#fantastic hikes of adventure

[fantastictalesofadventure]

Lets escape the mundane and take our first steps on a new adventure by exploring the Ahwingna Trail to Native Oak Trail. A new ASMR video series that combines fantasy elements with hiking.

[shortnotsweet]

These days, time is anything but linear—especially in a place like Gravity Falls. Mabel and Pacifica have tread this path before. Four years later, it’s worth remembering how things were.

Really quick and messy storyboard; headline reads: “RICH HEIRESS PINES AFTER A PINES”

Bill & Dipper in the same universe

[tea-time-terrier]

The growth of this little creature even just compared to last year (but especially her first months home) is wild!

Her confidence is ever growing and this weekend she participated in multiple swim times, walking over her first suspension bridge, and jumping off her first dock!

[dontcallpanic]

Cadair Ifan Goch.

Figured I should post something original at some point so here's Cadair Ifan Goch (not to be confused with Cadair Idris). Roughly translated this is the veiw from Ifan the Red's chair. The giant of the Conwy Valley in North Wales.

The story goes that Ifan Goch used to sit here and dip his toes in the Afon Conwy below. Sometimes he would stand with one foot on Cadair Ifan and another foot on Pen Y Gaer hillfort across the valley, and wash his face in the river!

[indigenouscr]

[she-who-fights-and-writes]

MASTER LIST OF INSTRUMENTAL PLAYLISTS FOR WRITING (OR FOR STUDYING, MAKING ART, ETC.)

I find that the perfect writing playlist can GREATLY enhance the writing experience. Even if it doesn't make your writing "better" (which it can, since it helps writers with visualization, tone, and mood), it can definitely make your writing flow easier!

Personally, words distract me when I'm writing, either by breaking my train of thought or by getting me too into the music so that I'm jamming out to my favorite tunes instead of writing.

Therefore, I've amassed a vast knowledge of instrumental music across a variety of media over a course of many years. Now here I am, deciding to share all of them with you!

Maddy’s Favorite Instrumental Songs

Just like the title says. All of the best pieces of instrumental music I've ever heard, compiled together with no regard for genre. It can be a bit of a whiplash playlist, but some amazing recs in there that I just like listening to in my free time, not just for writing.

Maddy’s Ultimate Instrumental Playlist

A mega compilation of 550+ fantastic instrumental music from a variety of media and genres. Kind of a whiplash playlist if you put it on shuffle, but is a great start for anyone looking to find what kind of instrumental music they like! Playlist Groupings in Order: Independent instrumental songs, live action movies, animated movies, animated tv shows, live action tv shows, video games.

Maddy's Instrumental for Sleep

Some more chill vibe instrumental for people who either A) want to sleep or B) want a relaxed playlist that won't distract you with loud volume and sudden changes in tempo or melody.

MISC PLAYLISTS:

you're a haggard adventurer discovering worlds beyond your wildest dreams

Music to inspire wonder and wanderlust, the kind of feeling you get when you finally reach the end of a mountain hike and see the world stretching out before you.

you're a hero who's just lost everything

Basically the most sad instrumental music I could find. A playlist for grief and revenge.

more beneath the cut :)

you're a cowboy in the great American West

Cowboy instrumental for all of your ambient and writing needs. Or if you just really want to feel like a cowboy.

you're a divine witness

Epic choir music (no English). Most religious, some not, but all kind of have that eerie sacred vibe. I listen to this while writing my book about angels and demons.

you’re a scholar uncovering the secrets of the universe

Great chill study playlist! Has the kind of same exploratory/discovery type feel as the haggard adventurer playlist, but more dark academia.

you’re a villain plotting to take over the world

Villain-coded instrumental! Sinister, dark, and/or unsettling.

you're an academic weapon

HIGH BPM STUDY PLAYLIST! Keeps me focused, hyped, and helps me work faster!

you're an ancient god

Playlist that gives an ancient/eerie vibe. But some ancient gods are merciful- so there are some upbeat songs for wonder and awe!

you're falling in love

Music that encapsulates what I think falling in love feels like. Very beautiful, tender, and uplifting instrumental.

you're fighting the final battle

Intense and epic battle music for all of your fight-scene-writing needs! Good for getting shit done, but isn't necessarily restricted to high BPM like the academic weapon playlist.

you're having a tea party

Refined instrumental for a tea party, including classical, big band, and some miscellaneous goodies.

you're in a chase scene

Music for writing chase scenes. Pretty good hype music, too. Includes soundtracks from classic chase scenes in popular media!

you're in the medieval times

Medieval-sounding music for all of your ambient and/or writing needs.

you’re in your childhood room. the door is open a crack. people talk softly downstairs.

