#kayak education

[silentwakellc]

What happens if my kayak capsizes

What happens if my kayak capsizes

It eventually happens to all paddlers; you will fall into the water – either purposely or unintentionally. What happens to you and your gear during this process can range from just another day on the water to a major incident. This posting will cover what normally happens, and what one can do to minimize the ordeal. Let’s explore what the action of falling into the water is commonly called in the…

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#discoverwi #silentwake #travelwi #wisconsin #aca certified instructor near me #beginner #does my kayak belong in the water #flooded hatch #great lakes #guided kayak trips #how to drain a kayak #how to empty a flooded kayak #how to empty a kayak #how to transport a kayak #how to use a kayak paddle float #kayak #kayak education #kayak education and lessons #kayak how to #kayak lessons #kayak rescue #kayak rescue techniques #kayak safety #kayak safety tips #kayak skills #kayak tips #kayak training #kayaking #kayaking in SE wisconsin #kayaking in Wisconsin

[tabbyjack]

HI GAY PEOPLE I’M BACK

#BACKPACKING FUN #KAYAKING FUN #I AM GOING TO BE A SCIENCE EDUCATOR WHEN I GROW UP SO HELP ME GOD

[cleanwaterchronicles]

EGLE releases 2022 State of the Great Lakes Report

It’s not easy to sum up a year of accomplishments and challenges within the world’s largest surface freshwater system, but the 2022 State of the Great Lakes Report tells the story by distilling a few overarching themes:

Building a water-driven “blue economy” through Great Lakes education and career pathways.

Advancing technology, scientific research, and data sharing around water issues.

Restoring and protecting vital ecosystems within and around the Great Lakes.

The Office of the Great Lakes (OGL) in Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) prepared the annual report, presented Dec. 20 to the Michigan Legislature on behalf of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Photos and informational graphics accompany the articles. EGLE Director Liesl Clark called the report a guide to stewardship of a world-class resource.

“Its focus on challenges and solutions enhances our understanding and empowers us to safeguard the lakes now and for future generations,” Clark said.

Emily Finnell, OGL Great Lakes senior advisor and strategist, said the report highlights efforts to advance a sustainable, prosperous, and equitable future for Michigan and the Great Lakes, emphasizing connections such as public-private partnerships and cross-cultural collaborations. 

So, what’s in the report? Here’s a sneak peek:

A U.S.-Canada analysis finds two Great Lakes’ ecosystems “good,” two “fair,” and one “poor.”

Historic bipartisan investment supports water infrastructure improvements.

The MI Healthy Climate Plan sets a carbon-neutrality goal vital to the lakes’ health.

Education programs help Michiganders of all ages build STEM skills and an environmental ethic.

Graduates of a college’s innovative programs are advancing Michigan’s blue economy.

A planned network of electric boat charging stations will be a first in the U.S.

Lake, stream, and groundwater monitoring are yielding better and more accessible data.

Guidance is in development to help communities collaboratively manage water resources.

Muskegon Lake is among the latest hard-won success stories in Michigan’s Areas of Concern.

A long journey has begun to rescue an Upper Peninsula fish spawning reef from mining waste.

Studies and sampling programs target lake contamination by PFAS and microplastics.

The Benton Harbor community sees hope for revitalization alongside a cleaned-up creek.

Teamwork with Tribal Nations is restoring manoomin, or native wild rice, in Michigan.

A Biosphere Region and forest protections show how lakes, land, and people are intertwined.

You can read the complete report on the Office of the Great Lakes website, which links to the 2022 report in a printable format or viewable as magazine-style double-page layouts. The website also links to reports from recent years. 

As the Great Lakes State, Michigan upholds the highest standards for protecting, restoring, and sustaining the Great Lakes, the world’s largest freshwater resource. The Office of the Great Lakes (OGL) is a leader in developing policy and implementing strategic programs to protect, restore, and sustain the Great Lakes watershed.

Source: EGLE NEWSROOM

#protectourwaterways #great lakes #lake michigan #lake superior #lake erie #lake ontario #lake huron #environmental education #swimming #kayaking #fishing #egle #protectourplanet

[visit-new-york]

Unlocking the Allure of Brooklyn Bridge Park: A Comprehensive Guide for Explorers"

Brooklyn Bridge Park, a gem nestled along the East River, stands as a testament to urban innovation, providing both locals and visitors with a stunning retreat. As you contemplate your visit, a cascade of questions might fill your mind. Fear not, as we embark on a journey to unravel the wonders of Brooklyn Bridge Park, addressing the queries that pique your curiosity.

Is there a cost to enter Brooklyn Bridge Park, or is it free for visitors?

One of the park's most enticing features is its accessibility—it's absolutely free! Brooklyn Bridge Park welcomes all, offering a respite from the bustling city without burning a hole in your pocket.

How can I access Brooklyn Bridge Park, and is there parking available?

Conveniently connected, the park is accessible by multiple modes of transport. Subway enthusiasts can alight at various nearby stations, while drivers will find ample parking options nearby. Whether you arrive by train, bus, or car, the journey to this urban oasis is as delightful as the destination itself.

Are pets allowed in Brooklyn Bridge Park, and are there designated areas for them?

Four-legged companions are more than welcome, making Brooklyn Bridge Park a haven for pet owners. Leash laws are in effect, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humans and their furry friends. The park even boasts designated areas where pets can frolic freely.

What are the best spots for photography in Brooklyn Bridge Park?

