#rainbow springs state park

[stone-cold-groove]

Cover illustration detail. Rainbow Springs brochure - 1959.

[herpsandbirds]

Longnose Gar (Lepisosteus osseus), family Lepisosteidae, order Lepisosteiformes, Rainbow Springs State Park, Florida, USA

photograph by Brandy Clark (@brandyland80)

[m-o-o-n-s-g-o-o-n-s]

Requests, yay!! Thank you for blessing tumblr with your bright presence! ✨️

So, I was thinking... I'd like to request something with our handsome and beloved Crosshair and a female reader perhaps involving a cozy rainy evening in a coffee shop? I'm in a very big coffee and cozy mood and some fluff with Crosshair would maybe really hit the spot. One shot or headcanons would be alright, just wirte whatever you wish. I know it'll be lovely! And thank you again for doing this ✨️🩷

OMG I HAD SO MUCH FUN DOING THIS ONE!!!

i had to ponder on it forever, but once i thought of the idea, the spring sprung fr.

hope you enjoy!! :)

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Crosshair x F!Reader

Word Count: 1,169 words

Warnings: talking of the war, army, battles, being away (only mentioned once or twice)

Genre: VERY VERY FLUFFY, LIKE SUPER FLUFFY

Description: A day out with Crosshair takes a sweet, and rainy turn.

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Rainy Days & Mochas

—

“You know it’s going to rain soon, right?”

Extending arms of oak trees hung above your head, crisp air nipping your nose as you looked above. Cinnamon, ochres, pecans, and crimsons fluttered above on the branches in the shape of leaves. Just beyond, through the autumnal rainbow, distant rain clouds could be spotted. 

You also spotted him.

“I’m ignoring the rain.”

Fortunately, the Batch had gotten a week of shore leave after months of being on the go. A never ending war in sight, always something to tend to, and also some droid army to take down. 

In the here and now though, there was a handsome sniper in your sights. One that was holding your hand and walking with you in this quiet autumn world. 

That in itself could demolish any thought of how quickly the week felt like it was drifting by.

“How can you ignore the rain if it’s getting ready to rain?” You questioned, smiling to yourself at the repetitive asks.

Crosshair’s warm chuckle rang out into the autumn touched park the pair of you were walking in. 

He had wanted to take you out today, spend time with you. Just be with you.

Despite how cold it was from the autumn air, your heart failed to be chilled. 

“I’m ignoring it because I’m focusing on you,” Crosshair said, turning to you. The softness dulled those hard edges you had seen on occasion. Late nights where he came to your apartment, seeking the comfort he would never have out on the battlefield. 

He was out of his gear for once as well, donning a ebony turtleneck, blue jeans, and that damned jacket that still sent butterflies through your stomach. It was tawny corduroy, fluffy white lining poking out of the collar. It smelt like him, warm oceanic musk, pine, and that hint of his polish he used on his beloved sniper. 

That jacket stayed with you, a token to remember him while he was away. For now though, you didn’t have to remember. He was here, and that’s what mattered.

“What’s got your mind in a twist, darlin’?” Crosshair asked, hands coming to cradle your face.

You looked to Crosshair, thoughts dwindling away. 

“Nothing. Just you.” You leaned into his touch, craving it. He smiled, coming close to pepper your nose with kisses.

Little pitter patters of water began to sprinkle on your shoulders, sending a chill through your spine.

It had begun to rain.

“I told you it was going to rain,” you stated, the simplicity of it amusing you. The weather began to pick up, the rain coming down faster, pouring from the sky.

“Crosshair!” You exclaimed, drops beginning to splash on your head.

“Let’s run!” He yelled, a smile tugging on his face.

He was already grabbing your hand, pulling you along as you ran through the park you had been enjoying. Giggles spilled from both of you, darting among rain and falling leaves. It wasn’t long before you came back to the streets of the city, making your way quickly across the road to a random business. 

Shelter.

Coffee beans?

Crosshair had pulled you two into a quaint little coffee shop, the smell of hot drinks and warm pastries tingling your nose as you both entered. 

“Crosshair!”

You shook in laughter, cold splatters of leftover rain water hitting you as he had bent over to shake his hair of water. He stood back up, another warm smile greeting your eyes. 

“Sorry, darlin’. I suppose I’ll just have to buy you a drink to warm you up.”

He didn’t wait for your answer, already making his way towards the counter to order. You moseyed your way to a back corner table, taking off your jacket and settling into the worn booth seats. It was cozy, almost nostalgic in how warm and inviting it was.

“I love when you wear that sweater.”

Crosshair had returned, carrying a pastry bag, two coffees, and that lovey dovey look he always seemed to wear around you. 

He was referencing what you were wearing, an amaranth sleeved sweater, chunky and warm in the best way for the fall weather. You gave him a smile, giggling as he came to cozy up next to you. He pressed a kiss to your forehead, pulling you into his side. Despite the rain pounding against the windows of the little shop, the cold didn’t reach you in Cross’s warmth.

“So… you come here often, darlin’?”

You laughed, the sound bouncing in the carefree atmosphere. 

“It’s my first time. How about you?”

You hadn’t missed how Crosshair had pulled the two of you into the cute cafe, knowing it was a hobby of his to taste different beverages from the beloved coffee beans. Iced, warmed, cream, no cream, he loved it all. He thought he was being sneaky, but you knew his antics.

“Ah, it’s my first time with my girl. Though I know for a fact this place has the best mochas this side of town.”

“This side of town?”

“What? I had to explore the other cafes and coffee houses.”

That made you both laugh. 

Crosshair reached forward across the table, bringing two russet orange mugs closer to you. When the mugs reached your eyes, foamy sweetness with little chocolate chunks decorating the snowy top of the drink appeared. Beneath, you had a feeling a hot caffeinated drink was hidden. You also noticed a warm chocolate croissant being taken out of the little paper bag it was in. 

You looked up, meeting expectant eyes. Crosshair always shared everything with you about his little hobby, describing the drinks in detail. It was like poetry, how the flavor swirled in his mouth, or how the sugar had almost been a touch too much. 

He was waiting for you to try it, and you could do with some more warmth. 

Not that you needed it, not with him.

You raised the cup to your lips, taking a sip of the hot drink. 

Decadent, sweet, but bitter. Somehow, it all worked together, creating a drink you actually loved.

“Okay, that is so good,” You mumbled, taking another sip, hand already reaching for the croissant. 

“I knew you would like it,” Crosshair murmured, arm squeezing you closer than you already were. He pressed another peck to your forehead, smiling against your skin. 

Your gaze turned to the window, noting how the autumn day had turned quite rainy and chilled. Thoughts of running home in the rain with Crosshair sprung to your mind, knowing you both would be soaked by the time you made it to your apartment. 

“Your mind’s in a twist again, darlin’,” Crosshair spoke, his warm smile making your heart stutter.

It was your turn to greet him with your smile, arms wrapping around him.

“Just thinking of you and the rain.”

His laugh rang out again.

How you could never tire of the musical sound.

“Don’t worry sweetheart, I’ll keep you warm.”

And you knew he would make good on that promise.

—

tagging the fabulous @moonstrider9904, as well as a few others! @nahoney22 @hellothere-generalangsty @eyecandyeoz @baddest-batchers @leenabb104104 @dalu-grantkylo @ladysaturnsdust

If any of those tagged, or anyone else is interested in being on my taglist, here is the form to fill it out, or leave your interest in the comments. You can also find my taglist form on my pinned post!

Taglist Form

[dailyoverview]

The Grand Prismatic Spring — located in Teton County, Wyoming, inside Yellowstone National Park — is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. The spring is approximately 370 feet (110 m) in diameter, 160 feet (50 m) deep, and discharges an estimated 560 gallons (2,100 L) of water per minute. Its vivid colors, which match the rainbow dispersion of white light by a prism, are caused by layers of microorganisms that live around the edges of its mineral-rich water.

44.525000°, -110.838056°

Source imagery: Maxar

[t-0ne25]

[B] — THE PARK

There’s nothing in this world a quiet walk in the sun can solve, right? At least that’s what your brain always manages to make you believe when sunbeams collide with your skin on the first day of spring, warning you up from outside as if they’re some magical elixir. But it’s just mother nature providing you vitamins and serotonin for free, while helping you clear your head.

The birds are chirping, beautiful flowers are taking over the field, enlightening your view in all the colours the rainbow can offer. You take a deep breath, allowing your whole body to relax just how it deserves. Cool. Your anxious thoughts are basically gone. There’s no need to worry.

When you pass one of the cafés near, you head to the counter and purchase one of your favourite iced drinks. They finally changed the menu to the one specifically made for spring, which eases your heart and mind further.

Everything is perfect. Problems? You’ve never heard of them.

