Showing posts with label Taking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Taking. Show all posts

Monday, 20 January 2014

Taking Care Of Cats




These days, cats are among the most popular pet you can own. There are several breeds available, with the most popular being Persian and Siamese. Cats are a domesticated animal, with origins dating back some 8,000 years and beyond. Like any other pet that you may own, including dogs, cats cost money to take care of properly.





When you get a cat, you’ll need to think about the costs. You’ll obviously need food, and you’ll also need to plan ahead for vet costs. You’ll also need litter, which can tend to get quite expensive as the years go by. Your cat will need a litter box, food dish, and water dish. You should also invest in some toys as well, such as a scratching post, cat toys, a pet carrier, and a bed. You should also look into getting an ID collar as well, just in case your cat ever gets lost.





Feeding your pet will depend a great deal on his age. Older cats require two small meals or one large meal for the day. Kittens on the other hand, require several feedings a day until they get around the age of 12 weeks. Cats that are between three and six months of age need to be fed three times a day. Canned food can be fed to cats, although any food that has been left out longer than 30 minutes need to be disposed of. Canned food can get expensive fast, and you should always keep in mind that some may need to be thrown away when you buy it. Cats loved canned food, although it doesn’t have any benefits to their dental health like dry food does.





As an alternative plan, you can always leave a supply of dry food out for your pet. When you give your cat dry food, you should always make sure that he has enough water. Dry food costs less than canned food, and it can also help to prevent the buildup of tartar on your cat’s teeth. When you buy dry food, you should always look in terms of health and benefits, and stay away from generic food. Even though generic food may be cheaper, it may not offer the nutrients your pet needs.





If you own a kitten, you should only give you kitten food designed for him. You’ll also need to clean and refill his water dish every day. Even though kittens and adult cats like cow’s milk, you should avoid giving it to them as it can cause diarrhea. Treats are fine on occasion, although too many of them can cause your pet to get fat. Feeding your kitten human food is good on occasion, although you may have to mix it in with his cat food.





By themselves, cats stay fairly clean. Although you don’t have to bathe them that often, you’ll need to give them a brushing at least once a day. Brushing will reduce the risk of hairballs and keep your cat’s coat nice and clean. If you are keeping your cat indoors, you’ll need to have a litter box in an area that is easy for your cat to access. You should always scoop it on a daily basis, and clean it out once a week. Cats don’t like to use dirty litter boxes, they prefer for it to be nice and clean.





Although cats do require some work, they are great pets that will provide you with years and years of companionship. As long as you take care of your cat and take him to the vet for his checkups, he should remain healthy. Even though cats can get sick from time to time – knowing how to care for him will make a world of difference.


Friday, 24 June 2011

Interesting Outdoor Activities Taking Over on Oregon Coast

Covering 180 miles of Oregon coast travel: Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Nehalem, Wheeler, Rockaway, Garibaldi, Tillamook, Oceanside, Pacific City, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay, Newport, Wadport, Yachats & Florence.

05/14/07

Interesting Outdoor Activities Taking Over on Oregon Coast

Nehalem Bay, where kayaking is king(Oregon Coast) - Outdoor activities really begin to come to life in Oregon in the late spring and early summer – especially on the coast. The late night bonfires have already started on the beaches - with a few spotted in Cannon Beach, Seaside and Newport lately. An army of photographers have lined up on the sands between Gearhart and Yachats these days, with the recent spate of glorious, sunny weather. Tourists and residents alike aren't waisting time diving straight into the pleasures this time of the year is offering up.

DIVE INTO LUXURY, HISTORY AT THE TIDES

THE TIDES BY THE SEA, Seaside. For over 80 years a favorite of Seaside visitors. 51 oceanfront condos, individually owned and decorated. Suites for couples, small apartments with fireplaces and kitchenettes, one or two bed family units with fireplaces, kitchens and dining rooms. Oceanview cottages sleep anywhere from two to eight, w/ two bedrooms, some with lofts, fireplaces and kitchens. Heated outdoor pool, enormous grounds w/ picnic tables - all at quiet southern end of Seaside. 2316 Beach Drive. 800-548-2846. www.thetidesbythesea.com.

From hiking and unusual walking opportunities, to water sports of different kinds and a variety of other wacky hybrid activities, the coast isn’t your average destination for the outdoorsy types.

Kayakers and boaters hit the lakes around the National Dunes Recreation Area in great numbers, where 40 miles of enormous dunes are interrupted by pristine, spectacular freshwater lakes. There's Devil's Lake in Lincoln City, where water skiing and other marine sports become de rigueur, while kayaks flood the waters of the Nehalem Bay and its hidden waterways and marshes. There are also the opportunities for kayaking along the sea in some areas and checking out sea caves and monumental cliffs up close.

