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

Travis and Abby brought her parents to visit TN – they loved Gatlinburg and Dollywood. 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

Arts in the Park featured Irene’s HOLA Umbrellas. Sep 22

Steve was invited to present Civics Engagement to the Daughters of the American Revolution. Oct 22

The Halloween fundraiser for the Morristown Theatre Guild Gala – Maleficent and her Raven. Oct 22

Steve’s birthday at Chesapeake’s Nov 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.

Irene collaborated with 4 local artists to create “Round Robin Art” at the Home Show. Mar 23

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