#Francie Sunny Pastels

[smallfavorsboutique]

Sunny Pastels style made for Francie. Listed at my Ko-fi Shop.

[flashlight-sticker]

Day 1 - “Have we met before?”

Alistair cleaned the sink, swiping the drops of water off with a rag and sending them back down. The house was spotless today, the way it hasn’t been in a long time. Between his job and the volunteering he hardly found the strength or the will to properly clean up the place. The books laid all around, occasional cardboard boxes forgotten in the corridor, a bunch of documents that was used in the previous week for… some reason, an album on the table with the pictures scattered round after he finished looking through it, unwilling to put it back together.

Yeah, that’s pretty much how his flat looked.

But not today. Today it was licked spotless, meat baking in the oven, a table set.

Plates, knives, champagne glasses, all shining and ready.

He could hear the talking from his living room, his brothers sitting around the coffee table, guessing who is it that Arthur was so excited to bring over.

Well, perhaps “excited” is a strong word when used towards Arthur, but it’s the only fitting one. Arthur Kirkland, THE Arthur Kirkland, who was in his emo (or punk, whatever he called it) era just about last year, who claimed that love “is nothing but a series of chemicals” and “useless” has found someone. That someone, who filled half their conversations over the phone, that someone whom Arthur seemed to find in everything. And that someone was coming today.

Alistair dropped the rag into the sink, his left hand immediately flying up into his hair, rubbing backwards.

He had a bad feeling about all of this. This wasn’t gonna end well.

He let out a sight, closing his eyes for a moment, concentrating on the chatter in the living room.

He should cheer up. Arthur is bringing over a girlfriend… or a boyfriend, or whoever the hell he is dating.

A quick glance at the clock. Half past six. They promised to be here at seven o’clock, but knowing Arthur, they will be here in just about twenty minutes.

He better put on something more presentable.

***

Seamus opened two bottles of beer, handing one over to Alistair.

“They grow up so fast, hmm?” He threw the phrase at him with a knowing grin. Alistair scoffed in return to the century old joke between the two of them.

“Aye…” Alistair raced through his mind, forcing himself to remember some comeback he could possibly give back to his brother to keep the conversation alive “Back in my day lads didn’t have to do the whole ‘meet my family’ thing, because a man—“

Rrring…

The doorbell rung astonishingly loudly. The two exchanged glances and Alistair put his beer down onto the counter, its contents still untouched. He paced down the corridor, towards the door. One final look in the mirror. His shirt was ironed and his hair was laid out neatly (as neatly as he could get it). He absolutely resented the jumper Dylan made him wear, but couldn’t exactly oppose.

The key was turned, he pushed down onto the handle of the door and opened it.

The light from the corridor was partially shaded by Arthur standing in the doorway.

He was also looking prim and proper, his trench-coat finally cleaned, tie in place, shoes shining.

“Hello, Alistair.”

It was just then that he noticed that he froze for a moment. He stepped back, putting his hands into the pockets of his trousers, Seamus standing right next to him.

Alistair put on a smile, the best one he could manage and leaned against the wall in an attempt to seem casual.

“Hiya! Was the way here alright? The roads are awful busy at this time of the night!” he let out a huff that was supposed to be a laugh.

“We were alright” Arthur starting taking off his coat, slipping out of his shoes and then he came in.

Alistair felt his heart sink at the sight of blond wavy hair tied in a neat ponytail, the pastel colours of the shirt and suit, the thin and long fingers, the ever so slightly tanned skin and eyes, those blue eyes, as light as the sky on a sunny day, innocent and peaceful.

Francis.

“Oh, everything was great” he flashed Alistair a smile, his accent as evident as always and more endearing than ever before. “You shouldn’t worry!”

Alistair felt sick.

***

The introductions were over and everyone was sat at the table. Chatter filled the room, Francis being charming enough to fit in. He seemed oblivious. Oblivious to the fact that Arthur was eyeing his brothers with doubt and oblivious to Alistair.

He had barely spoken since the Frenchman came in, his uneasiness only heightening with each passing second. He was right since the very start. This thing wouldn’t end well.

He looked in the general direction where Francis sat, immediately catching his eyes. He smiled at him. At him. And Alistair couldn’t help but immediately hide behind a yet another glass of champagne.

He didn’t plan to get smashed tonight, but it seemed like fate decided differently.

He felt the champagne flowing down his throat, his cheeks heating up slightly.

