#and i noticed you blogged about a book called red white and royal blue

[ma-lark-ey]

✪ malarkey's intro post 2.0 ✪

░!! have you done your daily click? !!░

░ greetings & salutations. since my original intro post is kind of messy, I'm making a new one!

ー name lark / magnus

ー age / birthday nineteen / may 5th

ー pronouns he/him/they/them

―●○◎ other socials/blogs ◎○●―

― archive of our own: ma_lark_ey

― spotify: malarkey

― discord: ma_lark_ey

―●○◎ fandoms i'll tag/post:

all for the game (the foxhole court) / harry potter / the marauders era / red, white, & royal blue / percy jackson / magnus chase / check, please! / the extraordinaries / simon snow (carry on) / the mortal instruments / taylor swift / hermitcraft / the adventure zone / dimension 20

―●○◎ also, here are my fics that I still think are readable. ◎○●―

(otherwise known as, the collection of fanfictions I actually think are well written and not the ramblings of a lunatic (re: not written in a cripplingly intense hyperfocus.))

Separated by fandom

Carry On ―

― Winter Gardens [NR/6k]

"Simon Snow was (almost literally) scooped out of the trash by Davy Cadwallader when he signed his contract to become 'the next big thing' at just thirteen years old. Now, at eighteen, the years of sidelining his health in the name of his producer's standards are catching up to him, and the public's beginning to notice. It probably doesn't help that his boyfriend's vague-posting insults to his producer, either... Or that people are onto the fact he even has a boyfriend."

― are not created equal [NR/4k]

"Carry On where Everything Is the Same(tm) except Simon Snow is Deaf. And also autistic. Baz has like an ounce of emotional literacy but that's less important."

Dungeons & Daddies ―

― is that my face!? [G/36k]

Nick decides to go to church camp with Grant just so he doesn't have to be alone. He wasn't ready for... Whatever the fuck he's got himself into. This kid has his face, and for what? Nick's heard of dopplegangers, but this is just absurd. Much more absurd that they have the same fucking name.

― day:/time: [G/3k]

In which Grant Wilson haphazardly keeps a diary of his first few days in Faerun and the set of twins weirder than the Oak's that have taken him under their wing.

― apples never fall far [G/3k]

Henry always saw his transness as an afterthought, a part of himself that burdened others to hide away and talk about as little as possible. Lark always saw his transness as something that permeates his identity, affects each and every way society treats him. Something as innately a part of him as autism. Both have always seen their transness as a piece of them they cannot change, even if they tried.

― Stampler: A Documentary by Paeden Bennetts [G/10k]

what if the boys never went to Faerun? What if faerun didn't exist and they were simply kidnapped by their grandparents? what if, over a decade after the fact, young film major Paeden Bennetts, the youngest kidnapping victim, gathered the doodlers to film a documentary with a true to story recount of the events?

― laundry basketball [G/3k]

Grant is struggling with cleaning his room due to a hard hit of Depression, so, he calls Terry to come help him. And who's to say if they kiss once or twice? It's not gay to kiss the homies.

The Extraordinaries ―

― you're alive in my head. [NR/3k]

"should've kept every grocery store receipt / 'cause every scrap of you would be taken from me. / Watched as you signed your name... / ...All your closets of backlogged dreams / and how you've left them all to me. / What died didn't stay dead." OR: Five times Nicholas Bell missed his mom and the one time he didn't

Harry Potter ―

― this was a therapeutic chain of events [M/71k] [ongoing]

"Sirius Black was not looking for a relationship. He had a book to finish, deadlines to meet, and too many issues to drag another man into his life. He's already got two roommates and a toddler to worry about. Remus Lupin was not intending to look for a relationship. Between the service dog, the chronic illness, and the special interest in the Marauders book series, he doesn't have much game, either. James Potter did not even have the time for a relationship if he wanted one. He had a toddler, surgical residency hours, and Sirius to keep an eye on. His hands were full. Regulus Black had never even considered finding a partner. His brother gave him too many abandonment issues for that shit. He could never stoop that low. And then they all wound up in the same bar one night."

― never learned to read your mind [series] [T/132k] [ongoing]

“I’m trying to raise you to be a functioning adult, Albus. Do you want me to just stop being your father? Would that make life so much easier for you?” Albus knew that sometimes the things he said were needlessly cruel, and he didn't care. This was one of those times. “God, sometimes, I wish you weren’t my dad.” His father tensed, and what he said was so much crueller than anything Albus could ever come up with. “Well, sometimes, I wish you weren’t my son.” Or: Five times Albus ran away and the one time Harry followed him

― these hands of mine were clumsy, not clever. [G/43k]

OR: I toyed with the idea of Harry and Ginny having a kid by accident soon after the war, and Harry entering such a deep state of depression afterward he decided it be better he walk out on them than the stay and let his son watch him suffer and now we're reaping the consequences with an eleven year old Potter with daddy issues

Percy Jackson & the Olympians ―

― The Side-Effects of Being the Hero [T/2k]

Percy had always known he was neurodivergent, but since his adventures in saving the world from evil beasts and immortal beings, his mental health has only declined. He's been doing well since the fall of Gaea, but the weight of even causing that much damage weighs on his shoulders, leaving him in harsh nights. Nights like this one.

― home sweet home [NR/4k]

In which; Annabeth never goes home during the Olympian's series. Instead, it's not until after the war with Gaea she makes the ultimate decision to try to reconnect with her family

― wisegirl is live! [T/11k]

Fans piece together that popular streamer B4ckb1t3r's companion, Wisegirl, bears a striking resemblance to kidnapped seven-year-old, Annabeth Chase. Even down to the same name. Isn't that just crazy?

― i wanna know, do you play DnD? [G/3k]

In which: Heroes of Olympus (highly abridged) is actually just a high fantasy DnD campaign of a bunch of kids in their late teens trying to have a good time. That's it.

Magnus Chase & The Gods of Asgard ―

― it's just our bringing that gets us out of hand [M/146k]

After two years, Magnus had grown rather content with his life. He had friends, he had a girlfriend, and he had figured shit out. And then his Uncle Frederick rolled in and said, "I'm claiming legal guardianship of you. Let's move you to New York!" And now he's enrolled in therapy. Lucky Magnus. Or: A No Gods AU where Magnus DID go with Annabeth and Frederick when they came to Boston. Also canon is optional, fun fact.

Red, White, & Royal Blue ―

― CHECK(MATE) [T/14k]

"It's such an unexpected pairing, a hockey player and a punk star. How'd you too meet?" "Oh, well, it's really silly. It actually started when Alex's fans started..." "I met Henry because my Tumblr followers started this elaborate hoax about us being best friends." "And, let me guess, you ran with it?" "Oh, June, you know I commit to a good bit."

― Shouting Into Nothing (AGAIN?) [T/19k]

"How about this," Alex offered, "If I win AOTY, I announce Henry and I in my acceptance speech. If I don't, we do it your way." OR: Alex is a world famous pop punk star, Henry is still the Prince of England, and the public is onto them. (formerly: my songs know secrets you're sick of keeping)

― it's nice to meet you, prince perfect [M/5k] [ongoing]

Two years ago, Mary Windsor passed away at the age of 86. Two years ago, her youngest grandchild, a talented young female singer/songwriter who performed under the stage name 'Prince Perfect,' disappeared within the month. Now Prince Perfect is back from the dead. With an endless amount of cryptic messaging leading to a hidden away album for fans to discovery. An album named 'henry.'

Unprepared Casters ―

― you're on your own kid, you always have been [G/1k]

In which a nameless citizen of the Fey wild contemplates the recent happenings with the Sun (or, Suns) and Moon.

― find a penny, pick it up! [G/2k]

A brief summary of the early life of the eldest Lovejoy.

