#the island of 1000 lighthouses

[eregyrn-falls-art]

Went down to Woods Hole, MA, on Cape Code, for brunch on Sunday. Afterwards poked around Woods Hole and Falmouth; and I wanted to see Nobska Light while we were there. While chilly and windy, we were still feeling the benefits of the warm weekend, and had to bundle up less than you'd expect for a trip to the Cape in February.

Nobska Light is very cute and scenic! It wasn't open, and while the Keeper's house seems to have been renovated and is planned to be a maritime museum, it wasn't open either. On the other side of the road was a short path to the cliff above the ocean (really, Vineyard Sound), where we looked out at Martha's Vineyard to the east, and the Elizabeth Islands chain to the west. Birds spotted: common eiders, red breasted mergansers, and a long-tailed duck drake came flying in.

Here's the text of the historical sign:

NOBSKA LIGHTHOUSE Latitude 41 30' 54" N Longitude 70 39' 20" Since 1828, Nobska Light has provided a familiar beacon for "all who go down to the sea in ships". 67 feet above sea level, Nobska's flash every six seconds is visible 17 miles out to sea. This 28,000 candlepower light used a 1000-watt lamp magnified by a Fourth Order Fresnel lens. The red section visible ton the east side of the lantern house warns ships away from Hedge Fence and L'Hommedieu Shoals south of the Cape. The present tower is 42 feelt high and was constructed in 1876. It was built to replace the original "Nobsque" light, a stone cottage with a light tower on top which had stood since 1828. The present tower is made of a cast iron shell lined with brick. It was built in Chelsea, Massachusetts and transported to Cape Cod in four sections. The front half of the current "keeper's house" was also built in 1876. Originally painted dark maroon-brown, it had a covered walkway to the tower attacked in 1899 and a second "assistant keeper's house" added in 1907. [Note: see bottom-right photo above.] Over the year, windows, doors, porches and walkways have come and gone and the color has been changed to the classic Coast Guard white with red roof. [Note: this sign is now out of date; the keeper's house is no longer white, although it still has its red roof; it is now covered in cedar shingles, which have weathered to a grey color.] Nobska Light became part of the Coast Guard in 1939, when the U.S. Light House Service merged with the Coast Guard. Despite this change, the keepers of the light remained civilians until Mr. Hindley retired in 1973, when active duty Coast Guard keepers took up the duty. In 1983, Nobska Light was automated. The two keepers houses were joined and became the quarters for Commander Coast Guard Group Woods Hole and his family. The Woods Hole Group serves the mainland and islands from Plymouth, Massachusetts to the Rhode Island/Connecticut state line.

Older photos above and some information came from:

The Enterprise, Falmouth: "History of Nobska Light Sheds Light on More Than Navigation" (July 15, 2015)

New England Lighthouses: A Virtual Guide. History of Nobska Point Light, Woods Hole, Massachusetts

Friends of Nobska Light

IDs in ALT text

[prof-peach]

Hi,

I'm making a dnd campaign with a pokemon module of 5e and wanted to use a bit edited version of Dotaku Island, Prof. Peach and the crew cause I like your headcannons and work nice with my idea of the inner workings of the Pokemon world.

Is it okay to use them?

It's a campaign with friends and we're not making any profit from it, but still wanted to ask cause now more than ever artist consent is important (even when nothing about this is goong online so normally people woukdn't ask, but I also wanted to say I've been a huge fan of your work for a long time so two birds with one stone ig).

Either way, thanks for showing your work to us here on tumblr and hope this ask isn't too weird :)

Haha sure go for it, I’m chill with non-profit use, and if you ever do post junk let me know so I can snoop.

Fun notes for anyone who may be inclined to do this: THESE DO NOT NEED TO BE USED NOR FOLLOWED, PICK AND CHOOSE IF YOU PREFER.

North is off limits, no exceptions. Being caught there will get you removed from the island on the first ship back to your original region. You will struggle to return here if found in the north. Patrols line the fences to make sure no one goes in, night and day.

Players will take damage if they try to touch peach in any way. Treat her as a high level monk/Druid, who 1000% will throw hands with u and your Pokemon given a good reason. Cold and distant to approach, pawns players off to other staff at any given opportunity. A hermit who will humour you if you can appeal to her better nature, or great desire to fight things. You may lose but it’s the trying that counts.

Wisdom saves (DC28) with Val if you try to touch her. Not only will you gain force damage if you succeed (half damage) or fail (full damage) to lay hands on her, but you’ll see horrifying illusions for a minute relating to loved ones. Frightened condition until a long rest, compelling you not to approach further. I cannot stress this enough. Penalise players for trying to touch her, peach will bluntly warn you once, after that you’re on your own.

Grey regularly hands out handy snacks that may help heal or buff teams. He is warm and open, a good person to approach for hints and tips. Notably found in his labs or out running errands, he’s always kind and gentle, unless that is you threaten his home or his loved ones in a severe way. He is scarier than peach when he’s pushed too hard.

Plenty of staff roam around to offer aid or information, ranging from gardeners, cleaners, shop staff, and specialist keepers who maintain the visitors sections.

A groomers, cafe, food stands, daycare, small fairground with rides and games, a hotel, lighthouse, port, greenhouses and of course multiple lab and practical spaces exist, amongst other interesting buildings.

The resident ranger can offer assistance but she is known to stay quite busy, and so getting her attention may prove difficult if it’s a trivial issue.

Adoption zones are the only approved areas to catch Pokemon, and even then it’s a process that requires a test and paperwork, so everyone involved is able to provide adequate care to the mons in question, and so they know any pre existing conditions.

The islands purpose is recovery, so human needs come in second. The Pokemon will always come first, a fact some visitors may have issue with. The staff will not care and continue to do their job without concern for this.

Year round events make the island busy and people are welcomed to join in with whatever’s going on, be it chilli cooking contests, fairs, pageants, board rental for the sweet ocean waves, or watching a migration pass by. There’s always something to do!

This is all optional, just have fun with it, and I hope your players enjoy! If they ask about it, redirect them to the blog so they can dive on into the content.

