#bald birds brewing company

[auraeseer]

. . . sea isle to eye, all.

[mortraveling]

The Best of Summer in Maine

The Best of Summer in Maine Maine comes alive in the summer, offering natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. From the coast to the mountains, there are many wonderful places to explore during the warmer months. Here are some of the best spots to visit in Maine this summer. Acadia National Park Maine’s only national park is one of the top destinations, with stunning scenery and activities for everyone. Hike the trails of Mount Desert Island, including the stunning Ocean Path and Gorham Mountain Trail with panoramic views of the Atlantic. Go biking on the 45 miles of carriage roads, open only to walkers, bikers, and equestrians. Rent bikes in nearby Bar Harbor.   Take a whale watching or puffin cruise to spot wildlife in their natural habitat.  Relax on the pink granite shores of Sand Beach or Echo Lake Beach. Stay in Bar Harbor or Northeast Harbor, two charming towns on the doorstep of the park. Portland  Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.  Take a food tour and sample your way through the city’s amazing culinary landscape. Or just grab a lobster roll, Portland’s signature sandwich. Check out a show at the historic State Theatre or Portland Stage Company.  Visit the Portland Museum of Art, home to works by Monet, Renoir, Wyeth, and Maine artists.  Take a ferry to the Calendar Islands in Casco Bay for beaches, hiking, and seafood shacks. Camden and Rockland  The harbor towns of Camden and Rockland on Penobscot Bay are perfect for a summer escape. Go sailing in picturesque Camden Harbor or take a windjammer cruise along the coast. Hike in Camden Hills State Park for panoramic views of the bay. Explore the Farnsworth Art Museum and Wyeth Center in Rockland, dedicated to Maine's artistic heritage.   Indulge in a lobster dinner or picnic on the shore.  Stay at a quaint B&B, like the Hartstone Inn in Camden or Berry Manor Inn in Rockland. Rangeley Lake Region For outdoor adventure without the crowds, head to the Rangeley Lake Region in Maine’s western mountains.   Go boating, swimming, or fishing on the crystal-clear waters of Rangeley Lake, Aziscohos Lake or Mooselookmeguntic Lake.  Hike through pine forests and mountain vistas on the Appalachian Trail or Bald Mountain trail. Spot moose, loons, and bald eagles in their natural habitat.  Take an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip down the Kennebec or Dead Rivers. Relax with a local craft beer at Saddleback Brewing Company or in the cozy pubs of Rangeley or Oquossoc. Rent a lakefront cabin or stay at the classic Rangeley Inn for a perfect summer escape. Deer Isle and Stonington For a quieter coastal getaway, head to Deer Isle and the picturesque fishing village of Stonington.   Go sea kayaking to spot harbor seals and coastal birds in their natural habitat. Take a boat tour to Isle au Haut or Acadia National Park.  Explore coastal trails at Crockett Cove Woods or Barred Island Preserve.  Indulge in fresh lobster, fish, and farm produce at casual seafood shacks like Fisherman's Friend or Aragosta. Stay at the Inn on the Harbor in Stonington or the Pilgrim's Inn, a historic B&B.  Shop for local crafts at the Deer Isle Artists Association Gallery. With its natural beauty and small-town charm, Maine offers an idyllic summer escape. There’s something for everyone, from the coast to the mountains and beyond. Have a wonderful trip! via Blogger https://ift.tt/5VlkdND May 18, 2023 at 07:54PM

[bush-viper-cutie]

First Kiss

Pairing: young!severus X fem!reader

Word Count: 1,013

Rating: E for Everyone

Plot:  Severus makes a new friend and receives his first ever kiss.

Warnings: None

A/N: For Snape Appreciation Month, prompt 10: Snape’s first kiss. @snapeloveposts​

Posted: 6/22/20

Masterlist

—–

(y/h) = your house

—–

~~~ * ~~~ * ~~~ * ~~~ * ~~~

“Excuse me… Excuse me… Severus?”

Severus snapped his head up at the (y/h) girl standing in front of him. He had been completely engrossed in his book and hadn’t noticed she was trying to get passed him to the other book section. His legs had stretched out and the only way to pass was to jump over him or disturb him.

“Sorry,” Severus pulled his legs in and hid his face in his book until she had passed.

She crossed into the new section but stayed standing close by. He tried ignoring her, but he found himself glancing at her every so often. She’d pick out a book, flip through it, and put it back. He hoped she would soon find the book she wanted soon and leave him to sit in the dark corner of the back of the library, but she stayed for several more minutes.

He glanced up at her again and noticed she was looking down over her shoulder at him and his book. He jumped and couldn’t help letting his embarrassment get the better of him.

“What,” his voice was harsh and venomous. After years of dealing with hate and torment, it was just easier to scare people away than hope they wouldn’t immediately try to hurt him.

She jumped back and shook her head, “Sorry I just… What book are you reading?”

Severus blinked in surprise, “What do you care?”

She smiled and sat down next to his shoes, stretching her legs out as well. “You were really entranced when I asked you to move,” she smiled.

Severus nodded, not knowing how to react to such friendly behaviors from someone who knows who he is already. She was still looking at him, puffing her cheeks in waiting at his response, which he wasn’t sure he wanted to give.

“It says ‘Benevolent Brewing by Beatrice Boole’.”

“Yes. It does.”

She pulled her legs in and laughed, “Can brewing really be benevolent? How does one brew kindly?”

Severus thought for a moment, “Well doesn’t it depend on what is brewed?”

“I think it has to do with your attitude,” she chuckled, “How can amortentia be brewed correctly if you do it all angry?”

Severus couldn’t help but laugh, “It doesn’t effect much. Some people don’t understand that putting in proper ingredients and stirring correctly is almost all the work.”

“Almost… So I can get better grades if I smile more?” The girl smiled and looked down at her knees, twirling a strand of hair between two fingers, “I guess frowning while you brew doesn’t stop you from getting top marks though.”

Severus looked away awkwardly, realizing she paid more attention to him than he ever had for her. He swallowed the lump in his throat, “What book do you have?”

She tapped the cover with her nails rhythmically, “‘Bountiful Ingredient to Never Purchase Again’. I think I can grow five different types of leaves and two mushrooms from my windowsill at home if the light hits properly.”

“I don’t think that’s allowed without a license,” he put his book down and crossed his arms.

“And who’s going to turn me in?”

She stood up and moved to sit next to him, opening up the page to an odd-looking purple ivy plant with tiny buds growing on it. He noticed the petals were often used in many feather regrowth potions for mail owls.

“Why do you want to grow that?”

She scoffed, “Someone’s owl keeps fighting with mine. Poor thing comes back with three missing tail feathers and a bald spot on its back.”

“Why don’t you try the feather hardening one. It’s really low level but it makes the feathers hard to pluck,” he stood up and walked over to a specific shelf, sliding his long fingers aver all the spines until he reached a short black one and pulled it out.

He sat back down and opened it up to the bird section and flipped through the pages until he found the right potion. She leaned her head in and ran her finger down the ingredients list.

“Did you know that one makes you burp for twenty days if ingested?”

Severus looked at the girl and smiled. He did know that. It was in the potions book he picked out last week.

“So why are you trying to brew kind potions?” she reached over him for the book he was planning on checking out.

“A friend told me I should change my attitude, especially when I brew. Apparently I get… angry… and the potion doesn’t turn out as well as it could. She thinks that’s why Slughorn doesn’t pay much attention to me even though it comes out nearly perfect.” He couldn’t help thinking about things that made him angry when he brewed. The people he hated most in the world always stood close by, mocking him in secret – though they knew he could hear them.

The girl cleared her throat, “‘Emotions are what gives potions life. For the hot-headed and ill-tempered it is suggested to focus on the shimmering liquid that flows at your control.’” She laughed and gave him the book back, “What makes you have a bad attitude?”

Severus rubbed his sleeve over his face, trying to wipe the embarrassment away and shrugged, “Morons.”

The girl giggled, “Are you too smart to deal with them?”

“Yes,” his voice was venomous, waiting for the insult to come.

The girl leaned over and planted a kiss on his cheek, “I like your attitude just fine.”

Severus blushed and looked down, hiding his smile behind his knees, “Why don’t I – ” he coughed, “Help you with the potion for your owl.”

They stood and the girl handed him both books, “And you can work on focusing on the shimmer.”

Severus smiled and nodded, deciding he liked his new friend very much. He set both books back on their shelves and felt her loop her arm through his. He blushed and looked at her, feeling very lucky all of a sudden, for the strange company he found himself in.

