Miracle Mindset

Experience Easter on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad This Easter weekend, on April 4 and 5, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad invites tourists and railroad enthusiasts to embark on a memorable journey through one of Colorado’s most stunning natural attractions. Nestled within the breathtaking scenery of the Royal Gorg e , this experience goes far beyond a traditional train ride. It’s an adventure that captures the heart of the great outdoors, all while providing the comfort and joy of exceptional dining and views you won’t find anywhere else.

Photo From Visit Arizona The Grand Canyon: A Stargazer’s Paradise The Grand Canyon is renowned for its breathtaking vistas by day, but when the sun dips below the horizon, a different kind of magic unfolds. Officially designated as an International Dark Sky Park, Grand Canyon National Park offers an extraordinary opportunity for tourists and stargazers alike to immerse themselves in the celestial wonders of the night sky. With minimal light pollution, the park provides a stunning backdrop for one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays—the universe itself.

Nestled in an unassuming strip mall along Wyoming Boulevard, just north of Constitution Avenue, Eloy's Mexican Restaurant is one of those hidden treasures that every Albuquerque local cherishes. From the outside, it might not catch your eye, but once you step inside, you’re enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like home. The delightful aromas wafting through the air—from rich, simmering chile to the tempting scent of perfectly grilled meats—immediately ignite fond memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations shared over delicious meals. 

  Finding Strength in the Face of Adversity: A Guide to Staying Grounded In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, it can be easy to feel small, invisible, or even defeated. You may face challenges that seem insurmountable, and pressure that feels like it's closing in on you. During these times, it's crucial to remember one fundamental truth: you are stronger than you realize. Take a moment to breathe deep and stand tall. This simple act of inhalation can do wonders for your mindset. Inhale positivity, and exhale negativity. Reset your focus and remind yourself that you are not under attack because you lack strength; rather, it is the very essence of your being that draws challenges toward you. You matter, and because of that, you may attract difficulties that seek to test your resilience.  

Nestled along New Mexico State Road 14, also known as the Turquoise Trail, between Albuquerque and Santa Fe , lies the small and eclectic town of Madrid. Today, Madrid is home to several shops, restaurants, and a museum, but nearly eighty years ago, it was a bustling community. During its heyday, the town boasted the largest coal mining companies west of the Mississippi, a professional baseball team, and Christmas celebrations that attracted thousands of visitors from around the world.

In a world filled with expectations, comparisons, and the relentless pursuit of validation, insecurity presents an ongoing challenge. Many individuals struggle with feelings of inadequacy, often shaped by a flawed sense of identity influenced by external factors rather than the truth of who they truly are. At the core of insecurity lies a misplaced identity—one that is defined by societal standards rather than by God's meaningful design for each of us.

The Israelites misunderstood Jesus's mission . They expected him to be their next political ruler—a general who would form a political party and raise an army to overthrow the Romans who ruled and oppressed them. However, that was not his mission at all. He had a more significant purpose: to forgive sins and bring a message of peace.

The Enduring Legacy of King Kong (1933) In the realm of cinematic history, few films have left as profound an impact as " King Kong ," which premiered in New York City in 1933. Often hailed as one of the "100 Best Films of All Time" by Time Magazine, this iconic motion picture not only broke box-office records but also fundamentally shaped the future of filmmaking. Its innovative use of special effects, emotional storytelling, and unforgettable characters has spawned a decades-long fascination with the giant ape and the world he inhabits. "King Kong" arrived at a time when the film industry was ripe for innovation. With groundbreaking visual effects crafted by special effects pioneer Willis O’Brien, the film pushed the boundaries of what was technically possible in the 1930s. O’Brien’s mastery of stop-motion animation was revolutionary; it created a believable and captivating world that drew audiences into the narrative. Even today, viewers can appreciate ...

 One of the first trips my wife and I took together was from our home in Victorville, California , up Highway 395 to the town of Lone Pine, located at the base of Mt. Whitney. It's truly stunning how the harsh California desert gives way to lush mountain peaks within just a few miles. The view from the desert floor, gazing up at the 14,000-foot peak, is breathtaking.

