#all my friends either busy or on a different campus or straight up 5 states away on all sides. ok

[poughkeepsies]

I was so caught up in the euphoria of quitting my jobs I forgot about the crushing loneliness of fall semester

[yoongihoseok97]

Cookies & kisses💋

.BTS Jungkook.

Summary- Jeon Jungkook is a broke college student who’s just trying to get his degree and find his place in the world but things aren’t always that easy. Especially when you’re only 21 years old and have a 4 year old daughter.

Warnings- Mentions of underage sex, brief mentions of past drug & alchol abuse. Mentions of past depression, self harm and suicidal thoughts. Quite a bit of swearing but nothing too harsh, don’t read if you’re sensitive to anything mentioned above.

Word count- 2.4k

-

A trail of ‘sorry’s and ‘excuse me’s left Jungkooks mouth as he pushed his way through the overcrowded hallway of tired and depressed collage students. His afternoon class had ran over and he had to get to the daycare a little under a mile away in under 5 minutes if he wanted to pick his daughter up in peace without all the judgemental moms rolling their eyes at him for not being on time. It’s happened more times then he’d like to admit and Jungkook would be lying if he said the fellow parents stares weren’t intimidating. Now the young dad knew that being a single father in collage would get him a bad reputation, the tattoos covering his muscular body doesn’t help with anything either but he’s learnt to ignore the disapproving glares from strangers and to just focus on himself and his precious little girl.

He ran as fast as he could to the nursery, considering himself victorious when he arrived at 3:31pm, only a minute late and the class hadn’t even came out yet. He smiled slightly to himself before looking around awkwardly to see only a few stares from both Teacher’s and parents which made him huff and cross his arms over his chest, emphasising the tattoos covering his toned arms in a way to tell them he isn’t interested in what they have to say. Who do they think they are, looking down at him and his daughter like they’re some specks of dirt on their shoe. It honestly angered him more than anything, everyone thinking he can’t raise his own daughter well because of his age, everyone thinking he’s a bad father because of how he looks and the bad things he did in the past. He had moved on from those times and he liked to think he’s even grown as a person which is something only a few people seemed to believe.

His thoughts are interrupted by the sound of a door opening and a crowd of excited children running towards him like a mini stampede and a smile is instantly spread across his face when he sees his beautiful little girl skipping towards him. “Daddy!” Eunha squealed as she jumped into her fathers arms, obviously happy to see him after a long day of being apart. “Hey baby how are you?” He said whilst picking the small girl up, kissing her cheek before making his way out of the now crowded playground. “It was so fun daddy! We did painting and drawing all day and look I made you something!” Jungkook stopped a moment, looking down happily at his daughter who’s hands were carrying a rather large card that had “Merry Christmas Daddy!” Written on the front in various different colours and a picture of the two of them with a Christmas tree full of presents in the background.

“Baby this is beautiful, thank you princess.” Jungkook said emotionally. He was so happy to have someone so precious in his fucked up life that brought him happiness and peace, something the father didn’t think he deserved.

The two made it home after about 15 minutes of walking, they lived in a big apartment just outside of campus with three of Jungkooks best friends. He originally wanted a small house for just the two of them but after talking with they boys he realised moving in with them would be cheaper and it meant he had someone to help take care of Eunha if needed. Some people would question if living with 4 men was a good thing for the young girl but Jungkook would always shut down the comments, insisting that he’d known the three for years and Taehyung, Seokjin and Hoseok adored Eunha and would do anything to help.

“We’re back” The raven haired boy shouted, putting Eunha down so she could run off into the lounge to play. “In here” Taehyung shouted back from his position presumingly in the kitchen. His suspicion was met when he walked in and saw his hyung raiding the cookie draw. “Hyung, Jin literally brought those this morning and you know how he gets when you open food straight away” the younger laughed as Taehyung rolled his eyes at the comment. “That’s not my problem, if he would let me then I’d do the food shopping but he doesn’t so he’s just gonna have to deal with it” Jungkook just laughed at his friends rant, grabbing his phone and scrolling through his most recent notifications.

“Tae oppa!” Eunha grinned, her curly long brown hair bounced as she ran towards her favourite (don’t tell jin) uncle. Jungkook and tae had been best friends since elementary school and when the younger told him he was gonna be a dad he didn’t judge him like everyone else did. Don’t get him wrong he was shocked of course; and a little sympathetic for the inexperienced teenager,but he stuck by him and helped him through everything. So it was kinda natural that his daughter had the best bond with him considering he was practically Eunha’s second dad. “Princess” he laughed as he picked the youngster up, twirling her around in circles resulting in the cutest giggles squeaking out of her mouth. Jungkook gazed lovingly at the sight before him, the sweet sound of his daughters laugh never failed to make him smile.

“Dad said that you’re looking after me a bit today” she informed him looking up into Taes eyes, grabbing a strand of his hair and playing with it between her small fingers. The elder looked at the father with a raised eyebrow as the younger mouthed ‘please hyung’ with pouty lips that Taehyung could never say no to. “Of course I am sweetie and we’re gonna have lots of fun, why don’t you go into your room and find something for us to play with” he smiled, carefully putting her down with a kiss on the cheek before she giggled and skipped out of the room. “I’m sorry Tae I got a call earlier from my professor and he said he needed to talk to me and I know it’s late notice and I should have asked you first but-”

“Jungkook it’s fine, don’t worry about it just call me when you’re on your way home” Taehyung smiled and patted him on the back. “Thanks hyung, I shouldn’t be too long.” He quickly turned and made his way out of the room, grabbing his phone and keys from the side before kissing Eunha on the forehead and making his way back out of the door.

The young dad sighed to himself as he strolled through the fairly busy park, it was mid May so the summer heat had just hit Seoul like a truck and Jungkook wasn’t particularly ready for it. A black and red checkered hoodie, thick black jeans and boots covered his muscular frame and he was starting to hate himself for his choice of clothing. A thin layer of sweat covered his forehead making his raven black hair stick slightly and Jungkook hated how it made his body itch but didn’t bother wiping it as he knew it would only make things worse, choosing to walk under the shade that the oak trees decorating the park provided.

Lighting up a cigarette the young male looked around the crowded park, the new weather brought about hundreds of different people; from students to families with small children of similar ages to Eunha, the sight of a couple and their daughter playing happily and laughing made him feel somewhat guilty. A feeling he felt quite often these days. It’s not that Jungkook regretted become a father at the young age of 17, of course he would have preferred to be a bit older before he had children but he wouldn’t change it for the world. It was more the fact Eunha didn’t have a mother figure in her life and he could tell that it’s effecting her more ways then she would admit. Seeing all the other kids at her nursery being picked up by their moms and all the little girls having pretty braided hair in fancy clips and scrunchies that Jungkook just couldnt figure out how to master no matter how hard he tried. Obviously Mother’s Day was the hardest, especially now that she went to school where everyone else was making ‘best mom ever!’ cards for their beloved parent, however she drew her dad a picture, a colourful sketch of herself, Jungkook and her 3 uncles instead and as much as he knew his daughter loved him with all her heart, she would love to have a mother figure too.

So lost in his thoughts Jungkook didn’t realise he had arrived at his professors office. He threw the cigarette on the floor and stomped it into the ground before taking a deep breath and gently knocking on the door. A small ‘Come in’ echoed throughout the room and Jungkook slowly made his way into the overheated room. “Ah Jungkook, nice to see you! Take a seat.” His professor, Dr Thomas said way to enthusiastically for a Monday afternoon. Upon taking his seat Jungkook quickly became overwhelmed by the amount of papers that were placed in front of him. “Do I even know what all of these papers are?” The student asked eyeing up the never ending pile of papers of all colours. Chuckling at Jungkooks reluctantly “Don’t worry, they’re not all as bad as it seems.” The teacher joked rummaging through the pile to pull out a rather bright booklet that stated ‘Grease The musical!’ on the front cover in big bold letters and handing it to the confused student.

“Erm sir.. I’m not a musical theatre major, why are you giving me this?” Jungkook questioned looking down at the script in his tattooed hands. It made no sense to him as to why his professor was giving him this, he’d never been interested in acting or even going to see a theatre production so this was completely random to him. “Now Jungkook that’s what I needed to speak to you about” he paused, “I’m pretty sure you’re aware of this but you’re failing my class and well it’s my job to not let that happen” The middle aged man smiled keenly. “Now this big ol’ pile of rubbish is all of the projects you can do for extra credit and I spoke to your friend Hoseok Jung and asked him about your interests and he said performing arts is one of them!” He said gesturing to the never ending stack of scripts and god knows what else.

Grunting quietly Jungkook slowly flicked through the pages of the script in front of him “So what do I have to do? Just pick one of these and help out backstage or something? Cause I’m not really an actor, more of a dancer” He asked looking up at the man in front of him. “Now, Hoseok said that might be the case so I asked the head of Musical theatre if you could help out somehow with the choreography and you’re in luck! Their main choreographer had to drop out so all you have to do is go and tell Professor Richards that you’re up for the job, perform a piece of your own choreography in an audition and boom extra credit sorted!” Dr Thomas exclaimed, clapping excitedly for his student.

Smiling slightly at the mans excitement Jungkook nodded “Thanks for sorting all this out sir I really appreciate it.” He said standing up, wiping his sweaty palms onto his thighs before offering his hand for the teacher to shake. “No worries, oh how’s Eunha by the way? You haven’t brought her into class recently .” Dr Thomas asked curiously letting go of Jungkooks hand.

The student had been taking his daughter into his lectures since he started the university. It was extremely hard for him back then considering he was a single, 19 year old father with nothing but hopes and dreams of graduating with a degree in engineering science. He didn’t have anyone to take care of Eunha during his classes due to his friends being tied up in their own schedules and his parents were always busy at work so bringing her into class with him had been his only option. Mr Thomas had been extremely supportive of Jungkook and his situation, so much that he even made a small children section in the corner of the class that had a few books and toys to keep Eunha occupied whilst her father was listening to the lecture. The young student was beyond thankful for everything he had done for him. If it wasn’t for him Jungkook doesn’t think he would have coped.

A proud smile came over his face as his daughter was mentioned. He loved to talk about his pride and joy and he jumped at every chance he could to brag about her brilliance. “She’s doing really well sir, she just started nursery so I don’t have to bring her In anymore.” He explained happily. “That’s fantastic Jungkook! You’ll have to bring her in to see me one of these days, anyway I’ll let you go. See you soon son.” Jungkook smiled once again and waved before stepping out of the office, the fluorescent pink script looking out of place in his inked hands.

The student paused as soon as he made it out of the office, a sigh making its way out of his mouth. How the hell is he gonna be able to fit this into his schedule? Jungkook was a busy man, he had a 4 year old daughter for God’s sake! How is he meant to choreograph for all 10 songs, teach the choreography, study and look after his child and himself all at once? Shaking his head he carried on walking, pulling out another cigarette to calm himself down. He knew he shouldn’t smoke as much as he does but it was an old habit he just couldn’t get rid of no matter what he tried. The youngster carried on walking home, a million different thoughts swerving round in his head. He didn’t know what he was going to do for this audition. Didn’t know if he should just turn back around and tell his professor to forget it and let him fail. He wanted the latter but he knew he couldn’t do that. He had to pass this class. He needed to make his daughter proud.

[sorceress-coffee]

Trollhunters Episode 4.2

Gnome attack, sparring, magic level up, and courting explanations. Mostly freeform writing and self-indulgence. Thank you for reading!

Episode 1 

Episode 4.1 

Episode 5 

I was happily dreaming of moving to Trollmarket when loud banging on my bedroom door woke me up. “It’s too early!” I yelled, throwing my pillow at the door.

Toby burst in, seeing me in bed his jaw dropped. “River! It’s time to leave! Also, Jim has a problem! Pack your laptop,” Toby yelled quickly, slamming my door shut.

I glared at the door before checking my phone for the time. “Shit, it is late!” I jump out of bed getting dressed as fast as I can, grabbing my laptop before running out after Toby. “What’s the problem? Where is Jim?”

Toby and I were running to school at this point. “He’s at my house, Blinky shrunk him so he could catch a gnome and he hasn’t gotten bigger!”

I groaned, “I’m guessing the laptop is so he doesn’t fail his Spanish presentation?” We barely made it onto the campus as the final bell rang.

“Yup! See you in Senor Uhl’s class!” Toby yelled, rushing off to his first period. This was going to be weird.

Once we finally got through the day, I made it to Senor Uhl’s class, speaking to him before the bell. “Senor Uhl, I’m sorry this is a bit different, but Jim’s home sick. Is it alright if he gives his comprehension exam by video chat?”

Senor Uhl tapped his desk thinking. “I don’t see why not. At least he’s responsible enough to keep up with school work while ill.” He nodded, allowing me to set up the laptop.

I logged in and waved to Jim, snickering as I recognized the background as the dollhouse in Toby’s room. “Ready Jim?”

Jim gave me a thumbs up. “Ready to go! Hola! Sorry, I couldn’t be en escuela, Senor Uhl, but I’m sick en casa. Which is fitting, since I’m doing mi comprehension presentacion on Ponce de Leon, who muerto-ed from a great illness.”

“Hey!” Steve yelled glaring at Jim on the screen. “’Muerto-ed’ is not a word!”

I rolled my eyes at Steve, sitting at my desk in the back with the grading sheet.

“Nope.” Senor Uhl began, “I’m curious to see where this is going. Continue Mr. Lake.” He waved Steve’s objection off.

Jim grinned when he was given the go-ahead, and I smirked at Steve, “Ponce de Leon, one of the most famoso Spanish conquistadores is most associated with-ss” A vacuum cut Jim off, I dropped my head to my desk. Why was Nana cleaning now? “the feunte de la juventud, the Fountain of Youth.” Jim continued, scrambling closer to the screen.

“What is that horrible noise?” Senor Uhl asked.

“Uh, constuccion.” Jim quickly explained. “Uh, remodeling. A minor intrusion. Un minute, Senor Uhl.” Jim face planted against the screen.

“Mr. Lake?” Senor Uhl was confused, “Mr. Lake are you still there? We don’t have all day.”

“No, no… No need to fight at home.” Jim spoke up, turning back to the screen. “Ponce de Leon joined Columbus in the New… New- What in the world?!” Jim yelled, looking past the screen again.

The next thing I know, Jim is fighting with a gnome, running on and off screen as he continues his presentation. After a few minutes, he sat on the Toy couch, out of breath. “But in the end, they were taken care of. And that is it for my presentacion. I hope this wasn’t too much trouble, Senor Uhl. Hasta luego.”

Eli jumped up from his seat, applauding “Spectacular!”

Senor Uhl shook his head at Eli’s outburst, turning back to the laptop. “Very, very informative, Mr. Lake. C-plus.” He said. Jim groaned as his body began to misshapen. “Fine. B-minus.” Senor Uhl stated quickly, looking worriedly at the screen and Jim seized up.

“Jim! Jim, what’s wrong?” Eli asked, taking his seat again.

I rushed out of my seat, closing the laptop quickly. “Sorry that construction must have messed with the wifi!” The bell rang and I ran out to find Toby, grabbing him as soon as I pass by and dragging him all the way home. “Jim’s freaking out! He started changing shape after his presentation!” I yelled as we ran into Toby’s house and up the stairs.

Toby slammed his bedroom door open revealing a full-size Jim sitting in front of the dollhouse. “Jim!” Toby yelled, “You big again!”

Jim chuckled patting over his ribs, “I think my spleen switched sides, but everything’s better now.” He joked.

Toby hugged him, “I’m sorry I failed you, Jim. I should have done it when I had the chance.”

I looked between the two confused. “What are you talking about?”

Jim pulled back and moved away from the dollhouse, revealing the gnome that had been attacking him.

The gnome was eating a nougat nummy, sharing it with a space doll. “I thought he was attacking me, but all he wanted was a home. Look he’s even found a friend.” Jim explained as we all sat in front of the dollhouse. The gnome picked up at makeshift guitar and began to serenade the doll.

“So, you’re keeping a gnome as a pet… a delusional gnome…” I said smiling, “he’s kind of cute though.”

Toby sighed happily, “He has the mind of a vermin, but the soul of an artist.”

Jim sat back a bit, thinking. “Blinky said we needed to ‘take care of him,’” he stated, making a throat-cutting gesture, “but what if we like, take care of him,” he gestured to the dollhouse. “I know it’s not exactly the second rule to Trollhunting but, for this one, maybe we do it in our own way, without the murdering.”

