#but having dual citizenship makes it way easier to visit my family living in the US so I'll keep it

[allthoseotherworlds]

Also, quick complaint that's probably not relatable to anyone who follows me but: US tax filing software learn how to handle people living abroad challenge.

"Sorry, you can't file because you have a net income of zero" - go tell that to the IRS! They're the ones making me file taxes even though I'm living in Canada and it works out to 0 income until you're making like 100k a year. But I still have to fill out the forms, so please let me do that.

[mynanapost]

Who am I? Who I am was a question I kept asking myself all my life. I figured lately that I am a transported tree, plant, land, and home that is always gravitized to Palestine. I am a citizen of the world and my passport is a threat to all the bordered states I visit or stay in. I am recognized for many things that I am not; and, I am labeled for many things that I disapprove and do not recognize. I am a star that is always censored and tracked by foreign militaries and intelligences. I am a unique reminder of the failure of the zionist progress towards the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.

In this article, I am aiming to take you on a speed tour consisting of no more than 1200 words about the resistance mechanisms of a second generation displaced person living in Gaza and is originally from Yafa.

Fighting like a Palestinian is as tough to us as you might see on your headline news. Substantially different though, I promise. Hello, I am Wasim, I am Palestinian (I fight) and I want to make this world a better place. And I fight. The fear of being hated and judged as a Palestinian is as bad as your fear of missing out (FOMO). Our FOMO is usually one of three things, first, the fear of missing out on a strike of bombs in your neighborhood. We usually fear not being there to calm and assure our family that we are home and that they could at least not worry about us. Second, the fear of missing out a chance to buy groceries on a ceasefire. Third, not being awake or home to use the four to eight hours of electricity we get per day. This includes cooking, charging phones and laptops, using WiFi, heating water, and doing laundry.

We as Palestinians do not resist or fight through machinery. In fact, our machinery compared to others in the region might be the least effective. Hence, we use our words, education, knowledge to fight and resist. I will be resisting and fighting in this article as you tour with me.

My grandfather was forced out of his home by Zionists. And I resist. I resist and fight through presenting a negated history. Yafa, a beautiful place and also an occupied city in Palestine, is where my grandfather lived. He assured us to have hope. We fight, resist, and FIGHT trying to explain that we have the right to return home. He adds that one day he will take us all back home, may his soul rest in peace. My home in Yafa might now be a dancing club or even better a dating bar. Who knows but it is there in Yafa. He, my grandfather, would always say that if I would bring him a granddaughter, I shall name her Yafa. He would always say that she will be beautiful just like the city.

Visualizing my beloved Gaza is easy. North and East, we have IDF blockage isolating us from the rest of Palestine. West, we only have three miles of the lovely Mediterranean Sea where fishermen struggle for their livelihood and pray to get back home safe every day. And south, we have Egypt’s borders. Gaza is a piece of land that is guarded by the most powerful powers in the region. Well, it is not really guarded for our precious souls, but from them.

I survived three brutal aggressions on Gaza before celebrating my 17th birthday. We fought and resisted during and after each of these aggressions. We learnt how to fight by picking up the rubble and turning it into something to build with. We had nothing but rubble and a 4 digit number stating the number of deaths. We have constructed the roads of our seaport in Gaza with the rubble of destroyed buildings. We have also managed to turn the ash of coal and wood into building bricks that are used in construction buildings now with great demand. We as Palestinians fight our way through every aspect of our day through education, art, history, theatre, innovation and many more. We resist our ethnic cleansing by surviving, and then, by reproducing. We fight, everyday, endlessly.

To make it easier for everyone to visualize, I will use recently used concepts on world news to explain a long living experience. Curfew, as a concept, has been a huge highlight of our lives for as far as I can remember. Similar rules are imposed in the curfews set like the ones we all had during the pandemic. You can only leave when having an extreme reason to do so, however, you are assured that you will not be safe if you decide to leave, even if leaving means saving your life or the life of a loved one by going to the hospital.

The curfews were always there to remind us that we are occupied. Our usually failed ceasefires were similar to the end of pandemic related lockdowns. We try to secure food, for God knows when the next time we might have the option of leaving the house. However, unlike social distancing post-lockdowns, we hug and kiss our beloved ones knowing that it might be the last time we do so. The next digit number by one of us.

We live with post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSDs) as if they were our closest friend. These PTSDs are censored to the sound of planes, the sound of screaming, the sound of explosion and anything similar. They also adapt as part of our human nature as they develop to assure us, when being abroad, that the planes flying above us are not the same ones that were once attacking us. The PTSD is also quite conscious during New Years and other big celebrations when we do not realize that the fireworks are noises of happiness. It is exactly how we used to lie to assure our younger siblings that they will be safe. (+18) Their shock realizing the sorrow might be as bad as when children of western side of the world discover that Santa Clause is not real. (+18)

I believe most people living abroad during the Pandemic have gone through a slightly similar experience of the Palestinian’s daily struggle. Not being able to go back and feeling unwelcome in their home because there might not be space. And not being able to go anywhere else because you will always be a suspect holder. Yes, we are always suspects; accused of having a terroristic mentality. Unfortunately, we could never disprove their false accusations with a certified document saying that we are negative to their biased misconceptions. I would wait for a week and pay the 90$ for this certification. When you are a Palestinian holding dual citizenships, life changes; as I hear from my brother and witness my friends not having to stress a lot before entering any check point. Being respected and accounted for human rights are things they encounter after traveling with their other citizenship.

You could always be concise and go straight to the point. Why don't we stop fighting or why don't we just accept the peace talks. Well, lately we have been accepting of almost anything, but people would still see us as terrorists. Nonetheless, there is nothing concise about this struggle besides the daily headline news mentioning the number of dead and injured due to a “conflict”. I would have to explain all the intersections and the cross-borders and their history to be able to go through the complexity of my beloved Palestine.

In remembrance of Murid Barghouti, “Palestinians have a unique story that's similar to none of the stories of others, but one at the same time because what is shared is huge: the sense of loss, exile, being displaced, being oppressed, being voiceless, being of a negated history and geography”. - may his soul rest in peace.

[hoplessdreamer9796]

BTS 8th Member - Profile

Name: Kim Y/N  Date of Birth: 16/09/1996 Ethnicity: Half Arabic and half Korean Nationality: Is British but after moving to Korea obtained dual citizenship (I don’t know if this is a thing but if it’s not let’s just pretend)

Appearance: > Navy Blue eyes > Dimples > 5″8 > Light golden tan skin > Curves and athletic > Looks Korean due to eye shape and Arabic due to eye colour. Mainly looks Korean but it is obvious she is half.  > Tattoos:  1) “Familia Super Omnia” (”Family Above All” written in Latin on left shoulder blade). 2) Initial and birthdays of her younger brothers on left wrist and older brothers on right wrist (Just her brothers... For now...). “No oppa I don’t love you that much I just often forget your existence.”  3) Matching tattoo with Hanbin of the Neverland stars on right shoulder blade.  4) Matching tattoo with Shinhye of a forget me not flower on their upper thighs.  5) ARMY written on both sides of her index finger because, “Now they can see my love from both angles,” cue Jin face palming.

