#so i used to think that canada and liechtenstein would at least be really good friends since they're both really peaceful

[tianshiisdead]

Oh! For that Character Ask... Can I pick up Portugal, Netherlands, Liechtenstein and Belarus? (sorry for the multi characters and for being random)

I am doing all of them so buckle up lmao (Liechtenstein and Netherlands are under the read more! sorry beforehand idk that much about these characters jfkdlgh)

Belarus

How I feel about this character

MY BELOVED!! Ik I never talk about her but she's one of my top fav characters she's such a babe also I had a crush on her when I first watched. She's so pretty and fashionable also I love sharp and arrogant girls. She reminds me I'm a lesbian, also her irritated expression is really cute. I don't know much about the country but I hope to learn more soon since I'm rlly interested in the history and culture of that part of the world!

All the people I ship romantically with this character

Myself UWU, Lithuania (was introduced thru @doomspiral 's art its so good), I ship all characters with China at least a little no matter how crack-y so uh yeah that as well, but she tops

I ship some other characters with her but nothing I want to say out loud here lmao don't want to get cancelled

My non-romantic OTP for this character

Ukraine... I rlly like her relationship w Russia as well but we don't see her interact w Ukraine as much and I wanna see more.

My unpopular opinion about this character

uhhh I think her yandere-ness is charming also she's my wife

One thing I wish would happen/had happened with this character in canon.

I wanna see her interact with Ukraine and characters other than Russia more!!

Portugal

How I feel about this character

I think he's cute! I love his design, his little mole and fluffy hair. Idk much about him tho as a character or as a country tho

All the people I ship romantically with this character

Idk many of his ships but I've seen some cute UK/Portugal content! I keep seeing NedPort fanart on my dash and those are usually pretty cute as well. I like most ships with him because he's a very pretty character. Obligatory China mention as well ofc ming dynasty porcelain trade era aka the only history i know a lot about that involves Portugal (i am sorry i am Not well versed in history outside of easia and russia fkdlhg)

My non-romantic OTP for this character

I feel like Portugal and Spain is the default for this, I'd love to learn more about the history here as well. It'd be also interesting to see his relations w former colonies?

My unpopular opinion about this character

dunno if this is unpopular but why does he look like Tyki Mikk from DGM...

One thing I wish would happen/had happened with this character in canon.

I mean we pretty much never see him so it'd be nice to see More of him lmaooo

other two after the read more

Liechtenstein

How I feel about this character

I like the clingy baby sibling trope so I think she's cute. Idk I don't feel super strongly about her tho

All the people I ship romantically with this character

(redacted)

My non-romantic OTP for this character

ehh Switzerland (the default), idk much about the country's history and relations so I can't say much else.

My unpopular opinion about this character

She strikes me as the yandere brocon type like Belarus but more subtle

One thing I wish would happen / had happened with this character in canon.

maybe expanding more on her relations with other countries?

Netherlands

How I feel about this character

He's very tall isn't he

All the people I ship romantically with this character

I used to ship him with Denmark in like, man, middle school LOL I've seen some Netherlands x Canada which is cute.

My non-romantic OTP for this character

Benelux! Also Japan... platonic only, but I do think their relationship and interactions are v interesting in history. I'd like to see explorations of that sometime idk

My unpopular opinion about this character

Um. I have no thoughts dljkhgfdlkj I'm sorry

One thing I wish would happen / had happened with this character in canon.

Does he show up in canon much? It'd be cool to have an arc about his history or something I don't think that's been touched on much idk

#ask game #ana-pt #ask #hetalia #hws portugal #hws belarus #hws liechtenstein #hws netherlands #long post #thanku for the ask!! mwah mwahhh

[tema-makes-art-sometimes]

The gercanmano cinderella au looks so cute!! Is there any chance you can tell us more about the plot?

I THOUGHT YOU'D NEVER ASK!

Names: Austria - Rodrich Nyo Prussia - Julie Liechtenstein - Elise Germany - Ludwig Rome - Julius Romano - Matteo Canada - Elijah

Okay so Ludwig's family in this is Rodrich as step-father and Elise and Julie as his step sisters.

Because I couldn't think of any Germanic who would leave all the work to Lud and also being a total bitch, I came up with an even funnier idea on how Ludwig got cinderella'd cause I can't imagine them ripping Lud's clothes apart.

He’s in the same situation though, his real dad gone, Austria taken over the estate, hes stuck doing 90% of the housework and helping his sisters all the time. Elise is much more bearable than Julie, she just tends to be a little more absent minded and feels bad for Ludwig but doesn’t really know how to help without getting in trouble. While Julie is just kind of tone deaf in that she never thinks about helping cause shes doing other stuff the thought of doing chores and stuff never cross her mind. Neither are outright malicious per-say they just kind of let it happen. And Rodrich of course just expects him to do everything.

So a big masquerade ball is being hosted for Prince Matteo to try and get him hitched and any eligible person is to attend all fancied up. Austria remarks since Lud has made it clear that parties and such aren’t his thing he doesn’t have to attend as a bachelor. He can attend as his sisters assistants if they need help with anything slash have something go wrong. Basically a servant to hang out in the back and not really do anything. Lud is fine with his he doesn't mind-- but he feels really out of place among all the fancy costumes and masks. He does kind of want to participate like the food looks good and some of the conversations look like they’d be fun to engage in but there’s no way they’d talk to someone like him.

At one point he dips out to get some fresh air in one of the castle halls and ends up crashing into this really tall loud energetic guy in one of the most gaudy emperor costumes Lud's ever seen.

Surprise! It’s Julius. Cause I thought it be fun-- Rome loves to meddle in peoples lives especially harassing Germany so it works. Rome just pops up and he cant take how sad and lonely this guy looks so he drags him off to a room and spruces him up and Ludwig in a panic like I cant leave like this and Rome is like don’t worry about it ;3 you can come back here and change after you have some fun-- *proceeds to shove him out into the hallway*

So Ludwig accepts his fate and goes and has a little fun. He’s snacking, talking to people maybe even a little group dancing and it’s rather fun. Little does he know hes got targets set on him.

Cue Matteo and Elijah bored out of their fucking minds.

Like Matteo was having fun chatting and flirting around but then his parents were making him meet every single person in this stale line and Elijah, a prince from another northern land, saw his boredom and was like “so they wont stop introducing you to people until you show interest in someone right you wanna hit on each other?” and Matteo’s like “yeah sure why not you’re pretty cute.” and so the two are hitting it off swimmingly.

They’re just having fun getting to know each other, flirting (mostly Elijah flirting with Matteo at first but Matteo doesn’t leave him out to dry they’re both absolutely rabid)

Then, seemingly out of no where, they notice a new, very pretty tall and buff gentleman enter the floor in the softest pastel blues and whites. They have no idea where he came from but they know they at least would have seen him before a costume that bright is hard to miss and almost near white all over? Damn guy’s taking risks.

And so they decide to hell with it why not I wanna do talk to him because mysteriously appearing pretty boy makes one hell of an impression. Ludwig is surprised but he happily talks to the two, dancing a little bit even and eventually they slip out of the ballroom to the garden and the three get to talking. Elijah is pressing for details about Ludwig and Ludwig is side stepping them because he just- he doesn’t want to ruin it for them he thinks they're really pretty and rather sweet and hilariously a lot of their interests overlap but he’s a commoner they’re princes-- it’d never work out. He washes dishes they sign declarations.

Eventually it gets deeper into the night and Ludwig hears people calling out his name, his sisters are wanting to leave cause apparently the crowned prince ran off and they’re bored and so is Rodrich and Ludwig understandably panics and is like ‘I have to go’ and the two are like ‘wait hold on you still haven’t told us who you are--’ but it’s too late Ludwig’s already ran back inside with the two hot on his trail.

He’s able to swap out and barely ducks around Elijah in the ballroom, though he’s certain they’d never think it’s him in his regular clothes. Once he gets outside and he’s calling his family’s name to catch up and they’re calling for him Matteo makes it out of the castle and sees him running off and hopping on the back of a carriage and sure the outfit is different but he’s running away, he’s got the same hair color and build and so he assumes that’s gotta be him.

