Month: March 2023

10 High-Scoring Words to Keep in Your Back Pocket for Your Next Scrabble Game

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

Scrabble is a fun and challenging game that can be played by people of all ages. It requires a knowledge of words, an ability to think strategically, and a lot of luck. The aim of Scrabble is to obtain the highest score possible by forming words from individual letter tiles on the board. However, having higher point-value words in your back pocket can give you an edge over your opponents and increase your chances of winning.

To help you prepare for your next game and gain the upper hand, here are 10 high-scoring words to add to your vocabulary:

1. Quixotic (25 points): Quixotic means “an extravagantly chivalrous or romantic attitude”. For example: He took on the task with quixotic enthusiasm.

2. Jacuzzi (22 points): Jacuzzi is a brand of hot tub or whirlpool bath. For example: We decided to relax in the jacuzzi after our long day of hiking.

3. Cozy (20 points): Cozy means “comfortable, inviting, and pleasant”. For example: The cabin had a cozy atmosphere that we all enjoyed throughout our stay.

4. Jazzy (19 points): Jazzy means “stylish, lively and showy”. For example: She wore a jazzy dress for her birthday celebration.

5. Jazzed (18 points): Jazzed means “filled with enthusiasm and energy”. For example: We were jazzed to go on our first family vacation together.

6. Quaff (17 points): Quaff means “to drink heartily”. For example: They quaffed their beers while watching the game.

7. Jaunt (16 points): Jaunt means “a short journey taken for pleasure”. For example: We went on a jaunt around town, visiting all the local sights.

8. Zany (15 points): Zany means “playful and full of wild ideas or activities”. For example: She had a zany personality that kept everyone laughing.

9. Quay (14 points): Quay means “a wharf”. For example: We arrived at the quay just in time to board our cruise ship.

10. Jive (13 points): Jive means “to talk or act in a light-hearted and humorous manner”. For example: She jived her way through the meeting, keeping everyone entertained.

Knowing these words can be advantageous for a player when it comes to scoring high points or using them strategically during gameplay. Memorizing them is key so that you can recall them when necessary without having to look up their definitions or spellings every time they are needed. Here are some tips for committing high-scoring words to memory:

Break the word down into smaller parts – This can help make it easier to remember by focusing on each syllable or letter in the word.
Write out the words several times – Writing out and pronouncing the word multiple times will reinforce its spelling and meaning.
Use mental visualization – Visualizing a memorable image related to the word can make it easier to recall when needed.

Having these high-scoring words in your back pocket before your next game of Scrabble can give you an edge over your opponents and boost your chances of winning! With some practice and memorization tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Scrabble champion.

The history of the Sandhills region: 5 landmarks to explore

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

The Sandhills region of the United States is an area of Nebraska and parts of South Dakota, Wyoming, and Colorado that’s characterized by vast expanses of sand dunes and rolling hills. The region has a deep history that stretches back thousands of years, with many landmarks to explore along the way. From iconic roadside attractions to historic sites with Native American roots, here are five must-see landmarks in the Sandhills:

1. Carhenge

Located near the city of Alliance, Nebraska, Carhenge is a replica of Stonehenge constructed from vintage cars. Built in 1987 as a memorial to its creator’s father, it’s become a beloved roadside attraction in the Sandhills. Carhenge is made up of 38 vintage automobiles, including a 1962 Cadillac and a 1974 Chevy Malibu. The cars are welded together and painted gray to mimic the look of Stonehenge’s standing stones. In addition to the main circle, there are several other car sculptures on the site, including a Ford “Carnastoga” wagon and a sculpture of a dinosaur made from car parts.

2. North Platte River Trails

This 80-mile stretch of trails runs through Nebraska’s panhandle and is home to breathtaking views, as well as abundant wildlife like pronghorn antelope and mule deer. The trail also showcases some fascinating historical sites like Fort Sedgwick—a military post established during the Civil War—and Clay Canyon Petroglyphs, where visitors can view ancient Native American carvings in stone walls along the banks of the North Platte River.

3. The Chimney Rock National Historic Site

This towering spire has been an awe-inspiring landmark for hundreds of years; it was used by both pioneers and Native Americans including the Lakota Sioux as an orientation tool when traversing the Great Plains on their journeys westward across America. It stands at nearly 300 feet tall and offers stunning 360-degree views from its observation deck at the top!

