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Route 66 – Badger Passport Ride – Pontiac, Illinois to Santa Monica, California
Get ready for a thrilling ride!

On July 13, 2023, my human strapped me onto his gleaming Goldwing. We headed out from Winnipeg, Manitoba, for Pontiac, Illinois.

Destination: Route 66 Passport Run.

Sonny and Angie Badger and their dedicated crew crafted an epic route brimming with original Route 66 charm. The plan: to cover a breathtaking 2,278 miles from Chicago to the Santa Monica Pier!

My human’s dream of riding the Original Route 66 has been brewing for ages. Sonny and Angie had brought his dream to reality.

The excitement was infectious. We arrived in Pontiac on July 15, checking into the Best Western Pontiac alongside around 90 other passionate riders.

I couldn’t help but quack in delight at the vibrant atmosphere.

Each segment of our journey was a treasure trove of unique experiences! I’ll share a few highlights to spark your wanderlust and inspire you to add Route 66 to your bucket list!
On the bright and sunny morning of July 16, we zipped over to Chicago. There are snazzy photo ops at the historic starting point of this legendary route.

The evening? Oh boy, it was a blast! Thanks to Sonny and Angie, Pontiac threw us a party worthy of the grandest duck ball!

They shut down the streets for our motley crew, and we revelled in a charming old theatre, feasted on delicious grub, and then hit the hay early to gear up for our grand ride on the 17th.
To ensure that the ride was more manageable, The Badgers had organized a chase trailer and folks to help in emergencies, and we had created smaller daily riding groups.

Darrell, Christina, Rick, Fiona, Greg, Joe, Shawn, and me

By July 17, we were off to our first stop, Rolla, Missouri. With quacks of joy, we kicked off the ride at 7 a.m.

Riding on the original Route 66 transported us back to simpler times when every pothole told a story!

It was a real nostalgia trip for everyone on board.
Pontiac, Illinois to Rolla, Missouri – 306 miles

With the sun peeking over the horizon, we revved our engines at 7 am!

The first leg of our quest whisked us back through time as the nostalgic vibe of Route 66 wrapped around us like a warm feather blanket.

Those cobblestone roads in Missouri felt like a hug from history! I was flapping my wings joyfully, soaking in the sights and sounds!

Rolla, Missouri to Stroud, Oklahoma – 394 miles

Now, here’s where things got quirky—who could resist stopping at Uranus? No kidding! This zany little store greeted us with a cheeky “Welcome to Uranus!”. It was all giggles from here on out, especially when we discovered their famous fudge! Now that’s a treat worth quacking about!

Next up was a delightful stop at The Hangar Kafe, where I had to ruffle my feathers in awe. Not only did they serve scrumptious food, but the place was filled with flying things—hot air balloons and rocket ship replicas galore!

The Kingsley family operates the hangar as a growing crop-dusting business. Also offering the BOBortunity to take a ride on a hot air balloon or plane. You can watch the skydivers on clear days. Maybe even witness a Chinook helicopter stop in for breakfast.

Just as we were getting into the groove, disaster struck! Goldie, our trusty steed, suffered a blowout at full speed. Yikes!

Even as seasoned as he is, my human faced his first “death wobble,” A term used in the motorcycle community to describe a sudden and severe wobble in the front wheel.

I flapped nervously in my seat, but our fantastic riding group rallied in support of my human while he limped Goldie to safety.

A massive shoutout to our new buddy, Darryl, who stood by our side for four hours while we waited for help. Quack-tastic teamwork!

Stroud, Oklahoma to Amarillo, Texas – 316 miles

After a speedy pit stop at Shawnee Motor Sports—thanks, guys!—we charged ahead to Amarillo.

My human decided to hit the Interstate to make up for lost time, missing out on some of those Route 66 gems. We met up with the group to indulge in a legendary steak dinner at The Big Texan! We avoided the daunting 72-ounce challenge sticking with a more “bob-sized” plate,!

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, and nothing felt better than being back with our fantastic crew.

Amarillo, Texas to Grants, New Mexico – 363 miles

Buckle up your feathers because this ride from Amarillo to Grants was a quacking good time! We were cruising and hit the halfway mark of our grand adventure.

