#Reasons to Visit Italy in Winter

[24-7-testing]

The end of the year can be tough for a lot of people. My goal? To make it a little bit brighter. That's why I'm pleased to once again announce the return of...

The Portal Holiday Spirit Initiative!

To help bring a smile to people's faces this year, I will be sending FREE Portal-Themed Holiday Cards to anyone who asks for one! There are a few changes to the cards this year because life has gotten very busy for me and I have less free time than in years past.

This year there will only be one card design, featuring artwork from one of the Portal Fandom's awesome artists! The cards will still be customizable to any Winter Holiday of your choosing, but you'll have to wait for your card to arrive in order to see how (the method takes cues from the Portal game's sense of humor, so it will very much be on-brand).

This year is also special because it is PHSI's 5th Anniversary! I can’t express the amount of thanks everyone who has participated over the years, whether you've reblogged and shared, requested cards, helped with artwork, or helped in other ways. You all deserve my recognition and thanks for volunteering your time, talents, and support! Thanks for helping to make PHSI a special fandom tradition!

If you would like to receive a Portal-Themed Holiday Card:

Visit bit.ly/PHSI-2023 ...

Answer the questions in the forms...

Wait for your card to be sent!

It's that easy! Card Requests are now open, and close on December 20th in order to give me enough time to make and send all the cards before the end of the year. Please submit sooner rather than later so I have time to finish them all!

Also, please don’t be afraid to request a physical card if you don’t live in the US! The card service I've chosen says they ship worldwide and, while it might take a bit longer for you to receive your card depending on what country you live in, the cards will get mailed to whatever address you provide, domestic or foreign. Last year I mailed/emailed a total of 164 cards to Italy, Canada, Germany, England, Poland, The US, The United Kingdom, Brazil, India, and Slovenia!

I’m happy to be a part of the Portal Fandom and hope to bring a smile to others in the Fandom this year! Making and emailing Holiday Cards takes time and effort, and sending physical cards is expensive. While it isn't a requirement to receive a card, I would greatly appreciate if you'd like to give $4 to cover the cost of your card or someone else's. Please visit ko-fi.com/247testing and click the Donate button if you want to help out. 

Also, feel free to DM me with any questions or comments. Thanks!

Answers for common questions and concerns under the cut:

Worried about providing a mailing address, for whatever reason?

PHSI has an eCard option! All you need to provide is a name for me to call you by and an email address to receive your card!

Worried about requesting a card because you don’t live in the US?

PHSI mails to any address provided, whether domestic or foreign! However, please wait patiently for your card, due to the current global rate of shipping.

Worried that you can’t give $4 to cover the cost of your card or someone else’s?

Requesting a card from PHSI has been and will always be FREE! However, giving $4 to the initiative helps me pay for the printing service and postage to mail physical cards (visit ko-fi.com/247testing if you’d like to contribute). I gratefully appreciate any contributions received, even if it’s just a comment saying thanks!

Worried because you don’t know how to support the artist of the card you received?

The artist’s social media is listed on the back of every card featuring their artwork. Look them up, commission them, reblog their art, and support them however you can!

Worried because you haven’t received your card yet?

Double check your email inbox and junk folders. I send everyone an email that either confirms your Holiday Card has shipped or includes your eCard! Physical cards take 1-2 weeks to arrive. If your physical card fails to show up after the first week of January, please reach out to me and I’ll send you a replacement eCard!

Worried because you received your card and don’t know what to do now?

Make a post about it! Include pictures, videos, or anything you’d like, and tag me in the post (@24-7-testing) so I can reblog it! If you don’t want to show your card off, that’s ok too!

[thejournallo]

Explain the basic: The Sabbats

first things first! Happy yule to everyone who celebrate it!

Taking advantage of the fact that today is one of the sabbats, we are actually going to learn what exactly the sabbats are.

I will do part two with all the things associated with the Sabbats and what we can do to celebrate them.

Disclaimer: Not every witch celebrates the Sabbats or is forced to do so. Also, I will do some parallelism and example with the Christian's holiday, because some Christian traditions are "stolen" from the paganism and some are revisited. Christians and non-Christian religions have their own versions of every celebration for different reasons; let's respect each other because no religion is bad.

The pagan sabbats refer to the eight seasonal celebrations observed by many modern pagan and Wiccan traditions. These festivals mark important points in the solar cycle, celebrating the changing seasons and agricultural cycles. The sabbats are divided into two groups: the four Greater Sabbats, also known as the cross-quarter days, and the four Lesser Sabbats, which coincide with the solstices and equinoxes.

Greater Sabbats (Cross-Quarter Days):

Samhain (October 31st): This marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It's considered a time when the veil between the physical world and the spirit world is thinnest, making it a time for honoring ancestors and reflecting on mortality. This Sabbat is more popularly known as Halloween, and the association really changes depending on the costumes. For example, in Italy, in some restricted beliefs guided by ignorance, Halloween is associated with the devil and comes before the Day of the Saints (1st November) and the Day of the Dead (2nd November), and only the younger generation started to celebrate it.

Imbolc (February 1st or 2nd): Imbolc celebrates the return of spring and the growing light. It's associated with purification and new beginnings, often symbolized by the lighting of candles and the goddess Brigid.

Beltane (May 1st): Beltane heralds the arrival of summer and is a fertility festival celebrating life, growth, and the union of the god and goddess. It's a time of joy, dancing around maypoles, and honoring fertility. In Italy, we have Fogheraccia is a typical Romagna folklore celebration held every year on the evening of March 18th, on the eve of the spring equinox, when the Bacchanalia took place and the Dionysian rites to propitiate fertility as well as the beginning of the new Roman year, from which its pagan origin can be traced. With the arrival of Christianity, the event was renamed Saint John's Day.

Lughnasadh/Lammas (August 1st): This marks the first harvest, celebrating the fruits of labor and the bounty of the earth. It's a time to give thanks for the abundance of the season. The name Lammas is also used, taken from a later Christianized Anglo-Saxon festival that took place at the same time and may or may not have the same origin. As the name indicates (from loafmass, "festival of loaves"), it is a celebration of thanksgiving for bread, which represents the first fruit of the harvest.

