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April 19, 2023 at 04:49PM

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Dear Journal,

Today was a remarkable day as I had the opportunity to visit the Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail near Salem, Virginia. This trail holds historical significance as it was the site of the Battle of Hanging Rock, which took place on June 21, 1864, during the Civil War.

Upon the start of my hike on the trail, I was filled with a sense of reverence for the events that had unfolded in this very location over a century ago. The trail meandered through thick forests, with the sunlight filtering through the trees, casting a dappled glow on the forest floor.

Along the trail, I came across interpretive signs that provided details about the Battle of Hanging Rock. I learned about how Confederate cavalry had pursued Union forces retreating from Lynchburg, resulting in a fierce battle that led to the capture of ten guns. It was a somber reminder of the brutal realities of war and the sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides.

I could not help but imagine the sights and sounds that would have filled this place during the battle. The echoes of gunfire, the cries of soldiers, and the chaos of war that had once unfolded in this serene natural setting were now a part of its history.

I continued my hike, taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the trail’s overlooks. The rolling hills and valleys spread out before me, serving as a poignant contrast to the violent events that had occurred on this very ground so many years ago.

During my hike, I reflected on the significance of the Battle of Hanging Rock and its impact on the Civil War. It was a moment of deep contemplation as I tried to grasp the enormity of the historical events that had shaped this place.

As I made my way back to the trailhead, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to visit this important historical site. Walking the trail was a humbling experience, a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought during the Civil War, and the need to remember and learn from our past.

Yours,
Harold

#sistobrak
#harold #greenway #hangingrockbattlefieldtrail #roanokeva #haroldsjournal #walkabout https://instagr.am/p/CrO1LxDuu7W/


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April 19, 2023 at 04:18PM

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The Hanging Rock Battlefield trail
( https://bit.ly/3LdaFVP ) has a statue of George Morgan Jones, shown as a general here (an identical statue of him was torn down in his home city of Lynchburg, Virginia.https://bit.ly/3Le4vEX it turns out he wasn’t a general, but a cook, so even that outfit he is wearing could be called “stolen valor” )

From https://bit.ly/3LdappP

“George Morgan Jones was a philanthropist and former Civil War soldier. Though depicted in a Confederate general’s uniform, only achieved the rank of private in the commissary department of the Second Virginia Cavalry”

Surprising to me was that there was a lack of a United States of America flag to be seen anywhere within my view when I went there.

They did have the Confederate “Blood Stained Banner” and a blue one that I do not think that I have ever seen. Both are immaculately clean and well-maintained, like the entirety of the memorial.

From the description placard near the monument –

“Miss Mattie Garst died in 1960, she bequested the Hanging Rock and Buzzard’s Roost to the Virginia Division United Daughters of the Confederacy. She willed that this site be preserved as memorial to the brave soldiers who fought and died in the Battle of Hanging Rock on June 21, 1864. Miss Garst’s home was situated near the gap where Confederate Brig. General John McCausland fired on the artillery and supply wagons of Major General David Hunter’s U.S. Army.

On June 3, 1932, the Southern Cross Chapter No. 745 U.D.C. erected a monument on Route 311, memorializing the battle and the Confederate soldiers who died here. On June 21, 1964, the William Watts Chapter No. 809 dedicate a monument at the intersection of 1-81 and Route 419 commemorate the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Battle of Hanging Rock.”

Why the statue of George Morgan Jones, though?

#wtf #roanokeva #hangingrockbattlefieldtrail #hangingrock #stolenvalor #bloodstainedbanner #why #reallyniceparkthough https://instagr.am/p/CrOxqQBuyFp/


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April 18, 2023 at 09:12PM

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” Unleashing my inner cryptid! 💧🌲👣 #Smithy #CryptidEncounter #NatureMystery ”

Alt text – The photo shows Harold in his costume as Smithy, the Smith Mountain Lake monster. He is standing near the lake’s edge, wearing a unique costume that resembles the amphibious cryptid. The costume includes sleek, smooth skin-like fabric, with a glossy sheen, mimicking Smithy’s amphibious features. Harold strikes a pose, channeling the mysterious aura of Smithy with a mischievous grin on his face. In the background, the serene waters of Smith Mountain Lake and the lush greenery of the surrounding forest create a captivating backdrop for the photo.

