#but maybe next year i should give myself a week dedicated to launching my own attacks hmm.... | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

artificialqueens · 3 years

Text

By Your Side (Biadore) - Candy Cane

A/N: just a oneshot based off of a prompt sent in that asked for bianca finding out abt adore’s onlyfans! its not quite that tbh but the words take me where they want to go lol please enjoy!! <3 theres some other things ive been trying to work on but its slow going rn as my cat is very sick and a lot of my time and energy has been dedicated to him, but i hope to get more out soon!

It’s only been a few months into quarantine when Adore finds herself on the phone with one of her oldest friends. Like, old physically not old as in how long they’ve known each other. But to be fair, there aren’t a ton of people she’s been friends with longer than she’s been friends with Bianca. Courtney and Darienne too for that matter.

She loves Bianca. Their friendship is something precious to her, and surprisingly this is only the second phone call they’ve had since quarantine has started. They talk basically every day through texts, and that’s on top of the hours they spend going back and forth in the ABCD group chat with Courtney and Darienne. The four of them have something special, all of them realize that. There’s just something specifically between her and Bianca that Adore’s never really been able to place her finger on.

Out of the blue this morning Bianca simply… called her. Adore spends a full moment staring at the CallerID trying to figure out where the fuck this is coming from. With an uncertain frown, she answers the phone, hanging upside down off the side of her bed of course.

“So… OnlyFans? Seriously?” Bianca asks incredulously, her voice crackling over the phone speaker.

What a way to start a conversation after not hearing each other’s voices for like a month! Even though Adore can’t see her face, she can practically hear the raised eyebrow.

“Fuck you,” Adore laughs, unable to help smiling at Bianca’s playful accusations.

“Not that I’m mad, but why fucking OnlyFans? Aren’t bitches doing podcasts now?”

“I’m bored, okay? There’s not a lot to do but drink and masturbate, and drinking hasn’t really been doing it for me lately. Plus, I gotta make money somehow,” Adore grumbles through an explanation, lifting herself up and sprawling out on her bed awkwardly.

“Do I need to set up an intervention? You know I will,” Bianca says with faux seriousness, “Seriously though, if you need some help…”

Adore frowns down at her phone. She hates pity, she hates unnecessary worry, and she definitely hates burdening people with her bullshit.

“B, I’m fine, I promise,” she says earnestly, “I guess I just… I miss you. A lot. And we can’t see each other right now and it fucking sucks and I’m really lonely-”

“Come over.”

“What? I can’t, B, we’re quarantined…”

“When’s the last time you left your apartment?”

“Uhh, I dunno, maybe a month ago?’ Adore answers, unsure of where Bianca is going with this.

“Okay, that’s well over two weeks. Come hang out with me for a few days, get some human interaction, I’ve been needing it myself. I haven’t gone out or seen anyone for a few weeks now,” Bianca admits, and Adore feels suddenly giddy.

It’s been so long since she’s seen someone, since she’s even gotten a hug, and she really wants to see Bianca…

“I’ll be there tomorrow morning,” Adore agrees, not even thinking twice about it.

Bianca is everything to her. This person was one of the first to really take her seriously, to really see something in her, and Adore doesn’t know where she’d be without her. Every time something goes wrong, her first instinct is to call Bianca. Everytime something amazing happens, her first instinct is to call Bianca. They’ll spend hours talking or texting just because and Adore wouldn’t have it any other way.

They are as good together as PB&J, or peanut butter and celery, or peanut butter and pretzels… And Adore realizes she is feeling very snacky, specifically for peanut butter. With a sigh she rolls off her bed to get a snack before she starts packing for the next week.

The point is Adore loves Bianca, and Danny loves Roy. Sure maybe it’s in a different way than they should, or even once did, but it can’t be helped. It can be hidden, though. And Danny is more than fine with hiding this secret, as long as they get to have Roy in their life at all. He’s more than what Danny should ever even hope for, and yet a part of them can’t help but hope.

After spending so much time apart, Danny knows it’ll be harder now than ever to hide these feelings they’ve been harboring for Roy. They’ll try though, because sometimes the thought of this man loving them back is all that keeps them going.

Danny arrives at Roy’s beautiful new house in Palm Springs at nearly noon the next day. Which, to be fair, is very much the morning for Danny. They even woke up early to make the trip! …If ten a.m. counts as early in any book except their own.

Roy is already standing out in the driveway waiting for Danny when they get there, his arms spread wide for a hug the second Danny gets out of their car. The younger practically rocket launches themself into his arms, clinging tight to him as they savor the first hug they’ve gotten in such a long fucking time. Danny can’t help the tears that fall at finally having such warm, loving human contact, especially from this person.

They hold onto each other as tight as they can, each beyond glad to have each other’s trust in such unreliable times. Being alone for so long had hit Roy hard too. Alcohol and binge watching can really only do so much, and he’s genuinely been feeling lonely being stuck in one spot for so long. The dogs help some, but at the end of the day it really doesn’t replace human interaction, no matter how hard he wishes it did.

“I missed you, baby girl,” Roy says, and Danny can almost hear his voice waver.

“I missed you too,” Danny whispers, trying and failing to hold back a sob.

They leave Danny’s bag in the car for now, much more eager to go sit down and enjoy each other’s company. The dogs bombard the two of them the second Danny crosses the threshold, the enby leaning instantly down to kiss and coo at the babies and Roy can’t help grinning widely at the sight. He loves his babies, and he loves his baby girl.

They spend the afternoon talking and laughing and playing with the dogs. Danny clearly gets some ideas about the golf cart, and Roy is suddenly excited about the upcoming few days. It’s been a while since either of them have really had something to look forward to.

“Alright, I still need you to explain this OnlyFans thing to me,” Roy says with a smirk a few hours later, after they’ve gotten properly settled in on the couch together with the dogs.

Danny’s eyes go wide with slight panic, “Okay, grandpa, it’s like uhhh, Patreon but-”

“No, no, no!” Roy laughs, “I know what it is, I mean why that? Why not literally anything else?”

“First of all, I am sexy. Second of all, I spent a lot of time not making money masturbating, which is a fucking shame because as I said before I am sexy.”

They both crack up at that, giggling like idiots on Roy’s couch, the puppies quickly joining in, yipping at them to be a part of the excitement.

“Awww, do you two think I’m funny?” Danny coos, picking Dede up and cuddling the pup close, “Your daddy doesn’t think I’m funny!”

Roy snorts, “You’ve certainly picked up a thing or two from me.”

“Like how to be a bitter old hermit!” Danny grins sweetly.

“Exactly,” Roy laughs.

“So if I ask really nicely will this bitter old hermit make me food?” Danny asks, batting their eyelashes pleadingly.

“My original plan was to let you starve to death while you were here, but since you’re asking nicely…” Roy says teasingly, feeling an odd sense of satisfaction at the way the younger throws their head back with laughter.

Late that night, after a long night of talking and watching TV and a decent dinner, they curl up into bed together. At one point they both needed to at least be tipsy to do that, but nowadays that’s just overkill. They have progressed well beyond that point of friendship, though Roy sometimes still likes to put on a show of being annoyed, if only because of the way Danny pouts and rolls their eyes.

Tonight he just holds the thick comforter up so Danny can slide in easily with him, he’s not really interested in making either of them wait longer than they already have for cuddles. In seconds the two are holding each other tight, savoring the touch. As Roy lays there, holding Danny like the younger is his lifeline, he starts to think about the time they’ve known each other. All the ups, downs, and side-to-sides… Danny has grown up a lot over the years they’ve been friends, and it’s hard to deny that it’s changed Roy’s feelings for them.

Once his feelings to the younger were almost motherly, but now it’s closer to attraction. It’s kind of weird, at the least it’s very fucked up. Roy wants to just give in to the feelings, but he can’t. Not when he has no way of gaging Danny’s feelings for him. He can live with this secret, he’s not sure he can live without Danny’s friendship.

Danny interrupts his thoughts, their voice small and curious, “Why were you so invested in my OnlyFans?”

“Bitch, I’m trying to sleep here,” Roy groans.

“No, seriously,” Danny pouts, sitting up in bed and looking down at Roy. The moonlight streaming in from the window highlights the enby perfectly, and Roy curses his luck.

“I don’t want you renting yourself out on the corner like Bunny, now get back to sleep you dumb slut,” Roy says with all of his usual teasing heat.

Danny pouts though, clearly not satisfied, “But…”

“Sleep. Now.” Roy demands, reaching up to tug them back under the covers. Danny reluctantly gives in, and snuggles close to Roy.

Just as Roy is about to fall asleep, Danny’s voice has his eyes flying open.

“Roy?”

“What?”

“I love you,” Danny whispers.

Roy’s heart melts a little at that, “I love you too, Danny.”

Danny bites their lip nervously, “I mean like… I think…”

Roy’s heart starts to beat faster in his chest. Surely they couldn’t mean…

“You think…?” Roy asks, hoping that despite it all this person is about to say what he thinks they are.

“I think I might be… in love,” Danny says, their voice quiet and timid in a way Roy hasn’t heard in a very long time, “With you.”

This time Roy is the one to sit up in bed, staring down at Danny with pure infatuation. Those words echo around his ears, his chest, his very soul, and before he even realizes what he’s doing he’s leaning down to capture Danny’s lips in a kiss.

His lips against theirs feels so undeniably right. Their lips move slowly against each other, Danny brings a hand around to cup the back of Roy’s neck and in that moment nothing is wrong in their own little world. In that moment it’s just them and the moonlight. He thinks that he could live forever in this moment and never need anything else.

They break apart much too soon for either of their tastes, and Roy stares into those pretty eyes and murmurs, “I think I love you too.”

Danny surges forward for another kiss, this one much more desperate than the last. It’s a hot, heavy kiss that ends with Roy flat against the bed and both of Danny’s hands cupping his face as they explore each other. It’s like no kiss either of them have had before, with so many years of emotion and uncertainty between them it’s intense. Bianca and Adore have drunkenly kissed before, but this absolutely cannot compare. Danny whimpers pathetically against Roy, their hips grinding down against Roy’s thigh.

Roy lets out a shaky breath and grips at the enby’s barely covered ass. From the way Danny is squirming and moaning after only a little contact, Roy knows it’s been a while since Danny has been with someone like this. Roy hasn’t been able to get laid in a while either, rendering them both more than eager for this. Neither of them have a sexual partner in their circles right now, except maybe each other. Just this morning that would’ve been an absurd thought, and now it’s simply what makes sense.

Both of them need sexual fulfillment as much as they need emotional fulfillment, and even the thought of providing it for each other is thrilling. Roy grabs Danny’s bottom lip roughly between his teeth, sucking on it as he rubs his hands underneath Danny’s oversized tank top and over their skin. Danny whines and whimpers so deliciously in response, and Roy loves it.

Roy and Danny pull the little clothing that is off one another, each soaking in the familiar sight of the other being completely exposed. It’s nowhere near the first time they’ve seen each other like this, but it’s another one of those things where it’s simply different this time around. Because now it’s been established they love each other as much more than just friends.

Danny sucks hickeys along Roy’s collarbone, moaning roughly as Roy twists their nipples harshly, their bodies so close and warm wrapped up tight together.

“Think… Think I’m gonna get my nipples pierced,” Danny giggles breathlessly before it’s cut off in a moan of sheer pleasure when Roy pinches them even harder.

“Oh really? You’ve done a lot of slutty things, baby girl, but that is definitely up there,” Roy smirks.

Danny smiles innocently, “It would only make your job easier.”

“What? This job?” Roy asks teasingly, then trails his fingers down Danny’s stomach so they ghost over the enby’s half-hard cock.

Danny gasps, and Roy takes the opportunity to press his lips against theirs all over again, sucking their tongue into his mouth as he teases their cock. They moan and whine and squirm, their fingers gripping and squeezing at the flesh of Roy’s back frantically in response. Roy knows that that’s going to leave a mark, despite the fact that their nails are usually kept short. He doesn’t mind though, in fact it makes him harder knowing that he’s the reason Danny is reacting like this.

Danny’s head falls back against the pillow, feeling heat rush to their cheeks upon seeing the smouldering look in Roy’s eyes as they stare up at him. He’s so fucking gorgeous, all his sharpness and softness in just the right places.

“Tell me what you want,” Roy whispers roughly.

Danny inhales shakily, “Want- Wanna feel you-”

“What do you want me to do to you, Danny? Use your words…”

“Fuck me, oh God please just fuck me, holy shit,” Danny begs, squeezing their eyes shut tight and squirming underneath Roy’s tight hold.

“Shh, that’s so good, thank you,” Roy murmurs, caressing Danny’s cheek, “I’m going to fuck you so hard.”

And Danny just moans. They’ve wanted this from Roy for so long, and so many years were wasted convincing themself otherwise that this really feels like a fucking dream come true. It’s their own little fairytale, just for the two of them. Danny gets to live this fantasy with Roy, and that thought alone is almost more mind blowing than the idea of getting rammed until they can’t remember their own name.

Roy leans across to riffle through the nightstand, and turns back to Danny with lube, a condom, and a devious grin on his face. Minutes later, Danny is a whimpering, begging mess just from two of Roy’s fingers stretching them open. Roy is clearly enjoying it, whispering dirty things in their ear as he slowly tortures them with his fingers. When he slides in a third finger, Danny lets out the filthiest, most inhuman sound Roy has ever heard.

“You are just so fucking needy,” Roy says lowly, pulling out his fingers and quickly rolling the condom on.

Danny nods feverently, their eager words of agreement being almost incomprehensible. Roy grabs their tiny hips in his large hands and slides himself in. That moment is almost pure magic, the connection that had been simmering for so many years finally coming to a boil. Danny sobs from the mix of emotion and sheer pleasure, throwing their head back and forth, panting and begging for more while Roy closes his eyes and takes it all in.

Danny is incredibly warm and tight around him, and after a minute he begins to thrust shallowly, making Danny’s mindless babbling slur together. His thrusts quickly become harsher, aiming specifically for Danny’s spot, his grip on them tightens and he grabs the enby’s cock and starts to lavish it with some much needed attention.

“OhGodohGodohGodoh-” Danny rambles, pressing their face into the juncture of Roy’s neck and collarbone, inhaling his comforting, familiar scent, “So good, feels so good, don’t stop please don’t stop.”

“I’m not going to stop, shh, I’ve got you, fuck you’re so good,” Roy groans in response, his thrusts speeding up and his fingers around Danny’s cock tightening, “Are you about to cum for me? Huh?”

“Yes, fuck,” Danny rasps, “Yes yes gonna cum Roy please let me cum I’m gonna- gonna-”

Roy pumps his hand a few more times and whispers right in Danny’s ear, “Cum for me like a good girl.”

And Danny is a gonner. They moan high and long, their hips twitch rapidly and their whole body shakes with the force of their orgasm, ropes of cum covering Roy’s hand and both of their abdomens.

Danny practically goes limp in Roy’s hold, and just a few thrusts later Roy is undone as well, unable to help thrusting even harder and deeper into Danny’s body as he does. He falls on top of Danny, breathing heavy and ragged, and they hold each other tight. Danny’s arms still wrapped around Roy’s back when he carefully rolls them onto their sides so that they’re facing each other, nearly nose to nose. He gingerly pulls out of Danny, ties the condom, and throws it into the bin that he knows is next to the bed.

Roy cups their chin with his clean hand and stares into their dazed, half-lidded eyes. Danny blinks slowly, the afterglow beginning to wear off.

“I can’t believe it took us seven years,” Danny murmurs, reaching up to thread their fingers through Roy’s currently long hair.

“It was worth the wait,” Roy smiles softly, “And now we have the rest of our lives.”

“Yeah,” Danny whispers, “I get the rest of my life with you.”

Because for Roy and Danny it’s nowhere near over. For them it’s all only just begun.

#rpdr fanfiction #adore delano #bianca del rio #biadore #fluff #smut #canon compliant #by your side #candy cane #tw quarantine #concrit welcome

38 notes · View notes

bubbleteaa · 4 years

Text

Flowers and papercraft [Tsukishima Kei x Reader]

flowers and papercraft;;

pairing: tsukishima kei x reader

fandom: haikyuu!!

genres: fluff! fluff! fluff! and like only 100 words with angst. just to break the cycle and to make @pm4gal happy uwu

word count: 5.7K

a/n: (me, a clown on may 15th) i came out with this after 4 days without internet (I still don’t have:c) i just want to show to my blonde ass tall baby how much i love him oc :c sorry if its shitty, hope you enjoy it tho! [I WROTE THIS TWO WEEKS AGO LMAO]- So, I just finished this and it’s kinda trashyyy, anyhow, I hope you enjoy this! I love you guys!