Lesser Sabbats (Solstices and Equinoxes):

Yule (Winter Solstice, around December 21st): Yule celebrates the winter solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year. It signifies the rebirth of the sun and the return of light, often symbolized by the burning of the Yule log. In this modern day of celebrating Yule, it's like celebrating Christmas; the symbols are the same but the meanings are different. In Yule, it is used to decorate three with candlelight and sweet biscuits to keep Fae and Gnome away during the celebrations. The Krampus was transformed into a bad creature when in reality it was our "Santa Claus," but let me explain. It originated in Norway when the native pagans used to worship Thor, who was said to travel in a chariot that was drawn by two goats. During the Yule celebrations, the pagans would visit homes wearing goatskins and a goat head. When the country became Christian, the tradition was also absorbed into the new faith. Initially, the Julebukk was a goat slaughtered at Christmastime to celebrate the end of the agricultural work year. With time, it meant a person who led a costumed procession from house to house to entertain the residents and be rewarded with food and drink. In the early 19th century, the Julebukk also became the bringer of presents, the predecessor of the Julenisse, equivalent to Santa Claus in English.

Ostara (Spring Equinox, around March 21st): Ostara marks the vernal equinox, a time of balance when day and night are equal. It's a celebration of fertility, growth, and new life. Ostara is the Sabbat associated with Easter and celebrates the coming of spring. For Christians, it is the celebration of the coming back of Jesus.

Midsummer/Litha (Summer Solstice, around June 21st): This celebrates the longest day of the year when the sun is at its peak. It's a time for revelry, honoring the sun's power, and acknowledging the abundance of nature. The early Christian Church designated June 24 as the feast day of the early Christian martyr St. John the Baptist [22], and the observance of St. John's Day begins the evening before, known as Saint John's Eve.

Mabon (Autumn Equinox, around September 21st): Mabon marks the autumnal equinox, a time of balance before the descent into winter. It's a time for gratitude for the harvest and preparation for the colder months.

These sabbats vary in how they're observed and celebrated, with rituals, feasts, ceremonies, and specific customs tied to each one. Different pagan traditions may have variations in the names, practices, and specific dates for these celebrations, but they generally revolve around honoring nature's cycles and spiritual significance.

As always, I will love to hear your thoughts! and if you have any questions, I will be more than happy to answer them! If you liked it, leave a comment or reblog (that is always appreciated!). and have a wonderful day or night!

[teecupangel]

So this is pertaining to my story Meta Assassins on AO3. Summary to follow so you can have context:

The very franchise we know exists as games within the games themselves and Desmond Miles isn't sure how to feel about this. He owns the first five games and soon Black Flag drops along with a new never-released game. It is there that Desmond meets Altair, Malik, Kadar, Ezio, and Federico. Desmond finds solace in the games given he now works at a gas station and has a crappy boss. While working one day he unknowingly meets Giovanni Auditore who gives him his contact information because he thinks Desmond is hard working and dedicated. Assassin’s Creed: Quadrivium, a MMORPG, drops and that's when he starts to figure things out. He eventually wants to go to Italy to visit Ezio and Federico during the winter holiday, which he does. Currently he is hanging out with Claudia Auditore at the local market.

Eventually I will have Desmond get hurt on the job at the gas station. A wet floor he didn't see, and there was no wet floor sign. He was carrying some heavy product that landed on his chest and left leg pinning him to the ground. His friends find it odd that he doesn't join them that night, but eventually a week goes by before they decide to go to New York to find Desmond. Which is how they discover the poor conditions Desmond has been living in. I am just stuck on how to write the accident scene and the twist of Desmond being fired for having the accident. Typically I have Kadar be the one that kicks them in the pants, cause I like to think he would have studied people's behaviors which would be useful as an assassin, but considering that I now have him dating Claudia, I could have her bugging Federico and Ezio about it since it's very uncharacteristic for Desmond to not answer her for more than a day (he did that once, called her to explain he was exhausted and apologized, he was yawning the entire time which made her realize he works himself to the bone.

Anyway, take your time and get to this when you can. Though I look forward to it, cause honestly I forget what I have asked so it's a nice surprise treat when you answer, like "Oh my Goth I asked that?" Thank you for all these lovely ask and answers. Safety and Peace upon you my friend.

Thank you and upon you as well, friend! Here's the link to the fanfic for those curious: Meta Assassins, please give it a try if you're interested and leave some love :)

If you want to keep it a suspense, one way would be to not write the accident scene at first. Shift the narration to Claudia or Federico or even Ezio and how they haven’t heard about Desmond for a while. Create a mini-mystery of some kind perhaps?

Then when they decided to fly to New York, that’s when the narration shifts back to Desmond. If you’re having problem writing the accident itself, you can set the narration to the same day that they set off to check Desmond and make it something that Desmond internally muses about. Focus the narration on what has happened after he was fired and how he’s holding up. Depending on how long it took for them to decide to fly to America, maybe the timeline was long enough that he needed to sell some things to pay the bills which included his computer and phone. Maybe he had to give up on paying his internet provider to pay the other bills using what he had saved up. Those would be valid reasons why he couldn’t say anything more to his friends.

Now, if you truly want the accident to be a central scene…

Well…

I’ve been clumsy since I was a kid (hence why I had to get a tetanus shot this month) so I can tell you that it might seemed ridiculous but one can do a lot of damage thanks to flailing limbs while ‘sliding’. He doesn’t have to be carrying the heavy product. He could be on his break and leaving the gas station when he skids across the floor and grabbed the first thing he could, which turned out to be the nozzle attached to a nearby car. The nozzle goes flying off the car and still dispensing gas and Desmond smacks his head hard against the car and his head bleeds.

Head bleeding tend to be heavy so they had to call 911 because they freaked out from seeing all the blood.

Of course, Desmond has no health insurance so now he has medical bills to pay for a head injury that he could have probably (probably) treated himself and, when he returned to his work, his boss fires him and tells him he has to pay for the wasted gas. And, because he was on his ‘break’ when it happened, his accident wasn’t covered by his ‘previous’ job (to be fair, Desmond is pretty sure that was just an excuse to not pay him squat).

Hope this helps and, even if you don’t use this, this gives you an idea of how to write this scene :)

(Also, instead of the gas, gas stations usually have convenient stores and you can make Desmond have his accident there where he grabs a shelf to stop his fall, breaks his ankle and crashes lots of merchandises that he has to pay for)

[xxwhiskeyxx]

If you still take writing requests

I had an idea for an Alpha x Ghoulette fanfic

Alpha gets incredibly overheated because of his abilities and his temper, ghoulette reader cools him down because they run naturally cold

Fluff comfort :))

Anyways have a wonderful day!