One of the coolest stops was the Mid-Point Café—a true desert oasis! There I was, surrounded by a sea of dusty roads, when suddenly, BOOM!

The café appeared like magic! We waddled in to grab some souvenirs, freshen up, and munch delicious snacks.

I couldn’t resist posing for a photo by the sign proclaiming we were at the midpoint of Route 66. Talk about a feather in my cap!

Next up was Tee Pee Curios, a delightful little spot that was a gas station in 1944.

After the highway was widened, the enterprising folks transitioned it to a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs.

Let me tell you, I had a whale of a time digging through all the quirky curios!
Grants, New Mexico to Williams, Arizona – 282 miles

There’s so much fun along this iconic stretch!

I had my photo taken at one of the last remaining Wigwam Villages.

Marvelled at a massive meteor crater from 50,000 years ago. Met some wacky alien replicas in Winslow, Arizona.

And even posed with the famous flatbed Ford from the Eagles’ “Take It Easy.”
Rumour has it that some of our group seized a special BOBortunity. They showed off their line dancing skills “at the corner of Winslow, Arizona,”.

Party on, my feathery friends!
Williams, Arizona to Victorville, California – 349 miles

Then came Oatman, Arizona. A sight straight out of a Wild West movie! We took the Arizona Sidewinder Highway to get there. It was a wild ride! Watch out for the donkeys; they’re on a mission for breakfast and might pop up unexpectedly!

Oatman is a ghost town buzzing with history. The old buildings and roaming donkeys reminded me of the cowboys of yore.

If only we had more time!

We could’ve explored the mine. Witnessed a wild shootout. Ventured to Joshua Tree!

But alas, the sun was blazing, and my rubbery self could only take so much heat. I’ll have to convince my human to make a return trip!

All great BOBortunities must come to an end.

The last stretch through Death Valley was a scorcher!

At 127 degrees, I nearly melted into a puddle!

We all felt the burn as we navigated the sweltering desert. Laughter and hydration kept us afloat.

We reached our final destination of Victorville, hot, tired, and feeling pretty awesome!

But wait, the journey wasn’t over yet!

We made it! BUT…we wanted to see the end of Route 66…SO….

Bonus Day – Victorville, California to Santa Monica Pier, California

We decided to cruise to Santa Monica Pier for one last hurrah. We explored the pier. Gobbled up a farewell lunch. Said our goodbyes. All floating in different directions, homeward bound.
What a wild ride on Route 66!

There are so many memories and a quack-tastic adventure to cherish forever.

Here’s to more journeys and endless fun! Waddle on, my friends!

NEVER MISS A
July 23, 2023
High Ground Veterans Memorial Park – Niellsville, Wisconsin

Hello there, friends! Bob the Rubber Duck here, and let me tell you, I recently took a little detour on my road trip that turned out to be one of the most heartwarming experiences of my life.

I ventured to High Ground Veterans Memorial Park in Neillsville, Wisconsin, and oh, was it worth every splash!

Nestled just three miles from Neillsville, this expansive 155-acre park is not just a beautiful landscape; it’s a heartfelt tribute to all those who’ve bravely served in our armed forces.

This park is founded by a dedicated team of veterans and supporters who wanted to create a space for healing, education, and honoring our heroes.

High Ground truly embodies its mission: to “Honor, Educate, and Heal.” Talk about a noble cause!

As I waddled through the park, I was immediately captivated by the meticulously maintained grounds.

The lush greenery and winding hiking trails offer a peaceful refuge for visitors, allowing for quiet reflection amid the various tributes.

Speaking of tributes, there are over a dozen throughout the park!

Each one tells a unique story of sacrifice and service, from the poignant Wisconsin Vietnam Veterans Tribute, known as “Fragments,” to the National Native American Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

As I paddled through the park, I saw dedicated tributes to various conflicts:

the Korean Veterans Memorial,

the Persian Gulf Tribute,

and the Military Dog Tribute.

There are heartfelt installations:

The Fountain of Tears

The Ascension of Doves

Each tribute seemed to have its own unique energy, and I could feel the respect and gratitude emanating from every corner.

A museum in the park plays a vital role in its mission.

It houses The High Ground Registry Books, where families can record the stories of their loved ones who are honored by the Legacy Honor Stones scattered throughout the park.