“Well the second rule is ‘finish the fight,’ and I think that’s up for interpretation,” I smirk to Jim. “After all, you’re not exactly a Trollish Trollhunter.”

“We can keep him? Jim, I already have a name. Gnome Chompsky!” Toby exclaimed, excited about keeping Chompsky.

“Chompsky. I like it.” Jim grinned. I nodded in agreement, snickering when Chompsky tried the movie theater, yawning arm move on the doll.

Jim laughed closing the dollhouse. “Pretty good for a first mission. Two crises averted. It’s not like you get to rehearse these things.” Jim’s face fell as he took a sharp breath. “Oh, no! Rehearsal! I gotta go!” Jim took off running out of Toby’s house.

I sighed before getting up, “I have to go too, I’ve got training in Trollmarket. See you late Tobes!” I wave heading out, running to the canal. Excited to continue training with Draal. As I walk into the canal entrance I run straight into a blue Troll, though he wasn’t the blue troll I was expecting. “Blinky? Are you leaving? The sun is still up.” I asked confused.

“Ah, Lady River! Good to see you, I’m waiting on Master Jim, he should be arriving soon, your school let out a while ago.” Blinky explained, frowning as the portal closed behind me with no Jim in sight.

“Sorry Blinky, he ran off to rehearsal, school activities sometimes last longer than a normal day,” I said, making my way to the steps.

Blinky sighed, disappointed that Jim wouldn’t be coming anytime soon. “That’s a shame, he has so much training, especially considering his match with Draal.” Blinky shuddered. “Maybe it’s for the best, that Troll has been in a strange mood since last night,” Blinky noted, walking down with me to Trollmarket.

I frowned, worried for Draal, “Strange mood? Is he sick? Can trolls get sick?” I asked, going over our training to see if Draal could’ve gotten hurt. “Did Bular attack?”

Blinky shook his head quickly, waving his hands, “No, nothing like that. Yes, trolls can get sick. I don’t think he ran into Bular after his night out, but he seems to be distracted, and Draal is never distracted.”

I snort a laugh, “Oh yes, the ‘most fearsome warrior in Trollmarket,’ couldn’t possibly be distracted.”

Blinky pauses, tilting his head at my words, “Have you been spending time with Draal?”

I stiffen at the question, unsure of Blinky’s tone, “Well yeah, I mean, we’ve been hanging out since… wow the first night we came to Trollmarket. Vendel had him take me home since Bular was still running around and kind of became routine if I don’t leave with Jim and Toby. He offered to train me with the lance so there’s that too…” I trail off watching Blinky’s face.

His jaw drops when I mention training. “DRAAL offered to TRAIN YOU?” Blinky asked in disbelief, an annoyed growl from behind catching our attention.

“I did.” Draal was standing behind us, glaring at Blinky as if he was challenging him.

I grin walking up to him, “Ready to go?”

Blinky’s mouth was still open, looking between Draal and me, trying to get more than ‘you’ and ‘him’ out in a sentence.

Draal nods, glare morphing into a smirk, “Maybe we should train in the forge since the Trollhunter is busy, that way his teacher can get a sense of what he’s up against in his next fight.”

I look up at Draal confused, then I turn to Blinky and shrug. “That’s fine with me, uh…” I waved my hand in front of Blinky’s face.

Blinky snapped his mouth close glaring up at Draal. “Let’s go then, I’m sure we will all learn a lot.” He huffed, turning to get Aaarrrgghh, heading to the forge.

I kept my pace slow, Draal matching my step. I was still worried about what Blinky had said. “Hey, Draal? Are you doing okay?” I asked, looking up to him as we walked.

Draal tilted his head towards me, confused, “Of course, why do you ask?”

I shrug a bit, glancing to Blinky and Aaarrrgghh ahead of us, “Blinky said you’ve been distracting since you came back from taking me home, I was wondering if something happened?”

Draal stiffened, “On my way back? No, I… didn’t think I was distracted.”

I nod, watching his reaction, “Did,” I paused, calculating my words carefully, “Did I do something?”

Draal actually winced at my question. I frowned, turning to him. “I did.”

Draal sighed, waiting for Blinky and Aaarrrgghh to walk through the forge entrance before explaining, “Culturally it isn’t… bad.” He began, tilting his head in thought, “You wouldn’t have known about it either. Do not worry about it.”

“What did I do? I doubt you’d be distracted if I had accidentally done something small like insulting your cooking.” I said, trying to go over everything I did or said last night. “Was it the hug? No, you let me hug you before… was it the teasing? Calling you ‘my most fearsome warrior?’”

Draal shook his head, sighing “It was the gesture during your hug,” He pats my head, “a troll nuzzles their head under another’s chin when courting.”

I froze under his hand, face turning dark red, “Courting… that’s more serious than dating.” I groaned hiding my face in my hands, “No wonder you were upset! I’m so sorry Draal, that was probably insulting.”

Draal was confused by my reaction, “You believe I would take insult to court you?” He frowns pulling his hand from my head.

I look up at him, face still red, “well, no but… I’m not exactly a Troll.”

“Then you take insult to a Troll courting you?” He asked, brow knit as his confusion deepened.

“Not at all. Well, depending on the troll.” I said, tilting my head in thought. “Though I don’t personally know a lot of Trolls. I’m closest to you and Vendel, so I don’t see a Troll trying to court me anytime soon.”

Draal nodded, continuing on into the forge, contemplating my answer.

“There you two are! I thought you were supposed to be training?” Blinky huffed, all four arms crossed over his chest, still irritated by Draal’s quip about teaching Jim. Aaarrrgghh pats his head, trying to calm him down.

I dropped my bag, grabbing my lance. “Seriously Blinky?” I shook my head before taking my stance, ready for any surprise Draal might have up his sleeves, if he had sleeves.

Draal smirked, taking his stance. We slowly circled the perimeter of the forge, watching each other for the slightest move to attack. Draal lost his patience first, roaring and taking his boulder stance he took off after me, quicker than when we were training last night. I stayed planted until the last second before springing out of the way just enough not to get hit. Swinging the lance around, I dug my foot into the ground as it made contact with Draal. Growling, my hands began to glow as I channeled magic through the staff, forcing the swing to continue and I was able to knock Draal back, causing him to uncurl and land on his back.

He sat up, looking at me bewildered for a moment before smirking and jumping to his feet. I took a defensive stance. He held his hands up, walking up to me calmly, “Hands,” he stated, holding one of his out, palm up.

I was confused until I realized what I had done, this was the first time I was able to channel magic into my hands without blasting something to pieces. I look at my still wrapped hands, the magic hadn’t burned the bandages this time. I place one of my hands in Draal’s palm. He unwrapped my hand, looking over it for injury before nodding and unwrapping my other hand.

“If you use your magic properly, you won’t injure yourself. Keep practicing channeling into the lance as we spar. Don’t overdo it though. Vendel will have my head if you get injured.”

I laughed and nodded, stretching my palms. I smirked, hooking his horn with the blade, and surging magic through it, enough to enable me to flip Draal over onto his back again. I grin leaning down over his shocked face. “That’s for your surprise attack last night.”

He barked a laugh before raising a hand quickly and jabbing my side with his finger, “Careful River, I still know your weakness.” He grinned up at me as I yelped before glaring at him.

“That’s just rude!” I growled out hugging my sides and quickly stepping out of reach.

Draal and I continued to taunt and tease each other as our sparring continued. Movements quickened and each blow increased in strength as we were both tossed around the forge, not hard enough to do any more damage than bruising.

Blinky and Aaarrrgghh watched on in bewilderment. “Draal strange,” Aaarrrgghh noted to Blinky, clapping whenever I was able to channel my magic into an attack.

“Indeed, it almost seems as… no, that can’t be right. Draal can’t stand ‘fleshbags’ he’d never…” Blinky remarked, his thought trailing off.

“Not human,” Aaarrrgghh replied. “River more like us.”

“I know, it’s just hard to keep in mind considering she’s related by blood to Master Jim and he doesn’t have an ounce of magic without the Amulet of Daylight.” Blinky shakes his head, laughing when I launch Draal into a wall. “Well, if this how females are taught to ‘flirt’ in the human world, I pray for Master Jim’s life when a human female tries to court him.” He states, wincing as Draal catches that blade of my lance and throws me.

I groan, landing next to Blinky, having the wind knocked out of me. I close my eyes trying to catch my breath. I could hear running as I didn’t make a move to get up right away.

“River!” Draal was next to me when I opened my eyes again, seeing his worried expression I give him a tired thumbs up. Draal gave a sigh of relief, letting me take my time.

Blinky and Aaarrrgghh glanced to each other with knowing faces before huddling with Draal over me. “River tired.” Aaarrrgghh smiled, seeing that I was fine.

“Perhaps it is time for a break?” Blinky suggested.

I began to wave him off then paused, “Jim will be here soon,” I groaned, slowly sitting up with Draal’s help.

Draal huffed seeing the bruises forming over my arms, blisters covering my palms. “Looks like I’ll be taking you to Vendel anyway.”

I smile up at him and pat his cheek. “I’m sure you’ll keep your head. These are standard fleshy training injuries.”

Blinky cleared his throat, nodding to Draal and I. “Yes well, you go get healed up, Lady River. Aaarrrgghh and I will be setting up for Master Jim’s training now. I’ve learned quite a lot from your performance and it will do good incorporated into the Trollhunter’s training.”

Draal slid an arm under me and lifted me so I was sitting on his forearm, similar to how he carried me last night. I smiled and waved to Blinky and Aaarrrgghh as he headed out of the forge and straight to Vendel’s study. “Vendel.” He greets when we see the old goat.

Vendel looks up from his scroll, dropping it when he sees us. “What happened?” He rushed over to me, seeing my arms were almost completely bruised over.

“Training, I can keep up just fine in strength, but I still get injured pretty easily.” I told him, surprised that his worry is showing.

“Set her on the table and step out Draal, I need to examine the extent of the injuries.” Vendel directed, turning to file through different scrolls he had stored.

Draal sat me down on the table, he nudged my shoulder, frowning at how beat up I had gotten. “I got carried away with your training, I forget you're not made of stone.”

I smiled up at him then shake my head. “So, the training got intense, at least we know I can keep up with a troll during a fight!”

He smiled at my logic and nodded, “Try to behave,” he remarked before stepping out.

Vendel unfurled a scroll next to me, “Alright, I want you to read this out loud and focus on the bruising of your arms.”

I look over the parchment carefully, reciting the trollish words slowly, repeating them as I look at my arms, trying to focus. I felt a strange warmth extend from chest along my arms, the down my torso and legs. I continued to repeat the incantation, realizing this was a spell, my eyes glazed over, glowing a faint blue as my palms did the same, the bruises began to shrink until they had faded completely.

Vendel watched, grinning as the glow faded from my eyes. “Hm, looks like the healing incantation worked.” He examined my arms again, nodding to himself. “Though, maybe we should work on some armor that will allow you to train to your limits without having to heal yourself after every session.”

I grinned up at him, “I’m getting an upgrade?”

He chuckled, “You’ll be forging an ‘upgrade,’ take your time thinking it over though, it needs to be functional. Now why don’t you go see Draal, I can hear him pacing.” Vendel shooed me out of his study with a small smile.

I grin seeing that Draal what in fact, pacing outside of Vendel’s study. I leaned against the wall, watching him for a minute before snickering. “Worried?”

Draal’s stumbled at my question, head snapping towards the sound of my voice. Letting out a snort he looked over my arms, tilting his head noticing that the bruises were gone. “Vendel healed you?”

“Nope!” I stated, walking to him, “He taught me a healing incantation.” I explained at his confused glance.

Smirking, he ruffled the top of my head. “Something tells me at this rate, you’ll be using that spell often.”

I whacked his hand from my head, returning his smirk, “Careful Draal or I might have to use it on you.” I teased, walking past him. He laughed falling in step with me, heading out of Trollmarket and into the canal. “How about we get something to eat, my treat?” I asked him.

He glanced at me as we walked further into town, staying hidden. “Where could we get food?”

I grinned up at him, heading to the park, “The taco truck of course!” happy that he wasn’t rejecting the offer. I paused in an alley, spotting the truck. “I’ll be right back.” I quickly run to the truck, ordering a box of tacos. I could feel Draal’s stare on my back during the exchange. Once I had the box in hand, I took off back to the alley, grinning. “Let’s find somewhere to eat.”

Draal smirked picking me up. “I know somewhere fleshbags typically ignore.” He stated, climbing to the roof and heading over several building until we reached a warehouse with a large billboard on the roof. Draal settled us behind the billboard, facing the woods. “How’s this?”

I smile, jumping out of his hold and sitting on the ledge, patting next to me for him to sit. Once Draal was settled I took two tacos from the box then handed the box with six remaining tacos over to him. “Ever tried tacos?” I asked, taking a bite of one.

Draal sniffed the box, observing how I ate one before picking a taco from the box and tossing it in his mouth. “No,” he answered, humming in approval, “these are good!”

I smiled, glad he liked them. “That’s good if you ever want them, let me know and I can bring them, or we can eat out!” I grin finishing off my first taco.

Draal nods, happily eating the rest of the tacos along with the box.

Finishing off my food, I leaned back against the billboard, looking over the woods. “Today was a lot of fun, bruises and all.”

Draal let out a deep chuckle, “You fight like a Troll, Blinkous and Aaarrrgghh looked terrified when you were able to throw me.”

I laugh at the memory, “You were shocked too!” I defended, “Aren’t you supposed to know what I’m capable of as my trainer?”

Draal snorted, “I haven’t trained a sorceress for combat before, so it seems we’ll continue running into surprises.” He tilted his head, thinking.

I smile content with the quiet, enjoying Draal’s company.

“River?” He spoke up after a few minutes. I hummed in acknowledgment for him to continue. “Why do you think a troll wouldn’t try courting you ‘anytime soon?’” He asked, referring to our earlier conversation.

“Well,” I began, sitting up a bit, “I feel if one tried, they’d be very intimidated by you and Vendel. After all, I’m training under both of you, and after today I can tell you’re both pretty protective.”

He hummed at my answer, thinking for a moment. “It sounds as if you don’t think my asking you is an option.”

I looked up at him confused, thinking he was teasing me. Holding my breath slightly, waiting for a smirk or chuckle, but neither came. “Well, you’re not ‘not’ an option.”

“That doesn’t make sense.” He frowned, confused by my wording.

I shook my head, trying to collect my thoughts. “It’s just, I assumed your reaction to my ‘mistake’ last night was negative, and the way you explained it felt like it was unwelcomed.” I shrugged slightly.

Draal arched a brow at my response, “I knew you didn’t know what you were doing. You didn’t know the significance… but it was not unwelcome.”

My face began to overheat, and I knew I was turning red. “Then you’re open to courting me?” I asked, trying to calm the redness in my face.

Draal leaned down to be level with my face, studying the color change before leaning forward and nuzzling his nose under my jaw, pulling back, smirking slightly as my face turns a deep scarlet. “Does that answer your question?” I could only nod, eyes wide. “I will wait for an answer, after all, the fight may change things.” He stated, frowning while mentioning the fight and the tension that may arise due to it.

“Okay… um, could you explain why you court that way?” I asked, trying to distract him.

“It’s how we scent. Your scent will mix with mine and it will let other trolls know you’re being courted, same would happen to my scent. That was why I was distracted today; your scent wouldn’t leave.” He explained.

“So, if I walked into Trollmarket now I might be met with Trolls flinging themselves out of my path in fear of enraging you?” I asked teasing.

Draal growled, all teasing gone from his voice, “If you accept, they had better. Though exceptions are made for family and family-like relations.”

I blink, stunned at the tone. “So scenting is basically marking, and you don’t like sharing.”

“Culturally, if a troll is trying to get close to you while you’re courting another, they are competing to court you.” He explained, irritated at the thought.

I laughed and patted his forearm, “Trust me Draal, you would have nothing to worry about.”

Draal smirked down at me, “Let’s get you home, you have to attend the fleshbag study dungeon tomorrow.” He got up, lifting me to sit on his forearm as he climbed down from the billboard.

Leaning back again his chest, I kept asking questions about courting as he headed to my house. “So, if my answer is yes, do I have to do something specific?”

