#[ Fisherman Community Lifestyle ]

[alteredstatesstuff]

Whispers in the River Mist - A Serene Morning in a Small Fishing Village

There is tranquility and simplicity etched into every brick building, wooden bench, and weathered storefront sign. Despite technological advancements beyond these village limits, there seems no rush towards progress in this secluded haven. Even time flows slower; one mustn't disturb the balance of nature and those dwelling beneath her protective veil. Here in this idyllic spot, there exists timelessness and immunity from societal burdens. It would make the perfect escape for any jaded city dweller yearning for simpler times in calmer days.

[ridleymocki]

(seeing so many bad faith interpretations of the argument, y'all are really going to make me do this, okay HERE WE GO)

.................................

What Ed says: "I think last night was a mistake. I'm not ready for... Whatever this is."

What Ed means: "I didn't want last night to happen so soon or under those circumstances. Things are changing rapidly, which makes me feel out of control and scared."

What Stede hears: "I regret sleeping with you. I don't want the sort of relationship that you're after."

.................................

What Stede says: "It was a fine fish. It was... whatever. I was just trying to make you feel good!"

What Stede means: "I only cared about the fish because you cared about it, and I care about you. I liked the fish because it made you happy. Ordinarily, I'm ambivalent about fish."

What Ed hears: "I lied to you. I didn't care about your achievement I was just placating you to get what I wanted."

.................................

What Ed says: "Here's the news: I'm leaving. I got a job on a little fishing boat and I'm leaving. I'm a fisherman now."

What Ed means: "I think I need to be away from you to figure out who I am, because I haven't been able to do that while we're together, and your lifestyle now is the life I'm trying to leave behind."

What Stede hears: "I've made a decision to leave you and have a life without you. I don't value what we have enough to work with you to find a solution, I'd prefer to end it."

.................................

What Stede says: "Oh, Ed. Seriously? You're not a fisherman."

What Stede means: "I think you're using this plan to escape and avoid your problems. It sounds like you're pretending to be someone else. It seems to me like an impulsive decision and I am concerned."

What Ed hears: "I don't support this ambition. I think you're incapable. I don't think you can be different from what you have always been."

.................................

This is the kind of analysis done in therapeutic environments. When I put what they mean, it's not just a rephrasing but a boiling down to the core issue. I could go on to the rest of the dialogue but do you see the continuing ship-in-the-night miscommunication?? It's tripartite:

failing to express one's current emotional reality with the most accurate and clear language, often because that reality is not fully understood to oneself,

misinterpreting the other's language, due to preexisting sensitivities and defensiveness about one's own understanding of the situation,

increasing frustration and sense of personal attack that results from those misinterpretations, which perpetuates and worsens the poor communication.

Importantly, this kind of pattern means you miss the best and most important kernels of communication in an exchange because you're reacting to the more inflammatory parts.

Stede: "This can be whatever we want it to be." (I am willing to make changes to our arrangement so that you're happy). Ed: "I don't even know who I am! Alright? I know I don't want to be a pirate. And you, you're blowing up, you're the toast of the town." (I think we want different things. You're just starting a journey that I've already finished).

With those two bits alone they could've sorted this out. The first is the answer to the second. But they didn't -- couldn't -- latch onto it because all their other baggage was getting in the way.

And I'm being proven correct that this is what is happening, because I have seen next to nothing on here about the above two lines, only reactionary takes of fans also focusing on the inflammatory parts because of their predispositions. You're doing an encore performance of what they're doing.

Point being, there are no bad guys in this scene, just repeated system failure!

[1-800-crscnt]

-jobs I think some clones would have in a post-war “clones are legally seen as people” universe-

Cody: plant + animal farmer. sees it as both a new experience/challenge (land, terrestrial plants and animals) but also slightly similar to what he was used to as a marshal commander. likes the hard work & care required for this lifestyle but cares more about the payoff of it all. will underestimate mint at some point.

Rex: fisherman of some kind. i don’t really have a reason for this, it just seems very likely to me. probably enjoys the peace and solitude it can bring after years of being in the situations he’s been in, but likes the learning aspect and self-sufficient parts of knowing how to fish. could also like the thrill of wrestling large fish that have bodycounts and going to competitions about it, maybe all of these options at once. possibly worries a lot about everyone else and is always sending them photos of him fishing so they respond with their own thing.

Fox: nice try. stays unemployed in a comfortable cabin in some isolated town and loves it. if he needs money, he’ll cash in on favors or do small favors for his brothers.

Wolffe: also tempted to stay unemployed, but gets restless + depressed, becomes a woodworker. doesn’t care about it at first since it’s just a way to get money and stay busy, but develops a liking towards the methodical work and the feeling of creating something very meaningful and/or beautiful with his own hands. ends up liking to create furniture for his brothers getting settled down as a hobby, but creates gothic decorations to sell as his main thing. possibly gets less depressed.

Bly: security guard, would quit, then become a geologist. liked how similar being a security guard was to being a marshal commander at times, but overall hated being reminded of how a lot of people saw/see clones. found more peace in geology bc of how delicate/patient/focused he had to be (helps reinforce his belief that he’s not a violent machine capable of nothing else), also loves learning and sharing knowledge in general. doesn’t really like working with other geologists, tends to not communicate being angry since he’s used to shutting up to get a job done. but he’s dealing. sort of.

Doom: would probably also be unemployed but because he keeps quitting any job after about a month. just can’t find anything that calls to him or keeps him happy, but knows his end goal is to have a life involving lots of plants. doesn’t enjoy being unemployed because he tends to see it as a personal failing on his part, ends up very stressed. Wolffe tries to give advice on just jumping right into plant stuff and making money off it, but Doom is hesitant to make something he loves into a job he might end up hating and quitting again.

Bacara: part-time piercer, part-time bounty hunter. likes to call them both his “piercing jobs” to the discomfort of nearly everyone else. prefers bounty hunting since he thinks it’s more necessary + familiar, but would give it up first if he was forced to only choose one (more stable pay + might live longer). backup plan is to fake his death (unnecessary & regardless of situation) and become a librarian or historian with a fake accent. sort of a nerd anyway, so this isn’t the end of the world for him, and likes how he can get away with dissociating more than he used to.

Neyo: surprisingly, professional racer. refuses to explain how he got this idea, his motives, and where the next event will be, but likes it when his brothers somehow show up. loves the exhilaration, risk (huge adrenaline junkie) and how his outfit looks. also likes the bragging rights. backup plan is to fake his death (again, unnecessary & regardless of situation) and secretly live with Bacara, becoming a chef because he likes working with knives + feeding hungry people fulfills his desire to be useful in some way. has yet to tell Bacara any of this, actually finds not saying anything about it really funny.

