#<<<<<< someone who tried film photography last year and is now into fixing cars

[dykedivorce]

one thing about scrolling tumblr as a hobby is that it doesn't cost money

#<<<<<< someone who tried film photography last year and is now into fixing cars

[jeongyunhoed]

You’re traveling to another dimension It is a dimension as vast as space and as timeless as infinity It is the middle ground between light and shadow, Between science and superstition It ties between the pit of man’s fears and the summit of his knowledge This is the dimension of imagination

An ATEEZ Twilight Zone!AU (masterlist here)

A/N: If you thought Jongho’s was dark, and if Hongjoong’s was dark, it’s about to get even darker. Also, this is our sexy guy’s bonus chapter for this AU. I hope you all enjoy it. I actually had to pause in between writing because it scared the hoohah out of me. 

T/W: Death. Enough said. 

XIV. Detour (Wooyoung)

3:00 p.m.

Jung Wooyoung bid his parents and his siblings goodbye while he placed his bags in the backseat of the car after staying with them during his vacation. He was currently on a two-week vacation after what felt like a year of working one project after another as a cinematographer at the production company he worked for. The job was hard and demanded long hours at a time especially when principal photography began. Casting people alone would take weeks at a time unless nearly direct connections were present and there was a lot of money in the budget. The company he worked for made several film-festival qualifying entries, two of which were nominated for major awards. 

He got in the car, promising to call his mother up when he arrived at his next destination, this time to spend the remaining days of his vacation with some of his friends at a water park. The trip was going to be long and Wooyoung took note of the stops he might make along the way. Wooyoung had already consumed enough coffee for him to stay awake. As he turned his car to one exit, he heard something pop, making him accidentally lose control of the wheel upon paying attention and skidding towards the shoulder of the road. 

It was times like these that Wooyoung was glad to have worn a seatbelt. He reached over to his bag for his phone and got out of the car. Wooyoung turned to call emergency services for help and waited while he looked at the flat tire that his own car was now sporting. He was going to be a little behind schedule at this point, but there wasn’t anything he could do about it. 

The mechanic, a tall young man by the name of Jeong Yunho arrived, parking his car close by. “What’s the problem?” He asked, lugging his tools. 

“I don’t think that’s a regular flat tire, isn’t it?” Wooyoung asked, pointing at the damaged wheel. 

Yunho bent down to take a look at the wheels, noticing everything else about the car he was driving. “You… you survived this?” He asked, unable to contain his surprise. 

“Yeah, I mean, I was wearing a seatbelt though, so yeah, I did,” Wooyoung nodded. “I feel fine, I’m not hurt, just behind schedule, you know? I need to get to the water park a little up north,” He explained. 

He noticed the mechanic look at him strangely, and then look back at the tires of his car. “You shouldn’t have called for a mechanic, somebody should’ve called for a hearse,” Yunho said, getting back up. 

“That bad, huh?” Wooyoung said, unsure of whether to feel relieved or offended. 

“You don’t have a spare tire in your trunk?” He asked. 

Wooyoung went to the back and opened the trunk. It was empty. “Oh, no, I guess I must’ve forgotten to pick one up before I came here. I was coming back from my family,” He replied. 

“Well, okay,” Yunho nodded. “I can replace your tire but so it doesn’t happen again, you’ll have to follow me into the nearest service station so I can get you a spare tire,” He still looked surprised, walking back to his own car to get the tire from his trunk. 

“Thank you,” Wooyoung replied. 

~ 

He was on his way a moment later, following Yunho into the service station, still quite shaken from his little accident earlier. But at least he could still drive, he thought, and pretty much everything still worked. As Wooyoung continued to drive, following Yunho’s car, he noticed a blonde man standing by the side of the road, trying to hitchhike. He was dressed like a black and white school uniform, only the ends of his sleeves were ripped, and his knees a little dirty, yet the shabbiness of his clothes didn’t take away from the fact that he was undoubtedly handsome. He looked exactly like the people Wooyoung’s company would cast in videos. The male even managed to make a mullet look good. 

Wooyoung drove on, parking the car at the service station that Yunho led him to. “I’ll get you a new tire, I’ll be back in a second,” the mechanic said as he got out of the car, rushing inside the garage and into a back room. 

He looked through his bags for his wallet in case he had any extra money on him to pay for the mechanic’s efforts. Wooyoung stopped to glance at the rearview mirror, stopping for a moment in surprise when he saw the blonde man standing across the street from where he was. He stood back up when Yunho returned, rolling what would be a new spare tire for his car. “That guy across the street needs help or something,” He said, gesturing to the blonde across the road. 

Yunho looked over and raised a brow. “Is there? I don’t see anyone,” He said. “We can only take cash for now since our machine for cards needs fixing.” 

Wooyoung looked taken aback at his comment and nodded as he handed over a few bills when he heard the price. He looked over again to see the blonde still standing there, attempting to hitchhike but failing. The more he noticed the blonde, the more Wooyoung sensed that there was something unusual about him. He began to drive, knowing how behind schedule he was and how most of his friends were either already approaching their destination or probably waiting for him to arrive. 

~ 

Night had fallen and Wooyoung was still on the road, music softly playing from his speakers while he hummed along to stay awake. There weren’t many cars on the road alongside him, but to his surprise, as he was nearing another marker that indicated how far he still had to go, Wooyoung saw the blonde again. This time, he looked like he meant to flag him down. He kept going, trying to shake off the uncomfortable feeling he was getting, somehow it had gotten worse since he first saw him. 

The further along he went, Wooyoung was feeling more and more terrified. Every turn he went, he could see the blonde trying to flag him down as if having anticipated that he would be going in the same direction. It made him think about those documentaries he watched, about serial killer encounters often occurring in vehicles. Wooyoung needed to keep going if he wanted to get away from him.

He was approaching a railroad crossing soon after, and to his surprise again, Wooyoung saw the blonde standing on the other side of the tracks, hoping to flag him down. He wanted to step on the gas, only for his car to shut off all of a sudden. The last thing he wanted was to get caught, especially when someone like the blonde guy was trying to go after him. His heart was pounding in fear as he tried to restart the car just as the train was coming, passing in front of him. To Wooyoung’s relief, the car started again, but as the train was gone, the blonde was still standing there, trying to flag him down. 

Wooyoung stomped on the gas, the car speeding up as if wanting to outrun the blonde guy. He felt like he was a long way away again from where he wanted to go but he didn’t care. He was fearing for his life if he kept driving down the same road he planned to take. For all he knew, the man would be there. How could he know where he was driving? More importantly, who was he? 

He made a turn to the side road, entering the more rural parts until he noticed his car slow down. He had forgotten to get gas a few kilometers back, but his resolve remained. At least he was alive. Wooyoung pulled over and got out, sprinting towards the gas station just as the lone clerk, an old man, was about to close for the night. “Excuse me! Excuse me!” He called out, getting the attention of the clerk. “Excuse me! Sir!” Wooyoung called out again as he skidded to a halt. 

“We’re closed for the night,” The old man spoke. 

“Sir, can I please just have my car filled with gas? I’m in a hurry right now and my car won’t be able to make it any further if I don’t,” Wooyoung asked. 

“The guy who usually operates the machines went home already, he lives far away,” The man replied. 

“Please, I just need to fill my car with gas, I’m in a hurry and I’m already behind schedule,” Wooyoung pleaded. In the corner of his eye, he could sense someone was watching him. The more he tilted his head, he saw the blonde guy again standing across the street. “Sir, please, I’m…” He paused. “I’m in trouble, someone is after me, that guy across the street, he’s trying to kill me,” He lowered his voice. 

“Please, sir?” A young woman approached them, trying to appeal to the old man as well having overheard their conversation. “He does seem to be in a hurry, please fill up his car with gas.” 

“Oh alright,” The old man sighed, returning to the machines. 

“Thank you! Thank you!” Wooyoung was relieved, and he sprinted back to his car to drive towards the gas station. It was then he realized how late it had gotten. His friends were probably already enjoying themselves without him. He hated to think that they might have turned in for the night, played a round of games without him. But he couldn’t do anything about it. 

He pulled up at the gas station where the old man and the young woman was waiting. Wooyoung got out of the car and approached the young woman, who seemed to be staring at her phone, with a large duffel bag next to her. “Nice car,” She said upon seeing him. 

“Thanks, it’s been through a lot today,” Wooyoung said. “Are you going somewhere?” 

“Yeah, I’m hoping to catch a bus, but it looks like I’ll be waiting all night,” She said. 

“If you’re going my way, I could give you a ride? It’s the least I could do for helping me convince the guy to fill my car with gas,” Wooyoung suggested. 

The girl smiled. “Really? You’d do that?” She asked. 

“Yeah, I could use the company right now,” He replied. “Actually, I think I’m being chased, that’s why I’m in a hurry,” Wooyoung glanced across the street. The blonde guy was no longer there, but he realized that the male was already on his side of the street, staring at him. “That guy, that guy over there, he’s- He’s been following me.” 

The girl looked over to where he was looking, then gave him a look. “Guy? What guy? I don’t see anyone.” 

“The blonde guy, he’s over there,” Wooyoung added. 

“I don’t see anyone, I’m sorry,” The girl replied. 

“How could you not see? He’s over there,” Wooyoung pointed to the blonde guy, but the girl just shook her head. 

“There’s no one there, I don’t think you’re being followed, and frankly, I’m starting to feel uncomfortable,” The girl began to back away, getting up. “If that’s how you get girls to get with you, I should tell you I’m not easy and I can call the police if you take another step closer,” She took her bags and stormed off. 

“No! Really! No! Please!” Wooyoung groaned in frustration, his heart pounding as he could clearly see the guy staring at him and standing on his side of the road. He shoved a few bills in the old man’s hand when he saw that he was done and got back in the car, driving away quickly. 

It hadn’t been long before he had to pull over at yet another rest stop noticing that his phone battery had drained and needed charging. 

He got out of the car again, figuring that he needed another cup of coffee to stay awake for the rest of the journey. “Hello, may I please use your phone?” He asked the clerk, who nodded. 

Wooyoung dialed the numbers to his parents’ house. He needed to let them know where he was now, and maybe tell them about the man who was trying to follow him. “Hello?” He heard an unfamiliar voice on the other line. 

“Hello? May I speak to my mom? Mrs. Jung?” Wooyoung asked. 

“Mrs. Jung? She’s in the hospital right now, they all are,” The voice replied. 

He felt his heart skip a beat. “What? Why?!” He was unable to contain the panic that immediately sank in. 

“Mrs. Jung suffered a nervous breakdown. The news reported that her son, Jung Wooyoung, died in a car accident on the road somewhere,” The voice replied. “Apparently the car overturned when a tire burst or something.” 

Wooyoung couldn’t speak. It was then that everything today started to make sense, including the blonde guy’s constant appearance. No wonder the mechanic said he was surprised that he survived. He had long passed. Nothing mattered anymore. 

He returned to his car and got back in. Wooyoung looked up at the mirror and instead of his reflection, he saw the blonde guy staring back at him in his place. “I believe you’re going, my way?” He asked. 

Wooyoung could only nod in response. 