Summary: Tsukki wants you to teach him how to make those papercrafts that you make. In return, you ask him to give you flowers. Between daisies and scissors, love blooms.

✩.･*:｡≻───── ⋆♡⋆ ─────.•*:｡✩

Tsukishima Kei knew you. Or that was what he had always said to himself.

And how can he not know you? You were the sunshine of Karasuno. Everything in you shines: your smile, your eyes, your hair, the small earrings that you used so that they did not catch your attention, the bracelets that you hid under your sleeves. All the words that came out of your mouth were sweet and you were always willing to help others. After all this, you were talented and a cultured and patient person.

Even on the first day of school you had asked everyone what they liked best. Tsukishima decided to ignore you, but Yamaguchi told you that he liked dinosaurs. Two weeks later you had given everyone in the class a papercraft of what they liked the most, including him. And he still had the little T-Rex you had made for him, and he still read the little note it came with.

"I hope we can be friends, Kei :)"

That had been two years ago.

They were in their third year now and graduation was approaching. You were friends with Tadashi and therefore you would occasionally strike up conversations with him, but Tsukki always ignored you or answered you curtly. It wasn't exactly what he wanted to ignore you, just that you were very "radiant and lively" to him.

Tsukishima Kei was amazed at who you were and how you were with others. So he never managed to speak to you as he would have liked to speak to you. Part of him said you were irritating, another part of him wasn't paying attention to you and another part of him was hooked on your silly jokes and the way you smiled at him every morning wishing him a good day.

And he would have kept at it, never sharing a word with you other than when they were with Yamaguchi.

Until, in the last semester, the final project of family economics ended up pairing them into a team that would last until graduation.

Tsukishima Kei was smart. He knew that family economics was a subject that might seem silly, but it was necessary for his life. He was not outstanding, but he defended himself as best as he could. But, to share a subject that was about domestic life, a project in which they had to know their partner better and learn to work as a team, not as partners, but as a “couple”, learning everything they could from the other and then expose what they liked about the other in front of the whole class as evidence that "two are better than one" with you?

His nerves were above heaven.

"It is a pleasure to be able to work with you, Tsukishima-kun!" Those were your words when the groups were announced. Tsukishima could only pay attention to how you smiled differently, there was an unusual shine in your eyes, your lips were giving him a unique curve, just for him "I know we will do a good job, together"

Together, that was the keyword.

"Yeah" was his reply. He averted his gaze and continued to pay attention to the class; however, his gaze danced out of the corner of his eye to land on your figure. You were happy.

Too happy.

He ignored you for a week, he had made no progress with you. Tadashi told him that it was silly not to pay attention to you when you were clearly trying to approach him. Tsukishima did not pay attention to Tadashi, he did not understand. He wouldn't understand what you were making him feel. It was impossible to understand.

He realized with the passing of the days that his general knowledge about you was limited, he only knew what was obvious to his sight; But for some reason, you knew a lot about him. He speculated that Yamaguchi had told you, or perhaps you were also as observant as he was.

And while he kept thinking and thinking, the project kept falling behind and you kept trying to talk to him, in vain.

Tsukishima Kei knew you, but had never spoken to you before, nor had sat down to listen to music with you, nor had taken the time to meet you. He only knew of your existence, of how your beautiful voice sounded, of how your eyes shone with joy and peace when he answered some silly question you asked.

Tsukishima Kei was not your friend. But you wanted him to be your friend.

So, when he approached you during the lunch break, three weeks later, and asked if he could speak with you, your eyes did not stop filling with intensity, your smile was brighter and your lips were absurdly shiny because of the coconut chapstick you always used. You were more than radiant that day, you were more than happy.

And when he asked you if you could teach him to do what you loved so much to do, your joy overflowed with your little figure.

"I know you know how to do those things with paper that seems like origami, but those are more difficult" he looked into your eyes, and you were captivated by his "teach me how to do it. We must start with this project and honestly, learning to do your own thing will be easier. It's just paper, after all."

"Tsukishima-kun, the magic word " you smiled while you teased him. He have sighed "C'mon, sayyy it"

"L/N. I will give you what you want, but teach me how to do this. I want to finish the project to be calm ”

"Give me flowers"

Tsukishima Kei did not know you. And neither did the things you liked. Maybe that's why, when you answered something so simple and at the same time difficult to have, he frowned noticeably, almost as if he was silently judging you. And the truth was, he was doing it. Why did you want flowers? Couldn't you get yourself some?

"Why?" he asked, sighing with some frustration "I won't give you flowers. It's a joint project, I shouldn't even give you something in return. Even- ”

"I will not teach you then. You've been ignoring me for a long time, Tsukishima-kun, every time I tried to talk to you, you either ignored me or reluctantly answered me. Perhaps you intend to get out of the project as quickly as possible, but I want to take the time to get to know you and to become friends. That is the idea of the project”

Tsukishima Kei didn't know you, but he did know that you were a person who always shook hands with others and was always willing to teach idiots like Hinata or Kageyama what you knew. So when you refused help, he was surprised. But you were right, the project had a particular goal.

He even widened his eyes a bit when you refused, his amber irises staring at you incredulously. It was almost impossible for him to believe that you, Karasuno’s sunshine, had denied help to someone like him, who never asked for help and was already impossible to establish a conversation with.

He only answered with a roll of his eyes and a “Anyway I don't need you. I'll investigate for myself” as he left you alone near the food vending machine. Your smile was not erased at any time, even your eyes still sparkled with the same joy.

"If you change your mind, my favorite flowers are daisies" your voice sounded just as happy as every day. That irritated him, he had less than five months to graduate and you had denied him the help "Good luck, Tsukishima-kun!"

And now, three weeks later, Tsukishima Kei realized that what you were always doing was not only fantastic but also complicated and almost impossible to do; He felt stupid to say that it was just paper and that it should be easy.

It was very complicated.

Origami was easy compared to what you were doing. Simple 3d figures that were already impressive in themselves. Even printing the molds, he couldn't get it right. Kei sighed, before running his long white fingers through his blond hair, he stared at the T-Rex that you had given him years ago. If he really didn't want to be your friend or be related to you, why did he keep it? Why did he have it in a place where anyone who entered your room could appreciate the enormous effort you put into doing it?

Why did he want that everyone saw it?

Why did he mind waking up and the first thing he noticed when he put on his glasses was that gift?

What was special about it?

A month after trying to do things on his own, he arrived with a few daisies at your table and left them right in front of you. You were distracted by making a paper airplane when the flowers fell in front of you. Your eyes blinked and fluttered like butterflies at how pretty and fresh the flowers looked. It was not as if it were a bouquet of roses and covered in the decorative paper and an excessively large bow. But they were tied together by a small string and had a tiny note tied next to them.

"Please"

Your eyes gradually went up to meet the giant figure of Tsukishima moving away to reach his table. You smiled lightly. You finished making the paper plane before launching it at his table, which hit Kei's desk. He took it with an irritated look to read what one of his wings said.

After school?

Tsukki didn't notice how a small curve formed on his lips, a smile that you had never seen before on his face, between relief and joy. It was a smile that was dedicated to your response, a smile exclusively for you.

A smile that you would never forget or wish to lose from your memory.

When classes ended, your hands were holding scissors, a glue stick, some pencils, and colored cardboard, Kei blinked in confusion.

"Cardboard? Don't you use paper?"

"No, Tsukishima-kun!" You laughed “The paper is very delicate and easy to ruin. It is better to use cardboard" you smiled looking at it “The cardboard is stronger, it resists more and it is not damaged as easily” you left the materials on the blond's desk “Think of it this way. You have to have strong bones to stop the spike as Ushiwaka’s spike in first year, right? The same is with cardboard and paper ”

Tsukishima Kei had not told you about him or his relationship with volleyball. After all, you weren't friends. Of course you knew about Ushiwaka, his position, and his affinity for volleyball. You weren't blind and Tadashi was your friend, of course.

You know more than Tsukishima because of Tadashi, than for Tsukishima himself.

"You didn't have to use that unnecessary comparison" his words were accompanied with a sigh, Tsukishima fixed his glasses before staring at you "But you're right"

You smiled a little more and for some reason, Kei stared at your lips. A small rosy color peeked from his pale cheeks and he immediately looked down when he felt his face turned red.

On the other hand, Yamaguchi looked at you curiously from his desk.

Tadashi thought it strange that both of you spoke without him being in the middle of the conversation. But he was happy in a way that the blonde was talking to you. He decided to go ahead and let you continue talking.

"Thanks for the flowers, Tsukishima-kun" Tsukki wasn't looking at you, but he obviously knew you were smiling. He could see your hands begin to draw something similar to a small heart "They are very pretty"

"You told me you wanted flowers" his words seemed like a complaint. You laughed.

“I know, but you could only ask me again for the favor. I know you think I am very irritating" Tsukishima blinked at what you said but did not answer “I just wanted to bother you a little, sorry if I made you understand that I was not going to help you. A month passed and I thought you had already got someone else to teach you. I apologize, I was immature”

“Nobody does that papercraft thing as good as you ” he was sincere, your cheeks started to redden and you smiled a little more. You finished drawing "How can you draw it? Don't you need the mold?"

"I just imagine it and that's it, I’m used to it, I think"

"What? Is it so easy for you?"

"It's something I have been doing since I was little, so, yes"

Kei was silent for a few seconds before watching how you finished the mold and started cutting it. His eyes tried to record every passing and manner in which you took the material delicately. He ended up getting distracted by how small your fingers looked, how delicate and fragile they seemed.

"The trick is to cut it to perfection," you commented as you cut the mold out of the heart, pulling Tsukishima out of his thoughts. He blinked somewhat confused.

"What if I don't cut it right?"

"Well" you seemed to doubt your answer for a few seconds "Sometimes it turns out well, other times it goes wrong. It may look perfectionist” you paused to start folding the edges where you would join the other pieces of the heart “But we are perfectionists in many things we do or say because we want them to go well"

"Don't you think you give a lot of depth to what you say?" he sighed.

"Don't you think that's what's interesting?" You played along, before taking the gum stick and starting to put the glue together to join the pieces “When you talk to someone, you realize the little things. From his body language and the level of language he uses with you” you held the edges for several seconds, waiting for them to join “The tone of voice they uses if they are confident, the nicknames they uses with you. It's very interesting and beautiful, I don't know” you smiled again, before gently pressing the places where you had joined the edges “I like to do it”

You finished after about ten minutes, and you gave Tsukishima a yellow heart.

"Right now I have to go eat, Tsukishima-kun. If you want, I can start teaching you after your practice or if you wish, we meet at a café to start doing your intensive course to learn how to make papercraft. I must also learn from what you like to do, it should not always be about papercraft. Is that okay?" Your lively tone made Kei smile lightly. After a long time without looking at you, he met your eyes that were shining more than ever "Next time, will you bring me flowers too?"

"I suppose"

Kei noticed how his response encouraged you even more. You took your belongings to put away to put on your desk and then looked at it as you walked out.

"Ok, Tsukishima-kun! Well, see you later” you waved your hand in farewell and went out the door of the room, leaving him alone.

He looked down at the heart you had made for him. He stroked it carefully and in all the time he talked to you, he didn't feel forced by a project. This was strange to him, after all, part of him considered you annoying and saw the project more annoying. If something bothered him, he was supposed to just think about it. Instead, only your smile appeared on his mind and how your fingers worked with so much care and affection to make the heart that now rested on his desk.

And his head began to ask questions. Why did you choose a heart? Why was it yellow? Why did you make it that size? Was there really a reason or was it just random? Was I analyzing things a lot? Did your words had brought him to that state?

Tsukishima Kei realized that he did not know anything about you. Nothing other than what I had heard or seen.

Tsukishima Kei did not know you.

But he wanted to do it.

*ﾟﾟ･ ✧.｡. *. •.°

Tsukishima Kei was getting to know you. After three months working on the project, regular outings to a café that was cheap (and that you liked), every Wednesday and Thursday with him at volleyball practices to learn to block, internal jokes about crafts and dinosaurs and occasionally, sometimes there were certain walks home, Tsukishima Kei had realized that he did not want to be your friend. Or a just a project partner.

He wanted to be something else.

He didn't dare say it, actually. But everyone thought that more than a project, there was something between you. Tadashi started to think about it too, especially after seeing Tsukishima lend you his headphones the first time.

Also when he said you could call him Kei or Tsukki.

At that moment, Tadashi realized that Tsukishima Kei, his best friend, was whipped for you.

That day, you took his hands when you were saying goodbye to him, and for the first time in all the time he had observed you, he realized that your hands were hurt.

Tsukishima Kei never thought that your hands would have scars. Maybe it figured one or two small marks, probably on your fingers, but he never imagined that your hands had scars from cuts and burns. When he realized it, he did not ask you so as not to invade your personal space; even being very observant, he had not noticed that little flaw of yours.

And, what if they were hurt because of volleyball too?

And, if he thought better of it, why did you keep doing that if it hurt you?

He thought about the times when his hands and fingers were also hurt by volleyball. It was somewhat hypocritical of him to ask himself that question. Why did you keep doing something no matter what hurt you?

Because you liked it. Because it was something you were good at.

Same as him.

The middle blocker had organized a schedule with you, deciding which days of the week and how many hours they would dedicate to their “craft” sessions. Tsukishima appreciated the gesture, as regardless of anything, you had the patience for him and the way you explained it did not cause him as much irritation as your personality in general.

Something contrary to you, of course. Even when you both were freshmans, you always kept that look happy and lively, you were never negative, and even when you "denied" at the beginning helping him, you were willing to help him.

"How did you do that?"

"This?" You showed him the little crow you made during the break. The blonde felt. You smiled lightly "This is a little more complicated, I have been trying for a week to do it well"

"And isn't it okay?" he asked in disbelief.

"No, the wings are uneven and I must reduce the space between the cuts. Maybe a few more tries and I will succeed.”

"Uhm" Tsukishima took out the flowers he had bought for you and placed them on your lap.

You had already told him several times that he didn't need to give you more flowers. But it became a habit and he quietly enjoyed your reactions. They were little gifts that he loved to give you.

Your smile widened and you looked at him "Thank you, Kei"

"You're welcome"

"See you in two weeks, 'kay?" now your radiant voice was lower and a little more painful when you were near him, which seemed strange to him. There were noticeable changes in you, your cheeks were pink most of the time you spent with him, sometimes your fingers intertwined with his. Occasionally you would give him your creations, like small dinosaurs that, when he got home, would put them next to the largest one that you had given him in the first year "Rest, Kei"

Two weeks. You were going to Tokyo for two weeks for family matters. When you broke the news, he acted nonchalantly, but inside he was upset. So long? It wasn't like he couldn't write or talk to you. Sure, you both could always make calls when you were idle. Because after all, he wanted to get to know you more, right?

Right?

"Y/N" he called you before you could leave. You turned slightly and looked at him, curiosity came from your orbs color e/c "Call me when you get to Tokyo"

A smile formed on your lips "Okay"

"And every night you are there. I will miss having you around”

The smile you had on your lips was erased, you were surprised and so was he. You covered your face a little at his request.

"I-I will" was the first time your words came out in a stutter for him.

The effect Tsukishima had on you.

The effect that you had on Tsukishima.

It was no longer just a project.

The cheeks of both began to scandalize after what Tsukishima asked, but you could only close your eyes and again, give him another smile.

*ﾟﾟ･ ✧.｡. *. •.°

The two weeks passed slowly and painfully. But you were already back.

He was walking with Yamaguchi after practice, on the way home. The next day you would meet him in the cafe and you had entrusted him to make a small doll with molds that you had made for him. It was not complicated at all, you had even provided him with the materials.

"It's not like I don't have any of this at home" that's what he said to you as you handed him the sheet-size cardboard in a small bag.

"I don't want you to spend a lot, you should save to continue practicing" you answered with a smile that was still impregnated in his head, after almost six hours of having seen you for the last time.

It irritated him that you were so good.

"Tsukki" Yamaguchi called out to him and smiled lightly. Kei was still with his headphones on his neck, immediately looked at the olive-eyed boy "What are you thinking about?"

"It's not a big deal," he shrugged as they continued walking. Yams smiled lightly before following his "Just rambling"

"You ramble a lot since you became friends with Y/N-chi"

"Y/N-chi?" He looked at him confused "Why do you call her that?"