4. Toadstool Geologic Park

A National Natural Landmark located near Harrison, Nebraska, Toadstool Geologic Park offers a unique glimpse into Earth’s distant past with its rugged badlands terrain featuring rocky hoodoos (tall thin rock formations) and sandstone arches that have been shaped by millions of years of erosion from wind and water sources over time.

5. Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Located just over the border in South Dakota, this national monument features two remarkable fossil beds dating back 18 million years ago when rhinos roamed this area! Visitors to Agate Fossil Beds can explore interactive exhibits at its visitor center which highlight some exciting discoveries made there over time—including fossils known as transverse agates formed in ancient riverbeds which give these fossils their unique rainbow hue!

5 of the Most Underrated Cards in Runeterra

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

The world of Runeterra is vast and filled with incredible cards of all kinds. From powerful spells to impressive creatures, you can find something to fit your style of play no matter what deck you build. However, among the thousands of cards available, some of them often go overlooked or are unfairly underrated. Here are five such cards that deserve more love and recognition:

1. Orange Essence

Not only does this spell provide a strong shield against spells, but it also acts as a great source of card draw when used in combination with other cards such as Augmented Experimenter or Vivien’s Invocation. The versatility of this card makes it an invaluable tool for any deck looking to gain an edge over their opponent.

2. Infernal Mask

This artifact offers some powerful protection from damage-based effects that can be devastating if left unchecked. Even better, the cost of activating its ability is minimal and often worth the risk for the potential payoff.

3. Sunbaked Canyon

As far as land cards go, few offer more utility than Sunbaked Canyon. Not only does its ability to produce two mana of any color make it a great addition to multicolored decks, but its enters-the-battlefield effect allows you to search for any basic land card in your library, guaranteeing access to the colors you need when you need them.

4. Frenzied Skitterer

This four-mana 2/3 creature may not seem like much at first glance, but don’t be fooled by the stats — Frenzied Skitterer has some powerful abilities that can quickly turn the tide of battle if used correctly. With haste and trample, it can easily take down an opposing creature or sneak through for extra damage against a player’s life total.

5. Bloodline Pretender

This card is a great way to recycle powerful cards that your opponent has already played. With its ability to copy any creature in play, Bloodline Pretender can be an invaluable asset in the late game when resources are scarce and every point of damage counts.

The 5 Best Rodeos to Attend in North America

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

When it comes to excitement, nothing quite compares to a rodeo. Whether you’re an old hat or a first-timer, there’s something special about the thrill of riding a bucking bronco or watching in awe as a bullfighter dodges angry bovines. North America is home to some of the best rodeos in the world, and if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, these are definitely worth checking out. From Texas to California, here are some of the top rodeos in North America.

Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is one of the most iconic rodeos on the continent. The 10-day event held each July draws more than one million people every year. With its Wild West roots, the Stampede is a must-see event featuring rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, and a spectacular parade complete with marching bands and floats.

Virginia Bull Run

Virginia’s Bull Run Rodeo is one of the most unique events in North America. It’s a one-day event that takes place on the grounds of Bull Run Regional Park every August. The rodeo features bull and bronc riding, wild cow milking, a ladies’ barrel race, and team roping.

Cheyenne Frontier Days

The Cheyenne Frontier Days is a 10-day celebration held each July in Wyoming. This historic event dates back to 1897, making it one of the oldest rodeos in the United States. In addition to traditional rodeo events such as calf roping and bull riding, attendees can also enjoy live music, carnival rides, parades, and other family-friendly activities.

Williams Lake Stampede

If you’re looking for an incredible rodeo experience in Canada then you should check out the Williams Lake Stampede. Held every July in British Columbia, this three-day event features some of the best riders and livestock in North America. The Stampede also includes a lively parade, a royal court coronation, and live music from local bands.

Reno Rodeo

The Reno Rodeo is one of the largest rodeos in the United States, attracting more than 150,000 spectators each June. This Nevada celebration features all the classic events such as bull riding, barrel racing, and team roping. There are also mutton bustin’ competitions for children under seven years old and nightly concerts featuring top country artists.