#kdiner #ateez #ateez scenarios #ateez fanfic #wooyoung #jung wooyoung #jeong wooyoung #ateez wooyoung

[rinnnyxr]

I’m happy I’m sad I’m motivated I’m unmotivated I’m sick I’m taken I have a crush I’m in love I’m single I’m brokenhearted

I want to sleep I want to study I want to go out I want to stay home I have school today I have work today

I’m afraid of spiders I’m afraid of being alone I’m afraid of snakes I’m afraid of flying I’m afraid of failure I’m afraid of clowns

I took chemistry classes in high school I took math classes in high school I took English classes in high school I took geography classes in high school I took biology classes in high school I had gym in high school I took art classes in high school I took science classes in high school I took history classes in high school I took physics classes in high school I was in the theatre after school program in high school I had some sort of music classes in high school I had some sort of dance classes in high school

-

Bold the things you’ve never done.

I’ve never gone to Disney World. I’ve never been out of my home country. I’ve never kissed a stranger on the lips. I’ve never read a book over eight hundred pages. I’ve never painted a picture on a canvas. I’ve never sang in front of a large crowd by myself.

I’ve never had braces. I’ve never learned French. I’ve never had a fight with my dad. I’ve never updated my status through my phone. I’ve never used Nair. I’ve never cut my wrists. I’ve never wanted plastic surgery. I’ve never drank organic regular milk. I’ve never learned Chinese. I’ve never blew up a balloon. I’ve never changed a baby’s diaper. I’ve never lost my phone for good. I’ve never lost a friend through death. I’ve never met one of my grandparents. I’ve never met someone with my exact name. I’ve never dated someone with red hair. I’ve never put on eyeliner for myself. I’ve never took a dance class. I’ve never tried weed. I’ve never tried drugs. I’ve never cooked dinner for my family. I’ve never had anything besides my ears pierced. I’ve never had a tattoo. I’ve never went to the beach to tan. I’ve never kissed anyone on the lips that was younger than me. I’ve never dumped someone. I’ve never stepped in something nasty barefooted. I’ve never cheated on someone. I’ve never waxed anything on my body. I’ve never dyed my whole head a different color. I’ve never kissed anyone who was above the age of seventeen. I’ve never kissed in the rain. I’ve never gone a day without laughing. I’ve never got held back a grade. I’ve never stolen anything over twenty dollars.

-

Aries

Waiting until the last minute TL;DR (too long, didn’t read) Angry crying 4 am seamless Big flirt Hot yoga “Why are you so upset? I’m over it now” No filter Cutting in line at the store Skipping to the “good part” Ignoring the speed limit Tinder Shoplifting Exclamation points!!! Bad tattoos Caffeine addiction Toned AF Muay Thai “Don’t touch me” Breaking a bone Spelling errors Picking fights for no reason Lowkey really sensitive Skipping breakfast 7/24

Taurus Falling asleep on the subway Going barefoot Using hands as utensils Calling in sick Materialism Tree climbing Cuddling Controlling the aux Great British baking show “I deserve to treat myself” Aesthetics Spending the whole day in bed Anything that says “natural” on it Long-term relationships Expensive sheets Picnics in the park Essential oils Sex as exercise Tender Wearing the same outfit 3 days in a row Says a controversial opinion and then “I’m not going to argue” Calm, cool, and collected Silk everything 5 meals a day 7/24

Gemini Giving unqualified advice 50 different tangents “Prove it” Playing Devil’s advocate Can’t keep a secret Scamming Carrying a book around Arguing for fun Always knowing the latest gossip Adderall Spilling guts to the Uber driver Rationalizing emotions Lying to be more interesting Most active in the group chat Anxiety Telling the same story 10 times to perfect it Philosophy 1000 ideas per minute Sardonic sense of humor Full of interesting facts 23 best friends Internet memes Forgot how to cry Living a double life 4/24

Cancer Screenshots Same friends since high school Sleeps with a stuffed animal Vintage clothes Cries when yelled at Going home early Nesting Holding grudges Mood swings Drinking tea Supporting others’ chaos Social anxiety HGTV Super protective of loved ones Accidental emotional manipulation Cooking for friends Likes animals more than humans Meeting someone and immediately planning their whole lives together Empathizing with film protagonists Vivid childhood memories “Mi casa es tu casa” Serial monogamist Good emotional memory Big hugs 8/24

Leo Mid-day outfit changes Giving out compliments Taking an hour to get ready Accidentally flirting Making friends in the Uber pool Using a window as a mirror Passionate emotional outbursts Lowkey insecure Creating drama to avoid boredom Opening up after just meeting someone Going to the spa Needing to make opinions known Large but fragile ego Wanting recognition for your generosity Making a scene Pretending life is reality TV Giving really subjective advice Overdressed for the function Creative genius Social media as therapy Trying something and being instantly good at it Can’t take a joke Self-care Urge to stand out 7/24

Virgo Over-analyzing friendships Fact check Knowing a little about everything Helping people get their shit together Very specific tastes Fixing it or making it 10x worse Personal projects Health routines Pretending to have your shit together Repeating a task over and over until it’s perfect On good terms with your trash exes Stretching self too thin Stuck in negative thought cycles Noticing little things no one else notices Needs to quit like 3 things Nitpicking Self-sacrificing Hyperfocus Reading 3 books at once “Sorry for the late reply” Functioning on 3 hours of sleep Can’t turn brain off Neurotic Putting yourself last 17/24

Libra Fomo (fear of missing out) Saying yes to every opportunity A little bit of suck up Fear of being alone Flirting with everyone but your crush Tossing a coin to make big decisions Easily influenced Art films Strong sense of right and wrong Torn between being social and having much needed alone time New crush every day Going to museums Overthinking romantic relationships Truly admiring all your friends Adopting others’ hobbies and mannerisms Overdraft fees Showing up late or not showing up at all Avoiding conflicts at all costs Talking about past romances on the first date Gossipy but with good intentions Panicking when someone raises their voice Trying to see both sides Unable to end a bad relationship Pretending to hate drama 9/24

Scorpio Resting bitch face Keeping the right amount of secrets Has a “hit” list (either meaning) Needing to have control in relationships Knowing what you want and exactly how to get it Disappearing at parties Morbid thoughts Believes in “energy” Attractive Staring from across the room Stalking crush’s social media Fascination with cults Still in an emo phase Breaking hearts but sad about it Trust issues All black Existential angst Silently walking away from uninteresting conversations Chaotic emotions behind a calm mask Craving emotional intensity “What am I gonna gain from it?” Seeming intimidating, actually really sensitive Friendships of utility Loves crime 12/24

Sagittarius Losing interest and quitting anything that doesn’t come easily Giving opinions without being asked No inside voice Arguing as foreplay Backpacking trips Talking over people Stating opinions as facts Corny jokes Took one philosophy class and is basically Nietzsche now Always having the last word Using big words to sound smart Speaking more than one language Fueled by laughter Calling friends on their BS Asking for advice and then not taking it Needing to change activities every 30 minutes Telling it like it is Correcting people Unwaveringly optimistic Laugh can be heard from across the room Talking about a book after only reading the Wikipedia synopsis Learning a lot from travel Periodically getting rid of all your belongings Pulling out a party trick 9/24

Capricorn Fear of not living up to potential Overcommitting Anything ‘rustic’ Favorite song is the NPR jingle Has real, tangible goals Repressing trauma Always on time Slow and steady Minding your own business Prefers on one hangs to group hangs Work/life balance Putting more money into savings than you take out Acting 20 years older than you actually are Is prepared for the worst-case scenario Never asking for help Reading for fun Is actually normcore Taking care of business Taking things seriously Motivated by stress Minimalism Hanging out with the same 3 people Bashful around crush Holding friends to high standards 9/24

Aquarius Lowkey superstitious Obscure music David Lynch Weird makeup Self-given haircuts Bad at flirting Feeling like an alien Reding conspiracy theories on the internet Estranged from emotions Experimental poetry Martyr complex Being called a free spirit Abstract concepts Making plans and canceling them Intellectual superiority A little arrogant Loves an underdog Using a thesaurus Activism Fuck the rules Intentionally provocative Highly ethical Queer theory Niche knowledge base 1/24

Pisces Head in the clouds Misplacing keys Unofficially moving in with friends Easily overwhelmed Empathizing with plants Existential crisis #3 Really long showers Leaving clothes in a pile on the ground Using fantasies as an escape Romantic drama Need for constant validation Acts either 7 or 70 Incredibly active imagination Cripplingly self-aware Over-apologizing In love with 10 people at once Binge drinking Giving good advice but can’t apply it to yourself Secretly writes poetry Crying in the bathroom at work Can’t take criticism Mind reading #NoBoundaries Saying something deep out of nowhere 12/24

I am most like a Virgo (my actual sign)

-

You have an ex You don’t wear glasses You have blue/gray/green eyes

You’re pretty tall

You can drive a manual transmission car

You know how to change the oil

You know all about cars

You have a serious passion for photography

You’ve known your best friend since middle school You’re close friends with someone since elementary school You prefer Quiznos over Subway

You’re in a relationship You’ve had a rebound before You’ve been in a relationship for five years

You’ve cheated before

You’ve dated someone who was Asian You’ve dated someone who was Hispanic

You’ve dated someone of your own ethnicity You like to sleep a lot You were born in winter Your birthday is in February

You’re the oldest in your family

You have a younger sister You have a cat You don’t have step-parents You often work the night shifts at your job

You can play the drums

You know a lot about flowers

You’re allergic to shellfish

You like garlic You like a lot of cheese

You get real Christmas trees

You’ve been in a car accident before You’ve snuck people over to your house You’re part Hawaiian

You’re a Pisces

You have no tattoos You have no piercings You have brown hair You have a Steam account You don’t have a Twitter

You’re hardly on any networking sites

You have an XBox360 You don’t like Playstation products very much

You have relatives in Alaska and/or Hawaii

You have a Toshiba laptop

You love German Shepherds You love Welsh Corgis You are Republican

You are Methodist

Your room is rarely ever clean

You’ve drunk dialed someone

A nasty rumor has been spread about you You’re in college One of your parents was at one point enlisted in the military

You are close with your family You like paintballing

You don’t smoke You don’t do drugs

You have a habit of keeping things you borrowed longer than expected

[nctinfo]

[TRANS] Jaemin’s interview with Allure March 2020 issue!

How are you? Hasn't it been so long since the last pictorial with NCT DREAM? First off, I turned 21 with the new year. (laughs) After the last pictorial for <Allure>, I was continuously practicing for our concert.

It was DREAM's first solo concert, right? It was completely the first time. We have done the 'DREAM Show' before but rather than calling it a concert, it felt more like a fan meeting. So it was the first time we officially had a concert. So, similarly, this concert was called 'The Dream Show'. We started in Korea and we are now continuing our tour. Anyhow, it's our first concert, so I'm gaining a lot of experience through all the feedback we're receiving.

The first concert is a special experience that doesn't come twice. What kind of stage did you prepare to show? I was all over the place at first. Since I had never done a solo concert, I had no idea how to envision it. Even though we did a run-through rehearsal, it was still very different with the audience present. There was also a time when my head went completely blank. I think it's because I was so nervous, I've never had that happen before. After gathering myself together, I set my mind to have fun. If we don't enjoy it, the fans won't enjoy the stage either. If we're really excited, then the fans will enjoy the excitement together with us. It will definitely feel different.

It seems like you're really connecting (with your fans). Did you also get closer to your members? We were originally already very close. As the concert tour passes, the members would voluntarily come up with ideas. We got better at saying things like: let's add an adlib here, let's run together at this part. The good thing about having someone give an idea like that is that we get to practice it during rehearsals and then apply it immediately to the show.

