Do you know the story of the carousel? It is the story of our search for rest, relaxation, entertainment, enjoyment. In America, carousels were often built in the parks at the end of a trolley line. Get off the trolley, leave your everyday worries, gravitate toward towards the music, the mirrors, the motion, the magic. Climb on that beautiful wooden horse and whirl around and around. Dare you not to smile!

The golden age of the carousel in America was about 1880 to the Depression, when production of the handcarved horses stopped. Thousands of carousels fell into disrepair for decades. At the end of the 20th century, though, more and more people realized the heritage we have in these twirling rides. Thanks to restoration efforts, hundreds of “flying horses” once again thrill young and old. These lovely wooden handpainted animals are part of the Heritage Museum in Sandwich, Massachusetts. The stunning detail and lively colors of these vintage horses amaze and delight.

It’s true for me. Ride the carousel, forget your troubles, smile big. I dare you to whirl without grinning. Here’s my family enjoying a carousel ride in Indiana . . .

How about you? How do you relax and mentally whirl away from whatever’s wearing at you? What do you find at the end of the day’s “trolley ride” that refreshes you?

Linking up with Texture Tuesdays, where the theme for this week is “story.” The carousel photos use Kim Klassen’s testure “History.” The photo of my family (which I didn’t shoot — I’m in it!) uses the texture “Shade of November.” Also linking up with Sweet Shot Tuesday and Leigh vs Laundry.