"It is something between us" he replied. Tsukishima frowned, something between you two? What the hell did that mean? Kei was aware that you guys were friends for a very long time, and that you were very lovely when it came to Yamaguchi, but was there something between you guys? “But, you haven't told me why suddenly you want to learn how to make papercraft. You even give Y/N-chi flowers! Do you like her?”

Did he like you?

No.

He loves you.

But he still couldn't admit it out loud. Something was stopping him.

"No"

"Too bad, because she likes you"

Tsukishima's heart began to beat very fast, the tips of his ears turned red and he tried his best to sound as casual as possible in front of his best friend.

"Who told you that?"

"Y/N-chi"

“We only speak for the project. Nothing else"

“Y/N-chi thought that you had approached her because you wanted to be her friend. Sne even confessed to me that she liked your company very much, she call you even a friend. Do you consider her a friend?”

"Uhm"

"Cat’s got your tongue, I see. I guess it's normal, sometimes we don't feel the same way about other people. Although, in a certain way, it’s ugly, Tsukki, people often approach Y/N-chi to ask for favors and out of interest.” Yamaguchi laughed lightly. Tsukishima felt somewhat uncomfortable. If he said it that way, it seemed that he only had an interest and that he did not care to establish a friendship with you, something inside him began to burn, as if he were being selfish. Selfish not to confess how much he liked you.

"Are you trying to sound like Kuroo-san or something?" was the only thing he answered before he stopped walking. There was a silence that cut between the two "Does she really enjoy my company?"

"She said you were not as bitter as before"

"Did she say that?" Tsukishima frowned, "Well, she's still just as irritating."

"It just irritates you because you really like Y/N-chi," he laughed again.

"No"

"Nah, you like Y/N-chi"

Tsukishima sighed. Yamaguchi was a tough nut to crack.

*ﾟﾟ･ ✧.｡. *. •.°

Tsukishima put his bag on the floor and took out the materials you had given him, concentrated on recreating the mold on top of colored cardboard y/f/c. As he drew the patterns, he could only think of the little rubbing your hands made against his, how his scars felt against his fingertips. He thought about your smile and how well it contrasted with your face, how beautiful your skin shone against the sunlight, regardless of the season.

Before he knew it, he had already ruined the mold. He sighed with some anger, taking his cell phone and sending you a message as if it were a reflection:

"From: Tsukki 🦖

To: Y/N 🦕

I give up"

He sighed.

"From: Y/N 🦕

To: Tsukki 🦖

Couldn't make the mold? If you can't, don't worry. Tomorrow I will show you how you can do it <3 "

A heart?

Why did you send him a heart?

His cheeks flushed and he didn't think about what he would say next. He just imagined your happy voice saying the same words to him.

"From: Tsukki 🦖

To: Y/N 🦕

What flowers would you like me to give you tomorrow? ”

Tsukishima blinked and reread the message he had just sent, his face filled with grief and before he could erase it, you had already replied.

"From: Y/N 🦕

To: Tsukki 🦖

The ones you want, Kei-chan! I already told you that you don't need to keep giving me flowers. But thanks :), I am very happy that you give me flowers”

"From: Tsukki 🦖

To: Y/N 🦕

I like to see you happy"

Kei's golden eyes widened in amazement at his own words.

Was Yamaguchi right?

Did he like you?

This time, it took you longer to respond.

"To: Tsukki 🦖

From: Y/N 🦕

I like you, Tsukki "

No.

You couldn't tell him that, not now that he was so focused on denying his feelings for you. The project would soon be over and with this, his last school year. Possibly they would not see each other. What was he thinking? Possibly he could never be more than your classmate. Nothing else, you could not confuse his feelings with the "good morning" and the smiles you gave him. You couldn't do it. It was not fair.

But he wanted you to confuse him.

"From: Tsukki 🦖

To: Y/N 🦕

Sleep well, silly”

*ﾟﾟ･ ✧.｡. *. •.°

He was so tired from practice that he left earlier, he called to meet you and now they were lying next to each other on the sofa in the cafe where they always went to study together. His eyes felt tired as you continued stroking his hair. The way your fingers slid down the strands of his hair, smooth like they were massaging his head, the way that half of his body was inadvertently resting on yours, falling asleep. The way you were so loving, so kind.

"Kei?" He heard your voice but did not answer you. His eyes were completely closed. You smiled lightly “Kei, you can't sleep, you have to finish the homework and then finish the mold I gave you. Come on, get up.” Your hands went down from his hair to his cheeks, Tsukishima slightly opened his eyes to lie completely on your chest. Your eyes widened in amazement and you began to feel the heat rise to your cheeks.

“Let's stay like that for a moment” he didn't want to sound tired, and even so, he did. Why was he different around you? What made you so special? "The flowers... are in my bag" he yawn, wrapping his long arms around your waist.

You froze. It was the first time that Tsukishima acted this way with you. A few nights ago you had confessed your feelings for him, but you had not exactly talked about it in person. He hadn't brought you flowers since that day, and he was quieter than usual. The project exhibition was in two weeks. You had practiced everything they could practice, Tsukishima had improved a lot when it came to doing crafts and you were proud of him.

For your part, blocking in volleyball was painful. But it was something Tsukishima did very well. Your hands continued to gently stroke Kei's hair.

"I really like you a lot, Kei"

"I like you too," was a whisper, as if he was scared to say it. You smiled. You closed your eyes lightly to hug him. Tsukki let out a "Silly" sigh

His hands left your waist to sit up and take something out of his bag.

Your eyes for some reason filled with tears.

Tsukishima Kei knew you. And he knew that what you liked the most was making papercrafts. He knew your favorite flower was daisies and he knew your favorite color was y/f/c. He knew that even if it wasn't perfect, you were going to like it because he had done it. After all, you were not looking for perfection, just love.

"Don't be silly " he smiled lightly as he handed you the small daisies made with colored cardboard y/f/c. Among them, there were a few real ones, your heart began to beat rapidly, there was also a heart, also made of cardboard. You looked at him, tears came out of the corners of your eyes. Tsukki sighed and kissed your forehead "Don't cry"

He still couldn't admit his feelings out loud.

But soon, he will.

*ﾟﾟ･ ✧.｡. *. •.°

"Y/N" Kei's eyes stared at you "Remember you start exposing"

You smiled and nodded your head.

The oral part of the exhibition began. You had to share what you liked best about each other.

Tadashi smiled slightly and raised his thumb looking at them.

"Tsukishima Kei is the type of person who I expect..."

Tsukishima paid almost no attention to what you were saying, not because he wasn't interested in knowing what you liked most about him, but because he was thinking about what he liked most about you. His eyes were still glued to the front, occasionally turning to you only to notice how your e/c colored eyes sparkled when talking about him.

Tsukishima Kei knew you.

"Tsukishima, your turn" You gave him a little pinch and smiled lightly.

Your smile. He liked your smile.

He liked how your hands were small. He liked your voice. He liked your attitude that occasionally irritated him. He liked how you talked about everything very calmly.

He liked you.

He liked you. He was ready to say it.

"L/N Y/N is the type of person that irritates me," he confessed. Yamaguchi smiled nervously as he motioned for Kei to stop. "Her joy and manner of speaking on certain topics seem strange to me. She is always smiling and there is nothing to bring down her good mood. It's annoying" Tsukishima took a moment to look at you, you stared at him, waiting for him to continue “But I like it. I like that it irritates me because it is something different. You are something different” he smiled, adjusting his glasses “I like it when you say "good morning" to me. I like it when you say "See you tomorrow, Kei." I like how your fingers caress my hair, and I also like it when you smile at me for no reason. I like to see you when you pay attention in class, I like to see you when you are distracted. I like your face, I like your hands” both Tsukishima's hands grabbed your hands and he kept smiling “And I wish I could stop them from getting more scars. I like to know that you help others, I like to know that I can talk to you about anything. I like your eyes, I like your hair. I like it when we sat in the cafe and always ask that boba of matcha. It tastes horrible, but you like it. I like it when you smile because of something I tell you, it's different, it's for me, and that's why I like it” he stopped to squeeze your hands a little “I like that you like the flowers that I give you, and I also like that you gave me taught you what you liked. I like how we share jokes. I like our calls. I like our conversations. I like the fact that you tried to learn volleyball with me. I like that you always flatter me. I like that it's you. I…” he closed his eyes “I like you, Y/N ”

He was afraid to open his eyes, afraid to face whatever came.

"Tsukishima. You took too literally what it was that you liked about your partner” he heard the voice of their teacher and his cheeks reddened, he released your hands and opened his eyes, staring straight ahead.

"I'm sorry, teacher"

"Uhm. Anyway, something is something. Good job, tho. It seems that we have some sweethearts right in front of us"

He couldn't look you in the eye immediately. When you finished, and the class was over, he felt your hands take his arm, he turned to look at you intently.

"I like you too, Kei" you smiled.

"Don’t be silly"

"Uhm, the only silly here is you"

"Maybe" he fixed some strands that covered your face "Your silly fool"

"My fool" you smiled. Tsukishima leaned forward a little so he could kiss your forehead. "Do you want us to eat together or-"

"OHHH, TSUKISHIMA, ARE YOU BOYFRIEND OF L/N-SAN? YAMS TOLD US THAT YOU CONFESSED IN FRONT OF THE WHOLE CLASS! TSUKISHIMA YOU LUCKY B-"

"HINATA BOKE!, STOP SCREAMING"

Tsukishima sighed before looking at you " Let's go"

191 notes · View notes

supertweetycherry · 4 years

Text

THE DECK PRINCESS - [i. The Card]

🔹Pairings: EXO x BTS X OC

🔹Genre: Fluff, Cardau, Adventure, Powers, Reverseharem, Love, Mates

🔹Ratings: General

🔹Warnings: Very Light swearing

🔹Word Count: 2.7k

Navigation-->| Masterlist --<<FOREWORD | NEXT>>

—————————————————————————-

Sneaking out was one of the best thing that a person could ever do in their life. The fun in lying to your parents and then the thrill of jumping out of your bedroom window only to be chased out by your own dog because he couldn’t recognise your scent and then nearly getting lost in the dark streets of the city was really a fun experience. Everyone should try it.

No, I’m kidding! Never ever try to sneak out unless you have a very good reason too. Why? The answer is simple.

Karma is a BITCH!

“How could he bite me like this?!” I exclaimed, wincing at the pain. “My own fucking dog bit me!”

Yup, you got it right. My own dog just bit the shit out of me. So much for getting him a new dog house.

“Ya! Stop moving. It’s just a small scratch.” A voice whined.

I looked at the tall chick beside me with my famous death glare. How could she call the two large holes on my leg a scratch? Doesn’t she see the amount of blood pouring out of it?

“Stop giving me that look, Yoonmi.” She scoffed, pressing a small cotton ball onto my wound. “You are being dramatic again.”

I pouted. She’s right. I’m being dramatic. I love being dramatic. She knows me so well. After all shes my best friend. My honey sunny bunny.

“Your being mean, Sunny” I squeaked out in fake hurt. Yes, it’s true. The wound on my leg was just a small scratch. But hey, a girl can dream right?

“You are such a baby, Yoonmi.” She scoffed again before placing a small bunny bux bandaid on my precious wound. “Will you ever grow up?”

I smiled.

“Never.”

Apparently that seemed to set her off and next thing I know, I’m being abandoned. I frowned as she threw me an irritated look over her shoulders before leaving me alone to serve her boyfriend of the week.

“Ya! Sunny! Why are you leaving me?!” I called out in protest but the words were lost in the loud music.

I looked longingly at her retreating figure and stared at my covered up wound. Did I say something wrong? I feel so lonely now.

Sunny has always been my only friend. We met when we were in diapers. We stayed together ever since. But now it felt weird around her. I used to have other friends but they all abandoned me when bullying started. Being a teacher’s pet and a top achiever of the school doesn’t really get you a free pass from the bullies. Only being popular does. And I’m not popular. I may have a slim, athletic body with all the curves and long dark brown hair that framed my face perfectly, it still wasn’t enough for me to earn loyal friends. Sunny was the only one who stuck around. But now, things have been a little strained between us. I wonder why?

I looked around the party hall quietly. Everyone was either dancing or getting their ass drunk.

Tonight’s celebration was dedicated to being a successful high school graduate. The ceremony happened in the morning while a secret party was thrown in the night to celebrate the new faze. Considering the party was held at one of the top clubs in the city of Seoul. It was enough for my lovely parents to ban me from going.

Honestly I don’t blame them. I’m still a year shy from 18 while all my peers have already reached the legal age. I’m still a baby.

“Here. Have this.” I looked up to see the handsome bartender that has been giving me free drinks throughout the night. He held two tequila shots for me to grab. I smiled taking the offered drinks. So what if I’m still underaged. The rules are meant to be broken after all.

“Thanks”. I said sweetly, looking up at his handsome face. Its weird how he just kept giving me free drinks tonight. I came out here tonight with the only intention to let loose some of the build up tension over the last few weeks of high school. Exams are harder to deal with when they have the capability of deciding your future.

“Having guy problems?” I heard his husky voice again, snapping me out of my thoughts.

I looked at him up and down. Seizing his body frame from top to bottom. Black pants, open white shirt and flashy toned abs. Yup, he’s a total eye candy.

“Nope.” He was pretty and handsome. But something tells me to stir clear away from his path. “More like friendship problems.” I continued, gulping the shot in one go. Damn, that burned. I took another Shot of the bitter drink and slammed the glass on the counter.

Why does tequila has to burn so much?

“Let me guess, best friend leaving you alone to mingle with other boys?”

“Someone’s been spying on me.” I teased. It’s not really a secret. The boy was literally standing behind me when Sunny decided to ditch me.

“I guess I’m just too observant.”

“No, you’re a spy.” I said, pointing my finger at his face playfully. “Let me guess, CIA?”

“No. That’s American, sweetheart. We’re in Seoul, South Korea.” He chuckled.

“Ah. It’s NIS then. I knew there was something suspicious about you.”

“You’re funny and... weird.”

“Yeah, I guess I am.” I shrugged. People call me many things. I guess being Funny and weird is just a couple of those things.

“You seemed tensed.” I stared at him in confusion. I’m not tensed.

“Maybe I can help you... ” He whispered, sliding a card towards me with a small wink. I looked at the number on the card and gulped. “Yeah I’m pretty fast.”

Oh boy, please tell me he’s not offering himself.

“Think about it. I’ll be here for the rest of the night.” I coughed lightly as his fingers slowly grazed my hand. I felt my cheeks get warm. No-one has ever touched me in that way before. I don’t even know what to say.

“I like funny girls.” He continued before placing a soft kiss on my hand. I shivered at his touch. Ugh, it was not a good feeling. So much for being handsome.

“Haha... thanks for the drinks.” I quickly said, pulling my hand out of his grasp. “Gotta go.” I laughed before making a bee line for the furthest couch away from the bar. Yup, I’m a total coward when it comes to boys.

“What’s the rush, little Lee?”

“Huh?” I said turning around to my right, only to jump back in surprise. There, right infront of me sat my biggest bully of them all. Song Mina.

She was chewing on a piece of gum while her fingers twirled around her bleached blonde hair. Her crystal blue eyes were trained right on me.

I shivered. They were so blue. Just like the bright blue water in a swimming pool.

“Mina.”

“It’s madam Song Mina to you, little Lee.” She retorted.

I scoffed. Madam Song Mina my foot. She may be my bully, but I never let her get an upper hand on me.

“It’s nice to see you’re still in your happy cloud, Mina.” I said, scooting away from her resting figure. Why did I have to choose the same seat as her?

“What a teacher’s pet like you is doing in such a party like this, sweetheart?” The girl sassed with a curve of her lips. I gritted my teeth in anger. True, it was a graduation party but it was filled with students from all over Seoul. Did I mention the party was actually organised by the Song Family? Meaning only the populars were invited. Too bad the Song family hasn’t seen the wealth and riches of the Lee family yet.

“It’s none of your business.” I said before looking away. I hated her for what she did to me during my high school years. And I will continue to hate her until she gives me a good reason to forgive her.

Just then a shorter boy ran up to our seats and looked at Mina in worry.

“Have you found it yet?” I frowned at her question. Found what?

“Yes.” The boy nodded. That’s when I felt Mina stand up in excitement.

“Where?”

The short boy, who looked a year younger than me, pointed towards the bar. I looked around and noticed a small crowd forming behind the counter.

“But Madam Mina, your friend is about to claim it.” Wait, what? Claim what?