The album and the performances clearly show the team's growth. I was able to see that at the concert too. The team 'Dream' started as a team of teens. I was really young during <Chewing Gum>. As we grew <Go> came out, <We Go Up> came out... like it was an extension. We just wanted to continue showing our growth as we progress. For <Chewing Gum>, a cuteness that was definitely only possible at that age was shown.

Do you have any regrets? We definitely have a lot of bright and happy songs. It would've been nice if there was a darker song where we could've shown more charisma. If there were such songs, I think we would've been able to show more sides of us.

How did you feel when you saw the fans directly? 'Wah, this is really possible.' When I'm attached to the wire and go up (on stage) I can see all the fans in one glance. We always rehearsed on a stage where there was nobody, and I almost cried when I saw the fans sitting there at our first performance. I was always curious how it would feel when I saw the concerts of our sunbaes. As I got on stage myself, (I realised) the fans gathered together in one place to see us, and I was so touched. Our color is pearl neo champagne, and it's really bright and pretty. It's as bright as two, even if only one is on.

Weren't there many members who actually shed tears...? It was no joke right. (laughs) Everyone but I cried. We'd be in trouble if I cried too. I tried not to cry. If I ended up crying, everybody would be in a sea of tears.

When I think back to the previous pictorial we did for <Allure>, I was impressed with how the members carefully monitor the shoot, even if it was not their own. I like photography, you said that. Since when have you been interested in photography? Since I started uploading videos to the NCT YouTube Channel. As I was filming videos, my interest naturally shifted to photography. I was wondering how I was able to deliver a scene to the fans faster and that's how it started. You need a lot of equipment to take a video, but you only need a camera to take pictures and capture a scene, and immediately show it. I wanted to be able to deliver the scene much faster than videos that needed editing. Since then, I have become more interested in photography.

It's more common for an artist to be captured than to capture. In that case, you might lose interest. I like machines. When I take a picture and I didn't come out as I had imagined it, I need a program to correct it. So I found lectures related to it and got deeper into loving it as I was listening to them. So far, I really like capturing.

You must've already received a lot of reactions, what pictures did the fans like? I'm usually the one to take the pictures, that's why there are not many pictures of myself. I think what our fans like the most is our natural appearance. Even though the fans usually see us on stage or on TV, they can't see our daily lives. I think they like everyday things that they don't see often.

You will be the best at capturing those things then. Yes, and I also have a lot of affection for the members. 

They said equipment is important for taking pictures. What equipment do you use? I have a Sony A9 Body and a G-Master 85mm single lens. I used an iMac Pro with an LG display next to it, and I use a Wacom tablet. After buying one or two I kept buying new equipment. I got greedy. If I see something better, I'll go buy it again. I also have two GoPros and a Pocket Mini that I'm using well. But these days, my cameras are all dark and heavy, hence I want to have a small digital camera.

How do you keep it? I'm upset because I'm not good at equipment management since cameras are a device and you have to maintain it well to use them. Cameras are also very sensitive to temperature and humidity. I'm thinking of buying a device that will manage it for me. Lenses can become moldy if you don't manage the humidity properly, and it takes a lot of money to fix them. But right now, it's just on my desk, and I take it out when I need it.

Are you self-taught? That's why I reach a limit every day. 

What do you do when there's something you have questions about? In that case, I will look up a lecture on that part and listen to it. I watch YouTube too. Nowadays, I want to learn something like how to compose (a picture). I also want to compose a collage to create a picture that I want. Among the people I know, there's no photographer. So I have to find a way myself. For example, when there's no light, I have to use the basic tool to create the light.

What kind of moments are the ones you want to take pictures of? When the light is splitting. It's really pretty.

We're in the 'age of video'. What do you think is attractive to still images? A video cannot express the moment. If there's a big wave, it will come and go in the video. But in a picture, you can see every wave in the wave. I think that's really attractive. The things of a moment. Of course, there are always charms to a video. I like both video and photography. These days I have the greed to shoot 8k videos.

Among all the pictures you've taken until now, which one do you like the most? The picture I took of Jisung at the World Scout Jamboree. It's a picture of Jisung smiling brightly, it's the brightest picture I've ever taken and the sunlight is really bright too. It's hard to capture Jisung like that, so I captured that moment.

How did you take that picture? I was on the way back to the hotel after a shoot. We were coming out of the car, and the light was so good, so I told Jisung to stand there and just suddenly took a pictures of him. I was making jokes to make Jisung laugh. I took about 60 shots at that time, and that was one of them.

You must have a lot of pictures of the members. I have about 500GB of pictures. I hung up all my passwords. (laughs) I have it organized in folders.

It seems like you've often taken pictures of the members. Who is the most cooperative member to shoot? Renjun, Jeno, Jisung, Chenle…

So there is someone who is uncooperative. Everyone except Haechan listens well to me. haha

Today we had the concept of a novice photographer during the shoot, so there were various equipment and props in the studio. Whether it was the light or the cameras, you really took a close and touched it carefully. Is there anything you wanted to have? For the mirror selfie, we used a DSLR camera. I didn't know that DSLRs tasted like this because I use mirrorless cameras. It's really nice. It's a bit heavy to carry around, but since mirrorless cameras are mechanical, it doesn't make a clicking sound and when you take a series of pictures, it just captures it without much feeling. The DSLR felt like it was breathing with me. I had a good taste today.

That's a problem. Wouldn't it be comfortable to have a studio like this filled with your favorite equipment like the DSLR camera? It would be really comfortable. I could be here all day even if I didn't have a shoot myself. The color is the studio is so soothing and the songs the photographers were playing were always good.

How would it look like if you had your own studio someday? Like this one, I hope it to be an underground studio that's completely white. I think a place where all the pipes are exposed looks cool too. And I will be putting in a very comfortable sofa. Ah, and of course, the equipment is the most important.

What is the most interesting subject (to capture) these days? For me, it's people. I'm not really interested in plants or landscapes, I want to capture people. Also, when I take pictures of the members' faces, I feel that their faces are really pretty. (laughs) I show the ones that are well-edited to the members.

What do you think is a good picture? A good picture is one that is 'sincere'. Everything is obvious in a picture. You can tell when it's a fake laugh or angriness when you keep looking at the pictures. So when I take pictures, or when I have my pictures taken, I need to make it sincere for it to be called a picture. Today, was really fun.

Translation: Esmee @ FY! NCT (NCTINFO) | Source: Allure Scan — Do not repost or take out without our permission!

#NCT #jaemin #t:trans #t:interview #Allure #Allure: March 2020

[lockdownuk]

Lockdown Diary Part 2

A personal account during the lockdown in the UK due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

23/03/2020 8:30pm Boris Johnson, UK Prime Minister, gives a live address to the nation to, effectively, put the country on lockdown to stem the spread of the deadly coronavirus strain, Covid-19.

Many of us have been self-isolating for days but this latest development within the UK in reaction to the pandemic feels very serious and very scary. I decided to keep a simple diary and where better but online.

Day 31: I went to Tesco’s at Hampton at @8pm. It was weird. But I made it less weird by buying (amongst all the legit stuff I needed and some stuff for Karen’s mum) more booze. I have, atm about 30 assorted cans and 60 assorted bottles. I’m gonna stop buying booze now until I’m down to the last dozen. I don’t want owt to happen and I leave many behind!

Day 32: More than a calender month! I was rung up by a recruitment agent today about a contract with DHL as a remote support engineer to their aviation section. €400 a day! I’ve applied. Few beers tonight, watching a new Netflix release (Extraction) and catching up with Fog, Ham, Andy and Rog later at 10:30pm - yikes, might be pissed.

Day 33: Typing this on day 34. Dossed around during the day, few beers and another video call with fog, Ham and Rig plus I invited John Monk along. He was his usual self and signed off from the call with a moonie! Later on I had the pleasure of Scottish Louise video calling me! She was pissed, in her shed drinking den at her home with some neighbour called Ronnie and her daughter Ellie. She was her usual outrageous self who imaprted such gems as “Tim, you look old” and “Roger on coke is the only time I’ve taken it up the arse”. Nice.

Day 34: Today I skyped Laurie and ‘met’ Matthew and Nicholas for the first time. It was bloody fantatsic. Janine was there as well.I cannot believe it takes lockdown (plus an idea to get Laurie to add me to his regular Monday skype chat with Dad) that managed to get us doing something that should have happened years ago! It was so great to talk to them all face-to-face. Janine hasn’t changed a bit, Matthew is very quiet with Nicholas being the more gregorious twin. And Laurie is still Laurie. I’m reminded of how much I sort of miss him! It was all so comfortable. I loved it! Tomorrow is Dad’s 85th hence the 3-way chat idea. I hope it comes off!

Day 35: So dad and Laurie and I skyped. It was OK but my video feed was very dark, (still dunno why) and Lauire’s kept freezing. I dropped out so as to leave them to it, my thinking being the extra person takes up bandwidth, with the promise I’d call dad later. Before I could, Rita called me and suggested Dad and I skype, which we did. So, all in all, a good day of comms! And Dad seems his happy usual self - 85 years old! Amazing.

Day 36: I am really struggling to motivate myself this week. Today, I’ve done fuck all of note. That is all.

Day 37: A similar day to yesterday. All I have really managed to do is lay down audio from Pink Floyd (Absolutely Curtains) to a video I shot of a cow on yesterday’s walk. I am having a downer of a week without any good reason why, ld aside. I have worn my new walking boots today (’cos my old ones are leaking, I found out yesterday) and they fucking hurt, despite having tried to wear them in for months, albeit pathetically. Also, a few days ago (Friday 24th April), I got notification from HM Revenue & Customs that I’m getting tax rebate (from 2018-19) of £392. Yay!

Day 38: I received notification today that I’ve got a speeding ticket…last Thursday back from Tesco’s - 87mph somewhere between the A1 and Elton. I am hoping it’s a fixed penalty. I dunno whether it is yet, I just have to send the form off confirming it’s my car and I was driving. I spoke with Lynda from Woodfords asking her to ask for a rent reduction before I sign for another year. Plus, I let her know that I will be Howard and Sue’s eyes as the look at rental properties in Oundle - I do hope they return although it would be a shame for them that their plans have been scuppered (she’s lost her job in Oz due to Covid-19)

Day 39: Today I started another piece of exercise - up and down the stairs 26 times. Not sure why 26 - it was some thing online to do with the London Marathon, I think. It fucking killed. I used 13 clothes pegs for a counting system. I asked Karen to pick up some stuff when she was shopping (burgers, radishes) - Dan dropped them off, He was with Shaggy (driving his van) and going to see Jonah. That pisses me off - they should be social distancing, ffs.

Discoevered, today, that Cornershop, post-Brinful are fucking excellent. listening to the album ‘England is a Garden’ as I type.

Day 40: That 26 times up and down the stairs is fucking hard. I did videos about it today. My legs are aching like fuck right now.

Day 41: Just done Young Sam’s (Sam Clews) quiz. 3rd week running and it’s now become a habit and something I look forward to. Out of all the internet driven socialising I’m undertaking in ld, this is the weirdest - I feel totally detatched from all others taking part but, now, would feel pissed off if I didn’t or couldn’t join in. I got 47/70 this week. My best score and only about 8 off the winning score  -  most others aren’t doing it on their own!

Today’s walk was a cloudy one - I captured some fine, dramatic pics of the clouds. I am getting into this photography lark, albeit very amateurish. But, when I post any pics online (mostly FB), they seem to be widely appreciated, which is nice.

Day 42: Applied for a remote service delivery job with a firm called TTEC. £60k. Finished watching The Outsider. The creepiest TV show I have seen in years. Really great use of background music.

Day 43: Finished Mindhunter S2 last night. It’s so good but I cannot quite put my finger on why. Today has been a nothing day apart from day 2 of me not typing the letter ‘e’ in any post or comments on FB for a week. It’s hard.

Day 44: Watch Anna last night. A Luc Besson film that starts a kick-ass suprermodel. It’s right down my street. Today I have been lazy af. I need to pick up my online learning again…tomorrow, maybe! I watched Andy Murray Resurfacing. A documentary on Amazon. Fantastic. What a top man he is. Completely human and completely inhuman!

Day 45: Much talk in the news of possible lockdown relaxation. I am off the opinion we should stay the course until we are completely assured of beathing this thing i.e. a working, widely available vaccine. Dad and I Skyped - he is doing well, as usual. So is Rita. They both seem very happy in lockdown! Today has been a glorious day, weather wise. I had my walkk at 10ish this morming and it was very warm. Hottest day of the year so far I reckon.

Day 46: Bank holiday Friday (75th anniversary of VE day). Nice walk. Chat with Karen letting her know about being caught speeding just in case I am banned and need some out of town shopping. Watched second episode of DEVS by Alex Garland. It’s good and intriguing. Now, @7pm, gonna eat and hit the beers and smokes.

Day 47: Typing this at 15:45 on day 48. I had lots of beers and a good old chat with Rog…

Day 48: Today’s daily press conference was eagerly anticipated today with rumours of a relaxation in lockdown. It seems it was a fuss about nothing with no clear instructions - I didn’t watch it but, skimming the BBC news site, I shan’t be doing anything different over the next few weeks, not that I would anyway - furlough and self isolation are the order of the day and I won’t change that until I am sure it’s safe. Meanwhile people, including Danny flaunt the rules, it’s been pointed out to me plus I know he spends time with Jonah and Marc. It really fucks me off. So, the actions of the few mean I will lock myself down for as long, if not longer, as it takes. Attended Sam Clews quiz again. It passes the time. Also, I had half a scotch bonnet chilli with tea tonight (roasted veg, cous cous and sausages). Ridiculously hot!

Day 49: Received the speaker I ordered a few days ago (from eBay). It’s an AudioPro Addon T10. I got it for a very reasonable price from a German shop. As a result, the power lead isn;t three pin and that has seriously fucked me right off!

Meanwhile, I did my 26 stair climb before my daily walk today. It was easier than usual (surprise surprise) and I did 7km - but that was tough! ‘Cos I am on (yet another) free trial of Amazon Prime, I am ramping up watching stuff available. Last night I watched Booksmart - really nice little film with a great soundtrack. I am listening to Dan the Automater as I type. Today I watched half (3 eps) of The Night Manager and the film ‘The Founder’. The former is a superb series, the latter an OK film about Ray Kroc - the supposed founder of McDonald’s. Except he wasn’t; he was the wrong side of ambitious and a cunt.

Day 50: Stripped the 2 pin cable from the speaker I received yesterday and wired up a 3 pin plug and it worked. Win. And it sounds great. Win-win. Went to go shopping in Hampton but the car wouldn’t start. Loss. But it was the battery so I managed to borrow Karen’s jump starter which worked. Win.

Spent £107. Loss. But just under £40 was booze plus £10 for two big pizzas, two sides (dirty fries) and some dips. Win. Didn’t do any online learning - seriously fucking letting myself down. Loss.

Did my usual walking and 26 stair climb. The latter is hard but defo getting easier. Win. Day 51: Sam’s 51st birthday on day 51 - coincidence! Today I received my face mask from Lou - House of Stewart tartan. I’m pleased with it and that I have got a mask now. I managed to get up at a reasonable hour, just left 09:00, and revisit my web design course. Module 1, lesson 5 and I am fucking stuck. Trying to code an online CV with a side nav bar and I cannot get it to fucking work. Grrrrrr. Later, i got into a FB dispute (easily distracted due to the above) with someone over his statement of fact (Tim Martin’s treatment of Whetherspoons’ employees) when he doesn’t know it’s fact. It probably is, but that is not the fucking point.  I wish I could leave these sort of spats alone. I am drinking, at 20:45, peppermint tea as I type. Jeez, what’s happened to me?

Day 52: Well, last night took a swift chnage. Rog message me and, to cut a long story short, I hit the beers, also called Foggy later, got trashed. I got up today at gone 1pm. Sam posted on fb that Paul had forgort her birthday yesterday. Oh dear! The 26 stair climb and walking each day is noticeable for how knackered my legs feel all the time, I noticed today!

Day 53: My birthday! Nice comments and banter of FB. Rachael brought round a bottle of whisky; gobsmacked. Karen popped round some beers and sausage rolls. Sam sent a card, as did dad with a £50 cheque. Dan’s ordering me a pizza later.

Chuffed! Day 54: I went to bed late after a lot of beers, huge pizza and chips, a few smokes and a long call with WWJ and video chats with Fog then Rog. Got up around 1pm and dossed with my usual exercises and I made fish pie with a scotch bonnet. Day 55: Late one last night but up early today (11ish). Really fretting about hospital tomorrow. Nervous anyway but the safety aspect, in terms of Covid-19, isn’t helping.

Day 56: Hospital appointment was just for an eye scan so the consultant can review it. I was very surprised to see how few people were wearing face masks! I did two lots of washing today. (After the hospital) I went to Morrsions, Asda (queue too long though), B&M (queue too long though) then Tesco’s. All to buy a baseball cap ‘cos I’m fucked if I’m going to wet my hair each time I go out and want it to look presentable! In Morrsions (no mens’ clothing apart from underwear!) I stocked up of 10 cans of sugarfree apple Caraboa….I was only thinking of this drink just the other day. Yesterday I finished The Night Manager on Amazon. I liked it a lot but, also, expected much, much more from it consdiering the hype. Hugh Laurie has come a long way from comedy sketches with Stephen Fry!

Day 57:Received an email from Sueanne yesterday asking ( as designated spokesperson for everyone) how I am. The most interestring piece of news in a rather uninformative email was that the US has started to open resorts!

Day 58: I am writing this on Day 59. I started a two walk a day regime. The first walk I do is shorter, around 4km. my aim is to be ready for 1,000,000 steps Diabetic UK challenge (throughout July, August and September). I need to do just under 11,000 steps a day. The relaxation in ld rules makes this achievable. On that score, I am allowed to visit a friend’s house, as long as it’s just the two of us, outside, 2m apart. I went round Karen’s last night. I was desperate to have a Happy Hour (I allow myself a midweek beer - today (well, yesterday) is/was Wednesday!) of sorts with another human (rather than a video chat). I was there for about 2 hours, very enjoyable, and then came home. Then I had usual roasted veg with rice and sausages but I couldn’t eat it. I used half a scotch bonnet rather than the usual birdeye chillis. It was too hot, had to sling it! Had a few more beers and, hence, neglected my diary duties!

Day 59: It’s 01:20am. I don’t know why I am still awake and up, but I am. But, also, I am now going to bed. Nothing else to report, really.

Day 60: Half way through 12 weeks furlough. I was discussing this with Dad and Rita earlier - I am expecting that, at the end of 12 weeks, I’ll be laid off. I hope I’m wrong but I reckon it’s well on the cards. Off to have a beer round Karen’s in a sec which will be pleasant. Just a hour or so. It’s fucking windy today so I shall wrap up!

#diary #Tumblr diary #lockdown #COVID19 #lockdownuk

[bertann]

Carrie Fisher: A New Hero

Of all the posts I’ve written about my life, there are a few stories that I hold near and dear to my heart- some of which I never thought about sharing. That is, until today.

Today is a hard day for me, if you didn’t already know, today was the one year anniversary of Carrie Fisher’s death. I will openly admit I’ve choked up on a few different occasions looking through dedication post after dedication post about Carrie. Even now as I’m writing this post, it’s still hard to hold back tears.

When looking up the definition, the dictionary tells us that a hero is a person admired for their achievements and noble qualities, one who shows great courage. 

The word “hero” is defined differently for everyone in their own way, our perception of courage and noble qualities seem to vary from person to person. Whether this be a firefighter putting out a fire, a lead singer in a girl group, or a parent/sibling/relative, everyone has their heroes.

For me I had two distinct heroes growing up, Carrie Fisher and my Aunt Marie. Both were funny, intelligent, talented, beautiful souls that shared a love of movies, scripts, and strong female characters… And both were taken far too soon. 

I don’t talk about my personal life on here as much as I feel I sometimes should, some things are still too painful to talk about- others, the wounds are still healing. 

I was 13 when my Aunt Marie died. It was the first death I had experienced in my life, and I can say with absolute certainty that her loss shaped me in ways I couldn’t even begin to explain to you.

When I say that Marie was my twin in virtually every way, I mean that with every fiber of my being. I got my love of film from her. I got my drawing skills from her. I got my love of mysteries, history, sports, comic books, and photography from her. I am who I am today because of her. 

She was the only person in my entire family who shared my obsessive love of film and art… When my brother and I would visit our grandmother, she’d have a sleepover with each of us separately. We would get to do whatever we wanted the entire day.

For me, it was always an opportunity to go to the movies. “Alright, what do you want to do?” She’d ask… “What do you think?” I’d reply… She’d chuckle and smile, then tell me to grab the newspaper to see what was playing that day. (Good god does that make me sound old…) 

There was never a question of “Again?” Or “Aren’t you sick of going to the movies?” It was a simple smile that I had grown to know, one that is burned into every memory I have of her. She was always smiling, even when she was hurting.

You see, my Aunt Marie had a brain tumor. I didn’t know what it meant at the time, the gravity of her situation was lost on my young mind and I didn’t truly realize what was going on until it was far too late.

The tumor had grown behind her eyes. Even today I wonder how much she truly saw of the movies we went to towards the end… The doctors gave her a decision of losing her eyes to see if they could remove all of the tumor out but there was no guarantee.

She decided to keep her eyes.

I don’t think it was the fear of not seeing that caused her to make that choice, I think it was the thought of possibly losing the biggest loves and joys of her life. I don’t think she could bare the thought of losing everything she loved. She and I would go to the movies sometimes twice a day… 

She would read book after book, the sheer amount she read is almost unimaginable to any normal person… She would spend hours teaching me how to draw. Her life and happiness was rooted in her eyes. 
Not too long after she was diagnosed with the tumor, she had died.

I remember getting the news like it happened yesterday. My mom picked me up from school, there was a heavy tone in the air that I had never felt before- I was confused, the awkward quietness filled the car. My younger brother couldn’t look me in the eye… I knew something was wrong.

When my parents sat me down and told me the news, I remember crying and screaming. I ran up to my room, slammed the door, and destroyed everything in my path. I remember breaking down the next day during third period and being sent home. I just couldn’t keep it together no matter how hard I tried. The only person who understood me, the only person who shared my love of film and art, my hero, had died. 

It was only in March of last year that I discovered that she was actually going to school for what I’m doing right now. I was going through some old boxes and found a script she had written on a typewriter… Then I found some old ticket stubs from her college classes. Scriptwriting, Directing, everything I had been gearing up to go to school for- she had done and taken classes for. 

She never told me any of this. I sat in my room, a room where she grew up as a teen, and simply stared at the pages. I couldn’t believe that after all these years, no one had told me that we were so alike in so many different ways. When I asked my grandmother about it, she told me about her time in the film program… About how she was a P.A. and worked on movie sets as a student, but that it simply didn’t work out.

That’s one of the reasons I work so hard and have the work ethic that I do, I feel like I have to make it for the both of us. 

I feel like she was telling me, “You finally found your way, kid.”

Now, what does all of this have to do with Carrie Fisher? Well, my aunt was the one who showed me the original Star Wars films for the first time. I remember being mesmerized by absolutely everything, but what I remember most was my love for Leia. I grew up on princesses waiting for their prince to save them, but Leia? Leia was the one doing the saving. She was the smart, strong, sharp-tongued, beautiful badass that I wanted to be when I grew up. 

Little did I know that the actress behind the character is what made her who she was. It’s not well known that Carrie was an amazing script doctor in addition to being a phenomenal actress… From Sister Act to Hook, she fixed the dialogue to make those films as amazing and legendary as they are. Leia was Leia because of Carrie.

And who was Carrie? Carrie was the smart, strong, sharp-tongued, beautiful badass I want to be as an adult. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a fascination with the villains. I never stopped to question why this is, but now as I’ve grown- I think I finally know why. There’s a piece of humanity in villains that we don’t usually get to see in heroes…Their flaws and how their past shaped them to make the choices they do.

We’ve all lashed out, said and done things that we shouldn’t have. I often ask myself why an antagonist is an antagonist… Like the saying goes, “Every villain was once a hero scorned” that light and darkness that we all feel, the infinite push and pull, the give and take of life. Our humanity is manifested in our flaws and strengths. And Carrie Fisher was so beautifully flawed. Addiction runs deep in the veins of my family, our addictive personalities can be a blessing and a curse in many ways… Our obsessive nature can be productive and destructive. Carrie gave Leia flaws. She made her strong-willed and smart, compassionate and steadfast, short-tempered and sharp-tongued.

Carrie talked openly about her struggles with mental health and addiction, both of which aren’t talked about enough in the media… Or just in general. Some of the strongest people are those who reveal their flaws, those who have gone to hell and back and warn other travelers of the roads they’ve been on. These are the type of dynamic, strong, badasses I strive to be, and write. My aunt showed me how to be a good film lover, but it was Carrie that showed me how to be a good film writer.

Carrie showed me it was okay to be flawed- and that it shouldn’t be covered up and brushed under the table to be ignored, people need to know that they aren’t alone. Many of us fight the same demons within ourselves, we just call them different names. I couldn’t write this post last year for a number of reasons… One being that I just wasn’t ready to accept that I had again lost my hero. Coming to terms with the fact that you’re never going to meet your hero, that you can’t tell them how much of an impact they had on your life and work… It’s hard and it hurts. I remember seeing the breaking news update that she died… I just sat in my room and cried.

People always talk about losing people in your life… Family members, friends, etc. but they never really talk about losing your heroes. In a way, they’re just as important. They’re a piece of you that has grown over a period of your life… A seed usually planted by someone or something that you love. 

For me, losing my heroes has made me even more determined to make them proud. A lot has changed in my life over the past year, both personal and professional- I’ve gone from film school student to actually having one of my scripts in production, from anxiety and depression ridden- not leaving my room for days, to traveling back and forth from L.A. and practically living out of a suitcase for weeks on end. None of this would’ve been possible without my heroes. Heroes never truly die, not as long as you remember them. I use what they taught me on a daily basis, and I hope to one day write the type of heroes they would be proud of. Your heroes live on in you, it’s your duty to pass on what you learned from them and create the next generation of heroes. There are two quotes by Carrie that I recite to myself on a daily basis: “You get to choose what monsters you want to slay.” “Stay afraid, but do it anyway.”

So… Go and slay those monsters. Stay afraid, but do it anyway. And may the force be fucking  with you.

#carrie fisher #heroes #star wars #star wars last jedi #general leia #Princess Leia #Carrie #Fisher #personal post #mental health #addiction #writing #depression #anxiety #social anxiety

[xx-coffeebean-xx-blog]

TWINS | BTS | Fanfic | PT 4

I woke up reaching for my phone the light of it hurt my eyes but I mange to read the time.

6:26 am.

Stretching I got up and hit my head against the bars of the bunk bed. "What the-" my eyes roam around my surroundings I forgot I wasn't in my room, nor my bed nothing belonged to me. Quietly I made my way towards the door, as I close the door I did my best to avoid making any sound. The kitchen sink leaks as I tried mange to recall everything in detail. Sunrise rose up lighting up the room, taking slow steps I unlock the balcony door and step out on the strangely large balcony. Cool concrete hit the bottom of my feet as rest my hands against the railing, the air smelled fresh and free I could see the whole city from up here.

"Beautiful isn't?" says a voice looking over to my right, Namjoon sat in a chair wearing sweats pants a hoodie and a beanie while taking a sip from his mug.

"Very." I says walking towards him and take the seat next to him. "So hyung what are you doing up so early?"

"I usually wake up around this time to see the sunrise it inspires me. What about you? You usually don't wake up this early." He was right Jimin has never been a early person, me on the other hand, mom would wake me up to make Kimchi while Jimin and Dad slept in also morning classes help. "Um I thought maybe it's time for a change." I say to him.

Namjoon smiles, "Change is good, everybody needs to change at some point."

Whoa such wise words from someone on the young side. Well then again he is my hyung .

"If I may ask did you ever wonder what would we be if we weren't in the group?"

Namjoon took a long sip from his mug before answering, "I'm not sure I really didn't put much thought into anything else. My parents really didn't support me my decision back then." 

"Thank goodness everything worked out right." I say crossing my arms and lean against the rail. The sun's warmth kiss my face as the wind ran through my short hair. Namjoon coughs, "Has anyone ever told you that your prettier than a girl." I stare at him with wide eyes, he was using his sleeve to cover up his rosy cheeks. "Hyung your so funny I can never be as pretty as a women, I'm too masculine see." I laugh flexing my arms, he did not seemed impressed. Stepping back inside into the apartment, my phone rung causing me to squeal, Namjoon look through the window with a raise eyebrow, "I'm okay I stubbed my foot on the coffee table." I assure him.

Rushing into the kitchen making sure no one was around before answering.

"Yeoboseyo?"

[Finally! you answer do you have any idea how many times I called you.] complains Jimin.

"You only called me once Jimin." I argue, [Oh. Well I just wanted to tell you your class schedule is ridiculous.] he pants. Is he running?

"It's not ridiculous besides all university students have tons of classes its normal." I say turning on the rice cooker.

[ Yeah if you're a workaholic. And who in the world wants to teach classes this early.]

Taking out all the ingredients I began mixing them to make a proper meal. "Well you wanted to know what it was like to be a  college student. Now you know. Look is there a specific reason why you're calling me "

[Oh right how should I put this. I um..might've misplaced your scooter.]

I slam the knife hard on the onion splitting it in half. Rage began brewing in my veins. "What did you just say."

[I..I..I said I m.mi..misplaced your scooter.]  Jimin stutters. 

"Park Jimin!!! Do you have any idea how much money I had to save up to buy it. Well do you? I took many shifts to pay it off and what do you do? You lose it! How irresponsible can you possible be-"

"Jinee?" says a faint voice.

 Junyoung Oppa? Its Junyoung Oppa!!!!

"Junyoung Oppa!!!" I cheer in the phone then the line went dead. "YA!!!"

"Jimin-ssi why are you yelling." mumble a sleepy Taehyung rubbing his eyes with the back of his hand, while holding a stuffed shaped heart. 

"Taehyung oppa!" I say in surprise, that woke him up.

"Did you just call me oppa?" he says approaching me with a tiny bit of mischief in his voice. 

Crap!!! Think of something you pabo.

"Yes I was practicing for the fans" What their fandom's name. Bullet proofies? No that's not it. I got it! "You know how much ARMY like when we say things like that."

Pressed against the counter, he examines my face I try to avoid his stare and then he lean in close. Too close for my comfort. "Jimin has any one told you that you have such pretty eyes." Tae says cupping my cheeks in his hands. "Just like a girl's." I gulp and shut my eyes tight. He chuckles before booping my nose and goes outside with Namjoon. 

What was that about?

As I set down plates the rice cooker timer ran out, doors swung open and footsteps ran down the hall one by one everyone sat around the table. "Thank you for the food!" we say before picking up our utensils. "Wow Jin-hyung you really outdid yourself today." compliments Hoseok filling up his plate.

"It tastes good hyung." Jungkook says with a mouth full of food.

Jin stop eating and looks up at his dongsaengs in confusion. "I didn't make this I thought Suga did?" Everyone turned their attention to Suga, "Don't look at me I was asleep."

"Hoseok?" Hoseok shook his head.

"Please don't tell me it was you Namjoon." Jin says panicking. "Okay everyone stop eating, Hobi call an ambulance were all going to need it from this food poisoning."

"Hey! I can cook." argues Namjoon.

"Yeah right you'll loose a finger before you could ever cut an onion properly." states Suga getting a laugh out of all of the guys.

Resting my hands on my lap in held onto my PJ's. "I'm sorry is it not good. I can order something if you guys want." I apologize pulling out of my phone to call Uber eats.

Twelve eyeballs focus there attention towards me in surprise and confusion.

"Jimin?"

"You did this?" 

I nod my head.

"When did you learn to cook something like this?" "Better yet where did you find the time to cook like this?"

Before I could answer a older man came and scolded us for not being dress. Without another word everyone stop eating, rush towards their rooms. Who is this man? I could feel his eyes starring at me as I head to the bedroom.

"Jimin." He says stopping me in my track. He notice I'm screwed. "Y...yes." I stutter avoiding his gaze.

"Did you get shorter?"

That ticked me off. Why don't people get that we don't like being called short.

"No sir I'm the same height as always." I force a smile.

"Well you better start drinking more milk it'll help you grow." He laughs messing up my hair. "Now hurry up and get change we have a busy day ahead of us and I have to keep you guys on schedule."

Oh so he's the manager.

Heading towards the room I turn the knob, to find a shirtless Jungkook. I let out a screech and cover my face with my hands. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry." Slamming the door shut, then it hit me it was my room too. Swallowing my embarrassment I step back in and ignore them. Took out whatever I found in closet and change in the bathroom.

Once in the bathroom I let out a sigh, my face felt warm. Looking in the mirror I saw my cheeks were a shade of pink. Resting a hand against my cheek the thought of Jungkook's torso pops in my head.

Damn no wonder girls are thirsty for these boy's.

Unbuttoning my shirt, I fold Jimin's PJ'S and sat them on the sink counter. It had only been a day but I could tell Jimin had a very strong bond with these boy's.

Putting on the pants and sweater, etc I notice that the sweater sleeves covered my hands completely.

When did Jimin get so big?

I'm literally drowning in this.