5 Reasons Why Listening to the Radio is a Great Alternative to Streaming Music

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

With the rise of streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music, it’s easy to forget about the humble radio. But radio still holds a special place in our hearts and there are many reasons why listening to the radio is a great alternative to streaming music. Here are 5 of them:

Discover New Music

One of the best things about listening to the radio is that you never know what you’re going to hear next. Unlike streaming services where you have to actively search for new music, the radio introduces you to new artists and songs effortlessly. Many radio stations have programs that focus specifically on new and emerging artists, so you can be sure you’re always on the cutting edge of music trends.

Stay Up-to-Date With News and Events

Radio stations are not just about music. They also provide news updates, weather reports, and information about local events. If you want to stay informed about what’s happening in your area, tuning in to a local radio station is a great way to do it.

Connect With Your Community

Radio has always been a way for people to connect with each other. Listening to a local radio station can help you feel more connected to your community, especially if the station has local programming that focuses on events and issues in your area. Additionally, many radio stations offer call-in shows where listeners can share their opinions and connect with each other.

No Need For Wi-Fi or Data

One of the biggest advantages of listening to the radio is that you don’t need Wi-Fi or data to do it. This makes it a great option if you’re on the go, traveling, or simply don’t have access to Wi-Fi. All you need is a radio receiver, which you can find in most cars, or even a portable radio that you can take with you anywhere.

Create a Sense of Nostalgia

There’s something special about listening to the radio that can’t be replicated by streaming services. Perhaps it’s the feeling of being transported back in time to a simpler era, or maybe it’s the memories of listening to the radio with friends and family. Whatever the reason, listening to the radio can create a sense of nostalgia that is hard to find elsewhere.

While streaming services are undoubtedly convenient, there are still many reasons why listening to the radio is a great alternative. It’s a great way to discover new music, stay up-to-date with news and events, connect with your community, doesn’t require Wi-Fi or data, and can create a sense of nostalgia that is hard to find elsewhere. So next time you’re in the car or at home, consider turning on the radio and enjoying all that it has to offer.

5 Key Issues That Republicans Stand For

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

As one of the two major political parties in the United States, the Republican Party has been a driving force in shaping the country’s policies and values. While individual Republicans may hold different opinions and beliefs, there are several key issues that are commonly associated with the party. Here are five key issues that Republicans stand for:

Limited Government: Republicans generally advocate for limited government and believe that the federal government should have a smaller role in people’s lives. They often emphasize the importance of individual freedoms and liberties and argue that government intervention in the economy and in personal matters can stifle innovation and creativity. Republicans tend to support lower taxes, less regulation, and a smaller welfare state.
National Security: Republicans tend to place a strong emphasis on national security and maintaining a strong military. They often argue that a strong defense is necessary to protect the country from external threats, and support policies such as increased defense spending, a strong nuclear arsenal, and a robust foreign policy. Republicans are often critical of international organizations such as the United Nations and may advocate for a more isolationist foreign policy.
Fiscal Responsibility: Republicans often prioritize fiscal responsibility and balanced budgets. They tend to argue that government spending should be kept in check, and that the federal government should not be running up large deficits or accumulating large amounts of debt. Republicans may advocate for spending cuts and reductions in entitlement programs in order to balance the budget.
Pro-Life: Republicans tend to be more conservative on social issues, particularly when it comes to abortion. Many Republicans are pro-life and believe that abortion should be illegal, except in cases where the life of the mother is at risk. They may also advocate for restrictions on access to abortion services, such as waiting periods or mandatory counseling.
Second Amendment: Republicans generally support the right to bear arms, as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the Constitution. They argue that owning firearms is a fundamental right and an important tool for self-defense. Republicans may oppose gun control measures such as background checks or assault weapons bans and may support policies such as national concealed carry reciprocity.

In addition to these five key issues, there are many other policy areas where Republicans may hold distinct positions. For example, Republicans tend to be skeptical of climate change and may oppose measures to combat it, such as a carbon tax or the Paris climate agreement. Republicans also tend to be more supportive of traditional values and may oppose policies such as same-sex marriage or gender-neutral bathrooms.

Overall, the Republican Party represents a diverse range of opinions and beliefs, but these five key issues provide a snapshot of some of the party’s most important values and policy priorities. Whether you agree or disagree with the Republican Party’s positions on these issues, they will likely continue to play a significant role in shaping the country’s political landscape for years to come.