~~~ * ~~~ * ~~~ * ~~~ * ~~~

[hikinghappy]

GNP Trip Report - Lake McDonald Lodge & Canoeing (Day 1 Part 2)

After about an hour of relaxing at Apgar and taking in the view across Lake McDonald (see Part 1 here), we decided a change of scenery would be fun and left for Lake McDonald Lodge. On the way we saw Sprague Creek campsite, where we wanted to stay the following night, so we drove in to check it out and figure out the process to get a first-come-first-served campsite. We honestly didn’t quite understand the process from looking at the information in the campground, but driving around there were a number of campsites with a 27 on them, meaning they’d be checking out the next day. We took that as a good sign but still decided the best plan was to arrive early. Brian checked out the recreation.gov website later, which records the time that campsites are filled each day in Glacier, and it said Sprague Creek filled by 9 AM on Friday and didn’t fill up at all on Thursday. We were so excited to camp, and were hoping for the best in getting a campsite!

We then parked at Lake McDonald lodge and made some sandwiches for lunch, then walked up to the main lobby. The hotel was so cool! It was much smaller than I thought it’d be, but it had a great western feel. The lobby extended upwards three floors in the middle and had animal heads all over the walls. We wandered outside and got another view of Lake McDonald – it was very different from the view at Apgar Village as the view of the mountains was blocked. We personally thought that the view was grander over at Apgar, with the mountains towering beyond the lake.

We ate our sandwiches on a bench down by the lakeside, and enjoyed some good people watching along with the scenery. Then we rock-hopped across a stream and sat on the rocky beach for a while, even putting our feet in the water. The first dip was SO cold and sent shivers through my body, but I got used to it. I think the water was definitely warmer by Apgar. Across the water were acres of white trees with no leaves, which were the remains of a forest fire from years ago. The Sprague fire was actually burning across the road and had been going for about a week. We could smell the fire a little and could hear helicopters flying around, but the reports at the time were that the fire was contained. About a week later it spread significantly, and Lake McDonald lodge closed early for the season and the historic Sperry Chalet mostly burned down. It was definitely a moving reminder of how powerful natural forces could be, especially in a place as wild as Glacier.

We headed back to Apgar and checked into the Village Inn. It was 3 PM but free cups of coffee at the front desk called our names – definitely gave us the second wind we needed! After relaxing for awhile and drinking our coffee, we rented a canoe to explore Lake McDonald! It was HOT out on the middle of the lake, a striking comparison to the freezing water splashing up, and eventually a breeze picked up. Paddling over near the north shore, we heard a bird calling so we looked around for it, excited for our any wildlife encounters. Soon enough, a big bird swooped out of the woods and over the lake. It landed further up the shore, and while we were looking for it guess what we spotted – a bald eagle!! It was perched on a branch near its nest, and we heard high pitched chirps that we thought might be babies!! We sat and watched the eagle for awhile, totally in awe.

Time totally got away from us and suddenly our rental hour was almost up! We paddled very hard back to the shore, and switched off being in the muscle in the front versus the driver in the back. Our skills at staying in a straight line were only so-so, but we made it back and had a ton of fun!

Back at the hotel, we had a beer out on our porch and just continued to enjoy the scenery. We ended up chatting quite a bit with our neighbors, who were really nice and had been to a lot of the national parks so they had some good stories to tell about Yosemite and Alaska. Brian and I each enjoyed local beers – Big Sky IPA and Flathead Lake Brewing Company Centennial IPA, both of which were great. We made a quick dinner in our stove, away from the hotel room, of angel hair pasta with cherry tomatoes and pesto. It was delicious!

We sat for a while longer on our porch and watched the sunset. We also noticed that the smoke from the Sprague fire up on the hill sank down over the lake as it got darker. We came out after showering to look at the stars before turning in and they were absolutely insane. As people who live in a busy metropolitan area, the number of stars in the sky blew us away. We saw a couple shooting stars and I’m pretty sure the Milky Way. What a great way to end our first day in Glacier National Park! We couldn’t wait to get up and get going on our next adventure.

Thanks for reading! Day 2 (hiking Avalanche Lake and Trail of the Cedars) will be coming soon.

[curryhealthcenter]

7 IDEAS FOR A SPRING BREAK CLOSE TO HOME

Health Nut writer: Denae Duren

Health Nut photo: Denae Duren

If you don’t know by now, let me enlighten you: You can leave Missoula in literally any direction, and come upon multiple hidden gems within just two hours. If you don’t have big travel plans for spring break that’s okay, because I’ve compiled day trip itineraries for you! Read on to learn how you can discover some of Montana’s greatest sights.

Itinerary #1:

Destination - Flathead Lake; Polson → Bigfork → Lakeside, 4hr loop

Polson is only an hour away from Missoula with great views the entire way including the Mission Mountain Range and the rest of Lake County. You’ll want to get an early start on this one because you can pack a lot into one day!

On the Way:

1. The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee. It is meant to represent the 1000 Buddhas believed to be born in our religious age and is expected to become a major place of worship for people of many faiths. It is truly peaceful and a beautiful place to visit in the spring. 

2. Ravalli hill towards St. Ignatius, The Mission Mountain range, and the National Bison Range. A stop at the Montana State Department of Transportation Rest Area: Ravalli Hill will give you one of the best 360 views of Lake County, and arguably one of the best views in Montana. 

3. The Miracle of America Museum has displays of a tiny bird-point arrowhead, 65 foot Paul Bunyan, a logging towboat listed in the National Register, cars, cycles, toys, dolls, guns, homesteaders, clothing, wagons, buggies, sleighs, snowmobiles, military, tools, and tractors, a pioneer village, general store, school, fire house, and shops for a blacksmith, barber, tailor, carpenter and saddle maker. Admission is $10.

4. Next, you’ll start making your way to Bigfork. Stop at Finley Point campground for a (cold) shoreline experience of the lake. 

5. Town of Bigfork: A walk down Electric Avenue will provide you with various gift shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. This would be a great place to snag brunch; I suggest the Pocketstone Cafe! 

6. Next stop is Lakeside. Volunteer Park is right in town and will give you another shoreline experience of Flathead, but on the opposite side! I promise you’ll love seeing this lake from all sides and angles. If you’re hungry again, the Homestead Cafe has tons of menu options and they’re all 10/10!

Itinerary #2:

Destination - Seeley, MT, 1hr

Seeley is a sweet little town nestled in between the Swan and Mission Mountain ranges.

On the way:

1. Coloma ghost town: Not much is left of this town, but there was a lot of mining activity from 1896 to about 1916.

2. Garnet ghost town: This is a well-maintained ghost town. This town was established in the 1890’s, is at 6,000 feet elevation, and still has 25 buildings standing! Some of the buildings still contain a lot of artifacts from the miners and their families that lived here. Each building is provided with a description of its history and usage.

Once in Seeley:

1. Day hike to Morrell Falls: located 25 minutes past Seeley Lake. 5.4 mile out-and-back trail that provides lake views, and leads to Morrell Falls. Be aware the road may be muddy this time of year, so be sure to drive slowly, safely, and stay within your means!