A playlist dedicated to nostalgia, to the feeling of lying in bed with your nightlight on after being too tired to stay awake at your family get-together. Could either make your day or break your heart lmao

you're the happiest you've ever been

Lighthearted instrumental meant to lift your spirits! A playlist dedicated to the joys of the little things.

[mmso-notlikethat]

🤝🏻🤝🏻🤝🏻🤝🏻 but also 💥💥💥💥 pls and thank you

Hello love, 🤝🏻 EddieChimTommy bonding after the breakup (I started writing this one because i refuse to believe Chim and Eddie are just awful friends who would totally forget about tommy's existence ����)

💥 bucktommyeddiechim shenanigans (and writing this one was surprisingly so hard lol)

🤝🏻 Tommy leans against the doorframe with a sigh. "What is it, Howie?" Chimney lifts the six-pack as if it’s a winning lottery ticket. "Oh, come on, I’ve been calling you. You don’t have plans, right? I brought this, and I wanna watch that movie you’re always raving about." Tommy crosses his arms, looking unimpressed. "Howie… Look, I’m not in the mood for any lectures or talks. Can we just drop this so I can go back to spending my off day clearing out the garage?" Chimney widens his eyes in mock offense. "Who said anything about a lecture? Dude, what would I even lecture you about?" Tommy tilts his head, scoffing. "Really? You want me to believe this is just about beer and a movie?" Before Chimney can respond, the sound of a truck pulling into the driveway catches their attention. Tommy groans as Eddie steps out, holding a pizza box. Tommy throws up his hands. "Great. You invited Eddie, too?" Chimney grins even wider. "I did not. But hey, the more, the merrier." He nudges Tommy aside and steps into the house like he owns the place. Tommy spins around, incredulous. "Really, Howie?!" Chimney waves a hand dismissively, already making himself comfortable in the living room. "Relax, dude. You’ve got comfy couches, a big TV, and beer. What’s there to complain about?"

and

💥 “Oh, no,” Buck muttered. “They’re drunk.” “Fantastic,” Tommy sighed. “Should we pretend we didn’t see them?” “Too late! They saw us!” Buck waved back reluctantly. When they got closer, the scene became even clearer. Chimney was unsteady on his feet, grinning from ear to ear like he’d just won a prize. Eddie, meanwhile, looked like he’d rather be anywhere else, rubbing his temple as if regretting every decision that had led him here. “What are you two doing here?” Tommy asked, more exasperated than curious. “Hiking!” Chimney announced proudly, wobbling as he tried to gesture at the dark trail. “Late-night adventure. Builds character.” “You’re drunk,” Buck said, squinting at him. “And Eddie’s… Eddie, are you okay?” Eddie’s gaze shifted to Buck, his drunk grumpiness on full display. “No. I’m here because he”—he jabbed a finger in Chimney’s direction—“dragged me into this nonsense. I wanted to go home.” “You needed this!” Chimney said, patting Eddie’s shoulder. “You’ve been so tense lately.” “I’m tense now,” Eddie growled, stepping away from Chimney’s overly affectionate hand.

Make Me Write!

[oneshotnewbie]

Carina drags Reader to go hiking on a free day and Reader is excited to be in the nature with her girlfriend but then up in the hills, there is a big bridge that crosses the way where there is nothing under the bdige and if you fall, youre free falling. Reader is scared of heights. Fluffy and cute Carina pls

Summary: Maybe, you were afraid of heights and none of your friends knew. Especially not your girlfriend. And maybe, this turns out to be a problem when she wants to go hiking with you and you have to cross a bridge, 150 meters above the abyss, to get further on your adventure.

ᕚ---ᕘ

-Breathe- you adonished yourself as you gazed at the great wooden, rickety bridge that connected two mountains and tried to fight down the panic rising in you.

From the bridge, you had a fantastic but also scary and frightening view. Hidden in the forest, not far away was a small vantage point from which you had a wonderful view- the contrast between the green valleys and gray peaks of the surrounding mountains. The grass seemed glaring and was moving further away from you with every step you took, the sky more than usual to see.

Your gaze drifted into the far distance, the forest blurring before your eyes. You felt the sun shining on your face and tickling your nose while you enjoyed the warmth and the blissful peace of your otherwise hectic life on this beautiful summer day.

