#Historic Distillery District

[mapsgirl]

Amazing Experiences in Toronto For The Whole Family

Toronto is a dynamic metropolis that offers a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and recreational attractions. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums and vibrant neighbourhoods, Toronto has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Toronto. Explore the Majestic Casa Loma Casa Loma is a historic castle that transports visitors to a bygone era of elegance and…

[rabbitcruiser]

Toronto became the capital of Ontario on September 28, 1867. 

[alexlikeart]

Distillery District in the winter time. Its cold, but beautiful with all the lights and the winter spirit.

[uglyandtraveling]

The Gooderham Building in Toronto: A Flatiron Gem with a Fascinating History!

Discover the Gooderham Building, a historic Toronto landmark! Learn about its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and role in the Distillery District. A must-see for visitors and locals alike.

[bourbontrend]

Discover the latest gem from Rieger & Co. unveiled today the Kansas City distillery’s newest commemorative whiskey label designed in collaboration with Sporting Kansas City. This limited-edition 96 proof Straight Bourbon Whiskey celebrates Kansas City's rich heritage and the Kansas City Wiz fandom. Don't miss out on this perfect blend of history, flavor, and community spirit. Get ready to raise a toast to Kansas City!

[couldawouldashoulda50]

Chapter 6 - The Whiskey Lounge (Bonus chapter to follow)

A/N - I'm actually up at the family cottage this weekend but decided to try and finish chapter 6 (rent free or not, it lives in my brain). But I think I would like to do a Bonus chapter after this one (which may take a little bit as I'm a slow writer). Please note this has not been proofread well so please forgive any grammatical errors. Hopefully it all flows well.

As ever - any and all the asks, tags, likes, re-blogs...every single one is encouraging, and I deeply appreciate it.

@misshoneyimhome - this isn't quite what we originally talked about but I do plan to include more in a follow up chapter. I cannot thank you enough for being such an amazing audience 😘

Warnings/Notes - 18+, just (hopefully) some enticing smut between these two (foreplay, fingering, intercourse), profanity

Word count 7k

The drive south from William’s condo through the already congested downtown arteries was even slower with the heavy accumulation of snow. Loren and William sat cozied up in the back seat making small talk with their driver, Emmanuel. With her one leg elegantly draped over the other, William’s arm rested across Loren’s lap. His fingers caressed the back her knee as the sedan inched along through traffic.

Loren’s face was illuminated by the sea of brake lights, and as she craned her neck to look at buildings she recognized, William studied her profile from the side. It wasn’t long before she felt his gaze, and she nudged him playfully as she placed her hand on his. Turning slightly to face him, Loren seized the opportunity for a light kiss and leaned in further to whisper compliments in his ear.

Turning on to Front Street, the car inched along into the more historical section which bordered the Distillery District. Emmanuel indicated that he will inform the doorman of their arrival as there was an alternate and more private entrance for the team to use. After the driver stepped out, William leaned over and kissed Loren; it may have been a quick kiss, but he still managed to slip his tongue against hers, leaving her wanting more. Giving her a wink, William took a black toque from his pocket, and slid it over his blonde locks just as Emmanuel opened the backseat door.

William intertwined his fingers with Loren’s while they followed the greeter through a small maze of dingy corridors until he opened another doorway, leading to a private area of the lounge.

Loren’s heart pounded hard in her chest as she spotted clusters of players and their significant others in the section roped off for the team. As thought William could sense her nerves kicking into high gear, he gently squeezed her hand and whispered in her ear how beautiful she is. He then snaked his arm around her waist, resting his hand on her hip as they approached the group.

As his teammates turned and saw William approaching, they cheered, "Willy!" in unison. William laughed at their enthusiasm for his arrival, as did Loren, while his hand on her hip gave her an affectionate tap.

Loren feared she looked like a deer caught in headlights and she tried to channel the words Chelsea said to her about looking poised and confident. Try as she might to breathe normally and keep her chin up and shoulders back, she was simply too star-struck to do any of that. Especially, when she began to notice that she was now the “new girl” with William and all eyes were on her as she and William hung their coats up.

Max was the first to approach William and Loren, showing off his wide grin and missing teeth, he pulled Loren in for a friendly hug after he acknowledged William with a pat on the back.

Max said he was stealing Loren for a moment and he guided her past the numerous sets of eyes that wanted to get a close-up look of William’s plus one. Loren tried not to notice how those in her passing wake would huddle together, exchanging bits of information about who she was.

Max lead Loren to another small group and began the round of introductions, starting with his girlfriend, Estelle.

Estelle’s eyes immediately lit up as she hugged Loren enthusiastically. “Loren - I am so happy to meet you. Max told me all about the skate last week and what happened with the gentleman you care for.”

As Max recounted what occurred with Gary during his session, Ryan (Reaves) and his wife approached Loren, giving her a hug after more introductions were made. Ryan chimed in on the story telling asking Loren to rhyme off some of Gary’s typical chirps at her expense.

William could hear laughter from across the room and saw Loren already talking and interacting with some of the more outgoing players and their spouses and girlfriends. William was standing with Timothy Liljegren and Pontus Holmberg as they talked about seeing their friend and former teammate earlier that week in Washington. William’s focus however was not on the conversation about Rasmus. He was far more impressed by the sight of Loren laughing as she became more comfortable in her surroundings.

Ryan’s wife Alanna and Estelle quickly took Loren under their wing and began meandering and schmoozing around the room.

More and more, the room filled up with the players and WAGs as they shuffled in from the blustery weather outside. Loren remained in complete awe of the people she was surrounded by, especially having just spotted the exquisite Tessa Virtue-Rielly and her number one defenseman husband, Morgan. Loren knew Morgan’s birthday was in March, and she debated whether she should approach the couple as they greeted people nearby to wish Morgan a happy belated birthday.

As It turned out, Estelle looked after the introduction to Tessa and Morgan, and Loren opted not to mention anything about birthdays to avoid coming across like an off-kilter super fan.

Tessa engaged in further conversation with Loren mainly surrounding her work as a PSW and her experiences in that field. As ever, Loren deeply admired Tessa for her elegance and gracious personality and she joked to herself that Tessa is who she wanted to be when she grew up.

Over thirty minutes had passed since Max had swept Loren away from William. As he stood making small talk with another forward, William scanned the room looking for Loren, eventually spotting her talking with the McCabe’s. He watched as Max motioned for Loren to come and meet someone else. William couldn’t help but to feel irritated. He knew Max was naturally more outgoing than he was at these events, and he understood had the best of intentions with introducing Loren to a few others. William slightly sulked wanting to spend time with her too.

When William refocused, his gaze suddenly connected with hers. Her expression was soft as she smiled adoringly at him from where she stood. Loren watched William excuse himself as he waded through the bodies standing between them.

William leaned in towards Loren’s cheek. “I think you’re more popular than I am,” he smiled.

He caught Loren’s subtle fragrance as she lightly pressed her body against him, laying her hand on his forearm. “Hmmmm….That’s a bit of a stretch,” she purred as she glanced upward as his face.

William smirked. “Feel like getting out of here?”

Understanding he was being facetious, or at least partially, Loren pressed her cheek against his and whispered “maybe not just yet.”

William was just about to suggest they find a dark corner somewhere, when one of the owners of the lounge appeared. He announced that the private “Tunnel Tour” was just about to begin and introduced the group’s guide and expert for their whiskey tasting experience.

Ravi was the lounge’s very attractive whiskey expert, who was gifted with loads of personality and charisma. He lead the group into the tunnel and explained it was inspired by the underground passage during the era of prohibition and as they walked, he pointed out the numerous bottles of low-to-high end whiskeys from different regions. Several charcuterie boards had been ordered as part of the experience and were laid along the long wooden countertop. The low, soft lighting mixed with a neon glow created a cozy and inviting ambience, as the players and their significant others mingled while savoring samples of whiskey, cured meats and delicious cheeses.

Ravi approached Loren and William and asked a few questions to anticipate which Whisky might be appealing for the couple to start with.

As she listened to Ravi, Loren noticed over William’s shoulder Simon Benoit and his girlfriend Alice trying to hear the whole whiskey spiel. William’s eyes followed Loren’s gaze and once he saw Simon standing there, he smiled and gestured for them to come over.