2. Have lunch at the Filling Station.

3. Check out Grizzly Claw Trading: This is a pretty cute place that is a coffee shop, library, and gift shop all in one!

Itinerary #3:

Destination - Philipsburg, 1hr

Philipsburg is most commonly known for their sapphire mining and candy shop! On top of these things, there are a ton of awesome restaurants, coffee shops, a couple of museums, antique shops, and gift shops. For a small town, they have a lot to offer. Somewhere in the day, you’ll want to take a small detour up to Granite (not to be confused with Garnet) ghost town. This one is in the mountain above Philipsburg and isn’t maintained, so what’s there is there! This is cool because it gives you the real “ghost” town feel. On Friday and Saturday nights, Philipsburg Brewing Company has live music! This can be a full day of many different activities.

  Itinerary #4, 5, 6: Hot Springs

Destinations - Jerry Johnson + Weir Creek, Lolo Hot Springs, Quinn’s Hot Springs resort

One of the coolest things about this neck of the woods is the unlimited access to TONS of different hot springs, natural and man-made. There are 3 different hot springs you can visit that are each only an hour and a half away:

Jerry Johnson + Weir Creek, 1.5hr

These are my favorite of all the options, because they’re within 10 miles of each other, so you can start early and visit both in one day! First stop is Jerry Johnson which is a little over a mile to hike to, and consists of 3 pools. There are slight temperature variations from each, which is nice for when you get way too hot or cold. Soak for a couple hours here, then hop back into the car and head up to Weir Creek. This is a short mile hike into 2 pools; the largest, which resembles an infinity pool, overlooks Weir Creek, and the smaller which is nestled up top under the trees is just big enough for two people. You can spend a couple hours here and head home before it gets dark.

Lolo Hot Springs resort

This is a man made springs and resort with a bar/restaurant onsite. The hot spring is located indoors, and there’s a heated pool outside. If you have the time and money, you can rent a bungalow and stay the night for $55 which sleeps 3 adults, and includes breakfast! Admission to the pools is $10.

Quinn’s Hot Springs resort

Another man-made springs in the opposite direction. I personally like Quinn’s better than Lolo because there are 4 different pools all at different temps, ranging from 89 degrees to 106, plus an ice pool. Quinn’s has a restaurant, tavern, and lodging onsite. The only downside is the cabins here are much more expensive with the cheapest rate being $169/night. Admission is $13.

Itinerary #7:

Destination - Lolo Peak Brewery (by bicycle), 1 - 1.5hr

This is a fun activity for spring and summer, with amazing views the entire way! The Bitterroot Trail runs right alongside - you guessed it - the Bitterroot River! This provides a chance to see marmots, beavers, bald eagles, chipmunks, birds, bison, and lots of other wildlife! The ride is about 10 miles which can be taken leisurely and shouldn’t take more than an hour to an hour and a half. Once you get to Lolo Peak Brewery you can indulge in a beverage, an appetizer, or a whole meal! Either way, everything they serve is delicious and crafted primarily with local ingredients.

As you can see, there are a lot of options for spring break that keep you close to home, and aren’t expensive. If you have to work sporadically, or just don’t want to travel too far, I suggest you try out one (or more) of these trips; I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!

Stay adventurous, UM. 

[barbmanning]

Puppy Love Brewery Yoga! 🐶🍻 (at Bald Birds Brewing Company) https://www.instagram.com/p/B8mKLZsjA-d/?igshid=1rrl45fayg23c

[auraeseer]

. . . with citric assistance.

[arosesthorne-blog]

the crew of the Bloodied Thorn (pt. 2)

(Continued from part 1, here)

Papa: This rugged, ragged old lalafel is likely, within only moments of engaging in conversation, to make repeated note of his title of ‘the strongest lalafel in Hydaelyn!’ It’s a mystery to the crew which officiating body sanctioned Papa’s use of this title, if any, and how exactly he came about gaining said title. Worse yet, when a storm whips furiously at the Thorn’s rigging and she begs for a strong arm to keep her steady, Papa can often conveniently be found cowering in a corner, failing to put his claims to the test. In fact, if this leathery old man has any suitable claim on any title of supremacy in all Hydaelyn, it’s mostly like biggest coward. Papa’s much bigger than the average lalafel, a point of personal pride for him; he uses it as justification to bully and tease the other lalafel crewmates, but he’s quick to cower and mumble deferential apologies whenever Conner shoots a glare his way. With a hide tanned from years in the sun and sunken brown eyes, Papa does have one exceptional feature which no doubt inspires the envy of countless men - a hell of a mustache, big and white and thick, twirled up at its ends flawlessly, its majesty emphasized all the more on account of Papa’s shiny bald head. Papa’s one of the Thorn’s oldest crew members, with a history onboard the ship that predates Kina’s legendary ‘hostile takeover’; she’s never been very enamored with the old bastard, and isn’t afraid to smack him around if he annoys her. Still, she keeps him around because he does make her laugh once in a while - usually because of how quickly he shifts from ‘strongest lalafel in Hydaelyn’ to ‘simpering wimp’ at the bark of her voice.

Polly: Every good pirate crew needs a squawking bird, right? Right?? That’s Kina’s philosophy, anyway; she remembers all the good pirate stories she used to indulge in secretly as a kid featured smart-alecky avians. Insisting that her crew have much of the same, she recruited.. well, something a little different. A runaway ixali, the crew would probably know a lot more about Polly if they could understand his squawks, bawks, screeches and shrieks. After years of listening to him crow and ca-caw in terror, anger and frustration, the crew have started to piece together some things about the outcast. Beast tribes naturally have their own appreciable share of criminals, and these societies are.. decidedly less compassionate about how thieves are punished. Not wanting his hands (or head) chopped off, Pahualemuc (that’s what the crew thinks his full name is, anyway,) took off across the Shroud after stealing.. something, important, but no one’s quite sure what. and wound up running into Gridania like a chicken with its head chopped off (which he had indeed been close to becoming.) He probably would’ve ended up gutted by a Wood Wailer if not for Kina’s timely intervention; he’s been a part of the crew ever since. Having worked as an herbalist, botanist and alchemist with his tribe, Polly has three main jobs on the Thorn - preparing medicinal herbs and pastes, brewing up the grog, and running around shrieking, terrified, during battle. Polly is terrible in combat and even the faintest sign of danger will have him screeching uncontrollably, flailing and running for the hills. (or the stairs below decks, if he can help it.)

Haversham: Sometimes you need a few maniacs on your side. Okay, maybe you don’t, but when one happens to be a tiny woman with a massive inferiority complex in charge of a dangerous pirate crew, one would certainly have use of a psycho, wouldn’t one? Especially one who.. well, who really likes fire. Boats, being made mostly of wood, tend to fold quite quickly if one happens to employ a psycho with a pyro streak wide as the Garlean Empire. Haversham really. REALLY likes fire. Thrown out of the Thaumaturgist’s guild, and every other conceivable school, association and club for black magic across all of Eorzea, nothing has stopped him from doing what he wants to do - mainly, string up as many living beings as possible and roast them like pigs on a spit. A short, spindly, scraggly little midlander, Haversham’s body has withered to almost skeletal proportions, and the only hints of color on his pale complexion are the swathes of reddened scar tissue and burn marks that litter his flesh. Eyes always wide with sadistic wonder, Haversham talks in a rattled, manic tone, his words always throbbing with paranoia. He looks like he’s perpetually on something, though the only high he rides is his addiction to pyromania.