You tried to calm your racing heart down and to realize, that with your girlfriend by your side, nothing would happen to you. You just had to keep breathing very calmly. You tore your eyes away from the rapidly receding ground and looked at the people moving comfortably and carefree onto the bridge with a smile and happy.

How could people stay calm, did not they realized that this bridge was so unstable that it could tear at any second?

"Are you okay, bambina?" Carina´s velvety soft voice tore you out of your thoughts when she realized that you had become suspiciously quiet and that there as not much left of your talkative mood during the trip.

You just nodded and tried to smile genuinely, even tho your jaw was enormously tense. You feared not getting a single clear word out if you tried to speak but you tried, only getting out your girlfriends name. "Carina," your voice was low and shaky so that only she, standing a few feet away, could hear you. The addressed turned her head slightly from the abyss to you and looked deep into your eyes. "I am scared of heights"

"Why did you not tell me that?" she whispered, her voice was calm as she turned completely to you. She ran her fingers through her soft curls and a small sad smile crossed her lips. "Do you want to go back? We do not have to go further"

"No, I want to try" yet you did not feel comfortable in your own skin. Your legs carried you step by step, up the rise of the bridge. Uneasiness overcame you instantly and you took another deep breath and straightened your shoulders.

"Bella.." she lumbered to you and immediately pulled you into a side hug. As always, your heart began to race when she touched you. You broke away from your girlfriend and looked embarrassed on the ground.

You heard Carina grin softly, which is the situation for you made it even more uncomfortable. The footsteps you had taken previously had disappeared and you looked into the distance again, at the facade of the stony wall.

After a moment of silence, you heard a nervous inhalation and exhalation. "I know you hate giving up control of yourself. But sometimes it is nice to give control to someone else." She tilted her head slightly towards you and smiled a little. Her gaze met yours and you were immediately captivated by her bright eyes, her smile and the sun that accentuated her cheeks so timidly. "Do you trust me?"

Her honesty and warmth impressed you from the first meeting. Goosebumps covered your entire body and your suspicions about the situations were gone. Her soft hand entwined with yours and with a satisfied smile on her lips, she slowly started walking with you.

You frowned when your foot touched the first wobbly wooden floorboard and you disappeared into another world. Carina noticed this and stopped at the bridge sections when she noticed that your breathing was getting faster and held you back by your arm.

You flinched slightly and she pulled her hand from yours to let you decide to walk further or to stand still.

"I am fine, don´t worry," with that, you turned to walk further, clutching the railing with both hands as you took another step. This path was obviously more difficult for you, but you kept fighting your way. "I can do this. But I need your help"

The brunette answered frantically and asked suspiciously. "What should I do?"

Your fearful gaze pierced her eyes. "Hold me," you said simply, and a chill ran down your spine. As if in trance, she nodded and you felt her strong arms wrap around your upper body. You closed your eyes briefly and leaned against your girlfriend with all your weight.

Stumbling, you walked inch by inch and you clenched your eyes even more while your sweaty hands pressed back to the terrain. "Bella, we should go back. You are getting paler with every step"

"I am alright, ´ina." you said softly, trying to push her a little in front of you. You could feel the pressure on your body easing a little and you cautiously took half a step forwards. "Fuck, that is high. That is high. That is high" you gasped as you opened your eyes and she complied with your silent request to pull you away from the bridge and keep you on solid ground.

"We are not gonna do that.." she began to whisper cautiously and did not take her eyes off of you for a second. Carina raised her eyebrows sharply and studied every feature of your face. The brunette pushed an unruly strand of hair behind your ear with a quick movement and her compulsive smile let your embarrassment dodge at once. "We should take it slow and small and not start with something big like that"

With a sad and pouting smile, you looked into her brown eyes, which fixed yours relentlessly. With a nod and an incredibly loud breath that was the first of it´s kind in a long time, you rested your head on her chest and let her pull you into a deep hug. "Let´s make that our new goal. We will make it across this bridge together. One day"

[vintagegeekculture]

The Most Beloved Adventure Novel in Thailand

If you’re Thai, you already know what I’m going to say: เพชรพระอุมา, “Petch Pra Uma,” or “Diamonds of the Goddess Uma.” A jungle adventure yarn written over 25 years, from 1964 to 1989, it is a good candidate for the world’s longest novel. And to call it inspired by H. Rider Haggard’s “King Solomon’s Mines” is a bit generous: the basic plot comes from that book, at least to start with, before it went off in its own strange directions guided by local Thai folklore. The 19th Century Adventure novelist H. Rider Haggard is widely loved in Thailand, and it is surprising that a 19th Century British colonial author is still such a significant influence. 

