#National Chopsticks Day

[daily-lego-sets]

LEGO Creator 3 in 1:

Downtown Noodle Shop

Set: 31131

2022

Pieces: 569

[rabbitcruiser]

National Chopsticks Day

Take part in an ancient tradition that has been around for thousands of years in the Asian culture by eating with and enjoying the unique experience of chopsticks.

National Chopsticks Day appears as a fun and fascinating reason to show appreciation for this little pair of utensils. So put down that fork, set aside that knife, and pick up these two little sticks that can usher in a whole new experience! 

History of National Chopsticks Day

Getting their start at least 3000 years ago or more, chopsticks originated in China and were first used as utensils in the process of cooking. With ancient roots, these convenient tools began to be used as a tool for individuals to eat noodles, rice, meat, vegetables and much more, probably around 400 BC. This was likely a time when resources became scarce and the food needed to be chopped into small bits to cook faster and save on fuel.

In the end, there was a need for some sort of tool to help with eating, and it was obviously a much-needed innovation because the tool began to spread. Chopsticks made their way from China into other Asian countries, like Korea, Japan, Vietnam and many others.

Originally made from bamboo, chopsticks have since been made from all sorts of traditional substances, including different types of wood, metal, ivory and ceramics. Of course, more recently, chopsticks have been made from plastics, resin, stainless steel and even titanium. In addition, chopsticks have been valued and appreciated for their beauty, particularly when they have been decorated with precious substances or painted with unique artwork.

By 1878, the disposable bamboo chopstick was designed by the Japanese, called “waribashi”. Many people don’t realize that the average person in China has typically used up to 200 sets of disposable chopsticks every year.

To minimize the use of disposable chopsticks and save the earth along the way, the Chinese government imposed a tax on chopsticks in April 2006. The tax of 5% was not only for those in China, but also spread from there into the places where the China chopstick makers export to, such as Japan or Korea.

Now, National Chopsticks Day is here to pay honor and respect to the longstanding, ancient tradition of using chopsticks as a cooking and eating utensil!

National Chopsticks Day Timeline

1700-1200 BC

Chinese people begin using chopsticks

Originally used in the cooking process, chopsticks function more like tongs in these early days.

400 AD

Other utensils are invented

Forks, spoons and knives begin common use as eating utensils.

500 AD

Chopsticks make their way to Japan

Making a stop in Korea first, chopsticks travel from China to Kyoto at the east end of the Silk Road.

1878

Disposable chopsticks gain use

In Japan, disposable bamboo chopsticks are created.

2006

China imposes a chopstick tax

To reduce wasting natural resources, China institutes a 5% tax on disposable chopsticks, which also had an impact on chopsticks exported to Japan.

How to Celebrate National Chopsticks Day

Take eating to the next level by enjoying National Chopsticks Day! Get excited about celebrating the day by implementing some of these special ideas:

Learn More About Using Chopsticks

While many Westerners are more used to using a fork and knife, one delightful activity for National Chopsticks Day might be to learn how to use chopsticks. For many people, it can require a bit of practice while the motor memory is retained.

Not only is learning how to use chopsticks an important cultural activity, it also could have other benefits. These benefits can include improving hand-eye coordination, teaching finger isolation and manipulation, strengthening the hand muscles, and improving fine motor skills. Some people even believe that using chopsticks can make the memory even better!

While considering chopsticks, consider some of this etiquette around the utensils: 

In Japan, it is rude to cross the chopsticks on the table or to stick the chopsticks vertically in a pile of rice.

In Taiwan, it’s poor etiquette to let chopsticks linger in the mouth or to bite on them.

The Chinese consider it to be poor form to spear the food with chopsticks or to tap the chopsticks on the bowl.

In Korea, it is rude to pick up chopsticks or other utensils before the elders at the table do.

Eat with Chopsticks

While chopsticks could certainly be tried with almost any kind of food (though perhaps a burger or a slice of pizza might be complicated), they are best when used to eat food that hails from Asia. Delicious food that is Japanese, Chinese, Korean or Vietnamese can all be appreciated when eaten with chopsticks.

Enjoy Some Fun Facts About Chopsticks

In honor and celebration of National Chopsticks Day, this is the time to increase that knowledge about these interesting little sticks. After learning some facts, go ahead and share some of them with friends or family members to raise awareness in honor of the day! Try out some of these fun facts and bits of trivia to get started:

Chopsticks are different in different countries. For instance, the chopsticks found in China are longer than those in other Asian countries, with wide tapered ends that make them slightly easier to use. Chopsticks in Korea have more of a flat shape, and those from Vietnam have an end that is more blunt.

Some people actually have an irrational fear of chopsticks! The name of this disorder is Consecotaleophobia and has been included in the field of psychiatry.

In the past, silver chopsticks were used by royal families in China to check for poison. Because certain poisons would cause the silver chopsticks to turn black, giving a forewarning of danger. Since then, silver chopsticks have been a sign of wealth, affluence and style.

Chopsticks have superstitions associated with them. As an intricate part of the Asian culture, some omens go along with the use of chopsticks. For instance, holding chopsticks completely upright is a bad omen. Also, dropping chopsticks is a sign of bad luck.

Purchase Some Fancy Chopsticks

One lovely way to celebrate National Chopsticks Day might be to make an investment in a new set (or several) of higher end chopsticks. Chopsticks can be made out of bamboo or other woods and then decorated in a variety of ways.

For instance, try out a set that is made from rosewood and then decorated with gold tips. Try some pairs made with lacquer that can then be personalized with the names of everyone in the family. Or, those who are very serious about celebrating the day might be interested in pure, solid silver chopsticks that are handcrafted and decorated with Chinese calligraphy. 

National Chopsticks Day FAQs

How do you use chopsticks?

Hold the chopsticks loosely at a slight angle from each other. The chopstick held by the thumb can stay stable while the other one is moved back and forth with the fingers.

What country did chopsticks come from?

Chopsticks likely originated in China around 1200 BC or even earlier.

Did chopsticks come before forks?

Yes. Forks and spoons were not invented until 400 AD.

Do chopsticks make you eat less?

People who eat with chopsticks may eat more slowly, which causes them to get fuller faster and eat less food.

Are chopsticks reusable?

Most quality chopsticks are made to be used, washed and used again for years, though some chopsticks are made of bamboo and are considered to be ‘disposable’.

Source

[subby-sab]

Today is 6th of February.

Today is International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, National Chopsticks Day, National Frozen Yogurt Day.

[hiraya-rawr]

lover from another nation ~ hcs .

characters !! all the genshin men i could think of rn...

note !! it's been a while since i've written hcs for a lot! aaaah just some thoughts i had today (i had a few culture shocks here and there when i met up with new friends hahahah)

~ m o n d s t a d t ~

grabbing zhongli by the hand to dance and sing in the middle of the square because mondstadters live for the festivities! he quickly learns to freestyle dance along with you, moving with the crowd and cheers and wine. (remember that Tangled scene? yes)

kaveh wasn't sure how to react the day you ordered hard liquor on your first date. sure, your freedom and love for a good drink is one of the things which made him fall for you but wow– are you really gonna down that many glasses on a date? what do you mean you're still sober?

ayato finds himself in love with the way you sing. it doesn't follow the rules of inazuman opera at all; it's much more freeing (much like how his house help sings as he does chores) and you'd tell him stories and the history of your homeland in the form of songs. no mondstadter could ever forget the songs they grew up listening to!

heizou being almost appalled by your rather... robust and reckless nature. you don't have any backup plans whenever a situation goes south, you simply hold his hand, smile, and say "we go where the wind blows!"

~ l i y u e ~

diluc having chopsticks as part of your dining utensils because sometimes, you're more comfortable eating with it (let's not forget often having rice on the table! he must learn the joys of garlic rice with his steak <3)

dainsleif stays by your side as you offer incense and fruits to your ancestors. he whispers quiet prayers, bows when you do, and helps you clean their altars. he finds solace in the familial piety of liyuens– it makes him wish he could honor his ancestors with the same kind of peace as you do.

kazuha getting tongue tied over the language being so similar to inazuman but also so different– why are some of the characters the same? why are the meanings different? there's a bit of miscommunication in the start, but you both find your own ways to understand each other when words fail.

we all know gorou has always wanted to climb the mountains of liyue and you made it possible! meeting him by the docks and touring him around your home nation, you made sure to pick hiking routes with the most scenic spots, even managing to tour him around the jade palace and the floating lone island.

~ i n a z u m a ~

kaeya has no idea how you sit on the floor while being comfortable. you've made him sit with you once while reading a book, after that, his bones ached for days! shaking every time he stood back up!

albedo met you in the irodori festival- he painted you for practice and spark between you started. the long distance was difficult at first, but his long letters always had a little drawing of you and you'd send back the scent of cherry blossoms. klee would also send you letters, asking you to come visit soon!

childe loves a new fighting style; like most sword users in inazuma, you followed the raiden shogun's teachings– swift, efficient, and at one with the sword. he loves how you fight and it's often how you end your dates!

cyno was almost confident that you were playing a prank the day you said you'll make him your specialty and you showed him a platter of raw seafood. it's "sashimi and ngiri" you say, and he waited for you to explain the pun of your joke. it wasn't a joke.

~ s u m e r u ~

thoma is quite used to mondstadters and inazumans, two very different cultures, then he meets you and your sumeru upbringing! you show him how to cook foods that can be eaten with hands, and your menu is often so colorful he can't help but admire it!

itto doesn't really understand the study culture of sumeru, but he totally supports whatever it is you're talking about and tries to add in comments (his comments don't exactly make sense though...)

scaramouche, in his "path of redemption and healing", unwillingly gets involved with you as you show him around the beautiful parts of sumeru! you argue that he needs a different, better outfit with a color scheme that matches his vision. he insists that the hat stays. you tell him he looks like an aranara.

~ s n e z h n a y a ~

al haitham was almost concerned the day you got a heatstroke after being in the desert for no more than a few minutes. snezhnaya has prepared you for harsh weather, but never the heat. soon enough your lover is carrying around heatstroke-first aid packs just for you.

bundling up tighnari's fluffy ears before setting foot in snezhnaya because you just know the cold would practically freeze them off. his tail also gets wrapped and bundled warm in the large coats you wear, protection from the harsh snow. he says he looks like a big lummox.

note !! alright, choose your favorite dynamic! i personally think mondstadters with liyue/inazuma would be interesting maybe because i want to force feed them the joys of rice...

// if i misinterpreted a culture then umm... just know it wasn't intentional and let's consider it a real thing in teyvats culture 🫣😎

commissions || general m.list

taglist !! @absolut-wildflower @boundedbyfate @sadlonelybagel @eissaaaa @ladycoleigh @nejibot @milkypompon @bloodreaper08 @irethepotato @x-zho @roriver @mich-cola @mxsomn @ackrylik @nicebonescomrade @starforecasts @stygianoir @yuminako @eccedentesiast-sapphic @nebulaera @nuttytani @klutzkat @stygianoir14 @shizunxie @bluriie @aestellia @abyislan08

[firelordsfirelady]

XIX. Food Fight

Author: @firelordsfirelady

Imagine: When Y/N—a princess of one of the Water Tribes—is told she’s leaving her tribe, she never expects that she’s to be betrothed to the Fire Lord’s son, nor was she prepared to be exiled the very day she arrived at the Fire Nation. With her life in the hands of her new fiancée, how will life change for the princess? 

Pairing: Zuko x F!Reader

Trigger warnings: arranged marriage, feelings of fear, banishment, mentions of burns/abuse, frustration, violence, betrayal, language

Word Count: 1924

Destined to be Yin and Yang 

I own no rights to Avatar the Last Airbender or any of the characters/story.  

Author’s Notes

The characters as all aged up so Zuko’s banishment happens when he’s 16 

Keep in mind I am bringing a unique world with inspiration from ATLA in their characters, some of the events that happen, bending, etc. Not many things may align or occur with what happened in the show. It’s intended that way, so I hope you enjoy it regardless.

See Y/N’s look this chapter here. 

Destined to be Yin and Yang Soundtrack (YouTube)

Several hours later I sat fussing with my hair as I finished the final twist in my hair. I smiled to myself as I took a final look in the small mirror in my room. Smoothing down the front of the red dress I wore, I felt the butterflies fluttering nervously about within my abdomen.

Should I wear my regular clothes? The anxious thought crossed my mind as I briefly looked at the three other outfits I had tried on. Deciding that I liked the way red looked on me, I left my room and headed towards the dining room’s closed double doors. I took a moment to tuck any stray hairs behind my ears before I opened the door to find Zuko sitting at the table. Two plates rested on each side of the table across from each other, and Zuko was sitting at the one facing towards the door. He stood up quickly to greet me as I smiled at the red tint to his cheeks and walked into the room. He wore the same long black robe he relaxed in with some comfortable clothes underneath.

“Y/N,” Zuko’s voice sounded a bit nervous as he spoke. “You look pretty tonight.” His eyes widened as I blushed from his words. “Not that you don’t look pretty all the time.” My heart leapt for joy in my chest as my cheeks burned from the compliment, and I smiled at the Firebender before I sheepishly replied to him.

