Hot Springs

**New participants are required to contact WhatsApp at 0501497147 before signing up for the event to confirm their slot.** wednesday Badminton @ Sprigdale School Al Quoz 8-10PM Badminton Active group plying every Friday at 7-9 pm Cleopatra sports academy Al quoz 4.( Springdale School ) Cost will be AED 40/- Per person including court rent , premium feather shuttle and average 8 games will get every plyers. New plyers confirm your slots through WhatsApp ( Rensin +971501497147) Payment is applicable once confirmed the slot and no cancellation on game day. Join WhatsApp Group ; https://chat.whatsapp.com/GUlBTloYtkrGVLb2ljK1ZV

This Eid … don’t just take time off! Go on a journey with new friends. ​Let's escape into a world where mountains touch the clouds, waterfalls flow through valleys, and the Arabian Sea meets dramatic cliffs. \-\-\-\- Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** \-\-\-\- ​An unforgettable experience for adventure lovers, explorers, and people craving something real this holiday season. * 🏔️ Exploring the misty mountains of Jabal Samhan 🌴 Walking through coconut plantations and local souqs 🌊 Watching powerful ocean blowholes at Mughsail Beach 💦 Discovering waterfalls and turquoise lakes at Wadi Darbat 🏰 Visiting ancient castles and hidden coastal towns 🚍 Bonding during scenic road-trip moments across Oman ​From overnight desert drives under starry skies to tropical landscapes that feel nothing like the Gulf … this is the kind of trip that surprises you every single day. \-\-\-\- Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** \-\-\-\- ​Salalah is unlike anywhere else in the region! ​One moment you’re driving through endless desert highways … the next you’re surrounded by lush green mountains, coconut plantations, ocean viewpoints, and cool mountain air. ​🌄 **ATTRACTIONS INCLUDED** * ​**Wadi Darbat**: Explore the most famous valley in Dhofar, featuring seasonal waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and lush greenery. * ​**Jabal Samhan**: Stand at the highest mountain range in the region for a dramatic "above the clouds" canyon experience. * ​**Taqa Castle**: Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 19th-century fort and heritage site. * ​**Anti-Gravity Point**: Experience a fascinating optical illusion where vehicles appear to roll uphill on their own. * ​**Ittin Mountain**: Enjoy panoramic mountain views and visit the sacred Nabi Ayub (Prophet Job's) Tomb. * ​**Ayn Jarziz**: Relax at natural limestone springs nestled within the misty landscape of the Khareef season. * ​**Mughsail Beach**: Witness the powerful natural geysers at the Blowholes and explore the historic Marneef Cave. * ​**Mirbat Town**: Discover the ancient port city known for its historic architecture and scenic coastal views. * ​**Al Haffa Souq**: Immerse yourself in the scent of authentic frankincense and shop for traditional Omani handicrafts. * ​**Nabi Imran Tomb**: Visit one of the world's longest tombs, a site of significant spiritual and historical importance. ​This trip blends nature, culture, scenic road journeys, adventure, relaxation, and social vibes all together. ​Everything is organized for you — transportation, accommodation, guided experiences, and local exploration — so you can simply enjoy the trip 🚍🌴 **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

Embrace Dubai's Winter in Our Outdoor Yoga Class Find peace in nature and reconnect with yourself amidst the greenery and blooms of Nad Al Hamar Park 1. This is your time to listen to your body and breathe in the fresh outdoor air. Class Highlights: ‍♀️ Gentle yoga flow surrounded by trees and flowers Special 10-minute singing bowl meditation after practice to align your energy with nature A nice winter wellness experience **Details:** **Location:** Nad Al Hamar Park 1 **Days:** Monday to Thursday ⏰ **Time:** 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM **Contribution:** Donation-based **Registration:** **RSVP required** Come as you are — all levels are welcome. Let’s move, breathe, and heal together in the heart of nature. **Spots are limited — please RSVP to join us.** Simply bring your mat and an open heart. *Feel free to share with someone who needs a moment of calm this winter.*