In an age where forensic medicine appears capable of solving nearly any crime, it seems that they are now prepared to take on one of the greatest mysteries of all time: The death of Harry Houdini . Although reports at the time of his death indicate that Houdini died from complications of a ruptured appendix, it has long been speculated that he was actually murdered. Born Erich Weisz on March 24, 1874, in Budapest, Hungary. One of seven children born to a Jewish rabbi and his wife, Erich moved with his family as a child to Appleton, Wisconsin, where he later claimed he was born. When he was 13, Erich moved with his father to New York City, taking on odd jobs and living in a boarding house before the rest of the family joined them.

Photographer: Ken Hulsey  Location: LA County Fairgrounds (Pomona, CA)  Ex Santa Fe 4-6-4 #3450 stands as a testament to the golden age of railroading in America, proudly located in its final resting place at the LA County Fairgrounds in Pomona, California . This magnificent locomotive, a product of the Santa Fe Railroad , is a remarkable piece of history that reflects not just the engineering prowess of its time but also the rich tapestry of stories surrounding American railroads.

“Some of the best days of your life haven’t happened yet… so keep going.” This wisdom resonates deeply, reminding us that our journey continues to unfold. In the hustle and bustle of life, I hope you’ve found moments to pause and simply breathe, reconnecting with your spirit amidst the midweek chaos. Let go of the weight of others’ opinions and align yourself with the best version of you—a version that is ever-evolving and filled with potential.

If you grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico , during the 60s, 70s, or 80s, you likely have fond memories of Toys By Roy. The store was easily recognizable thanks to the large rocking horse logo on its front. In 1961, Roy Ater opened his first Toys By Roy in the brand-new Winrock Center Mall, which was marketed as ‘the largest in the Southwest.’ Ater’s toy store quickly became one of the mall's first and most successful retailers. Over the following years, Toys By Roy expanded into a successful franchise with 34 locations across 9 states.

And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. —Matthew 21:22 Prayer is not merely a ritual or a routine; it is a sacred two-way conversation between our Creator and us. As Christians, we are blessed to have a heavenly Father who not only hears our prayers but actively responds to them. This profound promise from Jesus, “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive,” serves as a powerful reminder of the potency of faith combined with earnest prayer.

On Palm Sunday, the crowds shouted, "Hosanna! Save us now!" as Jesus rode into Jerusalem. They celebrated Him like a king, but only days later, many of those same voices cried, "Crucify Him." Why did this happen? Because Jesus wasn’t the king they expected. 

I, like many others, first became fascinated with the infamous "Fouke Monster" in the 1970s when the film "The Legend of Boggy Creek" was released in theaters and drive-ins across the country. Although I didn't see the movie until it aired as a Saturday afternoon feature on a local TV station in the 1980s, the original trailer had a lasting impact on my young and impressionable mind—it scared the crap out of me. A big, hairy creature reaching through windows to grab young girls (the Fouke Monster doesn't hold a candle to King Kong), girls screaming, guns firing, people chasing the monster, the monster chasing people-all set in what looked like the creepiest place on Earth: Boggy Creek. I hid under my bed until I was ten!  

Today at precisely 11:21 a.m. EDT, NASA marked a significant milestone in its Artemis program when the Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and Orion spacecraft arrived at Launch Pad 39B. This event followed an impressive 11-hour voyage from the Vehicle Assembly Building at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, symbolizing a giant leap towards the next phase of lunar exploration.

The Unseen Connections: How Railroads Shaped Albuquerque's Spirit Before Route 66 For railroad history buffs, the evolution of cities often reveals a story of interconnectedness, especially in the American Southwest, where the rise of the railroad preceded the fame of highways like Route 66 . Before it became a symbol of adventure and the freedom of the open road, Albuquerque was transformed by iron rails that forged the city’s economic and cultural identity.

Life is a journey marked by various seasons, each with its unique challenges and blessings. There are times when we feel an intense fire within us, fueling our passions and driving us forward. Conversely, there are moments when we feel frozen, grappling with uncertainty and doubt. Navigating the peaks and valleys of our existence can be daunting, but faith is the key that unlocks our path . It acts as the enduring glue that binds our experiences together, even during times when we feel disoriented.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reminiscing about my days in the Southwest over the past couple of months. In my previous posts, I've focused a lot on my experiences in California , New Mexico , and, to some extent, Texas . However, I feel bad for neglecting the great state of Arizona . I often referred to it as "the great land in between" the states I once called home. Although I never lived there, I spent a significant amount of time traveling down the famous Route 66 and later Interstate 40 through Arizona. I have wonderful memories of looking out the window, eating at roadside diners, and stopping at countless tourist traps during family summer vacations.