“You don’t look to bad yourself.” I sent a wink his direction as I found some courage to add, “I like seeing you relaxed.” Zuko’s cheeks tinted pink before he smiled and motioned to the plate across from where he was sitting. 

“Care to join me for some dinner?” I nodded as I went and grabbed the plate from the side of the table and carried it to sit next to the slightly shocked Firbender’s spot at the table.

“Don’t look at me like that,” I said with a slight laugh. “I feel so far away sitting on the other side.” Sitting down on the bench, Zuko came and sat in his original spot at the table. Shortly after we sat down, the doors opened as Shisam and Zaijim walked in with two plates and a pitcher of water. They served us before bowing and walking out the room, closing the door behind them. Uncovering the dish, I found a spiced dish greeting my nostrils as I smiled to find that it was my favorite Fire Nation dish--extra spicy fire noodles with spicy garlic pan-seared Salmon.

“Is this okay?” Zuko’s voice was soft as he asked his question before he added in a low whisper, “It’s one of my favorite dishes back home.”

“Really? It’s one of your favorite dishes?” I asked in slight shock as I looked at the sheepish Firebender. “This is one of my favorite Fire Nation dishes too.” The smile on my lips was wide as it was Zuko’s turn to look at me with slight surprise before the surprise faded to a smile.

“I never knew that.” Zuko casually said as he started to eat his noodles with his chopsticks.

“You were too busy chasing the Avatar before, remember?” I asked with a light laugh before using my own chopsticks to start eating. Zuko’s cheeks had just returned to their normal caramel color, but my teasing had his cheeks tinting pink again. “I’m still torn in the decision of if it’s my favorite dish though.” I shrugged. “I still love the sea prawn dumpling soup my mom makes back home.” The Fire Nation’s prince looked at me with a raised eyebrow.

“Sea prawn dumpling soup?” He asked with curiosity clear in his voice. “I can’t say that I have had it before.” 

“Maybe I’ll make some for you one day.” I smiled at Zuko as I reached for my glass of water. “It’s been ages since I have had some. It won’t be as good as Mother’s though.” I let out an airy laugh before I took a sip of water as my cheeks heated slightly under the look Zuko gave me. 

“I’ll hold you up to that.” He said as he grabbed his glass of water. Zuko and I held a light conversation as we continued to eat our food. We shared small details about some of our favorite things from our childhoods and the things we missed most about our homes. I loved listening to Zuko as he talked about feeding the turtle ducks as a child, and I talked about how I used to ice skate as a kid on the frozen lake back home.

“I miss it sometimes.” I said with a sigh a little while later. “The simplicity of home.” Zuko grew quiet as he slightly frowned.

“I do too.” He said quietly as he swirled the liquid in his cup, but I reached a gentle hand out and grabbed his hand that didn’t hold the cup. Zuko turned his attention away from the cup to look at me as I softly smiled at the Firebender.

“As much as I miss it,” I started off quietly as I slowly leaned forward towards Zuko. “I can’t say that I don’t love this life I live with you.” Zuko’s wide eyes searched mine for a shred of deceit in my words, but he found nothing but honesty. “It’s funny--I used to dream about traveling the world when I was a little girl.” I chuckled at my naive self. “I soon realized that wouldn’t be possible.” Smiling as I looked at Zuko, I gently touched the outer edge of his scar. “Life has a funny way of proving me wrong.” I gently placed a kiss on Zuko’s lips before I gave him a genuine smile.

“Thank you for inviting me to dinner tonight.” Zuko’s cheeks were red as I leaned back and removed my hand from his face. 

“Shall we do this again tomorrow?” Zuko nervously asked in a soft voice, and I tried my best to bite back the big smile on my lips at how cute the Firebender was when he was nervous.

“Absolutely.” Zuko gave me a smile as I smiled at him then I stood up and gathered the dishes. Zuko tried to grab the dishes from me.

“I can handle this.” One of my eyebrows raised itself at his words.

“I thought it was improper of someone of such status to do the dishes?” I said in a teasing tone, and Zuko’s cheeks turned slightly crismon as he slightly tugged at the dishes in my hands. “Plus, I’m late making my cookies.”

“I can handle the dishes, so you can start your cookies.” Zuko’s eyebrow raised itself as he made his offer, and I laughed at his attempt to negotiate with me.

“Deal.” I said as I let go of the plates so Zuko could carry them. “You just want to know the secret recipe.” The teasing tone to my words must’ve sent his cheeks burning because the shade of red on his cheeks darkened.

We walked together to the kitchen and started on our tasks as we joked and carried on. Once Zuko finished the dishes, he came over and started helping me make the cookies. I had set down a cup of measured flour on the counter.

“Pour this into the bowl slowly--” My instructions were cut short by the flour dust cloud that attacked Zuko’s face as he dumped the cup of flour into the mixing bowl. The fine white powder on the Firebender’s shocked face made me grab my abdomen and double over in laughter. He grabbed a nearby towel and wiped his face from the white powder as I measured another cup of flour. I moved to slowly add the flour in, but my hand shook too violently and the other half of the flour fell into the bowl and caused a puff of flour to erupt in my face. A brief silence fell upon the kitchen before mine and Zuko’s laughter filled the air.

“It looked so fun when you did it,” I teased between fits of laughter. “I just had to do it too.” Zuko was still laughing as he handed me the same towel he used to wipe his face. I smiled mischievously as he kept laughing at me before I took a handful of flour and threw it at the laughing Firebender. His laughter ceased as the reality of the situation dawned on him. I smiled as I snuck another handful of flour behind him back and slowly backed away from the flour as Zuko’s eyes shifted to look at me mischievously. I let out a small yelp as I ducked the handful of powder the Prince grabbed and threw at me before he met another surprise blast of white powder. I couldn’t hold back the laughter that erupted from me at the annoyed look on Zuko’s face. The laughter didn’t stop as he tackled me to the ground and pinned my wrists beside my head.

“Oh? So it’s funny to do that huh?” Zuko teased as he looked at me with a smirk. “How funny is this then?” He quickly threw a handful of flour in my face, which stopped my laughter for a moment as I stared at the Firebender with wide eyes. The intense stare off lasted only a few moments before I started laughing again, and Zuko joined in as he let go of my wrists. As our laughter died down, Zuko averted his gaze with a blush as I gently smiled at him. I reached out to light touch his scar, which caused Zuko to slowly look at me. My eyes met Zuko’s intense golden orbs as I looked at him with a big smile. 

“Who knew life with you could be so much fun?” I whispered then wiggled my eyebrows at Zuko before the Firebender’s cheeks turned red and he got off of me to help me up from the floor. We washed our hands and I let Zuko clean the floors while I finished making the batter for my cookies. Zuko helped me finish baking the cookies, and he even accompanied me with delivering the cookies to the crew after we finished washing the dishes.

As we walked back with a plate of cookies for Iroh, I was almost startled by Zuko’s hand slipping into mine, but I didn’t let him see the rush of blood that came to my cheeks as his fingers interlaced with mine. Zuko pulled me to a soft stop outside of my door, and I turned to look at him with a raised eyebrow.

“I can finish taking the cookies to my uncle.” Zuko said with tinted cheeks. “Thank you for coming to dinner with me.” Smiling widely at Zuko, I leaned forward to whisper to him.

“Thank you for inviting me to dinner.” I winked at Zuko before I leaned back. “Are you sure that you want to drop off Iroh’s cookies? I can do that.” Zuko nodded his head. 

“You need to rest.” He said without meeting my eyes. “The Avatar won’t hide for long, and I’ll need you there with me.” His last words were barely a whisper as I felt my heart doing flips in my chest. I lightly kissed Zuko on the lips in response, and then kissed his cheek. 

“Shall you and I train tomorrow too?” I asked with a raised eyebrow, and Zuko smiled at me.

“Absolutely.”

Tag List @chevysstuffs @puttyly @ginger24880 @night-fall-moon @junieshohoho @0kauy @coolgirl458 @hypnoticbeing @angelruinz @preeyansha @playboygeniusphilanthropist @ssonniiu  @chi-ara @hagridshaircare @stell404 @kyo-kyo1 @herondale-lightworm @simonsbluee @nadlx33333 @nerdisthenewcool @jewelsrules @soggycrout0n @mymomsdisappointment @leeaintthere-blog @sanskritisays

[kaeyas-beloved]

Character: Childe

— he’s hopelessly in love with you <333

CWs: spoilers for Childe’s real name, gn!reader (no pronouns mentioned), not proofread!

a/n: snatching this format that I’ve seen around Tumblr because I like it and it fits here. Will I use it again? Not a clue!

hopelessly in love ajax who introduces you to his family relatively quickly and with little to no hesitation. childe feels with his whole being, love is no exception. so, when he can see a future with you, no matter what form that future may take, you meeting his family is the first step forward.

hopelessly in love ajax who’s all talk unless you make the first move. he can kiss you over and over and over again, teasing you along the way, but the moment you pull him forward and plant your lips on his face before he can is the same moment it’s all over for him.

hopelessly in love ajax who buys you gifts often but they all have sentimental value to them. he’ll but you flowers, handing them to you with the confession that he bought them because his love for you was too much to keep in his heart and no amount of words would describe what he was feeling. childe would also purchase your preferred jewelry - watch, ring, necklace, earrings, a bracelet, whatever you liked, as long as you promised to wear it whenever you went out. “so you’ll always have me with you!”

hopelessly in love ajax who refuses to let go of you once he has you in his arms. he acts like he might perish if he loses the warmth and love you radiate in your embrace! it’s not that he hasn’t received a hug in years, he gets plenty when he visits home, but there’s just something different in your hugs and cuddles that regular holds don’t have. a certain feeling they lack.

hopelessly in love ajax who grabs your wrist if you’re ever helping him take off his scarf or fatui mask, allowing his cheek to rest in your palm. you’ll find he nuzzles into it much like a cat would, but unlike a cat looking for warmth or to scratch an itch, ajax does it because your touch is one of the few things that soothes him after a long day, his mind instantly at ease.

hopelessly in love ajax who tries to impress you in any way he can. it starts simple enough, trying to flash his strength on the battle field and such, but the more he falls for you the more creative he gets. balancing a spoon on his nose, his (slowly improving) chopstick skills, leaping over decent sized creeks, anything to rouse some kind of pleasant response from you.

hopelessly in love ajax who flips between drowning you in whatever fancy dates his money can buy and the more simple, quieter date ideas. it’s never bad to change things up, he reasons, childe’s favourite being to take you out on walks through the nation’s scenery. whether it’s the snow dipped forests in snezhnaya, the golden mountains of liyue or even the green fields of mondstadt, as long as ajax is around, he’ll make sure you enjoy your time with him. (he certainly will be, because when dates like this happen is when he truly gets to connect with you!)

hopelessly in love ajax who’ll sometimes just stare at you. could be while you’re cuddling or sat at the table for a meal, his pretty blue eyes are on you, taking in all that you are. he’ll think how gorgeous you look, how luck he is someone like you loves someone like him, the darker sides of him and all. he thinks about how it’s now his mission to spoil and love you for the rest of his life, because anything less is a crime punishable by life behind bars.

Tag list: @spoopy-fish-writes // @that-enby-alien // @xenuuu // @mariposa666haruka // @quackquackmfs // @saishin-michiyoshi // @ajaxstar // @genshin-impact-writings // @ventisweetheart // @lordbugs // @lemontum // @akiria12167 // @ari-the-wr1ter // @dontmindmebeing // @xiaos-wife // @irethepotato // @milkwithspiceyicecubes // @stygianoir // @stage-lucida

. . .

Wanna be tagged in future works? Consider filling out this form! And if you want to be removed just DM or send an ask into my inbox!

[sssammich]

collateral ch7

hello here's a quick update

chapter 7 on ao3

samfic: collateral is the main tag for all the other tumblr parts

ok thx bye

---

Lena and Jack returned from their honeymoon a few days ago. She didn’t want to know this, but she was the maid of honor, so of course she knew. Yet as soon as the newlyweds landed back in National City, Kara had a text waiting from her best friend requesting a much-needed catch up. 

She wanted to say no, the month-long distance had become somewhat of a healing balm for her heart. It really did help that Lena was out of sight for Kara to keep her out of mind. It wasn’t foolproof, of course, but she appreciated the reprieve. It was one thing to pine after her best friend, but now that Lena was married, she’d never felt more pathetic. Perhaps she was more pathetic for carrying a torch for her best friend after so many years, but Kara found that she couldn’t let go. 

The truth of the matter was that she just couldn’t leave Lena. Lena could leave her, and she would allow it. Welcomed it, even. But she simply couldn’t be the one to step away first.

So here she was, waiting in front of their favorite Chinese restaurant, their agreed upon dinner destination for the evening. She scanned the passing crowds of pedestrians down the riverwalk, wondering if any of them knew how she felt. If they, too, had somehow wrangled their heart in a mess of loving the wrong person. 

When Lena came into view, Kara instantly stopped her pacing, clammy hands set on her waist so she stopped fiddling. 

Kara opened her arms and Lena jumped into them for a fierce hug, squeezing her best friend tightly in her arms, basking in the weight of Lena surrounding her. She was only human, after all. 

