Dolphins are very intelligent mammals and have the longest memory of any other mammal other than humans.  They can remember the whistle of a dolphin they lived with after 20 years of separation.  They love to have fun and play.  There social bonds are extremely important.  They’re very good at solving problems.   Research has revealed that whales and dolphins not only have the ability to learn as individuals, but they pass on what they’ve learned to other dolphins. This is a rare intelligence in the animal kingdom.  Dolphins are able to recognize themselves in a mirror.  They are known to mourn the loss of a pod member.

REPRODUCTION:

They generally mate in the spring and the fall.  Gestation is 9-17 months.  They generally have only one calf, twins are rare, just as they are in the humans.  The Calf will nurse from it’s mother for up to two years, and stay with her for three to eight years before fending for itself.  Dolphins start communicating from birth.  They’ll make squeaking, whistling noises. A female calf may even return to its mother to raise it’s own calves.

LONGEVITY:

Dolphins live to be 25 to 30 years old, 40 when in captivity.

BEHAVIOR:

Dolphins come up for air every few minutes, some can stay below the surface for 15 minutes.  They generally feed early morning and late afternoon.  They love to play.  Some activities they indulge in is throwing seaweed at each other or carrying objects back and forth.  Many like to breach, breaching is when a dolphin jumps high in the air landing on their backs.  They have been known to approach divers, and/or boaters.  My cousin lives on his boat and has experienced dolphins coming up into the marina.  They really are charming and a pleasure to see.

CHARACTERISTICS:

Most dolphins are grey in color.  There are approximately 40 different species.  As in most of the animal kingdom, males are larger than females as well as heavier.  They have no hair, or sweat glands.  They eat fish, shrimp, jellyfish, squid and sometimes even turtles.  A dolphins skin feels like rubber, but it is slippery and smooth.

SWIMMING WITH THE DOLPHINS:

Swimming with Dolphins, I have not done this yet, but it is on my bucket list.  No excuse now that I live in Florida.  There are many places here that offer this experience.  My mother has however.  She said it was one of the greatest experiences she has ever had.  She tells a story about a woman who was in their group, she was frigid, intimidated and nervous.  One of the dolphins sensed her fear and tried to lighten her up.  It would swim up to her giving her a hand shake, splashing her, rubbing up against her ever so slightly, it swam on his hind tail and let out a laughing sound.  This dolphin would not leave her side until she finally relaxed and started to enjoy the experience. “They just want us to have fun”, my mother said.  There was another gentleman in their group who the instructor gave a command for the dolphin to come up behind him and push him through the water at his feet.  The dolphin refused, instead it went up along side the man and put his fin up under his arm to get a similar affect.  After the session the instructor asked the gentleman if had any medical issues.  He stated he had a bad knee.   My mother could not get over the how these gentle mammals  just want to enjoy life.  She was also in awe of their intuitiveness and healing powers.

Many of us love the water, boating, surfing, relaxing in the sand.  Unfortunately most of us do not live on or close to a beach or lake.  Expressing our feelings or love can be brought to us through body art. Tattoo’s are a great way to express your mood, feeling, or favorite things in life. Nautical Tattoos have never stopped being trendy.  Here are some great ideas for a mariner or nautical tattoo’s remind us of our love and to keep us in the mood and continuously remind us of where we want to be.

Tattoo of waves are a soothing expression for our love of the sea,

Boating Knots, if nothing it’s a good reminder of how to tie that knot.

Dolphins, fun and playful.  Who doesn’t love a dolphin.  They inspire intelligents and a whimsical feel.

Ahhh, you can almost hear the clanging of the rigging that bounces off the mast when you look at this sailboat.

Anchor tattoos are making a come back.  They were highly popular among sailors, navy and marines.  They signify a sign of strength.

Color adds a nice touch and interest with any tattoo.

Boat Propeller, “full speed ahead”.  Where it takes you, is where ever you want it to be.

We always need a compass to guide us.  Here are some interesting ideas.

A friend is always near by with a Parrot.  Ones finest first mate on any ship.

for the adventurer in all of us, Pirates and skulls.  Reminds us to look for treasures while at the sea.

In todays society, it has become socially acceptable to have a tattoo and not be looked upon as a villain.  When done tastefully, they can often be a work of art.

