#south coast events

[espiritogato]

Yay! Westport, Massachusetts finally has its own Pride Festival coming to town. Please show your support by liking the page. Hope to see you at the event. 🏳️‍🌈

Westport Pride Fest 2024

[dbphantom]

I'm going through some of my H2O fanfic documents for... reasons... and I fucking forgot that I gave every single one of Lewis's family members names that start with L ahsggsgss. Do you think that his parents realized as soon as they had their first kid that they could do something extraordinarily funny. I think that's what happened.

[southcoastlimousines]

Houston Transportation for Executive Events

Experience sophistication with our premium transportation for executive events in Houston. Our modern fleet and expert chauffeurs guarantee seamless experiences. Explore our infographic to see how we exceed expectations. Contact us or visit our site to learn more.

[wonderlesch]

Can’t Miss March 2024 Events

Marching into March! Get your calendars ready. This Can't Miss March 2024 Events blog post shares so many amazing things to do in March. Brew fests, check. Music festivals, check. Sci-fi Conventions, check. Start planning your March getaway now!

Hello and welcome Can’t Miss 2024 Events travel destination guide. In this blog post I share Horror Realm Con to start the month of March off with a jump or two. Explore Gulf Coast Beer and Bacon Festival. You read the right, Beer and Bacon! Yes, please. Looking to have an awesome time in March? Read on for an intro to the Awesome Con adventure. It has awesome in its name, of course its going to…

[alongcomes-mary]

Reach for the Stars at Astra Lumina

I don’t know about you but I’m missing the holiday season. This was the first year so much of it “clicked” with Mabel and it truly was magical to see Christmas through her eyes. One of our favorite activities this year was looking for houses decorated with lights. Every time we pass anything with lights now, she screams “Christmas!” Thank goodness we were able to make it to Astra Lumina. This…

[yachtmanagementandservices]

Sailing Serenity: A Tranquil Odyssey through the Enchanting Waters of Sydney Harbour

Welcome to our blog, where we invite you to set sail on a poetic journey through the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour. In this post, we'll explore the serene beauty, rich history, and unparalleled tranquility that make sailing through Sydney Harbour an experience of a lifetime.

The Elegance of Sydney's Maritime Jewel:

Sydney Harbour, with its world-renowned landmarks, is a testament to nature's grandeur and human ingenuity. The Sydney Opera House stands proudly with its iconic sails, while the Sydney Harbour Bridge creates an awe-inspiring silhouette against the sky. Together, they form the backdrop for a sailing experience that blends architectural marvels with the tranquility of open waters.

Nature's Symphony:

As your vessel glides through the harbor's pristine waters, immerse yourself in the natural symphony that surrounds you. The gentle lapping of waves, the calls of seagulls, and the rustle of wind through the sails create a harmonious melody that resonates with the heart of Sydney.

A Kaleidoscope of Views:

Every moment on Sydney Harbour unveils a new tableau of beauty. From the verdant shores and sandy coves to the vibrant hues of the sunset reflecting off the water, each scene is a masterpiece painted by nature herself.

Discover Hidden Gems:

Explore the harbor's secret treasures, from secluded beaches to picturesque islands. Uncover the stories behind landmarks like Fort Denison and Clark Island, and let the charm of these hidden gems captivate your senses.

A Nighttime Enchantment:

As the sun dips below the horizon, the magic of Sydney Harbour comes alive under the twinkling stars. A nighttime cruise offers a unique perspective, with the city lights casting a mesmerizing glow over the water, creating an atmosphere of enchantment and romance.

Experiencing Events on the Waves:

Sydney Harbour is not just a scenic backdrop; it's a stage for some of the world's most iconic events. Be it the explosive New Year's Eve fireworks or the lively festivals that grace its shores, sailing through the harbor provides a front-row seat to the spectacle.

Why Choose Us for Your Sydney Harbour Sail:

Expert Narration: Our knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, culture, and natural wonders that grace the harbor.

Luxury Afloat: Experience the journey in comfort aboard our luxurious vessels, designed to provide unobstructed views and a smooth sailing experience.

Safety First: Your safety is paramount. Our experienced crew ensures a secure and enjoyable voyage through the tranquil waters.

