Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card – Toc Travels Giveaway for Travel Lovers 2025

 

Toc Travels Giveaway: 

Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!

Are you dreaming about your next adventure, scrolling through travel inspiration, or planning the perfect getaway?  Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a road tripper, or just someone who loves the idea of exploring new places, Toc Travels wants to celebrate your passion for travel. That’s why we’re excited to announce our $25 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway! 🎉

This giveaway is simple, fun, and a perfect way to treat yourself—whether you use your prize for travel gear, packing essentials, or just something special for your journey.

👉 Enter the Toc Travels Giveaway Here

 Why We’re Hosting This Giveaway

Here at Toc Travels, we believe travel is more than a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. From discovering hidden gems in your own backyard to flying halfway across the world, each trip adds something unforgettable to your story.

But let’s be honest: travel also requires a little prep. And that’s where Amazon comes in handy. With a $25 gift card, you could grab:

• Packing cubes to keep your luggage organized

• A portable charger for long travel days

• TSA-approved toiletry bottles

• Travel journals to document your adventures

• Or even a cozy neck pillow for that long-haul flight

Of course, you don’t have to use it on travel items—you can also use it to treat yourself to books, home goods, or anything that makes life a little brighter.

Giveaway Details

Here’s everything you need to know about the Toc Travels Amazon Gift Card Giveaway:

• Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card

• Hosted By: Toc Travels ✈️

• Who Can Enter: Open to all travel lovers (see official rules on the entry page for eligibility)

• Deadline: Don’t wait too long! Entries close soon.

👉 Click here to enter now!

The best part? You can earn multiple entries! The more steps you complete, the higher your chances of winning.

How a $25 Amazon Gift Card Can Upgrade Your Next Adventure

You might be surprised at how much value $25 can add to your travel lifestyle. Here are a few ideas for how to put it to good use:

1. Travel Accessories: Grab a passport holder, luggage tags, or a money belt for peace of mind.

2. Snacks for the Road: Stock up on non-perishable snacks for your next road trip or flight.

3. Books & Guides: Pick up a travel guidebook or a fun vacation read.

4. Photography Essentials: Invest in small tripod stands, phone lenses, or accessories to capture the perfect shot.

5. Comfort on the Go: Upgrade your neck pillow, blanket, or sleep mask for those long-haul journeys.

👉 Enter the giveaway now for your chance to win!

Even small upgrades can make your travel experience smoother, more comfortable, and more memorable.

Why Enter Travel Giveaways?

Travel giveaways are a fantastic way to score fun prizes that enhance your trips. They give you the chance to try new products, enjoy special perks, and sometimes even discover new brands or travel tips along the way.

And since this giveaway is completely free to enter, you’ve got nothing to lose—just the potential to win something that sparks a little joy and adventure.

👉 Click here to enter the Toc Travels Giveaway today.

 How to Enter

It couldn’t be easier:

1. Click this link 👉 Enter the Toc Travels Giveaway

2. Complete as many entry options as you’d like.

3. Share with your friends for even more chances to win!

 Final Thoughts

At Toc Travels, we’re all about making travel fun, exciting, and accessible. This giveaway is just a small way to say “thank you” to our fellow wanderlusters and adventure seekers.

So what are you waiting for? Take a minute, enter the giveaway, and you just might be the lucky winner of a $25 Amazon Gift Card. Who knows—this little prize could inspire your next big journey. 🌎✨

👉 Click here to enter today!

Good luck, traveler—and happy exploring!

 

Fort Toulouse and Fort Jackson: Where Alabama’s History Comes Alive and Whispers from the Past

At the meeting of the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers near Wetumpka, Alabama, sits one of the most historically rich sites in the Southeast - Fort Toulouse and Fort Jackson. This location tells a layered story of Native American heritage, French colonial ambition, and pivotal moments in early U.S. history.

This is also why we went along with Kennesaw Ghost Hunters - to do a daytime ghost investigation and see if centuries of history left behind any unexplained energy. Armed with the Spirit Talker apps, we hoped to capture voices from the past.