William introduced Simon to Loren and to William’s surprise, she responded to Simon in French and introduced herself to Alice. The couple’s eyes lit up and Alice let out a small shriek of excitement, now having someone else should could converse in French with, followed by an enthusiastic hug.

As Ravi resumed his questions, William noticed how transfixed the whiskey connoisseur was on his beautiful date. Ravi seemed smitten with Loren which might have really irked William once upon a time as he could have a little jealous streak. However, there were times in his past that girls from had taken advantage of him getting riled up and William learned it was best to not react and stay calm.

Loren’s interactions with Ravi were kind and was courteous but nothing more. Despite her almost shy nature, William witnessed how quickly she could captivate those around her with her warmth, charm, and her beguiling smile. He recalled early on with their first outing that she really listened to him, making him instantly comfortable and feel valued as a person, not just a notable hockey player. Because of her humility, Loren would never know the subtle yet powerful impression she often made on those she encountered.

William chuckled to himself.

Poor bastard doesn’t stand a chance he thought to himself as he slipped his hand around Loren’s waist and let it rest on her hip. Loren glanced upwards at William’s face and immediately reciprocated, nestling further into his body and lightly stroked his lower back.

After the hour long tour ended, the group made their way back up to the main level and their designated area. The places was bustling with patrons; apparently the storm outside did little to thwart people from going out to blow off steam.

With the house lights lowered, muted blue and magenta lights streaked the floors and walls. The crowd began dancing to the free-flowing music from the DJ as he fused popular dance tracks together.

Alice and Loren struck an immediate friendship. The two sat on one of the plush leather benches sipping their cocktails as they spoke animatedly in French with sharing a number of things in common. Having also met the girlfriends of Bobby McMann and Matthew Knies, a small group was subsequently formed comprised of the newbies and younger WAGs. that gravitated towards each other.

Loren would often glance towards William and if their eyes happened to meet, he would gesture sweetly whether it was a wink, a suggestive bite of his bottom lip or that perfectly cocky smirk that made her throb.

Alice caught William and Loren on the verge of eye fucking one another and she grinned knowingly at her new found friend.

[spoken in French]

“So….you two seem to be really getting along well…have you been seeing each other for a long time?”

Loren swished the ice cubes around in the thick glass tumbler. “No, it really hasn’t been a long time. We only met last week.”

Alice smiled at Loren, who looked like she needed some reassurance. “I don’t know him well but Simon says he’s super nice - a really good guy, especially for being one of the big stars…the core four or whatever they call them.”

Loren turned to look at William. “He fascinates me. He really does. He just seems so sweet and kind - it’s pretty unnerving actually,” Loren chuckled as she continued “I keep wondering how the fuck I’m even here tonight with him, well - with everyone actually - but especially with him.”

Alice nudged Loren gently. “You’re here because he likes you. When we were downstairs, before we joined you, Simon told me he hadn’t seen William bring a date to any of the other team functions. I’m sure he gets what he needs when he needs it but you’re the first girl he’s invited out. However things end up between you, that’s at least something."

The familiar opening bars to “Could You Be Loved” by Bob Marley and the Wailers and soon enough, Loren, Alice, Sanna (Järnkrok), and a few others were up dancing around in a circle.

Loren was an excellent dancer and she was enticing to watch. Her moves were more sensual than sexual as she completely immersed herself in the music.

As her hips moved to the rhythm, William watched her run her fingers in her hair as she mouthed the words to the song.

A voice beside William’s ear startled him and broke his focus.

[In Swedish] “Sanna says she’s really sweet, a real nice girl,” Calle leaned in towards William. “Sanna asked Loren about you two….she said you’re not dating - you’re just hanging out…or something like that. Is that really it?”

“It’s just really shitty timing. I really fucking like her…like a lot but I don’t know…with the playoffs coming up and if we tank…I head back to Sweden, and then what?”

All Calle could was give his friend and teammate an empathetic look and shrugged his shoulders.

William continued to watch Loren. He guessed she was feeling a little buzzed and less inhibited as she kept dancing to one song after another. He also wished he wore pants that were more loose fitting for every second he watched her move, the unforgiving fabric around his crotch got tighter.

Loren beamed at William at a distance as the effects of her two Old Fashioned cocktails started to work their magic. She motioned with her head to see if he wanted to come over and dance. William gestured “no” but gestured for her to keep dancing. That perfect cocky grin reappeared on his face and Loren was fairly certain he liked what he was looking at.

William had given her an incredible night. He had been patient and supportive earlier when she her mind was sinking in negativity. Loren looked back towards William as he chatted with a few teammates. Rather than approach him, she quickly found her phone and sent him a text.

Thank you for such an amazing night. I really hope you enjoyed yourself too. Whenever you are ready to leave, I’m ready too.

Loren glanced back towards William as pulled out his phone from his pocket. The screen lit up his face and she watched a wide grin spanned his face. Looking towards Loren, he motioned towards the door with his head and mouthed “Let’s go”.

William heard the disappointed reaction when Loren bid her goodbye’s to the women she had been dancing with. With the last hug given to the ladies, Loren glided back towards William as he stood waiting at the end of the bar. She smoothed her hand up along the expensive fabric of his shirt and purred into his ear of how gorgeous he is.

William turned and kissed Loren, stopping only to murmur “You’re killing me…car’s circling the block waiting for us…let’s get outta here” against her lips.

They retrieved their coats and approached the exit; the winter wind could already be felt even before William pulled the door open.

William held Loren tightly as she gingerly tip toed across the shoveled sidewalk towards the back passenger door. Emmanuel cheerfully greeted Loren as William helped slide her rear onto the seat. He rounded the car and quickly slid in next to Loren from the other side of the car.

As Emmanuel drove north on Yonge Street, William and Loren sat in the backseat of the sedan, feeling slightly affected from the various whiskey samples served through the night. The two spoke softly about their evening, kissing lightly and nuzzling between sentences.

William pulled Loren close to him and she rested her head on his broad shoulder, while his hand found a place on her rear-end.

Loren quietly spoke near William’s ear; the scent of peppermint carried on her breath. “Did you enjoy yourself tonight?”

“Mmmm-hmmm…had a great time. You’re pretty entertaining to watch.”

Loren giggled at William’s reference. “Entertaining? How could I be remotely entertaining?”

“Mmmm….maybe entertaining isn’t the right word. I just know I really enjoyed watching you tonight. And yeah, you were pretty popular…not just with the WAGs either.”

Loren shifted to caress William’s jawline with her lips. “I have no idea what you’re talking about…”

William looked down as his fingers as they toyed with the delicate ring on Loren’s index finger. “The dude…Ravi, who took us down the tunnel for that whiskey tour. He couldn’t keep his eyes off of you the entire time. And then there was the bartender…I watched him eye fuck you all night long.”

Loren’s lips remained by William’s ear, curling into a smile when he gave her ass cheek a little squeeze. “Hmmm….I never noticed. Still…that’s only two men versus the forty or fifty women I saw ready to pounce while you strutted off to the men’s room,” Loren murmured.

William chuckled “I strut? Really, eh?”

“Like a peacock…and you know it,” Loren whispered suggestively.

William gave Loren’s ass another light squeeze and replied “You love it…just admit it.”

As she nodded she rested her head back on William’s shoulder. The car ride was quiet except for the sound of ice pellets hitting the glass of the windshield. Loren gazed out the window into the bleak and stormy night. Earlier that evening, she fielded numerous questions about her relationship with William to the best of her ability. They were just hanging out. They weren't dating or friends with benefits.

Despite how unlikely it seemed that their paths would ever cross, once they met, a natural and instant connection formed. However, Loren knew how complicated being William's female companion could be. She also thought it was likely he wasn't ready for anything serious with anyone. Loren herself questioned if she wanted any kind of romance, whether short or long term.

What she knew for certain was that she loved his company. She felt so alive around him and it was liberating to rediscover parts of her personality that had been dormant after the many upsets that she experienced.

Her mind began to stray with the thought that one day, maybe sooner than later, she and William will be at some kind of impasse. Loren would rather sacrifice her own heart and feelings than to have William feel any kind of pressure with potentially getting involved…or uninvolved with her at this point of his season.