Are you searching for that special someone? Tired of endless swiping and impersonal dating apps? Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-single-mingle)** Join us for the Singles & Mingle Evening, an exclusive evening designed to help singles find their perfect match in a fun, engaging, and vibrant setting. Whether you're looking for true love or a deep connection, this evening is all about bringing like-minded singles together for meaningful encounters. **1\. Speed Dating – Break the Ice in a Flash\!** The evening kicks off with an engaging and dynamic Speed Dating session. This is your chance to meet multiple potential matches in a series of short but meaningful conversations. Each mini-date will last for a few minutes, giving you just enough time to make a first impression, exchange smiles, and feel the chemistry. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-single-mingle)** When the timer buzzes, you’ll move on to the next person, ensuring you meet a variety of potential matches throughout the session. **2\. Social Hour – Relax\, Chat & Mingle** After the thrilling speed dating round, we transition into a Social Hour, where you can relax, enjoy a drink, and have more natural, flowing conversations with those who caught your attention. With light background music setting the perfect ambiance, this is your chance to reconnect with those who caught your eye, meet new people, and enjoy engaging discussions over drinks. This is where first impressions turn into real conversations and true potential. Use this time to get to know your top matches, make new discoveries, and see where the chemistry leads. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-single-mingle)** Feel free to move around, explore conversations, and let the sparks fly organically. **3\. The Ultimate Afterparty – Let Loose & Have Fun\!** Once sparks have started flying, it’s time to turn up the energy and transition into our exciting Afterparty! Get ready to experience an electrifying atmosphere with a live DJ, who will set the perfect mood with a mix of soulful melodies and infectious beats. Whether you prefer swaying to romantic tunes or letting loose on the dance floor with high-energy tracks, this part of the night is all about enjoying the moment and having fun! **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-single-mingle) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Social 😊

📍 **Venue:** Sportsbay - Al Karama We play badminton here every Wednesday, 8-10 PM. [Al Karama Venue: Google Map](https://maps.app.goo.gl/RdqEivDhapk7wTL99) Join our [Join the Al Qouz/Jumeirah Whatsapp Group Here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FUaEchwklSPFUyeJnSb52W?mode=ac_t) **👋 First time joining?** [Click here to WhatsApp Sarfaraz (+971551899547)](https://wa.me/971551899547?text=Hey%20Sarfaraz!%20This%20is%20my%20first%20time%20joining%20Badminton%20For%20All%2C%20Dubai.) and confirm your slot. **📝 Key Info** This is a group open for players of all levels, nationalities, genders and races. \*Cost per session: 40 AED *Duration: Each session lasts 2 hours* *Equipment: We use feather shuttlecocks; please bring your own racket* *Slots: Booked on a first-come, first-served basis* *Play: Players will be rotated around multiple courts and will get games similar to their level of play* **Late Backout & No-Show Policy** **We strictly enforce our late backout and no-show rules to ensure smooth operations.** Organising replacements on short notice is difficult and disruptive, especially as our organisers have day jobs. Please be mindful of our policy: * **RSVP Policy:** Please RSVP for sessions exclusively through the Meetup app. WhatsApp is mainly for regular updates on attendance, timings and last-minute changes. Any requests made via WhatsApp might not be considered for session sign-ups. * **Late Backouts:** Backing out within 9 hours of the session is considered a late backout. You will be required to pay the session fee in full, even if a replacement is found. * **No-Shows:** If you fail to show up without notice, you must still pay for the session. * **Respect for the Organisers:** Our organisers finalise the list the night before or early morning. Last-minute changes mean they need to leave their work to arrange replacements. This affects not just the organisers but the overall experience of the players. * **Waitlist Responsibility:** If you're on the waitlist and no longer wish to attend, it’s your responsibility to remove your name. We assume that anyone on the waitlist still wants to join the session if a spot opens up. * **First-Come, First-Serve Basis:** We ensure fairness by adhering to a first-come, first-serve system. Please do not ask for special treatment or last-minute slots outside of this. **Note: Players may cancel without penalty up to 9 hours before the session. After this time, the session fee applies regardless of waitlist status. Please book and cancel responsibly to avoid disruptions for everyone involved.**