[binicarsmenorca]

Top 10 Landmarks to Visit in Menorca with a Hired Car

Menorca, the serene gem of the Balearic Islands, is brimming with cultural landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and historical sites. The best way to explore the island’s diverse attractions is with the flexibility of a car hire Menorca. Driving allows you to uncover Menorca’s hidden treasures at your own pace. Here’s a list of the top 10 landmarks in Menorca you must visit with a hired car.

1. Naveta des Tudons

Located near Ciutadella, the Naveta des Tudons is one of Menorca's most significant archaeological sites. This megalithic tomb, dating back to 1000 BC, is a testament to the island’s rich prehistoric history. The drive to this site is smooth, and there’s ample parking nearby. With your car hire Menorca, it’s easy to incorporate this iconic landmark into your itinerary.

2. Monte Toro

As the highest point in Menorca, Monte Toro offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island. Situated in the heart of Menorca, this landmark is easily accessible by car. At the summit, you’ll find a 17th-century sanctuary and a cozy café. The winding road to the top is a treat for those who love scenic drives, making it a must-visit spot.

3. Ciutadella’s Old Town

The historic city of Ciutadella is a cultural gem with its narrow streets, stunning architecture, and vibrant markets. Landmarks like the Ciutadella Cathedral and the picturesque Plaça des Born are highlights. Navigating the Old Town by car is tricky, but parking nearby and strolling through the cobblestone streets is highly recommended.

4. Cavalleria Lighthouse

Perched on the island’s northernmost tip, the Cavalleria Lighthouse is a striking landmark surrounded by rugged cliffs. The drive to this lighthouse from Es Mercadal is filled with scenic landscapes, including traditional farms and untouched nature. With a car hire Menorca, you can time your visit to catch the mesmerizing sunset views from the lighthouse.

5. Fort Marlborough

Located near the port of Mahón, Fort Marlborough is an 18th-century fortress built by the British during their rule of Menorca. This landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s colonial past. The site is well-signposted, and driving here with a rental car is convenient, making it easy to explore at your leisure.

6. Cales Coves

A unique blend of history and nature, Cales Coves features prehistoric burial caves carved into the cliffs. The surrounding turquoise waters make it an ideal spot for a picnic or a swim. Driving to this secluded spot is straightforward, but be prepared for a short hike to reach the caves. Your car hire Menorca will ensure you can explore this hidden treasure without hassle.

7. Binibeca Vell

Binibeca Vell is a charming fishing village known for its whitewashed houses and narrow streets. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Located on Menorca’s southern coast, this picturesque village is best accessed by car. Parking is available nearby, making it a stress-free visit.

8. Mahón Harbour

Mahón, the capital of Menorca, boasts one of the largest natural harbors in the world. The harbor area is a lively spot filled with restaurants, shops, and historic sites like the Isla del Rey and Fortalesa de la Mola. Driving along the harbor gives you stunning views, and parking options are plentiful. With a car hire Menorca, you can explore Mahón’s bustling waterfront at your own pace.

9. Favaritx Lighthouse

The Favaritx Lighthouse, located in the S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park, is one of Menorca’s most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by a stark and dramatic landscape, it offers a unique contrast to the island’s usual lush greenery. Driving to the lighthouse is an adventure in itself, with winding roads leading you through the natural park. Ensure you have your car hire Menorca to make this journey convenient and enjoyable.

10. Son Bou Beach

While not a traditional landmark, Son Bou Beach is Menorca’s longest stretch of sand and a must-visit for beach lovers. The area is also home to ancient ruins, including a paleochristian basilica. Driving to Son Bou is simple, and there’s ample parking, making it an ideal spot to spend a relaxing day. With your rental car, you can bring along beach essentials and explore nearby attractions.

Tips for Exploring Menorca by Car

Plan Your Routes: Research your destinations and map out your routes to save time and fuel.

Arrive Early: Popular landmarks can get crowded during peak hours, so an early start ensures you enjoy them peacefully.

Carry Essentials: Keep water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, as some landmarks require short hikes.

Mind the Rules: Menorca’s roads are well-maintained, but always adhere to speed limits and local driving regulations.

Conclusion

Exploring Menorca’s top landmarks is an enriching experience, made even better with the freedom and convenience of a car hire Menorca. From ancient archaeological sites to stunning lighthouses and serene beaches, the island offers a diverse range of attractions. Hiring a car allows you to create your own itinerary, ensuring you don’t miss out on Menorca’s hidden gems and iconic spots.

Pack your bags, rent a car, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Menorca’s scenic routes and captivating landmarks. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Menorca has something special for everyone.

[strengervinay]

Scuba Diving in Pondicherry: Your Gateway to Stunning Underwater Worlds

Pondicherry unveils a mesmerizing underwater realm; scuba diving in Pondicherry is where you'll experience vibrant marine life dancing amidst stunning coral gardens and captivating wrecks, promising an unforgettable aquatic adventure. 

The region offers clear waters, diverse marine life, and intriguing dive sites like vibrant coral reefs and historical shipwrecks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, the experience provides both beauty and excitement in a relatively accessible and affordable setting.

What You Will Experience While Scuba Diving in Pondicherry:

Diverse Marine Life: The waters around Pondicherry are home to a variety of marine species, including colourful fish, vibrant corals, and fascinating underwater creatures that are perfect for going snorkeling in Pondicherry.

Clear Waters: The best scuba diving in India can be experienced in Pondicherry with the clear waters enhancing its visibility, allowing divers to fully appreciate the underwater landscape and marine life.

Accessible Dive Sites: Scuba diving in Pondicherry beach is convenient for divers because it offers several accessible dive sites, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. Sites like the Coral Garden and the Lighthouse Reef are popular for their rich marine biodiversity.

Historical Wrecks: The region features several interesting shipwrecks that provide a unique diving experience and opportunities to explore historical underwater sites.

Pleasant Climate: The warm and stable climate of Pondicherry contributes to comfortable diving conditions year-round.