Lighthouses, a symbol of hope and guiding light to those mastering the seas.  Many of the old lighthouses still exist today.  Some have tales of hauntings, others have been converted to beautiful homes.  The mystical charm tugs at many of us.  These beautiful towers of light and their scenic views make them a piece of art.  

The history of lighthouses goes back more than 1000 years.  Some of these lighthouses offer lodging today.  What a great experience that would be if you decide to take a vacation to one of these that are available to you.  Imagine the views and sites offered around these amazing towers.

Join us in viewing some of the most breathtaking lighthouses that withstood the test of time.  We will be providing as much history about each lighthouse that we can find.  We will also be providing a selection of lighthouse items that you can purchase to adorn your nautical theme home with.  Shared will be items such as pictures, fountains, yard décor.  Let’s get started!  

LIGHTHOUSES YOU CAN GETAWAY AND VACATION AT:  Your stay would be at the Lighthouse Keepers house.  In most cases you can tour the lighthouse.

Heceta Head Lighthouse – Yachats, Oregan – ($135 to $315  per night)

History:  Heceta Head is a 115 year old lighthouse.  If you like things that go bump in the night, legend has it this is known to be a haunted lighthouse.  Some say the ghost called “Gray Lady” has been known to be seen searching for her infant daughter who passed away tumbling to her death from the 200′ cliffs.  Heceta has been known to have more than one ghost.  Heceta Head is named after “Bruno De Heceta”, a Spanish explorer.  His spirit is thought to be roaming the caretakers house.  Things you may encounter might be loud clicking of light switches turning off and on.  The bedroom may become overly hot and stuffy between 2:00 and 4:00 AM.  The sounds of foot steps and dishes rattling may also be heard.

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Design Toscano Coastal Decor Ocean’s Perch Pelicans Garden Bird Statue, 24 Inch, Polyresin, Full Color

Dimensions: 9"Wx9"Dx24"H 5 lbs.
Hand-cast using real crushed stone bonded with high quality designer resin
Each piece is individually hand-painted by our artisans

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Price: $89.95

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Big Bay Point Lighthouse – Big Bay, Michigan ($130 to $200 per night)

HISTORY:  This lighthouse began construction in 1882.  It took 14 years to complete.  William Prior was the first owner of the lighthouse in.  His family lived there until 1902.  During their time spent there, tragedy struck Williams son George fell from the top of the lighthouse.  He broke his leg and died four days later due to infection.  His father William was so devastated by the loss of his son that it is assumed he committed suicide.  His body was found years later.  His skeletal remains were found hanging from a tree.  A red haired man thought to be William Prior, has been seen wandering around the lighthouse.  In the 1950’s it was purchased by the army base.  A novel was inspired by this lighthouse due to  a murder occurred in a Big Bay Tavern which went on to become a film.  The novel was “Anatomy of a Murder” by Robert Traver.  In 1961 John Picks purchased the lighthouse.  He was a plastic surgeon.  He rebuilt it to become his private residence. After John Picks death it became a bed and breakfast to the now new owners, John Gale and John Gamble.

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Better Homes and Gardens Nautical Wastecan (1)

100 percent MDF Wood
Wipe clean with a damp cloth
8.07" x 8.07" x 10" (20.4cm x 20.4 cm x 25.4 cm)

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Price: $26.95

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Cordova Rose Lighthouse – Cordova, Alaska- ($145 per night)

HISTORY:  Cordova was built in 1924 in Kodiak, Alaska.  It was used as a machine shop and houseboat for 12 years.  The owners were Bob and Rose Arvidson.  The current owner, Gary McDowell took over the lodge in 1998. It is now a Bed and Breakfast.   Gary, renovated both the interior and exterior keeping with the nautical look.   The landscape has breathtaking water views and several bridges.  No ghost stories here!

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Ambesonne Anchor Kitchen Curtains, Vintage Sketch Nautical Element Ship Sailing Travel Theme Chain Rope, Window Drapes 2 Panel Set for Kitchen Cafe Decor, 55″ X 39″, Teal White

39 INCHES LONG x 55 INCHES WIDE, Measurements are the total of the 2 curtain panels together.
INCLUDES 2 CURTAIN PANELS - Perfect size for most kitchens, Unique. Genuine. FUN.
MACHINE WASHABLE - On cold delicate cycle, Hang dry only. Includes 2.5 inch rod pocket.