┌ below are my personal tags & what they mean !

[ssecretssanta]

@h-isforhome​​ Hi, Lovely !! This is your secret santa and I’m trying something out so bear with me lmao. I’m pretty sure Tumblr keeps eating parts of my asks so I’m gonna try to start replying to stuff using this blog instead of asks so things don’t get all split up (I’m still going to send asks don’t worry, just not obscenely long ones that get munched on by Tumblr, lol). So I’ll just put the message below the cut and we can hopefully communicate more coherently without Tumblr hating us. Feel free to either reblog and continue the conversation that way (you can add your own cut so they don’t get too annoyingly long for everyone, lmao) or make your own posts and @ me, whatever works best ! (or if it doesn’t work at all I’ll just keep sending anon asks instead, lol)

heya !! I’m really hoping this will work, lol (and if not we’ll just pretend like it didn’t happen). sorry for taking so long to sort my shit out and respond !! it’s been a hectic week for me and i’ve been trying to balance work and school because they keep overscheduling me so i’ve been neglecting my homework which is stressing me out more (rip to my grades rn lol).

anyways, time to respond to everything let’s go:

my favorite from fine line is probably falling because it makes me Feel Things but also golden and canyon moon and sunflower and wow this entire album is just so good holy shit.

houses 100% should not be decorated before thanksgiving. I can get behind some christmas lights because I strongly believe those should be a year-round decoration but other than that, No. I should not have to stare at a bunch of creepy santa decorations or have that whole red and green color scheme anywhere near me while I’m trying to devour some turkey and mashed potatoes. now you’re really making me think of how much potential thanksgiving music could have and i’m kinda Upset that it’s not already a thing. petition to start a pop punk thanksgiving band to take the Boomers down?

alksdjlfaj minutt for minutt I’m EMO. and yeah, the stress is already back full force but also less so towards work now so that’s nice?? like at least I know that people there won’t really care what I do and I’m figuring out where I stand with everyone so that’s nice (also my favorite manager told me that I’ll definitely get hired on after seasonal if I want so that’s nice !!) I’m putting “life is just a bunch of mistakes in a trenchcoat pretending to be perfect” on my wall bc I need the reminder every day lmao. my constant state of mind rn is just:

i would like to criticize you on using those contacts but honestly it would be hypocritical because I too cannot be assed to pay more for things and use things way past the time they should be used lmao

sasha sloan does have a lot of slower songs but sometimes that’s my Brand and i’m so glad you like her music !! oh boy i’m the EXACT same way with playlists lmao my friends have learned not to give me the aux cord bc my music taste varies so much from day to day and no one else seems to vibe with it lol (I’m always fine with listening to whatever they put on but when I’m alone it’s a shitstorm).

seasonal work is so Exhausting. like, I knew retail would be bad, but it’s Bad. at least the people I work with are super chill and nice bc if they weren’t I would have already quit lmao. tutoring honestly sounds pretty fun !! I’m sure there are lots of challenges that come along with it though so kudos to you for helping the youth, I’m sure you’re amazing at it !!

aksdj The Couple is the same reason I started watching Schitt’s Creek and it’s seriously just So Good. I didn’t know how I felt about the Good Place at first but I was bored enough to get through the first few episodes and then it just kind of picked up from there and now it’s one of my favorites, so I’d definitely recommend giving it another go !!

high school just sucks ass overall lmao, the breaks are always awful and most people spend them catching up on homework anyways so like??? there’s almost no point?? oh well. I’m just glad I’m almost done and then I can Move On. I’m always happy to send you asks that let you talk about yourself bc I love hearing about you so it’s a win-win !

I love your tags so much here we go:

I have two siblings that are both 4 years apart from me, an older sister and a younger brother. I’m literally right in the middle, lol. It’s a blessing and a curse.

I would love to visit New York for the first time or D.C. again (I went there over the summer for a school trip and it was so pretty and I would love to go again and actually take time to see every museum). I’m going to Nashville for another school trip this summer and like I’m always excited to see new things but like?? Tennesee is not really in my To Visit places so we’ll see how it is. you’re absolutely right about the South and you should say it. way too hot.

too sad to cry and smiling when I die were literally my repeat songs for like a week when I just needed some Emotions lmao !! sad bby hours for days

oof I think i’m more of a tv person but I also have really bad commitment issues so I tend to leave things unfinished oops. but I’ll honestly watch any movie and most likely will enjoy it which is why it’s hard for me to pick a favorite movie bc like?? all of them?? so idk really, haha. rom coms are the superior movie genre but I also enjoy some action and horror as well. (why would you bring that moment up oof).

okay I think that’s all for now. hopefully this was easier to deal with than having 20 asks but if not just let me know and I’ll go back to that, lol.

wishing you the best as always,

- s.s.  🎅

(i love your new sign-off. it’s perfect for you and makes my heart do Things)

[96percentdone]

The Moonlit Prince and the Lying Thief (Part 3)

Voila! Here it is! The third part of the ongoing tangled AU I’m writing for @oumasaiweek. If you’re interested in this au, and are behind or never read it, on my blog they’re all tagged v3 tangled au. This, like the header says, is part 3.

There is an unconscious man on stone floor by tower entrance, and Shuuichi has absolutely no idea what to do with him. At no point in his eighteen years of life was he ever prepared for a moment like this. Who is he? How did he find him? Does he know who Shuuichi is? Kneeling on the floor, Shuuichi brushes aside strands of plum colored hair, but gets no answers. Just a pale, gentle face, and a red and black mask. He could take off the mask, but he gets the feeling it won’t give him any more answers.

When Doukeshi’s eyes open again, he barely gets a glimpse of silver before he’s knocked right back into unconsciousness.

“Okay. There is an unconscious man in my home,” Shuuichi says, pacing barefoot against the cool stone floor. What does he do with him? Obviously Tsumugi can’t ever find out about him. Can she? Maybe he could use the man as a bargaining chip? He could use it as proof that he’s not quite so fragile, and can take care of himself, right? Except she would definitely call it a fluke, and take it as a sign that they absolutely need to leave right now. Maybe when they leave he can convince her to let him see the lights before they go? No way. She’ll be even more adamant about not seeing them.

Maybe it’s for those reasons she should know about him. After all their home is currently compromised; it’s definitely risky to keep living here knowingly but…Shuuichi bites the inside of his lip. Hard, but he doesn’t so much as wince. Maybe he should tell her after his birthday. There’s just someone he wants to do before he’s made to move far away.

A glance outside shows its now late morning. Shuuichi thinks Tsumugi is likely to be home soon, meaning he needs to do something with this body, and fast. But where to hide him? Under the bed? No, if he wakes up at the wrong moment, it’ll cause trouble. Shuuichi scans the main room—a wooden chair, bookshelves, more bookshelves, cooking supplies, a wardrobe—yes that sounds perfect. Given the weight of an unconscious person, he’ll probably have to block off the closet door so nothing falls out, but he’ll use the chair for that.

Shuuichi tentatively approaches him, with footsteps so quiet you could hear a feather fall over them. “A satchel?” He didn’t notice that before, too distracted by panic attacks and pretty faces. He thinks he’ll keep that hidden somewhere else. If he gets the chance, he wants to go through it, and see if he can learn anything from it. Careful as to not disturb, Shuuichi removes the satchel and places it on the chair.

Now for the hard work. Heaving the body. Thankfully, the man is short, and Shuuichi has plenty of experience carrying adults via his hair, but he was more concerned about accidentally waking him. Hence why he picked him up and carried him in his arms. Doing so made it easier to put him in the closet. “Okay, so if we just move you like you’re huddling away in here hiding from someone…and fold your arms like that…” Yeah that should work. Shuuichi slams the closet door, leaning against it to hold it shut with his weight. The chair is just in reach, if he stretches just a little more—got it. He wedges the chair underneath the doorhandles, and slowly steps away. Nothing moves. “Okay good.”

