The Stanley Hotel: Kicking It Off With The Shining Tour!!!

Good evening readers! I’m excited to be in Colorado (it’s my first time!) and let me tell you it is B. E. A. UUUUTIFUL here! At first, I was put off because it was very flat, but as I got closer to Estes Park, the mountains began to appear from the shadows stretching higher to the skies. This adventure starts off on a 2 hour trek to the hotel itself but the first night I HAD to do The Shining Tour, let’s brew about it!

Again the adventure to get to The Stanley Hotel took about 2 hours, but it was worth it. Stopping at Rosa Cantina for tacos and nachos, probably the freshest tortillas I ever had (made in house) and the Horchata was divine. Amongst the twists and turns, rise and fall of the land it made me think of the Fellowship of the Ring or a hero’s journey a quest for how long it took but it was well worth it to see the lay of the land. The Stanley Hotel itself can be seen from afar across a large lake before you even get close to the turn off. It is a gorgeous and massive place with smaller surrounding buildings.

Coming up to the great main building, the maze is off to the left. It isn’t as terribly tall nor large as it is in the movie, but it is fun to see. Inside the grandeur doesn’t stop, with deep dark ornate wood and floor to ceiling walls, even though there are 4 floors. I’m staying on the second floor in the Sunset Suite room 230. It is a gorgeous room with a large balcony to myself. I can’t wait to sit out there and write. Side note I’ve been wanting to start writing stories again. I thought if I challenge myself to do a page a day and see if in a year or less I MIGHT have a decent book on my hands. I mean I’m at the birth place of The Shining, Steven King ,did it because this place is inspiring, why not give it a go?

I booked the last tour of the day, so I explored around the first floor and then the basement where the tours begin. There they have The Vault where they sell spirits, a chocolate factory and cafe ( both of which were closed )when I went careening about. The tour itself is an hour long taking us from the basement up to the main floor where the MacGregor ballroom is, and about how the night Steven King came up with the idea of The Shining, which was because of a severe nightmare and a bit of drinking with the bartender, who’s name was Delbert Grady, yes Mr. King used the actual name of the man for his story. The tour took the group to the male and female work dormitories which they are fixing up and then to the caretaker’s cottage which was beautiful, they even had a room decked out as it was in the movie as well as a vault holding the axe Jack Nicholson used in the hedge seen. And of course, your’s truly had to get a picture in the infamous 217 tub lady scene, not my first rodeo in being in a haunted or murder/ suicide tub. ( I happened to pop in a tub where a woman passed away in at Scarlett O’ Hara’s).

I took lots and lots of photos and accidentally scared the tour guide( she didn’t realize I was still in the men’s dormitory and coming from the shadows, she screamed startling the others of the group that were waiting outside). I couldn’t help myself and said, “boo.” I thought that was a great way to end the night but taking the old elevator I decided to go the opposite direction to see the door of room 217 and it just o happens the couple in the same tour asked me and others in their room for a look around, what a coincidence, right? I got to snap more pictures especially room 217’s own copy of Black House where others have left notes of their visits as well as leaving their own scary reads in the bookcase.

Have you ever been to The Stanley Hotel? Have you taken The Shining tour? If not I recommend it, it’s a MUST. Tomorrow I’m heading to a national park before going on a late night tour.

As Always Keep On Brewin!

Gearing Up: The Stanley Hotel Here I Come!

Good evening readers! It’s been an evening write month it seems, but the days have been flying and it’s almost time to be at The Stanley Hotel! I’ll be there for a few days!! I’ve been dreaming of going there for years, but it’s time to make that dream a reality, let’s brew about it!

I’m staying at The Stanley Hotel in room 230, The Sunrise Room. It’s not the famous room 217 where Steven King birthed the idea of The Shining BUT I’m on the same floor. I booked 2 tours, one is a no brainer, The Shining tour and the other is the Spirited tour, where we get to talk to Lucy, the little girl that was found in the basement whom tragically was chased out and died due to freezing temperatures.

I’m bringing the ghost gear to hopefully record paranormal activities. I have the Rook which is an energy reader, the SB-11 that jumps different frequencies so you can speak with spirits, the REM Pod that detects activity and believe it or not some cat light-up spheres(balls) When I stayed at the Hotel Delphine and placed them in the bathroom…they lit up on their own after GOD knows how long they lit up and one of them rolled and they had been sitting there for a hot minute so, I’m excited to see if The Stanley Hotel will have a little activity of it’s own.