Photo: Fort Toulouse Trail

A Place of Deep Indigenous Roots

Long before European contact, the land was home to thriving Native American cultures. The Taskigi Mound, still visible today, dates back to the Mississippian period (around AD 1000-1550). This platform mound was the center of a bustling, palisaded village - strategically placed at the river confluence for trade, travel, and defense.

Standing near the mound, Spirit Talker gave us our first chilling words of the day: "Ancestor" and "Watch". It felt as if someone wanted us to know they were still keeping guard over this ancient place.

French Fort Toulouse (1717-1763)

In 1717, under Governor Bienville, the French established Fort Toulouse at the invitation of the Alibamu, part of the Creek Confederacy. The goal was to strengthen alliances and push back against British colonial expansion.

Over the decades, the fort evolved through several reconstructions. The final 1751 version was both a military stronghold and a settlement where French soldiers lived with their families, often marrying into the local Creek community.

Near the reconstructed barracks, Spirit Talker gave us words that sent a chill through the group: "Soldier", "Cold", and "Keep watch". There were no shadows or figures to be seen, but the words were oddly fitting for a military site.

Photo: Fort Tolouse

William Bartram’s Visit (1775)

By 1775, the fort was in ruins. Naturalist William Bartram described apple trees and remnants of artillery when he passed through. While walking toward the arboretum named for him, our Spirit Talker displayed "Apple" and "Plant". Whether coincidence or connection, it echoed Bartram's own notes.

Fort Jackson and the Creek War (1814-1817)

In 1814, General Andrew Jackson and allied forces built Fort Jackson on the site during the Creek War. This large earthen fort served as a base for military operations and the signing of the Treaty of Fort Jackson, which forced the Creek Nation to cede more than 20 million acres of land.

As we approached the remains of Fort Jackson, the Spirit Talker returned words that felt heavy with history: "Treaty", "Land", and "Loss". Once again, we emphasize that we did not witness any physical manifestations during our visit.

No Physical Manifestations - But Plenty of Whispers

Although we never saw apparitions or physical signs of the paranormal, the Spirit Talker responses throughout the site were relevant to what we were standing next to. Whether you believe in spirit communication or think the results are coincidence, those moments heightened the atmosphere and made our historical exploration feel personal.

Preservation and Living History

Today, visitors can explore:

• The recreated 1751 French fort
• Remnants of Fort Jackson
• Replica Creek houses
• The ancient Taskigi mound
• The William Bartram Arboretum

Events That Bring the Past to Life

Each November, Alabama Frontier Days draws thousands to experience costumed reenactors, blacksmiths, traders, and musket demonstrations. Other events, like the French and Indian War encampment in April, offer immersive history for visitors.

Plan Your Visit

Fort Toulouse and Fort Jackson State Historic Site offers a rare opportunity to walk through three centuries of history in a single afternoon - and maybe, just maybe, hear a whisper from the past.

Location: 2521 W. Fort Toulouse Road, Wetumpka, AL
More info: fttoulousejackson.org

Notes on Our Ghost Investigation

We used the Spirit Talker app during our daytime visit. The app returned short words and phrases at several locations around the site, many of which matched the historical context of the nearby features. Again, there were no physical manifestations observed. If you plan a similar visit, bring respectful curiosity, a camera, and an open mind.

Did you like this post? Share it on social media or leave a comment below with your Fort Toulouse and Fort Jackson experiences.

 

12 Unreal Places That Actually Exist

Have you ever seen a photo online and thought, There’s no way that’s real? The world is full of landscapes so surreal they look like they belong in a fantasy novel or a sci-fi film. From pink lakes to glowing caves, here are 12 real destinations that will make you question reality—and inspire your next adventure.

1. Socotra Island, Yemen

Known as the “alien island,” Socotra is home to the strange and beautiful Dragon Blood Trees with umbrella-shaped canopies. One-third of its plant life is found nowhere else on Earth, giving the island an otherworldly vibe.

2. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

The world’s largest salt flat transforms into a giant mirror after rainfall, perfectly reflecting the sky. It’s so surreal that it’s been used as a filming location for several sci-fi movies.

