Monthly Archives: May 2019

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Looking For a Barber In Bloomington, Illinois? Try Bold & Barber

If you’re looking for a barber in the Bloomington-Normal area, I’d like to recommend Bold & Barber.  This new establishment is owned and operated by Mike Epley, a lifelong resident of the community.

Mike has cut my hair for many years while he worked at Shorty’s Barbershop in Uptown Normal.  He recently struck out on his own with Bold & Barber.

I’ve always found Mike to be a friendly, even-tempered person who is quick to laugh and easy to talk with.  He’s a family man, so we have that in common, but he’s also a sports fan and knows his movies and  TV.  In short, you’ll have no trouble finding a topic of conversation.

His new shop is very clean with super cool decor.  The front is made up almost entirely of windows, which allows ample natural light.  It’s also got high ceilings and plenty of room to move.  It’s the kind of place I wouldn’t mind hanging out!  Take a look at it by clicking HERE.

Furthermore, he takes online appointments through his Facebook page.  This may not seem like a big deal, but I find it incredibly convenient.  I don’t know why, but it’s always hard for me to find time to call.  Check out the Bold & Barber Facebook page HERE.

If you’re in need of a haircut, give Bold & Barber a try.  You can visit the Bold & Barber website by clicking this link: https://www.boldandbarber.com/

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Are you in need of a new epic series? Try Dr. Nekros, a trilogy that I like to describe as Moonlighting meets The X-Files. Kindle: https://amzn.to/2X3S7vO or NOOK: http://bit.ly/2JTFXm1

 

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World’s Largest Toy Museum: Branson, Baby! – Our 2019 Spring Break (Part 13)

I’ve had a love affair with toys my entire life.  I’m not exactly sure what they represent to me or why I’m still drawn to them, but I’m always game to check out the toy aisles with my kids!  In fact, before my children were born, I still collected certain toys that aligned with my interest in super heroes and literary characters.

When we were planning our spring break trip to Branson, I saw that they touted the world’s largest toy museum–that was literally the name of the facility!  I’m afraid it’s no exaggeration when I declared to my wife and children that this attraction would be a must-see for us.  My kids thought it sounded cool, my wife had no interest in it at all but decided to humor me, and so we put it on the calendar.

Let me tell you–this is truly the world’s largest toy museum!  It takes up no less than three separate structures.  We first entered a building that housed a great deal of automotive and transportation toys, as well as an expansive train set managed by a local club.  The people in this building were very friendly, especially the older gentleman curating the train set.  Of course, none of us were that into these kinds of exhibits, so we made our way to the next building after a quick jaunt.

The second building we visited housed what we would consider more traditional toys, but some of these toys dated back to the 1800s!  This building had an intricate BB gun collection, as well as many toys depicting the Old West such as the Lone Ranger and Zorro.  Furthermore, this building offered incredible displays featuring the original GI Joes, Barbie, Star Wars, Star Trek, and toy soldiers going back many, many decades.  One side of the building dedicated itself to checkers through the eras, which was frankly amazing.  There was also a section made to replicate actual rooms with toys in them from the 1950s.  These were donated by Paul Harvey and his family.  We talked with several people in this particular building, some of whom were the folks who drove across the country to procure these toys.  They were extremely kind and inviting.

We finally made our way to the last building.  This place housed more modern toys and also contained a gift shop.  I found my super hero toys in this area, so I obviously had a great time.  They also had Happy Meal toy displays which were pretty cool.  Other exhibits included sports toys, Masters of the Universe, Cabbage Patch Dolls, Transformers, and much, much more.  Interestingly enough, an area within this building is devoted to Harold Bell Wright, the author of The Shepard Of the Hills, which is set in the Branson area.

If you’re into toys at all, I highly recommend paying The World’s Largest Toy Museum a visit.  Not quite sure if it’s for you?  They have an extensive gallery for your viewing at this link: https://worldslargesttoymuseum.com/gallery/

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Are you in need of a new epic series? Try Dr. Nekros, a trilogy that I like to describe as Moonlighting meets The X-Files. Kindle: https://amzn.to/2X3S7vO or NOOK: http://bit.ly/2JTFXm1

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The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure: Branson, Baby! – Our 2019 Spring Break (Part 12)

While in Branson during Spring Break, we decided to check out The Butterfly Palace and Rainforest Adventure.  As is almost everything in Branson, it proved very easy to find.  When we first arrived, we entered the main doors which fed into a large circular room with a very high-ceiling.  Wide, gradual stairs lined this round room and led to the second floor.  This entrance area also doubled as a tastefully arranged gift shop.

