#azure hawker

[snototter]

An azure hawker (Aeshna caerulea) in Scotland, UK

by Iain H Leach

[curium-killedthecat]

i don’t think anyone will ever ask me what my favourite insect is, but just in case i have my answer ready:

the amazing dragonfly! (suborder anisoptera, close to the damselfly zygoptera!)

- they are beautiful, just look at them

- they have unequal wings (which is where anisoptera comes from) and can move each of them independently

- this means they can move forwards, backwards and upwards! and they can hover or turn around quickly.

- their wings are 100% germ free thanks to an evolutionary technique - nanopillars on their wings which kill any bacteria

- cicadas also have this, essentially whenever a bacteria lands on a wing, which is covered in nanopillars the same size as a bacteria cell, the nanopillars will literally rip them apart.

- like imagine pulling an unfilled balloon with your hands until it finally rips after stretching and stretching and stretching…

- also, they’re so smart! they are the only airborne insect that base their attack on the predicted path of the prey. meaning they’ll attack based on where they think the prey is going to be and not where it is.

- and they are successful majority of the time, which is definitely not common in most predators!

unfortunately though, most dragonflies are either threatened or endangered species, including the azure hawker (picture above). so let’s save the dragonflies, cause they’re so cool!

[dansnaturepictures]

A look back on my 2024: Part 2 of 3-Mammals, dragonflies and damselflies, beetles and others

Another very strong mammalian year in which I saw my highest ever amount of species in a year centred on adorable Red Squirrels as I was lucky to observe them in Scotland and on Brownsea Island. Scotland was an incredible time with so many mammals observed; Stoat and Brown Hare adding to the magic of the wild cottage with lots of wildlife around to see that we stayed in and simply breathtaking wild experiences watching Bottlenose Dolphins on the Moray coast and a Mountain Hare in the Highlands. Roe Deer at the cottage and Red Deer during the week were other highlights with both species key to my year overall with amazing local Roe Deer views and the Bushy Park Red Deer and Fallow Deer experience which was great again in September. I had an amazing year for Stoats seeing two at Rutland Water in July as well and as my fortunes of seeing these species has taken an upturn the past year and a half we got fantastic Weasel views at Bempton Cliffs. We saw Field Voles really well there and got exceptional immersive views of Grey Seals at Flamborough Head. It was a splendid seal year with superb views of Common Seals on the Beaulieu River and in Newtown Harbour on the Isle of Wight on a boat trip in a strong run of mammals standing out in September. A Water Shrew was a surprise first for me as I waded through a flooded path at RSPB Radipole Lake in January and I was overjoyed to see a Water Vole at Rutland Water. Closer to home Fallow Deer and Sika Deer have been great to see in Hampshire and Dorset, with impressive home views of Hedgehogs and I had a magical year of observing beautiful Foxes with top sightings at Southsea and Hook-with-Warsash.

Perhaps unexpectedly again with similar to butterflies as mentioned in my last post a few species I really needed to work for this year I saw my highest ever amount of dragonflies and damselflies this year. It was a green dream for odonata in 2024 with a big moment seeing my first ever Downy Emerald dragonfly at Bentley Wood in May and both Emerald Damselfly and Willow Emerald Damselfly seen at Thurley and Fishlake Meadows respectively. Common, Ruddy and Black Darter gave me thrilling moments this year as did Black-tailed Skimmer with an especially good view of a female at Testwood Lakes and Keeled Skimmer. I was captivated by watching Golden-ringed Dragonflies at Winnall Moors, Testwood Lakes and Fen Bog Nature Reserve. Hawkers owned the summer with a strong couple of months or so seeing Migrant Hawkers and Southern Hawker and Brown Hawker enjoyed too. Azure, Blue-tailed and Large Red Damselflies were also very pleasant to see.

Beetles I suppose took another step up in importance for me this year as I kept a year list of ones I could identify for the first time ever recording twenty species. Green Immigrant Leaf Weevil, Violet Oil Beetle, Bloody-nosed Beetle, Tawny Longhorn beetle and Devil’s Coach Horse Beetle were some of my favourite finds. Once again cantharis rustic soldier beetle, Common Red Soldier beetle, Red-headed Cardinal beetle, Black-and-yellow Longhorn beetle, Swollen-thighed beetle and treasured views of epic Green Tiger Beetles at Bentley Wood in my home area, Strathdearn in Scotland and Fen Bog Nature Reserve in Yorkshire brough vibrant colour to my spring and summer. Dor beetles, ladybirds, Garden Chafer Beetle and Common Malachite Beetle were more delights seen this year.

Some other key species of my year included fascinating Hornet Mimic Hoverfly and Lesser Hornet Hoverfly in the summer, Marmalade Hoverfly, a notable amount of Common Lizards in the summer, frogs and frogspawn, the indomitable Long-winged Conehead one of my key crickets/grasshoppers of the year at Lakeside and Milford on Sea, Mottled shieldbugs, Dock bug, Forest bug, Grey Silverfish and spiders including Long-bodied Cellar spiders at home, lots of snails enjoyed at home and a fascinating Ambersnail seen at Winnall Moors in the summer.

The photos in this set are of; Keeled Skimmer dragonfly at Brownsea Island in September, Common Darter dragonfly at Lakeside in August, Willow Emerald Damselfly at Fishlake Meadows in October, Red Squirrel on Brownsea Island in September, Stoat at Rutland Water in July, Garden Chafer beetle at Magdalen Hill Down in May, Tawny Longhorn beetle on scabious at Shipton Bellinger in August, Hornet Mimic hoverfly at Stockbridge Down and Ambersnail at Winnall Moors in August, Fallow Deer in the New Forest on Good Friday and Long-winged Conehead at Lakeside in August.

[kuyatecallate]

Weaponised Insect

Iterations to Final Render

Overall I'm satisfied with the end result. For all my practice sketches, I'm still not confident I could draw him in any other pose (props to the yanma/yanmega artists, idfk how you do it).

So yeah, this is Ziplash, a lousy little Insecticon (based on the White-faced Darter) who's self obsessed and pulls the 'I am baby' card when in trouble. He's got a twin named Triller (Azure Hawker) who fancies himself a musician. Much more chill and responsible than his brother.

(The only two swatches I have of him smh)

Will I do anything with these two?? Who fuckin' knows, think of 'em as prototypes until I can figure out how to make dragonflies scary instead of cute.

[cymorilcinnamonroll]

Your Voice Like Silver (Samael x Michael Crackship Fic)

I planted seeds in a garden, once, with my brother. The fruit became humanity, so they say, little seedlings springing up in Gan Eden’s soil like apple blossoms in the snow.

But the blood, oh, it flowered.

And his kiss,

bitter.

“I can’t keep doing this, Sam.”

We sit on a rooftop smoking, watching the hot light of Miami filter through the blue cerulean sky, pineapple juice stands and street hawkers and DJs far below where we sit on the skyscraper, sunning our wings.

I lower my blunt, staring idly at him. “What, Mike?”