“I really thought you’d look like a lobster by now,” Kara teased as they pulled apart. 

“Do you honestly think I would go out into the sun willingly? You know I would never subjugate my Irish complexion to the sun like that.” 

Kara shook her head just as she pulled the door open for the both of them, exaggerating her bow and eliciting a giggle from Lena. They were seated quickly, 

“So what have you been up to?” Lena asked, placing her napkin on her lap. Kara opened her mouth to answer, flashes of her days sitting alone came to mind only to be superseded by her trysts with Andrea. She shut her mouth, lips forming into a thin line. 

“You know, stuff.” 

Lena’s brow quirked upward, and Kara knew there was a probing question at the tip of the other woman’s tongue. 

“I find that hard to believe.” 

She shook her head. “It’s just much of the same ol’, same ol’. Not really worth talking about my boring life. Not when you just got back from your trip.” 

Moss green eyes narrowed slightly, studying her, but Kara put up her best smile. 

“It was lovely,” Lena fawned eventually, seemingly willing to play along, recounting stories about their various destinations dotting southern Europe and Northern Africa. They fell into easy conversation after that just as Kara fell into her role. The teasing and the joking and the questions came out smoothly enough, so to Kara, that too was enough. 

She was just about to dig into a potsticker when her phone buzzed on the table. A message popped up with a message from Andrea. 

Do you have dinner plans? 

She frowned before quickly picking up and thumbing back a response. 

Yeah. Sorry

No apologies necessary. Talk soon.

“Sorry about that,” she mumbled, accompanying it with an equally apologetic grin, before turning her phone face down and resuming how she spooned some more rice on her plate. 

“Everything alright?” Lena asks, chopsticks held up in mid-air.

“Yeah, yeah. Andrea just wanted to know if I had dinner plans, which—” she paused with a slight shrug and a huffed laugh, eyeing their table. “Obviously, I already do.” 

Lena hummed and offered her a nod. Then, coolly, she asked, “Is that anything?” 

“Is what anything?” 

Lena only rolled her eyes, resting her chin on the heel of her palm. “You and Andrea. You two were awfully cozy at the wedding. Fast friends and all.” 

She should probably deny everything now, nip whatever ideas Lena might have about her and Andrea in the bud. But something niggled in the back of her mind with the way Lena watched her as she waited for a response. 

“Nah.” She shook her head, taking a sip of her water, mouth suddenly parched. “I mean, I don’t think so.” 

“You don’t know?” 

“We just hang out sometimes.” She did not elaborate that they have only mostly hung out in each other's bed or couch. A few times on Andrea’s kitchen counter and once on her living room floor.

“That’s—honestly, I’m a little surprised.” 

Her brows knitted together. “What do you mean?” 

Lena shrugged. “Just didn’t think you two would get along so easily. Andrea can be prickly, I suppose. And you’re…light.”  

“Light,” she echoed. 

Lena laughed a little to herself. “I don’t mean anything by it, darling. I’m just saying that you’re easygoing and bright and she’s a bit of a brooder, that’s all.” 

That was a bit of a surprise to Kara, if she was being honest. Perhaps it was due to the fact that she didn’t see this brooding Andrea on their way to a bed. Or when they spent evenings without sex on the table, the conversations remained surface level, safe. 

It reminded Kara that how either of them knew Andrea were not the same at all. 

“Well, we just hang out,” she reaffirmed. 

“That’s good.” Lena stuffed a potsticker in her mouth and chewed carefully, slowly, and every second pricked Kara’s brain. “You know you can be with whomever you want, darling. You know I’ll support you.”

“Even if I ended up with Andrea?” she asked, curiosity getting the best of her.

Lena tipped her head to the side, sitting back in her chair before clearing her throat. “Of course. However, I’m well within my rights as your best friend to give her the shovel talk if such a thing arises.” 

Kara huffed out a snort and shook her head. “Shouldn’t you also give me the shovel talk? She’s your friend, too.”

It was then that Lena pushed herself up and took another bite of her food before settling her chopsticks on the side of her plate. She met Kara’s eyes. “Yeah, maybe. But she’s not my favorite.” 

Lena's smile was radiant and playful and everything she wanted.

Kara wished she hadn’t said a thing.

—

After dinner, Kara and Lena parted ways when Kara declined Lena’s offer to drive her back to her apartment and instead opted to walk to the train station and go home that way. 

“Are you sure?” Lena asked. “You know it’s no trouble. I’m happy to do it.” 

Kara's phone buzzed in her hand and interrupted her thoughts. She glanced down to try and see who it was, surprised to find Andrea texting her. 

Andrea: Oh my god are you at dinner with her right now? 

“Um, it’s nice out,” she said finally, dragging her eyes away from her phone screen to the expectant eyes of her best friend. “The walk would be nice, and I need to digest.” 

Lena regarded her for a second before pulling back and nodding, situating herself in the driver’s seat. “Alright. Text me when you get home?” 

“You, too.” 

Kara stepped back from the driver’s side window, shoving her fists in the pockets of her jacket and flashing Lena her best smile. She then took a hand out and waved goodbye as Lena drove away from the curb just to stop at the nearby traffic intersection. Kara refused to move from her spot, but otherwise answered the phone when it buzzed in her pocket. 

“Hello,” she said, not bothering to look at the caller ID somehow already knowing who it was. 

Sure enough, the dulcet tone of Andrea’s voice came through the phone. “Is she still there? Please tell me she is.” 

She sighed deeply before turning on her heel and walking towards the direction of the station. “You’re literally the worst. And no, she’s not. She just left.” 

“You didn’t go with her?” 

“You’re so annoying.” 

“You have a funny way of expressing your appreciation for my company.” 

Perhaps she should have hung up then and there. For whatever friendship she and Andrea may have forged since the wedding, there was something unnerving about Andrea’s relentless pursuit of antagonizing Kara at every turn. 

Still, the thought of being alone tonight after seeing Lena for the first time felt worse than entertaining Andrea’s presence. So she swallowed her pride. 

“I can express my appreciation at my apartment, if you’re free later.” 

Silence draped over their phone call and Kara waited, wondering what the other woman was thinking. 

“I’ll be by around ten, querida.” 

—

Kara opened her door to Andrea wearing jeans and a blue sleeveless blouse, emphasizing the blue in her eyes. For someone who was meeting Kara at ten o’clock at night, she looked much more put together than Kara who stood in her sweats and t-shirt. 

“You look like a frat boy.” 

She stepped aside, a frown on her face. “Uh, thanks?”

Andrea crossed the threshold and passed her by, placing her purse on the couch and glancing around Kara’s apartment. 

“That wasn’t a compliment.” 

Kara shook her head and knew that if she could put up with Andrea’s random judgment comments, she could do anything. She handed Andrea a glance of red wine after they made their way to her kitchen island.

“Didn't really take you for a booty call, Pulitzer." Andrea took a sip of her drink, twisting her glass by the stem.

She scrunched her face.

"Relax," Andrea said, walking towards her, raising a hand to catch Kara's chin between her index finger and thumb. "I need you loose and limber."

"You're such a bitch."

"Ooh, dirty talk."

She rolled her eyes, but there was now a reluctant smile on her face.

"There she is," Andrea smirked with satisfaction. "You done pouting like a baby?"

Kara huffed. "I wasn't pouting like a baby. I was just tired."

“Mm. Pining after a married woman does that to you,” Andrea said with a shrug. “Or so I've heard.” 

“I wasn't pining! Besides, I thought you were gonna help me out."

The other woman rolled her eyes, leaning against the kitchen island and folding one arm under the other so she could hold her glass up. "Alright, you have a minute to talk about it."

"Not really much to talk about. She’s-they're back from their honeymoon, of course had the time of their life probably. I was kinda dreading seeing her, but it turned out better than I thought. I was really hoping that all this time she was gone would've helped, but just seeing her again—"

"Not as strong as you thought, huh?"

Her jaw had dropped, but the pointed look Andrea threw her way had her indignation deflate. "No, guess not."

Silence sat between them, Andrea watching her while Kara stared off into space. Then Andrea downed the rest of her wine and placed the glass back on the counter.

"Alright, minute's up."

Kara's jaw dropped again, shock plastered on her face. Then she shook her head because if nothing else, she knew what she was getting with Andrea. "You are kind of terrible, you know that?"

“Say less. Please.” Andrea put a hand up. Kara effectively shut up. When Andrea pointed towards her bedroom she only nodded and followed quietly after as Andrea made herself at home. 

“Should we set some boundaries?” she asked, situating herself by her bedroom dresser. 

Andrea scoffed and turned at her incredulously. “What is this, a romcom?” 

“No? But we're not dating and it's just sex.” 

Sitting on the edge of Kara’s bed, Andrea leaned down and carefully tugged her heels off of her feet to reveal red polished toenails. “Those already sound like boundaries to me.”

“Can you stop joking for a second?” 

"That's rich, coming from the one instating boundaries about hooking up after we've already been hooking up for like a month because the object of your affections returned from her honeymoon." She bristled at the comment, the tips of her ears blooming red, but didn't say anything. The other woman leaned further back slightly on one arm as she studied Kara. “Has it ever occurred to you that whatever this exchange is has less to do with your broken heart and more to do with how thoroughly I want to be fucked?”

When Kara didn’t immediately say anything, Andrea only pulled her blouse off to reveal smooth soft skin and a matching blue silk bra. Kara simply gaped at her before she was able to reel herself back from gawking. 

Andrea just laughed as she leaned further down on her elbows, showing off her body. “Good. That's the correct response. Now, come on, I want to come at least three times tonight for my troubles.”

Kara shook her head before she walked towards Andrea, her legs brushing up against Andrea’s now bare feet. She then pulled her shirt off and revealed her own naked body, smirking all the while when Andrea’s eyes drank her in, Kara’s ego.  

“That’s more like it.” 

“Shut up,” she said without much bite before crawling over Andrea and meeting their lips together. This was the transaction. She put up with Andrea's mouth and, in turn, she gave back just as good with hers. Enough for three. At least.

It was not a smart or healthy coping mechanism to punctuate the time she spent with Lena by getting in bed with Andrea. Yet she couldn’t help herself because at least Andrea made her forget. At least she was able to open her eyes to blue-green eyes that looked nothing like that of her best friend’s and it gave her a little bit of hope. 

More than anything, she needed that little bit of hope if she had any chance of surviving this heartbreak. 

—

It was a little after midnight when they finished, easily reaching and surpassing Andrea's demands. Kara slouched against her headboard just as Andrea threw the covers back and began searching for her clothes. Kara's eyes narrowed on all the spots and bruises she'd marked on Andrea's chest and stomach and inner thighs. An odd sense of pride overcame her at the satisfaction she heartily gave the other woman, only to be brought back down with the burning shame that she wished it was Lena parading around her room with all of her marks.

Fully clothed, Andrea didn't look like she'd just been fucked well and thoroughly, save perhaps for the tousled way her hair has been thrown in a messy bun. Kara stayed on her side of the bed and simply watched until Andrea placed her foot in her heels and headed towards her.

"Heading out?" she asked needlessly. Andrea responded by sitting on the edge of the bed.

"Mmhmm. I have a couple of early meetings in the office."

She nodded, uncertain on how to proceed next.

"Listen, I'll text you next when I'm free."

She nodded again.

"In the meantime, do me a favor and don't text Lena this week."

She opened her mouth to protest, but Andrea placed her hand on Kara's mouth.

"If she texts you, text her back—don't be an asshole. But don't text her first. Or call, for that matter."

"What?" she asked, after Andrea brought her hand back down.

"Set some boundaries."

She pushed herself up, the sheet covering her chest falling to her lap. "She's my best friend, I can't just—I can't just ignore her!"

"Is that what I said?"

"She'll know something's up," she reasoned, though her voice was weak.

"Then don't let her find out. You've spent god knows how long hiding your feelings from her, what's another one?"

Kara's body slumped back down against the headboard, her eyes focused on some blur behind Andrea's shoulder.

"You wanted my help, this is it. Take it or leave it."

"Is this my only option?"

Andrea let out a dry laugh, stretching her neck. "Of course not. You can always come clean and see what happens with that or quit her cold turkey and fuck off to a different part of the globe."

She sighed and shut her eyes, knew that Andrea was right. When she opened her eyes, Andrea was staring right into her.

"Why do all of those options suck?" Her voice was hoarse with the threat of tears lodged in her throat.

In a rare moment of softness, Andrea reached out to unfurl one of Kara's fists and caressed her palm. "Because she's not yours, querida."

The words hit her like a bullet to the head, a sobering shock to her system, each of Andrea's words wreaking havoc inside of her.

Andrea wordlessly leaned over and kissed her on the cheek before walking out of her bedroom. Kara's ears strained to listen to the sound of Andrea's heels, each step assured and confident, before she heard the turn of her front door opening and closing with a thud.

Only when she was truly alone did she cover her eyes and allowed the tears to spill.

[capacle]

20 Brazilian TTRPGs I wish also existed in English

Today I offer you:

20 Brazilian TTRPGs I wish also existed in English (because I want the world to know about them)

Buckle up, because you won't BELIEVE the diversity of our indie scene.