Again if you don't take requests anymore I'm do sorry!

Elsa and her Fire Boy

Hello from the barrel of accidental hiatus! I do infact still take requests I have just been in a writers block since the last semester of college due to personal reasons but I have been wanting to try to get back into writing a bit (this is something i have said time and time again and I shall attempt whenever is possible!) I always love getting requests and actually have some in my inbox that I have been meaning to catch up on (I am so sorry if you’re reading this and they belong to you and i haven’t fulfilled your wishes yet, theyre coming i swear!) I am hoping to crank out some of them this next week since I will be busy the rest of this one as I am going to houston to visit a friend for her birthday (we’re seeing the Ghovie!)/ celebrating her recently discovered pregnancy! Anyways, I shall shut my yap and get to the summary!

So the lovely @evolutionghoul requested a fluff comfort fic with the ever so hotheaded Alpha! For context, reader shall be a air/water hybrid ghoulette who is a healer in the infirmary with the Quintessence ghouls. Now let’s see what the barrel cooks up!

-Love Whiskey

It had been a grueling day, with a never-ending procession of siblings and ghouls suffering from seasonal hay fever, weather-induced arthritis & migraine flares, and colds. The (height) hybrid had been tirelessly darting around, offering their assistance wherever it was needed. She had been seen sitting with Zephyr, gently applying icy hot on their aching joints and later placing her cool hands on Mist's forehead to alleviate her pounding head from the cluster headache triggered by the changing season and bass lessons with the kits that afternoon. She had also been glimpsed rubbing Omega's back and shoulders after he had spent the afternoon adjusting the vast majority of the Abbey's Earth ghouls that had overworked themselves trying to get the spring harvest planted as soon as possible after the last frost of winter had melted.

"(Y/N), hon, you can head home, ya know; your shift ended an hour ago?" Aether calls from the entrance of her office.

Glancing up from where she had been typing a report out on the computer, the (hair-colored) ghoulette sighs, "I know, but I have to finish these reports for Meg before he realizes, or he'll be here until tomorrow trying to finish it so he can go on that trip with you, Papa Copia, and Papa Terzo to the sister church in Italy next week." (Y/N) takes a moment to stretch and pop her back after sitting in her hunched-over typing position

The older ghoul chuckles, "Fair enough, I can grab my laptop and can come help you with that, so you don't have to-" 

Before he could finish his sentence, the door to the infirmary slams open as a familiar Fire ghoul storms in, smoke quite literally streaming from his nose and ears, "Where the fuck is Aether!? His fucking runt of a 'successor' just ruined my fucking guitar!" Alpha snarls loudly, prowling through the infirmary in search of his victim; the heat from the enormous ghoul's body is so high that both (Y/N) and Aether can feel it from her office

"Fuck, Aeth hide in here, 'll I go distract him!" (Y/N) whisper yells, standing and basically yanking the Quint into her office with unexpected strength as the emergency system triggers and the alarms begin to blare. The hybrid ghoulette had become quite close to the former lead guitarist and was very intuned with his infamous temper.

Racing down the hallway after closing the door to her office, (Y/N) searches for her friend throughout the infirmary. 

While the infirmary's emergency system blares, (Y/N) spots Alpha's fiery figure stomping through the chaos. She quickly maneuvers through the distressed patients and concerned ghouls, her eyes fixed on Alpha's burning rage. 

Spotting him near the entrance, she steadies herself and approaches him with a calming but assertive demeanor, ready to divert his destructive fury away from Aether. "Alpha, hey! What's going on?" to which he whirls around with a snarl, "Can't you notice I'm dealing with something right now? Don't bother me with your questions. Where the fuck is Aether!" he barks.

The harsh words make (Y/N) shrink back slightly, involuntary tears creeping into her eyes, but she quickly steals herself and bristles, "Calm your tits and realize who you're talking to, Mr., now try again." watching as he seems to realize his tone and softens, sighing. "Sorry (Y/N), I'm just pissed at that little shit Phantom...Aeon..whatever the fuck his name is, he broke my guitar fucking around with Dew and Ifrit." he goes to rub his face but hisses as the literally red-hot appendage singes his beard.

The hybrid chuckles, "C'mon big guy, it's time for some cuddles and talk therapy," taking the large ghoul's hand with no issue with her cooling abilities already working full blast and dragging him down the hallway.

Looking around the infirmary, (Y/N) quickly finds the room she's looking for, "Code Pants on Fire," she giggles as she opens the door, making Alpha grumble disgruntledly before grunting as he's pushed onto the couch. "You know the drill, shirt off, gotta cool you off before you trigger the sprinklers again. We both know wet pissy Alpha is worse than dry pissy Alpha," (Y/N) teases, stripping down to the tanktop she wears under her scrub top.

The Fire ghoul continues to grumble about 'stupid runt' and 'Damn Elsa and her stupid icepack body,' the nickname having been dubbed upon (Y/N) after a drunken night of a Disney movie marathon with all of the packs and she had performed a damn near perfect rendition of 'Let it Go' using her air affinity to make snow from her water and even made a miniature snowman in the middle of the kitchen that was not very much appreciated by a half asleep still drunk Pebble who slipped on Bitchloff, named by Alpha and Swiss, on their trek to the kitchen for water the next morning.

"Oh hush, we both know you love cuddle time with me, ya sentient air fryer," (Y/N) laughs as she flops atop the pissy ghoul, whose flicking tail then twanks her ass, making the ghoulette squeal, earning her a laugh. "I will not admit anything, but having my favorite girl on top of me and cooling me down is something I will never complain about," Alpha smirks down at her.

Rolling her eyes, (Y/N) rests her chin atop his toned chest and runs her ice-cold fingers up his overheated sides, making the ghoul squeal and her cackle. This descends them into a wrestling match.

*Minny Timeskip brought to you by Alpha's tits*

Not long later, Alpha was eased into a purring and much cooler ghoul, very content having (Y/N) cool fingers running through his hair as she hummed. Soon, the door cracks, and Aether's hesitant voice comes from the doorway. "Everything all good in here?" he calls, "Very much so; got things calmed down out there?" (Y/N) returns, sitting up slightly, much to Alpha's discretion; a soft growl rumbles from his chest as she moves. "Yep! Also, Alpha, I called Phantom, who told me he fixed it. Just a little quint magick and it's good as new; he is very sorry for breaking it, which I will add that it was Dewdrop's fault because he threw it at Phantom just before you came in," Aether explains.

