Spring in Tennessee

Spring in Tennesse usually comes early but this year it arrived a little bit late than expected. The weather is not that great but still Thankful for everyday life's blessings. I'm done with the Spring photo shot for my little ones so I am thankful for that while I am writing this we have a severe weather and tornado watched   in my area.Let's paused and pray for every one safety.

Well, let's enjoy the Spring in Tennessee and here are some photos I took in my backyard.


Spring is birds singing their heads off
Spring is a beautiful season full of color
Spring is the constant war between the sun and rain
Spring is the light at the end of the long winter tunnel
Spring is the season that brings back life 
My backyard
Cherry Blossoms ( if I am correct)
You'll be happy once you see this blooming.
Dandelion

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Our Day in Bowers School Farm

Bowers School Farm is ope  on the public for that day  so after running our errands mother-in-law and I with little Travelentz went to the Spring Open Barn  and Egg   Hunt for a day. The event was free but there are some fee on some activities like pony rides,bottle feed the goat wagon rides and more.

It is located at 1219 E. Square Lake Rd. Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

Our Day:
Actually, my mother-in-law did not know the program all day in the farm as she only knew there would be animals and you have a chance to pet the animals if you want.When we arrived at the Bowers School, the parking space are full and we have to parked outside the school and walked.

We did not bring anything for our little ones so we decided not to buy a ticket but we still see the animals and enjoy the beautiful day on the farm.

The queue to get a ticket was long and the good news it is moving really good and all the people are so good to follow the line.
You will see some animals inside the barn.
This was closed during our visit. 
some animals in the Bowers School.
The flowers.

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Visiting The 'Golden Temple' Of Amritsar


The temple of Amritsar, also known as the Harmandir Sahib or Golden Temple, is the centre of the Sikh faith. Most Sikhs will visit the temple at least once in their lives. It's the most prominent of the various Gurdwaras, which are places of worship for Sikhs. As is usual for a Gurdwara, the temple is built with four doors, one on each side. This symbolises the way Sikhs are welcoming to people of all faiths and the temple itself is open to everyone.

The original temple in Amritsar took almost 20 years to build at the end of the 16th and start of the 17th century. The present temple, in the same location, was built in 1764. It's made from white marble covered in gold leaf, hence the name, used more commonly by Westerners, of the Golden Temple.


Unlike Hindu temples, the temple of Amritsar is built on the lower ground level. The design of the temple combines aspects of both Hindu and Muslim architecture and can be viewed as the first example of a distinct Sikh architectural style. It's surrounded by a sacred pool of water and approached by a marble causeway. Visitors will normally begin or finish their trip by following a clockwise path around the pool, a journey known as the Parikrama or Pardakshna.

The temple houses the original manuscript of the Guru Granth Sahib, the main religious text of the Sikh faith. It's displayed on a raised platform and Sikhs will cover their heads and remove their shoes when in its presence, also bowing their heads in respect. Visitors to the temple, including non-Sikhs, are also expected to remove their shoes, cover their heads (head scarves are available) and to be seated while listening to Gurbani, the readings of Skih texts. Alcohol, tobacco and meat are all no-nos in the temple.

As well as the temple itself, a surrounding complex includes a visitor centre and the Central Sikh Museum though bear in mind the museum contains some graphically violent imagery. You can also visit Guru-ka-Langar, a dining hall where volunteers provide a simple but free meal to anybody, regardless of faith. The busiest days at the temple come on major Sikh occasions, most notably Vaisakhi in April. This is when Sikh's celebrate the formal founding of the Panth Khalsa, the body made up of all initiated Sikhs. The occasion also acts as a form of harvest festival.

The temple has been the centre of controversy. Believing the temple to be a base of a movement working for a secession from India, prime minister Indira Gandhi ordered an armed attack on the temple. This led to her assassination several months later by two of her bodyguards.

The area immediately surrounding the temple is officially blocked off to motorized vehicles, so you'll often need to walk the final 10 minutes or so. Amritsar itself is well connected by most forms of transport to the rest of India, while within the city rickshaws and taxis are the most common way to get around. There's some accommodation within the complex itself, though many visitors prefer hotels in Amritsar near a railway station or airport.


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Golden Pheasant

This year would be more interesting as we bought an annual membership in the Nashville Zoo. Little Travelentz loves animals and she's been bugging us to go in the zoo when we stayed at home. Well, we could not blame her,the weather starting to warm-up and we gotta go where ever our feet brings us. We don't need any fancy nor to pay more bucks just to enjoy the weather.

