#moors valley country park

[olet-lucernam]

A Hollow Promise [25] chapter vi, part ii

{_[on AO3]_}

main tags : loki x original character, post-avengers 2012, canon divergence - post-thor: the dark world, canon-typical violence, mentions of torture

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summary: In the aftermath of the Battle of New York, the Avengers need a few days to build a transport device for the Tesseract. With the Helicarrier damaged and surveillance offline, SHIELD sends an asset to guard Loki in the interim: a young woman who sees the truth in all things, and cannot lie.

Even long presumed dead, her memories lost to her, Loki would know her anywhere.

And this changes things.

Some things last beyond infinity. And the universe is in love with chaos.

(Loki was never looking for redemption. It came as an unexpected side-effect.)

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chapter summary : astrid gathers her allies, and draws the attention of her enemies. loki pays a heavy price for a victory.

recommended listening : rebel soul, katharine appleton, maja norming

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tag list: @femmealec, @mischief2sarawr

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Astrid had told the truth, as always. Ophelia was not her only appointment.

Neither was she the first, however.

Hours earlier, wrapped in a fine, black woollen pea coat and comfortable trainers, Astrid had been walking through the fog and frigid, sea-soaked air of the Cornish coastal town of Looe.

The historical fishing village was sheltered within a deep valley, prefaced inland by thick, verdant forests and winding country roads. Ivory villas and weathered stone cottages were built into the slopes of the cliffs, bordered by a riot of meadow-flora and hardy coastal shrubs, the settlement split in half by the river that decanted into the small marina, and the open, pewter waters of the North Atlantic.

The place held a kind of quaint, antique seaside charm that was ubiquitous to Britain, in Astrid’s experience- a nostalgia that was just slightly foreign to her, evoking the same feeling as the second-hand copies of those interbellum novels by Enid Blyton and Agatha Christie that she used to read on rainy days at home.

She could feel Loki watching through her eyes, dozing gently, shamelessly indolent as he clung to sleep.

Exhaling a smile, Astrid consciously drank in as much as she could. She drew the mouldering, salt-stained tang of seaweed and ocean shallows deep into her lungs, face raised to the damp air, clear-eyed and refreshed.

It was one of the many reasons to be relieved to be out of SHIELD’s custody: wherever she went, and whatever she saw, Loki could experience it through their link. And she was one of the rare, fortunate few who could go anywhere, at any time, with little enough effort.

A flush of affection bloomed in her, like a kiss at the nape of her neck, Loki reading her intentions like braille.

Astrid giggled, the ache of want in her chest ebbing slightly, and glanced out across the harbour.

It was the off-season; the tourism trade withered into hibernation with the last days of August, and first weeks of September. Even so, the picturesque village obviously received a fair number of visitors in the summer months. Across the town, there was an abundance of cafés, bakeries, fishmongers, local crafts shops, ice cream parlours, wetsuit and board rental stores. A sprawling car park had been cut at the base of the hill, and a number of small commercial pleasure boats were moored against the harbour walls, anchored between algae-stained tangerine buoys, advertising sea safaris and recreational fishing trips on printed boards affixed to the weather-rusted harbour railing. A few places were shuttered, but other businesses remained open even into November, catering to the permanent residents of the town.

As she chased the slope upwards, approaching from the narrow, eastern flank of the harbour, towards the ageing arcade and stone bridge across the river, a thought occurred to her.

“Loki. Do you like seafood?”

She felt Loki stir. Astrid could almost imagine his head lifting from his cupped hand- or rolling across a pillow to look at her, black curls spilling, eyebrows steepled in mild askance.

I tend to eat more game, I suppose, he answered cautiously. Hunts are too popular on Asgard for it to be otherwise. But I do like shellfish. Although it is seen as peasant food on Asgard. Cheap fare, common as mud, to be eaten at the harbour by tradesfolk.

“It used to be the same here, for centuries,” Astrid replied, the corner of her mouth twisting up sardonically. “Oysters were still delicious when they were only good for the poor.”

Loki laughed softly. It is ridiculous, is it not? The arbitrary standards of high taste.

He hesitated for a long moment.

I do like oysters, he admitted, almost nervous.

A lilt kicked into Astrid’s step, her mood lifting.

“Oysters, then.” Widening her stride into a loping gait, forming rolling bounce on the balls of her feet, she lifted her face to the headwinds, letting it blow her hair back. “Maybe mussels or scallops, if I can’t find any? Oh- and cream tea.”

Cream tea?

“It’s, ah- like a dessert version of afternoon tea, I suppose? It’s sometimes called Cornish tea.” Astrid crossed the bridge at a brisk clip, shoulder bag tapping at her hip. “You’ll love it. Black tea, served with split scones, clotted cream, and jam. Strawberry is traditional, but I prefer raspberry.”

At the mention of something sweet, she felt Loki’s interest instantly perk.

Astrid’s victory dimmed as Loki swiftly crushed down on his eagerness, cooling into reflexive indifference.

Then you should have raspberry, my heart, he replied mildly, like fingers skimming her cheekbone.

“Mm.”

Astrid strummed her fingers against the cross-strap of her bag, tension furling.

She wondered if she could just scream I want to give you this, let me give you this, I want to give you everything, be selfish with me, just ask me and it’s yours, yours, yours, just say the word, put me to the test, let me prove it across the connection, or if that would be too blunt.

She opted for a subtler option. For now. “Seeing as we’re breaking tradition, we could change the tea out as well.”

Peppermint?

“I thought you might prefer rosehip. Or something floral.”

It’s your tongue, darling.

Astrid nipped her lower lip.

“I like sharing my tongue with you.”

She felt his train of thought stutter, before heating.

You’re playing a dangerous game, Astra, Loki warned, dark and edging into primal, shifting into a voice behind her left ear that seemed spoken through gritted teeth.

Astrid startled, almost tripping, as she felt the sensation of the pads of his fingers swiping at her inner thigh.

Her brain short-circuited for a moment.

Hm. Are you curious, darling?

She bit her lip, restraining the impulse to goad him further.

Following Loki revealing how he could twist his magic into her through their link, Astrid had begun asking about the possibilities. The conversation had been mostly practical- but the thought had occurred to her, even if she had quickly become distracted when it struck her exactly how ingenious the method was, how brilliant Loki was, how blithely oblivious he seemed to that fact.

But now- despite herself, folding her lip between her teeth in an effort to pin her unravelling thoughts in place- Astrid lingered over exactly how far and how intensely he could project sensation into her, how much sensory feedback he received back through their link, and whether-

No. Nope. Nope, nope, no. Work first, North. We’ll explore that another time.

Despite the curl of delighted, thoroughly distracted mischief from Loki, he let the matter drop.

Astrid exhaled quietly, grateful.

Today, she was visiting an old friend. It would be unwise to arrive disarmed of her wits.

Astrid swung off the bridge and into West Looe, swerving in a hairpin turn back down the hill, sinking into the warren of the town. There were only a few figures out in the midmorning light, walking dogs or tending to their boats, the quiet seeming to echo against the rush of the sea. The narrow streets were barely broad enough to accommodate a single car, the cobbles uneven and worn smooth underfoot, none of the structures more than two or three stories tall; most of them were at least a century or two old, patchworked with modern features, dating to the days of smugglers and portside inns and the great age of sail, their timbers ancient and their walls full of ghosts and memories.