He’s not able to catch up in time, but he is however able to find Ludwig’s fancy mask (whom he tried to sneak out cause he just wanted to remember the nigth just a little) sitting on the steps. So he has some leads but he has no idea where Ludwig is. All he knows is his name is Ludwig, he’s tall, buff, blonde, has a deep voice and seemed to be getting called away by his family in a not plain carriage but nothing like what he rides in so he has to be either a commoner or a low ranking aristocrat.

and thats all Ill say for now ehehehe lemme know what you think

#gercanmano #cinderella au #hws germany #hws romano #hws canada

[purplesurveys]

1199

America - What is your favorite place to eat?  I mean...these days I obviously haven’t been eating out at all, but I used to always enjoy dining at either Yabu (for the food) or La Creperie (for the ambience).

Australia - Do you have any quirks when speaking?  I don’t think so; or at least I don’t think I’d be aware of them unless someone points them out to me.

Austria - What kind of person do you wish to be?  What do some (or most) of these questions have to do with the countries? Lmao. Anyway, I just want to be remembered as being kind, I guess. I’m not aiming for anything grand.

Belarus - Is there anyone you love?  I’d do anything for my friends, close or otherwise.

Belgium - What do you think of your siblings? I like my sister; I care about her. I don’t really think much of my brother.

Botswana - Do you like to sing? Why or why not?  Yeah, but I only do it for myself. I never sing in front of others; I don’t think I’m that good.

Bulgaria - Who do you consider close to you?  My two best friends and everyone in my college friend group.

Cameroon - Describe your culture.  Folktales, hundreds of languages, more than just adobo and balut.

Canada - Favorite wintertime activity?  We don’t have winter.

China - What was the best moment of your life?  I don’t think I’ve had it yet; but so far the moments that are in the running for ‘best’ are my Paramore concert in 2018 and the day I found out I passed UP.

Cuba - What sort of grudges do you hold if any?  I haven’t talked to Marielle since the backstabbing incident in 5th grade, and I pretty much don’t talk to my uncle (unless we’re at a family gathering and I have to greet him for show) for all his past failures.

Cyprus - What hands-on activities do you like (drawing, carving, building, etc.)?  Embroidery! which I haven’t done in a long while but I’m definitely still into it.

Denmark - Do you wish for something of your past?  I wish I had more time with my relatives who died from Covid. Even a proper goodbye and a big, long hug from each of them would’ve sufficed.

Egypt - Do you stand up for what you believe in? How?  Sure. I speak up about it, educate others when I can, and raise awareness or reiterate my stance about certain issues by sharing posts on social media.

England - Are you controlling?  Depends on what context you’re talking about, because control can mean many different things. I’m a control freak when it comes to my work tasks and I know that can drive some people mad, especially those who prefer working independently.

Estonia - Do you think people often misunderstand you?  I think I’m pretty easy to read.

Finland - What do you prefer, kindness, sternness, or apathy?  In general, kindness; but I also don’t have any clue to what context these words pertain.

France - How do you show love for those you care for?  I like messaging them about things I see that remind me of them. I will also buy them small gifts from time to time, usually food that I know they like.

Germania - What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do?  Breaking up with Gabie, and accepting the said breakup. Both were equally difficult things to overcome and I’m just happy to be out of that part of my life.

Germany - Do you have a hard time forgiving yourself?  Yes. It takes me a while, if at all.

Ghana - What is our favorite sport?  You mean mine? I like pro wrestling, if that counts.

Greece - Do you let others help you when in need? I do, but I have a hard time asking for help. < Yeah. I will accept help when I finally acknowledge that I need it; but getting to the acknowledgment part can take me a while.

Hungary - Who is the person you trust most?  Either of my best friends.

Hutt River - What is the most memorable dream or nightmare you have had?  Back when I was at a low point I used to have recurring dreams of my girlfriend at the time dying. It sucks for the fact that my most unforgettable dreams are nightmares and for the fact that they all involve her, lol.

Hong Kong - Do you fear death?  Not really. I fear dying in a way that I wouldn’t want to experience, but I don’t fear the actual concept of death.

Iceland - Do you hide your real personality? Why?  I hide some parts from people I don’t know all that well or I’m not that close with; like I obviously wouldn’t have crackhead vibes with my clients at work lol. But outside of that I pretty much act the same way around everyone.

India - How important is family to you?  Quite, but it’s not my be-all and end-all.

Japan - Tell us a secret about yourself.  I don’t really have any. I share everything on this blog, anyway.

Kenya - What is your favorite wild animal?  Elephants.

Korea - What is one thing you accomplished by yourself?  Shooting my shot and landing an internship, and eventually a permanent job, at a company I had no connections with, all while I was heavily depressed and wasn’t really doing anything else to take care of myself. 

Kugelmugel - Is there anyone you have a love-hate relationship with?  My mom and I bicker all the time, but she is my mom.

Latvia - Do you believe you are brave?  I guess so.

Ladonia - What is the internet site you visit most often?  I’d say either Twitter or Facebook.

Liechtenstein - How do people underestimate you most often?  I don’t know if I can answer this; people usually don’t.

Lithuania - Do you desire power?  No. That implies being in the spotlight, which I don’t crave at all.

Macau - What is your favorite festival or celebration?  Christmas, only for the huge amount of food I get to freely eat.

Molossia - Do you consider yourself strong?  Emotionally, yeah. Also what is Molossia?

Monaco - Do you think you are a lucky person?  Not a big believer of luck.

New Zealand - Would you rather be an elf, dwarf, Hobbit, or wizard?  None of these.

North Italy - What is your least favorite part of your personality?  There are some parts to my sensitivity that I don’t really like, like my tendency to overthink remarks that were actually meant to be harmless.

Norway - What was the most disappointing time in your life?  All that time I spent being hung up on Gab and desperately talking to her post-breakup, mostly because of how much I neglected myself then. She was working a night shift then and I remember keeping on waking up at like 1 AM and the first thing on my mind always being to message her and UGH it’s just so embarassing to think about now.

Netherlands - Most generous thing someone has done for you?  That one time Andi half-walked and half-took a trike back to UP at 11 PM after already having gotten home, just to retrieve something I forgot to bring home and was having a breakdown about. It was really embarassing and they bring it up every once in a while to tease me, but we have a good laugh about it now.

Poland - Hardest thing you have gone through?  The breakup and deaths in the family.

Prussia - Would you prefer to live forever or die alone?  Live forever I guess, because I have serious FOMO HAHAHA

Roman Empire - How would you like to be remembered?  Like what I said at the start of this survey, just as someone who had been kind.

Romania - What is something you are very ashamed of?  I don’t think there is anything.

Russia - Have you ever suffered from low self esteem? Do you still?  I used to. Not really anymore. I’m liking myself more these days.

Sealand - Who is your best friend?  Angela and Andi.

Seborga - What is your favorite beverage?  Water or coffee.

Seychelles - How do you handle people being rude to you?  Be mean back, but in a passive-aggressive way.

South Italy - What is your favorite part of your personality?  I like that I’m generous and that I can remember a lot of different small details about everyone.

Spain - What would you tell to the person or people you hurt most if you had a second chance?  That she was right, I ended up being happier without her; and that I hope she can finally sleep well knowing she was right, considering our whole relationship was pretty much built on her wanting to be right about everything.

Sweden - Are you a leader, follower, or independent?  Follower.

Switzerland - Would you consider yourself evil, good, or neutral?  Chaotic neutral.

Thailand - How good is your poker face?  I don’t even understand poker.

Tibet - What do you value most?  Friendships, and my happiness.

Taiwan - What do you think of the people or person who raised you?  Grateful.

Turkey - Would you ever want children?  That would be nice, in a few years.

Uganda - How would you like others to see you?  I answered this question like twice already. It still applies hahaha.