Other Activities You Can Enjoy Along With Scuba Diving in Pondicherry: 

Beach Time: Relax at popular beaches like Promenade Beach, Auroville Beach, and Serenity Beach.

Auroville: Explore this unique international community and its sustainable living projects.

Historical Sites: Visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, French War Memorial, and Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

Cultural Walks: Stroll through the French Quarter to admire colonial architecture and enjoy cafes and boutiques.

Boat Tours: Take a boat ride to explore nearby islands or enjoy the scenic views from the water.

Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the city’s charming streets and coastal paths.

Local Markets: Shop for local handicrafts and fresh produce at markets like Goubert Market.

Spiritual Retreats: Participate in yoga and meditation sessions at various wellness centers.

Pondicherry, not only lets you experience the best scuba diving in India but also offers a great mix of activities such as relaxation, exploration, and cultural experiences.

Plan your getaway with Universal Adventure and enjoy the stunning underwater world of Pondicherry.

Details About the Scuba Diving in Pondicherry Package: 

1. Activity Location: Paradise Beach, Pondicherry

2. Activity Timings: 7 hours (Open from 6:45 AM to 13:00 PM)

3. Age Limit: 10 years old and above

4. Price:

Scuba Diving: INR 6,500 per person 

45 to 60 Minutes 

Photos and Videos

Pool Training 

Certified Instructors 

High Quality Equipments

For further assistance on how to book your trip to Pondicherry for scuba diving, you can call our toll-free number 8533812266.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil depths of Pondicherry, where every dive reveals a world of colorful reefs and captivating sea creatures. Happy scuba diving! 

[jeanhm]

Digby to Moncton

another section of the lighthouse trail started out journey from Digby as we followed the river to Annapolis Royal but our next stop was another Fort, Fort Edward in Windsor. Here the 84th Highlanders were doing a re-enactment at the blockhouse so there were a lot of people in period dress explaining the role of the fort and the 84th Highlanders. One of the interesting facts about this fort, of which only the Blockhouse remains standing, is that Flora MacDonald, of Bonnie Prince Charlie fame, spent the winter here with her husband who was in the Royal Highland Emigrants.

This fort was originally built to support the British base at Halifax as it was a strategic site and the junction of two rivers. It was also used as one of the deportation sites for the Acadians and over 1000 were deported from here in the 1750s. A garrison remained here right up til 1850.

After an overnight in Truro we went to the Fundy Interpretation centre to watch the bore. We saw a lot of boats going t=out to ride the waves which follow the bore but having seen it, it wasn't that dramatic and though a really interesting phenomena, it was somewhat disappointing given the hype and the bore I've seen on the River Severn in UK is probably far more dramatic given it is narrower. We carried on following the coast and lighthouses up to Moncton for the overnight. One interesting place we stopped was near Spencer Island which is where the Marie Celest ship was built.

[afactaday]

#aFactADay2022

#602: Tourlitis Lighthouse on Andros Island, is Greece's first automated lighthouse. nowadays there are over 1000 lighthouses in Greece and only 58 of them are manually operated. this lighthouse is actually on a rock just off the island. the top of the rock is nearly as narrow as the lighthouse itself and the base is only a little wider - look up the photos, it looks crazy. however, the lighthouse on bishops rock (4 miles off Cornwall) gives it the title of the smallest island with a building on it.

[nils-elmark]

På sommertogt med Anna II

'Hun ser for anden gang jord stige af hav' fortalte vølven, da nordboerne for over 1000 år siden kom sejlende og fandt nyt land efter Ragnarok. Intet er forandret siden. Nok er vi ikke på vej til Island, men efter 11 timers sejlads i regnvejr over Kattegat uden landkending, er det en grundlæggende og oplivende følelse pludselig at få Anholt i sigte. Udtrykket 'jord stiger af hav' er præcist formuleret. Vølven må have oplevet det. Marsvin, se! råber Mikkel samtidig, da båden bliver omringet af en gruppe danske delfiner. Sikke en velkomst, alt er som det skal være.

Jeg er på et kort sommertogt med mine sønner i vores nye båd Anna II, der er en 26 fods Polaris Drabant, som vi sejlede hjem fra Vejle i april og som giver os mulighed for længere ture i danske farvande end Albertina II, der til gengæld lærte os at sejle. Vi tog fra Helsingør i morges, og klokken 20 er vi fremme i Anholt Havn - mere midt i Katteget kan man ikke være. Øen er en god oplevelse med fire timers landlov, der slutter i havneværtshuset 'Dørken'.

Næste morgen stikker vi af mod Djursland durk gennem Anholt Vindmøllepark, som er imponerende grænsende til det skræmmende. I to timer er vi omgivet af 111 vindmøller, der er 40 meter højere end Rådhustårnet. Vinden vender sig imod os, så vi starter motoren, bølgerne bliver større og vi er glade, da vi sidst på eftermiddagen finder en kajplads i Grenå Havn. Vi spiser Heinz tomatsuppe på dåse, hører tour på mobilen og ser filmen Captain Philips med Tom Hanks på ipadden. Da det bliver mørkt, opdager jeg, at jeg nu slapper helt af og tænker på ingenting.

Det er rart, at vi nu igen sejler langs kysten, konstaterer Mikkel næste morgen, da vi sætter kursen sydpå langs Djursland. Han har ret. At sejle kun omgivet af himmel og hav, sætter på en eller anden måde tid, sted og fart på hold. Der sker jo ingenting. Det må være relativitetsteori for sejlere. Ud for Ebeltoft trækker kulsorte skyer sig sammen, det ser fantastik ud i al sin storhed, og så begynder det at regne, som jeg ikke har oplevet det i mange år. De sidste to-tre timer ind til Århus er nærmest uendelige. Bølgerne er krappe og kaster rund med båden, og byen synes ikke at komme nærmere, uanset hvor meget vi sejler.