Photographers, rejoice! The park offers a plethora of picturesque locations. Capture the iconic Manhattan skyline from the Pebble Beach, or frame the majestic Brooklyn Bridge against the setting sun from the Empire Fulton Ferry section. The possibilities for Instagram-worthy shots are endless.

What are the key attractions within Brooklyn Bridge Park?

Prepare to be enthralled by an array of attractions. From the impressive Pier 1 with its lush lawns to the tranquil gardens of Pier 6, each section tells a unique story. The famed Jane's Carousel, housed in an architectural masterpiece, is a must-visit, as is the renowned Brooklyn Bridge itself, standing proudly as the park's northern anchor.

How did the idea for Brooklyn Bridge Park originate, and when was it established?

The roots of Brooklyn Bridge Park trace back to community activism in the 1980s. What began as a vision to revitalize the waterfront burgeoned into reality in 2010 when the park officially opened its gates. Today, it stands as a testament to community-driven urban planning.

What recreational activities are available for visitors in Brooklyn Bridge Park?

Whether you're an avid sports enthusiast or a leisure seeker, the park caters to all. Engage in a game of basketball, try your hand at kayaking, or simply bask in the sun on the expansive lawns. The park hosts fitness classes, cultural events, and recreational sports leagues throughout the year.

Are there any family-friendly amenities or play areas within the park?

Families are in for a treat! The park offers playgrounds, water features, and a wealth of family-friendly programming. Spend quality time with your loved ones at Slide Mountain or embark on an adventure at the Water Lab, ensuring smiles for both the young and the young at heart.

Are there guided tours or educational programs offered at Brooklyn Bridge Park?

Delve deeper into the park's rich history and ecology through guided tours and educational programs. Knowledgeable guides unravel the layers of the park's past, present, and future, providing an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

What are some of the popular dining options or food vendors in or around Brooklyn Bridge Park?

Savor diverse culinary delights from food vendors scattered throughout, offering everything from artisanal treats to international cuisines. Alternatively, nearby DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights boast a plethora of eateries catering to every palate.

In conclusion, Brooklyn Bridge Park is not merely a destination—it's an experience waiting to be embraced. Whether you're a local seeking solace or a visitor eager to explore, the park's dynamic offerings are sure to leave an indelible mark on your memory. So, lace up your walking shoes, charge your camera, and set forth on an adventure like no other!

#Brooklyn Bridge #Brooklyn #West Elm #Bench #Bridge #New York City #new york #newyork #New-York #nyc #NY #Manhattan #urban #city #USA #United States #buildings #travel #journey #outdoors #street #architecture #visit-new-york.tumblr.com #Brooklyn Bridge Park

[fandombead]

Sanders Sides human AU where they’re all camp counselors at some backwoods Alphabet soup upstate summer camp—

Camp Sandside

Also locally known as Camp Mindscape

C!Thomas is the newest camp director trying to keep the camp funded and running every year. He advertises and keeps in touch with people who help everything work out each year.

Logan is head of schedule and morning role call. He makes sure camp has an educational side to it, so they have something to take away. He enjoys accompanying on the nature hikes and takes their slightly older campers stargazing. You can find him usually hanging out in the camp archives and he can answer any question about its history.

He coordinates camper activities with Patton, who is the poster child for Campy Dad-Counselor™️. Patton knows every campfire song ever how to make 477 different crafts from sticks and rocks you can find in the forest. He is good at wrangling the kids and making any activity fun so everyone gets included. He’s excited to be there every day. He’s been there the longest and has dappled in every other job as needed.

Remus runs all the sport activities and Roman throws together a little theater group production for the parents at the end of the summer. Both twins help each other out for those activities depending on whose day it is. They also keep up the Canteen and craft workshop. They tell the best campfire stories. (Fun fact: they went to this camp as kids and are working here now during college)

Virgil’s shadowing Patton with first aid as a trainee nurse and handles safety protocols/checks. He’s just stressed out trying to keep everyone alive till the end of the summer. He particularly sticks around at the sport fields, lake, and obstacle course. He barely sleeps and runs on caffeine and spite. He enjoys playing guitar for the kids at campfire time. He makes sure everyone wears sunscreen, is drinking enough water, and that no one wanders off from the group.

And not least of all, Janus, who is the mental health counselor and resolves incident cases between campers. He also is someone the other camp counselors can confide in because the job is draining. He makes sure everyone is taking care of themselves and not doing too much, short-staffed as they are. Camp has run much more smoothly since they added him to their team and everyone is happier for it after getting used to the changes.

They all really enjoy the work and each other. What started as an interesting, versatile summer job that let them hangout together turned into a fun tradition they were quite invested in. Every summer is a memorable one and they look forward to it every year.

I just think it’d be a fun story setting, a series of glimpses at camp life with chapters dedicated to silly or fun happenings at the camp. For some reason all that are coming to me is chapters that sound like history event logs and just imagine it’s because the twins hijacked Logan’s documentation of them and rewrote them with more flair and drama. The Hiking Disaster of 21’. Battle at…Vine Lake (okay maybe not the name but I WILL work Vine in somewhere—maybe that’s the name of the theatre). The Kayak Wars. Surviving the Storm. Bear-ly Active.