What a beautiful way to keep memories alive! The museum regularly hosts exhibits that celebrate the military experience, bringing history to life in an engaging and meaningful way.

I learned that the park is as much about community as it is about remembrance.

Veterans gather for reunions, sharing camaraderie and stories, creating new bonds while reconnecting with old friends.

And let’s not forget the ongoing support the park provides to Veterans in need through food and clothing donations. It truly is a hub of goodwill.

High Ground Veterans Memorial Park isn’t just a pretty place;

it’s an emotional journey that honors the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women.

So if you ever find yourself in central Wisconsin, I wholeheartedly recommend taking a detour to High Ground Veterans Memorial Park.

Whether you’re in it for the stunning nature,

the remarkable history,

or the powerful tributes,

this spot will leave an indelible impression on your heart, much like it did on mine.

NEVER MISS A

May 23, 2023
Blue Springs Cafe – Highland, Illinois

Hey there, fellow flavour fans! It’s me, Bob, your favourite rubber ducky, paddling into your hearts with a tale from one of the coziest nooks in Highland, Illinois—Blue Springs Cafe! If you’re on the hunt for a dining experience that wraps you in warmth and joy, you’ve just flapped your wings into the right spot. This charming eatery serves up not only scrumptious meals but also a heaping side of heartwarming hospitality!

As soon as I quacked through the door of Blue Springs Cafe, it felt like slipping into a fluffy towel after an invigorating swim—pure bliss! The staff welcomed me like a long-lost pal, and I knew right away that this wasn’t just dinner; it was going to be a celebration of family, friends, and good food. They serve meals family-style, which means there’s plenty of deliciousness to share, just like a big, happy duck family!

Now, let’s dive into the culinary delights! Oh, where to begin? We chose the fried cod, pan-fried walleye, and the chicken fried steak—each dish was a masterpiece! The fish was crispy on the outside and delightfully flaky inside, while the chicken fried steak was dripping with luscious white gravy that could make even a grumpy duck like me crack a smile. Now, that’s saying something!

And hold onto your feathers, because the side dishes were an endless parade of yum! We had coleslaw, house-pickled beets, real mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans, fluffy biscuits, and sweet apple butter. The variety was enough to make my little rubber heart dance! My human adored the beets—sweet, earthy, and downright delightful. It was as if the kitchen had conjured up a special dish just for us!

But, oh dear, let’s not forget about the stars of the show: the mile-high pies! Seriously, these towering treats are taller than me! The meringue was like a fluffy cloud that you could lose yourself in. Even after devouring so much delectable food, we couldn’t resist boxing up a lemon meringue pie for later. My human has a sweet tooth for cherry pie, so she snagged a slice for our road trip ahead. Whether you fancy classic fruit pies or creamy delights that stand tall, these beauties are reason enough to veer off the interstate and indulge!

So, if you find yourself navigating the waters of Highland, make sure to steer your boat towards Blue Springs Cafe! With its inviting atmosphere, friendly faces, and mouthwatering fare, it’s a true gem celebrating the joy of good food and great company. Trust me, every quacking good bite is a delightful adventure you can’t miss! Quack quack, and happy dining, my friends!

NEVER MISS A

May 15, 2023
Mall of America – Bloomington, Minnesota

Today, I found myself lost in delightful memories of the days before the fame—back when my adventures were just a splash in the pond. Let me take you back to the Spring of 2023, a time that changed everything! My humans and I were cruising the open road when we rolled through Minneapolis, Minnesota.

That’s when I saw it: a glowing sign announcing the MALL OF AMERICA!

I couldn’t contain my excitement!

I quacked, flapped my wings, and pointed toward the big “MALL” like it was a beacon calling my name.

Now, my humans aren’t exactly shopping enthusiasts. It took some serious convincing—and a few adorable waddles—to get them to pull into the parking lot.

But boy, oh boy, was it worth it!

As we waddled through the doors, I was met with a whirlwind of sights and sounds. This was no ordinary mall; it was an epic wonderland!

The Mall of America opened its doors in 1992 and became the largest shopping mall in the U.S. It is the biggest in the Western Hemisphere, and the twelfth largest in the entire world! With about 40 million visitors every year, it’s essentially a tourist hotspot in its own right.