Until you sit down on one of the wooden and dark green coloured benches back in the park again—getting a great panorama view of the pond and the ducks playing and swimming inside.

At first, you don’t notice him. He’s just as shy and anxious as you tend to be, especially whenever he’s with you. Well, usually he plays it cool, pretending to be confident and you believe him. The teasing tells it all. But deep down he knows he’d basically faint if you ever made a move on him.

“Hey.”

Oh, no. Problem number two that you were trying to escape found you. Dammit.

“Hey, Ji. You’re here too?”

No, I’m one of the ducks and turned into an illusion of Han Jisung, he thinks but doesn’t speak out loud. Minho and his sarcasm aren’t a good influence on him as it seems.

“Yeah… I’ve been trying to clear my mind and all.” His gaze is fixated on the ground, as he looks down at his shoes. His hands and fingers are fidgeting, showing how nervous he is.

“Are you okay, Jisung?”

His eyes shoot up towards you, “Yeah! I’m fine. I’m fine.”

It’s hard seeing him like this. You wonder what’s going on and if it possibly has something to do with you. Until you push that idea aside. This isn’t about you. Jisung seems to be plagued by some thoughts and you’re his friend, always ready to help and listen.

“Do you wanna talk? Tell me what’s going on?”

He awkwardly chuckles, “I’m… not sure.”

You tilt your head, stepping a few steps towards him. Jisung’s heartbeat quickens and he prays you don’t notice.

“Come on, you can tell me everything,” you reassure him.

He blinks a few times. “Even if it involves my guilty conscience and you?”

Could he perhaps mean…?

No, there’s no way. Sure, with all the teasing he’s brought to daylight whenever you’ve been in a room with him one could think he does actually like you more than a friend. Hell, Han Jisung flirts with you as if he’s trying to win an Olympic gold medal. The fact you’re still not considering the chance that he has some type of crush on you is almost ridiculous.

“Yeah, even then,” you say. “What is it?”

Now you’re the one whose heart is bursting out of their chest, impatiently awaiting and answer.

“I will tell you… but perhaps, not here? Like in public and all?”

“We can go to my place. It’s not that far from here,” you suggest.

Twenty minutes later, you find yourself inside your apartment since it’s closer to the park where your paths accidentally crossed. You offer Jisung a glass of water and fill one for yourself too before the two of you plop down on your sofa. He’s never been here before and it shows—like a child, his eyes are roaming all over the walls and furniture inside your living room, truly amazed of how much of a copy of yourself this flat is. It reflects you like a mirror.

But your friend gets dragged out of his focused state, when you speak, “So, whenever you’re ready, yeah?”

He gulps, nervousness striking all over his pretty face.

“I know I shouldn’t feel this way and I am sure this won’t even surprise you… but I like you. More than a friend. And, God, you’re so fucking attractive but also freaking adorable, it messes with my head.”

“Ji–“

“Wait, I’m not done yet,” he interrupts you back. “I know I shouldn’t feel that way, after all Minho and you–“

“We aren’t… dating. If that’s what you think,” you tell him.

For a moment Jisung can see sparkles of hope running in front of his eyes, ready to be caught. Until they vanish away, bringing him back to reality.

“But you like him,” he speaks through gritted teeth.

“I do,” you admit.

His head is hanging low now and so are his shoulders which he shrugs. Jisung’s speaks in a soft voice when he begins again, “I knew it. Well, it was nice–“

“But I like you too, more than a friend, Han Jisung,” you tell him with a wide grin.

He nods, a bright laughter slipping past his lips, “The usage of the government name makes it feel so serious.”

“Because I am,” you emphasise. “I am serious. I’m sorry for all this mess.”

He takes a step towards you, reaching for your hands and suddenly all the anxiety disappears. “No. Don’t apologise. There's no mess if we don’t create one.”

You’ve never expected someone like Jisung who makes jokes throughout the whole day would be so mature about this. You’ve absolutely misjudged him on that matter.

“What do you mean?”

You still want to make sure you’re on the same page and he’s not just saying that as a joke again.

“We can discuss things later with Minho,” he explains. “But can I be selfish for once and kiss you?”

The smile on your face is hard to miss, “What are you waiting for, hm?”

He grins, right before he smashes his lips into yours. And it feels like you’ve just cheated your way into heaven. This is perfect. More than perfect. His mouth feels so smooth against your own, as his tongue carefully asks for entrance when he lets the tip graze over your lower lip. You grant him just that, inviting it in, as a mischievous grin makes it up to your face. He’s so shy, so different from all the teasing it’s adorable.

Soon, you wrap your arms around his neck, before your kisses go on a little journey, hovering over his cheek, his jawline, down to his neck. Jisung lets you do the work, melting under your touch and basically turning into a puddle. His head is thrown back, his hands are gripping your waist.

“If we don’t stop very soon,” he starts then, speaking in between small whimpers, “I don’t think I will be able to hold back, baby.”

You chuckle, “That’s my plan, Ji.”

He lets go of you for a second, his eyes finding your own. “What about Minho?”

“Let’s be selfish for a bit. We will talk to him later, yeah?”

Jisung nods, before his mouth crashes into yours again. You feel hypnosis taking over you, when you guide him towards your bedroom. He kicks the door open with his foot, before you drag him further towards the mattress. A little push is enough to make him land on the bed, so you can crawl on top of him. Usually, in any conversation, Jisung is the one to lead, so you’ve been dying to know if he’d be the same in the bedroom. So far it seems to be quite the opposite and you don’t mind at all.

A second later, your friend feels you on top of him, straddling his lap before your arms seize around his shoulders. Your lips are attached to his neck again, drawing the prettiest pattern he’s ever witnessed that will leave a fond memory of today for everyone to see. You guide them further, while you help him out of his shirt, before they travel more.

You��re scooting down, leaving his thighs and forcing a small whine to spill from Jisung’s lips but he doesn’t complain. Not when you’re already making your way further south, hastily fumbling with his belt before you slide down his jeans. His hardened cock is straining against the material of his boxers, begging to be let free. But to tease him a bit more—he deserves it after all—you start slowly palming him through the fabric, applying only a bit of pressure to drive him even crazier.

“Tell me what you like, Jisung,” you tell him in the softest voice his ears have ever witnessed.

“Anything… just touch me, please.”

You decide to free him from the torture, pulling down his boxers just to realise he’s completely naked now whereas you’re still fully dressed. You make quick work when your hand wraps around his throbbing length. He’s thick, promising to fill you nicely but this has to wait for now. You start pumping him, listening to the sweet little whimpers he lets out as if they’ve just become your favourite melody.

“I wanna make you feel good,” you confess, before you slide down. Jisung parts his legs and you settle right between them, getting into a comfortable position. You’re on your knees for him, your mouth dangerously close to his dick. Then he feels saliva drip onto his tip, before you smear the liquid over his shaft.

“I’ve thought about this moment so many times, fuck–“

His words get cut off, when he feels your warm and wet mouth around him. His brain basically shuts off at this point, as he watches your head move up and down, taking in as much as you can fit. Slurping sounds are echoing through your bedroom, while you start drooling all over his length. The fact you’re moaning while doing all the work doesn’t make things any easier for him—Jisung said goodbye to the last hopeless piece of his sanity a while ago.

You let his dick slip out of your mouth for a moment, just to whisper, “You’re such a good boy, Sungie. You’re so good for me.” He almost cums when he listens to those words but is able to cold back. Just for you to take him into your mouth again, nearly triggering your gag reflex. Your friend feels himself getting closer and closer, knowing he’s practically tasting that sweet relief, but then–

You pull away. And give him the most teasing grin he’s ever seen.

“Fuck, why’d you stop?”

“I’d prefer it, if you came inside of me,” you confess, cocking your head.

Jisung—despite the fact that he’s absolutely down for it—panics in an instant, “I– I don’t have a condom with me, Y/N. I didn’t exactly expect this to happen when I went out to the park for a nice walk and–“

“I’m on the pill. I’m fine without one if you are,” you reassure him.

“Jesus Christ, is it my birthday already? I thought it’s March,” he says, hyperventilating, while he looks at his wrist although he isn’t even wearing a watch that would tell him today's date.

You snicker, “Stop joking around, baby, and fuck me already.”

And for some reason, you can’t even explain it yourself, something shifts in his mood. Something quite dangerous, if you will.

“Ask nicely, angel,” he teases. Of course, he’s back with the teasing. He wouldn’t be Han Jisung after all.

You give him a faux pout, “Would you please fuck me, Jisung, and make me cum on your cock?”

“You’re truly an angel because you can’t be real,” he whispers, before his hands find your waist and he turns your around.

“You sure you don’t want me to… prepare you first?”

His fingers are wandering under your skirt, while you spread your legs for him. Jisung lets his hand wander further, until he’s grazing over your wet underwear.

