The Traveling Pierogi

11/09/2024

23 years ago today, our great nation was brought to its knees. We were attacked in NYC, DC, and a field in PA. No one saw this coming to America. It was a tragedy amongst all of us. We all lost a loved one or know someone that lost a loved one. All those victims will forever be in our hearts, the people in the towers being rescued, the people in the planes, the first responders, and the passengers in Flight 93, who found out the hijackers were terrorist and helped save more lives by risking their own. we are all united in this great country and we all have each others backs no matter where we are in the country after a tragedy. From Pearl Harbor to 9/11 to mass shootings to natural disasters like Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy to the Boston Marathon bombings, we all have each others back and support each other. May all these people rest in peace and forever be in our hearts. I am honored to be living in this great nation called the United States of America.

08/09/2024

Located in the section of , The Met Cloisters is a museum owned by the The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (or the Met for short) features Medieval style artwork and architecture from the Gothic and Romanesque era. The word Cloister is defined as a covered walkway that surrounds a garden(s) or a courtyard usually found at monasteries, convents, or other religious buildings. It is an amazing place to have a prayer, meditate, or just having a peaceful time to reflect.

There are three cloisters in the complex, my favorite is the main one, the Cuxa Cloister. The design comes from the Abbey of Saint Michel de Cuxa. The fountain that is in the middle of the cloister dates back to the 13th century and is from Saint Genis des Fontaines Monastery. This museum makes me feel like I am in Europe, more specifically France (England is a nice feel too). Makes me want to go back to both countries and explore the countryside and visit some of these monasteries with their cloisters. Here is a little fun fact, there is a display of medieval playing cards, which is one of two known to have been in tacked.

I would recommend coming here to see what it would be like in a cloister and what it would feel like being in a monastery. But before I go, I do have to say there is a fee to get into the museum.

03/09/2024

What an game last night with the New York Mets beating the Boston Red Sox!! (Yes, I did go to school in the area!! The Piazza/Hudson Club (gained access with my ticket) was inviting and relaxing while watching the game (the lounge is in the big plexiglass facade in left field.

01/09/2024

Scenes from another amazing year at the Polish - American Festival, Czestochowa Shrine, Doylestown, PA

30/08/2024

It’s the unofficial end of so it is a requirement, if you are in New Jersey, to go down the shore, get your tan lines, and just relax!!!

25/08/2024

If you are looking for a place to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle, head over to Island Beach State Park. Located on a barrier island, Island beach offers quiet beaches for sunbathing, ocean fishing, and trails for taking in nature while seeing the diverse wildlife. I had the chance to explore some of the park's hidden gems, including breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, an incredible variety of birds, and, if you are lucky, see some foxes.

Remember to respect the wildlife and natural habitats to help preserve this beautiful space for future generations.

19/08/2024

The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, located in Morris County in New Jersey, is an amazing way to destress from the hustle and bustle of life. The Great Swamp is the first Wilderness Area in the Department of Interior started in 1968, which is an amazing thing for wildlife. Speaking of preserving the wildlife, one of my favorite features in the Great Swamp is The Raptor Trust. The Raptor Trust is one of the best bird hospitals in the country and helps rehabilitate birds of prey, the namesake of the organization. There are small exhibits showcasing different birds of prey, like the Bald Eagle (our country’s best symbol), Golden Eagle, Falcons, Hawks, Owls, Vultures, with other birds. I would recommend visiting the Raptor Trust (make sure you leave a few extra dollars to help out the infirmary helping the birds) and walk around the Great Swamp to get some peace of mind.

11/08/2024

Everytime I venture into the City of New York, I try to visit St. Patrick's Cathedral. Everytime I stop by, the beauty, the architecture and awe never cease to amaze me. It is one many places of worship in New York where you are able to get some peace of mind, with the guidance of God Almighty. I always have a feeling that I am rejuvenated and have the guidance from God after visiting St. Pat's.

04/08/2024

Nestled within New York City's Central Park, Belvedere Castle offers visitors a blend of historical charm and breathtaking views. Built in 1869, a mix of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles, this quaint structure was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the masterminds behind Central Park. Its name, Belvedere, means beautiful view in Italian, fittingly reflecting the panoramic vistas it provides of the park and the city skyline. It also serves as a weather station for the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS).
A visit to Belvedere Castle is more than just a step back in time; it's an opportunity to experience the serene beauty of Central Park from a unique vantage point. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a picturesque spot, Belvedere Castle is a must-see destination in the heart of New York City.