Did he really not remember him? Did Francis seriously look him in the eyes and not recognise him at all? Did he not remember the time when they were dating? Yes, of course, it’s been almost ten years since then and yeah, Alistair changed quite a bit, but he couldn’t have possibly changed that much!

Alistair tried to imagine himself at the start of his geology course in University. Long hair, he was thinner and the bags under his eyes were much smaller. He didn’t have a beard. His face had much less frown lines.

Ten years… Perhaps it’s much longer than what he thought it was.

Looking at Francis yet again he understood that he didn’t change at all. He looked as young as before, his eyes didn’t loose their sparkle, he didn’t suffer from loneliness or constant fatigue. He didn’t age a day since the moment they parted.

A French exchange student. Half a year. The best half a year in Alistair’s life.

Could he really call it dating, through? Could be really say that they were in a relationship during that time?

No, it was a hookup. It was an affair, a time when they could release their needs, a time when they could simply give in to their desires.

There were no higher feelings in that.

There was no reason for them meeting up, other than letting themselves go for a night.

For Francis.

It didn’t matter for him, it didn’t mean much more than that to him, it wasn’t worth remembering for him.

But it meant the world to Alistair. And that world shattered when Francis promised to call and didn’t, when Francis promised to keep in touch and didn’t, when Francis promised to care and didn’t. When Francis left him without a care in the world.

“Oh, speaking about dessert!” he was suddenly pulled out of his thoughts by Dylan’s happy voice. “I bought a cake, Arthur’s favourite. Sorry, we didn’t know what you liked” he heard Francis hum with a smile on his face and forced himself to stay focused on the dialogue at hand, rather than the other time he heard Francis do that, his hair glowing in the rays of the rising sun, eyes half-lidded and sleepy—

“Oh, yes.” Alistair’s voice was low and he cleared his throat “I’ll go make some tea.”

He heard Dylan say something about him being ‘so considerate’, but it was somewhere far away, his mind filled only with how his numb hands were moving the chair away, pushing the door, grabbing the kettle, putting it on…

He heard the water being slowly heated by the gas stove and leaned against the counter, head in hands.

God, let Arthur break up with him.

God, let them not get along and don’t let this relationship progress any further.

It was a pain having to sit through a two hour dinner with Francis, what will happen if this goes on ? What if they marry ? Invite him to their wedding ? Adopt children ? Bring them over to Alistair’s for Christmas, exchanging pleasantries and be as oblivious to his position as right now ?! What will happen if Francis will be carved into his life, never available, but always torturously close ?!

Alistair wished for nothing but happiness to Arthur (even through it might not seem like it at times). But he wouldn’t be able to handle this.

The lock clicked.

He jumped up, whipping his head towards the door. And there he was. Francis.

“Are you feeling okay ?” He looked the slightest bit concerned, tilting his head to the side a little. Alistair’s right hand started shaking.

“Oh, aye. Aye, just a headache” he cleared his throat once again, wondering if it was suspicious that he did it so often and turned the gas off.

“Hm. Must be all the noise. Your brothers are very loud.” Francis stated with a smile, a soft blush gracing his cheeks.

Alistair scoffed.

“Yea. They tend to be.”

“Um…” he could see Francis shift from one leg to the other uneasily. “I was wondering… Have we met… before?” He could hear how uncomfortable he was, asking this question, his voice unsteady and eyes moved towards the wall in an unsure frown.

Alistair felt bile rise up.

He looked directly in front of himself, mind blank, eyes empty.

‘Have we met before…?’

He looked down onto the tea leaves slowly unwrapping in the kettle and felt bitterness flow through his body, wrapping around his heart.

‘Have we met before?!’

“No.” Alistair moved five cups across the counter, towards Francis “But I would appreciate if you took these to the living room” Francis smiled back to him.

“Anything for my boyfriend’s family to like me”

Clang of tableware, a wink, the door closing. And silence.

[blizzardsuplex]

Hey Mel friend! 42, 53, 56?