Vi finder en god plads i Århus Lystbådehavn ud for Øen, der er byens nybyggede havnefront med boligtårnet Lighthouse, der er 142 meter højt. Det er 50 cm højere end Anholts vindmøller! Her dukker storebror Nikolai op og jeg har en vidunderlig eftermiddag og aften på madmarkedet sammen med mine to sønner, inden vi sender Mikkel med toget hjem til arbejet næste dag. Begge drenge er blevet glade for at sejle og dygtige til det, og om torsdagen sejler Nikolai og jeg rundt på Århusbugten og spiser om aftenen i tapas fra Føtex om bord.

Fredag er jeg på egen hånd, begge drenge er nu på arbejde, så jeg sejler alene videre til Sejerø. Jeg vil helst have selskab ombord, men jeg vil heller ikke holdes tilbage og er vant til at sejle på egen hånd. Jeg sætter kurs til Slettehage og går herfra rakt ind over færgeruten, så jeg holder mig fri af de hurtige katamaran-færger.

Jeg sejler forbi Samsø, som vi besøgte i april, og fortsætter mod Sejerø. 10 sømil før mål løber forbrugsbatteriet tør for strøm og gps'en går ud. Det undrer mig, for jeg synes, jeg har opladet batteriet både i havnen og undervejs med motorens generator. Men det er ikke noget stort problem, jeg har gps på min mobil, jeg har ekstra powerbank og endog en ipad, hvis jeg skulle tabe telefonen overbord. Jeg er faktisk ret sikkerheds-fokuseret. Når jeg sejler solo, har jeg altid en sikkerhedsline på, jeg vil ikke falde i vandet, mens båden sejler videre uden mig. Med det døde batteri, dør også vhf-radioen. Men jeg har naturligvis en opladet vhf-radio hægtet på redningsvester. Jeg har dobbelt eller trippel dækning på alle sikkerhedssystemer. Jeg har stor respekt for havet, men har aldrig været bange.

Sejerø er en rar havn. Den er ikke nær så organiseret som Anholt - men hyggelig, og den minder mig om Kyrkbacken på Ven hjemme i Øresund. Øen er stort set uden mobildækning, men det lykkes mig om morgenen at fange en vejrudsigt, som siger 8 til 10 meter i sekundet med vinden lige i ryggen det første stykke. Luksus. Det giver 6 knob langs med kysten og et stykke videre ud til Sjællands Odde. Batteriet er igen opladet og holder spændingen. Da jeg går igennem renden ud for Sjællands Odde er der store bølger og vind lige ind mod stævnen. Jeg starter motoren og båden kæmper sig frem med 4 knob. Jeg kunne sætte automat-styring på, men undlader og bliver i cockpittet hele vejen til Hundested og lever af chokoladekiks og cola zero. På den sidste del af turen kan jeg sætte genua og får farten op på 5 knob. Indsejlingen til Hundested er lidt tricky med flere sandbanker langt fra kysten og faktisk også lige foan havneindsejlingen, så jeg opfører mig, som styrede jeg færgen, der sejler til Rørvig. Igen finder jeg en genial plads i havnen, søde naboer hjælper med fortøjningen og jeg spiser middag med min hustru, som kigger forbi.

Søndagsvejret er som lørdagsvejret, og det går strygende langs Sjællands nordkyst. Jeg er doven. Jeg har sejlet 8-10 timer hver dag i en uge og kæmpet med vejr, vind og bølger, men nu kan jeg blot rulle forsejlet ud og sejle 5,5 knob uden at skulle gøre noget som helst udover at drikke kaffe og kigge ind på kysten. Jeg kunne også sætte storsejlet og sejle lidt hurtigere. Men jeg gider ikke. Nu er jeg på hjemmebane, jeg hører Tour de France på mobilen og de syv timer hjem går hurtigt. Ud for Ålsgårde, dukker Kronborg op om styrbord. Jeg sender en venlig tanke til Søren fra Vejle, som jeg købte båden af. At mit lille sommertogt er gået så smertefrit er hans fortjeneste. Han har passet og plejet den gamle Bukh dieselmotor, han har ringet med gode råd og tip om trimning af sejl og fyldt Anna II med god karma.

[amarynceus]

0141/1000 

Skyship traffic in the Chenedar basin.  Atmospheric conditions regularly produce a layer of thin clouds near mean sea level, some 300m above the surface of the Chenedar Sea. Was trying to capture that here, couldn't really manage it in 31 minutes.

- - - - - -

Clip Studio Paint, Cintiq 22HD. © Avatar Z Brown. All paintings made possible by Patron support. | DeviantArt | Patreon | Picarto | Twitter | Paypal | Ko-Fi |

[leyden-manikin]

The promised news about the current state of Zamonian literature. A short summary: Walter Moers is still alive. He is not the secret identity of his publisher (which was apparently some sort of rumor). Castle of dreaming books was delayed because he started working on the graphic novel adaptation of City of dreaming books, and he decided to postpone the novel to have more time for it. He then started writing and illustrating the Island of 1000 lighthouses, which is now almost finished. Some time ago he met a woman suffering from CFS, and he started writing Princess Insomnia, which will be illustrated by this woman. So now the plan is to publish Princess Insomnia this autumn, followed by the graphic novel (in two books).

[capewolfe]

Tibbets Point Lighthouse, Cape Vincent, NY.

[twincovesgame]

The Epilogue DLC has been unlocked!!!

We were almost exactly $1000 away from unlocking the Epilogue DLC as of this morning. Then a mysterious benefactor swooped in and unlocked it for us! Thank you very much, mysterious benefactor! I thought I was hallucinating at first when I saw that new pledge pop up. Now that the Epilogue DLC has been unlocked (hurray!)... time to reveal the title!

Trouble in Paradise is the epilogue for Twin Coves. After solving the case, saving the day, and falling in love, Morgan and their love interest(s) deserve a getaway to a tropical paradise. Especially after such a long, cold winter in Twin Coves.

They settle in for a week of rest and relaxation (and romance), but trouble seems to follow them wherever they go, and soon they're pulled into a small mystery at the island's hotel.

