Just for Fun

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in the South Carolina Upstate, Chau Ram County Park is it. Just outside Westminster, this 400+ acre park is where locals go when they need a dose of nature, a quiet waterfall, and a relaxing hike.What makes this park stand out?🌉 The 160-foot suspension bridge across the Chauga River offers a breathtaking view—especially after a good rain.💦 Chau Ram Falls, a 30-foot cascade, is beautiful and easy to access—just steps from the parking area.🌿 Four miles of trails, riverside picnic spots, and boulders to explore and climb.🎉 Covered shelters are available for family reunions, weddings, and summer celebrations—a favorite for local gatherings in the warmer months.👵 Local perk: Oconee County residents age 65+ can receive a free annual park pass (just renew it ... 06/20/2025

Not every day a small Southern town can say it helped build a major city’s skyline—but Walhalla, SC, can.In 1924, John Portman was born early in Walhalla. Most folks around here know Walhalla for its waterfalls, mountain views, and close-knit community—but few realize it’s also the birthplace of one of the world’s most visionary architects.Portman didn’t stay in town long, but his mark on the world is hard to miss. If you’ve ever walked through downtown Atlanta, chances are you’ve seen—or stayed in—his work: The Hyatt Regency Atlanta, with its glass elevators and jaw-dropping atrium The Westin Peachtree Plaza, Atlanta’s iconic cylindrical tower The Marriott Marquis has a futuristic interior (you’ve probably seen it in a movie or two!). He didn’t just design buildings—he designed experie... 06/20/2025

Friday Flags, Blowing in the Wind In Simsbury, CTOur senior golf league had an away day this week and 28 ventured to Simsbury CT to play the public course there. The layout is special as over 300 acres of what was once an orchard were donated to the town with the condition that it be used only for recreation.So, in addition to a championship golf course, there is a hockey rink, a large pool, tennis courts, basketball courts and a large playscape.The clubhouse is friendly and of course there is a large flag at the main entrance.It was a great morning, the course was in excellent shape, and my ball was going in the hole.Friday Flags, Blowing in the Wind In Simsbury, CT     06/20/2025

Came through the border Thursday morning, and there had to be 100 cars in line trying to cross into Canada.   I had just one car in front of me, and sailed through, no issues.    SO thankful I was in Hamilton Wednesday evening, as Detroit and South Bend IN had really rough weather including tornado warnings.    It poured Wednesday in Hamilton, and most of the way into Detroit Thursday, and only once did the skies open up.   The best part of driving, is I always bring a full set of silverware with me.  I like to stop at the grocery store and see what they have in the deli.   Thursday night I picked up some orange chicken and a chef's salad.  SO good, and not greasy fried food.Didn't see anything along the way Thursday, except the Ambassador Bridge, rather cool.   The clouds made for a pr... 06/20/2025

As a follow-up to my second entry into the June challenge hosted by Anna "Banana" Kruchten and Debe Maxwell, CRS it has become apparent to me that I need to offer something more. So having the points to spend, for those who learn to read after attending the after school programs I sponsored, its time to offer scholarships to continue educational pursuits or vocational training for those wanting to pursue a different path.I knew just offering continuing education scholarships left something missing for those wanting to pursue the trades and become a mechanic, plumber, electrician.or other occupation. As we are learning college is not for everyone. Those with a different desire should be granted the same opportunity. After reading the posts of other participants in the challenge this mont... 06/19/2025

Trivia questions for Thursday June 19, 20251. A soniferous object produces what? Sound2. What is a fruit machine? A slot machine3. Insect bodies have how many major divisions? Three4. What city dug the first subway? London Trivia questions for Friday June 20, 20251. Which is longer a python or boa constrictor? 2. Which type of genetic traits can skip a generation?3. How many dot positions are in each letter of the Braille alphabet?4. By what common name do we refer to "hook and loop" fasteners as? Enjoy your day.  06/20/2025

June 20th Puzzle- National Ice Cream Soda Day:I have created a new word search puzzle for you to enjoy.Directions: Click on the link below.  Your puzzle will open in a new window.To locate a word, please hold down the left side of your mouse while dragging your cursor over the letters of that word. Release your hold when all of the letters of the word have been selected. If your response is correct, the word will change color on the word list.Please check back for future daily puzzles.Enjoy and have a great day!Click Here To PlayIf you are looking to purchase a property or home on Long Island, New York, I hope you think of me, Linda Blumenthal. 06/20/2025