Some of the photos I took when we visited last Sunday were the Golden Pheasant, I think it is new,I did not remember they have it last couple of years.

Golden Pheasant:
The bird attracts me because of its color.Here are some of the facts about Golden Pheasant:
  • Adult male is 90–105 cm in length.
  • You can find it in  native to forests in mountainous areas of western China, and elsewhere.
  • Males have a golden-yellow crest with a hint of red at the tip. The face, throat, chin, and the sides of neck are rusty tan.
  • The female is much less showy, with a duller mottled brown plumage.
  • The female tail has longer tail 60-80 cm length.
  • Both males and females have yellow legs and yellow bills.
  • Lay 8-12 eggs at a time and will then incubate these for around 22–23 days.
  • Life Span 5-6 years.



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Traveling Abroad

The first time I traveled abroad was Thailand and I was single. I still have the best memoirs as I lived and work at the same time- my first travel  taste in abroad;scary and full of excitement at the same time. Well, it's my first adventure world, I don't know what to expect at all.

Today,I am married and  has one child,traveling abroad is included in our itinerary to travel,perhaps we don't know  the right time,yet. I went home in my hometown last 2010 and I sat on the plane for almost 24 hours.

Some basic reminder when you want to travel abroad with your family:
Keep in mind,every country is different so you need to plan ahead of time what you want to do, bring and things to consider:
  • Bring snacks of your kids.
  • You have to plan if stroller is important in one country or Ask yourself, can you survived without a stroller?
  • Bring at least two luggage where your husband can taking care of it and you will be the one to taking care your child. 
  • Car seat-Make sure you understand the law about car seat in other country. Asia don't use car seat.
  • Travel insurance-I prefer to buy travel insurance to have peace of mind.
  • Expect the unexpected.
  • Be patience.
  • Remember you're in a different country so don't bring your attitude.
  • Watch and learn.
Traveling abroad is excitement once you plan and do your research before traveling.I usually booked our tour during our arrival in the hotel were I can get a good discount and I don't like to rush myself without seeing the area.
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Tulip Festivals,Cheekwood Botanical Garden

It was a first weekend of April,the sky is blue and the sun came out with no winds and the good news we don't need to wear a winter coat at all. If you go to Cheekwood Botanical Garden,Tennessee you will see all the different types of Tulips and all of it are pretty amazing.This is my first time to see all the different kinds of Tulips even husband likes it.

I love flowers, most of us am sure-no one could resist the smell and the beauty of flowers.I asked my husband to visit the Cheekwood for Tulips and thankfully he says, yes to me. (HAPPY WIFE **wink**).

I visited the Cheekwood  many times and I like their garden even their exhibits,this year my spouse and I decided to buy an annual pass so we will enjoy all year round activities they offer.

What is Tulip:
If you look at the dictionary "a bulbous spring-flowering plant of the lily family, with boldly colored cup-shaped flowers." 

Well, I don't really understand as of now, if we have winter or spring-go figure what I mean and am sure you will understand it.

Types of Tulips:
It says, it has around 75 wild species of Tulip. Here are some of photos I took during our visit at Cheekwood Botanical Garden last Sunday:

Tulip blue heron
Tulip Menton
Tulip Lighting Sun
Tulip City of Vancouver
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Have you ride a Hot Air Balloon?

I was been asking hubby to try this real adventure of riding a hot air balloon-sad to say hubby is scared with height and I can't convinced him to ride with me. I really want to ride the hot air balloon with husband and little Travelentz but they are both scary cat. 

Last week, my daughter was playing at the backyard and we saw the hot air balloon and I ran inside the house to get my camera. 

Here are some Photos I took:
I used cannon DSLR T1i with lenses of 18-255 sigma
I really wish to ride one day.
I showed the photos to my husband and he just says;You can ride if you want-hahaha-meaning I have to go by myself.

Riding a Hot air balloon is a real fun and adventure.I just hope I am brave enough to ride so I have experience to share how it feels at the top. I know parasailing is fun and I already did it once.


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Understanding The Different Types of Cycling Injury Claims

The Olympic Games certainly brought out the cyclists.  Thanks to the likes of Bradley Wiggins, Chris Hoy and Chris Froome, cycling has been high on the keep-fit agenda over the past few years. Road cycling is now at an all-time high and there have been lots of petitions and requests for the UK roads to be made safer and better places for cyclists. More cycle lanes, better road and safety awareness, and more education. Yet, with this also comes a rise in cycling injuries. Cycling injury claims are high. There are thousands of people injured whilst cycling in the UK, each year. Cycling can be extremely dangerous, especially if safety measures are not adhered to.  