(Actually half the chapters will be puns and you’ll know Patton had a hand at assisting the twins’ shenanigans for those retellings~)

Depending on the number of campers, they might also each be head of a cabin and in charge of 3-5 campers specifically on top of everything else that they manage to make good connections with even the most unlikely campers by the end of the summer. (I mostly thought of this just because I wanted an excuse for Logan to be head of the ‘Crofters Cabin’ bwahahaha)

I want Campy adventures!!!

Side notes expanding on the AU bc I have tons of scattered ideas:

I also had the alternative (/prequel? With a few tweaks) idea where some or all of them are campers instead and they meet at the summer camp years before they decide to work there~ ^^

I think that’d be a great story too, where they become lifelong friends in the end and grow to be glad they got sent to this weird old camp for the summer and just have a great time after getting through a few challenges. And they go back every year to see each other again.

Patton calls the campers “saplings” and other nature/tree related nicknames

Their camp shirts have a white star border in black incorporated on the front with the Camp Acronym and everyone styles theirs differently (example: Remus cut the short sleeves off of his)

I imagine they have a rival camp too that every one of them is personally invested in beating yearly, as you do in Camp media. (Alt version where it’s “light” vs “dark” sides camps)

Logan got stuck up a tree once as a kid camper and they still haven’t let him live it down. There’s a photo of it in the archives he keeps trying to get rid of but someone keeps replacing it every year. They call him Pinecone and Lookout 🤣 (Forest Watch)

Janus was someone they never expected to see again. He came to camp in their last years of being campers and joined the group through Remus and Patton. After some getting used to him (Roman and Virgil kept butting heads with him), they were tentatively friends…Roman saved him when he fell in the lake and Janus came in clutch and saved their team at the camp games! they kinda took one step back when he joined as counselor, but they worked it out eventually for good that time~

The twins have a fun rivalry they try to drag their friends into every year…even as counselors now 😂 there’s always some sort of competition going on with them, especially when they start being heads of their own cabins and take pride in their little campers destroying the other teams (but especially each others’)

I think each cabin has a little flag the campers remake every year hanging out front, featuring the animal trait and color of each counselor in charge. Tentative Ideas:

Logan’s Cabin: Team Crofter (of Discovery Cabin). Campers have dark blue bandannas/necklaces

Patton’s Cabin: Team Friendship (of Amity/Compassion Cabin). Campers have light blue bandannas/bracelets

Roman’s Cabin: Team Braveheart (of Ambition Cabin). Campers have red bandannas/necklaces

Remus’s Cabin: Team Chaos (of Endeavor/Spontaneity Cabin). Campers have green bandannas/bracelets

Virgil’s Cabin: Team Storm (of Vigilance Cabin). Campers have purple bandannas/necklaces

Janus’s Cabin: Team Serpent (of Accord/Cunning Cabin). Campers have yellow bandannas/bracelets

They collabed on these name ideas themselves~ The twins’ cabins also relate to one another.

Roman’s theme is having goals and dreams and Remus’s theme is trying ways to reach them, not giving up when it doesn’t work the first time. Together they encourage campers to find something they wanna try that’s new and going for it~

You can probably pair Virgil and Logan’s cabins + Janus and Patton’s in a similar way of their themes relating or balancing each other.

Every year you return to camp, you get a charm to add to your bracelet/necklace (typically all moved to whatever cabin color you are for the current year’s summer). Represents the overall theme of that summer, received at the end.

#sanders sides #sanders sides au #camp counselors au #ts sides #xd #roman sanders #virgil sanders #logan sanders #patton sanders #remus sanders #janus sanders #i had fun with this #feel free to add on #i wanna talk about it #and see other ideas #my ideas #my writing

[mjmenvs3000w24]

Blog 1: Connected to Nature

Hello, ENVS*3000 friends! I'm Maia, and I am in my third year of Biological Sciences. Welcome to my first blog :)

I would describe my current connection with nature as a profound yet carefree essence. I come from the city, more precisely, North Toronto; I found myself yearning for nature's embrace from a young age, perhaps triggered by its scarcity in my urban surroundings. Recognizing my affinity, my dad, a nature enthusiast, actively fueled my passion through camping adventures, hiking escapades, and shared moments immersed in captivating David Attenborough documentaries. In the midst of a large Italian family, where the majority remained indifferent to the natural world, I stood out as the quiet one, the nature lover, aspiring Dr.-to-be. Amidst this, my dad became my reliable support, sharing the same passion for the great outdoors. His passion for wildlife and landscape photography became a shared pursuit, complete with my very own camera.

Photo of a male wood duck shot by Dino Melissa

Despite a bustling upbringing as a competitive dancer for 17 years—which is not exactly an outdoor sport—I surrounded myself with nature books, my dad's photographs, and nature documentaries. Unfortunately, while balancing a hectic city life, the opportunities for my dad and I’s outdoor adventures diminished over the years. However, as I am maturing and expanding my knowledge, I continuously discovered new ways to appreciate nature and its interconnected web of life - not mosquitoes though…

In my quest to inspire others to view nature through a similar lens as I do, I spent the past summer at a wildlife hospital, manning the front desk. Handling cases ranging from fallen hawks to orphaned baby raccoons to pigeons with string around their feet, I strived to educate callers about wildlife while debunking misconceptions. Some common ones are that pigeons are dirty and will give us diseases, and snakes are evil - spoiler alert, both are very wrong! While not everyone appreciated or grasped the educational aspect—some mistaking us for pest removal—many left with a newfound understanding of Ontario's wildlife. Small changes, after all, contribute to a broader impact of protecting our native species. This job expanded my knowledge - which I still try to share with anyone who will listen - and played a pivotal role in further evolving my relationship with nature.