Indian Beach: Surfers paradise in Cannon BeachThere are some unusual hybrid sports emerging these days. There's surf kayaking, which is a combination of both those activities. It’s an unusual sport, where a kayak is used a little bit like a surfboard, just hovering in the waves as it bobs in out of the breakers.

Although still in the infant stages, sand boarding is becoming increasingly popular on sand dune areas like the National Dunes Recreation Area near Florence. It's largely a homemade thing still, where snowboards are waxed a certain way and then ridden down the towering dunes for a thrilling ride. The sport has just arrived at the gigantic structure called Cape Kiwanda, in Pacific City, where the towering dune gets turned into a makeshift snowboarding area. At Cape Kiwanda RV Resort and Marketplace, you actually rent these boards – made by a firm in Florence.

The Ocean Lodge. There will not be another property built like this in Cannon Beach in our lifetimes. Rare, premiere ocean front location; handsome, dramatic architecture and tasteful, fun (nostalgic) beach interiors. Overlooks Haystack Rock. 100 percent smoke free. Imaginative special occasion packages. Massive wood burning lobby fireplace. Library w/ fireplace, stocked with impressive book collection. Pet and family friendly. Lavish continental buffet breakfast. In-room fireplaces, mini-kitchens. Jacuzzi tubs in select rooms. DVD players, complimentary movies. Morning paper. Warm cookies. 888-777-4047. 503-436-2241. 2864 Pacific Street. Cannon Beach, Oregon. http://www.theoceanlodge.com/

Surfing remains the most visible activity at various spots, but it only increases in popularity as the kids get out of school. Seaside's cove area, on the south end of town, is hugely popular. Other hotspots include the crescent-shaped beaches at Oswald West State Park, Indian Beach in Cannon Beach, the south side of the Devil's Punchbowl at Otter Crest, Oceanside and parts of northern Newport around Agate Beach.

Hang gliding is a favorite on the coast, with its many winds zipping around and high places from which to launch. Oceanside, a spot just north of Cape Kiwanda, another just south of Tillamook Bay and some spots around northern Newport are common places to see these great, silent birds of beauty and grace.

Hiking is something you can't miss around here, such as the hike above Manzanita talked about later in this article.

Hang gliding near Cape KiwandaAt Heceta Head, just north of Florence, the trails meander in back of the lighthouse on their way to "Hobbit Beach" a mile and a half from here. Along the way are some stunning viewpoints.

Cape Perpetua features several trails zigzagging their way around the 900-foot mini-mountain. There's the easy trail from the visitors center down to Cook's Chasm, the one-mile trek to the 400-year-old giant spruce, and the mile-and-a-half trail that wanders up the mountain to the 700-ft level, to the stone shelter and its insane, panoramic views.

Feed the seals! One of the oldest aquariums in the U.S. is here in Seaside, Oregon, right on the PromenadeIn Newport, there's the mesmerizing half-mile trail above Yaquina Head, with several switchbacks taking you up to Salal Hill and some funky finds awaiting the explorer.

On the North Coast, Cape Lookout features three dizzyingly beautiful hikes. One zips to the end of the cape in a five-mile loop, with astounding viewpoints along the way. Another wiggles its way two miles down to the secret cove, with its wild, weird black sands. From there you can hike another four miles along seriously untouched sands to the Sand Lake Recreation Area, where ATV'ers go bonkers in this place nicknamed "the other Sand Dunes of the Oregon Coast."

Hiking Manzanita

If things are a little on the cool side and you're looking for some exercise, the three-mile roundtrip trail to the 1600-ft. top of Neahkahnie Mountain can't be beat for incredible views. From there, you can see the Pacific, Neahkahnie Bay and Manzanita in all their glory. Not quite halfway up, you find the forest opening up and incredible vistas jump out at you. A little ways further up, you'll find a bench or two in front of these viewing points, allowing you to sit back, relax and become overwhelmed by the beauty, with just a hint of the sound of the surf lulling you from a distance.

The Neahkahnie trailhead lies off a gravel road marked on Highway 101 by hiker signs. The road lies about a mile north of Manzanita, and the trailhead is marked by a gray post.

Or, if things are warm, you may want to play around the pristine beaches of Manzanita, all of which are a short walk from the restaurants and shopping of this charming, still noncommercialized town. You can duck in from the rain if it comes, or if it's hot, spend the day splashing in the waters and exploring the very edge of the rocky headland as the sands dead-end into the sea.