“That bitch.” The moment I heard Mina say those words out loud, I knew something bad was gonna happen.

“Come with me!” Mina ordered before storming to the place of commotion. The boy looked at me before shrugging and following Mina like a small kicked puppy.

I was obviously confused. It’s not always that someone manages to piss off Song Mina. There are some selected individuals who can blow her anger off but they are all from lower class. Considering it’s a high profile party, I can only think of one person.

Smiling to myself, I also stood up and followed the fuming girl and the short boy to the Bar counter. My curiosity has reached its peak. There’s no stopping me now.

“Give it back to me. It’s mine!” A deep voice screamed just as I reached the site of commotion.

There were quite a lot of people here. All gathered around in a circle. I could see pointing of fingers and excitement on their faces.

Apparently, a very tall boy was shouting over his lungs at someone. That someone happens to be a very familiar looking girl. He was making moves to grab whatever the girl held in her hands. The only thing stopping him was the herd of boys who had launched themselves at the poor boy.

“Relax, Wo Bin. I just want to know if it’s worth my time or not.” The female spoke, smirking at the boy who tried to claw her face again.

“Krystal.” I quietly whispered to myself. That’s who the female was. The voice was too familiar for me not to recognise. She was one of those neutral peers who would watch a crime happen but wouldn't help to stop it. Why? Simple. Because it has nothing to do with them.

“I found it first. It appeared to me!” The boy shouted, not caring that he was drawing unwanted attention.

I was utterly confused by this scene. Where were the bouncers? With this much screaming going on, security should have been here by now to separate these two. I could only detect few of the students lining around to see the outcome. But everyone else just ignored it as if it was invisible to them. Even that handsome bartender who was looking the other way is oblivious to the small crowd beside him.

“I know. I just want to check.” My brows furrowed in confusion. Check what?

“This is my last warning to you, Krystal. Give that card back to me!”

Wait, a card?

They’re fighting over a card?

I looked at Krystal’s right hand to find a large playing card being twirled around her fingers. I couldn’t see properly but I can guarantee it was bigger than any normal playing card.

“Krystal”. That was Mina. The sudden warning in the tone and the familiar temperature drop was enough for everyone in the circle to shuffle back a bit, allowing Mina to get a front seat view of the whole fight.

I could see another boy beside Mina, who looked viciously at the two fighting duo. He was scaring everyone off. The way his fingers twitched, and his eyes glowing. There was something unnatural about that boy.

“Mina.” As if on instinct, suddenly two people appeared on Krystal’s either side. An older girl and a young boy. Both with the same identical black hair and twin features. Their posture was defensive. It was as if they were there to protect Krystal.

“Is it same card?” I heard Mina ask. A small wicked smile appeared on Krystal’s lips.

“Exactly the same.”

“No!” The tall boy from earlier looked at both of them in fear. His eyes had grown to the size of a saucer. “You can’t! This isn’t fair.”

“Shut up!” Someone else yelled.

“Take him away, please.” Mina sighed as she moved towards Krystal But was stopped by the two twin looking people. They were glaring at her.

“Sorry Mina. First come first serve.” Krystal smiled, rubbing her long nails over the card’s surface.

I tried to hide my smile. Mina was known to be the biggest bully around here. Her only rule was based on first come first serve basis. It’s funny how Krystal used the same tactics back at her.

I could literally see Mina’s face turning cold. I’m so glad I followed her. Seeing Mina rile up like this completed my night of celebration.

“You don’t want uncle to know about this do you?”

At the mention of Krystal’s father, the dark long-haired beauty stiffened. Mina and Krystal are second cousins from their mother’s side. Although, both are from the same family tree, they are nothing like each other. Except maybe the evilness in both of them. Mina was straight forward where as Krystal was more reserved.

I’m so glad I’m the only child in my family. Might have some cousins but they never kept in contact with me for some reason. Oh well, it’s not like I care.

“You wouldn’t dare.”

“Oh but I will. And then you can say bye bye to the academy.” Mina threatened.

Academy? Are they really threatening each other over a simple playing card?

I watched as Krystal’s face lost all the colour. Something is definitely up with these two.

In the midst of this, I noticed the tall boy, Wo Bin, had lunged for the card again, scratching Krystal’s hand in the process.

“Yes! I finally got it. I’m its master.” The boy said loudly in glee as he held up the card in his hands. This time I could see the card more clearly. Like any other playing card, it’s one side had a dark wispy black background to it with a shiny silver diamond placed right in the middle. The other side was blank white. But what shocked me was the multiple tears and creases on the card. It was bent from all sides and looked a bit dirty. As if someone has dragged it across a muddy road for days.

I felt a small stab of pain in my chest. Something about that card made my heart ache. It was in a very bad shape and if these people continued to play pull-pull with it, I’m afraid it might not last very long.

“Stop him!”

And just like that a fight started. Before the boy could lift the card up, someone has already snatched it out of his hands and then another pairs of hands grabbed it. I moved back in fear as the whole crowd jumped at the new owner of the card. Even Song Mina.

There was shouts here and there as everyone tried to get access to the card. I didn’t know what to do. The poor thing must have been shredded into pieces by now.

Seeing as there is nothing else interesting about this issue, I started to move away from the area. It was getting too violent for my taste anyway.

But suddenly I felt a gust of wind hit my face. Something large and pointy flew by my face. It landed somewhere near my feet.

I was shocked and startled all at the same time. What the heck was that?

Holding onto my obvious racing heart, I looked at the stupid object which had dared to take my eye out.

It was the card.

The very same card that those idiots are fighting over. I sighed in relief and picked up the offending object.

“Ya! What was that huh? You nearly blinded me.” I scolded the card, noticing how it was darker than before. Am I going crazy for talking to a card?

“The Card! It’s gone!” Someone yelled over the music. I winced at the loud voice.

“Search the place. Find it!” That was Mina. I’m sure of it.

I gulped. The card was in my hands. And there are about 15 or so of them. It was a loosing situation.

So taking a deep breadth, I did the only thing that most people do in situations like this.

I ran.

#bts #exo #reverseharem #bts fanfic #exo fanfic #bts x oc #btsxoc #exo x oc #exoxoc #adventure #magical #cards #warriors

15 notes · View notes

tisthenightofthewitch · 5 years

Text

GHOST – “I would say by early 2021, you can expect the next chapter of the Ghost story.” TOBIAS FORGE

From the underground to a bonafide global take-over, GHOST are fast becoming the most-talked about band in Metal music today, with legions of fans dedicating their total and utter commitment to the bands every move. Overdrive sat down with one Tobias Forge to discuss the bands success and that all important new album…

The spectacular rise of GHOST is a success story that nobody could have predicted. From their captivating live show’s, to a rich discography that continues to win over armies of fans the world over, GHOST are fast becoming one of the biggest bands in today’s current global Metal/Rock scene.

From the projects birth back in 2006 to conquering American arenas, winning a Grammy for ‘Best Metal Performance‘ (2016), headlining their first UK festival at Bloodstock Open Air (2017), selling out the iconic Royal Albert Hall (2018) and now, floating around Europe as very special guests with the biggest metal band the world has ever seen, Metallica.

One could say that that the Cardinal and his Ghouls are in a rather good place right now.

Prior to taking the stage for their Irish debut before 75 thousand fans (no pressure), Ghostmastermind, Tobias Forge is calmly hanging out in the enormous the backstage compound with his band members and crew, happily sipping on a hot coffee and eager to talk about his excitement in playing the impressive Slane Castle venue.

OD – Firstly, let me congratulate you on the continuous success of GHOST. From the outside, it’s been an incredible few years for the band. My question is how has it been for you personally, from the success of the album (s), playing to stadiums in the US, and now this tour with Metallica?

TOBIAS – Absolutely! I have moments where I have to step back and take it all in. You see, I’m not a very ‘in the moment‘ type of person. In fact, I’ve always been very distant and I guess a ‘dreamy‘ sort of person. If I look back on my life so far and I think about how I spent my childhood, I guess this comes with age and it comes from the fact of also being a parent because when you’re a parent, you can’t help to look at your kids from an upbringing point of view where you have to think about our progress.

I found myself asking the question;”Well, how did we do when we were younger?” [Laughing]. I guess there is a certain amount of reflection you have to do as an adult and now, for me, especially being an artist, I tend to have to think about my life and the journey I’ve had growing up and I’ve come to realise that very little has changed. I have spent my whole life drawing, writing and dreaming about doing all of these things that I’m now getting the opportunity to do.

So, at some point, that dreamy, adolescent looser just like, transgressed into this person who could go back into childhood again. The backside of that is sometimes, I have to remind myself that I’ve gone past the point of wishing to get here, and understand the realisation that this is actually happening. Like today for instance, getting to play this infamous venue, (Slane Castle) is huge for me. I’ve known about this place since the ’80’s.

I have a bit of a ‘now‘ moment with this today, but what often happens is that I play a certain venue, or meet a particular person and it’s like that moment just happens and I’m looking in from the outside, but afterwards I’m like; “WOW!” [Laughing]

OD – You recently did your first unmasked television interview, considering the history and the mystic of Papa Emeritus / Cardinal Copia was this a difficult decision for you to make and why did you feel that this was the time to do it?

TOBIAS – I think I thought and pondered for many, many years and at a certain point, in fact on that very day, it was one of those kind of ‘rip the bandaid off‘ kind of moments. Let’s just get it over with, no drumroll, no fanfare, let’s just move on. I try to be super transparent with this, but my choice of trying to be anonymous or should I say “masked” because anonymous is when no-one knows who you are. That choice was purely an aesthetic choice based on how I wanted this project, this band, this concept to become.

It was not my personal choice, because I don’t want to be famous, or a well known rock musician. So, fast forward to right now and when I look back, I have been involved with some very well-known bands and I’ve had my own share of recognition, so really, I don’t have a desire to become more famous. Bearing that in mind, I was noticing over the years that trying to maintain that vague order was causing a few problems and issues with the whole thing.

There was definitely moments when there was discussions and demands and enquiries about what can we do in order to enhance things. So, I figured well, at some point when I feel that the concept, or the band, or the name and it’s visual aspects are big and strong enough to stand on its own, I can do a thing like that unmasked interview, and hopefully whatever we are doing aesthetically and what we choose to present to the world, that will still be more interesting and better than anything I have to do on the side to appease journalists.

OD – What do you think of the critics who don’t look to favourably on what you do?

TOBIAS – Well, traditionally I’ve noticed that the critics that are critical of the band have been so since day one. Often a lot of the times the shit that people click on is criticism that is not really meant to be positive or productive anyway. I’ve been very vocal towards those people and have to remind them that what I set this project/band out to be, happened to get very popular to an extent that I didn’t foresee.

There are people who say: “Ghost was way better back in 2010” and as a rock fan myself, we can start where my collection begins from ‘A’ and I too will have some critical things to say about each album/artists. That’s just the way things go. You can’t please everybody all the time.

OD – There has been reports of entering the studio for 2020, is this still something that is very likely and is the intention to release the album next year or 2021 or is it too early to think about that right now?

TOBIAS – I think about it all the time. But, let me be very transparent here. I am indeed going into the studio where I will be beginning the work in January. We’re doing another American tour in September/October and then we’re gonna come back to Europe and that is gonna take us right up until Christmas basically.

So, after New Year’s we are gonna have maybe one or two small things at the beginning of the year and then it’s gonna be all about the new album.

People need to understand that I spend about 5 to 6 months in the studio. That’s not with red lights going or anything [Laughing]. But it’s just being in that creative environment you know? I also try to work ‘normal’ hours because I have a family also so, I try to work traditional hours, you know. I like to come in on Monday morning at about 9 am/10 am and then I do normal stuff like have lunch and think about what’s going on, and then I wrap up for the day and head home and see my family.

In order to make that record, it’s gonna take me about 6 months and then that’s gonna take me to the Summer, which we’ve already decided we’re gonna take a break a let the dust settle, and then hopefully by the end of the summer the record will be finished.

Unfortunately or fortunately, depends on how you see it, the US elections are happening, so bearing that in mind, it’s not the best time to release new material when peoples minds are focused on other things. I just want to make sure that when we release this new album, we have peoples attention.

OD – So, you’re hoping that the album is going to be ready by late Summer then?

TOBIAS – Well, that’s the plan but in the event that it’s not finished, it’s gonna be okay. I don’t want to stress the situation. Every record I’ve done has been under some type of time restraint, even ‘Opus Eponymous‘ (2010), that album was on a very tight schedule. It was definitely last minute [Laughing]. I just want to make sure that I have enough time to release the album that I’m thoroughly happy with.

When strategising about where Ghost is right now and where we want to go moving forward, we have to be aware of all the possibilities regarding the best time to release the new album.

OD – I’m sure you have big ambitions for the production of the new album also?

TOBIAS – Yes, totally. We now have the pleasure of playing in much bigger venues all over the world and with that comes the fact that there are a lot of tickets to sell. I hate to talk about it in this way, but it’s a huge part of this business. We have to take great care in everything we do now. Like the best time to announce a tour, a new album, as well as the best time of the year to release the new album. There’s loads of things to take into consideration.

OD – Do you think that some of the previous album releases were not timed well?

TOBIAS – Yes, some of our previous releases were not released at a time that was in our favour. In fact, I have memories of things being very stressful at times. At this point in the bands legacy, it’s far too important to just release the next album with no plan or strategy put in place first. Also, it’s very important that we give the production of the album a few weeks of rehearsal. Basically, we have to plan it like a rocket launch [Laughing].

OD – So, when do you see this album finally being released?

TOBIAS – I would say by early 2021, you can expect the next chapter of the Ghost story.

OD – With regards to each character, do you have an overall plan of what will be happening or is it something that are inspired about with the writing of each album. Does the writing of the album determine the character we will see when it’s eventually released?

TOBIAS – Well, at first there was no masterplan, but now there is one. A lot of the things that have been communicated over the last few years will be fined tuned and explained in the coming years.

OD – Can you give me an example?

TOBIAS – Well, there will be a number of non-album things that are going to happen. This will all happen in tandem with the overall story. These things might be happening next year also.

Even in the void of 2020 not really being an active year for us in terms of live performances, there will be other things that we will be doing in the interim where there’s going to be an album made.

OD – So, would you say that things are more conceptional now than ever?

TOBIAS – Yes, totally. In the beginning there is was lucid, but things have changed in a huge way.

OD – Have you ever considered making a documentary or perhaps releasing a book about your life?

TOBIAS – Well this can tie in with a previous answer that we have already spoken about. At some point or another, during the high points of Ghost, I’m sure there are people that would be interested in reading about my thoughts and my background. But I feel like I’m not really there yet, if you know what I mean.

I feel that I have a lot more to do, before I can think about something like that. Right now if feels like thinks are ever progressing and it just doesn’t feel like the moment where I need to document everything to date. I mean, who knows what’s gonna happen but for all I know, all of this could go tits-up in four years from now. If that happens then I can look back and reminisce when it’s all over.

I just don’t feel like I’m anywhere near the end. I’m gonna be 4o years-old in 2 years time and i’ve got a lot more to do even before I hit that age.

OD – Do you worry about getting old?

TOBIAS – Not really. In fact here’s a little life hack about feeling better about your age. I have a lot of friends who are much older than me. Not only is that very interesting socially, but if I have any issues with the concept of ageing, sometimes it’s great to have older friends whom you can use as a sort of barometer.

I have a lot of respect for my older friends. I think to myself; “If I was half as cool as my friends, I would be very happy with that“. The concept of ageing is definitely hated by a lot of people. At the end of the day, regardless of all of this, my plan is to become a really cool 50-year-old [Laughing].

OD – Do you think it’s important to have role models that are older?

TOBIAS – Yes, very much so. You can not stare yourself blind at the idea of youth being the only state worthy of being because that will greatly disappoint you.

OD – So far, what has been your biggest personal achievement?

TOBIAS – Hmmmm, there are many to choose from. [Thinking..] I think the biggest achievement for me and what I really feel blessed about is..there’s not really a word that can encapsulate what I’m thinking here. Let me try to explain.

From a family point of view, knowing where we were and what our options and possibilities were 1o years ago when our kids were born to present day. I am extremely proud and happy and thankful that I managed to steer things around to something very different. I’m not saying that everything would be crap had all of this not worked out as we were still very happy back then.

I’m very happy that it turned out this way because I got to be one of the few that got to live out a childhood dream. Music really is the only thing that I can do intuitively. I’m quite able to do this and I get better at it with age [Laughs]. But, there is a lot of things that I can’t do, and I don’t exactly know if it’s because I didn’t do that certain exam or for another reason.