Picture of an American Kestrel

One place that has bestowed upon me a profound sense of place is my cottage—a haven of tranquillity like no other. Nestled on about an acre of land, backing onto a forest, it teems with diverse wildlife such as deer, coyotes, foxes, turkeys, grouse, and a plethora of native plants. Whether quietly observing the tree line or engaging in summer activities like kayaking and hiking, the ambient sounds of water, wind, and nature's symphony create a genuine sense of place; whenever I am there I feel as if I belong there. It's here that I yearn to escape city living permanently, trading it for the allure of a rural plot of land to live off of sustainably. 

Picture of the backyard during the winter

The dream of owning a small farm and caring for animals has been a lifelong goal of mine. The charm of sustainable living intertwines with my passion for nature; here is where I hope to coexist in harmony. Through responsible practices and a deep connection with nature, I aim to contribute to the preservation of the natural world, all while feeling a permanent sense of place like no other.

#envs3000 #nature

[catdotjpeg]

Yesterday (6/7 Dec) kayakers were able to successfully prevent the ZIM/ZIM Partnered ships from departing the dock for the day. Photos from Whistleblowers, Activists, and Communities Alliance (WACA).

Their media release, sent out while the action was taking place, reads: 

A group of activists in kayaks has blocked the path of multiple container ships attempting to depart the Port of Melbourne this afternoon.�� The ships, the Dax, the Vanessa, and the Star, are currently unable to pass the protestors flotilla of around 40 vessels, which has created a line across the Yarra near the West Gate Bridge. The kayakers held Palestinian flags and were joined by a group of protestors onshore. The three ships are currently operating on ‘partner voyage’ arrangements with the israeli company ZIM. The Dax is owned by Contships Management Inc, and the Vanessa and Star are operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company, who in September expanded their partnership agreement with ZIM to include further vessel sharing.  Shams Moussa, a Palestinian activist, had this to say: “Australian politicians have Palestinian blood on their hands. Weapons and parts manufactured in Australia are shipped to israel using companies like Zim to commit evil acts of genocide, land theft and ethnic cleansing. Children have lost their families and homes, happiness has been bombed and burned. Yet, with each loss, a seed of resistance is planted, a determination to liberate and seek justice, that is the true Palestinian spirit.”  Anna Angel, a Registered Emergency Nurse, said: “As a nurse, I have an ethical responsibility to denounce israel’s war crimes past and present. israel is targeting hospitals filled with nurses, doctors, healthcare workers and patients.  ZIM and their partners Contship and MSC directly profit from the multi-trillion weapons trade that commodifies this loss of life, creating devastating impacts on human rights and on health outcomes.”  Another protestor onshore, Elsa Tuet-Rosenberg, said: “As a Jewish educator, I applaud those taking action against the occupation. ZIM has a well-documented history of shipping weapons to israel. Targeting these ships costs israel money and, in tandem with actions all over the world, makes the occupation less viable.  This has been a successful strategy in ending apartheid in South Africa. In recent months ZIM’s CEO Eli Glickman has pledged the use of the company’s ships and infrastructure to support the israeli government, with israeli security touted as the company’s ‘top priority.’” 

#palestine #melbourne #naarm #australia

[ndvenvs3000w23]

Blog 1: Current Relationship with Nature

Hey everyone! I'm currently attending my fourth year at the University of Guelph. I am majoring in Environmental Sciences and minoring in Ecology, and I've loved every minute of it. I am also a co-op student which has allowed me to work in multiple different environments and positions, majority of which have involved a large amount of field work.

In regards to the prompt for this week's post, I've always greatly enjoyed being outdoors and immersed in nature. From camping and hiking in the summer months to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter alongside my family, nature has always been a major part of my life. I've always had a strong passion for the environmental sciences, which is why I decided to pursue it in my post-secondary education. I think a lot of this passion was strongly tied to how often my family involved me in the outdoor activities I mentioned above, and I think it helped to gain an appreciation for nature that I feel many people nowadays do not have.

My first big camping trip was when I was 10 months old where my parents and I visited 4 Ontario provincial parks along our long road trip to Thunder Bay. These included Craigleigh, Windy Lake, Agawa Bay (aka. Lake Superior Provincial Park), and Kakabecka falls. Since then, I have visited and camped at 28 Ontario provincial parks, and 4 national parks in Canada. Of these, my favourites have been Algonquin Park, Bruce Peninsula National Park, Grundy Lake, and Grasslands National Park (SK). It's safe to say that camping is a big part of my life and it has also had a major role in shaping my current relationship with nature. I have greatly enjoyed partaking in hikes and kayaking trips across the lakes during these, and it's always such a breathtaking experience (literally and figuratively). I love the views that the hikes provide, and I always spend a long amount of time taking everything in, and how beautiful nature can be. Often, the views can make you feel small, which is very humbling experience that makes you appreciate nature and, in my experience, creates a sense of responsibility to protect it. My many kayaking trips have provided similar experiences, and I love the many different plants and animals I encounter on these journeys.