“Usually the courting gesture is returned.” He explained, nuzzling his nose under my jaw again. “Just like that.”

“Okay, and just so I don’t do something stupid or insulting, is there a way to deny the courting?” I asked worriedly. If I found a way to court Draal on accident, I could very well find a way to tell him to fuck off on accident too.

He winced slightly, “You can say it outright, or deny the gesture by pushing me away.”

I nod, then frown, “What if it tickles and I whack you as a reaction?”

He laughed, “I will keep that in mind if you do hit me. If it happens though, I assume you’ll be screeching too much to let me know right away.”

I puffed my cheeks out, crossing my arms over my chest, “says the one who kept tickling me till I couldn’t breathe!”

He grinned, setting me down as we got to the back door of my house, “You can’t blame me, I didn’t know it could get that severe,” he teased. He glanced over the house before scenting me again. “Goodnight River.”

I smiled up at him, face becoming less red the more he scents. “Good night Draal.” I lay my hand over his cheek, wanting to return the gesture, but waiting as he had asked. “Get home safe!” I called after him as he left.

Running inside, cover my face, trying to calm the raging blush. I took a deep breath before heading up to bed, smiling like an idiot as I feel asleep.

[hello-justawriterofthings]

Art and Music - Steve Harrington 

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Hey Friends, This is a little different than anything I've written in a while. An Angsty Steve story, About an Artist and Rocker. Lot's of drama, twists. Also, I wanna make it clear, that I am no artist, I also don't play any instruments. Any mention of art shows or music gigs, are just me guessing. Warnings = Angst, Language. [ Y/N = Your Name, Y/L/N = Your last name ]. No gifs belong to me, Thank you all so much.

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Painting was my life, it helped me through a lot of rough times. I met Steve in High school, he was a band geek. Well, he wasn't much of a geek, he was a stud. He spent all his time in the music room, like I spent all my time in the art room. We had a few classes together, but never really spoke. I can't lie, I did have a small crush on him, but nothing serious, I knew nothing was going to happen. Well, at least that's what I thought then. One day, I was making my way out of the art room, covered in paint, carrying small jars of paint and a large canvas. School was over, but I always stayed later to paint with the teacher. I wasn't expecting anyone to be in the hallway, but then again, I thought differently once I ran straight into another body. Paint splattered everywhere, including on the person I ran into. Before I even looked to see who i had run into, the apologies just started to pour out of my mouth. " I'm so sorry. That was all my fault, I wasn't looking where I was going " I stuttered, not a fan on confrontation and I didn't want to get yelled at. I heard a soft chuckle, causing me to look up. Of course it had to be Steve, soft hair, instrument playing Steve. " It's alright Y/N " he smiled, making me nod quickly, ready to get out of there. " I'm so sorry, your guitar... " I sighed deeply, he glanced down at the guitar in his hands, that now had yellow, blue and pink splatters on it. He took a closer look at it before smiling again ' I think you improved the look of it, it was boring before. Maybe I should should be thanking you ", " No no, no need for that " I stuttered quickly. " No, I need to thank you. I'm playing a gig tonight, do you wanna come " he smiled, I coughed awkwardly " Um, I think I can make it ". He smiled even wider " Okay, it starts at 7pm and I'll have to address you as my date ", I furrowed my brows in confusion " What ". He chuckled while sending me a wink " I'll see you tonight Y/N ", after me another dashing smile he walked away. " Wait, how did you even know my name! " I called after him, only to hear him laugh as he got further away. What did that mean?

Reaching the venue at 7pm, I let out a deep sigh as I entered the cafe. Steve was setting up some equipment with a few friends, he laid eyes on me, a smile forming on his face. He waved me over. I awkwardly made my way over, waving back slightly. " Guys, this is Y/N, my date. She also designed my guitar " he stated with a wide smile, the other two guys smiled at me while nodding. " You should have a career in design " the blonde stated with a smirk, " No... I just paint... " I stated nervously. Steve smiled " She's great, her paintings are beautiful ", I sighed deeply, this was confusing. " Well, the shows starting soon. Make sure you get a seat up front " one of his friends stated, making me nod and walk away from the group. Why was I even here? I thought to myself, but then again, I continued to go to Steve's gigs throughout high school. Just like he started showing up to my art shows, we were supporting each other. For a while I thought we were just doing it as friends, that is until he asked me to meet him at a fancy restaurant and surprised me with a kiss at the end of the night. Things had changed ever since then, we were young and really liked each other. Made it official after about 10 dates, have been together ever since. Sure it was hard, he was busy trying to become famous, but it wasn't working out, so he just continued working on his music and I was busy working on my art, paintings and drawings. We graduated school and now we were in collage, we attended the same one because they had amazing Music and Art programs. We also rented a house on campus together, it had three rooms. So, one of Steve's band members stayed in one. I met my best friend in collage, yes I had friends in high school, but never had anyone like Lily in my life. So, that's the past, this is where the story really begins...

[ Now ]

I opened my eyes slowly, the light coming in through the curtains. I stretched my arms, as I let out a loud yawn. I glanced to the space next to me, Steve was missing. It wasn't unusual, he liked to spend his nights out with his friends and band members. His band wasn't big, but on campus they were. They had fans, that were also classmates, which in my opinion, was kind of weird, but I still supported them, so I guess i was a fan too. I sighed deeply getting out of bed, slipping on a pair of shorts and then walking towards the kitchen. Steve and his best friend Jimmy were sitting at the kitchen table, chatting. " Morning Y/N " Jimmy smiled, as he was the first to see me. I smiled at him, but walked towards the coffee pot. " Rough night? " he then asked, making me shrug. I wasn't really up for talking, Steve and I didn't speak. nowadays, that wasn't unusual either. I grabbed my cup, then walked into the spare room, which had been converted into an art studio / office. I sat in my brightly colored bean bag chair, grabbing a book to start studying. It was Saturday, so I planned on lounging around all day, studying, snacking and painting. 20 minutes later, shutting the door behind him and then sitting in another bean bag chair. Things were quiet for a few minutes, " I'm sorry " Steve started, " I missed something important for you and I'm sorry, it won't happen again " he stated referring to last night. { Last Night } I stood outside of the art gallery, waiting on the only person that mattered, Steve. The show started at 8pm, it was now 7:57 pm. I had reminded Steve 5 different times today not to forget, it seemed like maybe he had. Usually he'd be there 30 minutes early to help me set up my pieces, but today I had to do it myself. I let out a deep sigh as my watch read 8pm, " Hey Y/N, it's time " Lily stated from behind me. I nodded while following her into the gallery, maybe he was just running late. He could still show up.. He didn't though, never showed up. When I was packing everything back in my car, he wasn't even home when I got there. He ended getting home at 3am, smelling of alcohol. When he climbed into bed, he tried to pull me into him, but I pushed myself away. Not in the mood to spoon. He just let out a deep groan and turned towards the wall. I was irritated and wasn't going to just get over this. I continued to read through my book, ignoring his apologies. " Y/N... " Steve sighed deeply, " What! What do you want me to say? That I forgive you, that it isn't a big deal.. Well, it is! Last night was important to me and I wanted you to be there, I reminded you so many times. So either, you don't listen to me when I talk or you just don't care. Tell me, what was so important that you had to miss the art show? " I asked annoyed. " Jim and Kurt wanted to hangout, Kurt got a music producer to come to the gig on Thursday night. We went out to celebrate, I planned to only get a few drinks and then go to your show. But, a few drinks turned into 5 and then 10 very quickly. I'm sorry " he sighed as he ran his hand through his hair, " So, your dreams are more important than mine... You just had to go celebrate. You three couldn't wait until today to get drinks, we could've all gone out and celebrated together. I sold 4 paintings last night " I stated shaking my head. " What? Y/N that's amazing... I swear I was going to go... I just got side tracked " he then said. I rolled my eyes, I might have been a little to harsh on him or might have been overeating, but I no longer felt supported in this relationship. " You know what, this is getting us nowhere, I don't think you understand how I feel and I sure as hell don't get where your coming from. So, since you're not going to support me anymore, don't expect me to be at your gig on Thursday " I stated seriously as I got up, " Come on Y/N, one time I miss something and you're treating me like I forget everything, get over it " Steve spat. "It isn't the first time Steve, whether it's for the art shows or not. You've been bailing on Dates, missed my family's dinner's, which they Invite you too. Missing art shows, the last few months you've been missing from my life, just to live your own. I've never missed a single thing I've been invited to, I've been to all your shows. But, even when I do show up at your gigs, you ignore me, pretend like I'm not there or that you don't know me " I exclaimed, " I'm tired of it ". I then walked out of the room and towards our shared bedroom. 

Hours later, I sat in bed, flipping through different TV programs. I hadn't left this room all day, I wasn't hungry yet because of the fight with Steve, I had a TV and we had an attached bathroom, So I had no reason to leave. Moments later there was a soft couple of knocks on the door, before it opened. Steve walked through carrying a plate of food, " Y/N, you need to eat something. I know you're mad at me, but that's no reason to starve yourself " he sighed placing the plate on the side table. I rolled my eyes, continued flipping  through channels. Steve sighed deeply while grabbing the remote from my hand, flipping the tv off. " We need to talk " he then stated with a sigh, I pulled the blankets over my head " I don't wanna talk anymore! ". Steve sighed once more " No Y/N, we need to talk. I need to apologize, even more than I already have ", I continued to stay quiet. " I know I've not been the best boyfriend lately, I've bee distant. I hate that you think I don't support you anymore, I wish I could go back and change that. I'm so sorry Y/N.. I really mean it, I'm going to that art gallery today because I know last night was the most important event for you, but your pieces are still up at the gallery and i want to see them... I want to make it up to you and I will prove that I support you. I love you Y/N " he sighed deeply, I pulled the covers back down and looked at him. " I promise, I will make it up to you " he stated looking me in the eyes, I nodded but didn't speak. I'd believe it when i'd see it. but I did love him back, with every part of me. 

The rest of the week went by, but it was tense, at least we hadn't been fighting though. Thursday came by, the night of Steve's gig. I debated on going, went back in fourth in my head. Does Steve deserve my support, Should I be the bigger person. But in the end, I decided I had to go, I had to support support him and his music. I couldn't help myself, it was the kind of person I was. So I pulled on some jeans, black booties and a sweater. Then hopped into my car and made my way towards the bar, that the gig was being held at. Steve had left an hour before, to start setting up. He didn't even know i was coming, our relationship wasn't in the best state. I wish we were okay, I missed the better times. I pulled up to the bar, rushing out of my car and into the building. I was running late, the show had already started. I walked into the crowded bar and I bet, with the amount of people, I'm sure Steve wouldn't even notice that I was here. Everyone was either bobbing their heads or dancing to the music, I could spot the music producers easily, they had their own special section in the bar and it seemed they were enjoying the show.  As happy as I was for the boys, I was worried what our relationship was going to become.  I sighed deeply as the and started playing the song Steve wrote for me, at least that's what he told me when he wrote it. But if he wrote it for me, why was he singing it to the beautiful girl up front. I had a flash thought to the future, if Steve and his band got big. This is how our relationship was going to be, they would go on tour, sing to millions. Steve was going to rather date a model or someone more talented, then date the aspiring artist. He was going to leave me behind, that's how I saw our relationship playing out. I don't think I could handle that, I didn't like being left behind. So, maybe instead of holding him back and waiting for him to leave me, maybe I needed to let him go and let him live that rock star life he's always wanted. He loved being on stage, playing guitar. He was in his element, playing up the crowd winking at all the ladies. This was his time to shine.So, instead of waiting around for the show to be over. To stay around and say hi or to give a congratulations. I exited the bar, called Lily to see if I could stay with her for a bit. Then I went over to the house, packing clothes into a duffel bag. Then grabbed some of my art things, the bigger objects would just have to wait until later. Before leaving I left a note, explaining how I felt about things and that I'd be back later for the rest of my things later and apologizing at the end, because I didn't want to hurt him, I just figured this was best for him. Maybe this was extreme, but this was his dream and I felt like I was holding him back. So, I was taking action and removing myself for the equation. 

When I arrived at Lily's, I explained the situation to her. She understood, saying ' Rock star's don't  date '. She had a similar situation, when I first met her, she was dating a drummer. She was head over heals for that boy, but the more shows his band played at, they more cocky he got. Thought he could have a steady girlfriend and t hen fuck someone else on the side, best of both worlds ( Hannah Montana would be ashamed ). When Lily found out she took a baseball bat to his car, followed by a can of spray paint. She was an artist like me, she turned his car into one of her grand pieces.  It really took a toll on her, physically and mentally. She always warned me to watch out for certain signs. but I did trust Steve and never thought he would cheat on me, I knew he never cheated ( At least I hoped ). I put my things in her guest house, Yes! A guest house. She lived in her grandparents house, they passed away when she was 13. Leaving her a three bedroom house, where she moved into at the age of 18 and currently lived with her four dogs and cat. The guest house was small, but comfortable, plenty of room for my art supplies. The reason I was put in here, was because one room was converted into a full out art studio, one was full of gym equipment and the last was her own bedroom.  I walked into the main house, after getting everything put away. I was greeted by Skippy ( Corgi ), Ned ( Bulldog ), Ellie ( Great Dane ) and Gem ( Bernese Mountain dog ). Porky ( Th cat ) was nowhere to be found, probably on the hunt for mice. Lily and I sat down to eat the pizza she ordered before I showed up, talking everything out. Once we were finished, we watched a movie and around 10pm, I made my way back to the guest house, ready for bed. That's when I received a text from Steve, It read - Come by the house tomorrow, 12pm. We need to talk -. I sighed deeply, but didn't reply. I should've known leaving wouldn't be that easy. 

Around 12pm, I arrived at the house Steve, Jimmy and I shared. I let out a deep sigh, before knocking n the door. It opened quickly, reveling a tired looking Steve, who also reeked of alcohol. " You didn't have to knock, could've just come in " he stated with a grunt, only earning a shrug for me as I entered the house. " Want something to drink? " he asked, I shook my head remaining silent. " Okay " he stated as he sat down on the couch, I followed but kept my distance.  " Let me start off by saying how Fucked up it was that you decided to end our relationship yesterday, knowing how important it was to me " he spat, at fist I thought he meant that our relationship was important to him, but then I realized he was talking about the gig. " All you did was leave me some pathetic note, you didn't feel important or supported anymore and that's why you left. Well Y/N, last night I didn't feel supported  either. I wanted you to be there, I wanted you to be apart of everything that happened. You don't even know what fucking happened, because you're a coward " he spat again, making me sigh deeply. " Don't you ever say that I don't support you! I was fucking there last night, just in time to see you sing ' My song ' to another girl. You were happy and in your element, you didn't look like you cared that I wasn't there and I didn't need to stay to find out what the outcome was going to be, you three are talented! I was giving you an out Steve, so you could live your life and focus on your career, so you wouldn't have to worry about me. Excuse me for being Selfish! " I shouted back, catching him off guard. He's never heard me yell that loud before, I didn't like being an angry person, I hated that he was bringing that side out of me. " So what, I sang that song to someone else and you got jealous? Decided to end things with me over something as little as that, god that is pathetic " he stated with a scoff, " Clearly you don't understand why I did what I did, you singing that fucking song to someone else has nothing to do with it. You not caring about my feelings and only caring about yourself, that's not the Steve I love. You're changing and sorry, I don't want to be around it anymore " I sighed trying to keep my composer, I was gong to cry at any moment, I could feel it. " So that's it, your not going to give me a chance to make it up to you? You're going to just end our three year relationship, not even letting me choose if this is what I want!? " he asked, I thought for a second but then shook my head no. He sighed deeply " Then get the fuck out, send someone else for your stuff because I never want to see your fucking pathetic face again. You're going to regret this Y/N, you're going to come crawling back to me when you realize that I'm the best your ever gonna get. When I'm big and famous, you're going to regret everything. When your art shows fail and you don't sell anything, you'll regret it! ", I couldn't hold back the tears now. Getting up off the couch, trying to get out before he said anything else to shatter my heart. " You know all the times I ignored you at my shows, acted as if I didn't know you or you were just a friend, it was because  I was embarrassed to be seen with you. Imagine, me Steve Harrington, bad ass guitarist and singer. Dating, Y/N Y/L/N, failed artist. Pathetic " he stated as I ran out of the house, slamming the door behind. There  it was, the truth, finally exposed. I made it to my car, before letting out a sob and taking off. I knew Steve was going to be angry, but I never thought it would turn out like that. It wasn't smart of me to drive being so upset, but I wasn't going to sit in the driveway and cry. The word * Pathetic * kept running through my head as rain started to fall, not paying attention, I ran a stop sign and into a deep puddle, making my car slide off the road and into a pole. My whole body jerked forward, I heard multiple cracks and pain shot through my body quick. I let out a scream, as I attempted to catch my breath. I couldn't move, everything hurt. A passerby ran to the car, opening the drivers door slowly, asking me many questions, most I couldn't hear because of the pounding in my ears. The one I did hear though is when the ambulance arrived, they got me out of the car successfully and onto a stretcher. I heard someone ask if there was someone they could call to meet me at the hospital ( They must've found my emergency contact list I kept in the glove box ). I could only mutter 4 words. " Anyone, but Steve Harrington " I stated quietly, before everything went dark..... ------------------------------------------------------------

Hey guys, I had a good time writing this, I was inspired by this weird dream I had and this came out of it. I really hope you enjoyed, you're all amazing and Thank you so much for Reading <3<3

[iwritefanfics86]

Is this a date? Part 1?