[presented in no particular order, and only one per author]

1. Meu Brinquedo Preferido ('My favorite toy'), by Eduardo Caetano

A metaphor about a child's growing process by deconstructing their fears through playful situations.

2. SeanchaS, by Jorge Valpaços and Jefferson Neves

A game about myths, construction of identity and narrative around bonfires, about the time of ancient stories and the present time.

3. Gatunos, by Tiago Junges

A GMless/Solo game in which you play as cat thieves and mercenaries doing the dirty work of the five big factions that run the city.

4. Nômades (Nomads), by Marcelo Collar

A card-based RPG in which you play as beings who have the ability to find and pass through the cracks in the veil that separates the universes.

5. Infaernum, by Caio Romero

Create your own apocalypse while playing the game, and interpret characters who experience the last days of all things.

6. Áureos, Os Dançarinos da Lua ('The Moon Dancers'), by Rey Ooze

A game of fight and freedom where dice play capoeira. You play as an 'Áureo', a former slave who, in a fantastic colonial Brazil, receives the blessings of his Orisha to free his people from slavery.

7. Veridiana, by Alan Silva

You play as creatures that live in a large tree, embarking on a deeply sentimental journey in search of a cure.

8. Karyu Densetsu, by Thiago Rosa and Nina Bichara

A game inspired by action anime and manga, with tactical combat, philosophical conversation, and passionate ideals.

9. Imperia, by Jonny Garcia

A game of politics and intrigue in a medieval court, inspired by Game of Thrones. Create a kingdom collaboratively and assume the role of the most influential people in it.

10. Goddess save the Queen, by Carol Neves and Julio Matos

A pulp adventure game in which you play as secret agents of the British Crown during the interwar period, with their own agenda connected in some way with their home nation.

11. Abismo Infinito ('Infinite Abyss'), by John Bogéa

A narrative game of psychological horror in which the protagonists are astronauts, far away in space, involved in a web of lucid nightmares and manifestations of their own fears.

12. Mojubá, by Lucas Conti and Lucas Sampaio

An Afrofuturistic urban fantasy game inspired by Yoruba and Afro-Brazilian mythologies. Play as a person with fantastic powers who descends from the Orixás, fights evil spirits, and occasionally gets into a rap battle.

13. Chopstick, by Igor Moreno

A game inspired by action movies of oriental martial arts, gang fights and crime, with a twist on Fate Accelerated.

14. Contos do Galeão ('Tales of the Galleon'), by Encho Chagas

Create together the legend of a vessel that would have existed during the Golden Age of Piracy. Players will create the ship, its pirates, as well as its enemies, challenges, and rewards.

15. O Cordel do Reino do Sol Encantado ('The Cordel of the Kingdom of the Enchanted Sun'), by Pedro Borges

A narrative game set in the northeastern 'cangaço' region at the beginning of the 20th century.

16. Através das Trevas ('Through the Darkness'), by Ramon Mineiro

A post-apocalyptic fantasy game inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, The Witcher and Diablo.

17. Nihilo, by Andre Osna and Gustavo Rolanski

A world very much like our own—yet bigger, deeper, and stranger. Secret banks are run by Urban Dragons, Infernal mafias terrorize slums, interdimensional portals open in the basements of abandoned pizzerias.

18. Caçada ao Colosso ('Hunt for the Colossus'), by Jairo Borges Filho

Reenact stories such as Siegfried and the dragon Fafnir, the Greek Odyssey or legends centered on the opposition of two primary forces of humanity.

19. Perdidos ('Lost'), by Marcelo Paschoalin

Inspired by Bloodborne and Dark Souls, a world in ruins, fragmented to the point where only memories remain. You'll find relics of yesteryear, monstrous beasts, beings that have forgotten their purpose, and devious paths to tread.

20. Hitodama - A jornada das almas ('The Journey of the Souls'), by Alexsander Araujo

You are Shinigamis: creatures half divinity, half Yokai, who must carry out missions through different worlds, fighting formidable enemies and saving lost souls.

[thesparklingwriter]

taking fate into one's own hands

04—acquaintance

Word count: 1.3k

navi | taglist | masterlist

You look at him carefully. Perhaps this whole act he’s putting on is an attempt to be more personable. But it’s in your best interests to, at the very least, get along with the man you’ve been promised to. When it comes to loveless marriages to bind nations, divorce isn’t an option. There’s no going back. 

“Alright, I’ll eat dinner with you.” You say quietly, and the sides of Morax’s lips quirk upwards. You’re convinced for a second that you made it up somehow, for even when he’d spoken to you as a dignitary, he hadn’t smiled once.

“I hope your room is to your liking,” He says, as you follow behind him. “If there’s anything that it is lacking, please do let me or one of the help know.”

You glance at him, convinced that he can’t be in earnest. He’d been so stoic when you first met him, and even once he’d come clean in regards to his identity, his emotions towards you had seemed to be nothing more than detached amusement.

“Everything is alright, thank you.” you say, bowing your head in gratitude to the man who places your food on your table. You hadn’t considered the change in cuisine and you steel your expression as well as you can, in order to not show your hesitation to eat the unfamiliar food. The butler pours you each a drink, a glistening pale wine, and bows as he excuses himself quietly. Besides your plate, there are golden chopsticks, and then a fork by its side, its dark silver tone standing out against the rest of the tableware. Is it some kind of test?

You glance worriedly between the two, as Morax’s unruffled gaze settles on you. 

“You seem troubled. If I may, might I request that you speak freely?”

You glance down at the cutlery again and back up at him, shaking your head softly. 

“Nothing troubles me.” you whisper, picking up the two chopsticks as confidently as you can, arranging them in your hands as subtly as you can. You haven’t seen anyone eat with chopsticks for a long time, and suddenly realise you should have waited for him to start so you could copy his technique.

You attempt to pretend to take a sip of your drink or look at the spices on the table to delay your eating, but Morax simply watches you with an even gaze as you quietly panic.

“Is the food not to your taste?” he asks you, finally looking away from you to pick up a fork. “I find that sometimes chopsticks make eating take longer than necessary. I used your arrival as a reason to justify getting some new cutlery.”

You blink at him. “Pardon me if I speak out of turn, but I had always believed you were a firm believer in traditions.” you refuse to relinquish your chopsticks, too embarrassed to admit that using them was a front to try and impress him. You hadn't realised you were acting in a way that might win his favour—and the thought of it surprises you.

Morax’s eyebrows quirk slightly at your implied question, carefully trying to craft an answer that wouldn’t make you question your presence in the palace too much. Perhaps the reaction you’ve had towards him so far is out of fear that you’re not Liyuean enough from him and his people. It wouldn’t be an absurd thought, but if the situation in your home nation remains as rocky as it is now, he wouldn’t want you to return. He certainly want to be the reason you go back, either.

“Ah,” he says quietly, chewing his food. “That is a common misconception. Perhaps when it comes to certain meetings and negotiations, it is true that I remain true to the conditions that have always been stipulated by ancient Liyuean law. However, I myself, think there isn’t much to be learned by holding steadfastly onto tradition in day to day life.”

You gape at him. “So I’m not to be hated by every member of Liyue for not hailing from here?”

Morax sighs. “I cannot speak for my people. I sometimes find they can be stubborn and they often do not like change.”

“You are not filling me with confidence.” You reply drily. Morax fixes you with an even stare, wanting to make sure you listen to his next words.

“I do not seek to deceive you.” he replies evenly. “As of right now, our arrangement is unofficial. Thus you have every right to choose how you wish to proceed. If you cannot bear to stay here with me for a moment longer, you may go home at any point.”

“But what would come of my kingdom, or of me?”

“That would be subject to negotiation. But in situations like that, Liyuean law isn’t particularly favourable for foreigners.”

The word foreigner hits you in your chest. Of course, you didn’t expect to be treated as if you were from here, but to be categorised as something else entirely? It stings, regardless of how you feel about the situation with Morax.

“Your food,” he prompts quietly. Even though you’re almost certain that he isn't going to smite you for using the fork instead of the chopsticks, you refuse to put them down, instead choosing to use them with varying degrees of success.

He watches you carefully, before silently switching to his own chopsticks, quietly pleased with the way you snatch looks at him to copy his form. Slowly, but surely, he’s beginning to understand the way your mind works.

“Have you any interest in looking around Liyue? I’m sure a tour could be organised, if that’s what you wish.” he says to you, once you’ve finished. The food is good, almost as good as the food was at home before things began to go south. 

You want to say no, and to stay within the confines of your new room for as long as you can manage, but the lack of clothing is beginning to worry you. When you don’t immediately reply, Morax tries again.

“Have you everything you need?” He says. “If you aren’t interested in looking around the harbour’s stalls as of now, you can always request what you need from the help, and I’m sure they’d be happy to oblige. The choice is yours.”

You take a bite of your food, and try not to cringe at the sudden spice you taste, trying to calmly take a sip of your wine. 

“Let me finish my dinner before I make that decision,” you say quietly, and Morax simply nods, his eyes narrowing at you slightly. You don’t notice, almost entirely focused on trying to finish the rest of your food without falling apart.

Compared to where you come from, Liyue is loud. Even when you’re deep in the mountains as you are now, the birds and crickets and bugs are louder than they ever were at home, and it makes for a somewhat settling feeling.

“Whilst we’re on the topic of shopping,” You say quietly, ashamed in advance of the words you’re about to say. “It’s not a secret that my nation wasn’t the most prosperous, my existence here is evidence of that—”

“You are here as a guest. Nothing is expected of you in a monetary or emotional aspect unless you are able and willing to provide. Do not worry about things that are unnecessary.”

Your naivety manifests itself in the raucous beating of your chest in response to his words, and you find yourself utterly embarrassed by how easily swayed you are by a basic display of human decency and respected boundaries.

“Alright,” you say quietly. His words have removed him from the centre of your decision and it’s only yourself to consider now. But perhaps that makes the decision harder.

(didn't have enough character left to write what reader says like i usually do sorry lol)

notes: i'm afraid that doing the polls like this will nerf this series even more but its less work for me so :3

i like to pretend that i don't really care about notes and stuff on my posts but for this series specifically the lack of engagement is gagging me lol i've tried so much to get it more out there but ahhh

taglist: @ainescribe @tartigglez

[zweetpea]

Eternity or Stasis part 2 of 2

…

“WOAH WOAH WOAH!! Language! Hehe, Steve… anyway. Previously on… whatever the hell this is!”

“Who are they talking to?” Aether asks

“I, Gen, got shot and ended up here! Then the Raiden Shogun’s army kidnapped me and brought me here!” You wrap your arm around Ei’s shoulders.

“Please stay away from me.”

“Wow! Okay, I see how it is.” You unwrap your arm from around her shoulder. “I thought you were Bae, turns out you’re just Fam. Jk I respect your boundaries.”

Lumine comes up to you. “Gen!” She smacks you. “Pull it together!” She shakes you by your collar.

“Listen listen listen Linda! I appreciate your help mkay, I really do, but you need to take a step back.”

“What is wrong with you?” Aether asks.

“I’m a little meshed up.” You smile.

“We can tell.” Lumine rolls her eyes.

“So uh, what did you guys say your names were? Sorry I’m kinda bad with names.” You ask.

“My name is Sky and this is my sister Light.” Aether smiles and waves.

“…hi.” She rolls her eyes.

“So… good job warding off Dvalin and Osial but I have the Raiden Shogun covered. The talk no jutsu worked. I was just like, you need to fix your attitude and outlook on life and apparently that worked.”

“Well of course. You are the one Celestia fears. There is no doubt in my mind that you are wise.”

“Oh stop Ei! You’re making me blush.” You giggle. “Anyway please let us out. Then take over your puppet and we’ll get to work on fixing your nation.”

“Alright.” Ei opens the rift and the three of you exit. “Everyone! This is the Adored one! The one Celestia fears! Centuries ago the Archons held a meeting in Celestia and we were informed of a prophecy of someone who would take down Celestia and liberate Teyvat! This is that person.” Ei shouted. “Go on. Tell them about how we’re going to fix Inazuma.”

“Me?! Oh uh. Hi everyone! My name is Gen, with a G. I’m gender fluid. So we’re going to be giving back all of the Visions and pardoning everyone on Watatsumi Island.”

After about an hour of diplomatic work you were finally able to walk around the city with the twins and Paimon.

“It’s nice to meet you! Paimon is Paimon. These are the Stardust travelers.”

“It’s nice to meet you Paimon! You are just adorable!”

“Aww. Thank you. Ehehehe!”

“So where do we want to go?” You asked.

“How about we meet up with Ayaka and Thoma?” Aether suggests.

“Sure.” You smile.

You four make your way down to the Yae Publishing House. There stood Thoma, Ayaka, and Ayato actually.

“Thoma! Ayaka! And… who is this?” Paimon cheers.

“Hello travelers! This is my older brother Ayato.”

‘Obilf’ you think.

“And who is this?” He smiled towards you.

“You can call me whatever you like handsome.” You smirk.

“Well how about Gen then.”

