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Please Join me in welcoming a new writer and Mod here at Koda. The Ultimate Fangirl

Visits: 7

I’m proud to announce that we have added The Ultimate Fangirl as a Mod, but more importantly a writer for Koda. She was a mainstay at Shelly an friends. I’m sure that she will continue to do the same grat work here. So stop in and say hello.

You can add pictures,songs, gifs, meme’s, etc. Hopefully some of  her old friends stop over and enjoy what we do here.

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Archaeology History Reprints from other. Uncategorized

6 Misconceptions About the Vikings

Visits: 86

Vikings are the focus of countless movies, TV shows, video games, sports teams, and comic books today—but that doesn’t mean we always get them right. From the myths surrounding their horned helmets to their not-so-fiery burial customs, here are some common misconceptions about Vikings, adapted from an episode of Misconceptions on YouTube.

1. Misconception: Vikings Wore Horned Helmets.

In 1876, German theatergoers were abuzz about a hot new ticket in town. Titled Der Ring des Nibelungen, or The Ring of the Nibelung, Richard Wagner’s musical drama played out over an astounding 15 hours and portrayed Norse and German legends all vying for a magical ring that could grant them untold power. To make his characters look especially formidable, costume designer Carl Emil Doepler made sure they were wearing horned helmets.

Though the image of Vikings plundering and pillaging while wearing horned helmets has permeated popular fiction ever since, the historical record doesn’t quite line up with it. Viking helmets were typically made of iron or leather, and it’s possible some Vikings went without one altogether, since helmets were an expensive item at the time. In fact, archaeologists have uncovered only one authentic Viking helmet, and it was made of iron and sans horns, which some historians and battle experts believe would have had absolutely no combat benefit whatsoever.

So where did Doepler get the idea for horned helmets from? There were earlier illustrations of Vikings in helmets that were occasionally horned (but more often winged). There were also Norse and Germanic priests who wore horned helmets for ceremonial purposes. This was centuries before Vikings turned up, though. Some historians argue that there is some evidence of ritualistic horned helmets in the Viking Age, but if they existed, they would have been decorative horns that priests wore—not something intended for combat.

Composer Richard Wagner apparently wasn’t pleased with the wardrobe choices; he didn’t want his opera to be mired in cheap tropes or grandiose costumes. Wagner’s wife, Cosima, was also irritated, saying that Doepler’s wardrobe smacked of “provincial tastelessness.”

The look wound up taking hold when Der Ring des Nibelungen went on tour through Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Other artists were then inspired by the direction of the musical and began using horned Viking helmets in their own depictions, including in children’s books. Pretty soon, it was standard Viking dress code.

2. Misconception: All Vikings Had Scary Nicknames.

Leif Erikson. Not as scary of a nickname.
Leif Erikson. Not as scary of a nickname. / Hulton Archive/Getty Images

When tales of Viking action spread throughout Europe, they were sometimes accompanied by ferocious-sounding nicknames like Ásgeirr the Terror of the Norwegians and Hlif the Castrator of Horses. This may have been a handy way to refer to Vikings with reputations for being hardcore at a time when actual surnames were in short supply. If you wanted to separate yourself from others with the same name, you needed a nickname. But plenty of them also had less intimidating labels.

Take, for instance, Ǫlver the Friend of Children. Sweet, right? Actually, Ǫlver got his name because he refused to murder children. Then there was Hálfdan the Generous and the Stingy with Food, who was said to pay his men very generously, but apparently didn’t feed them, leading to this contradictory nickname. Ragnarr Hairy Breeches was said to have donned furry pants when he fought a dragon.

Other unfortunate-but-real Viking names include Ulf the Squint-Eyed, Eirik Ale-Lover, Eystein Foul-Fart, Skagi the Ruler of Shit, and Kolbeinn Butter Penis. While the historical record is vague on how these names came to be, the truth is never going to be as good as whatever it is you’re thinking right now.

3. Misconception: Vikings Had Viking Funerals.

When someone like Kolbeinn Butter Penis died, it would only be fitting that they were laid to rest with dignity. And if you know anything about Vikings from pop culture, you know that meant setting them on fire and pushing them out to sea.

But as cool as that visual may be, it’s not exactly accurate. Vikings had funerals similar to pretty much everyone else. When one of them died, they were often buried in the ground. Archaeologists in Norway uncovered one such burial site in 2019, where at least 20 burial mounds were discovered.

The lead archaeologist on the site, Raymond Sauvage of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, told Atlas Obscura that:

“We have no evidence for waterborne Viking funeral pyres in Scandinavia. I honestly do not know where this conception derives from, and it should be regarded as a modern myth. Normal burial practice was that people were buried on land, in burial mounds.”

The flaming ship myth may have come from a combination of two real Viking death practices. Vikings did sometimes entomb their dead in their ships, although the vessels remained on land where they were buried. And they did sometimes have funeral pyres. At some point in the historical record, someone may have combined these two scenarios and imagined that Vikings set ships ablaze before sending them out to sea with their dead still on board.

4. Misconception: Vikings Were Experienced and Trained Combat Soldiers.

Spears and arrows were most cost-effective than swords.
Spears and arrows were most cost-effective than swords. / Spencer Arnold Collection/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

While it’s true Vikings were violent, they weren’t necessarily the most experienced or talented warriors of their day. In fact, they were mostly normal people who decided plundering would be a great side hustle in the gig economy of Europe.

