I know that many of our friends hear about our adventures on various social media, but here’s an attempt to summarize our entire year in just a few pages.
First – a quick update. We’re still loving east Tennessee,
and we started a “B*I*G” renovation/remodel project on our 65-year old house:
everything from new plumbing and green electrics to a new beautiful “chef’s kitchen”
and a personal steam and shower bath. Irene’s business (www.affordablecleaningtn.com) is
doing great – her clients love her and she thrives as her own boss. Steve
continues to teach Political Science at the local college (he won a couple of
awards for his work) and enjoys his busy online teaching for international
“expats” too. So – scroll around the pictures and text below and enjoy some of
the stories.
** Click on any picture for a full-screen view...**
The Biltmore Estate in North Carolina was the home built by
George Vanderbilt. We loved the Van Gogh multi-media art experience in Feb 22.
Snow in March 2022 – it only happens a couple of times each
year in TN.
Easter 2022 Breakfast – Lox and Bagels on our porch. Apr 22
7 Islands Bird Park (near Knoxville) offered a ranger-led
hike around the shores of the Tennessee River. May 22
The Skymart Art Fair on Main Street – Irene demonstrated making Ojo de Dios (Eye of God) and taught the cultural history of these pieces. May 22
We continue to enjoy exploring the Appalachian south – a
weekend getaway to Ashville included a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Jun
22
Irene’s friends organized a trip to experience kayaking
underground in some old Kentucky caves. Jul 22
The tiny town of Cumberland Gap (where TN, KY, and VA meet)
invited Irene to teach Native American Art for their annual art festival. Aug
22
We joined friends for a dinner cruise along the Tennessee River in
Knoxville. Sep 22
Irene was invited by the TN Arts Commission to a reception
at the Knoxville Art Museum – then, of course, we found our way to Dancing Bear
Lodge for a great outdoor dinner. Sep 22
Then beginning in 2023:
Steve won a grant to create a special “Community Engagement
for Civics Education” class where his students taught the public about our
government. Mar 23 - and...
...then Steve was invited to participate in an academic forum in New York City - and yes, he did chat with Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.
Steve was invited to present a paper at the APSA (American
Political Science Association) meeting in Baltimore. Yes, we had some great seafood meals too! February 23
Steve was a featured speaker for the UTK (University of TN
at Knoxville) Voter Participation conference. Mar 23
Irene’s sister Lizz and husband Lyle have joined us for some great times. Easter 23
Baxter Gardens (a private home) is only open to visitors for 3 weeks each year. Apr 23
Senator Diana Harshbarger visited Steve’s college class. Apr 23