3. Door to Hell, Turkmenistan

This massive gas crater has been burning for over 50 years. Nicknamed the Door to Hell, it glows day and night in the Karakum Desert and looks like a literal gateway to the underworld.

4. Mount Roraima, Venezuela/Brazil/Guyana

A dramatic tabletop mountain surrounded by sheer cliffs, Mount Roraima inspired The Lost World and Disney’s Up. Clouds often gather around its flat summit, making it appear like a floating island.

5. Zhangye Danxia Landform, China

Also called the Rainbow Mountains, this UNESCO site is famous for its multicolored rock formations, created by layers of mineral deposits over millions of years.

6. Lake Natron, Tanzania

This blood-red alkaline lake is stunning—and deadly. It can calcify animals, preserving them in eerie stone-like forms. Its unique chemistry makes it one of the strangest lakes on the planet.

7. Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

Venture underground to see thousands of bioluminescent glowworms illuminating the caves like a living galaxy. A boat ride through these caves feels like drifting under a starry night sky.

8. Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA

A narrow slot canyon carved by water, Antelope Canyon is known for its wave-like walls and beams of light shining through cracks, creating magical photographic moments.

9. The Wave, Arizona/Utah, USA

This psychedelic sandstone formation looks like it’s been painted with swirling patterns. Access is limited to protect the fragile rock, making permits highly sought after.

10. Pamukkale, Turkey

Meaning “Cotton Castle,” Pamukkale is a series of white travertine terraces created by thermal waters rich in calcium. It looks like a snowfield in the middle of warm countryside.

11. Lake Hillier, Australia

This bubblegum-pink lake’s color is permanent—it doesn’t change even if you scoop it into a bottle. Scientists believe it’s due to algae and high salt content.

12. The Catacombs of Paris, France

Beneath Paris lies a labyrinth of ossuaries containing the remains of over six million people. The carefully arranged skulls and bones make this both eerie and historically fascinating.

Final Thoughts

The Earth is far more magical than we often give it credit for. These places prove that reality can outshine fiction—if you know where to look. Which one is on your travel bucket list?

The Haunted Legacy of 57 North Street

 

The Haunted Legacy of 57 North Street: Mill Village Tragedy and Hidden Histories in Wetumpka, Alabama

By Michelle Hughes  07/27/2025

Introduction

Tucked away in the historic Mill Village neighborhood of Wetumpka, Alabama, stands a modest home at 57 North Street. At first glance, it looks like any other mid‑century Southern house — simple, quiet, unassuming. Yet behind its doors lies a haunting legacy of personal tragedy, community memory, and layered history stretching back centuries.

This article investigates the history of the land, the home, and the lives connected to it, uncovering threads of indigenous heritage, mill‑era struggles, Freemasonry, and reported paranormal phenomena.

A Neighborhood Built on Industry: The Mill Village

North Street belongs to a section of Wetumpka historically referred to as the Mill Village, a community originally constructed for workers of the town’s textile mills. During the 1930s to 1950s, mill companies across Alabama built small, uniform houses — often wood‑frame or shotgun‑style — for their employees and their families.

These company villages fostered tight‑knit communities but also reflected the hardships of industrial labor. Over time, the houses were sold off, passing into private ownership. Today, the Mill Village remains one of Wetumpka’s most storied neighborhoods, carrying echoes of its working‑class roots.

Deeper Roots: Creek Land and Early Wetumpka

Long before textile mills or Corps of Engineers projects, the land where Wetumpka stands was part of Upper Creek (Muscogee) territory. The Creek word Wetumpka translates to “rumbling waters,” a reference to the rapids of the Coosa River.

Nearby, Fort Toulouse and Hickory Ground were significant Native American ceremonial and burial sites. While there is no official record tying 57 North Street directly to a burial ground, the entire region carries ancestral significance — a fact that lends weight to local beliefs about spiritual presence.

Crawford Hall: A Life Between Service and Secrets

One of the home’s most enduring personal stories centers on Crawford Hall, a longtime resident of 57 North Street. Hall worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, contributing to river and dam projects vital to the region’s infrastructure. His wife, Mary Louise Hall, worked in the local textile industry, firmly linking the family to the Mill Village’s economic lifeblood.

