It’s time for Walktober, so cheers to Robin for her organizing this annual tradition. If my memory is correct, this is my seventh in the last eight years (missing 2017 – probably due to travels). Here’s a walk that I’ve been wanting to do for some time, so here goes … but this is a long walk, so I hope you are in walking shape.
That’s downtown Cincinnati from the Kentucky side of the Ohio River. Such a great view. Access to my destination is a bit easier from this side, plus it gets me more steps. It’s a beautiful morning, but I wonder about the shadows that will be present today because the sun is still low.
As I cross on old bridge now known as The Purple People Bridge, oh look … an old friend is working as a lifeguard. That’s Bearcat, the University of Cincinnati mascot. A good one!
Cincinnati has a string of wonderful parks along the river. Each is different, plus another one is currently in the planning stage. That’s the popular Serpentine Wall to the west of this bridge ….
… but I’m going to the park on the east, Bicentennial Commons. Dedicated in 1988, this 22-acre park honors Cincinnati’s 200 years. Looks like the shadows are pronounced today.
Meet our city’s namesake – Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus – a Roman citizen, farmer, warrior, and leader.
Who’s over there? Well, well – it’s the infamous Lucius Quinctius Pigasus.
With part of the walk close to the river, I always love to look. After all, my hometown is many miles upriver from here.
The walk upriver is awesome. The trees, continuous views of the river, historical markers, a geologic timeline on the sidewalk, and the outlooks. The first set historical markers have information about the area’s German and Irish settlers, the Sultana (riverboat), and the Black Brigade of Cincinnati on the Union side of the Civil War. For those who don’t know, Cincinnati and the surrounding area had an important role in the Underground Railroad. Seeing the geologic timeline reminds me that the Creation Museum (promoting 10,000 year old Earth) is less than 30 minutes from here.
I like the sight of an old pump house that was part of the Cincinnati Water Works. After all, Cincinnati had Ohio’s first publicly owned water system.
Oh look – river traffic! Because I grew up in a river town, seeing the barge traffic always reminds me of my youth. Do you see the recreational boat?
Given 22 acres, there’s plenty of available activities areas besides walking: tennis courts, kids play area, rollerblade rink, picnicking, and a concert venue.
There’s another pig. Let’s see who. it’s the Ribs King! Look closer to see the crown.
What’s a park without ornamental plants!
Ornamental plants are always nice, but looking up is something that not enough people do – therefore, they miss a lot. I know, one may miss something near when looking up, so balance is necessary.
Here’s the official entrance into Bicentennial Commons. When first proposed, those four flying pigs created quite the ruckus. In time, the citizens embraced them – even naming a successful race after them – The Flying Pig Marathon.
Thanks for walking along with me through Cincinnati’s Bicentennial Common. I’ve got over 9,000 already for my day!
Robin, a good lady and Ohioan now living in Maryland, is the host. Click here for her Walktober post that will have links to others participating as pingbacks in the Comments. (I hope to visit all of them). I invite my readers to visit other participants – plus hey – if you are interested in participating, Robin is a gracious and welcoming host.
To see my past walks, either click Walktober in the Categories sidebar or click here. Happy Walktober!
Because this (most likely) will be my last Walktober, a special thanks to Robin. For hosting, for visiting and commenting here, for wonderful posts, for our collaborations, and for anything else that I missed.
What a wonderful idea!!! So lovely to join you on another walk. Beautiful photos.
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Rachel,
Oh my … thanks for bopping over for this. Walktober is Robin’s idea – and I’ve participated in many. Let’s see .. one in my actual town, one in Spain, another it Italy, in Croatia, in my old neighborhood … those are the ones I remember. Feel free to visit Walktober in the Categories.
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It feels very special to get a glimpse of your city, the places you see with your own eyes every day, the similarities and the differences with my own. I have not really travelled in the US so most of what I know is from books or movies or TV. I loved this post.
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Thanks for the info. Hope you visit the US someday – but so much to see – so much. If you like murals, Cincinnati has many wonderful ones – so I’ve posted about some. https://afrankangle.wordpress.com/category/ohio/cincinnati/murals/
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So many places to see in the US… would love to go.
Checked out the murals, they are awesome, I love to see the street art in cities.
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In terms of murals, Philadelphia is also a city that has embraced them. … and someday, you’ll make it to the US.