Loren had already thanked William for an amazing evening, but she wanted to ensure he knew how much she appreciated everything that had transpired between them over the past week.

As Loren lifted her head from his shoulder, her eyes trailed down to William’s hand that laid near hers. She swallowed hard, trying to think of the right words to say.

Smiling demurely and with her eyes still cast downward, Loren began speaking softly. “Listen…William, I just wanted to say that no matter what might happen from this point forward, it’s been really amazing getting to know you. I think you’re a pretty incredible person.”

Ah shit….not the whole ‘where is this all going’ thing…please no… William thought to himself.

As he turned to look at Loren, her gaze finally broke away from looking at his hand, and her eyes softened when she looked at his face.

Loren continued reluctantly, having to stop and collect her thoughts periodically.

“I… just… - I wanted to say that I don’t have any expectations….in terms of whatever we might do, or don’t do…if that makes any sense. I feel that I understand - at least on a very basic level - that your life and your career has so much pressure surrounding it, especially right now. I really don’t want to add to that. With the regular season ending in a few weeks and then the playoffs….which I hope you’ll have really long run, of course….” she said as she rubbed her forehead feeling a mixture of frustration and embarrassment. “Fuck, now I really don’t know if I’m making any sense.”

William was beginning to understand what Loren was trying to say, but he had a hard time hiding his puzzled expression.

Loren exhaled in one short huff, feeling a little exasperated with herself. “I’m just trying to say that I know this may not be a good time for you to get into something with someone, so I understand if and when you have to put all your focus on hockey and I’ll sort of…bow out. You just need to sort of let me know…” her voice trailed off as she looked downward again. She nervously chewed on her bottom lip as she smoothed her hands up and down her skirt.

William was at a total loss for words. He could not count the number of times he has had to make the uncomfortable and awkward speech to a girlfriend or a fuck-friend or a fling wanting more from him than he was willing to give. Or worse yet, totally ghost someone which he had done once or twice, and was not proud of for doing so.

Here sat this strikingly beautiful woman in front of him, whom he just met, anticipating his needs and trying to make sure he had a clear and visible path forward, whether it included her or not.

The biggest problem is that William knew she was absolutely right. He did have misgivings about getting to know someone new on deeper and more intimate level. Perhaps he should have just let her be the previous Friday and not engaged in messaging with her. She had already gone through so much and the last thing he wanted was to add another chapter of bad memories for her

Yet William had to acknowledge that he had never met anyone quite like Loren. He had confided as much to Rasmus, aka Sandy, his former roommate and teammate earlier that week before the Leafs last road game. Having firsthand knowledge of William’s day to day life, being his teammate and his close friend, Rasmus understood the push-pull effect that William often faced with being such a popular hockey player in the hotbed of the Toronto market. The amount of attention William received, both good and bad, was hard on some of the women William dated. However, Rasmus saw something different in the way William spoke about Loren. They had only met once at that point, and as William let his guard down with Rasmus, he appeared positively moony over her and the interactions they shared thus far. It was rare that William showed this side of himself, and Rasmus encouraged him to at least try to get to know her better.

William looked longingly at Loren and watched as she attempted to smile to mask the uncertainty she felt. As they neared his street, William gently kissed Loren first on the lips, then created a path from the side of her mouth to her jawline, and tasted her luminescent skin all they way up to her ear lobe.

“I understand what you’re saying but let’s not think about all of that now.” The way William’s voice purred into her ear had her aching between her legs. “And - you are staying tonight, right? I don’t want you driving home in this.”

Loren nodded, unable to utter a single word.

The car pulled alongside the curb directly in front of the entrance to William’s building. Loren leaned forward and thanked Emmanuel again for having to be out driving in nasty weather. As Loren opened the car door, William leaned in close and said he would join her in a second, and for her to be careful when she steps out. He wanted to give Emmanuel a substantial tip and didn’t want to seem smug or flashy in front of Loren.

The sidewalks had been tended to but she still gingerly walked on the ball of her feet until she made it into the lobby of his building. Security acknowledged her with a smile as she watched William through the window round the back of the car and pass through the front entrance.

The elevator’s ascent was quick and uninterrupted and the two entered William’s condo with both dogs waiting with energetic greetings. William changed into a thick hoodie and sweat pants to take the dogs for a quick walk. William affectionately declined Loren’s offer to keep him company; he wanted the dogs to do their business quickly and Loren’s presence would only distract them.

As he exited with the dogs into the hallway, he turned to Loren and with a soft kiss, he encouraged her to get comfortable and to pour them some wine and told her he’d be back soon.

Loren meandered down to the guest room where her belongings remained. She slipped out of the Louboutin’s and her feet throbbed momentarily, grateful and aching to be flat against the plush rug.

She stood in front of the mirror as she slipped out of the pencil skirt and loosened the tie on the side of her blouse. After laying her clothes on top of the garment bag, she studied her reflection in the mirror. The black lace bra and panties, with the addition of the thigh-high stockings made her feel desirable and sexy and she hoped William would feel the same. He had made her feel secure enough to consider even greeting him like this upon his return and the whiskey she still had in her system didn’t hurt either.

She ventured into the washroom to freshen up and upon closing the door, there was a white dress shirt of William’s hanging on the hook. Loren ran her hands down the sleeve which only elicited a deeper need from her core. She slipped on the shirt and the scent from his body, his deodorant and cologne converged and her need for William grew exponentially.

She heard her phone chime from a text notification and there were instant butterflies flitting in her stomach when she saw William’s name.

what r u doing rn

Loren responded with two photos and a simple thought.

waiting ❤️

William shuddered from the arctic winds as he and the dogs hurried back towards his building. He felt pangs of nervousness as he anticipated what was likely to transpire between him and Loren. It was a feeling which he had not felt towards anyone in a very long time.

William even felt his cock stiffening in the elevator ride to his floor discreetly adjusting it before stepping off the lift.

The dogs barreled through the door first, as usual. When William stepped through, he saw Loren on the couch in his unbuttoned shirt, looking more stunning than ever. She had the blanket (that he never bothered to put away from the night before) draped over her crossed legs, while the dogs surrounded her, giving her kisses with their return.

William approached her, and as much as he wanted to tell her how fucking gorgeous she was, he couldn’t speak; he could only think to offer his hand to have her stand. Placing her hand in his, Loren’s deepest desires for him took complete control of her. Loren wasted no time snaking one arm behind his neck and the other firmly around his shoulder as William hoisted her up, cradling her ass cheeks as she wrapped her legs around his waist.

Their mouths connected in a kiss so soft, deep and full of yearning that they both wanted to stay in that moment forever. William walked them towards his bedroom, his mouth never once leaving hers.

At the foot of his bed, Loren unhooked her legs from around William and he lowered her to stand before him. His hands were still firm on her waist, keeping her close as his mouth left hers to travel down her neck. His lips became firm against her skin as he slid the dress shirt off of her shoulders. Every kiss made Loren feel unbalanced and she began to moan while tightly gripping the fabric of his hooded sweater. She quickly helped William discard said hoodie, revealing William’s chest which Loren marveled at while she slowly ran her hands through his chest hair. Her hands traveled down his body further, and she linked her fingers into his waistband. She helped slide his pants off, leaving only his tented shorts that flaunted William’s rigid member.

Loren’s breath trembled when William cupped her face, gazing at her with an intensity he had never felt for anyone before.

He asked to see her with nothing on except for his shirt and her stockings. Her eyes were wide and innocent as first gazed at William, and then followed his hands glide down her body, slowly slipping off her panties in the process. As she unclasped and discarded her bra, William’s palms travelled up her abdomen. He watched as her eyes closed and lips fall open slightly when his hands lightly squeezed and cupped her breasts. He lowered his head and tongued each nipple, eliciting more gasps and moans from her mouth. Each time William lapped at the sensitive nerve endings in each of her taut mounds, it was like electrical currents travelling straight to the tightness in her core.

William could feel the hot tension building rapidly in Loren. Her hands began to grip his wide and muscular back and he could feel her squeezing her thighs tightly trying to relieve pressure. Her hands slid to his hips and pulled his body towards her. She began to rub her engorged clit against William’s thickness and sensually licked and sucked the flesh around his chest and neck. Her mouth left no physical evidence on his skin, but William already had a mental picture of the magic Loren’s gorgeous mouth would do with his cock.