He gestures out at the mass of sweat and sin. “This.” Michael says, his blonde hair and azure eyes watering and shining, like Father’s best brass set at that old godforsaken Heavenly Temple. “Pitting them against each other, testing them, being one scale to yours on the stupid Worldly Judgment. We both no nothing will ever end. There is no Apocalypse.”

I narrow my crimson eyes, long black hair blowing in the wind. I put out my blunt and lift his wrist, then kiss it. “You think? But climate change. The nukes. How long til?”

Michael bent into my touch, blossoming. “I don’t know, fuck Samael.” He cradled my head in his lap, running his knuckles through pennants of my bangs. “They’re out in space.”

“Hmm. I could end it all. Sire a child.”

“Heh. With what bitch.”

“Some blonde bitch.”

“You do like blondes.”

“You’re the origin of that vice, brother. I’m bored. Let’s go fishing.”

We load up our speedboat on Miami Beach with Coronas, limes, a six pack of Yuengling, some vodka, Red Hots, bait, our rods, and sunglasses. Rub in the suncream – not like we burn, but it’s nice, the feel of the lotion under my hands as I massage it into his back – and off we speed.

Michael laughs behind the wheel. I look out the mirror, chagrin at how pale I am. He is golden, sunkissed skin, meaty – I look like a pale, skinny viper. I flash my fangs, then pull out a cig – Beelzebub keeps getting me to try Virginia Slims, Eve keeps pushing them on him and he’s running out of space in the Hellopolis to stow them, so onto my basement desk they land – and Mike has his weed, this time.

Michael summons the fish – Father’s blessing from when he walked as Christ long ago – I that temptation of thorn in his side – and we make an evening of it. 

We roast them on the beach, skinning the fish, cooking up the meat.

“You’re as ass-white as a fish belly,” Mike chuckles, kissing me on the beach. Slow, languorous. He tastes like satvia and a lime. I like it. Heh.

“And you’re choked in meat.”

“Your meat, hopefully.”

“Got me, bastard.”

We sit in companionly silence and have the chocolate torte slices I cooked in our sometimes apartment – when we can escape our wives – and enjoy it together, side by side.

The sun sets. I can feel darkness burn in me, as Michael’s skin pales, his eyes turn white, and he loses the pigment of his hair, looking like the moon. And I am the black hole, aren’t I? Thrumming, I turn onyx and crimson, all shade, all shadow, and we pack our things, casting a pall over the mortal world, and escape before a mortal can notice – not that we give a fuck, falling

In a tangle of limbs

On our bed.

“Kiss me, asshat,” I say.

“Sure, idiot.”

Our lips mingle like pepper and spice. I breathe in his Banana Boat and musk. Hah. Hah. Hah. Fuck, fuck, fuck. His kiss burns, and we shed our mortal forms, all feathers and eyes and burning adamant halo, fucking like great eldritch seraphs, biting, impaling, coming, again, again.

I eat the Eucharist from Christ’s bloody heart. He sucks off my zuhama – Satan’s seed.

Room with a window facing west

towards the sea.

[icedfae]

azurelys​:

tender   hand   rests   on   the   shoulder   of   the   youngest   hawker   for   support,   slipping   off   heeled   sandals   in   a   hurry.   ❛   a   dumpster   ?? ❜   doe   -   eyes   wide   with   a   gasp,   emira   leans   off   of   him   once   her   shoes   are   off   and   deposited   by   the   door.   the   brunette   doesn’t   question   why   freddie   was   near   a   dumpster,   but   knowing   him   …   the   possibilities   are   endless.   ❛   poor   thing. i hate people,  ❜   glossed   brims   jut   out   into   a   pout,   pivoting   to   gently   pad   further   into   freddie’s   home   to   the   living   room.   emira   coos   at   the   sight   of   a   ball   of   fluff   curled   on   the   couch   cushion,   taking   a   seat   next   to   the   kitten.   ❛   it   feels   like   it   has   been   forever   since   beyza   was   this   size,   ❜gently   extending   digits   out   for   marshmallow   to   smell,   a   soft   smile   appearing   on   her   visage as she scoops up the kitten.   ❛so   cute … ❜   emira   whispers   as   manicured   nails   lightly   scratch   the   top   of   his   head,   gaze   flickering   to   freddie.   ❛   well,   i’m   glad he is never spending the night in a dumpster ever again. ❜

The discovery of meowing coming from a dumpster outside the office in which his family business resided, Freddie had been for once pleased to have the freedom he did within those walls. The kitten had been brought up to his office, cleaned up and fed, before the work day had even ended. “I don’t understand why anyone would abandon him. Poor Marshmallow, what if I hadn’t found him? He could have been hurt badly. I did take him to the vet, they said he’s perfectly healthy and got all the shots he needed.” Eyes never leaving her figure as she cooed over the newest addition to his life, heart swelling within him at how caring Emira often was, Freddie kept quiet as to not disturb it. “Oh, we should bring Marshmallow to meet Beyza. So they can be familiar with one another!” Sudden excitement in his eyes as the idea of bringing the two cats together formed in his head, picturing Beyza being the perfect little companion to teach Marshmallow how to be a good cat. “You don’t think Beyza will get jealous, right? If you come home smelling like a baby?” The last thing he wanted was to cause unnecessary stress on the first feline in their lives. "I'm glad you came over," his words left him before he had a chance to stop them. "We haven't spoken since the Met Gala."

[phanfictioncatalogue]

Fics With Titles That Start With K (2) Masterlist

kairos (ao3) - uselessphillie

Summary: (greek, n.) - the perfect, delicate, crucial moment; the fleeting rightness of time and place that creates the opportune atmosphere for action, words, or movement

(a 2009 fic. sort of.)

Katie's Graduation Present (ao3) - auroraphilealis (peachrosepetals)

Summary: Phil Lester has missed the majority of his daughter's high school years because he’s spent the last four years in the military. When Dan finds out he’s going to miss her graduation, too, he throws a fit, and doesn’t even say “I love you,” before hanging up on him. So who's the military guy in blue at the bottom of the bleachers?

Keep Breathing - cocktailaunt

Summary: Phil has social anxiety.

Keeping Secrets - philipsenpai-fics

Summary: 1.6k words of fluff.

keep it or yeet it (ao3) - possumdnp

Summary: Phil’s armed with sticky notes, ready to keep or yeet everything in their room before the big move.

Dan just wants a break.

Keep The Time (ao3) - starwatersong

Summary: Dan, still recovering from a rough break-up, works in a coffee shop by day and plays in a band with his friend PJ at night. The problem is they've never had a gig and they need a new drummer. Dan meets Phil and finds much more than the drummer they're looking for.

Keep You Next To Me (ao3) - twoheadlights (fizzfic)

Summary: meeting for the first time in real life; filming phil is not on fire.