[wenella]

Zhu Yilong: 36 Years Old, An Actor's Prime

EN translation of Zhu Yilong's Elle China October 2024 Cover Issue Feature Interview by wenella

The art museum is located at the northeastern part of the island. The huge floor-to-ceiling window and the corridor create a natural picture frame. The clear sea is in full view; small islands afar float beneath the white clouds and sea gulls occasionally sweep across the sky. Zhu Yilong steps into the frame and completes this lively picture. The tires, ropes, fishing nets, and buoys that are lying silently by the pier, come alive because of his presence. His complexion is much darker than before. During this period away from the public eye, Zhu Yilong has spent time in the scorching sun and sea breeze experiencing his new role.

The sunshine, ocean, and sea breeze have shaped the Zhu Yilong we see standing before us. He has constantly given his all for every performance and role; he does it not only by changing his appearance but also seeking breakthroughs inside out by experimenting with different acting methods.

Zhu Yilong loves acting. Immersing himself in acting allows him to dispel noise and eliminate worries. Each time his acting transforms, refines, and sublimates quotidian realities of life into artistic realities, the creative process invigorates his heart. An outstanding actor can derive energy from his acting continuously and accumulate courage and perseverance from this constant cycle.

01. Away From City Life For his new film project, Zhu Yilong has been living on a small island, which is part of the Zhoushan archipelago, for the past two months. The vast sea surrounds this small island. One must temporarily abandon the convenience of city life to fathom what living is like in this oceanic wilderness. For example, food deliveries, mobile signal, and measurements of urban time such as calendars and clocks. These items are meaningless to fishermen and sea creatures. Fishermen pay attention to sunrises, sunsets, and tidal changes, as these factors impact their lifestyles. This is the rhythm of nature.

Zhu Yilong has gotten used to life without mobile signal. This has enabled him to focus on the present. “It’s good to be isolated from the world. Everyone is talking about the film and their roles. No one checks their phones. Everyone is immersed in this creative atmosphere.” Their accommodation has an open, communal space. After work, he would sit in this space and watch the sun set; the surrounding buildings would dim gradually and his heart would calm down as he listens to the rhythmic waves – feeling just like the sea beneath the moonlight, vast and quiet. Zhu Yilong may not be an extrovert, but this does not prevent him from interacting with others. Even if he only shares a few words occasionally, he enjoys the comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, just like a fish going with the flow of waves.

The life of an actor on the film set is like that of a fisherman. They work in the day and rest at night; life is orderly and follows a routine. Zhu Yilong feels that he is leading his ideal life now. If he had the luxury of taking a day off without the need to adhere to any restrictions, he would like to sleep, wake up naturally, and place a “crazy” order of food – preferably hotpot. The diet on this island has been relatively simple and monotonous. Besides, Zhu Yilong has been controlling his diet for his role for an extended period. His body fat has reached an ideal state due to his self-discipline, but this has also intensified his craving for delicious and spicy hotpot.

02. Enjoying the Moment of Epiphany Over the past two years, Zhu Yilong has received more scripts than ever. “My selection criteria differ yearly as my mood changes. It really depends on fate and the environment. If my mood resonates with a script at that moment, that’s it.”

To prepare for his new role, Zhu Yilong gradually tanned his skin and grew his hair and mustache. He also learnt free diving systematically on the set. He obtained his AOW (Advanced Open Water) diving license in Saipan as early as 2016, and showcased his diving skills when he filmed Reunion: The Sound of the Providence and Lost in the Stars. But free diving is different for him this time in Dongji Island as he needs to dive into deep waters without an oxygen tank. The main challenge of free diving is training the lungs. Beginners must learn to empty their lungs and stay underwater for a minute. Since breathing is basic human instinct, only those who have experienced this would understand how long and terrifying this minute could be. Being underwater without oxygen creates pressure on one’s body and mind. Imagine a fish that is taken out of water; it goes the same for humans. When one’s lungs are emptied for a few seconds, the diaphragm starts to spasm and the feeling of panic and near death would propel one out of the water.

“How to overcome this fear? By training, testing my limits, and telling myself to relax when my diaphragm starts to spasm,” Zhu Yilong said. When one is underwater, they are isolated from the outside world, and they can hear themselves very clearly. “The training process is like meditation. You need to use your will to force yourself to empty your brain. Once you are focused, time will pass very quickly. Now, I can complete two minutes of actions in a 9-meter-deep pool.”

To a certain extent, getting into character is like diving; both processes involve progressing from tension to relaxation. Zhu Yilong gets nervous easily whenever he prepares for a film. The more he prepares for the character, the more uneasy he becomes. “All prior work is done based on your imagination, your discussions with the crew, and your ideas of enriching the character. Before the character appears before the camera, there is absolutely no way to find out how he will turn out. You need to be in a specific setting, before a rolling camera, and suddenly one day, the moment of epiphany will strike and you get into character.” For Zhu Yilong, this process can last for several days – three to five days at the shortest, and nine to ten days at the longest. But when the moment occurs, he would feel immensely inspired and relaxed, as though embraced by warm ocean currents. There would be no need to think about other things. He just had to go with the flow and enjoy the simple pleasure of becoming his character.  

03. With Age comes Tolerance Zhu Yilong turned 36 this year, just like ELLE. Three decades. In his opinion, 36 is the prime time of an actor’s career. He is mature and energetic enough to play any character or try any genre. “The first decade in this industry involves training and learning. We had to act and accumulate experiences before we are noticed by directors. Over the past five years, I was able to leverage my experiences that I have accumulated and tried my best to create my characters. I had more opportunities to create different roles and I did not want to waste any of these opportunities that were given to me.”

Zhu Yilong is very expressive whenever he talks about acting. He said he wanted to make movies and try different genres and characters. He would love to take on more roles, but his schedule only permits him to take on two to three projects annually. Since college, Zhu Yilong has always admired Actor of a Thousand Faces - Daniel Day-Lewis. Till now, he still remembers the film My Left Foot (1989) recommended by his teacher and the moment when he saw the actor use his left foot to handle a roll of film skillfully. Subsequently, Zhu Yilong studied Daniel Day-Lewis’ films carefully, such as Gangs of New York (2002), There Will Be Blood (2007), and Lincoln (2012). He hopes that one day, his acting career would be like that of Daniel Day-Lewis’; every role that he creates would allow the audience to immerse themselves in the film and forget what he originally looked like.

For Zhu Yilong, seeking personal breakthroughs isn’t exactly daunting. This is something that can be accomplished any time. He hopes to receive roles that require a wider range of acting as that will excite him. “The greatest advantage that has come with age is my tolerance for mistakes.” Zhu Yilong said that during his first few years of filming, he was particularly afraid of making mistakes and hearing the director shout NG. He hoped that every scene could be done in one take and that he could meet the director's best imagination of the character accurately. However, he gained a better understanding of the art of acting over the past decade and gradually realized that making mistakes was perfectly normal. Most of the time, an actor's imagination of a scene does not necessarily translate into his performance. That is why actors should practise trial and error on the set and adjust their acting step by step to achieve an accurate performance. “Now, I’m no longer afraid of making mistakes. I won’t obsess over what the correct answer might be. I just think about the different possibilities and offer the director more choices.”