Embark on Your Sydney Harbour Odyssey:

Ready to embark on a journey of serenity and discovery? Join us for a sailing experience that transcends the ordinary, where each wave carries a story and each breeze whispers tranquility.

Sail with us and immerse yourself in the poetic serenity of Sydney Harbour. We look forward to hosting you on a voyage that promises not just scenic beauty, but a symphony of tranquility on the waves of Sydney's maritime jewel. Click here to see related article about Sailing Serenity: A Journey through the Stunning Waters of Sydney Harbour.

[yachtbrokerblog]

Sailing Serenity: A Tranquil Odyssey through the Enchanting Waters of Sydney Harbour

Welcome to our blog, where we invite you to set sail on a poetic journey through the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour. In this post, we'll explore the serene beauty, rich history, and unparalleled tranquility that make sailing through Sydney Harbour an experience of a lifetime.

The Elegance of Sydney's Maritime Jewel:

Sydney Harbour, with its world-renowned landmarks, is a testament to nature's grandeur and human ingenuity. The Sydney Opera House stands proudly with its iconic sails, while the Sydney Harbour Bridge creates an awe-inspiring silhouette against the sky. Together, they form the backdrop for a sailing experience that blends architectural marvels with the tranquility of open waters.

Nature's Symphony:

As your vessel glides through the harbor's pristine waters, immerse yourself in the natural symphony that surrounds you. The gentle lapping of waves, the calls of seagulls, and the rustle of wind through the sails create a harmonious melody that resonates with the heart of Sydney.

A Kaleidoscope of Views:

Every moment on Sydney Harbour unveils a new tableau of beauty. From the verdant shores and sandy coves to the vibrant hues of the sunset reflecting off the water, each scene is a masterpiece painted by nature herself.

Discover Hidden Gems:

Explore the harbor's secret treasures, from secluded beaches to picturesque islands. Uncover the stories behind landmarks like Fort Denison and Clark Island, and let the charm of these hidden gems captivate your senses.

A Nighttime Enchantment:

As the sun dips below the horizon, the magic of Sydney Harbour comes alive under the twinkling stars. A nighttime cruise offers a unique perspective, with the city lights casting a mesmerizing glow over the water, creating an atmosphere of enchantment and romance.

Experiencing Events on the Waves:

Sydney Harbour is not just a scenic backdrop; it's a stage for some of the world's most iconic events. Be it the explosive New Year's Eve fireworks or the lively festivals that grace its shores, sailing through the harbor provides a front-row seat to the spectacle.

Why Choose Us for Your Sydney Harbour Sail:

Expert Narration: Our knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, culture, and natural wonders that grace the harbor.

Luxury Afloat: Experience the journey in comfort aboard our luxurious vessels, designed to provide unobstructed views and a smooth sailing experience.

Safety First: Your safety is paramount. Our experienced crew ensures a secure and enjoyable voyage through the tranquil waters.

Embark on Your Sydney Harbour Odyssey:

Ready to embark on a journey of serenity and discovery? Join us for a sailing experience that transcends the ordinary, where each wave carries a story and each breeze whispers tranquility.

Sail with us and immerse yourself in the poetic serenity of Sydney Harbour. We look forward to hosting you on a voyage that promises not just scenic beauty, but a symphony of tranquility on the waves of Sydney's maritime jewel. Click here to see related article about Sailing Serenity: A Journey through the Stunning Waters of Sydney Harbour.

[newyachtsforsale]

Sailing Serenity: A Journey through the Stunning Waters of Sydney Harbour

Welcome to our blog, where we embark on a visual odyssey through the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour. In this post, we'll explore the timeless beauty and unique charm that make Sydney Harbour a world-renowned destination, and why sailing these stunning waters is an experience like no other.

The Majestic Backdrop:

Sydney Harbour, with its iconic landmarks, sets the stage for an unparalleled maritime experience. The Sydney Opera House, with its distinctive sails, and the grandeur of the Harbour Bridge create a backdrop that seamlessly blends natural beauty with architectural brilliance.

A Tapestry of Nature and Architecture:

As your vessel glides through the harbor, you'll witness a juxtaposition of lush greenery and urban sophistication. Quaint coves, hidden beaches, and waterfront residences tell a story of the harmonious coexistence of nature and modernity.