Ukraine - What is one thing that has made you stronger in life?  The difficulties I was able to overcome.

Vietnam - What is something you are proud of about yourself?  ^ Those.

Wy - What kind of art do you like?  Paintings and films.

Zimbabwe - Who is your favorite character from any folklore?  I don’t like folktales.

#survey #surveys

[lovemesomesurveys]

America - What is your favorite place to eat? I get takeout from Wingstop quite often.

Australia - Do you have any quirks when speaking? I talk faster and stumble over my words when I’m nervous.

Austria - What kind of person do you wish to be? Someone who is happy and finds something they’re passionate about to do in life.

Belarus - Is there anyone you love? God and my family.

Belgium - What do you think of your siblings? I love them. My younger brother and I are very close.

Botswana - Do you like to sing? Why or why not? I do, but too bad I can’t sing well.

Bulgaria - Who do you consider close to you? My mom and brother.

Cameroon - Describe your culture. Hmm.

Canada - Favorite wintertime activity? Does Christmas count? I like doing Christmas related activities. 

China - What was the best moment of your life? Wow, I’d have to really think about that.

Cuba - What sort of grudges do you hold if any? Hmm.

Cyprus - What hands-on activities do you like (drawing, carving, building, etc.)? I like to color.

Denmark - Do you wish for something of your past? Yeah, a lot of things. 

Egypt - Do you stand up for what you believe in? How? I’m not one to debate or argue and I avoid confrontation. I’m a quiet person who gets intimidated quite easily. I probably stay too quiet about some things because of that. I keep a lot of my opinions to myself. I wish I did speak up more about some things. All that being said, I do still stand by what I believe in and feel strongly about it even if I’m not so vocal about it.

England - Are you controlling? No.

Estonia - Do you think people often misunderstand you? Yes.

Finland - What do you prefer, kindness, sternness, or apathy? Uh, kindness. These are odd choices.

France - How do you show love for those you care for? By showing support and encouragement, spending time with them, being there for them and helping out, treating them to their favorite things... stuff like that.

Germania - What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do? Say goodbye to my loved ones who have passed away.

Germany - Do you have a hard time forgiving yourself? Yes, most definitely. I’m very understanding and forgiving when it comes to other, but when it comes to myself I’m harsh and very critical.

Ghana - What is our favorite sport? I don’t like sports.

Greece - Do you let others help you when in need? Yes. However, due to health setbacks I’ve had to be very dependent and require a lot of help and that’s something I’m struggling with. 

Hungary - Who is the person you trust most? My mom.

Hutt River - What is the most memorable dream or nightmare you have had? There’s a few, but I don’t feel like getting into it right now.

Hong Kong - Do you fear death? Yes.

Iceland - Do you hide your real personality? Why? Hm. I wouldn’t say that.

India - How important is family to you? Extremely. My family is everything to me.

Japan - Tell us a secret about yourself. I don’t really have any. I share everything on this blog, anyway. <<< Same.

Kenya - What is your favorite wild animal? Giraffes.

Korea - What is one thing you accomplished by yourself? Hm.

Kugelmugel - Is there anyone you have a love-hate relationship with? No.

Latvia - Do you believe you are brave? No. I’m scared and weak.

Ladonia - What is the internet site you visit most often? Tumblr and YouTube. Liechtenstein - How do people underestimate you most often? I kinda feel like people overestimate me more. They think I’m so brave and strong and smart, but I’m like no, I’m really not.

Lithuania - Do you desire power? No.

Macau - What is your favorite festival or celebration? Celebrating Christmas.

Molossia - Do you consider yourself strong? As I’ve mentioned a few times now, no. I don’t.

Monaco - Do you think you are a lucky person? I don’t believe in luck.

New Zealand - Would you rather be an elf, dwarf, Hobbit, or wizard? None.

North Italy - What is your least favorite part of your personality? Most of it.

Norway - What was the most disappointing time in your life? These past few years for sure.

Netherlands - Most generous thing someone has done for you? My family has done countless generous things for me.

Poland - Hardest thing you have gone through? Losing loved ones and health related struggles.

Prussia - Would you prefer to live forever or die alone? If I’m the only one out of my family who lives forever then I wouldn’t want that either. 

Roman Empire - How would you like to be remembered? It doesn’t really matter.

Romania - What is something you are very ashamed of? Myself; the person I’ve become.

Russia - Have you ever suffered from low self esteem? Do you still? Yes, since I was like 12 years old. It’s definitely the worst it’s ever been now, though.

Sealand - Who is your best friend? My mom.

Seborga - What is your favorite beverage? Coffee, Starbucks Doubleshot energy drink, Yoo-Hoo (chocolate and strawberry), Coke, Dr. Pepper, Cherry Coke, and Mountain Dew.

Seychelles - How do you handle people being rude to you? By not doing anything and then talking shit later, ha.

South Italy - What is your favorite part of your personality? I think I’m pretty understanding and open-minded.

Spain - What would you tell to the person or people you hurt most if you had a second chance? That person is me...

Sweden - Are you a leader, follower, or independent? A follower, I guess. I’m definitely not fit for the leader role and I’ve to be very dependent these past few years, especially these past couple months.

Switzerland - Would you consider yourself evil, good, or neutral? I certainly don’t think I’m evil.

Thailand - How good is your poker face? Not good anymore. My emotions show all over.

Tibet - What do you value most? God and my family.

Taiwan - What do you think of the people or person who raised you? I love them more than anything and I’m so blessed to have them.

Turkey - Would you ever want children? No.

Uganda - How would you like others to see you? You’ve asked this a couple different ways already.

Ukraine - What is one thing that has made you stronger in life? You would think the struggles and obstacles I’ve been through throughout my life, but I don’t feel strong at all.

Vietnam - What is something you are proud of about yourself? Nothing.

Wy - What kind of art do you like? Literature, music, and film.

Zimbabwe - Who is your favorite character from any folklore? I don’t have one.

#personal #text #survey #surveys

[bansheesofinisherin2022]

tagged by @lclrgsl (Thank you, dear!!)

1. how tall are you? 162 cm!

2. what color and style is your hair? (Ashy*) brown and it depends on the day and how much/if I brush it - sometimes I have wavy, even curly hair and sometimes it almost looks straight.

*Yikes!

3. what color are your eyes? Dark brown!

4. do you wear glasses? No, I don’t.

5. do you wear braces? I used to (for about half a year). Now I’ve got Hawley retainers that I’m supposed to wear at night (fun fact: I don’t).

6. what is your fashion style? I don’t really have a “fashion style”, I mostly just wear either the most hideous (bright coloured/weird patterned shirts and jackets that don’t match at all) or the most comfortable (jeans, basic shirts, you know) clothing, sometimes both.

7. full name? Well,... no. You can call me Kai, though!

8. when were you born? Late 90s.

9. where are you from and where do you live now? I’m from a German city and now I live in another German city! Exciting! (/s)

10. what school do you go to? I’m going to university now.

11. what kind of student are you? A pretty lazy student who should probably study something else. I always make the wrong decisions.

12. do you like school? Sometimes. I love learning new things, discussing stuff and seeing my friends every day. But I absolutely loath studying and being afraid of saying something wrong.

13. what are your favorite school subjects?

I would say I like every subject to a certain degree but arts, history, biology, astronomy and languages were probably my favourite ones.

14. favorite TV shows? Mhh, that’s a hard question. Probably The X Files, Star Trek (TOS), Brooklyn 99, Psych, Midsomer Murders, Pushing Daisies and Please Like Me.

15. favorite movies? Oh, geez. I have too many!! It’s basically an endless list! ahgsfd

Pride and Prejudice, Pacific Rim, Moonlight, Billy Elliot, Into The Wild, What We Do In The Shadows,  Spider-Man 2, Carol, Jurassic Park, The Empire Strikes Back, The Handmaiden, ....

