Best Little Museum in Chicago: Ancient History

Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures

If you love ancient history, archaeology, and anything to do with Mesopotamia, (and you happen to be in Chicago), this museum is well worth the sweat and blood to find a parking spot! Actual walls and ancient artifacts from as far as Egypt, Israel, and Babylon. A very impressive feat in transporting 40 ton sculptures across the ocean!

This is the museum I placed on my itinerary when I was planning another trip to the middle east and I saw a flight layover in Chicago. Fortunately, I ended up being in Chicago for a convention earlier this year and was able to sneak by.

I'm sharing this, because I know people who actually went to school here, or they have lived in Chicago their entire life and have never heard of the museum!

 

Excavating the Lamassu 

Khorsabad: The Lamassu

Human-headed winged bulls and heroic figures adorned the entrances to the throne room of the Assyrian King Sargon II in his capital city of Dur-Sharrukin, modern Khorsabad. Oriental Institute archaeologists excavating the ruins of that city discovered this colossal sculpture (called a lamassu) in 1929. The more than a dozen pieces into which the lamassu had broken in antiquity were generously given to the Oriental Institute by the Department of Antiquities of Iraq. They were, with great difficulty, transported to Chicago. The fragments were then reassembled and restored in place. It is estimated that the sculpture, which stands over 16 feet tall, weighs approximately 40 tons. The photographs tell the story of the discovery, crating, and transportation of this human-headed winged bull. (text from photo) 

ancient Egyptian pharaoh

This enormous statue of an ancient pharaoh immediately caught my attention. Standing beside it really put its size into perspective. It reminded me of our trip to Egypt 3 years earlier and seeing these ancient statues at the Cairo museum! Unfortunately, we weren't allowed to take photos. 

Colossal Bull's Head Capital

At first glance I thought this was an enormous horse's head, but it is actually a 2,500-year-old Persian bull capital from the ancient city of Persepolis in modern-day Iran. It once crowned the top of a palace column, where paired bull heads supported heavy wooden roof beams. Standing beside it gave me a true appreciation for the incredible size and craftsmanship of the ancient Persian Empire.

famous Khorsabad Lamassu

One of the most awe-inspiring exhibits I saw at Chicago's Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures was this enormous Assyrian Lamassu. Standing more than 16 feet tall, this human-headed winged bull once guarded the entrance to King Sargon II's palace over 2,700 years ago. Pictures simply don't capture its scale. 

the size of the Lamassu

Pamela standing beside the bull. We couldn't help but imagine the kings, officials, and visitors who walked past this very guardian in ancient Assyria. One detail I almost missed was that it has five legs—a brilliant design that makes it appear to stand still from the front and walk forward when viewed from the side.

Court Attendants - Persian Empire 

One of the exhibits that caught my attention was this massive stone relief from ancient Persepolis. Carved more than 2,500 years ago, these life-sized figures once decorated the royal palaces of the Persian kings. Standing in front of them, I was amazed at how much detail remains in their clothing, hair, and facial features after all these centuries. It felt like looking into the faces of people who lived during one of history's greatest empires.

Chicago off in the horizon

Walking through the galleries felt like stepping back thousands of years in time. The museum houses an incredible collection of authentic artifacts from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Persia, Assyria, and other early civilizations. I especially enjoyed seeing the genuine Sumerian cuneiform tablets, statues, pottery, and everyday objects that tell the story of some of the world's first cities.

What makes this museum so special is that these are not reproductions—they are genuine archaeological treasures excavated from some of the most important ancient sites in the world. Whether you're fascinated by the beginnings of writing, biblical history, the Sumerians, Babylonians, or the Assyrians, this museum offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience history up close. It was easily one of my favorite stops in Chicago and a place I would gladly visit again.

Field Trip: Gault Archaeological Site in Texas

DAY 1 & 2 - From Houston to Cairo

Doomsday Prepper?

 

I think the biggest question is: What is YOUR doomsday?