The Dance of Light:

The play of light on the water transforms Sydney Harbour into a dynamic canvas. Whether it's the gentle glow of dawn, the warmth of a golden sunset, or the twinkle of city lights at night, each moment unveils a new facet of the harbor's allure.

Island Escapes and Hidden Gems:

Explore the harbor's islands, each with its own unique charm. From the historic Cockatoo Island to the serene Clark Island, discover hidden pockets of tranquility that offer a respite from the bustling cityscape.

Sailing Under the Stars:

As night falls, the harbor transforms into a celestial theater. A night cruise under a star-studded sky provides a romantic and enchanting experience. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical ambiance that is perfect for a special evening.

Events and Festivities Afloat:

Sydney Harbour plays host to a myriad of events and celebrations throughout the year. From the world-famous New Year's Eve fireworks to vibrant festivals, being on the water provides a front-row seat to the excitement and spectacle.

Choose Us for Your Sydney Harbour Experience:

Expert Narration: Our knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, culture, and stories that have shaped Sydney Harbour.

Luxurious Vessels: Experience the stunning waters in style and comfort aboard our state-of-the-art vessels equipped with panoramic views and premium amenities.

Safety and Comfort: Your safety is our priority. Our experienced crew ensures a secure and enjoyable journey through the harbor's stunning waters.

Book Your Sydney Harbour Adventure:

Ready to embark on a journey through the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour? Join us for a cruise that promises not just scenic views, but an immersive experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Sail with us and discover why Sydney Harbour's stunning waters are a canvas of beauty and a source of endless fascination. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable maritime adventure.

[boatsforsalesydneyblog]

Sailing Serenity: A Journey through the Stunning Waters of Sydney Harbour

Welcome to our blog, where we embark on a visual odyssey through the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour. In this post, we'll explore the timeless beauty and unique charm that make Sydney Harbour a world-renowned destination, and why sailing these stunning waters is an experience like no other.

The Majestic Backdrop:

Sydney Harbour, with its iconic landmarks, sets the stage for an unparalleled maritime experience. The Sydney Opera House, with its distinctive sails, and the grandeur of the Harbour Bridge create a backdrop that seamlessly blends natural beauty with architectural brilliance.

A Tapestry of Nature and Architecture:

As your vessel glides through the harbor, you'll witness a juxtaposition of lush greenery and urban sophistication. Quaint coves, hidden beaches, and waterfront residences tell a story of the harmonious coexistence of nature and modernity.

The Dance of Light:

The play of light on the water transforms Sydney Harbour into a dynamic canvas. Whether it's the gentle glow of dawn, the warmth of a golden sunset, or the twinkle of city lights at night, each moment unveils a new facet of the harbor's allure.

Island Escapes and Hidden Gems:

Explore the harbor's islands, each with its own unique charm. From the historic Cockatoo Island to the serene Clark Island, discover hidden pockets of tranquility that offer a respite from the bustling cityscape.

Sailing Under the Stars:

As night falls, the harbor transforms into a celestial theater. A night cruise under a star-studded sky provides a romantic and enchanting experience. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical ambiance that is perfect for a special evening.

Events and Festivities Afloat:

Sydney Harbour plays host to a myriad of events and celebrations throughout the year. From the world-famous New Year's Eve fireworks to vibrant festivals, being on the water provides a front-row seat to the excitement and spectacle.

Choose Us for Your Sydney Harbour Experience:

Expert Narration: Our knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, culture, and stories that have shaped Sydney Harbour.

Luxurious Vessels: Experience the stunning waters in style and comfort aboard our state-of-the-art vessels equipped with panoramic views and premium amenities.

Safety and Comfort: Your safety is our priority. Our experienced crew ensures a secure and enjoyable journey through the harbor's stunning waters.

Book Your Sydney Harbour Adventure:

Ready to embark on a journey through the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour? Join us for a cruise that promises not just scenic views, but an immersive experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Sail with us and discover why Sydney Harbour's stunning waters are a canvas of beauty and a source of endless fascination. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable maritime adventure.

[chapmanyachting]

Sailing Serenity: A Journey through the Stunning Waters of Sydney Harbour

Welcome to our blog, where we embark on a visual odyssey through the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour. In this post, we'll explore the timeless beauty and unique charm that make Sydney Harbour a world-renowned destination, and why sailing these stunning waters is an experience like no other.