Singer Johnny Cash once sang, “I’ve been everywhere, man. I’ve been everywhere.”I’m not as lucky as Johnny, as I haven’t been everywhere. Everywhere is probably too big a goal for one lifetime. But I have a goal to go to as many places as I can before the day comes that travel is no longer a possibility.Domestically, I have traveled to forty-five of the fifty states (yes there are still only fifty) having spent at least one full day in each, some states, Illinois, Florida, and Wisconsin have been fortunate enough to have me as a guest for longer stints.Alaska, Oregon, Idaho, Louisiana, and West Virginia, watch out! You are on my radar.A few years ago, my wife and I made a goal to visit each continent at least once.So far, we have been to South America visiting both Sao Paulo and Rio de ... 06/19/2025

🎬 Movie Suggestion of the Week: “What We Did on Our Holiday” 🇬🇧✨By Gwen Fowler | Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.If you're looking for a funny, heartfelt movie to enjoy this week, especially if summer travel plans are still a few weeks away, let me recommend What We Did on Our Holiday.Set in the stunning Scottish Highlands, this British gem follows a family on a trip to celebrate the grandfather’s birthday, all while juggling chaos, secrets, and hilarious moments courtesy of three very clever kids. Think Little Miss Sunshine with accents and even more heart. 💛It’s a light-hearted reminder of how life’s messiest moments often make the best memories, something we in real estate understand when helping families navigate big transitions.📺 Where to watch: Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Tubi, or DVD (i... 06/19/2025

The journey through California continues as we now head up through San Francisco to the Sonoma area and the famous wine country. On our way, we stumbled upon the Dry Creek area that was teeming with quaint vineyards each one beckoning us to come in and stay awhile. Each tasting room boasted a different flair and personality. We especially enjoyed the Dry Creek Vinyard Winery with its relaxed atmosphere and very friendly people. Oh, and the Pinot Noir was superb!    We drove miles through the Russian River Valley area and Sonoma. Beautiful hillsides loaded with grapevines that are perfectly lined up offering a future bounty of delicious fruit awaiting a harvest at the end of the summer. It is a beautiful area. Because we were traveling with our 13-year-old son, this trip was more about "... 06/19/2025

Trivia question answers for Wednesday June 18, 20251. The first action of what war took place in Lexington? Revolutionary War2. Which fashion designer is known for his red-soled shoes? Christian Louboutin3. How many laps must a driver survive to win an Indianapolis 500? 2004. What country has the most coastline? CanadaTrivia questions for Thursday June 20251. A soniferous object produces what? 2. What is a fruit machine?3. Insect bodies have n=how many major divisions?4. What city dug the first subway?Enjoy your day.  06/19/2025

Friday Fun…It’s Summer!Yes, even though we’ve had summer temperatures (and humidity) since May, summer is officially here! When I think of summer, I think of swimming pools, ice cream cones, playing outside until our parents told us to come in, and the beach.  When I was a kid, summer, ie, no school, was a full 3 months…from June through August. Now it’s mid-June, and some schools have just completed their school year, and schools (at least in our area) will begin again in August.  Summer for me was having nothing I had to do, but so many things I did do. There was always Vacation Bible School and some time spent at the Y.  We went to the beach or the bay on weekends. I don’t remember ever being bored…and this was before devices and video games!So for some Friday Fun…what’s a fun summer... 06/20/2025

Let's Take a Page from HG Wells and Create a Super Meet-upWell, the ActiveRain Points store is offering an opportunity to turn points into dreams, but, unfortunately, I don't have enough points to make a super dream materialize, unless I pull off a little bit of magic.Well, having committed a bunch of points already, I need to find a way to increase my financial base to help my fellow ActiveRain members.Well, I did a consult with CT native, Michael J. Fox and believe I have the ability to get my answer.I have an available 1,500,000 points, which would be the equivalent of $150,000.Being allowed to borrow that iconic Delorean DMC-12, I am going back to the early 1970's, 1980's, 90's and 2000 to take advantage of history, or some may look at it as super-hot tips.A quick look at history, w... 06/19/2025