Key and Padlock (ao3) - Star4545

Summary: Based on the prompt: You and your soulmate share the same heart. Person A and B were born the same day and at the same time. They will have a special mark or tattoo over where their heart is. It could be a flower, a animal, a star, etc. You also can know if your soulmate is in pain thanks to their heart bond?

But here’s the catch, if Person A or B dies or gets any infection or illness in the heart, the other also dies or gets the illness.

Dan and Phil have matching soulmate marks: a key and padlock.

Keys To My Heart - thatsthepan

Summary: We’ve all wanted Dan to get his piano fixed forever. But when a cute repair guy shows up and causes trouble, can a simple song played on the piano fix things? Well, that and a long overdue discussion of the past.

Kick Me While I'm Down (ao3) - jerseker

Summary: Dan and Phil meet in an adult kickball league. Phil is just there to make friends. Dan is - not.

Kick Off (ao3) - jestbee

Summary: Dan used to play football but now he's stuck coaching a second league team thats in danger of relegation. He's fallen out of love with the game, his team hates him, and Phil Lester, the coach of their biggest rivals, is the most annoying person he's ever met.

Luckily life is a game of two halves and things are about to take a turn for the better.

Kids in the Dark (ao3) - Azure (Fancy_Ravenclaw)

Summary: Two solo artists on an American tour keep each other company during the evenings with some video games. And some more.

King And Jester (ao3) - intoapuddle

Summary: Phil has temporarily taken the crown while his older brother is stuck overseas. Dan thinks it's just like him to use this time to invite his favourite jester, wearing his tightest outfit, to the castle just because he can.

Kiss Cam - phanlight

Summary: teenage phan are at a football match and the kiss cam does the thing.

Kiss From a Rose (ao3) - Nefertiti1052 (Succubusphan)

Summary: Phil is a hawker trading from town to town and looking for an adventure, but when he is caught out in a storm, a beautiful stranger becomes his only hope.

k-i-s-s-i-n-g (ao3) - 332Roses

Summary: dan and phil are friends that always meet up in a tree, martyn thinks its only appropriate that they finally kiss.

Kiss It Better - nagirci

Summary: Based on ‘Kiss It All Better’ by He is We.

Kiss Me On The Mouth (Set Me Free) - itsmyusualphannie

Summary: Vampires and werewolves don't usually get along, much less form a pack-clan together, but Dan and Phil make it work. When one's the Primus of a massive vampire clan and the other is the Alpha of a close-knit werewolf pack, how couldn't they?

knowing the way (ao3) - watergator

Summary: dan meets phil at a party

based on the line in BIG, "trust me, i've known a lot of straight guys until a couple of drinks, some deep conversation and lingering eye contact, and suddenly they just start leaning in."

koala (ao3) - combeauferre

Summary: Dan's just trying his best to stay warm under the covers, and the last thing he wants is Phil's cold hands ruining his comfort.

[vermilionwinds]

29. Debonair

As Remeraux wound her way through the bustling Kugane marketplace, she was all too aware of the fact that she didn’t really have anywhere to be, at the moment. 

What does one do with themself after wrapping up a war?

She supposed there wasn’t really a good answer, as she pushed her way through crowds of shoppers, ogling at the sights and the smells of the port-side city. The air was full of the shouts of hawkers peddling their wares, pleasant conversations, and the hiss and sizzle of the food stalls as they pulled fried foods from the depths of pots of oil.

If there wasn’t truly a right answer... then shopping was as good of a place to start as any. As Remeraux scanned over the crowd from her helpful vantage of six fulms eight, those tired violet eyes of hers settled on a shop that caught her eye. It was a cute little boutique, one of the few proper shops in the sea of colorful canvas stalls, with various kimonos of vibrant silk displayed on mannequins in the windows. And the placard to the side of the door read, in Hingan: “New imports in stock! Come see our new collection, the latest in Ishgardian fashion!”

The combination of ‘Ishgardian’ and ‘fashion’ got a real guffaw out of Remeraux, a genuine snort of laughter. The latest in Halone-respecting chic, eh? Oh, this she had to see. So, she shoved the rest of her Takoyaki into her mouth (the molten hot batter within did not seem to bother her much) and ditched the container in the nearest trash can, and pushed her way into the boutique. It was a simple little shop, done up in rich walnut wood and green accent walls. A graceful looking Raen woman with red hair nodded to her from behind the counter as she entered. “Good afternoon, miss.” She said, unable to hide completely her surprise at her latest patron. Remeraux looked down, catching her ratty army jacket, ratty jeans, and boots still coated in an unshakable layer of Bozjan mud. Probably not their usual clientele, Remeraux wagered. “...Can I help you find anything in particular?” Remeraux smirked. “Yeah, I think ye can.” Remeraux’s Brume accent tumbled out thick as fog as always, as she crossed her arms. “Could ya show me to th’ Ishgardian collection?” “Certainly.” The woman nodded her head in reply, and beckoned for her to follow with an outstretched hand, the long sleeve of her azure kimono waving out with it. And as Remeraux followed suit, internally hyping herself to see the most absurdly high collars, the most goofy chain mail couture… she wasn’t prepared to see the most stunning dress she’d seen in her life. As she took it off the shelf, taking in the flowing ruffles of the skirt, that striking black leather corset, the off-set sleeves and that lovely ornate collar, she just grinned from ear to ear and asked: “Does this come in red?

[deepestsoultimetravel]

The Little Known Secret to Snorkeling the Beautiful Marietas Islands in Puerto Vallarta for Less

A vacation in puerto vallarta boat tours isn't complete without a snorkeling trip to the beautiful Marietas islands. An ecological sanctuary that is a protected Mexican reserve, it is one of two places on earth where one of the worlds rarest birds, the Blue Footed Booby, makes its home.

The Marietas islands are a chain of three islands near the mainland at the north end of the bay. One of the most visited island locations is the place the locals call "La Playa de Amor" or Lover's Beach. This is an inlet to the closest island through an arch which was carved in the rock by the pounding of the waves over the centuries.

Even if you spend only one day in Puerto Vallarta, you will constantly be asked by the timeshare hawkers if you want to enjoy activities like snorkeling for free, or at a reduced price. Of course this is not without a caveat - you must attend their presentation. And because your time is limited and valuable, you should pass on their offers, no matter how assertive they become. Just remember the phrase "no gracias (pronounced no grah-see-ahs)."

There are many local operators that offer half-day and full day snorkeling trips. These can cost an upwards of $70 per person , which sometimes include lunch or snacks and drinks. You can quickly spend close to $300 for a day of snorkeling with a small group of four people, including tip.

The best part is...if you are adventurous, you don't have to spend nearly that much. Just follow this recommended plan!

Recommendation: A snorkeling trip to Punta de Mita With a small amount of planning and an adventurous spirit, you can do the same snorkeling trip the Puerto Vallarta operators offer for half the cost - around $140. If you are really frugal, you may even be able to secure a trip for even less. The trick is to ride the bus from the Puerto Vallarta marina, to the lovely little village of Punta Mita on the northern tip of the bay. This quaint little village is home to one of the best beaches on the Bay of Banderas.