So, what’s in the bag? Shuuichi picks up the satchel, and rifles through the belongings, with a mild dose of guilt for snooping. But there’s not much in there. Just stakes, presumably used for climbing, and…jewelry? It’s metal, silver and circular, but decorated with colorful blue and purple gems. A crown? To test that theory, he gently plops it on the top of his head, and gazes at himself in the mirror. It’s odd. Despite how awkward he feels wearing it, there’s an inexplicable feeling tugging at the back of his mind. “Why does this feel…?”

Never mind that. Better question. Why is there a stranger in his home with a crown. Is he royalty? Did he run away from the throne? No, that doesn’t work. If royalty was running away, why take the crown with him? So it’s an outside party. Likely someone not supposed to have it if it’s hiding away in such a normal looking satchel, and doubly so since he said something about being ‘safe’ while looking at it before Shuuichi knocked him out. A thief. “Great, a thief broke into my house.”

But maybe that’s a bit of a relief. After all, if he’s a thief on the run, he probably doesn’t know who Shuuichi is.

“Shuuichi? Could you let down your hair for me?” Tsumugi is home.

Hastily, Shuuichi shoves the crown back into the bag and tosses it into a nearby pot. “Ah! Coming!”

It doesn’t take long for Tsumugi to be brought back into the tower. As soon as she’s through the entrance, she puts the basket containing all her groceries on the nearby table, and opens her arms for a hug, which Shuuichi takes. Of course, he did. After all this time, he still doesn’t like being alone. “I’m home.”

“Welcome back.”

“Now,” Tsumugi says, releasing herself from Shuuichi’s grip and holding his shoulders, “I didn’t get you anything special, just food, but I said I would get you something. Within reason.” It’s fine if she changes up her promise a little, right? It’s not like he’ll notice. “So did you think about what you want?”

“I, yeah. I think—One minute.” Shuuichi finishes tripping over his words by dashing up the stairs into his room. He has to find something. Which book was it…? Not this one, not this one—yes! He pulls out an old novel, with yellow pages, and the telltale crinkles in the spine that show how used it is, and rushes back into the main room. “This book is part of a series, I think, based on the confusing note it ends on. I was wondering if you could get the sequel?”

“This is the one I found when I had to make that trip to Kibougamine…” Tsumugi frowns, staring intently at the book. That trip takes a few days, and she didn’t see this author anywhere else, which is why she bought it. “I’ll be gone for around three days if I go. Are you sure you can handle that?”

“Yeah, I’ll manage.” He nods. “Besides…these books are the only way I’ll ever go anywhere.” That familiar forlorn gleam is back in Shuuichi’s eyes, and Tsumugi knows it won’t look good if she says no.

“Well, I guess I have to then.” Shuuichi’s eyes light up, and in instinct she smiles at him. This will be worth it. It’ll keep him from leaving the tower for a while longer.

After gathering her things, she kisses his hairline goodbye. “I’ll be back in three days time. Take care.” With a wave, Shuuichi sends her off.

Once she’s out of sight, a large sigh escapes Shuuichi’s lips. It was easier to negotiate than he thought, but that didn’t take away any of the stress of doing so. But his negotiating isn’t over. How do you negotiate with a thief? He taps his leg, staring at the pot on the floor when it hits him. He’ll strike a deal. The thief takes him to see whatever the floating lights are, and he’ll return the satchel when they’re through. There’s something morally dubious about using a thief for your own ends, but at this point, he’s desperate.

This won’t work if the thief finds it before he’s done. He dislodges the top of the first step up to his room, takes the satchel, and places it in the space between, then covers it up. Hopefully that does the trick.

Now to keep the thief from looking. He can’t have the thief up and leaving, or finding the crown, or worse if it turns out he knows who Shuuichi is. But Shuuichi has a chair, and several yards of hair, so he thinks that can easily be arranged. Tangle him in knots.

 There’s a few leaves and twigs tangled in Maki’s hair she’s still trying to get out, when Kaito finds her again. “Are you still searching for those thieves?”

“I almost had him,” She growls, tearing out a few strands of hair with the branch she was currently tugging on.

“It looks more like the forest had you,” Kaito says, taking off his silver helmet and running a hand through his spiky purple hair. “Listen, it’s okay that you’re overwhelmed. You’re still in training—”

“I’m not overwhelmed.”

“And someone like you really would work better as a lady in waiting for the queen, then a royal guard—”

“I don’t want to be a servant. I’m a royal guard.” Blood red eyes glare at him as she pulls out the last leaf.

“Yeah, but Harumaki—”

But Maki has already mounted her horse again. “I’m going to catch that shifty bastard, just you watch me,” and takes off for the depths of the woods.

 When depths of unconsciousness release Doukeshi for the second time, his first question is ‘what am I tied up in?’ It doesn’t feel like rope. Opening his eyes reveals long lines of silver…hair? Who has enough hair to do something like this? Didn’t he last enter a tower? You’d think someone would have a rope. “Unless they use hair for that too…” he murmurs to himself.

But if there’s hair it means there’s a person. So where are they? He searches the unfamiliar room, even trying to inch the chair around to get a better view. “Ah, I see you’re awake.” The voice is soft. In different circumstances, Doukeshi might find it pleasant.

Looking up he sees a silhouette of someone sitting on on a beam near the ceiling. He can’t make out their face, just their clothes: deep blue pants, and a white tunic with a soft blue pattern. Those and one more thing: long silver hair. “Y’know I’ve been in a loot of sticky situations, but this is new even for me!”

“That doesn’t surprise me, if you’re a thief.”

“Oooh, guess you’re a detective huh?” Doukeshi teases, plastering that familiar smirk on his face. If this is an elaborate trap, he has big problem, but he doubts that’s the case. No person who spends any time outside would have this much hair. But if they know he’s a thief, then, “What’d you do with my satchel, detective-chan?”

“I have a name!” Shuuichi blurts out without thinking, jumping down from the rafter to the floor. No wait, that’s not what he wanted to say. “And frankly, you’re not in the position to ask questions. You broke into my tower; I’ll ask the questions.” There. God he’s bad at this.

“Ask away~” The thief wears an easygoing smirk. Cocky.

“Who are you, and how did you find me?” Important questions. Aunt Tsumugi definitely will need to know that later when she gets back.

“You haven’t heard of me? I’m so hurt.” Actually, Doukeshi just finds it weird. How much of a recluse do you have to be to not hear about a world famous thief? Although then again, there’s all that hair. “You can call me Doukeshi. I’m a world class thief.”

“…Clown?” People name their kids that?

Doukeshi groans, hanging his head in despair. “It’s a pseudonym, obviously. Who would name a kid harlequin?”

That makes more sense. Back on topic. “And the second part?”

“Well handsome, I was talking my daily stroll when my beautiful man senses went off. I just had to find out where it came from!” He laughs lightly and winks, to an unamused response.

“That’s a lie. Don’t make me ask again.” Shuuichi doesn’t actually have a plan if he has to ask again, but he’ll just bluff his way through this. “I can keep you here forever if I feel like it.”

“Sounds like fun~ Why didn’t you say so in the first place?”

“E-eh?” That gets a reaction out of Shuuichi. He doesn’t really want to stay here forever, does he?

But then Doukeshi cackles. “Oh man, you’re priceless detective-chan. But I do have places to go, so I guess I’ll explain. I was on the run from a very cranky guard, stumbled across a cave, led to this tower, so I climbed it, thinking I’d hide out for a while.” Which, he guesses he did, even if he was unconscious for a while. “Then you knocked me out, and here we are!”