Historians believe Vikings were made up mostly of farmers, fishermen, and even peasants, rather than burly Conan the Barbarian types. Considering that the coastal villages they attacked probably didn’t put up much resistance, one could be a Viking and not even have to fight all that much. This leads to another common misconception—that Vikings were always swinging swords around. Like helmets, swords were expensive. A day of fighting was more likely to include spears, axes, long knives, or a bow and arrow.

You can blame this fierce warrior rep on the one squad of Vikings that actually fit the bill. Known as berserkers, these particular Vikings worshipped Odin, the god of war and death, and took Odin’s interests to heart. Some berserkers were said to have fought so fiercely that it was as though they had entered a kind of trance. If they were waiting around too long for a fight to start, it was said they might start killing each other.

5. Misconception: Vikings Were Dirty, Smelly, and Gross.

Most depictions of Vikings would have you believe that they were constantly caked in mud, blood, and other miscellaneous funk. Don’t fall for it. Archaeologists have unearthed a significant amount of personal grooming products over the years that belonged to Vikings, including tweezers, combs, toothpicks, and ear cleaners.

Vikings were also known to have bathed at least once a week, which was a staggeringly hygienic schedule for 11th-century Europe. In fact, Vikings put so much attention on bathing that Saturday was devoted to it. They called it Laugardagur, or bathing day. They even had soap made from animal fat.

Hygiene was only one aspect of their routine. Vikings put time and effort into styling their hair and sometimes even dyed it using lye. Their beards were neatly trimmed, and they were also known to wear eyeliner. All of this preening was said to make Vikings a rather attractive prospect to women in villages they raided, as other men of the era were somewhat reluctant to bathe.

6. Misconception: There Were No Viking Women.

An illustration of Lathgertha, legendary Danish Viking shieldmaiden.
An illustration of Lathgertha, legendary Danish Viking shieldmaiden. / Historica Graphica Collection/Heritage Images/Getty Images

Considering the times, Vikings actually had a fairly progressive approach to gender roles. Women could own property, challenge any kind of marriage arrangement, and even request a divorce if things weren’t working out at home. To do so, at least as one story tells it, they’d have to ask witnesses to come over, stand near her bed, and watch as she declared a separation.

In addition to having a relatively high degree of independence, Viking women were also known to pick up a weapon and bash some heads on occasion. The historical record of a battle in 971 CE says that women had fought and died alongside the men. A woman who donned armor was known as a “shieldmaiden.” According to legend, over 300 shieldmaidens fought in the Battle of Brávellir in the 8th century and successfully kept their enemies at bay.

According to History, one of the most notable shieldmaidens was a warrior named Lathgertha who so impressed a famous Viking named Ragnar Lothbrok—he of the Hairy Breeches—that he became smitten and asked for her hand in marriage.

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Life Reprints from other.

Weekend Nice Stories.

Visits: 117

Please no political comments.

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Saturday • July 30, 2022
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Do you know what you’re watching this weekend? With an overwhelming amount of content to choose from, many TV shows never make it past their first season. But the series that manage to stand the test of time and the ever-changing tastes of audiences have something extra special about them. In recognition of some truly historic content, Mental Floss has just released a list of the 45 longest-running programs of all time. It includes titles like Saturday Night Live and General Hospital, which are still airing new episodes after 46 and 59 years, respectively. See if your favorite shows made the list here.

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Museum Celebrating Jackie Robinson’s Life and Legacy Opens in New York

After more than 14 years of planning, a museum commemorating baseball legend Jackie Robinson has opened in New York City. A large crowd of athletes, sports fans, and politicians came out for the grand opening earlier this week, but the most notable among them was the star player’s 100-year-old widow, Rachel. She participated in the festivities along with the couple’s children, David and Sharon, to honor Robinson, who was the first Black man to play in Major League Baseball in the modern era.

The museum contains 40,000 historical images, over 4,500 artifacts saved by Robinson’s friends and family, and more than 450 hours of video footage highlighting his baseball career and dedication to civil rights. Jackie Robinson Foundation President Della Britton said Rachel “wanted a fixed tribute to her husband, where people could come and learn about him, but also be inspired.” David, now 70, believes his father would have been proud. He said: “I think today Jackie Robinson would say I accept this honor, but I accept this honor on behalf of something far beyond my individual self, far beyond my family, far beyond even my race.”

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Nonprofit “I Want To Mow Your Lawn” Does Yard Work for Those Who Can’t

A maintained lawn is not only visually appealing, but it also has many environmental benefits, such as reducing high temperatures, improving flood control, and preventing erosion. For those who are unable to do the often laborious task themselves, the nonprofit I Want To Mow Your Lawn is here to help. The national organization connects background-screened landscaping volunteers with seniors, military veterans, and people with disabilities to provide free lawn care. “Whether it’s one time a year or one time a week, it makes a difference,” founder Brian Schwartz told WDTN.

Schwartz started I Want To Mow Your Lawn, which is fully funded by donations, shortly after losing his job when the pandemic started. “It was just a stressful time and I just went out to mow my own lawn and then decided to help neighbors just to keep myself busy while helping others,” he recalled. Since its establishment in 2020, the grassroots movement has adopted “green” alternative lawn care practices and offers eco-friendly equipment upgrades to volunteers. With over 230 volunteers spanning 39 states, Schwartz has plans to further expand the organization’s footprint and continue mowing lawns for those in need.

