Yes. Some counties we'll never go to or visit. Mexico is dangerous. Rampant corruption in police at local, state, and federal levels; gang-related violence is at epidemic levels through-out the country as is kidnapping and extortion. Popular tourist destinations are increasingly vulnerable.

We love road trips to less well known places. Less crowded and hurried.

Craft beers or local wines?

Can't wait see what your fertile mind and talented hand blesses us with, Kimmi.

Quote by Mendalla

I am on a ship right now and not back home until Monday. Nice theme and I will definitely take a crack at it but my "at sea" writing time is almost over so won't be able to even start for probably a week. Spring is my second favourite season and lends itself to my weird, mystical fantasy so I imagine that I can pull this off.

Looking forward to it.

Thanks. Got my work cut out for me. Want to get a story in Lush' 'Elements' Competition then hit yours. Thanks for running these fun comps.

Kimmi, just want to make sure I'm reading your challenge right. We submit our entry through StoriesSpace with a link to your forum. Any category is open.

Yes, we've done that. Weather permitting.

WYE Hike coast to coast from say Halifax, Nova Scotia to Victoria, British Columbia or from Norfolk, Virginia to San Francisco, California,

Well we (my husband is the handyman) try to fix our own problems if not beyond our skillsets. Some things, you absolutely leave to professionals, however. Anything natural gas, for example. (We've had two houses blow up in our county this year already from gas leaks.)

Stay in your state or providence (for Canadian friends) or venture further afield?

Wow, tough choice. But I'd say 20's. Lots of fun, lots of new experiences, lots of changes - most of them good.

Play music or dance to music?

Board game.

Single seat or tandem seat bicycle?

Yes, even better if I could work there.

Safari or natural zoo?

Stationary bike although, preferably, and actually bicycle.

Self-guided tour or guided tour?

Thank you so much Kimmi for sponsoring this competition (and for providing the artwork to inspire, and, hopefully, challenge us), for your judge, and to everyone who took time to write - every little story was a winner IMHO. It was so much fun. Congratulations to Anna and Ape. I am humbled to be in such talent.

Quote by Mendalla

I'm all in. Both images covered. Bring on the judge(s).

Me too! Can't wait. Some really good entries. Was hoping for more but it is what it is (as the adage goes)

Yes, already possess a double major BS in mathematics/physics, a JD (basic law degree) and an LLM (Master of Law). But love history so a BA in history (German language, wouldn't mind studying at University of Göttingen and also wouldn't mind a Masters or PhD in physics.

WYE become a travel guide for tourism grouos?

Yes, I would thoroughly enjoy that. Humanity survived for thousands of years without it. Not necessary now.

WYE give up your current citizenship to move to and live in another country.

Outstanding, Annie. My thoughts exactly. Well done.

Anna, beautiful. Definitely a viable contender! Excellent description of the reality of life.

Chinese. Thai is really more spicy than I care for. (More choices in Chinese)

If you could play an instrument;

piano or violin?

The right country, absolutely. Not likely though as the countries I'd be willing to move to (Switzerland, New Zealand), have very stringent policies to limit immigration.

Like both! Baked sweet potato unless the baked potato is loaded.

Zucchini bread or Banana bread?

Yes. The journey would just as important (or more so) than the destination.

WYE dive on a tourist submarine.

Dog, thank you. We've had ours since he was a 6-week old puppy, will be 14 in June. When he passes, would like to a get brother and sister pair. Rescue, if possible.

Stay in USA for vacation or go foreign and take the risk of getting stranded/delayed because of sudden, unplanned, unforeseen circumstances? (Thinking of recent events in Mexico, Middle East)

Yes, if the opportunity presented itself.

WYE go wilderness camping. No supplies/equipment, live off the land, make your own shelter, etc.

Either one would be an adventure, but I suspect New Zealand would be better. You know, Lord of the Rings film site.

Taj Mahal, India or Ankor Wat, Cambodia to visit?

I love it. Some things AI will never be able to mimic.

RAINBOW

Life has been full of storms.

Physical storms.

A rare combination of freezing temperatures, snow, and sleet.

Emotional storms.

Carefully laid- out plans upended by an aging mother’s broken collarbone.

Requiring shoulder replacement surgery.  Disrupting plans for Spring Break this year.

Mental storms.

Stressed out by the pressures of life with three young daughters.

Husband absent. His job requiring he work overtime.

I feel alone, helpless.

After the storms, a rainbow and realizing there's hope for the future.

SHAMROCK

I refuse to surrender.

I will remain true to myself.

There, I find the strength to endure oppression.

No matter how hard you try to squeeze me,

No matter how long you try to convince me,

You can’t.

I refuse give in,

To believe your taunts, your lies.

My character is my armor.

It protects me,

Allows me to overcome.

Not just to overcome,

But to thrive.

No, I don’t believe in finding hope,

I will make my own hope.

Mixed Bouquet

Zoo or Safari

Careful decision.

Gourmet meal catered or Gourmet meal with ingredients delivered and you cook yourself?