Every Friday evening, I gather with a group of girlfriends for dinner and games, a tradition that grew out of the pandemic that has become a cherished mainstay in all our lives. We range in age from our 50s to 80s with a myriad of careers, backgrounds, and hometowns. While there is never a shortage of discussion, we were introduced to a product called “Table Topics.” It’s a box of discussion questions and topics to encourage conversation. A fun discovery for me has been the number of questions that are tied to geography or lend a geographic answer. Let’s pursue a few together. I’ll start, then you can contribute to the comments.
What’s the most beautiful place you have ever seen?
I find beauty in nature and landscapes. It’s hard to pick a favorite; however, there is a place that took my breath away unlike any other place…The Grand Canyon. If you have been there, you know. If you have not had the pleasure, start planning an adventure. There is nothing like walking onto that patio of the lodge and taking in that south rim vista for the first time. The time of day or weather does not dull the sheer grandeur and colorful expanse. As I gazed out and watched the birds surfing the wind currents, I couldn’t help thinking of pioneers headed west in a wagon across all that flat land only to find the canyon. Now that is a conundrum! Whether you download some great imagery or take a 3D video tour, it doesn’t replace the being there. Where have you been?
Image created in Canva by BD.Where do you want to visit?
How long do we have to answer this one?! While I’m luckier than most, I still have so many places in the world that I would love to see in person. What’s on your list?
Some things on my to do list:
- Gaze at the northern lights (We were lucky enough to see some pinks and purples last year as they dipped WAY south, but I still want to see them dance!)
- Attend a play at THE Globe Theatre (My inner literature nerd wants to be there IN PERSON on a bench to see a Shakespearean play.)
- Go on an African safari (I’d love to see the landscape and animals in their habitats.)
- See Istanbul (This ancient city has seen many empires and travelers. In writing curriculum, this city has appeared in so many eras as a pivotal place and important discussion point for the Roman Empire, the Black Plague, and trade routes.)
- Retrace around the world in 80 days (I’ve taught this novel and enjoyed opening students’ minds to mapping and adventure.)
What place holds the most memories for you?
The simple answer is home, but more specifically a seat at my dining table. There’s something special about a family table regardless of what “the table” looks like or the type of food. Oldways describes it as “the heartbeat of a family.” It’s easy to find solid research on the importance of gathering and talking together. This research certainly rings true from my experience. The family walnut-stained table is currently mine to curate, but it’s been with my family for as long as I can remember. I remember having a snack after school or doing my homework at my grandmother’s house at that table. It was “the adult table” for every Thanksgiving, Christmas, and family gathering from my childhood. When my mother inherited the table, it became the place where we welcomed many guests to offer some southern hospitality and feed them well. Can you smell the warm macaroni and cheese? Now, that table sees my friends and family as well as craft projects and stray items with cherished memories looming and new ones a spontaneous invite away. What’s your memorable place?
This article is the 14th in the Remotely Spatial series. As we close out 2025, perhaps remember to find things that make you happy, use your spatial skills for good, and be creative. Whether you’re celebrating, enjoying a cocktail, dining with friends, or on a safari, life has a point. Find your adventure. Keep it simple and encouraging!
If you need me, I’ll be enjoying the lights and sounds of the holiday season. It’s my favorite!
Barbaree Duke
Geospatial Crusader
Copyright © 2025 All Rights Reserved - 
Leave a Reply