The Majestic Backdrop:

Sydney Harbour, with its iconic landmarks, sets the stage for an unparalleled maritime experience. The Sydney Opera House, with its distinctive sails, and the grandeur of the Harbour Bridge create a backdrop that seamlessly blends natural beauty with architectural brilliance.

A Tapestry of Nature and Architecture:

As your vessel glides through the harbor, you'll witness a juxtaposition of lush greenery and urban sophistication. Quaint coves, hidden beaches, and waterfront residences tell a story of the harmonious coexistence of nature and modernity.

The Dance of Light:

The play of light on the water transforms Sydney Harbour into a dynamic canvas. Whether it's the gentle glow of dawn, the warmth of a golden sunset, or the twinkle of city lights at night, each moment unveils a new facet of the harbor's allure.

Island Escapes and Hidden Gems:

Explore the harbor's islands, each with its own unique charm. From the historic Cockatoo Island to the serene Clark Island, discover hidden pockets of tranquility that offer a respite from the bustling cityscape.

Sailing Under the Stars:

As night falls, the harbor transforms into a celestial theater. A night cruise under a star-studded sky provides a romantic and enchanting experience. The city lights reflecting on the water create a magical ambiance that is perfect for a special evening.

Events and Festivities Afloat:

Sydney Harbour plays host to a myriad of events and celebrations throughout the year. From the world-famous New Year's Eve fireworks to vibrant festivals, being on the water provides a front-row seat to the excitement and spectacle.

Choose Us for Your Sydney Harbour Experience:

Expert Narration: Our knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history, culture, and stories that have shaped Sydney Harbour.

Luxurious Vessels: Experience the stunning waters in style and comfort aboard our state-of-the-art vessels equipped with panoramic views and premium amenities.

Safety and Comfort: Your safety is our priority. Our experienced crew ensures a secure and enjoyable journey through the harbor's stunning waters.

Book Your Sydney Harbour Adventure:

Ready to embark on a journey through the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour? Join us for a cruise that promises not just scenic views, but an immersive experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

Sail with us and discover why Sydney Harbour's stunning waters are a canvas of beauty and a source of endless fascination. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable maritime adventure.

[boxingdaycruisesydney]

Sail into Splendor: Unveiling the Magic of Boxing Day Cruises in Sydney

Welcome aboard to the official blog, where we unravel the enchantment of Boxing Day Cruise Sydney. In this post, we invite you to explore the allure of this iconic celebration on the waters of Sydney Harbour and discover why our Boxing Day Cruise is the epitome of festive luxury.

A Symphony of Sights:

On Boxing Day, Sydney Harbour transforms into a breathtaking canvas of celebration. Cruise with us and witness the harmonious dance of iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge against the canvas of a summer sky. Our thoughtfully curated route ensures every moment is a visual masterpiece.

Gourmet Delights to Delight Your Palate:

Indulgence takes center stage on our Boxing Day Cruise. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey crafted by our skilled chefs. From sumptuous seafood to gourmet delights, our menu promises a symphony of flavors to elevate your Boxing Day experience.

Entertainment Extravaganza:

Let the festivities come alive with live music, DJs, and a lively atmosphere that resonates with the joy of the season. Whether you're dancing under the stars or simply enjoying the tunes, our entertainment lineup ensures a vibrant and unforgettable experience for all.

Luxury on the Water:

Step aboard our opulent vessels designed for sophistication and comfort. Revel in the spacious lounges, soak up the sun on open decks, and savor the magic of Sydney Harbour from our panoramic windows. Your Boxing Day Cruise is not just a journey; it's a luxurious escape.

Why Choose Us for Your Boxing Day Adventure?

Experienced Crew: Our seasoned crew is dedicated to ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the cruise, allowing you to relax and enjoy the festivities.

Exclusive Views: Our carefully planned routes provide exclusive vantage points, offering you the best views of Sydney's renowned landmarks.

Tailored Luxury: Every detail of our vessels is designed with your enjoyment in mind, from the elegant interiors to the first-class amenities.

Unforgettable Memories: We don't just offer a cruise; we provide an experience that becomes a cherished memory. Your Boxing Day with us is a story waiting to be told.