#Smithy #CryptidEncounter #NatureMystery #AmphibiousAdventures #LakeMonsterCostume #SmithMountainLake #ExploringNature #CryptidLife #HaroldAdventures #CostumeFun
#sistobrak #harold #toyphotography #toysofinstagram #toystagram #glyos #bognar #warlordsofwor #outerspacemen #fourhorsemen #colossusrex

[Comments]

Harold: ” Had an incredible encounter with Smithy, the legendary lake monster of Smith Mountain Lake! 😱👣🌊 #CryptidEncounter #NatureMystery ”

Sisto: ” What an adventure! Can’t believe we met Smithy in person! 🐸🌲 #AmphibiousAdventures #LakeMonsterEncounter ”

SmithyTheCryptid: ” Great costume, Harold! You captured my essence perfectly! 😉👍 #CryptidLookalike #SmithyCosplay ” https://instagr.am/p/CrMud77M4uH/


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April 18, 2023 at 03:56PM

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Dear Journal,

Yet another thrilling adventure with Sisto at the car wash! We decided to give our trusty jalopy a much-needed clean, and it turned out to be quite an experience. The car wash was a sensory delight with its colorful lights and foamy bubbles swirling around us. Sisto was fascinated by the spectacle, and we both had a blast as we watched the water jets and brushes do their magic. It was a fun-filled hour that left our car sparkling and us beaming with excitement. Another memorable day with my unique and adventurous friend!

Yours in sudsy escapades, Harold

#sistobrak #sisto
#harold
#carwash #roanokeva #soapsuds #color #texture #simplepleasures #5dollarcarwash https://instagr.am/p/CrMKUCLubAf/


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April 18, 2023 at 03:35PM

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Dear Journal,

Nature continues to captivate and amaze me as I ventured along a different branch of the greenway today and encountered more intriguing wildlife.

I slowly made my way along the Greenway and caught sight of a water snake slithering gracefully through the clear waters of the Roanoke River. Its sinuous movements and sleek appearance were mesmerizing, and I couldn’t help but observe it from a distance, careful not to disturb its natural habitat.

The water snake glided effortlessly through the water, its body undulating in a graceful dance. Its glossy scales glistened in the sunlight, and I marveled at its ability to thrive in its aquatic environment. Sisto’s teachings about the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of every creature in the web of life echoed in my mind as I observed the water snake in its natural element.

As I continued my walk along the river, I was greeted by the cheerful quacks of a mallard duck (not haunted resin this time). I spotted a male with its vibrant green head and iridescent feathers, accompanied by a female with her more subdued plumage. They were swimming gracefully in the river, foraging for food and enjoying the peacefulness of the surroundings.
I watched the pair with delight as they dabbled and dived in the water, their playful interactions bringing a smile to my face. Their beauty and elegance were a testament to the wonders of nature, and I felt grateful to be able to witness such moments of pure serenity.

The Roanoke River and the greenway never cease to amaze me with their abundant wildlife and natural beauty. Each encounter serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the need to protect and preserve our natural world.

Yours in the Green,
Harold

#harold #greenwaywalk #sistobrak #sisto #watersnake #mallard #robin #troutfishing #walkabout #april182023 #roanokeva #snake #nature https://instagr.am/p/CrMH-OxuLIB/


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April 17, 2023 at 04:04PM

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Dear Journal,

Today was a day of unexpected encounters as I stumbled upon my old friend Sisto during my stroll along the greenway near the Old Salem Brewery.
Sisto is a unique being, with his red and black colored head, golden eyes, and a mouth full of sharp yellow teeth.
As a Bog-nar, I am used to the unusual creatures that inhabit our world, but his appearance still takes me by surprise. However, his familiar voice and friendly demeanor quickly put me at ease, and we greeted each other with excitement.
Sisto led me to a secluded spot by the creek, and we sat down to catch up. He shared stories of his recent adventures, which involved exploring caves and studying rare species of flora and fauna. His passion for discovery and his vast knowledge about the natural world never ceases to amaze me.
As we were chatting, Sisto’s keen eyes spotted a flash of movement in the creek, and he pointed excitedly. We both turned our gaze towards the water and saw a Great Blue Heron standing tall, its long neck extended as it scanned the water for prey.
Sisto’s fascination with the heron was evident as he spoke about its hunting techniques, its adaptability to different habitats, and its significance in various cultures. He admired the heron’s ability to thrive in its natural environment and its role as a predator in the ecosystem.
We watched in awe as the heron patiently waded through the water, its movements graceful and precise. Sisto’s knowledge and insights about the heron added a deeper appreciation to the sight, and I found myself mesmerized by this majestic bird.
We sat there for a while, silently observing the heron and the tranquility of the creek. The sound of the water flowing and the sight of the heron in its natural habitat brought a sense of peace and connection with nature.
As the sun began to set, we bid farewell to the heron and the creek, knowing that we had witnessed something truly special. Sisto expressed his gratitude for the encounter, and I look forward to more wandering here in the future.

Cheers,
Harold

#greenway #greenwaywalk #sistobrak #sisto #harold #greatblueheron #oldsalembrewery #roanokeva #masoncreek #kesslermill
#parkwaybrewingcompany https://instagr.am/p/CrJmcHhukZ2/


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