Tag Archives: adventure

From Amalfi To Ibiza: A Journey Through Europe’s Iconic Coastal Getaways

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From Amalfi To Ibiza: A Journey Through Europe’s Iconic Coastal Getaways

Europe’s coast is a patchwork of beautiful landscapes, cultures, and views. From the Amalfi Coast’s cliffs to Ibiza’s beaches, a trip to these iconic coastlines is a chance to relax, explore and sunbathe. Each has its magic so whether you’re a beach lover or an adventurer this guide will take you through some of Europe’s most iconic coastlines and what makes each one special:

1) Amalfi Coast, Italy:                                                            

The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful stretch of coastline in southern Italy that has been a favorite with travelers for years. Famous for its villages like Positano and Ravello, the Amalfi Coast has cliffs that plunge into the Mediterranean Sea. Here you can eat fresh seafood, shop in charming boutiques, and enjoy views from cliff-top terraces. Whether you’re wandering the narrow streets of Amalfi or lounging on the beach with a good book the area has the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Don’t forget to pack your swimwear for a dip in the blue waters!

2) Costa Brava, Spain:        

In northeastern Spain, Costa Brava is known for its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and fishing villages. From the French border to the bustling city of Barcelona, this region has something for everyone, especially when planning a road trip never to forget. Spend your days on beautiful beaches like Cala Montjoi with its turquoise waters and cliffs or take a leisurely walk along the coastal paths that reveal stunning views of the Mediterranean. Costa Brava is also steeped in culture with Salvador Dalí’s surrealist art and the medieval castles of Tossa de Mar giving a glimpse into the region’s history.

3) French Riviera, France:        

The French Riviera or Côte d’Azur is all about glamour and luxury. Along the southern coast of France, this beautiful region is home to glamorous cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco. The beaches are lined with beach clubs and restaurants so you can sunbathe and people watch. You can try water sports like jet skiing or sailing or simply relax on the sand with a glass of rosé in hand. The views of the Mediterranean, the nightlife, and the cultural experiences make the French Riviera a must-stop on your coastal journey.

4) Ibiza, Spain:        

Famous for its nightlife and beaches, Ibiza is the jewel of the Balearic Islands. This island has the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. Spend your days on iconic beaches like Playa d’ Bossa or Cala Comte where you can sunbathe at beach side bars. As the sun sets, Ibiza becomes a party destination with world-famous clubs like Pacha and Amnesia drawing crowds from all over the world. But the island also has peaceful spots like the charming village of Santa Gertrudis where you can eat local food and enjoy art in a quiet atmosphere.

Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the towns, or party the night away this coastal journey has it all. So pack your bags, gather your friends, and get ready for a trip you’ll be talking about for years to come!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Treat Day Ideas

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Treat Day Ideas

Hello!!! Johnny and I take our roles as the “fun aunt and uncle” extremely seriously. We simply adore our nieces and nephew and consider it our job to spoil them as we don’t want children of our own. Being an aunt and uncle is awesome because we get to unleash our inner child for a few hours and then give the kiddos back to their parents! A shining example of this is “Treat Day”, which is when we pick up our oldest niece, grab some lunch, and go on a fun adventure. In fact, we just had one this past weekend at Urban Air (An indoor trampoline park). Treat Days are a fantastic way to get quality time with our littles and here are some ideas for places to go that your kiddos or nieces and nephews will love:

Trampoline Parks:

Our niece wanted to go to Urban Air for her outing with us this weekend and as it was Treat Day, we happily obliged. I haven’t been to a trampoline park since I was a teenager and it was just as much fun for Johnny and I as it was to our niece. We had an absolute blast exploring all of the different attractions that Urban Air had to offer. There was a gigantic ball pit, trampolines to bounce on, games, playgrounds and so much more. It was honestly exhausting lol but one thousand percent worth it. And, as a bonus, there is a one thousand percent chance your little will be ready for a nap afterwards – we sure were!