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Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8
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How a Tiny Island Changed Canada and Cartography Forever

Located off the northeastern coast of Labrador, Canada, Landsat Island is so tiny that it can’t even be seen on Google Maps. Measuring 82 feet wide by 148 feet long — about half the size of a football field — the atoll is home only to polar bears. Despite its small size, though, the rocky piece of land made history when it was initially discovered by cartographer and pilot Elizabeth Fleming as part of a Canadian coastal survey in 1973.

Fleming spotted the minuscule island while reviewing data collected by NASA’s first Earth-observing satellite, which eventually became known as Landsat 1 and gave the isle its name. When the satellite picked up the island’s spectral signature from more than 500 miles above, Canada gained 26.25 square miles of land. An in-person expedition confirmed the island’s existence and location in 1976, verifying the data and Fleming’s discovery. Terry Sohl, a researcher with the USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science Center, told National Geographic: “It just totally changed the field of cartography.”

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Have you been looking for a new way to invest your finances outside of the stock market? Consider joining the thousands of investors who have already turned to CrowdStreet — the nation’s largest online private equity real estate investing platform.

Ranked the Best Overall Crowdfunding Site of 2022 by Investopedia, the online platform gives accredited investors direct access to institutional-quality property opportunities across the U.S. More than $3.41 billion has already been invested across hundreds of deals, earning millions in distributions. If you’re ready for a new way to earn passive income, check out CrowdStreet today.

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Congressional leaders unveiled a new statue of aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart in the U.S. Capitol to celebrate her barrier-breaking life and career.

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Two best friends, who have reunited at the same photo booth every five years to recreate the shot they snapped as kids, just took their 50th anniversary picture.

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The U.S. Postal Service will be releasing new “forever” stamps featuring the James Webb Space Telescope in September. See the design and find out how to pre-order here.

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Meet the 8-year-old boy who is cycling 1,100 miles to raise money for his favorite animals, hedgehogs.

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Tomorrow is National Avocado Day and Chipotle is celebrating by selling guacamole for just 1 cent.

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@KenJennings
When Alex Trebek died in November 2020, he left big shoes to fill for the next host of Jeopardy!. After more than a year of relying on guest hosts, the popular syndicated game show has officially named two entertainers to permanently take the helm: Big Bang Theory alum Mayim Bialik (pictured above) and former Jeopardy! champion Ken Jennings. “We have so much Jeopardy! to make, and so many plans for the future,” executive producer Michael Davies wrote in a note to fans. He added: “We are just so grateful that Mayim and Ken stepped in and stepped up to put the show in a position to succeed.” (Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jeopardy Productions, Inc.)
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“The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnified world in itself.”
– Henry Miller
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Music

Play your favorite tunes.

Visits: 7

I like a lot of different types of music. But the 60’s and classic rock does it for me. I was a child of the 70’s Sunset Strip. You would find me at the Whisky, Roxy, or Rainbow. Tower records and Peaches were also my kind of music stores. And if you ever made it down to Cerritos, Best Records was another hang out. But play what ever flips your Bic.

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Life Pictures Reprints from other.

Daily Discoveries

Visits: 1

You can find this on The Discoverer.

The Discoverer Staycation    Our Backpack    Points    Edition
Daily Discoveries
15 Swoon-Worthy Covered Bridges in the U.S.
Many covered bridges in the U.S. were built in the 19th century to protect the span from weather damage. Yet, the covers gained a far more romantic meaning as these crossings became known as “kissing bridges.” Drivers were expected to slow their horses to a walk when passing through to reduce wear on the planks, thus offering a courting couple riding the horses a chance to steal a private moment. We’d say this fact is almost as nice as the 15 bridges in this guide. Almost.
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Related Articles

The World’s Most Famous Bridges

Where to Get the Best Views in These Major U.S. Cities

A Bridge That’s Also an Art Museum? Only in Norway

15 of the Most Colorful Places in the U.S.
From vibrant canyon walls to burgundy cranberry bogs, there are plenty of spots in the U.S. that will leave you spellbound by such vivid presentations of color. You won’t need to adjust the saturation if you take a picture at any of the following 15 colorful spots across the country.
Be Dazzled
A Guide to National Park Etiquette
With a bounty of wildlife, a network of forested hiking trails, and access to sweeping panoramas of majestic peaks — America’s national parks are a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Learn how to promote land stewardship and safely experience the nation’s stunning wilderness by following both the written and unwritten rules of the Great Outdoors.
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Food Life Reprints from other. Travel Uncategorized

Thursday Nice News.

Visits: 16

You can find this at Nice News.

Thursday • July 21, 2022
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If you’ve been thinking about planning a trip to Copenhagen, Denmark, here’s another reason to book those flights: the city’s Geranium restaurant has topped the newly released list of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Geranium, which became the first Danish restaurant to earn three Michelin stars in 2016, is currently focusing on local seafood and vegetables after the pandemic prompted head chef Rasmus Kofoed to overhaul the menu. “It’s all that we could dream of,” Kofoed said of the best restaurant honor. See which other spots made the 2022 list.
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Buzz Aldrin Auctions Off Space Memorabilia, Including His Moon Landing Jacket

Almost exactly 53 years after Buzz Aldrin became the second person to ever set foot on the moon, some of the memorabilia from his famed trip is up for the taking. The 92-year-old is auctioning off the jacket he wore during the moon landing as well as a series of other personal items and artifacts from his long career as an astronaut. Sotheby’s, which will host the auction on July 26, called Aldrin’s items “the most important Space Exploration collection to come to market.”