Ichigo leaned against the light pole, he stuffed his fingers in his pockets before letting a breath escape his lips which lead to a puff of air to be seen because of how cold it was. Ichigo's nose was already red. Snow was everywhere, but it was already dried.

“Damn, why is it so cold." Ichigo said as he felt his body shiver. He wore black pants while wearing a big white coat. Yet his hands were freezing. But even so with his left hand he pulled out his phone from his coat pocket.

" Now, where is she? Is she late?" he asked, but looking at the time, it simply turned out he was early. He sighed before running his hand through his hair.

"This is great, I'll have to wait an extra 15 minutes." Ichigo said. He looked up at the cloudy sky. Remebering how the two even planned this.

About a week before Ichigo got the guts to ask Orihime if she had time off work and school during the weekend, including the fact the two went to two differnt colleges, he really wanted to know. He hadn't seen her much and Tatsuki had been bugging him to ask her.

He didn't get why, if Tatsuki wanted someone to hang out with Orihime so bad why didn't she just do it, he thought. But he couldn't help and pretend that he was only doing this for Tatsuki's sake. He wanted to see Orihime too. Though he thought he just missed all his friends the same, he was too blind by the thought that maybe he liked her or simply missed her a little differntly.

But well Orihime had texted Ichigo back and told him she was free and the conversation went a little like this.

Ichigo: Hey Inoue, you free this weekend by any chance?

Orihime: Huh? Oh yeah I have no work or school work, why?

Ichigo: Oh thats cool, I was just wondering, you know, since I didn't have plans and..

Orihime: And?

Ichigo: Well since you aren't busy too, I was thinking we could go to your old jobs bakery for old time sakes.

Orihime during the whole time was flushing red as she read his text. She felt so happy that he was asking her to go somewhere with him, she missed him. Though she knew Ichigo was just doing this as a friend she felt happy. And she was excited the whole week until now.

Ichigo after realizing he was lost in thought, cringed at himself, thinking he was acting like an idiot. But suddenly he heard a loud chirp.

He stopped leaning, standing straight to then watch as Orihime ran with her hand in the air.

"Kurosaki-kun~!" She chirped as she made it to him before putting her hands on her knees and she bent over to catch her breath. Ichigo lifted a brow.

"Why were you running?" Ichigo asked, Orihime looked up to him, her face pink from the running.

" Because...the time..." She said through breaths. Ichigo looked at his phone. It was 5:32, their meeting time being 5:30.

He let out a laugh.

"You didn't have to be exactly on time, though you’re 2 minutes late." Was all Ichigo said. Orihime stood up before pouting.

" I tried my best but my legs wouldn't run as fast as I wanted from campus." Orihime said. Ichigo filled with concern now furrowed his eyebrows.

" You came here by foot? Thats so far away, why didn't you take a bus or metro?" Ichigo asked, worry in his voice. Orihime smiled with her eyes closed as she scratched the back of her head.

" I only brought enough for the meal, hehe." She laughed nerviously. Ichigo was just about to argue but stopped himself. He simply watched Orihime and finally acknowledged the fact she was in front of him.

She wore a gray coat with black leggings with a red scarf and mittens. He then looked at her hair, its was as bright as ever and her skin looked so silky. The pink on her nose visible, but soon enough Ichigo watched as her eyes opened revealing her beautiful eyes.

"Kurosaki-kun?" She suddenly asked. Ichigo's eyes widened before he turned around as his face heated up from embarresment.

"We should probably get going now, or we'll get a cold." Was all Ichigo said before he started walking. Orihime was slightly flustered but soon followed Ichigo. She made it to his side.

Ichigo kept looking straight, while Orihime simply kept flickering her eyes from him to the ground.

" Oi, Inoue. "

Orihime watched as Ichigo's eyes turned to her. He smiled softly. She blushed.

"I heard you got a job at your campus? What is it?" He asked, Orihime shocked that he knew soon smiled.

“I'm working at a bakery." She said.

“Hah?" Ichigo asked in a deep voice.

" Another bakery? Man you must really like that discarded bread." Just like he wanted Orihimes eyebrows furrowed and she looked like a mad child.

“Huh!? Kurosaki-kun! It's not discarded bread it’s unsold bread." She corrected . Ichigo closed his eyes waving his hand in the air.

“Samething," Was all he said. Orihime simply pouted again.

"I just really like baking things, thats why I'm working there."

Ichigo opened his eyes watching her as she held her hands up, her pointer,middle, and ring finger touching with eachother. She had a smile on her face now, blush on her cheeks. She clearly looked happy.

Ichigo's eyes softened and he felt his heart throb slightly. When they finally made it there it was a little full.

“Whaa~ This place hasn't changed a bit." Orihime said looking around. Ichigo looked around, he never came here much so he didn't really know.

Ichigo looked around for a table and he soon found a couple leaving one. Ichigo tugged at her coat which made Orihime turn to him. He pointed.

"Lets go sit over there." Ichigo said. Orihime nodded. Ichigo looked around and saw someone else notice the table. Without knowing it Ichigo put his hand on her back, which caused her to flinch then flush. Ichigo basically pushed her with him as they walked to the table. When they got there he dropped his hand before sitting across from her.

He began to take off his coat.

"Good thing we got here fast enough." He said, when he looked up to her he simply saw her flushed face as she fidgeted.

"Why are you fidgeting?" he ask. Orihime jumped at his words before pulling some hair away from her face.

"Oh um it’s nothing. " She said. Orihime soon took off her coat and her vanilla colored blouse was shown, her black bra starps clearly viewable. For some reason Ichigo stared at her collar bone and the straps to then look at her lips. He felt his eyes widen, before he shook his head. Were they just his hormones he wondered.

The two soon got up to order at the front. They waited in line.

" Oh I hope they still have beanpaste bread!” She said. "Maybe I'll see if I can add mayonnaise .” She said. Ichigo lifted a brow before remembering she likes weird foods together.

“What will you get Kurosaki-kun?” She asked. Moving her eyes to him causing him to shift because he was already staring.

He glanced at the menu.

“Hmm, Maybe I’ll just get a slice of chocolate cake.” Was all Ichigo said.

Orihime giggled slightly.

Chocolate cake doesn’t sound so bad either.” She said. Ichigo simply watched as she put her finger to her chin. Looking at the menu.

“Hmmm..” Was all Ichigo did. When they were finally there, the person there looked down. It was a guy, he looked younger then them, at least two years.

“Inoue-senpai?? Is that really you?” He asked with a smile. Ichigo furrowed a brow before looking to Orihime. She blinked slightly before her mouth shot open.

“Hachi-kun? Is that really you? You look so much older now!” She chirped. Ichigo watched as the two began having small talk. Ichigo felt misplaced so he just looked away.

“Who’s the guy?”

“Oh this? This is Kurosaki-kun.”

Ichigo’s ears perked at the sound of his voice he turned to them then lifted a hand.

“Yo,” was all he said. Orihime simply smiled at him while the other guy gave him a jealous look before fake smiling. Ichigo not understanding why. But he shrugged it off being oblivious.

“Hello, Kurosaki-san, I’m Hachiyo but you can call me Hachi.” He simply said. Ichigo nodded.

“So what will you guys order, hmm? Inoue-senpai?” He asked, she asked for what she wanted and Ichigo did too. Suddenly something hit Ichigo when Orihime pulled out her wallet.

Her words from before saying she only had enough for the food came to mind.

“Wait, Inoue.”

Ichigo pulled out his Wallet. Orihime confused stopped her hand.

“I’ll be paying for both.” Ichigo told him, Hachi looked at the money from his hands.

“Huh? No! Kurosaki-kun! You don’t have to.” Orihime now blushing brightly. Ichigo gave her a look and she knew exactly what it meant.

“O-Okay, thank you Kurosaki-kun, I’ll surely pay you back.” Orihime said smiling shyly. Ichigo paid then the two walked back. They sat down and Orihime couldn’t help but feel joy.

“I-It’s almost as if we are on a date..” Orihime thought to herself. She then shook her head aggressively. Ichigo sighed as he looked at his Wallet now. he’s broke but luckily his home was near by.

“Hey, Inoue. How do you know that Hanchi guy? Did he use to work with you?” Ichigo said. Orihime laughed.

“It’s Hachi, and yes I did use to work with him. He started my last year of Highschool, he was only a sophomore then.” Orihime said. Ichigo nodded.

“Well now I guess he’s a senior.”

Soon enough someone dropped off their drinks but there was an extra.

“Huh? Why’s there three? We only ordered two hot chocolates.” Ichigo asked. The waitress then pointed to table of boys.

“They ordered it for your table.”

She then walked away. Ichigo’s eyes shot to Orihime. She had a confused look.

“Huh? Why’d they give it to us? Hm must have been a mistake.” Was all she said.

But Ichigo begged to differ. I mean just when the waitress pointed they all laughed and winked.

“I guess you’re still as popular as ever. “ Ichigo stated, his voice with slight annoyance. He didn’t understand himself. It must have been the fact he hasn’t seen her in a while, he knew she was popular in Highschool and it never really bothered him.

“Ehhhh? Me? Popular?” Orihime asked. Ichigo sighed.

“I don’t know if it makes it worse or better that you don’t even know.” Ichigo said. They began drinking their drinks.

Ichigo watched as Orihime drank from her cup. Right after she almost chugged the thing, when done she made a loud “Ahh” sound before smiling innocently. Ichigo couldn’t help but smile slightly as he drank from his mug.

“Sooo, Kurosaki-kun, have you gotten a girlfriend yet?” Orihime suddenly blurted out really fast. Ichigo almost coughing out his drink put the cups down as he swallowed.

“W-Wha? Me? A girlfriend? No way.” Ichigo said before shooting his eyes up at her. Orihime had wide eyes before letting out a relief sound. Ichigo lifted a brow. They have never talked about each others love life.

“Who got you the idea that I did?” Ichigo asked. Orihime’s face dropped as she tried coming up with an excuse. “Uhh..you know Tatsuki-chan, yeah Tatsuki-chan mentioned you are a little popular at your university.” Orihime said, avoiding all eye contact with him as her cheeks flushed.

“Huh? How? I’ve only been confessed to a few times, I’m not popular.” Ichigo said carelessly. Orihimes eyes shot to him before she slammed her hands on the table standing up.

You’ve been confessed to!?” She chirped her voice high. Everyone at the cafe looked at them and Orihime noticed so she sat herself down before covering her mouth. “You’ve been confessed to?” Orihime whispered.

Her brain going crazy, she was just making a lie, she didn’t actually think girls would actually approach him. Highschool really was different from college, here she thought everyone would still be afraid of him.

Ichigo confused and oblivious answered.

“Yeah, but I didn’t even know them, so I told them I’m not interested.” Ichigo said, before sipping his hot chocolate. Orihime simply bite her lip. Feeling jealousy in her system, but she shook her head thinking she was acting selfish.

But honestly if you loved someone for so long you would get jealous exactly like her. Ichigo still confused why she had an outburst watched her.

“What? Does she think I’m undatable? “ Ichigo thought to himself. He didn’t know why he felt offended and it reminded him of how his friends would make fun of the fact on him never having a chance with Orihime. Ichigo sighed.

“What about you, Huh? Have you been dating someone?” Ichigo asked, Orihime blushed brightly before shaking her head.

“Nope, I have no boyfriend.” Orihime said. She started fidgeting again. Ichigo’s eyes widened from her reaction.”Do you like someone? Who?” He asked sitting straight. Orihimes eyes widened.

“This is a perfect chance to confess! I should do it! I should do it!” Orihime thought in her head. But before anything she gripped the extra hot chocolate before drinking it forcefully. “I-I”

“ Sorry to interrupt your date, but we are just letting you guys know that we’re kinda of busy today so if you would please leave after about 5 more minutes, it would be appreciated.” The lady said. Orihime’s face turned red embarrassed that she couldn’t finish her sentence, while also because they said they were on a date.

But all Ichigo and Orihime did was nod. Even Ichigo was slightly flustered. Was this a date? Ichigo let out a high noise before grabbing his coat. “ I-I think we should get ready to leave.” Ichigo said. His face was heated from embarrassment. Him? On a date with her? No way. The two thought.

T-This isn’t a date, we’re just two friends at a cafe together!” The two thought in their heads. As they walked out of the cafe, their hearts slightly ached with sadness, what they were, was probably all they would be, or so they thought.

[tamboradventure]

28 Things to See and Do in San Francisco

Updated: 03/24/20 | March 24th, 2020

I loved visiting San Francisco from the start. It’s a city home to hippies, techies, artists, immigrants, students, and everyone in between. There’s incredible music, wold-class food for all budgets, some of the BEST Asian food in the country, parks galore, and amazing bohemian vibe to it.

With so many diverse influences, it’s no surprise that San Francisco has evolved into a world-class city that has a ton of amazing things to see and do.

Personally, I love visiting San Francisco for the food. It’s home to some of the best Asian and Mexican food in the country (as well as some incredible cafes).

But there is also much more to see here too. And just because it’s an expensive place to live doesn’t mean a visit has to break the bank either.

To help you plan your trip, here are the best 28 things to see and do in San Francisco  

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

The first thing I do whenever I arrive in a new destination is to take a walking tour. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land, see the highlights, and ask your questions to an expert local guide. Free Tours By Foot has a few different FREE options available covering different areas of the city. (Just make sure to tip your guide)

If you want something more in-depth, there are also plenty of paid tours you can take. Take Walks is my go-to walking tour company and they offer some interesting tours around the city. If you want to really learn a lot (while having fun), book a tour with them!  

2. Walk the Golden Gate Bridge

There is no question that the iconic Golden Gate Bridge is one of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks. Opened in 1937, it’s arguably the most-photographed bridge in the world. At its inception, it was both the longest and the tallest suspension bridge in the world, spanning 4,200 feet (1,280m) long and standing 746 feet (227m) tall.

You can walk across the bridge (which I recommended) or just stare at it from every angle and snap your own iconic photos. If you have time, make your way to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It has a waterfront promenade, sweeping views of the bridge, and a few easy hiking trails.  

3. Visit Crissy Field

This park is located near the bridge and makes for a nice follow-up. It has a beach, some restaurants, piers where you can see locals fishing, and plenty of green space to relax. It offers some sweeping views of the harbor, making it a laid-back place to come in the summer to have a picnic, lounge in the sun, and watch life go by.  

4. See The Palace of Fine Arts

The Palace of Fine Arts is a Roman-style remnant of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition (a world’s fair held in San Francisco). The outdoor rotunda and its lagoon are another one of the city’s most photographed sights. It’s also a fun social destination where you can bring friends to play giant Jenga, cornhole, ping pong, and other games. The city often has events here.

601 Lyon Street, +1 415-608-2220, palaceoffinearts.com. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is free (some events charge admission).  

5. Wander Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

The wharf was originally dominated by Italian immigrants who helped popularize the city’s fish market. To this day, you can watch fishermen at work in Fish Alley (the main street where the fishermen work). If you want to try some of the mouthwatering seafood that San Francisco is famous for, I sugged Waterbar and the Anchor Oyster Bar.