Pastel! :)

42. favourite book(s)

I am a classics hoe par excellence, so a lot of my fave books/stories are "classics" and/or extremely musty :') Off the top of my head:

Novels: The Great Gatsby (by my boy Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald), Lolita (Nabokov), The Man Who Was Thursday (Chesterton)

Short stories: The Chronicle of an Old Rose Tree (Stratis Myrivilis), Happy Marriage (R.V. Cassill), most of The Martian Chronicles (Bradbury), Burning Chrome (Gibson), The Heat Death of the Universe (Zoline), Pillar of Salt (Jackson), Johnny Panic and the Bible of Dreams (Plath)

Poetry: Orpheus and Eurydice (Milosz), most of the work of Gerard Manley Hopkins

Essays: I'm fond of several of the Essays of Elia (Lamb).

53. 5 things that make me happy

Sunny days with fluffy white clouds and skies in faded photograph blue

Watching trees/plants just doing their living thing

Spending time and/or doing stuff with the people I care about

At the end of the day, and no matter how much I may complain or get frustrated about it: the written word

Music; "when I forget how to talk, I sing".

56. favourite food(s)

Dish? Savory rice porridge (congee, arroz caldo, etc.) Ingredient? Cheese. I love love love cheese.

[euphonero]

2013 pics of santa fe from my old “rosy” aesthetic blog

[thewritingstar]

98 that’s a lot of questions I wonder if you could answer them all 🤔🙃

*Deep sigh and putting my hands together* BOI IF YOU DON’T THINK I CAN ANSWER ALL THESE BITCHES!! YOU COME INTO MY ASK BOX AND TELL ME “i WONDER” HOE DON’T WONDER ANYMORE. 

don’t come for me like this anon.....here ya go. 

smh

i answered all of these and it took forever so yall better read this shit

enjoy bitch

--

1. coffee mugs, teacups, wine glasses, water bottles, or soda cans?

-Mugs

2. chocolate bars or lollipops?

-both im a sugar addict

3. bubblegum or cotton candy?

-bubblegum

4. how did your elementary school teachers describe you?

-prob either really quiet or really loud

5. do you prefer to drink soda from soda cans, soda bottles, plastic cups or glass cups?

-I hate soda

6. pastel, boho, tomboy, preppy, goth, grunge, formal or sportswear?

-I really like pastel and goth styles

7. earbuds or headphones?

-earbuds

8. movies or tv shows?

-Both

9. favorite smell in the summer?

-Vanilla

10. game you were best at in p.e.?

-Flag Football (stealing the flags) and badminton

11. what you have for breakfast on an average day?

-dont really eat in the mornings but prob granola bar or left overs

12. name of your favorite playlist?

-Shower lol

13. lanyard or key ring?

-lanyard

14. favorite non-chocolate candy?

-Sour gummi worms..that shit is CRACK

15. favorite book you read as a school assignment?

-Great Gatsby

16. most comfortable position to sit in?

-apple sauce or on one leg

17. most frequently worn pair of shoes?

-all black converse

18. ideal weather?

-warm and sunny

19. sleeping position?

-stomach, side, in a ball

20. preferred place to write (i.e., in a note book, on your laptop, sketchpad, post-it notes, etc.)?

-Laptop or phone

21. obsession from childhood?

-My little pony, littlest pet shop, Disney, elephants, Chinese food

22. role model?

-Tara Strong, Walt Disney, Francis Dominic 

23. strange habits?

-tugging my hair, biting my nails, wiggling on my heels like a penguin and going up stairs on all fours (when im home)

24. favorite crystal?

-answered

25. first song you remember hearing?

-American idiot- Green Day

26. favorite activity to do in warm weather?

-Eat 

27. favorite activity to do in cold weather?

-Eat

28. five songs to describe you?

-idk Cartoon theme songs lol

29. best way to bond with you?

-make me laugh or talk about disney

30. places that you find sacred?

-Flower gardens

31. what outfit do you wear to kick ass and take names?

-anything with my high heel boots

32. top five favorite vines?

-Road Work Ahead, Oh my god he on X Game mode, What the Fuck Richard, This house is fucking nightmare!, Happy one year babe! Im 27. 

33. most used phrase in your phone?

-YEET, Yall and bitch

34. advertisements you have stuck in your head?

-Stanley Steamer, The First5California.com song 

35. average time you fall asleep?

-now its 12 am -1 am... use to be like 10pm

36. what is the first meme you remember ever seeing?

-oh god that was so long ago i dont even know but it was one of the first ones like pepe or some some

37. suitcase or duffel bag?

-suitcase

38. lemonade or tea?

-raspberry ice tea

39. lemon cake or lemon meringue pie?

-dont like lemon in my desserts 

40. weirdest thing to ever happen at your school?