The jacket is estimated to sell for up to $2 million, as is a circuit breaker switch that broke during the moon mission. The switch is being sold alongside the pen that Aldrin used in its place to ignite the engine and get him and fellow explorer Neil Armstrong home safe. “After deep consideration, the time felt right to share these items with the world, which for many are symbols of a historical moment, but for me have always remained personal mementos of a life dedicated to science and exploration,” Aldrin said in a statement, per CNN. “I hope that this collection offers some insight into what it has been like to be Buzz Aldrin.”

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How Sea Turtles Are Helping Researchers Predict Tropical Cyclones

Dozens of cyclones form each year over the world’s tropical oceans, and according to NASA, such storms pose “one of the biggest threats to life and property.” Unfortunately, they are also hard to predict, especially in the cyclone-prone Indian Ocean, which is why researcher Olivier Bousquet has put sea turtles to work. Bousquet started STORM (Sea Turtles for Ocean Research and Monitoring) with 15 turtles in 2019, and the program has taken off, leading to a wealth of data that will help predict future cyclones.

In the past, scientists have tagged other marine creatures, like seals, to collect data in hard-to-reach ocean ecosystems. After testing out a series of animals, Bousquet landed on sea turtles for several reasons. The turtles are heavy enough to carry the satellite sensors, and they tend to dwell in the area of the ocean — about 25 to 200 meters deep — where the energy for cyclones comes from. This year, STORM released 80 tagged turtles, and Bousquet plans to keep going. He told Hakai Magazine that with “a little bit of luck,” they will be able to time the turtles’ release to retrieve data from the heart of a cyclone. And fear not: the sturdy animals are well-equipped to survive the storms.

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World’s Largest Vertical Farm Will Serve Up Fresh Greens on Emirates Flights

If you have an upcoming flight with Emirates anytime soon, the salad served with your meal may be coming from the world’s largest vertical farm. The Dubai-based facility, called Bustanica, will produce more than 2 million pounds of leafy greens each year, and use 95% less water than traditional farming. According to a press release, the reduced water usage is thanks to a closed-loop system that will circulate water through the plants, maximizing efficiency. As the water evaporates, it is recovered and then recycled back into the system.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the airline’s chairman and chief executive, said the vertical farm is especially useful in the United Arab Emirates, given the country’s dry climate. “Bustanica ushers in a new era of innovation and investments, which are important steps for sustainable growth and align with our country’s well-defined food and water security strategies,” he added in a statement. In addition to contributing to Emirates in-flight catering starting this month, the greens will soon be available in local Dubai grocery stores — and there are plans to expand to fruits and vegetables in the future.

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Watch four wild bison roam the U.K. forest for the first time in thousands of years.

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Jake Wightman won the 1500 meter final at the World Athletics Championships while his dad — a former runner himself — cheered him on as the in-stadium commentator.

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A good night’s sleep has been added to the American Heart Association’s list of factors that are important to heart health.

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An Italian 98-year-old has graduated with a masters degree two years after completing his undergraduate career, upholding his title as the country’s oldest student.

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Colonel Sanders’ house is up for sale. Check out the interior of this piece of Kentucky Fried Chicken history here.

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@knucklebumpfarms
Meet Emmanuel: the emu who has gone viral for his tendency to put himself front and center whenever his caretaker, Taylor Blake, tries to record videos at Knuckle Bump Farms in South Florida. Blake’s hilarious videos of the animal knocking over her phone (despite her constant cries of, “Emmanuel, don’t do it!”) have earned the farm more than 1 million followers on TikTok. “You changed my life, bud,” Blake recently wrote alongside a sweet photo of her and Emmanuel. (Photo Credit: Knuckle Bump Farms / Instagram)
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“Love is in all things a most wonderful teacher.”
– Charles Dickens
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Holidays Pictures

Decorations and other items.

Visits: 3

Greetings to you all. As usual I’m behind. These decorations have been up since Memorial Day. And the gardens are looking so so. But enjoy and post anything you may have. But please don’t get political.

We have a new addition. Meet Yoder.

And we do have some early Garden Photos. The Garlic and Roma Garden. Zucchini, Tomato, and Pepper Garden. Last but not least, the ghetto garden. Watermelon, Cucumber, Tomato, and Pepper.

 

 

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Life Pictures Reprints from other.

10 U.S. Towns Stuck in Time

Visits: 4

This article first appeared on The Discoverer Blog.

We’re used to seeing movie stars and reading about science fiction characters who travel back through time to bygone eras, but you don’t need futuristic technology to experience something similar. The U.S. is full of towns that have stayed true to their customs and lifestyles as the years have gone by. So next time you have the urge to escape the fast-paced city life, consider these wonderful towns scattered across the country.

Cape May, New Jersey

Credit: Jon Bilous/Shutterstock

 

Cape May is a traditional seaside town set at the southern tip of New Jersey. It’s famous for its collection of over 600 well-preserved Victorian buildings, which give it a strong late 19th-century charm. A stroll along Washington Street Mall, where colorful brick and wooden landmarks house boutiques and ice cream parlors, is a must.