“Okay.” You smile sadly. ‘I’m this close to boning Jeht’s dad. I was promise debauchery!’ Grr. Your stomach grumbles. “Heh, sorry I haven’t eaten all day.”

“You poor thing. Come with me, I’ll get you some food.” Ayaka takes your hand. ‘Forget Ayato. Ayaka being wife material right now.”

“Thank you! The beauty of you soul compliments the beauty of your face.” She blushes at your compliment.

Your group makes their way back into the city and you head to the komore tea house.

“Cute! Puppy!” You cheer.

“This is Taromaru.” Thoma introduces.

“Hi sweetie.” He nuzzles into your palm. “This is the greatest day of my life. I’m so happy I might cry!”

Lumine rolls her eyes as Aether chuckles. We all go to sit in one of the rooms and sat at the table. Thoma, Ayaka and Ayato on one side. You and the twins on the other. You sat across from Thoma; Aether sat next to you on your right across from Ayaka; and Lumine sat on the end across from Ayato. Paimon floated beside Lumine. 

The seven of you chatted and ate. “Sky you have to try this!” You held out some food in between your chopsticks.

“Oh sure.” He takes a bite. “That’s really good!”

“I know right!”

“Here you should try some of mine.” He gives you some of his.

“This is so tasty!”

“I’m glad you enjoy our cuisine!” Ayaka cheered.

“I enjoy your face more~ sorry I’m letting the intrusive thoughts win.”

After the meal you and the twins and Paimon left for the wilderness.

“Well I should probably let you guys be for the night.”

“Yeah, good night.” Lumine grimaced.

As you were walking through the mountain side you were ambushed by fatui agents.

 You held out your hand and…

…nothing happened.

“WHAT?!” Your delusion glowed purple. “You motherfu-” a blast of Hydro knocks you unconsciously.

When you wake up you’re bound and gagged. ‘Kinky’ you think, as you stare up at a short man in black and red with violet hair and violet eyes.

“Finally! We meet face to face the one Celestia fears. I only have one thing to say to you.” He grabs you under your chin. “I intend to marry you.”

[weixuldo]

Enigma// ch 13

anakin x reader

a/n: sorry for the wait!!! i started a summer job and i’ve been hellllllaaaa busy lol- dw tho, im still writing!!

You have a relaxing dinner with Ahsoka until the end of the year approaches

warnings: cursing, cannon disabled character, insecurity, mention of periods, possible pregnancy mention,

_______________________________

More time passed and you prepped for finals; luckily this year you were able to exempt most of your sit in exams and instead only had one big project and a 20 page thesis due. 

You had been feeling nauseous for the past few days but the 20 page paper’s deadline was looming over you, so it was probably the stress from that. You also hadn’t had much time to eat, so you could also just be hungry. 

You ignored the feeling and went back to typing.

The paper was almost done, only two more pages then you were free for the weekend.. Just two more.

Ring Ring

Ahsoka was calling, you finished the sentence you were on before picking up the phone.

“Hey”

Hey hey! Are you busy tonight?

“I should be free after one more page of this thing”

Damn! Congrats! You've been at that shit since mid terms! I think that deserves celebration!

You laughed, hopefully she wasn’t proposing a party because you weren't quite feeling up to that.

“What do you have in mind?”

I dunno… wanna  just grab take out and eat it by the koi pond? I kinda just want a chill night before I have to start practice for nationals. 

“That sounds wonderful”

Cool! I'll see you at 6:30?

“Sounds good to me!”

Oki bye bye!

The end of the line clicked as she hung up and a small smile settled onto your face; even though you hadn’t known Ahsoka that long, the two of you just clicked and were almost always on the same wavelength.

Some of you wanted to tell her about Anakin, but you just felt like at this point it would add drama to the already stressful end of the year. 

You were seen as the baby of the friend group, so you wouldn’t know how they would feel if you and Anakin officially confirmed the relationship…Also Ahsoka could be a little dramatic at times and you were afraid she would become too involved and make jokes or treat you and Ani differently.

And you had known Anakin long enough to know that those small changes would piss him off and he might accidentally take it out on the relationship.

You got back to your computer when you got a really bad cramp in your abdomen. 

Oh fuck, you hadn’t gotten your period on its normal week so apparently its deciding to come now…great, something else to add to your delightful week.

You finally finished your paper and let out a long groan as you stretched your back. You grabbed your keys and headed down to meet Ahsoka outside the dorms. Once the two of you met up and got your food, you walked to the koi pond on the northern side of campus. 

The sun was setting and the sky was a mixture of beautiful oranges and pinks; you took a seat on the iron bench that overlooked the gardens surrounding the koi pond. 

“This is so nice, I needed to chill,” Ahsoka said, breaking apart the cheap wooden chopsticks that came with her bento box. 

“Yea, I feel ya” you said opening the box of lo mein you ordered. 

“Ya know, I cant believe i’m gonna be graduating in just a few weeks… Like what the actual fuck, I swear I was just a freshman like two weeks ago” Ahsoka baffled as she watched the fish swim laps around the pond. 

“Oh yea, I wanted to get a brunch with all of us next sunday before I have to go to nationals, would you be able to come?” she added.

“Yes! I’d love to” you responded, before remembering that would be one of the last times you would see her before her graduation. 

“I’m going to miss you so much Ahsoka” you said sadly, “Will you keep in touch?”

“Does a fish need water? Of course y/n!” she smiled; “you’re my best girl friend; sure sky guy and Ben are nice, but they're not another girl. And I like Satine alot, but she's older and in a totally different place in life than us, ya know?” 

“Yea, I’m glad we met too” you smiled. 

You conversed over random topics and future plans-

“Do you think you’ll party a lot next year?” she asked you

“Hmm, I don’t think so” 

“Why not? Don’t you wanna find a partner or atleast a hook-up?” She asked, biting down on her last California roll.

“I’m actually pretty content, I think most of my party phase was exhausted freshman and sophomore year” 

“Yea, I get it, I really only kept going out cause the team likes to go to the big parties. Kinda changing topics though, are you interested in anyone this year?”

You froze for a split second before bringing the noodles to your mouth, “Not really, I mean I’ve been seeing this guy off campus, but I wanna keep it on the dl and so does he” you responded (you didn’t have the heart to completely lie to her).

“Ooo, is he cute? How old is he? What's his name? Does he have socials? I gotta make sure he’s good enough for my girl”

“Hah, that's a lot. Umm, I think he's cute, he doesn’t use social media much, and he’s just a bit older” (yeah right, more like twice your age).

“Ok….what's his name?” she asked again, a devious grin on her face.

You smiled and looked away, “Ahsoka, I love you, but I can't tell you, I promised him we’d keep it under wraps… He’s a very private person” 

“Do I know him?” she definitely was gonna guess it if she kept at the questions.

You took all the power you could to construct a final lie, “no, I met him on a dating app”.

“Oh, never mind I guess, I’m happy for you!”

Phew.

You were not practiced in lying.

“Thanks, I really like him… I think I may be in love…I’ve never felt this way before” you smiled. 

“That’s amazing, y/n. Will I meet him some day?”

“Of course” 

The rest of dinner was pleasant, until your stomach started hurting again.

“What’s wrong?” 

“Nothing, I think I'm just gonna get my period soon” you said.

“Wait, shouldn’t you have gotten it like two weeks ago?”

Huh?

“Yea, remember, we’re kind of synced, You’ve been starting yours half way through my cycle since like September”

“Oh, I think it's just late from the stress”

“Hopefully so” she laughed, “Wouldn’t want that mystery man to have knocked you up”. 

She was joking, but something in you became worried… it had been a long time since your last period… and you and Anakin had been pretty busy…but wait

Anakin couldn’t have kids. 

The doctors said so.

But what if…

You shook the thoughts from your head and asked Ahsoka if she would come with you to the drug store to pick up some tums for the stomach ache.

She went off to go look at the shampoo because she needed some more and you sneaked off to grab a pregnancy test.

While you were in line you decided to update your boyfriend on the night’s conversation

“Hey babe, just fyi Ahsoka was asking about who i was seeing so i lied and said a guy from tinder, just wanted to lyk”

In no time your phone buzzed

Alright, thanks for covering, have a good night princess.

“Goodnight my love”

___________________________________

The week went by and you only had the project to finish. Most of your academic stress was subsided, but your personal stress grew by the day.

You hadn't opened the pregnancy test you got last week… you couldn’t bring yourself to.

or

Maybe it was because you hadn't had time…

oh who were you kidding? 

You were scared. 

But if you were pregnant, you should probably find out soon. Right?

Right.

You went into the bathroom and locked the door.

This was it.

The moment of truth.

***

a/n: so this ch was more of a filler to get to the next few chapters…. the plot is thickening and i hope your interest stays!! ty again for reading :)

taglist: : @dnamht @sxoulohvn @angeelcoree @wtf-andys @httpeachesblog @katsukiswrld @jetiikote @poisonedsultana

[aughby]

Unbroken Bond

Mayu Ishikawa and Yuki have always had a unique relationship. When they were younger, they were best friends and would spend their days playing volleyball in their backyard while harboring dreams of competing for Japan internationally. Mayu's keen intuition and Yuki's limitless energy made them the ideal brother and sister, closest friends, and collaborators in everything.

As they grew older, different paths started to take them. Due to his obvious talent, Yuki was rapidly being scouted by prestigious volleyball academies. Mayu, who possessed equal skill, chose her own route and joined the women's national team. Their careers took off together, but they hardly saw one another because of the demands of training, international matches, and travel. When they did, there was an uncomfortable distancing in place of the relaxed friendship of their early years. The years had altered them, yet they were still close and family.

Following a protracted period of competitions and training camps, they both found themselves back in their hometown of small town life one winter's evening. Their mother insisted on a family dinner, even though it was the first time they had both been free in months.

They sat across from one another at the table, and the air was heavy with the shared memories and unsaid words. As Yuki played with his chopsticks, he cast a sidelong glance at Mayu, who was staring at her dish of rice.

Yuki broke the ice by asking, "So, how's the team?"

Mayu looked up, taken aback by the query. "Good. We're working on some new plays for the Olympics. How about you?"

"I saw your last game. You were incredible out there." He paused before continuing, "Same. Training's intense, but it's worth it."

With a trace of the old Mayu showing through, she grinned. "Thanks. I caught some of your highlights too. You're really carrying the team."

As they conversed further, the years of awkwardness gradually started to fade. They told each other stories about their teammates, giggled over old games, and even made jokes like they used to.

As the evening drew on, they discovered themselves wandering about their town's well-known streets in the bitter cold. The air was fresh, and the stars were brilliant.

Yuki paused to gaze up at the sky and murmured gently, "Do you ever miss how things were?"

"All the time," said Mayu. "But we're still here, right? We've got each other, even if it's not like it used to be."

Yuki nodded, his chest suddenly warm in a way it hadn't felt in years. "Yeah, we do."

For a while, they stood side by side, aware that it would be months before they saw each other again but also aware that their tie, despite its differences, remained unbroken.

Mayu said, "Let's not wait so long next time," as they started to return home.

Yuki said, "Deal," feeling happier than he had in a long time.

They felt like the siblings they once were—and still are, in the most important ways—as they walked home together for the first time in years.

Yuki and Mayu went for a walk and then came home to find their mother had made a warm space by the fireplace and hot tea ready for them. As they settled in, they relished the warmth and the infrequent window of quiet.

Mayu winced a little when she reached for her cup during their conversation. Yuki noticed right away.

"What's wrong?" His voice was filled with anxiety as he asked.

In response, Mayu dismissed it with "It's nothing. Just a slight discomfort from practice. I made a strange landing during a dive."

Yuki was not persuaded. He leaned forward and insisted, "Let me see."

Mayu extended her wrist while rolling her eyes. A slight swelling was there, not too severe but noticeable enough to be uncomfortable.

Yuki took her hand gently and gave it a close inspection. "You need to have spoken up sooner. Have you been keeping this a secret all along?"

Despite her appreciation for his concern, Mayu responded, "It's really not a big deal."

"Not very important?" Yuki gave a headshake. "Mayu, you need to look after yourself. You cannot choose to disregard these issues."

He got up and walked to the kitchen, coming back holding a bandage and a tiny ice pack. He delicately and precisely wrapped it around her wrist, resembling the times they were children, and he used to heal her cuts from hard play.

"Do you recall doing this following our outdoor games?" Mayu inquired, a tiny smile teasing her lips.

Naturally, Yuki responded, wrapping things up. "You were always so obstinate, never wanting to acknowledge your own pain."

With a cheeky sparkle in her eyes, she responded, "I guess some things never change."

Yuki laughed, but as he glanced at her, his expression softened. "Mayu, I understand that you're both quite busy and that our time together isn't always as uninterrupted as it once was. But remember, I'm always available to you. Whatever the case may be."

Mayu turned to face him as his words warmed her heart. "Yu-kun, I am aware. I'm also always available to you. Even though we've matured, you're still my big brother. I'm still your little sister, too".