In a way, overcoming the fear of making mistakes demonstrates his psychological growth as an actor over an extended, arduous period. So, “does the desire to win become greater or lesser as you age?” In response, Zhu Yilong admits that his desire to win has never diminished. When he was young, his desire to win manifested on the basketball court. He wanted to score goals and points; he wanted to be better than his opponents. When he graduated and started his acting career, he wanted to do everything to the best of his ability and win the director’s approval. However, his concept of winning changed gradually after he turned 30. Winning the approval of others was no longer his priority. He sought personal breakthroughs, explored different options, and tried interesting projects. Cloudy Mountain, Lighting up the Stars, Lost in the Stars, The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death, Only the River Flows, Land of Broken Hearts, Dongji Island… “I choose a different genre each time I make a film as I want to test my limits.” Each time a film wraps, Zhu Yilong moves on and departs for a further destination, just like the ripples of waves that hit the shore, edging one another ahead.

**THE END** Post-translation note: Love how he is challenging himself and the boundaries of his acting. His interviews always serve as timely reminders for myself too. Do not be afraid of making mistakes. Do not make winning the approval of others your priority. Be comfortable in your own skin. Happy Monday reading. If you'd like to re-translate this, please DM me for permission + credit. Please do not repost this article. Thanks and good night.

[captain-judd]

to me the really interesting thing about the way ofmd handles piracy as a metaphor for both masculinity and queerness is this. stede sees piracy in general as an escape from heteronormativity, and the way he runs his ship specifically as a way of deconstructing toxic masculinity. both of these things allow the crew to become a safe space for him to express his queerness, surrounded by other queer folks at different stages of their various queer journeys. meanwhile piracy for ed is a space for queerness (anything goes at sea) BUT to him it's also irrevocably represents toxic masculinity, not an escape from it. and this is where their opposing arcs come from in s2, because they're at different points in their journey.

piracy to stede is about the community he's built that allows him to be himself in all his camp effeminate gay glory, but for ed it reminds him of the abuse he now knows he doesn't have to endure anymore. and ed realises this because he met stede. (which makes me so !!!! the effect they've had on each other since day one!!) ed supported stede on his piracy journey, helping stede understand that his worth as a man didn't have to be tied to how effectively he played his role in society. this helps stede put his masculinity/queerness/piracy triangle in balance, seeing his life of piracy as a positive departure from the stifling expectations of masculinity and heteronormativity of his old life.

his time with stede kind of has the opposite impact on ed though, and that's where their conflict comes from. ed thought he had a functioning balance in his masculinity/queerness/piracy triangle - because being a pirate meant he could at least have his queerness, and he'd found a way to keep performing masculinity as 'blackbeard'. but stede helped him see that he didn't need to keep performing, he showed ed that there can be room for softness even in their line of work. stede giving ed the option of a different lifestyle did lead ed, the impulsive king that he is, to attempt to cut out piracy altogether. he reacts this way because he's not quite at the same point in his journey that stede is. stede was able to reach a balance after stepping away from piracy and going back to his family in s1, and we see ed doing the same thing by leaving piracy to be a fisherman in s2.

ed's (brief) time away from piracy shows him that he can't keep neglecting one part of his piracy/queerness/masculinity triangle - he needs to find a balance and acceptance of all three. in the end ed puts his leathers back on for love, and was able to lay 'blackbeard' to rest with izzy, helping him properly understand that piracy can be a positive analogy for queerness AND masculinity. stede and ed step away from piracy at the end of the season anyway, but they both do so with a much better understanding of how piracy gave them freedom to be themselves. i just think the way the show handles all of this is pretty neat

[daddysmusicblog]

Welcome to my radio station. I'll be your dj for the remainder of our time together. Everyone here is welcome except,

Minors DNI

Pedophiles DNI

Abelists

Terfs, homophobes, transphobes, racists or and bigotry of any kind DNI

We don't judge anyone on here, and if you are in our community known as humanity, we stick together and help each other.

*********TRIGGER WARNING***********

I post pictures of mechanical things that includes weapons. If weapons are a trigger for you, I don't want to offend you, but I also don't want to traumatize you. I'm probably not the blog for you, and that's OK.

My Bio

I'm a former diesel technician who became a musician and educator. Teaching music is my passion. I'm in a relationship with the love of my life, and I am completely and totally committed to her. I am not new to the lifestyle by any means. Im a 6'5 "more to love kind of guy. Child of the 70s born in the 80s and savagely retro. I'm an autistic father of four mischevious neurodivergent spawns who are my world. I'm in forever love with my baby girl and we been together almost 4 years but were prevously married for 12 years and she is my universe. My family means everything to me. Other than those basics, I'm an avid fisherman, and I love being in the woods or on the water. I live to meet new people and like-minded individuals. I'm very outgoing and friendly. Feel free to message me as long as you are respectful.

Everyone of any and no gender is welcome here.

If you are interested these are my results from www.bdsmtest.org

100% Hugger

100% Caregiver

100% Brat tamer

100% Dominant

100% Master/Mistress

100% Owner

100% Primal (Hunter)

100% Rigger

100% Sadist

100% Daddy/Mommy

100% Degrader

95% Voyeur

94% Ageplayer

90% Experimentalist

47% Exhibitionist

24% Vanilla

0% Switch

[yautjalover]

Aquatic Yautja Concepts

So, I've been discussing with fellow Yautja fans in Discord Servers how the world and objects in an aquatic Yautja species look like. I've taken a couple of weeks to pull this all together. I'm no artist, though I try! Maybe some of the actual artists in the community would want to join in showing what they picture, too! I'd love to see what they look like. :)

First is a concept of architecture for the aquatic Yautja. I picture them as having the ability to hold their breath for longer amounts of time underwater because of bigger lungs, and thus a wider ribcage. They would situate their homes in the shallower waters along the shoreline with easy access to the ocean. Their homes would have skylights to let in the light. These skylights are made from dried out leaves that were left to bleach in the sun and painted with a compound derived from a coconut-like plant that hardens the leaves to withstand the hurricane season. The bones of the structures are made from ethically harvested trees that were culled to prevent overgrowth. The lighter brown on the walls are dried reeds and fronds from the trees used to build the internal structure.

By the entrance there is a window that they hang fish to dry on a net; this differs from home to home depending on individuals. Some may prefer to dry theirs inside, hanging from the ceiling or special nets mounted just for this purpose. Their beds would on raised daises covered in fur from local animals and woven fabrics. They bath in the shallow pools along the shore with soap that's derived from a sweet tasting fruit. I was inspired by architecture in tropical areas where they utilize what they have to build and live their lives.

These aquatic Yautja are largely fisherman and don't really have blooding rituals. They are focused on a quiet lifestyle living among nature. Unlike their cousins in the jungles, they prefer a sedentary lifestyle.