Ogglepot: Any pirate crew needs a good appraiser; an expert in antiques, jewels, gems, and riches capable of finding the ‘good stuff’ and making sure the crew get top-tier coin for top-tier treasures. In her search for a new appraisal expert, Kina didn’t precisely endeavor to find the greediest, stingiest, rudest goblin in all of Eorzea - but that’s certainly what she found. Ogglepot hails from a small goblin band from La Noscea, but he always knew he needed more. More gold, more coins, more jewels, more more. The simple life of a trader or a hunter wasn’t enough for him. He haggled and bartered for his tribe for years, but he never got to use any of the wealth they acquired - something he fiercely resented. One night he shamelessly robbed the band’s treasury and lugged bags-upon-bags of gold to Limsa, looking for more, more. Ogglepot always had a good eye for value, but it was in seedy alleyways and dark corners of the Limsan markets, trading in black-market riches, that he really made a name for himself. A ruthless businessman like Ogglepot, however, is bound to make enemies - and he did, many of them. One powerful rival, an unscrupulous trade-baron named Mischk, wanted Ogglepot done for, and his business destroyed, in case anyone tried to move in and take over the goblin’s shipping company. Through his underworld contacts Mischk tipped off Kina and her crew that a wealthy, dangerous marauder would be sailing Kina’s routes - and that he wouldn’t give up without a fight. Kina and her crew ransacked the ship, but quite at-odds with what they’d heard, they found rude, grumpy old Ogglepot in charge. Kina took the goblin prisoner, but with his help, she soon realized she had been duped. Ogglepot happily offered to help her get her revenge, and.. suffice to say, Mischk isn’t a player in the Limsan black-market anymore. Seeing the opportunity he was always looking for, for more, more, Ogglepot offered his services to Kina, and has been sailing with the Queen since, helping her with finances and his broad array of underworld contacts.

More to come laaater~

[forktruck65-blog]

Visiting the Jersey Shore? Here’s what you should do

White-sand beaches and glittering bays are what draw people to the Jersey Shore, but there’s so much else on offer along this 127-mile stretch of scenic coastline. Each shore city has its own unique vibe, and the sites called out below tend to exemplify the towns themselves, from the pop-culture heritage of Asbury Park to the preservation-forward Cape May.

It’s easy to fall into a routine once you’re set on a shore town, so let this guide be a roadmap for exploring an unfamiliar locale for a day or two.

Sandy Hook

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Gateway National Recreation Area at Sandy Hook

The northernmost point of the Jersey Shore is also a federally protected wildlife area, where birding, boating, and beaching are at their finest. The Gateway National Recreation Area’s Sandy Hook division is a 45-minute ferry ride from midtown Manhattan, but feels like it’s an eternity away with its seven miles of paths for biking, running, and walking, plus its stretches of white sand and surf. Gateway is also a prime place to pitch a tent—on the approved campground, of course—for a night under the stars.

Asbury Park

Shutterstock

The Stone Pony

Called the “beating heart of Asbury Park” by the New York Times, the Stone Pony has been a pilgrimage site at the Jersey Shore for music lovers since the mid-1970s. It wasn’t uncommon to see a young Bruce Springsteen play alongside the small venue’s booked acts; in fact, the Boss is still known to make a casual appearance on stage or in the crowd. The venue, like Asbury Park itself, weathered a downturn in the last few decades, but is back with a vengeance, touting a killer summer line-up both inside the venue and on its outdoor summer stage.

Silverball Museum

Shade seekers on the Asbury Park Boardwalk will find a unique pitstop in the Silverball Museum, the museum-arcade-bar hybrid that pays homage to pinball machines from the 1960s to the present. The nostalgia-heavy destination is a walk through pop-culture history, and features a rotating collection of 600-plus machines including the 1967 Beat Time—from the height of Beatlemania—an original 1972 Atari Pong game, and the 1993 Twilight Zone game. Retro lovers, rejoice.

Ocean Grove

The Great Auditorium

The Great Auditorium, which dates to 1894, remains the cultural center of Ocean Grove, the shore town established as a spiritual getaway in the mid-1800s. Its acoustics have been compared to those of New York’s Carnegie Hall, and the auditorium has hosted memorable musicians like John Philip Sousa and preachers like Billy Sunday. The auditorium still hosts Sunday services and the spare musical act, but is worth checking out for its architecture alone. The building, a hybrid of Stick and Queen Anne styles, was constructed in just 92 working days with a stone foundation, iron bridge trusses, and a wood frame.

Ocean Township

Kane Brewing Company

A short drive inland from the beach at Allenhurst, Kane Brewing Company is an ideal place to find cover on a rainy weekend. The eight-year-old brewery has amassed a die-hard following, meaning its tasting room is lively in any weather. Brews here often take a nautical name, like Head High—the company’s signature IPA—Party Wave, or Outer Reef, but there’s nothing salty about them. Beware the brewery on release days, when lines are known to wrap around the building.

Point Pleasant

Castaway Cove Adventure Golf

Like beaches themselves, mini golf is ubiquitous at the Jersey Shore. Let Castaway Cove Adventure Golf on Point Pleasant’s Jenkinson’s Boardwalk be a jumping-off point for exploring the shore’s culture of weird and wacky putt-putt establishments.

Ocean County

Shutterstock

Island Beach State Park

The protected seaside of Island Beach State Park offers a genuine chance to get away from it all. Absent here are the raucous crowds of neighboring Seaside Heights—yes, the town from Jersey Shore—and the commercialism that comes with a boardwalk lining a beach. This habitat protects 10 miles of shoreline where unspoiled sand dunes, tidal marshes, and maritime forests exist in their full splendor.

Barnegat Light

Shutterstock

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

This 32-acre state park is ripe for exploring, but don’t miss its namesake lighthouse. (It’s such a big deal to the area that the town renamed itself Barnegat Light in 1948.) The tower was commissioned in 1859, but deactivated as a Coast Guard lookout in 1944. It’s the second-tallest lighthouse in the country at 172 feet, and with that stature comes open views of Long Beach Island, the Atlantic Ocean, and Barnegat Bay. But be warned: Reaching the top of the lighthouse’s 217 winding stairs requires a bit of endurance.

Ship Bottom

Ron Jon Surf Shop

This surf-shop brand with a cult following started out as a meager shack at the beach in 1959. Those original oceanside digs have been upgraded to an 8,000-square-foot shrine to all things surf and sun. Don’t forget to grab a bumper sticker with the brand’s logo on it—you’ll be in good company on the Garden State Parkway.

Galloway

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Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

This refuge encompasses 47,000 acres of protected coastal habitat, and it’s a prime spot to see fish and other wildlife year-round. In the winter, bald eagles and black ducks roam the area; summer welcomes turtles and great blue herons. Birders, take note: The habitat is located under one of the Atlantic Flyway’s most active migration paths, so bring your binoculars.

Atlantic City

Steel Pier at Atlantic City.

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Steel Pier

Jutting 1,000 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, this 1898-built entertainment pier was home to the first Miss America pageants, and once hosted big-name acts like Frank Sinatra and the Rolling Stones. Today, its main attraction is a new 227-foot Ferris wheel, a symbol along the country’s oldest boardwalk that this seaside city of vice will always strive to reinvent itself to stay afloat.

James Candy Co.

When the James Candy Co. opened on the Atlantic City boardwalk some 140 years ago, a ride on the span’s newly introduced rolling chairs was all the rage. Now it’s easy to stroll past this attraction, which is sandwiched between a storefront for a psychic and tacky pseudo-museum Ripley’s Believe It or Not.

But stepping over its threshold will illuminate a world of nostalgia for what Atlantic City has, by and large, left behind. Here, at the longest continually operating business in the city, find classic sweets like saltwater taffy and creamy mint sticks packaged in throwback boxes. Though times have changed, their tastes remain the same.

The Quarter

Atlantic City’s reputation as bachelor and bachelorette party hotspot is earned at the Quarter, the Tropicana Hotel & Casino’s Old Havana-themed wing, which opened in 2004. Frozen drink emporium Wet Willie’s and nightclub Anthem are at the center of the action, while Planet Rose Karaoke Bar and ’70s-themed dance club Boogie Nights serve up some good old-fashioned entertainment.

Margate City

Lucy the Elephant, in Margate City, New Jersey.

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Lucy the Elephant

“No legend of the colorful Southern Jersey seashore history matches the sight of a 65-foot-high wooden Elephant astride the beach looking out into the mists of the sea, a spectacle that, according to historians, made many coastwise seamen of the tramp ships from the West Indies swear off their rum rations for days,” begins Lucy the Elephant’s fantastical official history.