-A condom was thrown on my desk in french class (it was unopened thank god)

41. last person you texted?

-my mom

42. jacket pockets or pants pockets?

-Jacket pockets

43. hoodie, leather jacket, cardigan, jean jacket or bomber jacket?

-HOODIE

44. favorite scent for soap?

-Vanilla or tropical

45. which genre: sci-fi, fantasy or superhero?

-Superhero

46. most comfortable outfit to sleep in?

-Big shirt and no shorts (underwear obvi)

47. favorite type of cheese?

-I fucking hate cheese

48. if you were a fruit, what kind would you be?

-Strawberry or Lemon

49. what saying or quote do you live by?

-Its always fun to do the impossible- Walt Disney

50. what made you laugh the hardest you ever have?

-For my birthday my friend got my a “Sorry for your loss” card and i cried for 30 mins

51. current stresses?

-um everything..college and being the only snacc in my household

52. favorite font?

-comic sans

53. what is the current state of your hands?

-Still have both of them

54. what did you learn from your first job?

-That people are assholes 

55. favorite fairy tale?

-Disneys Rapunzel 

56. favorite tradition?

- My grandma got all the grandkids pjs on Christmas eve every year and we would wear them to sleep 

57. the three biggest struggles you’ve overcome?

-Anxiety, Depression (sorta), Dropping my churro on the ground at Disneyland

58. four talents you’re proud of having?

-Quick Wit, Art abilities?, Standing on my head and making weird ass noises

59. if you were a video game character, what would your catchphrase be?

-Already answered

60. if you were a character in an anime, what kind of anime would you want it to be?

-A really cool and cute magical one!!

61. favorite line you heard from a book/movie/tv show/etc.?

-From Once Upon A Time, honestly they ave the best quotes. “So when I win your heart, Emma- and i will win it-it will not be because of any trickery, but because you want me”- Killian orrrrrrr He smells like forest”- Regina

62. seven characters you relate to?

-Juvia (FairyTail), Star (SVTFOE), Mabel (Gravity Falls), Maybec (Kingdom Keepers, sassy and artistic), Bubbles and Blossom (PPG) and Belle (beauty and the beast)

63. five songs that would play in your club?

-Boyfriend: BTR, Dancings not a crime: Panic!, Bang bang: Jessie, Ari and Nicki, Read you, wrote you: Drag race lol and Busted from Phineas and Ferb because I can

64. favorite website from your childhood?

-Webkinz, PetPetPark (STILL SALTY ABOUT IT) Club Penguin, Build a bear, Poptropica, i played every game yall

65. any permanent scars?

-only emotionally 

66. favorite flower(s)?

-Roses and water lilies..and every flower cause they pretty.. oh Dahlias too

67. good luck charms?

-petting my dogs. 

68. worst flavor of any food or drink you’ve ever tried?

-Mango anything or Cherry. I hate cherry flavoring. 

69. a fun fact that you don’t know how you learned?

-I have a great memory so i usually remember how i learned it, but.. Did you know that the water on the Jungle Cruise in Disneyland is 3 feet deep and dyed brown? Plus the water in all the parks is a special mix that doesn't contain chlorine because alot of people are allergic so its safe to touch? (learn from a disney doc)

70. left or right handed?

-right

71. least favorite pattern?

-those ugly ones on leggings.

72. worst subject?

-Math or english (haha and i like to write)

73. favorite weird flavor combo?

-Grapes and teriyaki sauce. if they on the plate. ill just dip them in. I have an addiction to teriyaki sauce. 

74. at what pain level out of ten (1 through 10) do you have to be at before you take an advil or ibuprofen?

-I dont take any unless I have my period and my cramps are usually at a 10 so i try and take it when they at a 5

75. when did you lose your first tooth?

-when i was young 

76. what’s your favorite potato food (i.e. tater tots, baked potatoes, fries, chips, etc.)?

-I LOVE potatos: Fries and mash are best plus baked. I HATE chips thou

77. best plant to grow on a windowsill?

-Any bright flower or ivy

78. coffee from a gas station or sushi from a grocery store?

-coffee, dont like sushi

79. which looks better, your school id photo or your driver’s license photo?

-AHHHH my license is soooooo bad. I had strips of red in my hair (got it when i was 15-16) and i didnt know they took your pic at your permit test. Its awful. School is def better and my senior photo pops. 