Whether you have survived 911, Hurricane Katrina, or lost family members in Oklahoma City, we've all experienced, or know of someone, who has endured their worst nightmare.

My goal is to be prepared for ANY type of emergency.

I talk about this in my recent post --   

Prepping Is Not About Fear. It's About Peace of Mind

I also have to be realistic. Since I can't DO IT ALL, I have to focus on PRIORITY.

What may be my priority may not be someone else's. I live in Texas, and focusing on staying comfortable when it's 100 degrees outside is important to me.

Some of my favorite ways to stay cool! 

WHEN THERE'S NO AIR CONDITIONING - Keeping Your Cool

What's NOT important to me is staying warm in Winter.

To me, prepping is no different than buying auto, home, or medical insurance. At the end of the year, we're either rotating our stash, or starting all over again on deductibles.

I don't know about you, but I'd much rather pay insurance for a peace of mind than to have no back-up plan when that rainy day hits.

But I also think it's important to not to live our lives in fear. I'm reminded of the saying, I have lived a terrible life, most of which has never happened!

In order to keep a healthy balance, I plan for the worst, and hope for the best.

I still take vacations, splurge, and I still plan for a future.

I don't live to work, I work to live.

My favorite quote of all ---- Either get busy living, or get busy dying!  Shawshank Redemption

I don't know about you, but I'd much rather get busy with living.

And of course, preparing is all about peace of mind, even for the worst situations. 

Have you ever thought how far you could walk during an emergency situation, like for example, an EMP, or a complete power grid issue? I cover this in my blog, and it was very eye opening, especially when I had to do research for my book series, Miles Away. 

How Far Could You Walk in an Emergency?

Being prepared for the worst-case scenario - NO POWER, is the best way to cover all basis. 

Worst Case Scenario: How a Cyber Attack Could Disrupt Power, Water, and Daily Life

Pool Was Draining: Why We Removed Our Above-Ground Swimming Pool

It was a VERY difficult decision, but we have decided to take down our 28' swimming pool. In a way, nature helped us make up our mind. One morning after a severe thunderstorm, I walked outside to water the chickens and did a double take. The pool (winter cover still partially intact) was completely hollow looking. Sometime during the night, the weight of the rain had pushed down on the tarp, and somehow tugged at the liner underneath. It was just enough of an opening that the force of the water was able to slip through the side.

(My next door neighbor must of thought it rained A LOT that night!) :) With the pool completely empty, and the tarp ripped at the sides, it was just another example of how our pool was draining our patience and becoming a money trap.

 

With pool supplies going up in price, higher utilities from running the pump day and night, and with a leaky filter draining water around the pool, we were harvesting mosquitoes like crazy. Then we had the decision to either readjust the liner, fill up the pool again and order another winter cover, or just let it go...

 

I listed the pool on Craigslist for free and it was gone the next day! The guy kept thanking us profusely for his "treasure" and I said, "No, THANK YOU!"

 

My treasure is the PERLITE found underneath the plastic liner (The pool was already installed before we purchased our home.)  I went online and haven't seen too many people talk about recycling pool perlite, but upon research, I've read over and over it is non toxic. Perlite is a form of volcanic glass that is mined all over the world. In fact I purchased a bag several months ago to add to my potting soil mix. Now that I have an entire "beach" of perlite, I plan to add it to all my raised beds.

Not wanting to tear down our deck, I'm trying to figure out a creative way to use the space. Stay tuned!

 

Lessons We Learned

Owning a swimming pool can provide years of enjoyment, but it also requires ongoing maintenance, repairs, chemicals, electricity, and water. As our interests shifted toward gardening and homesteading, we realized the space could be put to much better use.

One unexpected bonus was discovering the layer of perlite beneath the pool liner. Perlite is a lightweight volcanic material commonly added to potting mixes because it helps improve drainage and soil aeration. Instead of sending it to the landfill, I decided to recycle it into my raised garden beds where it could continue serving a useful purpose.