She came to a halt outside a particular storefront.

The entire street was built into the incline of the hill, its rowhouses sitting a foot or so below the edge of the pavement, squatting low. The windows of the ground floor were almost level with Astrid’s crown, the sills above within reach if she cared to make the short jump, walls a washed white between dark Tudor beams.

Astrid tipped her head up a millimetre, the aperture of her senses opening to sweep the interior, as she read the sign affixed above the door.

Witches’ Brew, it read, white font upon a rich violet backing. On the left side of the sign was the outline of a cat, paws upon the rim of a bubbling cauldron to peer at the contents.

Bookshop, was added underneath, in smaller, blunter font. Tarot. Occult. Café.

You know, Loki commented, there is an infusion made from íviðia blossoms called witches’ brew.

Astrid tipped her head. “Really?” She asked softly.

Mother sent some blossoms to my cell recently- if you care to share my tongue later?

She winced into a grin, knowing that he wasn’t going to let that go any time soon. “Mm, in exchange for cream tea?” She teased.

Astrid felt a pair of arms slip and loop around her midriff, a mouth skimming her crown.

She felt the gentle billow of his sigh, the phantom of his chest against her back.

You drive quite a bargain.

With a faint smile, Astrid stepped down to the shop’s door, and turned the handle.

A classic shopkeeper’s bell chimed overhead, jostled into motion, before the door clicked shut behind her.

She was met with the fragrance of incense- a thicker, heavier curtain of agarwood, compared to the delicately floral smoke that lingered in the training halls where she grew up, and which her father preferred- blended with the earthiness of burned white sage, and coffee grounds.

The shop was quiet. Her steps were muffled by a dark patterned carpet, the space airy and inviting, despite the low ceilings and semi-subterranean position. At the right, the space folded into a geometric puzzle of tall bookshelves, walls paved with spines, the stacks labelled by genre with signs in blackboard and chalk, a few tables laid out with bricks of bestsellers and new arrivals. To her left was the register- unoccupied, with a bell to ring for service- and several tables and shelves, displaying various occult-themed wares. There were box-trays of tumbled, semi-precious gemstones, kitsch plastic goblets with dragons curled around their stems, dowsing crystals and decorative glass figurines, starter guides to palmistry and divining the stars.

Her eyes skipped past all of them, and up.

A large sign was placed at the bottom of a flight of narrow stairs. It advertised the café on the second floor, and tea leaf readings.

Astrid didn’t move to ring the bell on the counter, but the one at the door must have been enough.

“I’ll be right with you, dear!”

A woman’s voice called down from the upper floor. It was American-accented, almost neutral, but underscored with something in the region of Massachusetts.

Astrid smiled, folding her arms and turning away.

“That’s alright!” She replied, voice raised to carry as clear as struck crystal, twisting at the waist to speak over her shoulder. “Take your time! I’m here to see a friend.”

Movement upstairs stilled.

A beat passed, before Astrid felt the familiar crackle of magical wards being activated.

Loki reacted, his mana surging into her nerves with a precision that knocked the breath from her chest, pressing up to the surface of her skin, preparing to force his own counter-wards into her flesh.

Catching her breath, fingers fluttering at the foreign magic in her blood, Astrid sent him a gentle nudge of reassurance.

“Did you not hear the word friend, Agatha?” She yelled up, tone dry and hip cocking. “Your wards didn’t react when I walked in. Now would you please quit it?”

Before Loki tries to rip apart your spellwork and fracture your magical core in the backlash, she added internally.

Don’t tempt me, darling, Loki warned, poised like an adder to strike. Who is she?

The wards lingered, bristling like spines- before settling back.

A moment later, Astrid heard footsteps, and the creak of the ageing banister under new weight.

As I said. She’s a friend… of a sort.

Of a sort?

The subject of discussion halted, a few steps above ground floor.

Astrid remained with her back turned for several seconds, shoulder blades open and unguarded.

After deeming that her message had sufficient time to sink in- if it was going to at all- Astrid turned.

It had been about a century and a quarter, chronologically, since they had last seen each other- during the last of her father’s missions that Astrid had accompanied him on, before she had gone looking for answers.

The inciting incident that drove her to look for answers, in fact.

True to form, however, Agatha Harkness had adapted, and today was the very image of a modern, new-age witch.

Stocky, square-jawed, and casually confident, she possessed the mien and bone structure that would command the description of a handsome woman. Dressed in plimsoles, thick black leggings, and a cable-knit sweater the exact velvety depth of wolfsbane, she looked deceptively, cosily middle-class, her dark chestnut hair styled in a cloud of tight waves to her shoulders, framing her fair, round face and dark cobalt eyes.

“Well.” She draped an elbow across the rail, sleeves rolled back, sizing Astrid up with a wide, crooked smile and a gaze as hard as flint. “Look what the cat dragged in.”

Astrid was simultaneously reminded of a salacious, bored housewife with a mind like a steel trap, and a large crocodile sunbathing by the water’s edge.

“It’s good to see you, Agatha,” Astrid said sincerely, light as air. “You look well. I’m glad.”

She tried to sacrifice my soul to Mephistopheles once, Astrid admitted to Loki, deciding that it would be better to get it out of the way now.

She did what? Loki snarled, alarmed.

Long story. Daddy stepped in. She came to regret it.

She could feel Loki glaring into her. Because you made her regret it, or because she decided to regret it? Because that’s quite a distinction, darling.

Astrid almost laughed. His mind was always so quick.

Alright, fine. A little of both.

Jaw and mouth pursed tightly, Agatha’s eyes flitted sharply across and behind Astrid’s form, darting as dragonflies.

Astrid softened her stance, loosening her limbs and opening her posture.

“It’s just us,” she said reassuringly.

Conveniently, Astrid did not mention that us included the sorcerer-prince whose mind was currently linked to her nervous system.

Astra.

His tone was grim, steeled, but quietly restrained.

Astrid sensed the unspoken undercurrent underneath- that he wanted her out of that shop, now.

Astrid reached for him, slotting herself into his edges, feeling him shift to accommodate her.

Please trust me, Loki. I have this.

She felt him hesitate, her calm focus an emollient.

Besides, she added. You might find that you like her.

I highly doubt that, dove, Loki replied haughtily, even as he relented.

She kept silent. Something told her that Loki would refuse to see the similarities, even if she informed him of exactly how her long story with Agatha had ended.

Agatha’s expression had stiffened slightly, eyes narrowing to a squint.

“Just so that we’re clear,” she drawled, gesturing vaguely across her with a jabbing index finger, “you’re not here to check in on me, or- drag me away to some kind of tribunal, are you?”

Astrid tipped her head consideringly. “Have you done anything to warrant it?”

Once again, Astrid opted not mention that she already had a fair idea of the answer. She had made it her responsibility to know; confidence in her decision didn’t negate the gamble, and Astrid wouldn’t ignore her culpability if things went sour.