Here is a concept for a potential pattern of an aquatic Yautja. I imagine they have an array of blues, greens, yellows, and browns to help them blend in with the water when they swim. They evolved to have fins on their arms and legs to aid in swimming, a dorsal fin that can be retracted into their backs. Their arms and legs would be a little wider, the forearms and calves, to better aid in swimming. These Yautja would have evolved to have little fins on their necks as well. Below are more ideas I have for skin colors. I'm horrible at art and kinda gave up on putting it on a base figure. Use your imagination, lol.

V2, V3, and V4 are some of the colors that I picture them having. I also threw in a version of a more colorful aquatic Yautja in V5 and a skin color palette for one that lives in murkier waters in V7.

I also have created concepts for a few accessories. I think that they would make jewelry out of netting, shells, the bones from the sea creatures they eat (they use everything from their meals to leave no waste), and sometimes dried scales from fish that have been preserved to keep their shimmer.

Here are zoomed in versions of the necklace. I didn't want to put too much detail in them...since I don't know how. I left them simple so the idea can get across. Their accessories can vary from flashy pieces with big shells and teeth or simple necklaces like the one on the right made with small rocks.

Lastly is a single concept I had for clothing. I have SO MANY ideas for clothing, but I've been sick the last week and haven't felt like drawing them up. I imagine they wear netting that's been sewn into fabrics of light tan, brown, green, and blue with some pieces of red. They achieve these colors through dyes made from the blood of various sea creatures and plants.

Here is a simple concept for a bandeau. I like to think that the females wouldn't care about showing off their breasts due to the warm climate of the tropics that these Yautja prefer. This bandeau is made up of loose blue dyed fibers with a see-through burlap type fabric to back it. Their clothing is loose, colorful, and derived from the world around them.

That's all of the concepts I have for now. Maybe eventually I will make more if I'm feeling up to it. I'm more of a writer, so these take time. I'd love to see other folks ideas about aquatic Yautja! ^^

Concepts created in Paint Tool Sai v2 and Photoshop CS6 by me.

[yeehanfrf]

Week 14 Recs: Mermaid for Each Other

For Week 14, we celebrated MerMay with the theme "Mermaid for Each Other." Here are mermaid and other sea creature fics from the Yeehan community!

Behind the cut, you'll find them organized by rating and then alphabetically by title.

Teen and Up

Heart of the Sea by Odds_Evens [8,824 words]

After a rouge fire throws Jesse McCree overboard he finds himself stranded on an island with only a shy mer for company.

Mature

Match Made Under the Sea by Mish_chan [3,469 words] Note: "The one above is the specifically YeeHan one of the series. Here's the main series: https://archiveofourown.org/series/2915367."

Hanzo has felt like he has never really fit in, with his bright orange/red and white coloration and being one of the only or very few hermaphrodites in his pod. That is, until he sees a rancher/escort mer...who has the same coloration as he does, and calls another hermaphrodite mer his father.

The Monster in the Lake by ieatgrassalot [6,855 words]

Cole, now retired, find his solitary new lifestyle a bit lonely. A few broken nets later, he finds himself getting to the bottom of this mystery and somehow solving the loneliness problem all at once.

Explicit

Away by Vimeddiee [29,154 words] Reccer comment: "This is about a selkie, not a mermaid, but the vibes are correct."

Hanzo awakens to the feel of grit in his eyes and the crunch of sand between his teeth. This in itself doesn’t rudely force him into consciousness, but the insistent flicking against his nose that he groggily attempts to bat away, does.

“High tide’s coming, you better nap someplace else.”

Drink Sweet Salt by Kalikuks [WIP; 57,245 words] Reccer comment: "It’s not been updated in a while, but what is there is still very enjoyable. It’s a mixed bag of angst, cuteness, oddity and hilarity."

Hanzo watches the lightning dance across the clouds and tries to summon his dragon spirits, met with not even the sight of them cresting from his tattoo but the underlying feeling of weak static crawling beneath his skin.

With his last deep breath before the tide rises fully over him, he curses at the sky.

In Your Embrace by Dracoduceus [4,335 words]

Jesse is fully expecting to have to fight and bribe his way back into Hanzo's good graces. After a long swim to bring back the fish that his adopted human fathers intend to raise and study, he goes to search out his pretty mate.

Turns out Hanzo has a much different idea of how McCree should show how sorry he is.

Of Scales, Sand and Sun by Kalikuks [2,767 words]

“Name’s Jesse, darlin’,” the mer, Jesse, replies with every bit of flirtation his lopsided smile lends to, “An’ you?”

“Hanzo,” the naga leans down closer to Jesse, “You can call me Hanzo, dear Jesse.”

Jesse chitters happily, lifts a hand to reach for one of Hanzo’s. The naga gives Jesse his hand, lets the mer show him attention and affection by kissing along his knuckles. Yes, today is looking to be more interesting than Hanzo had thought.

On the Shore by Dracoduceus [9,247 words]

His friends meant well.

That’s what McCree needed to remember.

His friends meant well. ----

McCree didn't have high hopes for the beach vacation that his friends dragged him to.

That all changed when he stumbled upon a private beach...and a very attractive man half-buried in the sand.

Singing Stones by Kalikuks [4,158 words]

“You are mine?” “Yes.” It is barely a whisper, and Seeker nuzzles the hand pressed to his cheek, “I’ve been lookin’ all over for you.” “And here I am,” the other mer purrs.

Sunlit Scales by Interrobang [28,346 words] Reccer comment: "Yaaay it made it and heres my rec Sunlit Scales in which cole is mer and hanzo fisherman. Theres smut but overall very wholesome and cute 😌"

A collection of stories about fisherman Hanzo and merman McCree. Absolutely filthy. (Gets fluffy in later chapters because...eggs. Still occasionally dirty af though.)

Tide by hunahuna_un [3,306 words]

Just two mers, swimming in the deep sea, chasing each other cause they're so gay.

- Just the thought of Hanzo doing the dance of the sirens made him groan, let alone seeing it, this close. Finally.

Never had Jesse felt this excited about the dance of their kind - enticing him, just so. Hanzo had captured him completely, lured him in from the first flick of his tail, the first gleam of interest flashed from his eyes. He tried to reach out to touch, but Hanzo swam just out of reach again, pulling an impatient growl out of Jesse.

---

We've reached the end of the MerMay recs! Thank you to everyone who submitted a recommendation, and to spinefrepple for suggesting the theme!

If you find a fic you love using this rec list, be sure to leave the author kudos and a comment! Even "I found this fic because someone recced it" is a lovely thing to say.

Come back next time for Week 15: "Loud and Proud," celebrating the start of Pride month with fics about LGBTQIA+ identities and/or Pride events.

In the meantime, you can also check out the Week 13 recs here, or check the full list of past and future themes here.

