Thoughtful Thursday Exploring the Wonders of Niagara Falls

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Few natural wonders evoke the sense of awe and wonder quite like Niagara Falls. Located on the border between the United States and Canada, this magnificent waterfall complex is a testament to the raw power and beauty of nature.

Spanning the Niagara River between the province of Ontario in Canada and the state of New York in the United States, Niagara Falls consists of three breathtaking waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. Together, they form the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world, making Niagara Falls a must-see destination for travelers from around the globe.

The sheer magnitude of Niagara Falls is best experienced up close, whether by taking a thrilling boat ride on the iconic Maid of the Mist or embarking on a scenic helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the cascading waters. Feel the mist on your skin and hear the thunderous roar as millions of gallons of water plummet over the edge, creating a spectacle that ignites the senses and leaves an indelible impression.

But Niagara Falls offers more than just breathtaking views. Surrounding the falls is a vibrant ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Explore the lush landscapes of Niagara Parks, home to picturesque gardens, hiking trails, and stunning vistas overlooking the falls.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a moment of awe-inspiring beauty, Niagara Falls offers something for everyone. Soak in the majesty of nature’s masterpiece, and let the timeless allure of Niagara Falls leave you breathless and inspired.

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“Their roar is around me. I am on the brink of the great waters—and their anthem voice goes up amid the rainbow and the mist.” ~Grenville Mellen

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Thoughtful Thursday Washington Monument

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Did you know that plans for the Washington Monument were underway even before George Washington became President? Back in 1783, Congress voted to create a memorial dedicated to Washington, recognizing his pivotal role as Commander in Chief during the Revolutionary War. However, due to financial constraints, Washington scrapped the plans once he assumed the presidency.

Congress again wanted to honor Washington’s legacy in 1799 after his death and proposed to build a pyramid-shaped mausoleum but that didn’t work out either. It wasn’t until 1833 that the National Monument Society was formed by concerned Washingtonians. The Society launched a design competition, led by Chief Justice John Marshall who ultimately selected the winner, architect Robert Mills, renowned for his work on notable buildings such as the US Treasury and Patent Office.

The resulting structure in the shape of an Egyptian obelisk reminiscent of ancient civilizations, was constructed in two phases, funded both privately and publicly. Upon its completion in 1884, the Washington Monument soared to a height of over 555 feet, making it the tallest building in the world at the time. Though surpassed in height by the Eiffel Tower in 1889 at 984 feet, the Monument remains an enduring symbol of Washington’s legacy.

Having had the opportunity to tour the Monument myself during a visit to Washington, DC, I can attest to its breathtaking views and awe-inspiring presence. If you ever find yourself in the DC area, be sure to include a visit to the Washington Monument on your itinerary – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!

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The resulting structure, an Egyptian obelisk reminiscent of ancient civilizations, was constructed in two phases, funded both privately and publicly. Upon its completion in 1884, the Washington Monument soared to a height of over 555 feet, making it the tallest building in the world at the time. Though surpassed in height by the Eiffel Tower in 1889, the Monument remains an enduring symbol of Washington’s legacy.

Having had the opportunity to tour the Monument myself during a visit to Washington, DC, I can attest to its breathtaking views and awe-inspiring presence. If you ever find yourself in the DC area, be sure to include a visit to the Washington Monument on your itinerary – it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!