As far as she could tell, however, Agatha had been smart. She had spent the years since they had last seen each other travelling and researching and collecting, restraining herself to a few petty grudges, mild curses, and mostly harmless, mostly necessary fraud. All in all, nothing that Astrid had found worth getting into a snit over.

Besides. That thing with the carnivorous rabbit had been pretty funny.

Astrid could feel Loki trying to pretend that he wasn’t intrigued.

Agatha snorted. “Not in my book, but we both know that doesn’t mean much. Even my best behaviour means being a little badsometimes.”

“Mm. Well, so long as they deserved it, I’m happy to remain ignorant.”

Brows raised, corners of her mouth tugging into a shrug, Agatha looked pleasantly surprised.

“Huh. Well, in that case- it’s good to see you too, Little Miss Dante,” she said wryly, dragging out the old nickname as though she were dusting off a spellbook, descending the last few steps. “Now that we’ve got the formalities out of the way, how have you been for the past- oh, hundred and thirty years or so?”

“Not quite so long on my side, Madame Virgil,” Astrid admitted, satin-smooth as sugar ribbons, “but I’ve- been busy.”

The Divine Comedy? Loki noticed.

Mm, good catch.

He paused, quietly assessing- before relaxing slightly in realisation.

Aha. I see.

Astrid held down her smile, but sent its warmth in his direction.

“And what about your dish of a father?” Agatha asked.

“Not interested, Agatha.”

And still hung up on whoever gave him that watch.

“Huh. Pity.” Agatha paused, appraising Astrid with long, slow sweeps. One forearm folded against her lower ribs, the opposite hand raised, fingertips rubbing together. “Any luck, then, dear, with that little- soul-searching identity quest of yours?”

Lifting one shoulder, Astrid let herself smile abstrusely.

“Some. Thank you for asking.”

“Well, you know. I like to know who and what I’ve made a deal with,” she said, head lowered into an unblinking stare, as though wondering how Astrid’s liver might taste, “as a rule.”

“It’s a good rule.” She said mildly.

Agatha looked at her for a long moment, one corner of her mouth and eye tensing- then straightened, clapping her palms together and spinning on her heel.

“Well, since you came all this way- fancy some tea? I could read your leaves for you! I must say, I’ve gotten pretty good- or, well, as good as you can get, with fortune-telling. It’s always a bit of a crapshoot, you know. Less mess than the animal guts, though.”

Astrid adjusted the strap of her bag against her shoulder as Agatha began to head up towards the café, not even waiting for her reply.

“Why not? We do have a lot to catch up on.” She began to follow her up the stairs, drawing a shallow breath as she went in for the kill. “And I think I have a way to get Karmar-Taj off your back so that you can come out of hiding, so I’m sure you’ll want to-”

Agatha turned back to her sharply. “What?”

Her eyes were slightly wild, incredulous, and treacherously hopeful.

Reflecting briefly, Astrid supposed that she should feel a little bad.

That was, if not for the memory of choking sulphur, of her face and throat scorching with brimstone-heat, and the sound of dimensions ripping apart like adipose from muscle tissue and Agatha laughing broad and wild- just before Mephistopheles betrayed her, just before Astrid regained the strength to yank the witch away from the consequences of her own actions.

Just because she had forgiven did not mean she was inclined to be nice.

Besides. Agatha would respect her less if she was.

Loki watched her work, ruthlessly, using honesty as a weapon and the truth like she she owned it, cautious and amused and a little proud.

Astrid arched her brows, both at him and the witch standing before her.

“You didn’t think I’d come without a gift, did you?”

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Some time later, a platter of a dozen shucked oysters in front of her, seated with a sea view and décor of scrubbed wood and clean white walls, Astrid made the first entry on her shopping list.

Tea leaves.

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[rabbitcruiser]

Public Art in Calgary (No. 4)

In Search of Gold Mountain (2000) by Chu Honsun

This five-tier stone sculpture chronicles the history of Chinese people in Canada and offers a serene focal point within Sien Lok Park beside the Bow River. The name, In Search of Gold Mountain, evokes the dreams of prospectors who arrived by boat in 1858, lured by the promise of gold in the Fraser River Valley. But the phrase can also be read more broadly as the quest for a better life.

The story is told in stylized images carved into the surface of three of the bands. The figures appear as polished shapes set in relief against a shallow background of pitted texture. In the lowest ring, the ship lands and the first generation sets to work logging, mining and building the railway. Their hard labour lays a foundation for successive generations. More educated and established, the figures in the next ring endure the restrictions of Canadian immigration legislation, the only laws in our history to limit immigration based on race and country of origin. The head tax and Exclusion Act are indicated simply with dates and names.

In the upper level, images of tai chi, dragon dancing and acupuncture represent a time when cultural expression is allowed. The tip of the cone is embellished with rows of small, raised knobs, akin to those on early Chinese bronze bells. The reference is a reminder of ancient Chinese culture and places the Canadian experience in perspective within an extensive timeframe.

Artist Chu Honsun (the artist’s name follows the Chinese custom of family name before given name) has a home studio out near Cochrane, where his sculptures are displayed in a field set against the backdrop of the foothills. Walking among them, he explained his admiration for the sculptors Henry Moore and Constantin Brancusi. “I like sculpture that is powerful, simple, strong and bold, without anything unnecessary,” Chu said. The same could be said of his work.

At the core of Chu’s art is an examination of the relationship between yin and yang. It is quite astonishing that an artist could use an uncompromising medium with such precision to convey a spirit of balance, but Chu certainly understands stone. After graduating from the University of Hong Kong in 1975, the Italian government offered him a scholarship to study art in Florence and Carrara where he learned from the master marble carvers. Well-respected in Hong Kong, where he has major works in public outdoor spaces and at the opera house, Chu came to live in Calgary in 1991 and moved to Cochrane in 2005.

In Search of Gold Mountain has been in its current spot since 2000. Many factors contribute to its enduring success: thoughtful design, pure geometric form and harmonious proportions, enduring and beautiful material (15 tonnes of distinctive yellow granite brought in from China) and content that continues to be relevant to Calgarians.

Source

[alyhumphrey]

20th August 2022 - a day at Moors valley country park. Whilst we waited for Henry’s scout troup to arrive in Brownsea and we could drop him off for camp

[ghostsandgetaways]

The Ghosts of Glen Rose, TX

Haunted Places in Glen Rose, TX

Glen Rose, Texas, a charming town steeped in history, is no stranger to eerie tales and rumored hauntings. Nestled in picturesque settings and boasting a rich past, this small Texan town offers a surprising number of haunted locations, sure to send shivers down the spines of even the most hardened paranormal enthusiasts. From legendary apparitions to unsettling occurrences, Glen Rose holds secrets that continue to intrigue and bewilder both locals and visitors alike.

1. The Historic Glen Hotel

Perhaps one of the most well-known haunted sites in Glen Rose, The Historic Glen Hotel stands as a beacon of history and mystery. Back in 1928, Glen Rose was considered a hotspot for health and wellness. The hotel offered restful accommodations and amenities to those who sought out health benefits from the mineral baths. The hotel has been closed for years now but not before visitors and guests reported spectral sightings and ethereal figures wandering the hallways. Before it closed, many reported disembodied voices and footsteps, strange knocking sounds, and unexplained changes in temperature.