Besides roaming the halls at night at The Stanley, I will be going to the Rocky Mountain National Park for some hiking and supposedly there’s a little town area in which you can have lunch. I’m also, excited to see if there’s a metaphysical shop nearby. Any crystal energy will help, I think to attract the friends on the otherside. Have you been to The Stanley Hotel? Have you gone on of their tours? Is there a haunted place to stay that YOU reccomend?

As Always Keep On Brewin!

Plant City’s Last Friday: Wonderful World Of Wizards

Good evening readers! I’ve been wanting to go to one of these Friday events since I moved to Plant city and this one felt totally right, it’s getting spooky in July, let’s brew about it!

Every Last Friday of the month Plant City Florida holds an event where venders can come to the main street area. Locals sell their wares even children can sell their homemade items as well as food trucks. Although it was super hot the smells were delicious. Most of the main street stores close after 5pm but because tof the event they stay open later.

You could find food trucks with burgers, wings and even lobster dishes, while young venders had made masks or bracelets, there was even a dog costume contest for the best wizard costume. Some locals dressed the part in robes or quidditch attire which was wonderful to see. I’m a big harry Potter fan, so you can see why I waited until half the year had gone by to go to this event.

I did stop by Goodies By Jack, because everywhere I go I have to get a pepper jelly or salsa. I bought the Strawberry Scotch Bonnet Pepper Jam and the Mango Habanero Pepper Jam. I have a weakness for baked brie topped with pepper jelly. In fact, I already have some brie ready to be baked in the oven, truth be told. I usually get the hottest salsa but Ms. Jack had ran out of her reaper salsa and I’ll have to wait until the next Friday to try some. Someone had come and cleaned her out! But I’m excited to try her medium to test the waters! I find that it’s a nice reprieve from the hustle and bustle to bring a community together, do you have a place like that in your town or city? What’s your favorite or go-to? Have been to a vacation spot where they have locals selling their wares?

As Always Keep On Brewin!

The Shining and The Stanley, The Count Down Is On!!!

Good evening readers, I hope you had a great weekend. I know I usually write first thing in the morning before I get into work. BUT I felt that it would add to the ambiance since I’m almost done reading The Shining! And it is fantastically creepy and I can’t seem to put it down. Plus, the countdown to the trip to The Stanley is just around the corner, 9 days away! Let’s brew about it!

If adulting didn’t happen to get in the way I would have read this book in a few days or less but work and other necessities cramped my ability to chug down a book without coming up for air(my usual style). The movie stayed close to the book, but as always the movie adaptation is always going to be different. I really wish the instances where Danny had visions with Tony that they applied it to the movie or where Jack interacts with the hotel more I think it would have added a more paranormal and scare factor to the movie.

Another big mistake in the movie, which isn’t really big I guess, but the number of the room is 217 not 237 like it is in the movie(ya know the scene with the ghoul in the bathtub). But that’s whatever, I’m staying on the 2nd floor which is going to be amazing. I can’t wait to wonder the halls at night and hopefully pick up some paranormal readings.

I know I will finish The Shining before hoping on a plane next week so, I might as well go ahead and buy the sequel Dr. Sleep, to read on the trip, however, it’s not a long trip, but it will definitely get the spirit of the adventure going. But what are your thoughts? Have you read Dr. Sleep or been to The Stanley? What do you think of The Shining book or movie, which is better?

As Always Keep On Brewin!

Fantasma, A Hot Steamy Read For The Summer

Good morning readers! I wanted to take a moment from going to things to doing a good read for the summer. Currently I’m still chowing down on The Shining, halfway through and it’s hard to put down! The suspense and the slow unravel of the Torrance family’s glue is maddening BUT that’s a story for another day. I’m here to talk about Fantasma, let’s brew about it!

I’ve been reading horror slash sexy stories for years. In fact it seems there is a rise what is called Book Tok Girls with the more intense reads. Which I find all of these videos and memes hilarious, where we here the audio book of something racey that spouses or moms are listening too. It’s been going on for years but now with the full on access to social media it has become more popular and known.

I decided to read Fantasma, takes place in New Orleans where two sisters have recently lost their mother and possibly their home! Unbeknownst to the eldest sister, how could their home be taken from them since the house has been in the family for centuries?! BUT there is a dangerous game Ophelia Grimm could play that could save their family home that centers around the different circles of Hell that includes fighting and outwitting demons, ghosts and the like. However, a twist her SISTER has gone to save their house and now the tables have turned and Ophelia, instead of saving their house is out to save her sister! The book is filled with magic, suspense and you guessed it hot and steamy scenes. It had me peering around to make sure no one was too close to me to peer into WHAT i was reading.