Basic Information:  > Born in England moved to Korea when 11 years old.  > IQ of 162 and has an eidetic memory but terrible at remembering birthdays. > Can memorise choreography after seeing it once.  > Is a main singer of BTS, like Jungkook, and is Hoseok’s second dancer in command.  > Graduated high school after the first grade at age 16 (international age). > Was on the track and swimming team during high school and middle school. Could not attend practices as she had to work so much but the coaches still allowed her to be on the team as she was advantageous in competitions. She has always been first in every swim and track meet she competed in. > Was not able to go to university at first as her family couldn’t afford it. But when BTS and her company was stable and doing well she was able to get a physics degree from Seoul National University (mainly online classes due to schedule, they normally don’t allow this but they decided they wanted her to attend the school due to her IQ and status. She attended classes when she could and did exams at the school) Got her degree in one year.  > Speaks 7 languages: English, Korean, Arabic, Chinese (both Mandarin and Cantonese) Thai, Japanese. (Learnt Chinese, Thai and Japanese in order to connect with fans better.) > Can play the piano, guitar, can beatbox, can play drums and also the violin but doesn’t like playing the violin (will be explained later). > CEO of Jeonsa Corporation which is comprised of Almira’s (a restaurant franchise where her mother created all the recipes) and Jeonsa cosmetics.  > Became world’s youngest self-made billionaire at the age of 21 in 2017 (In this AU Kylie Jenner became billionaire at 22 and was the world’s fastest self-made billionaire).  > Terrible with feelings in general. > Is okay at showing affection with people but as soon as the conversation starts to get deep and emotional, she spazzes out.  > Drinks way too much alcohol and loves clubbing. > Only likes casual flings as she’s too busy and doesn’t want to commit. (For now...) > Even though she has more than enough money she won’t leave BTS as she loves what she does.  > At first didn’t want to join BTS (will be explained later). > Very charming and charismatic, flirts with anything that breathes.  > Hates her birthday. > Buys way too many cars and drives too fast.  > Owns a lot of real estate. > Terrified of bugs mainly spiders (will be explained later).  > Swears way too much and it triggers Jin.  Family:  Grandmother (biological fathers side) - Kim Soojin (17/07/1953) - Unemployed Grandfather (biological fathers side) - Kim Woosuk (23/08/1952) - Unemployed  They both allowed Y/N, Adriel and Adonis to live with them on days when their mother would work nights. Y/N mainly looker after them as they weren’t able to find much work in their old age. Some of the most precious people in Y/N’s life. Grandfather (Stepfathers side) - Kim Wonshik (30/06/1955) - CEO of Hanam Hospital (I made it up)  He thinks of his son’s stepchildren as his own grandchildren. He loves them very much. Whenever his grandchildren are free, he likes playing golf with them. Y/N at first was nervous that he wouldn’t accept her and her siblings as they were not fully Korean and poor. But she was surprised how much he loved and accepted them so easily. Mother - Kim Almira (21/03/1974) - Head chef at one of the branches of Almira’s in Seoul. She has not been able to be a part of her Children’s lives as she would have liked because when she was not working at the restaurant she was working somewhere else or sleeping. She often feels guilty at how much of her childhood Y/N has missed out. It also makes her feel grateful for having such amazing children. She often blames herself for Y/n being so emotionally closed off but it’s as if her daughter knows when she’s feeling like this and will take her mother shopping in Milan and Paris. A life that she didn’t even think was possible. Or even just spend the day helping her cook. And she thanks the stars for giving her 7 amazing children. Stepfather - Kim Haeil (24/07/1973) - Cardiothoracic Surgeon who met Almira at the restaurant. He quickly became mesmerised with the foreign beauty with the light hazel eyes. He often found himself stopping by Almira’s more and more often. Having little dates in the gardens halfway between the hospital and the restaurant. They fell in love quickly; He grew to love her kids that he saw when he went to the restaurant to visit Almira. He became protective over them especially Y/N who’s eyes looked far too old to belong to a teenager, seeing how much their family struggled he wanted to marry Almira a few months after they started dating and help them, he cared for them greatly. Y/N told her Mother that she didn’t want him to pay off their debt out of pity. They were working so hard what was the point if someone did it for them. She didn’t need someone to take care of them. In reality she was worried he would be like Insu. Y/N had no problem with Haeil, you hadn’t seen your mother so happy for years and you didn’t object to their relationship, however you didn’t need someone’s charity, which back then due to your pride was what you thought of it as. You also reminded your Mother that she had only known this man for a few months and asked her to get to know him better before considering marriage. Your mother although saddened by your inability to take the easy way accepted your decision. They waited until you had paid off all of your family’s debt before he had taken her back to their special garden and proposed to her there. It’s easier to call Haeil Dad than Insu. You love him very much at first it was weird having a father figure that actually cared and you never really got used to having a protective father who loved you so much. Biological Father - Kim Insu (13/03/1971) - Unemployed. Abusive to Y/N and Almira. When he would try to hurt her little brother’s Y/N would never let him. He never hurt her older brother as he claimed that his son never did anything wrong. Elijah probably hated him the most because of this, if he tried to protect his sister his father would just hurt her more. He felt powerless as he was not able to protect his younger siblings. As Almira was at work most of the time Y/N got the worst of his treatment. The only thing he cares about is money, women, alcohol and gambling. In England around Y/N had just turned 11 he got a divorce and left them, much to everyone’s relief. However, after you had started making a lot of money after debut and when the restaurant started doing well, he showed up in your life again. Your grandmother was so happy. He threatened to tell his parents the truth about what he did unless you paid him. The thought of your grandparents knowing what kind of a monster their son was sickened you so you struck a deal, he stays away from the rest of you family and spends two hours a week with your grandparents in order to get paid ₩250,000,000 every week. He accepted and now your grandparents are happy to be in their son’s life with you protecting them from the real him the best you can.   Stepbrother - Kim Jaejoon (23/07/1991) - General Surgeon. He met Y/N at the hospital when he went to visit his father and Y/N was dropping off food for her future stepfather that her mother had sent. He had recognised her from how his father’s at the time girlfriend had described her. Her blue eyes standing out in the sea of ordinary brown. He introduced himself to her and told her he was her mother’s boyfriend’s son (cringing inwardly at how awkwardly he said that). Y/N had just smirked in amusement at his awkward state trying to hold back her laugh and introduced herself. The more he talked to you the more he realised how smart you were. You could easily keep up with him when he talked about his job. He also met his future brothers that day when the two family’s got dinner together. It was surprisingly easy for the two families to integrate. He quickly grew protective of his future younger siblings. He wished that Y/N hadn’t been so stubborn and had let their parents gotten married in order to make things easier but understood that it was something she had to do and his sister is the most stubborn person he knows. He is very protective over his sister and often lectures her on her drinking and clubbing antics. He nags at her so much it’s ridiculous, fuck when he saw her first tattoo, he threw a fit it was hilarious. He can’t see her as anything other than that wide eyed teenager with sad blue eyes, she’s gotten to good at hiding that look. >Sister in Law - Jeon Haeun (12/08/1992) - Vascular Surgeon  >Niece - Kim Seoyeon (29/01/2018) - N/A  >Nephew - Kim Youngsoo (31/05/2019) - N/A  Full blooded Brother - Kim Elijah (17/03/1993) - Cardiothoracic Surgeon. He is very grateful to Y/N as she is the one that practically had to force him to go to university for medicine. He didn’t want to leave his family and he also knew that their family wasn’t financially able to send him there. Y/N told him that they’ll manage but he still refused. But when you told him that when he becomes a doctor and starts earning money he can provide for their family; he was determined to do this. He said that he would get part time jobs and send money, but you told your mother and him that you’d take care of everything and for him to focus on school. You had to cut back on a lot of thing but were able to get him into a student dormitory, a small and cheap one but that's all you could do, a food budget and a bus pass. He was very grateful and guilty. He was determined to succeed and help their family. But it turns out that you managed to do that before him. Years later he found out that after you graduated high school at 15 you had been offered a full scholarship to Seoul National University for medicine but you had declined as you had to help your mother provide for your family and pay off your debts. He was especially angry since he also went to Seoul National University (like all of your brothers who went to university) and felt like he robbed you of the opportunity. He got into a huge argument with you when he found out. After the fight you two drank and reminisced about the few good childhood memories you had. He babies you a lot and is very overprotective of you. Stepbrother - Kim Taejoon (27/04/1993) - Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon. He’s the kind of brother to randomly stop by your office and force you to lunch with him. He’s the cliché overprotective brother, glares at any boy that looks in her direction and hates basically everything she wear unless they’re baggy. A part of him hates Y/N’s noncommittal attitude to relationships because well that’s his sister and well eww but the other part of him is glad. Glad that his sister will never allow herself to get emotionally hurt but it also saddens him that she won’t ever open herself up to love. He coddles her a lot always texting if she’s had dinner and checking on her when on tour. As much as you complain when he coddles you love it. Full blooded Brother - Kim Adriel (18/02/1997) - Footballer plays for Liverpool, (I have no clue I legit searched premier league football clubs and picked the first one) is the youngest Korean ever football player to make it into the premier league (Don’t know). Lives in England most of the time. You are the most precious person in the world to him. He is a lot more intuitive that his twin brother and was able to find out sooner than Adonis about their financial situation. After finding out he started waking up earlier to make his grandparent’s breakfast to let you sleep a bit more. At first you protested but the thought of even an extra hour of sleep sounded heavenly. He felt so guilty about how he acted before he knew and so when he found out he sobbed in your arms apologising. And your heart broke you always wanted to shield him from that. When he moved back to England, he was very anxious at the thought of living far from you. He texts you every single day, needing at least some form of communication to stop him from worrying about you.  Full blooded Brother - Kim Adonis (18/02/1997) - Youtuber and is living in England. He moved back there when he was 16 in 2013. His channel had 500,000 subscribers but was not making any money. He played games online with different youtubers and became close with them. They explained how they make a living off of YouTube and he became excited at the thought of pursuing this career. While it was a risk especially with his family’s financial situation at the time, he knew he had to do it. While his entire family was against it, especially Adriel, you convinced your mother to let him go and used all the money you saved for a rainy day to buy him a phone and a plane ticket on the condition that he attends online high school. He lived with a family friend until he could start supporting himself. As of now has amassed seventeen million subscribers. He visits Korea whenever he can, if you’re there, to see you. He’s regretful about how much pressure he put on you in order to achieve his dreams but whenever you tell him how proud you are with that glint in your blue eyes he knows that you mean it. Adrien and Adonis are fraternal twins. When they were young, they were very close. However, when Adonis wanted to move to England to further his YouTube career, Adriel was vehemently against it. Not because he didn’t love his brother and of course he’d miss him but because of the fact that Adonis wanted to make their situation even harder than it already was. That he wanted to make his sister work harder than she already did on something he wasn’t even sure would work. Due to this difference of opinions Adrien and Adonis grew apart and when Adonis went to England, they didn’t contact each other unless you made them. However, after Adrien moved to England they began to reconnect and slowly but surely their relationship began to heal. Much to your relief. The twins are the most attached to you as you are both a mother figure and sister to them. There is an unspoken rivalry and tension between them and Jungkook as they all get jealous and territorial over you. Stepbrother - Kim Hanuel (25/06/1997) - Studying Law at Seoul National University. He graduated high school a year early, then attended university for a year before enlisting in the military as soon as he could. He wanted to get it over with so he could focus on his future without it looming over his head. He finished his university degree in two years with a bachelor’s in law. He graduated at age 22 (International age) which was the same age as most people who were graduating however he had the advantage of having completed his military service. He is the younger brother Y/N sees the most as he lives in Seoul. You have sacrificed a lot for your family and would do anything for them.

[mortarchive]

My Journey to Lexington and Return to Aotearoa

On Monday the 20th of July NZ time at 11:30 my sister went missing. Her fiancee told me she was seen on security footage getting out of their car and walking away. She was found by Lexington, Kentucky police 4 hours later, extremely dehydrated and distressed. She had a mental health incident. I won’t go into this further to protect her privacy.

I flew over to be with her, leaving on the 29th of August when it was obvious to us that she needed support as did her fiancée who was struggling on his own with worry and looking after himself also. As the youngest family member who has dual citizenship and earns the least as well as being her sister able to provide intimate care, I was elected to go and help.

My flights over took two days, I stayed a night in LA. In the parts of the US I visited there was absolutely no quarantining. As a citizen, I was not even subjected to a health screening.

Once I got to Lexington it was much easier to reach my sister while she was in the hospital and we made our best effort to call her twice a day. She told us this was extremely helpful for her path to getting better. By the time she left, she was very bored as she is extremely intelligent. She was quite anxious and unable to focus on reading, as well as not being allowed anything to write with except crayons and couldn’t get ideas out of her head.

On the 6th of August she was able to come home and it was so good to hug her. We spent the next three weeks talking, drawing, making food, playing video and board games, going for walks, playing with one-year-old Sochi and the cats.

I was able to work remotely the whole time and I am extremely thankful to my work for being so accommodating.