To get to Punta Mita, expect to catch a bus around 11:00 AM in the Puerto Vallarta Marina area, near the Wal-mart/Sam's Club on the north end of town. Cruise visitors need only cross the main street at the gas station after departing the ship. The ride up to the area from Wal-Mart is around twenty pesos each person (around $2 USD) each way. Make sure you let the bus driver know you want to go to Punta Mita, as other buses leave from this station for other points north like San Francisco and Sayulita. The ride is about forty minutes long and takes you through the towns of Mezcales, Bucerias and La Cruz. Once you arrive in Punta Mita, relax and enjoy lunch in one of the many beach front cafes.

[Interesting factoid - When riding to Punta Mita, you actually go from the state of Jalisco (pronounced ha-lee-sko), where Puerto Vallarta is located, into Nayarit (pronounced n-eye-ah-reet). When you cross the state line, you will be passing from the Central time zone into the Mountain time zone. This means you will arrive in Punta Mita around the time you left Puerto Vallarta. Conveniently, most shops observe Central time.]

The key to this trip is to negotiate with the local panga vendors in Punta Mita and secure a boat (the cost of which always includes snorkeling equipment) for a tour of the Marietas Islands. You will probably be approached by one of the locals on the beach asking if you would like to take a snorkeling trip or go on a boat tour of the Marietas islands. Most of the vendors speak fairly good English; and it is important to note that the boat captains may or may not speak English.

It is best that you agree with the vendor ahead of time that your boat captain have the ability to speak English if you do not know Spanish or are uncomfortable with someone who does not speak your language. This won't be guaranteed unless you agree to this ahead of time. Even with the language barrier it is possible to have a great trip, as these boat captains are excellent at what they do.

A typical snorkeling trip to the Marietas islands lasts about two hours. Depending on the day, you should be able to secure the trip for between 750 and 1000 pesos ($70-$100 USD). This is the price for the boat and not a per person price!

Whenever possible, schedule trips on days when there are no cruise ships in port. These days are slow for the vendors and they are willing to come down on the price, as they know that their business for that day is more transient. You can check for cruise ship arrivals at http://www.cruisecal.com. If you are arriving on a ship, hold out for the best price (typically start at around half of what the vendor wants and work up from there).

If the vendor presses for the higher amount for the trip, you should request an extra half-hour, for a total of two and one-half hours. If the vendor agrees to this, the trip should include a good tour around the two closest islands. The third and furthest island is very small and has very little to offer.

At this point even if there are only two of you going on the trip, you should only be into the it for 1100 pesos ($100 US) and if you add in lunch, depending on your frugality, as high as 1500 pesos ($140 US). The key here is, the more persons you have to split the cost of the boat, the lower the cost per person.

Once your trip is complete and you are back on dry land in Punta Mita, be sure to tip the boat captain. A customary tip is ten pesos per person on the trip. Of course, if you feel that your boat captain did an exceptional job, feel free to tip him a bit more.

The difference between taking this more adventurous trip on your own, rather than contacting one of the larger vacation activities vendors, is in the personalization of the trip. The larger vendors provide wonderful trips with lots of information. Their ability to provide a more personalized trip and direct face time is very limited due to the trip sizes. The large vendors will pack their boats with clients, sometimes as many as 100 persons or more, in order to maximize their profits.

You have probably heard people refer to trips like this as a "cattle boat" or something similar. First they herd you onto the boat. Then, you're herded to the destination and then back. Working with the beach vendors will allow you to get a more personalized experience, at a lesser cost. In the end, the stories you share with your friends about your adventure in Mexico will be worth their weight in gold!

Once your adventure to the islands is complete, find your way back to the bus for the incredible ride back to Puerto Vallarta. You will most likely find yourself riding back with a vast array of locals. This part of the trip is always very interesting, as you never know who will hop onto the bus.

When you return home, the memories of your snorkeling trip in to the Marietas - the incredible azure seas and majestic granite cliffs - will linger for years to come. Every time you look at that picture you took on the beach, or hear stories of other peoples trips to Mexico, you will be able to

[airmanisr]

Supermarine Spitfire HF.VIIIc '5501' by Alan Wilson Via Flickr: This is one of only two surviving Spitfire HF VIIIs. The Mk.VIIIs were designed for hot climates. They had tropical air filters and were equipped to carry emergency rations and a 1.5 gallon (6.8 liter) drinking water supply. This aircraft (c/n 6S/238666) was built in 1942 with the serial number 'JF294'. Vickers boxed and shipped it to North Africa in January 1943. The RAF kept it as a spare, so it was not uncrated until November. The aircraft movement card indicates it was to be sent to India in December, but there is no evidence this was ever done. In late 1943, South African Prime Minister Jan Christiaan Smuts requested a display aircraft from the RAF. JF294 was selected and fitted with a 90-gallon, long-range slipper tank. RAF Flying Officer G.E. Chaplin flew the aircraft from Cairo to Cape Town. When it arrived in Cape Town, the aircraft was fitted with two 20mm cannons, and was painted overall PR (Photo Reconnaissance) Blue - a deep azure color - its color and markings consistent with a reconnaissance machine. However, there is nothing to indicate the aircraft was ever fitted as a reconnaissance machine. It subsequently ended up at the II OTU, the same unit as the museum's Hawker Hurricane. JF294 became the personal mount of Major Doug Loftus, Commanding Officer 11 OTU. He wanted South Africa's fastest aircraft, so he had the guns and armor plate removed to make it fly faster. Paint removal is a thankless job, but removing paint from a wing's underside is tortuous. Two young pilots who had gotten themselves into a bit of trouble found this out the hard way. They had to remove the paint from the wing's undersurface with thinner, as punishment. We have been assured the two pilots in question were quite "blue" over the job! Finally, JF294's aluminum skin was polished. The SAAF loaned the aircraft to the South African National Museum of Military History in late 1944. It remained on loan to the museum until 1955, when the museum officially purchased it from the SAAF. Originally, the museum had asked for the aircraft, but the powers that be demanded the museum buy it from the SAAF. The museum offered 15 pounds for the aircraft, but the SAAF held out for 17 pounds 10 pence - a difference of about five dollars US! It remains on display at Saxonwold, Johannesburg. South Africa. 16-9-2014 The above info was partly taken from the 'oncamouflagedwings' website.