16. favorite books? Oof,... Good Omens, The Great Gatsby, Northanger Abbey, Annihilation (to be honest, the entire Southern Reach Trilogy is perfect!), Inkheart (Tintenwelt-Trilogy, babey!), Howl’s Moving Castle and The Ocean At The End Of The Lane.

17. favorite pastime? Day-dreaming and exploring new areas.

18. do you have any regrets? A lot but I try to not let them tear me down.

19. dream job? Owner of a cosy bookshop.

20. would you like to get married someday? When I was younger I disliked the idea of getting married because it always felt so final; trapped with someone for the rest of my life. The older I get, the more I like the concept of marriage. Granted, not now or in the next five years - but maybe if I found the right person, maybe then.

21. would you like to have kids someday? I’m not sure because I never really thought about it. It seems so far away... It’s weird that some of my friends already want to have kids right now (ashdgjsghj?) because I don’t even feel emotionally ready for such a big step in life.

23. do you like shopping? Yes, mostly on my own and mostly just DVDs/CDs/books but if I know what I want even shopping for clothes can be quite fun!

24. what countries have you visited? Germany (duh), England, Poland, Iceland, The Czech Republic, The Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Canada, Estonia, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, Slovakia and France (although I was technically asleep 98% of the time).

25. what’s the scariest nightmare you’ve ever had? Mhh, I’d rather not talk about it.

26. do you have any enemies? No - not yet, at least. 

27. do you have an s/o?

Nope.

28. do you believe in miracles? Not per se. (Though I’d say I kinda believe in the paranormal or something like karma?? It’s hard to explain. Like, I wish there were ghosts and sometimes I believe sth happens for a reason but I don’t know enough to proof/dispute it. You know? Kinda like being an agnostic. You don’t really believe in the existence of god but you also don’t deny the possibilty of there being a godlike creature out somewhere. I think, it’s almost the same in statistics: If you can’t rule out a null hypothesis but you also can’t accept the alternative hypothesis, it doesn’t necessarily mean the null hypothesis is correct.)

tagging | (just ignore this, if you don’t to do it!) @shaggy-goblin, @roombagreyjoy, @zombieseamonster, @forevermorous, @tuesday-addams, @wynafryd-manderly, @vulcanvampire, @gallifreyan-wakandan, @spookyausten and @selftitledegomaniac. Oh, and @huntersatthedisco (Ich helfe dir auch gerne dabei!).

#tag game #p

[onceuponawildflower]

If someone walked up to you, handed you one million dollars, and said that you had to use it to travel, where would you go?

I was trying to think about this one. I’m also the sort of person who is going to research how much it costs to go from one place to the next, to answer this as accurately as possible, so here we go.

I’d leave Ohio and first head to Denver/Fort Collins, Colorado to see my best friend, who I would subsequently drag along with me on all of my travels because we both want to travel all over the world. (You’re welcome @lupus-majoris​). 

Price: $50

From there, we’d go to San Diego, because I want to see Southern California, and then up to San Francisco, because I’ve been there once (backpacking across the city) and I want to see it again. 

Price: $300

Total so far: $350

After that, we’d head up to Eugene, Portland, and Seattle. All places on the west coast I’ve always wanted to see, and I’m sure he’d like to see too.

Price: $800

Total so far: $1,200

From there, we’d head to Vancouver, and then on up to Anchorage, Alaska, before heading out to Russia, where we’d visit Lake Baikal, Moscow, and St. Petersburg, and then over to Charlie’s Top Three Pick, Mongolia. 

Price: $14,500

TSF: $16,000

After that, we’d head to Thailand for Christmas and Phnom-Penh, Cambodia for New Years.

Price: $1,500

TSF: $17,500

We’d explore Oceana more (Malaysia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea), and sail to Brisbane, Australia. 

Price: $7,500

TSF: ~ $25,000

From Brisbane, I want to sail to New Caledonia, and then dive with sharks and whales and see what’s left of the Great Barrier Reef before it’s entirely oxidized and bleached. 

Price: $2,000

TSF: $26,000

Once we do that, I’d like to head back over to Australia, and check out New South Wales. Preferably visiting Byron Bay, Sydney, Uluru, and Melbourne. 

Price: $2,000

TSF: $28,000

After which, we’d head over to Tasmania, and then down to New Zealand. Charlie’s heard good things about Christchurch, and we have to go camping and hiking at length here. And of course, for pure fangirl and fanboy pleasure, visit Matamata to see the Shire. 

Price: $1,500

TSF: ~ $30,000

After New Zealand, Charlie would use his new-found skills in sailing to whisk us across the Indian Ocean to Madagascar and then South Africa. 

Price: $2,000

TSF: $32,000

There’s so much of Africa I want to see. I’d imagine we’d visit DR of Congo, Zambia, Tanzania, Kenya, Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Egypt, before heading to the Middle East. 

Price: $12,000

TSF: $44,000

In the Middle East, we’d like to explore Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Cyprus, Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Pakistan.

Price: $15,000

TSF: $70,000

After we’ve thoroughly explored the Middle East, we’d head back to the Far East to explore India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal at length. 

Price: $15,000

TSF: $85,000

After which, Charlie and I would head to Europe. From Nepal to Greece, and then on to Macedonia, Italy, Sicily, Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Poland, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Portugal, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, the Faroe Islands, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway (where we’d stay for a great while for Charlie), Iceland, and Greenland.

Price: $22,000

TSF: $107,000

Since we’d be so close, from Greenland, we’d head into Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. I definitely want to see the other provinces of Canada besides Newfoundland and British Columbia, especially the francophone provinces. We would most likely go to Quebec. And then head north to Nunavut. After visiting Eskimo Point and the Northwestern Territories, we would head to warmer climates, in Latin and South America. 

Price: $8,000

TSF: $115,000

I want to see Baja California and Mexico City in Mexico, as well as other countries in Latin America: Belize, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. 

Price: $3,000

TSF: $118,000

One of my biggest goals in life is to witness the wonders of the Galapagos Islands. This would be a priority in South America, and I’d like to stay for a while. We would also travel to Columbia, (the rest of) Ecuador, Peru, Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil (with as large as it is, I’d like to explore this in detail), French Guiana, and Venezuela, before heading up to Puerto Rico.

Price: $9,000

TSF: ~ $130,000

In the Caribbean region, I’d travel from Puerto Rico to Haiti, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Cuba, and the Bahamas.

Price: $5,500

TSF: $135,000

Charlie and I have discussed this and we’re both a-okay with not coming back to the United States. However, at this point, I’d probably miss my family and want to see my Mama (my grandma), since she’s so close, so I’d make a quick detour to Orlando, FL and surprise her. We’d only stay for a little while, before whisking Charlie away to a place I’ve been researching and talking to him about for months/years now. Hawai’i. I know it’s part of the United States, technically, but I don’t think it should be, and I really hope they seek independence. So from the Bahamas, I’d go up to Orlando for a quick spell, and then fly off to Hawai’i. We’d probably land on Big Island, but I want to see all of the islands that are accessible to non-indigenous people. Charlie would obviously be sailing us between each island. He’d also be teaching me how to do it because at this point, it seems like a given that I would need to at least start learning. 

Price: $3,000

TSF: ~$140,000

And from there, we might choose to live in Hawai’i and help them push for independence, clean up the beaches, live in an intentional community, and become permanent vagabonds. We might split the money halfway and go our separate ways (he prefers colder climates and wants to go to this folk school in Norway and I like mild, warm climates, and might move back to Brazil or Australia or India). Regardless of where we go, we’d have a good sum of money left over from that million dollars. Granted, the prices I provided were from justfly and only included the price of airfare/estimate travel fare. It didn’t include lodging, food, gear, supplies, etc. I’m sure we could use up a bit of that money on these needed amenities, but in general, we’re pretty frugal people, and a little can get us pretty far. (So a lot can get us really, really far). 

All added up, that’s eighty-eight countries. According to my plan, we would finish our trip as early as June 2020. 

Thanks for sending me this ask, this was fun! I spent about… three and a half hours or so planning all of this, but I really enjoyed it.