---

Curious about the icon and some of the fic titles? This rec blog supports #EndOTWRacism, a fan campaign asking the AO3 to make good on its 2020 promises to address racist harassment on the site. Fans of color deserve to feel safe and welcome in fan spaces. To learn more, please visit @end-otw-racism and read their Call to Action.

[creamyberries-lovely]

The opening shot of Mermen (OFMD, S2E8). When I saw this shot, I immediately connected it to another shot in season one, which introduces us to Izzy.

I don't know why I connected these two shots. The obvious connector here is the zoom, but surely these aren't the only two shots in the entire series that have a zoom.

Anyway, it got me thinking about what the camera is trying to tell us:

The meaning of the zoom featuring Izzy is quite clear to me. We start on Buttons, who is inanely doing his own thing, completely unaware to his surroundings (emphasized by the fact that he didn't notice Lucius leave about 2 seconds before this and is still listing off sea creatures). Over Buttons shoulder, we zoom in on 3 approaching figures. We can't see their faces. The camera is communicating to the audience: "look, look over here. see what the character doesn't notice." the lighting is telling the audience that the newcomers are ominous. They are an unknown presence. The three newcomers are looking down on the camera, and as we zoom in, they physically become larger. We zoom in until these characters take up about 2/3rds of the height of the screen. These 3 unknowns are a threatening presence. They are a larger force than Buttons, who doesn't even notice them. This is how we meet Izzy.

On the other hand, the zoom featuring Ed is quite unclear. The shot starts looking directly up at some trees, and then pans across until we see Ed, at which point we zoom in. We don't zoom in quite as much as we do in the Izzy shot. The zoom stops and settles in an extreme long shot, where Ed is very much still a dot on the screen. This whole sequence could be a couple of things. The immediate thought is that it is setting up the scene for the joke (which happens a few minutes later, where it's revealed (unshockingly) that Ed is not a good fisherman), the second thought we will address in a bit.

Now it could just be a set up for the joke. Let's go into a little more detail to discuss how excellent a set up it is. We open the episode with a shot of some trees, and the camera pans showing us more trees for a few seconds until we finally see Ed. The camera is physically tucked away into these trees and the lighting is dark, both facts are used to show us how dense the nature is. Then, we zoom in on Ed, but only a little bit. In the background we see a large hill covered in (guess what) more trees and we see a little cove (or bay) of water. Ed, a small figure in the long shot, stands alone on a small dingy in the water. Ed is completely surrounded by nature and he is alone. Now, it's already been established that Ed hates nature and we know from watching him throughout two seasons that Ed loves comradery. Immediately, little bells of "this is out of character" go off in our minds.

This sequence leads into a montage of Ed talking about how peaceful and at one with himself he is. Now, ordinarily we wouldn't question narration from Ed, who, in season 2 at least, has been very upfront with his feelings and wants. However, after our pan and zoom that told us Ed is a small dot surrounded by nature and seemingly alone, we might be calling bs on everything he is saying. Sure, he may enjoy some parts of this lifestyle (especially if it were being shared with Stede), but is this life he really wants? Is he really at peace? Of course, all of this is a set up for the joke of Ed being terrible at being a fisherman, and he walks away (and back to pirate's cove) pretty easily.

That's already a pretty good amount of information that we gathered from the pan and zoom. We could honestly reach our final conclusion (yet to come) without the aid of Izzy's zoom. Additionally, we probably shouldn't be rely too heavily on comparing the two because they came from two different cinematographers in two different seasons but that doesn't mean we can't draw any connection or shared meaning. That being saaid, when we think about Izzy's zoom and take into consideration that zoom shots have been using to introduce a new character before, and have relied on camera angle/lighting to communicate character traits to us, we can reasonably assume that this pan and zoom also does that.

This entire season has been Ed's journey. We go from heartbroken and angry Ed to an Ed that has given up and then Ed that is not giving up and is also reinvigorated to express his hurt towards Stede. Then, we get the Ed who believes in change and can accept magic. This Ed doesn't know how to reconcile Blackbeard and Ed, and he turns to his beloved tactic of running away when he is hurt or confused. That's the last Ed we saw. Until our pan and zoom. This Ed is a new Ed. He's Ed who tried to run away from Stede again. An Ed who tried the simple life in nature. He's an Ed who is already ready to go back to Stede. He left his fisherman life so easily. And he went straight back to Pirate's Cove to find Stede. This pan and zoom introduced the Ed who we've been waiting for all season. He's the Ed who is truly ready to love and be loved.

We might have gathered all of this from the fact that Ed (who hates nature) is completely surround by nature and clearing bs-ing himself into loving this life. But I like the parallels between this shot and Izzy's shot and I like that in the episode that Izzy left Ed, the camera (who introduced us to Izzy) was able to tell us that Ed was ready for the next chapter in his life.

[lumilasi]

UPDATE: Sooo....for a long time, I kind of disliked his design a little bit, namely his hair and face. Then I realized that I have a design that could fit him with minor tweaks, since the character I made it for doesn't really need to exist anymore? (I concluded CLover's dad doesn't need a LI after all)

I now included the doodle I made traditionally about his dog companion into this, I may digitize it later, but for now that is good enough.

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

Thank you @spokelseskladden for helping me with the name stuff and the dog! And ofc, the whole penguin thing with him was originally an idea by my friend @mad-hatter-rici that I chose to keep for his new incarnation.

Bio below:

Age: 22

Family: Family lives elsewhere in a larger city, a granduncle who owns the cabin he lives in currently. The Avara family, I.E said uncle's children. (Henrik isn't aware that they are from the magic realm of Ether, he's never met his granduncle's kids before)

Friends: He's a very friendly guy and gets along with pretty much anyone. His closest friend is the dog, Alva.

Love interest: Clover Belmont, a witchboy from Ether, a paraller reality to the human world

Occupation: Grocery store clerk/Wilderness guide student at vocational college/housekeeper for his uncle's cabin

He's seemingly just a human, just some guy, just that one sweet dude that's a lil weird and seems to believe in fairies.

Abilities:

He's good at surviving in the wilderness both summer and winter, as he's essentially grown up spending most of his time outdoors. He can recognize edible/poisonous plants and mushrooms, how to build an emergency hut, first aid, good crafting skills for makeshift tools etc.

He's an excellent cook and knows how to take anyone's food preferences/needs into accordance.

He's a very good fisherman (or just patient enough lol)

Due to his lifestyle, Henrik is fairly strong physically and has good stamina

Magic tattoo; he can communicate with Clover with his tattoo, and they can tell each other's moods and if one needs help through it. He can also use the tattoo to contact either its maker (Jurou) or Clover's adoptive father if he senses Clover is in trouble.

He has a surprisingly strong danger sense and can tell if something is off either in his surroundings, or with a person. He can just pick up on someone's "bad vibes" pretty much.