Museums:

There are several really cool museums in my neck of the woods as I’m sure is pretty similar for my dear readers. One of the best for kiddos in the 330 is the Akron Children’s Museum. It is an educational setting, but all of the exhibits are so entertaining and hands on that it feels more like play time than learning. This museum features stations for dress up, music, architecture, water, archaeology, engineering, and that’s just naming a few. I have easily spent an entire afternoon there with my nieces before! Museums or libraries are the tops if you still want to have an exciting day out and the weather isn’t cooperating. Your local libraries will also more than likely have free classes, programs, and events for kids too.

Zoo:

Who doesn’t love a trip to the zoo? I am actually eagerly awaiting this coming weekend for an evening at the Cleveland Zoo with my whole family for an Asian Lantern Festival! The zoo (Or aquarium on a rainy day!) is such an interactive location and has something for everyone. Every exhibit is an opportunity for your littles to learn and appreciate something new, but it will feel like an adventure. Be sure to check the events guide for your zoo visit as many of them offer times to feed the animals, attend talks given by zookeepers, and see shows. It also goes without saying that Dippin’ Dots are a complete must! 😀

Out & About:

The very first Treat Day we had with our niece was going to get Mexican food for lunch, shopping at Target so she could pick out a new toy, and going to the park. It is one of my favorite memories and just goes to show that Treat Days can be as big or as low key as you want to make it. Regardless of what you do, your little will feel special from that bonding time. Johnny and I still talk about the OG Treat Day often because our niece said SO many funny things that we like to quote. The day also ended on the most adorable note because the last thing little lady wanted to do was have her uncle set up her new Blue’s Clues playhouse for her. ❤

Back to school will be here before we know it. Make the most of sweet summertime with your kiddos by penciling in a Treat Day or two!

Did you have a favorite aunt or uncle growing up? What is your favorite museum in your neck of the woods? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

New Phone Photos

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New Phone Photos

Hi! On April 29th, I proudly accepted a new job as the social media manager for Tim Misny. This is, hands down, the biggest opportunity I have ever had for my online work and I am so incredibly happy that my hard work has paid off in such a major way. While I love working on all aspects of social media, the most fun part of my job (other than my amazing coworkers) is redesigning the Misny Merch. One of my jobs is to freshen the brand up and I think I am going to make a total splash with it. As a fashionista, I never dreamed that I would get to be designing clothes too with my new job and it’s awesome!

Of course, the most important aspect of my job is creating content. However, that is incredibly hard to do when your phone is consistently almost out of storage lol. Between pictures of my nieces, bunnies, Johnny and me, and OOTD shots it’s easy to see why! I was graciously given a brand new iPhone for my work phone and it has been a blast playing around with it. This past weekend, both Johnny and I took our turns snapping pics and videos on the new phone. Unfortunately, the lighting for OOTD shots was abysmal. But, I did get these super cool pics:

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Johnny and I ventured outside after it got done raining for a photography adventure. We spent some time chasing the lighting for some pics of me and there was literally nothing good to show for it. As we continued walking around Timber Top, Johnny pointed out how neat the rain water drops resting on plant leaves looked. I completely agreed and just had to get some pictures. I was blown away by them! The detail and the way the light reflected off of the water looked like a painting and I knew these shots would never be possible on my old phone!

Even though I am doing a lot of what I already do for other social media accounts that I manage for Tim, the novelty has yet to wear off. There are many things that are completely different and it’s so exciting. I truly feel like it is my big break and it makes simply going outside to practice pictures on a new phone feel like a brand new experience. I can’t wait to see where this job takes me next! 😀

How often do you upgrade your phone? How many pictures do you have on your phone? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Why You Should Embrace Your Inner Child

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Why You Should Embrace Your Inner Child

Adulthood was once considered the time to ‘put away childish things’ as a famous poet once wrote. But why? There are so many benefits to embracing your inner child that we should all be making more time to get back into the kid headspace more often. Let’s discuss:

Laughter is the Best Medicine (and It’s Free!):

Remember when you used to laugh so hard that milk would shoot out of your nose? Okay, maybe don’t aim for the nose-milk part, but laughter really is good for you, and science says so, so there (see I’m getting childish already). It relieves stress, boosts your mood, and even burns calories. So go ahead, watch that cartoon, giggle at silly jokes, and let your laugh be as loud and unapologetic as a child’s.