“No… Please don’t make me wait any longer.”

He nods, before he slides the ruined fabric aside, playing with your clit a little while two of his fingers are circling around your entrance.

Jisung scoots closer and aligns his cock with your hole. He dips the tip inside and when you give him a small nod, he adds some more of his length, taking his time to allow you to get used to the feeling.

He is definitely more on the girthier side, stretching you deliciously open and you wonder what life would have been like if you had allowed him to do all this with your body yesterday.

Or, perhaps, even way before that. Because you can’t deny—as pathetic as it sounds—that some of his flirtatious comments have made you a little wet in the past, especially when you were back home, on a lonely night, your fingers passing your underwear while you touched yourself, thinking of the man who’s currently spreading you open with his length.

“This feels so good, you’re so good at this,” you praise him, arching your back.

“Hmm, who would have thought that you could be a good girl too, huh?”

“Only for you, Jisung,” you admit in between moans, letting your friend rail you into oblivion. The feeling drives you crazy, how he fills and pleases you, especially when two of his fingers reach around you and start rubbing your clit again.

“Well, I sure hope so. You’re such a good slut for me,” he groans through gritted teeth. 

You nearly see stars when you listen to those degrading yet praising words, “Make me cum, Ji.”

“Oh, I absolutely will.” He chuckles, driving you closer to the edge of snapping. “Come on, let go, angel, I’ve got you.”

And you follow suit. You clench around him, as your legs begin to shake and your vision gets filled with sparkles. The sensation takes over you, your whole body and soul while Jisung guides you through it. With how much your walls are tightening around him, his own relief gets triggered too and hot seeds shoot into your cunt, filling you to the brim.

Jisung glides his now softening cock out of you, watching the mixture of cum trickle down your thighs.

“So, how about we take a quick shower and head back to my place? We can discuss everything with Minho there, if you like,” he suggests.

“Sounds good.”

Thank you lots for reading 🩷 ENJOYED THIS STORY? Go back to the main part and leave a comment, reblog or send an ask my way if you feel like it! I’d appreciate it so much. 🌷

© j-One25 2024 | copying, translating or stealing my work is prohibited

[magicaguajiro]

Swamp Witch Travels: Rainbow Springs

History

Rainbow Springs’ first human visitors probably came upon her waters well over 10,000 years ago in the form of paleo-indigenous groups. Moving further along, the Timucua and their neighbors used this spring, like many others for fishing, travel and funerary rites. After colonization, the area surrounding the spring was used for phosphate mining into the 1930s. This is where much of the waterfalls on the property came from, made with byproduct of the mines. From here, it became a privately owned tourist attraction offering many of the same draws as Silver Springs, like glass bottom boats, submarines and of course a dip in the ‘Healing Waters’. In 1990, the State acquired it, creating the park we have today. Its a first magnitude spring, and the fourth largest in the state. Like many springs, it was formed from a sinkhole around 14,000 years ago and freshwater bubbles up from it continuously.

Agua Dulce

Springs have always had a connection to the Indigenous peoples of the area. In the Caribbean, we find amongst the syncretic systems the concept of a group of spirits known by some as the Division of Agua Dulce, which literally translates to Sweet Water. This group of spirits is comprised of Indigenous ancestors who were from the Caribbean or transported there during colonial times. Some of the spirits are fallen heroes, past Caciques, or the Cemí and other Land spirits these ancestors have relationships with. Some of the Spirits in this division I venerate and work with are Atabey, the Supreme Creatrix and Water Mother, and Anacaono, a female Cacique from Ayiti (Haiti) who led a Taino Rebellion in the 16th Century. Within the practices of this division, we see that Springs are held as places of high spiritual importance, and are a direct connection to our ancestors, as their spirit is literally embedded in the Sweet Waters rising from the Spring. The word ‘canoe’ actually comes from the Taíno (kanoa). In espiritismo, one metaphor for the Bóveda I have heard is that it is your own personal Spring of spiritual energy and wisdom, deepening the importance of springs in my practice.

Springs in Praxis

When I visit any park, I always leave an offering by a tree upon entering. I believe in the notion of paying one to pay them all. This is usually tobacco and some coins, accompanied by a prayer. However, when I go to a River or Spring, I find it imperative to also make an offering to the Water itself. This allows me safe entry, and occasionally even some guidance and protection. Like many water spirits, shiny coins and singing make nice offerings to the Springs. Its always good practice to clean up trash and be respectful to the workers and environment. You should always ask permission and make an offering if you plan on collecting anything, as otherwise it may not lend you the virtues you are seeking. When I visit a Spring, I always fully submerge myself - baptism style - to cleanse and receive the healing and blessings of the spring. I also will collect some of the water if I need to use as an offering to certain spirits, as well as for spellwork. I empower the water to either call on the spring itself or for virtues of healing, renewal and growth. I have also heard of friends using the water for prophetic dreams and divination work, citing the connection to spiritual development in espiritismo.

Springs for Tomorrow

Many springs today are suffering various ecological problems, most of which are directly caused by humans. The best spiritual practice is to learn how to act in these sensitive environments, to prevent further degradation. I recommend the instagram @FloridaSpringsCouncil to learn more about the importance of our Springs and the issues plaguing them.

Bendiciones🕯️

[fountainpenguin]

"Now, shoulders back- and stand up tall! And do not walk, but try to float!" (x)

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New 130 Reasons Why I’m Fairy Trash update today!

Fairly OddParents || One-Shot - “I Just Live Here”

Read on FFN || Read on AO3

Find more Lavender Train story arc HERE

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It's spring break for the Spellementary School kids. Poof, Finley, and Foop visit their extended family for the holidays- Poof with Granddad Dusty ("Big Daddy") and all his Fairywinkle cousins, Foop with his grandmother, and Finley with...

... Well. I guess H.P.'s just putting him to work. That's Pixie life for ya.

(First 1,000 words under the cut)

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By the way... FFN keeps saying that it won't send me more emails because apparently my email is rejecting them and no matter how many fixes I attempt, it's not sticking.

If you would like to leave a review, I'd prefer you leave it on AO3 because I'm confident I'll get an email that I can respond to, but you can still leave reviews on the FFN story if you wish!

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125. I Just Live Here (Immediate sequel to "Scarred")

Wednesday May 6th, 2005

Year of Sky, Spring of the Silent Owls

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Poof Fairywinkle-Cosma

Chingaling-chime!

"Now approaching Starglint Town. Please prepare to disembark in the next five minutes. If you've enjoyed your local public transportation system, consider supporting returning candidate Mortikor Fern as Pink Robe in the next Fairy Council election. Thank you for flying with Rainbow Transit Services and have a magical day."

I've heard that message (with different drop-off points subbed in) so many times in the past four hours, I kind of wanna barf. And even if I did, I could probably recite it several times myself on the way to the nearest clinic. I'll be glad when this bus ride is over. I feel like it's been four weeks since I left the Spellementary dorms.

There's a good reason as to why it's taken so long. Starglint Town lies at the edge of the Fairy World Outskirts, basically kissing the border with Anti-Fairy World… separated from it only by Emper: a scraggly little town on the floating island that's just come into view up ahead. Emper isn't much to look like. There's a park with cool statues from the old days, plus a cute grocery store where they hand out free sugar cookies to kids. My dad takes me to get one every time we visit Mama Cosma, but there isn't much else that's interesting. Starglint Town is where all the action is, from libraries to community centers to toy stores and pizza shops.

Granddad Dusty's property is smack between the two. Everyone in Emper calls him Big Daddy and they treat him with so much respect, I always wonder if my family are under some kind of secret government protection just because our counterparts rule Anti-Fairy World. I mean, it doesn't sound too far-fetched when you think about it for a while. I know a lot of people dislike the Anti-Fairywinkles, but I hope most of them realize that if we knocked them out of power, it wouldn't be the end of that kind of leadership in Anti-Fairy World. Someone else would just rise up to take over, and they could be even worse than Anti-Cosmo is now.

I don't even think Anti-Cosmo is that bad, but if I say that, people will freak out at me and shower me in questions about whether or not I remember getting kidnapped as a newborn. I don't, but… that doesn't mean I want to hear about it over and over again. I wish more people would respect my boundaries and ask me first before they talk about it… Not just dump the whole kidnapping thing on my head any time I want to have a polite and reasonable conversation about Fairy World history, geography, or politics.

Maybe instead of screaming about how H.P. and Anti-Cosmo are evil fiends who went off the deep end and can never be forgiven because they kidnapped a baby and tried to springboard off my magic to rule the universe, we could, I dunno… ask ourselves why the current state of the universe isn't working for them? There's gotta be some reason they feel like they're doing the right thing for their people by pushing back against the Fairies. They're still people, right?