**Play Where It All Began — A Limited-Time Venue, Unlimited Fun!** 📅 **Every Wednesday \| 🕗 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM** 📍 Dubai Sports World (Za'abeel Halls 2-6, World Trade Centre) Google Maps Link here: [Dubai Sports World (Zabeel Halls , World Trade Centre)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wGKhUXXnVzFsaq52A) 💰 **Cost**: AED 45 per session 💳 Pay online or in cash during or before the session 🏸 **Equipment**: Please bring your own racket or borrow one from the venue (limited availability) 🔗 Join the Dubai Sports World [WhatsApp Group Click Here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/I7bncrBACrrDlX0ZzOjxZy) 👋 New here? Click to WhatsApp Sarfaraz and confirm your spot 📝 **What to Expect** Welcoming group open to all levels, nationalities, and genders Enjoy rotational games across multiple courts with players of similar skill Bookings are on a first-come, first-served basis 🤝 Friendly RSVP & Cancellation Policy We try to keep things fun and fair for everyone! Please: Cancel at least 9 hours in advance if you can’t make it Late cancellations (within 9 hours) and no-shows will still need to pay, as it’s tough to find last-minute replacements If you're waitlisted and can’t join, kindly remove your RSVP 🙏 Our organizers volunteer their time — your cooperation really helps keep the games running smoothly! 🔗 **Want Updates?** Click here to join our WhatsApp Group: [Badminton for All](https://chat.whatsapp.com/I7bncrBACrrDlX0ZzOjxZy) First-timer? Click here to[ ](https://wa.me/971551899547?text=Hey%20Sarfaraz!%20This%20is%20my%20first%20time%20joining%20Badminton%20For%20All%2C%20Dubai.)[WhatsApp Sarfaraz (+971551899547](wa.me/971551899547)[)](https://wa.me/971551899547?text=Hey%20Sarfaraz!%20This%20is%20my%20first%20time%20joining%20Badminton%20For%20All%2C%20Dubai.) and confirm your slot.

◢ **OMAN CANYON QUEST** ◣ ***More Abseiling • Different Pools • More Adventure*** After the amazing experience to our previous canyon adventure, **Adventure Eagles** is back with a more exciting challenge in Oman. Recent rainfall has refreshed the canyon, filled the natural pools and brought flowing water back to the route. 📅 **3–5 July 2026** 📍 **Oman** **Trip Highlights:** 🧗 Multiple abseiling and rope-assisted descents 🌊 Wading, swimming and different natural pools 🪨 Scrambling through narrow canyon passages ⏱️ Around 5–7 hours inside the canyon 👨‍🏫 Professional guides and safety briefing 🚙 4x4 support throughout the adventure route 🤝 Great company and unforgettable memories **Schedule:** **Friday:** Depart Dubai between 4:00–5:00 PM, hotel check-in and dinner **Saturday:** Breakfast, full canyon adventure, hotel stay and dinner **Sunday:** Breakfast, relaxed morning and return to Dubai **Cost:** 🏨 **Shared accommodation:** AED 1,000 per person 🏨 **Single accommodation:** AED 1,250 per person **Included:** ✅ Professional guides ✅ Breakfast and dinner ✅ Hotel accommodation ✅ Life jackets ✅ 4x4 route support ✅ Safety briefing and event coordination **Transport:** 🚗 **Self-drive:** Participants can cross the border using any reliable roadworthy car. **(If you don’t have 4X4 - minor charges will be applicable)** 4x4 support will be available for the canyon route and logistics. **Important:** 🥾 Difficulty: Intermediate 🔞 Minimum age: 14 years 🌊 Participants must be comfortable in water 💧 Carry at least 2–3 litres of water 💳 Full advance payment is required to confirm your place ⏰ **Registration closes Thursday, 2 July 2026 at 8:30 PM** The Rain Has Passed. The Canyon Is Alive. Are You Ready to Descend? **Adventure Eagles — Explore Deeper. Challenge Further. Live the Adventure.** **Disclaimer:** By joining this event you agree that Standard Adventure Eagles disclaimer and terms of membership apply Please remember that all adventure sports are prone to accidents and/or injuries to the participants which may also involve damage/destruction to your gear, car etc. In such situations, neither Adventure Eagles/Adventure Emarat nor any of its event leaders/members take any responsibility or indemnify the participants against any injury, loss or damage suffered by any participant during the event. Therefore, please assess the fitness & capability of yourself, your team & your vehicle before you join any AE event. Please understand and remember that YOU are the best person to safeguard your wellbeing and safety. Hence YOU have to take full responsibility for the same. Look forward to seeing you all. Team Adventure Eagles