But it was a great read that I gobbled up in two days (I didn’t have any responsibilities which was GLORIOUS) Have you read this book before? If you have what do you think? If you haven’t I suggest checking out your local library or Amazon.

As Always Keep On Brewin!

Toothless Is Here!!!!

Good evening readers! I hope your week is starting off on the right foot. I know mine is and ever closer to the trip out to The Stanley hotel. Usually I’m up and at’em in the morning but! I had to wait until I got home. BECAUSEEEEE I just saw How To Train Your Dragon, let’s brew about it!

I remember going and seeing the animated version of How To Train Your Dragon and how I loved the story. I think the story first and foremost is the first of its kind, I mean, there was DragonHeart, where a knight and a dragon become friends, so maybe it’s not too different? But a viking and a dragon becoming friends and fighting a common foe? That’s different! It’s a heartwarming story of a character finding himself, making an unlikely friend and saving the day and NOT how everyone else does it BUT his way.

NOW, to the animation, it was amazing! They really brought the dragons to life. I can only assume the animators, texture artists and the rest of the crew worked tirelessly to not only keep true to the original designs but make them come to life!!! You can really tell how meticulous they were, getting Toothless mannerisms and quirks down ( I was laughing even though the rest of the audience hadn’t caught it). Or maybe they were a tough crowd, but I could tell when Toothless was giggling at Hiccup or something he had done.

The movie left me wondering if they will do the other movies, I hope they do. But all in all it’s a MUST SEE in theater. But what are your thoughts? Have you seen the original? Have you seen the live action? What do YOU think?

As Always Keep On Brewin!

Plant City Comic Cafe!

Good afternoon readers! I hope your week was a well earned one, for the weekend is here! You made it. It is a bit of a gloomy afternoon with Cujo the cat at my feet. I myself went on a mini adventure yesterday to the Plant City Comic Cafe and I have to say it is a MUST see, let’s brew about it!

I met with Michelle, one of the owners of the comic cafe and she was just wonderful! The store itself has switched hands a few times but has now found it’s new home in the hands of Sherrick and Michelle, both veterans. It was Sherrick’s dream of owning his own comic shop and with his beautiful wife and master Culinarian, they made the dream come true together. The Plant City Comic Cafe has just celebrate their one year anniversary and it is an astounding place you can spend hours in without noticing it. It is a beautiful blend of comics, anime, food and drink. Where one ends the other symbiotically meets, the exposed wooden beams gives the shop an old world charm which, the owners stated they will be enhancing with a steampunk flare with added anime pieces.

Now, I did say that Ms. Michelle is a Culinarian, I should say artist, yours truly got to try three different flavors of her cinnamon buns, and they are practically sinful! The cherry is a balance of sweet and tart, the Nutella was creamy and delightful, while the Biscoff cookie cinnamon bun was to die for! I love that both Michelle and Sherrick bring local artists work into their space whether hung on the wall or the local bakery, Morenos and Vlania’s tres Leches and Pasteleria. I also, enjoyed a lavender and Macha tea from their Macha artesian, Sharon.

There is so much to say and find here at the Plant City Cafe that I could go on for hours. What I find really interesting is the subscription part of the comics, if you have a preferred comic hero or series The Plant City Comic Cafe will have your comic ordered for you when they come available and ready for pick up, talk about customer care it its core. So, many nooks and cranny’s with keys everywhere( one of a kind and first character debut comics).The atmosphere and the owners are wonderful and charismatic earthy people and I feel a great location to sit for hours writing while enjoying good reads, mouth watering food and beverage.

I feel that the Plant city Comic Cafe will bring more to the downtown of Plant City, rekindling the fire for locals to shop and keep coming back time and time again. Michelle and Sherrick will be at the Last Friday event in Plant City this July 25th. So, step inside and make yourself home!

As Always Keep On Brewin!

Something New Introducing Primal Queen!

Good morning readers, I hope all is well! I’m enjoying the garden before I head into work today.It’s hot as hell out here but everything is bursting with color and it ‘s a sight to see. I’ve been thinking lately about all the spiritual journey talk I’ve been researching but for the physical being, I’ve been lacking so I’ve decided to try out Primal Queen, let’s brew about it!