I had never been to Kentucky before. Going outside was quite strange, and I mostly tried to avoid it except for exercise, groceries and essential items. People sat at tables outdoors, none wearing masks. We mostly tried to do our groceries via pickup, which worked out well. Lexington is very similar to Auckland in that is hot, humid, flat, spread out and full of people obsessed with their cars.

Something I never had seen before in New Zealand was motorcyclists with no helmets and no leathers, I assume it would be an infringement on their rights to not be brutally be killed in an accident.

There were many signs for personal injury attorneys, Jesus and the military. One Baptist Church had a sign saying “NO ITS NOT HOT AS HELL”.

I enjoyed the myriad of inexpensive vegan snacks such as cheddar flavoured chickpea puffs and cream cheese alternative.

Lexington has a huge history of horse racing and many of the streets were named after famous horses such as “Man o’ War Boulevard.” I also enjoyed Versailles Road which is pronounced by the locals as Ver-Sails. My sister’s home is across from Red Mile, a giant horse racing track and casino. They way they circumvent the gambling laws is by only having slot machines that have tiny horse races from years ago that you are betting on.

The tension about the election was palpable in the friends of my brother-in-law and the household itself. Many people are terrified for November and the farce of a democracy the United States has become. With the USPS being de-funded, mail boxes being removed, prisoners not allowed to vote who were convicted for non-violent drug offenses and protesters in Portland being snatched of the street in unmarked vans by unidentified people in SWAT gear, it is a fascist state.

I am an American, I was born in Colorado, I have family that I love that are not what we hear on the news here on this little island in The Pacific. The loud conspiracy theorists are a vocal few, and we need to remember as people of Aotearoa that they exist here too. I will never forget the faces of the 5G conspiracy theorist protesters as we walked down the main street protesting in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. We are not above Americans. I am proud to be a citizen of both countries while recognizing the flaws of both nations.

Please vote.

My return journey home was painless other than accidentally spending $40 US on a half bottle of wine at LAX. I now know fancy wines are a racket because it tasted the same as any other chardonnay to me.

Other than having my temperature taken and asked about any Covid symptoms I might have, my entry into New Zealand was the same as always. It really helps to be a citizen of the place you are traveling to.

Once we had processed through customs I was led to a bus that took us to The Pullman Auckland, a 4.4 star hotel on Princes Street. There were about a dozen or so of us on the bus and our luggage was loaded and unloaded for us by people in full personal protective equipment. We were explained what the process would then be by a Ministry of Health representative and a member of the Air Force. We were checked in at one desk, asked why we traveled and where we would be staying at another. The third desk was an explanation of the hotel facilities and procedures. The fourth desk was a health interview with a nurse. I filled out a meal request form while I waited. I notified them that I do not consume animals or things that come out of them. Absolutely everyone was extremely kind and efficient.

I then went to my room on the tenth floor which has a beautiful view of Albert Park and I can see the Sky Tower to the right. Around 8:30am they brought me a lovely vegan breakfast of bacon and eggs. A couple hours later I noticed the yogurt they had brought said “VEGAN YOGHURT” on the bag. I ate it very happily! There is no fridge or microwave.

I joined my work team meeting and tried to work but the internet is really bad to connect remotely to our servers on. I fell asleep at 3pm and woke up at 3am. I have watched a lot of Star Trek: the Next Generation.

I tried out another eye makeup with the new supplies I got in Kentucky. I went to the exercise facilities on the ground floor, saw all the people walking in circles, panicked and returned to my room to do laps, burpees and sit-ups. The Covid tummy is out in full force and I hope to get back to my regular exercise.

I spoke to my sister, mother and some of my best friends Jasmin, Maya and Lewis. I had my temperature taken again by a nurse and I am normal. Now I am here writing this and eating a lunch of tofu and spinach.

I will spend the next to weeks trying to work as I can, making art, playing games, speaking to the people I love and thinking about my plans for the future. I hope to pursue further education on Community Partnerships with a focus in local government. I loved my time on Youth Council and hope to be a voice in decision-making to represent unheard and marginalized voices. I want to be there for queer people, youth, takatāpui, multicultural communities, women and a voice for the arts. I am hoping to achieve a Certificate in Social and Community Leadership through the University of Auckland next year, where I have been offered a place. I now have to think about how I’m going to make that happen with in-person classes whether I will move to be near Epsom or fly up for my classes once a week.

Arohanui and Ngā mihi,

Samantha

[thelittlestcheshire]

Hello! I’m Katie, and this is my muse Ches. There’s like death/murder tws in this but honestly? I just did this in a quick fact kinda way so... nothing is really detailed.

Is that HAILEY CHESHIRE “CHES” ELSWOOD? Wow, they do look a lot like KATHERINE MCNAMARA. I hear SHE is a EIGHTEEN year old SENIOR who originally attended CARNIFEX Academy. Word is they are an ARISTOCRAT student. You should watch out because they can be IMPULSIVE and STUBBORN, but on the bright side they can also be LOYAL and CREATIVE. Ultimately, you’ll get to see it all for yourself.

♥ basics; Full Name: Hailey Cheshire “Ches” Elswood Age: 18 Birthday: July 19th Sexual Orientation: Biromantic bisexual Relationship Status: Single Occupation: Student Nationality: American [with French dual citizenship] Ches’s Car

♥ classes;

Anthropology

Shakespearean Studies

Linguistics

Latin

Music

Advanced Sociology

Advanced Psychology

Russian

World History

♥ extracurriculars;

National Honor Society

Theater Club (Actor)

Concert Band (Piano)

♥ background; Place of Birth: Paris, France Hometown: New York, New York Health Issues: Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD Traumas: Watching her mother die (mugging gone wrong/shot to death)

♥ physical; Face Claim: Katherine McNamara Eye Color: Green Hair Color: Red Height: 5′3 ½” Weight: 115 lbs Tattoos, Birthmarks, Scars, etc: Mole above her belly button, a few moles on her thighs, freckles and face moles. (Face Ref 1, Face Ref 2,  Body Ref 1, Body Ref 2)

♥ relatives;

Father’s Full Name: Edward Valentine Elswood Father’s Status: Alive Father’s Occupation: CEO/Owner of a multi-billion dollar luxury goods conglomerate  (net worth of 50+ Billion in fact - in turn Elswood kids do NOT bat an eyelash at prices) Mother’s Full Name: Julia Andrieux Elswood Mother’s Status: Deceased [shot by a mugger on the twin’s 8th birthday] Siblings: 6 brothers and sisters (family page here) Elswood Children Oldest to Youngest:

Logan (23)

Jamie (21)

Emmett (19)

Jonah / Ches (TWINS)

Effie (13)

Ella (10)

♥ relationships; Ex-Significant Other(s): Probably a handful of people tbh, hit me up if you want this as a WC Reason for Separation: Stuff not working out, Ches getting bored before she got attached, so on - she’s a flirt tbh, it takes her wanting to get invested for her to stay Current Significant Other: N/A because she’s too busy sabotaging shit with Thomas

♥ misc;

Hobbies: playing piano, archery, singing, reading, and acting

Pinterest Board // Musings Tag // Playlist

Ches speaks English and French fluently, her mother was born and raised in Paris so she learnt them both at the same time

DO NOT CALL HER HAILEY unless you really want to end up on her shit list.

She’s the mom friend if your mom friend also goes “I HAVE THE BEST IDEA” and drags you into trouble. Literally, the one who frets over you and proceeds to get you into trouble.

This muse does what she wants, I just write it down I apologize always for her

Doesn’t really... seriously date too much because of past situations (Her older brother slept with the first person she truly loved) and she tries to avoid falling in love

That being said platonic I love yous are her shit, she loves her friends a LOT

Ches is very serious about her studying (and wanting to be among the best of the best because - this girl has Ivy league college dreams and she has no intents on fucking those up)

That being said if you get her away from her books she’s actually a lot of fun, she’s just like work first play later

She’s a bit of a closet nerd - if you look under her bed she has a chest of comic books, she’ll just lie if you ask her about them

Honestly, bios are my least favorite thing so if anyone has questions about Chessie just... toss them my way I’ll eagerly answer them.

♥ bio;

TWs: Gun Violence, Murder, Death, Blood, Abuse (Relationship), Cheating, Mental Illnesses

Growing up as an Elswood means two things, you have a lot of a sibling and a lot of money. Her parents had decided to raise their children in Manhattan, New York, where they could keep a close eye on their multi-billion dollar conglomerate. Her mother, Julia, would take them on trips constantly too - when she wanted to get the children away from the hustle and bustle of the city they’d go to their vacation home upstate, or their private island, or even to visit their family in Paris. At that point in life, Ches was happy. She had a solid group of friends, she had the best friend she could ever imagine having in the form of her twin brother, she had a loving and warm family, and she had a parent who would tell her no. 

When she thinks back to her life before the incident, it feels like a completely different story. A fairytale even, perfect and happy in every way compared to her life now. However, it wouldn’t last, after all, fairy tales didn’t exist and reality was a much crueler mistress. One could say Lin-Manuel Miranda described it best; “life doesn't discriminate between the sinners and the saints. It takes and it takes and it takes.”

Everything changed on her eighth birthday when her mother took her out shopping to get a present for twin brother Jonah at Palisades Mall. A man came up with a gun while they were in the parking lot and asked for all of their money. Julia Elswood compiled but she made one mistake, the simple utterance of “Cours, Ches” as she gave the man her purse.

Ches might have gotten out of the event alive, but not she was not unscathed. Julia Elswood was pronounced dead when medical finally arrived on the scene, her blood coating her daughter’s hands and clothing from Ches’s attempts to stop the bleeding. She might have survived the event without physical harm but she was never the same child she was before after that.

One day she had an intact family, the next day the Elswoods were in ruin. Her father completely shut himself out from the family, only coming out for birthdays and holidays. Her oldest brother stepped up as their parental figure, first starting out with homeschooling before he eventually dropped out to ensure his siblings was getting as much of his time as they possibly could. He tried his hardest to make the loss of their mother easier on the younger girls especially, given how young they were at the time. She helped him with the girls as much as she could (and over time she slowly started filling the role as their second parent). Because of how busy the younger Elswood children kept him, sometimes Logan didn’t have the time to comfort Ches when she woke up in the middle of the night, haunted by their mother.