[azure-xanh]

[Azure Xanh] 4.5 list to do in a nutshell

Main Story Quests (Tip: Main scenario quest “Prelude in Violet.” must be completed.) "Soul Searching" > The Rising Stones 6,5 > Alisaie

Ivalice (Tip: Quest “Annihilation.” must be completed.) "The Path of Most Resistance" > Kugane 10,12 > Lina Mewrilah

Custom Deliveries (Tip: Main scenario quest “Stormblood” and quests "Arms Wide Open" and "Purbol Rain." must be completed.) "Between a Rock and the Hard Place" > Idyllshire > Geimlona

The Four Lords (Tip: Quest “The Fire-bird Down Below.” must be completed.) "Surpassing the Samurai" > The Ruby Sea 27,16 > Bunchin

Seiryu Extreme (Tip: Quest chain “Surpassing the Samurai” must be completed.) Kugane 11,12 > Wandering Minstrel

Blue Mage (Tip: Main scenario quest “The Ultimate Weapon” must be completed.) "Out of the Blue" > Limsa Lominsa 10,11 > Zealous Yellowjacket

Doman Mahjong (Tip: Quest “It Could Happen to You.” must be completed.) "Every Little Thing She Does Is Mahjong" > The Gold Saucer 4,6 > Lewena

Kyubi Mount (Tip: Must have obtained all Kamuy mounts.) "A Lone Wolf No More" > Kugane 11,9 > News Hawker

U.I. - Check out Challenge Log Filters - Check out new Estate Tags - Check out Mahjong tab in Gold Saucer window - Mount Guide window > "Only select from favorited mounts" - Minion Guide Window > "Only select from favorited minions" - Check Filters in Friend List - Check new Keybinds in Shortcuts and System tabs - HUD Layout Settings > UI Element Settings > Transparency Settings - Character Configuration > Display Name Settings > NPCs > Housing Furniture - Character Configuration > Display Name Settings > NPCs > Housing Gardens - Character Configuration > UI Settings > HUD > Display Current World Name - System Configuration > System Sounds > Volume settings

Other things to do - Check Achievement Certificates rewards - Check Khloe for different rewards - Check NPC Hismena, Idyllshire 5,5 - Explore Group Pose - Try GATE "Air Force One" - Complete Adventurer Squadron command mission "The Fractal Continuum" - Complete Adventurer Squadron command mission "Pharos Sirius (Hard)" - Complete The Masked Carnivale - Explore new Subaquatic Voyage Destinations - Cap Submersibles rank to 50 - Keep Orchestrion rolls up to date - Beat new Triple Triad NPCs - Keep Triple Triad collection up to date - Keep Furniture up to date

[greyswin]

Green gradient

#Green gradient tv

In the RYB color wheel, the tertiary colors are red-orange, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-green, blue-violet, and red-violet. In the RGB color wheel these are orange, chartreuse green, spring green, azure, violet and rose. Tertiary colors are colors made by combining a secondary color with a primary color. In the RYB color wheel, the secondary colors are purple (red mixed with blue), orange (red mixed with yellow), and green (yellow mixed with blue). When you mix light, red and green make yellow, green and blue make cyan, and blue and red make magenta. In the RGB color wheel, these are cyan, magenta and yellow. Secondary colors are colors that result from mixing two primary colors. There are three primary colors: red, yellow, and blue. In the RYB color wheel, primary colors are colors that can’t be mixed from other colors. Primary colors in the RGB color wheel are the colors that, added together, create pure white light. The color wheel can be divided into primary, secondary and tertiary colors. In the RGB color wheel, these hues are red, orange, yellow, chartreuse green, green, spring green, cyan, azure, blue, violet, magenta and rose. There are 12 main colors on the color wheel. This combination provides a high contrast and high impact color combination – together, these colors will appear brighter and more prominent. Two colors that are on opposite sides of the color wheel. Canva’s color wheel is an RGB color wheel, as it is designed for online use.

#Green gradient tv

Then there is the RGB, or red, green and blue color wheel, which is designed for online use, as it refers to mixing light – like on a computer or TV screen. The RYB or red, yellow, blue color wheel is typically used by artists, as it helps with combining paint colors. Color combinations determine the relative positions of different colors in order to find colors that create a pleasing effect. When you add green color to your design, you get the chance to increase the confidence that. You can use a color wheel to find color harmonies by using the rules of color combinations. Visit the site for more than 60 green gradient background. Artists and designers use these to create a particular look or feel. The color wheel is the basis of color theory, because it shows the relationship between colors.Ĭolors that look good together are called a color harmony. The color wheel was invented in 1666 by Isaac Newton, who mapped the color spectrum onto a circle. The Green Gradient Color Scheme palette has 5 colors which are Wageningen Green (2EB62C), Apple (57C84D), Pastel Green (83D475), Granny Smith Apple. Smooth and sweet, this workhorse yarn is a joy to knit 400 yards, 150 grams. Color theory is a practical combination of art and science that’s used to determine what colors look good together. Turquoise to grass green gradient cake - 400 yards.

Ear piece in TR90, considered the best nylon in the world for eyewear, giving more flexibility and resistance.Ever wondered how designers and artists find the perfect color combination?.

Nose pads designed with distinctive geometric lines

Anti-slip, anti-allergy silicon nose pads, fixed with an exclusive Hawkers emblem in stainless steel.

Nickel-free stainless steel frame for high corrosion resistance and much more strength.

Category 2 cosmetic lenses with UV400 protection which offer anti-glare protection.

Respects the environment and gives a unique balance between clarity and resistance

Lenses of Eastman TR18, one of the World leaders in copolyester technology.

Matt silver metallic frame with black earpieces, matt gold bridge and green gradient lenses.

[cruisebay2020]

Book Singapore tour packages with CruiseBay

From travelers crowding to visit this Southeast Asian nation from all over the world, Singapore has become one of the most visited tourist destinations. Century-old temples, verdant spaces in the middle of skyscrapers, bustling hawkers, and spotless roads, Singapore has become a fantasy land and is on many people’s bucket lists. Cruising in Singapore is a lifetime experience. Engrossed in a luxurious float on sparkling azure water to reach the country that billionaires go to chill or world-class geniuses gather to discuss the future of technology is a worthwhile experience.

An ideal destination for your vacation – Singapore cruises is impeccable in its extravagant manner. Witness the bountiful and joyous experience at Universal Studios. Revisit your childhood and even your glorious adolescence years. A visit to Sentosa Island, Jurong Bird Park will create memories that you cherish for the rest of your lives. Night Safari at Singapore is a must on your to-do list. The mesmerizing lights, hustling and merry crowd, scrumptious cuisines and lip-smacking drinks make everything better.

Dine and shop – Not only the visitors, but Singapore is also an impeccable destination to spend your hard-earned money. Dine at world-famous restaurants on Orchard Street and shop designer dresses, branded handbags, aromatic perfumes on Marina Bay. Move around a little and absorb the nightlife of Dempsey Hill or Clarke Quay. Book your Singapore cruise in advance to not miss out on these amazing opportunities, perfect to bring your holiday plans to life.

Perfect cruise – Due to the current circumstances of the ongoing pandemic, Singapore Government has been strict with foreigners' entry into the nation. But, not to worry if you have a perfect fit and healthy body and you are willing to abide by the safety protocols issued by the nation. Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas has to offer 3 to 4 nights cruises on the high seas. Genting Cruises’ World Dream has begun sailing on the waters of Singapore, offering travelers a 3 to 4 nights cruise experience as well. These Singapore cruises ensure that even amidst the raging pandemic, people do not forget to relax and pause their lives a bit to have their share of fun and lavish. Cruising here is ideal for families, solo travelers, and groups. International tourists will have to wait for a little longer before they too can indulge in the frolic.