The Fire ghoul sits up suddenly, groaning as he rubs his face, "Fuck..I need to apologize now, don't I" he sighs as (Y/N) chuckles, "Yup! But later, I was enjoying my personal heater," she chirps before yanking him back down, making Alpha yelp and Aether laugh, "Alright lovebirds, I'll let Bug know that you'll be by later" he says before closing the door.

Alpha chuffs as he presses a kiss to the hickey he had left on (Y/N)'s neck last night, "You're lucky I like you, and I enjoy my personal icepack," he mumbles before relaxing into her again.

[salvadorbonaparte]

What are the top eight countries you’ve visited (and why)?

In no particular order

the UK. I visited it for the first time on a school trip when I was ~7 and fell in love with it. From that trip on I wanted to move there and finally did that ~10 years later

Spain/Paisos Catalans. My step grandparents had a house in Torrevieja and we spent a lot of time there and I also visited plenty of other places and regions by now. I love the languages, cultures, food, climate. I briefly lived in Galicia and I'd love to spend a little more time on the peninsula after finishing my degree.

Portugal/Madeira. fantastic food, climate, people, made me fall in love with Portuguese.

Norway. We spent 3 weeks on a road trip through Southern Norway when I was a kid and the nature was absolutely stunning.

Italy. I've been to exactly two regions in Italy: South Tyrol and Campania and both were amazing in their own way. There's so many places I still want to see there.

Egypt. This is the first time we did the "staying in a fancy hotel and just relaxing and doing nothing else" thing. Usually I'm more of a sightseeing city trip person but that year we really needed that. We went to the Red Sea in winter. I really want to visit some of the actual historical sights at some point.

Croatia. Another childhood trip. Lots of childhood nostalgia on this list. We went to Istria and I remember loving the vibe. The Italian influence and Slavic language, the good food, gorgeous nature and beaches but also history and cute little towns.

I wasn't sure whether to mention this one because of possible controversy but I'd be lying if I didn't include Israel. I went on a youth exchange trip for ceremonial local government partnership Holocaust memorial reasons as a teen. It was a really important trip for me and also the first time I ever got to use my (limited) Yiddish.

[mctwinkdom]

This is so cute, thank you for creating the questions @ravenrage27, and for the tag @slugesh @twinkodium

What color are your eyes?

Brown.

Tell me about your pets. Or your dream pet.

I had two cats when I was a kid. No pets for now but I would love to adopt a cat once I'm stable enough in my life.

Share some interesting fact about yourself.

I played the piano for 8 years, from 7 to 15, then brutally stopped for personal reasons. Didn't touch a keyboard for years but I finally got back to it and I've been playing everyday lately. It really feels like healing my inner kid/teen.

Also I can solve a Rubik's cube :D (Lando I can teach you!!)

What was the first fandom you were a part of?

Ugh One Piece. I read my first fic on Skyblog.

Do you have any phobias?

I'm really not comfortable in deep waters, when I can't see what's below my feet...

Are you a picky eater? If so, what food can't you stand?

Oh my God, yes I am. And I join Lando in our common distate for fish. Also nori seaweed, I almost threw up the last time I tried, I couldn't swallow.

Do you eat the burger and fries at the same time? Or one after another?

The correct order is: one bite of burger, couple of fries, one burger bite, fries, etc. And you should always finish by the fries.

Winter or summer?

I'm miserable in both, to be honest, but let's say summer.

What fanfiction tropes are your favorite?

Rivals to lovers, Friends to lovers, pining, sexual tension, and a lot more.

Are you studying or working? What did you study, what is your job?

I'm studying Publishing and Literary creation.

What is the last country you visited?

Belgium! To visit a friend.

What country would you want to move to after retiring?

Italy or Spain. Somewhere warm.

Who was your first crush?

Kid named Cyprien in kindergarden 😅 don't even remember his face, just that he reminded me of Arrow in the Indestructibles.

How did you get into F1 fandom?

French YouTuber named Squeezie organized a "GP explorer" with 20 content creators competing in F4 cars. I liked watching that race so much I wanted to see real professionals racing. I fell for Charles Leclerc first and then Lando stole my heart.

-

I'm tagging @landoom @v3lnys @izzief1rambles

[advntrdad]

Cortina D’Ampezzo

Our adventure now continued to the main event, one of the primary reasons we came to Italy together with visiting Carol's sister: Backpacking in the Dolomites (click on name for details about what Dolomites is).

I mean the mountains you see at Lago di Garda are kinda the beginning of the Dolomites per say. The area is massive, but thousands of trails, chair lifts, gondolas, trail huts, hotels, towns, lakes, etc... There is books and websites and forums and chat groups dedicated to help people decide where to go, what trails to explore, etc etc etc. The amount of info is daunting We chose to go straight to Cortina D'Ampezzo and I think it was the right decision. Here are some pics of our approach to Cortina and the town itself, which will be hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics!!

[kingslionheart]

📝(story from your childhood), 📺 (top 5 tv shows; ooops, I saw that you didn’t like make list too late, just name the one you like the most!), 🚀 (where do you wanna visit), 📚 (career goal) and 📅 (favourite time of the year)! (I hope this amount of emojis isn’t overwhelming, xoxo)

LMAO HI THAT'S A FUNNY AMOUNT, I LOVE IT THANK YOUU xx

📝 - story from your childhood

i have no idea how funny this would be in english compared to my native language, but YEAH I WILL TELL IT ANYWAY BECAUSE IT'S MY FAVOURITE.

in fourth grade we had to do an essay on our grandmas, i have only had one so i chose her immediately. my grandma is a sicilian woman who moved to northern italy in her 30s to work in a factory. one of her favourite things to do was giving nicknames to people, she loved it immensely and mine was a diminutive of my name.

at least when i was little i thought it was just a diminutive of my name.

so very innocently i wrote on my fourth grade essay, with a very pretty handwriting too, that my grandma always called me "minchiolina".