That was when Emmett stepped in. It wasn’t uncommon for him to sleep on her floor so he’d be there when she woke up terrified out of her mind, and he was there when she just eventually stopped sleeping like people tended to. Over time she realized that Jonah and her weren’t truly two peas in a pod the way they used to be, that Emmett was the only Elswood who truly got her. He wasn’t perfectly normal either, his thoughts and feelings were flawed like hers. 

In a family that made her feel so broken at times, Emmett was a saving grace - a reminder she wasn’t alone.

He wasn’t the only reminder however, another one entered her life in the form of Asher Churchill when she was 11. He was on vacation in Paris while she was visiting her family when their paths crossed, they were fast friends and there was a point where she wished he would stay longer, a wish she felt guilty for after his family went through their own trauma. The experience only solidified her friendship with him, however - she likes to think that no matter what happens, she’ll always have Asher. He’s her ride or die, one of the few people who’s willing to put up with her all of her shit and want to keep her in their life. They even tried dating at one point, although that was fairly short-lived. She simply doesn’t love him like that.

It didn’t take her long to find someone she did love like that, however. Ches had thought she was fucked up before she met James, that she was at the worst point she ever could be. He showed her how mistaken she had been, even now she doesn’t like thinking about everything he had done to her. She doesn’t discuss everything he had put her through nor does she have any intentions on truly discussing the worst of the abuse she endured while dating him. Her past with James does have an effect on her, it made her terrified of truly falling in love with somebody again. 

James is also a massive reason why she doesn't get along with her brother Jamie, the two Elswood siblings never recovered from Jamie sleeping with Ches’s boyfriend. It causes a good deal of tension in the Elswood home but Ches can’t just forgive him, her brother never even apologized for his actions, she wasn’t going to pretend he didn’t hurt her because her father wanted them to get along for his own sake. They were on the rocks before this and afterward the tension just got a whole lot worse.

Perhaps the increasing tension was a factor in Ches deciding she wanted to attend Carnifex, the fact she knew Asher would be in attendance was another factor. (Although she plays dumb to the fact she actually knows he’s a Churchill, if he wanted to lie to everyone, she was going to play along - no matter how adorable she thinks the fact he actually believes she doesn’t know is.) It’s certainly a factor in why she stays, she gets very homesick at times - even after attending boarding school for her entire high school career. She misses her younger sisters, she missed Emmett and Camellia, and she misses her friends in the city. She also dislikes just how restricted she truly is when it comes to Instagram and trying to grow her influence while she attends Carnifex. Networking had to wait until she was home and sometimes she questions why she decided boarding school was a good idea.

And then Ches looks at her friends, at the education she’s receiving, and all the fond memories she’s developing. Carnifex, and now Luxor, was well worth the fear of missing out she feels. She’s happy in Lake George, and she has no intention of leaving the area before she graduates.

Please note, Asher is mentioned a lot. He belonged to an ex-member who is no longer here. I may write him out later but for now, keep that in mind.

TLDR / quick important notes recap for rereads:

Ches’s mother was murdered on her 8th birthday in front of her

She was raised by her oldest brother, Logan, and is NOT close to her father really. She also helped raise her younger sisters and is very protective of them.

The Elswood she is closest to is Emmett, Jonah and her grew apart after her mother’s death.

Ches’s first real love was James, they dated (entire)Freshman-(mid)Sophomore years, it was abusive (much more than Ches will ever discuss unless she gets majorly close to someone and they HAVE to know (cough still hasn’t happened though cough)) and Ches is now terrified of falling in love again. Her messy as fuck relationships & exes all start after this point.

[marryingasaudi]

3) I'm also told that if i give up my citizenship i can more easily become KSA citizen, which would make the whole family registry process easier. But i'm American and US passport is very strong so that's not a wise decision. Perhaps we would end up settling in USA, so we should facilitate a path for him to more easily get work there. Being my legal spouse would make visa application easier. But then we would be disconnected from Saudi family...what about the new tourist visa?

There are other ways to keep in touch with family. You should be able to visit Saudi Arabia with no problem. I know a few women who have traveled on this tourist visa you speak of and are now being able to see their men and their families. If not, you can always meet up in another country close to KSA. It is really a great thing! I also know that the women living in KSA have “dual” citizenship. You can easily get your passport back from the US embassy which all of them do when going through the process. It is a normal thing. 

[rivalsofnycupdates]

“She is water. Soft enough to offer life, tough enough to drown it away.”

■ ABOUT. ■

name: Leyla Ozturk age: twenty-eight occupation: actress gender: female pronouns: she /her sexuality: heterosexual

■ HISTORY. ■

It had been a cold autumn morning in Instanbul, Turkey when the youngest had entered the world. Aysu Öztürk Aydin and Kemal Öztürk had long been awaiting the arrival of their only little girl. Three boys having been born to the happy couple a couple of years before her. The eldest of her brothers was six when she was born, another four and the youngest of the male Öztürks had been two. She had made her arrival known, kicking and screaming the moment she had taken her first breath. It was then that her mother knew, she would be a handful. Her father had known it the moment he laid eyes on her. She’d been a beautiful little baby girl and if her brothers were any example, she would grow to remain just that… beautiful. He nicknamed her Banu ( meaning princess ) before she was even old enough to learn her actual name. The rest of the family catching on right away. In fact, for a while, her brothers had thought it to be her name. The young children never knew a moment of trouble. Food was never scarce, the roof above their head was stable and firm, the clothes that hugged their bodies were expensive and clean. The Öztürk name one holding power in Turkey. Her father had inherited the family company from his father, owning hotels, museums, factories, mines. They had found ways to keep a steady and clean income which kept them at the very top without even breaking a sweat.

Leyla had just turned four when her father left his younger brother in charge of the Istanbul companies and turned his attention to none other than New York City, New York. He had bought a home for his family and moved them right to the states without a second thought. The children had dual citizenship because Aysu, their mother, had been born in the States and had gone back to Turkey for her studies - where she met Kemal. A few years later, they were back on American soil. This time, to stay. Leyla and her brothers were enrolled in the best schools possible, up with the rest of the local millionaire’s children and amongst the elites. Her two oldest brothers settled in right away, making friends with the other children but remaining loyal to their youngest siblings. English was not a stranger to them, their mother had taught them when they were learning Turkish, finding it easier to teach two languages at the same time. There was a difference in atmosphere that young Leyla, hadn’t been too fond of. At first, having been just a child, she paid it no attention. Instead, was often found running after her brothers - causing mischief alongside them or at Dance rehearsals. As the years went by, however, her attentiveness would change. Her focus would shift onto bigger problems, the main picture.

The Öztürk name haunted her, everywhere she went. She was never Leyla, instead, she was Miss Öztürk. Make sure Miss Öztürk feels at home, only the best for her. The young girl had been Banu at home and… Miss Öztürk in social events or even at school. With the exception of fellow girl friends. That is, when she had them. In truth, she was never the type to allow others to befriend her for shallow purposes. When they did, she was sure to find out. Her father had expanded in America owning Hotels and Museums at first before buying into Restaurants and minor promising businesses. The idea of living off of her dad’s fortune for the rest of her days… disgusted her. Leyla was not looking forward to being considered an “Heiress” much less a “Spoilt little rich girl living off daddy’s money.” Her passion shifted from dance to… Modeling and Acting. Her talent was shortly after molded, her mother wasting no time in giving into little banu’s wishes. It would start off as plays and small shots in commercials, even music videos. Slowly, she would earn leading parts in school musicals, outside theatre shows and much more. Through all of this, Oscar Beaufort had been no stranger to her.

The first thing that had drawn her towards him had been his eyes. Not the ocean mirrored in his irises, though she did love that… It had been the softness in his gaze. In a cold hard man eats mans world - he was gentle. Though, no one cared to know that about him. No one except Leyla. They’d started off as friends when they were a bit younger, even throughout high school. He was the only genuine friend she had. In fact, he was the only person she even called her friend. Except for her brothers but, well, they were more of a “they have to be my friends, we’re siblings.” Oscar was a choice. Falling for him, not so much. That had been sheer coincidence and lack of control on her end. But she had not regretted a single second of falling for him. Everything with him was… real. They were not Miss Öztürk and Mister Beaufort… They were Leyla and Oscar, a normal girl with a normal boy. It meant the world to her, though, she expressed it mostly by dragging him along to little adventures and getaways. He’d been her rock, anchor and literal savior without even knowing it. Suddenly, she had someone who saw her for more than just her surname. She wasn’t just Banu or Miss Öztürk… She was so much more. He saw her, every part of her. Leyla, Banu and Miss Öztürk, they all played a key role into who she was and he was the only one who knew that. They shared a genuine, pristine and sweet love. In truth, Leyla was convinced that he had been her soulmate all along. They were meant to be endgame. Her acting career took off from one day to the other after she was casted for a leading role in an upcoming movie. The interest and fame brought her closer to her ambition and further from her love. A team of managers and advisors were set up, pulling her further into the spotlight with roles in other movies and even as the star of a tv series. The only thing that they wanted gone was… Oscar Beaufort. She struggled with complying for a while, denying and rejecting every idea that her team brought up in regards to her relationship status. Their relationship was never up for discussion, she insisted on it. Until… Of course, it was. They wanted her to have a public relationship with her co-star, for the publicity and hype and had left the offer of her having he relationship in secret. Suddenly, her emotions were no longer as important as Oscar’s and that’s when she realized that she was utterly and completely in love. Loving him in secret would only hurt him more than not being with her. At least, that’s what she gathered just before ending their relationship and flying out to California to begin her job.