Playtime Isn’t Just for Kids:

Play isn’t just for the under-10s; it’s a crucial part of being a happy, well-rounded adult too. Yes, really! Okay, so what does this play look like? This could mean anything from board games and sports to arts and crafts, or maybe even building up an army of your favorite collectible toys and letting them battle it out whenever you need to de-stress. Speaking of stress, ever tried adult coloring books? They’re like therapy, but with more crayons and less awkward silences.

Curiosity Didn’t Kill the Cat; It Made Life More Interesting:

Kids are curious about everything, and somehow, as adults, we lose that. Well, now it’s time to reignite your curiosity. Ask questions, explore, and try new things. It keeps life interesting and your brain engaged. Remember, it’s never too late to learn how to play the guitar or speak another language. Unless it’s Klingon. Maybe draw the line at Klingon. This will keep you feeling young, but more importantly, it will keep your brain healthy as you get older, too.

Emotions: Feel Them All:

Kids feel their emotions deeply and aren’t afraid to show them. As adults, we often bottle things up, and this is not, for the most part, a good thing. It’s okay to be vulnerable, to feel sad, happy, or even throw a good old-fashioned tantrum (preferably not in the middle of a supermarket, though).

Imagination: More Valuable Than You Think:

Our imagination seems to shrink as we age, but it’s one of our most powerful tools. Use it! Dream big, think creatively in your job, or just daydream about being a pirate. Imagination adds color to the mundane grayness of adult life.

Say Yes to Adventure:

Remember when a simple trip to the park felt like an adventure? Bring that feeling back. Be spontaneous, say yes to new experiences, and see where life takes you. It’s about making memories, not just to-do lists.

Your hair might be grey and your knees might ache like never before, but that doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the child within every day!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Whatever The Weather OOTD Bloopers

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Whatever The Weather OOTD Bloopers

Hello everyone and welcome to the blooper reel from my Whatever The Weather OOTD! This past year, I have made it my goal to do weekly OOTDs and minus a few misses, I feel like I have been achieving it. I trudged through summer looks even though it’s not my favorite season to style for and now it is officially fall – AKA the best season for fashion ever. Although the weather doesn’t feel fully fall yet, I welcome a crisp morning any day of the week and have been creating outfits for fluctuating temperatures. Whatever The Weather, however, some pictures definitely don’t make the cut… Until they have their day in the sun during the blooper reel! Let’s check it out:

Something STANK

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Don’t mind me doing the potty dance

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Showing off my dazzling smile 🙂

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WERKING that wind in the hair, baby

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My signature, adoring “wtf” face to whatever it was that Johnny was saying ❤

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To pop the foot or not… that is the question

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… The answer is not -_-

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Johnny and I had quite the adventure around TimberTop finding a place to take these stunning pictures. We went to the location seen here first and was greeted by a HUGE pile of dog crap because no one in TTop cleans up after their dogs and it’s so foul. So, we began to walk and ended up on a charming path that we didn’t even know existed. It was a wooded area and offered a view of the charming, dirty creek that runs through the apartment community, appropriately named Mud Creek lol. You can’t make this stuff up!!

This location was much more like it, but the lighting sucked butt so we continued on our quest for another OOTD spot. Then, we found a clearing that I thought might work, but it was a Red Herring. You guessed it – the lighting sucked butt there too! On the bright side, we did meet an adorable puppy named Kody – short for Kodiak – short for Kodiak The Maniac according to his owners. This was a huge plus, but we were still struggling to find a good spot to shoot at.