"minchiolina" is indeed a diminutive though not of the name "michela", but of the word "minchia" which is sicilian for "dick", so i very charmingly wrote that my grandma always called me "little dick".

i still don't know how my teacher reacted to that, but i do remember how hard my grandma laughed when i made her read the essay and that's a memory i keep very close to my heart

📺 - top 5 tv shows

AHAHAHAAHHA DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT!! my favourite is the last kingdom (predictable of me) but let me tell you that i still don't know if i seriously find it absolutely amazing/perfect because it is or because i spent most of my life watching shows from the cw and therefore my bar is low MFHSJHSHSHA

🚀 - where do you wanna visit

SCOTLAND. i don't know why but it is just so pretty, i thought it was just for edinburgh but it is seriously the whole of scotland, i wanna visit it all i can't

📚 - career goal

i actually have two BUT THEY ARE CONNECTED IN WEIRD WAYS!!

the first and main one is becoming a screenwriter, i have been wanting to do that since i was a child and it's a passion that i just can't get rid off and that i don't want to give up on. i recently started to try to write plays too, but i'm finding the approach to that a bit difficult so i still need to get used to it as well, but it's absolutely interesting and i love it. the genre i prefer to write in though is period drama so to be accurate i decided to study history. YEAH. THAT'S THE MAIN REASON WHY I STUDY HISTORY. do not get me wrong i do love history, but it also works well for my main career goal.

so the second career goal i have is to become a historian and at first i thought that it wouldn't have been the best option ever and it would have been difficult, but seeing that all my professors in uni were able to achieve that has given me so much hope that perhaps i could too so i keep both paths open!!

📅 - favourite time of the year

AUTUMN. i love the colours of it and there's always so much rain, i just love it. it is the season of the soul as they say and it warms my heart so much, BUT ALSO i really like winter but mostly for the christmas vibes which always put me in a good mood and i need that a lot!!

[christmaswinter]

Florence,Italy,in winter

Christmas markets, festive holiday lighting, mild weather, and fewer crowds: there are many reasons to visit Florence in winter.

Winter is actually a great time to visit Florence, as it’s home to some of Italy’s most impressive museums and art galleries… perfect winter activities, as they’re all indoors!

Source and more:https://eternalarrival.com/florence-in-winter/

[loiladadiani]

Empress Maria Alexandrovna (1824 - 1880)

Maria of Hesse and the Rhine was born in Hesse, Darmstadt. She met Tsarevich Alexander when he was traveling Europe looking for a wife. Maria was fourteen; Alexander fell in love with her, and they immediately got engaged. When her husband inherited the throne of Russia as Alexander II, she reigned next to him as Empress Maria Feodorovna.

The Russian Court was difficult for Maria to get accustomed to, and the weather did not suit her; she was frequently ill. Nevertheless, she bore Alexander eight children. The pregnancies and her frequent illnesses kept her away from court functions, making it easier for Alexander to be unfaithful to her. The death of Maria's firstborn son, Nicholas, whom she had educated to become Tsar, dealt a severe blow to her fragile health. After the death of Nixa, Alexander set up a second family with his mistress Princess Catherine Dolgorukaya and had three children with her. Because of security reasons, he moved Catherine and her children to the Winter Palace, where his true family lived. This was another severe blow for the Empress, whose health deteriorated steadily until she quietly died.

The political climate in Russia was turbulent. Tsar Alexandre had been working to reform Russia from above, eliminating serfdom and drafting a constitution he did not get to enact; things were not moving fast enough for the nihilists who conducted no less than seven attempts on Alexander's life until they finally succeeded in assassinating him.

Empress Maria Alexandrovna is interred in the Cathedral of Peter and Paul. Far away, in San Remo, Italy, a city she visited frequently to improve her health and the place where her son died, there is a panoramic walk called "Corso Imperatrice," which is dedicated to the Empress Maria Aleksandrovna in thanksgiving for the palms she donated to the city to decorate the landscape. They still show today along the homonymous street.

[musings-by-the-snowbird-mona]

Spontaneity and Planning: A Practice

How do you make decisions? What is your process? Do you dive right in head first? Do you need to mull and ponder? Do others influence your decisions?

As I prepare for my winter vacation 2023, I notice a difference this year's process versus prior years'. I made decisions faster. Maybe it is because I'm more comfortable and confident with traveling. Maybe I've learned that waiting to make decisions doesn't usually turn out well or more advantageous for me. Maybe it is a concrete example of how I am growing as a person by trusting myself. Whatever the reason, here I am headed to Europe.

A little background: Normally I go to warmer climes such as Mexico, Colombia, and Peru during the North American winter (October-ish to May-ish). However, I wanted to visit my friend who lives in Berlin and I've wanted to visit in December to see the Christkindlmarkts. This year, I decided to sacrifice my warm weather! I started looking for work exchange opportunities in Europe for November 2023 thru January 2024. After applying for some, I interviewed with a hostel in Bulgaria and was offered a position for at least a month at the end of the interview. Normally I would have hemmed and hawed, as we say in the US, and avoided making a decision. In other words, I would have taken actions to avoid clearly answering yes or no to the job opportunity. By delaying making a decision, the decision would have been may FOR me: the offer would be rescinded.

This time I didn't do that and I promptly accepted the offer! Accepted what the universe was sending my way. I also bought my airline tickets to get me to Germany and Bulgaria in record time! Within two weeks of deciding to go to Bulgaria, I had tickets purchased and confirmed. Compare this to my first trip to Europe in 2022. My friend and I were going to take a trip to Milan, Italy. I hemmed and hawed, couldn't commit, couldn' t make a decision on the flight. I ended up paying almost double for my flight from Berlin to Milan and missed half a day of adventuring in Milan with my friend.

While it may not seem like a big deal, it is an important area of growth for me. Planning, making decisions, but ultimately going with the flow and spontaneity that can be found in life. That's what I do. What about you? How do you make decisions? Are you satisfied with your decision making process? In your adult life, have you observed changes in how you make decisions?

[gellavonhamster]

Good trip! I've always wanted to visit Northern Europe!

Thank you! I've been to Tallinn twice before - my friend hasn't - but I'm glad that I have a reason to see it in summer as well, for the two previous times were in winter and autumn. I've briefly been there last summer on my way back from Italy - a classmate of mine, who I was travelling with, lives there now, so on our way back we both flew there, I spent a night at her place, and then took a bus to Riga, but I didn't really see anything of the city. And Helsinki will be completely new to me, so that should be especially interesting :)

[travnook-travel-and-tourism]

Most Visited Schengen Countries from UAE

If you are searching for a European destination for your next holiday, you can choose one of the popular Schengen countries from the UAE. Selecting one of the most visited Schengen countries from the UAE will ensure you a unique experience compared to the UAE vibes. Also, it can indicate an easily approved Schengen tourist visa for UAE residents. 

