Shadowfell

 

 By Gemma Cleanslate

 

    Star of Earendil whispers “Welcome as we travel back to Calas Galadhon's SHADOWFELL
... beyond the dark forest, quarry and the beauty of its gardens and into the swamps …”
These two regions called Mist hold the most spectacular display in SL in my opinion. Every year Ty Tenk  and Truck Meridith of Calas Galadhon work to make this experience something to behold by adding to it. One cannot just pop in and go through all the venues in one day. Repeated visits are a must so plan your time.

When I arrive and check out the entrance area the first thing I do is get my flashlight and read the posts to make sure I am ready for the visit. The nearby boat ride is my first choice just to relax and look at the view of landscape from the river. Iridescent colors and flickering lights that hover add to the relaxation and music enhances the ride. The boat carries two so bring along a companion.

Watch the shore for many creatures that hang around the bank or hover above trying to surprise or shock you .

Who did I see but Micky Mouse ! That was a shock. 

The bioluminescence of the swamp foliage is so strikingly gorgeous. One must be sure to use the environmental shared lighting though I did adjust the lighting a bit to get some photos. The boat does drift up into the air iat times to pass over the plants and trees.

After the boat ride I began a trek along the paths leading to the many venues all so varied but all so hauntingly lovely. The music all along the way is so fitting to the total experience. The signage helps direct one . Also look for Journey cloths that are teleports to hidden places . I have to find more when I return to really explore sites. Ty said more will be added as the month progresses.

The Forbidden Forest and the Gardens exploration take time to admire all the plants, trees and flowers in brilliant color. Places to sit and gaze out over the forest give time to really see what is below. The Quarry contains some frightening creatures. Orcs, dragons, demons and other wonders. Thankfully they don’t follow along the walk, just stand threatening passersby.

The Pavilion as usual is set for many events during the month. Check out the schedule.

I have many more visits to make to finally see all that is there . In some areas as you walk there are torches lying on the ground that will direct you to the proper places not to be missed. And in a few places there are teleports set to lift you to unseen places. Though Shadowfell returns every year it seems new every year Maybe there will be a TP hud later so watch for that. Here is the entrance. Perhaps you will see me there again along the paths. 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/MIST/9/84/23

Gemma Cleanslate

The Buddha Garden

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

 

August is often considered the vacation month in real-life and Second Life. I seems to be quieter than most of the other months in general. After being so busy in July, not only in real-life but also SL with the SL21B events and then the Burn2 summer Whimsy I needed some quiet time. Time to regroup and contemplate. The Buddha Garden seemed just the ticket.  It is a beautiful region filled with sites to relax, consider the flora and fauna. Around each corner there is something that urges one to stop and think.

As soon as I landed at the entrance I found a lovely little building with a Buddha sitting and he offered these words “Buddha Garden: Your daily pearl of wisdom, take it and make it yours: 'Letting go is always the lesson. Have you ever noticed how much of our agony is all tied up with craving and loss?'” My first contemplation looking out the door at the vast ocean beyond.

I began walking along the beach to see if it went all the way around the island. I came upon a statue of the Buddha rising out of the water. Water signifies calmness, clarity and purity so it made sense. Off in the distance I saw two houses so I went to visit. Each contained a relaxing place .

When I looked up I saw that there were numerous Buddha’s protecting the island. Off in the distance was another island with volcanoes rising, one active and one dormant and I think the Buddha’s were watching these also. I passed waterfalls and beautiful pools with Buddhas and seating for meditation at each. Out on a tiny island I found a buddha that gave me more advice . “Buddha words. RARE: As an elephant in the battlefield withstands arrows shot from bows all around, even so shall I endure abuse.”

Well, I am not sure about that.

I found a house serving food and sat to eat . Even at such a place there is the water everywhere around that is soothing. I had to giggle at what looked like an old television that had been changed into a planter. Many books sat nearby. I learned that each Buddha statue has its own meaning and I will have to take time to learn about each with some research. I find Buddhism so interesting in its words that apply to life no matter what your other philosophies or beliefs.

Several of the beautiful temples high up on the mountain have extraordinary statues and vistas.At one I stopped to do tai chi . There are so many places more to explore here and I will return to look for more. Take time for a trip there. You will not be disappointed. Also look for another little island with a small gallery, Khin Tower Art Gallery. Visitors are invited to contact Gian if they are interested in exhibiting there, at no cost.  