Finally, we went back the way we came and when we exited the woods it was a total “let there be light” moment. There was perfect lighting shining down on the super cool stone base of one of the apartment buildings. I think it looks so neat! We were derailed by dog poop, poor lighting, and a cute pup (which was a most welcome reprieve!) but we ended our trek victorious. The things I do for this blog! 😀

Whatever The Weather during the fall is thankfully always pretty good for a walk and did we ever for this shoot. Johnny was SO ready to go inside afterwards and so was I!!

What are some of the names of bodies of water in your area? Do any of them top MUD CREEK?! I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Groovy Movies: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny Edition

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Groovy Movies: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny Edition

Hello everyone! This past weekend, Johnny and I enjoyed a fabulous date night of dinner and a movie. We went to Applebee’s because it was running a promo of spend X amount of money and get a free ticket to Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. We truly went all out in a Middle Class Fancy fashion because we ended up getting two free tickets lol. 😀 Tune in tomorrow for more about our night on the town!

After dinner, we hit the theater to see the new Indiana Jones and we were excited! Johnny LOVES the Indiana Jones movies and has never seen any of them in theaters. I like them well enough and only saw them when Johnny and I started dating! Without giving any spoilers away, let’s discuss this popcorn flick more because it was a HOOT:

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We meet an elderly Indiana Jones in New York City and he is ready to retire from his job as a college professor/professional adventurer and live the good life. Of course, we all know he can’t hang up his hat without one final hurrah and that comes from his estranged goddaughter, Helena. Helena is an archaeologist with a great interest in the Dial of Destiny. This Dial is said to reveal time fissures that could allow for time travel. However, if it falls into the wrong hands, the Nazis could go back in time and avoid the mistakes that lead to their demise.

With Helena and her young comrade, Teddy, in tow, Jones and his crew begin the hunt for the two halves of the Dial. Acquiring both won’t be easy and the Nazis are hot on their tail. Their quest takes them all over the world to places and time periods unknown. Jones’ final mission is a lot more than he originally bargained for, but a little help from old friends can go a long way – hopefully. Will Indiana save the day and life as we know it? See The Dial of Destiny to find out!

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny was an absolute blast from start to finish. Although Johnny and I live for Harrison Ford in his youth, seeing his eighty-one year old self kick major ass was awesome! The Dial of Destiny featured an all star cast including Mads Mikkelsen as the villain, Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Helena, Antonio Banderas, and the wonderful John Rhys-Davies reprising his role as Sallah. Other than Waller-Bridge, whose work we aren’t familiar with, we love all of these esteemed actors and that made the viewing experience even better.

The Indiana Jones movies are totally far fetched, but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t a ton of fun! The action, the adventure, and the nods to previous movies and characters all added to the celebratory vibe that The Dial of Destiny invoked. It was a complete tip of the cap to Harrison Ford and we were so there for it. Sure, this movie would have been great to watch at home, but it just hit different seeing it on the big screen. Johnny and I had to do everything in our power to not whoop and cheer during every scene!

If you are a fan of the Indiana Jones series, RUN don’t walk to the theater. This is one that you are not going to want to miss and I am so happy to have experienced it with Johnny. We have been looking forward to this date night for weeks and it was everything we wanted it to be and so much more!

What is your favorite Indiana Jones movie? Have you seen The Dial of Destiny yet? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

Where To Look For Artistic Inspiration

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Where To Look For Artistic Inspiration

If you’re feeling blocked creatively, it can be helpful to seek out inspiration from other artists. But where do you find it? And once you’ve found it, how do you use it to create your own art? Let’s explore some of the best places to look for artistic inspiration and offer some tips on how to make the most of it:

Art Galleries:

Art galleries are a great place to start your search for artistic inspiration. There are usually several different artists featured in each gallery, giving you a wide range of styles and mediums to choose from. You can also ask the gallery attendant about the artist’s process and what inspired them to create their work. Check out the best exhibits from women chosen by Frederica Wald.

Museums:

Museums are another excellent source of inspiration, especially if you’re interested in historical art or want to learn more about a specific artist or movement. Many museums offer tours led by knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the artwork on display.