■ WHOSE SIDE ARE YOU ON? ■

A little after her fame skyrocketed and she won some awards, Leyla found her way back home. Vacations and time off from sets were spent in her hometown alongside her beloved family. It was a nice escape and a very much needed reality check. Her trips back home always did well to keep her level headed and grounded, humbled her down to her very core. Getting once’s self to the top was enough to make the most insecure people think they were a god. That… well, that’s what she didn’t want happening to herself. Through it all, the only thing Leyla didn’t want to loose was herself. She’d had plenty of loss as it was. As far as the gangs are concerned… if her family is tied with the gangs ( which can be a possibility for the sake of plotting ), she has no clue of it. 

■ KEEP THIS AWAY FROM YOUR ENEMIES ■

Fame comes with an eery sense of loneliness that Leyla simply couldn’t handle. Not that she had a meltdown of some sort but definitely the inability to remain is California. That and the added pressure from her eldest brother’s untimely illness, her mother has all but begged that she return to the city. The TV show she had been cast on is going on three seasons and the upcoming one is set to take place in New York City upon her request. Or… more so, demand. She’s not a stuck up star, by any means. Leyla simply stated that if the production team couldn’t figure something out, she’d walk and take her talent back to her city. The promising young actress was not one anyone wanted off their project and so… Now they’re in NYC. Somehow, after years of Stardom - she’s remained with the odd feeling that something is missing. Something or… rather, someone. Leyla, however, continues her days as if this was untrue - more than embracing the fact that when she had the potential to have it all… She lost some. Currently, she’s living on her own in one of her father’s hotels - the top floor fixed for her very own pent house. It’s close enough that she can check up on her parents and visit her brothers, as well, but enough to keep her independent.

■ RELATIONSHIPS. ■

■ Oscar Beaufort: was / is her heart with two legs. They were together for a while and there was no one she would rather spend her days with but… life and others had different plans. Her lack of judgement had taken him from her and now… She doesn’t know how to speak to him or what to say.

■ Peter Darden: is her friend. They hang out and grab coffee together from time to time. Genuinely just good friends, good influences on each other.

■ Talia Barker: the closest thing she has to a best friend. Leyla was never one to have many girl friends or even a girl best friend, being close to her mother and such. But Talia and her get along well and… sometimes, you need a girl best friend.

■ CONNECTIONS. ■

■ Oscar Beaufort  > Ex Boyfriend

■ Peter Darden > Friend

■ Talia Barker > Best / Close Friend

Leyla Ozturk is a TAKEN character and is portrayed by Demet Ozdemir who’s FC IS NON-NEGOTIABLE.

[wishingfornever]

9/21/17 – No Contact:  Wrath of Rando

Yesterday, you finally got around to messaging me.  You probably were curious why I texted you.  It was because I knew I wouldn’t have data so if we were to talk, it wouldn’t be over skype.

You responded more human this time.  Not so cold I think, but not so warm either.  I dropped the fact that I was leaving in ten days to you and you wished me luck.  Not sure how true that is, might have just been acting friendly.  Especially since I had important shorts, probably. You know, I wanted to do something similar.  Say you forgot something.  However, it’d be a piece of lint instead. However, I felt that joke would fall a bit flat.  Maybe soon.  I wish we could talk more.  I would rather talk to you than through this journal.  Idk.  I’m starting to doubt if you’d go to Texas or not.  I guess you will be.  Shane messaged me yesterday asking about your gecko.  He’s preparing I guess.

I’m tired.  It’s almost two in the morning.  My sister kept me up again.  Lost to Rando.  Ain’t that some shit?  Anyways, I’ll message you when I wake up.  Not irl but soon.  Probably a few days before I leave for actual messaging you.  I’m talking about the journal…

Whatever, not important.  Good night; I love you.  I hope you’re safe.

I woke up at 11.  Went to sleep at about 2.  9 hours, basically.  Oof. I was doing really well in waking up early.  Series of dreams last night.  I remembered the dream from the night before briefly and I wanted to tell you, but it’s gone now. The first dream was us in a heavily Halloween’d Susanville.  We were doing some shopping together.  I checked several stores for a specific item and the last store we went to, I asked about it.  I then asked where it was made and he gave me a name.  I reiterate that I asked where and asked if the guy who made it was local or whatever?  Because why the hell would he give me a name?  Then he asked me to leave.  I was heartbroken.

The dream involved a series of unfortunate events for me.  We bumped into this guy who was really nice to us and we discussed how bad of a day it was.  He asked if we were broken up and before I could tell him we were you said you were giving me another chance.  I couldn’t help but smile and tell this guy that today wasn’t that bad, really.

I know… how unrealistic.  What was weird was that it spanned an entire day.  Super long.

The second dream, which came about by me waking up for a split second because I heard an alarm (my sister’s).  I immediately went back to sleep as it blared.  Thus, I began dreaming of the second dream.  It was World of Warcraft.  I wouldn’t play that game again.  I fucking hate the grind.  Too much time, if you can believe it.  But, this was a bit different.  A lot of influences and dumb things.  After a while of playing WoW in my head, my sister ate my leftovers from yesterday and I was so upset. Turned out, she didn’t though.  She just claimed to have eaten it.  I found the box next to her and opened it.  Something you should know is that I carefully packaged it.  But the sandwich came with a large toothpick thing in the middle.  So large that the box wouldn’t close.  My sister said I needed to pull it out or it wouldn’t close.  Then I just rammed it through the box so it had a stick protruding from it.

I found it pretty amusing.  You know me.  I thought about removing it after but then I thought about it some more and figured it’s better to leave it.  Going to have some in a bit when my dad leaves for town.  It was good.  We went to Claim Jumpers yesterday and it was stupid expensive.  Like, $84.  The cost of living in the US is so high when compared to Salamanca.  The food prices for restaurants of the same caliber would be lower as well.  Then again they use the Euro.  I guess I’ll have to learn that as well as metric soon. Still, the waitress was super nice to me.  Called me little names like “Sweetie” and whatever.  She was cute too. Could have been flirting, but I doubt it.  Natural skeptic, amirite? Anyways, I need to do my sets, take a shower, and continue with life.  I’m feeling productive today so I think I’ll work on my book, too.  Until my dad leaves (I hear him talking with someone and my sister just left, so probably Allen) I’ll stick in bed.  I don’t feel like dealing with Allen.  Like ever.  x.x Right now, I’m biding my time and watching airsoft videos from one of the airsoft sites in Salamanca.  When I’m at Adela’s, I’m going to start learning Spanish from Rosetta Stone and I’ll ask her to only speak Spanish to me.  I’m clever and my impersonations are decent. So once I get the hang of it, I have no doubt I’ll figure out the accent and not sound like such an American. I never tried to learn it because I felt ashamed of being Mexican.  I’ve had a lot of issues growing up, but this is my biggest regret.  I wish I took more pride in my heritage.  Now I do, but it’s a bit late for that, eh? Ironic that now I want everything that is American inside me to die.  I hate English.  I hate being American. If I go to Spain and speak Spanish fluent enough, I won’t tell anyone that I’m American but Mexican.  I will revoke my American citizenship when I do, even if Trump is no longer president.

Maybe I shouldn’t burn that bridge.  Idk, I have a lot of goals to complete within the next few years.  I guess I’m getting good at burning bridges though.  Fucking life, amirite? Dad stopped talking.  I think I hear his truck. I see Allen driving away.  I don’t see anyone in my dad’s truck… you know, anyone like my dad as a random example.  I’ve been getting dumb lately.  x.x

Anyways, listening to the airsoft videos I can hear people saying like “After this match we can go get some food.” and I here “Venga” a lot. The last word of the video was “venga” with no conversation beyond that.  Great stuff.  I’ll probably start using “venga” myself.  I’m not sure if I want to tell Adela that my end goal is to go to Spain.  If I did, she’d tell me, “Why not Mexico?” She’s right.  Why not Mexico?  Assuming she’d think so and then say so. Mexico isn’t a developed nation.  It’s also really hot.  No winter at all.  Go figure.  That said, Mexico is like… super corrupt.  Like, one of my cousins was robbed by the military.  The MILITARY.  Soldiers ran into their house and grabbed shit.  It’s a nice place to visit but I’m not sure about live.  The cost of living in Mexico is far lower than in Salamanca, mind you. The cost of living in Reno is 142.  Houston is 151.  Salamanca is 98. Mexico is 63 in Mazatlan and 91 in Mexico City.  It’d be easier for my family to visit me in Mazatlan which would be my first choice if I lived in Mexico City, but I’d be a part of the Eurozone in Salamanca.  I’d be able to explore and see things I’ve never seen before like France, Italy, Germany, even the UK.  Could probably travel by car, too.  I guess I just want to get as far away as possible from the US.  I mean, I could always move to Mongolia but… eh. I wanted a place that either spoke English or Spanish as it’s primary language.  I wanted it to be super affordable to live in.  Mexico can apply for both.  But Spain?  That country occasionally gets winters.  Of course, Salamanca is basically in a desert, but still.  It has 7 snow days on average.  That’s a decent number assuming the snow doesn’t melt.  The most expensive place to live is Connecticut for the US.  It scored 254 on the index.  Christ, fucking bourgeoisie.  Maybe CA isn’t that expensive afterall.  I mean, it’s still on average higher than Spain and DEFINITELY Mexico.  Higher than Ireland and the UK too. Amarillo’s cost of living was 126.  I did just fine on my own there.  Augusta, Georgia has the lowest cost of living in any US city.  102. Interesting stuff. Maybe I’ll reconsider Mexico in the future.  Mazatlan would be a safe place to live because the Cartels would lose money if they did the shit there that they do anywhere else.  Spain has about 400 murders a year.  Mexico has 25k murders a year.  Stats are from 2010. In term of crime rates, Spain is like top 10 for lowest.  Mexico is about the same as the US.  Not the worst, technically, but oof. We’ll see.  By the end of my book series and if I decide to make another, I’ll determine where I live by how well my book is selling.  If it’s doing well, I’ll go to Spain.  If it’s doing not as well but gives me enough money to move out of the US, I’ll go to Mexico.  Mexico would be a cheap move. Their airsoft laws are kinda lax, though you need express permission from the State to own gas pistols.  Oh, and there are checkpoints basically.  Toll booths.  I hate that shit.  And, of course, some parts of the country are militarized. Eh… discouraging.