Living on the water – Wrapped by a quirky lifestyle of both calm and chaos, Singapore cruises can be overwhelming. There is never a dull moment on the water. The cruises have a life of their own with the amiable crew guiding you and joining in the fun at intervals. There are staterooms and cabins, selection can be based on the number of occupants. Taxes and additional fees are there for any extra facilities that you wish to avail such as laundry etc. There is a whole range of cuisine presented before the passengers, from continental to Chinese, European and American. Live singing performances, parties, occasions are common on these cruises.

Make sure to book your Singapore cruise tickets months in advance to have the best-viewed cabins and enjoy the best facilities.

Author’s bio – Poulome has recently been on a Singapore cruise which she could not stop talking about. To do justice to her wonderful experience, this article is the witness to the fun time she had on board.

[cattails-guide]

Cattails Item Guide!

PREY

Mouse, Common, Sell Price: 3 A dead mouse. No more cheese for you!

Harvest Mouse, Common, SP: 3 A dead harvest mouse. His light brown coat shimmers when light catches it.

Field Mouse, Common, SP: 3 A dead field mouse. He would make a tasty little treat!

Squirrel, Common, SP: 3 The body of a squirrel. His last thoughts were, 'Aw, nuts!'

Grey Squirrel, Common, SP: 3 The body of a grey squirrel. This little guy is having a grey day.

Rabbit, Common, SP: 4  This lil' bunny got bopped on the head.

Black Hare, Uncommon, SP: 5 A jet-black bunny with no more hop in his step.

Crow, Uncommon, SP: 4 A crow. It's seen better days. Dove, Uncommon, SP: 5  The dove is traditionally used to promote peace. This one was unsuccessful.

Bluejay, Ultra Rare, SP: 45  The body of a bright blue bird. It smells delicious.

Cardinal, Ultra Rare, SP: 48  A rare red bird whose beautiful plumage is life-like even in death.

Frog, Common, SP: 2  A frog who now lives in frog-heaven.

Toad, Uncommon, SP: 3  He croaked his last croak as he croaked.

Turtle Meat, Uncommon, SP: 4 He was just too slow!

Trout, Common, SP: 3  A river fish with white speckles on its back.

Salmon, Uncommon, SP: 4  A slender, long, red-and-gray fish.

Bass, Rare, SP: 8  A huge fish with a large mouth.

Catfish, Ultra Rare, SP: 40  A strange fish with long whiskers on its face. Catfish are a rare sight!

Sea Bass, Common, SP: 4  An ordinary sea-dwelling fish.

Mackerel, Uncommon, SP: 6  An uncommon sea-dwelling fish with a slender silver body.

BERRIES

Rasperries, Common, SP: 3  (Rubus Strigosus) Juicy red berries with a sweet taste. Can be used as a quick snack.

Blackberries, Common, SP: 3 (Rubus Laciniatus) Delicious, edible, dark berries that bloom in autumn.

Winter Blueberries, Common, SP: 2  (Vaccinium Boreale) Bright blue berries that grow in the cold months. A tasty treat!

HERBS

Valerian, Uncommon, SP: 3  (Valeriana Officinalis) Pungent flowering herb. Energizes and invigorates cats.

Lavender, Uncommon, SP: 4  (Lavendendule Angustifolia) A pungent herb. You can use its strong scent to gain power for your colony in an area.

Goldenseal, Uncommon, SP: 2  (Hydrastis Canadensis) A plant with a bright red berry. Treats wounds over time.

Marigold, Uncommon, SP: 4  (Caldenula Officinalis) Vibrant orange flowering herb. Treats wounds over time.

Catnip, Rare, SP: 15  (Nepeta Cataria) An irresistibly good-smelling plant. Can be given as a gift or sold for a hefty sum. (Consume to get the Curious Cat achievement!)

Snake Lily, Uncommon, SP: 5  (Amorphophallus Konjac) A poisonous flower. Can be used to apply a toxin to your claws for a short time.

BUGS

Red Ladybug, Common, SP: 1  An ordinary spring ladybug with bright red markings.

Orange Ladybug, Uncommon, SP: 2  An unusual spring ladybug with an orange tint to its hard wings.

Yellow Ladybug, Rare, SP: 2  A rare spring ladybug whose wings are harvest-yellow.

Blue Ladybug, Ultra Rare, SP: 33  Sightings of the blue ladybug are extremely sparse. This exclusive spring bug is a unique cerulean color.

Azure Butterfly, Common, SP: 1  A common summer butterfly with gorgeous cerulean wings.

Painted Butterfly, Common, SP: 1 A common summer butterfly with beautiful crimson wings.

Emperor Butterfly, Uncommon, SP: 2  An unusual summer butterfly with shimmering purple wings.

Tiger Butterfly, Uncommon, SP: 2  An unusual summer butterfly with bright yellow wings.

Iridescent Butterfly, Rare, SP: 3  A rare summer butterfly with a shining, multi-coloured body. Light refracts suddenly upon its dazzling wings.

Tropical Butterfly, Rare, SP: 3  A rare summer butterfly with stunningly diverse markings. It looks a little lost!

Lunar Butterfly, Ultra Rare, SP: 30  A legendary summer butterfly that glows in the dark. It's luminescent shine is captivating!

White Firefly, Common, SP: 1 An odd summer bug that lights up the night. It still glows faintly.

Red Firefly, Uncommon, SP: 2  This litte summer guy gives off a pale red light, illuminating the area nearby.

Yellow Firefly, Uncommon, SP: 2  A flying summer creature with a yellow luminescence. It still glows faintly. 

Green Firefly, Rare, SP: 2  The elusive green summer firefly is hard to come by. It can be identified easily enough at night.

Black Firefly, Ultra Rare, SP: 33  Many thought this breed of summer firefly was a myth. The black firefly almost seems to suck light in, rather than glowing.

Southern Damselfly, Common, SP: 1  A common blue dragonfly that emerges in autumn. Its wings are nearly see-through.

Brown Hawker, Uncommon, SP: 2  An unusual brown dragonfly that emerges in autumn. It has little yellow streaks along its head and abdomen.

Banded Darter, Rare, SP: 3  A rare red bug that emerges in autumn. Its wings have small bands of red color that give this dragonfly its name.

Northern Emerald, Ultra Rare, SP: 30  Northern Emerald Dragonflies rarely travel this far afield, but you've managed to catch one! This is an extraordinarily hard to find creature.

MISCELLANEOUS

Turtle Shell, Rare, SP: 10  A prized speckled shell worth a good amount of mews.

Scallop, Common, SP: 2  A common shell found on the beach.

Conch, Rare, SP: 15  A dazzlingly beautiful shell found on the beach.

Red Rose, Ultra Rare, SP: 1  A beautiful flower. Give this item to another cat as a symbol of romantic interest.