When friends and I were in town, the Glen Hotel had been closed for some time, and was not accessible for a paranormal investigation. We did sit out in the front porch area to do some investigating but traffic noise interfered quite a bit. We had some hits on the rempod and other equipment but we debunked it as being interference from the maintenance worker’s walkie talkie. There is a tree growing within the hotel so my guess is it won’t be accessible for investigating anytime soon.

2. The Dinosaur Valley State Park

While known mainly for its extraordinary fossilized footprints from the prehistoric era, the Dinosaur Valley State Park is also known for a few ghost stories. I have heard about those stories for years but I have yet to visit the park for myself. Visitors have reported hearing disembodied voices and laughter, and also seeing a shadow or two. Considering dinosaur tracks from 2000 years ago, it isn’t a huge stretch of the imagination that there could be a spirit or two lurking about.

3. Oakdale Park Campground

Established in 1925 as a campground and motor court, Oakdale is one of the only private RV parks in the country listed on the National Register of Historic Places. For nearly 100 years, Oakdale has shown hospitality to so many guests and events.

There are rumors of a ghostly caretaker who wanders the property still doing his job for all of these years. Guests have also reported the sounds of ghostly children, and the apparition of an elderly man. If you are brave enough to check it out for yourself, I would love to hear about your experiences.

4. The Barnard's Mill Art Museum

The Barnard's Mill, an art museum housed in a centuries-old gristmill, has an eerie reputation that matches its quaint exterior. Legend tells of a young woman who tragically lost her life within the mill's walls, and her spirit is said to linger, forever searching for peace. Disturbed paintings, objects mysteriously moving, and an inexplicable feeling of being watched have all been reported by staff and visitors alike. The spirit of the young woman seems to be wielding an otherworldly influence on the museum's artwork, adding an unsettling touch to an already haunting experience.

Built in 1860 by George Barnard, the mill was initially a water-powered gristmill and then a steam powered burr mill. The mill changed hands sand it was sold to Dr. J. J. Hannah in 1943. Dr. Hannah turned it into a health spa with mineral water. It later became the Marks-English Hospital and Clinic, was sold to Richard H. Moore in 1979, who subsequently turned the mill over to the Somervell History Foundation in 2005.

Ghost stories include seeing apparitions of former employees of the mill, Dr. Hannah, and possibly even former patients of the hospital. Reports from visitors include the feeling of being watched, light anomalies and shadows darting about, and hearing footsteps when no one is there.

5. The Glen Rose Cemetery

No list of haunted places in Glen Rose would be complete without mentioning the Glen Rose Cemetery. With gravestones dating back centuries, this serene burial ground is said to be a hotbed of paranormal activity. Ghostly orbs, eerie whispers, and inexplicable cold spots are just a few of the reports made by those who have dared to explore its hallowed grounds after sunset. Locals believe that the spirits of the departed continue to reside in this sacred resting place, occasionally making their presence known to the living. Glen Rose, Texas, proves to be a town where history blends seamlessly with the paranormal. From grand hotels to peaceful cemeteries, each location holds its own chilling tale for those daring enough to delve into the mysteries that surround them. Whether you are a believer, skeptic, or simply curious, these haunted places beckon you to experience the inexplicable and uncover the secrets hidden within this quaint Texan town.

6. Inn on the River

Just steps from the scenic banks of the Paluxy River, this cozy inn serves as the perfect home base for those seeking the unique combination of relaxation and supernatural experiences. The Inn on the River was originally the main building of the Snyder Sanitarium. Established by Dr. George P Snyder, he offered patients the benefits of the mineral baths and magnetic treatments, wholesome food, and a therapeutic environment. Upon Dr. Snyder's death in 1942, his brother-in-law bought the sanitarium and continued to run the the sanitarium until the early 1970s. The buildings then became boarding houses for construction crews working on the Comanche Peak nuclear plant.

Now, the inn features comfortable rooms and a lovely breakfast. Should you choose to stay at the inn, you may be front and center for some peculiar happenings. Reports of paranormal activity include phantom scents of perfume and tobacco, light anomalies, sudden drops in temperature, and disembodied voices, footsteps, and laughter. When my friends and I stayed there, I had a few hits on the rempod when it was lying on the bed. I didn’t hear or see anything but the rempod was fairly active for about 20 minutes. It was quiet for the remainder of the evening so your guess is as good as mine.

Final Thoughts

Glen Rose may be a small town, but its rich history and supernatural charm make it an exciting destination for travelers seeking a hauntingly good time. So pack your bags, gather your ghost-hunting gear, and get ready for an adventure that combines culture, history, and just a hint of the otherworldly!

[astonishinglegends]

Ep 289: The Body on the Moor Part 1

"To that Providence, my sons, I hereby commend you, and I counsel you by way of caution to forbear from crossing the moor in those dark hours when the powers of evil are exalted."  -- Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Description:

On Friday, December 11, 2015, at 9:04 a.m., a man started a train journey at Ealing Broadway Station in west London, England. At 9:50 a.m., he arrived at Euston station to book an over two-hour trip to Manchester. The next day, at 10:47 a.m., his body was discovered by a cyclist close to the Chew Track near Saddleworth Moor in the Peak District National Park. The man was 6 feet 1 inch tall, white, of slim build, and had receding grey hair and blue eyes and determined to be between 60 and 70 years of age. However, this description was the only identifying factor initially discovered about him. He had no ID, wallet, phone, or keys, nothing to tell who this man was. He was dressed nicely but inappropriately for a hike in such inclement weather. The only item found on his person was a container of Pakistani origin labeled for thyroid medication but which now contained strychnine. This was the poison that led to his death. The cyclist also found the man in an odd position; his arms crossed over his chest and next to the trail as if peacefully napping. This was another puzzling clue, as victims of strychnine poisoning are usually writhing in agony before their horrible demise. The pathology technicians who examined the body gave the unfortunate stranger the name of "Neil Dovestone" after the Dovestone reservoir near his resting place. So, who was Neil Dovestone, and why did he travel such a long distance to this specific spot for a careless hike, or was it for a darker purpose? Who removed his identifying items, and did he take his own life or fall victim to murder? Join us for part one of our investigation into The Body on the Moor.

Reference Links:

“Body on the Moor” from BBC News

David Lytton

Dovestone Reservoir

“Dovestone Reservoir and Chew Reservoir Circular” on AllTrails.com

Dovestone and Chew Reservoirs on AA Rated Trips

Chew Valley

Congresbury Yeo

Strychnine

Strychnine poisoning

“Toxicological Findings of Self-Poisoning Suicidal Deaths: A Systematic Review by Countries” from the NIH National Library of Medicine

“Facts about Strychnine” from the CDC

Urdu

Ian Brady and Myra Hindley and “The Moors Murders”

James Platt MP (1823 - 1857) on WikiTree.com

The Clarence pub, Chew Valley Rd, Greenfield, Oldham, England www.the-clarence.co.uk

Manchester, England, United Kingdom — Sunrise, Sunset, and Daylength, December 2015

Euston railway station

“Dakota Air Crash Near Oldham (1940-1949)” on the British Pathé YouTube channel

“Plane crash survivor makes poignant first return to Saddleworth site” from the Saddleworth Independent

“'A lovely man': The woman who dated the Man on the Moor” from BBC News

“Bill O’ Jacks Murders” on Dove Stone Heritage – A Ranger’s View

“The Bill O’ Jacks Murders” from Mysterious Britain & Ireland

“27 Killed in Plane Crashes” from the Greensburg Daily Tribune - Aug 19, 1949

Location:

The approximate location where the body of “Neil Dovestone” was found next to Chew Track on Saddleworth Moor.

