#downtown newark

[newarknjhijrah]

Newark, New Jersey Newark Penn Station

[bvar]

#Downtown #Newark #tonight #NewJersey (at New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpG7lsltvvU/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[puck-luck]

15 of spades w/ Jack Hughes where they’re simply just roommates that like to flirt and this time it goes beyond a few flirty words and gestures

Warnings: unprotected p in v, pining Jack, soft & sweet, roommates to lovers WC: 1,406

You like to say that your life has become a New Girl situation. After a messy break-up, you moved in with your (now) friend, Jack. He’s cute and charming, way too into sports, and he’s got a great job as a bartender in downtown Newark. Your shared apartment is in North Kearny, so it’s an easy drive anywhere. The rent isn’t crazy. Plus, with all of his downtown connections, Jack can get you into any bar or club or party.

You were wary at first about living with a boy, but Jack is neat and king. He always does his dishes and his laundry, always cleans up after himself, and he often offers to make dinner for you since you work all day and his shifts are usually at night.

You like Jack. You think he’s a really good friend, but you can’t deny that you find him attractive. There’s something about his monotone voice and sarcastic smile, paired with his brown hair and his pretty blue eyes. He employs casual physical touch, delivering dinner to you with a hand on your shoulder– since he won’t dream of letting you stand and serve yourself. He’s a gentleman, after all, something he reminds you of whenever you try to help Jack with something he said he could do for you. Usually, he’ll steer you back towards the couch or towards the dining table, pushing you down and telling you to stay there “or else.” It’s an empty threat, because Jack would never do anything to actually harm you. He wouldn’t hurt a fly (he would, however, try and chase it out the front door with a rolled up magazine because the buzzing was annoying him). His behavior does nothing to drive away the butterflies in your stomach that are breaking out of their cocoons. You’re falling for Jack.

You think he’s falling for you, too. He’s a lot harder to read, but he always wants to hang out with you. He wants to watch movies with you and try and teach you how to play his favorite games, always inviting you out with him and his friends or trying to merge your friend group with his own. He’s had one success: one of your friends has been loosely “seeing” his friend Alex when their schedules align. They’re not labeling it, but they’re spending more and more time together. 

Your friends swear Jack wants to integrate the groups so that he can see you even after you move out. You only signed a year-long lease, so you’ve been trying to decide what to do. You could stay with Jack, who is very sweet and very perfect, or you could live alone. The downfall of living with Jack is that you share a bathroom with him. The other downfall is that he doesn’t work set hours and you feel… well, awkward when you try to invite someone to spend the night and Jack gets off work early. There’s nothing to be ashamed of, and you’re not committed to Jack, but you don’t want him seeing another guy in your bed. You feel a little bit like you’re betraying him, but mostly you just want to be a courteous roommate. It was his apartment first.

Things are coming to a head. It’s been weeks since you’ve gotten laid and you’re getting antsy. Jack was supposed to have a shift tonight, so you had invited one of your Hinge matches over, not expecting your roommate to be back until about 2 or 3 in the morning. That would give you plenty of time to fuck this guy and send him on his way. 

Jack comes home at 11:30. The other bartender needed to make rent tonight, so he offered to switch cuts and close for Jack. Jack made rent last weekend after working a Saturday double– you’d had a girl’s night that night, so your one good chance to fuck a man was lost– so he accepted and returned home.

You’re pissed. You texted your hookup and told him that your roommate came home early and you’d have to reschedule, knowing that he’ll probably end up ghosting you since this is the second time you’ve deflected a meetup. You could just go to his place, but you really don’t want to be trapped in another person’s apartment. You like to kick them out. You don’t like to be the one getting kicked out.

You’re sat on the couch with Jack, who’s talking about his night. He’s talking over your TV show, which is arguably the worst season of the show to be released, but it’s new and you want to pay attention. You can’t while Jack’s yapping. Your responses have gotten shorter and shorter, and your arms are crossed over your chest, and your side-eyes are becoming more and more like a glare. 

Jack finally notices.

“What’s up?” He says. “You seem mad.”

You sigh and pause your show, deciding to be frank with your roommate. You turn to him. “I need you to work a full closing shift one of these days, buddy.”

