I recently went on an unforgettable 5,000-mile round-trip journey to Pennsylvania for my granddaughter Kira’s wedding to her fiancé, Mike, in Denver, PA. Along the way, I stopped at some incredible places, including Palo Duro Canyon, Stark Caverns, the Creation Museum, and the Flight 93 Memorial.
I spent several days at my son Steve’s house before the wedding, where we worked on model trains together during his breaks from work. After the wedding, I made my way back home, stopping at the Casey Jones Museum along the way. My final night on the road was spent in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, before driving an impressive 950 miles in a single day to get home.
I traveled to Pennsylvania to attend an unexpected family event, flying United Airlines to Harrisburg (MDT) where I rented a car, then spent a week at my son Steve’s house. We visited various model train places in the Lebanon/Lancaster County area as well as Northlandz, the model train museum in New Jersey. I also took it upon myself to visit the Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine and Steam Train, the Short Line Model Railroad Club and the Hershey Antique Auto Museum.
Donna and I embarked on an unforgettable journey with our two dogs, driving our Toyota RAV thousands of miles to reconnect with family across Texas, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. Over two weeks, we were blessed to reunite with all our children, most of our grandchildren, and some of our siblings.
Our adventure began with a heartwarming visit to Donna’s sister Jan in McKinney, TX, where we spent two delightful nights and dropped off Donna’s mother, Barbara. Next, we headed to Donna’s son – Chris’s home in Dallas, setting the stage for a memorable two-day drive to Pennsylvania to visit Carey’s son and his family – Steve and Dana’s place. There, we celebrated the arrival of our first great-grandchild, visiting granddaughter Laura, her husband Eric, and their beautiful baby daughter, Lucy, at the hospital.
Our journey continued in Pennsylvania, where we lent a hand to Kevin and Steph at Camp Tuckahoe Boy Scout camp, assisting Kevin and their sons. In Philadelphia, we enjoyed the American Treasure Tour Museum and a delightful breakfast downtown with Carey’s daughter Audrey and granddaughter Avery. An early morning hike through Wissahickon Valley Park was the perfect prelude to our next stop in Reading, PA. There, Donna’s brother Steve and his wife Cheryl welcomed us warmly. The following day, Donna and Steve enjoyed a morning of Pickleball while I indulged in nostalgia at the National Toy Train Museum in Strasburg, PA.
Days later, in Felton, DE, we celebrated granddaughter Bexley’s 3rd-grade graduation and enjoyed an afternoon at Sweet Sister’s Mini Golf course with Keith, Lindsay, and their children. A cozy dinner featuring Texas Roadhouse steak and Domino’s pizza was a fitting end to our visit.
Our final leg took us back to Texas, this time to Arlington, where Carey’s sister Carole and husband Dave hosted us. We joined them for a church service and a lively party at their home before driving the following day for a total of 650 miles back to our home.
This incredible road trip allowed us to reconnect with family we hadn’t seen (face-to-face) in months or even years, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Donna and I embarked on a poignant journey to Cincinnati, accompanied by her mother, Barbara, and the cremated remains of her late father, Charles, destined for their final resting place at the Gates of Heaven Cemetery. Our stay was nestled in the comforts of the Hampton Inn in Mason, where we were joined by numerous family members, creating an atmosphere of shared love and support.
During our stay, we seized the opportunity to reconnect with various family members residing in Cincinnati, immersing ourselves in heartfelt conversations and cherished moments. A significant event on our agenda was the dedication ceremony for the Mannino Family grocery store, a business that had been initiated by Donna’s grandfather, Charles Salvatore Mannino. Over the years, the store had changed hands and now stands on the brink of transformation. The historic building is currently undergoing renovations to become a multifamily apartment complex and a vibrant dance studio, preserving its legacy in an entirely new way.
Our trip also included indulging in the sweet pleasures of Cincinnati. One delightful experience was our visit to The Chesscakery, a charming business owned by one of our family members. Here, we were treated to some special ice cream flavors, savoring every moment of togetherness and indulgence.
A highlight of our journey was the heartfelt celebration dinner held in honor of Charles Mannino, Donna’s father. This touching event took place at the picturesque Riverside Lodge in the spectacular Lake Isabella “Hamilton County” Park. It was a beautiful fall day where family and friends gathered to reminisce and pay tribute to a life well-lived. The evening was adorned with shared stories, laughter, a very special slideshow (arranged by Steve Mannino, Donna’s brother) and a profound sense of gratitude for the legacy Charlie left behind.
In the midst of our bittersweet pilgrimage, we found solace in the embrace of family, relishing in the memories of the past and embracing the promise of the future. Our days in Cincinnati were more than just a series of events; they were a testament to the enduring bonds of family and the significance of honoring the ones we love.