Black Rose, Ultra Rare, SP: 2  An ugly dead flower. Give this item to another cat to end your relationship with them.

Shiny Trinket, Ultra Rare, SP: 50  A dazzling trinket of human-make. Give this item to another cat to propose marriage!

Vial of Spring Showers, Common, SP: 6  Use this at any time to summon a light spring rain shower until the end of the day. Single-use.

Confetti Bag, Common, SP: 6  This fun item allows you to make it rain confetti anywhere, anytime. Single-use.

Glow Potion, Common, SP: 6 This spooky item will make your fur shine a bright luminescent color for one minute. Single-use

Bubble Wand, Common, SP: 6 Use this playful item to blow some fun soap bubbles. Single-use.

MINING

Rock Debris, Common, SP: 1 A chunk of rock with trace amounts of ore.

Iron Ore, Common, SP: 1 A deposit of raw iron ore.

Gold Ore, Uncommon, SP: 2 A deposit of raw gold ore.

Topaz, Uncommon, SP: 2 A sparkling yellow gemstone. Liked by most moles.

Sapphire, Uncommon, SP: 3 A sparkling cerulean gemstone. Popular with moles.

Emerald, Rare, SP: 3 A dazzling green gemstone. Popular with moles.

Ruby, Rare, SP: 6 A dazzling red gemstone. Prized by moles!

Diamond, Ultra Rare, SP: 16 An enthralling pale gemstone. Prized by moles!

[brajeshupadhyay]

Travel quiz: Take CNN’s challenge with these questions in May

(CNN) — We all know that travel broadens the mind. Thanks to that place on the seafront that sells delicious gelato, it has a tendency to broaden other body parts too.

We can’t deliver you two scoops of pistachio, but we can keep flexing those brain cells while your next trip across the world is on hold.

CNN Travel’s experts have been compiling some tricky questions to test your knowledge of the planet and to kindle your curiosity for more.

Think you can outsmart us? Try answering the following without resorting to Google. By all means hop on a video call to get family and friends in on the challenge.

There’s a link out to the answers at the end. We trust you not to do any peeking!

1. Which of these cities has not hosted the Summer Olympics?

a. Amsterdam; b. Madrid; c. Helsinki; d. Tokyo; e. Rome

2. Can you identify the city from its skyline?

Getty Images

3. The London Underground, or Tube, is the world’s oldest metro rail system. Which city has the second oldest electrified system?

4. Some nations have more than one capital city. Can you identify these countries by their perhaps lesser known capitals?

a. Brno; b. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte; c. Putrajaya; d. Valparaíso

5. In which city is the world’s tallest building?

6. Can you name the city from these landmark places of worship?

Getty Images

7. Which city has the world’s oldest Chinatown?

a. San Francisco; b. London; c. Manila; d. Jakarta; e. Toronto

8. Can you identify the city from the name of its airport?

a. General Edward Lawrence Logan; b. Hamad International; c. O.R. Tambo International; d. Soekarno-Hatta International

9. Name the world’s highest capital city

10. Which three destinations are widely recognized as the world’s only three sovereign city states?

1. Which famous aircraft made its last flight on November 26, 2003?

2. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, what was the world’s busiest airport in terms of passengers?

a. Beijing Capital; b. London Heathrow; c. Amsterdam Schiphol; d. Los Angeles, e. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta

3. Identify the airlines by their tailfin logos

4. What type of airplane is the US President’s Air Force One?

a. Gulfstream III; b. Boeing VC-25; c. Airbus A320; d. Boeing 777-300ER; e. Antonov An-148

5. Which two countries were connected by the Kangaroo Route?

6. Which direction — north, east, south or west — would you travel between these airports identified only by their codes? (Five bonus points if you can identify all the cities)

a. LAX to HNL; b. LGA to MCO; c. LHR to JNB; d. BKK to PVG; e. ARN to SVO

7. Match the massive airplane to its nickname

Getty Images

a. Whale; b. Queen; c. Dream. d. Superjumbo

8. Which airline had the most aircraft at the beginning of 2020?

a. Delta Airlines; b. American Airlines; c. Cathay Pacific; d. Virgin Atlantic; e. JetBlue

9. Why is three the magic number for the following aircraft?

Hawker Siddeley HS-12, the Tupolev Tu-154, the Lockheed L-1-1011, Boeing 727?

10. What aviation first did Amelia Earhart achieve in 1928?

1. Where in the world can you find these pyramids?

Getty Images

2. What is the world’s largest island?

3. Which country is home to Europe’s largest natural desert?

4. Match the image to the US national park?

Getty Images

a. Canyonlands; b. Yellowstone; c. Grand Canyon; d. Yosemite

5. Can you name the oceans that make up the so-called seven seas?

6. What links Java Trench, Challenger Deep, Molloy Deep, South Sandwich Trench, Puerto Rico Trench?

7. Match these desert oddities to the locations below

Getty Images/Plan South America/Barry Neild

a. Qatar; b. Chile; c. Texas; d. Namibia

8. Which is the only one of the world’s 10 longest rivers to flow northward?

9. Where can you no longer see the Azure Window?

10. Which place receives the most annual rainfall?

a. Manchester, England; b. Mawsynram, India; c. Seattle, Washington; d. Quibdó, Colombia

1. Which two Asian destinations separated by the sea were linked by 55 kilometers of bridge and tunnel in 2018?

2. Match the image to the New York bridge

Getty Images

a. Manhattan; b. Queensboro; c. Williamsburg; d. Brooklyn

3. Which towering French engineer designed the Bolivar Bridge in Peru, the Truong Tien Bridge in Vietnam and the Imbaba Bridge in Egypt?

4. Which country is home to the world’s longest bridge?

5. Match the image to the London bridge

Getty Images

a. Millennium; b. Hammersmith; c. Tower; d. Westminster

6. What would happen if you tried to cross France’s Rhône River on the Pont d’Avignon?

7. Can you identify the following famous bridges?

Getty Images

8. Which two continents are connected by the Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge?

9. What caused part of the Pont Des Arts bridge in Paris to collapse in 2015?

10. Which country is home to this handy structure?

LINH PHAM/AFP/AFP via Getty Images

1. Which city has the most Michelin stars?

2. Mirazur was named top of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2019. In which country is it?

3. Can you identify the country from the classic dessert?

Shutterstock

4. What are the bubbles commonly made of in bubble tea?

5. The world’s “happiest country” also consumes the most coffee per capita. Name the country?

6. Which antipodean dessert is named for a ballerina?

7. Can you match these four British dishes to their names (without laughing)?

Suzanne Plunkett

a. Eton Mess; b. Toad in the hole; c. Scotch egg; d. Spotted dick

8. Kartoffelknoedel, xiaolongbao, manti and pierogi are all types of what?

9. What color or colors is Neapolitan ice-cream?

10. Chef Mary Mallon worked in kitchens in New York and Long Island in the early 20th century. By what unhygienic name is she better known?

