#natural american spirit

[yoursforwildnature-always]

An Introduction to Ted

Hey All!

My name is Ted, but I also go by Teddy - I don’t care which one you use to prefer to me, and nicknames are allowed if y’all wanna generate one. I am 20 years old (birthdate March 14, 2003) and was born in Brooksville, Maine. I’m not disclosing my current location because I don’t need that on the internet. 

My pronouns are she/they/it, and I don’t really have a preference as for which. I generally regard myself as genderqueer or something, but, in all honesty, I’m not the biggest fan of labels, and I prefer to focus on just existing. Same applies to my sexuality, but theres also confusion there as idk what I even am there either. I think I’m gynosexual??? but idk not sure Similarly, I was born intersex. I’m not gonna get into much of that here, as that’s for my kink acc bc it’ll be more revealing than I think is necessary on main. Speaking of which, I do make some NSFW content that I don’t deem appropriate for this blog, so I post that stuff - as well as vent my horniness and tell irl stories - on this acc @transpuppywithnobrains  I’m currently at university, studying evolutionary ecology and anthropology as my main topics, with a few other courses strewn about here and there (notably a course on String Theory and the associated mathematics). I live with two roommates, both of which are fuckbuddies of mine (go ahead and see more on my kink acc above) but thats neither here nor there. 

This account is mostly just going to be shitposting, talking ab education, and the like, as well as fandom posting and philosophy/politics. Speaking of which, I personally identify with the ideas of deep ecology and similar thought processes, but like, whatever, man, idk. 

that was weird, my b for oversharing ig, but thats me for u. 

[spiritofthebackroads]

[gorrus]

[midwestaesthetics]

Sleepy Hollow, New York, USA. Home of the Headless Horseman...

[fotos-art]

St. Mary Falls in Glacier National Park, Montana

© Pung

Shutterstock

You can almost hear the rushing water in this picture of St. Mary Falls at Montana’s Glacier National Park. To get to this picturesque waterfall and its aqua-blue pools you’ll need to journey to the east side of the park near St. Mary Lake. Glacier is home to 700 miles of hiking trails, including the short day hike that leads to St. Mary Falls, taking visitors through conifer forests. If you feel like chasing more waterfalls, you can extend the hike and journey to nearby Virginia Falls. Don’t forget your camera and be on the lookout for woodpeckers, moose, and wildflowers.

[lightpentagram]

[katiajewelbox]

Today as I was walking to work, I passed by a Catalpa tree that grows wedged in between buildings and overspreads a parking lot. I wanted to get a seed pod so I could try germinating some seeds and grow my own Catalpa, but sadly all the seed pods on the ground were broken and muddy. All the pristine seed pods were high out of reach in the lofty boughs of the Catalpa. In disappointment, I muttered, "I wish I could get an intact seed pod". Suddenly, I heard a loud "crack" and a perfect clean seed pod fell from the tree and landed at my feet. I was so astonished that I said "thank you so much, Catalpa tree!" out loud. It makes one wonder if there's something to the old mythology of Dryads, Huldra, and Yakshini after all...

With its white orchid like flowers and parasol leaves, the Catalpa is a popular ornamental tree in the UK. This tree is commonly called the "Indian Bean Tree", which has misled many people to think it comes form India. In fact, the Catalpa is native to the Southern USA and the "Indian" in the name is the outdated term for Native Americans. Relatives of this tree are found in North America, the Caribbean, and East Asia.

The Catalpa has a curious relationship with a caterpillar. Catalpa trees are relatively pest and disease free due to the high concentrations of iriod glycosides in the plant tissue. The Catalpa Sphinx Moth (Ceratomia catalpae) caterpillars exclusively feed on the Catalpa and sequester the toxins in their own bodies, making the caterpillars unappealing to their usual predators. Research shows that one species of Catalpa (C. speciosa) reacts to caterpillar damage by releasing nectar from glands that attracts ladybirds and ants, which prey on the caterpillars.