  Mastering Emotions: Taking Control for Healthier Relationships In an increasingly chaotic world, our emotions can genuinely influence the quality of our relationships and overall well-being. It’s crucial to own and lead our emotions; otherwise, they may take charge of our lives, leading us down paths of dissatisfaction and conflict. As mentioned in Philippians 4:11, we have the power to control our responses and states of mind. This is especially important because true, lasting happiness stems from being nurtured by the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23.

Over the years, I have been compiling stories about Bigfoot from eyewitnesses and writing articles about them. The most notable of these was co-written with my wife, Terri, and is titled "A Brief History of Bigfoot in Southern California." That piece was featured on the official Anza-Borrego Desert Park website at one point. Throughout my years of researching the Sasquatch mystery, I never realized that I had grown up in the same house as someone who had their own sighting.

Most of us carry a picture in our minds of how life is supposed to go. You try to make good decisions. You follow God. You try to live right. And somewhere in the back of your mind, you assume life will move forward in a predictable direction. You think, if I obey God, things will make sense. But sometimes life goes off script. The plan falls apart. The future you imagined disappears.

  The Legacy of St. Patrick: Celebrating a Day of Irish Heritage Every year, on March 17, people worldwide don green attire, partake in festive parades, and raise a glass to toast Ireland’s most famous patron saint, St. Patrick. This vibrant celebration dates back to 1631, when the Church officially established a Feast Day in honor of St. Patrick, who is believed to have died on this date in 461 A.D. A figure revered across cultures, St. Patrick's legacy is deeply entwined with the history and identity of Ireland.

Every so often, a remarkable soul, guided by a higher purpose, bravely steps beyond their comfort zone to offer a heartfelt embrace and the reassuring message: “I see you, it’s tough right now, but know that you are not alone in this.” In moments of sadness, it is love that reaches out and says, “You are supported.” 

A while back, I had the privilege of spending my lunch break at the historic Old State Capitol in downtown Baton Rouge. This gothic castle-style building once housed the legislators who deliberated on the affairs of the Pelican State, and it is now a first-rate museum dedicated to Louisiana's history.

Amid the hustle and bustle of our daily existence, it is essential to carve out moments for introspection and appreciation of the myriad blessings life bestows upon us. When we take the time to truly reflect, we often uncover countless treasures—both monumental and subtle—that enrich our journeys and provide us with profound joy.

Have you ever been on fire for God in one season… and felt distant the next?  This powerful and honest message delves into the realities of spiritual connection, disconnection, and reconnection. Through the life of Peter, we witness how someone can boldly declare Jesus as the Messiah one moment, and then struggle with fear and doubt the next. Peter walked on water, followed Jesus courageously, and expressed his love for Him openly. Yet, under pressure, fear took hold, leading Peter to deny Jesus three times. Although his love for Jesus never vanished, fear ultimately overshadowed his faith.

I, like many science fiction fans, developed my lifelong love for the genre by watching "Star Trek." I didn’t discover the series on my own; I was encouraged to watch it by my older cousin, Rick, who was an avid fan. The first episode I ever saw was "Arena," which featured Captain Kirk facing off against the lizard-like captain of the Gorn species in a fight to the death, orchestrated by an unseen alien race. As a young boy fascinated by dinosaurs, the reptilian Gorn initially captured my attention. However, it was the intelligent and well-crafted story that kept me coming back for more episodes. My youthful spirit of adventure, combined with a desire to explore beyond the confines of my backyard, made the series' exploration-driven storylines and charismatic characters a perfect match for me. What six-year-old boy doesn’t dream of piloting a starship across the vast, uncharted regions of infinite space? Thus, I became a Trekkie and a lifelong science fiction fa...

New Discoveries in Tyrannosaur Evolution: A Giant Leg Bone Unearthed in New Mexico The world of paleontology has been shaken by the recent discovery of an enormous tyrannosaur leg bone in the fossil-rich Kirtland Formation of northwestern New Mexico. This shinbone, measuring three feet long, suggests the existence of an unusually large member of the tyrannosaur family, a group that includes the iconic Tyrannosaurus rex. Documented in a study published in the journal Scientific Reports, this finding provides new insights into the history and evolution of these magnificent creatures.