Chagrin Falls, Ohio

Credit: Lynne Neuman/Shutterstock

 

Antique dealers, independent fashion boutiques, local bookstores, and vintage sweet shops give this Ohio village an old-fashioned feel. When walking along Main Street you can easily imagine the entire community coming out to celebrate annual cultural events, like art and film festivals. Chagrin Falls straddles a namesake waterfall and the Chagrin River, making it one of the prettiest places here.

Cooperstown, New York

Credit: JonathanCollins/Shutterstock

 

Life moves at its own laid-back pace in upstate New York, an ethos epitomized by the 2,000 residents of lakeside Cooperstown. Revered as the setting for the works of novelist James Fenimore Cooper, whose father incidentally founded the town, Cooperstown has multiple claims to fame. It’s also home to The National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum and Doubleday Field baseball park, which maintains the same atmosphere as it has since baseball’s golden age. There are superb brewpubs, cafes, and delis to retreat to after soaking up everything else the town has to offer.

Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Credit:DenisTangneyJr/iStock

 

The Amish are the masters of clinging to their roots and there are more than 50 thriving Amish communities spread throughout Pennsylvania, but Lancaster County is home to the country’s oldest and largest of them all. Expect to see horse-drawn carriages roll past lush green pastures dotted with windmills, and for more ideas, visit Discover Lancaster.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Credit: Michael Deemer/Shutterstock

 

While cruising across Lake Huron to Mackinac Island, you’ll appreciate why everyone breathes a heavy sigh of relief when they arrive here. From the clapboard buildings to the vintage storefronts and pristine lawns, everything is picture-perfect. Cars are banned in this island village, so you’ll be getting around by foot, bike, or even horseback. Should the smell of fudge shops, serenity of wooded trails, and sound of crickets at night and birdsong in the morning excite you, then plan a visit.

Mineral Point, Wisconsin

Credit: Suzanne Tucker/Shutterstock

 

Miners flocked to Mineral Point from Cornwall, England, in the 1840s in search of lead. They built homes, such as Pendarvis House, that today wouldn’t look out of place in a remote Cornish village. The town center’s architectural landscape resembles part Cornish town, part Gold Rush settlement. You can feast on hearty Cornish pasties and figgyhobbin at cafes and try Celtic crafts at the fall Cornish Fest.

Sonoma, California

Credit: Luz Rosa/Shutterstock

 

This city surrounded by the sprawling vineyards of the Sonoma Valley was the first in the U.S. to receive the Cittaslow Slow City status. Tree-lined Sonoma Plaza is a colonial masterpiece and hosts the delightful Sonoma Plaza Market every Tuesday evening. If you love shopping for locally-sourced and organic goods then this is the place to be. Meanwhile, frontier-style buildings double up as cafes, gourmet restaurants, and saloons. And way from the plaza, you can sip wine at over 100 different bodegas all within five minutes.

Tombstone, Arizona

Credit:CrackerClips/iStock

 

Live out all of your Wild West dreams in Tombstone, Arizona, the location of the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Cowboys, cowgirls, and wannabes fill up the town’s saloons and the O.K. Corral museum puts on reenactments of Wyatt Earp’s 1881 shootout. The buildings are so well maintained that at times it’s easy to think you’ve landed on a John Wayne movie set.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Credit: Wangkun Jia/Shutterstock

 

When in Williamsburg, head to the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area to be transported to an American Revolution-era town. You’ll encounter men dressed in red coats carrying muskets and people trotting past elegant brick buildings via horse and carriage. You’ll see tradespeople carrying out apothecary, bindery, and blacksmithing tasks. You can even join in 18th-century games on a village green.

Yellow Springs, Ohio

Credit: Madison Muskopf/Shutterstock

 

A group of around 100 families, who were avid supporters of Robert Owen’s utopian socialism movement, founded Yellow Springs in 1825. Their mission was to recreate the cooperative philosophy of New Harmony, Indiana. Although it didn’t quite come to fruition, the village still upholds a free-thinking, blissed out spirit. You’ll get the idea once you see the tie-dye dressed residents hopping between hippy-ish cafes and street fairs.

From as early as he can remember Bradley was road-tripping across the UK, France and Spain with his family. Since then he’s visited 40-plus countries and lived on four continents. Today he divides his time between Buenos Aires and the beaches of Punta del Este, Uruguay and puts his wanderlust to good use by writing about his travels.

 

 

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Music Pictures

Let’s hear it for that good old Rock and Roll

Visits: 7

It’s been such a long time that we’ve had a music jam. So just let your rock and roll juices flow.

 

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Life Pictures Reprints from other. Travel

13 Patriotic Spots Americans Should Visit at Least Once.

Visits: 58

Here are some of the most patriotic places in the “Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave.” Whether they directly served the nation’s Founding Fathers, or played another defining role in American history, these spots will have you singing the “Star Spangled Banner” in no time.

1. Independence Hall, Philadelphia

Independence Hall

To kick things off we’re taking it back to the very brick and mortar building where America was born. Both the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were penned and adopted at Independence Hall. Today a UNESCO Heritage Site, the building is a museum dedicated to the values the nation was founded on. Learn about the history of the colonies’ rebellion, and the first steps of constructing the nation. Peek at the Liberty Bell next door, or try reciting the Preamble from heart. Just don’t try stealing anything (looking at you Nick Cage).

2. Pearl Harbor, Oahu

Pearl Harbor

One of the greatest tragedies in American history occurred in one of the most beautiful locations in the nation. Pearl Habor is home to a fantastic museum and monument to the soldiers who lost their lives in the December 7th attack. Exploring the USS Arizona memorial allows you to truly feel this dark moment in history, and the accompanying museum teaches you about the actions leading up to and resulting from this tragic day.

