The term Cappadocia was first used by Persians. Since the most superior horses were brought up there, it has been known as “ the land of beautiful horses” since then. Findings from ruins and written sources of ancient times, we also conclude that the biggest horse races of that era was taken place in Cappadocia.

Cappadocia has different rock formations dating back to upper Myosen period. It is known that they were formed because of volcanic eruptions of Gulludag, Hasandag and Erciyes mountains. Through the ages, initial rock formations changed shape with the effect of erosion of Kizilirmak river. Resulting combination has become chimney-shaped rock formations which are accepted a natural wonder by geologists.

The first settlement in Cappadocia became in Prehistorian times. Keeping away volcanic eruption and wild animals around and being survived, people constructed underground cities.

This visual tour includes the photographic examples of Cappadocia wonder and challange of human being against nature.

Chimney rocks from Urgup in Cappadocia.

Caves used for being survival against animal attacks and lavas from volcano.

Another chimney rocks photographed at sunset time. A complete natural wonder.

Look at this weird settlement. Hoıses are next-to-next and up-and-down. I can't guess where children play.

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When driving by Red Deer on Highway #2 you would not expect that it is cultured or has major public works of art. In fact you may think all Red Deer has to offer is fast food restaurants, gas stations, and RV sales lots. This is because Red Deer's city planners, to avoid downtown congestion, created an area called Gasoline Alley. This strip effectively keeps Highway traffic out of its' downtown area. However, if you take the time to venture into downtown Red Deer there is a thriving cultural community and the city has invested in public works of art.

What I refer to are the statues affectionately referred to as The Ghosts of Red Deer. These incredibly well detailed, life size, sculptures are scattered throughout down town Red Deer. All these ghosts are of real people, with a couple of exceptions, which are real animals. There are plaques explaining the stories behind the statues.

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The first Ghost I saw was an older gentleman sitting on a bench downtown, he had a briefcase and was remarkably well done, I admired the sculpture, but until I saw another, I had not realized that this was a special feature in the city. I soon discovered many more. I have not included a photo of this chap, you will have to discover him for yourself.

There are two sculptures that I was especially drawn to, one because of its magnificent size, attention to detail in an action pose, and the other because of the story behind it.

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The Ghost of a horse drawn fire wagon is truly impressive. The expression on the horses as well as the two human figures is very strong. No question about it, this is an intense moment caught in time. It is the largest Ghost Sculpture, complete with two frightened horses, one driver in the fire wagon, and a man who is trying to control the horses. A rein has broke and they are loosing control of the team, who typically are used to charging full speed to the fire.

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Francis the Pig is my other favorite. This little guy made an escape on route to the slaughter yard, he evaded capture for quite some time. During this time Francis made himself a town celebrity and earned this statue from his days on the run.

All in all, seeing these lovely works of art, in an unexpected location gave me quite an thrill. Red Deer is about one hour north of Calgary, and one and a half hours south of Edmonton, should you find yourself passing through Red Deer, I suggest you turn off the highway, and go into the downtown area and look for these ghosts yourself. Bring a camera.

A spectacular view of the island is to be found at the end of a mountain trail. Along the way your escort will guide you and tell wonderful stories of the history of Jamaica. For a tremendously exciting time you may even be allowed on a bareback ride along a beach. You would have to be an experienced rider for this delightful ride. Nearly every resort or hotel will be happy to arrange one of these equestrian experiences for you at the time of your choice.

There is a Polo Club at Chukka Cove situated between St. Ann Bay and Runaway Bay. It is a state-of the art riding and polo club. They offer rides along the beach with a choice of riding in the water or just along the beach. One of the most popular day trips is the one provided by Safari Tours. You will not only ride but also stop for river tubing. The horseback riding at Prospect Plantation will be on magnificent horses previously used for polo. Anyone who knows horses realizes the excellent quality and training of polo ponies (they are called that as a nickname since they are actually horses).

Other services for horseback riding in Jamaica can be found in Negril, Montego Bay as well as the South Coast Area, which provide choices for riding into the mountains, through the countryside or onto the beach and into the water.

Another one worth mentioning is Ocho Rios Jamaica Horseback Riding tour. Ride one of their horses down to a splendid beach where your fantasy of riding a horse bareback into the sea becomes reality. Anyone over the age of five and weighing not more than two hundred and fifty pounds can take this tour. I would suggest experience with riding as a prerequisite.