5 Random Hobbies to Try That You Might Actually Enjoy

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

Hobbies are a great way to pass the time, learn something new, and even meet new people. However, with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose a hobby that you’ll actually enjoy. If you’re looking for something new to try, here are 5 random hobbies that you might actually enjoy.

Geocaching

Geocaching is like a modern-day treasure hunt. It involves using GPS coordinates to find hidden caches that have been placed by other geocachers. The caches can be as small as a tiny container or as large as a chest, and they can be hidden anywhere from a city park to a remote wilderness area.

Geocaching is a great way to get outside, explore new places, and challenge yourself. It’s also a fun activity to do with friends or family. To get started, all you need is a GPS-enabled device and a sense of adventure.

Candle-Making

Candle-making is a relaxing and rewarding hobby that can be done from the comfort of your own home. There are many different techniques and styles to explore, from simple votives to intricate pillar candles.

Not only is candle-making a fun activity, but it can also be a cost-effective way to create your own home decor or gifts for friends and family. With a few basic supplies like wax, wicks, and fragrance oils, you can start experimenting with different scents, colors, and textures.

Calligraphy

Calligraphy is the art of beautiful writing, and it has been practiced for centuries. Whether you’re interested in traditional styles like copperplate or modern brush lettering, calligraphy is a fun and creative hobby to explore.

Not only is calligraphy a visually appealing art form, but it can also be a meditative practice that helps you to slow down and focus on the present moment. All you need to get started is a pen, some paper, and a willingness to learn.

Hiking

Hiking is a great way to get exercise, enjoy nature, and clear your mind. With trails ranging from easy to challenging, there’s a hike out there for everyone.

Not only is hiking a great way to explore your local area, but it’s also a fun activity to do while traveling. Whether you’re climbing a mountain or strolling through a scenic park, hiking can help you connect with the natural world and leave you feeling refreshed and energized.

Improv Comedy

If you’re looking for a hobby that’s a bit more social, improv comedy might be the perfect fit. Improv involves making up scenes and characters on the spot, often with the help of other performers.

Not only is improv a fun way to exercise your creativity and quick thinking, but it’s also a great way to meet new people and build your confidence. Many improv classes and groups welcome beginners, so you don’t need any prior experience to get started.

Hobbies can provide a welcome escape from the stresses of everyday life and can help you learn new skills, meet new people, and even boost your mood. If you’re looking for something new to try, consider geocaching, candle making, calligraphy, hiking, or improv comedy. Who knows, one of these random hobbies might just become your new favorite pastime.

5 Reasons Why You Should Shuffle Your Playlist

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

Music is an essential part of our lives. We use it to entertain ourselves, to uplift our spirits, to relax, and inspire us. Playlists are an excellent way to organize our music collection and access the songs we love quickly. However, if you are stuck listening to the same playlist over and over again, it might be time to shake things up. Here are five reasons why you should shuffle your playlist.

Discover New Music

One of the primary benefits of shuffling your playlist is discovering new music. If you’ve been listening to the same songs repeatedly, you might not realize how much great music you’ve been missing out on. When you shuffle your playlist, you’ll hear songs you might have forgotten about, and you’ll discover new songs you never knew you loved. With so much music out there, shuffling your playlist is an excellent way to expand your musical horizons.

Eliminate Boredom

Listening to the same playlist can get tedious, no matter how great the songs are. Shuffling your playlist breaks the monotony and adds an element of surprise. Instead of anticipating the next song, you’ll be excited to hear what comes next. This can be especially helpful when you’re doing something repetitive, like working out or doing household chores. Shuffling your playlist can help keep you engaged and motivated.

Enhance Your Mood

Music has a profound effect on our emotions. Listening to the same playlist repeatedly can dull the emotional impact of the songs. Shuffling your playlist can enhance your mood by exposing you to different songs that might have a more significant emotional impact. For example, if you’re feeling down, hearing an upbeat song you haven’t heard in a while can boost your spirits.

Challenge Your Memory

If you’ve been listening to the same playlist for a while, you might be surprised at how well you know the songs. Shuffling your playlist can challenge your memory by exposing you to songs you haven’t heard in a while. This can be a fun way to test your knowledge of your favorite artists and songs. Additionally, listening to unfamiliar songs can help improve your memory by forcing your brain to work harder to remember the lyrics and melodies.