Pier 39 is touristy but it’s also a fun way to spend an hour or so. There are buskers, tacky souvenir shops, arcades, an aquarium, and tons of overpriced restaurants (so avoid eating here).  

6. Explore Alcatraz

Alcatraz is probably the most famous (or infamous) prison in America. From 1934-1963, it housed the country’s most notorious criminals (criminals like Al Capone). In its 29 year history, not a single prisoner successfully escaped (or so they say). After its closure, it became a national landmark. Visitors can explore the island, learn about the prison and what life was like as an inmate, and tour the interior. It gets very busy in the summer so be sure to book ahead.

+1 415-981-7625, alcatrazcruises.com. Tours run daily year-round and cost $39.90 USD which includes an audio tour.  

7. Take a Day Trip to Berkeley

Located just 20 minutes across the bay by car, Berkeley is home to music, hippies, students, and the University of California – Berkeley (30% of the city’s population go to school here). You can take a tour of the campus (self-guided or guided), hike up the Berkeley Hills, or shop on Fourth Street (the main thoroughfare). You’ll also find lots of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, street performers, and eclectic shops to browse.  

8. Hang out in the Mission

For an amazing view of the city, head to Dolores Park in the Mission District. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Misión San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores). Founded in 1776, it’s the oldest surviving structure in the city and home to the only cemetery within city limits. It’s the structure that gives this part of town its name.

The Mission District is also a fun place to spend a night out. The district has tons of great Mexican restaurants as well as lively bars and clubs. Grab a burrito at Taqueria Cancún or Papolete, or visit one of the cocktail bars on 16th (Dalva is good).  

9. See Lombard Street

This is the world’s windiest street. Surrounded by gardens and flowers, it’s made up of eight hairpin turns because, during the 1920s, people in San Francisco were beginning to drive around in automobiles. However, many of the city’s famous hills were too steep to navigate. The idea of using a curved street to help vehicles move downhill was embraced and the hill’s slope went from 27% to 16%. Now you can watch the cars and bikers navigate the sharp turns as tourists gawk at them.  

10. Visit Coit Tower

Perched atop Telegraph Hill, this art deco tower was built in 1933. Standing 180-feet tall (55m), it’s home to over 25 murals and offers a panoramic view of the city. The murals here were painted in 1934 by local artists and depict life in San Francisco during the Depression. The tower became a San Francisco Designated Landmark in 1984 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.

1 Telegraph Hill Blvd, +1 315-249-0995,sfrecpark.org/destination/telegraph-hill-pioneer-park/coit-tower. Open daily from 10am-5pm (6pm in the summer). Admission is $6 USD for city residents and $9 USD for visitors.  

11. Eat in Chinatown

This is the biggest Chinatown in the United States (and it’s the second most famous, after New York City. Chinese immigrants first came to the West Coast in the 1850s and set up shop in San Francisco. Due to racial segregation, this neighborhood became predominantly Chinese and remained so even after segregation ended.

It’s one of the best places in the city to eat and you can find some incredible dim sum here. There are also lots of great teahouses, bars, souvenir stalls, and fortune cookie makers.

To really learn about the area, its history, and its people, take a walking tour with Take Walks. They’re my go-to walking tour company because they use expert local guides and their tours are always fun and educational.  

12. Ride the Cable Cars

No visit to San Francisco is complete without riding on a cable car. The cable car system in San Francisco is the last manually-operated system in the entire world. Of the 22 lines that were originally created in the 19th century, only three are still in operation. Since there is limited seating (and since they are one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city) waits can be long. Make sure you plan ahead (try to go during a weekday when there are fewer visitors). Tickets are $7 USD.  

13. Go on a Harbor Tour

For a completely different look at the city, take an afternoon cruise of San Francisco Bay. You’ll get to see some wildlife, snap some great photos, and learn about the bay and its place in San Francisco’s history. Around 40% of California, drains into the bay and the area is home to all kinds of snakes, rays, otters, sharks, whales, sea lions, and more. A budget-friendly way to see the bay is to take the public ferries for $7.30 USD.

You can find prices and routes at sanfranciscobayferry.com.  

14. Hang out in the Castro

San Fransico has been the de facto gay capital of the US since the 60s and 70s. The gay hub in the city is the Castro, San Francisco’s famous gay neighborhood (Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, had his office here). The neighborhood has a number of ethnic and modern restaurants as well as a bunch that serve locally-sourced organic food. On top of that, there are a plethora of wild and fun clubs that cater to both gay and straight crowds. If you’re looking for a fun nightlife, this is the neighborhood for you.  

15. Explore Haight-Ashbury

The birthplace of America’s counterculture, the Haight was ground zero during the summer of 1967, a.k.a. The Summer of Love. Hippies used to live here but, eventually, all the colorful Victorian homes were bought up by more well-off residents as the area gentrified. It’s now home to high-end boutiques, hip cages, and chic restaurants. That said, you can still find some record stores, dive bars, and vintage clothing stores here.

If you really want to learn more about the area’s hippy past, take the Flower Power Walking Tour. It’s just $20 USD and will walk you through the neighborhood’s vibrant and eclectic past.  

16. Rollerskate in Church

The Church of 8 Wheels is a former church that has been converted to an old school rollerskating arena. They have DJs and live music so it’s essentially a party on wheels. Admission is $10 USD and you can rent skates for $5 USD. It’s a cheap (and unique) way to have fun and meet people. There are times for both kids and adults too and they even organize lessons for people who have never roller-skated before.

554 Fillmore St., +1 415-752-1967, churchof8wheels.com. Open Friday-Sunday. Check the website for times as there are both all-ages and adult-only events.  

17. See Muir Woods

Named after famed naturalist John Muir, it’s located just 16 miles from downtown so its an easy place to visit. The place is home to over 240 acres of towering old-growth redwood trees. While the trees here are not as big as the sequoia trees in nearby Sequoia National Park, it’s nevertheless a relaxing place to visit. There are plenty of walking trails and it’s family/kid-friendly too.  

18. Visit the Beat Museum

Dedicated to the Beat Generation (the 1950s counter-culture), here you’ll find original manuscripts, rare books, letters, and more from authors like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. Founded in 2003, the museums has over 1,000 pieces of memorabilia including Ginsber’s typewriter and a first edition copy of Kerouac’s novel The Town and the City. They also hold regular events so check the website to see if anything is happening during your visit.

540 Broadway, +1 800-537-6822, kerouac.com. Open daily from 10am-7pm. Admission is $8 USD.  

19. Learn at the Exploratorium

This interactive science museum has all kinds of exhibitions covering biology, gravity, light, animation, and much more. It’s very hands-on so it’s the perfect stop for anyone traveling with kids (though there are also adult-specific exhibitions too).

Pier 15, +1 415-528-4444, exploratorium.edu. Open Tuesday–Sunday from 10am-5pm. Admission is $29.95 USD.  

20. Hang Out in Golden Gate Park

This massive park covers over 1,000 acres, making it 20% bigger than Central Park in NYC. Inside, you’ll find a Japanese garden, an arboretum, a museum, and lots of hiking and walking trails. Walking from end to end takes the better half a day. In the summer, it’s a popular spot to picnic, go for a stroll, and soak up the sun. Even though it sees over 24 million visitors each year, it’s never too hard to find a secluded spot for yourself.  

21. Catch a Game

San Francisco locals love their sports teams, especially the Giants (their baseball team). If you’re in town during a game, be sure to head to Oracle Arena and take in the spectacle — it doesn’t get more American than this! The team is one of the longest-established and most successful in the league and you can get tickets for under $10 USD.  

22. Visit the Cable Car Museum

When the cable cars launched in 1873, they were hugely popular and they changed the face of the city. To learn more and see all kinds of photos and relics from a bygone era, including some of the original cars, head to this museum. It’s not huge but it’s fun and insightful.

1201 Mason Street, +1 415-474-1887, cablecarmuseum.org. Open daily from 10am-5pm (6pm in the summer). Admission is free.  

23. Tour Wine Country

If you love wine and have time to leave the city, visit the world-famous Napa and Sonoma wine regions. Napa is one of the world’s leading wine-producing area and every year over 3 million people come to taste their way around the region. Located just over an hour from the city by car, there are plenty of companies that organize day trips to Napa Valley (usually for between $99-150 USD per person). However, day tours are usually a bit rushed. If you have the time, rent a car and stay overnight.  

24. Enjoy the View from Twin Peaks

For another panoramic view of the city, drive or hike up to the top of Twin Peaks. Standing 925 feet high, you’ll get a sweeping 360-degree view of the city. Come for sunset and enjoy the view. There are also lots of trails weaving around the mountains so you can hike for a couple of hours here if you wanted.  

25. Take a Food Tour

This city is known for its food. If you want to cast a wide culinary net and try a lot of different foods, consider taking a food tour. Here are a few companies worth checking out if you’re considering:

Wild SF Tours – A tasty food crawl of Chinatown and Little Italy where you can try dim sum, pizza, craft cocktail-inspired boba milk tea, and cannoli. Tickets from $69.

Secret Food Tours – Sample the best of the Mission District, including burritos, oysters, ice cream, and more! Tickets from $79 USD.

TasteBud Tours – A culinary exploration of Little Italy that stops off at 7 different local restaurants. Tickets from $68.50.

  26. Day Trip to Oakland

Just across the Bay Bridge from San Francisco is Oakland. It’s considered the “Brooklyn” to San Francisco’s “Manhattan.” In recent years, Oakland has developed a niche for and craft beer and specialty restaurants. There are tons of bars and breweries, and they even have their own “Ale Trail” if you want to wander the city and sample its best drinks.

You can also visit Oakland Redwood Regional Park, Lake Merritt, or catch a baseball game at Oakland Coliseum. There’s a lot you can do in Oakland and you can easily spend a day or more here!  

27. Visit the Asian Art Museum

This is one of the most comprehensive collections of Asian art in the world. The museum houses almost 20,000 items in its collection and you can get a free guided tour to walk you through all the highlights and special exhibits that the museum has to offer. There are both modern art exhibitions as well as historical artifacts and artwork. Check the website to see what temporary exhibitions are available during your visit.

200 Larkin St., +1 415-581-3500, asianart.org. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10am-5pm (9pm on Thursdays). Admission is $15 USD.  

28. Take a Quirky Tour or Visit a Weird Museum

San Francisco is an eclectic city to say the least so it should come as no surprise that there are a lot of unique tours and museums here. Some of the more fun and interesting tours options are:

San Francisco Love Tours – Explore the city in a hand painted VW bus and learn about San Francisco’s counter-culture icons while listening to hippie music from the Summer of Love. Tours from $45 USD.

GoCar Tours – Whip around the city in a go kart and see the sights as you bomb down hills (including the winding Lombard Street). Tours from $120 USD.

And, for weird / offbeat museums, visit:

The Antique Vibrator Museum – See what sex toys from the 1800s looks like!

The Gregangelo Museum – This “museum” is bursting with all kinds of weird decorations, themed rooms, secret passageways, hidden rooms, and all sorts of weird art and interior design.

The Peephole Cinema – Watch short silent films through a tiny public peephole in the Mission District.

Musée Mécanique – A collection of over 300 old arcade games from the 20th century.

***

While San Francisco may be known for its high cost of living, there are tons of fun things to see and do in the city that won’t break the bank. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy your time in San Francisco without going over budget.

And whether you’re looking for museums, nature, food, or nightlife, this city will not disappoint.

Book Your Trip to San Francisco: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time. My suggested place is the The Green Tortoise. It’s the best hostel in the city. It has free breakfast, pub crawls, and dinners three times a week.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)

Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Need a Guide? San Francisco has some really great tours on offer. For an in-depth walking tour, check out Take Walks. They use expert local guides and have a super insightful (and fun) tour through Chinatown.

For something more hands-on like a segway tour, use Fat Tire Tours. They have a few different tours around the city and are a great alternative to a standard walking tour.

Looking for More Information on Visiting San Francisco? Check out my in-depth destination guide to San Francisco with more tips on what to see and do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

The post 28 Things to See and Do in San Francisco appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

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[jinnieboo-blog1]

VIXX N: College!AU

Here’s the next one for the College!AU series. It’s almost done. This is the 4th one! Ken, Leo and Hongbin are done, and now, N. Hope you enjoy reading! <3

Every student in the class cheered as soon as they heard the professor’s announcement. For your end-of-the semester final project, your class would be doing a play at your school’s auditorium, with the whole campus watching, as well as other guests and visitors. Though the professor didn’t reveal what play would be done, you were just as excited. You look around the classroom and see that a lot of the students are already practicing lines for different roles. Your best friends smile at you. Somewhere in the room, you also saw Hakyeon, the expert as some would say. He was great at acting after all. He simply sat there, smiling and clapping his hands, a grateful expression spreading across his face.

As a performing arts major, of course you’d have to do stage plays or something of that sort for your finals. So, a few days later, your professor announced what play you would be doing: an original one. The class would make the script, story, roles, props and even costumes. You were honestly happy that you could make an original play with your class. That way, you could be as creative as you wanted.

When the professor left, the class held a mini meeting. “Alright guys! First we need to have a basic gist for the story. Genre? Romance is always good, with a hint of mystery. Detective story?” says classmate 1.

The class agreed in unison, so everyone started brainstorming and contributing ideas. After a while, you all had a basic storyline. Classmate 2 spoke, “Ok, classmate 1, classmate 3 and I will be the scriptwriters. The others are free to help if you want. Now we need to assign the roles.”

After much discussion, roles were assigned to the students. “I think Hakyeon should play the lead because he’s really good.” your best friend states.

Hakyeon nods with a small, calm smile. “I don’t mind, unless someone else wants to try.” he says.

Classmate 3 chuckles, “I think I can speak for the class that we’d all want you as the lead.”

The class laughs at this, because it actually is the truth. We all want someone who is good like Hakyeon as the lead. Your other best friend raises her hand and says, “Why don’t we have y/n as the lead’s partner?”

Your eyes went wide. Being the lead’s partner would also mean that you’re his love interest. “Ooooh! Yeah, I think that would work. Y/n does have some experience in acting.” says classmate 4.

Classmate 5 jokingly adds, “And they kind of match with each other.”

A bunch of “yeah”s and “true”s erupted from the class, causing you to blush. Hakyeon on the other hand remained calm and collected as if it was no big deal. Well, it wasn’t a big deal, but for some reason, you felt flustered. Your best friend turned to Hakyeon, “Is that alright with you?”

Hakyeon chuckles, “Yes, it is.”

“Then it’s settled!” beams classmate 2.

After an hour, other roles were assigned, as well as who would be in charge of costumes and props. The actors and actresses would practice on certain schedules, but they were free to practice individually in their own time.

When everyone left, you remained sitting, thinking about what just happened. You were to be the partner of Hakyeon for the play. Hakyeon was for sure the most loved student by the whole campus. He was not only handsome and talented in acting, but he was also good at dancing and is really smart. To add even more plus points, he is very charismatic, eloquent, classy and downright fashionable. He is the epitome of elegant. So of course it would be an honor to play the role of his partner and love interest, but you were also nervous and worried. You’ve heard stories wherein Hakyeon could be quite the diva and perfectionist, so you might have a hard time coping with him. What if he really is too good for you? He is an ace, after all.

You are lost in your theories and thoughts, until a hand gently touches your shoulder. You snap back to reality and look up to see Hakyeon. “When the script is done, we should practice our lines together during some of our free time.”

You gulp and feel nervous all of a sudden, but you manage to smile, “Oh, yeah. Sure. Just tell me when.”

Hakyeon gives a quick nod and smiles before walking out of the class, hands in his pockets.

Over the week, the script was completed. The other students were also making progress with the props and costumes. After all the classes, you and your classmates (along with Hakyeon) would rehearse at the auditorium. This lasted for about two weeks. In that time, you and Hakyeon practiced with each other for about 3 times a week, so 6 times all in all.

The play was going to happen in 4 weeks, so you were in the library, doing your homework while there were no rehearsals. As you were writing down your answers, Hakyeon approached you with a cool smile. “Y/n, I know you’re busy, but do you think we can rehearse?” he asks.

You look up in surprise and think about it for a while. Your homework was pretty easy, so it could wait. “Sure. Where?” you reply.

“My dorm room. It’s quiet and less distractions.” Hakyeon says with a straight face.

