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Cardinals

Fall is fully upon us and these trees have now lost all their leaves. This cardinal and his friends will stay all winter, as long as I feed them. When the snow gets too deep to get to the bird feeder, I feed them on the back step. Birds get much needed food and our cats get entertainment. A glass patio door separates the two and the birds have no clue they are being stalked from inside the house.
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Local Attractions


Lewis and Clark came through here. Blowing in the wind, this flag marks the spot of an interactive interpretive center…but that’s another story.

Here’s a tip I give to aspiring travel writers…don’t overlook your local attractions. Who better to write about a museum, special garden, or home town festival than a local? Maybe it’s “old hat” to you, but others may not know about it. Publications are always looking for an insider’s view on things.
Speaking of travel writing tips…want to learn how to become a travel writer? Check out my website, www.travelsandescapes.com. My ebook explains ins and outs of travel writing, gets you started with an article, and gives you some personal tips to get you on your way.
Happy writing.

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Photo Tips

Try these photo tips next time you are shooting or being shot with a camera.

Bright sunlight of midday is generally too harsh for anyone’s good and can mean washed-out photos. If you’re being shot in the early afternoon, look for a shady spot to provide greater contrast. Have your picture taken at dusk, if it’s at all up to you. There’s good reason that photographers call it the magic hour–pretty much everyone ends up looking hot.

In a perfect world, no one would ever have to be photographed by someone who’s shorter than they are. Try to tuck your chin down slightly, but not so far down so that it looks like you’re doing a yoga stretch. This will minimize any jowliness and emphasize your sexy eyes instead.

Pose like a pro: Don’t stand with hips and shoulders square to the camera. It makes women look their widest. Stand so that your side is to the camera, and turn your upper body back toward the lens. Then put your weight on your back foot, and point your front foot forward. This will make your hips and tummy appear slimmer.

Cats, on the other hand, don’t worry about things like this when they get photographed. They sit and look regal.

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Veteran’s Day

Veteran’s Day was two days ago. I don’t know about you but I am reminded of Veteran’s Day every time I see an American flag, hear the Star Spangled Banner, or think about Freedom. With that in mind, this is to honor all our Veterans…especially a couple that are near and dear to me. One was my dad. He is buried in a national cemetery in Iowa. And one is our son. I am proud of both of them.
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Canceled Flight? Here Some Tips


If your flight is canceled or you are bumped from a flight, Budget Travel gives us some advice and options.
Your airline is only responsible for getting you on the next departure with open seats. It pays to have your airline’s 800 number on hand since that is quicker than standing in line at the counter to rebook. It doesn’t hurt to ask if a competitor has open seats. Some airlines will gladly put you on a different airline.
As for compensation, you are only guaranteed something, usually a flight voucher. If you have been involuntarily bumped on a domestic flight, these rules apply: If you are on another flight within an hours, you get nothing; within 2 hours the airlines pays you the equivalent of your one way fare ($200 max); more than 2 hours later, you get 200 percent reimbursement ($400 max). Keep in mind…vouchers, not cash.

When all else fails, head to a favorite spot to relax. These flip flops found their spot in Cave Creek, Arizona. So many choices!!!

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Kansas City


Fountains, in parks, on walls, and in the middle of streets make Kansas City the City of Fountains. This cat fountain adorned a wall in Country Club Plaza.


Sculptures like this graceful penguin beg for their picture to be taken.


More goodies at The Farmer’s Market.

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Packing


It looks like the flip flops are getting ready to go again.
They learned a good packing tip from a flight attendant. To limit wrinkles lay multiple shirts or skirts or pants on top of each other. Then roll them all up together.

Flying long distances? Pack a pair of ballet type slippers in your carry on. They take up very little room. Once on the plane replace your shoes with the slippers. Your feet stay warm and comfortable without having bare feet.

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Travel and Food


Fresh baked bread pairs nicely with some cheese and wine for a picnic. Or take some home for crostini.


Pick up some apples from a farmer’s market. Add cinnamon and sugar for a fabulous fall treat.


Spices from this shop in Tubac will get used for chili and fajitas this fall.