A1 Beach Rentals, Lincoln City. Perfect for large family vacations all the way down to a getaway lodging for two - with over 25 vacation rental homes to choose from. A breathtaking collection of craftsman or traditional beachfront homes, or oceanview houses – from one to seven bedrooms. In various areas of Lincoln City and overlooking the beach, with some in Depoe Bay. All kinds of amenities are available, like hot tubs, decks, BBQ, rock fireplaces, beamed ceilings and more. Some are new, some are historic charmers. Lincoln City, Oregon. 1-(503)-232-5984. www.a1beachrentals.com.

Secret Cliffs South of Depoe Bay

Between Newport and Depoe Bay, around the roads traipsing through Cape Foulweather and Otter Rock, there are the wild and wondrous secret cliffs lying just off Otter Crest Loop (the entrance of which is a ways south of Depoe Bay). You'll have to enter at this southern end, because it's a one-way going south. Along the way, you'll catch sight of magnificent cliffs and steep, grassy slopes which dump right into the sea.

There are two main entrances to this set of cliffs, both of which are where the road turns into a one-way. The easier gateway, just beneath a gravel parking area, is a fairly steep trail that meanders into a brief, dark forest - where occasionally you'll find freaky mushrooms growing.

Soon, you emerge onto this whole expansive little world all its own, with incredible vistas of the ocean before you and basalt cliffs that sometimes form natural seats from which to watch the crazed oceanic show.

A trail allows you to walk along one grassy slope to the next cliff.

Be warned about this area, however: there are sometimes patches of poison oak lurking here, which will definitely put a damper on your coast trip memories. Also stay clear of the cliff edges, which are sheer and deadly without mercy.

Still, it is one of the more breathtaking and rugged spots on all of Oregon's coastline.

BREATHTAKING CLIFFTOP IN NEWPORT

STARFISH POINT Newport - Offers only the finest in luxury condominium lodging. Every unit is focused on the beauty of the sea and the beach.
All units boast two bedrooms, two bathrooms, designer kitchens, wireless broadband Internet, fireplaces, Jacuzzi’s and private decks. Friendly staff dedicated to high quality and superb customer service. 140 NW 48th Street, Newport. (541) 265-3751. (800) 870-7795. http://www.starfishpoint.com/

Walking Winema Beach and Neskowin

Two magical beaches lay within three miles of each other, both between Lincoln City and Pacific City.

North of Lincoln City, Neskowin is the quiet little resort that's constantly threatening to explode into something much bigger.

Hit the beach and you'll usually find loads of people milling about. But cross the creek, walk towards mysterious Proposal Rock, and the population density gets less. You can actually walk around on top of the rock and check out the views from the top (although be extremely cautious of the tide so as not to get stuck.)

Walk further beyond the rock and you'll definitely be more alone. Along the way, note the stumps at the tideline, 5000-or-so-year-old remnants of something rather ominous. Somewhere in the last few thousand years, an enormous earthquake caused a chunk of forest to abruptly drop some six feet into the surf. The result was the salt water preserved them instead of allowing them to decay in normal ways.

Mysterious, hidden Winema BeachNewly renovated, 30 upscale rooms, on north end of Lincoln City, close to everything. Spa-like feeling, w/ luxury linens & robes, pillow top mattresses, flat screen TV's, granite counters and more all add to pampering. Oceanfront and ocean view units w/ gas fireplace. Hot Tub units. Romance packages. Luxury Room for every budget: meeting and wedding spaces too. At Winema Beach, it's hard to get more hidden than this. Just a few miles north of Neskowin, a small unassuming sign declares Winema Road. Follow that to the bottom and a tract of sandy beach that nearly no one knows about. There's another blob of a rock structure that looks a bit like Neskowin's Proposal Rock, which features a flat stretch at the top that's perfect for lounging.

Other interesting shapes and crevices present themselves as you walk northward. Some spots in the cliffs seem to invite climbing and exploring. And there's more than one hole in the rocks to huddle from the wind and cuddle a bit.

The cliffs soar high and become a striking gold, with some awe-inspiring homes up top. After about a mile or so, the beach ends abruptly at the southern end of Nestucca Bay, allowing you an unusual glimpse of the area.

Arch Cape Property Services. Dozens of homes in that dreamy, rugged stretch between Cannon Beach and Manzanita known as Arch Cape. Oceanfront and ocean view , or just a short walk from the sea.
All homes are immaculate and smoke free; some pet friendly (with a fee). Some with broadband, indoor or outdoor hot tubs, fireplaces, decks, and fire pits or barbecues. Call about tempting winter specials that go until March (not valid holidays, however). http://www.archcaperentals.com/ 866-436-1607.