Suggested Listening:

The Belief Hole Podcast

You know, this world is full of mystery. And chances are, if you’re listening to this show you’re always looking for more deep dives into the unknown, and that’s why we recommend the Belief Hole Podcast. Every other week, the brothers of the Belief Hole present the strangest, true stories, combining corroborative research with immersive storytelling. From documented cases of near-invisible sky creatures that float hidden in the world just above to sinister mimicking entities that lure you into the dark, the Belief Hole is a veritable grab-bag of the bizarre. Whether you’re hungry for new stories of scarcely heard hauntings, unsettling encounters with roadside dogmen, or clandestine cases of psychic government projects, the Belief Hole is the place to dig. The guys take the topics seriously but have natural brotherly banter and are just weird enough to often make us feel like we’re laughing in the dark with friends. So Join us in listening to the Belief Hole podcast, Available on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Website

beliefhole.com

Linktree

beliefhole.com/discover

Youtube

www.youtube.com/@BeliefHolePodcast

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CREDITS:

Episode 289: The Body on the Moor Part 1. Produced by Scott Philbrook & Forrest Burgess. Audio Editing by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound. Music and Sound Design by Allen Carrescia. Tess Pfeifle, Producer and Lead Researcher. Ed Voccola, Technical Producer. Research Support from The Astonishing Research Corps, or "A.R.C." for short. Copyright 2024 Astonishing Legends Productions, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

[charisjcarmichaelbraun]

The Body Politic: Long Island Biennial 2024

In 2024—a year of global elections, as some 60 countries representing half of the world’s populations hold regional and national leadership votes—The Heckscher Museum of Art invited Long Island artists to submit work which engages with contemporary social, cultural, or political issues. The Museum received 762 artwork submissions from 313 artists, and the result, The Body Politic: Long Island Biennial 2024 features exceptional art from contemporary artists in a compelling museum-wide exhibition that features 79 works of art accepted from 60 artists. 

The jurors for the 2024 Long Island Biennial were Ian Alteveer, Beal Family Chair of the Department of Contemporary Art, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston; Patricia Cronin, sculptor, Artistic Director of the LGBTQ+ VR Museum and Distinguished Professor of Art, Brooklyn College; and Grace Hong, Assistant Director, Galerie Lelong & Co.

The artists chosen represent the breadth of communities across Suffolk and Nassau counties and the exhibition encompasses a remarkable variety of media with styles spanning abstraction to hyperrealism. “We remain committed to sharing inspiring and thought-provoking new art with our visitors.” said Heather Arnet, Executive Director & CEO. The 8th edition of the Long Island Biennial “will resonate with the entire community given the diversity in artists and the universality of the important themes in their work.”

Long Island Biennial  2024 Exhibiting Artists

Edward Acosta, Commack Kelynn Zena Alder, Saint James Herold Alexis, Medford Andrea Baatz, Bohemia Monica Banks, East Hampton Dasha Bazanova, Greenvale Karl Bourke, Huntington Station Nancy Bueti-Randall, Stony Brook Charis J. Carmichael Braun, Northport Fernando Carpaneda, Freeport Hwa Young Caruso, East Meadow Jennifer Lewis, Seaford John Cino, Patchogue Angela Classi, Manhasset Teresa Cromwell, West Sayville Madeline Daversa, S. Jamesport Riccarda de Eccher, Oyster Bay Cove Ruth Douzinas, Lloyd Harbor Sally B. Edelstein, Huntington Kailee S. Finn, Valley Stream Julie Flores, Great Neck Jeremy Grand, Bellport Justin Greenwald, Bay Shore Robert V. Guido, Halesite Glen Hansen, South Jamesport RJT Haynes, East Hampton Jeffrey Herschenhous, Merrick Lori Horowitz, Dix Hills Anna Jurinich, Wading River Joan Kim Suzuki, Jericho Jane Kirkwood, Riverhead Karen L. Kirshner, East Meadow Sheryl Ruth Kolitsopoulos, Port Washington Jenny Patten La Monica, Massapequa Park Emily Rose Larsen, Ridge Neil Leinwohl, Rockville Centre Barbara Ludwig, Port Jefferson Station Alisa M. Shea, Northport Manuel Alejandro Macarrulla, Carle Place Lili Nickolina Maglione, Cold Spring Harbor Paul Mele, Island Park Julia Jane Moore, Poquott Kenny Ng, Huntington Jessica Penagos, Seaford Gail Postal, Montauk Melissa Pressler, Southold James E. Rice, Floral Park Lauren Ruiz, Bellport Blue Ruthen, Plainview Nathaniel Schindler, Rocky Point Laura Siegelman, Plainview Susan Kozodoy Silkowitz, Lynbrook Lauren Skelly Bailey, Hicksville Maria Spector, Babylon Lisa Stanko, Ronkonkoma Adam L. Straus, Riverhead Ezra Thompson, Port Jefferson Station Pinky Urmaza, Huntington Mark W. Van Wagner, East Patchogue Christian Wilbur, Huntington

[village-magazine12]

Dorset Magazine Best Family-Friendly Activities

Dorset, with its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant countryside, is a perfect destination for a family getaway. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or visiting for the first time, Dorset offers a plethora of activities that will keep the whole family entertained. Here’s a guide to the best family-friendly activities in Dorset Magazine.

1. Explore the Jurassic Coast

The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for families. Kids will love hunting for fossils on Charmouth Beach and exploring the rock pools at Kimmeridge Bay. Don’t miss the stunning views from Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove. These natural wonders provide not only breathtaking scenery but also a fantastic educational opportunity.

2. Visit Monkey World

Monkey World, located near Wareham, is a rescue center for primates and offers a fun and educational day out for families. Children will enjoy seeing the various species of monkeys and apes up close, and the interactive play areas ensure they can burn off some energy. Monkey World also has regular talks and feeding sessions, providing insight into the important work they do.

3. Adventure Wonderland

For a day full of excitement, head to Adventure Wonderland in Christchurch. This theme park is designed specifically for younger children, with rides, a maze, and indoor play areas. The park is themed around Alice in Wonderland, adding a magical touch to your visit. With seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas specials, there’s always something new to enjoy.

4. Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park

Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park in Poole is an ideal destination for younger children. This farm park offers hands-on experiences such as feeding lambs, petting guinea pigs, and pony rides. The park also features indoor and outdoor play areas, ensuring fun regardless of the weather. It’s a great place to teach kids about farm animals and rural life.

5. The Tank Museum

Located in Bovington, The Tank Museum is a fantastic attraction for families with older children. With a vast collection of tanks and military vehicles, the museum offers an engaging and educational experience. Interactive exhibits and live demonstrations bring history to life, making it a memorable day out for all ages.

