I'm not a big history buff, except when filmmaker Ken Burns makes it all come to life in documentaries, like The National Parks: America's Best Idea.
Epic documentaries seem commonplace now with DVD's like "Planet Earth" and Tom Hank's "From the Earth to the Moon." Lewis & Clark: Journey of the Corps of Discovery is the first (and only) historical film from which I could not pull myself away. I remember sitting, riveted, for 240 minutes. The music just as powerful as the distinctive narrators.
Huell Howser is a public television celebrity in California. He highlights natural areas, historical places, and notable tourist stops. I love watching him because he has the enthusiasm of a 5 year old making him highly entertaining.
Last night, Mr. Howser and Mr. Burns got together in Agoura Hills (details here). I wish I could have seen them chat about Ken Burns' new film: The National Parks: America's Best Idea.
Finding inspiration and meaning in places and history makes us value them more. I have a deep attachment to Channel Islands National Monument, Yosemite National Park, Yellowstone National Park based on the unique experiences nestled in my memories. Not to mention they are among America's biggest natural playgrounds. Let's keep them that way.