Photography:

Photography can be a great way to get inspired, especially if you’re looking for ideas for a new project or want to explore a different style of art. There are many different types of photography, from landscape and portraiture to still life and abstract, so you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

Film:

Film is another medium that can be very inspiring, particularly if you’re interested in storytelling or visual effects. Watching films from different genres and eras can give you a new perspective on your own work, and you may even find yourself borrowing some of the techniques used by your favorite directors.

Nature:

Nature is one of the most popular sources of inspiration for artists, as it provides an endless array of colors, textures, and forms to explore. Whether you’re taking a walk in the park or exploring a new city, keep your eyes open for interesting patterns and shapes that could be incorporated into your work.

How to Use Inspiration:

Experimentation:

When you find something that inspires you, it’s important to experiment with it and see what you can create. Don’t be afraid to try new things or to fail. The more you experiment, the more likely you are to find something that works for you.

Be Open-Minded:

It’s also important to be open-minded when looking for inspiration. You never know where you’ll find it, so it’s important to keep an open mind. Who knows? Maybe your next great idea will come from something completely unexpected.

Take Your Time:

Finally, don’t rush the process. Inspiration can strike at any time, but it’s often not something that can be forced. If you’re feeling stuck, take a break and come back later with fresh eyes. Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of time and patience.

For an artist, there can be inspiration everywhere you look. However, sometimes people can get stuck. Take the time to explore art hubs in your area and you might have an aha moment for your next great work!

Featured Image By: Pxhere

Going To NYC? Check Out These Tips!

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Going To NYC? Check Out These Tips!

New York City is a bustling metropolis full of endless possibilities. It can be overwhelming for first-time visitors or even those who have been before. With a little planning, you can make the most of your trip and see all that NYC has to offer!

Why Take a Trip to New York City:

New York City is a vibrant and exciting city. It has something for everyone. New York City has an incredible amount of cultural attractions, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum, and the World Trade Center Memorial. There’s also the Agora Gallery Reviews to look at too.

It also offers plenty of shopping opportunities in places like Times Square and Fifth Avenue. The city has many opportunities to experience delicious food thanks to its vast range of different cultures. There are also plenty of outdoor activities for those who enjoy being active outdoors such as Central Park or Prospect Park.

Planning Your Trip:

The first step to any good trip is planning. Decide what you want to see and do in advance so that you can make the most of your vacation. New York has something for everyone, from art and history lovers to foodies and shopaholics. Do some research to figure out what sights and activities are a must-do for you. Once you have an idea of what you want to do, you can start booking tickets and making reservations.

Getting Around Town:

New York is a big city and getting around can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the layout. The best way to get from point A to point B is often by subway, as traffic can be brutal during rush hour. If you’re not used to subway systems, don’t worry! It’s actually pretty easy to navigate once you get the hang of it. Buy a Metrocard in advance so that you can reload it as needed and make sure to keep track of which subway line takes you where. Another great way to get around is by walking. Many neighborhoods are quite compact and easy to explore on foot. Plus, this is a great way to soak up the unique atmosphere of each one! Of course, hailing a yellow cab is always an option when you need it. Just be prepared for high fares during peak times.

Seeing the Sights:

There’s no shortage of things to do in New York, so it’s important to prioritize based on your interests. For example, if you love art, plan to spend some time at one of the many world-renowned museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Modern Art. If history is more your thing, take a walk through Central Park or visit Ellis Island. And of course, no trip to NYC would be complete without seeing iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building or the Statue of Liberty!

By familiarizing yourself with the layout of the city and prioritizing based on your interests, you’ll be sure to have an amazing time exploring everything that NYC has to offer! Safe travels!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Preparations To Make For An Outdoor Activity

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Preparations To Make For An Outdoor Activity

It’s time to get out of the house and explore nature. There’s so much to see, do, and enjoy when you venture outside! But before you go, you need to prepare some things first. While it’s undoubtedly an exciting prospect, going on an outdoor adventure can be daunting if you’re not adequately prepared. So, to help you out, we’ve put together a list of everything you need to do before heading out into the great outdoors:

Choose the right location:

The first step in preparing for an outdoor activity is to choose the best location. It will depend on a few factors, such as the type of activity you’re doing, the time of year, and the weather. For example, if you’re planning on hiking, you’ll need to find a place that has trails and is appropriate for the season.