Why do cycling accidents happen? 

Cycling accidents occur for a number of different reasons: 
Animals in the road
Pedestrians
Motorists
Defective equipment
Poor roads
Lack of provisions for cyclists
That’s why it is important that when cycling you take the right safety measures and do all you can to avoid injuring yourself in an accident. 

Different types of cycling injury claims:
There are a multitude of cycling injuries that people claim for. Regular aches and pains when cycling are common, but if you have been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, and been injured as a result, then you are eligible to claim for compensation. 

Head injury 
It could simply be minor cuts and abrasions or it could be something far more serious.  Head injuries can cause delayed complications. The best way to avoid or prevent a head injury is by wearing a cycling helmet. Always seek medical advice as soon as possible. 

Facial injury 
An injury to the face can cause dental issues and may leave scars. Being injured in a cycling injury that causes facial scarring and damage can leave the individual in severe discomfort and also very vulnerable.

Ankle injuries 
Twisted ankles can be extremely painful and often occur when the cyclist crashes into the ground on impact.

Knee injuries 
Injuries to the knee are quite common. If you fall off your bike you may find that your knee is damaged. This can affect your ability to walk and to exercise or cycle in the future. 

Psychological trauma 

Cycling accidents can leave behind more than just a physical scar. Some cyclists who have experienced accidents find that they are psychologically scarred as a result. It is important that this area of injury is also investigated before a compensation claim is filed. 

Speaking to bike lawyers who understand the effects of a cycling accident will help you to understand how you can claim compensation. The compensation is there to help you recover any loss of earnings, damage to yourself, your bike and any adjustments that need to be made to your life from here on out.  

Make sure you speak to a bike lawyer who can help assess the implications of your bike accident and how you can gain the right level of compensation for your injuries.   
Carry on Cycling can help you with your claim, get in touch today.


Sarah Mcarthy is a writer for Carry on Cycling. You can find her on Google Plus here.
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The Top 5 Safety Features While Traveling in Your SUV

When it comes to protecting you and your family, you want the best. Perhaps you've invested in a security system for your home. Likely, you have health insurance. Hey, your dog probably has health insurance. You make safety efforts in almost every aspect of your life, so why wouldn't you want protective qualities in your car?
A two-ton steel vehicle needs high-tech safety components. SUVs are no exception. Your Mercedes SUV may have welfare features that you aren't even aware of. Check out the top five safety features of your SUV.

Stability Control:

Image via Flickr by order_242

Due to the center of gravity, larger vehicles are susceptible to rollover. That's why stability control components are so important. Luxury SUVs come equipped with this basic feature.  

Car and Driver tests found that the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class vehicle, "Might be the most restrictive stability-control program this tester has encountered. Achieving max grip is as easy as flooring the throttle and turning the wheel. Electronics keep the wagon upright." Rest assured, if you take an unexpected sharp turn, stability control will have your back.

Blind Spot Assist:
Blind Spot Assist is the kind of futuristic feature you'd expect from a top-of-the-line SUV. A large vehicle often comes with decreased visibility. That's why an extra set of electronic eyes is so necessary.

According to Mercedes, "When radar sensors in the rear bumper detect that a vehicle is alongside yours, a red icon lights up in the side mirror to let you know." Staying aware of the cars around you helps to keep you in control. Blind Spot Assist ensures you're informed of your fellow drivers at all times—from all angles.

Lane Keeping Assist:
Lane Keeping Assist works together with blind spot protection for additional safety. J.D Power tests note that Lane Keeping Assist actively identifies situations where your vehicle may inadvertently drift out of the current lane. The technology applies slight and selective braking to avoid an accident. It's a feature that accounts for unexpected distractions that could result in major mishaps.

Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist are must-have highway safety features. Accidents that occur at the highest speeds often result in the greatest tragedies. Without these extra details, you may find there's more to worry about on the road.

PRE-SAFE:
Pre-Safe is like a crystal ball for your car's computer. It's a predictive system that uses sensors to foretell and react to an impending accident. In the moments leading up to an accident, certain activity—such as skidding—can warn the Pre-Safe system. Your car becomes your guardian angel in the moments before a crash.

According to Mercedes, "It then tightens the front seat belts, adjusts the front head restraints and passenger seat, and can even close the windows and sunroof, all to better prepare the occupants for more effective results from the restraint systems." These extra details could mean the difference of a cushion or a brick when it comes to impact.