Create a Fresh Listening Experience

Finally, shuffling your playlist creates a fresh listening experience. Instead of listening to the same songs in the same order, you’ll hear them in a new context. This can create a new appreciation for songs you might have grown tired of and can help you see them in a new light. Additionally, shuffling your playlist can help you rediscover old favorites and fall in love with them all over again.

Shuffling your playlist is an excellent way to enhance your listening experience. It can help you discover new music, eliminate boredom, enhance your mood, challenge your memory, and create a fresh listening experience. So, the next time you’re feeling stuck in a musical rut, try shuffling your playlist and see what new songs you discover.

How to Pick Your Next Video Game: 5 Ways to Choose Randomly

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

Are you tired of endlessly scrolling through the video game section of your preferred online store or flipping through game cases at a physical retailer, trying to find the perfect game to play next? Do you often find yourself paralyzed by indecision, unable to pick a game to commit to? If so, you’re not alone. With so many video games available today, it can be challenging to decide which one to choose. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to help you pick your next game randomly. Here are five ways to do it:

Use a randomizer tool

One way to choose your next video game randomly is to use a randomizer tool. Several websites offer this service, allowing you to select specific criteria for the game you want to play, such as genre, platform, or release year, and then generate a random result. Some of these websites even offer additional features, such as filtering out games you’ve already played or setting a maximum price.

Ask for recommendations

Another way to pick your next video game randomly is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or online communities. You can post a request on social media or join a gaming forum to ask for suggestions. Be sure to specify the types of games you enjoy playing and any specific requirements you might have, such as multiplayer or single-player games.

Take a chance on a lesser-known game

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a chance on a lesser-known game. Indie games or lesser-known titles might not have as much publicity as big-name releases, but they can often be just as entertaining. Many of these games are available at lower price points, so you won’t have to spend a lot of money to try something new.

Choose a game based on its cover art

They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but what about a video game? Consider choosing your next game based on its cover art. You might be drawn to a particular game because of its vivid colors, interesting characters, or striking graphics. While this method may not always result in the perfect game for you, it can be a fun way to mix things up and try something different.

Play a classic game you’ve never tried before

Finally, if you’re having trouble deciding on a new game, consider playing a classic game you’ve never tried before. Many older games are still available for purchase and can be played on modern consoles or PCs. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy a game that was released before you were born.

Why making random decisions can be a form of self-care

Posted on March 21, 2023 by scatty

In our lives, we often strive for control, planning every moment and decision to achieve our goals and maintain stability. However, sometimes the pressure of always being in control can become overwhelming and exhausting. In these moments, making random decisions can be a form of self-care, allowing us to let go of some of the stress and anxiety that comes with constantly being in charge.

Random decision-making can take many forms, from choosing a new restaurant to try based on a coin toss to picking a random book off the shelf to read. These decisions may seem trivial, but they offer a release from the responsibility of always having to make the “right” choice. By embracing the uncertainty of random decisions, we allow ourselves to relax and enjoy the moment without the burden of expectations or consequences.

One of the most significant benefits of making random decisions is the opportunity to step outside of our comfort zone. When we always make the same choices or stick to a routine, we can become stagnant and bored, missing out on new experiences and opportunities. By embracing randomness, we can try new things and challenge ourselves to expand our comfort zones.

Random decision-making can also be a form of mindfulness. When we make decisions randomly, we are forced to focus on the present moment, letting go of worries about the future or regrets about the past. By being fully present in the moment, we can increase our sense of self-awareness and reduce stress.

In addition to the mental health benefits, random decision-making can also have physical health benefits. Studies have shown that stress can lead to physical health issues, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. By reducing stress through random decision-making, we may be able to improve our overall health and well-being.

Of course, it’s important to note that random decision-making should not be used as a way to avoid responsibility or as an excuse to make poor choices. It’s still essential to take responsibility for our decisions and consider the potential consequences. However, when used in moderation, making random decisions can be a valuable tool for self-care and stress reduction.

In conclusion, making random decisions can be a form of self-care that allows us to let go of control, step outside of our comfort zones, and reduce stress. By embracing randomness, we can improve our mental and physical well-being and enjoy the present moment. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, try making a random decision and see how it can benefit your life.