William grabbed a hold of Loren’s ass and he pulled her in even closer. He spoke in to her ear, his tone low and gravelly as he motioned to the bed. “Let’s get in…I’m going to show you how amazing you are.”

Loren laid on her side, her hair spread out, covering the expanse of the pillow. William’s eyes were fixed on her face as he lay facing her propping up on one elbow. It drove him wild how she looked bashful and seductive at the same time. The nipples he just teased with his mouth were perked and pointed under the luxury cotton fabric and he quickly held open the shirt to nip and suck on her nipples once more. Without hesitation, William’s guided Loren onto her back as he shifted his body tight against hers. Loren began to squirm and moan as William’s tongue lapped at her sensitive peaks. His hand moved from fondling Loren’s voluptuous breast down along her rib cage to her lower abdomen. The feeling of William’s hand below her navel made Loren begin to pant with anticipation. William released her nipple from his mouth and watched her belly rise and fall quickly when his fingers grazed the small patch at the top of her pussy.

Loren gasped when William’s feather touch slid in the wetness around the lips of her pussy. Her hip movements were beyond her control, especially when William resumed kissing and tonguing her nipple and sliding his finger along her soaked and swollen clit.

The sensation was mind-bending for Loren as William skillfully moved his mouth to the most delicious spots on her body, all the while he stroked and flicked the sweet nub between her legs.

As he worked her clit with his middle finger, Loren fell apart. She was panting heavily and she let out a sound that was partly a squeal and partly a loud groan. Her eyes shot open when hit a hot spot just right and Loren dug her heels into the mattress, almost violently lifting her hips upward. She gripped the wrist of William’s hand that was working her into a frenzy.

Between pants, Loren began gasping William’s name. Loren was feeling too overstimulated and too overwhelmed, having never been brought to this level of bliss by anyone before. Every touch felt like an electric jolt to her body and Loren was feeling like she actually might lose her mind.

Loren’s hand remained clasped around William’s wrist as she whispered “William, please…I’m….it’s - I just - I just need to calm down for a sec.”

William ceased and he watched Loren close her eyes and exhale slowly. Her hips moved from still wanting William’s touch, and with her eventual consent, he slowly began stroking her again, kissing along her collar bone.

Loren lifted her eyes and gazed adoringly at William. She released his wrist and ran her hand along his stubble on his cheek as he leaned in for another passionate kiss. Each time William’s mouth found hers, the taste of his tongue against her own made her clench her walls so tightly, desperate for the feeling of his cock inside of her. Loren’s hips rocked against the mattress which invited William to insert his fingers into Loren’s pussy. He started slowly pumping his middle finger and then inserted a second finger deeply when Loren pleaded for more.

William’s cock was rock hard watching how exquisite Loren looked and felt. He wanted to feel the tightness of her pussy gripping the shaft of his cock and he was becoming more desperate by the second.

William’s mouth connected with Loren’s jawline and between firm kisses, his breath hot against her skin. “God, you’re so fucking gorgeous….fucking so sexy….how about - do you want to climb on top of me?” he asked, full of wanting.

A smile fell upon Loren’s lips and she breathlessly responded “Yes, please.”

William discarded his shorts and laid on his back helping Loren as she steadied herself on top to straddle William’s torso. She felt shy and self-conscious which William quickly sensed. His hands slowly skimmed over her sheer stockings, then under the shirt and along of the curves of her waist. Loren was hot between her legs and the sheen of her arousal left a trail on William’s skin as she slowly began to rub herself against him. William could not get enough of the view of her tits, still slightly concealed under his Polo button down. William mused that from here on, the memory of Loren in that shirt will never leave his mind. She absolutely took his breath away.

Loren leaned forward to kiss William. Her legs spread wider as she lowered her mouth onto his, and she whimpered with the sudden urge to grind her cunt against his taut abdominal muscles.

Kisses that were first tender and sensual turned to desperate and needy.

Sitting upright once more, Loren reached behind her for William’s cock. When her fingers wrapped around the girth of his shaft, William bit his lip and pressed his head into the pillow, moaning as Loren stroked him.

As much as he loved watching her work his arousal out of his tip, it was feeling just a bit too good, and he was getting desperate to feel the slickness of her pussy sliding down on his dick.

“Loren….I don’t wan- to….come - not just yet. Can we….can you get on…oh fuck - I want you to ride me.”

She smiled and replied softly “Mmmmm - okay,” and slowly released his cock.

Loren’s face was flushed as she looked down at William’s soft expression. As she raised and positioned herself just above the tip, William slid the pinkish head between her hot and slick folds. Loren’s hand connected with William’s as he held his cock just so as she tried to lower herself on his hardness.

The tip only slightly penetrated Loren’s entrance. Although she was wet with arousal, Loren was extremely tight and it felt as though there was an invisible barrier.

She tried to guide his shaft inside her once again but was unsuccessful.

Visibly flustered, she looked down at William with a mixture of embarrassment and discouragement. “I’m so sorry…..I’m not sure….it’s been a really long time since this - since I have done this. I’m -”

“Hey - Loren….it’s ok.” William spoke softly, smoothing back the locks of hair that had fallen around her face. “Do you still want to do this? We don’t have to.”

“Oh my god - no….I mean yes, I want this….I want you….I guess it just need to take it that much slower,” Loren replied quietly.

The two kissed slowly and longingly as William began to run his tip slowly through her wetness over and over again.

Desperate to try again, Loren spread her opening a little wider with one hand while William pressed the head of his cock into her entrance. Loren grasped William’s chest, lowering herself onto him as he held his cock steady in one hand, and gripped Loren’s hip with his other.

Torturously slow, Loren’s center slid down almost all of William’s length. Her core was so tight that her walls could feel the protruding veins of his cock.

Rising and falling on his cock steadily faster, William knew he had never felt anyone like Loren.

His hands reached up and pushed back the sides of his shirt allowing him to look at and feel her tits roll and bounce every time she grinded on his cock. Soon, Loren gripped his forearms bouncing on William harder and faster and the euphoric sensation began to grow in his belly.

The sounds of two people finding pure and exquisite pleasure in one another filled William’s bedroom. William and Loren had unlocked a new level of intense passion and they acted on every impulse. He watched her body jolt from the electric energy being driven into her core. The noises coming from her mouth were so erotic, William needed to hear more. Much more.

He grasped at the meaty parts of Loren's hips and as she arched her back, William firmly drove his cock into her core. The veins on Loren’s long neck jutted out as she cried out William’s name. William began to thumb Loren’s clit, inciting her thighs to quake from the powerful sensation.

Loren was losing complete control of her senses and her only instinct was to sprawl atop William’s sweaty, matted chest and hold on for dear life.

William’s arms cradled Loren tightly as she screamed affirmations into his pillow when he fucked her hard. He bit back the urge to holler out profanities and instead, grunted through gritted teeth against Loren’s shoulder.

Loren began to pant that she was coming but her vocalizations were mostly absorbed by William’s pillow. William held her ass while he pounded her deep, and when her orgasm hit, she yelled out nonsensical words against William’s neck as her body convulsed within his arms. Had William not been holding her in place, he’s sure she would have bucked herself right off of him, quivering uncontrollably.

William himself could not bring himself to slow his pace as that same euphoric sensation that started in his belly was now a pressure boiler ready to explode. With one long, guttural moan, William shot streams of cum deep inside Loren. William fought the urge to bite Loren’s shoulder, which was a urge he never had before.

William and Loren laid in each other’s arms unable to speak or even move. As their laboured breathing turned into a more controlled rhythm, Loren began to stir slightly, as William’s softening cock, glistening in their shared juices, slid from her entrance.

Loren slid off of William and he turned onto his side, bringing her body back to him.

He murmured into her hair, “You okay?” as he traced a path with his fingers along her shoulder blade.

Loren could feel him beginning to grin as she nuzzled his chest while letting out a satisfied moan. “I’m……” she trailed off. “I can’t…I…I’m barely able to speak. I’m good. Really good.”

A few more moments passed as Loren and William regained her faculties.

William broke the silence first, speaking in a low, gravelly voice. “You said it had been awhile…how long was it since your last time?”

Loren shifted in William’s arms, lazily shrugging and murmuring into his chest, “Over three years, I think…something like that.”