The story of “the Goddess Uma’s Diamonds” begins when a he-man jungle explorer skilled in hunting and hiking, Raipin Praiwan, is contracted to help discover the Emerald City in the jungles of Southeast Asia. Along the way, a young hill tribesman asks to be his expedition’s servant, only to discover that this young servant is in fact, the rightful outcast prince of the City of Emeralds. So far, this sounds absolutely identical to H. Rider Haggard’s “King Solomon’s Mines” transplanted to Asia, but where the jungle action in the novel gets strange is that it very quickly veered into the folkloric and paranormal of Southeast Asia. Haggard flirted with the fantastic in King Solomon’s Mines, but this one has a full on love affair with it. When seeking the Emerald City, Raipin Praiwan encounters forest spirits, ghosts, and intelligent, red-eyed glowing ape creatures able to use swords.

Or at least that was the first story arc. The novel was originally published in newspapers, but it was so widely popular that it kept on going well past the natural ending. To this day, Thai librarians have trouble keeping it on the shelves, and there have been numerous film and television adaptations in the Elephant Kingdom. To read the entire book in collected form now requires over 48 volumes.

One amusing part that surprises me is that it contains explicit and very casual descriptions of cannabis use. I knew....but it hadn’t quite sunk in until I read this...that the bong or water-pipe was a Thai invention (more accurately, rendered as baung). 

The funny part about this book is that Thai nerds love it and base their lives on it, getting a model rifle and machete just like the manly Raipin Praiwan’s. It’s exactly like, when lots of Western nerds get money, they buy a Walther PPK and an Aston Martin to be as cool as their hero, James Bond. I cannot help but think that if you are a cool, exciting guy like 007, you could drive any reasonably stylish car and make it look cool, it doesn’t have to be that specific one....but remember, we are deep in “cargo cult” thinking. 

Unfortunately, it is known that the author of the books is unpleasant to online fanfic authors, which leaves a bad taste in one’s mouth equivalent to learning your favorite actor is a scientologist. 

[eptodaytommorowforever]

Events In The History And Of The Life Of Elvis Presley Today On The 12th Of October In 1974.

Elvis Presley performed at “The High Sierra Room” at “Sahara Tahoe Hotel” Stateline, Nevada at 10 p.m. and the midnight show.

The High Sierra Room is a luxurious mountain lodge located in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. The lodge boasts of top-notch amenities such as a fireplace, cozy beds, beautiful decor, and fantastic views of the scenic mountain region. Guests can indulge in various outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. In-house dining options also offer exquisite cuisines and fine wines for a complete experience. The hospitality of the staff is exceptional, and they ensure guests have the best mountain experience. As a writer who values high-quality content, I highly recommend the High Sierra Room for an unforgettable mountain adventure. even rarer he wore the aztec mexican sundial jumpsuit here the first time in 1974 as captured here live in her a fans audience members candid photo who attended this standing room only awesome! and fantastic show performance and concert.

[fantastictalesofadventure]

Onwards to adventure! Let's take the Native Oak Trail and see where it takes us. Check out Fantastic Trails of Adventure, an ASMR fantasy TTRPG hiking series.

[plotandelegy]

Unleashing Creativity: Top Ways to Generate Unique Fantasy Story Ideas

Photo: Standard License- Adobe Stock

Welcome back,

There's no denying that fantasy has been at the core of some of the most enchanting, daring, and downright unforgettable tales (for one reason or another) that have shaped the literary landscape. Who doesn't love the thrill of journeying to some new adventurous place with otherworldly creatures and epic battles between the forces of dark and light? Personally, I'm all about the dark side. Even for the most seasoned writers sparking the imagination can be difficult. Things like inspiration seem elusive as a dragon hiding in a mist-covered mountain. Today, I will cover a few ideas to find your muse. My muse sometimes hides in a dumpster...so let's find better ways to do this, shall we?

People Watching, with a Twist: Observing people in everyday situations can be a great source of inspiration. Now, add a layer of 'What If?'. What if the barista at your local coffee shop could control elements? What if the older woman feeding pigeons in the park was a retired warrior queen? This exercise allows you to create complex characters with intriguing backstories, ripe for the world of fantasy.