[mariocki]

The Headless Eyes (1971)

"You've tried to alienate yourself but, Mal, I'm here, you -"

"Why? For two years I have been trying to live alone and to be able to accept this. Why are you here?"

"Because you haven't convinced me."

"Of what?"

"That you're incurable."

[pathstobliss]

Buffalo Spirit

[siamkram]

“Perhaps you have noticed that even in the slightest breeze you can hear the voice of the Cottonwood tree; this we understand is its prayer to the Great Spirit, for not only men, but all things and all beings pray to Him continually in different ways.” -Black Elk

[rabbitcruiser]

The Smithsonian Institution was chartered by the United States Congress after James Smithson donated $500,000 on August 10, 1846.    

[roadtrippinlilly]

Spirit Ran With The Thunder...

Source Me laf@ilyF ❤️

[woobosco]

Afro Culture (My Culture)

@woobosco

[blueheartbookclub]

"Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Sioux Culture: A Review of Myths and Legends of the Sioux by Mrs. Marie L. McLaughlin"

Myths and Legends of the Sioux, as compiled by Mrs. Marie L. McLaughlin, presents readers with a captivating journey into the rich cultural heritage of the Sioux people. Through a collection of traditional stories passed down through generations, McLaughlin provides invaluable insights into the spiritual beliefs, customs, and values of this indigenous community.

At the heart of the book lies a deep reverence for storytelling as a means of preserving and transmitting cultural knowledge. McLaughlin's meticulous retelling of these myths and legends not only preserves the oral tradition of the Sioux but also offers readers a window into their worldview, spirituality, and collective identity. From creation myths and tales of heroism to legends of nature spirits and animal guides, each story is imbued with symbolism, wisdom, and a profound connection to the natural world.

One of the most striking aspects of Myths and Legends of the Sioux is its portrayal of the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural environment. Through stories of animal spirits and sacred landscapes, McLaughlin highlights the Sioux people's deep respect for the earth and its inhabitants. These narratives serve as reminders of the importance of living in harmony with nature and honoring the sacredness of all life—a message that resonates now more than ever in an era of environmental crisis.

Moreover, the book offers readers a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs and rituals of the Sioux people, shedding light on their understanding of the divine and the supernatural. From the veneration of ancestral spirits to the significance of vision quests and sacred ceremonies, McLaughlin paints a vivid picture of a culture steeped in reverence for the spiritual realm. Through these stories, readers gain insight into the Sioux people's deep sense of connection to the cosmos and their belief in the power of the unseen forces that shape their lives.

In addition to its cultural and spiritual significance, Myths and Legends of the Sioux serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of indigenous storytelling traditions. Despite centuries of colonization, displacement, and cultural assimilation, the oral traditions of the Sioux people have endured, serving as a source of resilience, empowerment, and cultural pride. Through McLaughlin's careful retelling, these stories continue to inspire and educate readers of all backgrounds, fostering a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of indigenous cultures.

In conclusion, Myths and Legends of the Sioux is a captivating exploration of Sioux culture, spirituality, and storytelling traditions. Through its collection of traditional myths and legends, Mrs. Marie L. McLaughlin invites readers on a journey of discovery and reflection, offering invaluable insights into the timeless wisdom and enduring resilience of the Sioux people. With its rich tapestry of stories and profound insights, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in indigenous cultures, folklore, and the power of storytelling to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage.

Myths and Legends of the Sioux, by Mrs. Marie L. McLaughlin, is available in Amazon in paperback 12.99$ and hardcover 20.99$ editions.

Number of pages: 242

Language: English

Rating: 10/10                                           

Link of the book!

Review By: King's Cat

[merlin-wolfgang-trades-hale]

One of my on-going project snippets. Avatar!Steve

“Why is Danny’s place still frozen?” Steve demanded as soon as he saw Duke. 

