Sphynx Cat Lovers

With their wrinkly ET-like features and ultra-defined extremities, Sphynx cats are individuals. But that's not all that's special about them. Their energy levels are off the charts. They are capable of facial expressions that simply begged to transformed into a meme. And with their in-your-face gregariousness, they win friends and hearts wherever they go. But they also have unique care requirements. If you have one of these little feline aliens, this is the space to share his/her inherent charm. You can also ask questions, share tips, parade fashion choices or dedicate the moment to a sweet soul no longer with you. This is THE virtual space to connect with like-minded fans and subjects of Sphynx cats.

Members: 108.5k, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: None.

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CATTITUDE

The Council of Cattos

I Love Cappybara

Cat Memes

The Lewis and Harris Trail

As the largest island in the Outer Hebrides, Lewis and Harris presents something of a geographic enigma. Are they the same island? Why do they need to have two names if they are connected by a narrow isthmus? I have no answers to those questions, but from visiting The Lewis and Harris Trail Facebook Group, it is easy to see why they are so popular with tourists to this part of Scotland. There is some stunning nature photography, beach rides and pony trekking, local craft events and accommodation options. See some gorgeous knitting and functional art featuring funky impressions of the iconic highland cattle. Drone footage of the dramatic coastline. And tempting updates on what yummy local treats to find in the honesty sheds scattered around the route. It combines a sense of community with a welcoming hand to visitors.

Members: 27.5k, at the time of writing. 

Trigger Warnings: None.

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Hurtigruten Insiders

Snapshots of the World

Assateague Island Pony Pictures

Tevis Cup Virtual Ride

 The Tevis Cup, a 100-mile endurance event for equestrians covering a trail from Robie Park, near Lake Tahoe to the historic town of Auburn in California, dates back to the inaugural ride in 1955. The challenge is to complete this route within 24 hours. Upon completion, horses are evaluated by an on-site vet and there is a separate award given to the horse that finishes in the best physical condition. Typically, around 10,000 horses set out at dawn, of which only about half are expected to cross the finish line within the allotted time. But if you're nowhere near California, or if your horse is not quite the badass, long-distance super athlete usually seen at the main event, there is another way to experience this epic adventure. In 2020, when Covid pre-cancelled most sport and entertainment events, the Tevis Cup organizers introduced the Tevis Cup Virtual Ride, which made the event more accessible to riders from other locales. For the Virtual ride, you may complete the distance in multiple smaller sprints over a 100-day period, logging your progress and sharing your experience. The Facebook Group gives riders an opportunity to share photos and footage from their journey and to express pride in the performance of their horses. What makes this so awesome, is that it gives ordinary hackers the experience of being part of something epic.

Members: 8.5k members, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Between the Ears

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Assateague Island Pony Pictures

Work with ICELANDIC horses in Iceland

Dive Jobs All Around The World

We as humans are so busy with our land-based activities that we often forget that there is a fascinating dimension to our blue planet that we are mostly unaware of. A startling 71 percent of the planet is submerged in water. For some this presents a dangerous new frontier that beckons to be explored. For others, it might be a fun workplace, low on long-term commitment, but big on unique experiences. If you have the necessary skills to hold your own against whales, dolphins, jelly fish and so many more of marine wildlife, then consider this group your job board. Dive masters, marine biologists, instructors, even supportive admin personnel with a little inside knowledge about diving are welcome to browse for seasonal opportunities.

Members: 60.4k, at the time of writing. 

Trigger Warnings: None.

Go here to visit or join. 

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Workaway Europe

Hurtigruten Insiders

Sunrises and Sunsets of the World

All Bugs Go to Kevin

I don't know who Kevin is. But with an estimated 30 million species and 10 quintillion (that's a lot of zeros) individuals at large, it is hardly surprising that his Facebook group for identifying insects, bugs, worms, arachnids and other creepy crawlies would be a very busy online space. Within just 24 hours' worth of posts, I endured some facetime with an RV-domiciled huntsman spider (named Charlotte), a pair of crane flies getting all romantic on someone's windshield, caterpillars sampling the new growth of spring, jumping spiders from several different corners of the globe, a rat-tailed maggot enjoying a swim in a garden bucket, a wolf spider in the wild, and a mantis charmer. And that's not even counting a rogues' gallery of critters that as yet remain unidentified. Scroll through the guides to check the frequently asked questions and comments about specific species, or even just to meet the knowledgeable resident experts through a series of Q&As. There's even a set of All Bugs Go to Kevin merchandize.

Members: 283.6k, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: Creepy crawlies.

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Birding, Nature & Wildlife Diaries of World

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FRIENDS AND FICTION

If books give you a reason to breathe. If stories are your pleasure and your poison. If your to-be-read pile is in danger of collapse, but you want more. If you've just visited the most awesome fictional place and dined and danced with its people, and now, you're looking for someone else who's been there too. If you need a road map or maybe just some directions to your next reading adventure. Then FRIENDS AND FICTION is the virtual lounge where you will receive the warmest welcome and more treasures than you can count, because its people are your people. Friendly. Positive. Cozy. And book-centric. The fact that so many books are referenced without authors' names, and the right people still get it, speaks of the easy familiarity that exists between members.

Members: 256.2k, at the time of writing

Trigger Warnings: None.

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Show Your Home Library

The Mythic Cafe, with Charles de Lint & Company

I Love Haworth and the Bronte Parsonage

Let's make rag dolls!

Some are stylish, with a hint of sultry energy gleaming between the tiny stitches. Others are humbler, with yarn for hair and button eyes. There's a collection of outrageous witches regarding you with wise, yet tired eyes. At least one has outfits and accessories to spare. Another draws inspiration for her bright traditional dress from Yamaya, Orisha Goddess of the Sea. But she is not the only ambassador for cultural fashion. A personalized gift pokes fun at the trials and tribulations of the aging female body. Here and there, a cloth cat or dog. Or a blast from the past - a rag doll from long ago that represents love and distant memories. There are Viking maidens, baby dolls and even a plush and pink elephant lady. It is amazing to see how much individualization is possible with rag dolls. Many probably reflect the unique characters of their makers. 

Members: 7.1k, at the time of writing.

Trigger Warnings: None.

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Random acts of knitting and crochet kindness

Paper Mache on the Wild Side

Dollhouse miniatures made from everyday things