Book Your Boxing Day Cruise Now!

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of Sydney's most sought-after Boxing Day celebration. Secure your spot on our exclusive cruise, where luxury and festivity converge on the stunning waters of Sydney Harbour.

Join us as we set sail into the splendor of Boxing Day, where every moment is a celebration and every view is a masterpiece. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable Boxing Day Cruise with us.

[espiritogato]

See You There! 🏳️‍🌈

[batboyblog]

Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week #25

June 28-July 5 2024

The Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Is putting forward the first ever federal safety regulation to protect worker's from excessive heat in the workplace. As climate change has caused extreme heat events to become more common work place deaths have risen from an average of 32 heat related deaths between 1992 and 2019 to 43 in 2022. The rules if finalized would require employers to provide drinking water and cool break areas at 80 degrees and at 90 degrees have mandatory 15-minute breaks every two hours and be monitored for signs of heat illness. This would effect an estimated 36 million workers.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced $1 Billion for 656 projects across the country aimed at helping local communities combat climate change fueled disasters like flooding and extreme heat. Some of the projects include $50 Million to Philadelphia for a stormwater pump station and combating flooding, and a grant to build Shaded bus shelters in Washington, D.C.

The Department of Transportation announced thanks to efforts by the Biden Administration flight cancellations at the lowest they've been in a decade. At just 1.4% for the year so far. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg credited the Department's new rules requiring automatic refunds for any cancellations or undue delays as driving the good numbers as well as the investment of $25 billion in airport infrastructure that was in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

The Department of Transportation announced $600 million in the 3rd round of funding to reconnect communities. Many communities have been divided by highways and other Infrastructure projects over the years. Most often effecting racial minority and poor areas. The Biden Administration is dedicated to addressing these injustices and helping reconnect communities split for decades. This funding round will see Atlanta’s Southside Communities reconnected as well as a redesign for Birmingham’s Black Main Street, reconnecting a community split by Interstate 65 in the 1960s. 

The Biden Administration approved its 9th offshore wind power project. About 9 miles off the coast of New Jersey the planned wind farm will generated 2,800 megawatts of electricity, enough to power almost a million homes with totally clear power. This will bring the total amount of clean wind power generated by projects approved by the Biden Administration to 13 gigawatts. The Administration's climate goal is to generate 30 gigawatts from wind.

The Biden Administration announced funding for 12 new Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs. The $504 million dollars will go to supporting tech hubs in, Colorado, Montana, Indiana, Illinois, Nevada, New York, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Florida, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Wisconsin. These tech hubs together with 31 already announced and funded will support high tech manufacturing jobs, as well as training for 21st century jobs for millions of American workers.

HHS announced over $200 million to support improved care for older Americans, particularly those with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. The money is focused on training primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and other health care clinicians in best practices in elder and dementia care, as well as seeking to  integrate geriatric training into primary care. It also will support ways that families and other non-medical care givers can be educated to give support to aging people.

HHS announced $176 million to help support the development of a mRNA-based pandemic influenza vaccine. As part of the government's efforts to be ready before the next major pandemic it funds and supports new vaccine's to try to predict the next major pandemic. Moderna is working on an mRNA vaccine, much like the Covid-19, vaccine focused on the H5 and H7 avian influenza viruses, which experts fear could spread to humans and cause a Covid like event.

[southcoastlimousines]

Stylish Transportation for Houston’s Executive Events!

Make a sophisticated impression with our premium transportation for executive events in Houston. Our modern fleet, expert chauffeurs, and unmatched service ensure seamless, elegant experiences. Discover how we exceed client expectations through our blog.

[lovingpiastri]

ANGEL KISSES IN SPRING (op81 x female!mclaren engineer reader)

ᯓ★ sweet request from my very best mutual @333-th34 : moral of the story , never leave oscar in his drivers room hot and bothered !! (blurb)

warnings: making out and heavy sexual tension

everything about the current situation was the riskiest of all risks . if there was a tv channel with this weeks top ten jeopardies , you and oscar would be posted up on rank number one for the next two years . why you may ask? picture this : getting hot and heavy in oscar's drivers room isn't exactly the most romantic ordeal to walk in on , especially as fraternising is an unspoken rule !

but it was so hard to resist !