🌤 Sometimes, all you need is a good road trip. To escape the city noise, clear your mind, and hit the open road with good people and even better energy. 🚙💨 Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** There’s something magical about watching the Dubai skyline fade in your rearview mirror, your favorite playlist on, windows down, and laughter filling the air. **🛣️ Here’s the plan:** We’ll grab coffees ☕, sort carpooling (no one drives alone!), and hit the road in convoy style. Every kilometer counts when the company’s this good. 💬 **🏞️ Stop 1 – Shawkah Dam Park** Stretch your legs, breathe mountain air, sip tea, and snap photos 📸 of rugged beauty. A peaceful pause before we keep rolling. 🌿 Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **⛽ Stop 2 – Stretch & Sip** Quick break for snacks, laughs, and car-to-car banter. Fuel up, refill, reconnect. 😎 **🕌 Stop 3 – Al Jazirah Al Hamra Heritage Village** Step into the “Ghost Town” 👻 — the last surviving pearl village. Wander, explore, and watch the sunset paint the sky gold and rose 🌅. **🌄 Final Stop – Jebel Jais Mountain: The UAE’s highest peak!** As day turns to night, we’ll gather around a BBQ fire 🍢🔥, share food, stories, and laughter — surrounded by cool breezes, glowing stars, and unbeatable vibes. Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Get ready for a full day of scenic drives, spontaneous moments, and breathtaking views that end under a sky full of stars. 🌌✨ **🧭 Here's what to expect:** * 🏔️ Scenic mountain drives * ☕ Tea, cookies & smiles at every stop * 🚗 Fun carpooling & new friendships * 🍢 BBQ dinner under the stars * 🌅 A sunset you’ll never forget It’s a journey of connection, laughter, and discovery — where strangers become friends, every stop feels like a story, and every view reminds you why we love to explore. **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

Sometimes the best thing you can do… is disappear for a day. Leave the city behind — and trade it for open water, mountain views, salty air, and unforgettable moments 🌞🌊 \-\-\-\- Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** \-\-\-\- Full-day escape to recharge, explore, and connect with amazing people who are looking for the same thing you are — a break from the ordinary. * 🎶 Food, Music, and amazing vibes 🐬 Dhow Cruise & Dolphin watching 🤿 Snorkeling, Swimming & Fishing 🚣 Banana, Speedboat & Kayaking 🏝️ Haffah Beach & Cave visit ​And the best part? You’re not doing it alone. Strangers turn into friends… and moments turn into real connections. \-\-\-\- Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** \-\-\-\- ​Cruise through dramatic landscapes, swim in crystal-clear waters, and explore the coastline in a way that feels effortless and refreshing. * Return dhared transport from Dubai Water, coffee, tea, fruits and buffet lunch Tea with snacks & biscuits Snorkeling gear & life jackets Towels, basic shower & toilet facilities Music system onboard ​A chance to slow down, breathe, and reconnect — with nature, and with a like-minded group. ​Leave with a **full heart**, new friends you didn’t expect, and that calm, hopeful feeling that only a day like this can give. **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

Things don't always go according to plan. Goals get delayed. Opportunities fall through. Life takes unexpected turns. But what if setbacks aren't roadblocks? What if they're part of the journey? 📖 Our next Primexar Book Club read is: **Surrounded by Setbacks** **by Thomas Erikson** Join us as we explore resilience, growth, and how to navigate life's inevitable challenges without losing sight of what matters. 📅 4th of July ⏰ 4 PM 📍 JLT 💬 RSVP to reserve your spot through WhatsApp here: 0506905962

🌤 Sometimes, all you need is a good road trip. To escape the city noise, clear your mind, and hit the open road with good people and even better energy. 🚙💨 Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** There’s something magical about watching the Dubai skyline fade in your rearview mirror, your favorite playlist on, windows down, and laughter filling the air. **🛣️ Here’s the plan:** We’ll grab coffees ☕, sort carpooling (no one drives alone!), and hit the road in convoy style. Every kilometer counts when the company’s this good. 💬 **🏞️ Stop 1 – Shawkah Dam Park** Stretch your legs, breathe mountain air, sip tea, and snap photos 📸 of rugged beauty. A peaceful pause before we keep rolling. 🌿 Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** **⛽ Stop 2 – Stretch & Sip** Quick break for snacks, laughs, and car-to-car banter. Fuel up, refill, reconnect. 😎 **🕌 Stop 3 – Al Jazirah Al Hamra Heritage Village** Step into the “Ghost Town” 👻 — the last surviving pearl village. Wander, explore, and watch the sunset paint the sky gold and rose 🌅. **🌄 Final Stop – Jebel Jais Mountain: The UAE’s highest peak!** As day turns to night, we’ll gather around a BBQ fire 🍢🔥, share food, stories, and laughter — surrounded by cool breezes, glowing stars, and unbeatable vibes. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** Get ready for a full day of scenic drives, spontaneous moments, and breathtaking views that end under a sky full of stars. 🌌✨ **🧭 Here's what to expect:** * 🏔️ Scenic mountain drives * ☕ Tea, cookies & smiles at every stop * 🚗 Fun carpooling & new friendships * 🍢 BBQ dinner under the stars * 🌅 A sunset you’ll never forget It’s a journey of connection, laughter, and discovery — where strangers become friends, every stop feels like a story, and every view reminds you why we love to explore. **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