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Wonderful photographs Frank. Cincinnati surely has some beautiful areas, thanks for sharing your walk with us! Great job Robin.
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Holly,
Thanks for joining my walk through this wonderful park along the river in the downtown area. I’ve wanted to do it for several years, so finally, the time came! Robin is a wonderful host, and others will be joining the walk over the next several weeks. I invite you to visit them. 🙂
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I shall do that Frank. I look forward to it.
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So lovely to walk with you, Frank. I’ve not been to Cincinnati, so everything was new to me. I enjoyed seeing the lovely sights of your city. 😃
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Sylvia,
Welcome to Cincinnati. Bicentennial Commons is a nice park … let alone the adjoining parks … wow … that would be a long walk … but doable! Cincinnati is smaller than many think … but it’s nice.
PS: I invite you to visit Robin’s post.
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I love this idea–and your photos! It reminds me of a long ago “event” called 24 Hours in Whereever. The book I have is America and then one on CyberSpace. A quick look at a moment in time.
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Patti,
I don’t know how many years Robin has been doing this, but I think this is my seventh. Make sure you visit Robin’s walk and follow the links in the comments. You’ll get quite the variety. Thanks for walking along in my city.
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Your photos are beautiful testaments!
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Cindy,
Thank you. Of course I’m not a photographer, but sometimes get lucky. The shadows drove me crazy that morning. Glad you enjoyed the walk,
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Brilliant walk there Frank! With lots of steps to show for it on a beautiful day. It doesn’t get better than that.
And I love the name Lucius.
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Marc,
I remember look at my pedometer at the car thinking, oh yes … over 9+ and it’s not even noon. (I think I worked in the afternoon then danced a bit that night) … a good day.
I love the fact the pig is also named Lucius. The day was gorgeous and the park very relaxing. Thanks for walking along.
PS: Thinking about the Fins the other day. They still have to place the winless Skins, winless Bengals, and winless Jets – twice!
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You kicked butt!
You are the perfect guide for your town, because the love is so apparent.
The Skins and Jets won’t be looking for a QB so that’s good. It was interesting to see the Redskins, a completely dumpster fire, as favorites in Miami. Wow.
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The games involving both the Jets, Bengals, Fins, and Skins will be major influences on the draft positions. Could be more exciting than the Super Bowl!
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Bengals and Fins will be in the market for a QB. Good thing there will be more than one to choose from.
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Both also have multiple needs … earn the picks then trade them for more picks.
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I think so, but I’ve got a feeling Miami is looking for a QB. As for Cincy, they have talent on that roster they should be flipping for picks right now.
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Rumors here are trading AJ Green. I say YES, but nothing lower than a high 2nd round.
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I agree.
The Dolphins are getting slammed for what they’re doing, but at least there is a plan in place. If the Bengals start trading some of their talent, they could really up the ante in terms of picks.
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That’s something Bengals don’t typically do …. Right now, Fins and Raiders only teams with multiple first round picks.
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I know, but man . . they could make some hay. As for the Raiders, they are playing themselves into the mid to later parts of the rounds with the way they’re playing.
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Owner Mike Brown is a bit more than stubborn. Even worse, he thinks he knows what he’s doing.
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Not a good combination.
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Besides, he doesn’t have much evidence to show support what he has done.
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Thank goodness it was the Dodgers who achieved notoriety last night and not the Yankees . . .
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Lovely Walktober, Frank! Your love for your city shines through.
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Dale,
Most of my Walktober walks have featured places, so it was time to feature my city – and this is a park I’ve been wanting to do for years! Thanks for walking along.
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That’s great. One of my Walktobers was of my home town, too.
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The shadows may be getting longer but the day was beautiful, as is your city. I had no idea Cincinnati is so attractive to pigs, many of the flying type too. I think that is kind of cute 🙂
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Pauline,
Cincinnati’s pig fixation goes back to its prominence in livestock industry during the 1800s. Procter & Gamble (giant consumer product company) is based here, and its start also goes back to that period.
The big pigs were featured throughout the city many, many years ago … but some still exist. I enjoy them.
Thanks for walking along … and hope all is well. 🙂
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I think quirky pigs are to be much encouraged Frank 🙂 Yes, thank you, all is well. I just appear to be taking a bit of a break from the blog again. Unplanned as usual.
