Big Daily Blend

Rockhaven B&B in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Celebrate West Virginia Day with this archived Big Blend Radio interview recorded onsite with innkeeper Lynn Pechuekonis who discusses Rockhaven B&B and Harpers Ferry attractions and activities, and shares the history of educators William Allen Saunders and his wife Inez Marie Johnson, who lived in the two-and-a-half-story stone foursquare now called Rockhaven. 
Rockhaven B&B in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia is the perfect place for a tranquil getaway.  It’s a welcoming home where you can relax after a day of exploring Harpers Ferry National Park, biking the C&O Canal Trail, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, rafting on the river, tasting Loudoun County wine offerings or just escaping the big city madness.More: https://rockhavenbnb.com 
 

Summer Pet Tips for Fun and Safety

Get ready for summer fun with your pet companions on this episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Pet Connection” Show! Hosts Nancy J. Reid and Lisa D. Smith, along with cohost Angela Laws from TrustedHousesitters, share essential pet care tips to help keep animals safe, cool, and comfortable during the hot weather.
The conversation covers everything from hydration and heat protection to backyard safety and wildlife awareness. You’ll also hear about the importance of knowing which plants are toxic, monitoring pets around pools, and taking precautions during fireworks. Plus, learn about the value of building strong relationships with pets and staying proactive in their care—especially in emergencies or extreme heat.
Top Summer Pet Safety Tips Covered in the Show:* Hydration is crucial—always ensure fresh water is available.* Pets can’t protect themselves; owners must stay vigilant.* Be prepared for natural disasters that may impact your pets.* Keep pets indoors during heatwaves and fireworks.* Know which backyard plants are harmful.* Always supervise pets near pools.* Wildlife encounters can be risky—stay alert.* Strong human-animal bonds enhance overall pet care.
Helpful Summer Pet Care Resources from TrustedHousesitters:* How to Keep Dogs Cool in Summer:https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/keeping-dogs-cool/ * Caring for Flat-faced Dogs in Summer:https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/flat-faced-dogs-in-summer/ * Dog Life Jackets to Keep Them Safe in the Water: https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/dog-life-jacket/ * Recipes for Frozen Treats for Dogs:https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/blog/pets/frozen-dog-treats-recipes/ 
🎧 Follow the Pet Connection Podcast: https://pet-connection.podbean.com/ 

Country-Fresh Corvalis in Oregon's Willamette Valley

Celebrate National Rivers Month on this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" podcast with travel writer and author Linda Ballou as she shares her refreshing and nature-filled journey through Corvallis, Oregon and the scenic Willamette Valley that's home to the mighty Willamette River.
From birding and farm-fresh cuisine to unique rural experiences and historic insights, this episode paints a vivid picture of Oregon’s natural beauty and cultural charm. We also detour to Portland to highlight Washington Park, garden strolls, and the vibrant culinary scene that reflects the state's creative spirit. 
📝 Read Linda's article about her experience in Corvallis on NABBW.org:🔗 https://nabbw.com/expert-columns/travel/linda-ballou-finds-corvallis-oregon-to-be-organically-charming-energetic-highly-walkable-and-worthy-of-your-visit/ 
🌍 Follow Linda’s travel adventures & books:🔗 https://lostangeladventures.com 🔗 http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ 
🎧 New episodes air every 3rd Wednesday at Noon PST🎙️ Subscribe to Big Blend Radio: https://lost-angel-travel-adventures.podbean.com 
🎤 Also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Vacation Station" and "Big Daily Blend" Podcast Channels.Explore the full network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Exploring the Historic Mohawk Valley of Central New York

In celebration of National Rivers Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Journey Jukebox travel podcast features travel writer Lisa Evans, who takes us on a meaningful journey through the historic Mohawk Valley in Central New York.
From the region’s Indigenous heritage to its cultural and historical landmarks, Lisa highlights the Mohawk River’s significance in shaping communities and connecting the past with the present. The episode explores how the Erie Canal, taverns, churches, music, and food reflect the area’s deep and diverse history. Nature’s role in preserving heritage, and the emotional resonance of revisiting one’s roots, are central to this conversation.
🗺️ Read Lisa’s Full Article:👉 https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/exploring-the-historic-mohawk-valley-of-central-new-york/   
🎵 Journey Jukebox Spotify Playlist:👉 https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7humUf03LIW04t8LiJSSN9?si=54c7630328284648 
📚 About Lisa Evans:Author of 100 Things to Do in Coastal Mississippi Before You Die🌐 https://writerlisa.com/ 🌐 https://www.gosmart.travel/advisors/lisa/evans 
📅 New Episodes Air Every 3rd Tuesday at 12pm CST!🎧 Listen & Subscribe: https://journeyjukebox.podbean.com/ 