And what a history it’s been: This 138-year-old feat of zoomorphic architecture has served as a tavern and as a residence to a British doctor and his family. Somewhere in the mix, it was also used as a lighthouse that signaled to rum runners during Prohibition if it was safe to come into town. Today, Lucy houses a museum dedicated to her history. Don’t miss the guided tour—the only way into the belly of the beast—that starts with a spiral staircase nested in one of her hind legs and culminates with the glorious ocean view from her crowning howdah.

Ocean City

The boardwalk at Ocean City, New Jersey.

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Ocean City Boardwalk

Ocean City’s beloved 2.5-mile boardwalk is lined with novelty food joints, campy mini-golf courses with themes like Medieval Fantasy and Pirate Island, and two amusement parks—Gillian’s Wonderland Pier and Playland’s Castaway Cove—that light up the sky with flashing colored bulbs on sticky summer nights. Don’t miss a stop at Johnson’s Popcorn, a boardwalk staple since 1940 that serves up hand-tossed kettle corn coated in a thin, crispy layer of caramel.

Wildwood

The Doo Wop Preservation League Museum

The Wildwoods’ whimsical trove of Doo Wop architecture (also called Googie or populuxe in other corners of the country) gets a worthy preface at this small museum, where classic neon signs and period furniture are on display. But nowhere is the memorable 1950s style better experienced than on the street, where it’s easy to take a self-guided tour past motels with names like the Aztec, Lollipop, and American Safari. Doo Wop is wonderful, it’s weird, and it’s under threat, so don’t delay.

Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

This little-known museum puts World War II-era aircrafts and engines within reach in a restored historic hangar at the shore. The hangar was used as an active dive-bomber squadron training facility during World War II and today is on the National Register of Historic Places for its role during the conflict. Parents and history buffs, take note: This is a prime rainy-day activity.

Middle Township

Cape May County Park & Zoo

The Victorian-era homes, antique stores, and golf courses that pad Route 9 in Cape May County hide one of the area’s most unique attractions. The Cape May Zoo is home to lions, bison, giraffes, zebras, foxes, snakes, and more, living in special habitats spread across 85 acres. The zoo is one of the finest in the world, at least according to TripAdvisor: It ranked as the 13th best-reviewed zoo in the world in 2015, falling behind much better-known destinations like those in San Diego and Beijing.

And the zoo isn’t just for kids. The grounds also feature a zipline and an aerial adventure area that helps raise money for zoo maintenance. Admission to the zoo is free, but donations are accepted (and encouraged.)

Cape May

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Historic Cold Spring Village

Sitting on 22 wooded acres, Cold Spring Village bills itself as an “open air living history museum that invites all visitors to find meaning, pleasure, relevance, and inspiration in the exploration of southern New Jersey’s past.” A late-1800s octagonal building on site houses historic miniatures, the Village Bakery sells period confectionaries, and hand-crafted artisan wares are sold out of a building that’s older than the United States.

While the 18th and 19th centuries appear alive and well within the town’s confines, it’s worth noting that Cold Spring Village isn’t actually a historic town but one reconstructed of period buildings from the area. But don’t let that deter you; this fascinating site is worth a visit.

Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center

One of the first eco-tourism outfits in South Jersey invites visitors to set sail onto the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay in search of whales, dolphins, and marine birds. Bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead sea turtles, and humpback whales are all known to appear in the waters around the state’s southernmost point. The tours focus not only on sight-seeing, but also on conservation and cataloguing of marine life migration patterns. The company can’t guarantee a marine mammal sighting, but does offer another trip to participants in that case.

Beach Plum Farm

The 62-acre Beach Plum Farm welcomes daytime visitors to walk its grounds and grab a bite at its farm-to-table stand. The farm is home to ethically raised chickens and Berkshire hogs, and turns out flowers and vegetables throughout the season, a bounty that can be picked up at the stand on site. (The small farm has been known to churn out over 1,000 watermelons in a season.) Don’t miss one of Beach Plum’s BYOB, family-style dinners, which rival some of the best restaurants in Cape May.

Source: https://philly.curbed.com/2019/6/13/18647598/jersey-shore-things-to-do

[milehighcity-events-blog]

What to do in Aspen beside skiing you asked?

Soaked yourself in the Glenwood Hot Springs

Glenwood Springs offers just as many spots to hike as its more popular neighbor, not to mention fishing and whitewater rafting opportunities. The town is also home to an intricate collection of caverns that are worth exploring But it's not caves and trails that earn Glenwood Springs a good reputation among travelers in-the-know – it's the town's legendary hot springs. Formerly known by regional Native American tribes as the Yampah Hot Springs, the Hot Springs Pool.

Visit the Wheeler Opera House

this performance venue remains an Aspen gem, featuring Victorian architecture, beautiful decor and a stunning electric chandelier (Aspen was the first town west of the Continental Divide to enjoy electricity). The theater still hosts regular events ranging from concerts to film screenings to plays, and according to recent travelers, you shouldn't turn down the chance to catch a show here.

Take a tour to the Aspen Brewing Company

The brewery offers a wide variety of beer, ranging from blonde and red ales to stouts and pilsners to seasonal brews. With seating indoors and on an adjacent patio, Aspen Brewing Company's tap room encourages visitors to grab a pint and #DrinkInTheView. There's live music most weekend nights during the summer and winter, and daily happy hour specials on pints, pitchers and growlers from 5 to 7 p.m.

Visit John Denver Sanctuary

Anyone who's a fan of John Denver's music knows that the famous singer-songwriter was a big fan of Aspen; he immortalized the town's beauty and character in several of his songs, including his famous "Aspenglow." The town decided to pay tribute to its favorite musician (who died in 1997) with the John Denver Sanctuary, a memorial nestled near the Aspen Art Museum in Rio Grande Park.

Drive the Independence Pass

If there's one reason to rent a car in Aspen, it's to take the 20-mile drive through Independence Pass. This scenic road is one of the highest in North America, meandering along the Continental Divide at a whopping 12,095 feet above sea level. Get ready to feel like a daredevil as you navigate tight turns along towering cliffs and through thick forests. Those who cruised through Independence Pass say the scenery is truly breathtaking, adding that there are spots along the way to stop for a picnic and snap photos.

Look at the amazing wildlife sanctuary at Aspen Center for Environmental Studies

Sitting just north of Main Street, this research center and wildlife sanctuary works to educate visitors about Aspen's natural surroundings while preserving local flora and fauna. While here, you can attend wildlife workshops, tag along on a winter snowshoe walk and even come face-to-face with America’s favorite bird, the bald eagle. If you're visiting with children, consider signing them up for one of the kid-friendly arts and crafts classes or nature hikes.

[belaymonkey]

O M G! Pork BBQ, Rib Tips and Sweet Corn! I'll give you a minute...........this is a MUST at Bald Birds Brewing with Ardmore Q!!! Fantastic food, fun guys, can't beat it! Almost Every Friday, BE THERE! * #ArdmoreQ #BBQ #FridayEats #PACraftBrew #BeersOfInstagram #CraftBeer #BeerGeek #BaldBirds #BaldBirdsBrewing #GetInMyBelly @baldbirdsbrewing #Audubon #DrinkLocal #DrinkBeerFromHere #BrewPA #Cheers #Prost #BrewLocal #DrinkPA @ardmoreq @chefbriduff @cole.berk #AudubonPA (at Bald Birds Brewing Company) https://www.instagram.com/p/CEvAflglq0U/?igshid=p3mb7swrt81s

[breweriesinpa]

Welcome to our “Meet The Brewer” series! Where we interview brewers in Pennsylvania, from breweries small to large. Let us know if you know anyone who should be featured, email us at info@breweriesinpa.com. Bald Birds Brewing Company (Audubon, PA) opened in September 2018 and already has been ..... http://bit.ly/2Y6ZMtt Breweries in PA

[kennethherrerablog]

20 Fun, Free Things to Do in Orlando (Because Disney Gets Expensive)

When you think of Orlando, you might think Disney.

That’s fair. Heck, I’m a native Floridian, and I thought that most of my life — until I actually moved to Orlando.