29/07/2024

🎉 Facebook recognized me as a top rising creator this week!

29/07/2024

Here are two Polish icons in the City of New York, the photo on the left is a statue of King Władysław II Jagiełło and the photo on the right is the Black Madonna, Our Lady of Czestochowa in St. Patrick's Cathedral.



Statue of King Władysław II Jagiełło
Known for his role in the Union of Krewo and his victory at the Battle of Grunwald, Jagiełło's reign marked a turning point in European history. His leadership united Poland and Lithuania, laying the foundation for a powerful and flourishing commonwealth. This statue was featured in the 1939 for Poland and was going to be brought back to Poland. Later that year, Poland was invaded and the Polish government donated the statue to the US. I was surprised to see this statue in Central Park and was happy to see my heritage represented in New York, and the US.

Black Madonna, Our Lady of Czestochowa
Our Lady of Czestochowa, also known as the Black Madonna, holds a special place in the hearts of millions around the world. This revered icon, housed in the Jasna Góra Monastery in Poland, has been a symbol of faith, hope, and resilience for centuries.
Legend has it that the image was painted by St. Luke the Evangelist on a tabletop built by Jesus himself. The icon's darkened complexion, a result of centuries of exposure to candle smoke, adds to its mystique and revered status.
Pilgrims flock to Czestochowa to seek her intercession and experience her miraculous power. Countless stories of healing, protection, and answered prayers are attributed to Our Lady of Czestochowa, making her a beacon of hope in challenging times. If you want to see the Black Madonna individually, go to the Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA in Doylestown PA

Safe travels, the world awaits

27/07/2024

I gained 119 followers, created 31 posts and received 2,654 reactions in the past 90 days! Thank you all for your continued support. I could not have done it without you. 🙏🤗🎉

21/07/2024

Located 25 miles from New York City, with direct via NJ TRANSIT, discover the charm of Summit! From its rich history and stunning architecture to its vibrant community and delicious dining spots, Summit offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Stroll through beautiful parks and enjoy a cozy meal at one of the town's many fantastic restaurants. Whether you're visiting or thinking about making it home, Summit has something for everyone!

Summit Downtown, Inc.

14/07/2024

Located in Scranton PA (City of Scranton), Steamtown National Historic Site has an amazing history about trains, more specifically, steam trains. Steamtown showcases steam locomotives when they ruled the USA railways and offers a working turntable, exhibits featuring what life was like working at the roundhouse, how it felt when on a train car, and much more regarding these historic locomotives. It is an amazing place if you enjoy trains and history.

14/07/2024

This should be interesting!!

The largest in the world? Right here in New Jersey? Yep. That’s the promise

12/07/2024

What an amazing find!! I know it seems like it is nothing, but the history behind it is truly historical!!

Old North Church & Historic Site thanks for sharing!!!

Archaeologists in Concord, Massachusetts found five musket balls they say were fired during the event famously known as "The Shot Heard Round the World."

07/07/2024

If you want to be like you are in the realm of The Office, venture to the City of Scranton and step into the world of Dunder Mifflin. On a self-guided tour, you will visit some of your favorite locations featured on the show, having a slice of pizza at AlfredosCafe, hang out with friends at Poor Richard's Pub, or sit down for some seafood at Cooper's Seafood House. In the show’s opening sequence, you can see the ‘Welcome to Scranton’ sign, which you can find it at The Marketplace at Steamtown and the most notable in the opening sequence is the Penn Paper building, where there is the original signage of Penn Paper, and on the other Dunder Mifflin. Don’t forget to snap a picture because in the words of Michael Scott, ‘Ain’t no Party Like a Scranton Party, 'Cause a Scranton Party Don’t Stop’

04/07/2024

248 years ago a nation was born!!

02/07/2024

What a beautiful day for a photo shoot!! I love the vintage general store in Stillwater, NJ (Stillwater NJ) and the surrounding natural area. The bridge (not in operation anymore) is in the Delaware Water Gap near Walpack NJ!! Hope y’all enjoy!!

25/06/2024

Testing out my new camera!! These were taken at the Central New Jersey Railroad Terminal in Liberty State Park in City of Jersey City Official Government Page (Disclaimer: these photos were taken behind the fences that say no trespassing signs)

Immigrants that came through got on the trains to different parts of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the rest of the US in search of a new and better life!!

23/06/2024

What an amazing night seeing Jessica Kirson at South Orange Performing Arts Center!!! Amazing !!! If you haven’t seen her bits, I highly recommend looking her up!!