June 19th Puzzle- National Garfield The Cat Day:I have created a new word search puzzle for you to enjoy.Directions: Click on the link below.  Your puzzle will open in a new window.To locate a word, please hold down the left side of your mouse while dragging your cursor over the letters of that word. Release your hold when all of the letters of the word have been selected. If your response is correct, the word will change color on the word list..Please check back for future daily puzzles.Enjoy and have a great day!Click Here To PlayIf you are looking to purchase a property or home on Long Island, New York, I hope you think of me, Linda Blumenthal. 06/19/2025

Believe it or not I never learned to spit... really, not even in the dentist's office. When I try to spit it just goes out like a shower. You would think that after brushing my teeth a zillion times I'd know how to spit without getting it all over myself and the entire sink. I'll never be the guy below.While Titus (the guinea pig above) meant no disrespect to his owner it did happen and Joe was none to happy about it.Unintended DisrespectWhether you own your home or rent I'm sure you have experienced a time of some clod disrespecting your home.One of the biggest examples of disrespect (as far as Realtors are concerned) are those who walk right into a home without asking if they should remove their shoes. I'll never forget a man walking into a brand new model home with muddy/greasy boots... 06/19/2025

HOW BELFAIR WA’S FOOD SCENE IS SHAPING LOCAL REAL ESTATE www.daryldatus.com Belfair, Washington, a small town nestled in Mason County, is making waves in an unexpected way. The local food scene has become a major player in shaping the area's real estate market. It's not just about the taste buds anymore - it's about property values and community growth. This article digs into the surprising link between Belfair's restaurants and its housing market. We'll explore how the variety of eateries - from cozy cafes to upscale dining spots - is attracting home buyers and influencing property prices. If you're a food lover eyeing a new home or an investor looking for the next hot spot, this read is for you. You'll gain insights into how a town's culinary offerings can boost its appeal and real es... 06/18/2025

An All-Natural Chill Pill   After an afternoon spent with a friend catching up, I began driving home and an idea came to mind.💡 What if someone manufactured a "chill pill" to encourage a national shift by eliminating contrived discord, soothing frazzled minds and mending divides? Of course, only an all-natural supplement would do.   The daily "dosage" amounts to spending quality time outdoors by pushing away from the computer, shutting off all electronics to walking or rolling along a trail, biking through sun-soaked streets, or just reading a paper book in the shade of an old oak tree. The directions are easy to follow and simple as 1 - 2 - 3!     The pill must be 100% free of preservatives, no GMO's, harmful dyes, sugars - especially manufactured, and calories, the packaging made fro... 06/18/2025

Trivia question answers for Tuesday June 17, 20251. A camel's hump contains mostly what? Fat2. What does Dorothy's house land on in The Wizard of Oz? The Wicked Witch of the East3. What is the largest Scandinavian country? Sweden4. What is Prosciutto? Italian dry-aged haTrivia questions for Wednesday June 18, 20251. The first action of what war took place in Lexington?2. Which fashion designer is known for his red-soled shoes?3. How many laps must a driver survive to win an Indianapolis 500?4. What country has the most coastline?Enjoy your day.  06/18/2025

Fresh, vibrant, and sweet-savory, this blueberry pasta salad combines juicy berries, tender pasta, and a tangy dressing for the perfect summer side dish.IngredientsVinaigrette: Champagne vinegar: It can be harder to find this type of vinegar in grocery stores, so if you’re having trouble sourcing it, the fruit-forward and mild flavor of apple cider vinegar is an excellent substitute. Maple syrup: For the best and richest flavor, use pure maple syrup rather than pancake syrup. Honey would also be a great (bear-approved!) option. Lemon juice and zest: Use a Microplane to zest the lemon before juicing it. Olive oil: Flavorful extra virgin olive oil vs. olive oil is better to use in vinaigrettes and other homemade salad dressing recipes like this one. Blueberries: The blueberries are mashed... 06/18/2025

What does someone do for fun after several successful careers have ended, and the next adventure begins? Well, truth be told, the sky’s the limit.This June 2025 Anna “Banana” Kruchten opened the points store, and I decided it was time to go shopping. I started my shopping spree at the tennis shop near my house.After watching the last match of the French Open tennis tournament hosted at Roland Garros in Paris, France, I realized time might be running out for me to become a top player. The men’s championship match at Roland Garros, between Jannik Sinner of Italy and Carlos Alcaraz of Spain was a five-hour marathon fought by two of the finest young talents to come into the game in years.The quality of the match, which will be talked about for years, spurred a level of enthusiasm in me I ha... 06/18/2025