It wasn’t until his death that the family learned another facet of his life: Crawford Hall was a Freemason. Wetumpka Lodge No. 13, chartered in 1821, is one of Alabama’s oldest Masonic lodges. This revelation adds another layer of mystery to the home, especially for those intrigued by the symbolism and secrecy often associated with Freemasonry.

Tragedy on North Street

The home’s haunted reputation is rooted in two suicides known to long‑term residents:

1. Crawford Hall’s death by suicide, May 7, 1994 at 57 North Street.

2. The neighbor’s son, who died by suicide in the house next door.

These tragedies are rarely mentioned in public records or obituaries — a common practice in sensitive cases — but they remain etched in the memories of those who lived there. The concentration of loss on this quiet street contributes to the sense of lingering sorrow and spiritual unrest.

Haunting and Paranormal Accounts

Former residents describe a demonic presence within 57 North Street — unexplained noises, oppressive feelings, and disturbances that persisted despite attempts at cleansing. Paranormal researchers often note that homes built on historically charged land, especially where multiple tragedies have occurred, can retain emotional “residue” that manifests in disturbing ways.

The combination of factors here is striking:

• Indigenous land with ancestral significance.

• Mill Village hardships and generational struggles.

• Two known suicides on the same street.

• Hidden Freemason ties, potentially bringing symbolic artifacts or energies into the space.

Why the Mill Village Matters

Mill villages across Alabama are now recognized as culturally significant, capturing the intersection of industrial growth, poverty, and community life during the 20th century. In Wetumpka, these neighborhoods also intersect with much older Creek history. Documenting houses like 57 North Street preserves more than ghost stories — it preserves working‑class history, family legacies, and the hidden narratives of everyday people.

Next Steps for Research

For those interested in further investigating 57 North Street or similar properties in Mill Village:

• Historical Records: Elmore County Probate Court and local archives may hold plat maps, property deeds, and mill ownership documents.

• Masonic Archives: Wetumpka Lodge No. 13 may confirm membership rolls or memorial mentions related to Crawford Hall.

• Archaeological Surveys: Ground‑penetrating radar or site evaluations could determine if any unmarked graves or historical artifacts are present.

• Oral Histories: Interviews with older residents can reveal additional untold stories about the Mill Village and its families.

Conclusion

The story of 57 North Street is not just about one haunted house. It is about layers of history — from Creek ancestral lands to mill workers’ struggles, from personal tragedies to hidden fraternal ties. By preserving these narratives, we honor the memory of those who lived, worked, and died here, and we shed light on why some places never quite let go of their past.

 

Monkey Island at Taino Bay: Puerto Plata’s Cutest Cruise Excursion

If your next Caribbean cruise includes a stop at Puerto Plata, you’re in for a treat — especially if you dock at Taino Bay Cruise Port. Just steps from the pier lies one of the Dominican Republic’s most charming hidden gems: Monkey Island. Perfect for families, couples, and animal lovers, this excursion is a must-do if you’re looking for something fun and unforgettable on your port day.

What Is Monkey Island at Taino Bay?

Monkey Island, sometimes called “Monkeyland,” is an interactive sanctuary where you can meet and feed friendly squirrel monkeys. Unlike other excursions that require long bus rides, this attraction is located right inside Taino Bay Cruise Port, making it easy to visit as soon as you disembark your ship.

Why Cruise Guests Love It

• No long transfers: The sanctuary is within walking distance from the ship.

• Affordable price: Entry is around $25 USD per person, much cheaper than off-site tours.

• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the playful monkeys climbing onto their shoulders for snacks.

• Photo-worthy moments: Staff often take professional photos you can purchase as souvenirs.

Which Cruise Ships Visit Taino Bay?

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Celebrity Cruises, and MSC Cruises frequently dock at Taino Bay. Guests from these ships can easily walk to Monkey Island and enjoy the experience without leaving the port area.

Carnival Cruise Line ships typically dock at Amber Cove nearby, where you can book an official Monkeyland & Puerto Plata City Tour excursion through Carnival.