D Sands Condominium Motel, Lincoln City. Free, fresh baked cookie upon check-in is just the start. All rooms beachfront and up against Lincoln City's most famous stretch of beach: the D River. Each room comes as a suite or mini-suite, and has a kitchen and balcony or patio. Some w/ gas fireplaces, while all have a DVD Players; movies to rent come with free popcorn. Heated indoor pool, a spa, and this fabulous beach is lit at night. Rooms sleep from two, four to six - including a deluxe fireplace suite. Gift certificates orspecial occasion packages. http://www.dsandsmotel.com/. 171 S.W. Highway 101. 800-527-3925.


Weiss' Paradise Suites & Vacation Rentals - Seaside

Unique Luxury Accommodations in Seaside. 1BR Suites, 1BR & 2BR Duplex Units and 3BR Houses, units for 2-8 people. Rent entire property for 20-26. Close to beach, river and Broadway St.
Suites are designed for two adults; vacation rental units for families. All units have kitchen and many have fireplace, deck and jetted tub. Comfy robes, slippers, luxury bath amenities, quality linens and more. 741 S. Downing St., Seaside. 800-738-6691. http://www.seasidesuites.com/


Lincoln City Vacation Homes Something for everyone: smaller homes with a view to a large house that sleeps 15. All are either oceanfront or just a few steps away – all with a low bank access and fantastic views. Most are in the Nelscott area; one is close to the casino. You’ll find a variety of goodies: fireplaces, multiple bedrooms, dishwashers, Jacuzzis, washer/dryers, hot tubs, cable TV, VCR, barbecues; there’s a loft in one, and another sprawling home has two apartments. Pets allowed in some homes – ask first. Each comes with complete kitchens. Most have seventh night free. Prices range from winter $85 to summer $230 per night. http://www.getaway2thecoast.com/. 541-994-8778.


Tradewinds Motel, Rockaway Beach. All rooms are immaculate and have TV’s, VCR’s and in-room phones w/ data ports. Oceanfronts have queen bed, a double hide-a-bed, kitchen, cozy firelog fireplace and private deck. Both types sleep up to four people. Others are appointed for a two-person romantic getaway, yet still perfect for those on a budget. Elaborate oceanfront Jacuzzi suite has two bedrooms, kitchen, double hide-a-bed, fireplace and private deck, sleeping as many as six. For family reunions or large gatherings such as weddings, some rooms can connect to create two-room and three-room suites. Some rooms pet friendly. 523 N. Pacific St., Rockaway Beach. (503) 355-2112 - 1-800-824-0938. www.tradewinds-motel.com


Inn At Spanish Head, Lincoln City. Lincoln City’s only resort hotel built right on the beach with all oceanfront rooms - nestled against a rugged cliffside overlooking a soft, sandy beach. Dine in penthouse restaurant and bar, for casual meal or candlelight dinner. An array of seafood specialties, juicy steaks and other Northwest favorites, including decadent Sunday buffet. Rooms range from bedrooms to studios to 1-bedroom suites with microwaves and refrigerators to full kitchens. Also, wi-fi, spa, saunas, exercise room and year-round heated swimming pool. Kids will love the game room and easy beach access. Full-service conference/meeting rooms for that inspirational retreat; extensive wedding possibilities. 4009 SW Highway 101, Lincoln City. 1-800-452-8127 or 541-996-2161. www.spanishhead.com


Inn at Cannon Beach. Beautifully wooded natural setting at quiet south end of Cannon Beach. Great during winter storms with a new book by the fireplace – or when the sun is out for family fun and beach strolling. Handsome beach cottage-style architecture. Lush flowering gardens and naturalized courtyard pond. Warm, inviting guest rooms. Continental buffet breakfast. Warm Cookies. Family and Pet Friendly. Welcome gifts. Smoke-free. Complimentary Wireless Connectivity. Wine and book signing events. 800-321-6304 or 503-436-9085. Hemlock At Surfcrest, Cannon Beach, Oregon. http://www.atcannonbeach.com/.RELATED STORIES

More Than 20 Reasons for a Late Spring Oregon Coast Jaunt From lonely beaches, live music pleasures, weird storms sights to lodging surprises

Watching Transformations of Oregon Coast Beaches Seasons change and so do beaches, revealing different sides and a variety of eye-popping sights

Structures Found on Oregon Beach May Be 80,000 Years Old - They are the remnants of a forest apparently 80,000 years old, found at Hug Point