20/06/2024

It is not summertime until you go to your Shore home, Jersey Style!!! At the Jersey Shore home in Seaside Heights, NJ. Y’all are the reasons we pump our fists and not our gas!! Keep being real!! You are able to tour the house for a small fee!!

Jersey Shore Housemates includes:
Snookie
DJ Pauly D
JWOWW
Deena Nicole Cortese from the Jersey Shore
Sammi "Sweetheart" Giancola
Vinny Guadagnino
Ronnie Magro
Angelinamtv
Mike "The Situation"

15/06/2024

Congratulations Ryan!!!! Wishing a fellow Colonel the best of luck. Even though I didn't play any sports in my time at Curry College, it is amazing that any Curry College Alumni is succeeding!!! The San Jose Sharks made a great choice!! Always nice seeing Curry College Athletics program, especially Curry College Men's Hockey program, in the spotlight.

36-year-old will lead team for 1st time in NHL after 2 seasons as San Jose assistant

02/06/2024

What a perfect day for a day trip to the Grounds of Sculpture?!?! Located in Hamilton Township, New Jersey, Grounds For Sculpture offers a peaceful place to admire the sculpting world of art while basking in the sounds and feels of nature. The idea of the grounds started back in 1984 when Seward Johnson wanted a place to show the appreciation of the arts, especially sculpting. 1989, construction began and three years later, in 1992, the Grounds for Sculpture opened to the public. There are hundreds of sculptures on 42 acres of property with a few exhibits inside a few buildings. I do have to say that you do have to reserve your tickets because they do sell out fast; I made that mistake and the person manning the gatehouse was a bit annoyed (sorry guardsman). There are a few cafes on property, but there is a full service restaurant called Rat’s which transported me to the French countryside. Highly recommend visiting the Grounds of Sculpture for a peaceful day trip and appreciate art and nature.

28/04/2024

I gained 172 followers, created 44 posts and received 9,909 reactions in the past 90 days! Thank you all for your continued support. I could not have done it without you. 🙏🤗🎉

14/04/2024

My last day in Kauai, and in Hawaii, I went ziplining. Outfitters Kauai is a company that offers zipline and kayak tours. I had chosen to zipline, ending with jumping into a small natural pool from the zipline. I was anxious the day before doing this tour. I was thinking that I was not going to do the ziplines. I don’t have a fear of heights, it is the thought that the lines were going to snap and I was going to get hurt, but I did go. There were five zip lines we did, with a sixth one offered for a different tour. But more on that a bit later. The first three zip lines we were on were roughly six hundred feet. The fourth one was roughly eight hundred, and the last one we did was roughly eighteen hundred feet. But the one we did not do, but was offered when you decide to come back, was five thousand feet. With the latter, you are on your stomach so you really feel like you are flying. After we zipped through life, we went to the natural pool to jump in. It had been raining the entire time, so everyone was a bit hesitant to go in because of the weather. But we all zipped and let go of the handle into the natural pool. The waters were freezing cold. Now if it wasn’t raining, and if it were hot and humid, it would have been refreshing, but, unfortunately it wasn’t. I truly enjoyed my zipline tour. I have a new found confidence to do these types of thrills and adventure. I would recommend joining forces with the crew at Outfitters while on Kauai, they were such a down to earth team and got that island life vibe.

09/04/2024

I've received 8,000 reactions to my posts in the past 30 days. Thanks for your support. 🙏🤗🎉

08/04/2024

Mesmerizing!!!

08/04/2024

Celebrating my 5th year on Facebook. Thank you for your continuing support. I could never have made it without you. 🙏🤗🎉

07/04/2024

Ending my second day on Kauai, I went to Luau Kalamaku to see Luau Kalamaku on Kauai!! I decided to get the VIP special; went to a private dinner at Kilohana Plantation before the show. Before we had our private dinner, we took a train ride of the property, showing what they grow like sugar cane, fruits, and coffee. Going to the private dinner, the food was magnificent; The pork wonton started off this culinary experience, then we had a caesar salad. Our main course we had pork, braised rib on top of some jasmine rice and sweet Hawaiian potatoes and some veggies. Now to the Luau in the main building.

The luau was in the main pavilion where the majority of people were seated, luckily I was in the second row so I got a great view of the show. Speaking of the show, it was exemplary. The luau represents the history of Hawaii and how the native people came to the Islands through dance and music from Tahiti to Hawaii!! Highly recommend coming here and doing the Manor House Experience before watching the show.