Tips for Visiting Monkey Island

• Bring small bills for admission and optional photo purchases.

• Wear comfortable shoes — the walk from the ship is short but includes uneven paths.

• Have your phone or camera ready for selfies (but secure loose items — monkeys are curious!).

• Arrive early if possible, as crowds can form on busy port days.

Book Your Monkey Island Experience

Want to guarantee your spot and plan the rest of your Puerto Plata day with ease? I can help arrange your Monkey Island adventure, plus recommend other excursions to maximize your visit.

👉 Reserve your Monkey Island excursion now: https://bit.ly/4eBbkxw

Tears of Crimson Travels
📧 michelle@tearsofcrimson.com

START A NEW HOLIDAY TRADITION AT SEA

 

Celebrity_25_Holiday_Flyer_Customizable.pdf by Michelle Hughes

 

True Crime Meets Tropical Paradise: Virgin Voyages’ First-Ever True Crime Voyage is Here!

If you're obsessed with true crime, addicted to podcasts, and craving an unforgettable getaway with a spooky twist — this is the cruise you've been waiting for.

Virgin Voyages just announced their first-ever themed true crime cruise, and it's set to sail October 10–15, 2025 aboard the stunning Valiant Lady. It's called the True Crime Voyage, and it’s packed with thrilling events, exclusive podcast experiences, and Halloween vibes galore — all while exploring the beautiful Caribbean waters on the Dominican Daze itinerary.

👉 Ready to book? Reserve your spot now: https://bit.ly/4eBbkxw

🔍 What to Expect on the True Crime Voyage

This isn’t just a cruise — it’s a floating crime-convention-meets-Halloween-party. Here's what's in store:

• 🎧 Live recordings of your favorite true crime podcasts

• 🎙️ Podcasting 101 workshops for aspiring podcasters & storytellers

• 🤝 Meet & greets with top podcast hosts

• 🍸 Killer cocktails and themed cuisine

• 👻 Halloween costume contests, spooky stage acts & eerie ambiance

Featured Podcasts:

• 🕵️ Stuff They Don’t Want You To Know

• 💔 Betrayal

• 🦴 Buried Bones

Whether you're bingeing crime docs, hosting your own show, or just love an immersive theme, this voyage was made for you.

⚓ Cruise Details

• 🛳️ Ship: Valiant Lady (Virgin Voyages)

• 📍 Sails from: Miami, FL

• 🗓️ Dates: October 10–15, 2025

• 🌴 Itinerary: Dominican Daze (Caribbean route)

• 🛏️ Limited cabins available — will sell out fast!

👉 Book your cruise today before it’s gone: https://bit.ly/4eBbkxw

🧡 Who Is This Cruise Perfect For?

• ✔️ True crime fans

• ✔️ Podcast lovers

• ✔️ Halloween enthusiasts

• ✔️ Couples, friends, and solo travelers looking for something totally unique

This is your chance to set sail with fellow fans and step into a world of mystery, suspense, and sun-soaked fun. Costumes encouraged. Curiosity required. 👀

Final Verdict?

The True Crime Voyage is the perfect mix of chills and thrills at sea. Whether you're there for the podcasts, the parties, or just the palm trees — this cruise promises a truly unforgettable experience.

🎟️ Don't miss your chance to sail into the world of mystery: https://bit.ly/4eBbkxw

Experience the Icelandic Getaway: A Journey of Luxury from New York to Reykjavik

 

Experience the Icelandic Getaway: A Journey of Luxury from New York to Reykjavik
18 Nights | Regent Seven Seas Cruises | June 29, 2026

If you've been dreaming of a journey that seamlessly blends elegance, discovery, and extraordinary service, the 2026 Icelandic Getaway aboard Seven Seas Mariner is your ultimate escape.

This 18-night voyage with Regent Seven Seas Cruises departs from New York on June 29, 2026, and transports you to some of the most dramatic and remote regions in the world—from the charming coasts of Canada to the icy majesty of Greenland and the volcanic beauty of Iceland.