 

https://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Ahimsa/57/85/24

Gemma Cleanslate

 

Steeliehook Public Forest & Zen Centre

 

By Gemma Cleanslate 

I often get an idea for an article in an announcement from The Nature Collective. This site is one I loved as soon as I arrived at the entrance. The description says “This forest was built with love and calm. It is a place for self-reflection and centering." The music and lighting add to the experience. The first thing I saw was a 7seas fishing vendor so I knew there was fishing somewhere.

The light shafts shining on the trees and foliage enchanted me. This is a place to take a deep breath and relax. I walked down the stairs and into the forest to explore. There is a trail through the woods for walking. There are so many little spots for those who would like to linger. It is a place to walk slowly and enjoy the plantings and the little animals. Photographers will love it. The creeks have lovely waters flowing by. There is 7Seas fishing is to the right at the first creek and comfortable seating , a picnic basket with a sandwich and drinks.

I stopped at a picnic area below a waterfall that reminded me so much of a place I used to go in real
life. Farther along I found a place to paint a picture of the surroundings.

There is a lovely statue of Buddha where one can meditate, or practice yoga for beginners and advanced practitioners. Meditating is easy in this environment.

Jennifer Steele-Lilliehook (JenniferSteele Wilder), a well known artist in Second Life created it with her wife, Dempsey Lilliehook, and friend , HecateWic of Wic Foods. “
 

After my walk I noticed that Jennifer was nearby so went looking for her. I climbed up stairs and along a walkway past some shops and found a large restaurant called The Wine Cellar. Inside cooks were busy preparing food and Jennifer was there rearranging furniture. She invited me to lunch and we sat down and ordered. It is a delightful luncheon. 

 

She told me that soon she will be having events there such as Jazz singers, live sax, and other attractions. “ We will be doing announcements through TNC for drum circles and I AM sessions”. She told me it is to give back for all her support in second life. “ I just do what I love to do and it all seems to fall into place.

I will wait to see what they are. It was an enjoyable lunch. I have not seen Jennifer for a while so it was nice. She is still doing a bit of renovations around the whole area.Take a trip over to wander through the forest and explore the area. Stop in the restaurant and on the other side of the forest I learned there is an airport with a rezz zone so you fly in or out. This is your entrance to the forest. 

 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Girotte/140/17/33

Gemma Cleanslate

"The Pond" And "The Forgotten"

 

By Gemma Cleanslate

While doing the Nature Collective Hunt I visited some venues I had never seen before, nature related . One startled me and brought memories of the Greenies home of old. The beauty invited me to return and explore. It is The Pond. Everything there is immense, from the lily pads to the outsized koi below the waters and insects in the sky. rαvєn вαnríσn кrαу (RavenStarr Resident) is owner, designer, builder of The Pond.

It is a marvelous place to hang out with relaxing sites among the lilies. Check out the delicious picnic area or play in the sandbox. There are secret places here so walk around and touch. I went around the outer edges of the Pond and discovered little animals and birds.

Well I say little but they were not. Some were the same size as me. I had a hard time locating the prize there but finally found it. It is a dancing frog so that made me happy. While I was there 7 visitors arrived in different groups to explore. Take some time to go visit and relax on land or under the waters. A bubble on the lily pad will take you down. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Fairhill/108/156/26

“A magical swamp born from sorrow, lighting the way for explorer's to follow.

A castle in ruin, gardens left to despair. Eyes of lost statues left only to stare.

Whispers of sadness from voices long gone, dancing fairy dust left to sing its last song.”

This is a description of The Forgotten, another place I discovered on my Nature Collective hunt.

I found a dazzling sky and a fantastical swamp to maneuver moving on walkways and tree roots. Float around on a leaf for a while to discover the environment. The foliage and insects are so whimsical.

A fanciful lamp post seems to look at a visitor with laughter in the light. Lionsheart (Elfing Shenanigans) the owner has touched the deep secrets of the past in creating the place.

Mystical creatures inhabit the ruins above the swamp. Dragons fly overhead and an enormous whale , seemingly out of place, floats through the sky and I took a ride on his back. Look for little nooks of relaxing places, some frightening but also inviting. Bring your honey and dance in the gazebo at the edge of the waters.