and that is exactly why you were straddling oscar , desperate and needy to feel his touch . more importantly his butter soft lips grazing yours which were adorned in the cheapest drug store lip gloss . speaking of which , instead of staying on your lips it transferred onto oscar's .

your hands were intertwined in his hair harshly , carrying the act out of an occasional tug to force a pathetic whine to escape oscar's throat . on the other hand oscar was more than respectful , arms draped onto your waist gently, too scared to allow them to travel south .

the sound of people bustling outside only increases to the endorphins releasing inside your body , not to mention the creeping fact that you need to come to terms of being an adrenaline junkie . but that was a story for another day , it wasn't time to bottom out when a yearning oscar was beneath you .

"please ." he mumbles with a slightly cry with the target of gaining the slightest bit of pity from you . however oscar's cries of need didn't persuade you to halt your travels of kissing down his neck with the sporadical nip of your teeth from time to time .

oscar seals his eyes close at your scavenging for his sweet spot , but once you do it's like heaven crashes down onto earth & due to the fortunate turn of events oscar vibratos a loud moan . loud enough to wake the dead if you will .

it has to be a coincidence that as soon as that whine escapes oscar's throat unscathed , all the buzzing preparations for the race siezes to an end making you and oscar feel caught red handed for a crime you didn't commit .

a silence fills the atmosphere causing you to snap your head towards to door , making sure all coasts are clear before returning to your predicament . but as you turn around , oscar is gazing at the door clueless as ever despite the circumstances.

with that damn hot pink glittery lip gloss slathered all around his mouth.

©lovingpiastri

[dduane]

Rehoming Holmes

So here's the current interesting problem: You discover that you're in the process of writing a cozy mystery. And then you discover that the lead sleuth in this work is going to be Sherlock Holmes. (And of course Dr. John Watson is there too.)

The big question, therefore, becomes: when?? And secondarily, where?

(Inserting a break here, because this goes on a bit. Caution: contains World War I, railway lines, chronic illness, unrealistic attempts to be a hermit, and [what did you expect?] bees.)

Wedging the cozy mystery concept into Sherlock Holmes's schedule is inevitably going to be a dicey business. Because Holmes, in Canon—right up until after the events of "His Last Bow," in the collection of the same name—is a really busy man... too busy by far to be doing the cozy thing, be he ever so retired.

We don't know a whole lot about the details of that retirement except for what Watson tells us in the preface to the collection.

The friends of Mr. Sherlock Holmes will be glad to learn that he is still alive and well, though somewhat crippled by occasional attacks of rheumatism. He has, for many years, lived in a small farm upon the Downs five miles from Eastbourne, where his time is divided between philosophy and agriculture. During this period of rest he has refused the most princely offers to take up various cases, having determined that his retirement was a permanent one. The approach of the German war caused him, however, to lay his remarkable combination of intellectual and practical activity at the disposal of the Government, with historical results which are recounted in His Last Bow.

Now, when you start looking into some other details surrounding this retirement, there are some points that immediately start to be troublesome. ...Well, for me, anyway.

First of all: that picture up at the top is of the house to which he's supposed to have retired. Various Holmesians who've looked into the situation over the years seem to have settled on this spot, in East Dean in Sussex. And it has acquired a blue plaque stating that that's where Holmes wound up... which is all very well.

But for the purposes of my own storytelling, I've got concerns.

We know from various comments dropped by Watson in Canon that he and Holmes haven't seen each other for some years, and that Holmes has been living "the life of a hermit" on his farm with his bees.

What I'm not sure about is how you live like a hermit in a house which is (and then was) sited directly on the East Dean village green, with the village pub right across the green from you. It seems like a spot poorly chosen, and maybe chosen in haste. (And how big can that "farm" be, with the village around it? Honestly.)

There's another problem, though, that it astounds me never occurred to Arthur Conan Doyle when he initially chose to retire Holmes to that neck of the woods. The whole area near Eastbourne, sited as it is really close to the south coast of England, is (relatively speaking) an exposed and frequently chilly, damp area routinely exposed to coastal gales. Having just retired Holmes there, that Doyle could then in the next sentence describe Holmes as suffering more or less chronically from rheumatoid arthritis gives me all kinds of trouble. Because I sure know what my arthritis does to me in cold damp weather! And the first thought I had on reading that line in the wake of wanting to tell a story realistically based further along in Holmes's retirement period was "Wow, I need to get him the hell out of there."