In this article, you will find the most visited Schengen countries by UAE residents, highlighting what makes each destination worth adding to your European itinerary.

Top Visited Schengen Countries by UAE Residents 

France

France is a top choice for travelers from the UAE, and for good reason. It offers a complete European experience, especially for couples. 

From the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera, there's a wide range of experiences waiting to be discovered. France’s extensive train network also makes it easy to explore nearby Schengen countries like Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland.

Popular Attractions in France

The Eiffel Tower, the Palace of Versailles, and the Louvre Museum. 

Italy

The fresh pizza in Italy tastes differently from any Italian pizza in the UAE. The scene of Italian streets and hearing the Italian accent gives you the best bite of Pizza ever. This can be the reason why UAE residents love visiting Italy, due to its picturesque streets, lovely people, and delicious food.

Italy also offers historic tours among its Roman ruins, of the Colosseum, and the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence.

Popular Attractions in Italy

Rome, Venice, and Milan, while the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, and the Italian Lakes offer breathtaking landscapes and relaxing escapes. 

Spain

Spain is one of the top-visited destinations from the UAE in the Schengen area. The country offers a pleasant climate, which is desperately needed during the summer. Its Mediterranean beaches can be the perfect escape from the severe heat in the UAE. All of these attractive points, despite its lively cities that make each walk a treat. 

Popular Attractions in Spain

Seville, Granada, and Valencia are popular for their cultural richness and festive atmosphere in Spain. For relaxation on the beach, the Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands are the best in Spain. 

Switzerland

Switzerland is the perfect Schengen country to visit during winter or spring to get the best of the country.  The UAE residents think about Switzerland if seeking peace, nature, and pristine surroundings, making it one of the most visited Schengen countries from the UAE.  

What makes it the best for families is the fun activities it can offer. In summer, the country is ideal for hiking, while winter brings opportunities for skiing in nature covered with snow. While the chocolate museums and high-quality cheese make the experience better.

Popular Attractions in Switzerland

Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva.

Germany

Germany attracts a large number of visitors from the UAE each year due to its iconic art museums and historical sites. 

Also, the countryside of Germany is equally appealing and perfect for relaxing. The Black Forest, Bavarian Alps, and Rothenburg ob der Tauber give a different taste of Germany away from the urban rush. 

Popular Attractions in Germany

Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt are often the first stops for tourists from the UAE.

Greece

Greece offers a perfect escape into island beauty, along with history. Its combination of archaeological sites and picture-perfect beaches makes it a preferred choice for UAE travelers who love exploration and relaxation activities.

Popular Attractions in Greece

Santorini and Mykonos offer unforgettable sunsets on the beach. 

Applying for a Schengen Visa from the UAE

To travel to any of the Schengen countries, whether we discussed in this article or any other country, you must apply for a Schengen visa from UAE in advance if you are not eligible to visit the area without a visa. 

The Schengen visa process requires careful preparation to ensure all requirements are met and have the highest chance of approval. 

How to Get Your Schengen Visa from the UAE?

The first step in the Schengen visa application process is choosing the correct embassy to apply through in the UAE. Visit the embassy of the Schengen country where you will spend the most time of your trip, then submit your request. 

It’s important to apply well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to find an early appointment slot, then start gathering the required documents. The documents you will need to prepare as a UAE resident are: 

A completed and signed Schengen visa application form

Emirates ID copy and UAE residency visa

A valid passport

Recent passport-sized photographs

Travel insurance

Proof of travel

Proof of financial means

A no-objection letter.

After submitting the documents to the right visa center in the UAE, they will process your request. Once approved, the tourist Schengen visa will be stamped on the passport, allowing you to move freely between Schengen countries for the duration and validity of the visa.

Conclusion

The list of the most visited Schengen countries from the UAE can be a great indication of the easy tourist visa for UAE residents. This will reduce the anxiety about the rejection possibilities. However, it’s better to get advice from visa experts to suggest the best and easiest Schengen country to visit without going through complications. 

[mahmoudahmed60]

Explore the World: 10 Incredible Countries to Visit — Detailed Travel Guides

Traveling is about more than just seeing new places — it’s about experiencing new cultures, tasting exotic flavors, and creating unforgettable memories. At [Trip], we’re here to help you plan the perfect getaway to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. Below, we’ve crafted detailed travel guides for 10 incredible countries, complete with must-visit places, unique experiences, and reasons why you’ll fall in love with each destination. Let’s dive in!

1. Italy: A Timeless Journey Through History and Flavor

Italy is a country that needs no introduction. From its rich history to its mouthwatering cuisine, Italy is a dream destination for travelers of all kinds.

Why Visit Italy? Italy is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, savoring authentic pizza, or strolling through charming villages, every moment in Italy feels magical.

Must-Visit Places:

Rome: The Eternal City is home to iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return!

Venice: Glide through the canals on a gondola, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, and get lost in the city’s enchanting streets.

Florence: Admire Michelangelo’s David, climb the Duomo for panoramic views, and explore the Uffizi Gallery.

Amalfi Coast: Relax on picturesque beaches, visit colorful towns like Positano, and enjoy fresh seafood with a view.

Why Book with Us? At [Trip], we offer tailored Italy itineraries that include guided tours, luxury accommodations, and exclusive experiences. Start planning your Italian adventure here: Click here Trip now.

2. Japan: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Japan is a country where ancient temples stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers, offering a unique blend of old and new.

Why Visit Japan? From cherry blossoms in spring to snow festivals in winter, Japan is a year-round destination. Its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and cutting-edge technology make it a must-visit.

Must-Visit Places:

Tokyo: Experience the bustling Shibuya Crossing, visit the serene Meiji Shrine, and explore the trendy Harajuku district.

Kyoto: Wander through bamboo forests, visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, and explore traditional tea houses.

Osaka: Savor street food at Dotonbori, visit Osaka Castle, and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Hokkaido: Ski in Niseko during winter or explore lavender fields in Furano during summer.