A World-Class Itinerary

This is more than a cruise—it's a curated cultural and natural experience. You'll enjoy:

• Halifax & Sydney, Nova Scotia – Explore maritime charm, coastal culture, and vibrant city life
• Five ports in Greenland – Visit Nuuk, Paamiut, Narsaq, Qaqortoq, and Nanortalik, each offering untouched beauty and rich Inuit heritage
• Cruising the Prince Christian Sound – A breathtaking passage through icy fjords and towering cliffs
• Iceland’s coastal gems – Ísafjörður, Akureyri, Grundarfjörður, and an overnight stay in Reykjavik, the cosmopolitan heart of Iceland

Each destination offers unlimited included shore excursions, so you can personalize your experience without worrying about extra costs.

All-Inclusive, All the Time

This is Regent Seven Seas—where luxury is not an upgrade, it’s a given. Every guest enjoys:

• Unlimited shore excursions
• Fine wines, premium spirits, and specialty dining
• Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi
• In-suite dining and 24-hour room service
• Pre-paid gratuities and valet laundry service
• Airfare, ground transfers, and even a pre-cruise hotel night for suite guests

Exclusive Offers

For a limited time, guests can enjoy 30% savings on Penthouse Suites and below, with fares starting from $16,099 per guest.

For those in Concierge Suites and above, enhanced amenities include butler service, priority reservations, luxury transfers, and more.

Why This Cruise?

• Travel to rarely visited destinations in comfort and style
• Escape the summer heat and explore the Arctic north in its most inviting season
• Experience one of the most refined cruise ships afloat, freshly refurbished and beautifully designed for fewer than 700 guests

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Secure Your Suite Today
This unique itinerary sells quickly—and with good reason. It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the edge of the world while being cared for in absolute comfort.

🛎 Ready to book or learn more?
Click here: https://bit.ly/4eBbkxw or contact me directly for personal assistance with cabin selection, excursions, and pre-/post-cruise arrangements.

 

 

Say Hello to a New Chapter – Welcome to Tears of Crimson Travels!

Dear Readers,

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you—Tears of Crimson is expanding into a brand-new adventure! After years of writing stories that let you escape into romance and faraway places, I’ve decided to help you bring those dreams to life in a real and unforgettable way. 🌍✈️

Introducing Tears of Crimson Travels – your new go-to destination for planning romantic getaways, luxury escapes, and once-in-a-lifetime vacations. Whether you're dreaming of walking hand-in-hand through the streets of Paris, sailing the Mediterranean on a cruise, or planning a beach wedding that rivals any fairytale, I'm here to help you make it happen.

As a romance author turned travel advisor, I bring a storyteller’s heart into every itinerary. Every couple deserves a travel experience that feels like a love story, and every solo traveler deserves the thrill of a chapter waiting to be written. At Tears of Crimson Travels, I turn those pages into real memories.

You can expect:

• 🏝️ Curated romantic travel ideas
• 🚢 Expert cruise planning
• 💍 Destination weddings & honeymoons
• ✨ Budget-friendly escapes
• 🌅 Luxury bucket-list trips

Whether you’re booking your next great escape or just need a little travel inspiration, I invite you to explore the new site. I’ll be sharing travel tips, destination spotlights, and exclusive offers to help you discover the world through the lens of love.

Visit now: 👉 www.tearsofcrimsontravels.com

Let’s start writing your next adventure together!

With love and Crimson kisses,

Michelle Hughes

Founder, Travel Advisor & Romance Author

Tears of Crimson Travels

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#RomanticTravel #TravelAdvisor #TearsOfCrimsonTravels #LuxuryGetaways #DestinationWeddings #CouplesTravel #CruiseVacation #BucketListTrips #TravelWithLove #MichelleHughesAuthor #TravelBlog #Wanderlust #PlanYourEscape

 

Grow With Us: Sponsor Our Backyard Bird Sanctuary & Showcase Your Sustainable Products

Welcome to our growing, soon to be certified bird sanctuary—a peaceful haven nestled in nature, built with purpose and care. As we transform our backyard into a thriving natural habitat for birds and wildlife, we're also opening our gates to companies who want to do more than just sell products—they want to make a difference.