3. Freedom Trail, Boston

Freedom Trail

This 2.5-mile, red brick road links several notable buildings in Boston that played important roles in the nation’s history. From museums to churches, cemeteries and meeting halls, the path lets you walk in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers while appreciating Boston’s lively atmosphere firsthand. Spend the day exploring these historical sites, then go throw some tea in the harbor. #America.

4. Fort McHenry, Baltimore

Fort McHenry

Set along the coast of Baltimore, Maryland, Fort McHenry has been an important fortress since its construction in the 1700s. The fort’s design and architecture is worth a visit alone, but the entire place is imbued with history. Francis Scott Key, a Washington lawyer, penned the USA’s national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner, from a cell in the fort during an attack in the War of 1812. You’ll never hear that song played over the speakers at a sporting event the same way after touring this historical site.

5. National World War I Museum and Memorial, Kansas City

National WWI Museum

Kansas City might seem like an unlikely destination for a memorial to the First World War, but it’s one monument you have to see. The museum commemorates the United States’ role in the Great War, and memorializes the courage and sacrifice of all who served in that pivotal conflict.

6. The Alamo, San Antonio

The Alamo

“Remember the Alamo!” has been a rallying cry for Americans, particularly Texans, for decades. The former mission-turned-battle-site has long been a testament to the American spirit and perseverance. Visiting this landmark in San Antonio takes you back in time to the age of the Wild West, when the nation was young and cowboys prevalent.

7. National Baseball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown

National Baseball Hall of Fame

As “America’s favorite pasttime”, you can’t help but feel a little patriotic every time you watch a baseball game. If you want to get a sense for the history of this iconic American sport, visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame. From legends like Babe Ruth and Jackie Robinson, to modern record breakers like Derek Jeter, the museum is a trip through American recreation.

8. Gateway Arch National Park, St. Louis

Gateway Arch

America’s youngest national park, this monument in St. Louis represents much more than just a fancy archway. The Gateway Arch symbolizes America’s westward expansion, and has been in the background of many pivotal historical moments. One such moment was the fight for freedom in the monumental Dred Scott court case, which took place in the nearby courthouse. American freedom and ingenuity rings loudly in this national park.

9. The Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon

Though not linked with any traditional patriotic events, the Grand Canyon is an iconic part of the American landscape. Standing before it can elicit many feelings, like humility and awe. It is intertwined with the USA, and making the trek to marvel at this natural wonder is a must for every red-blooded American.

10. Arlington National Cemetery, Washington D.C.

Arlington National Cemetery

One of the largest, and certainly the most well-known, military cemeteries in the United States, Arlington National Cemetery is a solemn yet beautiful testament to the men and women who fought for their country. With rows of white headstones, and the Tomb of the Unknowns, this cemetery is a sober reminder of the cost of building and protecting a nation.

11. One World Trade Center, NYC

One World Trade Center

The coordinated attacks on September 11, 2001 had a profound effect on, not only the United States, but the world as a whole. The tremendous loss of innocent life that resulted from these attacks is honored in the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. Visiting the area is an eye-opening experience, even for those who remember the tragedy of that morning.

12. Route 66

Route 66

This quintessential American road has been immortalized in books, movies, and television. Running through the American West, this road is dotted with historic towns, museums, and some gorgeous landscape. Every American should spend at least a few days driving the wide open country and exploring goodies along the way. Check out our guide on how to tackle this roadtrip like a pro!

13. Washington D.C.

Washington DC

We couldn’t pick just one spot in Washington D.C. to highlight. The entire city is a mecca of American patriotism. From buildings like the Capitol and the White House, to monuments like the Lincoln and Washington Monuments, to culturally-rich museums like the Smithsonian, the nation’s capitol is chock full of historically-relevant destinations. If you’re feeling the American pride, you’ll make this trek to D.C. at least one in your life to experience history for yourself.

Since her first trip across the pond Kellie has been a voracious traveler. As the Editor of The Discoverer she is passionate about sharing stories from around the globe and inspiring others to leave their comfort zones. Kellie has her MFA in Creative Writing and in her free time tries (and mostly fails) to cook.

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Life Pictures Uncategorized

A lot of Milk Glass, Pewter, and other items.

Visits: 3

Before I go Patriotic on you, I have a few items and miscellaneous pictures for you. Just a short sample of what a retired person does in his spare time. The miscellaneous pictures will be in the comments.

You’ll see a lot of Pewter and Milk glass.

Enjoy.

Collections.

 

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Life Uncategorized

The Chevrolet Chevelle muscle car is back in a bizarre way

Visits: 270

Article first appeared here.

General Motors renewed its trademark on the Chevelle nameplate in 2013, suggesting a reboot of the classic Chevrolet muscle car was under consideration. Since then, it’s resurrected several historic model names including Hummer and Blazer, but you still haven’t been able to buy a new Chevelle. Until now.

The 70/SS is a custom Camaro inspired by the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS.

The 70/SS is a custom Camaro inspired by the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS. (Mecum Auctions/Trans Am Worldwide 70/SS)

Not from Chevrolet, but from Trans Am Worldwide, the Tallahassee-based company that’s become famous for turning the Chevrolet Camaro into a modern take on the 1970s Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, giving people the opportunity to get their “Smoky and the Bandit” fix without having to drive a 40-year-old car. The $100,000+ customs becoming so popular that Discovery even did a television series about the company.