80. earth tones or jewel tones?

-Jewel

81. fireflies or lightning bugs?

-Fireflys (arent they the same?)

82. pc or console?

-Console 

83. writing or drawing?

-Both but im better at writing

84. podcasts or talk radio?

-Podcasts but I dont listen to alot. 

84. barbie or polly pocket?

-I played more with Littlest Pet Shop and My Little Pony lol (i have 400) prob Barbie thou

85. fairy tales or mythology?

-oooooooofffff cant decide

86. cookies or cupcakes?

-oooooff i love both but cupcakes

87. your greatest fear?

-wasting my life away.....or heights...certain bugs

88. your greatest wish?

-to be happy and have all my dreams (life, job, romance,etc) happen. Plus going to every Disney Park in the world.

89. who would you put before everyone else?

-Depends on the situation but sometimes you need to take care of yourself before others. If you arent doing good, how the hell you suppose to take care of others. 

90. luckiest mistake?

-hmmm idk being born

91. boxes or bags?

-depends on what im carrying but prob bags

92. lamps, overhead lights, sunlight or fairy lights?

-I love fairy lights

93. nicknames?

-any mispronunciation of my name, Dean, Big D (yes people call me this), Star, Sassafras and some more that yall dont get to know :) You can give me a nickname if ya want

94. favorite season?

-Spring and Summer

95. favorite app on your phone?

-Tumblr, Snapchat, Tsum Tsum 

96. desktop background?

- Its items from super mario and mario kart

97. how many phone numbers do you have memorized?

- Eight

98. favorite historical era?

-oof im a history buff but I do love Greek and Roman because I love mythology...Maybe even 1800s.

hi if you got to the end of this then I love you and for proof leave me a 🐰

[critbcn]

FM // CRIT! Ràdio #179 [2021-03-03]

FM // CRIT! Ràdio #179 [2021-03-03]

CRIT! Ràdio #179 [2021-03-03] The Umbrella Puzzles – Sinking Ground L.A. Exes – Temporary Goodbye Randolph’s Leap – BMH Hit Like A Girl – Boardwalk NewDad – Slowly Fritz – Pastel Cherym – Kisses On My Cards Steady Holiday – Sunny In The Making MØAA – Exist Pearls – Come See Me Autogramm – No Rules LuvBugs – Desaparecer Hollow Graves – Marriott Icareaboutu & Sipper – U Francis Lung – Bad Hair…

[eat-travel-live-repeat]

  Travel Bucket List – Most Colourful Destinations in the United States (U.S)

  The varied topography, climate ranges, and cultural hubs of the United States provide some of the most diverse and dynamic scenery on the planet. 

Ramp up the hues on your next vacation; pack your bags and visit some of the most colourful destinations in the US.

  [toc]

    Ocean Drive, Miami Beach

Hop a flight to South Florida, and the color palette’s guaranteed to impress. Along Miami’s Ocean Drive in South Beach, palm trees flutter in the coastal breeze, and pastel-painted Art Deco structures overlook the teal waters of the Atlantic. 

This culturally-rich stretch of street features nearly 1,000 historic buildings, plus boutique hotels, rooftop terraces, and a chic dining scene. Want to consume some colors when you visit South Beach? Nab a seat at an award-winning ethnic eatery or spend a Saturday morning strolling through the SOBE Farmers’ Market.

Don’t stop the scenery-spotting here, though; there’s more to see in sunny South Florida. Rent a car, drop off your non-essential gear at a Miami luggage storage site, and hit Highway 1 for the Keys.

Ocean Drive Miami | Unsplash | Hector Falcon

  Where to stay in Miami?

Nautilus by Arlo | Hilton Cabana Miami Beach | Loews Miami Beach Hotel

    Key West, Florida Keys

Another colorful Florida destination, Key West wows with paradise vibes, turquoise skies, and whimsical neighborhoods peppered with hue-riffic Caribbean-style cottages. This small Florida Keys community is planted in the southernmost section of the United States, with a laidback lifestyle and hopping bar scene.

To maximize your exposure to this vibrant Florida Keys vacation destination, set off on a sunset sailing excursion or scope out the city scenery with a bike tour of Old Town Key West.

  Where to stay in Key West?

Havana Cabana at Key West | Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina | The Laureate Key West

    River Walk, San Antonio

Colors come from countless sources on the stunning San Antonio River Walk. This urban South Texas oasis lines the San Antonio River, with waterfront walkways winding between the shore and sections of shops, restaurants, and cultural hotspots. 