You blush; you and Hakyeon would usually rehearse in the auditorium, but if it was being used, you’d practice in a quiet corner in the library. This would be your first time in his room. Slowly nodding and too shy to turn him down now, you nod, “Alright.”

You pack your things quickly and then leave, following Hakyeon.

Upon entering his room, you were amazed to see it so clean and neat. It even smelled like lavender, maybe because of the creamy white candle that he lit up. Out of the corner of your eye, you saw a bookshelf filled with tons of books. “Are these all yours?” you ask as you caress the book spines.

Hakyeon proudly smiles, “Yes. Most are kind of old, but they’re nice.”

You take one and smell the old pages. Something about old books seemed to relax you. “I love these books. I mean, I’ve read them, and I love it all.”

“Me too.” Hakyeon smirks, “Great minds think alike.”

You blush at the compliment but brush it off with a chuckle. You put the book back in its place as Hakyeon ushers for you to sit anywhere. He takes a seat on his computer chair, while you sit on his bed. Throughout the day, the two of you diligently practiced your lines and even some actions, although you two agreed to skip on the kiss…for now. Hakyeon really did prove to be a talented actor, but he didn’t judge you when you made mistakes. In fact, he’d assist you and even give you tips and advice.

You remember your heart fluttering every time he corrected and action that you did, but he felt like something else would be better. For example, your character was supposed to check Hakyeon’s character’s face for any wounds or scratches, so to practice the action, you used one hand and placed it on his cheek and examined his face. Hakyeon instructed you to use both hands instead, as if you were cupping his face. It was a bit awkward at first, but it actually made it more romantic.

There was also the times that your heart would flutter because his character was the one that did something romantic. His character was supposed to reassure and comfort your character for being upset with him, so you were expecting that Hakyeon would talk about it and at most, gently hold your hand. You were surprised when he did more. Your character turned away from him, too upset to look at his face. Hakyeon, fully in character, then grabbed your wrist and pulled you to him, wrapping the other arm around your waist with your faces inches apart. Hakyeon smirked at you, but playfully and not haughtily. He chuckled when he let go of you, calling you cute because you were blushing.

******

Days went by as you continuously practiced with the others and with Hakyeon. The rehearsals were so close to being perfect, and everyone was happy. All it needed was just a little more practice.

You all had one week. But it also meant that you had one week left until finals. This project would take the place of the final exam for one subject, but you had other subjects that had written final exams, and you’ve only studied a little per subject. You decided to hold off on rehearsals first, since everyone agreed that just one or two more rehearsals next week would be enough.

It was early in the evening, about 7:30 p.m., and you were in the library studying. You managed to study one subject in the afternoon, so you were studying another one now. You heard the library door creak open, so you look up to see Hakyeon. “Hey.” you greet him.

Over time, you and Hakyeon became close because of all the rehearsals. You weren’t intimidated by him; in fact, you two had a very fun and casual bond. He was pretty sassy at times, so teasing him wasn’t a problem. “Studying? You’re already smart enough.” Hakyeon chuckles as he sits next to you.

“Am not. You’re the one who’s smart enough to not study but still ace the exams.” you chuckle back.

Hakyeon smiles, “Liar.”

You stick your tongue out. Hakyeon laughs at you then asks, “I guess you won’t have time to rehearse with me, right?”

You sadly smile at him. “I’d love to, but we’ve already perfected it…almost perfect anyway. We’ll rehearse more next week, but for now, I have to get this studying done. We have other exams after all, and I haven’t given these much time.” you explain.

Hakyeon smiles, “You’re amazing, y/n.”

“Whatever, Hakyeon.” you laugh.

He scoots closer and grabs the book you were reading. “We have the same classes. Let’s study together. I haven’t really studied much either. We can do this.”

You look at him and grin widely. “Let’s go.”

Hours have passed, and it already 11:30. You and Hakyeon managed to study and cover a lot of topics, so you are both currently studying the last subject on your agenda. However, after countless sleepless nights of cramming to memorize your lines and sneaking in some studying, you start to feel sleepy. You feel like you’re actually half asleep already. You rest your head on the table, your hair splayed all over. You were on the brink of sleeping, but Hakyeon slowly reached for you and gingerly tucked your hair behind your ear, causing you to scrunch up your nose. In turn, he chuckled to himself, but you still stirred awake. “Hakyeon…” you mumble, shifting your body to face him.

Even in the dim light, you could yell that Hakyeon was looking at you too. “Y/n?”

Too drowsy, you didn’t even respond or react- you remained sitting still as you and Hakyeon gazed at each other. Dazed, you didn’t notice Hakyeon inching closer until you felt his lips softly press onto yours. Only then did you become aware, causing you to be fully awake. “Hakyeon…” you mutter as you touch your lips, expression clearly shocked.

Hakyeon couldn’t help but smirk. “I’m sorry for being so sudden. That was rude of me.” Yet he was chuckling.

You blushed. “No, it’s fine…” you mumble the other part, “…it's not like I didn’t like it…”

Hakyeon still heard what you said, and his smirk turned into a wider grin. “That’s good to hear.”

“What?” you ask in surprise.

Hakyeon leaned back on the seat very casually, but the expression on his face was serious. “I’ll be honest with you, y/n. Ever since we got paired for the play, I knew you'd be a good partner because you’ve always been hard-working. I admire you in many ways. In fact, I admire and like you…a lot.”

You blush and tell him, “I’ve always felt the same, but I thought it was impossible because you’re like, too good for me.”

Hakyeon chuckled, “Nonsense.”

With that, he leaned closer once again, and this time, kissed you more passionately.

“The play’s kiss scene is going to be really easy.” he teases after pulling away.

“Of course it will be.” you smirk.

[standbyphoenix]

‘River on the Rise’ by Debra Blake for Vegetarian Times, March 1988 (Part II, final)

How the family took their vision to Hollywood dates back 10 years ago, to their final days in Venezuela. The family had little money when they left the religious community and River, along with his sister Rainbow, often took to the streets, restaurants, and even airport waiting areas to sing to people, entertaining them while trying to earn a dollar. River had been playing guitar since before he was 5 years old, and his talent became increasingly apparent to Arlyn and John. Back in the States, the family headed straight for Los Angeles, where Arlyn took a job at a broadcasting company to get the family's collective foot in Hollywood's door.

"We weren't going for the glamour or the fame of it all," Arlyn says. "We were going to take the kids' talent-which was so obvious-to us-and turn it into something and help make change at the same time. That's why we went."

Weren't they afraid that the kids wouldn't share their vision, or perhaps lose sight of it as the endless glittery parties began to welcome them, threatening to turn them into Hollywood brats?

"No," says Arlyn. "I knew they wouldn't get into the Hollywood scene. We had our own business to attend to, and it wasn't Hollywood. It was making change in the world."

River's business is making change, too. He's clear on that score. "If I didn't think I could be a part of a movement that could influence," he says, "and be a part of helping and change, if I couldn't help that through what I'm doing, I wouldn't do this. But I'm seeing that through this position-in this career, and where I have these magazine interviews- I can be an example, and I think that's important. In all the interviews I do, I say something about my being vegan. I don't want to come off as if I'm a savior. I'm only a very small part of anything, but I think it's important to be involved. I'm interested in meditation and finding spiritual fulfillment. But for me to just go off and devote my life to monkhood in the jungle would be ultimately abandoning the world, and the consciousness would be on a selfish level. I think I can do a lot more good for this planet if I am out there."

River is still young. Does he share his mother's confidence that he'll be able to withstand the pressures that Hollywood places on young people-pressures that make them grow up quickly, losing their dreams and ideals in the process?

"Being out there," River says slowly, looking around at the giant oak trees on the lawn, "you can go astray, and everything can be destroyed. I'm aware of that, but I don't think I'll get into that. Maybe I'm lucky; I'm not really attracted to all of that now. I think I'll be strong enough, but I do see there's that chance.

"You can't really make any plans about things like this, though. You go with the flow but still against the grain, not for the ego of it but for the belief of it. The only thing I have to show is how I live. The vegan thing is one of the main things. I'm a peaceful person; I think that's manifested through how I live. I don't start trouble. But time will tell."

River has moved around a lot over the years. He was born in Oregon, went with the family to South America as a young child, and has lived in countless California towns. He's traveled-sometimes with only part of the family-to different countries to film on location. Just before last Thanksgiving the whole family moved to Florida, where they now reside. They wanted to leave the Hollywood scene and revive ideals about living in the country.

Florida winter afternoons are warm, and River spends hours in the garage, hunched over his new 12-string guitar. His hands are square and strong, and after so many years they're used to playing the chords that sound good to him. He has the guitar plugged into an amplifier, and the rock rhythms echo out in the yard. He's not in school (he was privately tutored for most of his life), and he says he's not interested in working until the summer. These days he's mostly hanging around, traveling a bit, hoping a bass guitarist will read the signs he placed around the University of Florida campus. "Needed," the signs read. "Bass guitarist with young blood who's into progressive rock and roll, jazz. For demo recordings." River is looking for a buddy to jam with.

If he didn't have his acting career, River thinks he could be a musician. He's driven to it. "I love music," he says. "It's so much a part of me." The roster of his favorite musicians is long and eclectic; he's especially into early Squeeze and U2. But the rest of his list reads like the playlist of an early '70s FM station. "I like jazz, folk music, Bob Dylan. Older Bowie and old Roxy Music to fall asleep to. I like old Steely Dan music and some Pink Floyd. Old Led Zeppelin, too. The Beatles are my Bible; that goes without saying. And I like classical music."

Modern music disappoints River, and he doesn't like much of what's commercially produced. His tastes in books and movies also show that River has one foot in a different age. He sounds a little frustrated by that, and says things like "movies nowadays. ..books nowadays. .. music nowadays."

He doesn't see too many new movies, preferring witty, intelligent classic comedies, and he likes the great slapsticks. But his idealism comes through even here. "I haven't seen Cry Freedom [about Steven Biko, a martyred black South African], but it's top on my list for a real conscious movie. And I liked Brazil. I like intense movies. Did you ever see Brother Sun, Sister Moon? It's about St. Francis. I felt a rebirth after I saw that."

He doesn't find much time for reading, though he'd like to, but somehow he's picked up a lot of information on health and political issues. The novels he's read, or would like to read, are those that kids grew up on 15 and 20 years ago: Catcher in the Rye and Franny and Zooey by J.D. Salinger, Hermann Hesse's Siddhartha, Richard Bach's Illusions, Ray Bradbury's Martian Chronicles, To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

As for his own movies, he's hot enough to be selective about the scripts he accepts, and he's been pretty happy with the results. "I feel no need to invest in a movie unless I have an incredible passion for it," he says. "And one that will not only be good for me but one I can be proud of-one that's a benefit to society. I always hope the movie will, if nothing else, be a part of good art and influence people in a good way."

Up to now, there's been no compromising in River's work, and he's not planning on changing his record. Even as a child, no commercials he ever made endorsed white bread, and when he was in Seven Brides, the family made sure he wouldn't have to go fishing or wear a coonskin cap.

River still chooses carefully, hoping the ideals he lives by will be reflected in the characters he plays. He liked his character of Chris Chambers in Stand by Me, directed by Rob Reiner. "Chris came off as a victim of the mentality of his town, but he was a good person. He was a great friend, he was loyal and he wasn't an idiot-not just a big dumb l2-year-old. He was a real sweet guy, smart and intelligent. A good character."

The last movie he worked on was Sidney Lumet's Running on Empty. (Lumet directed Dustin Hoffman in the Academy Award-winner Tootsie.) River plays the son of parents whose antimilitary activities have kept them on the run for years. River likes the character but sees him as a victim, too.

"In dramas, kids usually are victims, either to their parents or to society:' River explains. "I want to get away from that. It would be wonderful to see someone already in a clear-minded reality take it from there and maybe go beyond that, show what can happen."

He can't say precisely what kinds of films he'd like to do or what kind of work will draw him next. Theater would be interesting, perhaps, and possibly directing at some point. Unlike many actors, he's not even thinking about who he'd like to work with. "I would like to work with Rob Reiner again," he says, "Maybe just a cameo role in one of his movies. But for the most part I don't think like that. I figure that time will tell, and if it's right, I'll meet the right people and work with them at some point." Outwardly, River has few doubts about himself, as an individual and as a Phoenix family member. "I'm definitely an individual," he said. "I feel very secure as an individual. And I'm proud of my family and what we've done together. I'm a product of my family, just like everybody else. These are my roots.

"I just want to live my life. Acting is what I love to do, and it's worked out this way. I don't know if it's God's perfect plan or whatever, but for me, not only do I love it and get great satisfaction out of it, but also I can work my beliefs in. I'm free to believe in what I do, and I can share those beliefs with others. Not in a preaching way, not telling others, but just by what I do. I find that very fulfilling."

After lunch-tabouli, nori, blue corn chips, tofu omelet, tahini dressing-River and Rainbow, like older brother and sister in any family, take the family jeep to pick up the other kids from school. Back home, River runs into the yard to swing on the rope hung from one of the oaks. "Hey, look at this!" he yells. While Rainbow watches, River laughs, jumps high and grabs hold. 

A Phoenix on the rise.

[lifeoffthehill]

Busy is an understatement. ...and a state of mind.

7:00AM. I’m up like clockwork every morning. If it’s a teaching day, I head straight for the shower. If it’s not a teaching day, I head into the kitchen and make my tea and breakfast. Breakfast is my favorite meal, but even so I usually keep it simple during the week: egg and toast; egg and oatmeal; egg and roasted potatoes; egg and garlic fried rice. I make the oatmeal or potatoes or rice in large batches ahead of time and portion them out over a week. On the weekends, that’s when I’ll do pancakes from scratch, eggs banh mi; omelettes or quiche. I love to linger over breakfast and casually sip the tea--I prefer black, but occasionally dabble in green. 

8:00AM. If it’s a teaching day, I’m out the door at 8:30; I like to walk or take the bus to campus which helps with hitting the 10K goal on my Fitbit. If the weather is bad or if I have a lot of books/the computer to carry for the day, I’ll drive. If it’s Tues/Thurs/Fri, this is when I like to hit the gym - where I run on the elliptical or use the water rower. I’m in and out of there in less than an hour. If it’s Sunday, this is when I head to grocery store, while they still have decent stock and before all the after-church shoppers and the undergrads stocking up on bottled water show up. 

9:00AM. If it’s a teaching day, I’m in the office checking my email, making any final adjustments to my lesson plan, printing things if I need to. On a gym day, this is the time slot for my shower and afterward, I typically make a green smoothie.

On Monday and Wednesday: 10:00-11:30 AM. Teach Advanced Composition 11:30 AM-12:50 PM. Office hours and eat lunch 1:00-2:30 PM. Teach American Lit Survey (Post-1945) (Monday Only) 2:30-4:00 PM. Staff meeting at the Humanities Center 4:15 PM. Snack time / Nap time. 

On Tuesday and Thursday, most Fridays: I work from home. 10:00AM-12:00PM. Work tasks. I like to knock out the least desirable work tasks first. Depending on the week and my mood, this can mean grading, or a difficult theory reading, or the reading assignment I gave my students. Some days it’s my lesson plans.  12:00-1:00PM. Lunch break. I like full lunch breaks. If it doesn’t take so long to eat, I fill them out with listening to a podcast or going for a short walk (if the weather is nice).  1:00-5:00PM. Continue with work tasks until to-do list is completed to satisfaction. Check email last. This is a trick I’ve learned, especially since I started working from home more often, because if you check email first thing, it has the potential to de-rail your whole day. Though that’s rare. Most of the time, the emails I get each day are pretty fruitless. In either case, if anything urgent is happening, the right people should have my phone number(s) and so email increasingly falls to the very bottom of my priority list. 