Trans Am Worldwide turns modern Camaros into new Firebird Trans Ams.

Trans Am Worldwide turns modern Camaros into new Firebird Trans Ams. (Fox News Autos)

Trans Am Worldwide has also done a GTO-style car, but now it’s set its sights on the 1970 Chevelle SS with its latest offering the 70/SS.

The car starts its life as a Camaro convertible, which Trans Am Worldwide owner Tod Warmack told Fox News Autos made for an easier platform to update the body, which more significantly differs from the Camaro’s than the company’s Trans Ams do.

Converting the Camaro int o the 70/SS involves a full body modification.

Converting the Camaro int o the 70/SS involves a full body modification. (Trans Am Worldwide)

The car features reshaped fenders and a new front end with quad headlights, twin rectangular grilles and a reimagined version of the Chevelle’s chiseled front bumper.

The 70/SS has the Chevelle's signature square taillights.

The 70/SS has the Chevelle’s signature square taillights. (Trans Am Worldwide)

The rear has been lengthened and equipped with a new trunk lid and square taillights, while a removable hardtop is available for those who prefer coupe styling. The interior is mostly carryover from the Camaro, but features retro 1970’s style upholstery and a trellis shifter lever.

The 70/SS is redesigned with 1970s-style upholstery.

The 70/SS is redesigned with 1970s-style upholstery. (Trans Am Worldwide)

Prices start at $150,000 and include a 450 hp 6.2-liter V8, but it can also be ordered with 900 horsepower and 1,500 horsepower supercharged engines that breathe through a pop-up cowl induction system.

A pop-up cowl-induction system is another callback to the Chevelle.

A pop-up cowl-induction system is another callback to the Chevelle. (Trans Am Worldwide)

While Trans Am Worldwide owns the rights to the Trans Am name, it won’t be using Chevelle for its new car. It’s still possible that Chevrolet might, but it will need to renew the trademark next year if it wants to keep it.

Word on the street is that Chevrolet might even be discontinuing the Camaro in favor of a new electric model that could go by a new name, but hasn’t confirmed the plans, let alone what it might be called.

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Food

Stir-Fried Sesame Shrimp and Spinach

Visits: 21

Article was originally found here.

The classic Chinese way to clean shrimp and ensure a succulent flavor and crisp texture, says Grace Young, author of “Stir-Frying to the Sky’s Edge,” is to use a combination of salt and water, either dousing the shrimp in two rinses of heavily salted water or rubbing the shrimp with salt, then rinsing with water. If you don’t eat salt, then just rinse the shrimp with plain water. I recommend bunch spinach for this; you don’t have to stem it, just cut away the base of the leaves and rinse well.

Featured in: The Taste Of Spring, By The Bunch Or Bag: Indian Tofu With Spinach.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt to taste
  • teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons canola oil or light sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • ¼ to ½ teaspoon crumbled dried red chili
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
  • 1 generous bunch spinach (about 1 pound), stems trimmed at the end, rinsed in 2 changes water
  • 2 teaspoons dark sesame oil

Preparation

  1. Place the shrimp in a large colander and rinse with water. Sprinkle generously with salt and toss together for about a minute. Rinse with water and repeat. After rinsing one more time, drain on paper towels. Pat dry with more paper towels.
  2. Combine 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste) and the sugar in a small bowl and place close to your wok.
  3. Heat a 14-inch flat-bottomed wok over high heat until a drop of water evaporates within a second or two when added to the pan. Swirl in 1 tablespoon of the oil by adding it to the sides of the pan and swirling the pan, then add the garlic, ginger and chili flakes and stir-fry for no more than 10 seconds. Push to the sides of the pan and add the shrimp in one layer. Let cook undisturbed for 1 minute, then add the remaining oil and stir-fry for 1 minute.
  4. Add the sesame seeds and spinach and stir-fry for 1 minute, until it has begun to wilt but the wilting is still uneven. Add the salt and sugar, sprinkling it evenly over the spinach, and continue to stir-fry until the spinach has wilted but is still bright and the shrimp are cooked through and bright pink, about 2 more minutes. Remove from the heat, drizzle on the sesame oil, toss together and serve, with rice, noodles or other grains.

Tip

  • Advance preparation: You can prepare the shrimp through Step 1 several hours ahead.

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Holidays Life

Happy Easter.

Visits: 133

Come one come all. It’s been months since we had any decorations or this website. Still looking for someone to take it over. But enjoy the pictures. I might do a musical here and there. But for now, it’s picture time.

 

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Sports

Following the NFL Playoffs. Please don’t make this political.

Visits: 95

I’ve got one person looking to take over this channel. I’ll post a few articles a week here till someone else takes over. Now please this is not a political channel. If you don’t follow sports, don’t give a political answer why. I’ll delete it.

 

Are you Following the NFL Playoffs? I’m sorta looking at them from a distance. As everyone knows my boys from NY ( The football Giants ) again are on the sidelines. So I’m looking at Buffalo, Pittsburgh ( maybe ), and Tampa. Here’s why. Tell me what you think.

Pittsburgh cause my USC boy Ju Ju may play today. He’s been hurt most of the year. And Ben’s married to a local girl ( from New Castle, PA ). Crazy reasons I know. Go Pittsburgh.