“So, it has nothing to do with my hair?”

“Honey, I don’t think anyone would ever want this much hair.”

Nervous tension leaves Shuuichi’s face. Good. It means he can move on to the next step. “I want to make a deal with you.”

“That’s pretty corrupt, detective-chan~”

“I’m not a detective!” Should he give out his name to a thief? Does it matter? If this is someone he’s going to work with, they should probably have something to call each other. “My name is Shuuichi.”

Doukeshi waits for a last name, but it never comes. “Just a first name?”

“I don’t have a last name.” Tsumugi always said that they didn’t really matter if it’s just the two of them, so he’s never given himself one. The tied-up thief still wears an amused grin, so Shuuichi shoots back with “it can’t be any weirder than a guy who calls himself ‘clown.’”

Doukeshi deflates again, muttering. “It’s harlequin…what does a reclusive hair monster know about cool code names anyway?” A sigh. “So, what’s the deal, detective-chan?” What does he need to do to be free and get his bag back?

“The floating lights that happen every year. Do you know what they are?” This won’t mean anything if it turns out Doukeshi doesn’t know anything.

“You mean the lantern festival? They do that for the prince.”

An old memory of colorful lights, blue, white and purple floating in the distance plays through his head. Lanterns. “Of course.” He knew they weren’t stars. “This is my deal. If you want your satchel back, you will take me to see the lantern festival, and bring me back safely. Then, and only then, I’ll give you back your satchel.”

Leaning back the chair he’s tied up in, Doukeshi mulls it over. “And why should I trust that? You could lord my satchel over my head forever and make me your errand boy.”

“I won’t.” Skeptical violet eyes meet Shuuichi’s own. “I never go back on my word. Ever.”

Doukeshi probes those golden eyes, looking for even the slightest trace of insincerity. But he doesn’t find anything. A naïve recluse wouldn’t know how to lie. “Okay~ You’ve got yourself a deal! I’d shake your hand but,” he waves his hands currently bound to the armrests, “can’t quite reach.” Besides, he doesn’t have much of a choice.

Shuuichi smiles, relief and eagerness plain to see all over his face. He’s just so simple. If Shuuichi is as naïve as he looks, then getting the crown back should be a piece of cake.

“Let’s get you free so we can go.”

 “Can you hurry it up, detective-chan?” Doukeshi asks, looking up from the ground to the tower entrance. He feels a little naked without the mask, but it wouldn’t do him any good to be wearing his signature look in public, so he gave it to Shuuichi to hide somewhere.

And hide it Shuuichi did, tossing it with the satchel under the stair as soon as Doukeshi left. It’s time to go. Yet instead of leaving, using his hair as a pole, he just stands on the ledge, staring outside. This is it. The moment of truth. He’s so close. Is he ready for this? Can he even do this? The outside world is so much bigger than his small tower. There isn’t the guaranteed safety he has when he reads a book.

“I can see you up there! Let’s goooo!”

Deep breaths. Inhale. Hold. Exhale. Inhale. Hold. Exhale. He’ll be fine. He’s got this. Just in case he’ll bring that frying pan with him as a makeshift weapon. Fingers trembling, he loops his hair around that old slightly mossy hook. Inhale. Hold. Exhale. Here he goes.

He grabs onto the silky strands and slides down towards the earth. The ground, which once seemed so far away, approaches faster and faster and—clench. Just before he hits the ground, he tightly grabs his hair, stopping mere inches before the grass. Slowly, his bare feet touch down.

It’s…smooth. The blades of grass poke and brush at his feet, but their texture is surprisingly smooth. So this is what it’s like! What else can he touch? There’s a small pond! In an instant he runs over, jumping into the incredibly shallow puddle. The water is cold, and the wet sand is kind of slimy, but it’s wonderful! What else is there? Flowers? What kind of sweet smell do they all have?

Doukeshi can’t help but watch as Shuuichi runs around, childish enthusiastic delight radiating off him in every springy step and gesture. That smile is blinding. “You really don’t go anywhere, huh?” he asks, but he doesn’t get an answer. That’s okay. He can watch for a little while. He might be a thief, but this is one moment he doesn’t want to take away.

[smokeblooded-blog1]

REALLY LONG  CHARACTER  SURVEY.  RULES.  repost ,   don’t  reblog  !    tag  10  ! good  luck  !  TAGGED.  i took it from myself bc i was bored  TAGGING. spiritmiinded, soughtdawn, clandestinesque, spyblooded, starveincd, pastryblooded, and anyone else who wants to do it who hasnt already

BASICS.

FULL  NAME :  jean otus NICKNAME :  the cigarette peddler / receiver depending on the translation, the cigaretter receiver jean AGE :  thirty BIRTHDAY :  unknown ETHNIC  GROUP :  white NATIONALITY :  german (? subject to change) LANGUAGE / S : english, japanese, german SEXUAL  ORIENTATION :  bisexual ROMANTIC  ORIENTATION : biromantic RELATIONSHIP  STATUS :  verse dependent, canonically single HOME  TOWN / AREA :  born in the Bādon district of the country (at the beak of the bird) CURRENT  HOME : he currently still lives in Bādon in a large apartment complex (he lives on the top floor, but only because he and his sister manage the building) PROFESSION :  second in command at the ACCA inspections department

PHYSICAL.

SKIN : fair skin that is scarless for the most part, no acne or notable blemishes except for some small birthmarks of no particular shape on his lower back EYES:  sky blue; the perfect blue color. they are often shaped in a tired, disinterested look of a poker face, but when smiling the softness is shown through them the most. more emotion can be seen through jean’s eyes than any other feature on him FACE :  his face is rather long for the most part, not a baby face in any form, but it doesnt look scrawny or make him look sickly either. he has a longer nose as well that is more lengthy on the bridge than the point itself LIPS :   arent particularly special. theyre not too thick, not too thin, and they are often in a straight line / resting. they dont get chapped often because he drinks enough to keep them hydrated and they are not bitten or chewed at in any form. when smiling, small dimples (barely noticiable) come on his cheeks  COMPLEXION : isnt anything particularly special. its not like he keeps his skin flawless (he has no particular interest in that), but jean is one of the lucky ones who is blessed to not have much acne. he cleans his face in the shower / when its dirty, but with that taken out of the picture, jean doesnt participate in washing it to the excess. its just naturally free of acne and other blemishes. he doesnt get red faced either, nor does he (or would he) wear makeup to cover it up BLEMISHES : besides the small birthmarks on his lower back, he doesn’t have any SCARS :  none TATTOOS :  none HEIGHT :  177.5cm / 5′10″ WEIGHT :  72.57kg / 160lbs BUILD :  has muscle, but nothing extraordinary. his strongest muscle point is in his wide / broad shoulders, but the rest of body just has lean muscle. he appears rather thin, so you wouldnt be able to tell he had much muscle unless stripping him down / seeing him shirtless / etc. he has a flat stomach, but there isnt much developed muscle through his stomach. the abs are there, but nothing noticable, really FEATURES :  nothing particularly notable ALLERGIES : bee stings. there arent many bees in Bādon, but when jean travels to other districts he often has to bring medicine with him just in case he does get stung USUAL  HAIR  STYLE :  golden hair with an undercut underneath a near-bowl hair style USUAL  FACE  LOOK :  he typically is expressed with a poker face. jean doesnt smile often, or really show many other expressions for that matter, but all of his expressions are vibrant (but short lasting). his smile comes out a lot when hes drunk USUAL  CLOTHING : typically hes seen wearing his ACCA uniform, with or without the jacket 

PSYCHOLOGY.