Sure hope this new case won't interfere with any plans! Plans involving rings, if you're into that sort of thing...💍

The Epilogue DLC will have a 2 - 3 hour playtime, its own CGs, and optional 18+ content!

The DLC is free for all backers at the $60 (or $55 Early Bird) Tier and up, but!!! for every $750 over $33,000, the Epilogue DLC will be free for a new tier!

$33,750 - DLC is free for $45 backers and up!

$34, 500 - DLC is free for $30 backers and up!

$35,250 - DLC is free for $25 backers and up!

$36,000 - DLC is free for $20 backers and up!

I also think now’s a good time to reveal the $40k stretch goal! After consulting with some of my patrons, we decided what we needed was some pure domestic fluff.

If we reach $40k, a second DLC will be made! The Date Night DLC takes place after the main game, but before the epilogue. But unlike the epilogue, this DLC will have a completely unique story for each romance option. Since every game level backer will get the Epilogue DLC for free if we hit $36k, Date Night will only be free for $60 (or $55) tier backers and up.

Understandably, catching a murderer doesn’t leave much time for dating. After saving the day, Morgan and their now boyfriend(s) realize they’re in love but have never actually been on a real date! So the romance options take it upon themselves and surprise Morgan with a very special evening.

Will you join Lir for a night surfing lesson? Or perhaps let Azriel take you to the Festival of Lights, an important pixie celebration? Maybe breaking into a lighthouse with Cassidy for a picnic under the stars is more your style…

I wonder what the other dates will be…There’s 9 days to find out!

Kickstarter ends at 11:59 am on October 31st! Check it out here!

[morrigand]

grey day movies

pov: you're watching movies and drinking hot coffee while it's raining outside

10's

knives out (2019) | rian johnson // mystery, comedy

the lighthouse (2019) | robert eggers // horror, suspense

el hoyo (2019) | galder gaztelu-urrutia // horror, suspense

la influencia (2019) | denis rovira // horror, suspense

suspiria (2018) | luca guadagnino // horror, suspense

hereditary (2018) | ari aster // horror

halloween (2018) | david gordon green // horror, slasher

shape of water (2017) | guillermo del toro // drama, suspense

the witch (2015) | robert eggers // horror, suspense

the hateful eight (2015) | quentin tarantino // western, drama

crimson peak (2015) | guillermo del toro // drama, suspense

what we do in the shadows (2014) | taika waititi, jemaine clement // comedy, found footage

the lords of salem (2012) | rob zombie // horror

skyfall (2012) | sam mendes // action, adventure

the girl with the dragon tattoo (2011) | david fincher // mystery, suspense

shutter island (2010) | martin scorsese // suspense, mystery

00's

orphan (2009) | jaume collet-serra // mystery, suspense

antichrist (2009) | lars von trier // horror, drama

coraline (2009) | henry selick // horror, fantasy

inglourious basterds (2009) | quentin tarantino // war film, action

ratatouille (2007) | brad bird // drama, comedy

à l'intérieur (2007) | alexandre bustillo, julien maury // horror, gore

dead silence (2007) | james wan // horror, mystery

zodiac (2007) | david fincher // suspense, mystery

sweeney todd, the demon barber of fleet street (2007) | tim burton // musical, horror

pan's labyrinth (2006) | guillermo del toro // suspense, fantasy

pirates of the caribbean 2, dead man's chest (2006) | gore verbinski // action, adventure

the devil wears prada (2006) | david frankel // comedy, drama

casino royale (2006) | martin campbell // action, adventure

pride and prejudice (2005) | joe wright // drama

corpse bride (2005) | tim burton, mike johnson // fantasy, musical

the call of cthulhu (2005) | andrew leman // horror, mystery

harry potter and the prisoner of azkaban (2004) | alfonso cuarón // fantasy

underworld (2003) | len wiseman // action, horror

house of 1000 corpses (2003) | rob zombie // horror

dagón, la secta del mar (2001) | stuart gordon // mystery, horror

amélie (2001) | jean-pierre jeunet // drama, romance

snatch (2000) | guy ritchie // crime, comedy

90's

audition (1999) | takashi miike // horror, mystery

eyes wide shut (1999) | stanley kubrick // mystery, drama

the matrix (1999) | lana wachowski // science fiction, action

the craft (1996) | andrew fleming // horror, fantasy

seven (1995) | david fincher // horror, suspense

the crow (1994) | alex proyas // fantasy, action

the mask (1994) | chuck russell // action, comedy, crime

the nightmare before christmas (1993) | henry selick // fantasy, musical

body bags (1993) | john carpenter // horror, comedy

jurassic park (1993) | steven spielberg // action, science fiction

bram stoker's dracula (1992) | francis ford coppola // horror, romance

batman returns (1992) | tim burton // action

the silence of the lambs (1991) | jonathan demme // suspense, horror

the addam's family (1991) | barry sonnenfeld // comedy, fantasy

misery (1990) | rob reiner // horror, suspense

it (1990) | tommy lee wallace // horror, suspense

80's

child's play (1988) | tom holland // horror, slasher

hellraiser (1987) | clive barker // horror, slasher

the fly (1986) | david cronenberg // horror, science fiction

the name of the rose (1986) | jean-jacques annaud // crime, mystery

amadeus (1984) | milos forman // drama, comedy

the thing (1982) | john carpenter // horror, science fiction

blade runner (1982) | ridley scott // science fiction, neo-noir

an american werewolf in london (1981) | john landis // horror, comedy

the shining (1980) | stanley kubrick // horror

70's

alien (1979) | ridley scott // horror, science fiction

nosferatu: phantom der nacht (1979) | werner herzog // horror, drama

halloween (1978) | john carpenter // horror, slasher

suspiria (1977) | dario argento // horror, giallo

the omen (1976) | richard donner // horror, suspense

taxi driver (1976) | martin scorsese // drama, suspense

monty python and the holy grail (1975) | terry gilliam, terry jones // comedy

young frankenstein (1974) | mel brooks // comedy, parody

willy wonka and the chocolate factory (1971) | mel stuart // musical, fantasy

60's

rosemary's baby (1968) | roman polanski // suspense

dr. terror's house of horrors (1965) | freddie francis // horror, fantasy

mary poppins (1964) | robert stevenson // musical, fantasy

the birds (1963) | alfred hitchcock // suspense

tales of terror (1962) | roger corman // horror, mystery

dr. no (1962) | terence young // action, adventure

breakfast at tiffany's (1961) | blake edwards // romance, comedy

101 dalmatians (1961) | wolfgang reitherman, clyde geronimi, hamilton luske // adventure, comedy