Telepathic link with his dog; Henrik doesn't realize that's what it is, he initially thinks he just gets Alva really well, not that she's literally projecting her thoughts into his brain.

Cold durability/potential for winter magic; due to his heritage, Henrik is VERY cold resistant, and could learn winter magic in the future.

Personality:

Henrik is very sweet, hospitable and friendly guy, who is willing to help people in need. He's a bit naive too and easy to trick, but chooses to still have faith in people and believe in them - unless they very obviously show to him they're bad. he approached people with good faith, but once you fuck up, you do need to prove yourself as he won't forgive that easily depending on what was done.

He has almost childlike curiosity towards everything, and even if he doesn't necessarily understand topics, he enjoys listening to people who do. He genuinely always tries to understand it, but even if he doesn't, he won't beat himself up too bad, or pretend he does.

He can be a bit oblivious and sometimes forget things, like switching out of pajamas when leaving his home. His dog Alva often has to bring him stuff he forgets, or otherwise remind him of things. Sometimes she even drags him out of bed when he's being lazy.

Weaknesses:

His seemingly gullible nature makes him easy to trick with more harmless things; if someone dangerous tries to manipulate him, he tends to pick up on that. But pulling a prank on him and hiding his slippers, or putting a kick-me note on his back? Easy peasy. He might also fall for scams that aren't life-threatening. (Basically, you can trick him into giving you money, but trying to make him hand over a dangerous object when you give him bad vibes? No way)

He tends to overestimate himself and gets hurt a lot, such as what happened with the bear spirit. The main reason he doesn't have more scars yet, is thanks to his magic friends healing away most of them.

Fun Facts

His dog Alva is not your average dog; she is one of Fenrir's descendants, and the former familiar to Henrik's uncle, now his guard/potential familiar.

Henrik enjoys carving and painting small wooden animals on his free time, and he tends to make a lot of penguins and dogs.

Penguins are his favorite animals, and he'd love to travel to a place that has them in nature someday. His love for them comes from being given a penguin plushtoy as a kid by his grandma, shortly before she died. it's been his inseparable friend since then, and he named it Sven. (He still has Sven to this day)

He has taught Clover some words in Norwegian, mainly curses because he asked lol

Due to Clover's condition, typically when he visits he makes sure to have some of his special food enhancement dust with him, so he'll be able to get full from Henrik's cooking properly.

Henrik is pan

His tattoo is magical and allows him to communicate with Clover anytime, as it basically transforms his cellphone (or any communication device in fact) into something that can reach between realms as well.

many of his classmates have had crushes on him, and they are aware that he supposedly has a long-distance relationship with a Swiss guy. (some doubt it'll last, others are more curious)

Despite being introduced with lot of powerful and scary magic things, Henrik is still very open-minded about it all and likes to learn more. It doesn't mean he's not scared of Clover's world, but he loves it despite his fears, as human world can be terrible as well.

He chose to live in the cabin instead of an apartment, as he wanted to be close to nature while studying, and its not that far from his small college anyway. It even has internet!

[hiroshitanaka]

Top Things to Do in Djibouti for Adventurers

Djibouti, a small country located in the Horn of Africa, is known for its unique landscapes, rich culture and vibrant experiences. So whether you are seeking adventure or history, or just a quiet beach getaway, Djibouti has something to offer everyone. In this, we’re going to be taking you through the best things to do in Djibouti, to give you a taste of this lesser-known gem.

1. Explore Lake Assal

One of Djibouti’s most stunning natural wonders, Lake Assal is the third-lowest point on the planet — and a key site to visit. This saltwater lake is framed by stunning volcanic landscapes, perfect for all you shutterbugs out there. The high salinity makes for glistening salt flats that contrast with the blue waters. Visitors can stroll across the salt crust, and even scoop some up as a souvenir. The lake’s geography also makes it a key part of the country’s ecosystem. It’s an out-of-this-world experience you won’t soon forget.

2. Visit the Bustling Capital: Djibouti City

Djibouti City The capital is the center of the country, combining modernity and tradition Wander around the lively bazaars, where you can find local crafts, fabrics, and spices. The lively cosmopolitan city is an ideal place to immerse yourself in culture of Djibouti, from its popular music to its flavorful cuisine. Be sure to sample the local specialty, the spiced rice and meat dish called Skoudehkaris. Landmarks such as the Presidential Palace and the Place Menelik also provide insight into the country’s political and colonial past.

3. Dive into the Underwater World

Djibouti is a diver’s paradise with some of the finest underwater experiences available anywhere. In addition to that, at Tadjoura Gulf you can enjoy watching the corals and other types of marine life. Swim with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the sea, or discover the stunning coral gardens. Snorkelers can enjoy similarly magical experiences in the shallow waters around Moucha Island. You can also observe migratory patterns & some marine species not found anywhere else in the world on seasonal diving tours.

4. Take in Lake Abbe's Distinct Landscapes

Lake Abbe is a surreal place filled with tall limestone chimneys shooting steam into the air. It’s no surprise this spot served as a backdrop for science fiction films. Nomadic Afar communities inhabit the surrounding area, giving a taste of their traditional lifestyle. In the evening at Lake Abbe the sky dances with colors at sunset, a fresh background feature in the already bombastic scenery. Lake Abbe also is one of the most unique Djibouti tourist attractions you can visit.

5. Relax on Djibouti's Beaches

Djibouti's unspoiled beaches provide a peaceful refuge for sunbathers and relaxation visitors. Khor Ambado and Arta Beach invite you to relax on fine golden beaches and splash about in transparent turquoise waters. These calm Djibouti beach are perfect for sunbathing, picnicking or just taking in the tranquil atmosphere. Adventurous types can also take advantage of the resort’s setting with a range of water activities including kayaking, paddleboarding or windsurfing.

6. Experience Djibouti’s Vibrant Markets

The markets of Djibouti are a sensory feast of vivid colors, unusual aromas, and lively sounds. The Central Market in Djibouti City welcomes visitors to interact with hospitable merchants, taste local customs, and reproduce to discover local souvenirs. Markets offer everything from fresh produce to intricately designed jewelry and displays the rich history of the nation & dynamic culture. Do be sure to stop by the Fish Market, where the region’s fishy bounty is laid out in all it’s glory and offers insight into the local fisherman’s daily life.

7. Hike Through Goda Mountains

For the adventurous: The Goda Mountains provide a green respite in Djibouti’s desert landscape. This area is part of the Day Forest National Park with rich flora & fauna, including rare species of birds. Visitors can trek through the mountains and are rewarded with stunning views and an opportunity to enjoy nature. Higher elevation provides respite from the searing heat of the lowlands. Guided tours offer fascinating insight into this region’s unique biodiversity and the conservation work safeguarding this fragile ecosystem.