Sure, Disney is great and all, but the truth is The City Beautiful has a lot to offer outside the parks. And what’s better? There are plenty of free things to do here — things that don’t cost you hundreds of dollars just to gain entry…

20 Fun Things to Do in Orlando for Free

Whether you live here in Orlando or are planning your next trip, here are 20 free things to do.

1. Winter Park Farmers’ Market

Explore the local vendors at the Winter Park Farmers’ Market, hosted at the old train depot each Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Note: The market is closed on every third Saturday in March due to the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival, one of the oldest and largest outdoor art festivals in the country. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in town — and it’s free.

Afterwards, explore Park Avenue, which is laced with shops, restaurants, museums and theaters.

2. Lake Eola

Butting up to the heart of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola offers Insta-worthy views, a .9-mile walking sidewalk and some very large swans. (Really, they’re huge.) If you’re there on a Sunday, stop by the market.

Throughout the year, there are tons of free activities (like movie showings), so bookmark this calendar.

3. Lakeridge Winery

Want a real taste of Florida? And maybe a buzz? Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards rests on a 127-acre estate in Clermont, Florida, and serves award-winning wines. A tour and a tasting are free.

Keep an eye on upcoming events, too, like the free summer music series or the grape-stomping competition, which the kids will get into for free and will love.

4. Old Town in Kissimmee

Free to enter and peruse, Old Town is a retro landmark that offers amusement rides, souvenir shops and lots of food options.

On Friday and Saturday nights, secure a spot on the sidewalk, and watch muscle and classic cars make their way down Main Street.

5. Orlando Brewing

Embark on a free tour of Orlando Brewing, Monday through Saturday at 6 p.m. Once you appreciate where the beer comes from, start sippin’.

Pro Tip

If you want to do a beer tasting, check Groupon. You can usually find 50%-off deals for parties of two.

6. Big Tree Park

This park was once famous for The Senator, a 3,500-year-old bald cypress tree that burned down in 2012 due to a drug-fueled incident. (Long story.)

Although The Senator no longer remains (RIP), you’ll still find its memorial, as well as its 2,000-year-old sister tree, Lady Liberty.

Plus, there’s a nice trail and playground, and the shade will protect you from the Florida sun.

Pro Tip

If you're planning an outdoor activity in the summer, pack plenty of sunscreen and bug spray.

7. Disney Springs

Formerly known as Downtown Disney, Disney Springs is a lakeside corridor of shops, restaurants, bars and entertainment.

You don’t have to spend money to enjoy the lively outdoor atmosphere. There’s also a water taxi you can take from one end to the other. Plus, parking is free, which is hard to come by in Orlando.

Bonus: You’ll find the Lego Store here, a wonderland of blocks that kids — and adults — will get lost in for hours. You don’t have to pay to play!

8. Cornell Fine Arts Museum

On the beautiful campus of Rollins College, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum holds more than 500 paintings and a whole lot of artifacts and archaeological fragments. Plan to stop by for a free 30-minute guided tour.

(Note: It’s closed on Mondays.)

9. Disney’s Boardwalk

Tucked between Epcot and Hollywood Studios, Disney Boardwalk transports you to Coney Island in the 1920s.

Relax a bit as you walk along Crescent Lake, watch the street magicians perform and take in the fragrant funnel cakes. Parking is free.

Pro tip: You can catch the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks display from here, too.

9. CityArts Factory

Tucked between Lake Eola and I-4 in a 130-year-old building, the CityArts Factory houses works from local artists, as well as international pieces — all rotated in and out each month.

Admission is free Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

10. Winter Park

Stop by the Winter Park Historical Museum (in the Winter Park Farmers Market building) to pick up a free walking tour brochure. On it, you’ll find 21 stops, including the Winter Park Railroad Station, Knowles Cottage and the Colony Theatre.

(You can find more walking maps on the City of Winter Park’s website.)

11. Celebration Town Center

This “perfect town” was designed by Disney and is lined with pastel-colored houses and white picket fences. Many people visit to take in the pleasant sights and walk around the lake.

The town’s center is host to a number of dining, entertainment and shopping options. Keep tabs on upcoming events, like exotic car shows and arts strolls.

12. Black Hammock Adventures

Black Hammock Adventures is situated on Lake Jesup, which is home to something like 9,000 gators (the largest concentration of ’em in the States). You also might spot bald eagles, wild boars, bobcats — you name it.

According to its website, you can view free gator feedings — depending on the weather. If you want to splurge, there are airboat rides, too.

13. Cocoa Beach

The closest beach to Orlando is Cocoa Beach, which is about an hour away (depending on where you’re staying).

Parking for the popular Alan Shepard Park is $15, but Lori Wilson Park, right down the road, is free.

There’s even a dog park if your furry friend wants to tag along.

14. Fort Christmas

If you decide to head to the beach, stop by Fort Christmas Historical Park on your way.

Built during the Second Seminole War, the site features a full-size replica of Fort Christmas and seven historical “Cracker-style” homes. Listen to video presentations before enjoying a picnic under one of the pavilions.

Check for free events, too, like the annual bluegrass festival in March and Cracker Christmas in December.

15. Kraft Azalea Garden

Pack a picnic and soak up the serenity this lakeside park offers. Then break out your bird-watching binoculars, and see what you can spot.

Pro Tip

The azaleas in Florida tend to bloom from late February to early April if you want a colorful show. If you miss that window, opt for one of Florida’s classic colorful sunsets instead.

16. Grand Bohemian Gallery

If you *heart* art, stop by the beautiful Grand Bohemian Gallery — even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

Parking downtown might be tricky, but use ParkMe to find your cheapest option (like the $2 City Commons Garage).

17. Tasty Tuesdays

The Milk District (named for its proximity to T.G. Lee Dairy) is known for Tasty Tuesdays, a gathering of local food trucks each Tuesday, 6:30-10 p.m. Bring the kids — or your dog — and check out the live music and neighborly festivities.

18. Universal CityWalk

After 6 p.m., park for free, and take in the big lights of Universal CityWalk, which is comparable to Vegas — without the slots.

There’s also a fountain the kids can splash in. In the summer, keep an eye out for free concerts.

19. Chip ’n Dale’s Campfire Sing-a-Long

Saddle in fireside, and join these adorable chipmunks as you roast s’mores and warm up your vocals. You can even snap a photo and snag an autograph.

To save even more money, bring your own marshmallows and sticks. The shenanigans start at 8 p.m.

20. Spook Hill

If you really want to embark on an adventure, head south a ways to Lake Wales. Around 600 N. Wales Dr., you’ll find a sign marking “The Legend of Spook Hill.”

Pull over, and read the story, then follow the directions. Apparently, if you do it right, your car will roll uphill.

The TripAdvisor reviews are mixed, so don’t go too far out of your way for this local haunt.

Bonus: Wekiva Island

Enter this environmentally friendly oasis on the Wekiva River for $2 per person. Hang out dockside, or float around while listening to live bands.

If you want to get adventurous, you can rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard; a half-day rental costs less than $40. When you get tired, stop by the Tooting Otter for a snack and a craft beer.

Pro Tip

Get $1 off beer and wine during happy hour, which runs 5-7 p.m.

Note: We know many of you like to resort pool hop. Unfortunately many hotels don’t appreciate it, so that’s why we didn’t include the suggestion. Get kicked out of your own free will.

Carson Kohler (@CarsonKohler) is a staff writer at The Penny Hoarder. This post would have been as messy as I-4 traffic without diligent research from Haley Gonzalez, our writing intern.

This was originally published on The Penny Hoarder, which helps millions of readers worldwide earn and save money by sharing unique job opportunities, personal stories, freebies and more. The Inc. 5000 ranked The Penny Hoarder as the fastest-growing private media company in the U.S. in 2017.