Jack makes a face. “Why?” He asks. He shakes his head slightly, squinting at you. “You don’t wanna hang out with me?”

“I need to get fucked.”

Jack’s jaw drops at the suddenness of your words.

“And I don’t want to have sex with someone else while you’re in this apartment,” you continue without pause. “So I was supposed to have a guy over while you worked tonight, but I had to cancel because you came home.”

Jack blinks at you, speechless.

“So, yeah, I’m a little mad, Jack.” You stand from the couch. “But it’s whatever. I’m going to go to bed.” You leave him in the living room.

You get all the way to your bedroom door before Jack scrambles after you.

“I could make you feel better,” he offers, his cheeks growing red with a blush. 

Now it’s your turn to be taken aback. “What?”

“I could make you feel better,” Jack repeats. “I’ll fuck you.”

You rub your eyes like you’re waking up from a dream. “What?”

Jack comes closer to you, reaching out to touch your hip. “I want to fuck you. I didn’t think we’d ever– well, that doesn’t matter. I’ll fuck you. I want to fuck you.”

That’s how you fell into bed with Jack. You’re surprised it didn’t happen sooner with the way Jack is bearing his soul to you– how pretty he thought you were the first time he saw you, how he’s wanted to touch you for so long and he can barely hold back sometimes, how much he likes doing things for you because he feels like your boyfriend. He tells you how he’ll prove to you that he’s worth more than just a fuck when you’re frustrated at him, but for now, he wants to show you what he’s been dreaming about.

His fingers bring you to one orgasm. His mouth, lapping at your first release, brings you to a second.

Then his cock. It’s straining in your palm once you’re finally able to get your hand on him, guiding him through your folds. 

Jack’s eyes are hooded and dark like he’s drunk on lust. He moves at your pace, allowing your cunt to draw him in slowly. He inches forward, savoring it, and it’s then that Jack leans down to kiss you for the first time. His lips are soft against yours, insistent in a way that portrays his desire for you. 

“Wanted to do this for so long,” Jack whispers into your mouth. “You have no idea.”

“Fuck me,” you reply, voice soft and imploring. 

Jack starts to move his hips, his head dipping so that his forehead touches yours. After a few minutes, he’s panting and making soft noises of pleasure. His eyelashes are fluttering, but it seems like he doesn’t want to close his eyes completely and lose you. He’s holding back, sounding like he’s close to coming.

You roll your hips up against him. “C’mon, Jack,” you say. “Want you to come.”

He shudders, seconds away from letting go. Your fingernails against his scalp are his undoing, making his eyes roll back and his inhibitions to disappear. He’s finally got what he wanted– his cock inside of you, filling you up. He sleeps in your bed that night.

And every night after.

You renew your lease the following week.

[estapa-edwards]

"Team Sweetheart" and "Physical Therapist" are so gorgeous I've reread them both like 10 times! They leave me so full of butterflies I am positively buzzing! May I please make a request with Jack and a girl who has no knowledge/familiarity with hockey, or any sports for that matter? Maybe just them introducing eachother to their interests/worlds as their relationship develops and it's just nice to be with someone a bit removed from what Jack's life is centered around. Idk if that makes sense please ignore this if you don't like it.

CONNECTION - J . HUGHES

paring: Jack Hughes x reader

word count: 2k

requested? yes

warnings: use of y/n.

*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨* ≈☆≈ *¨¨*:·..·:*¨¨*

Jack Hughes walked into the quiet café, eager for a break from the relentless pace of his hockey-centered life. The New Jersey Devils had been having a grueling season, and every moment off the ice felt like a precious escape. The café, tucked away in a corner of downtown Newark, had become his haven. Today, however, he was greeted by an unfamiliar face behind the counter.

“Hi, welcome to Brewed Awakening. What can I get you?” the girl asked with a warm smile. Her name tag read "Y/N."

Jack glanced at the menu, though he already knew what he wanted. “I’ll have a black coffee, please.”

Y/N nodded, her fingers flying over the buttons of the register. “Coming right up. Are you from around here?”