Fun fact: did you know it has a sister mall in Canada, West Edmonton Mall, which is the second largest mall in North America?

These owners know how to go big!

With over 500 venues, each offering a unique experience, the Mall of America was truly my kind of place.

I have to start with the DUCKY ones!

Duck Donuts—though it’s no longer there (sad quacks)—

and the colourful Sugar Factory that still captures hearts and taste buds alike. This sweet spot is known for being the most Instagrammed restaurant in the U.S. How cool is that?

The culinary adventure didn’t stop there! Your taste buds might just want to fly—and boy, did my humans’ mouths water at the sight of all those amazing restaurants.

Cadillac Ranch takes you on a Route 66 road trip without leaving your seat.

And who could miss Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., filled with memorabilia from one of the most heartwarming movies ever?

And oh, Margaritaville! The name alone whisks me away to images of sun-soaked adventures.

Plus, noshing on a burger at Wahlburgers, alongside the cutouts of the famous Wahlberg brothers, is a fun photo op for sure!

For coffee lovers like my human, it was a must to swing by Caribou Coffee, followed by an irresistible Cinnabon. You better believe I “supervised” while they indulged!

Next, let’s talk candy!

M&M’s was pure paradise! I could’ve spent my entire day there. I contemplated the mysteries of chocolate and possibly even shared some yellow M&Ms with you!

But I couldn’t linger too long, as the call of adventure beckoned!

The amusement park within the mall was an absolute blast! The Fairly Odd Coaster had me quacking with joy. Meanwhile, the SpongeBob SquarePants Rock Bottom Plunge gave me thrilling views from above.

I also tried my wing at building with Legos.

However, crafting my own stuffed animal at Create A Bear gave me a take home prize.

It’s amazing how creative I can be!

And then, oh boy, the grand finale at Sea Life!

As I swam amongst vibrant fish, avoiding the jaws of grumpy sharks and snoopy piranhas, I felt right at home.

Watching giant manta rays gliding gracefully and jellyfish floating like paintings in the water was mesmerizing.

Plus, getting up close and personal with turtles? Talk about living the dream!

After this whirlwind of experiences, I realized our time at the Mall of America was just a sneak peek into its endless excitement.

So, if you ever find yourself in Minnesota, don’t miss the chance to check out the incredible Mall of America in Bloomington. Trust me, it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss! I can’t wait to share even more adventures with you!

But here’s the kicker: as I waddled and quacked my way through the mall, curious folks kept stopping to learn about my journey!

I went from sharing my adventure stories with my human family to inviting all of you along for the ride.

I’ve covered many miles since then, and love sharing my BOBortunities with you!

NEVER MISS A

May 4, 2023
Horseshoe Falls – Niagara Falls, Ontario

Do you ever dive into an old photo album and unleash a flood of memories? Well, that’s exactly what I was doing this morning. I stumbled upon pictures from our epic road trip back in May 2023! Talk about a quacking good time!

One of my humans had a packed schedule, zipping from place to place like a whirlwind. But you know how kids can be, right? I kept flapping my wings, chirping about wanting to stop at Niagara Falls.

After what felt like an eternity (okay, maybe just a few minutes), she finally relented. “Fine, Bob, we can stop for 15 minutes for you to see The Falls from the Canadian side!” Victory was mine!

Now, let me tell you, Niagara Falls is not just any waterfall; it’s a magnificent trio of falls. These are Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. They all spill over the edge in a glorious rush of water!

The view from the Canadian side is simply breathtaking.

Horseshoe Falls, the biggest of all, straddles the border between Canada and the USA. And boy, oh boy, it packs a punch with the highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America!

More than 168,000 cubic meters of water thunder over the crest EVERY MINUTE.

Just imagine that roar—it’s music to a little rubber duckie’s ears!

As we approached, the excitement buzzed in the air. We parked the car, and I flapped out faster than you could say “quack-tastic!” The crowd was buzzing, and I could feel the anticipation. Come on, let’s flutter to the lookout points! The sound of water crashing down into the rocks below was like nature’s applause. Sweet squeals of delight erupted from kids nearby, their eyes wide with wonder as they experienced the falls for the first time. I was practically bouncing with joy!

And then I spotted them—a boat down below, braving the mist and the spray for a closer look.