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Price: $34.95

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North Head Lighthouse – Washington State – ($155 to $440 a night)

HISTORY:  North Head Lighthouse was constructed in 1897 by George Langford.  The lighthouse was built 65 feet above ground.  It was designed to hold the first-order Fresnel lens.  All of the original buildings are still on the property today.  They consist of two oil houses, a keepers residence, a duplex house, a barn, and outbuildings.  In the day, lighthouse keepers and their families had a hard life.  Keepers worked 8 hour shifts, longer if there were less than 3 people to share in the duties.  The bright light was lit from dusk to dawn.  Maintenance of the light and lens were the most important duty of the housekeepers.

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BANBERRY DESIGNS Lighthouse Canvas Print – LED Lighted Picture with a Window Scene Lake Beach – Nautical Artwork

CANVAS PRINTS THAT LIGHT UP. 23 1/2" X 15 1/2". Stunning Prints Come to Life With LED Lights. Hidden LED light make the light house realistically glow! BATTERY OPERATED WITH AN ON/OFF SWITCH. Perfect lighthouse picture for any room in your house. Use it in your lighthouse themed bathroom, bedroom, hallway, mudroom, entry way, living room or sunroom. Anyone who loves lighthouses would love to get this as a gift.
LIGHTHOUSE DECORATIONS. Beach landscape with a nautical lighthouse design. UNIQUE GIFT for anyone who love the ocean. Mom, Grandma, Sister, Friend, Neighbors, In Laws or Kids.
BEACH DÉCOR. Perfect gift for anyone who love the beach and the ocean.

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Price: $19.99

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West Point Lighthouse – Canada (Prince Edward Island) – (starting at $140 per night)

HISTORY:  West Point Lighthouse was built in 1881.  To this day it remains essentially untouched from the time it was built.  It is still a working lighthouse to aid boaters in navigating in bad weather.  The light tower only rises 23 feet above the sandy beach.  There are two spacious Cape Cod style homes built for the lighthouse keepers.  The lens use to operate like the workings of a mechanical clock resting on ball bearings and wheels.  Several times a night the keepers would have to wind the mechanism with a hand crank raising the weights to the top of the tower.  The weights and mechanism were replaced in 1926 with an electric motor.  The fog signal was originally a large bell activated by a hammer.  The bell would strike every 15 seconds.  This bell was replaced in 1887 with a steam whistle due to mariners had difficulty hearing the bell.  In 1906 the whistle was replaced by a new fog signal which worked by using two diesel engines.  The signal passed across a vibrating reed which projected a distinct signal for all to hear through the fog.  The keepers duties were a rigorous daily routine consisting of cleaning and polishing lenses and lamps, trimming wicks, and maintaining the machinery.  Duties also included standing watch every night to ensure the light was operating.  Keepers were allowed 30 days off every year if and only if a replacement could be found.

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Set of 2 – Indoor / Outdoor 20″ Square Decorative Throw / Toss Pillows – Navy Blue and White Nautical Anchor Print

Made from Indoor / Outdoor, Weather Resistant Fabric
Made from Navy Blue and White Nautical Anchor Print
Set of 2 - 20" x 20" Throw Pillows

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Price: $59.96

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Race Point Lighthouse – N. Truro, Massachusetts – ($145 to $185 per night)

HISTORY:  Race Point Lighthouse was built in 1816.  I have to admit, not much exciting information about this lighthouse, but what a beauty it is.  The original light was 25 feet and featured one of the earliest rotating beacons which distinguished it from others on the cape.   This beacon was replaced in 1876 with a 45 foot iron plated tower and new keepers dwelling.  Today the light is solar powered which is operated by the coast guard.  In 1995 updates were provided to the keepers house and in 1998 offered rooms for overnight stays.

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Franklin Brass PBF661-BSP-C1 35mm Seahorse Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Knob

Break away from the norm and add a touch character to your home decor with the seahorse knob
The Brushed Satin Pewter finish is the perfect fit for a classic look and feel
Knob has a 1-3/8 in. Diameter

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Price: $15.99

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Saugerties Lighthouse – New York – ($225 per night)

HISTORY:  Saugerties Lighthouse was constructed in 1869.  The lighthouse was constructed by Charles Hooster.  He was awarded the low bid of only $2,988 to build it.  The original light source was five whale oil lamps.  In 1848 the lighthouse was destroyed by fire.  It was rebuilt by 1850.  In 1979 the lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.  To this day it’s a stately landmark on the Hudson River.   1920 style furnishing adorn the rooms inside the dwelling.  Upon entering the lighthouse you can enjoy a small museum, gift shop, parlor, kitchen, keepers quarter, and two guest bedrooms.  Outside, there is a half mile nature trail at the end of the lighthouse.