Have lunch alfresco under the rainbow of Casa Rio’s umbrellas, appreciate the elaborate architecture of the Mediterranean-style Hotel Valencia Riverwalk, or enjoy views from the water on a San Antonio river cruise.

San Antonio River Walk | Flickr | Nan Palmero

  Where to stay in San Antonio?

Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk | Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk | San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter

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    Painted Desert, Arizona

In northeast Arizona, the surreal, rugged landscapes of the Painted Desert explode in rust-colored rock formations, purple-hued hills, and sparsely-spaced succulents. Spanning the land gap between the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest National Park, the Painted Desert is one of Earth’s most unique places. 

For the best views, hike the Painted Desert Rim Trail near Chambers, AZ, or take the Painted Desert Scenic Drive, which begins about 25 miles east of Holbrook. And, whatever you do during your colorific visit, don’t miss a Painted Desert sunset.

    Las Vegas, Nevada

While in pursuit of America’s most colorful destinations, consider a Vegas visit. The lights and sights of this world-class entertainment hub are picture-perfect. Las Vegas hits high on the colorful destination spectrum, from the vibrant, over-the-top themes of the hotel scene to the vast, dusty desert land just beyond the city limits. 

Spend a day touring The Strip (consider hailing an Uber or two while spot-hopping; these aren’t your typical city blocks), and as night falls, hit the glimmering streets of the downtown area for some of the best performances in Vegas.

  Where to stay in Las Vegas?

M Resort Spa & Casino | Cancun Resort Las Vegas By Diamond Resorts | Marriott’s Grand Chateau

    Painted Cove Trail, Mitchell, Oregon

For a tranquil sight-seeing stop, plan a trip to central Oregon. In this land of lava fields and lush, mountainous terrain, you’ll find the Painted Cove Trail near Mitchell. This unassuming path flies under the radar but offers some of the most picturesque views in the Pacific Northwest.

Just 30 miles north of Ochoco National Forest and a two-hour drive from Bend, Painted Cove Trail weaves through a section of the John Day Fossil Beds, and this place is totally worth the trip. 

This easy, family-friendly trail is less than a half-mile long and winds around sienna-colored clay mounds that flow into charcoal gravel beds. Views span for miles from various points along the boardwalk-paved trail, and benches are planted along the way.

Did you know that Crater National Park is the only National Park in Oregon. It also happens to be one of the Best National Parks in the USA for Adventure junkies and nature lovers. So don’t forget to add that to your Oregon Travel Itinerary as well.

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    Waimea Canyon State Park, Hawaii

For some Hawaiian hues, head for the Big Island. Waimea Canyon State Park spans over 1,800 acres of the Island of Hawaii’s northwestern region.  

Nature’s paintbrush put in some overtime here. Rust-colored canyon walls frame lush rainforest valleys, and rushing waters cascade over mountain ledges. Hiking at Waimea Canyon State Park is probably the best way to access the most breathtaking views; trails range from easy to extremely challenging.

When you plan on visiting Hawaii, do spend a week at least in Oahu – the third largest island in Hawaii, and this 7 Day Oahu – Hawaii Travel Itinerary, would prove to be quite helpful to you. So don’t forget to bookmark it and save it for the future!

  Where to stay in and around Waimea?

The Cabins at Kokee | Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu, Autograph Collection | Kiahuna Plantation Resort Kauai by Outrigger

    New England in the Fall

For the ultimate color-filled vacation, head for New England in the fall. As summer temps begin to dip, the region’s vast forestlands erupt in explosions of fiery hues. Leaf-peeping is a popular pastime throughout the area, though there are some specific spots to visit if you want to get the most of your New England fall foliage trip.

Fall in New England | Petr Kratochvil | Public Domain Pictures

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  Vermont

For top-notch leaf-viewing opportunities, take a road trip on one of Vermont’s longest stretches of road. Route 100 runs for over 200 miles, from the state’s northern border to its southern neighbor, Massachusetts. The highway winds along mountainsides and farm fields, and through some of Vermont’s most popular cities.

While scoping out the most beautiful foliage in Vermont, you might as well toss some bridges in, too. Montgomery, VT, is just south of the Canadian border, and this little city is surrounded by rivers. Snap some bridge pics, hike one of the roadside trails, and, with all these scenic distractions, remember to look at the leaves.