Even if they had become more apart in several aspects, Yuki's smile belied the love and concern that had always been in his eyes. "So let's make sure we don't lose sight of that,"

For a time, they sat in cozy stillness as Mayu rested her head on Yuki's shoulder and felt his steady breathing. These insignificant moments were when she realized how much she had missed him—not just as her best friend but also as a brother.

Mayu's eyes grew droopy as the night went on. Yuki saw and gave her a small poke. "You ought to get some sleep. Tomorrow, we'll chat more."

"Yes," she muttered as she slowly stood up. However, she stopped and turned to face Yuki before leaving. "I appreciate you being here, Yu-kun. I truly did miss you."

With the gentle warmth that only a sibling could provide, Yuki smiled. "I also missed you, Mayu. Go to bed now. There is a lot for us to catch up on."

Yuki watched her go upstairs, a sense of protection building inside his chest. He was aware of how busy their lives were and how frequently their paths diverged. However, tonight served as a reminder to him of what was really important: their relationship, their concern for one another, and the unwritten assurance that they would always find a way to return to one another no matter where life led them.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Chopsticks Day 

Take part in an ancient tradition that has been around for thousands of years in the Asian culture by eating with and enjoying the unique experience of chopsticks.

National Chopsticks Day appears as a fun and fascinating reason to show appreciation for this little pair of utensils. So put down that fork, set aside that knife, and pick up these two little sticks that can usher in a whole new experience!

History of National Chopsticks Day

Getting their start at least 3000 years ago or more, chopsticks originated in China and were first used as utensils in the process of cooking. With ancient roots, these convenient tools began to be used as a tool for individuals to eat noodles, rice, meat, vegetables and much more, probably around 400 BC. This was likely a time when resources became scarce and the food needed to be chopped into small bits to cook faster and save on fuel.

In the end, there was a need for some sort of tool to help with eating, and it was obviously a much-needed innovation because the tool began to spread. Chopsticks made their way from China into other Asian countries, like Korea, Japan, Vietnam and many others.

Originally made from bamboo, chopsticks have since been made from all sorts of traditional substances, including different types of wood, metal, ivory and ceramics. Of course, more recently, chopsticks have been made from plastics, resin, stainless steel and even titanium. In addition, chopsticks have been valued and appreciated for their beauty, particularly when they have been decorated with precious substances or painted with unique artwork.

By 1878, the disposable bamboo chopstick was designed by the Japanese, called “waribashi”. Many people don’t realize that the average person in China has typically used up to 200 sets of disposable chopsticks every year.

To minimize the use of disposable chopsticks and save the earth along the way, the Chinese government imposed a tax on chopsticks in April 2006. The tax of 5% was not only for those in China, but also spread from there into the places where the China chopstick makers export to, such as Japan or Korea.

Now, National Chopsticks Day is here to pay honor and respect to the longstanding, ancient tradition of using chopsticks as a cooking and eating utensil!

National Chopsticks Day Timeline

1700-1200 BC Chinese people begin using chopsticks

Originally used in the cooking process, chopsticks function more like tongs in these early days. 

400 AD Other utensils are invented

Forks, spoons and knives begin common use as eating utensils. 

500 AD Chopsticks make their way to Japan

Making a stop in Korea first, chopsticks travel from China to Kyoto at the east end of the Silk Road.

1878 Disposable chopsticks gain use

In Japan, disposable bamboo chopsticks are created.

2006 China imposes a chopstick tax

To reduce wasting natural resources, China institutes a 5% tax on disposable chopsticks, which also had an impact on chopsticks exported to Japan. 

How to Celebrate National Chopsticks Day

Take eating to the next level by enjoying National Chopsticks Day! Get excited about celebrating the day by implementing some of these special ideas:

Learn More About Using Chopsticks

While many Westerners are more used to using a fork and knife, one delightful activity for National Chopsticks Day might be to learn how to use chopsticks. For many people, it can require a bit of practice while the motor memory is retained.

Not only is learning how to use chopsticks an important cultural activity, it also could have other benefits. These benefits can include improving hand-eye coordination, teaching finger isolation and manipulation, strengthening the hand muscles, and improving fine motor skills. Some people even believe that using chopsticks can make the memory even better!

While considering chopsticks, consider some of this etiquette around the utensils:

In Japan, it is rude to cross the chopsticks on the table or to stick the chopsticks vertically in a pile of rice.

In Taiwan, it’s poor etiquette to let chopsticks linger in the mouth or to bite on them.

The Chinese consider it to be poor form to spear the food with chopsticks or to tap the chopsticks on the bowl.

In Korea, it is rude to pick up chopsticks or other utensils before the elders at the table do.

Eat with Chopsticks

While chopsticks could certainly be tried with almost any kind of food (though perhaps a burger or a slice of pizza might be complicated), they are best when used to eat food that hails from Asia. Delicious food that is Japanese, Chinese, Korean or Vietnamese can all be appreciated when eaten with chopsticks.

Enjoy Some Fun Facts About Chopsticks

In honor and celebration of National Chopsticks Day, this is the time to increase that knowledge about these interesting little sticks. After learning some facts, go ahead and share some of them with friends or family members to raise awareness in honor of the day! Try out some of these fun facts and bits of trivia to get started:

Chopsticks are different in different countries. For instance, the chopsticks found in China are longer than those in other Asian countries, with wide tapered ends that make them slightly easier to use. Chopsticks in Korea have more of a flat shape, and those from Vietnam have an end that is more blunt.

Some people actually have an irrational fear of chopsticks! The name of this disorder is Consecotaleophobia and has been included in the field of psychiatry.

In the past, silver chopsticks were used by royal families in China to check for poison. Because certain poisons would cause the silver chopsticks to turn black, giving a forewarning of danger. Since then, silver chopsticks have been a sign of wealth, affluence and style.

Chopsticks have superstitions associated with them. As an intricate part of the Asian culture, some omens go along with the use of chopsticks. For instance, holding chopsticks completely upright is a bad omen. Also, dropping chopsticks is a sign of bad luck.

Purchase Some Fancy Chopsticks

One lovely way to celebrate National Chopsticks Day might be to make an investment in a new set (or several) of higher end chopsticks. Chopsticks can be made out of bamboo or other woods and then decorated in a variety of ways.

For instance, try out a set that is made from rosewood and then decorated with gold tips. Try some pairs made with lacquer that can then be personalized with the names of everyone in the family. Or, those who are very serious about celebrating the day might be interested in pure, solid silver chopsticks that are handcrafted and decorated with Chinese calligraphy.

National Chopsticks Day FAQs

How do you use chopsticks?

Hold the chopsticks loosely at a slight angle from each other. The chopstick held by the thumb can stay stable while the other one is moved back and forth with the fingers.

What country did chopsticks come from?

Chopsticks likely originated in China around 1200 BC or even earlier. 

Did chopsticks come before forks?

Yes. Forks and spoons were not invented until 400 AD. 

Do chopsticks make you eat less?

People who eat with chopsticks may eat more slowly, which causes them to get fuller faster and eat less food. 

Are chopsticks reusable?

Most quality chopsticks are made to be used, washed and used again for years, though some chopsticks are made of bamboo and are considered to be ‘disposable’.

Source

[spicykaraage]

Tenipuri Complete Character Profile - Kaoru Kaidoh

[PROFILE]

Birthday: May 11th (Taurus)

Blood Type: B

Relatives: Father (Shibuki Kaidoh), Mother (Hozumi Kaidoh), Younger Brother (Hazue Kaidoh)

Father’s Occupation: Company Employee (banker)

Elementary School: Okutamagawa Elementary School

Middle School: Seishun Academy Junior High School

Grade & Class: Second Year | Class 2-7 | Seat 4

Club: Tennis Club (Regular, future captain)

Committee: None

Strong Subjects: English

Weak Subjects: Math, Science

Frequently Visited Spot at School: Training Room

Favorite Motto: “In for a penny, in for a pound.” ➜ “Slow and steady wins the race.” [23.5]

Daily Routines: Long distance runs, cleaning his room

Hobbies: Marathoning, collecting bandanas, rock climbing [TP]

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Music: Traditional Japanese instrumental music

Favorite Movie: Japanese films

Favorite Book: Japanese literature from the Meiji Era

Favorite Food: Tororo soba (zaru style), yogurt, 100% fruit juice (white peach flavor [TP])

Favorite Anniversary: Father’s Day, Mother’s Day

Preferred Type: A girl who eats food with gusto

Ideal Date Spot: Zoo (he wants to see the polar bears) ➜ “A cat café—I mean, going cycling.” [TP]

His Gift for a Special Person: Imabari towels

Where He Wants to Travel: “Nowhere.” (a magazine featuring Malta is visible in his bag)

What He Wants Most Right Now: New training equipment ➜ For Seigaku to win the national tournament again [23.5]

Dislikes: Monsters, ghosts ➜ Supernatural things, konjac [TP]

Skills Outside of Tennis: General housework (particularly cleaning and sewing [TP]), can quickly grab beans with chopsticks [TP]

Spends Allowance On: Training equipment

Routine During the World Cup: Sending postcards to his family

[DATA]

Height: 173cm ➜ 174cm [23.5]

Weight: 57kg

Shoe Size: 26.5cm

Dominant Arm: Right

Vision: 1.5 Left & Right

Play Style: Counter Puncher

Signature Moves: Snake, Boomerang Snake, Short Snake, Tornado Snake, Gyro Laser

Daily Running Distance: 25km

Favorite Brands:

Racket: HEAD (Ti.S7)

Shoes: PUMA (Cell Factor PTO634)

Fitness Test Results:

Sidesteps: 58

Shuttle Run: 140

Back Strength: 122kg

Grip Strength: 54.5kg

Backbend: 62.8cm

Seated Forward Bend: 49.6cm

50m Run: 6.74 seconds

Standing Long Jump: 224cm

Handball Throw: 33m

Endurance Run (1500m): 4:47

Overall Rating: Speed: 3 / Power: 3 / Stamina: 4.5 / Mental: 3 / Technique: 3 / Total: 16.5

Kurobe Memo: “His unyielding personality and endurance are all part of his charm. I’m sure he'll grow into bring the type of player that can strip off an opponent's control as the match goes on. His match with Tezuka was a great learning opportunity for him to stop being so reserved with others.” [RB]

[POSSESSIONS]

What’s in His Bedroom [10.5]:

TV and audio equipment // Various equipment along with a DVD player and collection of DVDs

Glass table // Used for studying, it is always clean and not a single fingerprint can be found on it

Japanese-style bed area // A spacious area in his bedroom with Japanese motifs. He uses it strictly for his bed and has a double-size futon laying out

Area for training // An area where he keeps various stretching equipment. He trains hard everyday even in his bedroom

Full-length mirror // He had bought it to check on his form, but he doesn’t use it much

What’s in His Bag [10.5]:

Bandanas // He always has two or three of them with him so he can replace one if it gets dirty

Writing supplies // He only takes notes with a ballpoint pen

Notebook

His lunch // Made in luxurious, lacquered jubako (tiered lunch boxes) and furoshiki wrapped. He also brings chopsticks and a chopstick rest with him

Sewing kit // Along with nail clippers. He always maintains his nails before practice

Handkerchief and tissues // He is particular about staying clean and tidy

Pass case

[TRIVIA]

The Prince of Tennis 10.5 Fanbook | Publication Date: 11/02/2001

He is described to have large, upturned eyes and slightly big lips

He is secretly compassionate and easily moved

He prefers girls with big eyes and who can trust him with her heart and soul

He loves yogurt and eats it to stay healthy, he particularly likes the Morinaga brand

He does a great amount of daily training, including intense strength training unbeknownst to the other members

He glares at people who approach him and exudes an aura that keeps them at bay. In reality, it is because he is nervous over his appearance and is not good at interacting with others

His hissing is a habit of how he breathes, Konomi wanted him to give off an eerie feeling by doing it

He is Konomi’s favorite member of Seigaku

He is one of few characters who wear no show socks

He wears bandanas to help motivate himself

He trained and mastered his Snake Shot after losing a rookie match in the fall when he was a first year

He will stay silent and glare when asked personal questions, he usually is not angry, however

He does not mind being called by his first name, but gets angry when people call him “viper”

His sharp, arching eyebrows are natural

His unnerving aura tends to scare off animals as well

He believes he is stronger than Momoshiro and could easily beat him

He does tennis training and long distance runs (morning and evening) even on off days

He secretly loves animals, especially cats

His personality is described as someone who is misunderstood and frightens others because of it, but is actually kind and afraid of hurting others more than anything else

Konomi describes him as “hardworking” and that he’s not just unpleasant, he’s a hard worker who happens to be unpleasant. An “I am who I am” type of character

The Prince of Tennis 20.5 Fanbook | Publication Date: 12/04/2003

He is described as stoic and tenacious, and would be suited for event planning

He has a temperament of never giving up, which gives him leadership qualities

He will go on runs even after matches

His secondary sport would be boxing

The Prince of Tennis 40.5 Fanbook | Publication Date: 12/04/2007

He tends to let his emotions overtake him and is considered a “troublemaker” because of it

He is very just, moral and will get angry when someone disrespects his teammates or rivals

He has a hard time accepting people and tends to clash with them, which puts a strain on his relations. He does however, have a strong sense of camaraderie and exhibits a cooperative nature with his friends