FEAR / S :  losing the people hes close to (i.e lotta and niino for the most part) ASPIRATION / S :  completing his work every day, leaving ACCA somewhere down the line, finding niino (post ep8) POSITIVE  TRAITS :  adaptable, calm, candid, capable, compassion, determined, easygoing, empathetic, faithful, friendly (though it sometimes seems otherwise), honest, open-minded, punctual, etc NEGATIVE  TRAITS :  absent-minded, bored (sometimes), distracted, dull (before getting to know him), oblivious, etc MBTI : DEFENDER (ISFJ-A) ZODIAC : virgo (subject to change) TEMPEREMENT :  phlegmatic SOUL  TYPE / S :  the helper ANIMALS :  mouse VICE  HABIT / S :  SMOKING FAITH :  christian (however, he is not very spiritual. religion does not matter much in his life, he just has his basic beliefs in the entity itself) GHOSTS ? :  yes, but not a strong belief AFTERLIFE ? :  yes REINCARNATION ? : probably not ALIENS ? :  yeah he would POLITICAL  ALIGNMENT :  ACCA EDUCATION  LEVEL :  high school graduate

FAMILY.

FATHER :  a poor man prior to managing an apartment complex (the one that was passed to jean and lotta after his death) that does not have much known about him. jean doesnt talk about him much because of his higher fondness towards his mother, but his father was not a particularly bad man. currently deceased from a train wreck MOTHER :  a woman who was formerly the second princess of Dowa, but was removed from the royal roster for the sake of the country. she kept this to herself, even her husband and children when she met them / they were born, because she had faked her death to become a commoner on the streets. currently deceased from a train wreck SIBLINGS :  lotta otus, approximately eighteen to twenty years old, is the younger sibling of jean. she has a striking resemblance to her mother, as jean notes, and currently lives with him in their shared apartment on the top floor. has a love for bread, pasteries, and just food in general really. she and jean are quite close to one another EXTENDED  FAMILY :  king falke II (jean’s grandfather, the current king in power), prince schwan (cousin), other royal family members NAME  MEANING / S :  jean’s first name in hebrew quite literally means “gift from God” while otus means “keen of hearing” in Greek HISTORICAL  CONNECTION ? :  historically speaking, jean is of a royal family bloodline. he does not know this for most of his life, nor does he care about it once he finds out that he is apart of it. he would have been the next king in line instead of schwan if not for his mother being removed off of the roster, but his bloodline is still all the more royal

FAVORITES.

BOOK :  he hasnt read a book unrelated to work in some time, so he doesnt really have one MOVIE :  see above 5  SONGS :  jean listens to a lot of untitled instrumentals, mostly because it appeals to him. he will listen to other things on and off, but his favorite thing is typing in something along the lines of “relaxing music” in the search bar and clicking one of the 8 hour videos and just letting it play. he doesnt need to know the tracks, theyre good enough for him like this DEITY :  speaking as hes christian, god / jesus obv HOLIDAY : christmas MONTH :  he doesnt have one SEASON : spring. jean likes things to be mild and, despite how flimsy spring can be, he doesnt mind it too much. he likes when its not too hot, not too cold, but doesnt like it to be as chilled and rainy as it can be in fall. spring brings about rain as well, but not nearly as often as fall does, so this is a higher preference for him PLACE : at the bar / anywhere with niino, at home / anywhere with lotta, a bakery, the roof of the apartment complex WEATHER :  he likes sun, but he doesnt like when its too hot. it has to be like, mild, because if its too hot then its uncomfortable for him. he likes when its breezy as well but, like previously said, not too much. just enough so that it isnt chilly SOUND :  niino / lotta’s laugh, a gentle breeze blowing, rain SCENT / S :  strawberry, cigarette smoke, baking bread, faint cologne scents (i e: a specific brand that niino wears), warm food cooking TASTE / S :  strawberries, tobacco, bread (specifically tough bread) FEEL / S :  the cigarette between his fingers, people he trusts rubbing his back, people he trusts petting his hair, silk ANIMAL / S :  cats NUMBER :  he doesnt have one COLORS :  blue

EXTRA.

TALENTS :  figuring out when someone is lying to him (for the most part), investigating BAD  AT :  getting close to people, expressing his emotions in a way that isnt just deadpan / poker faced, cooking, holding his liquor, dealing with social events (he isnt anxious, he just doesnt like being at them that much) TURN  ONS :  body worship (receiving), care, confidence, dirty talk, minimal marks, praise, soft biting (more to be added most likely) TURN  OFFS :  being too rough (he likes it softer, more making love-esque), having to beg too much, too much teasing (a little is okay) (more to be added most likely) HOBBIES :   drinking with niino, smoking (is this considered a hobby? idk), listening to music, going to bakeries TROPES :  “Royal blood”, “Smoking is cool”, etc QUOTES :  “I never noticed I had an observer you’d assigned to me. But he isn’t a straightforward guy.” (to Grossular, about Niino) || “I smell tobbaco on you.” || “I try not to think of my subordinates as exceptional. After all, doubting them is my job.” (to Eider)

MUN QUESTIONS.

Q1 :   if  you  could  write  your  character  your  way  in  their  own  movie ,   what  would  it  be  called ,  what  style  would  it  be  filmed  in ,  and  what  would  it  be  about ?           A1 :   what does ??????? this question even mean asldkfj Q2 :   what  would  their  soundtrack / score  sound  like ?           A2 :   itd probably be a lot of soft music. nothing super upbeat like pop and nothing like rock either. itd be maybe soft indie music, instrumentals, stuff like that Q3 :   why  did  you  start  writing  this  character ?           A3 :   you know, i honestly wasnt going to write any muse from this fandom? i figured the rp part of it would be dead after i couldnt find anyone after some time, but a few of my friends got wound up with the show after i talked about it so much and after they decided to make blogs, i made the decision to join them. even though i dont get that many interactions and this blog is still extremely new, i love being on jean. hes a really good character and im glad my friends convinced me to write him Q4 :   what  first  attracted  you  to  this  character ?           A4 :   honestly, it didnt come immediately. i never disliked jean, but i thought he was rather plain at first, which is to be understandable when you know how he is. i didnt think there was anything striking about him at all and i was more attracted to niino (i still am attracted to / love niino). that said, jean started to come to live more as the anime progressed and i found that hes really just a sweet bean and is VERY cute and i love him so so much. i think it was episode 3 when he was blushing / being precious and adorable while drunk that really got me getting gay for him Q5 :   describe  the  biggest  thing  you  dislike  about  your  muse.           A5 :  definitely the fact that he smokes. i dont hate people because they smoke, but i have an extreme aversion to smoking due to the fact that i not only have asthma and its very bad for me to be around, but because of the fact that it smells awful Q6 :   what  do  you  have  in  common  with  your  muse ?           A6 :  mmm, i think we’re similar in the fact that we’re pretty introverted and / or reserved and we like being away from social events and such Q7 :   how  does  your  muse  feel  about  you ?           A7 :   i hope he likes me. i love him so Q8 :   what  characters  does  your  muse  have  interesting  interactions  with ?         A8 :   honestly ? all of the interactions on my blog so far are great. my niino spyblooded and i already have like a kajillion threads and he loves their niino so so much <3. clandestinesque and i have an interesting thread and im not quite sure where we’re going to go with it but ive enjoyed it so far !!. spiritmiinded / astrallance and i also have good interactions too. we had great ones when i was still on keith too and im super happy that im still writing with them over here :’) Q9 :   what  gives  you  inspiration  to  write  your  muse ?         A9 :   i  dont really get inspiration, im just kinda here, writing because i enjoy it lmfao Q10 :   how  long  did  this  take  you  to  complete ?           A10 :   idk exactly but 2-3 hours probably ? longer than it took me to complete keiths i know that