Throughout my co-op experiences, I have been able to pursue a position that with a large focus on field work. My favourite has been this past summer which I spent in Indian Head, Saskatchewan working with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in their Agroecosystems section. Saskatchewan was one of the best experiences of my entire life, and I am so grateful to the people who made the trip, and the job, possible. While I was out there, I got to know the 6 other students I was working with and formed strong bonds with them which I will always cherish. I also had the opportunity to explore this province through my field work as well as outside this work and was able to appreciate the different geography and flaura and fauna of the area. It was during the trip out to my placement that allowed me to finally achieve my goal of visiting all 10 provinces of Canada as my last three I needed to visit were Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. I was able to take some time off during my work term to visit Jasper, Alberta, and it was such a beautiful and almost otherworldly experience seeing and experiencing the quiet of the mountains. On my journey back to Ontario, I was also able to stop by Lake Michigan to complete my other goal of visiting all 5 Great Lakes. My next goal is to visit all 3 Territories. Overall, this past summer was one of my favourites, and it deepened my already strong relationship to/appreciation for nature, and I would highly recommend and encourage similar experiences of other people, especially co-op students.

I could likely fill a whole book an my relationship with nature, most of which would consist of my favourite stories and memories of my "adventures", but this post is getting a little long (lol). To answer the question "who offered me 'a sense of place'," I would say my parents who allowed me to visit the many places I have been to. I have so much love and appreciation for both my parents and the experiences they provided for me, and I hope that one day I can do the same for my children. Without them and their passion for camping and exploring what all of Canada has to offer, I would likely not have developed the appreciation for nature that I currently have. Overall, my main takeaway message from this would be that being out and present with nature is an important part of a persons' life, and I strongly advocate for more people to allow themselves time to take a walk in the woods, or even just a regular hiking/walking trail in their city to be able to be present and appreciate nature.

Enjoy some photos I've taken of my travels this summer below :)

[the-hinky-panda]

The Drowning Kind: Part II

Title: The Drowning Kind

Pairing: Captain Sean Renard x OFC (written as a reader)

Rating: Explicit

Summary: You heard of the Portland Grimm and leave your fundamentalist group of naiads in Vancouver. You just wanted a safe fresh start; you didn't expect to fall in love with a royal hybrid police captain.

There are two things that naiads are experts in: swimming and secrets. 

When you first met Sean Renard, you immediately recognized a fellow secret keeper. Words were used sparsely and with the craft of saying enough but providing no actual information. It was a language that you spoke fluently and his presence soon became the closest thing you ever felt to being home. You didn’t think he felt the same way until you saw the red kayak on the river at ten o’clock at night two days after the close of the case you had offered assistance. 

The late night rendezvous continued for the next two weeks, you floating alongside the boat while conversation flowed, still guarded but slowly unfurling tiny bits of information. You moved from Vancouver for a fresh start. His ancestry was old, traced back hundreds of years from Europe. You were living in a broken down house along the river because that was all you could afford. He was living in a penthouse in Portland. You had taught yourself how to read and write, your village not strong believers in their women being educated. He spoke five languages and had the best education money could buy. 

Slowly, more valuable pieces started to become revealed. His hybrid heritage. Your disfigured hands and feet. His tiring game of playing both ends against the middle to protect the Portland Grimm. Your deep scars of a betrayal from someone you had trusted. He was searching for balance between the two worlds he represented. You were searching for the girl who had dreams and once believed that love was real. 

So you found each other. 

Due to the situation he found himself in, along with a diabolical brother who searched for leverage in every aspect of his life, you understood why this needed to stay a secret. For your protection and everyone else around you, no one could know that you had regained that tiny spark of hope that maybe love wasn’t a myth. You still weren’t convinced of what this was between you two but it was precious enough to protect. And you did, for the first time in a long time, feel truly protected. So you kept the secret. 

“Where are we going?” 

You glance over your shoulder. “What’s the matter, Sean? Don’t you trust me?” 

The smile he gives you is sly, a subtle twist to the side of his mouth. “All I asked is what did you do today. Now you have me on one of the uninhabited islands in the middle of the river. I’m sure you can understand my unease.” 

“I do,” you respond. Trust is hard for both of you after the lives you’ve lived. “It’s worth it, I promise.” 

You found the abandoned fishing shack the same way you find everything, by accident. Growing up along riverbanks and on the edges of lakes in Vancouver, you had more of a need to know the flow of the water and the islands that got in the way of it. You were spending much of your free time learning the same thing here in Portland. That knowledge is what crossed your path with Detectives Burkhart and Griffin. 

A group of college kids who had too much to drink had gone missing after an afternoon of tubing on the river. They unknowingly became prey for some rowdy wendigo and needed to be found ASAP. Burkhart had reached out to the naiad community in the harbor and you had wanted to show your worth to your new community. You didn’t expect to be the one to find them but you did, only one out of the group of seven fell victim to the wendigo. Now, you were the riverway consultant for the Portland PD. 

After your maiming, you were still able to be useful. 

The shack was falling down, abandoned for years. It didn’t take much to patch the small roof or replace the broken board walls. It was meant to be a shelter from the elements, nothing longstanding. There’s no electricity that runs into it so you have to get creative in how to fix it up. Abel and his daughters helped you out by using their fishing boat to bring a futon, small armchair, and a desk. You brought some of your books and candles. You pitched it to them as your retreat but your true intention is to share it with only one other person. 

He takes in the ramshackle little hut with cautious curiosity. “Did you build this?” 

“No, I’m not that talented.” 

