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Summer Excitement Awaits: Join Santa Fe’s Festivals and Artistic Adventures!

  Get Your Kicks on Route 66 and Dive into Santa Fe's Exciting June Events! This June, Santa Fe invites you to celebrate the Centennial of the original Route 66. As you take a nostalgic trip along this iconic highway, don’t forget to revel in its 10-mile journey through Santa Fe, where the old meets the new. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious newcomer, Route 66 offers a unique glimpse into the past and the evolution of this charming city. Be sure to grab a commemorative pin from participating hotels and Visitor Centers to commemorate your visit!

Topsy Turvy Days: Finding Your Balance When Life Feels Upside Down! | Random Ramblings

Written By: Tina Martin I read somewhere that the best way to de-stress your life is to practice the art of being unbothered. You can't control what others do or say, so my quote for today is: “I never did mind too much about the little things.” Honestly, most of what we stress about are the little things. #BreatheAndPray Did you know that "topsy-turvy" is a technical term? Yes, it refers to when everything is upside down or when everyone is feeling ill!   Keep all four wheels on the ground and everything right side up today! I was trying to come up with something interesting for today when I read: “You’re already blessed in so many ways. Focus on that.” Related:  Your Life is the Loudest Message: Are You Tuning In to Your Own Vibes? | Random Ramblings If you haven't paid attention to any of the silly, funny, or halfway insightful things I've shared over the years, please take this to heart: Don’t take the people you love for granted. Don’t wait for special occas...

Rev Up Your Road Trip: Uncover the Hidden Gems of Amarillo on Route 66

  Exploring Texas Route 66: A Journey Through History and Charm Get ready to hit the open road and experience the vibrant tapestry that is Texas Route 66, a vital stretch of America’s most iconic highway. With its quirky roadside attractions, historic diners, and small-town charm, the Texas section of Route 66 offers an unforgettable journey that combines stunning landscapes with rich history.

Haunted Landscapes and Hollywood: The Dark Secrets of Dead Man’s Point

 Photos By Ken Hulsey / Story By Terri Hulsey Victorville is on the southwestern edge of the Mojave Desert. Established in 1895, the downtown area grew around historic Route 66 (now 7th Street). The town soon became known as a prime location for shooting westerns in the 40s and 50s but Victorville was also a memorable setting during the Hollywood heyday of space sagas. Infamous director Jack Arnold (“Creature from the Black Lagoon,” "This Island Earth,” “The Incredible Shrinking Man”) shot the opening scene of “It Came from Outer Space” (1953) here. The UFO flew over the rocks on the east side of the Narrows, near the Rainbow Bridge, and crashed in Old Town Victorville.  

Discover the Hidden Gem of Olla: Why Burger Barn is Worth the Detour!

Story and Photos by Ken Hulsey Whenever I travel through the more rural parts of our country, I enjoy experiencing the local flavor by avoiding chain restaurants and dining at small mom-and-pop eateries. This past weekend, Terri and I were on the road from Alexandria to West Monroe, so we decided to stop at one of our favorite roadside spots, the Burger Barn in Olla, Louisiana.

When Plans Go Awry: The Wild Journey Behind the Cinema Insomnia Ultraman Festival Episode That Never Happened

 Photo and Story by Ken Hulsey Sometimes in life, things don’t go as planned. Today, I took a deep dive into my photo archives and resurfaced with a long-forgotten treasure. The above image features the late-night horror host Mr. Lobo standing in front of a statue of the Japanese superhero, Ultraman. This photo was taken outside the famed Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood. Before I get caught up in the story behind this image, I think it’s a good idea to provide some background on Mr. Lobo and his show, Cinema Insomnia. This information comes straight from the archives of my old blog, Monster Island News:

From Resilience to Ruins: The Rise and Fall of Sunrise, Louisiana

Above Photo: From the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development All other photos by Ken Hulsey The Rise and Fall of Sunrise: A Historical Journey In the heart of the American landscape lies a story of ambition, community, and transformation—a narrative encapsulated in the small town of Sunrise, once a bustling hub that has since faded into the annals of history. Founded in the late 19th century, Sunrise’s journey is a striking reminder of how the passage of time can reshape our surroundings, leaving only echoes of what once was.

Just a Thought: Not My Will, But Thine | Pastor Steve Smothermon | Legacy Church

Not My Will, But Thine When someone surrenders to someone or something, it means they have ceased resisting an enemy or opponent and have submitted to their authority. That is what God requires of us.

The True Measure of Prosperity: Finding Joy Beyond Material Wealth

Prioritizing Faith Over Finances: A Spiritual Reflection In today’s world, it’s all too easy to let our finances overshadow our faith. The pursuit of wealth can often become a distraction, leading us to rely on our own understanding rather than turning to God. As stated in 1 Corinthians 2:5 (NKJV), “that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.” This verse serves as a crucial reminder that our trust should lie in Jesus and not in our financial status. 

Journey to Identity: How 'The Mandalorian' Redefines Heroism in a Galaxy Far, Far Away

The Mandalorian: A Journey Through the Stars and a Quest for Belonging The Star Wars universe has captivated audiences for decades, and at the heart of this vast galaxy is a tale of adventure, loyalty, and identity. "The Mandalorian," a beloved series that debuted on Disney+, invites viewers into the life of a lone bounty hunter, Din Djarin, affectionately known as Mando, who finds purpose amidst chaos.