village of the damned (1960) | wolf rilla // horror, science fiction

psycho (1960) | alfred hitchcock // suspense

black sunday (1960) | mario bava // horror, drama

50's

house on haunted hill (1959) | william castle // horror

north by northwest (1959) | alfred hitchcock // suspense, noir

the fly (1958) | kurt neumann // horror, science fiction

the crawling eye (1958) | quentin lawrence // horror, science fiction

12 angry men (1957) | sidney lumet // crime, drama

creature from the black lagoon (1954) | jack arnold // horror

rear window (1954) | alfred hitchcock // suspense, mystery

singin' in the rain (1952) | gene kelley, stanley donen // musical, romance

strangers on a train (1951) | alfred hitchcock // suspense, noir

in a lonely place (1950) | nicholas ray // noir, drama

all about eve (1950) | joseph l. mankiewicz // drama

sunset boulevard (1950) | billy wilder // noir, drama

40's

the third man (1949) | carol reed // noir, mystery

ladri di biciclette (1948) | vittorio de sica // drama

the big sleep (1946) | howard hawks // noir, mystery

double indemnity (1944) | billy wilder // noir, mystery

casablanca (1942) | michael curtiz // romance, drama

citizen kane (1941) | orson welles // drama, mystery

the maltese falcon (1941) | john huston // noir, mystery

fantasia (1940) | wilfred jackson, hamilton luske, ben sharpsteen // musical, fantasy

rebecca (1940) | alfred hitchcock // suspense, romance

30's

gone with the wind (1939) | victor fleming // drama

modern times (1936) | charles chaplin // comedy, romance

bride of frankenstein (1935) | james whale // horror, fantasy

it happened one night (1934) | frank capra // romance, comedy

duck soup (1933) | leo mccarey // comedy, musical

the mummy (1932) | karl freund // horror

frankenstein (1931) | james whale // horror

m (1931) | fritz lang // suspense, crime

dracula (1931) | tod browning, karl freund // horror

20's

the man who laughs (1928) | paul leni // drama, mystery

nosferatu, eine symphonie des grauens (1922) | friedrich wilhelm murnau // horror

das cabinet des dr. caligari (1920) | robert weine // horror, mystery

10's

der student von prag (1913) | stellan rye, paul wegener // horror, mystery

00's

le voyage dans la lune (1902) | georges méliès // science fiction, fantasy

90's

le manoir du diable (1896) | georges méliès // horror

feel free to recommend more movies in the comments :D

[nt3000s]

majority of fallout 4 quests are uninteresting or just kind of bad in main quests and side quests but i wont lie it did have one of the funniest side quests in the history of all fallout games with the red death where you have to investigate this island and why so so many people keep dyimg there trying to investigate and its just because theres a really really really small crab with fucking industrial flashlight eyes and people keep fucking smashing their ships into the island and dying because this 1 inch tall crab is like a fail lighthouse and thats so fucking funny to me. so god damn funny ohhh why have 1000 people crashed their fucking ships onto this island and died well theres a guy there and hes small and hes got big eyes thats why

[literaryspinster]

Preview: Something In The Water Ch. 6

I hope you enjoy this 1000 word snippet, the whole thing should be posted by next week, provided nothing comes up. Konstantin Kovar had a diary, and Dick’s going to find it. He’s been looking for answers everywhere he can think of, reading into Konstantin’s past, his family in Eastern Europe, former jobs. But all his digging has led to is a corkboard of photos and notecards strangled by an incomprehensible lattice of red string, the sort of set up that looks a lot more useful and productive than it is, at least for the time being. 

To make things worse, the fingerprints dusted on the lip of the bathtub and the DNA samples collected from the site have all come back as either belonging to Konstantin, or inconclusive. Not even Kovar’s laptop or cell phone contained any potential clues aside from a slightly troubling search history on xvideos. 

None of the frenzied tips called into the station unearthed anything of consequence either. One caller swore he saw the killer in a dream, another thought it may have been the work of pirates, and the rest were even less believable than that. The worst calls though, are the frightened ones. Most people on the island are still normal it seems, and worried that the killer may come for them next, or the people they love. Not everyone can just leave at a moment's notice after all. Their livelihood is here, their everything is here. It’s for them, and for Rachel, that he presses on.

Unfortunately, the only lead that seems like it might bring something to light at the moment is that diary, which still can’t be found, unless…

“The diary, did it have a metal clasp on it? A lock maybe?” he asks Cheryl the flight attendant, over the phone. She’s audibly exasperated to hear from him again, but polite about it at least. It’s a long shot, but if the victim left it in the sand somewhere before the incident, then the precinct’s metal detector should do the trick. 

There’ll be another sweep on monday for the murder weapon, directly around the site and in the adjacent caverns, and he wants to make sure his team knows that there’s more than just a pair of cuffs to be on the lookout for. Ricky the beachcomber has been on his usual task every morning, and was given the instruction to deliver any potential evidence to the station, although his personal jurisdiction doesn’t extend past the beach. If the department can't find the diary and the cuffs near the lighthouse, it’s back to square one. 

After a long pause, Cheryl answers. “It’s difficult to remember, but I think it may have,” she says, the end going up like a question. Despite the uncertainty it’s enough of a yes for now. He hangs up the phone and rubs his temples, shutting his eyes to the mess across his desk, stacks and stacks of papers, a white mug stained with coffee, a laptop with so many open tabs that they only fit a letter each.