Evenings go something like this: 5 or 5:30 PM. Start dinner prep, if cooking. I usually cook on Sunday nights and again on Wednesdays, eating leftovers in between. If I’m not doing dinner prep, I might use this time for a nap, some light reading, a walk, social media catch up, or house chores.  6:00PM. tune into the local news followed my the 6:30 national. I like NBC’s broadcast with Lester Holt. I usually multitask, listening to rather than watching the broadcasts, so I may be continuing any of the activities listed above.  7:00PM. Dinner time.  7:30-8:30PM. TV time. I used to binge watch on Netflix and Amazon Prime, letting episodes autoplay while I was multitasking (as described above). In early February, though, I made a TV schedule. I assigned each day a different TV show and set out to stick to it for two weeks, filling the quiet hours when I can multitask with music or podcasts instead. I was surprised at how quickly it stuck. I found that I liked looking forward to the hour of TV time and whatever show I had put in the slot, taking in a show slowly rather than all at once.  8:30PM. Wash dishes/clean kitchen. A dirty kitchen is my biggest pet peeve and I have a hard time sleeping if I don’t clean it. I hate nothing more than waking up to a fresh day, but seeing a sink full of dirty dishes. Whenever I have plans to go out, I try so hard to wash dishes before I leave; and if I don’t, I’ve been known to stay up and wash them, no matter how tired or how drunk I might be.  9:00PM. Start winding down for bed - except on days I video call with these guys. I’m still working on this bedtime routine part. I want to set a ritual of washing face, brushing teeth, putting on pajamas, unplugging from technology, and a de-stressing activity, like reading a cookbook or coloring in an adult coloring book, or listening to soothing music. Some days I do these things; most days, I am still actively attached to my phone - texting, swiping left on Tinder, Twittering or Tumblring. There are also some days when I am still doing a work task this late, because I’ve forgotten it or because a scheduled meeting had me shift my day around or because it was particularly time consuming that day. This is definitely not ideal for me. 

11:00 PM. Ideally in bed and fast asleep, but this can be in flux when it comes to the weekend or on weeknights, seizing those moments that are #worthit.   

Graduate school and academia are hectic and grueling. Paradoxically, academia--at least for the humanities--is incredibly flexible and it is a huge privilege to spend only a small percentage of my time confined to a space at a very specific time (class/meetings). Yet, we feel busy all the time precisely because there are no clear boundaries between work and not work, both in terms of the time schedule and work space. In the past, when friends or colleagues tell me they would like to be more involved in student organizations or study groups or attend any of the many interesting events on campus from week-to-week, they often follow it up with “but I just don’t have time.” If I feel particularly frustrated and unsympathetic, I will condescendingly say “We don’t have time, we make time,” and probably leave the room. I would have this attitude because the implication often feels like “you don’t understand because you’re clearly not as busy as me” which is also an implication that “you aren’t using your time right if you have time to...” ...be involved in the grad students of color organization... attend the Thursday afternoon lecture... go to the monthly grad association meeting... make a two-hour round trip to Costco on Friday afternoon... make elaborate dinners on Sunday... 

I may never stop reminding people and getting into a huff over my have time/make time philosophy, but what I’ve learned in the past year, especially, is that busy is a state of mind more than a lived reality. Being busy all the time had me feeling run down and depressed last fall. Even before the onslaught of my breakup and the election, I would close my books in the late afternoon and wonder why on earth I had signed up for a career that involved reading books for 6-8 hours a day which would have to be followed by making lesson plans and, if I could squeeze it in after feeding myself, saying hello to my then partner while still getting to sleep by my self-prescribed bedtime. Pushing pause on my academic work during Thanksgiving week in Denver, during the 10 days I spent at home over Christmas really threw into perspective how much I needed to make time to connect with my people. Engaging with them--instead of watching the clock and wondering “if I leave now, I can squeeze in one more chapter of [insert soul crushing theory reading here] before bed”--has helped me manage my time more wisely, motivating me on a Wednesday to “get this to-do list done by 5″ so that I can video chat long into the night, laughing and crying with my favorite girls and boy. 

[auburnfamilynews]

Time for an embarrassing story. Just for your entertainment.

While we’re all sitting here quarantined, or sheltered-in-place, or whatever you may be doing, we’re all looking for entertainment and content in some form or fashion. There’s only so far you can get into Netflix before kid’s shows and obscure anime start to look appealing, so we’re going to try to regale you all with a story of self-deprecation and a little Auburn football.

Let’s go back to 2009. November 14th. The scene? Athens, Georgia. Sanford Stadium. Kickoff was a 7 o’clock affair between the hedges as Auburn came in at 7-3 in Gene Chizik’s first season. Do you remember the fun of that season as Auburn started 5-0 and rolled into the rankings behind Gus Malzahn’s offense and an opportunistic defense?

2009 began with the Gus offense fooling ESPN cameras with motion, end-arounds, pump fakes, and more as the Tigers dispatched Louisiana Tech and Mississippi State. Game three was the rain-soaked epic against West Virginia, where Auburn came back from an early deficit and forced four fourth-quarter turnovers on the way to a 41-30 victory over Noel Devine and company.

After an easy Saturday night against Ball State, Auburn hit Knoxville for the first road game of the year and a tilt against Lane Kiffin. Auburn controlled the action from start to finish, and the Vols never really threatened, as Ben Tate destroyed Eric Berry’s night and the Tigers improved to 5-0.

Things were great. Auburn was rolling, and the mirth and merry-making that only a successful football can produce were rampant on campus. Unfortunately, since we were less than a year removed from Tommy Tuberville’s reign, some of his tendencies remained in the football program, and we had a stinker against Arkansas the next week. Ryan Mallett tore us up, we limped home, and the hangover lingered for the next two games.

A cold night at home led to a tepid loss to Kentucky (c’mon, guys) and then we couldn’t handle ourselves in Baton Rouge, where Chris Todd threw for only 47 yards and Auburn fell behind 24-0 before giving up and falling 31-10. Things were fine the next week at home in a win over Ole Miss (maybe the most complete win of the season) and then the next week as Furman came for the annual paycheck game.

7-3. Not bad for Gene Chizik’s first year. “We want a leader, not a loser!” had not begin to ring true yet. The airport screamer’s fears weren’t yet realized. Chizik had formed what looked like a great staff, with recruiters and motivators galore, as well as the then revolutionary mind of Malzahn running the offense. We didn’t see the cracks in the staff yet, and we weren’t quite aware of what would bring the team down three seasons later, but in year one, it was pretty good. After the first losing season since Tuberville’s first year, we would take success in any form. Especially since Alabama was sitting at #1 in the polls in Nick Saban’s third season. We needed something, man. Chizik and company began to give that to us.

So, it brings us to November 14th. Auburn hadn’t had an open week yet, playing ten straight games to begin the season. With the year starting on September 5th, teams would only get one off week in a twelve-game season. It was a rough stretch, but with Auburn not having a break yet, the team was likely feeling the bumps and bruises a little more than other schools around the league.

Georgia wasn’t particularly great that season, either. After the year when they were supposed to dominate — 2008 saw the Dawgs sit at #1 before they got whacked by Alabama — they’d been middle of the road in 2009. Mark Richt’s team beat who they should and lost to who they should. In the end, both Auburn and Georgia would finish at 8-5 in 2009. Both schools were sporting serviceable, but not special quarterbacks, very good running backs, and average wide receivers.

The game? Not so exciting, at least not in my unassisted memory. My friends and I climbed to the top of the upper deck — last row — and sat next to a Georgia fan who aggressively did the Shawne Merriman Lights Out celebration with every little victory for the Dawgs:

It was a lot.

I had to find the box score to remember exactly what happened in the game. The only lasting image that came to me was Demond Washington’s kickoff return touchdown —

— that tied the game at 24-all after Auburn initially went up 14-0 and lost that lead. Apparently Caleb King scored twice in the fourth quarter, and Auburn didn’t have the answer offensively afterward. We lost 31-24. Okay. Whatever, that was now four straight defeats at the hand of the Bulldogs. Mark Richt had our number.

So, what do we do after a loss? Well, if the 2009 meeting in Athens was any indication, we meet with the entire population of the whole world in “The World’s Greatest College Town” and go drink. I think I saw everyone I ever knew that night at different bars in Athens, and we were all drinking like it was the end of the world. Keep in mind that I was only born in 1989, so if you’re not a Georgia grad, you can do your math and figure out that I was not yet of the legal age to consume alcohol. More on that in a moment.

When we left the stadium, we had no idea which direction to head to find our friends. This was before the days of smart phones, and you had to rely on getting a signal for a phone call so that you could somewhat coherently describe your location to someone else in hopes of finding them. The plan was to meet downtown for food and some sort of healing dark liquor. Downtown is north of the stadium, so naturally, we wandered south instead.

Here’s our general route:

Eventually, we made it downtown, but not before walking an extra mile or two and complaining the entire way. The memory of the next few hours involves drowning our sorrows at the Boars Head Lounge and then seeing Brandon Cox and telling him that he wouldn’t have lost to Georgia that night. Somehow my intoxicated brain remembered only the 2005 game in Athens — still somehow the last time we’ve won there — and did not remember the eight (EIGHT) combined interceptions he threw in his last two games against Georgia.

Anyway, it made me feel better. Somehow, though, it got to be late! Imagine that. We endured too long drinking, and now we needed to eat and go home. The process was real, Nick Saban would be proud. So, we head down the road, make our way to Lumpkin Street, and start walking back in the general direction of the house where we were staying. I was told that we’d get ourselves some McDonald’s before crashing, but I’d never get to indulge my late-night craving.

We’re walking, and I feel a particular need to relieve a certain biological pressure. Whatever, I can hold it until we get home. How long will that be? Two more miles? Nope, going to have to pull off the sidewalk and find a dark spot to take care of business.

Enter the Zell B. Miller Learning Center and it’s nooks/crannies.

A campus building that won’t have many people around it? Away from the heart of downtown? Perfect. I asked my group of friends to hang on a second and I skipped back into the dark corners, did my business, and came back to the street to find that they had not waited for me. They were at least two hundred yards ahead, not even noticing that I was absent.

I shouldn’t have gotten cocky, but fortune seemed to deal me a hand that should have played out splendidly. We’d been walking all day, and I was still breaking in the new pair of cowboy boots I was wearing, so my feet were a little sore. I wasn’t pleased about the likelihood of having to speedwalk/jog to catch up with them, especially in my drunken state. And what do you know? I was given a gift from the gods.

I look down into the bushes right in front of the Learning Center, and there’s a rusty, derelict bicycle underneath some foliage. In my mind, I’m going to hop on, speed down the sidewalk, catch my friends, perform a fantastic dismount, and continue along the way.

In reality, I picked up the bike, swung one leg over it, and instantly the wash of blue lights came over me. A police cruiser careened across the road, hopped the curb, and hit me with the floodlight and loudspeaker.

“YOU. ON THE BIKE. DISMOUNT NOW.”

For one wild moment, I considered running. I could’ve disappeared into the darkness of campus and I would’ve gotten away...

Instead, I stayed put. They’d been watching that bait bike and had me like they got several other dumb kids that weekend. I let them come up and start the interrogation.

In typical fashion, the officer asked me if I’d been drinking. What did I say?

Somehow, he saw right through that, and he threw me in the cherrytop.

So now I’m on the way to the Athens Clarke County Detention Center. On the ride, the cop proceeds to ask if I went to Auburn (“Yes sir”), and then to tell me all about his wild days when he was at Georgia, and how he probably should’ve been in the back of a cop car multiple times.

We arrive at the jail. Washed out floodlights fill the parking lot behind a tall chain link fence. It’s a desolate place. Doors open with a loud clank and a buzzer. The fluorescent lighting reveals bags under every eye inside. A bunch of portly cops shuffle around moving as slowly as possible to start the processing. Fingerprints. Mugshot (it’s probably available somewhere online).

My one phone call. Here’s the secret — you actually get as many phone calls as it takes to get the wheels turning to get you out of jail. They just want your money, they don’t want you there any longer than you have to be there. Not really knowing what to do, I called my parents, at 3 AM CST in Montgomery, Alabama. Surprisingly, the phone only rang a couple times before my dad picked up with a surly “What’d you do?”

After that, I happened to call the first bail bondsmen listed in the directory.

That gave me a chuckle. After confirmation that they were processing me, I got to go sit in the drunk tank and wait.

Concrete walls, concrete toilet, concrete water fountain, and metal benches. They took my boots and jacket, and tossed me in with five other college kids. One guy immediately started crying. Another kept talking about how his dad was going to come beat up the cops. One was passed out drunk and never woke up the entire time. I sat there about two hours before my buddy arrived with the bail bondsmen. After seeing who else had been in jail, I started to believe that I was the toughest inmate in the entire place that night. That was before I walked past the other holding cell, where two 6’6, 250-pound men were pushing each other back and forth in the middle of the cell with several other giant guys egging them on. Reality check.

At this point, the sun’s thinking about coming up. We pay the guy $300, and I’m free. A couple hours later, I’ve showered, washed the jail smell off me, and have my marching orders to return in a couple months to appear before the judge. Fun.

Now, the same night that I had would’ve won me a simple ticket in Auburn, and certainly nothing aside from a small fine. In the end, I paid what amounted to a couple months’ rent in fines to the state of Georgia, had to perform community service, and check in with a probation officer for six months.

That Sunday night when I got back to my apartment in Auburn, someone showed me a news article that said something like 50 college kids had been arrested overall that weekend in Athens. I paid my fine and served my nickel at the humane society feeding puppies and hosing out kennels.

I guess the moral of the story is, go to Athens, and you’ll end up cleaning dog shit.

from College and Magnolia - All Posts https://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/2020/3/29/21189219/twelve-hours-in-athens

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What is the best place to get cheap insurance on a large van?

Any 17 year olds just got car insurance? (UK)?

Hi, I was wondering if anybody aged 17 has got car insurance recently and would be able to tell me how much they paid. I've been told 3k-4k but when I look on the internet most people are saying 800-2k even if you haven't just got insurance which of the two price ranges is more likely for me? I live in an area where car theft is low and I can keep the car in a garage. I'm a 17 year old male.""

Why is michigan car insurance so high?

I am a 21 year old female with no little credit but I have no bad credit. I rent an apartment and pay all my bills on time. I have a 2004 monte carlo ss that I paid 3500 for. This is my first car. The cheapest quote I got was 350 a month and that's only for the state minimum. I already have health insurance. They want me to pay more for car insurance than my car is worth and if I get in an accident they wont even cover it.

How much does it cost the average person to keep and maintain a CAR in a day?

including petrol, MOT, buying the car, insurance, washing, oil, air, tyres, extras eg booster, radio, or say how much money it would altogether cost a year then i can divide it :) THANK YOU xx by the way if you are wondering which car make well one that costs average""

What best health insurance?

What best health insurance?

HELP! Do I need car insurance if I don't own a car and don't drive much in the state of Florida?

I am 16 years old and State Farm is calling me and it is getting annoying. I don't own a car and I don't drive much. When I do drive I borrow the car that is under my sister's name. My parent's don't drive. My dad's license is expired and he doesn't drive anymore, and my mom doesn't know how to drive at all. I keep hearing conflicting things, some say that it is a law in the state of Florida (where I live) that anyone with a license needs to have insurance, while others say that it is not necessary to have insurance if you don't own a vehicle and don't drive much. My question is: Do I need car insurance in the state of Florida if I do not own a car and don't drive much? Thanks!""

Whats the difference between insurance and bonded insurance on roofs?

i started my construction business and im looking for some good insurance, and im not too sure whats the difference between a regular construction business insurance and bonded insurance? any suggestions?""

""My husband and I want to get Life Insurance, help!?""

We have NO idea how this works. We have NO kids, we are in our mid 30's and relatively healthy. We prefer the NON hassle of no medical exam, etc. Can someone give us a hassle free/low cost, name of a company to use and explain how Life Insurance works? (I know the basics, that if one of us dies, we get benefits yada yada)""

Can anyone tell me what finding a cheap car insurance company?

I am a 60 year old female. I live in the rural part of Mississippi (little traffic and no heavy traffic, if it matters) I have two cars that are insured with Geico Insurance company. I am paying $93 dollars per month. One car is a 95 and the others one is (new) a Hyundai 2012. I never drive the 95 Buick. I will be driving the new Hyundai to and from work around 7 miles round trip, each day. My driving record is clean with everything intact and I am the only driver. I was informed by Geico that the 94 dollars is cheaper than other insurance companies. Are there any cheaper insurance out there.""

""Classic mini, lessons and insurance for 2.5k?

Classic 998cc mini insurance driving lessons and test all for 2.5k - possible?

Average motorcycle insurance cost for 18 yr old with 2007 yamaha yzf-r1?

Average motorcycle insurance cost for 18 yr old with 2007 yamaha yzf-r1?

Medical insurance question?

Okay do you need to be a legal guardian to put a kid in your medical insurance plan? Please don't ask why(: oh and a kid that is not on a plan already.