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Blue Anchor Hand Painted Set of 2 Stemmed Wine Glasses Nautical Decor

Adding a nautical contact to casual unique, blue anchors are hand-painted on our set of 2 20oz stemless wine glasses. Glassware is warmth set for lasting colour and sturdiness. I recommend mild hand washing for lengthy lasting attractiveness.

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Price: $32.99

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Cuckolds Lighthouse – Maine – ($1,250-$1,500 a night) rooms ($350 to $500 per night)

HISTORY:  Cuckolds Lighthouse was built in the 1890’s.  It’s located on an Island.  A light tower was added to the station in 1907, which was visible for up to 13 miles.  In 2006 the historic lighthouse was restored.  The Lighthouse is open by appointment to visitors and overnight guests. This luxurious retreat is available for those who want to experience their own private Island while staying in the lighthouse.  A licensed Captain will transport you to the Island in a restored navy motor whaleboat.  What a beautiful experience and getaway.

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Songsen Outdoor Wooden Adirondack Chairs Patio Deck Garden Furniture

SEMI-KD PACKAGE - special packing method and make it easy assembling and much more firm than other chairs.
BACK SUPPORT - Special supports on the back of the chair and its unfolding feature make the chair much more firm and could bear 250lbs.
DIY Adirondacks Chair - Since the chair is unfinished, it could be painted on any colors you like.

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Price: $279.99

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East Brother Light Station – Richmond California – ($295-$415 per night)

HISTORY:  East Brother Light Station built in 1873.  This beauty was under the threat of destruction.  Samuel M. Farran was the first head keeper.  He served from 1874 to 1880.  George B. Koons was next in line, but was only there for four short months before being transferred.  Charles F. Windsor took charge for the next seven years.  Windsor  had four different assistants.  It seems Joseph Page one of his assistants caused him some headaches.  In the Keepers logs Windsor noted the following:

Jan. 2: 1883 Page took mail over to San Quentin, returned drunk.

Jan. 11: Page went for the mail, returned at 2:30 pm, mail wet.

Feb. 8: Page went for mail, drunk, no mail.

Needless to say Page resigned on March 1, 1883.

In 1906, the great San Francisco earthquake did not go unnoticed.  On April 18, Stenmark recorded the following in his logbook.  “A heavy earthquake this morning at 5:15 am.  Lenses of the light broken and glassware broke and everything of glass broke.  Doors open of themselves and the whole island rocking.  All the lenses broke.”  The following day, Stenmark added “S.F. burning fearfully at 9 pm.”

Today there are four rooms available for overnight guests in the lighthouse itself, with one additional room called the Walter Fanning fog signal building.  Fanning was the grandson of John Kofod who served as Head keeper of the lighthouse from 1914 to 1921.  Fanning visited the island frequently and played a key role in restoration efforts.

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Nautical Ship Propeller Metal Home Wall Decor Distressed Finish, Bronze, brown, gold, 14″

Beautiful and Unique Bronze Distressed Metal Ship Propeller Wall Decor
This must-have propeller features a worn, distressed finish, mimicking that of a treasure that's been recovered from the sea.
Keyhole Mount on Back for Hanging

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Price: $32.57

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Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn – Ahmeek, Michigan – ($160 to $240 per night)

HISTORY:  Sand Hill Lighthouse built in 1919.  It was in service for 20 years and operated by three keepers.  The site includes an oil house, garage, barracks building and a concrete break wall.  The original lighting was a bullseye lens lit by an oil vapor lamp.  The light was visible for 9.6 nautical miles.  In 1939 the Coast Guard assumed responsibility and automated it eliminating the need for keepers.  In 1943 it was closed as a training facility for the Coast Guard and reverted back to a simple lighthouse which was active until 1954.  It sold at public auction in 1958 for $26,000 to H. Donald Bliss, and insurance agent from Detroit area.  It was sold again in 1961 and finally 1992 where Mr. Frabotta began a comprehensive rebuilding project along with his wife.  It took 3 years for them to convert it into a premier Bed and Breakfast.  It was rated in the top 15 Bed and Breakfasts with the best gourmet breakfast by The Bed and Breakfast Journal.  The Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn is smoke-free environment, no pets and 3000 feet of private Lake Superior shoreline.