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The city embraces the quirky pigs. Through research I discovered the artist saying they were pig angels standing and singing the Hallelujah chorus. … Meanwhile, planned or unplanned, blog breaks are good.
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Now you make me want to walk Cincinnati too! Great Walktober and beautiful shots, Frank! 🙂 Yamas! 🙂 Coincidentally, hubby posted Cincinnati Pops last night! 😉
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Marina,
This is a wonder park that is like a shoestring (narrow but long). Better yet is how it links to other parks. Knowing that you are a walker, you would love walking the entire string!
The Cincinnati Pops are prolific recording artists – and one of the premier pops orchestras in the country. Please give me the link to the post where hubby used the CPO.
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Oh, I know I would enjoy that walk!!!!
Here’s the link https://oannes.gr/cincinnati-pops-presents-american-landscapes-lost-in-space/ I think you’ll enjoy what they’re playing too! We loved the series! 😉
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Thank you … and I was surprised at the composer! WOW! Last summer I attended a concert by the CSO pianist … and in a small venue. Close enough to see the piano move when we played this maddening piece. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wcq-B2opVDk
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😲😲😲…really? the piano moved?!!!!!! …a ha ha ha…. 🙂 🙂
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It was shaking … and I mean shaking a lot … I shake listening to that maddening piece.
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😂🤣😂🤣
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I loved too this walktober… you are amazing. Beautiful photographs. Thank you, have a nice day, and walk, Love, nia
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Nia,
Thank you for the kind words and for walking along. … and you got to a bit of my city. 🙂 I’m a point-and-shot photographer who doesn’t know what to do, and every once in awhile I get lucky.
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You are doing very well dear Frank, and you make this more, Welcome, Love, nia
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I always manage to time reading your posts with my coffee. They just go together so well!
Great images and super writing as always xxx
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Fiery,
Thanks for walking along in a quite oasis just off of city center. I’ve always enjoyed this park, and have wanted to feature it for Walktober for some time. Going early in the day gave me too many shadows, but I had to go when I could. Thanks for the kinds words and this is definitely a morning coffee post.
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A wonderful walk, Frank! Thank you for sharing Cincinnati with us. I had no idea there were so many beautiful areas there. You probably know that Cininnatus was a popular image in the Revolutionary period, and George Washington was often compared (and sometimes pictured) as him.
Now, I need to figure out when and where I’m going to do my walk. . .:)
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Merril,
Cincinnati is hilly and in a valley, so it has its share of natural variety. I did not know the link between Washington and Cincinnatus – but I can see the parallel. Thanks for sharing and walking along.
Because you are a walker, narrowing down your choice will be the hard part. So many choices.
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That was a great walk. I love when cities protect the waterfront so all can use it. The pigs are really great. Are they all over the city? My sister and I were in Berlin a couple years ago; they have bears all over. We took photos of all the ones we found.
Thanks for your comments on my walk.
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Helen,
Welcome first-time commenter and thanks for bopping over from Robin’s! I know I will try to visit as many walk participants as possible.
The pigs were all over the city … years ago … I’m guessing at least 15. Some are still prominent. Pigs honor Cincinnati’s role in the livestock industry in the 1800s.
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When I was a kid I used to think I’d like to live in Cincinnati. I still think that. Years ago, more years than I like to admit, I ran the Flying Pig half marathon there with a group of friends. We stayed in a hotel in Kentucky and very early on a dark and cold morning walked across a bridge to the start line. I thought it was marvelous to see the city from Kentucky. Was not as thrilled after the 13.1 miles to have to walk back over the bridge to our hotel! 🙂
I love all of your pictures of your wonderful, hilly city. Thank you so much for taking us along!
I must have missed something, why would this be your last Walktober? I would miss your posts!
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Dawn,
Oh wow … someone verifies the existence of the Flying Pig Marathon. 🙂 Given the terrain, not an easy race … well, so they say.
I agree … just love the view of the city across the river from Kentucky. Always fun walking one of the bridges.
Yes, my last Walktober. Sometime in the spring I announced I was considering stepping away from this blog – my little corner of the world. After more thought, in September I stated that I would definitely stop – but unsure when. I’m guessing sometime over the next 3 months. I’m currently pulling out “unfinished posts” … sort of cleaning out my closet. It’s been more than wonderful here, but after 11 years, it’s time.
