Commercial Time #4: Twitter

I am attempting to access my Twitter account.  Since I have changed my phone number I am unable to provide a phone number Twitter will accept.  I am in an endless loop when I decide to google “How to permanently delete your Twitter account.”   I guess they still want my business as directions appear and a new web site.

Visiting the myriad of options for this claim I receive a box where I can type in my concerns.  In 3 to 5 days I will have an answer.  I am encouraged and while this blog is not humorous, I am desperately trying to find something funny here.

In my note to a  human Twitter helper, and let’s hope they are, I state my age and lack of computer knowledge.  I lean on their sympathies stating, “think of me as your grandmother in your response,” and, “I try all I can before I access your services.”  If anything perhaps this will give a chuckle to that call center in the sky.

In a previous communique with another company I asked the call center staffer if they were a bot.  Their response was, “I have a heart and lungs.”  This was nice to know as I realize they have a nerve as well since I just hit one.  Note to self:  always assume the individual on the other end is human. 

I need to be more tolerant and send loving thoughts to those working with us nimkinpoops on a daily basis.  They certainly have a tough job. I wonder what they do to rid their angst. Do they drink? Do they have a wall full of old people’s pictures that they throw darts at?

I hear back from Twitter with several questions I have no idea how to answer so I lie. In 3 to 5 days I will know. I await their reply.

Hawk’s Nest State Park

This state park was created by Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Civilian Conservation Corps, (CCC), in 1939. Currently, the Park is undergoing a renovation of the original structures from that era.

An original Civil Conservation Corps Building which is a bathroom. There was a car show during the visit.

The Park is lovely in its views and hiking trails. It has several pavillons for picnics and the views of the New River Canyon are superb. Vast water power is available from this source.

In 1912, Chief Justice Thurgood Marshall visited the Park and because of this the Park is also known as Marshall’s Pillar.

Summerville Dam

In 1966, President Johnson and Lady Bird dedicated the Summerville Dam. From this much benefit came to the State and the lovely Summerville Lake continues to be a natural resource of beauty.

The Dam
Part of Dam Construction
The area between the trees is the back of the Dam.

Then the Lake views..

The gravel to the left is the edge of the Dam.

And one of the hiking areas.

Another view from the back of the Dam.

Let us conclude with President Johnson’s eloquent remarks at the 1966 Dam dedication, “As we look out at the magnificent new dam and reservoir to our backs, I have renewed hope that still other resources-the power of science and the determination of man-will, along with a little prayer and a good deal of dynamite, empower us to quench the thirst of generations to come.”

Thurmond Railroad

I’ve learned in my travels you never know what you will come across in following the scenic site signs. This was another fascinating find while driving along a narrow 2 lane road for over 10 miles. However, what else was I going to do today?? And here is one of the beautiful sites I came across while driving…

Then out of the blue a train station appeared and a gal in a NPS hat..

Upon chatting her up I was informed this was the Thurmond Historic District. As the National Park brochure states, “in the early 1900s this coal boomtown generated the most freight revenue on the C&O Railway. The restored 1904 depot is a park visitor center.” A train still travels daily through the depot though the town abandoned.

There were many families here and the kids were going gaga over the site as were their parents. Placards in the buildings explain what life was like during this time. Picnic tables are here for dining . What a fun family event. Check it out and follow those scenic site signs. You never know what you’ll come across.

Smoke Hole Caverns

These caverns were used by the Seneca Indians. They were named for the smoke which came from the front of the cavern when game was smoked by the Indians. The caverns were beautiful, and awesome. Well worth the price of admission.

Smoke Hole Caverns also has an attached motel, minature golf, and a retail store where real damage can be done. As I said in the blog before they really sell jeweled cowboy boots…

Commercial over, and no recompense received, here are some pictures of these incredible works of natures.

Fish are maintained in the cavern through the efforts of the owners. This is not a natural phenomenon, but nice touch.

And let’s end our visit with one last look at those incredible rocks..

Seneca Rocks

This place has everything to get away from it all. It has hiking, lakes, fishing, and you can even find a great pair of studded Cowboy Boots at the Smoky Hole Caverns Resort store. All joke and aside here’s the real reason for the visit:

It’s a bit of a jaunt to the top of Seneca Rocks so walk slowly, wear good shoes, bring water, and travel with others.

The views from the top are spectacular…

Then returning to the bottom another treat as you gaze behind..

There is a historic home with an herb garden on site. The house was closed but gazing through the windows gave insight into life during this era.

New River Gorge

This is another West Virginia National Park. The New River Bridge is the jewel in the crown as at 875 feet. It is the third largest suspension bridge in the country. This suspension bridge is one of three in the world which are similar. They are in Maine and Slovenia and I have been to all three. Guess I get the booby prize. Here’s some pics, indulge me..

The Visitors Center was closed during my visit, however, I meandered to the bottom of the gorge finding beaches to sit at as I watched the white water rafting folks return from their journey. There also are spots to camp in nature without cost, hiking trails, and an array of sites to take in.

To access further information:

Fayetteville

Leaving the Park I was unable to find a spot for food. Driving home I located the town of Fayetteville and the Secret Sandwich Society. Cute place, good food, pricey, but nice to sit outside on their lawn and relax. Here are some pics:

While waiting for my order I checked out the Welcome to Fayetteville, WV brochure and its claims, “Coolest Small Town,” certainly seem to be true. This adventure map shows offerings of yoga, escape games, theater, and other fun events. Due to covid unsure what was open, but check it out during non-covid times, (and they will come… have faith).

Will close with one of those wonderful West Virginia sunsets.

Enjoy.

Monongahela National Forest/Cranberry Glades/Gauley River

This national forest is located in the Alleghany Mountains in the eastern section of West Virginia. It is over 921,000 acres and to drive through it seems endless.

The Forest provides nature camping, hiking, streams, and plant life. Established in 1920, it is an ecologically diverse area. Cranberry Glades Botanical area is one of the most fascinating part of this forest.

These Glades or wetlands are usually found in Canada, however, due to the unique acidic West Virginia conditions these glades house unusual plants, and many bugs. Take the walk on wooden planks through Glades, but bring the bug spray, watch for snakes, and adhere to the signs which warn to stay on the planks.

Gauley River

This is another facet of the forest, however this is where the motto, “Wild and Wonderful West Virginia,” comes in. The Gauley is a 105 mile long river and has numerous whitewater areas. It also has nature camping, at no cost.

Me and the grand dog on the Gauley

Stonewall Jackson Dam

Located off Route 79 south of Weston is the Stonewall Jackson Dam. This is a beautiful site with a small picnic area, and an interesting hike to the top of the Dam.

The Dam

Views from the top of the Dam at the end of the nature walk.

And lovely flowers greet upon return.

Further down the road is the Andrew Jackson State Park and past that a lake where kayaking abounds. Stay tuned..