He is described to have a jealous side to him and has a tendency to want to control his friends and/or lovers

His daily running distance is 25km, and he will continue to run even further until he reaches his physical limits

He has been popular with the older women in the area of the national tournament. He was spotted at the shopping district surrounded by women trying to feed him

Konomi had been inspired to give him a Devil Mode from commercials of the film Spider-Man 3, depicting the titular hero wearing a dark version of his suit

The Prince of Tennis II Official Character Guide: PairPuri Vol. 3 | Publication Date: 01/04/2010

When he was injured during training, Yagyuu had given him a handkerchief and told him he could keep it

The Prince of Tennis II Official Character Guide: PairPuri Vol. 6 | Publication Date: 06/03/2011

He wants next year’s tennis club to be unbeatable and win the national tournament again, stating it would be pointless otherwise

He hates being called “viper” and even hates saying it

He does not ask his parents for gifts

When asked random questions, he becomes outwardly annoyed and frank

He is described as being a “strict” upperclassman

Konomi states he does not remember how he came up with his name, but wanted there to be a contrast between his “cute” name and “cool” face

Konomi came up with his Snake Shot since a senior member of his tennis club had used it. When Konomi had drawn his match with Ryoma, he wanted convey the power of tennis without any dialogue since he was Ryoma’s first serious opponent

Konomi is particular about drawing the shape of his mouth and under eyelashes. He wanted to make his eyes look angry and give off a sense of hunger

Konomi gradually began showing off his good side, but wants to show off the same “hunger” he had when he faced off against Tezuka

One of His School Days:

5:00am - Wakes up, goes on a run

6:00am - Breakfast (handmade soba with homemade fruits)

6:50am - Goes to school, morning practice

8:20am - Cleans the teacher’s desk, etc. for morning duties

8:40am - 1st Period: Science II (astronomy)

9:40am - 2nd Period: PE (sprints)

10:30am - Runs around the schoolyard during break

11:00am - 3rd Period: Japanese (modern Japanese)

12:00pm - 4th Period: Home Economics (sewing aprons)

12:50pm - Lunch, jubako bento (lobster with hollandaise sauce)

1:00pm - Strength training in the training room

1:20pm - 5th Period: Math II

2:20pm - 6th Period: Social Studies (civics)

4:00pm - Club activities, basic training

6:00pm - Returns home, has dinner, bathes

7:00pm - Cleans his room, irons his shirts

8:30pm - Watches the DVD “The Arctic: The Life of Polar Bears”

9:00pm - Goes on a run after training in his room

1:00am - Takes a quick shower, then goes to bed

The Prince of Tennis II Official Character Guide: PairPuri Vol. 7 | Publication Date: 07/04/2011

He and Momoshiro had found a natural hot spring near the training camp and invited Ryoma to join them

The Prince of Tennis II 10.5 Fanbook | Publication Date: 09/04/2013

He and Hiyoshi get into constant fights with Kirihara and Zaizen since the former two like going to bed early while the latter two like staying up to play video games

The Prince of Tennis II 23.5 Fanbook | Publication Date: 05/02/2018

He recently visited a family-owned candy store for the first time and was impressed by the old-fashioned sweets

The Prince of Tennis 20th Anniversary Book: Tenipuri Party | Publication Date: 08/02/2019

Since he is afraid of spirits and ghosts, when he runs at night he thinks he’s being chased by a ghost, so he doesn’t slow down

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Khadijah La Musa

Published: Feb 13, 2024

Is anybody else perplexed that in 2024, we can't choose our race? Is race not also a social construct? Why is gender the only identity that is allowed to be fluid? 

Why can’t we be trans-millionaires and demand that our bank accounts reflect the way we feel on the inside? Why do we still make multiracial people choose a box? Why do we assume people’s race and thereby make assumptions about how they think, how they vote, and how they see the world?

I’m tired of it. I’m tired of being judged by the color of my skin and not by the content of my character.  

Sometimes, I don't want to be racialized. Some days I wake up and I'd rather not be “black”, or a “BIPOC”, or a “person of color.” Sometimes, I just want to be… me. So, I've decided to release myself from the shackles of race. I no longer consent to being tied to the social constraints of the arbitrary notion of race. I'm tossing my black card for good. 

I was assigned “Black” at birth. All babies are pretty much the same shade of pink at birth, so there’s no way my race was even observable at the time. I had no choice in the matter. I’m not sure if my parents did either. 

Back in my days as an undergraduate at a super liberal university, when I identified as a black feminist, people would ask me, “are you black first, or a woman first?” Ten years ago, I would have replied, “I’m black first.” I was so loyal to my race. Black. Blackity black. Being black gave me a great deal of pride and a whole lot of other things I carried unconsciously. Being black made me angry at the world – made me feel obligated to hold certain political views – and made me feel like a victim. Being black made me feel paranoid – like someone or something was always out to make my life more difficult.  

Today, if this same question was asked, I would reply, “I’m a woman, first and foremost.” Even though we in the West have regressed so far from nature, and allowed males to penetrate the female sex class, and colonize womanhood to fulfill their desires; I know that in reality, I am a woman. I can go anywhere in the world and be seen as a woman. I can connect with other women as a woman from any race, class, or nationality and they would understand me, and I, them. 

If I traveled back 2000 years in time,  I would be a woman.

Today, If I woke up and declared that I am now a man, I could go to the doctor and get my breasts removed under the guise of gender-affirming care faster than I could go and get a breast reduction due to debilitating back pain. I could get my ovaries removed to affirm my manhood faster than I could get my tubes tied for not wanting to become a mother. 

Today, If I woke up and declared that I no longer identify as black, I would be shamed and ridiculed. I would be called “crazy” – accused of self-hatred. A race traitor. A coon. A bedwench. A Pecola Breedlove. 

It makes me wonder why we, as a society, are so adamant about removing gender from its biological roots but hold on to racial stratification for dear life. Haven’t we spent years trying to undo the social ramifications of racism, but now, we’d rather attempt to divorce gender from reality. It makes me wonder if something more nefarious and deeply sinister is at play.

Regardless, I don’t want blackness anymore. I gave up my blackness when I decided to not vote for Biden in 2020. I don’t think I’ll ever vote for a Democrat again. I don’t know how to play spades anyway. I have no rhythm. I prefer to eat with chopsticks. I married the father of my child. I wear Blundstone boots in the winter. I feel so pretty when wrapped in a Sari. My daughter has a Japanese name. Once, I even shared an ice cream cone with my dog. 

I think my ancestors were just regular people. Not slaves, kings, or queens. 

I don’t listen to degenerate hip-hop music. I won’t be first in line to fight against the oppression of others. I don’t hate capitalism. I don’t care about what black celebrities are doing. 

I’m giving up my blackness. Nobody gets to tell me who I should hate. Nobody gets to tell me who I should love. Nobody gets to tell me what I should be mad about. Nobody gets to tell me what I should be interested in. 

I’m tired of being emotionally manipulated by the media. I’m exhausted from my energy being siphoned to fuel popular culture. 

Just let me be myself. 

Despite my beautiful, flawless, melanin rich, collagen fortified skin – I’m not black. I’m not indigenous. I’m not a person of color. I’m non-racial. Just like all those people who are non-binary – the people who aren’t men or women, male or female. I’m non-racial. 

Non-racial. It rolls off the tongue even better than “non-binary”. 

I don’t subscribe to any race. I’m just a human (of the female variety, because that matters a great deal in the whole human thing). I’m an adult human female. Formerly known as a woman. But now women can mean anything. A woman is anybody who identifies as a woman. Huh?

I’m not magical. I’m not better at sports. I’m not strong and independent. I need my man, and I need him to be male. 

I identify as a non-racial, joyful, clinically sane, adult human female. 

If all identities had the special privilege of fluidity, I’d totally be a trans-millionaire. 

It’s not fair that gender is the only identity that has the privilege to be fluid, changeable, and discardable. But race, the ultimate social construct, is expected to be unchangeable, and rigid.

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 8.1

Holidays

African Emancipation Day (Trinidad and Tobago)

Air Force Day

Armed Forces Day (China, Lebanon)

Azerbaijani Language and Alphabet Day

Basil Day (French Republic)

Battle of Athens Day

Bitcoin Independence Day

Caribbean Day

Chopsticks Day

Clergy Sexual Abuse Awareness and Prevention Day

Cross-Quarter Day

Cycle to Work Day (UK)

Day of Azerbaijani Language and Alphabet

Day of Pachamama (Peru)

Day of the Rear Services of the Armed Forces (Russia)

Day of the Telephone Operator (Mexico)

DOGust

Earth Overshoot Day 2024 (a.k.a. Ecological Debt Day)  [ website ]

Ectopic Pregnancy Awareness Day

801 Day

Emancipation Day (UK; British Commonwealth)

Freedom Day (Belize)

Freedom to Marry Day (Minnesota)

Friendship Day

Gold Star Children’s Day

Girlfriends’ Day

Good Sportsmanship Day

Grain Marketing Freedom Day (Canada)

Guca Brass Bands Day (Serbia)

Harriet Quimby Day

HitchBOT Remembrance Day

Homowo (a.k.a. Hooting at Hunger; Ghana)

Indigenous Peoples Day (Taiwan)

International Adaptive Activity Day

International Can-It-Forward Day

International Childfree Day

International Mahjong Day

International Marine Protected Areas Day

International Sri Lankan Leopard Day

International Woo-Ah Day

Jerry Day

Laa Luanys (Isle of Man)

Laughter Day (Southern California)

Led Zeppelin Day

Liberation of Haile Selassie Day (Rastafari)

Memorial Day for the Victims of World War I (Russia)

Minden Day (UK)

Minority Donor Awareness Day

MTV Day

National Alpaca Day (Peru)

National American Family Day

National Andrew Day

National CBD Day

National Girlfriends Day

National Huddle Ledbetter Day

National Mahjong Day

National Minority Donor Awareness Day

National Mountain Climbing Day

National Non-Parent Day

National Poll Worker Recruitment Day

National Promise to Care Day

National Spritz Day

National Waifu Day

National Warsaw Uprising Remembrance Day (Poland)

National Wedding Day (UK)

National York Day

Odaiba Day

Oxygen Discovery Day

Parents’ Day (Democratic Republic of the Congo; Zaire)

Planner Day

Play Ball Day

Pod Body Day (Portland, Maine)

Respect For Parents Day

RNA Day

Rounds Resounding Day

San Francisco Cable Car Day

Scout Foundation Day

Scout Scarf Day

Social Resistance Day (North Cyprus)

Spider-Man Day

Sports Day

SSN 801 Day

Startup Day Across America

Swiss National Day

Technical Support Worker Day (Russia)

Treida de Santo Domingo de Guzmán (Nicaragua)

Thoroughbred Birthday (Southern Hemisphere)

Victory Day (Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam)

White Rabbit Day

Wipe the Slate Clean Day

Woman Astronomers Day

Women’s Day (Thailand)

World Breastfeeding Day

World Day of Joy

World Fintech Day

World Lung Cancer Day

World Middle Finger Day

World Naked Sailing Day

World Scout Scarf Day

World Wide Web Day

Yaoi Day

Yorkshire Day (England)

Food & Drink Celebrations

Belgian Frites Day (a.k.a. International Day of Belgian Fries)

Homemade Pie Day

International Albariño Day

International Can-It Forward Day

Mars Bar Day

National Nutritional Yeast Day

National Raspberry Cream Pie Day

Old Vine Day

Independence & Related Days

Benin (originally Dahomey; from France, 1960)

Colorado Statehood Day (#38; 1876)

Guadalcanal Province Day (Solomon Islands)

Jennytopia (Declared; 2019) [unrecognized]

Switzerland (a.k.a. Confederation Day; from Holy Roman Empire, 1291)

Toku (Declared; 2014) [unrecognized]

Vodopol (Declared; 2021) [unrecognized]

1st Thursday in August

August Thursday (Anguilla) [1st Thursday]

Emancipation Day (Bermuda; 1st Day of Cup Match) [Thursday before 1st Monday in August]

Kid Lit Art Postcard Day [1st Thursday]

National Dash Cam Day (UK) [1st Thursday]

National IPA Day (f.k.a. International IPA Day) [1st Thursday]

Weekly Holidays beginning August 1 (1st Week of August)

Brat Days (Sheboygan, Wisconsin) [1st Thursday thru Sunday]

Carnaval del Pueblo (London, UK) [1st Week]

International Assistance Dog Week (thru 8.7) [1st Week]

International Clown Week (thru 8.7)

International Mathematicians Week (thru 8.9)

National Albariño Week (thru 8.5)

National Cleanse Your Skin Week (thru 8.7)

National Fraud Awareness Week (thru 8.7) [1st Week]

National Minority Donor Awareness Week (thru 8.7)

National Scrabble Week (thru 8.7) [1st Week]

National Video Game Week (thru 8.7) [1st Week]

Satchmo Days [begin Thursday nearest 8.4 thru Sunday]

Simplify Your Life Week (thru 8.7)

World Breastfeeding Week (thru 8.7) [1st Week]