Thanks for walking along and for sharing a bit of your relationship with Cincinnati.
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Great walk, Frank. Would like to know how the pig became such a symbol around town
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John,
The pig goes back to the livestock industry days of the 1800s when Cincinnati was a gateway for westward expansion. P&G started because of the pigs and cows! Thanks for walking along.
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Flying pig?
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Here’s what I just discovered. The artist stated they were pig angels standing to sing the Hallelujah chorus.
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The Flying Pig Marathon – a most unusual name for a marathon. I am glad the city finally embraced them. Thanks for the 9,000 steps. Good post.
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Jo,
Locally, the marathon is known as “The Pig” … but the official name is The Flying Pig Marathon, which I believe is named after the pigs in I’ve shown in this park. Thanks for walking along!
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What a fabulous (and quite interesting) tour of Cin-Town. I didn’t know much about your fair city so this was a real treat. You know me, I’m always up for a great beer but especially up for a great walk!
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Monika,
Well thank you and glad you joined the walk. I’m sure you would enjoy the Historic Brewery District tour – after all, those Cincinnati Germans were beer crazy before Prohibition shut them down.
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I’d definitely enjoy it. With or without breweries. #ilovehistoricaldistricts
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The old breweries are closed … but new brews are available!
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What an enjoyable walk, Frank. I really enjoyed the river views. You introduced me for the first time to Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus. The pigs were a fun surprise as well. Walktober is a fun idea. 🙂
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Debra,
Glad you enjoyed a bit of my city along with Lucius and Lucius. I encourage you to visit Robin’s Walktober post, then follow the links in the comments. I think you will love them! Thanks for walking along.
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A great walk, Frank, and a fabulous city!!
The whole pigs thing is adorable and endearing!
Then of course it is my humble opinion that pigs should be exalted, not salted! lol
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Resa,
Thanks for walking along in my city. Maybe 15 years ago or so, those big pig statutes were throughout the city. What a hoot!
BTW – I just saw a fab drone video of BLINK by a local TV station – but they don’t have it on their website yet – FYI: https://local12.com/
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Going now to check it out!
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Found one … currently has sound issues for me … https://local12.com/news/soar/drone-video-blink-cincinnati-2019
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Amateur video … OK done … gives you the idea. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THfyGqzq8rQ
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The vid might be amateur, but the BLINK is not! How wonderful to paint with light!
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Here’s a good short one https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHUMWHlDlBM
Here’s one projection on a building … sped up timelapse https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mg37xiCS38
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It was fun seeing a bit of Cincinnati with you today, Frank. Looks like it was a perfect day. I smiled to see all the pigs and learn a bit of its back history. Have a great weekend!
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Frank, this was a fabulous walk — thank you for letting me tag along. I’ve only been to Cincinnati one time (it was a working trip, so I didn’t get to see much). What I saw, I really liked though! There’s something about living next to water that appeals to me — probably because Central Illinois is so land-locked, and the corn and soybeans can get rather, um, boring. Anyway, one of these days, I need to get back your way to see some of the things I missed. I’m sorry this is going to be your final Walktober. Maybe next next, as September rolls around, you might be coaxed to change your mind??
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Debbie,
Thanks for walking along in a Cincinnati park. I enjoyed doing this one. Glad you have visited here – so yes – feel free to return. BLINK Cincinnati is this weekend – an over-the-top light show. Simply wow!
Yes – my final Walktober. Although never say never, my plan is to stop post in a few months. After 11+ years, I’m ready … sad … but ready. BUT, my plan is to keep visiting.
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Yes, do stay in touch!!!
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Such a splendid walk through Cincinnati with great accompanying photos.
x
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Melanie,
Thanks for walking through a Cincinnati park along the river.
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I did enjoy your descriptive journey 😊🚶♂️🚶♀️😊
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😀
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I enjoyed walking along with you, Frank, and especially the looking up 🙂 🙂 Obviously many others do too. October always seems to be a busy time for me so I never have got around to contributing to Robin’s walks. I hope that you can continue to do so, though you hint that you might not.