I have a hard time concentrating when I’m faced with doing things I don’t really like doing.

OD – How did you back in school?

TOBIAS – I actually wasn’t really good in school [Laughing]. I have no scholastic background, so basically the outlook 10 years ago, had this not happened, did not look that good.

OD – There are few (if no other) bands that have managed to achieve the success that GHOST is currently experiencing, although it’s an exciting and wonderful thing, surely that, in its own right, is a huge achievement for you?

TOBIAS – Up until I was 29 years old, I was on the outside looking into the music industry, trying to figure out a way in [Laughing] and during this time, this industry was not interested in having me as part of it.

Since I was a ‘late bloomer‘ in this business and I got this very coveted opportunity, I feel that my biggest achievement is doing the right things at the right time. This is a highly strange situation for me at times. For instance we are a crew of 25 people here today. I’m not setting up the stage, tuning the guitars etc… I’m expected to put my shit on and get up on that stage, do a little dance and sing my songs in the somewhat correct key [Laughing]

If I have to talk about someone else that made all of this happen, it’s my wife, who gave me the freedom and the pass to continue to chase my dreams when things were just starting to happen.

I remember her saying; “Why don’t you quit your job and just go for it?”

OD – At what point in time did this happen?

TOBIAS – Only a couple of months after Opus Eponymous came out. I was in a critical moment in time. I was employed in a position at a company doing a job that I was not really good at, and I didn’t really enjoy nor felt any value in doing.

She then said to me one day; “It seems like some good things are happening with your ‘rock dreams’, so why don’t you just quit your job and try that? It’s not like your job is worth anything to you. So, you can just do that and if it doesn’t work out, then at least you’ve tried it”.

When I look back on that and realise what she helped me do, most people don’t get that break. Most people who are in a relationship and are grown up, with children, just don’t get a pass like that.

Of course, my Mother also was a huge support for me. When I was in school, she was very saddened that I was such a poor performer and we went to many of the school teacher meetings where there were saying things like; “What can we do to aid you?” [Laughing] and my Mom was like [crying sound] “I don’t know what you want to do with your life“.

Meanwhile I’m over there in the corner being obnoxious, telling teachers to “go fuck themselves“. My Mom had to deal with a lot of worrying and hoping that life will fall in place for me. And by 2010 she was finally beginning to think; ‘Maybe this ‘rock’ thing is actually gonna work out!“, because I finally had a job and with two kids etc..

OD – As Mother’s do, she stood by you all the way.

TOBIAS – Yes, she believed in me.

OD – She’s been to the shows I’m assuming. She know’s all about the ‘Cardinal’ then?

TOBIAS – [Laughing] Yes, she’s been there and loves it. She is not an authoritarian. My Mom was born in the ’40’s and is very “arty“. She was very much a part of the ’60’s generation. In fact, a little bit of side information for you. My Mom bought my first and my second guitar.

OD – What kind of guitar was it and do you still have it?

TOBIAS – Unfortunately, I don’t have that guitar. Ironically, since we’re here with Metallica today, the first guitar that I had was a black Fernandes Strat, just like the one that Kirk (Hammet, Metallica) had on the cover of the original “Garage Days‘ ’87 release.

That was my first guitar and I was so proud that I had the same guitar that Kirk Hammet had and here I am today, sitting backstage on tour with Metallica. Talk about full circle in life. It’s mind-blowing for me, it really is.

OD – I guess there was no hesitation when the Metallica offer came in then?

TOBIAS – I believe the term used was; “A stone-cold no-brainer‘ [Laughing]. It really felt like it was the right time to do this much more than say, if we were given this tour six or seven years ago.

OD – I remember the first time I ever saw Ghost live was back at the 2011 UK Download Festivaland you were on the Pepsi-Max tent, during Soundgarden’s performance on the main stage. There was only a couple of hundred people in that tent but that show was fantastic.

TOBIAS – I remember that show. Phil Anselmo and the guys from Anthrax were standing on the side of the stage watching. That was a really big show for us as we almost cancelled because we did a show in Sweden the night before and we just about didn’t make the journey. It happened because it was very much based on my will to play Donington Park.

Not only were we seen by a lot of cool people, but also that was when our now manager saw us perform for the very first time. I didn’t know that she would end up managing us at the time but it was because of that performance that things took a huge turn for us.

Ghost is very much a collective effort in many ways, from the people that work with us, our crew, techs, management, band members etc, they are all responsible for making this happen. That show was very much a landmark gig that changed the course of the bands destiny.

So, the message here kids is don’t cancel shows, you just don’t know what might happen. [Laughing] Just be cool to everyone because you just don’t know who you’re dealing with. One day a stage hand, or lighting tech, could very well become the next big label, booking agent etc. Just be cool to everyone all the time.

Catch GHOST on tour with Metallica NOW. US dates have also just been announced. Check out the full listing above. For more information, please click here.

ALL RIGHTS OWNED BY OVERDRIVE.IE

#The Band Ghost #Ghost Band #Cardinal Copia #Ghouls #Tobias Interview #Tobias Forge

213 notes · View notes

houseofvans · 6 years

Photo

ART SCHOOL | RACHEL KATSTALLER

Inspired by traveling, architecture, seasonal fashion, and Nature, Austrian Alps based artist Rachel Katstaller's illustrations center around strong female figures and playful bold colors. With upcoming various book projects, including her first children’s book, Rachel balances her work and life with skateboarding, travel, as well as volunteering at her local animal shelter. We find out more about Rachel’s artistic process, her art school tip, and about some of her upcoming projects in 2018 – including her first board graphic!

Make the Leap!

Photographs by Florian Trattner

Introduce yourself? Hi there! My name is Rachel Katstaller, and I’m an illustrator from a teeny tiny country in the Central American tropics. Two years ago I moved to the Austrian Alps with my Salvadorian street cat Hemingway, who terribly misses the palm trees and warm tropical weather back home.

Tell us a little about your illustrations. How would you describe your work to someone who is just coming across it? My work centers around strong female figures and playful color palettes. These are deeply inspired by the vivid color combinations you can find when traveling in the tropics.

When did you first get into drawing? Who were some of your early artistic influences? What artists inspire you these days? Ever since I picked up a pencil as a kid I’ve never stopped drawing, but I honestly never expected to be able to turn it into a career. I graduated and worked as a designer for a while, but it never really fulfilled me. Four years ago I decided to take the leap and pursue my real dream of becoming an illustrator. It’s been quite a ride with lots of ups and very low downs, but I’d never turn back!

My very earliest influences where definitely my grandparents, both architects who loved to make beautiful sketches of cities or oil paintings of Salvadorian market days. Also the gorgeous use of space and color by Miró counts as one of my earliest inspirations. Nowadays I find myself always checking out work by other wonderful illustrators and artists such as Carson Ellis, Tuesday Bassen and Cleon Peterson to name a few.

Take us through your artistic process? What’s a typical day in the studio like? Inspiration strikes at very strange times sometimes, so whenever I have an idea for a new illustration, I start working it through in my head, imagining shapes and colors. Once I get to the studio I most of the times just lay out the colors I want for the piece, sketch it and then get to work on the final art. It all sounds super easy and fast, but sometimes these ideas shape themselves through several days in my head until I finally see them clearly enough to put them to paper. Sometimes it feels like it takes forever! I’m a creature of habit and that’s why I try to have very regular office hours during the week. I’m the most motivated and creative in the mornings, or in the late afternoon so those hours are mainly reserved to paint and draw and dedicate myself to being creative. Afternoons I spend writing e-mails and planning out ideas, working on my online shop and mapping out personal projects. Before leaving I always make sure my workspace is clean and organized so that I have a blank slate to begin with the next day!

What are your essential art tools and materials? I love jumping from one medium to the other, it all depends on the project and client, as well as what feeling I wish to convey through my pieces. Of late I have loved combining gouache with colored pencil textures, as well as graphite. But I also love working digitally in Photoshop with my Wacom tablet, since this allows for mistakes to be easily corrected.

It’s mentioned that you’re currently living in the Alps. How has this environment or that city influenced the work you create? What’s your favorite thing about residing there? Yes, I’ve been here for a bit now and I absolutely love it! Back in Central America we only have two seasons (rainy and dry), so actually being able to have four different seasons has been quite the experience. I love how the colors change over the course of the year, not only in nature but also in how people dress, it definitely influences my work. I also draw inspiration from architecture, which is so very different in every place I’ve visited. It’s a constant source of ideas. But what I think has been my favorite thing about living here has to be having taken up skateboarding. I’m a terrible skateboarder, almost deeply embarrassing so, but I try to get as much practice as I can. It’s led me to a wonderfully supportive group of girl skaters with whom I enjoy spending time with. They not only inspire my art but also motivate me to keep practicing and keep challenging myself to become better!

What was your last adventure that showed up in one of your illustrations, thematically or just visually? Maybe not my last but my favorite adventure was last year, when I went to Tromsø, Norway for the first time to see the northern lights. The whole 10 days I was there the sky was cloudy plus the full moon didn’t allow us to see anything! I was super disappointed about leaving without really having seen them. On our very last night there, my friends went to a party but I decided to stay home and go to bed early. I took a walk outside of the house and saw the northern lights just above me. It was such a magical experience and one that I will definitely never forget!

What advice would you give someone who wants to follow in your footsteps and pursue art? It is hard to give advice to others as I pretty much still feel really small and insignificant in the art and illustration world! It is easy to feel lost and as if what you do doesn’t really matter. What I’ve found has helped me to keep moving forward is to stay as true as I can to myself and my own journey as an artist. The work we do is a reflection of our inner selves, so as we grow, so does our art. Try to not look at others and compare yourself to them. Even if it sounds impossible at times, believe in yourself!

What’s your best Art School tip that you want to share with folks? I will have to second Martin Ontiveros and say that copying is not always the proper way to praise another artist’s work. Finding your voice as an artist is a long process and there are no shortcuts to get there. It’s totally ok to get inspired by other artists, but you are unique and your work should be too.

What’s been your biggest challenge career wise and how have you overcome it or how do you continue to persevere against these challenges? My biggest challenge as an illustrator so far has been keeping constantly inspired and motivated to create new work. Last year, after working really hard on some big projects, I found myself feeling completely empty of any good new ideas. Instead of taking a break, I just continued to push myself harder and getting more and more frustrated at myself for not delivering. This brought me close to burnout and it ended up becoming a vicious cycle of sorts. I’m slowly learning to listen to myself and understand that it’s ok to need breaks from work. I’ve realized how important time off is, how traveling helps me find new ideas and refreshing ways to see the world.

What are your favorite style of VANS? Definitely the Old Skool Pro, they combine comfiness with great style!

How are you not just ONE thing? Illustration is a very lonely job, I spend hours cooped up in the studio working and concentrating on my things. That’s why I’m extremely grateful for skateboarding. It’s as much a relieve from work as it is a downtime to connect with others. Nothing compares to hanging out with my friends and challenging myself to try out new things. I’ve also found purpose in what I do when I find that my art connects or resonates with others, even when they’re hundreds of miles away. Central America still is going through major issues regarding women’s rights and it’s something that I like voicing through my work, in the hopes it reaches the right hearts and minds. I recently collaborated with the “No Estamos Todas” project in Mexico, illustrating a victim of femicide. It’s a horrible side of our reality back home, but one that needs to be talked about and put at the center of our attention. I’m also a cat mother and do volunteer work for the shelter where my cat comes from. I try to help out as much as I can through my work and give back to the community.

What’s coming up for you the rest of 2018? I’m as much excited as I am anxious about this year to be honest. I have some big book projects coming up, one of them being the first children’s book I also do the writing for! I’m also launching some skate related merch mid year, which will include my very first board graphic (keep checking my Insta for updates! :)). I can’t even explain how excited I am!

In between projects I hope to have some time to dedicate to myself and develop my art practice further, working on personal projects and just enjoying the process of creating! Thank you so much for interviewing me!

Follow Rachel | Website | Instagram | Shop | Las Furias

#Art #Vans #Vans Art #Vans Girls #Art School #Rachel Katstaller #Illustration #Interview

127 notes · View notes

kenbarrens · 6 years

Text

Update 12/31/17: New Year

2017. What a ride...

These past six months especially, I’ve really been pushed to redefine and harden myself as a person. I don’t want to get into the details, but suffice to say I wouldn’t have survived without adapting, learning to open up and trust loved ones, and continuing to challenge myself.

In a way, I’m glad to have had the opportunity to be challenged by something that flies squarely in the face of my ideals. On the other hand, the situation I’m in has highlighted to me why we need more stories with positive messages and strong role models; To inspire us to keep striving to become more than what we are.

So, going into 2018, I’m taking a closer look at what I’ve got to see how I can dedicate it to a positive service for humanity.

FMN - PhInc: I spent today reviewing some of my ideas for Forget Me Not. Recently, I’d dug up an old, non-canon sketch of Juni (the second picture attached). This was sort of an AU where, instead of fire magic and necromancy, she used daggers and the speed of her wings to launch herself like a dart at enemies. In this AU, she also has short-range precognition; While she can’t see far enough into the future to make predictions, at times she can see the next few seconds in precise detail and use that information to aide her reflexes. This not only helps her dodge attacks, but also enables her to hone in on her target to ensure a critical strike, correcting her aim “frame by frame” to guide her blade exactly where it needs to go. She’s all about moving as precisely as possible.

Today, I made a new sketch of Juni (top drawing), sort-of combining her latest redesign with this older one. I didn’t choose a great pose for showing off costume changes (though you can see some detail as to how her coat works around her wings, plus a back-view of their newly simplified design) because I’m still experimenting with dynamic poses and foreshortening. I also want to change up the presentation of the weapons; Rather than being decked out in steel and leather like a typical rogue, I want her to look a little more like a modern witch. Instead of that wicked bone dagger (P.S. It looks like I completely recycled the design of the Cass from Maple Story on that thing anyway, so I definitely won’t use it like that), I’d sooner see her using a crystal rapier of sunset quartz.

I’m really in love with the idea of making her a badass knife-dancer, and especially with how I imagine learning those skills in the story will change her personality. The struggle I’m having is this doesn’t jive with her story... at least, not yet. All I will say for now is there’s a very important reason why she’s supposed to be a fire mage, but perhaps I can find a creative solution to give her access to this as well. After all, she’s not supposed to have obvious magic in her world. Maybe her story involves transmuting the gift she started with into something that works better for her, something that can speak to finding one’s self... I’ll have to keep thinking about it!

Krythe: I’ve been doing a ton of research on psychic phenomena to pepper in. Every single character is psionic, so I might as well make sure I know what I’m talking about! This has slowed down the editing process considerably, but I consider it a positive change. I’m pumping relevant content into the story to give it more credibility - that seems like something worth taking my time on as it’s going to affect the way I edit the rest of the story, and I’m still near enough to the beginning that I can afford another style change right now.

For example, this week I focused on rewriting the introduction of the primary love interest. She contacts the main character through astral projection, but her scene wasn’t received well by the writing group. I’ve rewritten most of it to better handle the mechanics of what’s going on psychically, right up to the point where the romantic attraction should be revealed. It was too forced in the original draft, so I’m taking a day or two to contemplate how I want it to come out.

Else Society: Eh... I have mixed feelings on how this went. Overall, I’m disappointed with it, though there are plenty of reasons why that could be/probably is my own fault.

The first day or two seemed uplifting enough, as the website echoes a lot of the feelings any creator trying to make sense of what they want would have. However, after the third step, it kind of just... stops. It provides a to-do list worksheet, but the worksheet really only has just a box to put in the item you wanted to do. There’s little else beyond the meditation in the second step to encourage you. Yeah, any type of program like this requires you to put in your own effort (and doing it through a week with a lot of social activity probably didn’t help), but when it ultimately boils down to “make a list... do it, good luck,” I don’t know that I really got anything out of this.

That said, I think I owe it a second chance. I can say that I did notice forward progress, I’m just not certain that the progress I made this week is any more than I would have made without it. Then again, I can admit I probably didn’t take the worksheet seriously enough, what with all the traveling and shuffling events around this past week. It might be better to focus on developing my own routine though.