Or if you want to look at this from another angle, why do Anti-Fairy World and Pixie World even have corrupt leaders in the first place? Do people support them? If they don't, then why don't their people support Fairy World? Are we the crueler of two evils in their eyes? We should change that. We should figure out how to fix it.

And if Pixies and Anti-Fairies do support their leaders, maybe we should ask ourselves why. Are they being brainwashed by hateful propaganda? My school's always teaching us that Anti-Fairies are behind all that's bad in the universe, so we're using propaganda too.

Do Pixies and Anti-Fairies support their leaders because they care about their people, use their taxes wisely, and keep everyone fed, sheltered, and clothed? That sounds okay to me. Next topic: Why aren't Anti-Cosmo and Foop's dad in jail for all those other times they tried to take over Fairy World? If the answer to that is "their worlds will fall apart if they don't stay in power, plunging the universe into chaos," then maybe they're actually great leaders and aren't so bad after all.

Just a thought. Politics are probably more complicated than I think they are, but that's just me.

I've never worried about repeat kidnapping when I'm at home with my parents, apart from maybe one time that Timmy's Dad snuck into his room and stole our fishbowl for Mr. Crocker. At school, I feel safe in the hands of the faculty and their magical wards. Yeah, Mr. Crocker might be my teacher now and he really is as wacky and distractible as Timmy always said he was, but he's not allowed within twenty feet of our dorms.

My classmates don't always respect our cohort's RA, but I'm pretty sure Gary would mess Crocker the freak up if he ever tried peering through our windows. Gary and Crocker are both witches, but Gary's 1.56% genie with minor reality-bending powers to prove it, while Crocker's about thirteen generations down from his magical ancestor with nothing to show for it but the ability to float. I know who I'd bet money on in that fight.

Foop and I tried sneaking out one time when it was late and we wanted fruit snacks from the vending machine, and that's how I found out that Gary can just snap his fingers and summon clones of himself. I don't leave my room after curfew anymore.

[Cnt'd on FFN / AO3 - Links at top]

[starseneyes]

Museum Kids

I grew up in a bygone era—when school field trips were plentiful and adventurous. My mother worked 80 hour weeks on film sets, including Fraturday schedules. So, she lacked the time and energy to take us places like that.

School took us all over. Aquariums. Historical forts. Islands protected from human involvement. State Zoos. Amusement Parks. Disney World. Museums. State Fairs. And this was public school in the 90's!

My kids have the benefit of a mother and father with (relatively) normal hours who are teamed up to raise them. I love museums, so I started taking them in infancy. Not just to Children's Museums... but to art museums. And, guess what? They love them.

I remember the first time I took all three to Norfolk alone to visit the Chrysler Museum of Art. My Littlest was not quite 2, and the twins were nearing 5. I remember gripping their hands, hoping it was a good idea.

At one point, my Middle child released my hand and ran away from me. I panicked, a moment. He is Autistic and prone to wandering. But, he ran only a few feet and planted himself in front of a frame on the wall. In a room full of paintings, he found the only Degas.

"That's beautiful," he breathed as he stood and marveled.

So, rather than chide him for running off, I told him a bit about the painting and artist. He listened, took my hand back in his, and we kept exploring.

This week, the Littles and Matthew (school teacher) are on Spring Break. It's tough for me because I still have to work while they are all home, but I shift my schedule so we can take outtings in the afternoon together.

Today, we visited that same museum for the first time in a bit. The children (now ages 6, 9 and 9) were enthused, especially taken by the Venetian Glass exhibit after we've been watching the show Blown Away.

The twins fell in love with a piece of art that allowed them to see one another instead of their own reflection, and decided together they wanted to stage this pose. Don't worry, they aren't touching the glass, but holding their hands close enough to complete the illusion.

Neither saw their own reflection... only each other. And as twins who each came from a different Fallopian tube and then affixed to the opposite positions (front and back) of my uterus, the mirroring seemed beautifully appropriate.

But the best moment for me was standing in the Modern Art wing with my Littlest looking at a massive piece on the wall covered in Mardis Gras beads and lots of color.

6yo: Mama? Do they have any Picasso? Me: They've had Picasso exhibits before, but I don't think they have any right now.

A woman walking by overheard me and gave me a quizzical look. She pointed behind me and uttered a single word: "Picasso".

There was a massive Picasso right behind me. After laughing at myself, the Littlest posed in front of it for a photo.

The children made little drawings to add to the collection on the wall, and we journeyed through so many beautiful pieces of art.

My Middle leaned against my arm as we walked, whispering the meanings he saw. Littlest cheered at the rainbow room of glass. And Eldest looked for everything that was new between our last visit and this one.

On the way out of town, we stopped at Doumars for grilled cheeses and ice cream for the Littles, then at Zeke's for poké bowls for the grownups.

It was a lovely afternoon. And I sit here in such awe that my Littles are museum kids. I hope they grow up to be museum grownups! One can hope, right?

[angstics]

transcript of sufjan steven's writing at the back of the michigan vinyl (transcribed by u/cynicalis):

Welcome to Michigan! The waterways and waterfalls! Soo locks, state parks and Walloon Lake. The apple farms and cherry blossoms and two striking peninsulas bordering four Great Lakes! The sandy shore-lines, the spring-fed rivers, the Mackinac Bridge! Blissfest! Henry Ford! Tulip Time! Motown music! Bring a set of clubs, try your swing at Harbour Point. Wear the tan pants with pockets on the hips. Carry the things in them that matter most: the paper matchbook from Petoskey, your sister's postcards from Marquette, a turkey feather, a rabbit's foot. Sip lemonade and listen for the biplanes overhead making figure eights in the sky. Carry a canoe around St. Mary's Rapid, like the Ojibway. Overhead, sixteen geese cast their shadow V over the straits of Mackinac. There is the smell of leaves burning, wood stoves, cigar smoke and compost.

The people are generous, warm, outgoing, helpful, industrious, always willing to lend a hand. They give clear directions to the interstate. Have you been to Frankenmuth? Christmas in July? The Renaissance Festival? The Renaissance Center? Have you harvested baby's breath in abandoned lots? Have you been on a three-wheeler, a snowmobile, a ferry to Beaver Island? There are rainbow trout and catfish, beaver dams, curious raccoons, and mourning doves moaning overhead, balanced on power lines.

Follow 1-75 downstate to Detroit. Listen for the lonely echo in Tiger Stadium, traffic on Grand River Avenue, the empty aisles of Hudson's, long abandoned. Look around and spend the day in mourning. Oh Detroit, you complicated old man, nearly dead, with your shoulders arched over the river, polluted and gray, the threads of your shirt worn down with disease and car exhaust. You have grown thin with industry, car factories, riots, raids, transportation nightmares. You have eaten Coney dogs with relish and onion. You have built magnificent buildings only to burn them. Your children's children have squandered their dowry. They strut on the streets. They throw trash in the trees and hang their laundry on ropes fit for hanging.

Oh Detroit, what have you done to man, his wife and kids, his cousins, his music, his hairstyles, his shoes with white tips, his pleated pants, his elbow slung out the car window, his basketball courts, his officers downtown, his nightclubs, his shirtsleeve tucked over a pack of cigarettes, his imagination, his industry, his sense of humor, his home? Oh Detroit, what have you done to city hall, the public trains, the workers' union, the Eastern Market, Boblo Island, the Ambassador Bridge? Where have you put your riches, where have you hid your treasure? Your concrete over-passes, your avenues as wide as rivers, your suburbs bloated with brick homes and strip malls and discount liquor stores and resale shops. When you are dead and gone, who will care for your children's children. They have run wild with the bastard boys around the streets, reckless car rides downtown, rigorous dancing, drug taking, knife-stabbing, pillow-stuffing, tail wagging restlessness. They have been drunk with this for years. They have been out of their minds. They have been left with nothing.

Even still, here and now, there is a renaissance of hope. The streets will take up horns and play free jazz, the buses will clang their bells in time, the buildings once burned out will be home to the homeless. Living rooms will be filled with furniture. Broken families will reconcile. Women will be honored with lilac wreaths. Men will begin to lower their voices. Children will fill playgrounds and parks with the sounds of their playing.

Who can call us father, or who can call us son? If we have regarded ourselves abandoned by whatever thing (a person, a lover, a parent, a false prophet, ourselves), then we have lost touch with the great family, ourselves, all of us together, in this great place called Michigan. Who is your neighbor? He is your brother. Who is that stranger? She is your mother. The man downstairs hammering on the wall, the woman blow-drying her hair in the bathroom-these people are your family. Have you lost your mother to death? Have you lost your father to disease, to war, alcohol, drugs, a car accident? Nothing can replace them. They have been made known completely in death, to whatever supernatural landscape (who can say for sure?). Until then, it is our hard task to welcome the widows, the children, the orphans, the fatherless into our family. What little effort it takes -- a friendly nod at the stranger on the street, giving change to the man who asks, saying hello or goodbye, opening doors, keeping our mouths shut. In the small things, the day-to-day gestures, the normal business of the day, we do the great work of the kingdom, which is to welcome each unlikely individual into the fold, one person at a time.