DISTRONIC PLUS Adaptive Cruise Control:
In the same way Brake Assist and Lane Keeping Assist work together, so do Pre-Safe and Distronic Plus. In fact, on some level, all of your SUVs safety features work together. The Distronic Plus system uses sensors to see ahead of your car to predict traffic patterns that might cause unexpected breaking.

It's the moment that danger is sensed that Pre-Safe kicks in. The manufacturer notes, "PRE-SAFE Brake feature automatically initiates up to 40 percent braking power, audibly alerts the driver, and engages the PRE-SAFE system. When the driver brakes, 100 percent braking pressure is instantly applied." In some cases, full brake pressure can be applied if the driver doesn't react to the initial Pre-Safe security measures.

Carefully curated safety features can act as a figurative force field around your car, protecting you and your family from the unexpected dangers of the road. Mercedes SUVs come equipped with and offer options for state-of-the-art safety technology. It's time to get on board.

What's your must-have safety feature? Which feature could you do without? Share your thoughts in the comments below. 
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How to Travel on a Budget While in College

College budgeting isn't all Ramen noodles and secondhand textbooks. There has to be room for an entertainment allowance, and enough so that you can escape the trusty 10 by 15 from time to time. Traveling in college is all about pinching pennies and holding on tight to every last experience life affords. It is possible to be a tourist on the cheap, especially as a student.

If you're ready to pack your bags and see something new, then consider these seven tips about how to travel on a budget while in college.
Start a Digital Change Jar:

Image via Flickr by CollegeDegrees360
To travel – even on a budget – you should start saving. A bit of money set aside each week or month will grow over time. However, keeping a change jar in your dorm room isn't exactly the most convenient or safe way to save.

Start a digital change jar. Many banks offer programs that promote automatic savings. There's even an app for it – several, in fact. The more you save, the better your chances of traveling in the future. Whether you're traveling at low or no cost, you should always make sure you have emergency money.

Choose Monuments Over Museums:
If you want to travel on a budget, plan your trip around free attractions. Many cities offer free or low-cost pay-what-you-can tours of historic sites and monuments. Research the city and find out what the locals like.
Free services such as Trip Advisor allow you to search by city and scope out "Things to Do" in a particular location. The "Things to Do" section includes an organized list of attractions, as well reviews. The reviews come from locals and seasoned tourists alike, so it's easy to learn more about the sites that you will or won't spend money on.

Use AirBnB:
Figuring out where you'll stay when you travel often leads to the biggest money-headache. There are alternatives to pricey hotels and communal hostels. You can get a lot more for your money with Airbnb and other similar services such as Couchsurfing.org.

Airbnb lets you browse through user-created listings for accommodations in specific neighborhoods. The fees are often much less than a hotel, and sometimes you can even have an entire apartment to yourself. If you want to spend close to nothing, couch-surfing is the way to go. Couch-surfing is usually free, but the host may expect you to pitch in with food or chores. The bonus: you have a built-in tour guide with advice on what to do and where to go.

Offer to Transport a Vehicle:
The opportunity to transport a car may not always coincide with your traveling fantasies. This option is best for a weekend getaway; however, there are moments when the stars align and that cross-country road trip gets paid for on someone else's dime.

Check the newspaper or local websites for car transportation requests. Before you go, request to see all the documentation proving the requester actually owns the car. Once you've established that it's a legal transaction, start haggling. Inquire what costs will be covered and if he or she will arrange return transportation.


Another option is to travel over a university break, and hitch a ride with someone who is from the place you want to visit. You can find people through university message boards, word of mouth, and from newspaper/online ads. You'll probably want to rent a car for your trip home so you have more freedom to explore, and you won't have to depend on your original ride for the rest of your trip.  


Travel Long-Distance by Train:

Image via Flickr by kevin dooley
Traveling long distances by train instead of plane could add up to big savings in the long run. Sure it's less comfortable and the trip takes longer, but you'll have the opportunity to see more with money to spare. Traveling by train is also great for a cross-country experience. It's especially convenient for cheaply Euro-tripping from country to country.

Many long-distance train tickets offer nothing more than a seat, so plan accordingly. Bring enough food and comfort items to last the duration of your trip. For longer trips, it is possible to request a private train cabin; however it will significantly increase the cost.