If your brand creates eco-friendly, sustainable products that help the earth, support wildlife, or make outdoor spaces more nature-conscious, we want to work with you.

What We're Creating

Our sanctuary isn’t just for the birds—it's a living, breathing example of what a conscious, sustainable backyard can look like. With native plants, natural water sources, solar-powered tech, and organic feeding practices, we are building this space as a model for others who want to give back to nature, right from home.

Through weekly updates, video content, and detailed product features, we show our growing community how easy and rewarding it is to support the planet—one backyard at a time.

Why Partner With Us?

• Certified Bird Sanctuary: We’re officially certified, and our followers love seeing the progress of this authentic nature restoration effort.

• Multi-Platform Reach: We actively promote on Amazon, TikTok, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter)—maximizing exposure for your products.

• Product Placement in Real Use: We show how your products help us grow the sanctuary—from solar water fountains and native bird feeders, to organic fertilizers and pollinator-friendly plants.

• Honest Reviews + Content Creation: As a hands-on nature enthusiast and content creator, I offer genuine reviews and creative use-case videos that make your brand shine.

• Eco-Focused Audience: Our viewers are bird lovers, homesteaders, nature nerds, gardeners, and green-living families—all looking for meaningful products to support.

What We're Looking For

We invite brands that:

• Create sustainable or biodegradable products

• Support pollinators, birds, or native wildlife

• Offer organic, non-toxic gardening or outdoor solutions

• Produce solar or off-grid tech

• Sell products available on Amazon, TikTok Shop, YouTube Shopping, or X Shopping

We are especially looking for:

• Bird feeders & seed mixes

• Solar-powered water features

• Pollinator garden kits

• Sustainable garden tools

• Native plant starter packs

• Biodegradable birdhouses or shelters

• Nature-friendly pest control

• Organic lawn & garden care items

How to Get Involved

If your product fits the vision and is available for retail on Amazon or social commerce platforms, we’d love to feature it in our content series.

We accept sample products in exchange for:

• Unboxing & demo videos

• Placement in weekly sanctuary updates

• Review blog posts with backlinks

• Direct links to your Amazon or shop page

Every feature comes with genuine feedback, engaging visuals, and nature-filled content that inspires others to support your product with purpose.

🌿 Interested in partnering with us?

Send your product samples to:  email me:  authormichellehughes@gmail.com  or send samples to: Tears of Crimson - 27687 AL Hwy 22  - Verbena, AL 36091   Please note that any samples that are sent will be reviewed honestly.

Together, we can turn every backyard into a sanctuary—and every product into a step toward a greener future.

 

🌿 How to Get Your Backyard Certified as a Bird Sanctuary

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your backyard into a peaceful haven for birds—and getting recognized for it—you absolutely can! Certifying your yard as a private bird sanctuary is a beautiful way to support local wildlife, contribute to conservation, and enjoy a front-row seat to nature.

Here’s how to make it happen, step by step.

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🐦 Why Certify Your Backyard as a Bird Sanctuary?

Not only does a bird-friendly habitat help declining bird populations, but it also adds life, color, and peacefulness to your outdoor space. Certification is a great way to commit to a sustainable lifestyle, teach your children about nature, and connect with a larger community of wildlife stewards.

The most accessible path to certification in the U.S. is through the National Wildlife Federation’s Certified Wildlife Habitat® program.

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✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Certification

Step 1: Provide the 5 Essential Elements for Wildlife

To qualify for certification, your yard needs to include a combination of the following:

1. Food Sources (at least 3)

• Bird feeders with seed, suet, or nectar

• Native plants that produce berries or seeds

• Fruit or nut trees

2. Water Source (at least 1)

• Birdbath

• Pond or fountain

• Rain garden or even a shallow dish that’s cleaned regularly

3. Cover/Shelter (at least 2 types)

• Dense shrubs or evergreen trees

• Brush piles or rock piles

• Birdhouses or covered spaces

4. Nesting Places (at least 2)

• Native trees or tall grasses

• Nesting boxes or birdhouses

• Dead trees (snags) left standing, if safe

5. Sustainable Gardening Practices (at least 2)

• Use of native plants

• No chemical pesticides or herbicides

• Composting or mulching

• Water conservation methods like rain barrels

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📝 Step 2: Apply for Certification

Once your yard checks all the boxes, you’re ready to apply!