[stardcw-moved]

tag dump

@euhtak n @krogan-tadpole tagged me in some stuff!!! i’m lazy so they’re all in one post lol

i’m tagging @euhtak @krogan-tadpole @sookiestjames @elosgf @xiadz @spookyplums @mirassugarbaby n i literally tag the same people every time so im also tagging whoever sees this!!! (u don’t have to do any of these or you can do whichever ones you want lol)

☆ name: samantha ☆ nickname: sam, samii, w/e w/e idc lol ☆ gender: female ☆ sexual orientation: (: ☆ hogwarts house: slytherin ☆ favorite color: green ☆ favorite animal: bears n foxes n stuff ☆ hours of sleep: like 2 that’s it 2 ☆ cat or dog person: both but i luv me cat ☆ favorite fictional character: sally owens from practical magic (also me countless video game lovers) ☆ number of blankets you sleep with: right now since it’s warm, only 3 ☆ dream trip: i wanna go to italy bc family but like... i wanna go everywhere ☆ dream job: translation/interpreter maybe ☆ when was your blog created: this blog was like half a year ago i think ☆ current number of followers: not all my mutuals followed me back on this one so like... 200 :( ☆ what made you create your blog: the first one was bc me friend had one and i was like omg i want one

1. are you named after someone? no :( i was told “u can be named after whoever u wanna be” so probably an old gf of me dad’s

2. when is the last time you cried? like literally yesterday

3. do you like your handwriting? ya!

4. what is your favorite lunch meat? chicken!!!!

5. do you have kids? just me CAT but she’s my friend

6. if you were another person, would you be friends with you? knowing what i know now.... n...o....

7. do you use sarcasm? only as a second language

8. do you still have your tonsils? ya!!! shoulda got them out bc they tried to kill me but i just got steroids to bring the swelling down

9. what is your favourite kind of cereal? anything pebbles!!! fruity n cocoa!!!

10. do you untie your shoes when you take them off? ya bc they all go up past my ankles lol

11. do you think you’re a strong person? well i can deadlift 85 so that’s kind of a big deal for my weak self

12. what is your favourite ice cream flavour? blitzburgh crunch!! but out of normal flavors, it’s mint lol

13. what is the first thing you notice about people? their height

14. red or pink? pink!!!!

15. what is the least favourite physical thing you like about yourself? my stomach lol, love me thighs tho

16. what colour pants and shoes are you wearing now? some flannel stuff that’s like red n black n grey and im only wearing socks

17. what was the last thing you ate? chicken from when i went out to eat w/ the dudes earlier

18. what are you listening to right now? some commercial about old ppl

19. if you were a crayon, what colour would you be? i took a quiz n it told me i’d be a green crayon but i wanna be coral red or peach ??

20. favorite smell? rain!!!!!

21. who was the last person you talked to on the phone? my mama!

22. favourite sport to watch? n...one.....

23. hair color? it’s all diff shades of brown n a lil bit of red lol

24. eye colour? i was about 2 start ranting about how everybody has brown eyes n some ppl lack melanin... but they blue/grey even tho my work bff thought they were green since we met

25. do you wear contacts? i wish bc glasses are a pain lol n also my prescription is whack bc i have anisometropic amblyopia so

26. favourite food to eat? chicken wings!!!

27. scary movies or comedy? probs commedy idk idk i like both even tho im easily spooked

28. last movie you watched? before i fall!!

29. what colour shirt are you wearing? it’s heather black or w/e

30. summer or winter? i luv winter bc i can’t do heat but since i started driving myself places i luv summer lol

31. hugs or kisses? probs kisses idk

32. what book are you currently reading? i started like 42 books my b

33. who do you miss right now? i’ve never met kim taehyung but i miss him

34. what is on your mouse pad? i don’t have a mouse pad lol im on a laptop

35. what is the last tv program you watched? the middle

36. what is the best sound? um shinee’s ring ding dong? gosh

37. rolling stones or the beatles? idk way back when it was the beatles lol

38. what is the farthest you’ve ever traveled? illinois i think bc i can’t remember if i’ve been to colorado or not

39. do you have a special talent? i can destroy all relationships of mine in 12 minutes :))) nah but i can do the ballet stances

40. where were you born? pennsylvania !

a. - age: 21 b. - biggest fear: spiders n the dark n Old Age :) c. - current time: 10:36pm d. - drink you last had: water e. - everyday starts with: playin on my phone for 2 hrs before i tell ppl im awak elol f. - favorite song: skin to skin by luhan! g. - ghosts, are they real: yES h. - hometown: somewhere in pennsylvania lol i. - in love with: well there’s me bf taehyung, me husband jjong, me sidepiece jjong, n miyavi... the one that got away.... j. - jealous of: me friends gf dsklfjslsfds k. - killed someone: u a cop? l. - last time you cried: yESTERDAY m. - middle name: marie! n. - number of siblings: 1.5 sibling o. - one wish: 2 have that cash money p. - person i last called/texted: called me mom, texted me boi q. - question you’re always asked: “what’s wrong?” r. - reason to smile: shinee s. - song last sang: freal luv by far east movement t. - time you woke up: 9:30am u. - underwear color: white v. - vacation destination: italy still but also like s korea w. - worst habit: overthinking n overreacting lol x. - x-rays you’ve had: my lungs in the 4th grade bc i had pneumonia y. - your favorite food: chicken wings z. - zodiac: cancer

rules: put your playlist on shuffle and write down the first ten songs then tag ten mutuals ✨

fake - maximum the hormone

one night - lil yachty

heart attack - exo

i get off - halestorm

rear view - zayn

too fast - royal pirates

anaconda - nicki minaj

schism - tool

lonesome rider - volbeat

spring day - bts

[cover2covermom]

Goodbye July & hello August!

I don’t know about you all, but I am ready for 2020 to be over.  Am I right?

Let’s see what I read & blogged in July…

The last time I gave you all a personal update, I mentioned that we were sending our children back to school in-person….  The lie detector determined that was a lie.

As the deadline loomed over my head, we decided to select the online schooling option for our children for the first semester of school this year.  We decided that the in-person schooling option was just going to be too unpredictable, thus decided on online schooling for consistency.  Since I work in a library, I am not able to work from home.  I needed my children to have a set schedule, so that I could adjust my work schedule around their schedule.

This decision was one of the hardest decisions I’ve made.  I think every parent needs to make the decision that is best for them & their own family situation.

» The City We Became by N.K. Jemisin

The City We Became is an urban fantasy that felt like an ode to New York City.  While this was definitely a unique concept, this story did not grip me in the same way Jemisin’s Broken Earth series did.

» Call Down the Hawk (Dreamer Trilogy #1) by Maggie Stiefvater

LOVED this spin off of The Raven Cycle.  I love Ronan so much!  I listened to the audiobook (like I did with The Raven Cycle) because Will Patton’s voice suits Stiefvater’s atmospheric writing perfectly.

» Winkby Rob Harrell

Wink is a MG novel inspired by the author’s own battle with cancer.  I would recommend this one to fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio.

» Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes

A book about police brutality geared for the middle grade audience.  I would recommend this book to parents looking to open a dialogue about racism & police brutality with their middle grade aged kids.

» The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman

Set in India, The Bridge Home is an heartbreaking tale of two sisters who ran away from an abusive home.  This book punched me in the feels.

» Red, White, & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

This was a steamy & highly entertaining new adult M/M romance.  I’d recommend this book to fans of The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue.

» Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams

While I wasn’t feeling this book at first, I really appreciated it by the end.  I enjoyed watching Queenie’s growth over the course of this book.  I’d recommend this books to fans of Normal People by Sally Rooney as they have similar tones.