We do these things, not because we are Michiganders, but because we have been called to participate in the world’s creation from the very beginning. Making music. Baking cakes. Sewing curtains. These things mean something greater: that we have been known from the very start. Our eye color, our hairline, our jawline, the shape of our big toe, the tone of our voice. These things have been designed from the very beginning. What kind of music we listen to. The sort of skirt that looks good. The baseball cap, the tennis shoe, the orange bandana. We have been made to find these things for ourselves and take them in as ours, like adopted children: habits, hobbies, idiosyncrasies, gestures, moods, tastes, tendencies, worries. They have been put in us for good measure.

Perhaps we don’t like what we see: our hips, our loss of hair, our shoe size, our dimples, our knuckles too big, our eating habits, our disposition. We have disclosed these things in secret, likes and dislikes, behind doors with locks, our lonely rooms, our messy desks, our empty hearts, our sudden bursts of energy, our sudden bouts of depression. Don’t worry. Put away your mirrors and your beauty magazines and your books on tape. There is someone right here who knows you more than you do, who is making room on the couch, who is fixing a meal, who is putting on your favorite record, who is listening intently to what you have to say, who is standing there with you, face to face, hand to hand, eye to eye, mouth to mouth. There is no space left uncovered. This is where you belong.

[stone-cold-groove]

Interior panels. Rainbow Springs brochure - 1959.

[naturecoaster]

Exploring Inverness Florida: Where Downtown Waterfront Parks Shine

A pair of limpkins balanced on a tree branch over a sparkling blue lake with edges laced in flowering yellow pond water lilies. Spanish moss hung in a softly swaying curtain around the long-legged birds. Around them, the sounds of cicadas joined in a heated chorus, and beneath them, an alga-encrusted cooter turtle paddled in the water. A pair of limpkins find a shady perch by Liberty Boardwalk Trail. Photo by Sally White All this nature exists only a short stroll away from the historic downtown of Inverness, Florida. Known as Citrus County’s ‘Small Town Done Right’, the City of Inverness coexists with green space and local parks that showcase this region’s outdoor beauty. Three of the City of Inverness waterfront parks, Cooter Pond, Wallace Brooks, and Liberty are located downtown on the Inverness throughfare of the 46-mile Withlacoochee State Trail. The Withlacoochee State Trail is Florida’s longest paved multi-use recreation trail, stretching from Citrus Springs near Dunnellon to Trilby in Pasco County. Three Amazing Waterfront Parks to Explore in Downtown Inverness Florida Cooter Pond Park The first Inverness waterfront park we explored is Cooter Pond Park. The cooter is a type of turtle and they are prolific here. Instagram gets littered with pictures of the boardwalk trail traversing the 25-acre pond in front of the local Citrus County Sherriff’s Office. With views of the dome of the historic courthouse in the view from behind, visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, built in the early 2000s, and see cooter turtles, bluegills, wading birds, and alligators.  Flowering water hyacinths provide shade and refuge to aquatic life on the sunny Florida days at Cooter Pond Park. Photo by Sally White. Water hyacinths decorate the pond with clusters of purple flowers bursting among the green, their shady floating islands making the ideal refuge for fish on a hot sunny day. In the distance water spraying from a fountain makes the perfect pond centerpiece. A paddle launch at Old Mills Road invites the adventurous to launch their kayaks and canoes for a paddle through the pond, but many visitors prefer the .07-mile boardwalk hike. There is a shaded pavilion near the US Highway 41 South entrance, but otherwise, this is a full sun walk. The .07-mile boardwalk trail around Cooter Pond provides ample opportunities for viewing the local wildlife near downtown Inverness. Photo by Sally White A thick swathe of marsh and cattails separates the trail from the Sheriff’s office and helipad, but if you stop to look, you may spot wildlife among the cattails.  Park near the Cooter Pond boardwalk entrance of this county park to enjoy this walk. This park is open from sunset until dusk and fishing is allowed. In the evenings the boardwalk is lit up with rainbow-colored lights making for a unique visual experience. Cooter Pond Park is located at 181 US Hwy 41 South in Inverness, Florida The 46-mile Withlacoochee State Trail cuts through the center of Wallace Brooks Park on Lake Hernando near Inverness' downtown. Photo by Sally White Wallace Brooks Park Wallace Brooks Park was named in 1968 in honor of Wallace Brooks, the oldest African-American citizen of that time and an industrious resident who worked for the Atlantic Coastline Railway of Inverness.  It is one of the most relaxing Inverness waterfront parks to visit. With a boat ramp, boat house, and fitness training area, Wallace Brooks Park is an integral part of Inverness’ green space. Nestled along the curve of Lake Henderson, the 422-acre Citrus County lake and part of the Lake Tsala Apopka chain of lakes this local park features water activities. Boaters launch their boats and anglers cast their lines here in hopes of catching a prize-winning largemouth bass. Pit-stops on the Withlacoochee State Trail, the waterfront parks of downtown Inverness are bicycle friendly and there are ample bike stands to use while you are exploring the parks. Photo by Sally White. Wallace Brooks Park is only 6 minutes away from Cooter Pond Park, a short 0.3 hike or bike ride, although parking is available here. Restroom facilities are on-site as well. If the water calls you, take the Liberty Boardwalk Trail from Wallace Brooks Park to the adjacent Liberty Park.  A shaded boardwalk path leads you along the edge of Lake Henderson and through a swamp of cypress trees. You can enjoy vista views of the lake, or take in the cypress knees and water lilies beneath the boardwalk shade. You may spot turtles and wading birds and even an alligator or two. Wallace Brooks Park is located at 321 E. Dampier Street in Inverness, Florida The scenic and shady Liberty Boardwalk Trail along Lake Henderson joins Wallace Brooks Park to Liberty Park. Photo by Sally White Liberty Park If you happen to have children with you, the call of laughter ringing in the air might make you leave that boardwalk trail to visit one of the coolest playgrounds around. The bright colors and Seussical-looking equipment of Liberty Park Rotary Centennial Playground can bring out envy in adults as their kids scoot down the chutes and climb up the ladders with a sense of wonder.  Another of the six Inverness waterfront parks, Liberty Park has a more urban feel. Four-acre Liberty Park uses the beauty of Lake Henderson as a backdrop. With rolling greens inviting picnics and impromptu frisbee and football games with friends, this sunny environment invites all to simply relax. The Liberty Park Rotary Centennial Playground has got to be the coolest playground in the area. Photo by Sally White The annual Great American Cooter Festival (now called the Cooter Music Festival) has been held at Liberty Park since 2004. This year they’ll be cranking up the tunes October 4 - 6 to celebrate their 20th anniversary. Parking and restroom facilities are available at Liberty Park. Liberty Park is located at 268 N. Apopka Ave in Inverness, Florida. The Train Station, located by the Liberty Park Playground is the place to go for coffee, ice cream, and snacks while you're out enjoying the waterfront parks of Inverness. Photo by Sally Whtie The Train Station at the Depot District Exploring these three Inverness waterfront parks can make a person hungry or thirsty and when you didn't bring a picnic, head over to the Depot District for a snack and indoor fun at the Train Station. You can grab a coffee or ice cream and play a game of duck-pin bowling, ginormous connect-four, or corn hole at the centrally located Train Station behind the playground at Liberty Park. The newly renovated historic train station was originally built in 1892 as a stop for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad.  The Train Station is located at 218 N. Apopka Ave in Inverness, Florida The Depot Covered Market The Depot Market holds bi-monthly farmer's market events on the first and third Saturdays of the month under the covered shade. Photo by Sally White If you follow social media about Inverness, you’ve probably seen pictures of the Saturday Farmer’s Market at the Depot. The Depot is literally steps away from Liberty Park Playground and adjacent to The Train Station. Stop by for fresh produce shopping at the covered Depot market on their farmer’s market on the first and third Saturdays of every month from 9 AM to 1 PM. On Saturday, September 14, 2024, there is a Citrus County Business Expo put on by the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce. NatureCoaster helped sponsor the event and we will be there with free area maps and NatureCoaster stickers. The Depot is Located at 300 N. Apopka Ave in Inverness. Three parks and a day full of outdoor adventure. What are you waiting for? Add these downtown Inverness waterfront parks to your getaway list today! Sources: - https://www.inverness-fl.gov - https://citrusbocc.com - https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com - https://www.fairsandfestivals.net Read the full article

[amarresorrt-3144]

Wind River Thermopolis Fishing Report - Fishing Proo

A favourite spot for anglers looking for the best fishing experience is the Wind River Thermopolis Fishing Report, which is close to Thermopolis, Wyoming. This stretch of the river, which is tucked away in the picturesque Wind River Canyon, provides some of the greatest fishing possibilities in the area in addition to its stunning scenery.