William raised an eyebrow and lightly shook his head. “Jesus.”

Loren propped herself up on her forearm. “Seriously though, do they teach you how to do this in Sweden? Because that…what you did….that’s not normal,” she chuckled and then added, “I didn’t even think I liked sex.”

William thought for a moment. “How long can you stay tomorrow before you have to leave for work?”

“2:00 or so, I might be able to push it to 3…call in a favour maybe....just this time. Why…what are you thinking?” Loren smiled.

“I’m thinking this was just a practice run. Now I need to show you what I can really do.”

[thinkrp]

today's preview is a more introspective look at the larger of our two locations - remington, georgia. while it has the glitz and glamour that sable grove could never aspire to, there are some who can't stand the hustle and bustle of someplace that always seems to be in motion. take a peek under the cut for it's full history alongside the six neighborhoods waiting within. if you have any questions, you know where to find us!

✨ explore remington, ga ✨

the city of remington was founded in late 1829 during the georgia gold rush. it was a larger settlement for the prospectors that used to travel to sable grove to strike it rich. today, it is a thriving metropolis home to such prominent tourist attractions such as the great rapids amusement park, the barlowe botanical gardens, and distillery drive. it is also home to remington university and the official home of nfl team the remington prospectors, nhl team the remington gold hawks, and the mlb team the remington 29ers. remington is also known to be a festival city during the summers, hosting events such as the taste of remington and the street buskers festival. to the world, remington seems like a city of promise, however, if you look a little closer you’ll see dilapidated buildings with graffiti protesting the oppressive hold of corporations, you’ll see broken swing sets in seedy neighborhoods, and you might just be able to see deals being made on street corners. remington proves that even the shiniest of exteriors can have the grimiest of secrets lurking within.

barlowe reef

population - 20660 | price point - $$$ to $$$$

home to the barlowe botanical gardens and the great rapids amusement park, the neighborhood of barlowe is known as a tourist haven. the northernmost peak of remington, you’ll also have access to the barlowe bridge which connects remington and sable grove across bennington bay. it also houses the shorefront which showcases the pier and harbor. housing in the area is middle tier and largely populated with airbnbs and hotels.

camden

population - 17486 | price point - $$$ to $$$$$

camden is a historic part of remington that was once lined with bootleggers and secret speakeasies between the 1920s to the 1930s. now, it is widely known as the fine arts and cultural district. it is home to the remington art gallery and theatre alley which is home to the remington ballet company, the remington philharmonic, and the remington players. it is also home to jazz clubs, piano bars, and of course your good ol’ country music bars. some casting agencies, modeling agencies, and production companies also call camden home. the neighborhood also has a series of small man-made parks and trails that are a runner’s paradise. this area houses a lot of trendy apartment buildings, brownstones, and houses with old world charm that tend to be perfect for those in the middle-income or higher income brackets.

crestmont

population - 10576 | price point - $$$$ to $$$$$

crestmont is remington’s financial and governmental neighborhood. you’ll find city hall which houses city council offices, the mayor’s office, and all the major courthouses. it is also home to the remington police department and the sheriff's station. crestmont also has easy access to remington memorial hospital and the remington firehouse. around the corner from city hall is market street which is home to well known financial institutions, major real estate developers, and also larger tech and entertainment-focused companies. homes in this area are relatively pretty expensive and swanky and feature penthouses, brownstones, and luxury apartments.

cromwell

population - 14177 | price point - $$$ to $$$$$

cromwell is perhaps one of the busiest neighborhoods in remington featuring all the major sports arenas and stadiums as well as the larger concert venues. it is home to palladium square which is full to the brim with street performers and buskers. during the weekends, there is a large farmer’s market and craft and book fairs. it is also a hop skip and jump from remington public library and cromwell park. due to its resemblance to many popular cities, cromwell is a popular filming location. you’ll find mid-tier to high-tier housing in the area, and it is home to many families with young children.

snakeleaf

population - 20101 | price point - $ to $$$

back in the 1800s, the snakeleaf area used to be swampy marshy lands where only the underlings of the city used to congregate. it still maintains its “seedy” reputation with its collection of motels and other shady businesses. unlike the rest of the city, the snakeleaf area is not prim and pristine. however, some would argue that this is where the real deals in the city happen and not in crestmont or cromwell. the main highlight of this area is the abandoned shoe factory which is a popular venue for raves, outlandish parties, and general debauchery that is rented by more elite hands than you would think to imagine. housing is cheap here, but it comes at the cost of your safety and sanity, quite frankly.

yearwood

population - 30000 | price point - $ to $$$

yearwood widely known as the education district, yearwood is home to remington university spanning ten whole city blocks. around the corner from remington university, you’ll also find the yearwood mall and tucked in a corner is distillery drive which features bars, clubs, taverns, cafes, and restaurants that are popular with students, remington residents, and tourists alike. at the end of distillery drive, you’ll find the wall, a skate park with a massive brick wall that is frequently tagged with graffiti, murals, and messages. housing in this area is relatively cheap and largely occupied by students or early career professionals.

[redbirdandbluebird23]

So.... I signed up just to talk to you about your UK visit recs hahaha. Don't know if I'm even messaging you properly. This is Winterine from ao3, but annoyingly someone took that name here and I cbb going for variants when I am pretty sure I was the original Winterine lol. But yes, realistically, I'm planning to head to the UK for a big solo walk/cycle tour or historical/interesting/spooky/beautiful/natural places maybe 2025 or 2026 after I finish uni, I'm thinking around April-May ish. Keen to hear what you think I should see/do, or if I should go at a different time of year etc.

I honestly think April/May is the best time to visit because it's out of the main tourist season and the weather is starting to get better. Don't get me wrong, it will rain, but it won't be as cold and miserable, or as hot and miserable 😂.

I definitely got carried away listing places, but I figured if I listed everything and why, you'd be able to pick and choose what sounds best to you

Scotland:

- Inverness and Loch Ness: I was obsessed with the Loch Ness monster as a kid which is one of the main reasons I visited, but Inverness is also a really beautiful town and there's a lot of walks/hikes nearby 

- Glen Coe, Fort William, Ben Nevis, and Glenfinnan viaduct: we did all these in the same day, but we were driving and didnt actually walk up Ben Nevis. Glen Coe is a place that looks as close to lord of the rings as you can get outside of New Zealand, there's plenty of hikes/bike routes through it. Fort William is a little town directly at the bottom of Ben Nevis, so it's a good place to see/climb the mountain, and there's also hikes/bike routes. The Glenfinnan viaduct is most famous from Harry Potter, but it's also a really pretty place full stop.

- Oban and the Isle of Mull: Oban is a historic seaside town that's famous for it's whiskey distillery (which I recommend the tasting at) and seafood. There's a ferry that runs several times a day to the Isle of Mull, which has plenty of great places to visit, lots of hikes/bike routes.

- Edinburgh: it's honestly one of my favourite cities and looks exactly like it does in pictures. There's a lot of history and literary influence, and I highly recommend Armchair Books, which is a little second hand book shop. The castle is also worth visiting.

Wales:

-Snowdonia and Mount Snowdon: absolutely loads of hikes/bike routes, but if you don't want to walk up Snowdon, there's a little railway that I highly recommend. Because Snowdon used to be under the sea, it's also possible to find marine invertebrate fossils at the top.

- Llandudno: most famous as where Alice in Wonderland was written/inspired. But also a great little seaside town

- New Quay: lovely little coastal town with loads of walks/bike routes around it

-St David's: the UK's smallest city, very pretty and lots of hikes/bike rides around

-Portmeirion: this is, hands down, one of the strangest places I've ever been. It's basically a fake town that was used as a set for the TV show The Prisoner, but it's now a tourist attraction. I can't really describe what it's like, just very fantastical and strange, it even has a pet cemetery

England:

(The Peak District and London I've done as separate lists at the bottom due to all of the places I recommend in them)

-The Lake District: absolutely loads of walks/hikes/bike routes. Very picturesque and there's a lot to do and see. It's also where Beatrix Potter wrote all of her books so there's a lot of Peter Rabbit related stuff around.