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Zeckos Distressed Metal Indoor/Outdoor Compass Rose Wall Hanging 28 Inch

28 in. Diameter, 1/2 in. Wide
Creatively Crafted of Metal in a Simple Compass Design
Distressed Painted Finish Gives it an Eye-Catching Vintage Vibe

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Price: $59.99

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Little River Lighthouse – Cutler Harbor, Maine – ($150 to $225 per night)

HISTORY:  Little River Lighthouse built in 1846, present structure was built in 1876.  The site consists of a tower, keepers house, oilhouse, and boathouse.  The structure is made of iron with a supporting frame of steel and brick.  The lighthouse is 35 feet tall with an octagonal lantern house surrounded by a metal balcony and railing.  The light was automated in 1975.  The Keepers house has been fully restored and is available for overnight stays.  They also have periodic open houses in the summer months.

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INTERESTPRINT Nautical Wheel and Anchor Women’s Jogging Running Sneaker Lightweight Go Easy Walking Shoes

Designed for fashion women, stylish and personalized.
Flywire upper, 3-D shaped, unbelievably lightweight & durable.
EVA sole, shake-proof, anti-heat, anti-moisture, anti-corrosion, non-slip, easy cleaning.

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Price: $59.99 $35.99

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ROSE ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE – Newport Rhode Island – ($150 to $225 per night)

HISTORY: Rose Island Lighthouse was built 1870. Charles Slocum Curtis became the keeper in 1887, and his 31 year stay would be the longest in Rose Island History.  Curtis knew when to light up the tower upon hearing the cannon blast of the “sundown gun”.  After hearing the blast he would know to lower the stars and stripes and light up the tower for the evening.  Clever was Curtis, he rigged a mirror outside on a pole near a window, making it easier for him to check that the light was lit while relaxing in his living room.  Charles Curtis stayed in the lighthouse with his wife and daughter (Mabel).  One day Charles and his wife had to go ashore leaving Mabel behind.  Suddenly, thick fog began to roll in. Mabel knew she had to sound the fog bell but couldn’t get the mechanism to work.  Quick thinking, Mabel grabbed a hammer and manually rang the bell.  She did this for several hours before her parents finally returned.  Wanton Chase (Mabel’s son) played a vital role in the restoration of the lighthouse.  Today Rose Island Lighthouse offers spectacular sunsets while staying in the restored Keepers house.  You are able to make a journey to the top of the lighthouse where you can enjoy soaring eagles and amazing seascapes.

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Wieco Art Island 5 Panels Modern Giclee Canvas Print Stretched and Framed Canvas Wall Art for Home and Office Decor Seascape Picture Photo on Canvas P5RLA029

High?Definition?Giclee?modern canvas print art work,?picture photo printed on high quality canvas. A great gift idea for your relatives and friends.
Stretched and Framed, Ready to Hang. Each panel has a black hook already mounted on the wooden bar for easy hanging out of box.
Size:12x16inchx2pcs,12x24inchx2pcs,12x32inchx1pc (30x40cmx2pcs,30x60cmx2pcs,30x80cmx1pc).

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Price: $39.90

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Royal Blue – Dark Royal Blue 2065-20

Peaches – Beacon Hill Damask HC-2

Sand – Beige HC-24

Light Grey – Booth Bay Gray HC-165

Ocean Blue – Ocean Breeze 2058-60

Green with a hint of yellow – Coastal Plain SW-6192

Orange – Sweet Orange 2017-40

Yellow – Hawthorn Yellow HC-4

Black – Black Jack 2133-20

White – Navajo White 947

Slate Blue – Slate Blue 1648

Here is a nice example of a bedroom done in soft yellows, white and Royal blue.

A Bathroom design with Ocean Blue, Gray and White.

Nautical Metal Wall Plaque for inside or outside your home.

This metal wall plaque would look great on the front of your home outside or on an inside wall.  I’ve been wanting to get one these plaques for the outside of my home.  When I’m out walking my dog, I pass by a home that has one of these and I truly admire it.  I’ll be posting a picture of it soon.  In the mean time Click on the picture below to purchase this item.

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Zeckos Distressed Galvanized Zinc Finish Compass Rose Metal Wall Hanging 39 Inch

39 Inches In Diameter, 1 Inch Deep
Made of Metal
Distressed Galvanized Zinc Finish

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Price: $86.93

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