Present Situation: The Wind River Thermopolis Fishing Report is ideal for fishing right now. Excellent clarity and steady water levels make for ideal fly and spin fishing conditions. The current weather is perfect for going out on the water, with cold mornings and pleasant afternoons.

Fish Species: Healthy populations of cutthroat, brown, and rainbow trout are well-known in the Wind River. Anglers could anticipate catching trout ranging in size from 12 to 18 inches, with some larger specimens present. These species have the ideal home in the chilly, nutrient-rich waters of the river, which guarantees steady action all through the fishing season.

Suggested Techniques: Pheasant Tail, Prince Nymph, and Hare's Ear nymphing patterns have proven to be quite successful for fly fisherman. There has also been an increase in dry fly activity, particularly in the early morning and late evening. Elk Hair Caddis and Parachute Adams patterns are producing good yields. Another great alternative is streamer fishing, especially if you're going after larger, more aggressive trout. Sculpin designs and Woolly Buggers have proven to be successful in attracting strikes from the larger inhabitants of the river. 

Spoons and tiny spinners are still good options for spin fishers. The hues of silver and gold are particularly effective in the river's cleaner areas. Soft plastics work well for luring trout as well, especially when they're coloured naturally.

Access spots: Thermopolis provides a number of easy access spots, such as boat ramps and wading areas, to the Wind River Thermopolis Fishing Report . Particularly well-liked is the Hot Springs State Park area, which offers convenient access and fantastic fishing.

Concluding Remarks: The fishing in the Wind River Thermopolis Fishing Report near Thermopolis is excellent overall. This is a great time for all anglers, experienced or not, to enjoy the excitement of fishing in one of Wyoming's most beautiful and prolific rivers. Certain areas of the river may have certain guidelines that you must abide by, so be sure to check the local laws. Have fun angling!

[spaciousreasoning]

Viewing Falling Water

Nancy and I both had a tough Saturday night, so we slept in Sunday morning and missed going to church. Once we finally managed to wake up and get moving, we decided to head out in search of a waterfall, one of the Oregon sights we had not visited yet. We went east along OR 126 once again, continuing past the point where we had turned around during our first journey out that way shortly after moving here in April.

On the way, we slipped off the main road to check out a covered bridge along the way. The Belknap Bridge, also known as the McKenzie River Bridge, was first built in 1890. It was replaced by subsequent versions in 1911, 1939 and the current bridge in 1966. It is also the easternmost of all of Oregon’s covered bridges.

Back on OR 126, we continued as it turned north toward its junction with OR 20. The trail we had planned to use was closed, so we continued until we reached Sahalie Falls. The parking area was packed, and there were lots of cars parked along the highway, so we went back to the Koosah Falls area where we quickly found a parking spot.

The two falls are connected by a trail, but we stayed near Koosah Falls. The name means “sky” in Chinook Jargon, a language originating as a pidgin trade language in the Pacific Northwest. It is partly descended from the Chinook language, upon which much of its vocabulary is based. Many words from Chinook Jargon remain in common use in the Western United States and British Columbia. It has been described as part of a multicultural heritage shared by the modern inhabitants of the Pacific Northwest.

After wandering along the trails near the falls, taking lots of pictures, we headed back toward home. We stopped for a late lunch at the McKenzie Station Pub, located in the small community known as McKenzie Bridge, located between Rainbow and Belknap Springs, all unincorporated communities.

[parksaversnews]

Disney Pride Month Foodie Guide 2024 | Disneyland & Disney World

June is a month of celebration, inclusivity, and vibrant colors as Disney Parks across the United States honor Pride Month. Both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida have curated a delightful array of themed food and beverages to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. This guide will take you through the mouthwatering offerings available throughout the month, ensuring you don't miss out on any of the delicious treats. From colorful desserts to refreshing drinks, there's something for everyone to enjoy while celebrating love and diversity at the happiest places on earth.

Walt Disney World Resort

Disney’s Hollywood Studios   PizzeRizzo and The Trolley Car Café (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available at PizzeRizzo only) - Pride Cupcake: Vanilla cupcake filled with rainbow sprinkles and berry marmalade topped with red berry buttercream, rainbow sprinkles, rainbow glitter, and a chocolate Mickey pride coin  Magic Kingdom Park   The Lunching Pad (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available) - Pride Cupcake: Vanilla cupcake filled with rainbow sprinkles and berry marmalade topped with red berry buttercream, rainbow sprinkles, rainbow glitter, and a chocolate Mickey pride coin Main Street Bakery (Available June 1 through 30) - Pride Mousse Dome: Dark chocolate and strawberry mousse, flourless chocolate cake, and rainbow glaçage (New)

EPCOT Connections Cafe and Connections Eatery (Available June 1 through 30) - Pride Liege Waffle: Brioche dough with colorful icing Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Creature Comforts (Available May 30 through June 30) - Pride Mousse Dome: Lemon chiffon cake, raspberry lemonade mousse, white chocolate glaze, and rainbow sprinkles (New)

Disney Resort Hotels   Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Beach Club Marketplace and The Market at Ale & Compass (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available) - Pride Mousse Dome: Dark chocolate and strawberry mousse, flourless chocolate cake, and rainbow glaçage (New)

Disney’s BoardWalk   BoardWalk Deli (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available) - Pride Cinnamon Roll: Classic Mickey cinnamon roll with rainbow icing Available at Multiple Disney Resort Hotel Locations (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available) - Pride Strawberry Cupcake: Sprinkle cupcake filled with fresh strawberries, topped with Bavarian cream and vanilla buttercream, and garnished with chocolate décor; available at the following locations: - World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort - Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort - End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort - Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort - Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort - Spyglass Grill at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort - Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort - Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside - Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Disney Springs Amorette's Patisserie (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available) - Rainbow Love Mousse Bar: Orange dream mousse with crispy cereal crunch and orange passion curd (New) Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ (Available June 1 through June 30) - Pride-themed Jumbo Squeeze Bottles: 22-ounce Pride-themed jumbo squeeze bottles available for purchase with the Shine on Tap (Refills available)

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew (Available June 1 through June 30) - Rainbow Donut topped with rainbow sprinkles and a rainbow sour belt Vivoli il Gelato (Available June 1 through July 31) - Cake Batter Cannoli: Cannoli with sweet cream and cake batter ricotta topped with rainbow sprinkles

Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Park Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available)   - Pride Cookie: Shortbread cookie dipped in white chocolate sprinkled with nonpareils

Disney California Adventure Park Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe (Available June 1 through 30) - Pride Cookie: Shortbread cookie dipped in white chocolate sprinkled with nonpareils  Hollywood Lounge (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available) - Strawberry Vodka Cocktail: Vodka, strawberry purée and soda water topped with a rainbow candy belt (New)

Novelties Available Throughout Disneyland Resort (Available starting June 1) - Pride Bottle Topper (New) (Limit five per person, per transaction; no discounts apply); Available at the following locations: - Disneyland park: Churros near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Churros near Haunted Mansion, Churros near Sleeping Beauty Castle, Churros near Town Square, Critter Country Fruit Cart, Churros & Lemonade in Critter Country, Lemonade at small world Promenade, Main Street Fruit Cart, Popcorn near Haunted Mansion, Popcorn near Mark Twain Riverboat, Pretzels near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Ship to Shore Marketplace, Troubadour Tavern - Disney California Adventure park: Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats, Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park, Corn Dog Castle, Paradise Garden Grill - Pride Stainless Steel Tumbler: Available at the following locations: - Disneyland park: Alien Pizza Planet, Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, Golden Horseshoe, Hungry Bear Restaurant, Plaza Inn, Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante, Red Rose Taverne, Stage Door Cafe, Tiana’s Palace - Disney California Adventure park: Aunt Cass Café, Award Wieners, Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, Cappuccino Cart, Clarabelle's Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park, Corn Dog Castle, Hollywood Lounge, Paradise Garden Grill, Smokejumpers Grill, Studio Catering Co.