#also my school loans are still more than the cost of our whirlwind trip across europe #personal #ask #travel the world

[this-is-jes]

Is all the countries too much to ask?

Okay, it took FOREVER, but I actually did pretty much all of them (I left out like three). If anyone actully bothers to read through this, they’ll definitely get to know me a lot better. Man, was that a lot of questions!

America: What is your favourite place to eat? Home or Abuela’s house. My mom and abuela’s cooking is seriously the best.

Australia: Do you have any quirks when speaking? I was homeschooled for a long time, and I’m an avid reader, so I sometimes mispronounce words I’ve only ever seen in print. I’ve also been told that I have a really slight accent and that I pronounce certain words strangely. I also use the word funner even though I know it’s not technically a word.

Austria: What kind of person do you wish to be? Intelligent, faithful, and kind. I want people to see Christ’s love when they look at me.

Belarus: Is there anyone you love? Family, friends, romantic interest? Well, I love my family and friends, of course. I am currently single, but there is a guy I like.  

Belgium: What do you think of your siblings? They’re sometimes fun, sometimes annoying. We have good times and bad.

Botswana: Do you like to sing? Why or why not? Yes, I just wish I was better at it!

Bulgaria: Who do you consider close to you? My family and a few childhood friends.

Cameroon: Describe your culture. Beautiful, diverse, and LOUD. (There are so many questions, I don’t want to go into more depth about the Cuban culture rn.)

Canada: Favourite wintertime activity? Sledding.

Cuba: What sort of grudges do you hold if any? When someone is disloyal, lies to me, or hurts an innocent person, I find it hard to forgive.

Cyprus: What hands-on activities do you like (drawing, carving, building, etc.)? Beading

Denmark: Do you wish for something of your past? I miss all the free time I used to have as a kid. If I had it now, I’d have more time to write.

Egypt: Do you stand up for what you believe in? Yes

England: Are you controlling? I believe I have a tendency to be this way, and I’m working on it.

Estonia: Do you think people often misunderstand you? ALL THE FREAKING TIME.

Finland: What do you prefer, kindness, sternness, or apathy? What kind of a question is this? Kindness, of course.

France: How do you show love for those you care for? Thoughtful gifts. Acts of service. (This question made me realize that I definitely don’t do either enough though.)

Germania: What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do? Forgive someone who wasn’t sorry.

Germany: Do you have a hard time forgiving yourself? Yes. I am extremely hard on myself.

Ghana: What is your favourite sport? Baseball

Greece: Do you let others help you when in need? It depends.

Hungary: Who is the person you trust most? My parents.

Hutt River: What is the most memorable dream or nightmare you have had? When I was a kid, I once dreamed that poisonous flamingos were chasing my down the street.

Hong Kong: Do you fear death? A little. I fear a painful death.

Iceland: Do you hide your real personality? Why? Pffff… like all the time. I’ve been told that I’m kinda rude (unintentionally!!!!) and abrasive, so I try to force myself to be super friendly and cheerful.

India: How important is family to you? Very.

Kenya: What is your favourite wild animal? Octopus

Korea: What is one thing you accomplished by yourself? 

Kugelmugel: Is there anyone you have a love-hate relationship with? I don’t really think I hate anyone. I sometimes have a hard time getting along with my sister though.

Latvia: Do you believe you are brave? Sometimes. I want to be braver though.

Ladonia: What is the internet site you visit most often? I’m not really sure. I’m on Tumblr a lot though.

Liechtenstein: How do people underestimate you most often? They think that I am physically weaker than I am.

Lithuania: Do you desire power? It depends.

Macau: What is your favourite festival or celebration? I love spending Noche Buena with my family.

Molossia: Do you consider yourself strong? In some ways. In others, I am not as strong as I wish I was.

Monaco: Do you think you are a lucky person? I don’t really believe in luck.

New Zealand: Would you rather be an elf, dwarf, Hobbit, or wizard? Elf

North Italy: What is your least favourite part of your personality? I wish I wasn’t so anxious.

Norway: What was the most disappointing time in your life? When my aunt left her husband for another man. It really tore the family up, and it hurt my cousins so much. It still hurts.

Netherlands: Most generous thing someone has done for you? My parents helped me pay for part of my college when I wasn’t making enough money for tuition.

Poland: Hardest thing you have gone through? Having a really bad anxiety disorder in high school and when my aunt got divorced.

Prussia: Would you prefer to live forever or die alone? What kind of a question is this?

Roman Empire: How would you like to be remembered? As someone who served God faithfully and firmly stood up for what is right.

Romania: What is something you are very ashamed of? How I sometimes flip out over small things when my anxiety disorder decides to resurface again.

Russia: Have you ever suffered from low self esteem? Yes.

Sealand: Who is your best friend? Sadly, my best friend and I have drifted apart since she got married. It’s really sad. We’ve known each other since we were really little. She’s one of my oldest friends.

Seborga: What is your favourite beverage? Coffee, but I’m trying to cut back.

Seychelles: How do you handle people being rude to you? I usually just brush it off.

South Italy: What is your favourite part of your personality? I’m not sure. I’ve never really thought about it before.

Spain: What would you tell to the person or people you hurt most if you had a second chance? I was wrong, and I’m sorry that I hurt you. Please forgive me. (TBH I can’t really think of anyone I hurt super bad though.)

Sweden: Are you a leader, follower, or independent? It depends. I’m going to go with independent though.

Switzerland: Would you consider yourself evil, good, or neutral? Idk. I’m working on good though.

Thailand: How good is your poker face? It depends on the situation. Sometimes it’s really good, and at other times it’s awful.

Tibet: What do you value most? My relationship with God.

Taiwan: What do you think of the people or person who raised you? I love my parents, and while they are imperfect, I think they did a pretty good job.

Turkey: Would you ever want children? Yes. I think I would especially like to adopt.

Uganda: How would you like others to see you? As an intelligent and kind woman of strong character.

Ukraine: What is one thing that has made you stronger in life? My faith in God.

Vietnam: What is something you are proud of about yourself? Idk. I tend to beat myself up a lot, so this is a hard question to answer.

Yemen: What kind of art do you like? Literature.

Zimbabwe: Who is your favourite character from any folklore? I’m not sure I have a favorite.

#about Jes

[cosmetmir]

You should do all of the country asks :D

America: What is your favourite place to eat?At this Korean barbecue place~ Asian food in general is really good

Australia: Do you have any quirks when speaking?As I’ve been told multiple times, I’ll suddenly say words as though I have a British accent.

Austria: What kind of person do you wish to be?A blunt person whose not afraid to speak her mind about anything to anyone.

Belarus: Is there anyone you love? Family, friends, romantic interest?All of my family and all of my friends~ No romantic one though

Belgium: What do you think of your siblings?Sometimes one brother is an ass to me and the other two are chill. I love them all though.

Botswana: Do you like to sing? Why or why not?Ehhhhhh. Mess around singing yes. I used to do choir but it’s not my thing lmao

Bulgaria: Who do you consider close to you?@laceyotakulover @x-i-a-t @nervous-bxy @skeletonymous

Cameroon: Describe your culture.ROMANIANI am Romanian and in my culture we have things we do for fun and allBut I’m too lazy to explain so good thing you have Google 👌👌👌 Canada: Favourite wintertime activity?Tying the sled to the four wheeler

China: What was the best moment of your life?I guess when I was born

Cuba: What sort of grudges do you hold if any?Not being honest nor speaking my mind.

Cyprus: What hands-on activities do you like (drawing, carving, building, etc.)?Drawing~

Denmark: Do you wish for something of your past?Food?

Egypt: Do you stand up for what you believe in? How?I do. If it gets too much and all, I’ll tell the person to stop and politely. I’m not one who yells or is violent..