We were immediately greeted warmly by the staff as we bought our entry tickets.  They also offered clear suggestions and instructions regarding the facility.

As we moved to the left, we found a room housing several lizards, turtles, fish, frogs, and even giant cockroaches.  They call this the Science Center and they will, at prescribed times, put on little presentations and allow visitors to hold the creatures.

We next made our way into the Emerald Forest Mirror Maze.  It is exactly what it sounds like and I highly recommend you experience it.  We had an absolute blast navigating our way through it.  Keep those hands out in front of you, though.  It’s very easy to walk right into a mirror!

After that we ascended the steps in order to enjoy the Banyan Tree Adventure.  This small room is set up to replicate the vines of the Banyan Tree.  They are actually green bungee cords, but they are so numerous and thick that it ended up being quite challenging.  Once my kids got the hang of it, though, they were able to fly through them.  This is a small room and will probably take you no more than a minute or two to traverse, but it’s fun.

Finally, we sought the main event — The Butterfly Aviary!  This is a USDA controlled area, so they take your visit very seriously.  You will go through one room and wait for the doors to shut before you access the aviary.  When you decide to leave the aviary, they will ask you to spin around so they can be sure no butterflies escape.  However, there is nothing to stress about.  They are so very friendly and they want you to interact with the butterflies.  In fact, they will offer you little sweet sticks to entice a visit from our winged friends.  My wife and oldest child loved this part of the Palace.  Because the butterflies will land on your head, your back, your shoulders, or anywhere on your body, my youngest wasn’t so cracked up about it.  She didn’t stay in the aviary very long.  We headed back out to the Banyan Tree Adventure.  Also, be aware that this room is rather on the warm side.  If you’re wearing a sweatshirt or jacket, you’ll want to take it off before entering.

Before leaving, we watched a short film about butterfly migration in the Rainforest Theater.  We learned a great deal from this short video, and I would recommend that you give it a watch.  They offer different shows at roughly twenty minute increments, so take a look at the placard to see what appeals to you the most.

If you have little ones, I would consider this a priority visit.  Though it’s not a large facility, it packs quite a punch.  There really is something for everyone at The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure.

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Are you in need of a new epic series? Try Dr. Nekros, a trilogy that I like to describe as Moonlighting meets The X-Files. Kindle: https://amzn.to/2X3S7vO or NOOK: http://bit.ly/2JTFXm1

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The Pergola Project: Our Experience With LKM Landscaping

We worked with LKM several years ago on an outdoor lighting project that made us very happy, so when it came time to renovate our backyard patio, they were the only company we called.

The primary reason we called LKM focused around two issues. Firstly, we have three trees that outgrew the brick circles LKM laid around them. It should be noted that LKM initially told us our circles would be too small due to the impending growth of the trees, and they were right.  The roots eventually pushed the bricks up, making them uneven.  The diameter of the circles needed to be increased. Secondly, the nine-year-old back patio settled incorrectly which resulted in a large crack. (It should be mentioned that LKM did not lay this patio—our builder did.) We asked LKM if they could enlarge the patio area in such a way that it could comfortably accommodate eight to ten people. I also floated the idea of a pergola because the sun beats down on our backyard as it sets.

LKM sent Daniel McClure, whom we’ve worked with before, and he took into account our needs and ideas. He soon drew up a set of plans that we absolutely fell in love with. Now, to be honest, he gave us the Cadillac of plans. He probably assumed that we would scale back certain aspects. For the most part, though, we kept everything he designed. We plan to raise our kids in our current house, as well as to retire in our current house, and so we looked at it as a worthwhile investment that would increase the quality of our lives.