20 Fun, Free Things to Do in Orlando (Because Disney Gets Expensive) published first on https://justinbetreviews.tumblr.com/

[itsraiden-blog]

Chapter One Lee Yang

 It's a vibrant morning in Roseport. The sun is high the birds are chirping and the sidewalks are busy. As my apartment window is open, i can smell the fresh scent of baked goods below. My ears fill with the noise of ships arriving at the port and fishermen voices at loud. Its a beautiful day as i begin to yawn out of bed. I start my day off with a fresh brew of coffee that i picked up from Marcos Coffee Company. I must say, its the best in town. With a   variety of beans to choose from you can never go wrong with the Italian roast. I recently moved to Roseport from Los Santos and i have already gotten a pretty quick start. I work as a  journalist at The Daily Globe. With rising crime rates and corrupt politicians in Roseport there will never be a day with out a story to tell.  Having lived in the city only a few weeks now. I have fallen in love with this place. The best place to visit is the Town square, with its shopping malls and busy foot traffic. Anything you'd wish to find would be right down there. As i pore my coffee i cant help but notice the obnoxious alarm going off whilst  the door bell ringing in an agitated rhythm. I swing the door open to see the fresh milk delivered at my feet as expected. If you're from anywhere else in the world such thing would be foreign, but here in Roseport its a common service. It's convenient to get milk when you don't have to leave the house. Besides, Market Goods is a busy and   often hectic grocery store. Good luck attempting to get to the refrigerated isle while soccer moms plague the store with there loud and unruly kids.  I quickly put on my business casuals as i prepare for work on a busy Monday. If you ever experience Monday traffic like ours, you too would be concerned of the rising population. In just a few weeks hundreds have moved to Roseport coming from all parts of the world. An interesting phenomena and one i am eager to discover. I mean, what happened that the population of Roseport increased tremendously? My boss, John, speculates its do to the rising cost of living in some parts of the world, along with Aldorria's immigration law. Who knew promoting foreign policy and immigration would get Aldorria on the map. Roseport the capital is over populated at the moment. So, i  choose to ride my bicycle to work. I would say i am a zero emissions guy, as i don't own a car. I must say Roseport is a city that appeals to cyclist over motor operators. With its expanding bike lanes and strict traffic laws the number of cyclist has increased. Besides, who would want to be stuck in traffic for two hours on a twenty mile commute to work? Not me, that's for damn sure.

  There it is the Daily Globe. The place where ill spend the next eight hours getting yelled at by my boss because of late published columns. I mean seriously they need to lay off me for a bit, but that's what i get looking to work at the number one news outlet in the country. We cover it all, from the corrupted elections of 2016, to the economic crisis of 2017. We are in for a record breaking year if we manage to cover these small gang groups popping up in the western part of the country. Gang wars have always been a hot topic. One, hot enough to drive me up the wall and drive others out of Ash Hill. Currently major players are embarking in major crime moves. Something the west has never seen before. We are talking about extortion, drug trafficking, prostitution, and whatever makes money illegally. Most likely you'll see it on the west side. Politicians have always said when population increase so does the crime rate. Who knows what will happen if this thing continues to Roseport.

I park my bike in front of the building as i am greeted by the security guard whose name i always forget. Bob? Bill? Who the hell knows. "Good morning Lee" he says as if he knew me more then just my name. Seriously i have never stopped to talk to that guy and yet, he always greets me. His over weight belly and messy light brown hair is off putting. Where did we find him? I should probably learn his name one day when i am not running late for work- again. Remember when i said cycling is better then driving? well, it use to, until all these new immigrants showed up in Roseport clogging up the bike lane.   As i scan my badge five minutes late at the employ portal, i notice a figure at the corner of my eye. As i turned to the figure i immediately notice one of my bosses looking at me with the sort of face your grandmother makes when you tell her the cookies weren't good. "Five minutes late? whats your explanation this time?" she utters with a death stare. I figured if you complement her she would ease off the stare. "Good morning Sandra" I pretend to sniff the perfume scent in the air. "I love your perfume today, what is it?". "Dont try to avoid my question" she quickly replies. "Yes, i was late but i need to really get going to work. You wouldn't want me to be late on getting these stories published would you? By the way your hair looks great today. You should give your salons number. Maybe i could get me a high fade... they-do fades right?" slowly avoiding eye contact as i awkwardly slide away. "Always with the compliments Lee. Very well, i hope to see your lousy story on my desk by noon" As she motions to leave she stops to finish with. "Oh, and thank you on the compliments. The salon is called NATEDOOS ask for Nate he does an amazing job." with a serious smile and a cold face she finally takes off into her office.   I quickly depart to the third floor via the stairs. Everyone knows you make sure you sweat a little; before you enter the third floor. If your coworkers see you not sweating when you're running late they tend to have this disappointing look on their faces. Oh and they look down on you as if you're a scum of the earth. I like to also complete some jumping jacks right before the third floor as it makes my sense of urgency more believable.     The Daily Globe is the heart of Roseport. You cant miss the huge spherical globe that sits on top of this massive skyscraper. Massive, but yet it doesn't compare to New York's skyscrapers. Shame, because it sure does look huge when you're on the 20th floor. The offices are clean and it resembles a call center but with out the depressing cubicles. Instead you see rows of desks and everyone just typing away at their computers while working in harmony to produce the top stories of Aldorria.   I manage to reach my desk to find some silly written notes my work friends like to make when i am late. The notes mostly read "loser, loser get to work on time" and "Did you ever find a girlfriend? i hear Betty is single" Betty isn't a real person but a mere inside joke of a very large woman whose name is Betty, yea don't ask. Josh and Merle need to lay off the notes. As i  am clearly the better journalist here. I am often tasked to write about Ash Hills declined economy? Boring! Seriously what a boring topic. I mean its the third year in a row politicians have managed to let Ash Hills economy into the dump. This impressing poor performance the city has put up each quarter makes for an interesting topic, one that i would not want to write. My luck huh.   Unfortunately, i have no say so on what stories i may be tasked to write. That's up to John. Our boss with the very creepy look. His little bald spot on top of his head doesn't help his case. He has managed to creep out every female employ and yet he still works here. What a mystery!   I gather all my reports on Ash Hills economy as i rush into the editors office while beating my friend Merle to the door. "Wow, fast to the door but slow to work? Wonder what you were doing last night" she then gestures to a derogatory remark evolving my male parts with my hand in a rhythmic disgusting but at the same time pleasurable motion. You get the picture. "Seriously, Merle not in front of John, you know he can still fire you!" "indeed i could fire you... reports please!" John shouts as he gets up from his desk with his palms and belly over the desk waiting to be handed our reports. Handing them over i sit down as Merle chooses to stand adjusting her poster as she prepares to get vocal. "John, i just wanted to let you know i think i have found out what really happened to the missing boats in Roseport..." As John looks up from my reports he starts to focus onto Merle. I sit there patiently waiting my turn noticing the awful dusty office John works in. I cant help focus more on his dusty earth globe, dusty bookshelf and as i look closer to his dusty keyboards my eyes happened to notice on the left of his computer a box of half eaten dozen of donuts. Seriously do the janitors hate him too? "Go on Merle what did you find?" Merle musters out her words "Well, you see the boats actually didn't go missing." "Is that right?" John leans forward in interest only to have been blocked by his imploded belly. Talk about glazed donuts. "Yes, reports from sources within the coast guard have noticed ships changing course before sailing to the port." "Have they tracked where they're heading to?" he replies as he slowly grabs a doughnut from the box. "Well, it appears a spokesperson for the coast guard has actually hinted that these boats are heading towards Turtle Beach." Confused John mumbles with a mouth full as he slowly begins to lick his finger with out completely munching down his doughnut. "Turtle beach?" "Yes, Turtle Beach." Merle quickly replies as she begins to get slightly agitated with John's professionalism. With a loud swallow and a blink in his eyes he responds with. "Why would fishery boats head to Turtle Beach?" She replies as if she had just uncovered a huge mystery. "Turtle Poaching! It appears some fishery boats are avoiding the coast guard by not docking in Roseport and instead they head south to Turtle Beach to participate in illegal poaching. Then, once they are done, they head back to Roseport with the turtles hidden inside larger fish.  " "Why don't they inspect the fish?" I mentally face palm my brain as i could see that illogical question coming a mile away. "You see the fish companies in Roseport have the coast guard on there payroll. Hence the coast guard turns a blind eye." she takes a deep breath and sits back awaiting Johns reaction. In a slow suspenseful demeanor John stands up as bits of crumbles fall from his tie. "This is great work Merle! I need you and Lee to work together on finding out who is behind all this poaching and how they managed to get the coast guard on their payroll" he looks at me as with the sort of face that would hint towards a favor.. "I need you to stop being late. You'll help Merle investigate this story. Have this issue published on Sundays paper. Headlined 'Poachers Strike the Turtles, Coast Guard turns Blind" In an awkward pause we stare at John to see his awkward hand gesture . Crickets playing in my mind i looked over at Merle thinking she would frown hard but instead she had a little smile on her that complicated my readings of her. Did she like the headline? or did she get astound by Johns goofy hand gesture? Who knows. "Oh, Lee I'd like for you to begin by grabbing my coffee, you'll find me at my desk. You work for me now!" playfully laughing as we exit the office .   As my deep thoughts fade on what just happened  i enter the employ break room and notice Josh throwing his flirt moves at the new girl Sara. He quickly notices me and darts me way with the kind of smirk only a rolling stone could wear. He whispers"I think Sara has the hots for me my man." he quickly looks to see if Sara exited the room as he catches a shy glimpse of her curvy bottom. "You think everyone has the hots for you Josh, you should probably not poke the new girls and actually get some work done." Josh comes back "Did someone get all hurt cause they got a new boss?" he says with a mockery mopey face. "What? How-Did you find out?" "Well you do know Merle is a loud mouth."He chuckles as if he told me something new. "Yup, we know how she gets. I just don't want to mess this up. I mean what am i saying? I..." i started to think what i was going to say but realized i should keep some things secret. One  thing  im certain about is that Josh and Merle have one thing in common, they love to gossip.  Found that out the hard way at a Christmas party when i made out with an ex-coworker as half of the office was reliving a Christmas miracle in the other room. Long story short don't slap belly's in an office full of snakes. Poor girl never showed up to work again. "Look Lee i know you don't like to work with people but Merle is a good journalist and plus she is hot so knock this out of the park or her if you know what i mean!" Josh flashes me his signature wink as he walks away like a Don in the office. I swear he thinks he is some kind of hotshot around here. He certainly looks the part with his blonde and pretty boy face. Built tall like a model with a lean body and decently muscular torso i often wondered why he even works here when he could easy get a job that fits him. One thing he has is looks with no brains. kinda like a runner with no shoes.