England: Are you controlling?At times,,

Estonia: Do you think people often misunderstand you?O h y e sA l l t h e t i m e p a l : )

Finland: What do you prefer, kindness, sternness, or apathy?All together

France: How do you show love for those you care for?Sending messages saying good things about them (but I don’t do this much anymore so don’t be offended if I don’t do this to you cause I love you all) Just let them know I’m here and I’ll never leave them And being my true self as well~

Germania: What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do?Eat a fucking cocktail shrimpThat shit is disgusting Never ever having that type of sample from Costco >_> (Excuse thy profanity. But I have had harder things but I’d rather not say them so leave it at this.)

Germany: Do you have a hard time forgiving yourself?It depends on the situation. Been getting better though.

Ghana: What is your favorite sport?Swimming and horse riding

Greece: Do you let other help you when in need?RarelyI tend to keep to myself and want to be like independent So only very VERY few do I seek help in

Hungary: Who is the person you trust most?@laceyotakulover

Hutt River: What is the most memorable dream or nightmare you have had?When one of my brothers died and my other brother had a family but had no memory of meMild dream I know compared to others but it really hit hard on me

Hong Kong: Do you fear death?Surprisingly no.

Iceland: Do you hide your real personality? Why?In school yes. I only really act like myself around people I care and am comfortable with. And because I’ve been feeling like to some also (that I may be comfortable with as well) I don’t matter or something. But really now I don’t care if they don’t like me or not. And if they don’t we’ll then pfft that’s their loss

India: How important is family to you?Very.

Japan: Tell us a secret about yourself.I am secretly a girly girl

Kenya: What is your favourite wild animal?Foxes or wolves for landOctopus for water

Korea: What is one thing you accomplished by yourself?Making food

Kugelmugel: Is there anyone you have a love-hate relationship with?Yeee

Latvia: Do you believe you are brave?I try to.

Ladonia: What is the internet site you visit most often?Wattpad or a manga site :0

Liechtenstein: How do people underestimate you most often?They think I know n o t h i n g about sex and all and that I’m so innocent and such a good ol girl in that department Well buddy There’s this thing called the INTERNET sooooo

Lithuania: Do you desire power?On my worst days yes.

Macau: What is your favourite festival or celebration?Cherry blossomOr masqueradeOr like the ones they have in Spain they’re cool

Molossia: Do you consider yourself strong?Physically somewhat Mentally I’ve been improving a lot which is nice Monaco: Do you think you are a lucky person?Maybe idk

New Zealand: Would you rather be an elf, dwarf, Hobbit, or wizard?Elf !!!

North Italy: What is your least favourite part of your personality?Jealous and possessive

Norway: What was the most disappointing time in your life?When I didn’t get this GIGANTIC teddy bear Oh well I got a smaller teddy bear which was just as cute~

Netherlands: Most generous thing someone has done for you?Give me a gift like :’>>

Poland: Hardest thing you have gone through?Insecurity

Prussia: Would you prefer to live forever or die alone?Die alone.

Roman Empire: How would you like to be remembered?As Michelle M. the Romanian lowkey gyspy who is just the exact quote of Lafayette from the musical Hamilton “And whose ze best? C"est moi~”

Romania: What is something you are very ashamed of?Well of course my country has to have this question mother trucker But I guess when I catch myself judging people based on appearances because then I feel bad like I shouldn’t that’s rude

Russia: Have you ever suffered from low self esteem? Do you still?Oh yes. Very. I’ve gotten better though :D

Sealand: Who is your best friend?I have multiple best friends

Seborga: What is your favourite beverage?Bubble tea

Seychelles: How do you handle people being rude to you?I will politely ask them to stop. And if not then I’ll start getting annoyed and making a not so nice comment about them but I have to hold my tongue because yee

South Italy: What is your favourite part of your personality?Finding good in everyone

Spain: What would you tell to the person or people you hurt most if you had a second chance?I’m sorry. I know it hasn’t been directly said that I did that I know it was stupid and I shouldn’t have been caught up on him. I should’ve paid attention to you and not let myself get carried away. I’m sorry.

Sweden: Are you a leader, follower, or independent?Independent

Switzerland: Would you consider yourself evil, good, or neutral?Good

Thailand: How good is your poker face?Very

Tibet: What do you value most?Respect and politeness for all

Taiwan: What do you think of the people or person who raised you?I love them so much

Turkey: Would you ever want children?One day.

Uganda: How would you like others to see you?I guess as a respectful and nice person? Idk

Ukraine: What is one thing that has made you stronger in life?School

Vietnam: What is something you are proud of about yourself?How I can see good in bad situations dealing with myself

Wy: What kind of art do you like?Every art is beautiful~

Zimbabwe: Who is your favourite character from any folklore?Eros Honestly I want to be his best friend and have platonic cuddles with him p l e a s e

[sherrygorugh]

34 Countries, 20,000 Kilometers, One Bicycle: An Interview with Barista Gavyn Stroh

34 Countries, 20,000 Kilometers, One Bicycle: An Interview with Barista Gavyn Stroh by Michael

We love hearing from our readers, especially if they’re passing through one of the cities our blogging team is based (Louisville, San Francisco, and Istanbul). It was in the latter we met up with Canadian barista Gavyn Stroh, sharing a pour-over at Coffee Department in Balat. Istanbul is one of the world’s great travel hubs, so it’s not uncommon to meet visiting coffee professionals. But what made our visit with Gavyn exceptional was his mode of transportation. Turkey is one of 34 countries Gavyn cycled through over the last 12 months. We’ve been following his journey since that delicious naturally-processed El Salvador we shared, and we’ve been taken by its breath-taking panoramas, ever-increasing tan lines, and of course, the many cups of coffee along the way. Now that his journey is coming to a close we caught up with him to learn about coffee on the open road. 

How did you decide to leave your native Canada and travel the world by bicycle?

In February of 2016 I was in the midst of the final semester of my Bachelor’s degree. Procrastination led me to YouTube where I stumbled upon a set of videos made by a Bulgarian-Canadian man named Iohan that chronicles his journey from the Arctic Ocean to Ushuaia at the southern tip of South America. I really latched onto the idea of travelling at a human pace and travelling in a way that isn’t carbon emission intensive. I graduated in the spring of 2016 then used the following year and four months to save up money and plan the trip. This trip is something of a transition period for me. After spending the better part of five years in Winnipeg for work and school, I was missing being in proximity to my family in Squamish, British Columbia. Two weeks before leaving on this trip my parents helped me move my things back to BC, now I can get a fresh start when I return back home to Canada.

Tell us about your background in the coffee industry. 

I got my foot in the door of the coffee industry when my university opened up a cafe in their brand new library building. I worked there for the first three months of 2015 before I found my way into another start-up. One of my professors was one of five owners in the process of building out a new cafe in Winnipeg’s downtown core. Before Fools & Horses’ opening in May of 2015, I secured part-time employment in addition to part-time work in a practicum/co-op capacity. I spent half my time behind the bar making coffee, and the other half of my time helping the business set up a compost program, waste tracking, and carbon emissions accounting.

Do you ever miss working bar while on the open road?

Absolutely. Two main reasons stick out to me. One, I miss the routine. Being on the road doesn’t really let you settle into a groove in the same way. Two, I miss the people. My coworkers and my regulars! There’s something truly unique about the relationships that form between coworkers and between employee and customer. I miss that continuity of relationship – while on the road you’re barely able to scratch the surface before you’re in a new place with new people. In the cafe you see people daily, they’re part of your life, and you’re part of theirs. Over time you actually get to know these people, and some of them reciprocate and get to know you too.

It seems you do a pretty thorough cafe crawl in every city you visit. What cafes have been highlights?

I do my best! I would likely go to more if I wasn’t constrained by my caffeine tolerance, or my budget! I would have not found half of these shops if it weren’t for Ales and Radic of European Coffee Trip and their efforts in the greater European coffee community.

Naturally different cafes stand out for different reasons. I was starstruck by the opportunity to visit Tim Wendelboe in Oslo (even got the chance to chat with him before he had to run off to the airport). Gardelli Specialty Coffee in Forli was another cafe that I have admired from afar for some time and was able to incorporate into the route of my trip.