Everywhere I walked I was aware of the beautiful sky above. The whole region is a delight to the eyes. I will return to poke through those ruins for more adventures.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Peaceful%20Shore/89/185/26

The Nature Collective has so many members with lovely places to explore and I will be doing that! Join the group and see all the offerings.

Gemma Cleanslate

 

Mount Campion National Park

 
By Gemma Cleanslate

Since the Nature Collective had an update to their hud that takes one to a recommended nature place, I went over to the headquarters to pick one up. I forgot to mention that there is a hunt beginning July 18 at the member sites. I think I will do that. I did a little more exploring and wandered onto the Rainwashed Soul on the property. I had stopped by on my first visit but did not peruse what is offered there.

Standing in the rain just listening to the sounds of nature is soothing. I entered the little A frame shelter and discovered that there is directed meditation. I spent some time sitting and entering into the spirit of it and found it more than relaxing. There is a helping notecard there on meditation also. Stop there to delve into it.
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Muslin/137/21/131

After that experience I walked out of the headquarters and found myself on Route 3. I decided to take a car ride on the road and headed east. I did not get far when I found myself at a Smokey Bear sign.

I discovered I was at Mount Campion National Park. I gathered the information offered and read about the park and its caverns. I discovered, ”Mount Campion Caves National Forest is over 150,000 sq meters of beautiful parkland, landscaped to look like a natural mountain park. It has the largest natural caves and caverns. Above ground are miles of scenic trails through natural canyons and forests. There is hiking, horseback riding, camping, and photography. and cabin rentals. Located on the slopes of Mount Campion, the highest mountain in SL on the beautiful Heterocera mainland continent. You can roam for weeks! “ This is one of the members of the Nature Conservatory.

I set off up the road and found a horse rezzer for public use of visitors. One can also use the Segway that is available at the entrance. Instead of rezzing one I brought my own horse out and continued up the trail that continued upwards on the mountain through the forest. Before I ventured too far I stopped at the Nature Center and went in to check it out. Interesting educational displays and projects are going on in the building and outside. I learned that Hiroko Nubalo takes care of the center with help from the mascot.

As I continued on my roaming I found good signage directing one to various sites to visit. The roads and trails are so numerous as I traveled up and up and up. It is amazing. I passed some of the camp sites and cabins off the road and finally reached the Caverns.

That is another site here that will take ages to explore but is well worth it. I spent some time on the rocky pathways in to the caves and found a lovely statue at one point. It would be easy to get lost in there I bet. You are recommended to give information to someone before entering the caverns just in case. The underground extends over three regions.

I took several trips to the forest after my first and I reached the peak when I found myself at a Gazebo way up on top. There are lovely rental homes summit that have wonderful views of the world around the mountain. The map is so helpful showing the rentals, trails and teleport locations. You CAN roam for weeks!!

Another day I went to the other entrance that is off of Route 6 on the other side of the mountain. This entrance is definitely more of a challenge than the one off Route 3.

There are three rangers at Campion, Scott and Maggie North and Hex Shining North Star (hextar Resident) who help out with activities and on the mountain. I met Maggie and the mascot, ?Maddison?Angel?NÔrth (lunaroseus Resident) who is the daughter of Scott and Maggie and also helps out. I will be visiting again. 

Activities taking place at various sites in the park: ballet dancing, belly dancing, several parties during the weeks with 80’s music and more. A lovely spa set into the mountainside offers calm and solace in the sauna there. With the forest all around there is a soothing effect just walking along the trails and waterfalls and rambling brooks abound.

I stopped off at the rental office just to take a peek at what is available. The owner of this magnificent site is Marz (Mar Scarmon) who says it all on her profile, “The forest embraces me, It encloses me and shelters me from harshness, Its soft greens and browns soothe my aches, And I slumber relieved while dreaming of primordial things.”

I was going to ask her about her reason for the park but I did not have to after reading this on her profile. I have not met her yet in my travels. There is no way to do justice to all that one can do or see at this marvelous mountain here. To get to Campion take this ride to the Route 3 entrance. Get all the information from the Squirrel. You will find shortcuts to various sites you might want to visit. I say just walk and discover.

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Highflyer/40/248/122

Gemma Cleanslate

 

Post-Christmas Winter Attractions: Winterland and Rebel Yell

 
By Gemma Cleanslate

Now that the Christmas holidays are winding down and winter is just starting so I went looking for places to enjoy it. A trip to Winterland at Adagio Gardens offered lots of ways to have fun. It is a great place for lovers or just friends to relax and hang out or take advantage of the sports there. Andi greets you and passed along information to make your stay a pleasure.