I should stop thinking about it.  Mexico is a fine place and Mazatlan would be great to live in.  I’ve seen it.  I mean, there is a lot of smog but that’s any city.  And I’d be more familiar with Mexico than with Spain.

Oh, and I think you’d be less likely to get kidnapped in Spain if you decided to go with me.  A lot of Spaniards are white.  Not all, of course.  Just most.

Barcelona in Spain is just a little bit more expensive than Reno.  Weird, I was thinking it’d be WAY more expensive.  I really should learn how that index they use to measure shit works. Alright, just checked.  Spain isn’t top ten for least amount of crime.  27, actually.  Still, really good out of 200 nations.  Crime index of 30. They’d be considered “green”  US is 67 and their rate is 48. Mexico is 79 at 50.

Venga. It’d be easier to become a citizen in Mexico.  Should have dual-citizenship.  Anyways, my dad just left.  Time for noms.  :D

Sweet. Mazatlan has an airsoft field apparently.  There is a video where they go up against Culiacan’s team (Culiacan is where my family is from).  Good news, eh?  So, both can support a controversial hobby I enjoy.  Both speak Spanish.  Both have a long, rich history. Technically, neither are Americans (though Mexico epitomizes America, so fuck you, US).  Both have delicious food. I have a lot going on in my neck of the woods, I think.  I literally can’t fail. Good news, eh?  I’m bound to succeed in leaving the US.

I just finished my left overs (they were amazing, btw, thanks for asking) and Miller comes up to the door and start meowing weakly. Thing is, when I was getting food, I petted him and woke him up.  He was so upset that he hissed at me.  HISSED!!!  And now he wanted to come in here?  I said fuck it and let him in.  He ran in and immediately jumped up on the bed and is now laying at my feet.  What a little fuck. He’s lucky he’s so fucking cute. Little brat. >:C I think I’ll miss him.  Definitely more than Larry and Brandy.  Fuck those two.  >:C

Oh… if I move to Spain, I’ll need a new phone.  If I move to Mexico, I’ll need a new phone.  In Spain, I’ll probably need new outlets. Or at least I’ll have to live off FUCKING travel adapters.  More expenses that I hadn’t considered. At least in Mexico, I wouldn’t need the adapters unless I were vacationing in Europe. Living there would be fine.  So, that’s a bonus point for Mexico. Checking internet, Spain on Average is better than Mexico but worse than the US.  Average peak speeds, however, favor Spain?  So does Mbit/s.  I have no idea what that means.  Best speed in the world belongs to South Korea.  Really, of the three nations (US, Mexico, and Spain) Mexico is just… the worst.  So, I guess they lose a point for crap internet.  The US and Spain are close enough to not matter.  Probably won’t even matter in Mexico, either.  It’ll ALL be better than Wendel.  Thing is, I can actually game with Ariel if I’m in Spain.  That’s something she used to pester me about. Guess I’ll have to learn CS:GO in Spain. Can’t be that bad.  She’s just CRAZY good and I don’t stand a chance if she actually decided to play against me.  She’s sweet like that and gives me a chance. She’s better than me.  I wouldn’t give her a chance.  >:C Christ, there is so much to consider when emigrating nowadays.  Back then, you said, “Hey, we’re being targeted by Ethnic Cleansing.  Let’s go to the US, they advertise themselves as a paradise for foreigners.”  There are places in North Dakota that speak EXCLUSIVELY Swedish.  Fucking. Swedish. I don’t want to be a part of a community in Spain or Mexico that speak exclusively English.  In Mexico, there are a lot of Canadians in Mazatlan.  -,-

God, Miller is cute.  I touch his little butt, he stretches and purrs SO loudly that I can hear him from a yard away.  Audibly, too.  Aw, he just meowed super softly.  I love him… so much.  T,T

Well, not that much.  He’s a little dick.  Fuck that dude.  >:C

But soooooo cute! NO!!! YES?!? Maybe… idk…

Talk about a waste of time.  Sorry, didn’t mean to place meaningless text in here.  So much for my journal being super serious.  Even if you don’t live with me in Spain and/or Mexico… maybe you’ll visit.  I owe Jeremiah a promise though.  Wherever I’ll go, I’ll be sure to SMUGGLE him with me.  Probably would be harder in Spain to do that. I doubt he’d want to emigrate let alone learn a new language. Still, if I establish myself I’ll have to let him know it’s an option.

There is a lot to prepare for.  I don’t see myself moving within the next two years.  I might, though.  I might move to Mexico first and THEN to Spain.  That’s an idea.  Hrm… might be easier in the long run.  Might be cheaper, too.  Idk, yet.  Again, I’m just kind of winging it.  Sort of fitting, don’t you think?

We’ll have to see.

Hrm… both places, being super catholic, don’t celebrate the Halloween I like.  Fuck.  Ah, well.  I can celebrate it on my own terms by myself.  >:C Oh… FUCK!!!  FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK!!!  GOD FUCKING DAMMIT!!! Remember how I uninstalled everything to prove to you that nothing will get in between us?  I SHOULDN’T have uninstalled Napoleon Total War.  That was my source for the naval battle and if I intend to rewrite that chapter, I’ll have to see it again.  FUCK!!! Whatever, it was symbolic and it should still be saved on the steam cloud.  If not, I’ll copy the original chapter and use that as a source.  It’s a hassle but I can overcome.  I’m an idiot.

[studenthsb4-blog]

Lesson 15, Task 2: What has influenced me?

Culture is the way of life for certain people, and assists in making up one’s own religious beliefs, life choices and values. Various cultures are what make society unique, thus it is integral in influencing our everyday lives. Since culture is passed down from one generation to the next, naturally we all adapt to changes, however the core principals stay the same. Without a doubt, there have been many cultural influences in my life, some not even a part of what I would classify as a part of mine. 

Born in Port Huron, Michigan of the United States of America, I am lucky enough to have dual citizenship with both Canada and the U.S.A. My parents made this choice as my Mother is an American citizen and despite my Father being a Canadian citizen, it was easier/more cost effective for my birth to take place in the States. Raised by my paternal Grandparents, they are both the children of one first generation immigrant and one second generation immigrant. My Grandpa’s father was Italian and his mother French. As for my Grandma her father was Irish and her mother English. This giving me a mix of European heritage, alongside being Canadian and American. From this melting pot, and many more cultures, a smorgasbord of food has been integral in my everyday life. My Grandpa’s side of the family has brought dishes such as pasta bolognese, risotto, and lasagna (all originating from Italy). And as for my Grandma’s; Irish scone bread, stew, and shepherd's pie. Both have been the main meals cooked over my lifetime. To me overall I prefer the Italian cuisine although some of the Irish I enjoy. There are obviously many more dishes from the Irish and Italian culture in particular that exist, however my Grandparents were not given/taught how to make those. Canadian foods such as nanaimo bars, all dressed chips and poutine have also been staples in my house. Along with stepping outside of my cultural identity to Greek Salad, tacos and pumpernickel bread . I also had Chinese and Japanese food integrated into my life as my Aunt Selina immigrated to Canada from Harbin, China. She has cooked various dishes for me including Cong you bing (scallion pancakes), wonton soup and dumplings. She also had me try sushi which has now become my favorite food. Overall I would say Salmon Sashimi is the best sushi, or a dragon roll. The diversity through foods definitely has influenced me to try a ton of different foods, and enjoy cuisines from many cultures.

As far as fashion goes I grew up in a time when various fashion trends from decades passed came back, and new trends were created. An example of an old trend I hopped onto as a kid would be hand gloves which were popular in the eighties, and worn by famous stars like Madonna. Into my pre-teen to teen years shoes became very significant in a person’s wardrobe. Things like Uggs which are a type of boot made of sheepskin, originating from Australia - to fringe boots originating from First Nations people. Now I love moccasins, Adidas sneakers and other flat shoes. Although majority of my fashion choices (not only in shoes)  have originated from the United States, there are some from different cultures for sure.

Growing up, and even now I love interior/architectural design. Due to living with my Grandparents there have been many a antique shop, home show, furniture store, and church I have visited. Although liking some things from the Victorian era as my Grandparents do, or very Roman strikingly gorgeous things, I prefer very modern/minimalist looks. A movement of modernism in architecture and furniture began in Europe, then became popular worldwide. As of today many notable celebrities such as Rihanna, Bob Hope and Kourtney Kardashian have modern style homes as well as furniture. From looking at magazines such as Vogue, Architectural Digest and various home shows on TV, have influenced my modern preference. Particularly my interest of glass furniture, and buildings. 

Certain leisure activities, and forms of entertainment are pretty consistent in North America, my experience no different. From the ages of 4-17 I played house league soccer in the summer which originated from England (they call it football). Figure-skating, bowling, track and field, and basketball are a few more things which all also originate from Europe or Africa. Video games/game systems such as Nintendo DS, WII, Tamagotchi which were created in Japan also were things I played with as a child. Now, getting coffee with a friend, writing, and photography are my passions now. Technology and sports have always been influences in my interactions with others, educational advancements and overall lifestyle. 

 From foods, fashion, architecture and leisure activities/entertainment these are all forms of various cultural influences in my life, and everyone’s life. It is important that we continue to embrace other cultures in our everyday lives so that their traditions stay active and relevant. Through other cultures we are able to see the commonalities between all of us, which is a humbling reminder that we are all equally important and have things to contribute to the world. Being welcoming to other cultures allows everyone to be more accepting of differences around them as well. Differences are what make the world unique, and allows us to grow as societies. If we were all the same, it would be impossible for us to progress and we would become stagnant. When taking a step back we all can find that culture is at the basis of almost all our life experiences, and enriches them.

[switchstrategyblog]

America – Tax-Free Zone Video Course

America – Tax-Free Zone Video Course

America – Tax-Free Zone Video Course

I’m talking about legally eliminating all taxation on the most common forms of investment income. Or running a business with 4% or less taxes on profits.

Never before have such incredible tax incentives been available to Americans so easily.

Dear Reader,

I did it.

I recently moved down to the Island of Enchantment with my family.

Not that they mind… it’s been sunny almost every day with a cool ocean breeze, and temperatures in the 70s and 80s.