8. Learn About Djibouti’s History

History buffs can find much in the way of colonial vestiges and the country’s historical role as a port of the littoral east. Djibouti tourism offers a glimpse into its rich history, from ancient trade routes to colonial influences. Just allow for window shopping where chimes even take the form of the old railway station, which is now just a remnant of the French colonial era, or the historic Hamoudi Mosque, one of the country's oldest sights. The places represent the culture and history of Djibouti. Also good to see, the Ethnological Museum houses an admirable selection of artifacts and exhibits outlining Djibouti’s history over the years.

9. Apply for a Djibouti eVisa Before Traveling

The new digital visa system is one of the many initiatives the government is taking as part of its strategy to attract more tourism in Djibouti and facilitate new international visitors to the country. Your Djibouti eVisa application is very easy to apply and it is also a very quick process so you will be able to enjoy your international trip to the fullest. If you do not want to spoil your mood at the last minute and do not want to get into any problems, then apply for the visa on time, after reading the requirements. 

10. Take a Look at the Nomad Lifestyle

Nomadism is central to Djibouti’s cultural identity. Embrace the chance to meet with some of the local tribes, and learn about their music, traditions, and way of life including Afar and Somali tribes. Exploring them provides a closer view of the variety of threads that make up the country’s multicultural fabric. Experience traditional dances, taste authentic dishes, and listen to stories passed from generation to generation. This creates a bond that is more than just sightseeing.

Summary of this Blog

Djibouti’s appeal is being able to pack adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment into the same trip. Whether you’re scheduling an expedition around its natural wonders, submerging into its sea gems, or embracing its energetic customs, Djibouti is a place that will leave the visitor with a deep impact. With a deep commitment to sustainable tourism, the country aims to preserve its natural wonders and cultural heritage for future generations. Thus prepare, apply for your Djibouti e visa, and embark on an adventurous trip to this mystical land of eternal beauty!

[tawhidislam]

Exploring Photography in Puerto Vallarta: Capturing the Spirit of Paradise

Puerto Vallarta, a vibrant coastal city on Mexico's Pacific Coast, offers an enchanting backdrop for photographers. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and dynamic street life, the city is a paradise for professionals and hobbyists alike. A skilled photographer puerto vallarta captures not only images but the spirit of this idyllic destination.

A Visual Wonderland

The natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta is unparalleled. From the golden beaches of Banderas Bay to the lush Sierra Madre Mountains, the city provides endless opportunities for landscape photography. Early mornings reveal soft, golden light reflecting off tranquil waters, while sunsets paint the sky in vivid hues of orange and purple. Photographers flock to iconic spots such as Los Arcos Marine Park, where dramatic rock formations rise from the sea, offering unique compositions.

Vibrant Culture and Festivities

Puerto Vallarta’s rich cultural heritage adds another layer of depth for photographers. The cobblestone streets of the Zona Romántica exude charm, with colorful buildings adorned with traditional Mexican tile work. Local markets bustle with activity, showcasing an array of handcrafted goods and fresh produce. Events like the Día de los Muertos celebrations or the Vallarta Pride parade provide dynamic, emotion-filled scenes for capturing human connections.

Portrait Photography Opportunities

The friendly locals, or “vallartenses,” offer unique opportunities for portrait photography. Whether it’s a street vendor selling vibrant woven textiles or a fisherman mending nets by the shore, the people of Puerto Vallarta tell a story through their daily lives. Professional photographers in the area often collaborate with travelers for personal or family portrait sessions, using the stunning environment as a natural studio.

Adventure and Wildlife Photography

For those drawn to action and wildlife, Puerto Vallarta is a dream destination. A boat ride to Marietas Islands reveals crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, perfect for underwater photography. Humpback whales migrate through the bay from December to March, offering awe-inspiring moments for wildlife photographers. On land, the jungle trails surrounding Puerto Vallarta are alive with exotic birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Professional Services

Puerto Vallarta boasts a community of talented professional photographers specializing in diverse genres, from weddings and events to lifestyle and commercial shoots. Destination weddings are particularly popular in this picturesque location, and local photographers are skilled at crafting timeless memories for couples. Their knowledge of lighting, angles, and the best locations ensures stunning results that reflect the magic of the moment.

Tips for Photographers Visiting Puerto Vallarta

Timing: Golden hour provides soft, flattering light perfect for landscape and portrait photography.

Equipment: A versatile lens, tripod, and polarizing filter can help capture the diverse settings.

Local Insights: Connecting with local photographers or guides can lead to hidden gems off the beaten path.

Cultural Respect: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially during private moments or ceremonies.

Conclusion

photographer puerto vallarta is more than capturing images; it’s about preserving the essence of paradise. Whether you’re a professional capturing moments for clients or a traveler documenting memories, this vibrant city offers an abundance of inspiration. From its natural beauty to its cultural richness, Puerto Vallarta is a haven for anyone with a camera and a passion for storytelling.

[themasksheraid]

Name: Chester Richard Heinreid

Nickname(s): Chet

DOB: January 14

Age: 34

FC: Grant Gustin

Height: 6'0"

Pronouns: He/Him

Sexuality: Heterosexual

Occupation: Bartender at The Lucky Fisherman

New Greenville resident; lives in the trailer park

Relationship Status: Single (chem testing)

The oldest of two boys, Chester felt entitled to a lot of things growing up.

His parents time and energy, for one, but they were adamant that they had enough attention and love to go around.

Raised in Utah, the community around him was mostly Mormon, and while his parents weren't particularly strict, it still shaped the way he looked at things for a very long time.

However, as he grew older and more and more people commented on his looks, it didn’t take long for him to figure out how to use that to his advantage.

A schemer, Chet saw the world in dollar signs and those who could be used for a quick buck.

Things started in high school, and only ever really ramped up from there.

He went through girlfriends quickly, becoming disinterested after he got what he wanted and was already onto the next one.

His family was a little disappointed, because it didn't take long to get around that Chet was, in essence, a slut and a heartbreaker, and that's not really who who they raised.

Despite this, the praise and attention he got from girls was too much to pass over.

At 18 he got a job as a stripper, and the attention and money was better than any high he'd ever felt in his life.

Unable to take the disappointment radiating from his entire family, Chet left Utah and moved to Vegas instead, the bright lights causing the next few years to blend together.

Getting married had never really been on his to do list, let alone to someone on a whim at 20 by an Elvis impersonator, but Chet wasn't even sure if it was legally binding anyway.

He wasn't drinking heavily or doing drugs; but the lifestyle all the same started to get to him.

Younger and prettier boys would come in, and suddenly Chet was old news, and while it bruised his ego, it made him feel empty and hollow.

He moved to Greenview for a completely different change of pace, deciding to still work at the strip club but as a bartender this time so he could still pretend he was living the life he used to.

He does miss the attention that came with it, but at 34, he feels like he's more than aged out of that kind of behavior.

Outside of work he liked to hang out around the arcade and library, and tries to connect with anyone who's working at The Lucky Fisherman if they let him (but he's not gonna push it).