Foilage in Vermont | Flickr | Richard Ricciardi

  Where to stay in Vermont?

Trapp Family Lodge | The Pointe at Castle Hill Resort & Spa

    Maine

Move onto Maine for more spectacular views. This sprawling state’s array of climate conditions cultivates some of the most varied plant life (and leaf shows) in the region.

Aroostook State Park is an excellent place to launch your fall foliage tour in Maine. This northern park is one of the first places to burst into glowing golds and rich reds each season and offers some fantastic hiking trails for supreme color exposure.

For a little adventure during your Maine leaf-peeping trip, make a beeline for the Moxie Falls Trail in western Maine. Rustic boardwalks and rugged pathways weave through peaceful forests, eventually ending at the 100-foot-tall Moxie Falls. Pack a camera for this one…and some bug spray, too.

  Where to stay in Portland – Maine?

The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection | The Francis | Portland Harbor Hotel

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10 of the Most Colourful Destinations in the United States (U.S) Travel Bucket List - Most Colourful Destinations in the United States (U.S) The varied topography, climate ranges, and cultural hubs of the United States provide some of the most diverse and dynamic scenery on the planet. 

[lyfbychance-blog]

Namaskaram!!

Most of the time when I start dreaming of a new destination for the first time, I can point to several factors. Maybe it’s the setting of a book I’m reading. Maybe it’s getting a lot of press thanks to a news story. Maybe I have a blogger friend or two who visited recently and loved it. However Kerala came to me as a dream I had to accomplish since ages. So recently I had been to Kerala. Kerala is one of best honeymoon destination in India and I decided to explore God’s own Country with the best company…ME. Exploring south India had always been a dream for me. I started planning this trip from 1 month in advance, talked to too many people seeking suggestions what all places I should visit, preparing my itinerary (which got changed multiple times), studying weather, preparing budget and much more but all was waste I did nothing as planned…trust me unplanned trips are way better. My mallu friends gave me so many instructions what to do what not to do there and asked me to strictly follow those instructions like do not take help from anyone, approach descent and more educated people, do not roam around after 7, do not take lift, always be in touch like 24×7 and much more. Anyway I landed at 9:15 am, 1 hour late as my flight got delayed. I was hell sleepy as I couldn’t sleep last night because of nervousness and anxiety and I had to struggle for my luggage too. Finally I was out of airport after struggling for an hour or so, still thinking where to go. Called my friend couple of times for help and he sent few bus details too (which I failed to understand btw)…I had no idea what to do. Then I saw a bus and I ran to get into bus. It was just like the scene where kareena ran to catch the train and without even asking where it is going I hopped into bus but luckily I was on right bus. I approached conductor who happens to be a lady and she suggested me to go to Allappey as its 2 hour journey from Cochin. And that’s how my adventures trip began!

Alleppey:

Boat ride

Back waters

Alleppey is a city on the Laccadive Sea in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Things which are never to be missed out when you visit the city are briefly listed below.

The city happens to be very green and narrow hence the best way to gulp the nature is cycling. Go on a bicycle ride and explore the city by bringing your soul at peace. Nothing but a boat ride can take you on a next level of devotion. The greenish water will make you fall in love with it. The touch of the breeze over you will surely generate a positive state of mind and you may feel the Goosebumps again, especially during the sunset. To all the youngsters involved in drugs or any sort of addiction! Remember guys! ‘NATURE’ which is bestowed by the almighty is nasha!

Kerala is known for the culture that it has preserved for so long. It is the land of temples, house of churches and the place of first mosque. The list for religious vision is endless at this place but ‘Mullakkal Temple’ is one that shall never be missed upon. You will sink in the layer of spirituality the moment you step inside. It is a great combination of Indian culture and king era. The walls specially, covered with Diya holder and the beauty shall not be missed when it is lightened up. Best time to pay your visit at this temple is during a local festival as the beauty will be on its next lever for sure.

Oh the village!! Never to miss a walk at this place. This is something where you would want to quit all your comments and settle in one of these houses forever. From the boats used for transportation and fishing for their daily meals everything is just so mesmerizing. Once you are done will all of these things what can be a better place than beach to pen up whatever you have experienced and hold the waves and the nature beneath you. Sunrise will be the best time for giving a full stop to your beach visit.