Mame in Zurich and Dabov Specialty Coffee in Sofia stand out for really great service. I’ve seen my own preferences shift from just finding really good coffee in a pretty space to prioritizing the service experience. Making good coffee is easy, offering really good service while juggling a half dozen other things behind the bar, is not.

It has been really interesting to visit all these European cafes and contrast the experiences with those I’ve had in Canada. One very notable difference I’ve noticed has been the European trend of table service vs. the north american culture of calling out drinks from the bar. Not that one is better than the other, just different.

Do you tour with any brewing gear? What’s your coffee routine look like when you’re out in the countryside?

I’m not sure I would’ve been able to make it this far or this long if I didn’t have coffee with me! And, after working in coffee for three years I was vehemently against subjecting myself to gas station coffee, or worse yet, instant coffee.  I am touring with an Aeropress, a Porlex mini handgrinder, a 2000g pocket scale, and a 0.8L stovetop kettle.

I have spent over 80 nights camped out on the side of the road on my way to the next major destination while on this trip. The coffee routine starts in the afternoon before I make my coffee by ensuring I have enough water to last me through the night and into the morning. Water becomes a really interesting brewing variable when you never have the same water source. I’ve used water from gas stations, mosques, cemeteries, mountain springs, and, when desperate, lake water with purifications tablets mixed in.

I’ll make my first cup after having a bite to eat for breakfast. I’ve had as many as seven different whole bean options to choose from while on this trip. I’m not terribly good at impulse control when I see a coffee I think I might enjoy! I’ll drink my first cup while double checking my route plan for the day and I usually make a second cup after finishing packing up my tent and loading up my bike for another day in the saddle. I have bag mounted to my handlebars that fits my Keep Cup perfectly, so I’m able to enjoy that second coffee while pedaling those first few kilometers of the day.

I may actually be the only touring cyclist out there with two brewing devices and two coffee grinders. When I passed through Istanbul in December I picked up a cezve/ibrik made by Soy and a grinder made by Hon. It’s been cool to play around with a new brewing device – despite the fact that it adds an extra pound or so to my packed weight.

A grand bicycle tour seems so romantic, but I’m sure there’s been some hard days along the way. Any close calls stick out to you?

My threshold for what makes a close call or what makes for a hard day has changed a little over time. Back at the beginning of the trip I was scared off the narrow secondary highway to Paris by close passing cars and trucks. In Bulgaria I became unsettlingly comfortable with two cars charging down the two-lane highways with me in the oncoming lane.

I did have a pretty close call in Montenegro, but that was mostly my own fault. I was descending down the twenty-six hairpin corners that led back to Kotor when the Austrian couple driving in front of me braked to let a car coming the opposite direction come up the hill. I locked up both brakes before careening into the back of their SUV. I managed to come to a stop as I was nearly in-line with the passenger side window, and inches from tumbling off the road entirely.

I had a second notable close call on my first attempt at cycling a century (100mi/161km) in one day. I was coming down a hill into Bodrum when a car door flung open. I was fortunately able do throw the bike to the left and avoid being sent flying over the handlebars!

Rain days are always hard. They’re bound to happen eventually, so you often just have to push through them. I had a really bad rain day on the final day of three on the way from Fethiye to Antalya. My shoes and socks and gloves were all soaked through and I managed to get a flat tire in the middle of the downpour. On my first day cycling from Pisa to Rome in mid-November I encountered much more rain than I had expected. I found myself caught on a highway as the rain started – unable to put on my rain gear before getting wet. The rest of the day alternated between 1.5 hours of rain, to 1.5 hours of no rain. After I had found a suitable spot for camping overnight on the side of the road, the skies opened up for another bout of rain. Not wanting to try to set up my tent and get the inside completely soaked, I stood there in my wet shoes with my arms at my side and I waited for the rain to pass over, or at least let up enough for me to set up my tent.

I’m sure you’re tired of being asked this by now, but how many kilometers have you logged? Countries passed through?

I don’t get tired of people asking how far I’ve travelled. I always get a bit of a laugh from the reactions of the people who ask! I have cycled 19,422 kilometers over the last 11.5 months! I’m currently in Glasgow, but will be flying home from London in three weeks. Three weeks should be plenty of time to push myself over the 20,000 kilometer mark – that’s halfway around the world at the equator.

This trip has allowed me to visit 34 countries! The United Kingdom, France, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Italy, Vatican City, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Czech Republic, Poland, Russia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Ireland.

34 Countries, 20,000 Kilometers, One Bicycle: An Interview with Barista Gavyn Stroh was first posted by Michael on The Coffee Compass, The Coffee Compass - Your Guide for Craft Coffee

34 Countries, 20,000 Kilometers, One Bicycle: An Interview with Barista Gavyn Stroh published first on https://linlincoffeeequipment.tumblr.com/

[i-amusemyself]

Every and all countries.

HEY ITS MY FAVE ANON!!!! 😄😄😄💕 Thankies!!!! (Sorry for the delay, ive barely had internet)

America: What is your favourite place to eat?I’m not really sure 😂 I dont ever really go out to eat and if I do I just end up going to McDonalds or Nandos tbh

Australia: Do you have any quirks when speaking? ….I don’t know, I don’t pay much attention! I know if my head is somewhere else I’m terrible at keeping eye contact. Besides that I basically just laugh for one reason or another and say sorry 24/7.

Austria: already answered

Belarus: Is there anyone that you love? Family/friends/romantic interest etc.Oh hell yeah definitely!! I love my family one way or another ig. My friends, even the ones I don’t see often, I absolutely adore! I have like 5 people I would legit die for 😂

Belgium: What do you think of your siblings?I dont have any. I wish I did tho.

Botswana: Do you like to sing? Why?Yeah, I like singing since it sometimes helps when my mood gets down. I only really do it when I’m alone tho bc im shy

Bulgaria: Who do you consider close to you?I have 3 close friends tbh and id trust them with just about anything

Cameroon: Describe your culture.Lmaoooo what culture? 😂 I’m basically english and i dont even know if the things associated with that would be considered cultural? Idk we just drink tea, say sorry and are supposed to have a stiff upper lip at all times

Canada: Favourite wintertime activity?Not having to go to school 😂 idk tbh, sledging is kinda fun from what i remember?

China: already answered

Cuba: What sort of grudges do you hold if any?I very rarely hold grudges tbh, I let 99% of things go even if people don’t apologise. It’s hard to say where the line is without sounding overdramatic. I guess if they made my life so bad I considered ending it I wouldnt like someone too much (or if others saw that and continued to stay friends with them).

Cyprus: already answered

Denmark: Do you wish for something of your past?Nah, not really. I try my best to look forward, not back.

Egypt: Do you stand up for what you believe in? How?Ummmm, I’m not sure I could say I’m that active in it. I once wrote a long, anonymous letter to the headteacher or my school wrt the treatment and education of lgbt people. Besides that? I havent dont much. I’d go to a protest if there was one nearby that I supported.

England: Are you controlling?That’s hard to answer? Because when things happen my initial instinct is to control them. But I’m a lot more chilled out than I used to be, and continuing to try to improve on it. So the amount of things I actively try to control are very slim. The issues lies more with my hatred of vague plans tbh 😂

Estonia: Do you think people often misunderstand you?I don’t open up to that many people, not really. Most the therapists I’ve seen have never got me at all. In terms of friends, some do get it, though it depends upon what specifically I’m trying to explain/show etc.

Finland: What do you prefer; kindness, sternness or apathy?Kindness, for sure. It’s nice to know other people might look out for you when you’re not necesarily in a place to look out for yourself. Sternness is just,, hard to communicate with and apathy can put me on edge.

France: How do you share love for those you care for?Most the time I just send them memes 😂 I try to make sure I’m honest and I don’t hold back with compliments. I also try to show then that I really am interested in them/their life, tho sometimes I worry I’m annoying them.

What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do?4 A levels whilst also juggling 3 jobs at one point.