Why Book with Us? Our Japan packages include everything from cultural experiences to luxury stays. Let us help you discover the Land of the Rising Sun: Click here Trip now.

3. New Zealand: The Ultimate Adventure Destination

New Zealand is a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers, offering stunning landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities.

Why Visit New Zealand? From snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches, New Zealand’s natural beauty is unparalleled. It’s also the adventure capital of the world, offering activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and hiking.

Must-Visit Places:

Queenstown: Try bungee jumping, jet boating, or skiing in this adventure hub.

Milford Sound: Cruise through fjords surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.

Rotorua: Experience Maori culture and geothermal wonders like geysers and hot springs.

Auckland: Explore the city’s vibrant waterfront and nearby islands like Waiheke.

Why Book with Us? Our New Zealand itineraries are designed for adventure and relaxation. Start planning your trip today: Click here Trip now.

4. Morocco: A Vibrant Tapestry of Culture and Color

Morocco is a sensory delight, offering vibrant markets, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Why Visit Morocco? Morocco’s mix of Arab, Berber, and European influences creates a unique cultural experience. From the Sahara Desert to bustling medinas, there’s something for everyone.

Must-Visit Places:

Marrakech: Explore the souks, visit the Bahia Palace, and relax in Jardin Majorelle.

Fes: Wander through the ancient medina and visit the famous tanneries.

Sahara Desert: Ride a camel, camp under the stars, and watch the sunrise over the dunes.

Chefchaouen: Stroll through the iconic blue-painted streets of this charming town.

Why Book with Us? Our Morocco tours include luxury desert camps, guided city tours, and more. Discover the magic of Morocco: Click here Trip now.

5. Australia: A Land of Endless Adventures

Australia is a country of contrasts, offering vibrant cities, stunning beaches, and vast outback landscapes.

Why Visit Australia? From the Great Barrier Reef to the Sydney Opera House, Australia is packed with iconic landmarks and unique wildlife.

Must-Visit Places:

Sydney: Climb the Harbour Bridge, relax at Bondi Beach, and explore the Royal Botanic Garden.

Great Barrier Reef: Dive or snorkel in one of the world’s most famous reefs.

Melbourne: Enjoy coffee culture, street art, and the city’s vibrant food scene.

Uluru: Witness the sacred red rock at sunrise or sunset.

Why Book with Us? Our Australia packages include everything from city tours to reef adventures. Start your Aussie journey here: Click here Trip now.

6. Greece: A Mediterranean Dream

Greece is a postcard-perfect destination, offering stunning islands, ancient ruins, and crystal-clear waters.

Why Visit Greece? Greece’s beauty, history, and delicious cuisine make it a timeless destination.

Must-Visit Places:

Santorini: Watch the sunset over the caldera and explore charming villages like Oia.

Athens: Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon.

Mykonos: Enjoy world-famous beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Crete: Discover ancient ruins and stunning gorges.

Why Book with Us? Our Greece itineraries include island-hopping tours, luxury stays, and more. Plan your Greek getaway: Click here Trip now.

7. South Africa: A Safari Adventure

South Africa is a wildlife lover’s dream, offering incredible safaris, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities.

Why Visit South Africa? From the Cape of Good Hope to Kruger National Park, South Africa is packed with natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Must-Visit Places:

Cape Town: Hike Table Mountain and visit Robben Island.

Kruger National Park: Spot the Big Five on a safari.

Garden Route: Drive through scenic coastal landscapes.

Johannesburg: Learn about South Africa’s history at the Apartheid Museum.

Why Book with Us? Our South Africa tours include luxury safaris, city tours, and more. Start your adventure: Click here Trip now.

8. Canada: Nature’s Playground

Why Visit Canada? From the Rocky Mountains to the Northern Lights, Canada’s natural beauty is unmatched.

Must-Visit Places:

Banff National Park: Hike through stunning mountain landscapes.

Vancouver: Explore Stanley Park and the vibrant food scene.

Toronto: Visit the CN Tower and Niagara Falls.

Quebec City: Wander through charming European-style streets.

Why Book with Us? Our Canada packages include everything from city tours to wilderness adventures. Start planning: Click here Trip now.

9. Thailand: The Land of Smiles

Thailand is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.

Why Visit Thailand? Thailand’s affordability, beauty, and friendly locals make it a favorite among travelers.

Must-Visit Places:

Bangkok: Visit the Grand Palace and shop at Chatuchak Market.

Phuket: Relax on beautiful beaches and enjoy water sports.

Chiang Mai: Explore ancient temples and lush jungles.

Krabi: Marvel at limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.

Why Book with Us? Our Thailand itineraries include beach getaways, city tours, and more. Discover Thailand: Click here Trip now.

10. Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland is a land of dramatic landscapes, from glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and hot springs.

Why Visit Iceland? Iceland’s otherworldly beauty and unique experiences make it a bucket-list destination.

Must-Visit Places:

Reykjavik: Explore the capital’s quirky charm and vibrant culture.

Golden Circle: Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall.

Blue Lagoon: Relax in geothermal waters.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Witness icebergs floating in a glacial lake.

Why Book with Us? Our Iceland tours include glacier hikes, Northern Lights tours, and more. Start your Icelandic adventure: Click here Trip now.

[canada-travel]

Canada on a Budget: Affordable Travel Tips and Tricks

Canada is known for its colorful cities and striking landscapes. As such, it can seem like a costly destination for budget travelers. With planning and knowledge, however, walking the Great White North doesn't have to break the bank. From coast to coast: the following are detailed tips to help you go through Canada affordably.

1. Best Time to Visit Canada

Travel timing is important when it comes to budget-friendly travel. Canada's peak tourist seasons are summer (June to August) and winter holidays—especially in ski destinations like Banff and Whistler.

To save money you may think of paying a visit during the shoulder seasons: late spring (May to early June) and early autumn (September to October). During these times tourists and prices lessen all while the natural attractions remain accessible.

2. Transportation

Domestic Flights and Alternatives

Given Canada's vast size, flying between cities can be expensive. To cut costs, book flights well in advance and use fare comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights. Low-cost carriers such as Flair Airlines and Lynx Air offer budget-friendly domestic flights.

For shorter distances, buses and trains are economical. Companies like Megabus and Red Arrow provide affordable intercity travel in Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta. VIA Rail offers discounted fares if booked early or during promotions.

Car Rentals and Ride-sharing

In regions with limited public transport: ride-sharing services like Poparide allow you to share rides with locals at reasonable prices. You can also think about car rentals with economy models or car-sharing platforms like Turo for riding to off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Going on a Canadian road trip is a cost-effective way to see multiple regions—be it coastlines or mountain ranges.

3. Accommodation

Hostels and Budget Hotels

Canada has a growing network of hostels, which is especially true in major tourist hubs and cities. “HI Canada” has affordable and clean lodging options. Budget motels and hotels—especially in smaller towns—can be surprisingly inexpensive.

Camping and Alternative Stays

Camping is a cost-effective way for outdoor lovers to stay close to nature. Parks Canada manages many campgrounds across provincial and national parks. In addition, platforms like Campertunity and Hipcamp connect travelers with private campgrounds.

4. Food

Dining out in Canada can no doubt be pricey. Here, then, are strategies that can help you save:

Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have food truck scenes having affordable and diverse meals on offer.

Small, family-run ethnic restaurants normally serve big portions at low prices. Little Italy, Chinatown, and other cultural neighborhoods are good places to see.

Shopping at grocery chains like Walmart and No Frills along with FreshCo for snacks or ready-to-eat meals can cut your costs.

Many casual restaurants and pubs have daily specials or happy hour discounts.

5. Attractions

Outdoor and Nature Activities

For those wanting mountains to visit in Canada: destinations like the Coast Mountains in British Columbia and the Rocky Mountains in Alberta have views and adventure opportunities lying in store.

Urban Adventuring

Many Canadian cities have free or donation-based attractions. Mount Royal in Montreal has city views and Stanley Park in Vancouver is great for walking or cycling. Museums normally have free entry days; the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, for instance, is free on Wednesday evenings.

6. Money-saving Tips

Many cities have tourist passes that bundle attraction entry and transit for a discount. Examples include the Montreal Museum Pass and the Toronto CityPASS. Groupon and other deal websites normally offer discounts on activities, tours, and dining.

7. Currency Management

Foreign transaction fees can add up. To minimize banking costs, then, opt for travel-friendly credit cards with no foreign transaction fees. Using local ATMs instead of currency exchange kiosks normally yields better exchange rates.

8. Volunteering and Work

For long-term travelers: volunteering or working can chip in for costs. Programs like WWOOF Canada allow you to work on organic farms in exchange for lodging and food. Similar opportunities are there through HelpX and Workaway.

9. Regional Destinations

Certain Canadian regions have more budget-friendly experiences:

The Maritimes are known for seafood and coastal beauty along with friendly communities. These provinces have lower dining and accommodation costs.

Cities like Montreal and Quebec have European charms without European prices. Many free festivals and affordable public transit make these cities wallet-friendly.

Prairies are normally overlooked provinces that have affordable cities and striking landscapes. These include Grasslands National Park and Riding Mountain National Park.

For those wanting thrills: there are many adventure places in Canada that you must visit. These include whitewater rafting in the Ottawa River or the trails of Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland.

Final Verdict

Traveling across Canada on a budget needs flexibility and creativity. In exchange, though, it has rewards in store. Time your visit wisely and use budget transport along with looking out for affordable accommodations.

Doing the aforementioned you can let yourself visit Canada without overspending. Embrace the journey and see what memories come without a hefty price tag.

[hangonimevolving]

Anyhoo Two

Moving right along….

Thanksgiving break arrived, and for the first time in a few years, we made the decision that our family would travel to see others for the holiday. I am almost positive than in like 15+ years of keeping this blog, I have mentioned my deep aversion to air travel during Thanksgiving, but in case I haven’t - consider this my rant against traveling for Thanksgiving. I loathe it, I NEVER want to do it, and I certainly wasn’t dying to do it this year. But, as is the case with many things in the adulting world, “we had to.” Dr. Spouse’s parents, like my own, are also experiencing the joys and woes of the aging process - they retired this past year, and bought a new house, which obviously was a reason itself for celebration and to visit them. However, they were also facing a number of personal challenges in the wake of retiring, including health challenges - Dadu in particular was slated for double knee replacement surgery, so we figured we ought to go see him before the first of his two procedures. We enjoyed a holiday of overeating and appreciating the lovely modern farmhouse vibes of their new home.

During periods of time in our out-of-town Thanksgiving, when Dr. Spouse and his brother were…. counseling…. their parents on health decisions and other issues, and the kids were off playing with their cousins, and I felt my opinion was not needed with either group — I escaped to the sofa alone to do some online Black Friday shopping. Of note - I purchased two full-size wooden desks for Vev and Dey’s rooms, and quickly set to assembling them upon our return. In the last month and change, the desks are already proving to be useful with homework time!

Upon our return, we honored our little family’s tradition of “Thanksgivingmas” for the second year in a row, declaring a random weekend day as “Christmas” and doing the morning routine of opening presents under the tree in our jammies.

The last pic on the right was of great excitement - every member of the family got a new carry-on sized hard sided suitcase. This was a nod to exciting plans we had in the pipeline for the winter break! Post on that adventure to come.

Soon, it was the TENTH BIRTHDAY of our beloved Dey! Hard to believe that this little baby who I felicitated here as a newborn has now reached the double-digit milestone. We celebrated his birthday with a balloon banner at home, a trip to our favorite Vietnamese place for pho and boba tea, and some general loafing around the house in comfy sweats (including a funny moment where he decided to try on my vintage sweatshirt).

We couldn’t throw a birthday party for Dey, because the very next day, I would be busy with an event that had been occupying my time for the last week and change - I am serving as Room Parent of Dey’s 4th grade class this year, and thus I was in charge of his classroom winter party. It was a ton of work, and I went above and beyond to include customized touches like name stickers for each child, gingerbread sticker-adorned goody bags (all designed on my Cricut), and a “food craft” station where kids assembled a reindeer cookie. Kids also decorated wooden blanks with holiday themes, using markers and stickers. It was fun and came from the heart - but man was it a ton of work.

We made a promise to Dey that we’d throw him a belated birthday party at the venue of his choice after the winter break was over - and fast as lightning, he declared he wanted it at a local trampoline park…. aka, my least favorite place on earth 😂 but we acquiesced and saved the date. Le sigh.

Anyway! Stay tuned for my next post, which is a trip report chronicling our fabulous holiday season travels in Italy!