You also need to be aware of your surroundings and make sure that you’re not going into an area known for being dangerous. Do some research online or talk to people familiar with the place to get additional information. Have your itinerary planned out before you leave to know what to expect when you’re at your destination. It will help you avoid surprises and make the most of your trip!

Get the right gear:

Next, you need to make sure you have the right gear for your activity. This condition will vary depending on the season, but there are some basics that you’ll always need. For example, if you’re going camping, you’ll need a tent, a sleeping bag, and a stove.

It’s also essential to make sure that your gear is in good condition and that you know how to use it. If you’re not familiar with using a particular piece of equipment, take the time to practice before going on your trip.

Pack food and water:

Another essential thing to pack is food and water. You need to make sure that you have enough food and water for the trip and that it’s something you can easily carry with you. If you’re going on a long hike, you’ll need to pack food that will give you enough energy. When choosing food, it’s also important to consider any allergies or dietary restrictions you may have. And, of course, you need to make sure that the food won’t go wrong in the heat.

It’s just as important to pack enough water for everyone in your group. Depending on the activity, you might need to bring more or less water. Make sure to research this beforehand so that you don’t end up with a shortage.

Don’t skimp on personal hygiene:

When packing, don’t forget about personal hygiene. It is essential if you’re in close quarters with other people. Pack things like soap, toothpaste, and deodorant to stay clean and comfortable. The sun can damage your skin, so make sure to pack sunscreen and hats too. Also, using a conditioner for dandruff control will keep you feeling fresh and clean even in the scorching heat.

You don’t want to forget insect repellent, either! Mosquitoes and other bugs can be a real nuisance, and some of them can even carry diseases. So, make sure to pack repellents to keep the bugs at bay.

Dress for the occasion:

Wearing clothes that are appropriate for the activity and the weather will keep you comfortable. You wouldn’t want to go hiking without a sturdy pair of shoes! And if you’re going to be in the sun, make sure to wear light colored clothing that will help keep you cool.

Avoid wearing anything that could get caught on something and cause you to trip or fall. And remember, it’s always better to be too warm than too cold, so dress in layers.

Be prepared for emergencies:

No matter how well you plan, there’s always a chance something could go wrong. That’s why it’s crucial to be prepared for emergencies. Have a first aid kit handy and pack supplies like bandages, gauze, and tape. It’s also a good idea to pack a whistle if you get lost or need help.

If you have any health conditions, bring your medication with you. And don’t forget to pack a flashlight and some matches so that you can start a fire if necessary.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your outdoor activity goes smoothly and that you have a great time on your adventure!

Oh Deer!

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Oh Deer!

Hi! During our family holiday weekend at Oglebay, we jam packed a ton of activities into a short period of time. The property was beautiful with fun events happening everywhere you looked as well as what seemed like a never ending amount of deer roaming about. One particular family of deer seemed to take a liking to hanging around our lodge and were so tame that we were able to feed them peanuts right out of the palm of our hands. It. Was. Awesome! Check it out:

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When my deer friends first started congregating in the front of our lodge, I thought it was lucky to be able to see them so closely. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that they would come right up to my sister and I for a snack but I have photographic proof of that! At first, we just threw some peanuts in their general direction to see what happened. They must have really liked them because, shortly after, they just started coming directly to the source for more. 😀

Throughout our stay, we must have seen close to fifty deer and many of them were enjoying treats from other families too. I would have been completely satisfied just feeding the deer our entire weekend stay and was so sad when my friends eventually had their fill and headed back into the woods. However, something tells me that they will have no problem finding another family to score some snacks with upon our return home!

What an amazing experience this was because hand feeding the deer in my neck of the woods would never happen. This was one of the many highlights of my holiday weekend at Oglebay! ❤

What kind of wildlife resides in your area? What is your favorite animal? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah