#LESS than 2 months now let's GOOOOO

[hikennosabo]

#tristampparty day 1, episode 1: noman's land

normally i draw stuff for fandom events... but i don't really feel like it so instead i'm going to rewatch tristamp for @tristampparty :D it's been a few months since my last rewatch, so i'm excited~ (this will be my fourth time watching it...) subs this time, since i've watched the dub the last 2 times i watched. AND also my first time watching it start to finish after completing the manga. i've been wanting to do this for a while so now's as good a time as any!

i don't know how much i'll have in the way of coherent thoughts or analysis so i guess i'll just... do it like i did my bookclub posts? and write my random thoughts/observations as i go :'3 if i'm lucky it will turn into coherency and analysis LOL

okay episode 1 let's gooooo

i don't think this was shown in the manga so this caught my eye immediately - that there are robots helping maintain the people in cryosleep. the fact that there were only five other crew members besides rem, and that only one person is awake at a time barring emergencies, was brought up and questioned by multiple people in bookclub. maintenance robots make a lot of sense, one person can only do so much, even a small crew wouldn't be enough for such a huge ship.

iirc we don't see the other scientists on the ship at any point in tristamp, so i guess they were all integrated into conrad's character...? which means this rem was more alone than ever. and also had less people to fight against re: the experimentation on tesla...? or... hmmm. one minute into the episode and i'm already saying so much lol help

nai being cast in shadow... that's cinematography babes!!!! and the two blooming geraniums...

UGH!!!! this always gets me!!!! the fact that NAI is the one who invites rem onto the escape pod... knives's love for rem compounding his guilt over her death makes me want to eat rocks. i think that combination of love and guilt is definitely present in the original but it's not blatantly shown as it is here. i've said this a lot and i'll keep saying it but one of the things i really like about tristamp is how it puts a microscope over knives's emotions.

"i thought i'd spare her" he says!!! and with his face covered in shadow... this is from volume 2, so it's in part to keep him ~mysterious~ as the antagonist at this point in the story, but the shadow also serves to show us he's not being fully truthful here. obviously!! but at this point in the manga we don't know much about knives at all, and he's very much framed as sinister and menacing. tristamp does things a bit the other way around, showing us that nai cares about rem and then having him do his evil speech-laugh at vash later in the episode... but we're not up to that just yet. anyway.

we don't really get a clear look at nai's face after the pod launches but because i'm unwell i went frame by frame

he definitely looks angry here i think, or frustrated... of course he is...

so as vash cries here i can't help but think he's emoting for both himself and his brother. in stamp and in the manga both. like the lyrics of tombi.

...less than 5 minutes and i've already written so much. okay. enough about knives. let's all look at meryl's face.

>:T

it's been discussed how tristamp frontloads a lot of information, and this specifically has been pointed out already, but the reveal of the planet's name being NML doesn't happen until... the penultimate chapter of the manga. not like keeping the planet's name a secret really matters in the grand scheme of things, but in the manga the reveal was an emotional beat following the final battle, reinforcing the resilience of the people living there. here it's framed the opposite, almost - as the fact that this place SUCKS. also roberto is purposefully talking down to meryl in this scene but it still comes across as a bit clumsy in that it's obviously exposition for the sake of the audience.

i think this rewatch i want to pay more attention to roberto. i just kind of forget he exists most of the time since he's not in the manga, and not someone i ever really got attached to seeing as how he's clearly telegraphed as the Dead Mentor character, there to push meryl's character to the point where she needs to be by the end of the season. i wasn't around to see this happen but when tristamp started airing i'm pretty sure he got shit on a lot for Not Being Milly. but i do think he fulfills milly's role in one specific way; he's a very observant person. i don't know if i want to dive deep into a roberto-milly comparison though... i kinda feel like that would do a disservice to him lol. but i like the contrast of what kind of relationship each of them has with meryl.

the biggest wettest eyes you've ever seen

i just like the level of detail here with meryl and roberto being reflected in vash's glasses. very neat!

*squints* i just wanted to post BDN's wanted poster to lament the fact that he doesn't actually appear in tristamp, and perhaps laugh at nightow's poster again, but the guy on the left... that's the guy from 98 episode 1, right? and i think the guy in the middle is the guy who lina kicked in the face. there's a poster for the nebraska daughter later in the scene, too. the attention to detail is insane, man.

oh. he's referring to knives here. i think.

see, here's the thing. i only just now realized that he might be referring to knives because the subs i was watching previously (the ones uploaded to aniwave) translate this line differently. it's a lot more vague, about how things will just get worse if they don't do something. the dub line is similarly vague. this line is a lot more clear. but i don't know, man. the reason why i've mostly stuck to the dub is because i could tell the subs on aniwave were of dubious quality, but my japanese isn't good enough to tell which subs are the ""most"" correct, this included. it makes a lot of sense that he's referring to knives here, so that's the interpretation i think i'll stick with. and at least these subs are like... better grammar-wise than the ones on aniwave, lol.

Thinking About This Again. okay i don't remember where this was confirmed by staff or if it was just a theory but this was a bounty put out by knives, right? as "this is what humans think of you, as an object you can put a price on, not as a person." it's all been said already by people who aren't me. but i'm just thinking about knives's hypocrisy again. he doesn't exactly view vash as a person either.

...as i watch this i'm realizing i have a lot less to say about the second half of the episode than the first half.

i've seen people say that vash not having any bullets for the duel was on purpose. and that's probably true. i've also seen people say that running around screaming and crying was on purpose, like, it was part of his act. i... don't know about that. he does scream and cry and throw up to present himself as a harmless idiot, but contrast that with the bullet dodging and the disarming of the cluster bomb... he's kinda... showing his hand? especially because he tries to laugh it off as luck immediately after. NONE of that was part of the plan.

OKAY AM I JUST MAKING THIS UP OR ARE THOSE TEARS IN HIS EYES. THIS ISN'T JUST ME RIGHT. he could just be crying from laughing too hard UNLESS...?! also, why am i reminded of vash saying to rem "when you cry, you look like you're laughing." so the other way around would be...?! we know how much nai is hurting here, how much he didn't want to kill rem... and he's laughing... but with tears in his eyes... is this anything. am i overcooking. it's getting late and my brain isn't working at full capacity anymore.

GOD just. he's so young. in the flashbacks in volume 2, the twins look a bit older, i think, and especially since knives's face is completely blacked out in shadow, it doesn't fully register just how young he was at the time... but man. he was just a kid.

ugh, and the first thing we see of adult knives is him playing the piano, knives's piano being a cry of loneliness from his heart... as we know... i'm going to combust. and his... piano room(?) is so haunting with the dead plants all around.

here's a detail that i like in tristamp - the worms are ever-present from the beginning. for the first couple of episodes they just seem like window-dressing, simply part of the environment to give the setting more character, nothing more. we don't learn about the worm hivemind or zazie until episode 4. but it's obvious upon revisiting that this is how knives is getting information about vash's location and also where any dying plants are.

which i also want to point out because!!! in this scene knives says, in japanese: 「見つけたか」 which in the subs is translated as, "so you've found him." it's translated similarly in the dub, referring to him, as in vash. but in the subs i initially watched, the line was translated as, "did you find it? [...] i'm taking it back." if you know anything about how japanese grammar works, it's that japanese doesn't have pronouns the same way english does, so exactly what or who knives is referring to when he says 「見つけたか」 is not actually specified. so we have a potential double meaning that gets lost in translation - knives could be talking about both vash and the dying plant.

...and that ends episode 1. i... did not expect to write this much. also post this before the date turns over challenge failed. i'm tired and i need to go to bed lol.

we're just getting started. see you tomorrow.

#how long does it take one girl to watch a single 24 minute episode of anime? the answer may surprise you! #<- took SEVERAL hours because i got distracted watching vtuber shit lol help #tristampparty #trigun talk #june speaks

[daisybell17]

day 48: wdym it’s october alr?

andddd we have made it to the last day of september, damn, time goes by fast HAHAHA BUT HEY

ITS SPOOKY MONTH…AND THE START OF KINKTOBER! i am not participating but i am…so so SO EXCITED FOR ALL THE FICS…ALL THE FANART and most importantly…LOKI SEASON 2! WE ARE LESS THAN A WEEK AWAY AND I AM SO DAMN EXCITED!!!

ok so today i bought grocer and then got myself some amazing food for lunch!! then i got more water than napped for 2 hours, then now i have more things to do! but overall, a pretty chill saturday!! (i lost my president loki pin ☹️)

anyways…spooky month…LETS GOOOOO

(it’s also my bday this month ahihi)

#day 48 #september #work #spooky #spooky month #halloween #i lost my pin :( #loki season two

[mcbenson25]

What Was Never Meant To Be Part 4 (Finale)

As promised...the final part!

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

Warning: angst, anxiety, anxiety attack

-------------

Life had to be pulling a cruel joke on you.

Or maybe you were dreaming and you would wake up and everything would be okay.

And yet a part of you already knew nothing was okay right now.

This was real.

He was real.

Dominick Carisi was standing in front of you.

For a moment neither of you said anything. You were both afraid of what would happen next. So you both stood there staring at each other.

Waiting for the other to interrupt reality.

To bring it crashing.

"Momma who's that?"

And there it was.

You saw his eyes travel to Rosalie as she hide behind your legs, curious of the stranger.

Stranger.

How you wished he was.

You saw the hurt in his eyes as the filled with tears.

How dare him.

He has no right.

He hurt me.

"Rosalie darling why don't you go watch TV for a bit and then I'll give you ice cream?" Your voice trembled.

The little girl smiled before giving small wave to Sonny and disappearing to her room.

You saw him choke back a sob as he met your eyes.

"She's so big" he said quietly.

No.

He doesn't get to play the sad card. The broken and alone card. It had already been used and it had only left devastation in its way.

"Yeah she is. What do you want?" You said coldly.

You saw him flinch at the sound of you voice. He had never heard you be this cold.

"I uh...I thought I could come and we could talk." He said avoiding you eyes.

You gave a small forced huff of annoyance.

"Talk? Now you want to talk? You know what? We were done talking the minute you kissed Amanda!" You voice was getting louder as you saw him look down in shame.

It was truly amazing how although he was taller than you he seemed so small right now.

Vulnerable.

Hurt.

Heartbroken.

Just like you were all those years ago.

"I jus-st wanted to meet her. To apologize to you". His voice broken and near crying.

You felt so much anger.

It had all been pent up over the years waiting to blow.

And it finally did.

"Oh yeah? Well sorry to tell you that you just came to waste your time. I don't need any of your apologies or pity or anything else. You hurt me. YOU BROKE ME!" You shook angrily.

"I'm sorry," he sobbed, "I never meant to hurt you."

Right when you were about to go off on him again he was on his knees sobbing and crying.

"I'm so sorry. Please, I'm sorry. Please," he sobbed uncontrollably as his breathing quickened and his whoke body began to shake.

No.

This cannot be happening.

Sonny Carisi was having an anxiety attack.

Immediately your anger was forgotten as you rushed to his side and embraced him.

Despite everything, no one deserved to go through that alone.

Even if you had.

"Hey. Look at me it's okay. Shhhh it's okay." You tried to comfort him as the strong passionate man you had known broke down in front of you.

He cried saying things incoherently and you pulled him closer to you.

"ItsnotokaynothingisokayI'msosorry" he muffled into your chest.

Nothing is okay.

Understatement of the year.

As you rubbed his back he slowly began to calm down.

And become self concious of his surrondings.

He lightly pushed you away as he stood and took a good couple steps back, hs eyes wide and full of fear and regret.

"I'm sorry. I-I didn't mean to do that," he said nervously, once again avoiding your gaze.

"No it's fine. I was a little too harsh." You said softly.

"Rightfully so," he said matching your tone.

There was a quiet silence between you for a while.

It gave you time to really think about all of this.

You sighed.

Rosalie deserved to know who her father was and have the opportunity to spend time with him.

"Sonny," you finally said.

His eyes looked up at you unsure.

"Her name is Rosalie and she is four. She's so beautiful. She has the prettiest smile and most wonderful laugh. She lights up any room she is in and is the amazingest little girl in the whole world." You say taking a pause before continuing.

"She deserves to know you. And I don't have the heart to keep her away from you. But there are conditions."

He looked up at you with hopefull, pleading eyes, "Anything"

"You can come see her whenever you want. You just have to let me know. You will go with her to every field trip and parent conference. You will spoil her rotten and give her all the love she deserves. You will be her knight in shining armour," you pause as you felt your eyes well up in tears.

"And if you ever break her heart, I swear to you, you will never see her again and I'll make sure to make your life a living hell," you trembled out you voice threatening to crack.

"Because that little girl deserves nothing less."

Sonny was in tears as he nodded.

"Never. I promise you. I will never hurt her," he said gently before meeting you eyes, "or you again."

He tried to reach for you hand but you stepped back realizing how close you had gotten.

"Don't."

He looked down shamefully.

"Look Sonny. I was hurt pretty bad that day. And I ran. Away from you, from everything. But yet my feelings for you seemed to follow me. Because somehow my heart still felt something for you. It took years to get through that. I don't know what the future holds for us but please, I can't do that. I don't want for this to get complicated. Maybe someday I'll change my mind or find someone else. But for right now I just want to clear my head and just be friends."

"Right. Of course." He said.

You sighed softly.

It was nice to get that off your chest.

You looked at him and gave him a small smile.

"Do you want to meet your daughter?"

"Yes," he said returning your smile.

Maybe you were both never meant to be togther or maybe it was just bad timing. Maybe the future would change that. You had grown into a different person and so had he. There were so many possiblities for the future and for once you were ready.

Ready for what lied ahead.

Because life had a funny way of doing things.

And you were finally at peace.

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

Taglist: @wittysunflower

Okayyyyyyy. There you gooooo. After a month with just a small request here we are 4 parts later (sorry not sorry). This request was so fun to write and I hope you enjoyed it. Also made the ending so that you could decide what happens next! As always thank you so much for reading and don't be afraid to drop those requests!

#law and order fic #l&o: svu #lawandordersvu #law and order special victims unit #law and order svu #svu #svureader #svu imagines #svufanfic #svu fic #carisi x reader #x reader #xreader #hurt #angst prompt #amandarollins #anxienty #anxious #angst #love this request #lovestories #love #svu fanfiction #fandom #fanfiction #fanfic #reader imagine #reader insert #cute #curvy reader

[icefire149]

First Line Tag Game!

I’m honestly still sitting here like, who me? Seeing the tag from @chocolatecakecas Thank you so much <3 I’m HONORED.

Rules: List the first lines of your last 20 stories (if you have less than 20, just list them all!). See if there are any patterns. Choose your favorite opening line. Then tag 10 of your favorite authors!

I’m keeping this spn only so let’s gooooo:

1) An Angel’s Vow - (Cas is in hiding raising baby Jack. Claire ends up joining them.) - “It was the third car he ditched, and the fourth he’d stolen today. Cas knew that he was being excessive at this point, especially with the erratic out of the way routes and doubling back he’d been doing in case he was being followed. He couldn’t afford a mistake. Not now.”

2)  Is there a reason these two should not wed? - (Cas, Michael, and Gabriel moment during the Saileen wedding) - “ Unlike Dean and Cas’ wedding a month ago, there wasn’t any high alert for potential problems, and yet the moment that rolled around the air shifted. Cas noticed the movement of angel wings across the crowded room moments before the mischievous grin spread across Gabriel’s face. “

3) Reunion in Heaven - (15x20 fix it. Cas meeting Dean in Heaven) - “Everything sounded too good to be true, which was probably perfectly fitting for Heaven, and yet, Dean felt like he was on the verge of having his heart ripped from his chest."

4) Not Alone - (15x20 fix it. Cas’ return) - “Dean’s vision was growing dark, and it was getting harder by the moment to keep himself from going limp. He took one more gasp of air and then….nothing hurt anymore. His fingertips could still feel the nail just under his skin. It was horrifyingly close to piercing through. He knew that Sam had placed his hand over his own, but he suddenly wasn’t aware of Sam’s presence anymore. Everything had grown too quiet. Too dark. And then the touch on the back of his hand changed. He felt himself wanting to surge forward, latching onto the source. He blinked and begged his eyes to see.”

5) Happy Birthday Dean Winchester! - (Dean’s birthday after 15x19. 15x20 doesn’t exist) - “For Dean, the weeks and months following Chuck’s defeat went by in a dizzying, unrecognizable blur. Despite Sam and Eileen’s best efforts to take care of Dean, he spent the majority of his time buried deep in the bunker’s archive. A lot of the time Jack is with him.”

6) Sometime before the Saileen Wedding - (Conversation between Dean and Eileen) - “ It was late morning when Dean sat down across from Eileen in the bunker kitchen. Cas would still be asleep for another hour at the very least, and it was a rare moment when he had no idea where Sam disappeared to. He wouldn’t get another opportunity like this any time soon. “

Tagging: Honestly any of my followers PLEASE just jump in and do this. I’m tagging all of you in spirit. Bec tagged a lot of the people I initially thought of so I’m not gonna bother tagging them again. It’s also 3am so my brain isn’t equipped to come up with some blogs to tag at the moment. 

#it wasn't until now that i realized how most of my fic like posts are MASSIVE rough drafts because i'm zooming through tumblr on my phone #and majority of the others are the tumblr post equivalent of me writing down fic ideas in my notebook. but instead i' #i'm gaging interest in story ideas #i have only a few actual spn fanfics where i put the effort into writing it #hell the saileen wedding fics were all done on my phone in one sitting when i was nursing a headache #still though i enjoy seeing my various though processes when writting #i'm always aiming to be a better story teller #hell the structure of an angel's vow is me trying a lot of new ways to tell the story in my brain #my writing

[peachfaeryy]

Hi 🌙

It's my birthday right now. I'm 26 now.

1. What is my fondest childhood memory?

My fondest childhood memories definitely consist of the lovely people who I grew up with and derived my sense of humor/silliness from: my cousins Anna & Emily, Savannah -- my childhood best friend, and Kaleb, my eternal crush. These memories consist of them in elementary school, camp, and my grandma's house in San Antonio.

2. What is my favorite comfort food?

Probably nachos/chips/chips & queso.

3. What’s my favorite way to exercise?

Uh...DANCE.

4. Am I a morning person or a night owl?

I lean more towards night owl but I try to avoid both.

5. If I could have any superpower, what would it be?

The currency of youth.

6. Do I prefer cooking, baking, or neither?

I love both cooking and baking :) I find both extremely rewarding and cathartic.

7. Am I an introvert or an extrovert?

Ambivert strongly introvert-leaning.

8. What superhero do I find most relatable?

None, I detest all superheroes.

9. What is my favorite season of the year — and what do I love most about it?

Winter because it provides me with the most amount of physical comfort. I love sleeping in a very cold room, opening my windows with no AC on. Sitting in my car listening to music/eating with engine off. Less humidity. Food is tastier. Style is better.

10. Do I believe in the existence of angels?

Not particularly? Well, yes but I believe they have absolutely no role or effect on our world.

11. What are my favorite TV series?

American Crime Story (OJ & Versace), Fleabag, Atlanta...90 Day Fiance, Game of Thrones

12. What was the last movie I watched (or the last movie I enjoyed)?

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (let's gooOoo)

13. Am I a tidy person or a messy one?

I used to be very messy but not I'd consider myself pretty tidy. My nature is messy though.

14. Am I afraid of the dark?

Nah.

15. Am I more of a coffee person or a tea person?

Mostly coffee.

16. What talents do I possess that I’m proud of?

I don't have any natural-born talents but I suppose my ability to teach myself a new skill over time.

17. Do (or did) I like school?

I loved school and literally work at a school.

18. Did I go to the prom?

Unfortunately, yes.

19. What is my idea of a perfect date?

Definitely grabbing pizza at a nice restaurant.

20. Do I enjoy DIY or crafts?

Not at all, sounds awful, lol.

21. Do I forgive others easily?

Yes. But not so much anymore now that I'm older and more experienced. My instinct/nature is very forgiving.

22. Do I have a nickname — or did I ever have one?

None.

23. Do I have any phobias?

I'm scared of most anything anything everything...I'd say my daily fear is mistaking my razor for my toothbrush in the shower.

24. Have I ever met one of my heroes? If yes, who was it, and how did it go?

No?

25. Do I speak any other languages?

No, but I told myself I would learn Spanish before I die.

26. Have I ever traveled outside my native country?

Yes! I have been the Mexico and Ireland.

27. If money were no object, what would I want for my next birthday?

Maybe a trip to South Korea/Germany/Rhode Island

28. Have I ever been addicted to something?

Yes. But as far as substances? I'm addicted to Nsaid.

29. When I was a kid, what did I want to be when I grew up?

I wanted to be a wildlife photographer when I was a kid-kid.

30. Have I ever won something?

$75 with scratch offs

31. Have I ever narrowly escaped death (or serious injury)?

I'd say so, yes.

32. Do I prefer baths or showers?

Showers.

33. How am I feeling right now?

Changed.

34. Have I ever played any sports?

Soccer, Basketball, and cross-country

35. Do I prefer the beach or the mountains?

Beach, but I feel connected to both.

36. Do I prefer a Mac or a PC?

Uh...PC?

37. Do I prefer dogs or cats (or some other pet)?

Cats...I honestly do not like dogs at all.

38. Do I have any piercings or tattoos? Would I like to get any?

I have three tattoos: three rune, a sword, and a butterfly. All of which are on my arms.

39. Do I have kids?

Not right now.

40. Do I have siblings?

None.

41. What do I do on a typical Friday night?

Same thing I usually do: practice dance/choreo for a couple of hours. Read, cook, watch Youtube. If I’m going out, I’ll maybe grab dinner/hang with my friends. I MAY go to ~the club~ in a blue moon.

42. If I could go anywhere in the world with unlimited funds, where would I go?

SOUTH KOREA

43. What do I do to relax?

Shower, listen to music. Do my makeup for fun.

44. What do I do to wake up or boost my energy levels?

Blast Stray Kids

45. Would I rather have unlimited energy or unlimited money?

Unlimited money

46. Am I a collector of anything? If yes, how big is my collection?

I collect Kpop bullshit...(albums, photo cards, posters, etc.) essentially merch from my favorite artists.

47. What sort of gift would I want from my significant other on Valentine’s Day or on my birthday?

JUST flowers. All I care about it getting flowers on both of those days.

48. Which would I rather avoid — excess heat or extreme cold?

Excess heat.

49. Would movie genre would I rather watch: action, romance, fantasy, or horror?

Of those choices: horror. I also like a solid journey story.

50. Have I ever been on a diet? If yes, how did it go?

More like a mini eating disorder, lol? I went through phases where I only consumed 1500 calories.

51. If I could live anywhere for a month with whomever I choose, where would that be?

Greece with I suppose...someone I get along with.

52. Have I ever gone camping? Or do you look at a tent and think, “I feel like that’s the wonton wrapper, and I’m the filling.”

Yes, several times. I actually thoroughly enjoy camping.

53. What’s the last song I listened to?

Ribs -- Lorde

54. What’s my current obsession, and how much have I spent on it?

Anything kpop...hours. I’m talking hours and hours.

55. What’s a favorite book of mine?

We Need to Talk About Kevin

56. What should I be doing right now?

Sleeping.

57. What’s my best feature?

Physically? Boobs.

Personality? I would say kindness but that’s basic. Witty? Self-discipline.  

58. What’s the most expensive article of clothing (or shoes) that I own?

Damn...shoes...? $100?

59. What is one thing I could not live without?

Music. My one coping mechanism and literally the reason I’m alive and functional.

60. What’s one thing I can’t leave the house without (other than keys and my wallet)?

Phone... BC packet?

61. What’s one of my pet peeves?

Slow walkers

62. What wild animal would I love to have for a pet (as long as it didn’t eat anyone)?

Maybe like...a toucan?

63. What’s my favorite drink?

An ICE COLD fizzy SODA boiii

64. What’s my spirit animal, and do I own anything featuring that animal?

I guess I’m very cat-like. I used to have a lot of cat stuff, but not anymore...

65. What’s my favorite restaurant, and what’s my favorite splurge order?

I like basically any fast food joint. I’m also a sucker for Chili’s. I’m really basic. A splurge order for me would be ordering a margarita with my meal.

66. What’s my favorite movie — or the best one I’ve seen in the last three years?

I’ve been obsessed with We Need to Talk About Kevin, Pirates of the Caribbean...I’ve been wanting to rewatch Little Miss Sunshine

67. What’s a favorite hobby of mine?

Dancing :)

68. What’s my favorite go-to snack?

Health-wise: apples and peanut butter. But if I don’t care: chips

69. What are my must-haves for watching a movie in a theater?

True interest in the film

70. What’s my favorite kind of competition to watch (sports, cooking, etc.)?

Not really into competition shows.

71. Would I rather get an electric shock or get an intramuscular shot (tetanus, etc.)?

Electric shock?

72. What’s my dream car?

Bella’s shitty red truck let’s gooooo

73. What are the must-haves in the home of my dreams?

LOTS of open space, sunlight, heated bathroom floor

74. What’s my favorite sandwich?

Chicken salad, BLT, plain peanut butter

75. What’s my favorite kind of dinner? (comfort food, four-course, take-out Chinese…)

Comfort food

76. If I could change my eye and hair color, what color/s would I choose?

I would DEF change my eye color to a warm brown and my hair to very dark brown. I’m growing my natural hair out. I’m going dye-free right now.

77. Who is my favorite fictional character (or one of them)?

Jack Sparrow

78. What’s my longest relationship so far (other than family)?

4 years...

79. What is my star sign — or do I usually avoid that question?

I DO NOT care about this but I’m a Leo

80. What is my lucky number, or what is a favorite number of mine?

Uh? N/A

81. What city do I live in now, and what’s my favorite thing about it?

I still live in Denton and I detest it.

82. What state do I live in now, and what do I love about it?

Texas, its diversity.

83. If I had to move to a different state, where would I rather go?

New Mexico

84. Have I ever colored my hair? If yes, what’s my favorite hair color experiment so far?

Yes, most of my teen and adult life. But my “crazy” hair experiment right now is going dye-free and wearing my natural color.

85. Whom do I miss right now?

My 14-year-old self

86. Have I ever made a mistake that someone else refused to forgive me for?

Apparently.

87. Do I have a celebrity crush? If yes, who is it?

JOHNNY DEPP and all of Stray Kids lol. Jungkook?

88. If I could meet any celebrity for coffee/tea and a chat, who would it be?

Marina Diamandis

89. As desserts go, would I rather have ice cream or cheesecake?

Ice Cream

90. Would I rather live in a house or an apartment, and why?

A small house.

91. Would I rather live in a treehouse, a cave, or a submarine?

Treehouse

92. What is one big goal that I want to accomplish this year?

Move out of D*nton.

93. What do I want to do for a living?

I’m happy being a teacher, but ultimately I’d like to counsel kids.

94. When I feel sick, where do I usually feel it first or most noticeably?

My head.

95. What sort of smartphone do I use, and what made me choose it?

Uh? Android?

96. What’s one movie that I’ve watched repeatedly? What do I love about it?

I watch signs pretty frequently. Midsommar? I connect with its characters because they seem like real actual people? I’ve been wanting to rewatch the Lovely Bones.

100. If I could afford one, would I rather hire a chef, a personal assistant, or a housekeeper?

Housekeeper!

97. What is one food that I refuse to eat?

Liver

98. What exotic food would I be willing to try?

I’d be open to trying most any food.

99. What is one item on my bucket list, and what made me choose it?

I’m kind of working on it now. I want to put a few years in while I’m young and able to become a very good dancer. I know that to obtain that it IS going to take years. It’s something that’s really important to me because I’ve always wanted that for myself but never made actual steps to obtain/execute it. And ultimately, I want it because it allows me to feel like my true self.

[ybcpatrick]

i was tagged by @toorational in a fanfic tag game!! damn y'all remember when i wrote FANFIC???

List the first lines of your last 20 stories (if you have  less than 20, just list them all). See if there are any patterns. Choose your favorite opening line. Then tag 10 of your favorite authors!

okay so 1: some of these might end up having to be opening chunks instead of sentences, in order for them to like. make sense lol. 2: for peterick dictionary fics, i'll be ignoring the dictionary excerpts, obvi. 3: i'm not gonna tag ten ppl just bc i don't think i know ten authors who haven't already been tagged akdksjfdl. okay LETS GOOOOO

1) The house had been on the market for quite a while. In fact, every few months, as he had been on the search for a place, it kept popping back up. It was never sold for very long and Patrick was convinced that it must have been fate or destiny or some of that other bullshit that spiritual people believed.

2) The silence of the bathroom deafens him.

3) The world was still.

4) Neither of them were strangers to impulsivity. Years upon years of going stir-crazy in tour buses and cramped vans would do that to a person, drive them to do stupid things on a whim.

5) "Well I'll be damned!"

"Shut up, Andy."

6) The light of his laptop was harsh on his eyes, glaring in his glasses and forming a new ache behind his skull.

7) To the surprise of literally nobody, summer in California is hot.

8) The new house was boring.

9) “You're stunning.”

Patrick choked on his Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

10) He can't feel his legs.

He's standing in the snow. No, no he's not. He's kneeling. He's on his hands and knees.

No, he's laying down.

11) “We gotta get outta this studio, ‘Trick,” Pete whined, flopping bonelessly onto the couch and the other man’s lap. Patrick scoffed, lifting his laptop out of the way of Pete’s skull as it collided with his thigh.

12) “Wow, you could totally bench press me.”

13) "I'm starting to wish I'd brought my phone," Pete murmured, eyes wide as he gazed at the sky.

14) When Pete was younger, he was certain he'd be fine without a queen.

15) There's only so many times you can watch The Santa Clause trilogy in the span of fifteen years before you lost count and collapse into a spiralling hell of Tim Allen.

16) Orange light streams into the bedroom, broken up by the blinds on the windows. Pete snuffles, eyelashes flickering against the back of Patrick's neck.

17) "So, are you and Patrick gonna do a couple's costume tonight?" Joe smirked, waggling his eyebrows. Andy threw his head back, laughing.

18) "So fucking cold..." Patrick muttered, burrowing deeper into his sleeping bag.

19) "Pete, are you sure I should go with you?" Patrick asked warily, fixing the collar of his button-up in the mirror. Pete made an unintelligible noise around his toothbrush, nodding furiously. He spat inelegantly into the sink and looked up at the singer desperately.

20) Bitter rain lashed against the sides of the bus, sending fresh waves of water down the windows of the bunk room every few seconds.

okay so there are i think like. four years between the first one and the last one. that is a lot of time. oh boy.

first off i’ve noticed that my like. approach to fic is actually kind of inconsistent? half of these are dramatic exposition, describing like.. the setting and stuff, and the other half are meant to be funny cold opens. half are dialogue, half are exposition. bro i am In Con Sis Tent. 

also i’ve noticed that there’s also a wide variety of sentence lengths, and topics, so like.. even tho i’ve got my hurt/comfort bitch branding, at least i do actually have some range lol.

this was a fun little exercise. it was nice to revisit my old work, that honestly makes me wanna write!! now if only i could find the time aksjfkansjj

i’m gonna tag: @ybcpete @needle-on-a-record @setting-in-a-honeymoon and anyone else who writes and would like to try this out!!

#shut up kell #tag games #rpf #god i miss writing :')

[sassaetcie]

The Molten Charcoal (Idia x Silver fic) : Chapter 2

Enjoy this second chapter :) Please reblog if you like, or comment, I love to see your comments,,, 

I... went outside my room. The corridors were pretty chilly... I guess I should really go outside, huh. What if I spread the curse here, though? If some ice were to be born here, to be blossoming peacefully, or furiously, no melting would even be bestowed upon them. Only my flames would remain. Only I will remain... somehow. The darkness were soothing, though. They don't burn, after all. I should ask someone to use dark magic to boost my computers, lol. Nevermind. I didn't meet anyone, of course. All of Ignihyde's students aren't giving a shit, anyway. If we were to come across each other, we would both stare at the void and walk as if no one was there. My legs hurt a bit, tho. Less than in PE and after PE and the day after but still... I walked for a few minutes at least. Maybe I was just hungry... I was so stressed I couldn't tell lmao. But the corridors were so quiet and chilly... I'm just annoyed our colors are black (tho it's not really a color) and blue... Can't blue just fucking disappear. Hmm... if blue were to "fucking disappear", Ortho would as well kflgldlnf,. I'm stupid. He even called me some... time ago, I think? I should check the hour from time to time... What if I miss some event???

My "date" with Silver is in 6 days, probably. Why would he call it a date if he doesn't know I'm in love, though... I guess Ortho really saw through me and wasn't joking with my Prince Ideal?! Is he going to shoot Truth Bullet in my face and make me the only victim of this love trial?! Six days, tho... I'll have to see Silver... I've already met him so it won't be as awkward as the first time but... Do I even have the right to love him, anyway? I probably have, but I can't fulfill my lovey dovey dream, LOL. Even if he were to love me... Even if he is a Prince... That's the way I should behave as the future Shroud Family Head. I should wed someone of my "rank". But if I do, how many responsibilities will be pushed upon our shoulders? I can not just marry him, that's right. But he is still a "prince". I won't ever wed a fucking prince. Wouldn't that mean fulfilling my kin's wish? I don't. fucking. want. to. I don't want to be a Shroud. I am just... Idia... I am just Idia... And if the prince's ideal was just something I started to wish after what happened back then? What if I don't really love Silver but just love his aura? That's it, right... Sorry, Ortho, I really can't be in love with Silver, huh. There's no way I truly love. That's just another delusion. I'm just a stupid kid. I'm just a stupid adult. Whatever. This delusion is sweet, huh? That will last some time. And it'll vanish. I can't love a prince since it would be a Shroud's fate. I want to love the Prince Charming since I want to be saved. Couldn't I just love the sweet and caring senpai ideal?! Guess I went the hardcore mode because I'm rich and used to opulence, lol. I still got six days... I guess Ortho will knock my door like hell when the time shall come, anyway. That makes me going outside at least five times to be prepared... Welp, I'll just play some games and read the lessons's content Ortho has sent me. Lol.

[Started Recording at : 11 am : Second??? Day]

[May contain fragments and shattered data]

[The user has deemed preferable to let them be.]

-LET'S FUCKIIIING GOOOOO

-What do you mean, dude? ... trying my best. No... really.... serious!

The room next to Ortho was definitely reflective of Idia's moods. His shouting and screaming and screeching and howling were as reversed as his flame hair. He was not a bother when he let his voice ramble... He was not annoying either.

-I'm... best DPS! Y'all can't outrun my skiiiiiiiiills!

He was just acting so happily. His little brother sat on the bed he had been offered by the school, in the room the school had offered him, in the world he had been offered. The covered by some shades of blue, very likely azure, bed, was probably soft.

-GOOD GAME y'ALLLLL! I'm... play... See y'all!

-Huh? If I want to stay in the... channel? Sure~! What do... wanna talk about, though?

He did not need to go outside to seek happiness. They knew about that. His flames barely had enough sense in existing, and could erase all of the logic they were looking for. This story did not make any sense. Should this story make sense? He was a half, after all. This should make sense. But why?

-Yeah, WyverneCastel? I.... yeah... need... later. If you can, ... course!

The next lesson would soon begin. It was better to stop Recording right now.

[Ended Recording at 11:30 am : Second??? Day]

Tbh, I only had good games so far. No Internet problems (of course, since I usually fix them, NRC is so fucking slow when it comes to administration and solving problems LOL), no Internet problems for my team, no server crash... I kind of like to solve little stuff like that, to be fair... Like, I didn't really use to when I was younger. Well, until a certain incident, of course... Maids and butlers would just bring sweets, cupcakes, forêt noire, macaron, lemon pie, millefeuille, sachertorte, éclair, tropézienne, chou à la crème, mochi, dango, baklava, Turkish delight, praline pie, crepes, waffles... No matter how dark and clean their suits and dresses were, none of them were exactly identical. I guess that's why I could recognize them, especially when I was small... I guess my parents just wanted to show off by telling others their servants could have a slightly customized outfit, or some kind of shit like that. It would probably cost a bit more than regular outfits they could just ordered at the same moment... Just because they had money, the "bit" was staying a "bit". I don't want to see them again... Their blue burning hair, like mine... I fucking hate it. I can't even dye it. I can't dye it. I can't dye it. I can't dye... I can't change them... I can't change... I'm a cursed heir in love with someone who could be a prince but isn't at the same time. This story cannot end in a way or another. This doesn't make any sense, yet it does. Can it just be absolutely absurd? Give me some powers that don't make any sense. I want them. I don't want to be a Shroud. Welp, guess I'll go and check what Ortho did for the lessons. I'll probably go and take a "walk" after (that is, earning outside-resisting exp points to lvl up my skill).

Okay, so the "recordings" go as "The Seventh's history may seem simple at first, but do not forget that History is made by winners. They were the ones to win and if their people are living in, for the most, good conditions, it is yet to be proven that the means were as glorious as the results. If someone says something when speaking of History, try thinking about the opposite. It may end up interesting, although I cannot deny some FACTS exist in History itself, since an enormous sample of people were made to make sure that it was a "fact" and therefore, not a "speculation". Well, these facts could be denied since propaganda exists in our world, alas. But doubting everything will spread discord, and even lying can be used by leaders to prevent peoples from collapsing or killing each other."

Up to this point, I cannot say it's difficult. I mean, it's just almost a Civilization creative game, huh. I guess this is just the introduction or something like that, and that the "hard" part will come right after...

"The Queen of Hearts has made an abnormal lots of rules, for instance. Yet, her peoples did not dethrone her. Does that mean they like her? Well, this could be interpreted as "respect" from our point of view. But from someone else, they could actually fear her and fear the fact she has sent people to death. She held trials to judge them before sentencing them to death or other punishments, that is true. Yet, were that true trials or actually fake trials only meant to look like trials and fair justice? We do not have enough clues about whether she actually listened to mitigating factors or... . To keep going with this idea, ... also was judged when ... came to Wonderland. The trial was ... and yet almost ... ."

I'm not gonna lie, why the hell are there blanks? Ortho is always serious and meticulous. There's no way he can miss a single word. His ears are among the best of the world. I'm pretty sure he can fucking outrun all of Savanaclaw when it comes to earing (well, actually, he probably can outrun ANYONE since he's great). So if there are blanks... there are but a few reasons for that. Either he needs an urgent update, but this has NEVER occurred before since I've spent months to create a perfect calendar to never let him suffer the most insignificant flaw. Thus it can't be that. He could have been beaten up but that wouldn't make any goddamn sense. Who would even try to hurt him when I'm so neutral to anyone? I legit don't give a shit about what's going on in NRC. I'm not even sure I met the new student (if they're that new since I dunno when they have arrived lol)... This left me with two solutions.

Either Ortho was infected by a Virus, but nobody here has my hacking skills so it's very unlikely or... he has started recording more than expected and it's making its components slow down. I guess I won't have any choice but upgrade his memory next time we update him. The thing is... what the fuck is Ortho recording outside of our notes? He's probably doing something for my sake or...?! No, he wouldn't do something that twisted... He wouldn't!!! He wouldn't seek intel on Silver for my sake?! Go back Ortho! GO BAAAACK! You're a pure-hearted shota character, you shouldn't seek to change your condition or you may end in a fucking violent time loop! I don't think he's actually doing this... It would be weird for Ortho to act on this own on shady stuff like this. I guess he is trying to help me in a way... But what the fuck can he be recording... I'll think about it after checking the other days recordings. Maybe there weree already some parasite noises or something like that?

So, I've listened to the whole yesterday recordings, and even the one before yesterday (I just sped up his voice since I just wanted to be sure there were no vocal errors). I am.. pretty sure of it, now. Ortho did not have troubles until yesterday night at least. It seems it has begun during the second part of Trein's class, so it wouldn't be stupid to think that his memory is being more and more filled by "something else". I guess I will just ask him to only pick the key information and understand by himself what the teachers told him... It will take faaaar less room. I'm going to get out now, that's probably night. I hope it will be another chilly travel.

OKAY THIS DIDN'T GO AS PLANNED AT ALL. NOT AT ALL, NOT AT ALL, NOT AT ALL. I thought I'd take a stroll towards in the refectory since no one is supposed to be there at that time but I FUCKING FORGOT THAT NO ONE GIVES A FUCKING SHIT IN THIS FUCKING SCHOOL?! I even thought of taking some food if there were some leftovers so that I could award myself from getting out of my room (cause honestly walking is boring as fuck, I'd rather walk in Skyrim, at least I can hear my leather boots on the ground, lol)... Of course people would have been there. But when I got out of my room, the chilly ascension kept on telling me to move forward.  Everything was covered in darkness, to the point I thought my flames would become that of a raven, finally. I took several steps, no matter what the light piercing my skull did. The gleam may try to bath the corridor of their blue burning halo, there were too much potential icicles ready to kill it. I just wanted the chill atmosphere to let me walk, and somehow it ended up this way. For now, my flames were too weak to even absorb the ice before absorbing their waters. I wish for it to weaken to the point my sparks die. I want to walk on that silver lake too... I don't want to fly above. I don't want to sink beneath. I want... to walk on it. To swim through it.

Basically, by the time I got to the refectory (always fucking heavily decorated, like what the hell, luxurious chandeliers????), I realized I made a mistake. There were at least two potential people going there at least once a week. From the moment I heard their voices, this was too fucking late. Trey and Jamil were arguing, somehow? I didn't even think it was possible for these two to argue... I mean, Trey is the cool glasses trope and Jamil is obviously the tortured-but-actually-cunning-and-not-that-bad one. How could they even argue? Well, not that I knew if it had happened before. Cater could post a lot of stuff on Magicam (and yet that wasn't even shitpost...), lol. But I don't remember seeing stuff on Trey badmouthing Jamil or the other way round... Trey was the kind to avoid troubles at all cost, especially since he was under Riddle's influence... I would behave the same, tho I would never have been vice-dorm-leader lmao (well im already dorm head and it's already a fucking pain in the ass, thanks)... I tried to escape but it was too late... I guess that's what I get for playing with my burning curse. They asked me what was I doing there, though they probably were not surprised of my walking "hours". They seemed so suspicious of myself that it was not an ordinary situation. Usually, they would maybe have greeted me... That's all. They began asking me if I was the one stealing the food. Even if my answer was clear, even shaky, none of them would accept it. I was... after all... fire. Fire and water never meddled. Even if I pushed my body to repeating the same answer under different shapes since I may have had a bad locution... They wouldn't listen to me. At some point, I even told them I would find the criminal later and that I would just record some little things they would say to me before going back to my dorm, but they wouldn't even let me go.

-Well, you see, Shroud, there were supposed to be some yakitori, curry portions and blanquette de veau left. All of them disappeared. Although I think it would be hard for you to eat all of this, your health habit seems bad enough to let you eat nothing for several days then compensate suddenly by a huge chunk of food. Am I wrong?

Jamil wasn't especially agressive toward myself, though I know he probably doesn't like me. Who likes me in this ocean, anyway. They were not fishes like Octacreepnelle, but more of... water elementals, I guess. Or maybe barely humans able to seize water and flowing into rivers. They could merge into this part I couldn't access. Of course I would be forever different and... hated as such. Very likely.

-I am sorry to interrupt you, Mr Viper, but I don't think Shroud is the responsible. I know for sure he has a sweet tooth, and yet, most of the sweets are actually there. Except some of the biggest cakes, everything is more or less there.

I would have rather prefered Trey not to reveal my weakness to the enemy, but he was also trying to protect me in a way. Trey is probably actually more of the hero in disguise trope...! Just kidding. But up to this point, they had so many proofs and yet were clueless and even daring to choose me as the culprit...

-The culprit isn't me, isn't Trey and isn't Jamil...

-Heh?

-How can you be so sure about that, Shroud?

-E-eh... You suddenly rely on me so much... Guess I'm good as long as I can be useful, huh... But you won't let me go if I don't spit the truth so... Basically, all of the sweets, which are tiny and not good for health, are left. Then, we can conclude it's neither of you because you would have picked up ingredients, not food itself, or at least not Trey since he probably values a lot baking and improving.

-T-That's true...

-Then, that could be Jamil... But why would he come again if he already has stolen that much? And from what I know, Jamil prefers to cook because of some dark poison stories, right?

-Y-yes, I cannot deny that...

-Then, it is neither Trey nor Jamil. About myself, I try to stay in my room as much as I can, and I'm pretty sure Ortho only go to the refectory during the authorized hours since he is much more reliable than I am. But why would anyone steal so much food in the first place? If it were for one person, one or two dishes would have been sufficient. Moreover, let's say it again, the sweets were not stolen. So the person who stole... didn't pick up what they wanted by love of good food! They stole it because they needed it.

-Hmm... I wouldn't disagree with you, Shroud but.. I am pretty sure I got a letter from Jamil telling me I had to get here at 10 pm...

-Excuse me, Clover? Aren't you the one who sent the letter?

-And that solves the mystery. There is someone who planned on stealing food, knew that you were the only two going for sure in the refectory during night and set you up.

-Wait, who dares to do such a personnal attack against Scarabia?

-It is very likely that the culprit is... Ruggie Bucchi from Savanaclaw.

-Wait.. that would actually make sense...?!

-Especially since he didn't get a lunch earlier... I guess he planned on pleading for hunger if someone was to catch him during the act. And so he sets us up by delivering letters on different hours, and not by his own hands... Wait this level of intellect is almost that of Azul... Ruggie Bucchie is really cunning and... worthy of praise in a sense.

-Hm, that would definitely make sense since he is always the one to get the leftovers in the refectory before the holidays to help the people of his town. I did not expect you to be that useful, Shroud.

-Heh, you're talking to the one who solved Hinamizawa and Rokkenjima's mysteries on the second parts of each, of course I can do such petty investigation.

-Well... thanks... on the behalf of... Scarabia. I am going.

Jamil just left, but tbh I don't really know why. I guess he wanted some time alone before going back to Kalim. At a certain point of my childhood, I had tried to ask less and less to maids and butlers since they all worked so hard. They probably wanted some freedom too. And... I wanted to learn things for myself, too.

-Oh, Shroud, since you've helped us a lot... And... you've thought of how hard I work on my cakes... I want to make you one as an award. And it must have been hard for you to speak to us. Ask me anything and I'll bring you a cake, my best cake, when you want me to give it to you.

-H-h-h-h-huh? I mm-m-m—mean it's really nice b-b-b-but I...

-That's okay, take your time, I won't scream or shout on you just because you're different from others.

-I... I... thanks... Thanks... But... Shouldn't y-y-y-y-you be paid for that...? I mean, you're a kind of artist, and artists should be p-p-p-paid, r-r-r-ight?

His face certainly moved. But why? Was it on its own, or an order, a semi-order, even? I couldn't tell whether his mouth was smiling or if he was smirking, or the other way around. His limbs were linked like any of the sea-universe kin. So, if he were to makes any action, it should be on purpose... but that would be far too easy and stupid.

-Yeah, sure, but you paid me by solving a big trouble. Of course, depending on what you ask, the fees could overcome the wish I had, and thus you would have to pay a supplement.

I had already asked him about the fees and talked about artist respect. I couldn't possibly go beyond what he would offer me since I, for once, had gathered experience on this one, right...

-Please... Can I have a... I hope it won't sound weird... grey and blue cake? With some hard candies on the top...

-Wow! That's an original idea, I like it! Sure, I'll make it. Blueberries and hmm... I guess some white chocolate, maybe some Turkish Delight if I'm in for it... I'll try to make something unique for you! When should I give it to you?

-I-in... five days, if it's fine with you... I really don't want to bother you, you're already so nice and patient with me...

-That's okay, I'll bring it in five days to the Ignihyde Dorm! But the hard candies and the Turkish Delight may make the cake harder to make... Since you're a Dorm Leader and I don't want Riddle to have troubles with you, could attend at least one PE class? That would make up for it.

-Y-y-y-y-y—yeah, sure.

#twst #twst fanfic #twisted wonderland fanfiction #twisted wonderland #idia x silver

[rememberthattime]

Chapter 59. Cornwall, Charleston, and Chicago

Well we’re into our final chapters. It’s nearly time for Chelsay & I to head home… The end of our time as expats.  

The preceding post, our EuRoad Trip, may go down as our last big adventure abroad. That’s not how we planned it but, if it turns out that way, it’d be a helluva last hurrah.  We have this “on-again-off-again” thing Egypt initially scheduled for November, then delayed to December, and now delayed again until January… but an escalation in Covid cases makes that trip less & less likely.

Regardless of whether Egypt comes through, our last few months abroad will be anything but boring. This post is going to cover December alone, where in just four weeks, Chelsay & I enjoyed TWO winter retreats in Cornwall, and visited Charleston & Chicago for prospective neighborhood tours.

As mentioned, we’d been planning an early winter trip to Egypt. I had the flights, hotels, itinerary, visas… everything was arranged. I even had a dog sitter for Indy. But Covid infections had been rising since the summer, so Chelsay & I always knew this trip was a long shot.

Sure enough, just a few weeks before the trip, our flights were cancelled. We were prepared though and already had a back-up.

3.5 years ago, the same week the Bears drafted Mitch Trubisky, Chelsay & I took a four-day trip to Cornwall. There were two surprises. One turned out to be a good surprise, the other was bad…

The bad surprise was Mitch. As I wrote in our 2017 Cornwall post (Chapter 20), he wasn’t good in college and the Bears passed on so many safer prospects. Fast forward to today, where Mitch is likely in his last season with the Bears while the two quarterbacks drafter after him, Pat Mahomes and Deshaun Watson, are future Hall of Famers.

Well, at least that 2017 Cornwall trip was blast. It’d been a few years though, and with winter surfing a possibility, we decided to use our now-cancelled Egypt vacations days for a return to the Cornish coast.

It seemed like we arrived at our small cottage, Scilly Stack, in the middle of the night. It was actually just dinner time, but the sun sets at 3 pm these days so everything feels like midnight. That first evening, we enjoyed homemade Bolognese and Planes, Trains, & Automobiles. …This cosiness would be a theme.

The trip really began the next morning, with the Cornish wind being our wake-up call. We were visiting the nearby Crown Mines, abandoned for 70 years but still bracing along the Atlantic coastline. I don’t know how they’re still standing: essentially at land’s end, there is no hiding from the elements. Gusting gales, salty mist from the crashing waves… even hail.  Still, Chelsay, Indy, and I were stirred by the wind, and bounced around the craggily coast.

The next stop was one of our primary draws to Cornwall: the beach. It’d been a year since we left Manly, and I missed the water. I keep telling Chelsay that my outdoor activities are limited in London: all I can do is go to the park – no surfing, swimming, or running along the beach. Later in this post, I’ll get into our house tours in Charleston & Chicago… It isn’t a coincidence those cities are both waterfront.

Cornish beaches are unique though: at low tide, the beach seems to be a million football feeds wide. Boats moored in the harbour gradually sink and settle in the sand. The winter crowds are sparse, so Chelsay, Indy, and I had miles to roam. We raced around the beach, threw his ball, played in the waves, and dashed through the surrounding dunes. After wind and hail earlier in the morning, the extreme weather continued: we raced through snow and rainbows in our few hours on the beach.

Afterwards, we warmed up with lunch at a beachside cafe in nearby St Ives. I went a bit risky with the Korean fried cauliflower, which I thought was ambitious for a beachside cafe. This place knew what they were doing though: lunch was delicious, and Chelsay said it was her favorite fish & chips thanks to a special tartar sauce. The town was quiet in the winter, and while we ate, Chelsay and I watched as a lone surfer catching a few waves. I distinctly remember us saying: “We can do that.”

We wrapped up lunch, but with the sun was quickly setting AT 2 PM!, we quickly made our way to the day’s final stop: the Wheal Coates mines.

As a refresher, we’d been here before. We visited in our last trip to Cornwall, but only thanks to a bit of luck. We’d lost cell service so our GPS couldn’t find the mines, and to complicate things, Chelsay had to pee. Somehow, the solution to both problems was the same. We pulled off at a public restroom, where a cartoon map led us directly to the mines.

This time around, I downloaded ‘offline maps’ beforehand, so finding the mines was much. That said, the setting sun made the coastal setting just as special as our previous visit.

Just as we’d done the previous evening, we closed the night with a homemade pasta. This time amatriciana.

We pretty much only had one goal for our second day in Cornwall: surf. It’d been a full year since Chelsay & I left Manly, and we were so anxious to get back in the water. So anxious, in fact, that we were willing to go in the winter.

That morning, we had some serious doubt as we picked up our rental boards & wetsuits boards in Sennan. Literal gale force winds over 40 mph were battering the shoreline. And as if the speed of the wind wasn’t enough, it was directly onshore and killing any chance of wave formation.

That said, the great thing about Cornwall is that it’s a peninsula. If you’ve got onshore winds on one side, just go to the other and you’ll find perfect offshore conditions. Gnarly green faces. Rad rollers. Clean barrels. Smooth breaks. SETS. OUT. THE. BACK.

The surf shop recommended Praa Sands, where a surrounding cove funnelled the south-easterly winds offshore from the beach.  We knew it was the right call when, as we pulled up, noticed Cornwall’s dedicated (though small) surf crowd had also chosen Praa.  

Because it was too cold, windy, and rainy to be outside, we awkwardly changed into our 5mm wetsuits in the car. This was awkward… Not only were the steering wheel and limited space difficult, but anyone passing can look in. Have you ever pulled 6 muscles all at once, while shirtless, while making direct eye contact with someone?  I have now.  

The wetties (and accompanying boots) were critical for this surf session. Just the day before, it had both snowed AND hailed on us. Today there were gale force winds and spots of rain. 5mm of neoprene and incalculable adrenaline were the only things keeping us warm as we plunged into the water.

I specifically remember trying to keep my head high as we paddled out, attempting to stay dry and well above the water. This was one of our strategies to stay warm, with the other being our “get in-go hard-and-get-out-quickly” strategy... Rather than wait for the right wave, we’d paddle hard and take whatever came first.

Luckily there was a pretty solid wave as soon as we hit the lineup: a four foot face that, based on our Manly riding, was perfect for our skillset.

We quickly turned our boards and paddled hard to match the wave’s speed. This was it. Our return. After 12 months, we were going to catch our first wave - Let’s gooooo-NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Chelsay and I both flipped directly over the front of our boards, tumbling through the churning wave. Adding injury to insult, each of our boards popped out of the water and landed on the other person’s head.

No return to surfing glory: just a face-first dive into the frigid water, resurfacing only be whacked in the head by each other’s boards.

This was pathetically unathletic, but also hilarious. Chelsay and I both popped out of the water laughing. We’d now been submerged in the winter water, but survived and actually weren’t *that* cold. Chelsay thinks I’m crazy, but I really think I had colder swims in Manly.  

We needed to reset our wave-riding expectations. The biggest problem was that we were out of surfing shape. Our back & arms lacked both the power and stamina we’d built in Australia, so we never had enough speed to keep up with the waves.

After several misses, we ultimately decided to settle for white water (the wave post-crash), and caught a few beginner sets. Like, true novice waves. The kinds you’d see the kids surf school handle in Manly.

We were probably in the water for just 30 minutes, but our arms were already wrecked. Little did we know, our upper body workout was far from over.  The same offshore wind that built up perfect waves was now standing between us & the car.

The combination of these 40 mph winds, our soft surfboards, and utter exhaustion created the funniest scene of the trip. Chelsay and I were fighting for every inch as we made our way up the beach… If our boards even slightly opened to the wind, gusts would catch the board like a sail, punching us back several steps. We’d torque around, trying to get the board into an aerodynamic position, but the heavy wind wouldn’t let up. We’d twist and turn, completely out of control and hyperventilating from laughter. It genuinely looked like Chelsay might fly away with her board, before she eventually gave up and collapsed in the sand.

Needless to say, our Cornwall surf day was very different from the sunny, guacamole-on-the-beach days in Manly. We still had a blast though.

After the most necessary showers ever, and coffee to energize our depleted muscles (and egos), Chelsay and I returned to Penzance to visit St Michael’s Mount. We let Indy play on the beach with other dogs (all collies, which seems to be a UK theme everywhere except London), while Chelsay & I searched for critters until the tide pools were once again flooded.

The sun set by 4 pm, and I don’t need to tell you our dinner that evening: pasta, along with the Mariah Carey Christmas Special.

The next and last day was another highlight.  Although Cornish weather is turbulent, the forecast said our clearest day would be the last. I was so excited about this hike that I initially planned it for our first day, but reschedule to ensure it coincided with the best chance for sunshine.

Well, we got more than just sunshine. It was mild, almost warm. Light breeze. Dry. Absolutely perfect for our hike from Lizard Pointe to Kynance Cove.  

The Lizard Peninsula is known for its craggily coast, where its countless coves were popular for pirates hiding their treasure. Chelsay, Indy, and I didn’t find any treasure, but we felt very lucky to enjoy the seaside setting in essentially summer conditions. To complete the sunny scene, we enjoyed ice cream cones once we arrived in Kynance Cove’s, playing fetch with Indy along the beach. You can’t ask for any better in December.

These few days in Cornwall were excellent. Very different from the Egypt trip they replaced, but somehow both relaxing and adventurous.  We had a such a great time that we booked a return visit just three weeks later.

This return Cornwall visit was entirely intended to decompress. You’ll see when I write about it later: we did nothing.

Why was an ‘exhale’ trip necessary? Well, between our two Cornish holidays, we were visiting Charleston & Chicago, evaluating if either were right for Chelsay & I’s eventual return to the US.  

These visits were mostly Chelsay and I independently exploring each city, gauging “What’s Possible” in terms of neighborhood and home quality, outdoor activities, community values …and, as mentioned earlier, access to the water.

I won’t go into too many details here, but a few memories worth noting:  

That first sunrise in Charleston. It felt like we hadn’t seen a single sunrise since we moved to London… because we hadn’t.

Biscuits and gravy to start the day, followed by walks along the large beaches on Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms.

The charming homes of Charleston, which Chelsay and I agreed, made this the prettiest city we’d visited in the US.

Soups, sandwiches, and warm waterfront views at Kiawah Island’s Freshfields Market.

The unbelievable size of American grocery stores. They’re like airplane hangars, with an entire aisle for cereal. We counted 12 unique flavors of Oreos alone! It wasn’t until we browsed these snack aisles that we realized how much we missed all this variety and convenience.

The views from my parents’ 14th floor condo, including surrounding skyscrapers, sunrises over Lake Michigan, and the general city buzz.

Portillos!

The smell of heavy incenses and grilled cabeza steak in La Chaparrita Taqueria.  

Our no-nonsense realtor Greg, who handled our four house tours with the militaristic precision of D-Day. This style was in direct contrast to the selling agents, who were all very kind but far too affable for Greg. There was one agent that couldn’t answer a single question without sprawling in a million directions: “Well the first thing is location… Wait did I tell you about the… Actually my oldest daughter lives down… Oh, where was I?”.  The question we asked was the difference between Winnetka & Wilmette.

The safety measures necessary to make this trip work. This was our first time flying since the start of the pandemic, and we were as careful as possible throughout.  Our extra precautions included getting tested, paying extra attention to social distancing, and even investing in hospital-grade KN95 masks.  

The trip was extremely informative, and we enjoyed envisioning what our lives would be like when we eventually return to the US.  That said, it was a sprint and, especially considering our jet lag, we were exhausted.  This is precisely why we’d booked another 5 days in Cornwall upon our return.

After our overnight flight into London, we picked up our rental car, stopped by the house to grab Indy (and a shower), then started our five-hour drive to Newquay.

This Christmas Eve trip was surprisingly easy. I was nervous beforehand, anticipating minimal sleep on the plane followed immediately by five hours on the road. Just think of how extreme a trip Chicago-to-London-to-Cornwall is in under 15 hours… Although my fears about plane rest turned out to be accurate, the drive was made immeasurably calmer thanks to Obama’s A Promised Land audiobook. Something about having an empathetic, logical President was reassuring. The good ol’ days.

The calm vibes would continue in Cornwall. Round two was nothing like the round one I previously wrote about. In fact, it was unlike any trip Chelsay & I have taken: we did nothing. No itinerary. No plans. No sight-seeing.

This was our opportunity to exhale, and we took full advantage.  We slept in until 10:30 several days, hardly leaving the house and never driving more than 30 minutes from our accommodation. Some of the most memorable highlights:

The accommodation itself, a four-bedroom cottage overlooking Mawgan Porth Beach. 

Our Christmas calls with family, where we opened presents with all the nieces and nephews. Miles got a dragon toy, Orly a stuffed pony, and Jeff & Liv’s couch got leather care formula.

Christmas Day with Chelsay, where we made Beef Wellington and gingerbread cookies, and watched Home Alone 1 & 2.

Our daily beach walks with Indy. After our Cornwall trip earlier in the month, we knew to expect turbulent weather. In just a few days, round two provided a mix of every kind of winter weather: rain, hail, sunshine, gale force winds… Regardless of the weather, we enjoyed beach time with Indy as the tides shifted.

I need to re-emphasize just how windy the beach was. I’ve never seen anything like it. As we walked, the sand kicked up by our boots would catch the wind and shoot 15 feet away. 

Playful walks along the Cornish coastal paths, including stops at the Bedruthan Steps and Port Isaac.  

Teaching Chelsay to play chess. Although she was skeptical at first, we both enjoyed the light competition in an otherwise relaxing few days.

Stealing a line from Jeff & Liv, “Well, that’s Christmas.” …That was December 2020.

I’m actually writing this post on January 1, 2021, which I’m sure I’ll look back on as a significant day. Not only is today a celebratory end to one of the worst years in history (pandemic, economic decline, racial tensions, Trump…), but it’s also excitingly the beginning of what will likely be Chelsay & I’s biggest year yet.

Our December 2020 was actually reflective of today’s mixed New Year’s Day emotions. Our two Cornish holidays represented closing chapters to our international travels, which have consumed our past five years. Meanwhile, our tours of Charleston & Chicago foreshadowed our exciting return to the US. Our past & future look bright …and filled with dozens of different types of Oreos.

[akaomoide]

Do all of the new year asks!!

(;;;*_*)  Holy cow, that’s a lot of questions. 

reflect: what are 3 things you have accomplished this year that you are proud of?

1. I traveled on my own. This might not sound like a big deal, but my mum has always been against it even though I’ve wanted to do so for a long time, so I’m proud of myself for doing it anyways.

2. I started therapy! It really helped a lot with calming down my mental state, and even though I’m almost done with the therapist, I know there’s still a lot I have to do on my own.

3. I’ve happily accepted my sisters boyfriend into the family. I know I can be quite cold towards people when I first meet them, because I’m afraid of getting hurt by them if I let them in, but he’s her important person, so I really tried hard! And I think I succeeded, because he jokes around with us like he’s known us for years now. ᕙ( * •̀ ᗜ •́ * )ᕗ

aspire: what are 3 things you want to achieve next year?

1. Finally building that damn closet, damn it! It’s been on my to do list for over 6 months now…

2. Learning to sew. I want to make cute and nice clothes for myself and others. A kimono for my dad is the first thing on my list.

3. Picking up on the horse riding lessons again, maybe, probably. Every time I’m on my sisters horse I feel like taking lessons again, but I somehow never seem to get to it?

inspire: who is someone who made this past year better?

My best friend! We watched so many shows together and we laughed a lot and we even went camping, it was a good year. Now I just hope 2018 will bring an even better year for both of us! (o^▽^o)

flourish: in what ways have you grown as a better person this year?

I’ve learned to let things go. There’s stuff you can’t do anything about and opinions you can’t change, and sometimes it’s better to let go, but I’ve always had a hard time with it. With big things, I still struggle, but with the small things, I’m channeling Elsa (♪Let it go, let it gooooo♪)

envision: the day i am most looking forward to next year is … because …

August 24. ABUNAI!!! (It’s a convention I’ve been going to for the last 3 years and I LOVE it)

presume: what is something you expected to happen this year, but didn’t?

Is it stupid if I say ‘my first kiss’? Because that’s the honest answer… (>▽

connect: who is someone new you met this year that you wouldn’t be the same without?

Oh dear God, I don’t meet a lot of people. Most of the people I meet don’t change me in some big way, or I don’t feel the change yet (looking at all the people I met in the USA). 

Probably the guy I met for like five seconds during the last day of Abunai? He used his actual hair for his Asahi cosplay and I complimented him on it, high-fived him and ran away like the socially awkward person I am? He made me determined to cosplay Kenma with my own hair this year and be less awkward about talking to attractive people. (What can I say, I’m already really weak for long hair and when I saw his face my first thought was “oh shit he’s also handsome”)

Edit: It’s my therapist. How could I forget about my therapist. She’s helped me so much this year and probably will have an impact on my entire life, but if we’re counting out people that are being paid to help you the answer above still stands.

alter: name 3 ways your life is going to positively change next year.

1. I’m getting a binder.

2. Discovering my style (fashion wise) and being comfortable in it.

3. Continuing to grow personally and mentally.

heal: name 5 ways you are going to make next year better.

See the question above. I’m gonna do my best! ᕙ(o^▽^o )ᕗ

memorize: describe in detail the happiest day you’ve had this year.

There’s two, actually. The two last days of Abunai, because Abunai is amazing. i actually only remember snippets, but mostly I remember the rush, and the feeling of “This is actually me.” the me i can be when I’m not constantly socially anxious and just being so happy and content. 

forecast: in 3 months i will be…

Happily wearing my binder.

foresee: in 6 months i will be…

Having short hair.

foreshadow: in 9 months i will be…

In school again. Probably.

foretell: this time next year i will be…

Happier and more calm than I am right now.

rejuvenate: name something you have learned to recover from or move past this year.

The fact that my mum is probably never going to listen to and respect my wishes unless I demand her to. That is something my therapist pointed out to me and I was surprised I hadn’t ever noticed. So now I either resign when it’s not that important, or get really angry when it is.

discover: what are 5 things you’ve learned about yourself or life as a whole this year?

1. Don’t put others before yourself. It might seem noble, but it’s gonna fudge you up big time along the road.

2. You don’t owe your parents anything. They’ve chosen to put a child in the world, but you didn’t choose to be born. 

3. The same with family, if they make you feel shitty about yourself, cut all ties or only meet them when you really have to. I’ve stopped going to birthdays and I refused to celebrate Christmas with mine, because I’m done with feeling like a second grade person because of their remark. The only time I meet them is when my parents or sister or I celebrate our birthdays, but I’m seriously considering telling them I’m not celebrating mine this year, even if I am.

4. Treasure those that make you feel good. Spend some time to ask about their life, catch up, make sure they now you care. Even if you don’t see each other often, it’s nice to know they’re out there, and people love feeling loved.

5. I’m a fudgeing idiot when it comes to flirting. I mean I knew this already, but the Abunai-guy thing just pointed it out to me like nothing ever has before… ┐(°‿°;)┌

venture: name 3 new things you tried this year.

1. Japanese food! Other than discovering I get a stomach ache from seaweed, the best thing ever!

2. I traveled on my own!

3. Learning a new language! (Japanese) (I mean I kinda started before, but not sincerely)

perspective: what’s something you’ve changed your opinion on since the beginning of this year?

“My parents are the best people ever” -> “They have their faults and it’s okay to acknowledge them” Actually really helped with me growing towards being my own person instead of some mix between that and what they see me as. I think our relationship has also improved because of this.

devote: describe a way in which you made a positive impact on someone else’s year.

Ok so I met this 8 year old while celebrating Thanksgiving in the USA and I made such an impression on her she asks if she can call me every time my friend visits her. I got her a lucky charm and a key chain that matches mine and she was ecstatic, according to my friend. (My friend works in the USA as the au pair of her cousin, that’s how we celebrated Thanksgiving together and why they see each other often.)

Also. I went to a Buddhist temple in LA, because my dad likes Buddhism and I wanted to pray for his health like you (normally) would in a church. I met the priest there, and we had a talk about how I was mostly raised with Buddhist beliefs (be the best person you can be and spread goodness in the world) and about my dad and how much I love him. Afterwards, I wrote down my address for him, because he said he could send us a booklet about the beliefs the temple I went to stood for. He send a letter with it. It said the priest thought our meeting had ‘enlightened’ him. Which made my dad cry.

emerge: describe an experience this year that caused you to mature.

I think every experience made me grow, but my parents feel like the three weeks I traveled really changed me, so I’m going to go with that.

positive vibes: you’ve made it through another year! i’m so proud of you and my year wouldn’t have been the same without you!

Thank you so much! Right back at you!  (´ ∀ `)ノ～ ♡

#fei answers

[jyotikathapa]

After an Anonymous plan to travel together with my girlfriends we chose Bali. It wasn’t my first choice but the flights are cheap from Aus and food and hotels too; for sure then why not!!! And literally, it was ok! didn’t cost me much. So we planning started 3 months before. Just a plan! PLAN!!! (which doesn’t work really work out most of the time)

Anyways in April, we should have been three of us in the tour but one of my girlfriends couldn’t make it due to passport delay in the embassy. However, two of us were on a gooooo….

Well, I booked my ticket with the transit in Singapore for 12hrs which let me go in free Singapore tour by the Chiang Mai airport (This is another story will share it soon)

Arrival in the Ngurah Rai International Airport, Denpasar, aka BALI! Reached there around 8 pm and lucky Nepalese travellers!!! you don’t need a visa. YeaH!!! (Nepalese don’t need visa if u stay less than 30days ). Fuzz start when u are a tourist and need a ride to Hotel after touchdown to the island. So, people you better take a blue taxi if u want to save your budget and run taxi in meters :D. Reached hotel meet my friend after a year. Had local dinner nearby the restaurant and off to bed.

Day 1 Haha! Woke up late. Then we hired a scooter from the hotel then off to ride (renting a bike is quite cheap there IDR 50000- 70000 per 24 hrs/day). Then we got ourselves sim cards and off to the road… Thank God there is GPS. We passed through Kuta street and man! It was vibrant in all possible terms. Uluwatu Temple was the first destination cause it was on the edge of the map lol! Well, its looked far away in a drive and city is crowded as every other city. We came to see a beautiful couple taking their photo nearby the cliff and it was spectacular.

lady by the cliff

Uluwatu Temple

couple tring to capture panoramic view of uluwatu temple

relax, see, enjoy, rest

Couples near the cliff for wedding photo

lovely couples, capturing their wedding

Tip: Beware of the monkeys they will snatch everything possible. Carry a candy bar in your pockets to batter your belongings. Well, there are locals who will save you for sure.

Next destination after there was the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK), a cultural park. Have you experienced a disastrous moment well it was the first one when we were there? Scooter stopped and didn’t start at all. NOT my Fault (fault in our star damn!) but the generous staff in the GWK helped us start the bike. And we were there first thing first we enjoyed the ice cream mad on the cold slab.

It was great then the view of GWK well it was architectural delineation for sure. The Indra log was amazing well it was a place for famous events in Bali for music concerts and parties.

GWK

dancing away

artist from the theater dacing

Wishnu God

villan

garauda story

forever young heart

orchestra

Well, you can spend whole day over there watching various theatre shows done for the visitors and we were able to witness few of them as the Vishnu (wishanu dance/ art); taaktaktaktak dance and the beautiful music until the end.

On our way back to the hotel we went to the beach nearby called double six beaches no wonder why! Grab the beer and enjoy the view! Not really it was dark ! man! Lol though the music was good and the atmosphere was chilled. Bintang the Indonesian beer…

Day 2 So no hangover, but still not an early bird, so on the second day we changed the scooter and we head to Ubud the monkey forest. This day was amazing first we encounter the notorious and mischievous monkeys. Rule 1 do not try to be friendly with them. Rule 2 don’t look in the eye or you will fall in love not but trouble (guides said it meant war if you stare at them lol).

After all that we escape the monkeys and headed to the famous tergalalang rice field. The view was great as it is seen in Instagram and Bali lookout but a bit crowded. Lots of people and lots of ways to be there. However, we were there and no need for tickets but there were kids that were trying to sell souvenir and stuff and local who maintained the field were collecting generosity ($) for themselves. Recommended to visit this area. Enjoy the view with coconut water for sure and that the exact place where we planned our next stop..

Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali

On the way to tegenungan waterfall sukawati we stopped by the Luwak coffee farm to taste the local famous coffee which is literally a shit of an animal named PLAM Civet (Luwak). The coffee was great and as a bonus we were given around 12 kinds of tea for testing which were amazing. About tea testing, you will be seeing a video soon.

Coffee testing

Luwak with its kids

Luwak poop ! the coffee beans

Special Luwak coffee

Must say it was a lovely day, now that we were close to the waterfall, we didn’t have spare clothes to change but then you only get one chance in a lifetime, therefore, take a dip and live. So I bought lungi like pyjama there for IDR 100,000 which is a nice gift too for later. Well, you need to buy a ticket for the entry though. So we were there and lots of other people too.

the red flag in left bottom side. do not go i repeat do not go

Tegenungan Waterfall

I would say this is the part where I came back from death, thanks to lifeguards there. There are unusual timing in life when you wanna be a rebel but there is devil waiting for you to end. So, what happened was I went to the water to take a photo but somehow I wanted to feel that one of life time moment and swim in the waterfall. So, as you can guess the whirlpool pulled me and my friend was taking a video thinking I was swimming like a pro but not. However, those lifeguards on standby saved me with the rubber tube well I lost my words and sense for some time but must say was one of the LIFETIME MOMENT!!!! Hence, guess be safe. Under the waterfall, there is sign which is marked with a flag for danger so avoid those areas. Sad thing photo didn’t come out well…

Well that was the day end of story for so far for which I get teased by my friends DIVE = DIE Day 3 This day weather was gloomy when we started to head out. So this day we went to Tanah Lot temple, the temple on the sea; next to the sea! Well, that place was amazing but I wonder what it would look like during sunset cause it popular for that.

temple

vendor with paper bird

flying paper ship

Well, there were parts of temple one being across the sea or shall say it was 100meter away from the mainland! You need to cross the gap between the lands via walk. And holy God, there were water snakes! Or some kind of snakes which is suppose to be gods relative or god themselves. One thing I am most afraid of is a snake and holy cra* Lord there they were but no harm. So I took blessing form the priest there and rushed back.

oh weather!!! It started to rain a lot but still then we ended up going out and soaking in the rain. As per my friend’s request, we went to blue lagoon which is supposed to be the best beach in Bali for snorkelling and beach time. Damn! It was beach day for us like b*tc$ day. It never stopped. We stopped by several stops to escape the rain but rain was all over us (rain on me!!!!! ) Somehow we reached there at the end. While we were there it stopped for a while and when we went to hotel it was raining again.

blue lagoon was really blue

Weather forecast for the next day seemed tragic so we rented the van and driver for next day.

while we wait for the rain to stop

Day 4 So on this day, we were supposed to go to 3 places as per our booking cause they were long distanced and off hills. First of all, we went to view Mt. Kintamani Volcano which took us more than 2 hours reach that viewpoint next we went to Pura Besakih temple which is known to be the biggest Hindu temple in Bali. It was a festival season so it was crowded by the devotees and tourist. We had an epic story here with the guide in the temple too. Bust the place was mesmerising.

Day 5 Coming to end of our tour, last day for us in Bali(supposed to be) hence I want to go all around Bali before I go back to place where I come from. cause we had been too limited areas only. There for DAY 5 was 270+ km tour for us in the bike.

First Stop: Pura Ulun Danu Bratan

Second stop: famous pancasari door  (Got to get one  of those shot)

                  Third stop: Gitgit waterfall

  kid trying to sell her hand made craft

Fourth stop: Kubu beach for lunch and relax in the swimming pool which also is a great place for diving for starters

this place is famous for snorkelling and underwater diving

relax by the sea and pool with few cocktails always relaxing

Fifth stop: Tirta Ganga

lets take selfie for one and then there they are

family picture with their character

After that as for the finishing touch, we went to Candi Dasa beach where the sunset was beautiful.

  Sunset in the Candidasa beach or horizon…..

  more stories to share… it will continue to another blog… (solo travel; beach relax day, food, turtles, food, rest…)

any enquiries email in [email protected] ready to help

you get more than you know in Bali. Nature is amazing, when you add luxury its heaven After an Anonymous plan to travel together with my girlfriends we chose Bali. It wasn’t my first choice but the flights are cheap from Aus and food and hotels too; for sure then why not!!!

#bali #beach #bike #bintang #blue lagoon #candidasa #coffee tasting #cultural park #double six beach #food #Garuda Wisnu Kencana #Gitgit waterfall #GWK #holiday #icecream #Indonesia #Kubu Beach #luwak #luwak coffee #monkey temple #mount kintamani #music #nature #Pancasari door #Pura Besakih Temple #Pura Ulun Danu Bratan #relax #semiyak #snorkling #sukawati

[survivormoheli]

Episode #1 - “I had to unblock two people in my tribe” - Tara

The cast is revealed: https://survivormoheli.tumblr.com/tagged/reveal In addition, it is revealed that there are no idols in this game, instead a system of twists: https://survivormoheli.tumblr.com/post/171711080313/idol-system The buffs are also revealed: https://survivormoheli.tumblr.com/post/171739691688/premerge-buffs

Immunity: https://survivormoheli.tumblr.com/post/171711113378/tribal-immunity-1-duolingo During the immunity challenge, the Ouani tribe quickly dominates, with Raffy and Bryan each having extremely high scores very early on. Sima, having a native French speaker in Eric K, also finds quick success despite having a few players with very low scores. In addition, Raffy discover's Jay's method of assigning usernames, and tracks the scores of the other tribes to remain dominant.

Results: https://survivormoheli.tumblr.com/post/171745790728/duolingo-results After immunity, Bryan, having earned the highest score, got to choose a member of the losing tribe to recieve an extra vote. He chose Becca, and she decided to cast two votes against Phoenix to try to keep herself in the game. Matt, having the lowest score, seems to be an early target, but manages to twist the votes against BEcca by working with Phoenix and Richie. Back on Ouani, Tara, Raffy, JG, and Bryan bond and form an early alliance. At tribal council, Becca goes home in a 5-2 vote.

Tribal: https://survivormoheli.tumblr.com/post/171778863148/tribal-council-1-moya

Eric A

I am really nervous to start out this season. I did really poorly on my last season and I am scared I will do poorly a second time. I just have to play a more social game than I ever had before, and hope for a better result. But I know that as long as I try, I will be proud of myself.

tara

omg hi i'm tara and i'm rly excited to b playing with BRYAN!!!!!! i had to unblock two people in my tribe p exciting but i'm excited to see the cast reveal!! 

JG

HOLY HELLLL!!!! LETS GOOOOO! 3 Tribes of 6? OMG SHOOKETH TO THE CORE! I am in all caps but I am literally shaking. This is a chance for redemption with me and Tara. Then there is Rafael who I voted out in Kuang Si as well as Andreas, in actuality those two were the ones who tried to flip the vote the vote me on me during Kuang Si when I was almost tribe swap f*cked. Don't know the other two but that can change, this should be really interesting! BryanOMG FUCKING WOOH TO THE MAX! IM SO HAPPY TARA IS IN THIS GAME! I was so sad when i met her and she said she wasn’t gonna play another org. BUT HERE SHE IS IN ANOTHER ORG! We are gonna slay. And Oml Ratfy is here. It’s very scary. BUT ITS OK CUZ WE ARE FRIENDS! I’ve never met the other people on my tribe tho. IM SO EXCITED FOR THIS GAME! Tara is amazing. Lav her. 

Eric A

5 minutes in and Akito forgot the series name. Ok Akito, ok.

Tim

Show me support I'm so anxious!

This is gonna be outdated in like a few months but. "My FBI Agent watching me play in another ORG

https://scavengertim2.tumblr.com/post/171711065049

Matt J

Survivor time! I am so excited to be playing, my tribe seems really cool and I’m definitely looking forward to getting to know them better.

So the first challenge was posted and we have to learn French. I’m definitely shaking in my boots a little because I couldn’t learn Spanish and am bad enough at English! My tribe mates have already started the challenge so I guess it’s time to step it up or go home.

Rafael

Immediately I see a lot of familiar faces. Bryan is refreshing as we tend to work well together. I would love to work with him. Tara is a blessing and an angel on Earth. She's so sweet and I would give arm and limb for her to work with me. Like that's someone I want to honestly work with the entire game. But her personality is liable to other people wanting the same. JG is someone who I've only known through him voting me out. But I've gotten over it. We can probably be a strong duo that no one would see coming. Andreas.... I don't know. He's not someone I had a real connection with and is definitely an outsider to me. Then there's Elliot. He's a newbie, so maybe easy to control? The thing about him is that he has not been online yet. He does live in the UK so he's probably sleeping, but I hope he will do the challenge in the morning.

After a lengthy call, my relationships are definitely tight with JG, Bryan, and Tara. Bryan and I still have a strong friendship going on. All four of us talked a lot through the night, and Tara even brought up the possibility of forming an alliance. It was in jest, but it seems like everyone was really digging the idea. It ended up being JG and I as the last members on call. He expressed a desire in working with me throughout the game as a power duo and I am here for it! This is exactly what I wanted! I'm very excited to work with him. He also talked about working with Tara and using Bryan since he saw how close he and I were. JG's insight could be beneficial to my game as I tend to be a very delusional and oblivious person at times. I am already putting myself in a good position so I cannot wait to see what happens! This tribe is definitely drinking the Raffy Kool-Aid. Time to just utilize them to further my position. 

Rafael

I'm speaking to Andreas right now. He brings up a very interesting point that I have noticed about the games I have been in. People are scared of me. They are scared of how I play the game. In this community, to those who know me, I'm considered a "dangerous" player. I'm honored to hold that status, but it's also annoying at the same time. Like I never really get the chance to play differently if I wanted to. I always have to stay the social player to stay. People need to want to keep me for my personality. They already see me as a threat. Note to self: need to cool it on the strategizing for now

Rafael

Why is Tara such an angel? Like she literally just spent time playing 20 questions with me. We just talked about ourselves and got to know each other more. This girl is sweet! But also playing an amazing social game currently. I can see her being a threat later down the line, but I want to keep her around. Plus I don't think people would go for someone like her this early in the game.

Andreas

What's up Mohelians. It's Day 1 and oh boy, my Tribe is lit! Have you ever ordered something at a restaurant, waited for an uncomfortably long time whilst growing hungry, ONLY TO RECEIVE SOMETHING YOU DIDN'T ORDER? Yeah? That's my tribe. I've played with Raffy and JG in my very first ORG and we were in a very awkward situation where naive, inexperienced me betrayed Raffy, heavily blindsiding him, only to be eventually be blindsided by JG myself. But that's okay. I hope to get a chance at a fresh start with Raffy. As for JG, we'll see. I know he's a really fun guy, but I don't really trust him game-wise. As for the other people: Bryan and Elliott haven't replied. And I've spent a good few hours talking with Tara about <everything>. Game-wise, idk if I can trust her just yet, but she's very easy and a lot of fun to talk to and I reveal everything about me, because that's a wise strategic move, right? Anyway, Day 1 tl;dr: I wanna work together with Raffy and Tara. But let's see what happens. :)

Eric A

So day 1 is down, which has been the most nerve wracking org day I played in a while, even though nothing happened. Akito seems to want to work with me, which is good for me because I never get approached, like ever. I approached all the others on my tribe too, just to introduce myself. I think I would want to work with my clone and AnnMarie the most. My clone (Eric K.) and I seem to get along well, especially with the connection of us having the same name. I feel like I have more connections to him than Blake or Lynn. I also like AnnMarie because she seems to be outgoing and fun, at least by what she has said so far. I think she is a trustworthy person as long as I were to approach her early in the game. But you never know in Survivor. You have to go with your instinct, and I intend on doing just that.

Akito

Oh my goodness no idols! I am loving this season already. Now I can only focus on strategy and socializing which is perfect! Let's hope I do a good job doing this though.

Tim

Things are quiet over here at Moya but this challenge makes me want to jump!!! From a bridge!!! The truth of the matter is that my Mental Health had continued to deplete from learning French

JG

This challenge is gonna drive me crazy oops , I used the wrong tense! IT IS DRIVING ME CRAZY!!! I hate tedious work and this is literally just doing the same thing over and over. It's like the song that never ends, its OK the first time and you can tolerate the second time through like the fifth but after that you're just waiting for someone "accidentally" knock you out.

I really am getting good vibes from Raf,Tara, and Bryan. I'm less cautious about Tara being tight because apparently she JUST met Bryan a day or two ago. Crazy how things work out! If I'm being frank (I know it's not my real name) I would be down with doing a four person alliance consisting of me, Tara, Raf, and Bryan. It appears we are the most active so far and granted the other two were in different time zones but still haven't seen much. I started to talk to Elliot and he seems cool. Not sure what vibe I am getting yet. Also I was successful in my night one goal that is the same for every game. GET THE  TRIBE ON CALL!!! This is a way for me to bond with people and feel them out as well try to read between the lines of past relationships. People are more likely to say something they didn't mean to than to type it. I really think at the very least we should get second and if not then I will probably push for Andreas to be voted off! Sucks to suck, I guess.

J.G.

This challenge is a chienne! Probably the only French I'll remember after this.

Elliot

I've been using duolingo for two hours and while i still don't know french i think i may be forgetting how to speak english please send help

I've been using duolingo for two hours and while i still don't know french i think i may be forgetting how to speak english please send help

Tim

We are gonna lose smh!!!!

Becca

Okay so far I love my tribe and everyone is awesome! I’m pretty hyped!

Elliot

I spent like 6 hours gaining 1000xp only to take one test and get 900xp i genuinely learnt fucking french and w a s t e d 7 hours of my fucking life I'm so upset oh my god

Tim

https://scavengertim2.tumblr.com/post/171745654689 my eternal mood.

Tim

So Phoenix is playing sorta fast? Making an alliance based on nothing fjsksks just trying to get majority to vote with them because they are gonna score low djsksks.

Lynn

I honestly thought we were going to tribal because I had to work most of the day and felt like I didn’t do the most I could have but i’m proud of the tribe. 

Blake

Im estatic we didn’t go To tribal! I see that AnnMarie may be a slacker so if we plunge on our next challenge she may have to go home.

Tim

Im not saying ANYTHING this time around. Not even gonna ask for a name. Anyways sidenote... Bryan really wanted that advantage huh sis outdid himself.

Matt J

Well we are going to tribal, that sucks. I definitely could be going home tonight but I hope I have built strong enough relationships with people to stick around. Now I need to talk it over with my allies to see who’s going home. I want Phoenix or Dani gone for one simple reason: they never tried talking to me. I’m just hoping that they are not gunning for me for the same reason.

richie

whats up whats good we in this bitch!!! its day 2 in this game and we already lost the first immunity challenge and we're going to tribal because i'm literally destined to be on the worst tribe in every game i play its just what i deserve!!! this is a small tribe theres only 6 of us and i like everyone ive had at least somewhat of a conversation with everyone at some point in the last day nothing spectacularly life changing/bond making/best friend creating/social game dominating but at least something..... a couple hours before we lost immunity i was talking to phoenix for the first time they were the last person i had any interaction with and then he's like "Hey, I was wondering if you want to work with my alliance?" and instantly in my head i was like *omarosa voice* YOUR alliance? tell me about your alliance... since you just said that "my alliance" is what you just said..... so that was ridiculously poor wording on phoenix's part because it was like hey i have my alliance want to work with us.... so obviously i said yeah bc you cant say no and i wanted the tea so he adds me to the chat and its phoenix/tim/dani and i can see the chat history where they were already together in this alliance chat and phoenix says "Yo I'm talking to Richie, should I ask him if he wants to join the alliance so we have majority?"....................... can you make it any more obvious that i'm at the bottom of this alliance and i was brought in after it was established so yall would have majority and im just supposed to be grateful and compliant? okay....werk!!! unfortunately matt and becca got the worst scores in the challenge so if i wanted to do something about this the best i could do is either force a tie or try and flip tim to the other side but thats super risky to work with people who arent going to help us win and we just end up losing over and over....ill probably go along with whatever this alliance says and build up 1 on 1 relationships with them to try and up my ranks on their individual totem poles until we can swap or something but its been 5 minutes since we lost so im sure shit will go down that will change everything before tribal but i guess we'll see~! Rafael

Winning immunity is the greatest thing. I did not want to go to tribal in the first round! Bryan's reward was very interesting. Becca getting it might be a sign that he wants to work with her. Plus, it could be a detriment to Tim.

Tim

So Matt really screwed his own game up huh. Anywayss Phoenix is getting a bit crackdt and wild. Id love for Matt to stay but he threw my name out there yikes. (Not to vote out but in a negative way). I wanted Bec gone because she did worse on the challenge but we'll see .wink wonk

Tim

Also im becca scrambling and akig everyone to align with her and playing dumb because "um tehehehe this is my first org" im like yeah sis I get it lol you have some game potential but we'll see how that turns out. Im not a fool I see through that! Luckily Matt screwed himself over now hes gone and not her.

Tim

Im really looking forward to working with Richie and Dani and Phoenix but Im weary on Pho.

Tim

So my analytical skills have kicked in. Becca really saved herself by aligning with Matt who is also in jeopardy but he takes the fall by targeting someone who scored in the challenge instead of pressing the weight onto bec.

Matt J

So I’m pretty sure Becca was going to be going home but after using my amazing survivor skills, I put the target on me. What can I say, I play hard lol. I’m like 100% positive that Dani, Phoenix, and Tim are all working together. They were gonna target Becca since she did slightly worse than me in the challenge but then I opened my big mouth lol. I’m going to have to let Richie take control of my fate and see if he can pull any strings for me. The smartest move for him and Becca would be to turn on me though and if that’s the case, I have no hard feelings or regrets.

Bryan

Omg hey so. Little check in. OUR TRIBE WON THE FIRST IMMUNITY WOO! Not only that but I got first place overall with all the players so that was nice. The reward for getting first place was the i got to give an extra vote to someone on the losing tribe. I didn’t know anyone on the losing tribe and i had never met anyone so i gave it to Becca because feminism. Also another thing. I absolutely love the group of me, raffy, JG, and Tara. I feel like we all really connect and being on call with us four is a lot of fun! Me and raffy were talking about it and we felt that this group could really do some damage together. Anyways. Sorry this was so long. Peace out yo. 

Akito

We won a challenge!!! but also seeing that I did 3rd best in tribe puts me in a good reason. I didn't do too well and I didn't do too bad. As long I average scores in the tribe I am in a decent spot. Right now I have to focus more on socializing and trying to make strategic moves now. Because I wanna gun for big comp threats, because they can easily beast their way, but at the same time you don't want to make too many big moves or do things too early too soon. Pinpointing the game and looking forward the future and thinking one step ahead and trying to see what works and all that. Building the bridges in relationships is key and I wanna put my trust in others so I can be able to maneuver that trust into an advantage in the game.

tara

bryan leaksss so much like i can't do anything w him bcos the whole tribe will hear about it. which sucks bcos i like bryan but like he has a big mouth!!! so talking to him is bad for my game. everyones attacking the foreigners too and its kinda rude!! i think i need to stick w them otherwise the kuang si alliance is gonna take over yikes! 

Andreas

Bonjour mes amis.

I really don't like how my tribe works. It's one thing that I am unable to be around when people are active. I get it. I'm European. I sleep when you are active. But do you really need to focus camp life on skype calls? There's barely anything to start a conversation on! Arghh!!!! Anyway, with tryhards like Raffy, JG and Bryan, I don't see us losing a challenge anytime soon, but I do really feel like I'm at the bottom of the tribe. I was still only able to connect with Tara and I hope that we don't go to TC and get a swap soon.   This has been proven to be quite the opposite of a chill ride already as people are realling putting everything on the line. Let's see how the next rounds go.

AnnMarie C.

Being in Sima tribe is an experience a lot different from other games I've had. I barely know anyone here, and they're all so quiet, I guess because of the challenge and because we won. I hope it changes soon. Not the winning part at least but the talking part. I feel TERRIBLE about just doing 270 xp for the challenge. 270!!!!! That's nothing. Having (French)Eric in the tribe though? He was like a gaurdians angel for us in this challenge. I also love how there are 2 Erics. I guess that happens a lot in ORGS. Two tims, two bryans, two erics, but I cannot wait until there are two AnnMaries! I think that would actually end up terribly. Anyways, the beginning of Moheli for me was lack luster. I was expecting getting to meet all these great people, having interesting conversations, and throwing down at this challenge, but it's quiet. Really quiet.

Rafael

JG, Bryan, Tara, and I were on call last night again! I really do think that this is a solid group of people. We get along really well together, and it is a group that I think no one will see coming. There is something that bothers me though. Tara is very likable. She could easily put herself in a position to control the game. There is also JG who is not dumb. He knows how to play this game. I do not doubt their loyalty, I'm scared of the power they could hold and the moves they could make. This could make them frontrunners from the beginning of merge and I want to win! That's thinking too far ahead though. I just need to relax and keep an eye on things.

Eric K

I'm super happy that the Sima tribe isn't going to tribal! i loved the first challenge because I'm french so it wasn't hard to go through the whole Duolingo course. I was really hoping to get the highest XP but I guess somebody else beat me out on that.

Matt J

So there’s not much time left before everyone has to vote and my time in this game is dwindling down. The only smart choice for my tribe is to vote me out. I didn’t do very well in the challenge and I talked a lot of strategy for someone on the chopping block. Last night I wanted to work with Becca but she wants to vote out Richie so now I’ve washed my hands with Becca and my only chance of staying in this game is if everyone votes for her.

Dani

There's either one of two things that are happening right now in this game. I have either formed a great majority alliance and am set for any future elimination, or am about to get completely blindsided. Hopefully it's the first lol.

Tim

Its already drama on the first vote ugh! Like ugh It was simple vote Bec because she did the worst in the challenge! 

Matt J

So it turns out in a shocking turn of events I actually might not be going home first. It turns out that Becca may have rubbed off on people worst than me but of course I still won’t be surprised if I’m voted off lol. I do really trust Richie, and I’m starting to trust Phoenix and Dani as well. Tim has definitely rubbed off on me wrong, I’m hoping we won’t have to come back to tribal but if we do, Tim’s got to go.

Tim

Me @ this no idol twist: https://scavengertim2.tumblr.com/post/171775006444

#episodes

[jyotikathapa]

After an Anonymous plan to travel together with my girlfriends we chose Bali. It wasn’t my first choice but the flights are cheap from Aus and food and hotels too; for sure then why not!!! And literally, it was ok! didn’t cost me much. So we planning started 3 months before. Just a plan! PLAN!!! (which doesn’t work really work out most of the time)

Anyways in April, we should be three of us in the tour but one of my girlfriends couldn’t make it due to passport delay in the embassy. However, two of us were on a gooooo…. Well, I booked my ticket with the transit in Singapore for 12hrs which let me go in free Singapore tour by the Chiang Mai airport (This is another story will share it soon)

Arrival in the Ngurah Rai International Airport, Denpasar, aka BALI! Reached there around 8 pm and lucky Nepalese travellers!!! you don’t need a visa. YeaH!!! (Nepalese don’t need visa if u stay less than 30days ). Fuzz start when u are a tourist and need a ride to Hotel after touchdown to the island. So, people you better take a blue taxi if u want to save your budget and run taxi in meters :D. Reached hotel meet my friend after a year. Had local dinner nearby the restaurant and off to bed.

Day 1 Haha! Woke up late. Then we hired a scooter from the hotel then off to ride (renting a bike is quite cheap there IDR 50000- 70000 per 24 hrs/day). Then we got ourselves sim cards and off to the road… Thank God there is GPS. We passed through Kuta street and man! It was vibrant in all possible terms. Uluwatu Temple was the first destination cause it was on the edge of the map lol! Well, it looked far away in a drive and city is crowded as every other city. We came to see a beautiful couple taking their photo nearby the cliff and it was spectacular.

lady by the cliff

Uluwatu Temple

couple tring to capture panoramic view of uluwatu temple

relax, see, enjoy, rest

Couples near the cliff for wedding photo

lovely couples, capturing their wedding

Tip: Beware of the monkeys they will snatch everything possible. Carry a candy bar in your pockets to batter your belongings. Well, there are locals who will save you for sure.

Next destination after there was the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK), a cultural park. Have you experienced a disastrous moment well it was the first one when we were there? Scooter stopped and didn’t start at all. NOT my Fault (fault in our star damn!) but the generous staff in the GWK helped us start the bike. And we were there first thing first we enjoyed the ice cream mad on the cold slab.

Next destination after there was the Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK), a cultural park. Have you experienced a disastrous moment well it was the first one when we were there? Scooter stopped and didn’t start at all. NOT my Fault (fault in our star damn!) but the generous staff in the GWK helped us start the bike.And we were there first thing first we enjoyed the ice cream mad on the cold slab.

It was great then the view of GWK well it was architectural delineation for sure. The Indra log was amazing well it was a place for famous events in Bali for music concerts and parties.

GWK

dancing away

artist from the theater dacing

Wishnu God

villan

garauda story

forever young heart

orchestra

Well, you can spend whole day over there watching various theatre shows done for the visitors and we were able to witness few of them as the Vishnu (Vishnu dance/ art); taaktaktaktak dance and the beautiful music until the end.

On our way back to the hotel we went to the beach nearby called double six beaches no wonder why! Grab the beer and enjoy the view! Not really it was dark ! man! Lol though the music was good and the atmosphere was chilled. Bintang the Indonesian beer…

Day 2 So no hangover, but still not an early bird, so on the second day we changed the scooter and we head to Ubud the monkey forest. This day was amazing first we encounter the notorious and mischievous monkeys. Rule 1. Do not try to be friendly with them. Rule 2 don’t look in the eye or you will fall in love not but trouble (guides said it meant war if you stare at them lol).

After all that we escape the monkeys and headed to the famous tergalalang rice field. The view was great as it is seen in Instagram and Bali lookout but a bit crowded. Lots of people and lots of ways to be there. However, we were there and no need for tickets but there were kids that were trying to sell souvenir and stuff and local who maintained the field were collecting generosity ($) for themselves. Recommended visiting this area. Enjoy the view with coconut water for sure and that the exact place where we planned our next stop.

Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Bali

On the way to tegenungan waterfall sukawati, we stopped by the Luwak coffee farm to taste the local famous coffee which is literally a shit of an animal named PLAM Civet (Luwak). The coffee was great and as a bonus, we were given around 12 kinds of tea for testing which were amazing. About tea testing, you will be seeing a video soon.

Coffee testing

Luwak with its kids

Luwak poop ! the coffee beans

Special Luwak coffee

Must say it was a lovely day, now that we were close to the waterfall, we didn’t have spare clothes to change but then you only get one chance in a lifetime, therefore, take a dip and live. So I bought lungi like pyjama there for IDR 100,000 which is a nice gift too for later. Well, you need to buy a ticket for the entry though. So we were there and lots of other people too.

the red flag in left bottom side. do not go i repeat do not go

Tegenungan Waterfall

I would say this is the part where I came back from death, thanks to lifeguards there. There are unusual timing in life when you wanna be a rebel but there is devil waiting for you to end. So, what happened was I went to the water to take a photo but somehow I wanted to feel that one of life time moment and swim in the waterfall. So, as you can guess the whirlpool pulled me and my friend was taking a video thinking I was swimming like a pro but not. However, those lifeguards on standby saved me with the rubber tube well I lost my words and sense for some time but must say was one of the LIFETIME MOMENT!!!! Hence, guess be safe. Under the waterfall, there is a sign which is marked with a flag for danger so avoid those areas. Sad thing photo didn’t come out well…

Well that was the day end of story for so far for which I get teased by my friends DIVE = DIE Day 3 This day weather was gloomy when we started to head out. So this day we went to Tanah Lot temple, the temple on the sea; next to the sea! Well, that place was amazing but I wonder what it would look like during sunset cause it popular for that.

temple

vendor with paper bird

flying paper ship

Well, there were parts of temple one being across the sea or shall say it was 100meter away from the mainland! You need to cross the gap between the lands via walk. And holy God, there were water snakes! Or some kind of snakes which is suppose to be gods relative or god themselves. One thing I am most afraid of is a snake and holy cra* Lord there they were but no harm. So I took blessing from the priest there and rushed back.

oh, weather!!! It started to rain a lot but still, then we ended up going out and soaking in the rain. As per my friend’s request, we went to blue lagoon which is supposed to be the best beach in Bali for snorkelling and beach time. Damn! It was a beach day for us like a b*tc$ day. It never stopped. We stopped by several stops to escape the rain but rain was all over us (rain on me!!!!! ) Somehow we reached there at the end. While we were there it stopped for a while and when we went to the hotel it was raining again.

blue lagoon was really blue

Weather forecast for the next day seemed tragic so we rented the van and driver for next day.

while we wait for the rain to stop

Day 4 So on this day, we were supposed to go to 3 places as per our booking cause they were long distanced and off hills. First of all, we went to view Mt. Kintamani Volcano which took us more than 2 hours reach that viewpoint next we went to Pura Besakih temple which is known to be the biggest Hindu temple in Bali. It was a festival season so it was crowded by the devotees and tourist. We had an epic story here with the guide in the temple too. Bust the place was mesmerising.

  Mount Kintamani viewpoint

    Volcanic mountain Kintamani

  Pura Besakih temple

Day 5 Coming to end of our tour, last day for us in Bali(supposed to be) hence I want to go all around Bali before I go back to place where I come from. cause we had been too limited areas only. There for DAY 5 was 270+ km tour for us in the bike.

First Stop: Pura Ulun Danu Bratan

      Share an adventure/ epic long story short After an Anonymous plan to travel together with my girlfriends we chose Bali. It wasn’t my first choice but the flights are cheap from Aus and food and hotels too; for sure then why not!!!