You push the door open hesitantly. You had already lit some of the candles, the soft glow flickering off the wooden walls and furniture. It actually looked more inviting than you thought it would. But then you remember the one time you visited his apartment in Portland. The large windows overlooking the city and river. The polished granite counters in the kitchen, the artwork that hung on the walls, and the bottle of wine he was there to pick up. All of it was worth more than anything you had ever seen before in your life. What were you thinking trying to pass this off as something special? 

“I think it’s lovely.” 

You feel heat rise to your cheeks. He’s patronizing you. Making the simple, little naiad believe she had done something magnificent when really he was laughing at you. Words are failing you and you silently stare at your feet until he nudges your shoulder playfully. 

“You going to let me in? Because I really want to investigate something in there.” 

You look around the space wondering what he could be talking about when he picks you up, your arms looping around his neck and your legs wrapping around his waist. You start to ask what it was he wanted to investigate when he takes the opportunity to kiss you. After a long day of not seeing each other, you easily give in to the familiar press of his lips against yours. You hear the door being kicked shut and feel yourself in freefall, stopped when you land on the futon. 

“So,” you ask him from your sprawled position on the blankets, “what exactly did you want to investigate?” 

He pulls his shirt over his head and drops it on the floor. “I want to see if that futon can hold the both of us.” 

You reach behind your back and untie the crocheted bikini top, tossing it on top of his discarded shirt. His eyes darken at the sight of your bare breasts and suddenly this rehabbed fishing hut doesn’t seem like such a silly secret after all. 

#sean renard x you #sean renard x reader #sean renard x ofc #captain sean renard x you #captain sean renard x reader #captain sean renard x ofc #sean renard #captain sean renard #sean renard fic #captain sean renard fic #grimm fic

[moonshynecybin]

I know Vale had a lot of Spanish fans but after sepang 2015 did his following in Spain shrink likes Marc’s level of Italian fans probably dropped immensly but vale is like the king of the sport so I’m not sure if he would have lost as many Spanish fans as Marc did Italian ones. Also because he involved 2 Spanish riders would that impact the Spanish following and I’m not sure if the JL fans were fans of vale before sepang either.

Home to over a million people, Western North Carolina is a region in the United States culturally associated with the traditions of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This region has a proud history that defies common stereotypes seen in films and television, which often prey on the generational poverty, lack of access to education, and distinctive accents that have characterized the region in the past. Contrary to these depictions, people from Southern Appalachia have cultivated a warm, unique folk tradition that has generated myriad works, including unique cultural practices concerning food, music, and craft. Bluegrass/country music is probably the most famous of these practices, and some of the most celebrated songwriters on the planet are from Southern Appalachia, including Dolly Parton (born ten miles from Great Smoky Mountain National Park), Loretta Lynn, and Tyler Childers. picture sources.

Of course, the first people to live in Southern Appalachia were the Cherokee People, who still live in the area today. A federally recognized tribe, the Eastern Band of the Cherokee People are the descendants of the few who where able to avoid systematic removal of their ancestors by the US Government via the Trail of Tears. At the beginning of the Twentieth Century, the remaining members of the tribe consolidated their collective land holdings in WNC to create an entirely Tribally-governed reservation, which has over the years introduced several tribal initiatives to revive and maintain the Cherokee people's unique culture, practices, language, food, art, and folk tales. It cannot be overstated the influence the Cherokee have had (and continue to have) on the culture of the region. art source.

It should also be noted that this is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. Western North Carolina is home to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as several National Forests that serve to protect a myriad of unique biomes and local wildlife. This area is one of two temperate rainforests in the United States, and experiences more rainfall in inches a year than Seattle. The name "Great Smoky Mountains" originates from the effect of the rainfall. Moisture hits the leaves of the abundant flora, and transpiration occurs, causing the plants to release evaporative clouds of mist, creating a "smoky" effect on the mountains. One of the most iconic wildflowers found in the area is trilium, which tends to bloom in the early spring in the shady patches of higher elevations. One of my personal favorites is called dutchman's pants! Which look like little lederhosen.

The area is home to many forms of wildlife, including deer, black bear, elk, river otter, possums, red wolves, turkey, and skunks. We are also known as the salamander capital of the world, and the National Park hosts over 30 unique species, including the hellbender! The largest type of salamander in the world.

Popular activities and attractions in the area include hiking, biking, whitewater rafting/kayaking, driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, visiting the Biltmore House (in Asheville, NC), and, speaking from personal experience, just kind of hanging out in various grocery store parking lots with your friends. Its a wonderful and beautiful place to live and I love it lots. all of this to say. i do not know SHIT about spanish perception of vale post-sepang. i suspect he was mostly fine.

#im not spanish or italian... i dont know if you can tell from the everything about me but im a little appalachian girl. how would eye knoww #like nationality was a HUGE part of it and lines were drawn but im not the authority on this. and vale never got death threats so. #i can tell you about salamanders! SORRY SMOOCH. #callie speaks #asks #sorry someone made fun of my accent the other day when i showed him how to properly pronouce a cherokee word. and im PMSing. #so you WILL learn about appalachia. #'callie why is there a french style chateau in WNC' dont worry about it

[silentwakellc]

10 ways to make your kayaking easier.

10 ways to make your kayaking easier.