Do i need auto insurance to rent car through Hertz?

I don't have a car now, and so, no auto insurance. I want to rent a car to Philadelphia airport this Saturday. When reserved through Hertz, does the rate includes the insurance too. If not, what kind of insurance do i need to take.""

How can I get cheap insurance for my 18 y.o. son? I got him a 2004 Accord and now we have 2 cars and 2 drivers?

He doesn't live with me - he lives at his moms' who has her own car. How can I make it so he is occasional so I don't have to pay $4000 a year in insurance? Can I just insure the cars and keep them under my name while letting him drive it while he lives at his moms? Will they accept that he doesn't live with me so should be occasional if both cars are in my name? Any ideas how I can do this?

How to get my car insurance in my name?

i am going to break up with my boyfriend, but my car insurance is in his name.i want to be independent , so how to get it over in my name. he refuse to help me out. did i mention how much i dislike him.""

Would a speeding ticket go to the lead insured or the owner of car?

my dad is the lead insured, my mum and i are named drivers, but my mum owns the car. Who would the speeding ticket be addressed to?""

How much does insurance cost for your first car?

How much does insurance cost for your first car?

house rental insurance quotes

house rental insurance quotes

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/geico-auto-insurance-phone-number-quote-nancy-mueller/"

[westtexasmomma]

I am far from interesting, but. . .

I am far from interesting, but I didn’t live a dull life either. My life was hectic, sad and slightly pathetic. I didn’t grow up easy, I had to mature faster than everyone else around me. Live in the shadows, try to keep myself together which was very difficult. I wanted to be loved, to feel loved. I wanted to be someone else besides who I was, actually there are times I still wish I was someone else. I often slip into a great depression because of my upbringing and wonder if I should’ve made different choices than I did when I ran away after I graduated high school.

Where would I be today if ____? But then again I am sure we all feel like this at some point or another. There are times where I wonder “why do I even try anymore?”, “why do I even keep a blog? I’m no one special!” Hell, my birth mother was manipulated in giving me up when I was around 5 years old but I grew up believing she freely and willingly gave me up, my birth father is still a mystery, my adoptive family didn’t even want me anymore which was very clear during my upbringing. Most of my relationships cheated on me, most of my ‘friends’ stabbed me in the back constantly. Who am I to keep a blog? I have no followers, I pretty much use it to empty my burdens since I have no one I can call and talk to. My husband is always else where, even when he’s home he’s not mentally here. I try talking to him about it but he never understands. He’s so closed off emotionally that it’s extremely difficult. I have moved around so much over the last 7 years to where it’s hard to make friends, the friends I have made quickly forgets about me shortly after I move away. I don’t even have that one ‘childhood friend’, I feel empty. I have two beautiful babies but they’re still so young that you can’t have a conversation with them and I will never have a pour out with them, I would never want to burden them with the burdens I carry everyday. It’s not their fault so why bring them down.

I often wonder if I have been cursed. Was I cursed at birth for something that I haven’t done, for something I didn’t have control over? What did I do to deserve this emptiness? I’m sorry if this post reads like a “self-pity party” but I have to get it all off my chest. As I don’t have anyone to take the time and listen to me I !figured what’s the harm to post it in my blog.

My childhood wasn’t a happy one. I didn’t have loving and understanding parents. My “parents” took me away from a loving mother and manipulated the system so they could do it “legally” but they never really actually cared about my well-being. They just took me to torture my mother and then tortured me. As a parent you are suppose to be there for your child, to encourage them, boost their confidence. Instead, I got constantly torn down, making straight A’s wasn’t enough for them, working full-time and going to high school wasn’t enough for them (I NEVER saw my paychecks), being involved in several clubs at school wasn’t enough, being the perfect teenager wasn’t good enough, nothing I ever did was enough. I had one teacher I met freshman year that saw me, saw my pain, saw my potential, she became like a grandmother to me which was awesome as I never had one. She became my mentor, the person I could go to during lunch to talk to, to cry to. She introduced me to theater and FCCLA. I thrived in those fields so much to where every year I went to state finals in competitions, won honorable-mentioned actress at UILs, even received a scholarship to one of the BEST acting academies in the states.

After graduation I moved to Los Angeles, that’s the only place I ever felt at home. The only mistake I made was coming home for Christmas. I thrived in Los Angeles, I was making a 4.0 GPA in my courses, I landed roles with Modern Family and when I was to come back in January I was going to be signed into a contract with them for a permanent role. But I went home for Christmas. When I got off the plain I was GLOWING, I was CONFIDENT, I was so happy with myself, I LOVED the fact that my dreams were coming true. I had friends that cared for me, they became family to me (I miss them so much). I was to be home for two weeks, TWO WEEKS! It took only two weeks for my “family”  to CRUSH ME DOWN, to take what took eight months for me to build. They MANIPULATED ME to stay home. AND I FELL FOR IT!!! I stupidly fell for their tricks! It only took me a month to catch on to what they did. I immediately started working two full-time jobs, one night and one day! I was to be home at a certain time, pay for the groceries, drive my siblings around, and again I never saw my paychecks. I couldn’t even hangout with friends. So I arranged to start school again in August except only I didn’t get to go back to Los Angeles, they weren’t going to help me get back there and drained my checks to where I couldn’t save to go. So I went to a college only 2 hours away.

I went to college and finally could breathe again. Finally started to be happy again. That November I told them I wasn’t moving back for winter breaks or summer breaks. I was going to get an apartment close to campus. They HATED that, they started taking money out of my savings account. The money I had for my deposit and a few months of bills. I never thought they would do that to me. How foolish I was. I was sick, like really sick. I had a brain infection of the equilibrium. They took me off their insurance as soon as they found out, leaving me without the way of getting proper care. I was in college, my jobs didn’t have to offer me insurance because I didn’t work a certain amount of hours. So the illness got worse and I was on my own. My husband and I were only seeing each other for a few months when it got to the point to where the doctor said I wasn’t safe to live on my own. Me not having anyone, my husband immediately offered to move in with me. He has literally saved my life so many times. If it wasn’t for him I would not be alive today.

My illness kept getting worse. His grandparents invited us to move into their guest house in Houston so he could get a good job and I could see good doctors. It took eight months to get better.  

Since I have been with him, more and more secrets of my “family” started to come out to where they lost custody of my little sister who is now living happily with our birth mother. That “family” blocked all communication with me a year ago now, they try to contact me when it best suits them and it’s never to ask me how I’m doing, how my kids are. No, It’s ALWAYS to start quarrels. To talk crap about my siblings, to talk crap about my husband, to talk crap about my birth mother! TO PUT ME DOWN!!! I know my siblings aren’t perfect, I know my husband isn’t perfect, I know my birth mom isn’t perfect, I know I’m not perfect but the stuff they bring up are always twisted. It’s constantly thrown in my face how I hid things from them, how I ran away but when you try to tell them why I hid things, why I ran away they don’t want to hear it! IT’S ALWAYS MY FAULT! I was abused mentally, emotionally and physically, but it was my fault. If I sat down and wrote down the stuff I was punished for you would laugh, you would be confused as hell for how what I did was wrong! I was not a bad kid! Actually, I was far from it! I left relationships because they were ready to go “all the way”, I hid in the corners of the hallways, I made straight A’s and worked full-time, I was extremely involved in church. I was ALWAYS BUSY, never had time for friends. Hardly ever went on dates. Hell, I went to college on the weekend while I was in school, working full-time, involved in clubs, involved in church. I graduated high school with a 3.75 GPA with 30 credits in college! I was the perfect teenage girl but that wasn’t enough!

So here I am, turning 25 years old in a few months. Feeling like whatever I do isn’t enough, feeling empty, unaccomplished, scared to death of what the future holds.

I was told last week by someone that I need to work on myself, work on making myself happy. Which leaves me with the question of, “What can I do to make myself happy?” It’s been a week now and I can’t answer this question and it scares the hell out of me but I have no one to talk to about it! I feel lost! I feel empty! I feel lost! I DON’T KNOW WHO I AM ANYMORE!

[auburnfamilynews]

Auburn broke a 2 month dry spell with Shedrick Jackson’s commitment and are hoping to land a few more studs over the next 2 months

Fanbases tend to get a bit antsy after a month of no commitments. That concern only doubles in intensity when it goes to two. Thankfully, we didn’t reach three months when people start questioning their existence and whether or not Auburn will ever field a football team again. That could just be me... Either way, 3* WR Shedrick Jackson’s commitment Monday was a welcomed boost to Auburn’s 2018 recruiting class.

Who is next? That’s usually the very next question after a commitment. Well, there are plenty of names to choose from especially with so many targets planning to announce in July and especially in August. Many of these recruits are hoping to have their decision made before their senior year so they can just focus on their final season of high school football. Add in the new early signing period and it makes sense for August to be a busy commit time.

Some of these expected announcements should go Auburn’s way while others not so much. Here’s a break down of whom Auburn has a good chance, 50/50 and not good chance of landing in the next 2 months.

Good

As of today, it’s hard to see 4* WR Matthew Hill, 4* Buck/LB Richard Jibunor and 3* CB Juanyeh Thomas not landing at Auburn. Hill is an admitted Auburn fan who has said the Tigers lead, a big reason being his childhood fandom along with his relationship with Kodi Burns. Justyn Ross tends to get most of the attention from Auburn fans and understandably so as a top 25 player. However, do not sleep on Hill. This kid is an elite WR in his own right who can do a lot of different things from the WR position. He has big time speed on a long frame with great hands and elite playmaking ability. There’s no question he would be Burns’s biggest commit to date.

I have talked a bunch about Jibunor before and like I keep saying this kid has a chance to be special. It’s not easy to win MVP awards at these camps with big time talent on hand. Jibunor has done it twice at two different positions. I honestly can’t remember another player doing that. He’s a guy that like his good friend Prince Tega Wanogho is probably going to need some time to develop but there aren’t many players in this class with higher upsides.

Finally, there’s Juanyeh Thomas who at this point just might be a must sign for Greg Brown. My opinion is Auburn had a top 3 at the CB spot of Jalyn Armour-Davis, Kyler McMichael and Juanyeh Thomas. With the first two off the board, Brown REALLY needs to get his guy in Thomas. And Thomas is definitely his guy. He sports a much lower rating than those other two but was one of, if not the first offer Greg Brown sent out upon arriving at Auburn. Since then, he’s become a top priority and a frequent visitor to the Plains. He’s even mentioned that committing has crossed his mind but has held off. There’s a very good chance that changes in July though his recruitment could last until August. Either way, the Tigers need to reel in Thomas otherwise they risk going 0 for 3 on their top CB targets.

50/50

This group right here is what will make or break this class. If Auburn wins more of these battles than they lose then Auburn fans will be feeling really good about this class as we enter the season. Strikeout and there might be panic. There’re a ton of guys who want to commit in August that I am just not sure where they end up, starting with the biggest fish of all in 5* QB Justin Fields. There’s a chance his recruitment could get pushed into the season which would probably be beneficial to Auburn as it would hopefully give them a chance to demonstrate a resurgent passing offense. As of right now, I honestly do not know where Fields goes as all four sides (Auburn, Georgia, Florida and Florida State) seem to think they are in great position. If I had to make a pick, my guess is he ends up a Tiger due to the fact that Auburn is both close to home and he has really good relationships with the staff and some players. But I don’t have a ton of confidence in that pick.

After Fields, there are two big instate dominoes that are expected to fall in 4* RB Asa Martin and 4* DT Coynis Miller. A month or so ago my prediction would probably be Martin to AU and Miller to Bama. I think I would flip those now. With Zamir White’s commitment to Georgia earlier this week, Alabama has made it clear that Martin is their one and only guy this class at RB. It’s just darn hard to beat Bama out for instate guys when that happens.

On the other hand, there’s a strange sort of confidence coming out of the Auburn camp when it comes to Miller. I am a bit skeptical of it as the Tigers have never signed an instate 4* DT since Nick Saban arrived but the thought of early playing time and Miller’s close relationships with the staff and players, most notably Tadarian Moultry, seems to have Auburn feeling good. So as of this exact moment, my picks would be Alabama gets Martin and Auburn gets Miller but it’s not out of the question either team could get both or they flip the other way.

Auburn’s top two DE targets should also have decisions in the near future. First there’s 3* DE Andres Fox. Auburn was the first “big school” offer Fox landed after a dominating state title performance in Jordan Hare last fall. Since then, Auburn has made Fox a #1 priority and he’s even said the thought of committing has crossed his mind. But this is a battle for sure right now. Ed Orgeron has stepped in and taken the lead in Fox’s recruitment which has lead to Fox saying LSU is recruiting him the hardest. There seems to be some renewal of effort on the Alabama side as well to land the stud DE. I personally think the orange & blue Tigers end up snagging Fox but again it’s just really hard to say. Whomever gets him will be landing one of the highest upside athletes in this state.

The other DE is 4* Caleb Tannor. Tannor’s recruitment exploded this past March when he landed offers from seemingly everyone over a month’s time. This race appears to have turned into an Auburn, Georgia and Tennessee battle with the Dawgs and Tigers probably the top 2. UGA probably has the edge being the instate school and Tannor’s most traveled too destination but Auburn did receive 3 straight visits this spring and Tannor was back on campus recently. Auburn really needs one of Fox and Tannor but I would not be shocked if they pushed for and landed both. As of right now, I am sticking with Fox to Auburn and Tannor to UGA.

The final 50/50 is a different type of battle. There’s no confusion about where 4* LB Michael Harris would like to sign. It’s Ohio State and it’s always been Ohio State. The big question though is whether or not they will take him. Chances are very good that Ohio State knocks Alabama off the recruiting throne this year and it seems like if they want a kid they get him right now. They have a few other big fish they might be waiting on before taking Harris. If he decides to pull the trigger this summer and the Buckeyes won’t take him, he more than likely picks Auburn. It will really come down to what Urban Meyer decides to do more than anything Auburn tries.

Not Good

Now we get to the depressing section. It wasn’t all that long ago that 4* S Quindarious Monday would have been part of the “Good” section but those days are long gone. Now that Clemson has thrown their hat in the ring it’s not looking good for Auburn. Monday has always said that the wrong shade of orange Tigers have been his “dream school” but many thought with their smaller class they wouldn’t have room. Well, Clemson has apparently decided that it would not be wise to pass on a player of Monday’s calibre and offered a few weekends ago. Unless something radically changes, Monday probably lands at Clemson in the near future.

4* CB Jordan Miner was a name mentioned a bunch early in this cycle as a guy the Tigers might make a major push for this summer. That never seemed to materialize and now the talented DB out of Florida is expected to pick the Nittany Lions on July 6th.

The last two names to watch are 4* WR Kearis Jackson and 4* ATH Harold Joiner. Jackson just last night dropped the news he plans on committing in August. Auburn is probably a solid #2 but it’s a distance #2 to Georgia. The Dawgs have been all over Jackson and it would be a shocker if he didn’t pick them this August. The wildcard to watch though is Justin Fields. The consensus among not only insiders but recruits seems to be that where Fields goes, Jackson is likely to follow. So even if Jackson picks UGA in August, don’t be shocked if he becomes a flip candidate if the Tigers can land Fields.

As for Joiner, his recruitment has just been weird all around. It appears he has decided that he not only wants to only play running back but that he wants to be “the guy” for that recruiting class. In other words, if he isn’t your #1 RB prospect you are probably not getting him. Well it looked like LSU was that school. They were telling him all the things he wanted to hear and he reiterated over and over again they were his #1 school. Then this past weekend they took 3 running backs (including 3* Tae Provens) in 3 days. His #2 school in Georgia landed the #1 RB prospect in the country on Tuesday. All of a sudden things were different. Joiner now claims that he’s dropped those two schools and even though that might give Auburn a window of opportunity the Tigers are still recruiting him as an athlete. Meaning they would let him play some RB but want him also to flex out at WR and possibly work some at the H-back. Now it appears that Michigan State is the frontrunner. I am starting to doubt he will commit in August but if he does I just don’t see Auburn being the pick.

That was probably information overload but the next two months are going to get busy. August especially should be a wild month. When September rolls around, chances are really good we will have a much better picture of just how good or bad things are looking for the Tigers on the trail. A strong fall is a necessity for Auburn to close big but it would sure help if a few of these top guys were already on board before the first kickoff.

War Eagle!

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