So, I’ve been seeing ads for Primal Queen pop up on my Facebook feeds. I mean ads constantly pop up , anything from clothing, decor, fake celebrity news and health, but I was intrigued about Primal Queen. I take a multivitamin supplement and time to time something for hair, skin and nails, but I really needed a boost. I’ve been feeling sluggish and tired all the time. It doesn’t help that my sleep pattern is off the wall as well, but what can you do?

Also, like to add this sluggishness really effects the creativity factor, to be honest I need a swift kick in the ass. It’s the old school style, pull yourself up by the boot straps and stop crying about it. WHICH I agree for the most part, if you don’t like something change it, only you can make that change and DEFINITELY not wait for someone else to do it for you, because in my opinion how are you going to have that sense of accomplishment if you don’t do it yourself.

However, a supplement that can help give you an edge sounded like a good idea to try. Plus, Primal Queen supplements are suppose to align your hormones, boost your energy and your sensual drive. My pack came with this beautiful bamboo lid and glass jar, a month supply of Primal Queen supplements, a capsule keychain to take with for on the go, and a cute Primal Queen bracelet. Plus, it INDEED smells like peppermint, which is HEAVENLYYYYY.

All things considered sounds really good to me. I was a little apprehensive with all this talk about beef organs, but after doing some research I could see the ring of truth in it. So, why not? I’m excited for a new journey for the physical body, working out + plus Primal Queen = a healthier happier you. I’ve got the spiritual down and the creative down just a need to get this physical vehicle moving and grooving. But what are your thoughts? Are you taking any supplements besides the ye ol multivitamin? Are you feeling the “meh” most often why or why not?

As Always Keep On Brewin!

July’s Full Moon: Buck Moon!

Good morning readers! I hope your July is going well so far, it’s about to get really loud over here tomorrow what with July 4th and all,. I like to think of it as “the quiet before the storm,” at the moment but I digress. I know this is a bit early to be talking about the full moon for this month since it’s July 10th. BUT I have something that will be delivered this weekend that I’m going to talk about on the 8th, I mean it gives you time to gather supplies for the full moon event, right? Let’s brew about it!

So the Buck Moon has many names, and it seems to revolve around plants and animals maturing for hnting or harvesting. One particular Native American tribe known as Algonquin native called it Buck Moon because the male deer antler’s are pushing through their skulls. Same thing with Salmon(Salmon Moon) they are returning back to the water ways inwhich it would be a great time for fishing. The Celtics call it the Wryt Moon or Herb Moon because it’s time to gather herbs to dry for spices or for health remedies.

The Buck Moon is a time for gathering as summer comes to a close, although it’s not even fall yet back in the day early preparation was key to survival. Luckily, for us we don’t have to what with a grocery store in every corner, even if you’re in a rural area you can always make a trip and gather what you need for the most part. But it’s nice to know the traditions and signs of wildlife around us and appreciate where we come from. But what are your thoughts? Do you hunt or gather? Would you like to?

As Always Keep On Brewin!

Dark But Magical, The Shining And The Stanley Hotel

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Good morning everyone! I’m super excited to talk to you all. It’s been a while since I talked about a new book, in fact I never read it before, The Shining or any of Steven King’s work. Don’t sharpen your knives just yet, I am planning on reading it, BECAUSE I’m taking a trip to the Stanley hotel!!! Let’s brew about it!

So, I’m heading to Colorado to The Stanley hotel in Estes Park. I’m super excited because this is where the idea for The Shining came to Steven King, he had a nightmare that involved his son getting hurt and so The Shining was born. Now, as for the movie, it wasn’t filmed at The Stanley hotel, but rather a hotel in Oregon. But either way, I’m taking a tour that has some of the props, etc at the hotel as well as their Spirited tour, too. YES, I am packing the ghost gear aka the Rook, REM POD EMT and P- SB11. I’ll probably check for more paranormal gear just to make sure I have everything I need to try to catch some activity; seeing as The Stanley hotel is haunted. When I went to New Orleans I had seen some activity but wasn’t able to record it happening.

Either way, I’m reading The Shining before I go to the hotel, maybe leaving the last chapter for when I get there. The only reason why I haven’t read any of Steven King’s books is the sheer size of his books, but I’ve read some pretty large books before so I feel like I can undertake this book in a month, hopefully. Everyone’s writing styles are different But have you read any of King’s works? Would you be scared to go to The Stanley hotel and walk the halls at night? I think it’s going to be exciting!

Keep It Sopoky and As Always Keep on Brewin!