Jack hesitated. Despite his growing fame, he still enjoyed the anonymity of casual encounters. “Yeah, I live nearby. What about you?”

Y/N handed him his change and started preparing his coffee. “I just moved here for school. Trying to get the hang of the city and all.”

Jack smiled. “It’s a great place once you get to know it. What are you studying?”

“Art history. I know, it’s not exactly the most practical major, but it’s my passion,” she said with a slight laugh. “What about you? What do you do?”

Jack paused, unsure of how to respond. “I’m... in sports,” he said vaguely.

Y/N raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his hesitation. “Any particular sport?”

“Hockey,” he admitted. “I play for the New Jersey Devils.”

Her eyes widened slightly. “Oh, wow. I’m sorry, I don’t really follow sports. But that sounds impressive!”

Jack chuckled. “That’s okay. It’s actually kind of refreshing to meet someone who isn’t obsessed with hockey.”

Y/N handed him his coffee. “Well, I’m glad I could provide a break from the norm. Enjoy your coffee!”

As Jack took a seat by the window, he couldn’t help but feel a spark of curiosity about Y/N. She was different from anyone he had met in a long time. He found himself looking forward to his next visit to the café.

--- --- --- 

Over the next few weeks, Jack found himself returning to Brewed Awakening more often. Each time, he and Y/N would chat for a few minutes, their conversations growing more personal with each encounter. Jack learned that Y/N was passionate about art, spending her weekends exploring museums and galleries. She, in turn, learned about Jack’s rigorous training schedule and the pressures of professional sports.

One rainy afternoon, Jack entered the café, drenched from practice. Y/N greeted him with a sympathetic smile. “Rough day?”

“Just a long one,” he replied, shaking off his wet jacket. “Do you have a break coming up? I’d love to hear more about this art thing you’re always talking about.”

Y/N’s eyes lit up. “Actually, I do. Give me five minutes to finish up here.”

A few minutes later, Y/N joined Jack at his table, a steaming cup of tea in her hands. “So, where should I start?”

“Tell me about your favorite artist,” Jack suggested, genuinely curious.

Y/N’s face brightened. “That’s a tough one, but I’d have to say Vincent van Gogh. His work is so emotional and raw. There’s something incredibly moving about the way he saw the world.”

Jack listened intently as Y/N described van Gogh’s turbulent life and vibrant paintings. He found himself captivated by her passion and the way she brought the art to life with her words.

“You should come to the museum with me sometime,” Y/N said, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “I think you’d really enjoy it.”

Jack smiled. “I’d like that. And maybe I can take you to a hockey game in return?”

Y/N laughed. “Deal. But you’ll have to explain everything to me. I know absolutely nothing about hockey.”

Jack chuckled. “I think I can manage that.”

--- --- --- 

Their first outing together was to the Newark Museum of Art. Jack was out of his element but excited to see the world through Y/N’s eyes. As they wandered through the galleries, Y/N explained the stories behind the paintings and sculptures, her voice filled with excitement and admiration.

“This is one of my favorites,” she said, stopping in front of a large, colorful painting. “It’s called ‘Starry Night Over the Rhône’ by van Gogh. Look at the way the stars and the reflections in the water create this almost dreamlike scene.”

Jack stared at the painting, trying to see it the way Y/N did. “It’s beautiful,” he said finally. “I can see why you like it so much.”

Y/N smiled. “I’m glad you think so. Art has always been a way for me to escape, to see the world differently.”

Jack nodded, understanding more than he expected. “Hockey is like that for me. When I’m on the ice, everything else fades away.”

A few days later, it was Y/N’s turn to step into Jack’s world. She had agreed to attend one of his games, despite her lack of knowledge about hockey. Jack had arranged for her to have a prime seat, and as she settled in, she couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness.

The arena was buzzing with energy, fans cheering and waving signs. Y/N watched in awe as the players took to the ice, their speed and skill mesmerizing. She spotted Jack, his focus intense as he prepared for the game.

Throughout the match, Y/N found herself on the edge of her seat, cheering along with the crowd even though she didn’t fully understand the rules. She couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride every time Jack made a play, his talent and dedication evident in every move.