6. Swanage Railway

Take a step back in time with a ride on the Swanage Railway. This heritage railway offers steam and diesel train rides through the picturesque Purbeck countryside. The journey between Norden and Swanage is a delight for train enthusiasts and provides stunning views of Corfe Castle and the surrounding landscape. Special events, such as Santa Specials and Thomas the Tank Engine weekends, make it even more exciting for children.

7. Dorset Adventure Park

For families with older children and teens, Dorset Magazine Adventure Park in Corfe Castle is a must-visit. This outdoor water park features inflatable obstacle courses on two lakes, providing hours of fun and challenges. With a mud trail for added excitement, it's a perfect spot for those seeking adventure and thrills.

8. Brownsea Island

A trip to Brownsea Island, managed by the National Trust, offers a perfect blend of nature and history. Accessible by ferry from Poole, the island is home to red squirrels, peacocks, and a variety of birds. Families can enjoy guided walks, nature trails, and picnics while exploring the island’s rich wildlife and historical sites.

9. Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park

Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park offers an underwater adventure for the whole family. The park features a variety of marine life, from sharks and turtles to rays and seahorses. Interactive rock pools and the ocean tunnel provide immersive experiences, and the outdoor areas, including the Caribbean Cove adventure playground, ensure a full day of fun.

10. Moors Valley Country Park and Forest

Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, near Ringwood, is an excellent spot for outdoor activities. The park offers walking and cycling trails, a treetop trail, and a miniature railway. The play trail, with wooden play structures and a giant ant hill, is a hit with younger children. It’s a fantastic place for a family day out, with plenty of picnic spots to enjoy.

Conclusion

Dorset Magazine diverse range of family-friendly activities ensures there’s something for everyone. From the natural beauty of the Jurassic Coast to the excitement of theme parks and historical adventures, Dorset is a fantastic destination for creating lasting family memories. Plan your visit and explore all that this beautiful county has to offer!

[valleyledger]

32nd Annual Kite Day in the Park

In partnership with the Lehigh Valley Kite Society and Pocono Kite Symphony, the Northampton County Parks & Recreation will sponsor the 32nd Annual Kite Day in the Park at Louise W. Moore County Park in Lower Nazareth Township from 10:00AM to 4:00PM on Saturday, May 4th. The event will be held at Pavilion #4 and adjacent open fields on the west side of the park at 151 Country Club Road, Easton,…

[flairyourtrip]

Top 5 places to visit in Ireland

Cliffs of Moher: Located in County Clare on the west coast of Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are one of the country's most famous natural monuments. These sheer cliffs rise dramatically 214 meters (702 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and Aran Islands. A must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Ring of Kerry: The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. Along the route, you'll encounter picturesque villages, rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, rolling hills and majestic mountains. Highlights include the Valley of Dunloe, Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Skellig Ring. The diversity of scenery along the Ring of Kerry makes it one of the most beautiful routes in Ireland.

Dublin: Ireland's vibrant capital city is rich in historical, cultural and literary heritage. Explore attractions such as Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and Guinness Storehouse. The city also has lively pubs, great restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Don't miss a walk along the River Liffey or a visit to Temple Bar, Dublin's cultural district.

Giant's Causeway: Although technically located in Northern Ireland, Giant's Causeway is easily accessible from the Republic of Ireland and is a must-see. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. According to legend, this dam was built by Irish giant Finn McCool. Stunning coastal scenery and geological wonders make it a must-see for anyone exploring the island of Ireland.

Connemara: Located in County Galway on the west coast of Ireland, Connemara is known for its rugged beauty and wild landscape. Explore Connemara National Park, which includes mountains, moors, heathland and forests. Other highlights include Kylemore Abbey, a stunning neo-Gothic mansion surrounded by tranquil lakes and mountains, and picturesque villages such as Clifden and Roundstone. Connemara is one of Ireland's most unspoiled regions, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, fishing and wildlife viewing.

These are just a few of the many wonderful destinations to explore in Ireland, each offering its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you're interested in history, nature, culture, or just want to enjoy the Irish atmosphere, you're sure to find something to your liking on the Emerald Isle.

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[allencherer-blog]

Popular Hikes in Australia

Popular Hikes in Australia https://ift.tt/NIBYf5G Australia’s diverse landscapes offer many outdoor adventures, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty is by embarking on a scenic hike. From lush rainforests to arid deserts, Australia boasts a wide range of hiking trails catering to all levels of enthusiasts. Here are some popular hikes that showcase the breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems of the Land Down Under: Grampians Peaks Trail, Victoria: Located in Victoria’s Grampians National Park, the Grampians Peaks Trail offers a spectacular journey through ancient sandstone mountain ranges. Hikers can explore rugged peaks, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls with various trail sections catering to different fitness levels. The panoramic views from lookouts like the Pinnacle are genuinely awe-inspiring. Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory: For those seeking a challenging and rewarding trek, the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory is a 223-kilometer epic that traverses the West MacDonnell Ranges. This trail is renowned for its stunning desert landscapes, rocky gorges, and Aboriginal cultural sites. Stand atop Mount Sonder for a mesmerizing sunrise or take in the unique geological formations. Overland Track, Tasmania: Tasmania’s Overland Track is an iconic multi-day hike that takes adventurers through the heart of the World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Spanning around 65 kilometers, the trail leads through ancient rainforests, alpine moors, and glacial valleys. Capture postcard-perfect moments at iconic spots like Cradle Mountain and Dove Lake. Thorsborne Trail, Queensland: Situated on Hinchinbrook Island, the Thorsborne Trail is a coastal trek that allows hikers to explore pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and tidal estuaries. With a limited number of permits issued each day, the trail ensures a remote and secluded experience, providing a glimpse into the untouched wilderness of northern Queensland. The Great Ocean Walk, Victoria: The Great Ocean Walk in Victoria stretches along the iconic Great Ocean Road, offering stunning coastal scenery. This multi-day trek takes hikers through coastal heathlands, serene beaches, and lush rainforests, providing breathtaking views of the Twelve Apostles and other natural wonders. The Three Capes Track, Tasmania: Tasmania makes another appearance on this list with The Three Capes Track, a renowned coastal hike. This four-day trek explores the stunning Tasman Peninsula, featuring towering sea cliffs, historic sites, and well-designed eco-friendly cabins for overnight stays. The Cape Pillar sea cliffs offer breathtaking vistas of the Southern Ocean. The Pinnacle Walk and Lookout, Grampians, Victoria: The Pinnacle Walk and Lookout in the Grampians National Park is a must-visit for a shorter but no less impressive hike. The trail takes you through rugged landscapes and leads to a viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. The post Popular Hikes in Australia first appeared on Dr. Allen Cherer |Hiking & Cycling . via Dr. Allen Cherer |Hiking & Cycling https://ift.tt/yAvBdwt March 06, 2024 at 06:11AM

[muskokafarm]

Muskoka Farm Pre Training

Muskoka Farm is one of the world’s most prestigious pre training facilities. It has been breaking in and preparing future race horses for more than half a century.