Find Free WiFi:
Finding free WiFi is more important if you're overseas, since most smartphones come with data plans for easy communication. If you can't cover your WiFi or communication costs through any of the means above, it's time to track down the places where you can use it for free. Using free WiFi allows you to keep in touch with your friends and family without spending money on international calling cards.

Cafes and book stores are popular places to connect for free, but keep in mind that services in these locations are often reserved for paying customers. In order to play fair, order the cheapest item on the menu and spend minimal time on the Internet. After all, you came to the city to explore the town, not Facebook.

Teach to Travel Further:

Image via Flickr by DFAT photo library
Looking for a long-term travel experience? Teaching English abroad is a productive way for college students to travel on a budget – especially since it often comes with academic credit. In many cases, the cost of your stay overseas is completely covered and you'll receive a modest salary. However, most students are responsible for securing roundtrip airfare.

If you're intimidated by the price of the plane ticket, have no fear. There are ways to cover that cost too. Consider creating an Indiegogo campaign to raise money. Friends and family are more likely to fund a noble cause than a spring break party trip.

Teaching English abroad may be a cheap way to travel, but it offers a wealth of experience. In addition to the fulfilling opportunity to work with children, you'll also typically stay with a host family. Living with a host family will offer invaluable insight into a culture you may never get to learn about otherwise – especially firsthand.

Now that you're in top shape to start your very own DIY travel movement, it's time to start exploring. What are your favorite budget travel hacks and tips? What are your must-see destinations to see on a dime? Share your experiences in the comments below. 

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Photography: Frankenmuth Fountain,Michigan

I've been  in Frankenmuth,Michigan for many times  and I so love the little German town.I like everything in the area, it is well maintain and every time I visit I seen some new decorations.

I know most of you knows I  like Fountain and I took this Fountain in Frankenmuth last Fall. 
The Fountain
Find out more here my Michigan's Adventure


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Not sure where to go in Italy?

Italy is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. This beautiful country has so many regions to explore, and in each you will find delicious food and wine, wonderful beaches, warm summer weather, historic buildings, exquisite art and a unique culture.

However, many people have difficulty deciding where in the country to go. So where should you visit on your holiday? One of the best options is to see a number of places on the same trip by spending a few days here and a few days there. That way you can get a real flavor of different parts of Italy.
Here are five cities that you could base your trip around when you book your Italian holiday.


1. Rome
Rome does not need much of an introduction. The capital of the ancient world is a city rich in culture and history, and it is home to such world-famous attractions as the Colosseum, St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain (made famous in several films including Three Coins in a Fountain and Roman Holiday).

When you visit Rome, why not combine a trip to the city with somewhere nearby? There are many places that you can travel to from Rome with ease, such as Sorrento with its stunning beaches, allowing you to see more of Italy on your holiday.

2. Venice
Venice is the ultimate romantic destination and a popular stop on multi-centre Italian holidays, like those from Italian holiday specialists Bellarome. Who could fail to enjoy gently floating along its picturesque canals in a gondola, stopping off in art galleries and ancient buildings, and soaking up the atmosphere?

Venice was an important commerce centre for centuries, and it is also known for its art and music. In fact, it is one of the most cultural places in Italy, and that is saying something.

Some of the must-see attractions here include Piazza San Marco, the Grand Canal and San Marco Basilica.

3. Florence
Florence is the regional capital of Tuscany, which is itself one of the most popular regions to visit in Italy. It was once home to Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Dante and many other masters, making it perhaps the best place to visit for art lovers.

Visit the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace, the Uffizi Gallery, the duomo and Michelangelo's David, and soak it all up.

4. Pisa
Famed for its leaning tower, you will soon realise that there is more to Pisa than its iconic landmark building. Visit Campo dei Miracoli, 'the Field of Miracles', to see the best attractions in the city. In this area you will find the cathedral, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Museo delle Sinopie and the Camposanto burial ground.

5. Milan
Milan is the financial hub of Italy. It is a modern, cosmopolitan city that is known for its food, football, nightlife, shopping and, most of all, fashion. Visit during one of the two fashion shows each year and you will find the place buzzing.

Some of the main attractions here include the huge Duomo, La Scala Opera House and the Brera Art Gallery. Perhaps the best of all, however is The Last Supper, the famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci. See it at the Santa Maria delle Grazie convent.

Take your pick:
These are just five of the best cities to visit in Italy, but there are many more to discover, including many smaller towns and villages throughout the countryside and along the coast. If you decide to base your trip around one of these cities, make sure you visit some other places in the surrounding areas to see more of Italy while you are in the country.
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