This Eid … don’t just take time off! Go on a journey with new friends. ​Let's escape into a world where mountains touch the clouds, waterfalls flow through valleys, and the Arabian Sea meets dramatic cliffs. \-\-\-\- Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** \-\-\-\- ​An unforgettable experience for adventure lovers, explorers, and people craving something real this holiday season. * 🏔️ Exploring the misty mountains of Jabal Samhan 🌴 Walking through coconut plantations and local souqs 🌊 Watching powerful ocean blowholes at Mughsail Beach 💦 Discovering waterfalls and turquoise lakes at Wadi Darbat 🏰 Visiting ancient castles and hidden coastal towns 🚍 Bonding during scenic road-trip moments across Oman ​From overnight desert drives under starry skies to tropical landscapes that feel nothing like the Gulf … this is the kind of trip that surprises you every single day. \-\-\-\- Register and get more details! No late confirmations **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile / 971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events)** \-\-\-\- ​Salalah is unlike anywhere else in the region! ​One moment you’re driving through endless desert highways … the next you’re surrounded by lush green mountains, coconut plantations, ocean viewpoints, and cool mountain air. ​🌄 **ATTRACTIONS INCLUDED** * ​**Wadi Darbat**: Explore the most famous valley in Dhofar, featuring seasonal waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and lush greenery. * ​**Jabal Samhan**: Stand at the highest mountain range in the region for a dramatic "above the clouds" canyon experience. * ​**Taqa Castle**: Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 19th-century fort and heritage site. * ​**Anti-Gravity Point**: Experience a fascinating optical illusion where vehicles appear to roll uphill on their own. * ​**Ittin Mountain**: Enjoy panoramic mountain views and visit the sacred Nabi Ayub (Prophet Job's) Tomb. * ​**Ayn Jarziz**: Relax at natural limestone springs nestled within the misty landscape of the Khareef season. * ​**Mughsail Beach**: Witness the powerful natural geysers at the Blowholes and explore the historic Marneef Cave. * ​**Mirbat Town**: Discover the ancient port city known for its historic architecture and scenic coastal views. * ​**Al Haffa Souq**: Immerse yourself in the scent of authentic frankincense and shop for traditional Omani handicrafts. * ​**Nabi Imran Tomb**: Visit one of the world's longest tombs, a site of significant spiritual and historical importance. ​This trip blends nature, culture, scenic road journeys, adventure, relaxation, and social vibes all together. ​Everything is organized for you — transportation, accommodation, guided experiences, and local exploration — so you can simply enjoy the trip 🚍🌴 **How to Join:** 1. RSVP on Meetup 2. [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/dubai-adventure-meetup-events) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Adventure!

**Hike the Scioto Audubon trail. All paved and flat!** **Plan on 3-4 miles. Hike at your own pace, no one left behind.** **Lunch after at Nocterra for those who wish.**

**Don’t miss your opportunity to learn from a duo with over 16 years of experience combined. During this demonstration event, you can expect to learn how to direct and guide your creative vision through lighting and communication to your model. We guarantee you will leave this event feeling more confident to try new lighting set ups to match up with your anticipated outcome. Finding the right way to express your vision is key to getting your model to pose accordingly, so we got you there too! To take this even further, think about signing up for a tutorial spot following the demonstration.** ***Note: this is a demonstration event only, you will not shoot your own images. However, if you bring your camera we can test it for compatibility with the studio lights.*** **Following the demonstration will be a tutorial/coaching event - sign up separately if you are interested at** https://calendar.app.google/ZcHb4CQB2rrV3U7j9 **Save and book both for $199 (discounted from $215; the discount will be applied on the Tutorial invoice).**

Come join us for lunch together at Bendi Wok, one of my favorites!