It’s been a chaotic week. The population has seen a 23 percent increase for the summer (down from the usual 25 but not by nearly as much as he’d hoped), and the lighthouse is still shut down until it can be cleared for the new keeper, Sanger something or other, to move in and resume work. Turns out it’s more complicated than it looks being vintage engineering and all. 

With the delivery boats unable to arrive at night, the traffic around the harbor is noisy and constant throughout the day, setting him further on edge. It’s been nearly twelve hours, and if he doesn’t stop then the chief is going to throw him out by force. He needs to spend some time with Rachel anyway, he told her he’d try his best to make the thing tonight. It’s never really been his jam– or Rachel’s for that matter– but neither is letting three rambunctious teenagers run amok unsupervised all night long. 

As soon as Deputy Kent arrives to work the night shift, Dick grabs his keys, wishes him a good night, and heads for the car. He decides not to stop at home first, even though he must be a fright, or the closest thing possible for a guy who looks like him; there’s faint circles underneath his eyes, his hair is ruffled, overlong and hanging down over his forehead like some dreamy punk in a 90s teen drama, his shirt is in dire need of a press. But it’s already pushing 830 and he could use a drink more than a comb and a splash of water on his face. 

And if Kory shows up, well, he just hopes she likes dreamy 90s punks.

It feels insane to admit he’s been thinking about her, all the while he’s supposed to be thinking of nothing but Konstantin, and solving this case so he can take Rachel home. But insane or not, she’s been on his mind off and on for days, mostly on if he’s being honest with himself. He’ll be scrolling through crime scene photos, obsessed with the possibility that he’s missed something, and suddenly he’ll picture that smile, so honest and easy. Or the scent of her hair that he caught a faint whiff of when she leaned in close to him. It smelled like sea breezes, somehow both the cocktail and the real thing in equal measure.

He shouldn’t have ran off that night. He should have gotten to know her, pushed work aside for long enough to find out what movies she likes, what sort of humor makes her smile spread wider, if her skin is as soft as it looks…

“Stop being a perv Grayson,” he says to himself as he parks the car alongside the Marina. 

[tealin]

Observation Hill

To see the post in its original format, please visit twirlynoodle.com/blog

There is no mistaking Observation Hill when you arrive at McMurdo, if you know anything about it.  It is a distinct cone, right at the end of the peninsula – even if you've never seen a picture of it, its name alone tells you it's a prime lookout, and sticking out into McMurdo sound as it does, it has clear views in every direction.

I had seen pictures of it, but I was still surprised how it loomed over the station.  Unlike the vastly larger Mt Erebus, it is visible from everywhere; whether you're eating in the Galley or crawling back to bed from the Crary lab in the wee hours, it's always looking over your shoulder.

Though not apparent in the above photo, it is clearly visible in person that there is a large cross mounted nearly at the peak of the hill.  Visitors especially from the States might assume it is just another expression of religious devotion – Christ died on a cross on a hill, so hilltop crosses are not unusual in a country which puts great stock in expressions of Christianity – but this is not another one of those things, in fact it isn't even American.  This cross was erected in January 1913 by the surviving men of the Terra Nova Expedition, as a memorial to Captain Scott and the other members of his party who died out on the Ross Ice Shelf on their way home from the South Pole.

Before the ship arrived it was decided among us to urge the erection of a cross on Observation Hill to the memory of the Polar Party.  On the arrival of the ship the carpenter immediately set to work to make a great cross of jarrah wood [an Australian hardwood].  There was some discussion as to the inscription, it being urged that there should be some quotation from the Bible because "the women think a lot of these things."  But I was glad to see the concluding line of Tennyson's "Ulysses" adopted: "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield."  

... Observation Hill was clearly the place for it, it knew them all so well. Three of them were Discovery men who lived three years under its shadow: they had seen it time after time as they came back from hard journeys on the Barrier: Observation Hill and Castle Rock were the two which had always welcomed them in.  It commanded McMurdo Sound on one side, where they had lived: and the Barrier on the other, where they had died.  No more fitting pedestal, a pedestal which in itself is nearly 1000 feet high, could have been found. 

(Apsley Cherry-Garrard, The Worst Journey in the World, pp.565-7)

The establishment of the cross took two days: the first, to hack a hole in the volcanic rock in which to mount it, and the second to carry up the pieces and erect them.  

It stands nine feet out of the rocks, and many feet into the ground, and I do not believe it will ever move.  When it was up, facing out over the Barrier, we gave three cheers and one more.   (ibid., p.567)

106 years later, there is a hiking trail up Observation Hill.  I had intended to make a pilgrimage since the moment I arrived, but with everything else going on, and the ongoing challenge to get enough sleep, it wasn't until quite late in my visit that I finally made it.

My first attempt was on a relatively fine day, when I thought I could get some good views. The trailhead was clearly marked on the station map, but when I got there I couldn't find a way to reach it without crossing a fuel pipeline, and I had a dim recollection from orientation that this was a big no-no.  I wandered about looking for access until I started getting a headache from the fumes, and gave up.

The next opportunity came a few days later, after I'd found out from a veteran that it was OK just to step over the pipeline there.  It was a thickly cloudy day, and hazy by Antarctic standards, so I wouldn't get as good a view, but that did mean I could look forward to having the hill to myself.  So I stepped over the pipeline and started up.

It looks like a terribly steep climb from the bottom, but once on the slope it's not so bad, and is far less slippery than the gravel slope of Arrival Heights.  Partway up I passed a mountain rescue class, but beyond that the trail was entirely mine.

Like the rest of Ross Island, Observation Hill is volcanic in origin – in fact it was once a small volcano of its own.  Unlike the subglacial volcano that is now Castle Rock, which grew cylindrically through a hole it melted in the ice, Observation Hill must have been uncovered in its later years  at least, because it has the classic cone shape made by molten rock running down the outside.  It is a lighter colour than much of the rest of the exposed rock in the area, and in places, it gives a really good impression of being sedimentary rather than igneous.