#krythe #forget me not #phoenix incarnate #fmn #phinc #junianna newdawn #juni #furry #bat #rogue #fantasy #sci-fi #wip #character design #comics #kenbocalrissian #kenbo #calrissian #ken barrens

1 note · View note

coachingreviewsite · 4 years

Text

Advance Business Development Coaching

New Post has been published on https://personalcoachingcenter.com/advance-business-development-coaching/

Advance Business Development Coaching

Business development and Marketing

Before I came to Amsterdam to study Business and Economics, I worked in a bank in my hometown, Munich and I left his Bank for one particular reason, because even though the people there earn sufficient amounts of money, they all seemed dissatisfied with their life.

They were frustrated with their career opportunities, they were unhappy with their relationships and they were constantly stressed out, but these people – they all had one thing in common – they did not want to change it and even outside of the bank.

I kept on meeting people who were unhappy with their lives but unwilling to change them, and every time these people saw somebody who had a great relationship who was happy with his job or who sees the great opportunity and was successful.

Most people just said that this person was at the right time at the right spot and got lucky. We all know it right. However, when you study marketing, you realize pretty quickly that products are always at the right time at the right spot.

So at this point I started looking at my marketing book in a different way. Instead of learning for my exams or learning in order to help a company, I started learning for myself. I looked at, I thought.

How can I learn from this? What can I learn from these techniques and I came up with an idea worth spreading now I need a one year. I’m gonna present some theories now and if you’re expecting life-changing knowledge from these Furies.

I’m, sorry to let you down, but if you’re guessing that these theories are like empty jars, you need to fill with your own knowledge and your own insight. You’re, an outstanding guesser. So if you study marketing, you’re, not a stranger to this for blocks.

They call the four PS and four C’s of business development and marketing. The 4Ps Marketing Mix is a business oriented model, which includes product, price, promotion and place. The newer 4Cs of marketing model was meant to be a more consumer-orientated version. It includes Consumer, Cost, Communication and Convenience.

The 4C’s focuses the marketer on targeting niches rather than mass markets. Then these need to be the foundation of your business development, marketing, and every product lunch. No product enters the market without filling these four blocks. And tonight we’re, going to launch you, so the first one is the product in the customer needs the product.

Are you yourself and all the capabilities? You have, and the customer needs are the needs of the people you need for your success and your product has to match these needs. However, customer needs are something really tricky, because something else does your unstated secret need, and tonight I guess this unstated secret need is that you want to go home at the end of the day.

Now these uncertainties are really hard to find and if you find the secret needs, you can be sure that you have a massive competitive advantage, but I can tell you what they are. You have to find it yourself and the only advice I can give you on this is never ever ever.

Try googling them. There are secret needs. You don’t want to know about now. Your product has to meet the customers needs and most of the time when you do it for the first time, you will realize that it doesn’t, but don’t.

Be sad about it, because the process is called R & amp D, which stands for research and development and not research and depression. Even though you realize that your product doesn’t meet the customer needs, you can still develop it’s.

Never too late for personal development, my grandpa is 83 years old and he’s. Learning English right now, just so, he can watch this video. What’s? Your Excuse now? Who, in this room ever wanted to be a rockstar or famous DJ, that’s, quite a lot right and why shouldn’t you if somebody would come up with a contract and won’t me ask me: you want To sign up to be a rockstar, I would take it immediately all the fame and fortune fast cars giving concerts in front of 100,000 people.

That would be great, but that’s. Just half of the story, because who in this audience actually is a rockstar and the reason why so many people fail to become a rockstar it’s. The same reason why I never became one because when I started playing guitar at the age of 16, this man was my idol.

His name is John Butler here at his own TED talk in Sydney and he started playing at the age of 16 as well. Now, how did John Butler become an outstanding guitar player and I didn’t. It’s because he dedicated himself to it well played once or twice a week.

He played every free minute. Well, I was too shy to play in front of people. He went out busking in the streets and while I played it safe and went to university, he quit University just to pursue a career in music.

Now I’m, not trying to inspire anybody to quit the university right away and just go out busking in the streets, but next time you see somebody successful ask yourself: what are his costs? Because this didn’t come for free? There must be some costs behind it and then ask yourselves: would you be willing to pay it because when people are told about the countless hours of practice the endurance needed and the risks involved in becoming a rock star, most of them don’t want to do it anymore.

But if it still sounds tempting to you, you should go for it now, after figuring out your product, your customer needs your price, your costs, it’s time to think about how to let people know you’Re out there, because life is just basically like a big supermarket in a big supermarket.

People are exposed to 300 products per minute, and this little girl could be your customer. She could be anybody, your future boss, or even your wife, and all these products around her. Okay, I know you for 20 years, but all these products around her are potential future husbands, just like you.

How should she know for which one to stop take it out of the shelf and put it in a shopping cart. We have a product, we have a concept for this as well, it’s called Aida, and it has nothing to do with this boat company Aida stands for attention, interest, desire and action.

So the first thing you need to do to be successful in business development or marketing is grab the customers attention. You can do that with anything. It could be a smile. When you’re enter into the room, it could be a nice hat, a flashy outfit or you can simply stand on the red carpet on the stage right in front of them.

Once you grab the attention, you need to create an interest within them. So that happens by displaying the attributes you thought about which they want and because you thought about it, this attributes create create a desire in them because their ex you’re, exactly what they need and that ultimately leads to the action part.

It sounds a bit weird when talking about dating may be better with products, but it’s really essential, because in the market, as well as in life, it’s, not the product which is the best which gets sold the most.

But it’s, the best promoted product which gets sold the most and now you can go for all these steps and still fail simply because people don’t know where to buy you. They don’t know where to find you.

This applies to every single life situation, but in my case I just really like the dating example. So we’re, going say with that. So when I was 16 in Germany, that’s, the age when you’re allowed to go out drinking.

So I went to nightclubs with my friend also because we thought that is the prime ik place to meet women now. Were we successful at meeting women at nightclubs? No, were they even a realistic chance for us to meet women at nightclubs? Not at all? Why not? Only because of this, this could have worked.

It’s because an average German nightclub there’s, 80 % men and 20 % women there’s, a massive oversupply of men, which leads to greater competition, less success. Now I still manage to solve this problem.

I wish I could tell you oh yeah, i enhance my product and I went out into them or not that’s, not what happened. What happened was that I simply positioned myself differently. To be honest, my mother positioned me differently because she signed me up for standard dancing, lessons that was the reaction of my friends as well, but after one hour of standard dancing, I was not even mad anymore because from an economic perspective that was amazing, there was A room full of women such an oversupply, such a high demand for a guy like me, so little men, so a little supply.

It was like a supermarket with more customers and products. That was great. I went overnight from being a free in the club to a 9:00 at dancing, or maybe a 7, but still improvement. So what we can learn from this is that sometimes you need to consider all the options, because sometimes the place, which is the most obvious to meet your customers, is not the place where they need you.

After filling out all these four boxes there’s, one major question left for tonight: why do people when we can analyze our situation and position us in the market would attribute sex they? Why would they attribute success solely to luck and the answer for is this? We tell ourselves that other people are lucky for the same reason.

We take a pill when we have a weight problem or we drug our children. When you’re hyperactive, we have a problem and we’re looking for a solution, and this one is easy: it’s fast and it’s effortless, but it’s also a dead-end because Rather than tackling the root of our set as dissatisfaction the cause of our problems, we just swallow a lock pill and number selves to all the symptoms.

But will this luck pill? We also number selves to all the great opportunities this world has to offer and we constrain ourselves in developing our personal best. I was at this point when I was in the bank.

I was just as dissatisfied as all my colleagues, but I didn’t swallow the luck pill. What I would in was, I analyzed. What am I good at? I positioned myself differently. I moved to answer then to enhance my product.

You’re unhappy with your relationships. You don’t like where your life is going or you simply feel like your life. Could be so much better, you have two options. You can either swallow the lock pill and go on with business as usual, or it can analyze your situation, take action and truly change the game.

Source : Youtube

elink.io | See Original

See Original | Powered by elink

0 notes

personalcoachingcenter · 4 years

Text

Advance Business Development Coaching

New Post has been published on https://personalcoachingcenter.com/advance-business-development-coaching/

Advance Business Development Coaching

Business development and Marketing

Source : Youtube

elink.io | See Original

See Original | Powered by elink

0 notes

63824peace · 5 years

Text

Wednesday, 12th of october 2005

Television programs receive broadcast extensions in autumn, or else they are canceled. This year's turn-around resulted in the cancellation of Nihon TV's Tuesday Suspense Theater. The show had been broadcasted for twenty-four years. It was television's second longest running show, outlasted only by TV Asahi's Saturday Wide Theater. What a disappointment!

Both programs featured series of two-hour dramas. No one of my generation ever missed an episode. We eagerly awaited each new installment to see how the drama would escalate. Of course, this was before we became adult contributors to society as members of the work force.

Serialized television shows us that traditional storytelling methods are outdated. They are too straightforward to offer useful social criticism. We will only have variety shows left if the old-fashioned shows go off the air. Television programs and games are alike ; each needs its audience.

We should still preserve some media and cultural artifacts that are uninfluenced by popular trends. People who share my temperament grieve the loss of a show that we grew up watching. Saturday Wide Theater remains on the air; the patriarch of television programs survives for now. I sincerely wish it well.

I watched the weather forecast this morning. The usual autumn rain front moves under the influence of high atmospheric pressure. The children who have eagerly awaited the athletic festival celebrated a victory this week. Typhoon-20 will still come ashore, but at least it seems that the sky will be clear this afternoon. I yearn to feel a pure autumn day.

We held our routine meetings this morning. I realized suddenly that I haven't seen Shin-chan in a while. I checked his work booth, but he wasn't inside.

Then I remembered he is on vacation.

The MGS4 team worked around the clock when we were preparing for TGS. They are taking the belated vacation that they missed during the August Bon festival. Everyone ought to be enjoying time with their families or lovers. They are making up for lost time. Because of the vacation, Mr. Nishimura hasn't sent feedback on my articles via our intranet server. I wrote my articles without his counsel this time, so I'm eager to learn his reactions. I expect that I'll owe him a few apologies when he returns.

I ate Yakisoba with pork, mushrooms, and oyster sauce at the Chinese restaurant Fuuton San Raakyo for lunch. I probably should have eaten udon. I have a comprehensive endoscopic exam scheduled for my stomach and intestines tomorrow. I ate udon last night though… no, excuse me. I ate Oudon for supper last night. Because I prepared for the exam last night, I wanted at least to enjoy Yakisoba for lunch today.

I received a pamphlet from my doctor's office that details my pre-exam preparations. It reads: "Please abstain from eating vegetables, fruits, and seaweeds prior to your procedure." I feel pretty fortunate that I dislike vegetables. I wonder though... was it okay to have eaten the mushrooms?

Mr. Shida came to the office this afternoon to perform the final check on the Existence disc. We started by watching and listening to it in the editing studio. He seemed to enjoy it more than he scrutinized it.

I have entrusted the remainder of the third disc's direction and structure to Mr. Shida. I also had requested that he write and edit the L Book that accompanied the limited edition of MGS3. The man knows more about MGS3 than even the MGS3 staff. He might be the only person after myself who knows the game so intimately.

The MGS team is a big family. Of course, specialized divisions focus on developing specific aspects of the games, such as the script, the visual designs, the programming, and the audio. As Director, I unify the various parts by giving orders that guide everyone along my vision. Leaders and supervisors manage each group from within, but the success of our work ultimately hinges upon my relationships with each staff member.

The game only becomes possible through direct relationships with each person working in each group. Intimacy grows between us. We discuss certain development details known only to the specific person and myself. For example, the scripting group usually understands the game better than anyone else. However, they don't know anything about how the audio works. They listen to the audio during the development process, but they aren't privy to the ideas that have laid the foundation for the audio's development. They have no way of knowing those conversations.

I don't know how other game developers work, but we make MGS through a honeycomb of confidential relationships.

Mr. Shida has conducted check-up interviews with almost the entire MGS staff for years. He even checks up on me. He knows our outfit down to the slightest details. He knows the whole staff as intimately as I do, so I have entrusted him with the Existence disc.

I have already supervised the whole process. I am confident that my collaboration with Mr. Shida will really make our work shine.

Mr. Shida and I finished our work in the editing room and proceeded to the sound room. I noticed a few flaws when I listened to the Dolby 5.1 Surround Sound output. Every time I review a certain scene I think, "That doesn't sound right. Maybe I'd rather do it differently after all." We don't have much time left. We wouldn't dare revise the disc's contents at this stage if the project were in the hands of an average producer.

My work as a game designer takes priority over my role as a producer, however. I grumbled to myself, "You know, I would really like to... well, I would love to change that, but... well, I guess we'll just have to leave it as it is." Mr. Shida kindly responded, "Why don't we tweak it a little?"

Even if our time is short, Kojima Productions' sound team is always ready to tackle new problems. Our true pleasure comes from doing the best work possible.

I will share my technique for cultivating this attitude with HIDEOBLOG's readers. It isn't good enough if a man must tell his staff, "Hey, fix this." I cultivate a specific work environment so that my staff naturally says, "Hey, let's fix this!" This attitude is any game's most crucial ingredient.

If any part of our development staff feels overstressed, chances are it's the programming team. They are responsible for debugging the game and creating the master copy. Sometimes our interactions become pretty tense.

Mr. Shida suggested that we go ahead and revise the audio, despite the size of the task and our time constraints.

"You said the right words!" I said in the Kansai dialect. "If you didn't think like that, I wouldn't have even let you in here. So you really think we can revise it at this stage?"

"Yeah, let's hit it. Let's push ourselves until we fix this thing and everyone goes home satisfied."

Mr. Shida is right. A truly good thing makes everyone happy. Everyone makes a huge effort. Kojima Productions' vitality spins upon one point: an unspoken consensus to make only things that are truly good and that improve everyone's happiness.

Preparation for our field training continues. Yesterday's carpenters have become today's outfitters. They are checking all of our field training equipment.

I realized that today is Wednesday, Kojima Productions' Longest Day. Everyone leaves the office at 5 P.M. today to watch a movie. We're all so busy this week that no one has even prepared to go home after the film.

I am unable to watch today's movie, but I have great movie-related news. MGS4's TGS trailer will officially show at the 2005 Tokyo Fantastic Film Festival. It will run in the Shinjuku Milano Theater at 10:30 P.M. on Saturday (October 15).

The MGS4 trailer will run as part of the special event celebrating the Tokyo Fanta's tenth anniversary. The event's theme is a dedication to the late Teruo Ishii's memory. And there's more! Shogo Ishii's film Crazy Thunder Road will run at the end of the dedication event. Shogo Ishii... one of the most revered men in the industry!

I will share a screen with Director Ishii... wow, what an honor! I can't even describe my delight. Sometimes we are blessed in this life beyond our expectations.

I picked up Depeche Mode's new album Playing the Angel on my way home. It was a quick grab, like a bird snapping something from the grass then barreling away.

The pre-exam preparation pamphlet says that I should have taken the laxative at 7 P.M. I arrived home a little later than that though. Around 8 P.M.I ate Su-udon at home ; udon noodles without anything added for taste. (According to the folks at the restaurant Tsrutontan, it should be Su-Oudon.)

After I ate, I took the laxative according to the pamphlet's instructions. I dissolved the Magukoloolu-P medicine into 150ml of water and then poured in the additive Rakisoberon. I mixed them up and gulped the whole concoction. I chased the laxative with three glasses of water. I felt as though I were an astronaut undergoing launch preparations.

I'm a typical Type-A personality. I like to follow procedures. I really had wanted to begin at the scheduled time.

I followed the next step at 9 P.M. and drank three more glasses of water. The laxative hadn't taken effect yet, so I decided to push it a little. I drank two extra glasses of water. I listened to Depeche Mode while I waited for the laxative to kick in.

The music is good... really good! I was a little anxious given the band's four year lapse between albums. Alan Wilder has left the group, but Playing the Angel really reminds me of Depeche Mode's glory days.

I'm kind of a dork, so Depeche Mode's music fits me. I love David’s voice and singing style despite the fact that I'm a middle-age man. I'll listen to Depeche Mode even if I'm Grandpa Kojima.

The laxative started working while I listened to the album. I followed the pamphlet's last step at 11 P.M.: I drank two more glasses of water. I was on my own after that, so I recited my procedure to myself. "One: drink some water. Two: listen to Depeche Mode. Three: use the restroom."

...I feel as though I have become a drainage pipe.

I think I'll stay away from Oudon for a while.

0 notes

ecotone99 · 5 years

Text

[MF] Jiggles the Clown - An Autobiography

Greetings friends! I am Jiggles the Clown, and this is my life! These fifty years of mine have been quite the spectacle, and I want to share them with you.