Over the years of instructing, or just paddling with friends, I have asked the question – What ideals of kayaking you know now are topics you wish you knew when you started for the first time? I have compiled ten of the most common subjects which came up in the conversations. The reoccurring theme within these top ten is paddler development. How to properly paddle Kayaking is fairly easy sport…

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#discoverwi #silentwake #travelwi #wisconsin #aca certified instructor near me #beginner #does my kayak belong in the water #flooded hatch #great lakes #guided kayak trips #how to drain a kayak #how to empty a flooded kayak #how to empty a kayak #how to transport a kayak #how to use a kayak paddle float #kayak #kayak education #kayak education and lessons #kayak how to #kayak lessons #kayak rescue #kayak rescue techniques #kayak safety #kayak safety tips #kayak skills #kayak tips #kayak training #kayaking #kayaking in SE wisconsin #kayaking in Wisconsin

[katy-l-wood]

It was exactly two years ago that the East Troublesome Fire made its big run towards Grand Lake Colorado. And I have. Feelings.

That fire was so different from all the others. That whole summer was. I had been interested in natural disasters before, been pretty well educated on them, but that summer really kicked it into high gear. I was surrounded by fire. There's three access points to where I live if you're coming in from the east (not counting backroads) and all but one, the one most out of the way, was shut down.

I watched the ETF roll over the ridge across the valley. I listened on the emergency radios to the evacuees and fire fighters running out of gas. I watched the planes dip out of the reservoir where my sister and I always go kayaking. I read the Facebook posts of people begging for help evacuating their horses even though they'd already evacuated once and thought they were safe, but then things got worse and they had to evacuate a second time. I listened to calls for food and water for the firefighters because the fire had run so hard, so fast, they didn't have time to figure out supplies. I brought hygiene supplies to the local fire departments, because their crews were running out and it was the height of COVID and no one had soap. I listened as they found a man who was on his tractor protecting his fields and tried to get him to leave, but he wouldn't go. I listened to everyone trying to rationalize how the fire had jumped the divide, something no fire had ever done, not like this. I watched as people panicked that all of Grand Lake had been lost, because we just didn't know. I listened as people panicked as they realized that even if their home survived the fire, they might lose it to burst pipes because a blizzard had rolled in on top of the fire. I listened as they found the two victims of the fire.

I walked around our house and photographed everything we owned. Generations of family heirlooms, made an updated plan with my dad of what to grab in what order. The lovely pastel dishes my grandparents were gifted on their wedding. My great-grandfather's guns. The dishes cabinet that has been passed between a dozen family members over a hundred years; I'd just repainted it a soft yellow color the summer before. The mounted deer antlers from deer my grandfather had shot. The little bunny picture that had hung in my room since I was a child. The footprints in the concrete from generations of babies.

But, at the same time, as dark as those days were, the way people came together was amazing. The horses all got evacuated. The man on the tractor managed to save his fields. The firefighters got fed (regulations be damned, they were getting some fucking sandwiches). Gas got trucked in over the pass. Plumbers from all over the county teamed up with firefighters to go into the burn zone and get people's water turned off so their pipes wouldn't burst. Everyone traded information on what had burned and what hadn't. A whole new law office was formed to help people navigate insurance and rebuilding.

As for myself, well. There's a reason I own a truck. Yeah, I use it to haul firewood, or convention supplies. But mostly? I own it because I know damn well that one day I am going to have to run. That I am going to have to pack up as much as I can carry of my family's legacy, and drive away from the rest. I'd prefer for "the rest" to be as little as possible, so I will always keep the truck, stereotypes be damned.

#Wildfire #East Troublesome Fire #Natural Disaster #HMM EMOTIONS

[lebensmoode]

Ramadan #21

What do you think young people can learn from older people?

Their dedication to live. Idk but in my eyes, older people were fighting harder about almost everything; education, career, family, etc. Though they came from wealthy family, seemed like "gen-gen rebahan" tu gak ada di diri mereka. Apa-apa kudu gerak, kudu kerja, diem melempem sampe kena mental tu gabisa, ovt tu apaaa, ngumpul-ngumpul nongki di kafe sampe berjam-jam haha hihi tu ngapaiiinn, gaboleh ada yg kek gitu-gitu pokoknya :)))

Their diet. Alias, makan tuh sayur heeey anaq muda! Rang-orang jaman dulu tuh makanannya urap, pecel, lalapan, minumnya jamu gendong. Gimana gak sehat-sehat, kulit mulus, kuat-kuat, ayu-ayu. Belum kenal junk food. Kalopun udah ya tetep kemana-mana yg dicari daun ubi, daun singkong, tumis kangkung :") Apa tidaq mengnangis wahai anak muda yg kalo tengah malem laper pesen mekdi, besoknya gofud kaepci plus es kopi :')))

Their hospitality? Ini gak secara umum ya, tapi kalo mau dibandingin tingkat kesopanan anak jaman now sama manusia jadul tu kayak jauh banget gak sih? Di era yg apa-apa serba self-love, serba insekyur, dan sensitif thdp pertanyaan apapun, people nowadays seem to set boundaries or even "high walls" to separate them from the world. Jadi ya untuk bersikap ramah ga perlu-perlu amat, jatuhnya takut ditipu dan dimanipulasi kalo terlalu open. Gak salah juga sih, but at least tetep hormati orang tua, bicaranya dijaga, 3 mantra kehidupan kudu dipraktekin terus; maaf, tolong, terimakasih.

