive off the rocks into the clear blue waters and enjoy the beach like a local. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy scenic trails through the island's lush countryside or its cobblestone alleys.

 

Nestled in the southern Saronic Gulf, Poros is a charming island just 58 km (36 miles) south of Piraeus, separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow 200-meter sea channel. Known for its lush pine forests and scenic beauty, Poros offers a relaxing escape with its tranquil atmosphere and historic allure. In addition to its vibrant town, Poros is home to the iconic Clock Tower, which offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. The island is also famous for its rich maritime history. Its picturesque beaches, charming alleys, and vibrant cafes make it a favorite weekend destination for Athenians.

 

Aegina is the largest of the Saronic Islands, with a glorious history dating back to antiquity. Today, Aegina is a popular island getaway known for its golden beaches, spectacular countryside, and fishing villages, where authentic taverns serve fresh grilled fish and local wines. The island is also internationally acclaimed as the home of the world-famous Aegina Pistachio. Just a short distance from Athens, Aegina is the preferred Saronic island for the summer home of cosmopolitan Athenians. According to myth, Aegina is named after the beautiful nymph whom Zeus kidnapped.

Lunch is served on board, and we will return to Athens late in the evening. Dinner and overnight at your hotel, WYNDHAM GRAND. 

Photos:

5358-5410 Temple of Athena & the Parthenon @8:57 AM

5411-5420 Olympic Park & Games Panathenaic Stadium @ 11:51 AM

5421-5451 Travel Athens @12:08 PM

5452 Lunch Arcadia Greek Salad $12.58

5453 Receipts @3:28 PM 

Group Photo at Parthenon @ 2:52 P.M. 

Day 8: April 22: Wednesday, Athens and Ferry Trip to PATMOS

Breakfast: Wynham Grand cheese, salami, pastries, olives, peaches, yogurt, and juice 

Lunch: Hamburger and French fries, Coke Zero at Agora in Skala, Greece 

Dinner: sPoek Chops, salad, break, dip at the restaurant in Patmos 

Our day will be spent in Athens, where we will visit the Areopagus (Mars Hill) and the Acropolis, with its magnificent ruins from the Golden Age of Athens, including the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the famous Parthenon. View the Agora and the Ancient Hill of Pnyka.

 

At 3:00 P.M., a ferry, BLUESTAR PATMOS, will take us to the island of Patmos, and it will be a delightful cruise on the Mediterranean, sailing past beautiful islands. We will arrive at 10 P.M. and go to our hotels for a night of rest. We have 18 rooms at HOTEL EFFIE and 10 rooms at HOTEL CHRIS.to St. John's Monastery and Grotto. Evening sail for Rhodes.

After breakfast, we will board a bus to visit the Monastery of St. John the Theologian and the cave where John was held. Right at the Grotto garden, we will gather at the little outdoor theatre, and Pastor Morgan will teach from his book, The 50 Final Events of World History, based on Revelation. Dinner and overnight on Patmos.

Photos

5457 Breakfast @8:29AM 

5458-5462 Patmos near the hotel 

5463-5493 Cave of Apocalyse @9:11 AM

5496-5515 Benetos Chora Monastery of St John the Theologian @ 11:50 A.M.

5516-5532 Square Patmos @ 12:37 P.M.

5533-5535 lunch at Agora Hamburger, fries, Coke Zero $17

5536-5537 Patmos @3:35 PM 

5538 Receipts 

5539-5542 Photos 

5545-5554 Journal 

5555-5568 Hotel, boats, Walking town of Patmos 

5569 Dinner @7:41 

Bought postcards

Day 9: April 23, Thursday- Samos 

Breakfast: Chris Hotel Patmos cheese, salami, pastries, olives, juice 

Lunch: shrimp in butter sauce, toast, Coke Zero dessert, yogurt drizzle in honey & cake, Monastiraki Square, Athens

Dinner: Wynham Grand fruit, pork, cheese, carrots, cake 

After breakfast, we will board a speed boat, LEROS EXPRESS, for the island of Samos, 9.20-11.55, where the man who proved the Pythagorean Theorem (a2 + b2 = c2), Pythagoras, lived. 

 

This village is one of the most beautiful villages of Samos. It is named after the famous philosopher and scientist Pythagoras and is located 11 km southwest of Vathy, the capital of Samos. The historical town of Pythagorio has become a major tourist Resort. Old and well-preserved houses with the characteristic red-tiled roofs, narrow alleys, cafeterias, restaurants, and nice taverns make up a lively and charming place to spend your summer holidays. Around the port, many excursions and fishing boats are available. The pretty village is built amphitheatrically around the natural bay, where the ancient town of Samos was founded. The beach is a short walk from the settlement of Pythagorio and is ideal for all ages. It attracts visitors with its crystalline waters and the impressive surroundings.

 

Evening transfer to Samos airport for our flights back to Athens. We have 25 seats on Skyexpress GQ 311 and 25 seats on Aegean A3 247. Dinner and Overnight in Athens at the WYNDHAM GRAND HOTEL, room 358.