-Bamburgh Castle and Lindisfarne: there's lots of hikes/bike routes through Northumberland, but I think Bamburgh Castle is worth a visit, it's been used in a lot of films. Lindisfarne is an island that used to be home to monks, they brew their own mead and its the first place the vikings landed in Britain.

-Scarborough, Whitby, and Robin Hoods Bay: these places encompass my childhood because we used to go on caravan holidays with my granddad every year. This whole stretch of coast is very good for walks/bike routes. Scarborough is a very stereotypical English seaside town with amusements and 2p machines, but Anne Brontë is buried there and it actually has a lot of history. Whitby is one of my favourite places on earth, not only because of its ties to Bram Stoker, Dracula and goths, but it's also very historic and the abbey is incredible. The kippers and fish and chips at the Magpie Cafe are a must. Robin Hoods Bay is a tiny little village that it really picturesque and has a history of smugglers.

-York: very historic, very old English. There's loads of tea rooms, interesting shops, second hand book shops and there's even a shop where you can buy your own little York ghost friend.

- Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield: lumping these three together, and no one can get mad as me for it because I'm originally from one of them 😂. All of these cities have changed a lot from when I was a kid and all now have thriving food and drink scenes. But they're also all historic centres of industry. Manchester used to be a textile capital of the world, Leeds is known for it's engineering and canals, and Sheffield was vital to the war effort due to it's steel production. Depending on what interests you, they're all worth a look.

-Birmingham: not just for peaky blinders! Birmingham actually has more canals than Venice and a lot of industrial history. It's also got a thriving food and drink scenes and a lot of shopping locations.

-Cambridge: I've only been once, when I toured the uni when I was applying at 17, but it's very picturesque and has a lot of history. Ngl, some of the people can be quite snobbish and very stereotypical posh English.

-Winchester: old historic town, famous for it's Cathedral but also as where Jane Austen lived and died. There's a lot of literary influence and a lot of amazing book shops.

-Weston-super-Mare, Wells and Glastonbury: Weston-super-Mare is another old, typical English seaside town like Scarborough, but it has an absolutely massive beach so people flock to it in summer. Wells is a little town, most well known for the cathedral and the location Hot Fuzz was set and shot in. It's definitely worth a visit. Glastonbury outside of the festival season is a lovely place with lots of hikes/bike routes and a lot of history. 

-Plymouth and Cornwall: again, only been once due to how far it is from home, but I'm actually going again this week for my mum's birthday. Plymouth has a lot of naval history and I'm planning on going to the National Marine Aquarium Thursday which is supposed to be amazing. The only place in Cornwall I've been is Looe, but I highly recommend it as it's so pretty.

-Jurassic Coast: including Weymouth, Lulworth and Durdle Door in this. All very picturesque and where the bulk of UK fossils are found. There's absolutely loads of hikes/bike paths along this coast

-Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch: Bournemouth is mainly known for it's huge beach, Poole is where the RLNI headquarters are and where Lush was founded, and Christchurch is just very picturesque. 

-Portsmouth: where the UK navy is based. Very historic and very flat for walking/biking. Where D-Day was launched from and the D-Day museum is worth a visit. Was also home to Charles Dickens, Arthur Conan Doyle and Rudyard Kipling. Has a good independent book shop called pigeon books.

The Peak District:

(Growing up so close to it, I have a lot of recommendations, hence the separate category 😂)

(There are hikes/bike trails between most of these places, with apps/guides online for the most popular routes)

-Bakewell: very picturesque, old English town. But obviously you have to try the tart! I recommend trying both the tart and the pudding

-Castleton: another picturesque little town, but it's also full of caves you can go down, one of which was used for the gringotts scenes in Harry Potter. Lots of good pubs for a pint as well.

-Cavedale: very lord of the rings looking picturesque walk, but it's personally one of my favourites because it's where Wesley rolls down the hill while yelling "as you wish!" in the Princess Bride

-Hathersage: lots of great pubs, cafes and restaurants

-Scrivener's books and bookbinding: multi-leveled second hand bookshop in Buxton.

-Chatsworth House: old manor house with huge grounds. The house and gardens are worth visiting to walk around. JFK's sister is buried across the road in the little village of Edensor. But I honestly love visiting because it's used as Pemberly in the 2005 Pride and Prejudice.

-Lady Bower Reservoir: on the route of a lot of hikes, it's where the Dambusters practiced dropping the bouncing bombs during the war

-Eyam: the first place to social distance and lockdown during the Black Death, lots of history there.

-Padley Gorge: also looks like something out of lord of the rings

London:

Museums: most museums in London are free, but you can book tickets online and not have to queue. 

-The natural history museum (my all time favourite museum, especially as a biologist)

-The science museum (right next to NHM)

 -V&A (across the road from NHM and SM, mainly art and design.

-The British museum (great if you were an ancient Greek or Egypt nerd as a kid (or if you still are)) 

-The Royal Naval College and National Maritime Museum (in Greenwich and where the second Thor was filmed)

-The Tower of London (where the crown jewels are held, they are wonky, it pissed me off 😂)

Bookshops: 

-Hatchards (oldest bookshop in the UK, five floors of books).

-Waterstones Piccadilly (just down the street from Hatchards, absolutely massive)

-Gays the Word (oldest LGBT bookshop in the UK, setting of the film Pride)

-Daunts Books (technically a travel bookstore, but it has other stuff as well. One of the prettiest book shops I've ever been to)

-Lutyens and Rubinstein (very pretty, had a bit of everything(

-Books for cooks (is only a cookbook shop, but it's honestly worth going for the experience because it's also a cafe that cooks from a different cookbook each month)

-The Nottinghill Bookshop (a bit of everything)

-Word on the Water (bookshop on a barge)

Markets:

-Borough Market (one of my absolute favourite places on earth, great for lunch or to pick up snacks)

-Camden Market (alternative fashion, art, music and good food)

-Eatly (near Liverpool Street station, it's an Italian market hall, also good for lunch/snacks)

-Spitlefields (food as well as shops, near eatly)

-Portobello Market (Nottinghill, only on certain days so make sure to check before going)

-Covent Garden (more high end shops, but it's nice to walk around)

Shops:

-Harrods (just worth going to look at the price tags and laugh 😂)

-Fortnum and Mason (just down from Hatchards, expensive food shop, but it's nice to look around in)

-Hamleys (huge toy shop, I haven't been in a while, but it used to be amazing as a kid)

Places that I just think are worth visiting:

-Russel square and Cafe Tropea, and Bloomsbury

-Hyde Park

-Walk down Knightsbridge just to see all the fancy cars

-The Wellcome Collective (cosmetic museum, but it has a reading room where it's free to sit and read)

-The Paddington statue in Paddington station

-You can walk up to Camden Market from London St Pancreas/Kings Cross Station via the regent's canal

I've sadly never been to Ireland, but I hope these are useful and you have a really good trip!!!

[scotianostra]

Tollcross.

This is a major road junction to the south west of the city centre of Edinburgh, which takes its name from a local historical land area.

The earliest reference to Tollcross dates from 1439 with Tolcors being the typical early form with the cors ending continuing in use to the late 18th century. Towcroce and Tolcroce appear in the early 16th century. Stuart Harris has pointed out that there were no crossroads until modern times and that there is no evidence for such meaning as "toll at a crossroad". He derives the name from cors with cros as a later form (as in Old Welsh toll cors, meaning a boggy hollow) and that the ending -corse would have aptly described the low-lying area beside the now culverted Lochrin Burn running between the slopes of the Burgh Muir and the High Riggs south of the Grassmarket, High Riggs is the area behind the trees in the middle of the pic.

From the earliest, the name has referred to an area of land. It is called "Lands of Tolcross" in a 1649 Charter of Charles II: "South parts of Tollcross owned by Major James Weir" in 1814: "That part of the village of Portsburgh called Tollcross" in 1836. In an Act of 1771 in the reign of George III, when suburbs outside the royalty of Edinburgh were made into districts, one of the districts was "to be one District called Toll-Cross".

Archaeological excavations by Headland Archaeology in 2012, as part of a planning condition in advance of development, found evidence of occupation of the area during the Medieval period. The excavations found the transformation of the area from an agricultural landscape to an industrial area, including the remains of the Lochrin Distillery, a slaughterhouses, Edinburgh Ice and Cold Storage Company’s unit, an ice rink and a garage, that had been built over each other.