My name was once Bernard Lyra. I was a young man with lots of ambition, so let's go back, way back!

May 1987.

Over thirty years ago now! Goodness, how time flies! Young eighteen year-old me was living in the tranquil town of Abertam, Wisconsin. It was a quaint little hamlet. Friendly folks and trees o' plenty. What more could you want?

I was still living at home. My folks both worked during the day, so I was typically home alone. My days mostly consisted spending time in my bedroom doing absolutely nothing at all! I'll be the first to admit to how lethargic my young self was.

Though, I would often take that time to daydream about entertaining others. I was a boy of few friends, so all I had was these daydreams about making people laugh and giving them fantastic memories.

I knew that at my age I needed to start searching for a job. Everyone plans out their life, but it seems so scripted! You go to school, you graduate., then you go to college and graduate, and then you get a job. After that, you retire, and then you die!

Who wants to script out their life like that?! I most certainly did not! I decided to just suck it up, and find myself a job. Back then you actually had to leave the house to find one of those!

I took a stroll through the downtown area to see if I could spot any 'Help Wanted' signs. That's when I found it; A flyer on a post. "Beau Cirque!" it said, and there were pictures of circus tents and female dancers. I can still remember their purple dresses and that golden blonde hair.

"A travelling circus! How wonderful!", NOT my thoughts at the time. I may be a clown now, but I wanted nothing to do with a circus. I saw myself as being more of a standup comedian type, and who knew the simple sight of a flyer would change everything?

I figured that they could possibly be hiring a janitor or something. A nice entry-level deal, you know?

I made my way to the town square where the circus was. The Ringmaster stood outside of a large tent smoking a cigarette and drinking a coffee. There was no show going on, so I just marched right up to him and asked for a janitorial job.

That was rather silly of me to do, but I scored a better deal due to my persuasiveness! That old Ringmaster offered me, an experience-less teenager, the job of assistant. I still don't know what he was thinking, but I suspect that what he was smoking wasn't exactly a cigarette...

He was a friendly, short man named Francois. I owe that man so much for the years of joy he gave me. God bless his soul.

The job he gave me was pretty simple. Just get the performers whatever they needed. Coffee, cigarettes, water, etc.

In the first week, I noticed something incredibly odd about this circus. What's the one thing you expect to see at a circus? The one performer everyone knows; The clown!

But there were no clowns. Not a single red nose in that whole tent. There were ballerinas and animals, but not a single white-faced, red-nosed, afro-haired dancing clown!

I was on my way to deliver a coffee to one of the ballerinas when the realization hit me, so I immediately went to Francois.

"Did Margaret send back the coffee again, Bernard?" he said.

"No sir, but I'd like to address a problem with the circus!" I proudly said.

He stared at me silently. I should mention that this particular Ringmaster was quite dedicated to perfection. I unfortunately didn't know that at the time.

"There's... no clowns!" I stated in a nervous but eager tone.

An uncomfortable silence filled the break area. Francois stood up from his chair and said one thing.

"Bernard... know your place."

Those words were almost crushing, but I was a rebellious teenager with pretty much no regard for the wishes of others.

So, would you like to know what I did? I'm so glad you asked!

Later that night, I went trekked to an old costume store in downtown Abertam. That was where I found a ragged clown suit, a wig, and makeup. I bought that stuff with a check that Francois gave me for my work. Ironic, isn't it?

Then I hiked back to Cirque de BORING to hatch a scheme that I'll admit was morally wrong, but it launched my clown career, so why should I bother with the ethics?

It was 7 PM, and the show was starting. Francois welcomed the audience and introduced the ballerinas. I snuck to the break area and slipped on the clown costume. Then I caked my face completely in white makeup and drew black dots on my cheeks. I threw on a long orange wig and made my move.

The ballerinas danced in tandem with each other while jumping over rings. The song 'Anitra's Dance' by Edvard Grieg was playing.

I saw that the audience was bored out of their minds. The children were yawning, and the adults were checking their watches! I ran to the middle of the tent and started dancing.

My legs went up and down, one after another. I waved my hands around in a silly manner that was completely unlike the music that was playing.

The ballerinas stopped dancing the moment they saw me, and they stared in total shock. Well, maybe it was shock, maybe it was disgust. It very well could've been both!

And guess what? The audience started laughing! It was exactly what I wanted! I noticed that my portly being jiggled with my movements, and I'm willing to bet that everyone else noticed as well.

Once I finished, Francois stood in silence, and the audience cheered for me. Once their praise subsided, I looked at Francois and said "And THAT'S how you do a circus!"

After the show, I went to go speak with him. He was understandably upset, what with how I ruined his completely serious "circus". I was really surprised when he told me that what I did was actually good.

"We've been struggling to entertain our audience for some time." he said. I could definitely see why!

"Even though what you did was incredibly stupid, we could use someone like you."

I was taken aback slightly. The fact that I wasn't fired/beaten right on the spot proves that luck was on my side that night.

"What is this clown character called that you play?" he asked.

I stumbled for an answer, and then I remembered how my body jiggled during my dancing.

"Jiggles the Clown!" I exclaimed.

Francois welcomed me as a member of the circus family, and I was quite ecstatic! No janitor jobs, no boring office job, no fast food, no pizza delivery, etc. It was a dream come true!

Unfortunately that meant I eventually had to leave my old life behind when we left Abertam. I said goodbye to my parents, my friends Grant & Becky, and pretty much everyone in that old rural town. At least it meant I'd have a more fun future ahead.

And it was fun! For five years it was just pure fun, but nothing too eventful happened. Let's skip ahead, shall we?

March 1992

Ah, 1992. I was 23, and the circus was now in Manchego, Wisconsin. I had a new clown suit, and my own dedicated section of the shows!

The ballerinas would dance around me while I did my silly clown dance. There was also a part where I would pretend to drink out of a breakaway glass bottle, and then smash it on the head of one of the dancers. It never failed to make the audience laugh!

Regrettably, my voice was deteriorating at the time because I used most of my circus money to buy cigarettes. Five years and ten packs a day will screw up your voice. The way I talked was now very gravelly and strained, but I still had that motivated clown energy inside of me!

I had forged a nice friendship with one of the ballerinas that would dance with me during the shows. Her name was Gwendolyn, and she had befriended me about a year prior. She was also the mother to a sweet little girl named Clementine.

Since we were a travelling circus, Gwen took her daughter with her, but us performers rarely interacted with her. I figured that she just didn't want a kid bothering the performers or something.

One night after a show, I was smoking in the break area. I quickly put the thing out once I saw Clementine approaching me.

"You're Jiggles the Clown, aren't you?" she said. There was a big smile on her face, and I could tell she was happy to see me.

"Why yes I am, little one!" I replied in my silly clown voice.

I remember thinking how nice it was that she sought me out like this. She told me about how she wanted to be a ballerina, and I would tell her stories about the silly stories about the dancers to make her laugh.

"It's rather late, isn't it? Where's your mother?" I asked.

"Oh, I don't know. She might hit me if I'm out too late!"

My mind went silent, and I tried to muster a response. I mean, she might hit her? Why would she say this, I thought. My head pointed at the floor, and I looked up at her again.

Then I saw how thin she was. She was scarily thin, as if malnourished. Her arms even had slight bruises on them. I felt like a fool for not noticing that before.

"Your mother... she hits you?" I stammered.

"Only when I've been bad, Mr. Clown." she replied.

The only thought that came to my mind was "Gwen... that bitch." I didn't even have to find evidence for it. It was standing right in front of me!

"Don't tell anyone, okay?" Clementine said.

I was extremely reluctant to not tell anyone, but what could I do? I couldn't just charge over to Gwen and confront her. Especially with no one else knowing what she was doing.

Maybe that's what I should've done. Afterwards I constructed a stupidly elaborate plan. The next day, I began to act friendlier with Gwen. I knew she had interest in me, so I used that to my advantage.

My plan was to date Gwen in order to make her more comfortable around me to the point where she'd admit that she abuses her child.

And guess what? It actually worked!

We spent two weeks going out for lunch, having conversations before and after shows, and regularly hanging out in each other's makeup trailers.

One day before a show I was in her trailer, sitting in a chair while she did her makeup. We talked about the usual stuff. Our performances, constructive criticism, and praises alike.

It was pretty normal before she asked me a very specific question.

"So what are we exactly?"

Ugh, that made me wish I didn't take part in this ridiculous scheme. I'm no one to you, bitch. People like her deserve to burn.

She began to come closer to me with a seductive smile on her face. I could hear other performers outside, and they were walking to the main tent while making conversation.

Gwen got closer and closer until she was holding my arms down. The door was closed and everyone outside was headed to the show area.

Her face moved towards mine with puckered lips. I tried to turn my face to the side, but she would just move my head back to face her.

At the last second, Clementine burst through the door.

"Mommy, I want a snack!" she said.

Those words returned the smile to my face. I was saved! The expression on Gwen's face turned from evilly seductive to angry as she glared at her daughter.

"I told you to not come in here, you stupid kid!" Gwen said while walking over to her.

She planted a hard slap on Clementine's face. My jaw absolutely dropped, and someone else's did too. A ballerina named Danielle who happened to be outside. Clementine left the door open and Danielle saw the whole thing.

Thank. Goodness.

"You evil bitch!" Danielle screamed. Evil bitch indeed. I was happy that someone finally witnessed this evil woman in action, but also distraught at the sight of that slap.

Danielle and I went to the court about it, and that was that. Clementine was able to testify against her abusive mother, and custody was awarded to her aunt (I think) who lived out of state.

She was so grateful to me that she gave me a clown doll that she cherished dearly, and now I cherish it. It's still in my possession!

Finally, this weight was lifted off of me, and hopefully Clementine will have a normal life. Wherever she is today, I hope she's alright. I also hope that Gwen is still rotting in jail, or at least on the street somewhere!

After that, what happened was the talk of the circus. The other performers heard about what happened, and some of them passed around the same "She was so normal, you wouldn't expect Gwen to be like that" nonsense.

Francois eventually passed away due to liver failure, and the circus no longer had an owner. I would've offered to take over, but all I know how to do is dance and be silly!

Epilogue

For the past twenty-seven years I've been living back in Abertam, living off of whatever I can make off of performing at kids' birthday parties. It's a peaceful life, and I'll never forget my time in the circus.

I'm fifty years old now, and I think my life was well spent. Though, I think one of these days I'll move out west. Maybe I'll go to California and entertain!

The future is open to you and me, and we should always strive to pursue the adventurous possibilities, as opposed to the mundane.

The End

submitted by /u/QuirkySpirit [link] [comments] via Blogger http://bit.ly/2GAvwky

#Blogger #Story

0 notes

topicprinter · 6 years

Link

Hi my name is Andrés, I'm 28 years old and I'm looking for a co-founder partner for OLYM 3, a video game and betting startup that aims to change the world of online games.First of all I apologize because my level of English is not good. This is precisely why I am looking for a co-founder who is native to English to adequately complement the profile of the company. My native language is Spanish, so we can have an app in English and native Spanish.In a few days I will start learning English, so in a few months we can begin to communicate better.NAMEFirst of all, let me explain why the name: In Greek mythology, the Titanomachy was a ten-year series of battles fought in Thessaly, consisting of most of the Titans (an older generation of gods, based on Mount Othrys) fighting against the Olympians (the younger generations, who would come to reign on Mount Olympus). The war was fought to decide which generation of gods would have dominion over the universe; it ended in victory for the Olympian gods.“When Zeus became an adult, he took Metis daughter of Oceanos as his accomplice, and she gave Cronos a drug to swallow. Under its influence he was forced firstto vomit up the stone, then the children that he had swallowed. Along with themZeus fought the war against Cronos and the Titans. They had been fighting for tenyears when Ge foretold that Zeus would be victorious if he took as allies those whohad been thrown into Tartaros. He killed Campe, who guarded them, and loosedtheir bindings. And then the Cyclopes gave Zeus thunder, lightning, and the thunderbolt;they gave Hades a helmet; and they gave Poseidon a trident. Armed withthese weapons, they defeated the Titans, threw them into Tartaros and set theHundred-Handers to guard them. As for themselves, they cast lots for dominion,and Zeus received power in the sky, Poseidon power in the sea, and Plouton power inthe house of Hades”. The three Olympic gods Zeus, Poseidon and Hades conquer the universe. This is how OLYM 3 was bornThe OLYM3.COM domain I have already registered.THE IDEAThe idea is to develop an "Olympus" of games, that is, an application that allows users to play video games and bet money among themselves increasing competitiveness and changing the online game ecosystem. These bets can be in 1vs1 games or even 3, 4 or 100 player tournaments. Fictional example Two users (Player 1 and Player 2) wish to play a game of CS: GO by betting 10$ each. They download and install OLYM 3. They choose game. Duration. Amount of money. And they make the bet. The winning user gets 18$ and OLYM3 earns 2$ as commission.Diagramhttps://i.imgur.com/9KRvRhL.jpgMinimum Viable ProductThe MVP should be an application that allows players to bet on a game in a basic way. Maybe we could start in 1vs1 games or small tournaments in a few years old game like Rise Of Nations or any shooter that uses small resources. Although this must be made clear when we start working. Remember that I am not a programmer, I can have in my mind very nice ideas but impossible to develop. Therefore, the MVP will adjust to what you as a programmer can develop.THE PLANSThis is a Startup, that is: A human institution designed to deliver a new product or service under the conditions of extreme uncertainty. We do not know who our customers will be or what our business model will be, the only thing we can do is go out to the market and test hypotheses. Since we do not have the money to invest, what we will do is look for help for startups that provide us with web hosting. Starting from this base, I think we should go to Azure, Amason AWS, google etc, get a pack of help to new companies and get hosting and assistance. After this, we launched a beta version of the web and the application and we go to the market to get customers via forums, twitter, facebook, etc. If everything goes well and we manage to do something interesting, we will go looking for private investors. Angel.co could be an option. https://i.imgur.com/I5yqVaf.jpgTHE REQUIREMENTSFor all the above I want to make very clear the type of founder needed to avoid confusion from the beginning: I'M NOT LOOKING FOR AN EMPLOYEE: Unfortunately I learned that not everyone can be a founding partner with my personal experience. I tried to open a business with a good guy, but a bad entrepreneur ... and the experience was terrible.That's why I'm looking for an enterprising, active person, who does not want to be an employee but wants to build a great company in the future. 1) Full-stack programmer y basic knowledge of HTML to develop the beta of the web: I have no idea about programming so if you are not Full-stack but you think you can develop, no problem. The idea is to make the MVP in windows it is the easiest and fastest. We could also analyze the options of doing it in Android. 2) Experience: Experience is important but it is not fundamental. I have read that the ideal is to work with programmers who have at least 1 year of experience. However, if you do not have experience but consider yourself qualified to join the project, go ahead, it is not an impediment to contact me. I myself do not have experience but I feel like it and I am eager to build a company for the future, and I am able to lead the company strategically. If you are an inexperienced student but have enough programming knowledge to develop this application, go ahead and send me a private message. Of course, the lack of experience must be replaced with a total involvement and a determined entrepreneur spirit.3) Commitment: Availability of 4 hours a day, 5 days a week for the next 2 years. If you do not have time, you are not sure about undertaking or you have other obligations the best thing you can do with your projects since undertaking involves too much work and commitment.4)English as a native language:4) My native language is Spanish, so it is essential that your language is English or you have sufficient level of English to be able to write complex texts.My job will be marketing, strategy, social media & branding. I also know something about design, so I can design the web. Your job will be to develop the application. Although together we must help each other, you must know what I am doing and I must know what you are doing. The company will create it together. BASIC LEGAL ISSUES.All legal matters will be reflected on a sheet and we will sign them with hellosing or similar services in a partnership agreement. Here I leave the fundamentals. OLYM 3 estará divida así:ACTIONS OF THE COMPANY 51% for me. 49% for you If any of us retires from the company to the first year loses 90% of shares. If any of us retires from the company in the second year loses 80% of shares.EARNINGS50% for me 50% for you If any of us retires from the company to the first year loses 95% of profits. If any of us retires from the company in the second year loses 80% of profits.EXCLUSIVENESSNone of us can work for any company that competes in our market.SALE OF SHARES.None of us may sell shares to third parties without the consent of the other.These are some of the main guidelines then we will talk about deeper things like conflict resolution, economic problems, what to do in case of dissolution, etc. All this we will collect in a document and as I said, we will use an electronic signature or FAX service to sign the contract. ADDEDAs final thoughts, I want to insist on the fundamental profile of a co-founder. I do not look for an employee, this is not my company it will be our company, it will not be my idea, it will be our idea, we have to work side by side, fight against everything to make the company profitable. So please, if you do not have time if the idea does not convince you it is better that you do not join the project.It is impossible to launch a company if one of the founders does not love the idea, as I said, IT WILL BE OUR IDEA, OUR COMPANY. I'm not going to give you orders, we should both have initiatives, we should talk almost every day, we should try new things. So before contacting me, ask yourself the following questions:Am I willing to dedicate 2 or more years of my life to a betting and videogame company? Am I excited about the programming? I think the idea can be good?If the answer is yes, join and we are going to found a great company. If you do not like this idea, if you are not passionate about this odyssey, if you do not have time or if it does not attract your attention, it is better that you look for other projects, it is impossible to join a project that you are not passionate about.Keep in mind that if you join, we will spend whole years together, we will have to work together, help each other, feel the company as our own, the fault of success or failure will be both, we need, ultimately, passion. With nothing more to add, thanks for reading the post and I am delighted with any suggestion, criticism, questions, etc.A greeting!Andres.