Sure beats the freezing cold and snowy weather.

Our big workout down here is taking a swim in the pool or the ocean versus digging out of huge snow piles.

But it wasn’t just the sunny skies, year-round warm weather, and beautiful ocean beaches that drew us to Puerto Rico; it was the incredible tax breaks that are available here that are not available anywhere else in the world for would-be former US residents.

You see, to spur job growth and economic activity in general, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico introduced these enormous tax incentives for incoming residents and service businesses.

Specifically, for Puerto Rican residents and businesses that qualify—mostly expatriates from the US mainland or their enterprises—the recently enacted Act 22 and Act 20 provide for a zero tax rate on capital gains and certain interest and dividends earned by individuals.

And, if you a run a business that exports services like I’m doing here, they also provide for low single-digit tax rates on your profits. No double tax taxation, no income tax on profits, just a top 4% withholding on distributions to owners (and no corporate tax on profits sent to your partners outside of Puerto Rico, either).

According to Bloomberg, “The marginal tax rate for affluent New Yorkers can exceed 50 percent on ordinary income.”

By relocating to Puerto Rico, enormous tax savings can be achieved.

For certain investors, that could mean eliminating taxation completely. For the right businesses, it could mean tax rates of just 4% on earnings.

Anyone who relocates to Puerto Rico can apply for the tax shelter of Acts 22 and 20—including mainland US citizens, who cannot find similar benefits anywhere else in the world without significant complication and expense.

Now, I know it sounds too good to be true.

But I’ve done a comprehensive boots-on-the-ground investigation and found that the tax advantages are real, and that for many Americans they are a huge opportunity that could truly be life-changing.

Because, until now, there was no easy, legal way to escape US taxes… besides death or renouncing your US citizenship.

That’s because the US is the only country in the world that effectively taxes its citizens and former residents no matter where they live and make their money.

Sure, there are plenty of low-tax countries in the world. Singapore, the Cayman Islands, and Dubai come to mind—and chances are you’ve heard of them all for that reason.

These little countries have turned into financial and services meccas because any Londoner or Parisian or Canadian could head there and run a business or manage their investments in a much more tax-friendly climate.

America, not so much. While they do allow a small exemption for a minimal amount of income, with lots of rules, generally Americans are taxed no matter where they go. Especially the successful ones.

Many believe it’s these suffocating and unfavorable tax policies plaguing US citizens that are responsible for the record number of Americans saying goodbye permanently to Uncle Sam by renouncing their citizenship and heading to places like Singapore.

In fact, Forbes is reporting that the number of US citizens and permanent residents who gave up their citizenship soared 221% last year alone.

That’s what Facebook cofounder Eduardo Savarin did when he headed for Singapore.

But the penalty for giving up your citizenship is high if you’re wealthy—thanks to the enormous US exit tax.

The US worries about this trend, of course.

Jurisdictions like Puerto Rico want in on it to boost their own economies, like Hong Kong or Macau or Belize have. Because of those dual forces, there is now a much easier way to seek less-taxed shores, one of which is rooted in decades of US law and support and unlikely to change on a whim.

That’s where Puerto Rico shines brightly above all others…

By becoming a bona fide resident of Puerto Rico, you can escape paying high US taxes legally, still retain your American citizenship, and avoid paying the hefty exit tax.

You see, since Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory (commonwealth) of the US, it’s allowed to have a special tax arrangement.

Namely, legal residents of Puerto Rico who earn their income in Puerto Rico do not pay US federal income taxes.

All Puerto Ricans are already US citizens, and since it is a commonwealth of the US, Americans are generally free to stay on the island without restriction and do not even need a passport to travel there. It’s like visiting another state for most purposes, though one that predominately speaks Spanish.

But speaking Spanish is not a necessity to move there… you don’t need to learn Spanish to get around Puerto Rico. Many expats and relocated mainland Americans only speak English and get along just fine.

While mainland Americans who become Puerto Rican residents do not have to pay US federal income taxes on income earned on the island, they still have to pay local Puerto Rican taxes.

Traditionally, those taxes have been very close to those back home, so the island’s unique tax status didn’t net much benefit.

For decades, the US Virgin Islands have offered tax incentives to attract investors to the islands—with programs supported by the US government since the 1950s. However, these programs were complex and imposed huge regulatory burdens. And those islands are much smaller and with much less of the modern infrastructure Puerto Rico offers.

Over the last few decades, Puerto Rico caught on to the enormous benefits such tax incentives brought to its neighbors in the Caribbean and Central America, and provided incentives to draw big manufacturers like Pfizer, Bard, and Praxair to the island—all have facilities within a stone’s throw of my chosen home—even Microsoft has a presence here.

But, they were losing out on less environmentally impactful and better-paying jobs in finance, call centers, and dozens of other service businesses that headed elsewhere.

To catch up, Puerto Rico recently slashed its taxes on capital gains, dividends, and interest to ZERO for new residents who apply.

This means that mainland Americans who move to Puerto Rico can eliminate taxation on investments they make on the island or in the markets. This is a huge benefit to stock traders, venture capitalists, M&A practitioners, or anyone who gets bitten by capital gains tax at the end of the year. This is what “Act 22” accomplishes.

On top of that, they’ve launched a set of incentives to draw service businesses down to the island. Everything from asset managers to marketers and public relations professionals. Computer programmers. Graphic designers. Or writers and researchers, like me.

Under this law—Act 20—any service business that can be operated in Puerto Rico for clients outside of Puerto Rico can apply for special tax treatment, including a host of benefits of which the most important is a tax rate of 4% or lower.

This is so small it’s almost a rounding error in comparison to the combined US federal, state, and sometimes city income taxes that you would pay on the mainland US.

For example, an investment manager based in Puerto Rico who performs services for US-based clients would be eligible for the lower income tax rate.

The tax benefits are so enormous that I brought my own family here to take advantage of them.

I would not have made the move and uprooted my family if I didn t think the tax advantages were real and here to stay.

With the extra income I make by residing in Puerto Rico, I’ll be able to provide my family with a better quality of life and still keep our US citizenship. In Puerto Rico you’ll enjoy a low cost of living compared to most island locations (I even still get free Prime shipping from Amazon), excellent health care, modern telecommunication services like high-speed Internet that’s faster than I could ever get in my home in Vermont… not to mention tropical weather, beautiful beaches, majestic mountains, good food, and a thriving arts scene.

On top of that, the business tax savings here and the great pool of educated labor allow me to reinvest more of my income into growing my business. And when I do turn a profit, I keep what I’ve risked so much and worked so hard to earn.

All on a tropical island in the Caribbean that’s 100 miles long and 35 miles wide… about three times the size of Rhode Island.

Now like everywhere else, of course, Puerto Rico has its negatives. Make a decision like mine and inevitably you will hear something about the crime. But to extrapolate the bad statistics to the entire area is a mistake. It would be like not moving to Michigan’s beautiful lakefront because of crime in Detroit.

Like any state with a dense metropolitan area, there’s crime in some areas. If you steer clear of those areas or take the same precautions you would in any big city around the world, you’ll be fine.

So if you’re an individual who makes most of your money from capital gains, a service provider who can provide services from Puerto Rico to your non-Puerto Rican clients, or a business owner with operations outside of Puerto Rico… then you could benefit substantially from very significant income tax savings with a move to the Island of Enchantment.

That’s why I was eager to make the move to Puerto Rico myself. And after traveling the island, meeting with real estate agents, lawyers, government reps, accountants, et al., I’m more convinced than ever that the tax benefits are enormous for those that qualify.

But there are some hurdles you need to be aware of. This is not a decision to be made on a whim; it requires a little bit of preparation and planning.

The good part is that my excellent colleagues at Casey Research and International Man who have been helping individuals make the most of their financial freedom for four decades now and I have done almost all the hard work for you.

We’ve put together the definitive, authoritative, comprehensive guidebook to the tax advantages of residing in Puerto Rico.

This guidebook, How to Legally Remove Yourself from the U.S. Tax Code, without Leaving America, thoroughly covers the unique opportunity for Americans that Puerto Rico’s Acts 20 and 22 offer.

We’ve put in hundreds of hours of research, with our sandals on the beach, to make this report a reality. It has been circulated for comments by attorneys and accountants in the US and in Puerto Rico to ensure the advice is as accurate and straightforward as possible.

In fact, one of Puerto Rico’s most prominent law offices, Pietrantoni Méndez & Alvarez (PMA) LLC, has lent its seal of approval to the report after thoroughly reviewing it. You know how much work it takes to get a lawyer to commit to anything.

If you’re considering the possibility of relocating to take advantage of these tax savings, our Puerto Rico guide is a must have.

I can tell you from experience, it will save you thousands in legal expenses by helping you understand how you and/or your business can qualify for these life-changing benefits.

Start here before you sit down with your own accountant or attorney. Or find out how, if you’re only taking advantage of Act 22, you can easily apply yourself.

The guide is packed with actionable information, including a multitude of professional resources (lawyers, accountants, real estate firms, etc.) that we have personally vetted.

We believe this guidebook is so important, especially right now, that we’ve arranged a way for you to get a free copy for a limited time by clicking here.

Inside, you’ll receive exclusive guidance available nowhere else, including…

How individual Americans can totally eliminate all taxation on certain types of investment income (capital gains, dividend, and interest income). How service businesses (like consultants, software development, accountants, financial planners, asset managers, etc.) can reduce their top corporate tax rate to 4%, a pittance when compared to the top corporate rate of 40% in the mainland US. The genesis of the new tax incentives in Puerto Rico and why we believe they are here to stay. How to apply for these tax benefits, including the written and unwritten rules you have to follow. How to qualify for many of these life-changing benefits without an expensive visit to a law office. Our top personal resources available to help you find a home, get tax help, structure businesses, network with expats, and more. The answers to a list of frequently asked questions about moving and living in Puerto Rico, including banking in Puerto Rico, the best places for expats to live (from a modest budget to more luxurious options), and how to navigate a real estate transaction. As I mentioned above, I have personally made the move to Puerto Rico to take advantage of the huge tax savings that as an American I cannot obtain anywhere else in the world.