The guides will take you from your Ocho Rios cruise ship in an air conditioned van to the stables. The drive takes you along the North coast of Jamaica and gives you a great chance to see the sights. You will want a camera along for this drive. To avoid losing or damaging an expensive camera, I would suggest buying a disposable one.

Upon arrival at the stables you will have friendly and trained guides to match you with a horse well suited to your level of experience. This adventure is perfect for couples, families and beginners. The professional escorts ensure your security and safety as long as you are honest about your experience with horses. They share their knowledge of the land with you in a continuing narration on the passing scenery. This tour leads you past a great variety of plants and trees as you make your way towards the sand and sea.

Your ride is about two hours long and ends when you get back to the country estate of the stables where you can enjoy refreshments in a setting surrounded with bougainvillea, pimento trees and fishtail palms. They return you via air conditioned vehicle to your cruise ship. Advance reservations are required. This adventure will provide a lifetime memory.

Suzie was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and shortly after met her dream man. He wanted to marry her, but first he wanted to be sure she would be around awhile, so he enlisted the help of a doctor who treated her illness with good nutrition consisting of large doses of vitamins and herbs.

When the doctor told Sylvan that Suzie needed something more to help her fight, he recalled her excitement during a recent pet store visit. Suzie was very taken with an injured bird in the pet store, and fascinated by the healing process.

Sylvan asked for wounded and orphaned animals, and soon their home was alive with love and nurturing. As Suzie worked with the animals and poured her heart into healing them, she healed herself. They provided her with hope for the future and a will to fight, as did her soul mate, Sylvan. Together they have created a sanctuary for over 400 animals. After being declared cancer free, they had

cause to celebrate.

This is Scarlet. She used to be so lonely that she would peck at her feathers until she was bald. Her owners had to give up the beautiful macaw because of their neighbor's complaints of noise. Now she can talk all she wants, and loves to take almonds from Sylvan's hand, and as you can see her beautiful plumage has grown back.

Sylvan is holding an indigenous Wedge-tailed Shearwater. When it was just a few days old, the bird was found floating off the shores of Molokini by a tour boat operator. He kindly brought it to Sylvan. Sylvan and Suzie mixed up a healthy formula that has helped other birds, and exercised it's wings daily, in the hope that is would regain it's strength.

As this picture demonstrates, the Wedge-tailed Shearwater is ready to test its wings and reclaim its freedom, thanks to the assistance of Suzie and Sylvan.

Here is Doogie, a miniature horse who just happens to be 90% blind. Doogie was about to be put down, but fortunately for him someone brought him to the Boo Boo Zoo, and now he happily chases after the dogs and munches on carrots. Bo, lying on the ground near his constant companion, is a loving and gentle friend.

Sylvan says that when he hears squeals coming from the pig pen, he knows that Doogie is visiting a very fat pot-bellied pig. He likes to gently prod her to get her to play.

These beautiful Siamese kittens were only days old when found in a drainage pipe in Wailuku. Thanks to their rescuer and the EMAR there mother would be very relieved to know that they are now running and playing like normal kittens.

They took in Duchess who was left for dead after a car accident. Her legs and vertebrae were so shattered that the veterinarian said she would never walk again. A good hearted donor paid for her surgery and Suzie and Sylvan found her a doggie wheelchair. Duchess is a real inspiration and has never given up. She is very mobile and wheels every where she wants to go. Not only that, she has been adopted by a loving family.

“Yes Deer”, as she is called now was a victim of “capture myopathy”. Yes Deer suffered paralysis as result of extreme stress. Hunters captured her and her mother. They tied her to a tree and gutted her mother in front of her. At EMAR or the Boo Boo Zoo she had made friends with many of the kittens who provide her love and affection. Here she is pictured with Flojo.

Sylvan and Suzie treat an Axis deer that sustained a knee injury. With the healing touch of these two, this deer should be up and about in no time.

Look at the interesting faces of these Pueos owls. This is an owl species that is endangered in other areas of the country, but are continuing to do well In Maui thanks to the hard work of EMAR.

Although these two were struck by a car, and their wings were so badly shattered the owls required partial amputations that rendered them flightless, they are safe here in the aviary at the Boo Boo Zoo.

“The East Maui Animal Refuge (EMAR) is a no-kill, all volunteer-run, non profit, rehabilitation sanctuary for injured and orphaned animals who would otherwise die”

The love found here at the EMAR, or the Boo Boo Zoo, as Suzie has nicknamed it is limitless. It cures all and conquers all. I enjoyed my visit, and I hope you did too.