As i place the coffee on Merle's desk she flicks her brunette hair as  she gives me a smile and slowly undresses my soul with her light brown eyes. "Ah, thank you, please sit." She grabs the hot mug with both hands and begins to gather her lips close to the mug cooling the coffee with her soft blows which then she pauses to take a light elegant sip only but burns her tongue slightly.. "Merle, i think we should be able to knock this one out of the park ayh?" with a light pause in thought she smiles and says. "This whole story could be a huge headline Lee so we'll have to work extra after work" Not sure what she is implying i quickly get some words out. "Whatever you need boss." as my voice cracks i recover with a cheesy smile. "Stoooop it."  she drags her words then recovers her pitch from what may had seem flirty.  "I am not your boss. We are partners. We will work together on this. Oh and we will definitely have to meet at my place Friday night to go over what we have found so far. So, get your investigations in before hand" "Your place?" Not knowing how to proceed with such request. "Yes, my place or would you prefer somewhere else?" I thought of my apartment as it got "Typical Bachelor" written all over it. I quickly tried to stutter some words only to get cut off. "We could go somewhere else if you're allergic to my two cats, Whiskers and Bob. Don't worry they wont bite." Completely frozen like a deer in headlights i managed to get a word in "Uhh, yea cats are fine..." I hadn't have a girl over my place since moving here. I didnt really know what to expect. I couldn't help but think how embarrassing it would have been if she seen my apartment. It has  boy written all over it with some iconic decor that only a kid would know about. The thought echoed in my head but quickly rejected. Besides my places isn't much of an attraction. Its only a one bedroom and its by the docks often loud ship horns wake me up in the morning. As i space out in my thoughts she quickly places her mug down. "In the mean time we should probably get back to work." As i get up to walk away she adds "Lee don't forget Friday ill text you my address!" "I wont."

  I walk away as if i was a teenage boy talking to my crush. I didn't really know how to handle the situation. Ive never been invited to a girls house before. As much as i wanted to ignore the natural feeling downstairs i couldn't help but to float back to my desk on a cloud of fantasy. Imagining some things that i am not proud of at this very moment. Her house though? I mean why Her house? Why couldn't we go to a coffee shop or maybe even a park. That's normal right? Two adults getting work done at a park in the evening? All i can hope for is that i don't make this awkward. I never really been good with the ladies. Definitely not like Josh. Perhaps i could ask Josh what to do but his loud mouth would have everybody in the office laughing. I cant let anyone know. As I drift back to my desk  I took a seat allowing my mind wonder into places i don't often get to visit in real life. I don't know why i imagined her and i, but the pure fantasy begun to operate on its own as my mind drifted in pleasure land.

[auraeseer]

Like the horse, without the beau . . .

[waywardluminarychaos]

Why drive the 1500 mile Alaska Highway, which officially goes from Dawson Creek, Alberta, to Delta Junction, Alaska? Mainly because you won’t see a single Panera Bread, Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, or Burger King at any exit. Each stretch of the road is unique, with lots of sights, activities, scenery, and wildlife.

Here’s some of our highlights, heading north from Montana into Alberta, then from Calgary up to eastern BC and into Yukon, then into Alaska and ending at Fairbanks.

Craft beer at Medicine Hat Brewing Company: it was a little out of our way, but when else do you get a chance to visit Medicine Hat?

Banff and Jasper National Parks: driving through these two national parks is just sublime. Beautiful forests, glacial lakes, and the Canadian Rockies are a hard-to-beat combination.

Wildlife spotting: on this leg of the journey we caught mule deer, bald eagle, elk, moose, bison, porcupine, fox, coyote, wild swans and about six black bears on camera. We spotted but didn’t get a picture of a wolf and wolf pup, a marten, and a few predator birds, as well as a ptarmigan.

Picnics in parks, riversides, and lakesides: we favor easy to make foods like tortilla wraps, nachos, or bacon and eggs, with supplements from produce stands. With such lovely views to look at, it always tastes delicious.

Visiting local attractions: stopping in at Liard River Hot Springs felt amazing after a long day of driving, and the Kluane Museum in Yukon features over 70 taxidermied arctic animals. The Sign Post Forest was fun to hunt for local signs, and the Klondike paddleboat in Whitehorse was a slice of history.

Hot Springs

Klondike

Sign Post Forest

Going 100 miles out of the way to tag a new province: we left the AlCan Highway and traveled up to Fort Liard in Northwest Territories (population 534) just so that Chris could tag his second-to-last Canadian province (I refused to drive to Nunavut).

We drove along wildlife refuges, the largest non-polar ice field in the world, and along the Alaska pipeline. We saw the world’s largest Santa Claus, sent some mail from the North Pole, and finally made it to Fairbanks, where after more than 5000 total driving miles from home, we’re sitting still for a couple of days and enjoying a lovely B&B on the edge of the University of Fairbanks campus, before we tackle Denali and then the Marine Highway.

Giant Santa Claus

Alaska Pipeline

Beaded Mukluks

We’ll be in Alaska for the next few weeks, so it will be a while before we post again, as we head south towards the Lower 48. Be sure to give us any recommendations for things to do and see while we’re here!

Road Trip Week 3: Canada Northbound Why drive the 1500 mile Alaska Highway, which officially goes from Dawson Creek, Alberta, to Delta Junction, Alaska?