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Johanna,
Thanks for coming over from Robin’s post. She’s such a great host … and glad you enjoyed my little walk. Yes, this is most likely my last walk because I plan on ending this blog soon (but unsure when). For over 11 years, my little corner of the world has been fascinating and a pure joy .. but it feels right to step way.
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I understand, Frank. Mine has been going for 8 years and I hope I’ll know when to make a gracious exit. Good luck to you 🙂 🙂
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There’s no question in my mind that the majority of bloggers who have stopped vanished into thin air – therefore leaving me wondering about them. Those experiences have helped me realize that’s not me. I’ve been preparing my exit series, still don’t have a definite timetable.
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Thank you for taking us along on your walk through Cincinnati’s Bicentennial Common. My grandmother was born in Cincinnati but I’ve never been (until just now that is). Your photographs are stunning. Thank you for sharing them with us. I hope that you had a refreshing blogging break.
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Donna ( I think that’s right),
Welcome first-time commeter. Glad this walk was able to take you to your grandmother’s birthplace. It was a fun walk to do … and one that I’ve wanted to do for sometime. 🙂 … Meanwhile, it’s been a good break, but I’ll be returning soon. 🙂
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Thank you for the tour of the Bicentennial Commons in Cincinnati, Frank. How unusual to see so many pigs, some flying at that. LOL Beautiful city. As for shadows …. I believe they make the images more flavorful. When you get to know how to work with shadows, they become your best friends. I used to deplore shooting in bright sunlight and [gasp] shadows. Now I love doing so!
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Amy Rose,
Welcome first-time commenter. Walktober is such a glorious event, therefore a reason why I like to visit other participants. As a photographer, I’m a point-and-shot who occasionally gets lucky. Shadows are difficult while adding a layer of complexity – so a reason why I admire those who can successfully work with them! Cheers to your skills. 🙂
FYI: I’ve collaborated with Walktober host Robin several times. … even one on shadows 🙂 … I invite you to visit … https://afrankangle.wordpress.com/2019/02/05/on-shadows-2/
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My “following” has been a run-away train, Frank, so I’m pretty picky who I follow. I’m only one person, you see, and yeah I do have a life outside of blogging, for real. Your sense of humor and your big heart won me over, so yep I pushed your follow button.
Shadows are fascinating …. without them we would have no form. Hmmmmm …. If you are working with a “professional” camera (not a cellphone camera), in order to find the “correct” EV (exposure value), take your light reading somewhere in between the light and the dark areas of your composition. Unless that is, you are going for drama and you want the shadows very dark. (smile) What I told you is years worth of practice. LOL
And I will visit the shadow post. Have a great Sunday!!
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I know want you mean about keeping up with blogs – including our own! It can be consuming, but yes – there is a life outside of blogging. I’ve been at it for 11 years, but I will be phasing out over the next few months.
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I’ve been at it for 7 years and yes I’m slowing down. You have to do what is best for you. Blogging is a lot of work!
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Yep … and a lot of fun!
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I thoroughly enjoyed this walk, Frank. I’m so glad you stayed close to home for this one. Seeing the barge on the river brought back a lot of memories for me. It’s been a long time since I’ve been anywhere near the Ohio River. I think we’re overdue for a trip out that way.
Thank you so much for all of the walks. I’m sorry this will be your last one, but… this may be my last as well. It’s been a good run (or walk, as the case happens to be). 🙂
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Ugh. Posted my comment too soon. Thank YOU for the collaborations, for the walks, and for all your visits and comments on my blog. I’m going to miss you if/when you decide to go.
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Robin,
You’ve been a treat. Research shows that your are one of my longest-serving commenters! 🙂 … Your kindness is special – so THANK YOU! … and yes – the collaborations were a treat.
Still unsure when I’ll signoff … looks like December or January … but no rush – time will tell. Whenever, there will be an official closing with a series of posts.
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I was hesitant to press Liked on your response because I don’t like that you’re going to sign off. However, I very much understand. I know the going-away party will be a blast (because you always throw a good blog party!).
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There is a plus side. My plan is to stay active as a reader and a commenter.
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Robin,
Glad you enjoyed this local walk – besides serving as a reminder your days in South Point. Whenever I see a barge, flashbacks of my youth commonly occur.
Your walks have been a treat through the years. So thanks for organizing them! It’s also fun visiting the others. 🙂 Special thanks for encouraging to do this one!
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