Family Adventures: Theme Parks, Cruises & Multigenerational Travel

Happy National Family Month! This episode of Big Blend Radio’s 3rd Monday “Food, Wine & Travel” Show with the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA), fatures travel writer Sarah Gilliland who shares tips for planning meaningful and fun-filled family vacations—especially to theme parks, on cruises, and through multi-generational travel.
From budgeting and bonding to immersive attractions and educational takeaways, Sarah highlights how travel builds lasting memories and helps kids connect with new cultures. The conversation also touches on Alabama’s family-friendly offerings and the evolution of theme parks into rich, interactive experiences.
🎧 Listen and find all related links and resources (and a fun jigsaw puzzle): https://blendradioandtv.com/listing/family-adventures-theme-parks-cruises-multigenerational-travel/ 
Sarah Gilliland is a freelance travel journalist and family travel expert. She’s a member of IFWTWA, a Travel Media Showcase journalist, and the voice behind Sarah in the Suburbs.🌍 Keep up with Sarah’s adventures at: https://ontheroadwithsarah.com 
🍷 Discover IFWTWA: https://ifwtwa.org 🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes every 2nd Tuesday, Friday & 3rd Monday:https://food-wine-travel.podbean.com 
This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s Vacation Station and Big Dail Blend Channels.

Author B.R. Duray - The Mood Swing Children's Book

In observance of Father’s Day and National Family Month, this episode of Big Blend Radio features debut author B.R. Duray, who shares the inspiration behind his whimsical and heartfelt children’s picture book, The Mood Swing (Moon Tree Studios, June 15, 2025).
Inspired by the loss of his own father at a young age, Duray’s story gently guides young readers through the ups and downs of grief, emotional resilience, and healing. In this thoughtful conversation, he discusses the power of imagination, the importance of open communication, and how storytelling can help children (and parents) navigate complex emotions.
Learn more about The Mood Swing at: http://moodswing-media.org Listen to more Big Blend Radio episodes: https://bigblendradio.podbean.com/ 

Celebrating 116 Years of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia

In this shared episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, to honor the life and legacy of Ted DeGrazia on what would be his 116th birthday (Flag Day, June 14).
Known as one of the most reproduced artists in the world, DeGrazia captured the spirit of the Southwest through bold, expressive paintings that reflected the region’s people, cultures, and landscapes. From his deep connections to Native American and Mexican traditions, to his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, DeGrazia’s work continues to inspire generations.
🎧 In This Episode:* The history and mission of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a 10-acre National Historic Landmark in Tucson* Stories behind current exhibits: Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera and Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia (on display through Sept. 3, 2025)* DeGrazia’s ongoing influence on art, culture, and community dialogue
📍 Did You Know?* DeGrazia once made his own flag* He was featured and honored by Arizona Highways for his unique artistic voice* The gallery provides a cool and creative escape during Tucson’s hot summers
🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org 🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com 

Confessions of a River Rat

From the Colorado River, American River and Green River, to the Salmon River, Tatshenshini, and Pacaure River, this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures with Linda Ballou" (2024) podcast celerates National Rivers Month by covering six of Linda's favorite river experiences. You can read her article about her "river rat" adventures, here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/confessions-of-a-river-rat/ 
Expanded essays on Linda's trips on the Green River, Salmon River, and the Tatshenshini, (also known as Raven’s River) are included in "Lost Angel Walkabout: One Traveler’s Tales." Sections of the story Tough Cookies in Costa Rica details her time on the Pacuare River. "Destination Deep Time" about rafting the Grand Canyon and a story about Georgie White the Wild Cat of the Canyon, winner of the Solas Award for Best Destination at Travel Tales publications, are included in "Lost Angel Unleashed: Stories from the Heart." 
Follow Linda Ballou's adventures at https://lostangeladventures.com and learn more about her books at http://www.lindaballouauthor.com/ 
Listen to Big Blend Radio's "Lost Angel Travel Adventures" Show every 3rd Wednesday at High Noon PST,  here on YouTube:  https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzIUCV2e7qm3Bmktgu8osUzx2VOF35dgO&feature=shared