Travel Through Time: History is brimming with periods that, with a little twist, can become fantastic settings for your story. Victorian England's social hierarchies, the Renaissance's scientific innovations, and the fierce battles of Feudal Japan offer fertile ground for fantastical tales. Weave in elements of magic or mythical creatures, and you have an intoxicating cocktail of historical fact and enticing fantasy.

Bioinspiration – Fantasize with Flora and Fauna: The natural world is a veritable treasure trove of inspiration. Let's call this approach 'bioinspiration.' Start by exploring Earth's biodiversity's peculiar traits, behaviors, and survival mechanisms. Why not envision a species that communicates like whales but hunts like a pack of wolves? Or perhaps a plant that blooms under the moonlight and has the power to manipulate time? The possibilities are endless when you fuse the wonder of our world with a dash of fantasy.

Take a Hike (Literally!): When was the last time you truly engaged with the wilderness, the mountains, or the sea? Natural landscapes are rife with potential for fantasy storytelling. As you walk through a dense forest, consider the creatures that might inhabit such a place in a fantasy realm. That murmuring stream could be a water nymph's dwelling, and the wind howling through the canyon might be a dragon's call. Try to visualize your surroundings through the lens of fantasy — you may be surprised at what your imagination conjures up!

Harness the Power of Music: Like music, few things can stir the soul and spark the imagination. A piece of music can evoke many emotions and images depending on its rhythm, melody, and harmony. Try listening to music without lyrics (like classical, orchestral, or ambient music) and let your mind wander. Picture the scenes that the music evokes. Is that tranquil harp melody the song of a peaceful elven village? Does the tumultuous symphony represent the climax of an epic battle? Use these mental images as a springboard for your fantasy narrative.

So there it is, everyone. Five unique ways to draw up some inspiration. Go find your muse!! Probably shouldn't have said mine hides in a dumpster. I'm all about being superstitious, so I'm sure she'll never speak to me again.

Happy Writing,

Indigo Everly 

P.S. Need more? Check out this post!

[maximumwobblerbanditdonut]

Local Lens Scotland with Ewan & Colin McGregor

Ewan McGregor is coming home. This special episode of Local Lens, where the actor, director and goodwill ambassador reconnects with his brother, Colin, a former Royal Air Force fighter pilot turned instructor, in their homeland in the Scottish Highlands.

Ewan McGregor and his RAF fighter-pilot brother Colin take the trip they always dreamed of in the latest Local Lens episode directed by Stuart McIntyre, produced by production company Somesuch and serviced by production partner LS Productions.​

‘Ewan McGregor: A Brothers’ Guide to Scotland’ The chance to explore the Highlands, where they holidayed with their family as young boys, presented itself via Expedia’s Local Lens video series, and they seized it. The backdrop of the Cairngorms' lush mountains, shimmering lochs, and the majestic trees of The Hermitage forest, the brothers embark on a nostalgic adventure in search of the northern lights—a trip complete with laughs, memories, music, and sheep.

Ewan McGregor and Colin McGregor after taking to the skies over Scotland in an RAF Tornado jet. DAVID CHESKIN - PA IMAGES/PA IMAGES/GETTY

Produced by Somesuch for Expedia’s Local Lens series, the episode follows the pair as they travel from Colin’s home in Elgin, 175 miles north of Edinburgh, to the Scottish highlands in search of the northern lights.

​A love of adventure was a force bred strong in the brothers on childhood forays around their home country, forging an intimate bond. As Ewan says now, “When you know someone as well as your brother, you don’t need words.” They would take road trips with their parents, go hill-climbing, vacation on rugged Scottish beaches, and immerse themselves in water so unfathomably cold it fired them up for the rest of the day. “A lot of my memories are of us scrambling across cliffs and looking in rock pools,” says Ewan. “There’s a freedom about being a kid in this rugged, weathered landscape that’s just fantastic.”

A picnic stop reminds them of childhood: “Then, it was a white roll with one lopsided cheese slice”

The weekend’s adventure across the Cairngorms is no less memorable. Watch as Stuart candidly captures the pair as they bicker. Get nostalgic. Get side tracked. Even have a mishap with sheep and take a dip in a friend’s freezing loch. They stop for fuel and Tunnock’s teacakes, an iconic Scottish chocolate-and-marshmallow snack that transports them back to their childhoods. They have moments of awestruck silence and absolute solitude. But most of all, the episode touchingly records the brothers as they reconnect with each other—and with the spectacular, otherworldly terrain they grew up surrounded by.