++++++++

All six boys & I piled into the back of a black tinted window van. Everyone were minding their own business. Yoongi was listening to his music while sleeping. Nam-joon pulls out a book out of nowhere. Hobi and Tae, Jin were casually talking to each other. While the youngest one was fiddling with a camera, taking pictures of all the members and sceneries we drive by.

Resting my chin on the palm of my hand I stare out the window. Not a cloud in the sky, magpies flew past us in a group.

Jungkook smiles at his hyungs while filming with his camera. Then turns his attention to Jimin who stared at the crowd of magpies  flying past them. Subconsciously the young makane took a picture of Jimin with a big smile on his face.

Looking at the pictures he couldn't help but stares at Jimin's facial features. His eyes were bigger, cheeks a bit round than before, his lips pinker and fluffier. Jungkook runs he's thumb across the screen. "Jungkook-ah what are you looking at so deeply?" Jin asks him leaning over his shoulder. Jin saw the image of Jimin  "Woah that's a nice picture of Jimin he looks so feminine. Look Jimin, Jungkookie to a picture of you." The oldest Hyung takes Jungkook's camera and tosses it shows to Jimin. He fumbles a little but manages to catch it. Jimin looks at the taken picture with a amazement. "You're really good at photography."

"Jimin why are you acting like this is the first time you see Kookie's photography?" Jin asks. Jimin looks up and laughs nervously, "Well I just never seen such a nice picture taken of me before." says Jimin

That raise a spark of curiosity in Jungkook's mind. Infact he's notice Jimin acting odd for quite sometime, he was always on his phone texting. And just this morning he manage to cook a five star meal, when last week he burnt ramen and suddenly he becomes a cooking wiz.

Something not right here. Jungkook grabs the camera from Jimin's hands and slightly they touch hands, quickly Jimin pulls back and resumes to look out the window.

+++++++

I let out a sigh as the vehicle came to a halt. Stepping out the car I fix my sweater. The building we're at had a giant sign plasterer that read: Big Hit Entertainment inside them main lounge. Following close behind the boy we were guided into a dance studio. Mirrors hung on the wall it sent chills down my spine. It had been years since I've stepped foot in a dance studio and frankly I've been nervous to step in one. The choreographer welcomed us with a firm handshake that makes me internally whence. Placing our stuff on the floor we begun with stretching exercises, I sat on the floor spread my legs and fold myself in as much as I could. Then I felt a pair of hands press against my back pushing me down further, "Let me help you." It was V who has his hands pressed on my back. I could feel his finger run up and down my spine then he stops, "Jimin what are you wearing underneath your sweater it feels bumpy?" He ask pulling down the collar on my yellow sweater.

No no no no he can't find out. Not like this.

"V let go practice is about to start."

"Hold on there's something on your sweater it look white strings." He says as the tips of his finger rub against my skins, biting down on my lip hard. I try to push him off but he had a firm grasp on my body. He tugs on the bandage and pulls it hard tightening the other bandages around my ribcage making it harder to breath. With all the oxygen left in my lungs I let out a scream, V let's go of the bandage everyone turn there focus on us. "Yah! What did you do to Jimin you pabo!" Yells Hobi grabbing Taehyung's shirt.

"I didn't do anything to him. I was just trying to help him he had something in his sweater." Claims V pointing to the now empty place where I stood. Namjoon manages to calm Hobi down, and he let's go of Taehyung's shirt. Everyone goes back to what they were doing, Take gazes down to the strand of bandage that he has in his hand examining it thoroughly. Why does Jimin have bandages? He thought to himself putting the evidence in his pocket. I manage to slip out of the dance studio and into the corridor I kept walking, while precessing my hands against my chest. Luckily I manage to find a women restroom and hid inside one of the stalls. Time past, footsteps could be heard from outside the toilets, people shouting if they have seen Jimin. Pulling my feet closer to my chest I shut my eyes hoping no one would find me, tears ran down my cheeks. That was horrifying, since my freshman year of college I could never handle confrontation well, I always ran away.

"Hello?" Says a voice knocking slightly on the stall. "Are you okay? Do you need any help?"

I gave no response.

"Look hiding is not going to make anything better trust me. Please come out." Her voice sounded gentle almost like an angel. Hesitant I unlock the door and step out not daring to look at the face of the owner. "Jimin? Wha- hold on." She steps an inch closer grabs my cheeks and forces me to look up at her. Her hair was nice and well taken care of and her make was well done.She pulls on my cheeks then let's go she had a annoyed look on her face.

"You're not Jimin. Who are you?" She saw right threw me who was this women. "Talk before I call security. Don't you know this company only trains male trainee. You could seriously get in trouble for impersonating Jimin you know."

"Look I don't know who you are. So I'm just going to leave." I say leaving. She places her arm against the wall preventing me from leaving. "If your just here to get close to BTS think again there family to me and I won't let some sasaeng get near them got it."

Is she threatening me. Okay I tried to be nice, now I'm pissed off.

"Let's get one thing straight here. I'm not a sasaeng, I'm not trying to get close to any of the members because I am already dealing with one of them my whole life as a twin." I bite back then I realize what just slipped out. "Yeah right none of the guys have a twin." She laughs. I take out my phone and show her a video of the day Jimin and I switch places and Jimin kept saying twins. We both smiled in the end. "That doesn't prove anything you've edit your self into that video." I face time Jimin and he answers within seconds.

[Hey sis why are you calling. You're supposed to be in rehearsals right now. Are you in the restroom?] Flipping my phone I show Jimin the lady, who was shocked. [Noona is that you? Why are you with my sister?] "Shouldn't the questions be why haven't you told anyone you had a twin sister." She scolds him.

"Excuse me but does anyone want to inform me how you two know each other?" I ask.[This is Jung Dawon. J-Hope's older sister. Noona this is my twin sister Jinee. Don't worry sis you can trust her she's very protective of us.]

"I can see that." Jimin let's out a laugh, [Yeah well I got to go I got homework with your name on it.] The line went dead.

"Believe me now."

"I'm sorry Jinee please forgive me."

"It's okay I get it. I too would be protective of these guys." I say. Dawon smiles and takes my hand in her's. "It's so good to know another girl that you don't have to worry about being fake, just to get to the boys." I smile back at her, she was right being a sibling of the guy's really puts you on high alert when people wants to be friends with you.

"How come no one knows you exist?"

"Oh well you see-" I was caught off by Ji-yoo busting in, "What are you doing here! Come on let's go! Oh hey unnie." "Hey Ji-yoo well Jinee hears my card we should hangout sometime yeah?" She hands me a business card and excuses herself. Ji-yoo pulls on my arm but I stop her and told her about the rip in the bandages. Luckily she had a safety pin on her and manages to pin it together.

++++++++++++

Back in the studio I got scolded by Namjoon and the choreographer. All seven of us stood in the middle learning the choreography to the unreleased single track 'IDOL'. And it was not easy infact it was tough. Step after step I kept messing up, unlike Hobi he manage to learn the dance in minutes. Both Taehyung and I avoided each other, including Hobi both of them have not spoken since that happen.

Once practice came to a close, I decided to stay back and practice more. My legs ache but I had to perfect this, they are counting on me, on Jimin. This is how he must feel when he doesn't get the dance. Pausing the music I lay on the floor staring at the ceiling, then turn my head to the mirror. For a while I stare at myself, picturing Jimin dancing gracefully against the room. I brought back memories when we were little we both attended ballet classes since we did everything together back then. We were the best in our class as months went on we won many trophies. People praised us but with praise comes jealousy. And then that happen.

Facing reality I pull myself up bring my knees to my chest. Taking one more look at my reflection, I turn off the lights and leave the company. It was dark our side but still people were on the streets. Pulling out my phone I put the address Ji-yoo gave before she left with everyone else in Google maps.Distracted I bump a girl who gives me an scowls and leaves but then pulls my sleeve making turn around. She squeals and quickly takes her phone out and starts recording. "Park Jimin!" She yells gaining attention from everyone more and more people surround me, flashing there phones in my face. Shielding my face with my hands I made a run for it, being persistent they ran after me. This is what Jimin warned me about, he said to be careful when going out in public, always ware a mask, have a director with you and try to avoid crowded places.I reach a cross walk and hail a cab, get in ask the driver to step on it. Once we were far enough the driver asks me for the destination. Searching my pockets I found them empty. "You've got to be kidding me." I tell myself. The slip of paper must've fell while I was running.

++++++++++++

I stood outside on my very own welcome mat, using my knuckles I knock. You could hear the locks coming undone and I got greeted by long hair Jimin. Before he could speak I lift a finger signaling to be quite, barging into the apartment. Into my roommates room, take a bottle of liquor out her stash, go back to the kitchen pour it in a cup and drink it in seconds. "I needed that." I say to Jimin who sat in one of the stools. "Jinee what are you doing here?" He ask taking two plates out of the covers and serves the food.Taking another shot,I smack my lips before answering. "I got chased by your fans. I don't know how to get back to your place so I came here." Using the utensils I stuff my mouth with chicken and wipe my hand on the sweater. In which Jimin scolds me, oops I forgot I was wearing his clothes. "But what if your roommate comes home?" I roll my eyes, "It's Friday night she won't be back till Sunday night. She likes to party all weekend long. So don't worry about it." Jimin cross his arms not impressed. "Are you positive?"

"Of course there's a one-in-a-million chance that she'll actually come hom-"

"Jinee!I'm home! Did you cook some chicken it smell good. I thought that we could have a movie night. I know you love zombie movies so I got The Train to Busan." State Seoyun taking off her shoes, then she notice a pair of men shoes.

"Do you have someone over? Is it Ji-young? Can't be those shoes look to expensive and small." Seoyun finally looks up and see the mysterious man face her. Her face went red like a tomato. "I...its P...P...Pa...Park Jimin. I think I'm going to faint." And she did, Jimin catches her swiftly in his arms. "One-in-a-million million chance huh?" Smirks Jimin.

"Shut up and put her on the couch."

#bts namjoon #bts army #bts fanfic #bts jhope #bts #bts v #bts jungkook #bts jimin #bts suga #bts jin #jungkook #jin #park jimin #jimin #kim namjoon #kim taehyung #kpop #jeon hoseok #jeon jungkook #min yoongi #kim seokjin

[cynthiadshaw]

What’s the Most Important Lesson You’ve Learned Along Your Journey?

Every twist in our story, challenge we face, and obstacle we overcome is an important part of our story.  These difficulties make us stronger and wiser and prepare us for what’s ahead.  As we grow and succeed we may imagine that soon the challenges will fade away, but in our conversations with business owners, artists, creatives, academics, and others we have learned that the most common experience is that challenges never go away – instead they get more complex as we grow and succeed.  Our ability to to thrive therefore depends heavily on our ability to learn from our experiences and so we are asking some of the city’s best and brightest: What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?

Brittney Fernandes | Hair stylist | Bridal Stylist | Makeup Artist

The most important lesson I’ve learned in the beauty industry is that with every client, each time they’re in your chair is a gift and fresh opportunity to bless them and showcase your best self and talent.

beautebbybrit.com @beautebybrit

Relax Bodyworks | bodywork geared towards relaxation

Tiffany Harper

Probably the most important thing is realizing that every time I put my hands on a new client, I use my intuition to learn something new. I’ve learned to trust that more than anything else because it never steers me wrong.

relaxbodyworks.com @relaxbodyworks

Johnnie Hoang | Food lover & Owner of Hoang’s Noodle House

The most important lesson I have learned in my journey is that teamwork and patience is crucial in any business. At Hoang’s Noodle House, teamwork helps with the flow and quality of the dishes. Patience plays a very important role as well, as some of our food items we serve require time to prepare. We definitely focus on providing fresh and quality food. My biggest reward is seeing and hearing people enjoy the food that I have invested time in preparing. My secret ingredient to all my dishes is passion. I have always enjoyed cooking for others. I believe that food brings people together and therefore you end up with a unique experience. Good food and good company.