Sometimes the best homesteading projects begin by repurposing something you already have. While it was sad to see the swimming pool go, we're excited about the possibilities for transforming this area into a productive garden space. I'll be sure to share updates as the project develops.

Moringa Oleifera - Wonder Plant!

What Is Moringa?

Moringa (Moringa oleifera) is a fast-growing tree native to parts of northern India and has been cultivated for centuries throughout Asia, Africa, and tropical regions around the world. Sometimes called the "drumstick tree" because of its long seed pods, moringa is valued for its ability to thrive in hot climates and poor soils.

One reason gardeners are fascinated by moringa is its rapid growth. In warm climates, young trees can grow several feet in a single season. Nearly every part of the tree has been used traditionally, including the leaves, seed pods, flowers, and seeds.

Growing Moringa in Texas

Moringa grows best in warm climates and is often treated as a perennial in tropical regions. Here in Texas, gardeners in the southern part of the state have had success growing moringa, although freezes can damage or kill the tree. Because of its fast growth rate, many gardeners simply replant it each year or protect it during winter.

Why Homesteaders Like Moringa

Homesteaders and gardeners are often drawn to moringa because it is drought tolerant, grows quickly, and produces an abundance of leaves and seed pods. Its ability to thrive in difficult growing conditions has helped make it popular in many parts of the world.

Whether you're interested in unusual edible plants, food production, or simply experimenting with something new in the garden, moringa is certainly one of the more interesting trees a gardener can grow.

Nutrients Found in Moringa

One reason moringa has attracted attention around the world is its nutritional content. The leaves contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
• Several B vitamins
• Calcium
• Potassium
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus

Moringa leaves also contain protein and antioxidants, which has contributed to the plant's popularity among gardeners, homesteaders, and those interested in growing nutrient-dense foods.

As with any food, nutrient levels can vary depending on growing conditions, soil quality, and whether the leaves are consumed fresh or dried.

Last year, I had been reading a lot about this wonder plant called Moringa Oleifera. This wonder plant packed more vitamins than anything I had ever heard of. 

 

I went online and found a supplier on Amazon for organic Moringa seeds and waited. And waited.
Finally, a month later, my pkg passed customs from India and arrived on my doorstep!

Unfortunately, I had forgotten to plant them until 2 weeks ago. I planted 3 seeds and placed the pot on my kitchen window. As you can see 2 have sprouted!

 

 

I'll keep you posted on how they like this part of Texas. I'm in zone 8, so they should do fairly well. This is one plant that's got me curious!

 

Have you grown these, or do you plan to?

Guadalupe River State Park: Camping, Hiking & Swimming in the Texas Hill Country

Fall in Guadalupe River State Park 

Guadalupe River State Park: Camping, Hiking & Swimming in the Texas Hill Country

If you're looking for crystal-clear water, towering bald cypress trees, scenic limestone cliffs, and peaceful camping in the Texas Hill Country, Guadalupe River State Park is one of my favorite Texas State Parks.

Located just northwest of San Antonio, the park offers miles of hiking trails, shaded picnic areas, swimming, tubing, kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and both developed and primitive campsites. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a weekend camping trip, or simply a relaxing day by the river, Guadalupe River State Park is well worth the drive.

I've visited the park several times over the years, and each trip has left me with wonderful memories—and one camping trip that my family still talks about today.

A Brief History of Guadalupe River State Park

Nestled along the scenic Guadalupe River northwest of San Antonio, Guadalupe River State Park opened to the public in 1983 after the State of Texas acquired thousands of acres to help preserve the river's natural beauty and Hill Country wildlife. Today, the park protects more than 1,900 acres of woodlands, limestone bluffs, and river frontage.

The park is a favorite destination for swimming, tubing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, and camping. More than 300 species of birds have been observed in the area, making it a popular stop for birdwatchers throughout the year.