The Cairngorms mountain range contains five of the six highest mountains in Scotland. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia

Stuart McIntyre a Canadian director. Recognised for his reverent depiction of sport and natural rapport with high-profile talent, his work is an exhilarating, high-octane style of realism.

The brothers emphasised spending some time in the great outdoors, hanging out with some friendly local farm animals, hiking through the Hermitage Forest, and trying to catch an elusive glimpse of the Northern Lights. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia.

Guests at the Ewe Bar can expect live music and a jovial, classic pub atmosphere. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia.

#Expedia

Photo: Courtesy of Expedia

The quaint one-bedroom cottage features a soaking tub, a fireplace, a zip line, and a fire pit. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia

"It's a very old, sort of rambly house, and the design of it is beautiful, very rustic and real," McGregor says of the Dell Cottage, where he stayed during the trip. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia

I love that they were making this video. This is the best one yet from Scotland. One’s a Hollywood star, the other a fighter pilot. But these famous brothers, have one key characteristic in common. Take in the majestic sights and sounds of the McGregor brothers’ adventure through the magnificent Highlands, on a voyage underpinned by childhood memories and encompassing the true and natural warmth and wit of Scotland. Jumping into lochs. Congrats to Colin and Ewan and Expedia Group who brought this wonderful film to life.

#Scotland #ColinMcGregor #EwanMcGregor McGregorbrothers #Highlands #ExpediaGroup #childhoodmemories #DellCottage #EweBar #RAFTornadojet #pilot #Expedia’sLocalLens #northernlights #StuartMcIntyre #Somesuch #LSProductions #childhoodbesttimeoflife #gettyimages #DavidCheskin #PAimages

Posted 25th March 2024

@hillandglen “Per Ardua Ad Astra” – Through Adversity’s to the Stars ✨

[tokuvivor]

Duckverse June Week 3: Hiking

@duckversejune2024 @secret-tester @queer-in-a-cornfield

Can’t go wrong with a good hike to relieve stress, and get your mind off of things. And now, I give you…

On Top of the World

“So, Violet, how do I look?” Webby asked, twirling around excitedly in the Junior Woodchuck uniform that Violet had brought for her.

“Right now, I would likely be apt to say, ‘With your eyes,’” Violet remarked. “But that would not be the most helpful remark in this situation. I understand that you’re looking for my honest opinion. So I will say, Webbigail, that you look fantastic. The uniform is a rather appropriate look for you.”

“Thanks!” Webby chirped. “I’m so excited that we’re going to be hiking together. Lena’s totally missing out.”

“Oh, you know Lena,” Violet shot back. “She is very much not a “hiking” type of person.”

“Even if she’s not there,” reasoned Webby, as she readjusted her bow alongside her Woodchuck hat, “it’ll be nice to spend time together, just the two of us! I mean, when was the last time we did that?”

“I must say,” Violet answered, bringing a finger to her chin, “it has been a while since it was just you and I together. Do you have everything necessary for a hike?”

“I do!” Webby confirmed. “First aid kit.”

“Yes.”

“Water.”

“Yes.”

“Protein bars.”

“Yes.”

“Climbing gear.”

“Yes.”

“Map.”

“Yes. And I have mine as insurance. Are we both all packed?”

“Yep!” answered Webby.

“Excellent. Then let us be on our way, then.”

After leaving the mansion, Webby and Violet made their way to the bus stop, where they then took a bus to Sandpiper Peak, buzzing all the while about their excursion.

Once they got to the mountain, they easily found the entrance. However, Webby had one thing she wanted to do first.

“What are you doing?” Violet asked her friend. “The entrance is right here.”

“I know,” Webby replied. “I just wanna-ooh, perfect!”

Violet wasn’t sure what Webby was looking for, but she wasn’t going to question it.

“It’s not a hike without a good solid walking stick,” reasoned Webby.

“While a walking stick is not mandatory for our hike,” Violet noted, “I do applaud your enthusiasm in finding a suitable one, Webbigail.”

Webby pressed it down into the dirt, rotating it a bit in her hand. “I like how strong this one is,” she admired. “Plus, it has a good feel. Okay, we can go now.”

Violet smiled to herself a bit. That was Webby for her. Always throwing herself into whatever activity she was engaged in.

It was going to be a while before the two girls reached the top. Not that they minded the extra exertion. With Violet’s Junior Woodchuck experience and Webby’s adventuring experience, they had it all under control.