 One of my favorite subjects to photograph in Louisiana is the ex-Crowell & Spencer Lumber Company Steam Locomotive #400. There’s something about capturing images of this locomotive that draws me in. This old locomotive has a presence that resonates with me profoundly. If a picture conveys a thousand words, then this piece of railroad history speaks directly to my soul.

 When the divine hand reaches out to bless someone with greatness, it rarely picks the strongest, the wisest, or those who possess the most outward beauty. Perfection is not the requirement. Instead, God seeks individuals just like you—those who have imperfections, who harbor fears, and who wrestle with self-doubt. The figures celebrated in the Bible were not extraordinary; they were human, just like us, navigating their own challenges. In His infinite wisdom, God recognizes our potential even when we can’t quite see it ourselves.

 Gibsland, Louisiana, was a quiet little town in north-central Louisiana in 1934. Nothing much had ever happened there until two of America's most notorious outlaws, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, stopped in for breakfast. Unbeknownst to them, this would be their last meal, as just south of the town, a posse of Texas and Louisiana lawmen had set up an ambush that would ultimately end their two-year spree of killings and robberies with a barrage of bullets.

 Photos and Story by Ken Hulsey This afternoon, I dove into my extensive collection of unpublished railroad photographs from my time living in Southern California. These images feature trains from both BNSF and Union Pacific, captured at famous railfanning spots like Cajon Pass, Tehachapi, Bakersfield, Fullerton, San Bernardino, and the Mojave Desert.

Sometimes God's answers don't arrive the way we imagine they should. We expect the obvious solution, the dramatic moment, or the strong and visible leader. But throughout Scripture, God often works through the unlikely and the overlooked so that His power is unmistakable. When the answer comes from a place no one expected, it reminds us that the victory didn't come from human strength but from God's hand.

  Exploring Mysteries: Josh Gates Unveils New Revelations in 'Expedition Files' Adventure, intrigue, and history collide as explorer and storyteller Josh Gates returns in the latest season of Expedition Files—a gripping series dedicated to unpacking some of the world's most infamous mysteries. Premiering on Wednesday, April 1, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on the Discovery Channel, this season promises viewers a thrilling journey through time, uncovering fresh theories and evidence that challenge long-standing narratives.

 A symbol of all airmen past, present, and future, the England Air Force Base Heritage Park is a proud reminder of the Air Force's role in our nation's military history. Each of the five aircraft displayed here valiantly contributed to the defense of our country. They are suspended in simulated flight as a permanent reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the men and women who have served their country as members of the finest air force in the world.  -  England Air Force Base Heritage Park Plaque

What do you do when you’re still connected to God—but life still hurts?  In this message, Pastor Steven tackles one of the hardest questions in the Christian life: why storms still come even when we are faithful. Using the powerful illustration of a seatbelt after a car crash, he reminds us that connection to God doesn’t promise a life without pain—it promises protection within it.

  Experience the Magic of the Boysenberry Festival at Knott's Berry Farm Calling all young adventurers and food enthusiasts! If you're looking for an unforgettable experience that tantalizes your taste buds and celebrates history, the Knott's Boysenberry Festival is the ultimate destination for you. This annual food and wine festival runs daily from March 13 to April 12, 2026, and it's all about honoring the park's rich heritage with the delicious boysenberry—the berry that started it all!

  Experience the Final Gathering of Nations Powwow: “The Last Dance” Mark your calendars for April 24-25, 2026, as Albuquerque, New Mexico, prepares to host the finale of a remarkable cultural tradition—the Gathering of Nations Powwow. Celebrating its 40-plus-year history, this event has evolved into the largest Native American powwow across the globe, attracting thousands of attendees eager to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture.

If you're in central Louisiana and looking for great pizza and handcrafted beer, you have to stop by Flying Heart Brewing in Natchitoches. Honestly, I haven't had a great pizza since my family moved here from California almost six years ago. People in Alexandria rave about Wildwood Pizza, but when my partner and I tried to eat there, we were met with a terrible septic smell as soon as we walked in. We've never been back since. Eating at Philly's Pizza in Pineville has been a mixed experience, with decent pies sometimes overshadowed by greasy offerings. It’s disheartening when an Ultimate Supreme from Little Caesars becomes your go-to pizza due to a lack of better options.