Buffalo cause when there was the old AFL, Buffalo was my team. Plus my parents came there as immigrants and my one brother was born there. Go Bills.

Tampa cause I like the old guy and I’ve only rooted for one AFC team from all the Super Bowls.

What are your picks?

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Life Uncategorized

Going, Going, Gone?

Visits: 70

We still haven’t found anyone to take over this channel. So I thought I would put this out there again. It’s a non political channel where all are welcome. All the articles are either about food, music, or feel good issues. I’ve paid for this channel through May of next year. If the person who takes over makes it successful I would be willing to pay for it another year. Let me know if interested.

Here’s the link to the home page.

https://mcworld.atwebpages.com

 

You can contact me at this e-mail.

ledbed12345@gmail.com

 

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Holidays Life Music Pictures

Closing out the year in pictures, song, and dance.

Visits: 109

Another year has come and gone. So I would like to think that someone like me who is very political was able to show the softer side of 2021. We were able to keep politics off this website. So I would like to share some of the photos here. Some old, some new.

As we look forward to 2022 please share any pictures, or music. Or if you have a gif you think worth’s sharing, please do. May your new year be filled with joy.

This Christmas we had two tablecloths.

 

 

And can you ever forget our table cloth closet?

 

And years ago a bunch of recording artists got together for this tune.

And someone who left us knew how to change things around when it came to song and dance.

How about my favorite. FOOD.

 

How about a few giffs?

Dog clean up-Tenor
Living the good life.-Pinterest.

Who  can forget our famous Apple Works?

Or Lemon Works.

 

 

 

 

In the spring we had our world famous Ghetto garden.

We also had Easter decorations.

And we had Valentine’s.

And we celebrated the Irish.

In the summer we were Patriotic.

In the fall we had our Pumpkins.

 

In the winter, Icicles

 

And of course after 34 years, we went back to Hale Farm.

And we went thrifting.

 

 

 

 

And in the comments we will show the new.

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Gifs Holidays Life Pictures

Early American Christmas at the M C House.

Visits: 126

As you must know by now, my wife loves to decorate. She adds something new to the old. I help her as we go around Ohio and Western Pennsylvania looking for items for our different themes.

In a time When Christmas was not widely celebrated in the US, a “Christmas Family” arrives as immigrants. As the holiday approaches, they joyously prepare—dipping bayberry candles, making decorations for the tree, and baking Christmas cookies. When all is complete, the final tradition is observed—lighted candles are placed in each window to welcome the coming of the Christ Child, and the family gathers to sing carols and hear the Bible story of the birth of Jesus. DePaola shows us each traditional preparation in gleeful detail, from gold-painted walnuts and papercut decorations for the tree to Christmas cookies in the shapes of tulips, lovebirds, and “hearts in hand.” His brightly colored, folk-art style nicely complements his story of one family’s way of celebrating Christmas. Avoiding holiday sentimentality without sacrificing joy in the season, this is a nice addition to holiday book collections.

 

 

 

 

This may be our last decorating article. It has been a labor of love. I hope you enjoyed the different decorations.

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Gifs Holidays Life Music Pictures

Let’s hear it for a Christmas song or movie.

Visits: 93

I’m in the spirit early. So play a Christmas Song or name a Christmas movie. Or post the video.

Whether you’re in the mood for a tried-and-true family holiday classic or a romantic Hallmark Christmas movie that’s as saccharine as a plate of freshly-baked sugar cookies, there are so many must-watch holiday films to choose from on our list, including Christmas movies for kids, so-bad-they’re good holiday rom-coms, funny Christmas comedies and even Christmas horror movies. Our definitive list of the best Christmas movies of all time features flicks old and new, classic and modern, so there’s truly something for everyone in the family to bond over. So whip up some Christmas cocktails and home-theater snacks (a.k.a. gingerbread cookies), hunker down and start your holiday movie marathon right now!

https://youtu.be/cAa4EH7KA7s

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Food Uncategorized

Greek Stuffed Tomatoes and Peppers (Yemista)

Visits: 32

I saw this on Allrecipes and thought that this would be a good fit for here. If you try it, please let us know.

 

Directions

Instructions Checklist
  • Cut off tops of tomatoes, leaving 1 corner still attached to create a lid. Scoop insides of tomatoes and transfer ‘meat’ to a large bowl; squeeze juices out of tomatoes. Cut off tops of green peppers and reserve for later use; scoop out seeds and membranes. Arrange tomatoes and bell peppers in a 11×17-inch baking dish.

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

  • Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir onion and garlic in the melted butter until softened, 5 to 10 minutes. Add ground chuck, soy sauce, seasoned salt, and black pepper to onion mixture; cook until ground chuck is browned and crumbly, 5 to 10 minutes.

  • Mix squeezed tomato meat and water into browned chuck; bring to a simmer, about 15 minutes. Add rice and bring to a boil; remove skillet from heat. Spoon beef-rice mixture into tomatoes; place tops onto filled tomatoes and arrange them into the baking dish with lid sides down.

  • Stuff bell peppers with beef-rice mixture and top with reserved lids; lay bell peppers sideways in the baking dish. Pour olive oil over stuffed tomatoes and bell peppers; season with salt and pepper.

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Turn bell peppers and continue baking until bell peppers and tomatoes are softened, about 30 more minutes.

    348 calories; protein 13g; carbohydrates 28.5g; fat 20.6g; cholesterol 44.5mg; sodium 411.9mg. Full Nutrition

     

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