• Visit: NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat

• Fill out the online checklist

• Pay the $20 fee

• Optional: Order an official sign to proudly display your certification

The application takes about 15 minutes. After approval, you’ll receive a certificate and official recognition as a Certified Wildlife Habitat®.

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🌱 Step 3: Go Above and Beyond (Optional)

Want to take it even further? Here are a few ideas:

• Add more native plants to support pollinators

• Keep a birdwatching journal or log sightings on eBird

• Get involved with your local Audubon Society

• Teach others how to create bird sanctuaries

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Final Thoughts

Turning your backyard into a certified bird sanctuary doesn’t require acres of land or a ton of money—just intention, care, and a love for the feathered friends who share our world. By making just a few changes, you can create a safe, welcoming habitat that birds (and you) will enjoy for years to come.

How to Create a Peaceful Backyard Bird Sanctuary (DIY-Friendly!)

 

🌿 Shop My Bird Watching Essentials on Amazon

           

How to Create a Peaceful Backyard Bird Sanctuary (DIY-Friendly!)

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Welcome to my backyard! I’ve always dreamed of having a space where birds could feel safe, welcome, and at home—and I finally decided to build it myself. Whether you’re a fellow bird lover, a weekend DIYer, or just looking to bring a little peace and nature into your world, this guide is for you. Today, I’m sharing how I'll build my small backyard bird sanctuary, step-by-step, using simple tools, a little creativity, and a whole lotta heart. 🐦💚

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🌿 Step 1: Choose Your Sanctuary Spot

Pick a quiet area of your yard with a bit of natural cover (like bushes or trees). If you don’t have much greenery, no worries—you can plant some easy-to-grow native shrubs or set up potted plants for instant shelter.  I'm clearing out a 30x30 area in my backyard and covering it in gravel to start.  This is the project I'm on right now.  

Tip: Birds love a mix of sun and shade, so aim for a balanced spot if possible.

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🏠 Step 2: Add Birdhouses and Feeders

This is where your creativity shines! I making my birdhouses from [scrap wood/repurposed items—you choose], and adding a mix of feeders: seed, suet, and nectar (for hummingbirds!). A quick note for using nectar:  One part sugar, three parts water, boil and let cool before placing in your hummingbird feeders. Make sure to hang them at different heights to attract a variety of birds.

Tip: Clean feeders weekly to keep your feathered guests safe.

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💧 Step 3: Provide Water

A small birdbath or shallow dish with clean water is essential.  I'll be sharing what I come up with, because I think I might go with a small pond and fountain.  The small birdbath I ordered is also linked above but I still want the pond. 

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🌸 Step 4: Plant Native Flowers & Shrubs

Native plants provide natural food sources and shelter. I'm choosing the following because they are native to Alabama.  Please check what works for your state.

Flowering Natives (Pollinators + Seed for Birds)

These provide nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies, and seeds for finches and sparrows.

• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – Loved by goldfinches, butterflies, and bees

• Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Bright blooms, great seed heads for birds

• Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa) – Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies

• Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) – Great for fall bloom and pollinators

• Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) – Sunshine yellow, easy to grow

Don’t forget to mulch and water regularly while they take root.

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🛋️ Step 5: Make It Yours

I'm adding a little bench nearby to sit and enjoy the birdsong every morning with my coffee. You could add fairy lights, stepping stones, or even a bird cam like I'm doing to capture the magic.

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📸 Bonus: Document Your Sanctuary’s Visitors!

I purchased the Solareye Birdfeeder with camera that has a solar panel so I don't need to keep changing batteries.  I'll be putting together a review video of that here on the blog as soon as I get it set up (I just got it in today.  You can check my shop link at the top of the page to see which I chose.

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Final Thoughts:
Building a backyard bird sanctuary doesn’t require a lot of space—just a bit of love, patience, and intention. I hope this inspires you to create your own little haven for the birds (and yourself!). If you do, tag me or leave a comment—I’d love to see what you create!