Day or Night Mysteries and Merriment on Oregon Coast It's more than just nightlife that comes to life, but the beaches offer major opportunities

Sampling Wines and Wine Bars on the Oregon Coast Wine shops and wine bars are a growing part of coastal tourism

CONTACT BEACH CONNECTION

ASTORIA
Where the Columbia meets the Pacific, Land of Lewis & Clark and loads of atmosphere & history


SEASIDE
The Promenade, Tillamook Head, family fun & broad, sandy beaches

CANNON BEACH
A mysterious lighthouse, upscale yet earthy, a huge monolith, fine eateries & an art mecca


NEHALEM BAY
Manzanita's beaches, Nehalem and Wheeler's quirky beauty; laid back Rockaway


TILLAMOOK BAY
Garibaldi, Barview, Bay City, Tillamook & an oceanfront ghost town


THREE CAPES LOOP
The hidden secret of the coast: Cape Meares, a lighthouse, Oceanside, Netarts and Pacific City

DEPOE BAY
A spouting horn downtown, freaky hidden cliffs and whales, whales, whalesNEWPORT
Time-tripping Nye Beach, a bustling bayfront, marine science-central and two lighthouses
YACHATS
Constantly dramatic wave action, a mix of the rugged & upscale
FLORENCE
A lighthouse, ancient bayfront and miles and miles of fluffy dunesoregon coast lighthouses on dvd

17 lavish, beachfront suites feature Jacuzzi or outdoor hot tub, gas fireplace, luxury robes & linens, TV, two-headed showers. Three large suites have kitchens. Private deck w/ BBQ available. No smoking or pets. Perfect for romantic getaway, honeymoon.


View the original article here

Monday, 6 June 2011

Taking a Break

I am taking something of an extended break to sort of recharge my batteries whilst I consider the direction that I want to take this, including bringing all of my photo blogs under one umbrella.

Friday, 25 February 2011

Taking the Road Less Traveled


Going on a long road trip instead of the plane? There's much in store for you when taking a road trip - you see the sights and meet new people, unlike the jet that cruises the clouds where there's nothing there to entertain you but movie reruns and airline food. You'll miss your hip flask and the pub drinks just to put you to sleep in one long boring flight.

There's More Excitement on Road Trips

Going on a road trip that takes hours or even a few days can be taxing, especially if you're doing the driving. The only consolation are the drinks within your reach, your hip flask or cooler beside you. But there's more to the road trip than sipping your beer when you want to catch the sunset during those cross-country road trips from the US to Canada.

One of the interesting road trips you can plan is the trip from Maine to Quebec. There are scenic vistas along the way, which you'll miss on an ordinary jet flight. One is the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway which was the route of ancient travelers.

The US segment (Rt 201) is a winding road bordering the Kennebec River, Dead River, and Wyman Lake. You have a day to enjoy the scenic byway, something you'll never experience if you don't take to the road again. Along this route, there are several recreational spots where you can stop for a drink or two.

Along the Way

The next stop would be Catarunk in Maine where you can head to the famous Appalachian Trail. To enjoy the experience, set your foot on the trail and hike along the way and luxuriate in the scenic sights and breathe in the fresh air. The experience is just exhilarating and gives you a connection to the past and to Mother Nature.

Other places that can fill your travel diary are the picturesque villages of Solon and Bingham and the allure of Moxie Falls. In summer, join the throng lining up for river-rafting trips from Jackman to Moose River and in winter have fun snowmobiling in powdery snow. If you're not the type for physically draining activities, you can sit back and relax and take pictures of the surroundings.

Other Roads To Take

If you're planning a summer getaway do something out of the ordinary, here are other trails to try out:

* The Silk Road in China

* Machu Pichu Trail of the lost Incan world

* Georgian Caucasus in Tbilisi between Turkey and Russia

* Walk the Swiss villages

* China to Kazachstan route

* The Route to Olympus traveled by ancient athletes

With air travel usurping road travel, people are missing out on the wonders of the ancient routes. For your next adventure, you can start in your own backyard before you take on the world. But like any travel overseas, prepare your travel papers and get your shots in advance within the prescribed period.

Traveling the road less taken will take you to places where the medieval collides with the modern times. Nothing can describe the satisfaction you'll get from the experience. How about experiencing the life of a nomad on the Sahara deserts? Or savoring the thrill of the hunter in the wilds of Africa? Or enjoy the benign safety of the metropolis in Fiji? Whatever your choice, the roads less taken will give you the experience of a lifetime.








Bitten by wanderlust? You can use a liquor flask, passport covers, or Swiss Army knives. Visit ExecutiveGiftShoppe.com today.