From start to finish, it took LKM about two weeks to complete the project. This pace amazed us because they took down an old tree and removed its stump; planted five pine trees; tore out and replaced the brick surrounding three Autumn Blazes; broke up our small concrete patio and replaced it with one about four times its size; cut a pattern into the concrete of the new patio; installed new lighting around the new patio; wired that lighting; carried in the pieces of the pergola, stained the pergola, and constructed the pergola from the ground up; regraded a low spot; and planted dozens of new plants. Most amazingly, the same crew did all of this work. The guys planting the prairie grass were the same guys cutting the wood for the pergola and putting it together!

Furthermore, the LKM crew worked relentlessly. They’d start at about 7:30 a.m. and work to 5:00 p.m. Other than a lunch break, they pretty much powered through the day, every day. And though we didn’t interact with the crew very much, they were perfectly friendly when we did. We found them all to be pleasant, accommodating, and respectful of the property.

Now, just to be clear, this project proved very expensive. However, we knew the work would be done correctly, we knew LKM guarantees their efforts, and, frankly, we like working with LKM. This is a company that takes pride in its projects, its quality, and its customer service.

If you’re thinking of completing an outdoor project, I completely recommend LKM. You can pay their website a visit by clicking HERE, and you can also contact our project manager, Daniel McClure, by calling this number: (309) 454-3600

Here are a few before and after photographs. Let me know what you think! (The fire pit and furniture are from Sam’s.)

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Are you in need of a new epic series? Try Dr. Nekros, a trilogy that I like to describe as Moonlighting meets The X-Files. Kindle: https://amzn.to/2X3S7vO or NOOK: http://bit.ly/2JTFXm1

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The Main Reason I Love HBO’s Game of Thrones

I’ve been thinking a great deal about Game of Thrones since its conclusion.  Specifically, I’ve been trying to pinpoint its most captivating quality.  I love it.  You love it.  Most of the world loves it.  But why?  Is it the characters?  The actors?  The fights?  The special effects?  The plot?  Maybe even the dialogue?

It’s only since I started reading the first book a few days ago that I’ve been able to determine what I actually love best about it.

Of course, it must be said that I love books first and foremost.  TV and movies are wonderful, but literature is where my imagination gets to run wild.  My job is to envision whatever the author puts down on the page.  I have no budgetary limits set upon my special effects.  I have no location concerns or production issues.  I read what the author wrote, and then my imagination is off to the races.

However, in some cases, such as with Game of Thrones, the author is writing details about a reality so foreign, so extraordinary, that my imagination has no context from which to draw upon in order to formulate an image.  Yes, I can generally come up with something, but nothing that does the text justice.  Sure, I know what a wolf is, but is that the same as a dire wolf?  (Turns out … yup, it pretty much is the same.)

The creatives behind the Game of Thrones program have to show us these details, though, and so they must work out the nuances of clothing, castles, armor, weaponry, magical creatures–even chambers and cutlery!  They must take into account the climate of the various settings and depict an environment suitable to the source material.  They have to actually work out the cadence of languages and the visual practices of religions.

Game of Thrones has essentially created an alternate reality for us to behold.  They don’t just give us a single castle, or a lone homestead, they grant us an entire world.  And though the scope of the show constricted quite a bit during the last two seasons, we were previously offered a planetary civilization made up of unique elements specific to the culture and customs of its local inhabitants.

In this rare case, the show outperformed my own imagination in such a way that I felt as though I embarked upon a new realm, and I love that about it.

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Are you in need of a new epic series? Try Dr. Nekros, a trilogy that I like to describe as Moonlighting meets The X-Files. Kindle: https://amzn.to/2X3S7vOor NOOK: http://bit.ly/2JTFXm1

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Looking For a New Epic To Enjoy? Give Dr. Nekros a Try

Are you in need of a new epic series?  Try Dr. Nekros, a trilogy that I like to describe as Moonlighting meets The X-Files.

When Micah Vadenburgh is ravaged by a demon after trying to jump-start a ghost hunting career, he abandons his wife, his doctoral degree, and even his dog in pursuit of vengeance.  Ten years later, Micah has adopted a new persona–Dr. Nekros–but is no closer to exacting revenge.  Zetta Southerland, his ex-wife, appears one day with a warning that his life is in danger.  Little does Dr. Nekros, or Zetta, realize that the demon is closer than they know, and they have both fallen into the monster’s trap.  Dr.Nekros is a darkly humorous story about the depravity of obsession, but it also explores the bonds of family and the hope of redemption.

If this sounds like a series for you, download the first e-book at Amazon or Barnes and Noble by clicking the links …

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Here Are Eleven General Items That I Hope Happen During the Final Game Of Thrones Episode

Be warned, spoilers abound …

I know this final season of Game Of Thrones has been controversial to some, but I’ve been perfectly happy with it thus far.  I will ultimately reserve my final judgement until the last episode’s conclusion, which I think is only fair.  If anything, this concluding season has been one giant episode rather than a series of installments.  I will wait and assess it as a whole.

However, there are a eleven items that I hope will be addressed tomorrow night.  I won’t be so bold as to suggest specifics, but, generally speaking, here they are, in no particular order …

  • Daenerys actually rules from the Iron Throne
  • Sansa claims Winterfell as an independent kingdom, which she rules
  •  Jon Snow’s resurrection is given ample explanation
  • Ghost and Nymeria return with a pack of direwolves to protect Winterfell from dragons–yes, dragons
  • Jamie and Cersie survive, but must live in squalor and anonymity
  • Bran becomes the Night King, but alters the Night King’s course
  • Arya and Brienne wander the world, committing acts of heroism wherever needed
  • Jon Snow returns to the Free Folk and lives among them
  • Drogon survives and gives birth to more dragons
  • Magic significantly reveals itself again in the Lord of Light, Children Of the Forest, Three-Eyed Ravens, Wargs, Shadows, etc.
  • Tyrion dies a good death

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Did you enjoy this article?  Listen to my podcast, Stories By Scott William Foley, HERE!

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Branson Scenic Railway: Branson, Baby! – Our 2019 Spring Break (Part 11)

While in Branson during our spring break, we thought it might be fun to take a train ride on the Branson Scenic Railway.  After looking into it a bit, I particularly liked that a few of the passenger cars had clear, domed roofs which allowed unencumbered views of the scenery.  It sounded like an interesting excursion as it discussed tunnels, bridges, and venturing into Arkansas.

Everyone working at the station proved incredibly friendly, as were the attendants on the train.  Before loading, a conductor offered a few instructions and facts, along with several jokes, as we waited on the platform.  Once he finished, we were welcome to begin boarding.

Seats were not assigned, so we made a point to go directly to one of the domed train cars in order to get a good spot.  At it turned out, there would have been plenty of seating because they have three such cars.

The passenger cars were relics from history, but they had been refurbished and were quite comfortable.  It was fun to think of a time when they proved the primary mode of long-distance travel for people.

At first, we had a great time.  Soon, however, we realized that this scenic tour was not all that … well … scenic.  Perhaps it was simply the time of year, but there really wasn’t all that much to look at in regards to nature.  Furthermore, most of the view included the trash piled up in people’s backyards who live along the railway.  I’m not trying to insult them, but it didn’t make for a pleasurable viewing experience.  There was also a lot of refuse and debris along the rails themselves.

Had the ride only lasted 40 minutes, this may not have been too big of a deal, but the outing actually took almost two hours.  Two long hours.  My children and I grew restless and were ready to get off the train at about the halfway point.

If you have children or are not that into trains, I’d pass on this particular activity while in Branson.  However, if it sounds like you’d enjoy it, you can visit their website to learn more by clicking HERE.

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Did you enjoy this article?  Listen to my podcast, Stories By Scott William Foley, HERE!

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Dolly Parton’s Stampede: Branson, Baby! – Our 2019 Spring Break (Part 10)

If you’re going to Branson, you have to take part in Dolly Parton’s Stampede, right?

Believe it or not, my wife and I actually enjoyed Stampede in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, long before our children were born.  Because we had some experience with it, we knew our kids would love the show.

We also knew they’d hate the food …

When you first enter the Branson Stampede building, you’ll have a family photograph taken once submitting your tickets and then everyone is funneled through a gift shop area and into a large room with a bar and a stage–this is called the Carriage Room.  Before too long, live entertainers by the name of the White River Wranglers appear.  They’re a talented group specializing in a mix of country and bluegrass.  They also took a shot at some modern day hits while cracking joke after joke.  My kids thoroughly enjoyed watching them.