Flight: SKY EXPRESS: Boarding Pass Flight GQ311 at 18:10 P.M. Gate 4 seat 15A Class Y from Samos/SMI to Athens/ATH April 23, 2026 Sequence # 0514 luggage 0633 GQ 501350

Photos:

5570-5571 Breakfast cheese, pastries, olives, slaimi, peaches, yogurt @7:28 AM 

5572-5573 Speed Boat ride to Samos @12-10 P.M.

5574-5576 Lunch Shrimp cooked in butter sauce @12:51 with toast Samos

5578-5587 walking around Samos 1:52 P.M.

5588-5614 Walking to the Church of the Transfiguration Neapoleos @2:51-3:09 P.M.

5615-5628 @ 3:12–3:34 P.M. Walking back to the Bus

5629-5631 @ 3:48 Samos Airport 

5632-5687 @6:48-8:11 P.M. Flying to Athens Airport from Samos

5689 dinner 

Day 10: April 24: Friday The Acropolis Museum 

Breakfast: Hotel salami, cheese, pastries, olives 

Lunch: Pork chop, fries in Samos 

Dinner: skipped dinner 

I took the elevator to the ninth floor for breakfast. There were lots of people eating and standing in line, so I went back to my room until 7:30 A.M. 

I sat with a woman from Dallas, Texas. We talked about our Footsteps of Paul Trip. 

She said they had one day on a boat cruise and visited the Eiffel Tower with a choir group. 

Our group loaded onto the Bus at 9 A.M. We rode to the Acropolis to visit the 

Acropolis Museum. 

Next, we walked to the nearby Monastiriki Square for lunch and shopping. 

Lunch: We ate at a nearby restaurant with a couple of women from our group.

I ordered a pork chop with fries and Coke Zero.

We walked around. Bettye bought a couple of T-shirts.

We stopped for a cup of Piccasto ice cream. Then we caught the Bus back to the hotel. 

I did not eat dinner. I took a shower and went to bed because we had to be up by 1:00 A.M. 

Wyndham Grand room 358

Photos

Breakfast: Hotel Room 358 Wyndham Grand Athens, Greece chees, salami, olives, feta cheese, Spanish roll with water

5691 Room Number 

5692-5693 Breakfast @7:50 AM

5694-5700 Acropolis of Arthenes Ancient Citadel above the city of Athens, Greece @8:15 AM

5701-5763 @9:39 ART AT THE ACROPOLIS Museum, Athens, Greece, Lamassu of Nicaea @ 9:46 A.M. - 11:18 A.M.

5764-5765 Lunch: Pork Chops, fries, salad @ Monastriraki Square, Athens, Greece @12:42 PM

5766-5780  Monastiraki Square, Athens, Greece @ 1:23

5781-5782 Receipts @3:37 PM

5785 Hollywood sign @9:23PM 

Day 11: April 25: Saturday 

Day 11: APRIL 25: Back to the States

Wake-up call at 1 A.M.

2:25 have luggage in the lobby

3:30 Bus departs for the airport

Breakfast: Snacks at the hotel

Lunch: on the airplane

Dinner: bought something at the NY airport

Early morning transfer to the Athens airport for our return flight to New York via Frankfurt. Arriving home the same afternoon.

Airport for our return flight to New York via Frankfurt. Arriving home the same afternoon. 

First flight: LUFTHANSA AIRLINES

FLIGHT LH1285 6:55-9:00 A.M. ATHENS, GREECE (ATH) TO 9:00 A.M. FRANKFURT, GERMANY (FRA) 

Second Flight: LUFTHANSA AIRLINES

FLIGHT LH400 (FRA)FRANKFURT, GERMANY AT 10:55 A.M.-1:20 P.M. TO JFK NEW YORK

Third flight: AMERICAN AIRLINES

JFK HOME AA3167 7:29 PM to Charlotte CLT @ 9:52 PM Seats 20D,C 20F  Economy

Fourth Flight: AMERICAN AIRLINES

CLT Charlotte @11:05 PM operated by Piedmont Airlines as American Eagle to HSv arriving at 11:43 P.M., seats 13B, C, A Economy $272.20

Hotel: Holiday Inn Thessaloniki, Greece, Room 509 (2) Apr 15-16

Hotel: Amalia Hotel Meteora, Greece, room 109 (1) April 17 

Hotel: Wyndham Grand Athens, Greece, room 423 (3) Apr 18-20

Hotel: Chris's Patmos, Greece, room 211 (2)Apr 22-22

Hote: Wyndham Grand Athens, Greece, room 358 (2) Apr 23-24

Bus Drivers: Marinos

Guide: Evi Patsla

Travel Guide: Tony Tannousis's Foots

Photos

5784 Airline ticket @5;02 AM

5785 Athens, Greece Sparto Lousta, Athens, Greece

5786-5801 Frankfurt, Germany 10:21–11:30 A.M.

Boats

April 20, Day Cruise Ship Evermore cruise visit 3 islands: Hydra, Aegina, Poros 

April 21, Ferry to Patmos on Bluestar Patmos

April 23, Speedboat to Samos Letose Express