1. What do Colombia, Sao Tome & Principe, Gabon, Uganda, Maldives and Kiribati all have in common?

2. Which three Asian countries topped the list in April 2020 for the most powerful passports for visa-free travel, according to the Henley Passport Index?

3. Which country has the most official languages?

4. Four red, white and blue flags, four different countries. Name them

Getty Images

5. What happened in Samoa and Tokelau on December 30, 2011?

6. Which country changed its name to eSwatini in 2018?

7. Identify these countries from their outlines

8. Which is the world’s newest country?

9. These frontiers divide areas claimed by which pairs of countries?

a. The Line of Control; b. The Demilitarized Zone; c. The 49th Parallel

10. Which country is surrounded to the north, east and south by Senegal?

1. Name the protagonist in Jules Verne’s 1872 novel “Around the World in 80 Days”

2. Which four destinations have Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon visited in four series of “The Trip?”

3. Who led this ill-fated Antarctic expedition?

Hulton Archive/Getty Images

4. Whose fictional crusade took him from Utah to Portugal, Venice, Austria, Berlin and then Petra?

5. What record did US journalist Nellie Bly break in 1890?

6. Where did Anthony Bourdain have lunch with former US President Barack Obama?

Zero Point Zero for CNN

7. Norwegian Thor Heyerdahl conquered what personal fear to cross the Pacific Ocean on his Kon-Tiki balsa wood raft in 1947?

8. What have John “Wedge” Wardlaw, Mark Rumer-Cleary, Dallas Burney, John Molony and John Dickson done every five years since 1982?

9. Why doesn’t Dora the Explorer wear Boots?

10. Here she is in India in 1983, but which country has Queen Elizabeth II visited more times than any other?

Fox Photos/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

1. Actor Stanley Tucci has proved his awesomeness by showing the Internet how to make the perfect Negroni. His recipe calls for double the usual quantity of which liquor?

2. In “The Devil Wears Prada,” Tucci’s character Nigel is overlooked for the job of Runway magazine’s creative director. Which city is he in when he finds out?

a. Paris; b. New York; c. Milan; d. Pittsburgh

3. Tucci has been involved in making a new travel series with CNN looking at the food of which country?

a. France; b. The United States; c. Italy; d. Croatia

4. In the 2004 movie “The Terminal,” Tucci plays Frank Dixon, the customs chief trying to prevent Tom Hanks’ character from living in his airport. Which airport is the movie set in?

5. Does Tucci prefer his Negroni straight up or on the rocks?

Instagram

That’s it. You made it to the end. Now fix yourself a drink and click the link below to see the answers and find out how you did.

The post Travel quiz: Take CNN’s challenge with these questions in May appeared first on Sansaar Times.

via Blogger https://ift.tt/2TDFYya

[red-panda-12]

I really can’t believe that it’s almost time to say goodbye to 2019. This year was slow to start but when it began it simply snowballed! December is a month to reflect though I haven’t had much time for reflection.

Thanks to Sharon for her wildlife post, prompting me to write this blog.

Reminiscing on 2019 I had to admit there were many wildlife moments this year, none more so than the male and female sparrowhawks that seemed to have kept the pigeons away from our yarden this autumn.

Male Sparrowhawk. From: http://theshakespeareblog.com/2012/01/how-to-tame-your-falcon-and-your-wife/

Female Sparrowhawk

In September David and I booked a relaxing badger watch at RSPB Haweswater. We saw two badgers that evening, Gremlin and Porridge. It was a welcome treat from seeing squished badgers at roadsides.

Gremlin the badger

For 2019 I bought David and I joint membership to the RSPB, and have made full use of our membership by visiting local reserves, such as Leighton Moss and Burton Mere several times.

Feeding a Great Tit

Feeding a Robin

Marsh Harrier – David Evans

At Leighton Moss we fed hungry great and blue tits and spotted marsh harriers flying over the pools. In June we attended a Meet the Moths event. I got to meet a popular hawk moth and an elephant!

Popular Hawk Moth – David Evans

Small Elephant Hawk Moth

At Burton Mere we photographed little egrets, shoveler ducks and redshanks in the depths of winter and enjoyed a carpet of bluebells in April.

Burton Mere Bluebells

Little Egret

Redshank

Shoveler Duck

As part of our RSPB membership we also visited Conwy and South Stack reserves. At Conwy we managed to capture a rare sighting of a grey phalarope and at South Stack there were dozens of silver studded blue butterflies!

Grey Phalarope

Silver Studded Blue

In May David and I took a day trip to Ingleton Falls. On our exploration of the falls and woodland we watched as a dipper fed her two fledglings, swimming underwater to get the freshest insects or fish. It was wonderful to watch.

Adult dipper

Dipper feeding young

For The Wildlife Trusts’ 30 Days Wild, I purchased six painted lady caterpillars from Insect Lore, to witness the amazing spectacle of metamorphosis. I grew quite attached to my little hungry caterpillars and felt sad when they chrysalised. In two weeks I had six beautiful painted lady butterflies!

Day 9 – caterpillar

Chrysalids

Painted Lady Butterfly

Also for 30 Days Wild I’d booked David and I on a bee experience at Samlesbury Hall. This taster session on honey bees and bee keeping made me wish I had space for a hive myself. Perhaps in the future?

The Bee Centre

David and honey bees

Christine and honey bees

Other insect highlights were common hawkers and damselflies at Brockholes and a surprise encounter with a swallowtail moth in the yarden!

Common Hawker

Azure Damselflies

Swallow Tailed Moth

To round up a mixed 30 Days Wild I chanced upon jellyfish washed up on Formby Beach.

Barrel Jellyfish

Lion’s Mane Jellyfish

Formby Woods was also a fabulous place to spot native red squirrels.

Red Squirrel by David Evans

Red Squirrel by David Evans

The summer months are always a busy time for wildlife spotting. Right outside our window we watched two gull nests and how their chicks fared. One lesser black-backed gull chick fell from its nest (high up on a chimney stack) and was heard exploring the street as he cried for his parent. Frightened the chick would be hit by a car David and I contacted a local bird rescue and found a rehabilitation home for the chick. David scooped the gull up, who we named Harald and we took him to his new home in Anfield.

Harald

Harald enjoys the water

In just over a week Harald was strong enough to fly and left his rehabilitation for new adventures. Good luck Harald!

For Wild October an Instagram initiative I spotted the odd fungi and also a sadly demised hedgehog.

Fly agaric

Pleated Inkcap Mushrooms

Hedgehog

The floral highlights this year has to be searching for the bee orchid, which I found at Port Sunlight River Park.

Bee Orchid

Bee Orchid

To complete this years round up of wildlife moments I have to include an american bird sighting, a female mockingbird which I spotted among the sparrows at The High Line, New York.

Female Mockingbird

What have been your wildlife moments of 2019?

Thanks for reading,

Christine x

My Wildlife Moments of 2019 I really can't believe that it's almost time to say goodbye to 2019. This year was slow to start but when it began it simply snowballed!