Munnar:

New friends

Boating

Greenery all around

Top Station

View from Top station

After allappey my next destination was Munnar. You can take bus from Allappey itself for munnar…its 5-6 hour journey. Munnar is like a garden in heaven…full of greenery, total scenic beauty and much more. If you’re a hill station lover than try to spend more time in munnar…a lot to see. I spend my entire day to absorb the beauty of the place and I decide to hire an auto rather than taxi to enjoy my day. The day started with breakfast on banana leaves (south Indian style) and filter coffee which is very flavorsome. My journey started from city and it was supposed to end at Top station; which is border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu but we stopped at many places in between. First stop was Spice and Ayurveda plant estate…I met a guy named Faisal there who was basically from Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi, he went for studies in Kochi but he was so touched by the beauty of the place that he decided to stay there only and work as a Guide. He explained pros of plants and their multiple use in our day to day life. In that estate itself there was a waterfall (kallar waterfall) situated which was beautiful beyond my imagination…you can clearly listen to water moving. On the way to top station you will see plenty of places like echo point, lakes, flower garden, vegetable garden, photo point and lots and lots of tea estates but my favorite was Mathupetty dam… here you can get a chance to view hills from dam. The place was so mesmerizing…it was like mountains, river and clouds are meeting at some point. View was breath taking plus you can get brilliant pictures at this place, must go for boating and plenty of food items to eat. I made few friends there so it was interesting for other reasons as well. We went for boat riding….TATA’s have maintained the surrounding very clean and scenic…and it was more fun to enjoy with new friends. After so many stop overs, finally reached the top station in the afternoon. Beauty of this place cannot be explained in words. It’s a peak of munnar with speechless view. The view is just wow you…must visit place to capture scenic beauty. I was not able to cover so many laces due to shortage of time…but munnar is just full of places which will wow you and make you speechless.

Kochi:

Interior of church

Basilica church

Cherai Beach

Since it was the first time in South India…I really wanted to spend time in city as well. I started my day at early morning only to go to multiple places. City is full of holy places…so many churches and each and every church’s was full of beauty. Infrastructure was amazing and these buildings are add-ons to the beauty of city. Other than so many wonderful places…lulu mall happens to be a big attraction in Kochi. As I am from metro city I have no excitements of visiting a mall for obvious reasons. But that mall is so famous so I decided to pay my visit to the mall and it was totally worth it. In Kochi you can easily get uber to roam around the city and as it was very sunny day so I decided to ditch local transport. In Kochi few places are essential to visit like St. Francis church, Indo-Portuguese Museum, Maritime Museum (you will learn a lot from there), Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica Church (another favorite place)….this church is very fine and impressive place to visit. It is oldest church in country…building look ordinary from outside but once you will enter you will be surprised. Church itself narrate the story of Christ. All walls….even roof is covered with pastel painting which add lavishness in the beauty of church.  It is one of major attraction in Kochi. Another thing to do in Kochi is to take a ferry ride from Kochi to Vypin…it is very cheap and it is fun. I spent my sunset at Cherai beach with was very close to my hotel. Cherai beach is very clean and shallow which makes it so different from other beaches and I ended my day with having delicious sea food buffet. Having dinner at sea side at night with sound of waves was so pleasant and yummy food made it more satisfying. Chinese Fishing Nets is another thing to explore in Kochi…you can see local fisherman in action. They will show you how they operate and best time to visit the place is early morning.

Kerala is one destination which definitely needs your visit. I had wonderful time there and everyone you meet is beyond awesome. People are so helpful, very down to earth and views are brilliant….the place won’t let you feel you’re an outsider (except language issue). I tried to cover as many places I could but 5 days weren’t enough. Each and everything in Kerala will mesmerize you whether it’s the view, infrastructure, lifestyle, food or the culture….I am totally awestruck with the beauty of their culture. Kerala is full of positivity, calmness, total serenity and much more. So must visit God’s Own Country :)

So this was all about my trip to God’s own Country…..hope you liked it :)

Kerala-God’s own Country!! Namaskaram!! Most of the time when I start dreaming of a new destination for the first time, I can point to several factors. 

[smallfavorsboutique]

Skipper Sunny Pastels style dress and 3D purse set. Listed at my Ko-fi Shop.

Skipper Sunny Pastels inspired clothing

[smallfavorsboutique]

Blythe Sunny Pastels Bubblegum Pink style dress and 3D Purse.