#/r/startups #reddit

0 notes

consulting-celiac-in-the-tardis · 7 years

Text

Gluten Free Goodie Box Giveaway + 5 Ways Blogging Has Made My Life 1000% More Awesome

New blog post! You can research the best blogging platform, experiment with tons of blogging apps and read all the blogging for beginners books you can find. However, some blogging lessons can only be discovered from personal experience...and that's exactly what I'm talking about today!

To celebrate four years since I started blogging at Casey the College Celiac (and four years since my celiac disease diagnosis), I'm hosting a gluten free giveaway (featuring 20+ products). This post isn't sponsored and there is no purchase necessary to enter this giveaway; I'm just going to mail one lucky winner a box loaded with gluten free treats. A blogging celebration wouldn't be complete with a toast, though - so I'm also sharing five ways blogging has made my life 1000% more awesome.

What is blogging to me? What do I think of making money blogging? And how can you win a delicious gluten free goodie box? Keep reading to find out!

1. Blogging has taught me that, sometimes, you just need to plan less and start ASAP.

If you're anything like me, you may want to spend months researching how to start a blog before you officially join the blogosphere. However, sometimes you just need to take the plunge and dive in!

That's exactly how I started blogging four years ago. I had no idea what I was doing, what the best blogging platform was or what to even call this new website of mine. (Fun fact: this blog started as "Casey the Celiac Sealion" in an ode to my college's mascot. Thankfully, that name didn't last long). So, in a process full of trial and error, I just started publishing my thoughts on the internet.

My first photo on the blog...

Do I recommend you do a little more research than I did before launching your blog? Yes. I wish I'd started on WordPress, and I wish I'd known even a little about social media marketing and SEO. Yet, my blog has still done pretty dang well (in my modest opinion), and my blogging experience reminds me that, sometimes in life, you need to plan less and act more. (A motto I'm taking to heart as I begin my grad school adventure this month!)

2. Blogging has helped me connect with people all over the world.

One of the most rewarding parts of blogging has honestly been the connections I've made with others. When I was hospitalized, people from all over the globe - ranging from London to Canada to Brazil - sent their love, prayers and healing thoughts. And, ever since I announced that I'm moving to Mankato, Minnesota for grad school, bloggers from that area have messaged me with restaurant recommendations, winter weather advice and invitations for a local tour.

I won't deny that I've met my share of creepy people over the Internet, which is why you should be careful about how much personal information you share and whom you exchange messages with. However, blogging has continually prevented me from feeling alone with celiac disease. Anytime I want to cry over being glutened or vent about an ignorant comment, I have someone to reach out to who completely understands. If that's not an awesome blogging benefit, I don't know what is.

3. I've learned how to make money while doing what I love.

I didn't start Casey the College Celiac with the goal to make money blogging. In fact, I think anyone who has purely financial motivations for blogging will have a hard time. Why? To put it plainly, blogging is a LOT of work if you want to do it well. You need to research, write and edit blog posts. You also need to get people to actually read what you write. Not to mention that, in my experience, most bloggers can't monetize their site from day one.

However, the more I blogged about gluten free recipes, living with celiac disease and college tips, the more companies reached out to me. And, in my mind, that is how you want your sponsored partnerships to start. Instead of trying to contact as many companies as possible, just do your thang and, eventually, brands will start to notice that you do it well.

My college roomie when it rained Foster Farms corn dogs and chicken tenders...

Nowadays, I turn down more product review and sponsored post offers than I accept, and I try to only partner with brands who I honestly support and believe will benefit my readers. Sometimes it still blows me away when I get a package in the mail full of gluten free products. I mean, what college student - or celiac on a budget - doesn't feel blessed when the mailman drops off an edible gift? What I always remember, though, is how lucky I am to have a semi-professional hobby that lets me taste and promote the gluten free products and companies I love!

4. I've discovered that I'm so much more capable than I ever thought.

The truth is, blogging is more complicated - but also more rewarding - than most people realize. Like I've hinted at above, when I clicked "publish" on my first blog post, I knew nothing about SEO or coding or even social media. The more I connected with readers, though, the more dedicated I became to learning how to improve my blog. At first, it was just publishing more regularly. Then I started to experiment with blog marketing. Just a few weeks ago, I finally got brave enough to give Casey the College Celiac a major facelift.

I still wouldn't ever classify myself as "techy." But I now know how to use social media to my advantage, how to make blog posts go semi-viral (like this one and this one did), and even how to tweak some coding here and there. Not only that, but blogging jobs - and jobs that utilize blogging skills - really are out there. One of the reasons Entity Magazine hired me was because I had an online following and was familiar with online publishing.

Me from teaching my class to other Entity interns...

So what am I trying to say? Basically, if anyone ever tells you that blogging is a waste of time, don't believe them. Sure, not every blogger might land a job related to their website. However, all bloggers can gain valuable skills - from learning how to keep readers' attention to designing a killer quote card - that can help them grow as writers...and people!

5. Blogging has proven that my dream - making a difference in people's lives through writing - can really become a reality.

When you're a college student or a recent college graduate, it's pretty common to be asked, "So, what do you want to do?"

My answer has never been one particular job title. Instead, I've always said something like, "I want to make a difference." Maybe that's by working for a company with a mission I believe in. Or maybe that's by being a college writing professor (my most recent dream). Either way, blogging has proven to me that I can make a difference using my writing skills and degree.

I'm not the most popular or well known blogger in the gluten free community - not by a long shot. However, all of my hard work is worth it when I read even one comment thanking me for raising awareness or one comment about a reader's own similar struggles. Readers have said that some of my posts made them cry, but, the truth is, so have some of their comments.

I don't know where my writing will take me during or after grad school at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I don't know where this blog will be in another four years, either. Yet, I know that I will keep writing - on and off the blog - the words I and others need to hear.

The Gluten Free Giveaway!

Now, I'd say that was enough food for thought...so how about we talk about the gluten free food one lucky person will win in my blog anniversary giveaway? As a Love with Food ambassador and gluten free product reviewer, I often end up with a bunch of extra gluten free goodies throughout the year. Sometimes they have other allergens that don't agree with me (like dairy or soy); other times, I've already eaten my fill. So, to celebrate four years of blogging, I want to spread the gluten free love to one randomly-picked winner!

What exactly will this winner receive? A box LOADED with 20+ products (around a $40 retail value), ranging from meal accompaniments to healthy snacks to baking ingredients (the gluten free baker in your life would love this 12-ounce bag of almond flour!) to desserts.

Some giveaway highlights:

- Delallo Gluten Free Lasagna Sheets - Annie Chun's Seaweed Crisps - Pereg Natural Foods Almond Meal Flour - A bunch of nut/nut free butters, including Peanut Butter and Company Powdered Vanilla Peanut Butter, Wowbutter and more - Savi Gluten Free Dessert Protein Bar - Buff Bake Protein Cookie, Snickerdoodle flavor - And much more... Whether you've recently been diagnosed with celiac disease, follow a gluten free diet or just want some new treats to try, this goodie bag would be a delicious surprise. It is important to note that these gluten free goodies do contain other allergens, like dairy, egg and soy. However, I'm sure the foodies in your life wouldn't mind receiving the products you can't eat yourself!

Ready to win this gluten free goodie bag? Read the giveaway rules and then enter the giveaway using the Rafflecopter widget below!

Giveaway Rules

The giveaway ends on July 14, and the winner will be announced here before July 16. This giveaway is only open to US residents over age 18, and whoever is randomly selected as the winner will have 24 hours to respond to my email and claim their prize. There is no purchase necessary, the number of eligible entries received will determine the odds of winning, and this giveaway is void where prohibited by law. Best of luck to everyone who enters! a Rafflecopter giveaway It's been a crazy surprising and exciting four years of celiac disease and blogging, and I can't wait to see where the next year takes me...and what blogging lessons I learn along the way. Until then, I'll keep writing, eating some delicious gluten free food and, of course, blogging about my adventures. What gluten free product from this goodie box would you like to try most? What blogging lessons have you learned? Tell me in the comments!

via Blogger http://ift.tt/2sDy2MX

#Blogger #college #celiac #gluten free #coeliac #celiacs #paleo #primal #foodporn #foodart

0 notes

jeannette-marshall-optioneerjm · 7 years

Text

A little bit of this :-( and a lot more of THAT :o)

IMAGINATION inflation Anyone who has read this blog more than a few times (which most fall under) has joined me in reflection, especially approaching my birthday. Every person, businessperson, sales professional, artist, writer, creator, imagineer, imageer and optioneer should do this annually: Your own Annual Life Plan Taken with a twist on my REALLY popular Blog called “The 90-Day Plan” (I really wish I knew who the person was to give it a lift, sharing it somehow outside my typical social media radar. Before you can move FORWARD you have to have a heart to heart with yourself. Seriously. Honestly. Barely a hairs breath away from your nose touching the mirror. It can be your Journaling all at once! For any other procrastinators like me. Once I discovered a way to exhaust my mindfulness times 100% ::… by BLOGGING! A cork popped open ||\\”//|| Ideas that had been brewing began to become released. By sharing knowledge and seeking even more to fill up the depleted. New Curiosities unfold, gliding across your vision or glimpse of an expression, a beautiful attention getter image.

Stretching the imagination because as it explodes into the universe, some small particles, fall glittering into a receptive hand. My year in review has been one of where I have been putting others first. Not an easy feat to consider the impact one has on others, and try to obtain a lofty one, for them, not me. That is one of the biggest struggles I’ve been wrestling with: am I an impostor of greatness? Was I really a big sales professional once upon a time? Maybe I got lucky for a few years when the timing was right. A social media experience as I ride the waves from the tide pushed by others before me. Am I just a toe in or knee deep? Thank goodness for analytics to appeal to my numerical musical notes, de-scrambling and decoding information that is mine for the taking, just as I log on and click in.

Like a sponge floating soaking up, but not falling too deep beyond the grasp of realization that maybe I’ve been looking at it all wrong. I mean, I read A-LOT! It never sinks me in, it expounds wonder at all the information at my disposal, my right, my actions, my clicks revealing a true, authentic person. Not a persona but a brand I’ve been continuing the brand I started so many years ago. I tap into what has delighted me (like last night I was surfing the PINs on PINTEREST on “figure skating”) …. who cares how long I look? Nobody, my WIFI provider LOVES the moola it extracts from me: I have an “unlimited data plan”. True Authenticity is when you allow your spirit and soul to guide you to what you find intriguing, moves you in its beauty. The next wave a super social media rock stars will need to be authentic in a crowded noise of ME me ME (like Guy Kawasaki, who forgets was among his small tribe when he moved on to Google Plus G+ not remembering who they were, ah-hem, like moi).

I didn’t adopt someone else to build my brand by trying to be someone I am not, claim to know something I do not, brag about knowing someone to build your brand? Well, my not-so-reciprocal friends aka |devils in disguise| narcissists | fake | crooks | egotistical | famed | self-proclaimed experts. Honesty has been my guiding star towards bright lights without sunglasses to block the glow. Truthfulness is a strength in character, it is ingrained and cannot be replicated by large degrees. Believe in me? The jury is still out. I just know that I’m not doing my God-given gift. I keep looking and stretching to find it. Sometimes I think maybe I’ve found it, when instead I’ve found some new great hobbies ::… like painting objects and making them into art. Really a fun sidekick to have. I may have become too scattered creating far too many blogs, when here I should just write. Focus on making one site really really good, then a bunch of others mediocre. I’ve had this ah-HA moment before I realize. When I was jumping from advertising to the world of publishing ::… the how before the what. The how before the what Is really what makes me stand out. I’m not suggesting that I really do, but I was trying to appease you, your time and dedication for reading thus far. Whether it is sales, business

or communication people gravitate to the explosive environment we allow ourselves to tumble into ::…. traditional media that has the explosion with headline before any details. Saying WHAT??!!??

I gravitate towards the HOW which basically covers the how, the who, the where, the speculation as to the why, or the scientific explanation of the how. I think people’s eyes and sensibilities are been drummed out of the noise, and only ENGAGE with those they believe appeals to their own values, opinions, knowledge, genre, topics, interests, hobbies, visuals, emotional well being, what grabs them NOW. I’m going to continue on this journey with you by my side. Continual in experimentation on a quest for new insights. The insights that I share may be long and somewhat rambling. But there is a nugget in there somehow. Too many people haven’t discovered who they are so they try to invent themselves to be someone they’re not. For personal, professional, relationship reasons, known only to themselves. They hide behind a character or persona in which they want the world to see them as. An enthusiast is what I tagged myself. Does it really suit me? OKay, thanks for the reminder mirror | DANG! (borrowed from my 22 y/old lovely daughter) | I am not always in a good mood. Gasp, shocked? Probably not those that know me and still love me would say. Determined and tenacious would be a common affront in succinctly describing me. That’s what is great. As a woman who is 5 ft TALL and petite curvy figure ::…. it is a gracious honor to be synonymous with STRENGTH. A nod for the new year ahead will be the stretch to willpower. Where I should examine these fair questions: Am I trying to prove something? To myself? To someone else? Or bigger? Am I doing my hardest to avoid and stay out of toxic environments or people? Am I being true to my GIFT that I am working to discover: a teacher? a writer? an advertising Adonna? | HA! Google Chrome spell check: “Ladonna, Madonna, Donna” | fooled YA! Yes, I meant to make up a new word since GURU isn’t even in the cards for a lot of knowledge to beget. A website I’ve been struggling with this for almost two years. It doesn’t fall under my PROCRASTINATION leanings, but I keep coming up with ideas on sections, which will fall under an umbrella of an e.zine. I have experimented with blogs, Word Press, Go Daddy | good grief: worst experience EVA! They didn’t mind taking my money | “there’s a sucker born every milisecond on the internet” | they fall into my bucket of ::… “NEVER AGAIN” pile. Of which there are few, it’s a small crowd, like my “former dentist” Lee (first or last name, I’ll never tell, except from what it rhymes with “Cal-gar-y” (‘y’ pronounced “Eeee”)

I’m going to write and let him know. This young fellow, who shall not be named, unless agreed to by name). I would like to showcase his work from Word Press websites. What’s in a name? I can’t settle on a name is what a name is about. You’d be surprised how much time I spend waving on the tide of websites, website hosts, and a few creative outfits in between. graFX designCA has been born. I guess pretty much anything I spend doing ends up in a blog of some sorts. I launched it about a week ago. What I want to do is showcase what I uncover for the social media crowd or blogging tribe. Tools, resources, gallery, creative, writing host of a colossal kind! Getting pumped up now, creative juices flowing unabated, from feeling a strong sense of cabin FEVER since my skin erupted from either Shingles or a skin reaction/infection | doctors have conflicting prognosis | first time ever the Wicked Witch of the West has been nice to me in months, if exactly a year ago from now. I think I have an idea so I guess I better go. Thanks for joining me while I uncork another idea for others to be amused by, inspired from or motivated to ….. JUST DO IT!

via Blogger http://ift.tt/2lawU3z

from A little bit of this :-( and a lot more of THAT :o)

#A little bit of this :-( and a lot more of THAT :o)

0 notes

personalcoachingcenter · 4 years

Text

Advance Business Development Coaching

New Post has been published on https://personalcoachingcenter.com/advance-business-development-coaching/

Advance Business Development Coaching

Business development and Marketing

Source : Youtube

elink.io | See Original

See Original | Powered by elink

0 notes