[greenviewhq]

WELCOME TO GREENVIEW, chester heinreid. Please follow this checklist and submit your account within 24 hours. Protect your secrets and trust no one.

ooc - artemis

IC -

Name: Chester ‘Chet’ Heinreid Age: 34 Pronouns: He/Him Faceclaim: Grant Gustin Gender Identity & Sexual Orientation: Cisman/heterosexual Job: Bartender at The Lucky Fisherman Resident, New Resident, Tourist, or Student: new resident If New Resident, Tourist, or Student, hometown?: Brigham City, Utah Residence: Trailer Park Three Positive Traits: hypnotic, sociable, personable Three Negative Traits: arrogant, disingenuous, flirty Aesthetics (optional): bachelorette parties at strip clubs, the feeling of getting away with anything, rejecting the way you were raised, and shotgun weddings

3-5 bullet points telling us something about your character’s background:

The oldest of two and a schemer from the start, Chet loves to get his way and will do almost anything to make sure he does.

He grew up in a large mormon community which sort of shaped some of his world views; his family was mormon but not particularly strict.

The attention he got from people as he got older went straight to his head and he’d do and say anything to keep it.

Decided to become a stripper at 18; the attention was intoxicating (this is also part of how/why he got married in Vegas at 20).

Has tried to live a more normal and lowkey life over the last 5 years; definitely misses the lifestyle he could fund while stripping but feels like he’s mostly aged out of that by now

[youngdolphmerch]

Homes to Buy in Monterey CA: A Comprehensive Guide

Monterey, California, is more than just a scenic coastal city; it’s a haven for those seeking a balance of natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant lifestyle. If you're considering Homes to Buy in Monterey CA in this picturesque city, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. From market trends to neighborhoods and tips for first-time buyers, we’ve got you covered.

Why Choose Monterey, CA?

1. Unmatched Coastal Beauty

Monterey boasts stunning ocean views monterey real estate, serene beaches, and a mild climate year-round. Residents enjoy access to the iconic Monterey Bay and attractions like Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Living here means waking up to the soothing sounds of the ocean and having nature as your backyard.

2. Rich Cultural and Historical Appeal

The city is steeped in history, from its Spanish colonial roots to its prominence as a fishing hub. Landmarks like the Old Fisherman’s Wharf and the historic adobes give Monterey a unique charm, making it a sought-after location for homebuyers who value cultural depth.

3. Excellent Quality of Life

Monterey offers top-rated schools, a thriving arts scene, and numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and sailing. Its close-knit community and family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal place for individuals and families alike.

The Real Estate Market in Monterey

1. Current Trends

The real estate market in Monterey is competitive, with demand often exceeding supply. As of 2024, the median home price hovers around $1.2 million, reflecting the premium buyers are willing to pay for the city’s amenities and lifestyle.

2. Types of Properties Available

Single-Family Homes: Ideal for families, these homes offer spacious layouts and yards. Many feature stunning ocean views.

Condos and Townhouses: Perfect for retirees or young professionals, these properties often come with amenities like pools and fitness centers.

Luxury Estates: Monterey is home to several high-end properties with sprawling grounds, private beaches, and state-of-the-art designs.

Top Neighborhoods to Consider

1. Pacific Grove

Known as "America’s Last Hometown," Pacific Grove offers a mix of Victorian homes and modern properties. It’s perfect for those who love quaint streets, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community.

2. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Located adjacent to Monterey, this charming village features fairytale cottages and luxury homes. While prices here are on the higher end, the unique architecture and artistic vibe make it worth the investment.

3. Downtown Monterey

For those who prefer urban living, Downtown Monterey offers proximity to shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. It’s an excellent choice for young professionals and retirees.

4. Del Rey Oaks

This quieter suburb of Monterey provides a more affordable option without sacrificing proximity to the city. It’s ideal for families and first-time buyers.

What to Consider When Buying a Home in Monterey

1. Budget Planning

Monterey’s real estate prices can be steep. Before you start house hunting, establish a clear budget, factoring in additional costs like property taxes, maintenance, and homeowners’ association fees.

2. Proximity to Amenities

Consider how close you want to be to schools, workplaces, and recreational activities. Neighborhoods like Pacific Grove and Downtown Monterey provide easy access to key amenities.

3. Investment Potential

Homes in Monterey tend to appreciate in value, making them a sound investment. However, work with a local real estate agent to identify areas with the best long-term potential.

4. Environmental Factors

Monterey’s coastal location means certain areas may be prone to fog or erosion. Ensure your potential home is structurally sound and not in a high-risk zone for natural disasters.

Steps to Buying a Home in Monterey

1. Secure Financing

Get pre-approved for a mortgage to understand your purchasing power.

Research lenders familiar with the Monterey market for competitive rates.

2. Partner with a Local Realtor

A realtor with local expertise can provide insights into neighborhoods, negotiate prices, and guide you through the buying process.

3. Conduct Thorough Inspections

Ensure your prospective home undergoes a detailed inspection to identify any structural or environmental issues.

4. Make a Competitive Offer

Given the high demand, be prepared to act quickly and make a strong offer to secure your dream home.

Living in Monterey: A Snapshot

Schools: Highly rated public and private schools cater to families.

Healthcare: Access to top-notch medical facilities such as Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (CHOMP).

Recreation: From kayaking in the bay to exploring Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures.

Dining and Shopping: Savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants or shop at boutique stores in Cannery Row.

Conclusion

Buying a home in Monterey, CA, is an investment in a lifestyle that blends coastal charm with modern convenience. With its diverse neighborhoods, robust real estate market, and unparalleled quality of life, Monterey is truly a dream destination for homeowners.

[almarinesurveyor]

Exploring Harborage: A Boaters Paradise

Harborage Marina is one of the most prestigious and well-known marinas offering amazing experience for you as a boat owner and water enthusiast. Located in the heart of a waterfront community it provides top tier services amenities and convenience for you if you're looking forward to store maintain and enjoy you. From well maintained docs to premium fueling on the marina truly stands out as a premium destination For recreation professional voters like you. In this guide you can learn everything about  harborage marina.

Location and accessibility

According to surveyors tampa florida it is located in the prime waterfront area. It is strategically positioned to offer you easy access to nearby islands and open waters. The central location of the Marina allows for convenient entry to propeller boating destinations making it a favorite among fisherman's and cruisers. Proximity to the nearby cities and towns adds to its appeal. It offers you a seamless blend of maritime life and urban amenities.

The amenities and services

The Marina features world class docking options with slips that accommodate vessels of different sizes from small boats the large yachts. Every slip is equipped with modern utilities like power water and Fifi ensuring that you have access to the essentials like no other. So all you need to know that the harborage Marina truly stands out like a premier destination for you if you are looking for top quality docking maintenance and social experience. With its range of amenities and strong community atmosphere it offers everything that you could need for enjoyable and convenient maritime lifestyle.