The facility is located in Wisemans Ferry, New South Wales. It has 58 stables, a 2000m track, and a number of other amenities. To know more about Pre Training, visit the Muskoka Farm website or call (02)45663106.

The pre-training yards at Muskoka Farm are world class and have an excellent record of producing top-class racehorses. Horses are spelled and pre-trained here prior to rejoining their racing stables, and the slow conditioning work they receive helps them return in tip-top condition. They also have five-star facilities, such as working tracks and a lap pool. They’re a registered AQIS quarantine facility, which makes them an ideal choice for horses that are importing from overseas.

Located in Gunderman on the Hawkesbury River, this facility is surrounded by national parks and bushland. Its 2000m track is one of the most popular in the country, and has a strong following among the nation’s leading trainers. The facility also has 58 stables, several day yards for working horses, and a private pontoon and outdoor pool.

Jacqueline Boehm and her husband Sid have a long history of training horses. Their stables are located at Muskoka Farm, which is one of the world’s best pre-training facilities. The 280-acre property is surrounded by the Hawkesbury River and is home to a wide range of facilities. These include 10 large fully fenced paddocks, a two-kilometre grass track for pace work, and a high-tech treadmill.

Stable hands need to be familiar with all aspects of horse care, including feeding and grooming. They also need to be able to anticipate the needs of their charges and make adjustments accordingly. They also need to have the right attitude and be prepared to learn from seasoned staff members.

One of the most important skills for stable hands is being able to read the body language and expressions of their charge. This will allow them to make the best decisions regarding their health and well-being. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with other staff members and horse owners.

For those who want to get their horses ready for the racetrack, there is a place in Gunderman where they can be trained. The facility is surrounded by national parks and bushland, which provides a stress-free environment for the horse. The farm offers breaking, spelling and pre-training services, as well as agistment and quarantine facilities.

It is home to a number of talented trainers, including Tim Clark, who is a former track work rider and an experienced yearling preparer. He is known for his quiet, patient, and kind approach to his horses, which helps them to achieve the best results in training.

The 280-acre property offers a variety of facilities, including a 24-hour helipad and hyperbaric oxygen chamber. It also features a two-bedroom guest house, a four-bedroom main house, and staff cottages. The farm is constantly evolving its approach to horse care, which helps the horse to be in peak condition for each race.

The Muskoka Farm is a world class pre training yard that has been educating future racehorses for decades. They offer a wide range of services, including breaking, spelling, and agistment. They also provide slow conditioning work to help prepare the horses for the track.

They are constantly evolving their approach to horse care and are committed to providing the best possible service. Their team is experienced and dedicated, and they have a proven record of success. They are renowned for their attention to detail and quality of care. To know more about Pre Training, visit the Muskoka Farm website or call (02)45663106.

Dan Excel made an excellent start to his preparation for October’s Sportingbet Cox Plate at Moonee Valley after completing his mandatory quarantine period in Victoria. The John Moore-trained galloper will now head to Werribee for some hard yards ahead of the Group 1 feature. It was a significant move for the Hong Kong raider, as they would normally spend this time in New South Wales before heading to Asia.

[educationalinstitutesindia]

Seven Tourist Places In Bangalore Worth Visiting

Bengaluru (also called Bangalore), India’s Silicon Valley, is the capital of Karnataka and is known for its parks and nightlife. If you are visiting Bangalore on business, extend your stay and if you are an expatriate, having recently moved to this city, mark your diary with the following tourist places in and near Bangalore that are a must-visit. 1. Bangalore Palace The Majestic Bangalore Palace, reflecting Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture holds testimony to the heritage and beauty of an era gone by. This regal palace was built in 1878 and spreads across 45,000 square feet. The carvings on the walls in the interior and exterior of the beautiful wooden structure showcase tales of the extraordinary royal culture. The opulent ballroom, mesmerizing Darbar hall, innumerable exotic paintings, and even the granite seats encrusted with blue ceramic tiles on the ground floor, and vine-covered walls, transport you to the elegant splendor of the powerful dynasties of South India. Audio tapes in Hindi and English are available to understand its history. 2. Bannerghatta National Park Located 22 km away from the city-centre, Bannerghatta National Park is an asylum for a large variety of flora and fauna. Sprawling over 104.27 sq. km, this park includes the country's first butterfly park, an aquarium, a zoo, Children's Park, Crocodile Farm, Snake Park, Prehistoric Animals' Park, and a museum. You can spot elephants, leopards, jackals, foxes, wild boar, sloth bears, Indian gazelle, spotted deer, porcupine, cobras, Asiatic Lion and the Royal Bengal Tiger while doing the safari. There are several resorts in Bangalore, but if you are staying at the amazing Discovery Village, be assured that they will organize your local tours, bird watching, nature trails, and jungle safaris. 3. Lal Bagh Botanical Garden Renowned for its botanical artwork, this garden is a haven for nature lovers and a must-visit for all tourists. Lal Bagh sprawls across 240 acres in the heart of the city and has nearly 1,854 species of plants including rare species of French, Persian and Afghani origin. The Lal Bagh Rock which is over 3000 million years old is found here and is a major tourist attraction. The garden also houses a number of birds such as Myna, Parakeets, Crows, Brahminy Kite, Pond Heron, Common Egret and Purple Moor Hen. Source: Goibibo 4. Cubbon Park Cubbon Park is 300 acres of dense green bliss, housing more than 6,000 trees and an ideal place for nature lovers and picnickers. In addition to being the perfect place to veg out, you can also visit some of the major structures of the city such as the Attara Kacheri, Cubbon Park Museum, Sheshadri Iyer Memorial Park, and the Bangalore Aquarium, the second-largest aquarium in India here. Source: kerosene.digital 5. Vidhana Soudha Described by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru as 'a temple dedicated to the nation', Vidhana Soudha stands 150 feet tall and boasts of an elegant and truly exquisite Neo-Dravidian style of architecture. It houses the State Legislature and the Secretariat of Karnataka and is one of the most popular attractions in the lively and colorful city of Bengaluru. It prides itself on being the largest state legislative building in the country sporting four entrances in all four directions and four floors above the ground level and one below it. It is counted as one of the most magnificent buildings in the city impressing and intimidating the beholder. 6. ISKCON Temple Located in Rajajinagar, ISKCON Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna. Apart from a religious shrine, ISKCON temple is a cultural complex known for its activities of engagement involving ardent devotees of Lord Krishna, where the temple community organizes songs, recitals, lectures and prayer services. A must visit for the spiritually initiated. Source: Goibibo 7. MG Road One of the busiest roads in Bengaluru, MG Road is always abuzz with recreational and commercial activities and is a one-stop destination for shopping or hanging out. Whether you’re looking for traditional handicrafts, silk saris, cutlery, bone china sets, jewelry, clothes, or books, you can find it all here. Church Street which runs parallel to this road is a foodie’s paradise, with a plethora of restaurants and cafes offering varied cuisines. MG Road is a must-visit when you're in the city, where you can shop by day and party by night, dancing till you drop in any of the high-end pubs in and around this street. These and many more such attractions make Bangalore a coveted holiday destination. So next time you’re in the city, go ahead and mix business with pleasure, you won’t regret it. Read the full article

[suitcasescalling]

What A Day!