Once they finished, we were ushered into the arena.  I have to be honest, this was not a pleasant experience.  Because your section is reserved, you might be better off to stay back until most of the people are through.  They have one set of doors for hundreds of people to siphon through, and we noticed quite a bit of pushing and shoving.

After that, though, everything went very well.

We were quickly seated in the front row.  I bought our tickets online and early in order to guarantee this spot.  I wanted my daughters to have a great view.

Our server immediately introduced himself while establishing the fact that he had a fun sense of humor.  He was truly a delight throughout the show.  I don’t think the man ever stopped moving.

Soon enough, both the food and the show started.  I’ll begin by talking about the food …

Be aware that there is not any silverware or utensils of any sort.  You’re also not ordering anything–you pretty much take what you’re given.  (I believe you can choose a vegetarian or a gluten-free option when ordering tickets.)  You’ll first have a cup of soup, then a plate with a chicken, a pork loin, corn on the cob, half of a potato, and a biscuit.  At the end they will give you a dessert which is basically an apple fritter.  I thoroughly enjoyed my entire meal.  My daughters … not so much.  Fortunately, our server gave us take-home bags, so my wife and I had delicious leftovers the next day.

The show is very impressive as well.  Of course, they have all kinds of horses racing across the course.  Some of the horses perform tricks with some of the riders executing stunts.  At one point they even had bison milling around, which was very cool.  I can’t claim to see bison all that often.  There are also lots of fireballs, flashes of light, fog, and music.  It’s pretty much nonstop action with some magic, some comedy, and even live singing.  We were most certainly entertained, and though my kids didn’t like the food, they loved the show.

I could not have been happier with our seats, but be aware: if you sit in the front row, you run the risk of sand getting kicked up on you.  Those horse are moving fast, and when they change direction it only stands to reason that they are going to displace a bit of sand.  I actually had some land on my plate at one point.  It wasn’t a big deal.  I wiped it off the food and kept eating.  Luckily it was just me–my wife and daughters didn’t have to deal with it.  The little girl sitting on my other side did, though, but she handled it like a champ.  She just cleaned her meat and then kept eating, too.  I liked that kid.

If you’ve never been to Dolly Parton’s Stampede, I highly recommend it.  It’s definitely something everyone should experience at least once.

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Did you enjoy this article?  Listen to my podcast, Stories By Scott William Foley, HERE!

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In Honor Of the Greatest Educator I Know

As Teacher Appreciation Week draws to a close, I wanted to take a moment and recognize the greatest educator I know.  Her name is Kristen Foley, and she happens to be my wife.

This is not favoritism, though.  If I only knew Kristen on a professional basis, my opinion of her teaching would not change.

I’ve known Kristen for seventeen years.  In that time, her commitment and dedication to teaching has not wavered–not once.  She has never compromised her standards, and she has not once taken the easy way out.

Kristen is quite demanding of her third grade students.  She expects the best that they can individually offer and she wants it on a daily basis.  She holds them accountable for both their academic performance and their personal actions.  However, I guarantee you that every single one of her students, year after year, comes out of her class both an improved student and person.

That’s not to say she’s a taskmaster, though.  I’m often amazed at how silly she’s willing to be in front of them.  It’s not unusual to find her dancing with them during brain breaks or to catch her singing like a rock star.  She is constantly striving to make her classes fun with innovative lessons, dramatic performances, cutting-edge technology, creative activities, and special keepsakes.

And while she asks for the best from her students and her school, she expects even more from herself.  Kristen demands 100% effort from herself all of the time.  She’s been that way from the day I met her, and she’ll be that way until the day she retires.

Once we put the kids to bed, she’s instantly back to work.  She is always grading papers, developing lesson plans, writing newsletters, returning emails–I don’t know anyone who puts in more time than she does.

As a fellow teacher, I sometimes suggest she ease off the accelerator a bit.  I’ve often worried that she’ll burn herself out.  But that’s the difference between Kristen and most other teachers–she literally cannot burn herself out on this.  She loves it.  She loves teaching.  She loves being an educator.  She loves her students.  She loves it in a way most of us cannot understand.

I’m thankful we still have teachers like Kristen Foley.  She is, without question, the best of the best.

Mrs. Foley Classroom