So we’re not just reporting from theory here, but are actually on the ground in Puerto Rico gathering the facts on the rules and regulations that make these tax savings work to your advantage.

That’s why we’re excited to make available our guidebook, How to Legally Remove Yourself from the U.S. Tax Code, without Leaving America, to you today for free for a limited time. So that you can achieve substantially lower taxes—and a dramatically improved lifestyle—without leaving America behind.

America – Tax-Free Zone Video Course

America – Tax-Free Zone Video Course

The post America – Tax-Free Zone Video Course appeared first on Top Info Scout.

America – Tax-Free Zone Video Course published first on http://ift.tt/2gY0vxh

[lenaglittleus]

6 Months In San Francisco | My Initial Thoughts + Your Questions Answered!

Confession, it’s actually been 8 months since we landed in San Francisco. We technically got here at the end of November (the 22nd to be exact), but there were a lot of unknowns when we first got here, including, will we stay? So I’m counting from when we moved into our apartment in the city in mid-January, which makes it about 6.5 months of living here so I’m not completely lying to you!

But whether it’s been 6 months or 8 months, I still feel like a newbie to the city, which also means I’m still in the honeymoon-phase as well. I’ve pretty much experienced every type of emotion under the sun since moving here and have learned A LOT about the culture. Some good, some bad but mostly very, very good.

So I’m writing this post for anyone who is curious about San Francisco, is planning a big move and also for me, because at the end of the day this space is my online diary and I want to chronicle these emotions. Of course, these reflections are entirely my own and I may be making some sweeping generalizations here, but this has been my experience so far.

THE CULTURE

When we told people we were moving to San Francisco, most people nodded their heads and said something along the lines of “mhmmmm sounds like your kind of place”. And yes, they were entirely right. This city is made up of entrepreneurs, foodies, health nuts, outdoorsy folks and I swear the median age here is 30. It is very much as tech-forward as it seems and oftentimes I have to check myself about the reality that most of the world does not live with an app that can pretty much do anything for you or casually see self-driving cars riding down the street.

It’s definitely not a late-night city, which is great because my stamina peaked at 23 and I can’t stay up past 11:00 PM. Consequently, most people spend their weekends looking for some outdoor activity or way to get out of the city. So yeah…totally my jam.

It’s also an incredibly expensive city. This was something I was aware of, though I didn’t anticipate how widespread it would be. I expected rent prices to be astronomical (they are), but everything from a burrito to a workout class is insanely pricey. Luckily, I’m thrifty and we were willing to live in a less cool neighborhood so it’s been an okay adjustment for us, but yeah, it’s a bit of a shock to the system. Not complaining, just adding my two cents.

Because of the influx of young people and specifically those in the tech scene, there are a lot of socioeconomic issues at play. I’m not going to get into these but want to acknowledge the fact that while this city is wonderfully thriving, there are also a lot of people struggling to live because the city has just simply become way too expensive for most. I also acknowledge that I am very much a part of the problem. But that’s all I’ll say about that for now.

Perhaps what I love most about San Francisco is the community feel. Even though it’s a city, it’s still a small one (less than a million in a 7 x 7 mile radius) and there’s definitely a culture of collaboration and team work. Maybe it was because I was coming from Toronto, which is HUGE, but I’ve felt a lot more supported personally and business-wise since moving here. Everyone is friendly and willing to help you out.

I’m definitely drinking the San Francisco koolaid.

THINGS I DIDN’T EXPECT

While there was a lot I was prepared for since we have family here and have visited several times over the last couple of years, there were a few things I was surprised to discover in our 6 months in San Francisco.

There are a million neighborhoods – despite being small, I swear SF has more neighborhoods than any other city. Some neighborhoods feel like they’re only 4 blocks long! It’s made it tricky to get to learn the city, but I’m getting there.

You need a car – I’ve only ever lived in cities where having a car isn’t necessary (Toronto, Montreal, NYC). We technically had a car, it just didn’t quite make it to San Francisco (whomp whomp), and while we’ve managed to survive without one, it’s certainly a nice perk. Because of Lyft and Uber, it isn’t nearly as challenging to get around the city, and we both take public transit, but it’s for adventures outside of the city that it gets tricky. Fortunately, our friends and family have been generous with us and we’ve made do until we decide to invest in our own.

The city is tiny – I mean this both physically and population-wise. You could run across the city and have only done a quarter marathon. And besides actually being small, it feels small. I’m pretty new to the city but even I’m running into the few people I know on the street. Everyone feels like they’re one-degree of connection away from the next person.

People freak out if you say “San Fran” – Yup, it’s a big faux-pas to call it San Fran. While I don’t personally care, it’s sort of this untold sign that you’re a foreigner and locals roll their eyes when people call it that. Call it San Francisco or SF or be prepared to be judged. God forbid you should call it “Frisco”…

Everyone here is new – Literally everyone I meet “just moved to San Francisco”. I felt like the new kid on the block for 2 weeks after which I was surprised by a whole slew of people. Suddenly I became a local. Of course, there are people who are born and raised here (they’ll let you know), but most people are new to the city.

It’s cold – This coming from a Canadian, I should add.  While, it isn’t actually cold, it is not the typical California weather that people picture. The weather fluctuates between 50-65 all year long. The summer is actually the coldest because the fog rolls in. I had only ever visited in the Spring and Fall so I never realized what fog actually meant. Needless-to-say, we now have to warn all friends and family visiting to not bother bringing shorts.

There’s no such thing as air-conditioning– No homes come with A/C (unless you’re living the lux life) and it takes one hell of a cold spell for people to turn on their heat. When we first moved here I was shivering for 2 months straight and then we moved into our apartment and I cranked the heat to 72. No shame.

The fog has a name – his name is Karl and he has a hilarious twitter account that I’m pretty sure is the funniest on the internet. You get to know him pretty well when you live here.

YOUR QUESTIONS

Since moving here, a lot of you guys had questions so I thought I would answer them all in one place. If you have any others, feel free to drop them in the comments below and I’ll respond to them!

1. What visa are you on? I am not on a visa. I have dual citizenship (as does C…I know, not fair!) from my American Mom so I didn’t have to deal with visa issues. Taxes on the other hand…nightmare.

2. How do you feel about the weather? March through May and September through November I am obsessed with the weather. It’s sunny, cool and perfect for any outdoor adventure. The rainy season (Winter) is pretty brutal but not nearly as bad as snow IMO. I think I’ll miss the Fall changing of leaves, but I can always visit somewhere in the midwest or east coast if I want to see foliage

3. How’d you handle the anxiety/stress of change and the unknown? Well, the truth is that I didn’t handle it very well. To be honest, I was not focused at all on the anxiety and stress that moving inevitably induces and instead got wrapped up in what life would look like when it was finally settled. When the shock of it all hit me, I was so unprepared them I ended up feeling extreme anxiety and stress. I learned a lot from the process, which you watch here.

4. Have you noticed any small signs of it being the right move for you? I love this question (thanks Kelsey!). TBH I can’t remember if there were any small signs (I was in a very emotional state when we moved and I can’t say I was paying attention), but I do think that all of the stressful situations we went through all happened for a reason. Things like totalling the car, having credit issues (two Canadians who had zero credit in the US) and struggles with finding a home actually made us more resilient and tested mine and C’s relationship in a big way. It’s not that we became closer, but we did discover our capacity for working together through stressful situations, which I am forever grateful for and definitely made us feel ready to take the next step. I also think we have so much more appreciation for the life we’ve created because we REALLY had to work for it.

5. How has it been making friends in a new city? Easy! Like I said, so many people here are new so everyone is really open to making friends. We came into our move knowing a lot of people but have made lots of new friends and it was wayyyy easier than I’d imagined so long as you’re willing to put yourself out there.

6. How have you handled being away from family and friends? I miss my friends and family back home in Toronto, but when you move to a desirable city, you can expect they’ll come visit. Since April it’s pretty much been a non-stop series of visitors so we certainly haven’t felt lonely. I’m also back in Toronto every couple of months so even though we miss our people on a daily basis, we still get to see them often.

7. What are your favorite healthy restaurants and brunch places in San Francisco? I’m planning on writing a post similar to this one that I did for Toronto once we’ve spent a bit more time here and have been able to explore more. But for now, here are so favorites:

–Seed and Salt: a bit overpriced – everything is here – but their chocolate chip cookies and turmeric latte is amazing –Marla Bakery: We loveeee the sourdough and the farmer’s cheese on an everything bagel –Blue Barn: Best place to get salads twice the size of your head –Jane on Fillmore: Love everything about this place but especially their fast wifi and plenty of seats to bunk-up and work for a couple of hours –Nourish Cafe: Their green acai bowl is bomb –The Richfield: My favorite Matcha Latte in the city –Burma Superstar: Not exactly the healthiest but I love their Fiery Tofu with Veggies and Tea Leaf Salad. –Zazie: Go for brunch. Thank me later.

There are soooooo many others that I didn’t include or haven’t explored, but stay tuned!

8. How has the blogging scene been in San Francisco? I had no idea what to expect when it came to meeting other bloggers. It’s actually ended up being super awesome! This is all my own experience, but I felt like the Toronto scene could be very cliquey at times. I met some amazing people through it, but other times it felt like bloggers were more like socialites who were creating content for brands, rather than something that might be valuable to their readers.

I’ve had the complete opposite experience here. First off, I’m surprised at how few bloggers are doing this full-time. I expected it to be much higher, since it’s such a tech/entrepreneurial scene, but for most people this is a side-hustle. It’s been hard meeting other bloggers who get what it means to have this be your business, but everyone here has been so kind, inviting and willing to help me out as I get to know the Bay.

Let me know if you guys like these updates and I’ll keep em’ coming! Stay tuned for an apartment tour and my favorite places in San Francisco coming soon.

Have you ever been to San Francisco? Is this what you expected it to be like?

The post 6 Months In San Francisco | My Initial Thoughts + Your Questions Answered! appeared first on The Healthy Maven.

from News About Health http://www.thehealthymaven.com/2017/07/6-months-in-san-francisco.html