@Hnoodlehouse Hoangsnoodlehouse.com

@HNHFoodTruck

Shawna Fitzpatrick | Illustrator & Urban Photographer

Ignore the naysayers, regardless of who they are. You already know the answer in your heart. When you allow the noise in, you just invited in a world of chaos and confusion.

shawnafitzpatrick.com @the.real_shawna.fitzpatrick @therealshawnafitzpatrick

Matt (mattman) Pearce | photographer

I would have to say that being a professional photographer you need to be creative and share. Be creative and look for something that is different that maybe no one else sees. Share your ideas, techniques and knowledge with other photographers. I truly believe that there are two types of photographers, one who creates the image like wedding or portrait photographers. The other type is the one who captures the image like shooting sports, news, concerts or events. I like to capture the image! There’s nothing more exciting then capturing that moment in time whether it’s a singer at a concert or a Dallas Cowboys touchdown or a Dallas Stars goal or even a stock car going by you at 190mph just three feet away! It’s the passion of capturing that moment in time! LOL, I have people ask me all the time, “”do you shoot weddings?”” LOL, I tell them no, I leave those to the professionals, I just push a button for a living…

@mattman1310 @mattman1310 @mattman1310 [email protected]

Rosy Gamez | Photographer and Crafter

Rosy Gamez

There are always a million reasons not to do something,” was a quote I heard Jan Levinson (The Office) say 5 times now in the last 6 years. As a hardcore fan of the show, her small quote resonated with me every single time I heard it, and throughout the 5-year journey of what was my freelance side business never once did I notice that I was living out those million reasons.

After the birth of my second son, I realized how much a 9-5 job took me away from my boys. I knew the best way to predict the future was to create it. I balled up those million reasons “why,” tossed them away, and introduced my crafts and designs to the world. I am an entrepreneur building my business, using my creativity and expertise for my family. The rewards are ten fold. I set my hours, earned back time with my boys and loving husband. I no longer have someone place a limit on my income because now it is limitless.

I guess you can say, the lesson learned was that you have to want it, believe it, and do it, and grasp the handful of reasons why you SHOULD and take that plunge, why, because trust me, you will be forever grateful that you did. Think about it, what’s the worst that can happen? Say you fail, well, get up and try again…and again…and again. Either way, at least you can say you tried, and that is infinitely more than others can say.

@serenestudiophotographyanddesign @serenestudiophotoanddesign

Beth Holland | Fine Art Photographer

I have learned to experience the exhilaration of seeing another side of our beloved National Parks, free of crowds, tour buses and the cacophony of civilization at night. Seeing the wonders of the familiar in a different light with the stars, moon, and milky way above is just awe-inspiring and keeps me going at 2:00 am to get that shot!

BethHollandPhotography.com @BethHollandPhotography

  Rod Castor

Most important lesson would be to keep being consistently on working on your skills.

@t.r.l_photography

Ericka Estrella | Photographer/Traveler

I would have to say, that the most valuable lesson has been to take one day at the time, to look beyond the fingers like our friend <Patch Adams> will learn in the movie from 1998, and really See what is before us the opportunity to be in this world yet another day, must be truly treasured, for there is no guaranteed there will be a tomorrow.

Therefore, witness the beauty and love around each and everyday, even in the simplest things like the half and half coffee blending dance, or the sunrise backlighting a window plant.

Photographing peoples most important moments has been and continues to be an amazing gift.

@ErickaEstrellaPhotography @ErickaEstrellaPhotography

Bob Brooks | Photographer

Starting your business without a mission statement is like taking a long road trip without a map. You can get lost easily within a short amount of time. Having something to reference later will help you keep grounded to your original goal. Knowing your target demographic is also one of the most important things. And finally for the person just starting out, don’t fall into the trap that shooting every day will help you capture better images. It’s better to choose one day out of the month, bring only one battery with you or just 2 roles of film, shoot till it’s gone and then don’t edit or processes them for 6-8 weeks and then look at then for the first time. Trust me, shooting 30k-50k in six months only gets you burned out, and from there, you loose your passion for photography all together. The old saying “Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life” this couldn’t be further from the truth, getting the paying jobs and prospecting for work is the real work, this represents  about 80% of the work of the photographer, not the other way around.

@rlbrooks_photography Facebook: Bob Brooks @rlbrooksphotography

Eric Ziegler | Landscape and nature photographer

I think the most important thing I’ve learned is that you’re never too old to learn.

I started the hobby of photography as a teenager, and although I’ve been working at it for almost 30 years, I still feel that my work is not where I want it to be. I am always looking for new techniques and ideas to help me become more creative, and it is fun sometimes to compare my work from several years ago to see the growth I’ve achieved.

ericzieglerphoto.com @ezieglerphoto

Madiha Javed | Founder of Panache Art Studio | Photographer | Graphic Designer | RJ – Women Empowerer & Humanitarian

Panache Art Studio by Madiha Javed

Know your true self first. Believe and be grateful always no matter what life throws at you. Stick to what feels right , even if you have to walk alone. Make your passion your purpose and you will find peace and hapiness within you. Live without expectations and love for the sake of loving. Do good to others selflessly and it will come back to you in mysterious ways. And never feel the need to ever define your worth to anyone. And never ever be afraid of failures.

@panache.art.studio @p/B3GdcTylUJI @bymadihajaved @groups/548690268834704

Kaisha Slaughter | Interior Design & Digital Marketing

The most important lesson I have learned in this journey so far is to always be authentic to yourself! Believe in yourself and trust the process. In difficult times stay positive and you will be amazed at the things you are truly capable of. You will always have someone doubting you, and it makes it that much more sweet when you succeed!

@keepingupwithkaisha

Lone Star Darkroom | traditional film photo lab

Kristin Wright

Working in a traditional Darkroom can be a lot of pressure when it comes to working on customer film. There is nothing you can do to fix some of the errors that you will naturally encounter. I’ve learned a lot about having a good work ethic and slowing down. I handle every single roll of film like it’s my own and take care to ensure I’ve done the best I can do and to always be honest with customers. We’re a small business and have the luxury of communicating directly with many of our customers while working on their photos and I want everyone to feel that their order has been handled carefully and fairly, and to understand the amount of careful tedious work that goes into hand processing each roll of film.

@LoneStarDarkroom

Jennifer Ramirez | Brow and Beauty Expert

The most important thing I have learned is to never stop learning. Continuing education and allowing yourself to absorb new ideas and techniques will always improve your work and business. From learning how to manage your time to learning a new service or product to offer just having that knowledge can only lead you to success. We are taught from a young age that knowledge is power and I have always seen that to be true.

styleseat.com/jenniferramirez6?utm_campaign=vanity @Perfectbrowsbyjenn @the_brow_and_beauty_room

Jessica Kelly | Ceo of House of Kelly

The most important lesson I’ve learned in my journey so far is that I have to be patient, I can’t expect for everything to happen overnight. You can be grinding for 4 long years with no results and on that 5th year you become the biggest thing on the planet!! So yes patience has been my biggest lesson.

houseofkelly.co @_jessica_kelly

Amorette Vargas | Esthetician and Wax Specialist

The biggest lesson I have learned along the way is to always give clients the same, if not better service each time you work on then. It’s nearly impossible to lose a client when you give them the best of your talent & abilities each and every time they see you. My clients have stayed with me throughout the years and have become like family to me. I don’t push products and services they don’t need, but instead suggest what I feel would help them reach their esthetic goals. That’s what trust is all about!

My favorite quote is: “To be successful you must be unique, you must be so different that if people want what you have, they must come to you to get it.”

— Walt Disney

vagaro.com/amoretteshautewax [email protected] @amoretteshautewax

Lisa Slimak | Photographer with Le-Marie Photography

The most important lesson I’ve learned during my photography journey is to capture as many memories as possible, big or small. Sometimes memories fade but a photo can bring back those moments and even the exact feelings you felt in that moment.

I started my photography journey when I realized my son was almost a senior in high school and that after almost 14 years of watching him play soccer once he graduated we would no longer experience these moments. So I started taking my love for photography more serious. I took some classes, invested in some gear & began shooting all my sons games, not just him but all of his teammates. I hope my son, his teammates and their parents can look back at those photos for many years and remember the joy the game brought them, the lessons they learned & the bonds they made.

A few years after I started doing photography I lost my brother and at that moment I realized one of the first things people do in good times and in bad times is go through photos, at times that is all you have left of a person or a memory. It became a passion of mine to capture images of individuals and families that i can deliver to them and they will always have. It truly is the gift that keeps giving!

@lemarie_photography @lemariephotos

Emily Campbell | Photographer

The most important lesson is probably the one I’m struggling through right now – Trust. Learning to trust myself; trust my instincts, my abilities and my judgement; teaching myself to pause and pickup my camera when something catches my eye. It means investing the time in myself and my craft and believing that the time I spend apart (from my husband and my daughter) will ultimately be redeemed in the process. Trusting God and His timing means learning patience and focusing on what’s in front of me. There are currently 38 posts on my Instagram page. There are 5,529 photos uploaded to my Mac begging to be edited. Moral of the story: Find joy in where you’re at right now. You matter. Your art matters. Be intentional and do what feels right.

@lovelythymephotography

Katie Zoboroski | Health & Wellness Coach

@katieleethejourney

The most important lesson I’ve learned in my journey thus far is that any day is a good day to say, no more! No more to the things that are holding you back. Throughout my journey, I have experienced an absolutely crazy amount of things I would’ve much rather not have been through. But I lived it and it’s my journey, which has now become my story. At any point, you can change your story to create the life you want! My mission is to empower women to know they are not alone in their journey, that deep within them they have the power to overcome. And that they have the inner strength to say no more and reshape their future by reshaping themselves both mentally and physically. I hope that my journey is a testimony of persistence, strength, and determination, to overcome what happened to you without letting it become you!

@katieleethejourney

Rula Sharkawi | owner of Rula Cosmetics

What I’ve learned is to never give up and never stop learning. You’re never too good because someone else will always be better but Consistency is key. When you never give up on what you believe in and never stop learning about the things your passionate about then your skill will continue to get better and people will always notice.

rulacosmetics.com @rulacosmetics

Olivia “Liv” Taylor | Owner and Chief Executive Baker at LIVPRAYLOVE

@matyiaward

The most important lesson I have learned so far in my journey is to say yes to everything that scares me. In all honesty, my business could have been launched years ago but I, like many others, allowed fear to get in my way. I am now thriving outside of my comfort zone, and opportunity keeps knocking!

livpraylove.com  @livpraylove @livpraylove

Joely Rogers | Artist/Illustrator and Co-Owner of Frame Destination

The three P’s – Patience, Perseverance, and Positivity. Committing to a creative path means signing up for a lifelong journey. You’ll need patience to navigate it. Be patient with others, especially those who may not understand your journey, and be patient with yourself. Artistic growth takes time and effort. Persevere in spite of criticism or rejection. Listen to feedback with an open mind and then get right back to work. And, above all, remain positive. As an artist, your task is to see the world with fresh eyes each day. Staying positive will help keep you curious, grounded, and productive.

joelycrogers.myportfolio.com @joelycrogers framedestination.com

Ying Aikens | Owner & Executive Chef and Tom Aikens Owner & Director of Wine

Always do your best to do your best.

nextbistrotx.com @nextbistro @nextbistro @nextbistro

Jasmine M. Johnson | NICU UA and Mentor (the Motivator)

Patience and trusting the process. We tend to believe things work out if we are in a hurry. It is true that we must be efficient and fast but sometimes we should not rush into anything. Patience is one of the keys to success, regardless of the situation (Journey) you’re in. Don’t expect others to give you all the satisfaction you need. Only you and God can determine your path. If you don’t believe in yourself, who will?