Tollcross is at the end of the road which runs from the West End of Princes Street, up Lothian Road, to Earl Grey Street to one of the busiest junctionsin the citym where t leads straight on to Brougham Stree towards The Meadows, to the right on to Home Street, the road leads to Bruntsfield and Morningside, and to the left along Lauriston Place past Edinburgh College of Art, George Herriots School and The University of Edinburgh at Teviot.

[coffeeoysterlayaway]

Back in Toronto, in the historic distillery district, I was met with a sign I needed to see.

I met it with warmth. I hope this is the sign you needed to see today.

[ultraheydudemestuff]

Daniel Hertzler House Museum

State Route 4 West

Springfield, OH

The Daniel Hertzler House in Bethel Township, Clark County, near Springfield, Ohio, was built in c. 1854. It is a brick house of Pennsylvania "Bank Style" architecture, larger and more complex than other historic structures in Clark County, Ohio. Hertzler became wealthy in the milling and distilling business in Mad River Township, selling that in 1853; and then entering into businesses in Springfield, including a Clark County Bank. He had nearly completed construction on a new milling business, when he was murdered in his home on the morning of October 10, 1867.

Like so many early Americans Daniel Hertzler was an entrepreneur. Born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in 1800 he grew up as a Mennonite. During the early 1830s Daniel, his wife Catherine, and their first child Barbara moved to Clark County, Ohio. He managed a farm, a sawmill, a gristmill and a distillery. Later in his life he would start the Old Clark County Bank. In 1850 Hertzler purchased 315 acres of land southwest of the Springfield. After tearing down Jonathan Donnels 1795 log cabin, the Hertzlers built their home overlooking the site of the old Shawnee village of Piqua.

The Hertzlers would have 10 children and lived a good and prosperous life until the fall of 1867. Even with his owning a bank there were rumors Daniel Hertzler kept large sums of money in his home. Just rumors perhaps, but that was all that was needed. On October 10, 1867, Daniel Hertzler was found shot to death in the northwest room of his home. Authorities arrested 2 men suspected of the crime, but they later escaped and the mystery was never solved.

The farm stayed in the family until 1914 and is today owned by the Clark County Park District. Restoration began in the 1960’s and continues today. The kitchen fireplace has been rebuilt with its secret metal box placed within. Today the museum is furnished to its1855 appearance of a pre-civil war American home. Visitors can get to know what Pre-Civil War life was like through the eyes of a local legend, Mennonite pioneer and wealthy entrepreneur Daniel Hertzler. Hertzler was a 19th century corporate king and a money-lender who owned a grist mill, saw mill, brick distillery, whiskey distillery and over 1,000 acres of farmland. Hertzler’s wealth and status would ultimately lead to foul play and Mr. Hertzler’s demise. Visitors can experience the mystery, piece it together for themselves, and investigate the house’s unsolvable murder while on a tour. The Daniel Hertzler House was listed with the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on February 7, 1978.

[globetrottergurus]

15 Tiny US Towns That Are Secretly The Ultimate Weekend Escape Destinations!

Sometimes, the best trips are those that let you slow down, soak up the scenery, and truly unwind. Across the US, there are countless charming small towns offering unique experiences, whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, historic charm, or just a cozy, quiet retreat. Here are some of the best small towns in the US for a weekend getaway—each with its own character and plenty of things to see and do.

1. Sedona, Arizona

Surrounded by striking red rock formations, Sedona is a small town with big energy. Known for its scenic hikes, vortex sites, and vibrant arts community, Sedona is a great weekend spot for both adventure and relaxation. Hike Cathedral Rock, take a Jeep tour through the red rocks, or explore the local art galleries and boutiques. End your day with a stargazing session under Sedona’s famously dark skies.

2. Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge is a charming former mining town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, perfect for both summer and winter getaways. In winter, it’s a haven for skiers and snowboarders. In the summer, hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing draw visitors to its mountain trails and rivers. Stroll along Main Street to discover historic buildings, cozy cafes, and unique shops. Don’t miss the Breckenridge Distillery for a taste of locally crafted spirits.

3. Mystic, Connecticut

This historic seaside town feels like it was lifted right out of a New England postcard. Mystic is perfect for those who love maritime history, charming streets, and ocean views. Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum, tour the historic ships, and stop by the Mystic Aquarium. Take a stroll along the drawbridge, and don’t forget to try a slice of pizza at Mystic Pizza, made famous by the 1988 Julia Roberts movie.

4. Stowe, Vermont

Tucked away in the Green Mountains, Stowe is a picturesque town known for its covered bridges, mountain views, and outdoor activities. In the fall, Stowe comes alive with vibrant foliage, making it a popular leaf-peeping destination. Winter brings snow sports at Stowe Mountain Resort, and in spring and summer, you can hike, bike, and enjoy the natural beauty. Be sure to visit the Ben & Jerry’s factory nearby!

5. Beaufort, South Carolina

With its antebellum architecture and Southern charm, Beaufort is a slower-paced destination with plenty of character. Located on Port Royal Island, this coastal town offers historic tours, scenic waterfront views, and low-country cuisine. Take a carriage ride through the historic district, visit the beautiful Old Sheldon Church Ruins, and spend a relaxing afternoon by the water. Beaufort is the perfect place to experience the magic of the South.

6. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is a little slice of Bavaria in the Pacific Northwest. This small town, with its alpine-style buildings and German-themed festivals, is a must-visit for a cozy weekend escape. In winter, the snow-covered buildings are lit up for the holidays, creating a magical winter wonderland. Summer visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, river tubing, and wine tasting. If you’re visiting in October, check out their famous Oktoberfest celebrations.

7. Fredericksburg, Texas

Located in the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a small town with German roots and plenty of Texas charm. Known for its wineries, wildflower fields, and historic sites, it’s an ideal place to unwind. Stroll along Main Street, sample Texas wines at local vineyards, and visit the National Museum of the Pacific War. In spring, nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area offers excellent hiking and panoramic views.

8. Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor offers a quaint coastal getaway with scenic views of Acadia National Park and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy fresh seafood, explore the charming downtown area, or venture into Acadia for hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views of the rugged coast. In the summer, take a boat tour to see whales and other marine life. This New England gem is perfect for anyone looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and coastal charm.

9. Galena, Illinois

Galena is a charming Midwestern town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and scenic setting along the Galena River. Wander down Main Street for unique shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants. History buffs will love the Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, zip-lining, and even hot-air ballooning nearby. Galena’s small-town vibe and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect weekend escape.

10. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Known for its quaint cottages, ocean views, and artsy vibe, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a coastal gem in California. Stroll through the fairytale-like downtown area, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and charming cafes. Walk down to the scenic Carmel Beach for a sunset view, or explore the nearby 17-Mile Drive for spectacular coastal scenery. Carmel is an ideal choice for a relaxing weekend by the Pacific.

11. Helen, Georgia

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen is a small town with a Bavarian flair. Known for its German-style architecture, annual Oktoberfest, and outdoor activities, Helen is a unique destination with a lot to offer. Hike to nearby Anna Ruby Falls, go tubing down the Chattahoochee River, or visit Unicoi State Park. Whether you’re in the mood for adventure or just want to stroll through the charming town center, Helen has something for everyone.

12. Saugatuck, Michigan

This artsy lakeside town is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Michigan. Known for its vibrant art scene, Saugatuck offers galleries, boutiques, and waterfront dining along the Kalamazoo River. Head to Oval Beach for a relaxing day on the sand, or take a scenic cruise down the river. In the fall, the surrounding forests make for a beautiful leaf-peeping experience. Saugatuck is a fantastic place to unwind and enjoy some small-town charm.

13. New Hope, Pennsylvania

New Hope is a quaint riverside town that’s ideal for a cozy, laid-back weekend. Walk along the Delaware River, explore the unique shops and galleries on Main Street, and take in a show at the historic Bucks County Playhouse. The town is particularly beautiful in the fall when the surrounding trees are in full color. It’s a charming spot for anyone looking to escape city life and enjoy a slower pace.

14. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

This historic town at the meeting point of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers offers a mix of history, outdoor activities, and stunning views. Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park offers walking tours, Civil War history, and scenic overlooks. Hike up to Maryland Heights for a panoramic view of the town and rivers, or spend some time kayaking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

15. Taos, New Mexico

Known for its adobe buildings, art galleries, and stunning landscapes, Taos is a unique destination in the Southwest. Visit Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to experience the rich culture and history of the area. The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and Taos Ski Valley are nearby highlights, perfect for both outdoor adventurers and art lovers. Taos offers a one-of-a-kind blend of Southwestern beauty and culture.

Each of these small towns has its own charm and unique attractions, making them perfect for a weekend escape. Whether you’re looking for art, history, nature, or just a cozy spot to unwind, these towns have something special to offer. So pack your bags, pick a town that speaks to you, and enjoy a memorable weekend away from the hustle and bustle.

[rabbitcruiser]

Benches/Chairs (No. 79)

Savannah, GA

Philadelphia, PA (two pics)

Toronto, ON (four pics)

White River, ON

Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site of Canada, MB (two pics)

[bookwormadventurer85]

Toronto Tours for Families: Fun Activities for Kids & Adults of All Ages

Toronto is a vibrant city bursting with history, culture, and entertainment options. It's no surprise that families visiting Toronto are looking for exciting activities that cater to everyone's interests. Whether your kids are fascinated by dinosaurs or your teens crave thrills, Toronto has something for everyone. This guide will showcase some of the best tours and activities that will keep your entire family engaged and wanting more.  

Deciding on an itinerary can feel overwhelming, especially in a bustling city like Toronto. Consider utilizing a sightseeing tour agency like Gray Line Toronto Tours to help navigate your options. They offer a variety of family-friendly tours that combine sightseeing with historical insights and fun facts, ensuring everyone learns something new while having a blast.

Must-See Landmarks with a Twist

Toronto boasts iconic landmarks that deserve a spot on your family vacation itinerary. But how about experiencing them in a unique way? Here are some ideas:  

CN Tower: Soar to new heights at the CN Tower, one of the world's tallest freestanding structures. Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the city from the observation deck. Feeling adventurous? Challenge yourselves with the thrilling EdgeWalk experience, a controlled walk on an open-air ledge outside the tower's main pod.  

Casa Loma: This extravagant Gothic Revival castle offers a glimpse into Toronto's rich history. Explore secret passageways, climb the towers, and learn about the fascinating stories of the wealthy family who once called it home. Imagine yourselves as knights and princesses as you roam the halls!  

Toronto Islands: Escape the city buzz and head to the Toronto Islands for a relaxing afternoon. Ferry rides to the islands are a fun experience in itself. Once there, rent bikes to explore the car-free paths, have a picnic lunch on the beach, or visit Centreville Amusement Park, a charming old-fashioned park with rides suitable for all ages.  

Dive into Science and Nature

Toronto offers fantastic opportunities to learn about the natural world and ignite a passion for science in your children. Here are some top picks:  

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): The ROM is a treasure trove of exhibits showcasing dinosaurs, mummies, and a wide range of cultural artifacts. Interactive displays bring history and science to life, making learning a fun and engaging experience. The Planetarium offers captivating shows that will transport you to the wonders of space.  

Ontario Science Centre: Get ready for hands-on learning at the Ontario Science Centre. Explore exhibits on everything from the human body to space exploration. Kids will love climbing through giant hearts, experimenting with sound waves, and even piloting a flight simulator. There's even a dedicated area for younger children with age-appropriate activities.

Toronto Zoo: Immerse yourselves in the animal kingdom at the Toronto Zoo. Over 500 species of animals from around the world call the zoo home. Take a ride on the panda tram, watch playful otters frolic, or see majestic lions lounging in their enclosure. The zoo offers educational talks and shows throughout the day, allowing you to learn more about the fascinating creatures.  

Family Fun Beyond the Tourist Trail

Looking for something beyond the typical tourist attractions? Toronto offers a variety of unique experiences that will create lasting memories for your family.  

St. Lawrence Market: Foodies of all ages will love exploring St. Lawrence Market. Sample delicious treats from various vendors, from fresh-baked bread to international cuisine. Don't forget to grab some maple syrup, a true Canadian treat!

Distillery District: This historic neighbourhood, once home to numerous distilleries, has been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. Stroll along cobblestone streets, browse unique shops, and enjoy live music or street performers. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.  

Catch a Game: Immerse yourselves in Canadian culture by attending a professional sporting event. Cheer on the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey team at Scotiabank Arena, or watch the Toronto Blue Jays baseball team play at Rogers Centre. The electric atmosphere and passionate fans will create an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Planning Your Toronto Family Adventure

When planning your Toronto family vacation, consider the ages and interests of everyone involved. Research attractions and activities beforehand, and create a flexible itinerary that allows for some spontaneity.

Toronto offers a diverse range of family-friendly attractions, ensuring there's something to keep everyone entertained. Don't forget to factor in time for relaxing and enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, your Toronto family vacation will be one for the books!

[uglyandtraveling]

The HIDDEN GEM of Toronto: Exploring the Distillery Historic District!

Discover one of Toronto's best-kept secrets in my latest 4K walking tour through the Distillery Historic District! Often referred to as a "hidden gem," this charming part of downtown Toronto is rich with history, stunning architecture, and unique artsy vibes.

The Distillery District, located just east of downtown Toronto, is a vibrant area filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops, all set within beautifully restored heritage buildings from the old Gooderham and Worts Distillery.

Spanning 13 acres, it's home to over 40 historic buildings and 10 streets, making it the largest collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture in North America. Whether you're there for a bite to eat, a stroll, or to soak in some history, the Distillery District offers a unique and charming escape right in the heart of the city.

Join me as I explore its cobblestone streets, showcasing beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings, local art installations, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Whether you're a tourist or a local, the Distillery District offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Watch the video to uncover this iconic landmark and let me know in the comments if you've visited or plan to explore it!

Don't forget to like and subscribe for more 4K walking tours and travel adventures!

[skustudioo]

Professional Photography in Toronto: Capturing the City’s Vibrant Essence

Toronto, with its dynamic skyline, diverse culture, and picturesque natural surroundings, is a dream city for photographers. The art of professional photography in Toronto thrives on its ability to narrate the stories of its people, architecture, and events with finesse and creativity.

The Role of Professional Photographers in a Bustling Metropolis

In a city as multifaceted as Toronto, professional photographers play a vital role in preserving memories and highlighting the city's unique characteristics. Whether it’s capturing a couple’s wedding day, showcasing a brand's products, or documenting community events, professional photographers bring expertise and a keen eye for detail to every project.

Toronto’s Iconic Backdrops

Toronto offers an eclectic mix of locations that cater to various styles of photography. The urban landscape, featuring landmarks such as the CN Tower, the historic Distillery District, and the modern design of the Royal Ontario Museum, creates a stunning setting for architectural and portrait photography. Meanwhile, the serene shores of Lake Ontario and the lush greenery of High Park provide ample opportunities for nature and landscape photographers.

The Diversity of Photography Services in Toronto

Professional photography services in Toronto cater to a wide range of needs:

Event Photography: From weddings to corporate functions, photographers ensure that special moments are captured with elegance.

Commercial Photography: Businesses rely on skilled photographers to create compelling visuals for advertising and branding purposes.

Portrait Photography: Whether for family albums, professional headshots, or creative art projects, Toronto’s photographers excel in crafting personalized portraits.

Lifestyle Photography: This genre combines authenticity with artistry, depicting people in their natural environments to tell a story.

Trends Shaping Toronto’s Photography Scene

As technology advances, so do the techniques and tools used by Toronto's photographers. Drone photography has revolutionized how urban landscapes are documented, providing stunning aerial views of the city. Similarly, the rise of social media has increased demand for visually striking content, pushing photographers to innovate continually.

Supporting the Local Photography Community

Toronto is home to numerous photography schools, workshops, and meetups that nurture emerging talent. Organizations such as the Toronto Camera Club and events like the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival provide platforms for photographers to learn, showcase their work, and connect with like-minded creatives.

Why Choose Professional Photography in Toronto?

Hiring a Professional Photography Toronto means collaborating with someone who understands the city's essence and knows how to translate your vision into breathtaking images. Their technical expertise, creative approach, and familiarity with the city ensure exceptional results, whether for personal keepsakes or professional projects.