Festivals Beginning August 1, 2024

American Cured Meat Championships (Omaha, Nebraska) [thru 8.3]

August is Maine Lobster Month (Statewide, Maine) [thru 8.31]

Bear Lake Raspberry Days Festival (Garden City, Utah) [thru 8.3]

Castlefest (Lisse, Netherlands) [thru 8.4]

Clam Festival (Highlands, New Jersey) [thru 8.3]

Denver Burger Battle (Denver, Colorado)

Eden Corn Festival (Eden, New York) [thru 8.4]

Empire Farm Days (Pompey, New York) [thru 8.3]

Estherville Sweet Corn Days (Estherville, Iowa) [thru 8.4]

Gen Con (Indianapolis, Indiana) [thru 8.4]

Green Gathering (Chepstow, United Kingdom) [thru 8.4]

Houston Restaurant Weeks (Houston, Texas) [thru 9.2]

Katahdin Sheep Show (Mexico, Missouri) [thru 8.3]

Klamath County Fair (Klamath Falls, Oregon) [thru 8.4]

Lollapalooza (Chicago, Illinois) [thru 8.4]

Mammoth Festival of Beers & Bluesapalooza (Mammoth Lakes, California) [thru 8.4]

Mile of Music (Appleton, Wisconsin) [thru 8.4]

Minnesota Fringe Festival (Minneapolis, Minnesota) [thru 8.11]

Mobile Motion Film Festival (Zurich, Swizterland) [thru 8.31]

Official Star Trek Convention (Las Vegas, Nevada) [thru 8.4]

Outer Banks Watermelon Festival (Nag's Head, North Carolina)

Owensville Watermelon Festival (Owensville, Indiana) [thru 8.3]

Phelps Sauerkraut Weekend (Phelps, New York) [thru 8.4

Pol’and’Rock Festival (Woodstock Festival Poland; Czaplinek, Poland) [thru 8.3]

Saint Dominic Days (Managua) [thru 8.10]

Saskatoon Fringe Festival (Saskatoon, Canada) [thru 8.10]

Spicemas (Grenada Carnival; St. George’s, Grenada) [thru 8.13]

Sumner County Fair (Caldwell, Kansas) [thru 8.4]

Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Toronto, Canada) [thru 8.5]

Twin Cities Vegan Chef Challenge (Minneapolis, Minnesota) [thru 8.31]

Washington Wine Month (Washington State) [thru 8.31]

Wisconsin State Fair (West Allis, Wisconsin) [thru 8.11]

World Lumberjack Championships [thru 8.3]

XIT Rodeo & Reunion (Dalhart, Texas) [thru 8.3]

Zanzibar International Film Festival (Zanzibar City, Tanzania) [thru 8.4]

Feast Days

Abgar V of Edessa (Syrian Church)

Alan Moore (Australian War Artist; Artology)

Aled (a.k.a. Eiluned or Almedha; Christian; Martyr & Virgin)

Alphonsus Maria de' Liguori (Christian; Saint)

Æthelwold of Winchester (Christian; Saint)

Bernard Võ Văn Duệ (Christian; One of Vietnamese Martyrs)

Betty Lou’s Dad (Muppetism)

Cartoon Day (Pastafarian)

Chantal Montellier (Artology)

David Gemmell (Writerism)

Day of the Dryads (Macedonia)

Dormition Fast (Orthodox Church) [thru 8.14]

Drug Side-Effects Day (Church of the SubGenius)

Ethelwold of Winchester (Christian; Saint)

Eusebius of Vercelli (Christian; Saint)

Exuperius of Bayeux (Christian; Saint)

Faith, Hope, and Charity (Christian; Virgin Martyrs)

Feast of Faith, Hope, Charity, and their Mother, Wisdom (Christian; Martyrs)

Feast of Kamál (Perfection; Baha'i)

Feast of Ninlil (Sumerian Goddess of the Grain)

Felix of Girona (Christian; Saint)

Festival of Lugh (Celtic here god)

Festival of Xiuhtechuhtli (Aztec God of the Calendar)

Gerhard Hirschfelder (Christian; Blessed)

Herman Melville (Writerism)

The Holy Maccabees (Christian; Saint)

Imps Charity Scramble (Shamanism)

Isobel Lilian Gloag (Artology)

Jackie Ormes (Artology)

James Henry Govier (Artology)

Jan van Scorel (Artology)

Kalends of August (Ancient Rome)

Lammas (a.k.a. ... 

Feast of Bread (Neopagan)

Feast of First Fruits (England, Scotland)

Feast of the Wheat Harvest

Festival of Albina (Irish White Barley Goddess; aka Alphito)

Festival of the First Fruits

Gule of August (England, Scotland)

Imbolc (So. Hemisphere; Neopagan)

Lady Day Eve (Neopagan)

Lammas, Day 2 (Celtic, Pagan) [5 of 8 Festivals of the Natural Year]

Lammas Eve (a.k.a. Lughnassad Eve)

Lammas Sabbat

Luanistyn (Manx Gaelic)

Lithasblot (Norse Harvest Festival)

Loaf Mass

Loki and Sigyn’s Day (Norse)

Lugh (Celtic Book of Days)

Lughnasa

Lughnasadh (Grain Harvest) [Ends on Samhain]

Lúnasa (Modern Irish)

Lùnastal (Scottish Gaelic)

Sexon Hlafmaesse

Lobster Boy Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Mati-Syra-Zemlya Day (Slavic Goddess of the Earth)

Pachamama Rayni (Festival Celebrating Mother Earth) [Ecuador; Peru]

Pellegrini (a.k.a. Peregrinus), Hermit (Christian; Saint)

Peter Apostle in Chains (Christian; Saint)

Procession of the Cross and the beginning of Dormition Fast (Eastern Orthodox)

Quarter Day (Scotland)

Richard Wilson (Artology)

Rose Macaulay (Writerism)

Sebastiano Ricci (Artology)

The Spanish Romancers (Positivist; Saints)

Vhrsti (Artology)

Warsan Shire (Writerism)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Dismal Day (Unlucky or Evil Day; Medieval Europe; 15 of 24)

Egyptian Day (Unlucky Day; Middle Ages Europe) [15 of 24]

Fatal Day (Pagan) [15 of 24]

Tomobiki (友引 Japan) [Good luck all day, except at noon.]

Unlucky Day (Grafton’s Manual of 1565) [35 of 60]

Unlucky Monday (when Eve gave birth to Cain; Philippines) [1st Monday] (3 of 4)

Premieres

Alfred, by Thomas Arne (Opera; 1740)

Alice the Peacemaker (Disney Cartoon; 1924)

American Graffiti (Film; 1973)

Bargain Daze (Heckle & Jeckle Cartoon; 1953)

Being and Time, by Martin Heidegger (Book; 1927)

Big Chief No Treaty (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1962)

The Big Money, by John Dos Passos (Novel; 1936)

Burning Love, by Elvis Presley (Song; 1972)

Cape Kidnaveral (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1961)

Charley’s Aunt (Film; 1941)

Cook and Stagger (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1956)

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, by Judi and Ron Barrett (Children’s Book; 1978)

Concert for Bangladesh, hosted by George Harrison (Charity Concert; 1971)

Cosi Fan Tutti Frutti, by Squeeze (Album; 1985)

Cowardly Watchdog (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1966)

Crazy with the Heat (Disney Cartoon; 1947)

Crusader Rabbit (Jay Ward Cartoon TV Series; 1950)

The Dog Show (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1950)

Driven to Extraction (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1963)

Dune, by Frank Herbert (Novel; 1965)

The Dusters, featuring the Mighty Heroes (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1971)

The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test, by Tom Wolfe (Novel; 1968)

Eric, by Terry Pratchet (Novel; 1990) [Discworld #9]

Everybody’s Rockin’, by Neil Young (Album; 1983)

The Fabulous Firework Family (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1959)

The Final Countdown (Film; 1980)

Flebus (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1957)

Flight of the Navigator (Film; 1986)

The Four Musicians of Bremen (b Iwerks Cartoon; 1922)

A Game of Thrones, by George R.R. Martin (Novel; 2000) [A Song of Fire and Ice #1]

Gangsta’s Paradise, by Coolio (Song; 1995)

Generals and Majors, by XTC (Song; 1980)

The Genie with the Light Touch (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1972)

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, by Stieg Larsson (Novel; 2008) [Millennium Trilogy #1]

Give Me Liberty (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1967)

Golden Egg Goose (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1951)

Guardians of the Galaxy (Film; 2014)

Heaven Can Wait (Film; 1943)

The Highwayman, by Alfred Noyes (Poem; 1906)

The Hound of the Baskervilles, by Arthur Conan Doyle (Novel; 1901)

House Busters (Heckle & Jeckle Cartoon; 1952)

Howard the Duck (Film; 1986)

How to Catch a Cold (Disney Cartoon; 1951)

Jeremy, by Pearl Jam (Music Video; 1992)

Judo Kudos (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1968)

King Tut’s Tomb (Heckle & Jeckle Cartoon; 1950)

The Littlest Bully (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1960)

The Lyin’ Lion (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1949)

Make Way for Ducklings, by Robert McCloskey (Children’s Book; 1941)

Meat, Drink and Be Merry (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1961)

Modern Man in Search of a Soul, by C.G. Jung (Philosophical Book; 1933)

Money (That’s What I Want), by Barrett Strong (Song; 1959)

The Monkey Wrench Gang, by Edward Abbey (Novel; 1975)

Mrs. Jones’ Rest Farm (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1949)

MTV (Cable Network; 1981)

MySpace (Social Media App; 2003)

96 Tears, by ? and the Mysterians (Song; 1966)

North Dallas Forty (Film; 1979)

Nothing in Common (Film; 1986)

Oil Through the Day (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1964)

Open House (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1953)

Paul Bunyan (Disney Cartoon; 1958)

Porky the Rain-Maker (WB LT Cartoon; 1936)

Pride of the Yard (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1954)

Rain Dogs, by Tom Waits (Album; 1985)

Rear Window (Film; 1954)

Rebecca, by Daphne du Maurier (novel; 1938)

The Road Not Taken (Poem; 1925)

Robots in Toyland (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1965)

Rule Britannia, by Thomas Arne (Song; 1740)

Señorella and the Glass Huarache (WB LT Cartoon; 1964)

Shadows on the Rock, by Willa Cather (Novel; 1931)

Shootin’ Stars (Modern Madcaps Cartoon; 1960)

Shotgun Shambles (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1962)

Sick, Sick Sidney (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1958)

The Snows of Kilimanjaro, by Ernest Hemingway (Short Story; 1936)

Steel Wheels, by The Rolling Stones (Album; 1989)

Superiority, by Arthur C. Clarke (Short Story; 1951)

A Swiss Miss (Mighty Mouse Cartoon; 1950)

The 39 Steps (Film; 1935)

Tot Watchers (Tom & Jerry Cartoon; 1958)

Trouble in Baghdad (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1963)

Truant Officer Donald (Disney Cartoon; 1941)

The Trumpet of the Swan, by E.B. White (Children’s Book; 1970)

Turning the Fables (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1960)

The Twist, by Chubby Checker (Song; 1960)

Video Killed the Radio Star, by The Buggles (Music Video; 1981)

A Wedding Knight (Modern Madcaps Cartoon; 1966)

The Wiggles, by The Wiggles (Album; 1991)

Wild and Woolly Hare (WB LT Cartoon; 1959)

Witchy Woman, by The Eagles (Song; 1972)

Today’s Name Days

Alfons, Kenneth, Peter (Austria)

Alfonz, Jonatan (Croatia)

Oskar (Czech Republic)

Maira, Maire, Mairi, Maris (Estonia)

Maire (Finland)

Alphonse (France)

Alfons, Kenneth, Peter, Uwe (Germany)

Efkleos, Elesa, Markelos, Solomoni (Greece)

Boglárka (Hungary)

Alfonso, Giacomo (Italy)

Albīna, Albīns, Dags, Jarmuts, Spekonis (Latvia)

Almeda, Bartautas, Bartautė (Lithuania)

Peder, Petra (Norway)

Brodzisław, Justyn, Konrad, Konrada, Nadia, Piotr (Poland)

Božidara (Slovakia)

Alfonso, Caridad, Esperanza, Fe, Pedro (Spain)

Per (Sweden)

Charissa, Charity, Chasity, Cheri, Cherie, Cherry, Cheryl, Esperanza, Faith, Faye, Hope, Nadia, Nadine (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 214 of 2024; 152 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 4 of Week 31 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Tinne (Holly) [Day 27 of 28]

Chinese: Month 6 (Xin-Wei), Day 27 (Ding-You)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 26 Tammuz 5784

Islamic: 25 Muharram 1446

J Cal: 4 Purple; Foursday [4 of 30]

Julian: 19 July 2024

Moon: 8%: Waning Crescent

Positivist: 17 Dante (8th Month) [The Spanish Romancers]

Runic Half Month: Thorn (Defense) [Day 9 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 43 of 94)

Week: 1st Week of August

Zodiac: Leo (Day 11 of 31)

Calendar Changes

August (Gregorian Calendar) [Month 8 of 12]