While the climb was not as physically intense as I had feared, it did still make me very warm, and I had two pauses, not to catch my breath but to cool down.  One was to watch the rescue class, the other was when, somewhere near the top, I lost the trail, and examined the terrain for a while to guess which side would be least fall-off-able.  I chose the wrong one, it turns out – I didn't fall off, but I did have to pick my way over some bare rock and came out above the cross, which is mounted in a pocket of rubble just off the peak.

It's hard to tell from the photo but it is in fact quite large – I am an average sized female and I  stood well under the crossbar.  The inscription is still there, but over a century of blizzards have battered it, and some parts are just barely decipherable.

The names – above of the worst of the blowing grit – are still legible.  This gave me one of those moments which always seems to come by surprise.  I have lived most of my life, and certainly all of my career, in close proximity with fictional characters, who demand to be believed in, either out of escapist necessity or professional duty.  Most of the time I am off in my own little world, and the fact that that little world is now a historical moment in Antarctica does not, necessarily, make it more real, in relation to my literal present reality, than any movie I've worked on.  I know these guys were real, I have seen film footage of them, and read their handwriting, and, some of them, even met members of their families!  But when I'm up to my elbows in the work, it's easy to give it the part of my brain that suspends disbelief on a production.  Suddenly something will come along that jolts me back to their reality: in this case, a name carved on a physical object by someone who knew them personally.

At the same time, this physical object impressed upon me again just how much time separates their reality and mine.  Originally the cross was painted white, with the incised letters filled in black.  Only a little of the white paint remains in the deepest recesses of what are quite shallow letters, now.  In 1960, when Silas Wright returned and was photographed up here, the wood had already been scoured clean.  His visit was 47 years after the cross was put in place, and 49 years before mine.  The same imagination that conflates historical realities with fictional ones can make those years evaporate, but that is still a lot of years, and erosion, unlike imagination, doesn't lie.

Cherry may have believed that the cross would never move, but it has in fact blown down twice, once in the winter of 1974 and again in 1993.  Its restoration in 1994 was a significant effort: a new concrete "boot" was made for it at Scott Base and delivered to the site by helicopter, and the cross itself was relayed up the hill by teams of helpers.  (You can see photos of the event here, p.44)  I cannot say how moving it is to see such an outlay of resources and enthusiasm by people who never met the Polar Party, to perpetuate their memory.

The cross isn't the only thing to see at the top of Observation Hill, of course – there is everything else.  It turned out to be the perfect way to end my tour of Terra Nova landmarks, not only because it was the last bit of home territory the Terra Nova men themselves visited, but because I could see nearly everywhere I'd been from up here.

As you can see, it was not the greatest day for landscape photography, what with the matte light and the taller mountains being covered with cloud.  But I had not come up here to take pictures.  The sombre atmosphere befitted what I had come to do, which was to remember these men and thank The Powers That Be for the blessings that had been showered upon me in the last few weeks.

The cross faces south, towards their last camp, and the Pole.  This is, of course, a thoughtful and fitting aspect of the memorial.  It also gives the impression of a beacon, a light in a window, a lighthouse on a headland, guiding them home. The men who erected it knew the men were dead.  They are still dead.  We all know this.  But they are still out there somewhere, and it is not impossible to imagine some small irrational part of the human psyche wanting, in some small way, to show them the way back, and call them back by name.

Minna Bluff was covered in cloud, so I couldn't use it as a bellwether, but the wind started to pick up and was colder than before, so I thought I should start heading down again.  The correct trail was obvious from this end, and I poked along it for a little way before everything caught up with me and I sat down to have a little cry.

The cross is a historical artefact, and while it is not as plum or as complex as the huts, it still requires conservation.  Alarmed by the degree of erosion on the lettering, the Antarctic Heritage Trust has devised a shell to protect it from the worst of the winter winds.  That will do something, but it has already lost a lot.  When I was up there, I wondered why it hadn't ever been repainted, as the paint would go a long way to protecting it, and when the paint wore off it could just get repainted instead of eating further and further into the wood.  The raw timber is more harmonious with the environment, and I like it better aesthetically that way, as do many others I'm sure – the white cross with black letters in Debenham's photo from 1913 is very stark and artificial in such a magnificent landscape.  But it would last a lot longer.

On the other hand, generations of Antarcticans now have the cross as a touchstone, not only as their link to the history (not everyone gets to visit Cape Evans)  but as a landmark in their own experience of Antarctica.  It was personally important to the men who painted it white and put it up, but it is also personally important to hundreds, if not thousands, of people since then, who have never seen it white and don't know that's how it started, and might see the repainting as a travesty.  If it were to be conserved, to what extent would that go?  Would the letters be re-carved deeper, obliterating what remains of Davies' original work?  At what point does conservation end and adulteration begin?

The alternative is to take down the original and keep it somewhere out of the weather – Scott Base perhaps – and replace it with a replica.  Jarrah is still available, the letters could be carved afresh, it could be the bare wood everyone has known and loved for the last fifty years at least, and the original could be saved from the effects of weather once and for all.  But doesn't this defeat the intent of the original in some way, and make it – dare I say – a Disneyland version?  Do we owe more to history to keep it as it is and let the elements wear it down, or to preserve it as long as possible and do whatever might be necessary to extend the experience and historical understanding of a place, if not its authenticity?

These are all questions that curators and conservators have been grappling with for years, so I leave it to them to make the decisions.  I am grateful to have seen the original, and to have a moment to myself up there to reflect on these things, and more.  I hope, whatever happens with it in the future, Observation Hill is not de-crossed entirely.  How else will they find the way home?

[wefoundloveunderthelight]

Dark Gray by:  colormyheartred

Summary:  Killian Jones operates a lighthouse in the middle of nowhere, preferring a life of isolation, until one day a woman and a baby wash up on his little island and change his life forever.

Chapters Completed: 18/18

Dark and moody Killian Jones. Yummy! Yes I love angsty Killian who’s grouchy and then has a heart of gold. Strangers stuck together with sexual tension. I’ll take that x 1000!

Stacy’s Recommended Fics and Stuff

@teamhook @cutieodonoghue