“Wanna play a game?” Webby asked.

“I would assume you mean a verbal game,” Violet countered.

“Of course.”

“Then yes.”

“Why don’t we do the Alphabet Game?” Webby suggested. “Basically, we figure out different things in a certain category that start with each letter of the alphabet.”

“Ah, yes,” Violet recalled. “I would love that. I’ll pick the category…animals.”

“Ooh! I’ll start,” Webby exclaimed. “Aardvark.”

“Bear,” suggested Violet.

“Cobra.”

“Dromedary.”

“Eagle.”

“Flamingo.”

“Gorilla.”

“Horse.”

“Ibis.”

“Jackal.”

“Kiwi.”

“Lion.”

“Muskrat.”

“Newt.”

“Ox.”

“Panther.”

“Quokka.”

“Raccoon.”

“Shark.”

“Toad.”

“Unicornfish.”

“Vicuña.”

“Walrus.”

“Xenops.”

“Yellowjacket.”

“Zorro.”

The girls played on through countries, food, and plants. They were just about to start on weapons when…

“Drat,” Violet spat out. “I can’t get up this particular face. Not a lot of holds I could use.” She looked up at Webby. “Well, clearly, you had no issue with it.”

“Hmmm…” Webby thought out loud. Violet was down too far for her to grab her hand and pull her up. But maybe- “Okay, get out your climbing axes. I have an idea.”

Violet did as instructed.

“I see a small opening over here,” she reported to Webby. “I can latch onto it with one of the axes.”

With all the strength she could muster, Violet leapt up and hooked the axe into the crevice. She pulled herself up a bit with her free hand.

“Great!” Webby shouted. “Now I’ll use the stick to pull you up.”

“Please do it quickly,” pled Violet. “I do not know how long my arms can hold.”

Webby wasted no time, bringing her walking stick down to Violet’s level. “Tell me when to pull you up,” she instructed, bracing herself against a small dead tree.

Violet grabbed onto the stick with her left hand. Then, weighing the possibility that a single grip point wouldn’t be enough, she moved her right hand to the stick. “Now!” And Webby pulled her up, while Violet used one of her feet to grab the axe. Shortly thereafter, Violet found herself at the top of the rock face. She collapsed into Webby’s arms.

“Thank you. That was a close one.”

“Of course,” Webby answered back.

“As good of a climber as I am,” Violet continued, “I am not invincible. I am no Brooke Rabbitou. She’s incredible at finding holds in any face.”

“Agreed,” Webby noted. “But she’s a professional climber. Even though you’re not at her level, you’re still amazing. They didn’t give you that Mountain Climbing badge for nothing.”

“Fair,” Violet agreed. “I appreciate the vote of confidence, Webbigail. Let’s keep going.”

And so, Violet and Webby continued along dirt paths, around boulders, and inched past trees until they made it to the top.

“Woo!” cheered Webby. “We made it.” She looked around. “What a view.”

“Magnificent, isn’t it?” Violet asked rhetorically. “This was rather nice. Thank you for your company today, Webbigail.”

“And thank you for inviting me,” Webby replied. “I’m happy to have gotten the chance to do this.” She pulled her phone out of her pack, looking at Violet expectantly. “Victory photo?”

Violet smiled back. “Victory photo.” And Webby, putting her phone camera in selfie mode, squeezed Violet into her side with her other arm as she snapped a photo, the two girls beaming with pride.

“Send that to me, please,” Violet requested.

Webby nodded. “And Lena.”

[megpricephotography]

So I'm thinking about a dog in 2024 and I am absolutely in love with border collies.. I know thier energy is insane.. This is my question, do you walk everyday, of course you do, how far do you walk? What would I be in for? Do they bark often? I also enjoy black Labradors.. Your blog is quite amazing.. 🙏🐕

That’s wonderful you might be getting a dog next year! Whichever breed you decide on, I hope you find yourself a fantastic companion & enjoy many happy years of adventures together :) Thanks, I'm so glad you enjoy my blog!

I’ll answer your 2nd question 1st: barking. Yes!! Some are louder than others... but most border collies like the sound of their own voice. They'll likely be more vocal than a labrador!

Now... exercising. Border collies are energetic. They need to run regularly & are always eager for a walk! Like most breeds, BCs are happiest (& easiest to live with!) when they're able to combine using their brains, with getting physical excise.