- Pride Parade Castle Tumbler: Available at the following locations: - Disneyland park: Alien Pizza Planet, Fantasyland Fruit Cart, Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, Lemonade at small world Promenade, Plaza Inn, Red Rose Taverne - Disney California Adventure park: Aunt Cass Café, Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park, Clarabelle's Hand-Scooped Ice Cream, Corn Dog Castle, Paradise Garden Grill - Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: GCH Craftsman Grill - Scented Pride Cake Straw Clip: Available at the following locations: - Disneyland park: Alien Pizza Planet, Golden Horseshoe, Hungry Bear Restaurant, Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, Red Rose Taverne, Stage Door Cafe - Disney California Adventure park: Aunt Cass Café, Award Wieners, Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park, Corn Dog Castle, Schmoozies!, Select Outdoor Vending Locations - Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: GCH Craftsman Grill

Downtown Disney District Naples Ristorante e Bar (Available June 1 through 30) - Pride N' Candy Cannoli: Cannoli shells filled with ricotta cheese, cream cheese, powdered sugar, rainbow candy chips, and cotton candy flavoring Splitsville Luxury Lanes (Available June 1 through 30) - Sunset Serenade: Pineapple, Aperol, soda water, gin, and elderflower syrup  Wetzel's Pretzels (Available June 1 through 30) - Pride LED Tumbler

Available at Various Candy Locations Around Disneyland Resort Including Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff, Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen, and Trolley Treats (Available June 1 through 30; mobile order available) - Rainbow Mickey Apple: Granny smith apple dipped in caramel and milk chocolate decorated with two marshmallow ears, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple sanding sugars and white M&M’S chocolate candies (New) - Rainbow Mickey Cereal Treat: Mickey-shaped cereal treat dipped in white chocolate and decorated with red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple sanding sugars

Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite (SOLD OUT) For those guests who already have tickets for the Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite on June 18 and 20, there’s some additional treats to indulge in. Throughout the night, guests can enjoy sweet bites like the Cereal Funnel Cake from Stage Door Café or the Red Balloon Mickey Cookie from Candy Palace Candy Kitchen. Looking for a refreshingly delicious sip? The Peach Tea at Refreshment Corner is a must! For a savory dish, the Loaded Corn Dog at Little Red Wagon is sure to satisfy. And for those interested in a combination of salty and sweet, the Popcorn with Freeze-dried SKITTLES at Popcorn near Haunted Mansion is amazing! For extra tasty fun, guests can reserve a spot for the Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite Specialty Dining Package at Plaza Inn where they can enjoy a delicious chicken and waffles dinner with reserved viewing for the Welcome Pride Cavalcade. These are just a taste, and there’s even more items to try at the event this year!

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa   Hearthstone Lounge (Available June 18 and 20 from 4 p.m. to midnight; reservations highly recommended, walk-ins will be limited) - Hearthstone Lounge Reception: On the Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite evenings, anyone is welcomed to gather for a special reception at Hearthstone Lounge, with a themed photo op, upbeat music, a special host to greet guests in the festivities, and specialty beverages like the XOBC Cellars Proud Sparkling Rosé, the Ketel Watermelon Vodka Cocktail, and the Elderflower Gin Fizz, which is also available at Napa Rose along with the XOBC Cellars Proud Sparkling Rosé. Guests can also enjoy the recently launched menu, including Truffle Mac and Portobello Mushroom Risotto, as well as a premium whiskey library.

Pride Month Disneyland and Pride Month Walt Disney World Resorts is a time to celebrate love, diversity, and inclusivity. With a wide range of themed food and beverages, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're indulging in a colorful dessert or sipping on a refreshing drink, these treats are sure to make your visit even more magical. Don't forget to check out the Pride-themed merchandise to commemorate your experience. Celebrate Pride Month with Disney and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Read the full article

[airlinestravelnews]

Captivating Landscapes: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming      

Introduction

Yellowstone National Park, a gem in Wyoming, is renowned for its captivating landscapes, rich wildlife, and geothermal wonders. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone looking to marvel at nature's beauty, Yellowstone offers a diverse range of experiences. In this article, we'll delve into the park's unique features, must-visit spots, and provide tips for making the most of your visit. Let's explore why Yellowstone is a must-see destination!

Location and Geography

Where is Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone National Park is primarily located in Wyoming, though it extends into Montana and Idaho. It spans nearly 3,500 square miles, making it one of the largest national parks in the United States.

Geographical Features

Mountain Ranges: The park is nestled amidst the Rocky Mountains, featuring peaks like Mount Washburn.

Rivers and Lakes: Major water bodies include Yellowstone Lake and the Yellowstone River.

Geothermal Areas: Yellowstone sits atop a volcanic hotspot, leading to numerous geothermal features like geysers and hot springs.

Climate and Best Times to Visit

Climate Overview

Yellowstone experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year:

Summer (June-August): Warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F.

Fall (September-October): Cooler with beautiful fall foliage, temperatures between 30°F to 60°F.

Winter (November-March): Cold and snowy, temperatures often below freezing.

Spring (April-May): Mild with unpredictable weather, temperatures from 30°F to 60°F.

Best Times to Visit

Summer: Ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Fall: Great for photography and avoiding large crowds.

Winter: Perfect for snow sports like skiing and snowmobiling.

Spring: Excellent for seeing blooming wildflowers and experiencing fewer tourists.

Must-See Attractions

Old Faithful Geyser

One of Yellowstone's most iconic features, Old Faithful, erupts approximately every 90 minutes. It's a spectacular sight, with water spouting up to 185 feet in the air.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Known for its vibrant colors, the Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States. The colors are due to microbial mats around the spring, offering a rainbow-like appearance.

Yellowstone Lake

Spanning 136 square miles, Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America. It's perfect for boating, fishing, and enjoying scenic views.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

This impressive canyon stretches for about 20 miles and features dramatic cliffs and powerful waterfalls, including the Upper and Lower Falls.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is renowned for its terraced formations created by hot water cooling and depositing calcium carbonate. It's a constantly evolving landscape that's fascinating to explore.

Activities and Experiences

Hiking

With over 900 miles of trails, Yellowstone offers routes for all skill levels. Popular hikes include:

Mount Washburn Trail: Offers panoramic views of the park.

Fairy Falls Trail: Leads to one of Yellowstone's tallest waterfalls.

Lamar Valley Trail: Excellent for wildlife viewing.

Wildlife Viewing

Yellowstone is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Commonly seen animals include:

Bison: Often found grazing in large herds.

Elk: Frequently seen in meadows and near rivers.

Grizzly Bears: Spotted in more remote areas, especially during early morning and late evening.

Wolves: Best viewed in Lamar Valley.

Camping

The park offers numerous campgrounds, from developed sites to backcountry spots. Popular campgrounds include:

Madison Campground: Centrally located with easy access to many attractions.

Grant Village Campground: Near Yellowstone Lake with great amenities.

Slough Creek Campground: A favorite for its quiet and scenic location.

Geothermal Features Exploration

Yellowstone's geothermal features are a major draw. Key areas to visit include:

Norris Geyser Basin: Home to the tallest active geyser, Steamboat Geyser.

Upper Geyser Basin: Features Old Faithful and numerous other geysers.

Mud Volcano Area: Known for its bubbling mud pots and fumaroles.

Winter Sports

During winter, Yellowstone transforms into a snowy paradise. Activities include:

Snowmobiling: Guided tours are available to explore the park.

Cross-Country Skiing: Trails range from easy to challenging.

Snowshoeing: A great way to experience the park's serene winter landscape.

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Park Regulations

Adhering to park rules helps preserve its beauty and ensures safety:

Stay on Designated Trails: Protects fragile ecosystems.

Keep a Safe Distance from Wildlife: At least 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals.

Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out what you pack in.

Safety and Health Precautions

Wildlife Safety

Keep Your Distance: Observe animals from a safe distance to avoid disturbing them and to protect yourself.

Store Food Securely: Use bear-proof containers or lockers where available.

Know What to Do: In case of a bear encounter, remain calm, back away slowly, and carry bear spray.

Geothermal Area Safety

Stay on Boardwalks: The ground around geothermal features can be thin and unstable.

Heed Warning Signs: They are there to protect you from scalding water and dangerous gases.

Health Precautions

Altitude Awareness: Yellowstone's elevation can cause altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and take it easy upon arrival.

Weather Preparedness: Weather can change rapidly, so be ready for anything from sun to snow.

Budget Planning

Entrance Fees

Yellowstone charges an entrance fee, which varies by mode of entry:

Per Vehicle: $35 for a 7-day pass.

Per Individual: $20 for those entering by foot, bike, or bus.

Annual Pass: $70 for unlimited visits for a year.

Cost-Effective Tips

Camping: More affordable than hotels.

Bring Your Own Food: Save on dining expenses within the park.

Free Programs: Take advantage of ranger-led activities and informational talks.

Local Cuisine

Dining in the Park

Yellowstone offers several dining options, from casual cafeterias to sit-down restaurants:

Old Faithful Inn Dining Room: Offers a range of hearty meals.

Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room: Features upscale dining with lake views.

Canyon Lodge Eatery: Provides a variety of quick-service options.

Must-Try Foods

Bison Burger: A popular dish reflecting the local wildlife.

Huckleberry Treats: From ice cream to jams, these local berries are a must-try.