We’ve all heard the encouragement to “just do your best” and to “make the most of what you have.” While that advice holds a lot of wisdom, I encourage you to occasionally step outside your usual boundaries, embrace new experiences, and surprise yourself! Life flourishes when we take those leaps of faith. Remember to prioritize safety and kindness in all that you do.

  The Historic Battle of the Monitor and the Virginia: A Naval Revolution On March 9, 1862, a remarkable chapter in naval history unfolded off the coast of Hampton Roads, Virginia, marking a significant transition in maritime warfare. The clash between the U.S.S. Monitor and the C.S.S. Virginia would not only be one of the most notable naval battles in the American Civil War but also signal the dawn of ironclad ships and steam-powered naval vessels. The C.S.S. Virginia, initially launched as the U.S.S. Merrimack in 1855, transformed into a formidable weapon for the Confederate Navy after its capture in 1861. With heavy iron armor plating added above the waterline and armed with powerful artillery, the Virginia was a sight to behold. It made its menacing presence known on March 8, when it sunk two Union ships and left another stranded, showcasing its might.

  Exploring Steamtown National Historic Site: A Journey Through Railroad History Nestled in the heart of downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania, Steamtown National Historic Site (NHS) offers a remarkable glimpse into the rich history of America’s railroads. Spanning 62.48 acres, this railroad museum is built on the remnants of the former Scranton yards of the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad (DL&W), providing an engaging environment for railroad enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

There exists a radiant light within you, a sacred spark that embodies the divine essence, eternally resilient even amidst life's storms. In those moments of doubt, when you feel lost or fragmented, take a moment to acknowledge that flicker of hope deep inside. Can you feel it? It’s a gentle reminder that you are destined for more than the challenges and discontent that may sometimes cast a shadow over your days.

Have you ever felt like something was missing, but you couldn’t quite put your finger on it? In this powerful message, we explore the “mystery of the missing part.” Just like a puzzle with one piece removed, life doesn’t function correctly when something essential is disconnected.  Jesus declares in John 15:5 that He is the vine and we are the branches. When we stay connected to Him, we bear fruit; when we disconnect, dysfunction follows. This sermon reveals a life-changing truth: most problems aren’t about the fruit; they are about the roots. And root problems stem from connection issues. 

 For this installment of Retro Cartoon Rewind, I decided to feature a selection of my favorite cartoon shorts featuring Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. If you’re like me, you probably grew up watching these cartoons, and they undoubtedly influenced your childhood. I consider myself to be an equal blend of the Wascally Wabbit and the Screwball Duck, both mentally and emotionally, which probably explains a lot of things—just ask my friends and relatives! Aside from the psychiatrist bills, these wonderful cartoons still make me laugh out loud and bring back so many fond memories.

 The gunfight is a staple of every Western television show, movie, and pulp novel. If you watched classic TV series like The Rifleman, Gunsmoke, and Wagon Train, you know it was the climactic scene in nearly every episode. The narratives of these popular shows and films, featuring legends such as John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart, and Clint Eastwood, portray the Old West as being filled with hired guns, trigger-happy outlaws seeking revenge, and fighters looking for a brawl. It creates tension, doesn't it? Picture a showdown in a deserted street, guns blazing as two men face off in a winner-takes-all battle to the death. The fastest draw usually emerges victorious, that being most often the town marshal or the good-looking hero of the story.

Recently, my wife and I decided to travel west from our home in central Louisiana and cross the border into Texas to visit the city of Lufkin. Although Lufkin is a smaller city, with a population of 34,074, it boasts many attractions, including several top-notch museums. After considering our options, we chose to spend our afternoon at the Naranjo Museum of Natural History.

Navigating the path that God has lovingly laid out for us can be a profound journey, yet it often comes with challenges from forces that seek to distract and disorient us. Imagine this: as you strive to follow that divine path, the adversary may suddenly appear, trying to blind you and lead you astray. Like a whirlwind, he may spin you around, making you feel dizzy and confused. In that moment, it might seem as though you've lost your way, as if under the influence of something strong, unable to see your true direction.