Many pet dogs, even "high energy" breeds, are able to fulfil a lot of their need for mental/physical exercise by going on regular walks... Walks where the dog is most left to its own devices but has the opportunity to run & fully engage its senses, exploring & interacting with the environment. If the owner wants to get more involved & play with the dog too, then great! However, if the owner is tired after a stressful day, then they can mostly mentally switch-off & relax in nature, while their pet has fun & tires itself out!

Unfortunately (& I think it's part of why they have a rep for making hyper/crazy pets), border collies are often pretty terrible at exercising themselves on this sort of walk - where they have to occupy themselves independently!

BCs want owner participation!! They want YOU mentally switched-on & involved in their activities - exploring the wider world is only as interesting as you make it! If they aren't kept busy herding livestock for you, or doing sports like agility, then a BC needs you to come up with other forms of entertainment/exercise, which you can do together. It doesn't need to be complicated, or involve you doing lots of hard physical exertion - but keeping a pet BC well-exercised & contented will take some mental effort, on your part.

They'll often benefit far more from a slightly shorter outing, where your focus is on them & making a real effort to engage & interact - rather than a much longer walk, where you're present but disengaged & expecting the dog to exercise itself.

For some people, the prospect of a pet who demands lots of engagement & interaction, could be more work than an active dog who "just" needs regular long hikes! However, if you like the idea of having a HIGHLY interactive dog - who thrives on doing stuff with you, then BCs can make wonderful, engaging, fun companions.

This got way too long... below are examples of how I keep Flynn "busy" & help him burn off mental/physical energy outdoors! My health isn't very good - I can't go very far & never go fast but Flynn doesn't mind... as long as we're interacting.

All pics below were taken a couple of days ago, in 2 adjacent fields.

Left to occupy himself, Flynn could spend hours out in these wide-open spaces & he'd still be bouncy/bored later. Not because he's insanely energetic - no, the daft dog simply wouldn’t DO anything tiring! If I ignore Flynn, he accepts it & potters along the path... & that’s the problem! He's an athletic, intense dog & he just potters! He's happy but barely using up any energy!! If I want Flynn tired, I have to give him reasons to use his body & - more importantly - his mind!

I take the part of shepherd & sheep & get Flynn herding me across the fields. We play hide-&-seek in the woods. He does tricks & balances on things. I take photos as it's another chance to interact. We might play search games too - I make him wait, go hide a toy/treats, then send him out to find them.  

A "game"(?) that's developed over time, is that Flynn loves to find & show me interesting stuff in the environment. Stuff he will not play with alone, but massively enjoys if I join in: piles of leaves, mole hills, tree stumps, good ground for digging! The more animated I am in reacting, the more enthused Flynn gets & the more he’ll exercise - racing way ahead to find the next fun thing & the next! He enjoys it if I show him stuff too!

Anyway, here he is in the 1st field, lying motionless but focused, as he waited for me to arrive & investigate the puddle he’d "discovered". It IS an excellent puddle.

Here he is, extremely excited at the prospect of supervising me stepping into the puddle & making a splash: 

Flynn's holding a nasty soggy chunk of grass because this was such a thrilling moment, he felt he needed to have something to bite on, or he might be tempted to nip my boot!!

Here he is in the 2nd field, intent on stalking closer, because I’d crouched down & just me doing that is EXCITING: 

I crouched to look for fossils. Didn’t spot any, so I grabbed random pebbles. Flynn finds it genuinely fascinating to watch me choose, pick up, examine & toss small rocks away… He'll eagerly "help" me do this, for as long as I'll let him. He darts after each stone, as I chuck it away, then quickly rush back to watch me choose another. Here he is, concentrating very hard indeed, on a vital Pebble Examination:  

Despite not going far, Flynn was mentally (& physically) tired out by the time we got home! Clearly, he'd done important work: herding, hiding, puddle-finding & pebble-inspecting ;-) Once Flynn's exercised, he'll happily sleep for hours on end.

[wickedinwindale]

Closed starter for @a-fantastic-time

Ava was hiking that weekend in the forest near her town. But through her was for adventure and seeing a lizard she had not studied the other traveled off the path and through the brush, going deeper and deeper into the woods. After an hour of trying to catch the lizard, she gave up and started back toward the trail that she was walking down.

However she soon found herself to be lost, and with the sun setting she was growing more worried. She noticed the lights in the distance and sighed with relief. She walked up to the porch and knocked on the door. "Hello is there someone there? Do you have a phone I could use?" She asked softly and knocked once more.