One of the things I enjoy most about Guadalupe River State Park is that it still feels like the Texas Hill Country of years gone by. Towering cypress trees line the riverbanks, clear water flows over limestone, and miles of hiking trails offer beautiful views of one of the most scenic regions in Texas. Whether you're looking for a peaceful picnic, a weekend camping trip, or simply a place to cool off during the summer, Guadalupe River State Park is one of the true gems of the Texas State Park system.

Photo's from my second visit to Guadalupe State Park. Truly a beautiful place, but also a reminder of my camping trip back in 2005. Something strange happened to my family. You can read the story here:

 

BIGFOOT or FOE? Guadalupe State Park

Guadalupe River

Cypress tree

Canyon walls over the Guadalupe

Things to Do at Guadalupe River State Park

• Swim in the Guadalupe River
• Camp under the cypress trees
• Primitive camping
• Hiking
• Birdwatching
• Photography
• Fishing
• Kayaking
• Tubing
• Wildlife viewing 

Cypress trees at Guadalupe are spectacular

Free fishing with day pass at Guadalupe River State Park 

Beautiful hikes at the state park

Best Time to Visit

Spring

Fall

Summer

Avoid holiday crowds.

Watch your step

Breathtaking views

All the leaves are changing

Truly one of Texas most beautiful state parks

Sheba enjoying the cool water

Camping site

Our primitive camping site where the rocks were thrown. Have you camped out there? If so, would love to hear from you!

                                                                         

One of the best ways to experience a state park is to return during different seasons. I've visited Guadalupe River State Park more than once, and every trip has been different. Water levels change, wildlife changes, and each visit offers a new appreciation for the beauty of the Texas Hill Country.

McKinney Falls State Park: Trails, Waterfalls & Volcano in Texas

Pedernales Falls State Park: Nature, History & Flash Flood Safety

Worm Farm

Last year I started a worm farm by converting a plastic storage box. To ensure that the worms could breathe with a closed lid, I drilled holes at the top on each side, and another hole at the very bottom in the center.

I had been reading a lot about compost tea, and wanted to collect the drainage from the bin.

For worms, I ordered 1000 worms online from Uncle Jim's Worm Farm (Amazon.com) The reviews were excellent, and delivery was prompt. I added them to the bin and wondered within the first month or so, if many had possibly escaped. I couldn't find but a handful at first.  

 

I was also concerned that maybe the red wigglers didn't like the Texas heat very much. The worm farm was enduring sweltering 100 degree days, in the shade beside the house.

 

Fortunately, over the winter, I noticed that the worm farm had doubled if not tripled in population.

 

 

Benefits of a Worm Farm

A worm farm is one of the easiest ways to turn kitchen scraps into valuable compost for the garden. Red wigglers and other composting worms break down fruit peels, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and other organic materials into nutrient-rich worm castings.

Why Gardeners Love Worm Farms

Produces Natural Fertilizer
Worm castings are often called "black gold" by gardeners because they help improve soil structure and add nutrients to the garden.

Reduces Household Waste
Instead of sending food scraps to the landfill, many kitchen leftovers can be recycled through a worm bin.

Improves Soil Health
Worm castings help improve moisture retention and encourage beneficial microbial activity in the soil.

Little Space Required
Unlike large compost piles, worm bins can be maintained in a small backyard, garage, patio, or even an apartment balcony.

Produces Compost Quickly
Worms work year-round in warm conditions and can produce usable compost faster than traditional compost piles.

Creates Worm Tea
Some worm bins produce a liquid byproduct often called "worm tea," which many gardeners use around flowers, vegetables, and container plants.

A Homesteader's Perspective

For homesteaders and gardeners, a worm farm is a simple way to recycle kitchen waste while producing a valuable soil amendment. It's an inexpensive project that can benefit everything from vegetable gardens and flower beds to potted plants and fruit trees.

**I always love to turn over leaves or cardboard in the yard after a hard rain to find native worms. 

This spring, I'll be experimenting more with compost tea, and using the worm castings to boost my garden. If you are by any chance making your own compost tea, and have had success, please drop me a line!