“Our water-benders are trying, but there is a limit to their ability,” Duke replied. 

Steve’s clarity was being disrupted by his worry over Danny, so he snapped, “Limit? It’s ice! They’re water-benders!” 

Duke often revered to Steve with the respect gained by his rank, in both military and as Avatar, as well as the respect he was born with as a McGarrett. But in that moment, he was an older Hawaiian native who gave a strict gaze as he reminded Steve of where they lived. “You have traveled far and seen many other places. Maybe it has escaped your memory that out of all the benders that live or visit our small islands, water is arguably the one with most restrictions and rules. Only a limited few water-bending masters exist here who are experienced with colder temperatures and ice or snow manipulation.”

Steve closed his eyes for a moment to collect himself before he opened them again and apologized. “Sorry, Duke. It’s...it’s Danny, y’know?” 

“I do. And I know that there’s no one else on this island who knows those ice bending restrictions better than him. Given how much flack he got in the early months of him being here. So I understand your concern...but these ice structures were created by Danny himself. They’re fortified with the strength that will take the Hawaiian August sun hours to melt. We can’t get inside yet.”

“Yeah, well...I’m here now. Let me work.” It was nearly a threat but it most certainly was a warning. Duke called off the benders and let Steve try. 

Steve has begun his water bending training but it was with the basics. Learning to alter the water’s temperature to make it freeze or unfreeze wasn’t anywhere near the curriculum. Didn’t mean he didn’t try. Except he was too angry because he didn’t want to be worried. 

So he stopped trying to water-bend the ice away and instead unleashed his fury with his fire-bending until he saw some of the ice give way before earth-bending a stalagmite to shatter it’s way through. 

I started thinking about world building rules and them being applied to different fandom. Implementing the Avatar bending to H50, and it made me think. Being surrounded by so much water, water benders are pretty dangerous. They always have a weapon, and if they’re mastered it enough the humidity in the air, even if there isn’t an obvious body of water, they still have access to it( never mind potential gangs and criminal organization potentially having Blood Benders). 

Then I was thinking, how much of the average tourist would a)not know a fuck shit about the proper water temperature a place, it’s plant life, and animal life need to remain stable? And b)would be assholes to try and make their own waves or bigger waves or retaliate against anyone or to show off? 

Beaches in an Avatar AU would have STRICT rules in place. Lifeguards might need to be specially trained to like a military level to secure the peace, ensure the safety of native plant and animal life.

Water benders, no matter the profession or life style they lead/live, if they’re in Hawaii they are limited to just water bending. Healing, yes...but when it comes to temperature control...there are like...two official water bending MASTERS who know how to turn water into snow or ice. And it’s become a thing where it’s just been like that for so long that no one really questions it unless they’re not from there. 

I made Danny a Water-Bender and with how winters are on the east coast, and because I personally headcanon Danny to just have a more affinity to colder climates, to him ice and snow are second nature. And because he came from a big city where younger water benders as young as 7-8 year olds make their first bit of chump change by offering to snow-bend the drive ways of little old ladies or get more allowance if they wake up and defrost their parent’s car...when Danny first came to Hawaii as he followed Grace, seen as an outsider with the element that may have the most restrictions, particularly in his specialty. It was hard but Danny learned to ‘control’ himself..aka adjust his mannerism. (He’s always in control. Just...things that were normal for him are a big deal on the island, but he has never been out of control of his element. Danny is also a Blood Bender and that’s why but it’s not knowledge anyone knows and he’s terrified of anyone learning)  

Steve has seen plenty of Danny’s power, potential, and most importantly his control. It’s why Steve chose Danny to be his Water bending master instead of the native Hawaiian born they wanted to assign him. There are also a lot of deeper feelings involved, so Steve hearing that Danny elsa fortressed himself means something is very wrong! 

but on like a lighter note, when they need something from Kamekona, Danny has bribed him with water-bending him x-lbs of shaved ice. 

[805angieee]