Yet here, as has happened at other happy writing moments, I find that a kindly Universe has put what I need right into my hands. Because I invite you to take a closer look at that blue plaque on the house in East Dean.

Some Holmesian who was a stickler for accuracy (or tight adherence to Canon) refused to date this retirement any further along than 1917, the date of "His Last Vow." The story itself implies that Holmes and Watson—now reunited in (covert) government service—have much more to do after '17. And then, after 1918, when WWI ends... then what?

Well, soon enough Holmes goes back into official retirement. But he does it somewhere else... because Watson's with him again.

First of all, the location changes because that little house above might have been all right for one "hermit". For two men, though? They'll need a bit more room... and maybe also a little more privacy.* ...It should be noted here in passing that as of LAST, Watson appears to have mislaid the wife mentioned in BLAN ("The Blanched Soldier"). Is it his first wife or his second...if there was a second? Who the hell even knows, at this point? (The jury's apparently still out on the subject, and some investigators suggest there might have been as many as six wives. ...But I digress.)

Anyway, the ensuing scene between Holmes and Watson, as Holmes's Doctor explains to him how things are going to be from now on since they're together again, is so easy to imagine that I'm not sure I need to do anything about it in the cozy mystery proper but allude to it in passing. The laying down of the law. The inevitable "I don't need to be coddled" bullshit. The suggestion that Holmes, for a comfortable retirement, needs a house that's sited in better-protected countryside.

Also, due to the inevitable fallout from Holmes's wartime exploits, they're going to need a house that's sited closer to a decent rail connection to London, with a telegraph office just a mile or two away if Holmes needs it... or if a client needs to come see him. (And there also needs to be a handy telephone exchange, annoying though it'll be that Lestrade's or Dimmock's successors can just ring him up and whinge at him.) Holmes will also need a place where he can at least get a decent wireless signal so he can listen to the concerts from the Continent, and closer. (Because if I wind up positioning the cozy in 1922, as seems likely, this newfangled thing called the BBC has just come online: and canonically speaking, Holmes has always been an early adopter.)

Most importantly, though—so Watson will claim—Holmes needs a rural home that will be better for the bees. The Eastbourne area isn't really great for them, being too exposed and right on the borderline of where bees can locally thrive. Fifteen or twenty miles north or so would be far better, putting less stress on the bees and therefore being less likely to skew Holmes's observational results. With this outcome particularly in mind, the two housemates-to-be can look around for a house sheltered by the Downs' low hills, with nearby fields of arable crops—very likely hops—where the bees can do their work untroubled by excessive salt air. And Holmes can tend to and study his charges in more clement conditions that won't periodically leave him immobile and in anguish due to a less forgiving climate's exacerbation of his arthritis.

Will Holmes buy into this hilariously misdirected argument without realizing (or admitting that he's realized) what Watson's trying to pull? Who can say. Holmes, as per usual, is going to put up every kind of resistance he can to avoid revealing that this outcome is absolutely what he wants more than anything. Watson, of course, will receive Holmes's fake-cranky temporizing with his usual patience... and start writing to estate agents in villages convenient to the main north-south rail line. And on the day Holmes cracks and formally agrees, Watson will telegraph the most likely agent and set up a viewing for a week or so later... of a house something like this.

The frontmost part with the peaked roof is an oast house—a structure originally built for drying hops. They're scattered all around the Surrey countryside, many having been converted over the decades into parts of homes. This one stands in the middle of a small farm where Holmes can rent out the farm's surrounding grazing to other local farmers, while attending to the only part of the farm that really interests him: the hives. And the upstairs windows, in good weather, give onto a view through the surrounding rolling countryside, downhill toward the distant haze-veiled blue of the Channel.

So now I've finally nailed down what was missing before I could really start work: a decent spot where a "a tall, gaunt man of sixty" (well, sixty-five, at this point) and his shorter, slightly stockier chronicler can settle in and get comfortable, and take on the occasional cozy case on which the fate of the free world doesn't depend. ...Insert here the sound of a writer sighing with relief.

And now back to plotting.

*But there could be all kinds of reasons for that. :)