Trout: Fresh and often locally caught, trout dishes are a highlight.

Summary

Yellowstone National Park is a captivating destination offering diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique geothermal features. Whether you're hiking to scenic vistas, watching a geyser erupt, or simply soaking in the beauty of Yellowstone Lake, there's something for everyone. Plan your visit according to the seasons, pack appropriately, and always respect the park's rules and wildlife. With its rich history and endless natural wonders, Yellowstone is truly a must-see for any nature lover.

FAQs

1. What is the best time of year to visit Yellowstone?

The best time to visit Yellowstone depends on your interests. Summer offers the most activities, while fall provides beautiful foliage and fewer crowds. Winter is ideal for snow sports, and spring is great for wildflowers and less crowded trails.

2. How can I see wildlife in Yellowstone?

Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley are prime spots for wildlife viewing. Early morning and late evening are the best times to see animals. Always keep a safe distance and use binoculars for a closer look.

3. What should I pack for a trip to Yellowstone?

Pack clothing layers, sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Be prepared for variable weather and bring all necessary camping gear if you plan to camp.

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Hidden Gems in Florida | Exploring the Sunshine State's Treasures

When one thinks of Florida, images of sun-kissed beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife often come to mind. However, beyond these well-known attractions lies a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From secluded natural wonders to quaint historic towns, Florida has much more to offer than meets the eye. Stroll through historic streets lined with colorful cottages and discover an authentic glimpse into Florida's past. Whether it's meandering along scenic trails or discovering local cuisines, these hidden gems in Florida are waiting to be explored, offering enriching experiences that extend beyond the typical tourist attractions. In this article, we will embark on a journey to explore some of the hidden gems in Florida, from serene natural landscapes to charming small towns, offering a different perspective on the state's allure.

Rainbow Springs State Park River Natural Wonders | Hidden Gems in Florida The Sunshine State (Florida) isn’t just known for its theme parks and beautiful beaches; it’s also home to some awe-inspiring natural wonders that often fly under the radar. One such gem in Florida is Caverns State Park, where visitors can explore underground limestone caves filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Another hidden wonder is the Loxahatchee River, a designated National Wild and Scenic River that offers a peaceful escape into untouched natural beauty. Exploring the Iconic Statue of Liberty Exploring these natural wonders provides a unique opportunity to connect with the untamed side of Florida, away from the bustling tourist hotspots. Whether it’s canoeing along crystal-clear springs or hiking through lush forests, these hidden gems in Florida offer an immersive experience in the state’s diverse ecosystems. They remind us of the importance of preserving our natural landscapes, urging us to cherish and protect these treasures for generations to come. So, next time you find yourself in Florida, consider venturing off the beaten path to uncover its lesser-known natural wonders, you won’t be disappointed.

Inside the caves at Florida Caverns State Park Unexplored Beaches The allure of unexplored beaches in Florida lies in the promise of authenticity and tranquility. Away from the bustling tourist hubs, these hidden gems offer a chance to immerse oneself in the raw beauty of nature. One name that often comes up is Caladesi Island State Park. Located just off the coast of Dunedin, this pristine barrier island offers a secluded and untouched paradise for beachgoers. Accessible only by boat or ferry, Caladesi Island boasts sugary white sands, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. Visit Niagara Falls United States Moving down the coast to the Panhandle region, St. George Island stands out as another hidden gem in Florida. This tranquil barrier island boasts miles of uncrowded beaches with powdery sand and warm Gulf waters. With its laid-back atmosphere and relaxed vibe, St. George Island offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular beach destinations in Florida. Whether it's shelling along the shore or simply unwinding by the water's edge, this hidden beach promises a serene coastal experience unlike any other in the Sunshine State.

Caladesi Island State Park Florida Quaint Towns Nestled amid the vibrant landscape of Florida, quaint towns offer a serene escape from the bustling tourist hotspots. With their tree-lined streets, charming cafes, and historic architecture, these hidden gems exude a timeless allure. One such hidden gem in Florida is Mount Dora, where cobbled streets transport visitors back in time and art festivals infuse the air with creativity. Another lesser-known town worth exploring is Cedar Key, a peaceful island community off Florida's Gulf Coast. This delightful town boasts colorful waterfront buildings, a laid-back atmosphere, and stunning views of the surrounding nature reserves. Visitors can savor fresh seafood at local eateries, go birdwatching in the nearby wildlife refuge, or relax on one of Cedar Key's pristine beaches. With its old-world charm and natural beauty, Cedar Key offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Grand Canyon National Park of United States In these quaint towns, every corner unveils a story waiting to be discovered. As you stroll through these hidden gems in Florida, you'll find yourself immersed in the simple pleasures of life – from savoring homemade delicacies to relishing stunning sunsets over tranquil waters. Embrace the slower pace and soak up the warmth of genuine hospitality that emanates from these unassuming towns.

Mount Dora, Florida Historic Sites Florida is often associated with sunny beaches and theme parks, but the state's rich history offers a treasure trove of historic sites waiting to be explored. One such hidden gem in Florida is the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Visitors can step back in time as they wander through its ancient corridors and imagine what life was like for early Spanish settlers. Another captivating historic site is the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, where visitors can explore the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. This unique glimpse into the lives of these renowned inventors allows visitors to appreciate their contributions to modern technology while also marveling at the preserved beauty of their estates. These sites breathe life into Florida's past, offering a deeper understanding of its cultural heritage beyond its well-known tourist attractions.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates, Florida Outdoor Adventures Nestled among the sun-soaked beaches and bustling city life lies a treasure trove of outdoor adventures waiting to be unearthed in Florida. From kayaking through the mangrove forests of the Everglades to snorkeling in crystal-clear springs, there's an endless array of exhilarating activities for adventure enthusiasts. One hidden gem in Florida is the Apalachicola National Forest, where visitors can traverse scenic hiking trails, camp under star-studded skies, and encounter rare wildlife. Embracing these outdoor escapades provides not just a rush of adrenaline but also a profound connection with nature that rejuvenates the soul. Top 10 places to visit in the United States Dip into the refreshing waters at Ichetucknee Springs State Park or paddle along the vibrant landscape at Rainbow Springs State Park for an unforgettable journey into the unspoiled wilderness. These hidden gems in Florida offer a glimpse into Florida's untouched marvels and remind us that a world brimming with adventure awaits just beyond our doorsteps. As adventurers venture off the beaten path in search of remarkable experiences, they'll uncover countless hidden gems across Florida that promise thrills, tranquility, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether it's diving into underwater caves or traversing forested trails teeming with wildlife, each outdoor escapade unveils a different side to this diverse state, leaving indelible memories etched in every explorer's heart.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park Culinary Delights From the enchanting coastal seafood shacks to the quaint family-owned diners tucked away in small towns, Florida offers a diverse array of culinary delights that speak to its rich cultural heritage. Those looking for an authentic taste of Floridian cuisine should not miss out on exploring the multicultural influences that have shaped its gastronomic identity, from Cuban sandwiches in Miami to Cajun delicacies in the Panhandle. What makes these hidden gems truly special is their commitment to preserving traditional recipes and techniques while infusing modern creativity and innovation. The fusion of flavors, textures, and aromas found in these establishments reflects a deep respect for culinary craftsmanship and a dedication to serving up unforgettable dining experiences. For travelers seeking more than just sun-soaked beaches and theme parks, delving into the world of Florida's hidden culinary treasures promises a rewarding journey through delectable tastes and heartwarming hospitality. Exploring the Natural Wonders of the World Florida is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, but the state also holds a treasure trove of hidden culinary delights waiting to be discovered. From the savory flavors of Cuban cuisine in Miami's Little Havana to the fresh seafood feasts of Key West, Florida offers a diverse and tantalizing culinary landscape. Venture inland to Sarasota and uncover a world of farm-to-table dining experiences that showcase the rich agricultural bounty of the region. Additionally, don't miss out on the unexpectedly authentic German bakeries found in pockets of South Florida, serving up traditional pretzels, strudels, and Black Forest cake that will transport you straight to Bavaria.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park Beyond these well-known foodie destinations, lesser-explored areas like St. Augustine offer unique culinary delights such as Minorcan chowder—a spicy seafood stew with Spanish influence that dates back centuries. So, whether you're craving classic comfort food or eager to embark on a gastronomic journey off the beaten path, Florida's hidden culinary gems are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. It's clear that Florida holds much more than just its famous theme parks and bustling cities; it boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. The allure of these hidden gems in Florida lies in their ability to offer a genuine sense of discovery, inviting adventurers to immerse themselves in lesser-known attractions and create unforgettable memories along the way. So, if you're seeking an authentic and enriching experience in Florida, don't hesitate to venture off the beaten path and uncover the state's best-kept secrets for yourself. Read the full article