The Mannino family, from all over the US, most from Cincinnati, Ohio embarked on a captivating journey to Sicily and various parts of Italy, tracing the roots of their beloved patriarch, Salvatore Mannino, Donna’s grandfather. The adventure began with 24 family members exploring Sicily, particularly Carini, where Donna’s grandfather was born and raised, and where he was baptized in the town’s main square church. This initial leg of the trip was followed by 15 members continuing on to Naples, the enchanting Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and Rome.
In Sicily, our group immersed themselves in the rich heritage, spending several hours in Carini and exploring historic sites in Palermo, Sorrento, Agrigento, Taormina, and Catania. The highlights of our journey included awe-inspiring visits to Mount Etna, the archaeological wonders of Syracuse, an enchanting Olive farm, the majestic Valley of the Temples, and the magnificent churches of Monreale and Carini.
Among the travelers were Donna’s siblings, cousins, and their families, fostering cherished family bonds, and my sister LuAnn. The second leg of our adventure treated us to the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast, the mesmerizing ruins of Pompeii, and the cultural wonders of the Vatican Museum and other iconic attractions in Rome. Throughout our journey, the emphasis was on family unity, savoring delectable cuisine, and immersing ourselves in the fascinating history of the Roman Empire. Overall, the trip proved to be a delightful blend of heritage exploration and bonding, creating enduring memories for the entire Mannino family.
Amalfi Coast
Donna, Steve and Jan at the church where their grandfather was baptized.
Above: Segway tour of downtown Dallas Stop at JFK Memorial
I embarked on an exciting adventure, taking my camper to Grapevine, TX for the NMRA Convention held at the magnificent Gaylord Texan Resort. My journey included a scenic stopover at Monahans Sandhills State Park before settling in for the week at the Vineyards Campground.
During my time at the convention, I had the pleasure of attending two captivating model train layout tours and participating in two informative classes, where I honed my skills in crafting model mountains and creating a lifelike creek scene. As the week unfolded, my son Steve joined me for an unforgettable exploration of the area.
Later in the week, we embarked on a thrilling segway tour of downtown Dallas and took a captivating tour of the renowned Dallas Cowboys AT&T stadium. Our Friday was highlighted by a visit to the train show at the Gaylord Convention Center, followed by a delightful Mexican dinner at one of Grapevine’s charming restaurants.
Saturday was a day of exploration as we toured the picturesque town and embarked on a nostalgic journey aboard the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, traveling from Grapevine, TX to the historic Ft. Worth Stockyards. Amidst the adventure, we indulged in some window shopping, enjoyed a tasty snack, and eventually boarded the train for a return trip to Grapevine.
With the weekend coming to a close, Sunday saw both of us embarking on our homeward journeys. I paused for a peaceful night at San Angelo State Park before completing my drive back home on Monday.
Above – One of many model train layouts during the tour. Below – My creek scene creation.
My friend, Doug Borrett and I recently embarked on a journey to Denver for the annual Rocky Mountain train show. Our cozy home-away-from-home was an Airbnb nestled in the charming town of Commerce, CO. Little did I know, a birthday surprise awaited me there in the form of my daughter, Audrey! Our reunion was filled with joy and merriment as we explored the train show and celebrated my special day. As we said goodbye to Denver, we opted for the scenic route home to bask in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
Donna & I flew to Pennsylvania to visit the kids and grandkids, and to attend the wedding of granddaughter Laura (my son Steve’s daughter). We also took Kevin & Steph’s 5 kids to Hersheypark one day, went shopping and sightseeing – then to the wedding and reception. We spent several days and nights at Steve and Cherly’s house, visited Audrey (and Oliver) at the Pottstown July 4th parade, and toured Crystal Cave followed by a hike at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. It was a busy week. Carey also went golfing with Steve (son). We all got together for a July 3rd picnic at Kevin’s house.
Kevin & Steph’s family (5 kids with Nana Donna) at HersheyparkSteve & Dana at Laura’s wedding
Donna and I went for a Sunday morning walk on the El Paso Scenic Drive. As the road is blocked from automotive traffic on Sundays, we decided to take advantage of the opportunity to have a peaceful uphill walk. The view from the top of the El Paso and Juarez city areas was quite impressive. On our way home, we also stopped at Tom Lea Park for a brief walk. It was a nice way to spend the day and enjoy some quality time together.
The view from the top of Scenic DriveWalking in Tom Lea park
My friend Doug Borrett and I drove to Denver, CO to visit the Rocky Mountain Train Show. We also visited the Colorado Train Museum, the Argo Mill & Mine, Buffalo Bill’s Grave site, and numerous other local sites. We drove on the Mt. Evans Scenic Loop and the Turquoise Highway. Great trip. We’re panning for gold in this photo.
One of many exhibitors at the train showCarey & Doug panning for gold