» The Girl Who Drank the Moonby Kelly Barnhill

*4.5 Stars*

This was a reread for me.  I enjoyed this just as much as the first time I read it.  My criticism still stands that the climax of the story is rushed.

» My Lady Jane (The Lady Janies #1) by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, & Jodi Meadows

My Lady Jane is a historical retelling with a fantastical flare.  I found this book to be highly entertaining.

» Rodham by Curtis Sittenfeld

This was just an okay read for me.  I loved that this was a re-imagining of Hilary Clinton’s life, and I enjoyed watching her climb the political ladder.  Unfortunately, it was slow paced, boring at parts, and was just WAY too long.

» Me and White Supremacy: Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestorby Layla F. Saad

The second book off my anti-racist TBR.  This book is excellent for self reflection since it is set up as a 28 day challenge with reflection questions at the end of each chapter.

» The Last Council (Amulet #4) by Kazu Kibuishi

 Another wonderful installment to the Amulet series.

» Blended by Sharon M. Draper

This was a wonderful MG contemporary that dives into the complexities of blended families & racial issues.

Goodreads Challenge Update: 84 books in 2020

Saturday 7/10

June 2020 Reading & Blogging Wrap-Up + Book Haul

Monday 7/13

Teen Librarian Archives: May & June 2020 *Being a Librarian During COVID-19*

Wednesday 7/15

Mini Book Reviews: July 2020 – Part 1

Tuesday 7/21

Mini Book Reviews: July 2020 – Part 2

Wednesday 7/22

Favorite Books of 2020 (January – June)

Tuesday 7/28

Mini Book Reviews: July 2020 – Part 3

NetGalley ARC eBooks:

» The Burning God (The Poppy War #3) by R.F. Kuang

Genre: Adult Fantasy

Release Date: November 19, 2020

The exciting end to The Poppy War trilogy, R. F. Kuang’s acclaimed, award-winning epic fantasy that combines the history of twentieth-century China with a gripping world of gods and monsters, to devastating, enthralling effect.

After saving her nation of Nikan from foreign invaders and battling the evil Empress Su Daji in a brutal civil war, Fang Runin was betrayed by allies and left for dead. 

Despite her losses, Rin hasn’t given up on those for whom she has sacrificed so much—the people of the southern provinces and especially Tikany, the village that is her home. Returning to her roots, Rin meets difficult challenges—and unexpected opportunities. While her new allies in the Southern Coalition leadership are sly and untrustworthy, Rin quickly realizes that the real power in Nikan lies with the millions of common people who thirst for vengeance and revere her as a goddess of salvation. 

Backed by the masses and her Southern Army, Rin will use every weapon to defeat the Dragon Republic, the colonizing Hesperians, and all who threaten the shamanic arts and their practitioners. As her power and influence grows, though, will she be strong enough to resist the Phoenix’s intoxicating voice urging her to burn the world and everything in it? 

This is one of my most anticipated books of 2020, so I am beyond thrilled that I was approved for this ARC!!

Physical Books:

» On the Come Up by Angie Thomas

Sixteen-year-old Bri wants to be one of the greatest rappers of all time. Or at least make it out of her neighborhood one day. As the daughter of an underground rap legend who died before he hit big, Bri’s got big shoes to fill. But now that her mom has unexpectedly lost her job, food banks and shutoff notices are as much a part of Bri’s life as beats and rhymes. With bills piling up and homelessness staring her family down, Bri no longer just wants to make it—she has to make it.

On the Come Up is Angie Thomas’s homage to hip-hop, the art that sparked her passion for storytelling and continues to inspire her to this day. It is the story of fighting for your dreams, even as the odds are stacked against you; of the struggle to become who you are and not who everyone expects you to be; and of the desperate realities of poor and working-class black families.

» Butterfly Yellow by Thanhha Lai

In the final days of the Việt Nam War, Hằng takes her little brother, Linh, to the airport, determined to find a way to safety in America. In a split second, Linh is ripped from her arms—and Hằng is left behind in the war-torn country.

Six years later, Hằng has made the brutal journey from Việt Nam and is now in Texas as a refugee. She doesn’t know how she will find the little brother who was taken from her until she meets LeeRoy, a city boy with big rodeo dreams, who decides to help her.

Hằng is overjoyed when she reunites with Linh. But when she realizes he doesn’t remember her, their family, or Việt Nam, her heart is crushed. Though the distance between them feels greater than ever, Hằng has come so far that she will do anything to bridge the gap.

» A Kind of Paradise by Amy Rebecca Tan

Amy Rebecca Tan’s debut novel is a heartwarming middle grade coming-of-age story about the power of community, the power of the library, and the power of forgiveness.

Jamie Bunn made a mistake at the end of the school year. A big one. And every kid in her middle school knows all about it. Now she has to spend her summer vacation volunteering at the local library—as punishment. It may be boring, but at least she’ll be able to hide from mean girl Trina, who’s always had it out for her, and beautiful Trey, the boy at the root of her big mistake.

Or so she thinks.

Not only does her job bring her face-to-face with both her mortal enemy and her ultimate crush, Jamie also encounters a territorial patron, an elderly movie fanatic, a super-tall painter who loves to bake, and a homeless dog. Over the course of the summer, as Jamie gets to know the library and the people in it, she finds—and gives—help where she least expects it.

And she just might find herself along the way.

» The Boy in the Black Suit by Jason Reynolds

Just when seventeen-year-old Matt thinks he can’t handle one more piece of terrible news, he meets a girl who’s dealt with a lot more—and who just might be able to clue him in on how to rise up when life keeps knocking him down—in this wry, gritty novel from the author of When I Was the Greatest.

Matt wears a black suit every day. No, not because his mom died—although she did, and it sucks. But he wears the suit for his gig at the local funeral home, which pays way better than the Cluck Bucket, and he needs the income since his dad can’t handle the bills (or anything, really) on his own. So while Dad’s snagging bottles of whiskey, Matt’s snagging fifteen bucks an hour. Not bad. But everything else? Not good. Then Matt meets Lovey. She’s got a crazy name, and she’s been through more crazy than he can imagine. Yet Lovey never cries. She’s tough. Really tough. Tough in the way Matt wishes he could be. Which is maybe why he’s drawn to her, and definitely why he can’t seem to shake her. Because there’s nothing more hopeful than finding a person who understands your loneliness—and who can maybe even help take it away.

  Which books did you read this month?

Have you read any of the books I read or hauled this month?  If so, what did you think?

Did you buy any books?  If so, which ones?

Comment below & let me know 🙂

July 2020 Reading & Blogging Wrap Up + Book Haul #BookBlogger #Bookworm #Bibliophile #WrapUp #BookTalk Goodbye July & hello August! I don't know about you all, but I am ready for 2020 to be over. 

[onthegoinmco]

DISCLOSURE: I was invited by Walt Disney World to experience a Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but all opinions are my own.

There is a festive holiday spirit in the air at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as a Flurry of Fun has been added this holiday season that includes new decorations, shows, treats, and more that can be experienced every day from now until December 31st!

The fun goes from day to night, so let’s take a look some of the highlights of holiday fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

Nine Ways To Have A Flurry Of Fun At Disney’s Hollywood Studios

1. Take a stroll around Echo Lake

Echo Lake, just off of Hollywood Boulevard, has received a retro and merry makeover that includes extra-large ornaments on the water, colorful garlands and medallions on every light pole, a few woodland friends, decorated umbrellas, and the centerpiece of the decorations is a giant Christmas tree centered on the water that is a perfect backdrop for photos. Dinosaur Gertie is also excited for the fun, and is festively dressed for the holidays.

Don’t forget to visit Echo Lake at night, as the area comes alive with lights. A stroll around Echo Lake is a great way to end your day in the park.