From Heartbreak to Harmony: How 'Rumours' Cemented Fleetwood Mac's Legacy

 The Enduring Magic of Fleetwood Mac's "Rumours" For classic rock fans, few albums resonate as profoundly as Fleetwood Mac's iconic record, "Rumours." Released on February 4, 1977, this eleventh studio album not only helped define the sound of the late '70s but also showcased the band's personal and creative dynamics. Hailing from both British and American backgrounds, Fleetwood Mac's unique blend of rock, folk, and pop has captivated audiences for decades.

Nostalgia Meets Modern Comfort: Uncovering the Charm of Route 66 Motels in Albuquerque

Discovering Albuquerque’s Revitalized Route 66 Motels From: Visit Albuquerque If you’re looking for a nostalgic travel experience with a modern twist, consider booking a night at one of Albuquerque’s revitalized Route 66 motels. This iconic roadway has long been synonymous with American road trips, and its heart beats through the vibrant hospitality scene of Albuquerque . By the 1960s, Central Avenue, which traces the historic path of Route 66 , was lined with over 100 motels, many of which have been transformed into stylish hospitality options that pay homage to their storied past while providing modern amenities.

Cruise into History: Join the Festivities for Route 66's Centenary in Williams, Arizona!

 Celebrate the Centenary of Route 66 in Williams, Arizona! As one of the most iconic highways in America, Route 66 has long symbolized the spirit of adventure and freedom. In 2026, it turns 100 years old, and what better way to celebrate than by attending the 11th Annual Williams Historic Route 66 Car Show ? Scheduled for June 5-6, this event promises a weekend filled with classic cars, custom builds, and the nostalgic charm of vintage Americana.

Just a Thought: Are You Hurting? | Pastor Steve Smothermon

You may have heard the phrase, “hurting people hurt people.” There is so much brokenness in this world, and so many hurting people today. It is well known that those who have been emotionally damaged tend to inflict their hurt on others. People who have suffered abuse, at times, become abusers themselves. Those who have suffered under an alcoholic parent often cause their future family to suffer because they become alcoholics.

Railroading in the South: Stunning Images from Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas | Railfan Digest

 Story and Photos by Ken Hulsey I've been diligently capturing railroad images across the South over the past three months. My work has taken me through Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas, and whenever I spot a train, I make it a point to pull over and get a shot. This is a practice I used to do regularly back in my California days, which has resulted in a sizable collection of images from that region.

Cozy Up with Tradition: Discover the Artistry Behind the Baja Hoodie from Del Mex

Del Mex Mexican Baja Hoodie Sweatshirt Pullover Jerga Surf Poncho $34.99 @ Amazon.com - Order Here Wrap yourself in the warmth and comfort of a traditional Mexican surf poncho with the Baja Hoodie Sweatshirt from Del Mex. Each cozy hoodie is handmade in Mexico using time-honored techniques passed down through generations. The fabric is woven on traditional looms by a family-run operation in Central Mexico that has been crafting these iconic hoodies for many years. You can feel good about your purchase, knowing it directly supports this multi-generational family business and fair trade practices.

From Conflict to Connection: Navigating Anger with Love and Clarity

Understanding Anger Uncontrolled, persistent anger will ultimately damage your precious relationships. To truly change the negative outcomes (the fruit), we must address the underlying causes (the root). The journey to managing anger begins with humility—simply asking for help when we need it. As James 4:10 reminds us, "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up," and James 5:16 encourages us to "confess your trespasses to one another... that you may be healed" (NKJV).

Savor the Flavor: Get Your 80¢ World-Famous Chili Cheeseburgers at Original Tommy's on May 15th!

Serving 80¢ World-Famous Chili Cheeseburgers at All Southern California & Nevada Locations on Friday, May 15th from 12 to 8 PM. For a truly authentic Los Angeles fast food experience, it's hard to beat Tommy's. The formula is simple: take a cheeseburger, hot dog, fries, or just about anything, and smother it in their delicious chili. Sure, it can get a little messy, but it's so worth it! - Ken Hulsey

Stuck in the Desert: A Three-Hour Wait That Transformed My Spiritual Journey

Photo and Story by Ken Hulsey My spiritual journey took me from the lush and beautiful California coast to the desert region of the state. Initially, I struggled to adjust to life there. The landscape was stark, filled with brush, rocks, and miles of sand—an entirely different scene from the scenic vistas along the Pacific Ocean. A friend on Facebook once commented on how lucky I was to be in such a beautiful place, and I responded rather negatively. I found it hard to see any beauty in the vast expanse of the California desert.

Lost But Not Alone: A Journey Through Pain That Led Me Back to God

Written by Ken Hulsey  A relationship with God can be an amazing journey filled with incredible experiences. However, it can also involve hardships and trials meant to foster spiritual growth. I took the image above back in 2011, and it’s hard to believe that it's been 15 years since then. I snapped it with my phone while crossing over the 405 Freeway in Irvine on my journey home from work. At that time, I was working the late shift at a nearby environmental laboratory and didn’t have a car, so I walked everywhere I needed to go.