I tried the skating at two different ponds. There are skate balls for you or use your own. One can ride a horse between the two or TP over. At the larger pond there is plenty of room to zoom around on the snowmobile you can rezz. Also near the arctic express train there is a stairway to a pathway above the region. Skate along it and jump off at one of the private little dance platforms. On one platform There is also a glider rezzer. What fun!!

I explored the other areas and found some more rezzers including a bungee jump, sledding and a zip line. I found loads of little nooks for great photo shoots. This is two regions of winter but if you are looking for multi regions to explore, TP to the other parts of Adagio Gardens . Join the group for rezz rights or rent a vacation cottage and stay a while. Teleports to the other experiences are available if you want to go wondering. I will be going back to check them out. http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Adagio%20Gardens/167/98/1202

Another venue for wonderful skating and so  much more  is the Rebel Yell winter place that Lestat Zalivstok and his staff install each winter. It is called Christmasville. There are free skates and a fun  skating AO . I took a horse ride around to check out what else was around the huge pond. 

There is a Bar where skaters can get relax with a hot toddy and get warm. It is a great place to hang out. The snow mobile is fun on the ice and the snowy area around the region. Look for the rezzer near the cocoa stand.

Take the tram up to the top of the mountain . The view is enchanting. At the top there is a choice of sled or skis or snowboard for going down . I stopped in the glass igloo for a drink and to look out over the mountains through the telescope. Back at the skating pond farther along I found the lovely lodge with a dining hall all set up for holiday dinners and parties. The buffet table is loaded with delicious offerings.

I walked around through the snow and discovered a village nearby. Reindeer were relaxing after all their work and enjoying their dinner. There was a cute cafe and I wandered in to have a beer and a great sandwich. This venue offers more photo opportunities and is a good place to hang out and will be here for a few months.Lestat will be adding and changing other décor for the season. Valentine day will be celebrated.

 Rebel Yell is a marvelous Tribute Band and winner of 10 Golden AviChoice awards. They hold concerts and musicals in second life that are very realistic to the originals. Check them out. In the meantime visit this delightful winter spot before the snow and ice melts and the skiing and skating is still good! http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/REBEL%20YELL%20HEADQUARTERS/148/138/30

Gemma Cleanslate
 

Jurrasic Park

 
By Bixyl Shuftan

I recently heard about a Jurassic Park themed place here in Second Life. Probably most everyone in Second Life, at least among English speakers, has heard of the 1993 movie by Steven Spielberg in which a genetics company has accomplished the once impossible: bringing dinosaurs back from extinction. The owner decides to make a theme park on an island far from the mainland, and invites a group of people on a tour before the planned opening. But unfortunately, things go wrong, and the dinosaurs end up out of control and the people in danger from them.

The SURL takes you to a cavern full of dinosaur bones, in which you're told you're a palentologist whom has just been invited to take a trip by helicopter to "see what your fossil findings have brought to life." You can pick up a flashlight and a backpack at a couple places. Leaving the caves, your next step is to click on the helicopter pad and hop on the helicopter. 

You go through some sky and clouds, and eventually land in front of what looks like a museum, with the sign Jurassic Park. Going inside, at first you see bones, but going further you see an incubator with eggs, and an animation showing a scientist getting DNA from a mosquito. 

Going through the door, you hop on a car and go on a tour, seeing the live dinosaurs for the first time, "Welcome to Jurassic Park." But eventually, something goes wrong and the vehicles stop. You then have to continue on foot, glad the carnivores are safely in their cages ... or are they?

Those familiar with the movie (and novel) can guess what happens next. There are scenes of the fences holding the more dangerous dinos now down, and making your way through jungle to the buildings, which are now overrun with raptors. You'll be going through them, as well as some explosions, then wreckage as you make your way to safety. At one point, there's a T-Rex chase. 

There are a few spots with some humor, such as the giant pile of poo in the triceratops area. And there are a few rides, such as the rideable pterodactyls. At the end of the experience is a small store in which you can pick up a souvenir, such as an Australian slouch hat. 

A great place to explore, especially for fans of dinosaurs. 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/River/35/234/2252

 Hat tip: Inara Pey

Bixyl Shuftan