@Journey_with_jazz1 @Journey_with_jazz1 [email protected]

journey-with-jazz.ueniweb.com

Francisco Mena | Blonde Specialist | Wedding/Special Occasion Styles | Short Hair Designer

In the 20 years that I have been in the industry… I am always asked “What is in Style..???” My response is “You Are!!! “ As a Stylist it is our responsibility to bring out your clients Beauty with our Craft and Execution. That is why we should never stop learning and pushing the envelope.

@whistleandswaysalon

Parker Connell | Photographer

The most important lesson I’ve learned on my photography journey thus far is that it’s easy to get lost in the business aspect of the art form, especially when you’re young and trying to make it in an increasingly competitive industry, so it’s vital to shoot personal work to not only keep you grounded in the actual artistic process but to maintain inspiration for whatever business ventures you have in the future. There will always be a different way to monetize your work if necessary, so you have to make sure that you are allowing yourself to fully explore your inspiration and maximize your potential as an artist.

parkerconnell.com @parkerconnell

Kristin Noffsinger | Photographer

To let go. I tend to be kind of a control freak at times and a little bit of a perfectionist. But in photography, you can’t do that. For art in general, you have to learn to let go, let be, and just absorb your surroundings and be patient. I never get the results I want if I’m going in with a strict plan. But if I just wander and keep my eyes open for opportunities, the results far surpass my expectations.

@kristinnoffsinger

  Ronda Ray | Singer Songwriter

Living your dream really is all about embracing the process. Success is a journey, not a destination. As long as I’m in pursuit of a worthwhile goal, I’m successful, and that in itself, frees me up to enjoy the process. The process is all about the person I’m becoming, the music I’m creating, the people I’m reaching while aiming at being the best version of myself on a daily basis.

rondaraymusic.com @rondaraymusic @officialrondaray @rondaray

The Last City | Chamber Pop Band

@sb_stilwell

Music is a universal language.

We’ve been in Dallas for 4 years, and before coming here we lived in Hiroshima, Japan. That’s where we started The Last City. We had the opportunity to play music for a wide variety of people from all around the world, including many who didn’t speak English. At times that was frustrating, but we learned to let our music speak for itself. As we wrote and performed more compelling music, it let us communicate in ways beyond language, and be present for the kind of connections that transcend culture.

jointhelastcity.com  @thelastcity @thelastcity patreon.com/thelastcity

Lance Knowling | Chef Entrepreneur & Consulting

The most important lesson I’ve learned so far, is that being a chef you have to be open to change, and you have to be true to yourself as an artist and a culinarian. Being a professional chef means that you make food for profit. The chef is always trying to bring artistry and business together. If you are not being true to yourself as a chef, it will be difficult to find happiness in such a difficult industry, and if your not willing to change, you may end up cooking only for yourself. The bottom line is to find customers who want to eat, what you want to cook.

lanceknowling.com @cheflanceknowling @lance.knowling.3

Laura Pappas | Abstract Expressionist Painter & Sculptor

I have stopped hesitating, and as opportunities arise, I find myself saying yes to almost each one of them. I have learned to appreciate challenges as opportunities. I have learned that I can grasp just about any anything in my past or present and harness this energy through painting and sculpting. As of recently, I have used this as motivation and empowerment, ultimately changing the narrative of stories, giving my experiences, memories, and emotions, remarkable to misfortunate, a reason to have existed in the first place.

@laurapappasart [email protected] lauraepappas.wixsite.com/lostintheillusion

Ashley | Nail Technician

Treat people right and they will always come back and refer you to others.

@Flyy_nails @flyynails

Mokeitha | Savvy writer and photojournalist with a pinch of a graphic designer

Renzo

This question comes at the most peculiar time in my life. As I am in the middle learning a lesson in the middle of my journey.

I have grasped in my journey is that your calling will always come to find you. The question is: Will you take the leap or play it safe? I dreamed of being a reporter in junior high because I was able to see someone like me on tv every day at 5 pm. I did not pursue a journalism career after during or after college because I pursued other goals while trying to make a living. After working several years at a Fortune 500 company, my entire office was laid off. Succeeding the shock and feeling like a failure after the layoff, I reassessed my past and future choices. At this point, I enrolled in college to obtain my second bachelor’s in journalism- my childhood passion. I came about to work in the education arena. For numerous years, I educated teens in multimedia journalism. My plans at that time were to retire as an educator. However, one early morning I came to an epiphany. This job was not the place I needed to be in. I needed to be an active participant in journalism instead of a passive participant. Now my next move, although filled with the unknown, is to change the trajectory of my career.

In life’s journey, sometimes you think you are on the right path, but you are not. Now, just do not call this a comeback, I have been here for years.

mokeitha.com @Photos_by_Mokeitha @EntertainReport

The post What’s the Most Important Lesson You’ve Learned Along Your Journey? appeared first on Voyage Dallas Magazine | Dallas City Guide.

source http://voyagedallas.com/2020/01/20/whats-important-lesson-youve-learned-along-journey-2/

[thatcancergirl-blog]

numen lumen

'Numen Lumen' is Elon University's motto. Numen Lumen is also a program, which gives the Elon community time to take a break, breathe, relax, and enjoy its' surroundings. This was my Numen Lumen speech…

 "One word. 6 letters. For some, it is a death sentence. Cancer.

 It has become such a common disease in our culture. Cancer is so common in my life because I had it. Yeah, that’s right. I have had cancer. In 2011, I was diagnosed with a rare form of pediatric cancer: stage 3, peripheral t-cell lymphoma, to be exact. I was in and out of Duke Children’s Hospital from October 2011 to December 2012. Guess what my new year’s resolution was...for 2013? I DIDN’T WANT TO BE ADMITTED AGAIN. And guess what? I have NOT been inpatient at a hospital since the end of 2012. And I can say to you today, I have been cancer free for 5 years now.

 After all of the uncertainty and sleepless nights spent in a completely dark room, lit up by my massive IV structure, I can say to you I’m thankful I had cancer. You may you think I am crazy for saying that, but let me explain.

 Cancer brought me a new perspective on life because of one person. That person’s name was Caroline. She had cancer also, and when I was introduced to her, she was almost done with battling Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma for the second time. She was my mentor throughout my entire time while at Duke.

 Let’s fast forward to early July 2012. She was on the unit where we met that first time, fighting a lung function. I was there, recovering from my second stem cell transplant. On the night of July 8th, 2012, I lost my Caroline. People usually have strong physical reactions to powerful news, whether it is good or bad. I threw up and began to cry.

 That December, my friend Lauren, who was a documentary film major at Duke University, presented a documentary about my friendship with Caroline. Before I went into the hospital for my first transplant, she hosted a “hospital warming” party, where I got little gifts that I could use in the hospitals, like my own towels and face-masks. Before she passed away, Caroline painted me a picture of my prom dress and wrote the most beautiful, touching note on the back of the canvas. All of these things she did out of the kindness of her heart. Caroline never saw her 17th birthday. I cannot imagine where I would be today in life without her presence in mine, even though I wish there was more time every single day.

 I have a tattoo; well I have two actually. One of them is on the side of my right foot; it is Caroline’s initials. The other is on my wrist; it is simple, yet poetic: a dash. It is to constantly remind me of a poem written by Linda Ellis, entitled The Dash, which I will now read to y’all.

 I read of a man who stood to speak

at the funeral of a friend.

He referred to the dates on the tombstone

from the beginning…to the end.

 He noted that first came the date of birth

and spoke the following date with tears,

but he said what mattered most of all

was the dash between those years.

 For that dash represents all the time

that they spent alive on earth.

And now only those who loved them

know what that little line is worth.

 For it matters not, how much we own,

the cars, the house, the cash.

What matters is how we live and love

and how we spend our dash.

 So, think about this long and hard.

Are there things you’d like to change?

For you never know how much time is left

that can still be rearranged.

 If we could just slow down enough

to consider what’s true and real

and always try to understand

the way other people feel.

 And be less quick to anger

and show appreciation more

and love the people in our lives

like we’ve never loved before. 

 If we treat each other with respect

and more often wear a smile,

remembering that this special dash

might only last a little while.

 So, when your eulogy is being read,

with your life’s actions to rehash…

would you be proud of the things they say

about how you spent YOUR dash?

 I want to change the world of pediatric cancer. While I liked chemistry class in high school, I liked human interactions too much to spend my life in a lab. I am a human service studies major, which is a broad social work undergraduate degree. I want to work for a nonprofit organization, one that helps kids.

 Before 2011, I first came to Elon was for a college tour. I had every intention on being photography and business administration double major. Elon became my dream school that day. The next time I stepped onto to Elon’s campus was for Elonthon 2013. This event was the first time I could be in a room without a mask, so I already had good vibes about Elonthon. At the next Elonthon, I announced I was accepted as a student to the school. Everyone went nuts. After I left the stage, I tried to make my way back to my friends, but someone stopped me. He told me to come to Elon and he could see me being happy at this school. Elonthon 2015 came around and I was a member of the Families Committee. When I shared that some mysterious man came up to me the previous year, and now I am on stage as a student, telling my friends about my Duke experience, which was pretty incredible. But little did I know, he was in the audience during that speech too!!

 After I left the stage, he came up to me and finally introduced himself. That guy was the Executive President of Student Government Association, JJ*.  JJ and I became friends and still talk to this day since his graduation in 2015. He even incorporated my journey and our friendship into his personal statement for medical school. I admire people like JJ who aspire to save people’s lives by cutting them open and internally fixing them. I would rather help people through the emotional struggle while hospitalized.

 In 2015, I had the privilege of going to the Grammy Awards, all thanks to Make-A-Wish Eastern North Carolina. After I experienced the power of a wish for myself and how the Make-A-Wish organization, as a whole, goes above and beyond to make the kids feel especially extraordinary, I wanted to be involved with the organization. After having an internship with both chapters in North Carolina, I am excited to see if my professional career continues with them.

 I will always connect myself to cancer and my experiences because it made me how I am today. It made me realize what and who are important to keep in my life. Maybe I will those two extra slices of pizza or maybe I will go to sleep instead of doing one more homework assignment, sorry mom and dad. Maybe I will try to fend the bridges that have been burned, but like Frank Ocean said, “Whatever you do, never run back to what broke you.” With my education here at Elon, I have become more aware of how my actions impact others, but also how others’ actions impact mine. I want you to walk away from this thinking about the important things that shaped you into the person you are today, because you never know, the person next to you could be more similar than different."

*name change

xoxo, that cancer girl