I could almost hear the humans laughing as they soaked up the splendor. They probably got a little drenched in the process.

Oh, how I wished I could jump in and join them!

But alas, my time was limited. Just when the magic was reaching its peak, the clock struck “time’s up.” So we had to hightail it back to the car.

My dreams of bouncing on the waves below and experiencing all the exhilarating adventures Niagara Falls had to offer fluttered away like a wayward feather.

Still, those 15 glorious minutes filled my little heart with unforgettable memories.

Niagara Falls, you will forever be imprinted in my rubbery soul. I will be back to experience the area and all it has to offer! Onward to the next adventure! Quack on!

NEVER MISS A

May 3, 2023
Indianapolis, Indiana

Quack, quack! Greetings from the lively streets of Indianapolis, Indiana! Bob the Rubber Duck here, and boy, do I have some fantastic tales from my recent adventures in this vibrant city! Although my humans and I couldn’t possibly explore every nook and cranny in a short two days, we made a delightful splash.

One of the absolute highlights was our visit to the magnificent Lucas Oil Stadium. Wowza!

This architectural marvel is home to the legendary Indianapolis Colts, and I couldn’t help but picture myself waddling along the sidelines, quacking for the team!

The stadium buzzed with an electric atmosphere, even though no games were scheduled during our visit.

Just imagining the crowds cheering and the excitement in the air was enough to send ripples of joy through my little rubber belly!

Next up, we strolled over to the Indiana War Memorial—what a sight!

This profound tribute is a stunning blend of history and reflection. It honours the brave souls who served in the armed forces. As we paused to pay our respects, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the sacrifices made in the name of freedom. It was a moving experience, and I recommend it to anyone visiting the city.

And oh, the Canal Walk! This gorgeous pathway felt like my own personal floating paradise!

The shimmering water glistened under the sun, and the views were simply breathtaking. I had a blast watching my feathered friends glide by. I wanted to jump in and join the fun! If you’re looking for a picturesque setting in Indy, this is the place to be.

After a delightful stroll, my humans and I stopped by Firehouse Subs for a quick lunch.

Let me tell you, those sandwiches were a quackin’ treat! Piled high with fresh ingredients, they provided the perfect fuel to power our next adventures. I particularly loved the bold flavours—if you find yourself in town, don’t skip this delicious stop!

Fuelled for excitement, we couldn’t resist the call of the legendary Indianapolis Speedway!

This colossal racetrack, famous for hosting the Indy 500, is a place where speed demons and racing legends come to life. We were not there on a race day, but I can almost hear the roar of engines and the cheers of enthusiastic fans. I imagine myself flying down the straightaway, splashing through puddles at top speed, and soaking up the cheers as I cross an imaginary finish line!

As our epic Indianapolis journey came to a close, we treated ourselves to a fantastic dinner at Bynum’s Steakhouse.

Oh my quack! The meals were absolute perfection, and each bite was a heavenly experience. The cozy, inviting atmosphere was just right to unwind after a whirlwind day of exploring.

All in all, Indianapolis exceeded my wildest expectations, blending urban excitement with a hint of historical allure.

Even as a humble rubber duck, I felt entirely at home amidst the dynamic atmosphere! If you ever find yourself paddling through this delightful city, be sure to explore every sight, savour every flavour, and soak in the incredible surroundings. Until my next grand adventure, keep floating and quacking along!

NEVER MISS A

April 29, 2023
Bynum’s Steakhouse – Indianapolis, Indiana

I recently found myself on a grand adventure in the bustling city of Indianapolis, Indiana. Oh, what a delightful journey it was! My humans, always on the prowl for a fantastic meal, wanted a place that celebrated their love for beef.

After some quacking around, Bynum’s Steakhouse caught our eye. They had their heart set on something great, and oh, did they make the right choice at Bynum’s Steakhouse!

Bynum’s Steakhouse isn’t just any eatery; it’s been a cornerstone of the Indianapolis food scene for over 20 years! The second-generation owner, Ritchie Curry, believes strongly in making every guest feel valued. This place is all about serving up joy along with a great meal, and boy, did that resonate with us as we hopped our way inside! Dining at Bynum’s Steakhouse was an experience to remember.