2. See a new holiday tag For the First Time in Forever

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The ever popular For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration fills the Hyperion Theater with holiday fun and songs as the royal historians, Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff welcome Olaf to the show for the holiday season to share all-new songs from Disney’s new animated short “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure”.

The holiday addition fits seamlessly into the existing show, and having Olaf in the show is a holiday present for the audience.

3. Make sure you are on the right list with Santa

You can’t celebrate the holidays without a visit to see Santa, but during the Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios there are TWO ways to meet the big guy!

The Once Upon a Time store, located among the star-studded stores all along Sunset Boulevard, you can get in those holiday requests and photos in person with Kris Kringle from November 9 to December 24, 2017.

Jolly Old Saint Nick will be greeting good girls and good boys in an area decorated just for the occasion with Christmas trees, ornate garlands, and even a lovely red and gold rug.

But remember! Santa will only be available to meet until Christmas Eve. Be sure to visit him during his limited appearance dates, taking place from November 9 to December 24, 2017!

After Christmas, “Yule” laugh your way right into the New Year when Goofy takes over for the big guy from December 25 to 31, 2017.

Once Christmas morning arrives, Santa Claus will be well on his way back to the North Pole… but don’t you worry it’s Santa Goofy to the rescue! Don’t miss your chance to ring in 2018 with a hearty laugh and even a picture too as you spend time with the goofiest holiday Character in history.

Please keep in mind that all entertainment and appearances are subject to change without notice, and if you are looking for information on meeting Santa or Santa Goofy check with a Cast Member when you arrive at the park, Guest Relations is located to the far left of the entrance as you are facing the park.

4. Grab a sweet treat

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The holidays aren’t the holidays without sweet treats, and The Disney Parks Blog shared a look at the fun for foodies!

My favorite treat was the over-the-top red velvet whoopie pies that are piled hight with icing garland, ornament pearls, and holiday sprinkles that are tree-shaped and available at Sweet Spells and Fairfax Fare.

Fans of Olaf will be overjoyed, because he stars on several desserts around the park! Olaf can be found dancing on cupcakes at ABC Commissary, Rosie’s All-American Café, Catalina Eddie’s, Fairfax Fare and Sweet Spells. There’s an Olaf Pop at Gertie’s Ice Cream of Extinction along Echo Lake, an Olaf Sundae at Hollywood Scoops on Sunset Boulevard, and Sugar Frosted Fruit Bites at Pretzel Palooza on Sunset Boulevard. For even more fun, there is even an Olaf-themed sipper that comes filled with a fun “Frozen” beverage that can be found in several locations around the park.

5. Festive beverages for adults

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For the holiday season, guests over the age of 21 can look forward to a selection of specialty beverages themed to the celebrations.

It isn’t always hot in Florida, and you may find that you want to warm up with a spiked hot chocolate that can be found at both Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner along Echo Lake and Fairfax Fare on Sunset Boulevard. The selection of hot chocolates includes a hot chocolate martini, Bailey’s Salted Caramel hot chocolate, black cherry bourbon hot chocolate, and there is even a hot chocolate flight where you can sample all three if you can’t choose just one to try.

Other adult beverages available this year include a Peppermint White Russian, a Winterberry Cooler and a Let It Glow drink consisting of vodka and blue-raspberry frozen carbonated beverage with your very own glow cube at various locations around Echo Lake and Sunset Boulevard.

6. Watch as the streets of Hollywood come alive during Sunset Seasons Greetings

On Sunset Boulevard, just off of the main entrance’s Hollywood Boulevard, as night falls a ‘snowy’ holiday celebration takes place as billboards above the street move into motion with appearances from some beloved characters who are sharing their love of the holidays.

The billboards above direct you to look at the iconic Hollywood Tower Hotel, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, as it is magically transformed, courtesy of some cutting edge projections, bringing to characters’ stories to life and into motion.

The Disney character moments during Sunset Seasons include:

Mickey and Minnie reminiscing about a hometown Christmas as the scene shifts into a romanticized, Norman Rockwell-inspired town—starting in black and white before slowly changing into color.

The Toy Story characters guessing which new toys are coming this Christmas as the scene becomes covered in holiday wrapping paper.

The Swedish Chef from The Muppets babbling as only he can while the scene turns into giant gingerbread houses.

And finally, Olaf pining over his holiday wish as iconic music plays and the scene freezes over into a Frozen winter wonderland—complete with dancing Aurora Borealis lights and projected falling snow.

Each of these scenes lasts for almost 3 minutes, and play on a loop. So you are invited to slow down your pace and enjoy the show as you make your way to the attractions and restaurants or grab a spot to watch them all. If you do decide to grab a spot for a bit, please make sure you are considerate to other guests who might be making their way down the Boulevard.

7. Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!

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Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! is back this year with even more BAM!

Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! is a nighttime spectacular full of fun and hijinks that features traditional holiday tunes, state-of-the-art projections from Disney Animation classics, special effects, fireworks, a little snow, and unexpected surprises.

It’s “Kringle Level 9” for the stars of ABC’s Prep & Landing Wayne and Lanny as they search for Santa who has gone missing. You will get caught up in the adventure as the Chinese Theater, as well as the surrounding buildings and rooftops, come alive to immerse you into scenes from Mickey’s Christmas Carol, Beauty and the Beast, Pluto’s Christmas Tree, Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, and more. The festive finale is a snowy, visual wonderland that is a must-see for the holiday season.

For the best viewing spot, make sure you arrive early and have a sight line that includes as much of the Chinese Theater and surrounding buildings as you can. Most of the firework bursts happen on the right side of the Theater, but even more effects and fireworks are launched from the surrounding areas.

8. Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Dessert Party

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If you want to really amp up your Flurry of Fun, I suggest booking the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Dessert Party.

During the party you can enjoy specialty sweets and sips from around the park before you move to a special reserved viewing area to enjoy Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! The viewing area, weather and condition permitting, is located in the Chinese Theater courtyard.

Among the desserts offered are candy cane brownies, holiday Mickey and Minnie sugar cookies, warm pumpkin pie spiced bread pudding, and sweet Yule Log.

And at the end of the party you get to take home a special ornament as a gift to remember your evening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

The Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Dessert Party is a premium event that is not included with admission that takes place nightly through December 31. Pricing does change based on date, and from now to December 15, pricing is $79 for adults and $45 for children ages 3-9; and December 17-31, adults are $89 and children are $49 (gratuity and tax included).

Reservations must be made in advance either online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

9. Minnie’s Holiday Dine-In

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You can deck the halls at a dazzling dinner party filled with holiday cheer and amazing food at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Minnie’s Holiday Dine-In.

Minnie Mouse is the hostess-with-the-mostest, and she is throwing a fantastic feast that features a mix of fun music and décor with a seasonal menu that is full of the joy of the season.

Minnie greets you at the door for a special photo opportunity, and while you are dining you can meet Mickey Mouse, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, and Goofy as they stop by your table to pose for pictures and holiday hugs.

And before you leave, make sure you pick up your gift from your thoughtful hostess!

Minnie’s Seasonal Dining events cost $50 per adult and $30 per child, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required and can be made online or using the My Disney Experience App. Some dining plans accepted, so check before you go.

If you are not planning on attending at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, this is a great time to get photos with some of your favorite characters in their holiday finest while enjoying a great meal. I have had the chance to go to several of Minnie’s holiday get togethers, and I look forward to them every time!

And while this is a buffet, don’t feel like you can’t dine here if you have allergies because they go above and beyond accommodating guests with allergies and dietary concerns!

Spending the holidays at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has always been a great way to kick off our holiday celebrations in November, but this year it is even better with all of these new additions! It truly is a Flurry of Fun!

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