We finally got to Dartmoor National Park and, wow, what a day we had!

Let’s start with Oh Sweet Jesus I hate driving on English country lanes! AndI wasn’t even driving, Jeff was! I was navigating (you really need both). There was much eeeep’ing and clenching of my toes and leaning into the center of the car and away from the 10’ hedges that grow RIGHT UP TO THE EDGE OF THE ROAD. And often hide a stone wall.

Jeff is my hero for doing all the driving, never ending up in the wrong lane, and never running into the shrubbery. In a stick shift rental car.

Damn, he’s good.

I love to see a new landscape. Last year I was wow’d by western Nebraska. (Seriously, the panhandle is cool!) But the moors…..oh year. Not flat, for one thing. Very undulating. Virtually treeless. The brightest spots of color are the gorse bushes. But so vast. So distinct. (And colder than expected. I have, once again, had to buy a hat and gloves in the UK!) Everytime we stopped on a peak, I could only gaze at it in wonder.

And then there’s the ponies and the sheep, sometimes in the middle of the road. We actually had to stop for two sheep that were *sleeping* in the road (assuming the asphalt was warmer than the ground). A little too large to treat a mere speed bumps.

The little towns (and they are little!) are wonderful places to stop at a cafe, have a wander around, and just chill and enjoy the scenery.

Our final stop — the Buckfast Abbey — has the best donuts and other baked goods! Oh, yes, and beautiful gardens and an amazing church (which is shockingly clean and shiny, even if it is only 85 years old). It was all so pristine, I felt a little out of place. Should it look a little….lived in? But it was beautiful.

I would love to come back and do some hiking. Next time, I’ll do a professional tour (there are lots of tour companies around) and let someone else do the driving!

Truly a grand day out.

Roadway or shooting gallery?

Don't mind us....

I made a new best friend!

The famous ponies

Decoration on a grave stone.

Jeff feeling mighty on top of a tor

A man and his gorse

From the tor to the valley

Buckfast Abbey. No pics of the donuts.

[snowboyclarkov]

League 2 Countries

Using MapChart, I made a map which looks at the idea of each League 1 football club being a nation. The capitals would be their respective home stadiums. The higher the team is in the table as of 2nd May 2023, the higher precedent it gets for expansion. Expansion begins from the area their stadium is located.

There are versions of this for other English leagues.

Featuring, in order of northern-most point:

Cumbrians - Carlisle United (Capital: Brunton Park)

Pools - Hartlepool United (Capital: Victoria Park)

Strawberries - Barrow (Capital: Holker Street)

Sulphurites - Harrogate Town (Capital: Wetherby Road)

Mariners - Grimsby Town (Capital: Blundell Park)

Bantams - Bradford City (Capital: Valley Parade)

Dale - Rochdale (Capital: Spotland Stadium)

Donny - Doncaster Rovers (Capital: Keepmoat Stadium)

Super White - Tranmere Rovers (Capital: Prenton Park)

Ammies - Salford City (Capital: Moor Lane)

County - Stockport County (Capital: Edgeley Road)

Stags - Mansfield Town (Capital: Field Mill)

Railwaymen - Crewe Alexandra (Capital: Gresty Road)

Boro - Stevenage (Capital: Broadhall Way)

Cobblers - Northampton Town (Capital: Sixfields Stadium)

U's - Colchester United (Capital: Colchester Community Stadium)

Saddlers - Walsall (Capital: Bescot Stadium)

Exiles - Newport County (Capital: Rodney Parade)

Spartans - Swindon Town (Capital: County Ground)

O's - Leyton Orient (Capital: Brisbane Road)

Wombles - Wimbledon (Capital: Plough Lane)

Gills - Gillingham (Capital: Priestfield Stadium)

Red Devils - Crawley Town (Capital: Broadfield Stadium)

Yellows - Sutton United (Capital: Gander Green Lane)

[rhinoremovals]

Best parks in Woodhouse, Leeds, UK

Leeds, the third-largest city in the U.K., is a diverse and exciting city to visit, not least because it's home to some of the most beautiful parks in the country. From sweeping green spaces like Roundhay Park and St James' Park to smaller but no less charming wooded areas like Hainault Forest Country Park and Potternewton Park and Woodhouse Moor, Leeds has something for everyone who loves getting out into nature. So whether you're looking for a little respite from city life or just want to get some fresh air with your family or friends, there are plenty of options available within easy reach that will make your trip worthwhile!

Woodhouse Moor

Woodhouse Moor is an open space approximately one mile from Leeds city centre, West Yorkshire, England. Today it consists of 3 parts: a formal park, Woodhouse Moor, of around 26 hectares in area on the west of Woodhouse Lane, and two other open areas on the east of it.

There are 65 community parks in Leeds. These green spaces contain a variety of facilities including playgrounds, sport pitches and gardens for local people to enjoy.

These are known as the Monument (or Upper) and Cinder (or Gravel, or Lower) Moors which are used for events such as circuses and sporting matches, and sometimes car parking. Woodhouse Moor is north-west of Leeds city centre and is bounded by Woodhouse, the University of Leeds, Burley, Hyde Park, and Headingley.

Leeds City Academy in Woodhouse, Leeds, UK

Leeds City Academy is a mixed secondary school with academy status, located in Woodhouse, Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. The school building was opened to pupils in 1992, although the City of Leeds School has existed on a different site for over 100 years.

At Leeds City Academy we are committed to working ‘In Partnership’ with students, parents and a range of stakeholders to ensure that every student can fulfil their ambitions and aspirations.

We have established a unique culture which sets our school apart from others. This culture is built around six ‘In Partnership’ values which are affectionately referred to as the DNA of Leeds City Academy. They ensure students grow into mature, responsible and ambitious young people who are able to shape their lives and support others around them.

Sugarwell Hill Park

Sugarwell Hill Park is a scenic park space with amazing views into Leeds city centre. Sugarwell Hill Park is just under 7 acres in size and is located in the Meanwood suburb north-east of Leeds. The park drops steeply into the chasm of Meanwood Valley – its amazing panoramic views across the width.

Sugarwell takes its name from the days when people mixed water with sugar and even a little liquorice root on celebratory days of the year – like May day which rings in the spring season of the year. There’s a bench that overlooks the amazing views into Leeds city centre from Sugarwell Hill. The park has rubbish bins and dog waste bins throughout the park.

Rhino Removals Leeds, Moving Companies Woodhouse Leeds. We offer a wide range of packing and relocation services in Woodhouse Leeds. Rhino Removals Leeds is the best choice for your domestic, commercial and industrial removals in Leeds. Our professional movers will help you to move everything from small items to big lorry loads safely and securely.

Rhino Removals Leeds is an established, family owned, professional and reliable movers Woodhouse Leeds. We offer a highly competitive price with unbeatable service. We also provide a full range of packing service and flexible dates to suit your schedule, we respond quickly to all enquiries received by email or phone.

Rhino Removals Leeds D6, 26 Leodis residences, 1 N W Rd, Woodhouse, Leeds LS6 2QF, United Kingdom 44 113 436 7860 https://proremovalsleeds.co.uk/ https://www.google.com/maps?cid=5000743881012108933

[aeshnagrandis]