As we arrived, massive Hereford and Angus bull statues—the official welcome wagon—stood proudly at the entrance.

It was like stepping into a cowboy movie, with a rustic yet elegant ambiance that made my rubber heart sing. I might not eat, but I sure can appreciate a good vibe at Bynum’s Steakhouse!

The service? Let me tell you, it was like sunshine on a warm day!

Our server was bursting with enthusiasm and made it his mission to ensure my humans understood every item on the menu. He refilled their drinks faster than I can float down a stream, and even rallied the other diners into a joyous celebration—talk about a duck-filled good time!

The menu was a feast for the senses!

Some ventured “from The Deep,” choosing delightful morsels of Swordfish and Lobster, while others gravitated towards the beefy “House Specialties” featuring Angus beef aged for a whopping 21 days.

And then there was the star of the show—the legendary 32-ounce bone-in Prime Rib. Talk about a beefy challenge! Two brave souls decided to compete in an ultimate meat-off. Who would conquer this colossal portion at Bynum’s Steakhouse? My little rubber flipper was cheering them on!

While waiting for our main courses, the humans enjoyed their onion soup and salad—oh boy, did I wish I could taste that! The laughter and camaraderie that filled the room made it feel like one big happy family. We even exchanged stories with a group celebrating a special occasion nearby. It was pure joy—a true gathering of souls over good food.

Then, the moment we’d all been waiting for arrived: the main dishes!

The sight of those prime rib dinners took our breath away; they looked positively glorious. One enthusiastic human tackled the entire portion, while the other waved the white flag of surrender, something I completely understood—32 ounces is no small feat!

Our stellar server, like a culinary artist, packed up the leftovers with such flair, wrapping everything in foil as if it were a precious gift. The whole experience was a whirlwind of flavours, laughter, and sheer delight.

If I were to rate Bynum’s Steakhouse—as a dedicated rubber duck who’s seen many great eateries—I’d give Bynum’s Steakhouse a jaw-dropping 7.5 out of 5!

There wasn’t a single thing that could have made the experience better.

Thank you, Bynum’s, for creating such a memorable part of my humans’ Indianapolis adventure!

NEVER MISS A

April 28, 2023
42nd Street Oyster Bar – Raleigh, North Carolina

Ahoy there! It’s me, Bob the Rubber Duck, here to share an underwater tale about one of Raleigh’s most beloved dining spots: the 42nd Street Oyster Bar. Now, I may not have feet to explore, but I’ve soaked in enough stories and splashes of fun. Let me tell you why this place was a must-visit!

Imagine stepping into a vibrant world where the salty sea air mixes with the buzzing excitement of a popular restaurant.

That’s precisely the vibe at 42nd Street Oyster Bar, a delightful establishment that opened its doors back in 1931. Initially, it was a simple grocery store selling fresh oysters.

With time, it transformed, evolving into a lively hub where folks could gather. They would swap stories and enjoy a pint of draft beer in frosted mugs—a first for the area, mind you!

Fast forward to 1987, and the restaurant had a grand makeover. It found its new home at the corners of Jones and West streets. It wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a treasure chest filled with nostalgia. There were quirky neon signs and a wall decked with license plates.

Each corner told a story, with photos of Raleigh’s rich history hanging around like old friends. This setting was perfect for a rubber duck like me who adores tales of yore!

Even the bathrooms held some entertaining signs and sayings!

Now, let’s talk about the food, my favourite subject!

My human companions dove into a fresh medley of oysters right off the daily catch. I must say, this had me quacking with envy!

They indulged in hearty portions of steaks and seafood, each plate looking more scrumptious than the last. And oh, those cheesy potatoes? I have no words!

Sadly, the waves of change hit hard when, in March 2025, the doors closed after nearly a century of delicious memories. The search for a viable lease was just too slippery.

But not all hope is lost!

Here’s the exciting splash: whispers from the ocean suggest that a team from the former ownership is determined to float the idea of reopening in February 2026.

Can you believe it? We might get to splash back into those old memories again!

So whether you’re a seafood lover or just someone who appreciates a dash of nostalgia, keep your eyes peeled for the revival of this iconic establishment. Until then, I’ll be here, ready for a new adventure! Quack on!

NEVER MISS A

April 15, 2023