Hmmm apa lagi ya? Mungkin ada yg mau nambahin. Gw sebagai young people salut sih ngeliat mereka. Apa karna pengaruh jaman juga ya, gatau. Atau emang gw nya aja yg udah malas sampe ke dna 🙂

#askramadan #tulisan

[superlinguo]

Linguistics books for kids: Once Upon a Word - a Word-origin Dictionary, Jess Zafarris

Once Upon a Word is, as it says, a word-origin dictionary. If you were the kind of child who enjoyed reading through the dictionary, or you know such a kid, Jess Zafarris has created a resource that is both educational and a pleasure to browse.

The book opens with an introduction to the concept that words carry their own history in them, with origins in other languages and earlier meanings. There are some handy lists of common Latin and Greek roots and affixes (which helps get your head around the concepts of roots and affixes!).

The bulk of the book is an A to Z of etymologies of common words. Each letter of the alphabet gets around 6-12 pages with around four entries on each page. There’s a good mix of words with interesting and varied histories that might be relevant to a middle-grader; K takes us from karate to kayak to kennel, in W we  waltz past weird and warewolf. Each entry focuses on the relationship between the current meaning and the linguistic origin of the word in plain language, without getting bogged down in dates.

There are two short sections at the end of thematic lists of etymologies related to food and music, two topics that don’t appear to be covered in the alphabetical main body of the book.

There are cute breakout boxes and illustrations throughout, and coloured headwords and page-edges help with navigating. It’s perhaps hit and miss as to whether you’ll actually find the history of a word you’re looking for in the 200 pages of entries, but if you’re just looking to be entertained by an author with a good eye for an etymological story, this book is great to have on your shelf. You could even share it with a kid, I guess.

See also: Linguistics Books for Kids - the Superlinguo list

#language #linguistics #kids #kids books #etymology #history #words #dictionary #review

[thebougieway]

Why I've chosen to NOT date for a while...

Not dating/being celibate makes you truly see men for who they are. I started this journey on December 4th of 2022, and now as of May 3rd, 2023, it's been 5 months for me. Almost anyways. Within these 5 months, I've better understood myself and decided on the kind of relationship I want with men. I'm going to go over some things that I've been doing with my time in the course of my dating hiatus.

Focusing on my studies

I'm currently enrolled in Interior Design classes so that I can further my career and become the successful woman I aspire to be. I decided to take my education a step further and enroll in some architectural & project management classes as well. I realized I wanted to do this when I turned in some of my interior design projects and noticed that the more I apply myself, the limit does not end here. Regarding education, you can enroll in as many classes, get as many degrees, & pick up as many skills as your heart desires. I want to be done with my studies by a certain time frame in 2023. I want to make a certain salary amount by a certain age time in my life. While on this hiatus, my career is my first priority. No argument.

2. Building my financials

I have 4 credit cards I knew that I wanted to pay off this year, staying focused and keeping my eye on the prize got me down to 2. Did you hear me? 2 out of my 4 credit cards are PAID OFF. These last 2 will be a breeze. I know I want to have a certain amount in my savings by the end of the year... month by month I have a goal of what to save that month, with this mindset I'll be to my end-of-the-year savings goal in no time.

It's cool and all having a man to be there financially and for help, but as a woman, having your own is so much more powerful. It makes the dating scene easier to pluck out the men that aren't on your level. Being a girls' girl and a strong advocate for my ladies, always make sure you are your first security blanket. A man that can equate or makes more than you, is just a plus.

3. Re-branding ME

I've rebranded myself this year probably about 3 times... and we're only in the 5th month, but that's ok! Start over as much as you need to girl, to get to where you want in life start over 100 times if needed. I know the kind of woman I want to be, I know my "Dream Girl". She's sexy, she's a boss, she's powerful, she's assertive, she's charming, she's smart, she's rich, & she is THAT BITCH.

4. Working out/eating healthy

Although this step is something you should be doing while you are dating or not, it's easy to fall off. It's easy to get lazy. In my opinion, anger gives people ammo to work out and go harder in the gym. That isn't my case, but it's true. When a girl/guy just breaks up with each other, they're going hard in the gym for the next victim. For me, it's more on a personal level, while it is flattering to look good for the male gaze, you have to want to look good for yourself first girl. That will build so much confidence and not have you just out here dating anybody, more so those who are insecure.

5. Realizing my standards

Finding yourself while staying away from men for a while will tell you exactly the kind of man you need to be dating anyway. You didn't do all this work building yourself from the ground up to go out and date a bum right? It all starts within. I advise everyone to have standards. Those people (man or woman) who say they don't have a "type" scare me. What do you mean? Everyone should have a type. Whenever I hear that statement, the voice in my head just tells me "This person will probably sleep with anything with a vagina or penis". It's disgusting.

I feel as if as women, we're required to have a type. By default. Having a vagina is powerful in its' own way. On my hiatus, I know the type of men I'm willing to date/ sleep with once I resume and the ones I will rather kayak across the ocean to stay away from.

6. You see men for who they really are

Let's be real. Men are visual creatures. Once they see you look good, they're automatically telling their penis that they would sleep with you. You can look good all day, be the sexiest thing out of this world but looks can go so far. We've all seen someone attractive af and told our friends "Oh, I'd !@#$ him". It's human. But once you get to really talking to a guy and they tell you when their last STD test was, you'd snap to reality quickly. They just make it so easy.

The more conversations you have with a man, the more information you get out of them because they tell on themselves. I've raised my eyebrows during so many conversations because it's just a shocker at how they think.

While I hope this was a valuable and informational lesson for you ladies, please understand that it's okay to keep the cat to yourself sometime. You may really need to.

xoxo 💋