Germany: Do you have a hard time forgiving yourself?I rarely forgive myself for something without outside help, and even then it isnt guaranteed

Ghana: What is your favourite sport?Basketball, its the only one I understand 😂

Greece: Do you let others help you when in need?I do sometimes tell my closest friends if I’m in a really bad patch and out of options. Although, I become more focused on making them feel helpful than actually being honest when I can’t believe them etc.

Hungary: Who is the person you trust the most?My closest friends probably. Although there are different kinds of trust, so it varies with what I’m trusting and who I go to etc.

Hutt River: What is the most memorable dream or nightmare you’ve had?I remember most of my dreams tbh, and for months too. Nightmares especially, but i wont share those bc theyre really horrific tbh. I had a dream a few months back that I died and went to heaven, that was nice. Like, it just felt so calm, I didnt want to wake up.

Hong Kong: Do you fear death?I dont so much fear death as fear excessive pain and suffering tbh. I’m okay with not knowing what, if anything, happens after we die.

Iceland: Do you hide your real personality? Why?Not reaaally 😂 when I’m with people I know and trust I can pretty much be myself. But different people bring out different parts of me.There is a small part I crush right down bc I hate it, but it might slowly be fading.

India: How important is family to you?Idk, I’ve never felt super close to a lot of my family. I just sort of seem to find my own family, and theyre hella important to me.

Japan: Tell us a secret about yourself.I dont have that many secrets????? At all??? And the ones I do have I don’t tell for a reason 😂 lets go with: i have 2 moles and a shoulder dimple that look like a blob fish.

Kenya: What is your favourite wild animal?I love so many of them?!?!?!?! I love capybaras but also elephants and also gorillas???

Korea: What is one thing you accomplished by yourself?Ah, I never do anything completely by myself 😂 Idk, managing to get to america on my own was pretty scary, but I did it.

Kugelmugel: Is there anyone you have a love hate relationship with?I mean according to my anxiety, everyone I love hates me 😂But erm, the only person who I can really think of is my old geography teacher. He was a legend and I loved him, but for sure he hated me.

Latvia: Do you believe you are brave?Eh, idk. I don’t think I’m a coward, but it would depend on the situation.

Ladonia: What is the internet site you visit most often?Tumblr. I cant deny it.

Liechtenstein: How do people underestimate you most often?I have no idea, they usually overestimate me, though I don’t pay much attention to peoples expectations 😂 I genuinly have no idea, maybe I should ask my friends or something

Lithuania: Do you desire power?My initial answer is no, I’m not that interested in being powerful on a large scale. But I guess there are different kinds of power? Like, it would be nice to have the power to change other peoples lives for the better. Or the power that comes with being in government, which has always been something I’ve been interested in.

Macau: What is your favourite festival or celebration?Halloween. Without a doubt.

Molossia: Do you consider yourself strong?I used to think I was strong, given some of the things I’ve been through. Now though I realise I just supressed all the emotions that came with them, which are all coming back, and honestly I’m a weak mess.

Monaco: Do you think you are a lucky person?No, not really. 😂 I mean, there might have been 100 times ive narrowly escaped death, but I wouldnt know it.

New Zealand: Would you rather be an elf, dwarf, hobbit or wizard?I’ve never seen lotr/the hobbit ngl so just based on what I know I’ll say wizard bc magic

North Italy: What is your least favourite part of your personality?All of it. Idk, jealousy. Awkwardness. Inability to make conversation. Just who I am as a person.

Norway: What was the most disappointing time in your life?Idk, Ive been disappointed a lot 😂 my dad let me down p bad once, though i dont really wanna share the deets

Netherlands: Most generous thing someone has ever done for you?My best friend bought me a necklace with “you are the light of my life” on it and I still can’t get over how cute that is 😄

Poland: Hardest thing you’ve been through?The thing that comes to mind was the longest and most stressful night of my life. I’d just broken up from school for summer that day and we had an estate agent coming to value the house the next day so we could move out of the Flood Zone. That evening it rained and rained and I ran around the village asking council people to help us but no one came so we stayed up till 2am pouring water from around the house into wheelie bins to try and stop it coming in. Then I had a breakdown in the bath and just remember feeling so trapped. I never want to go through that again.

Prussia: Would you prefer to live forever or die alone?Oooooh thats a tough one! Bc living forever would surely involve a lot of time alone. I think I’d hate it tbh, 80 years is enough for me 😂 but dying alone is like, my greatest fear tbh. So I’ll say live forever.

Roman Empire: How would you like to be remembered?Idk, just as a good person that maybe helped a few people out, I suppose. I mean, sure I’d love to find a cure for cancer and change the world etc but gotta be realistic

Romania: What is something you are very ashamed of?There are parts of my body I hate so much I’ve genuinly considered taking a knife to them myself. I also struggle to deal with the whole gender/sexuality thing, no matter how much people tell me its okay.

Russia: Have you ever suffered from low self esteem? Do you still?For sure, yeah. I really struggle to love myself in any way, it’s an alien concept to me and I’ve always been taught to keep my mouth shut about anything I actually do like.

Sealand: Who is your best friend?My bro @only-slightly-dangerous lmao

Seborga: What is your favourite beverage?I absolutely looove milkshakes (despite being lactose intollerant 🙄), especially oreo ones

Seychelles: How do you handle people being rude to you?Lmaooo I don’t 😂 if they say anything personal, I take it to heart. I might try to talk back but I’d just screw it up.

South Italy: What is your favourite part of your personality?Ummm, idk, I don’t really think about the words I could use to describe my personality? I guess I quite like my sense of humor. Idk.

Spain: What would you tell to the person or people you hurt most if you had a second chance?I don’t want to sound like,,, a twat,,, but I don’t really think I’ve ever really badly hurt someone (not knowingly or intentionally anyway). The only person I can think of is someone I cut off for being a bad friend… so I don’t really feel too bad about that.

Sweden: Are you a leader, follower or independent?Lmao all of the above, depending on the circumstances 😂 I don’t mind leading things and taking charge, Im quite good at being organised. But equally I don’t mind following other people if I agree with their plans. I also love being independent and doing things alone, bc it feels free and you don’t have to worry about anyone else.

Switzerland: Would you consider yourself evil, good or neutral?Good, I think. I try to be a good person. Sometimes my initial reaction or thoughts might not be good, but I always want to do the right thing.

Thailand: How good is your poker face?If I’m just pissing about, not great. I just laugh. But if I’m serious it’s pretty good, if I can say that 😂 I’m good at acting when I want to be.

Tibet: What do you value most?What?? As in a quality? Or objects?? Idk. People with good intentions, I’ll say that.

Taiwan: What do you think of the people or person who raised you?I have a lot of feelings towards them, not all of them good. I’d rather not talk/think about it rn though.

Turkey: Would you ever want children?Without a doubt, yeah. I’m not sure if I’d have my own or adopt, maybe both. I’m not that naturally maternal; I love kids but knowing how to talk/react to them doesnt come naturally. Im probs more of a dad 😂

Uganda: How would you like others to see you?I dont know???? Just as a kind and trustworthy person that genuinly cares and will always try my best to help when I can.

Ukraine: What is one thing that has made you stronger in life?I have no idea. I don’t feel like a very strong person at all. My life just feels like a long string of events I’ve had to cope with.

Vietnam: What is something you are proud of about yourself?I don’t really,,, feel pride 😂😂😂 like I honestly can’t think of a time I’ve felt like that. I guess I’m pleased I did well in my A levels? But even then I wouldnt say I’m proud.

Yemen: What kind of art do you like?Its hard to describe? I know it when I see it 😂 I’m not too bothered about portraits and paintings of dull landscapes, but equally some modern art is barely Art. I quite like paintings that are bright, or tell a story. I also like sculptures if theyre based on cool stuff like, the human body ooor dragons idk. Mosaics are p nice too

Zimbabwe: Who is your favourite character from any folklaw?I’m not sure I know many folklaws 😂 The person that comes to mind is rumplestiltskin, but I think thats only bc I love his chacter in Once Upon a Time