After the game, Jack met her outside the locker room, still in his gear and grinning from ear to ear. “So, what did you think?”

“It was amazing!” Y/N exclaimed. “I had no idea hockey could be so intense. You were incredible out there.”

Jack laughed, relieved that she had enjoyed herself. “I’m glad you liked it. Maybe we can make a fan out of you yet.”

Y/N smiled. “Maybe. But only if you keep coming to art galleries with me.”

“Deal,” Jack agreed, feeling a warmth spread through him. Despite their different worlds, he felt a connection with Y/N that he hadn’t felt with anyone else.

--- --- --- 

​​As the weeks turned into months, Jack and Y/N grew closer, finding comfort in their contrasting interests. They delighted in introducing each other to new experiences, each outing deepening their bond.

One sunny Saturday, Jack found himself at a local art supply store with Y/N. She was on a mission to find the perfect set of watercolors for a new project. Jack followed her through the aisles, amused by her enthusiasm.

"Do you paint?" Jack asked, curious.

"I dabble," Y/N replied with a grin. "Mostly for fun, though. It’s a great way to relax and let my mind wander."

Jack picked up a brush, twirling it between his fingers. "Maybe you could teach me sometime. I’ve never really done anything like this."

Y/N’s eyes lit up. "I’d love to! It’s really not about being perfect, just about expressing yourself."

A few days later, Y/N set up a makeshift studio in her apartment, covering the table with newspapers and setting out a variety of paints and brushes. Jack arrived, looking both excited and apprehensive.

"Ready to become the next Van Gogh?" Y/N teased, handing him a canvas.

Jack laughed. "I think that might be a stretch, but I’m ready to give it a shot."

As they painted side by side, Y/N offered gentle guidance, encouraging Jack to experiment with colors and shapes. Despite his initial uncertainty, Jack found himself enjoying the process. It was a welcome change from the structured, high-pressure world of hockey.

"You’re a natural," Y/N said, admiring Jack’s painting of a snowy landscape.

Jack shook his head with a chuckle. "I think you’re just being nice, but thanks. This is actually really fun."

Y/N smiled, pleased to see Jack so relaxed. "See? I knew you’d enjoy it."

Their relationship continued to flourish, each new experience bringing them closer together. Jack took Y/N to more games, patiently explaining the rules and strategies. Y/N, in turn, took Jack to more art exhibits and even a few art classes.

One evening, after a particularly thrilling game, Jack and Y/N found themselves at a quiet diner, sharing a plate of fries. Jack looked at Y/N, feeling a surge of gratitude.

"You know, I never thought I’d enjoy learning about art so much," Jack admitted. "But being with you has opened my eyes to so many new things."

Y/N reached across the table, squeezing his hand. "And I never thought I’d enjoy sports, but you’ve made it so much fun. It’s nice to have someone to share these experiences with."

Jack smiled, feeling a deep sense of contentment. Despite their different backgrounds, they had found a way to connect on a profound level. It was a rare and precious thing, and Jack knew he wanted to hold onto it.

--- --- ---

As their relationship grew stronger, Jack and Y/N began to face the challenges that came with their differing worlds. Jack’s demanding schedule often kept them apart, and Y/N’s art exhibitions sometimes took her to different cities.

One evening, after a particularly grueling week of practice and games, Jack called Y/N, his voice heavy with exhaustion. "I miss you," he admitted. "It feels like we haven’t seen each other in ages."

Y/N sighed, feeling the distance keenly. "I miss you too. It’s hard, but we’ll get through it. How about we plan something special for next weekend? Just us."

Jack’s spirits lifted at the thought. "That sounds perfect. Let’s go somewhere quiet, away from everything."

The following weekend, they escaped to a cabin in the woods, a peaceful retreat where they could unwind and reconnect. They spent their days hiking through the forest, cooking meals together, and sitting by the fire, talking about everything and nothing.

One evening, as they sat on the porch, watching the sunset, Jack took Y/N’s hand. "I’m really glad we’re doing this," he said softly. "It’s exactly what I needed."

Y/N rested her head on his shoulder. "Me too. It’s nice to just be us, without all the noise."

As they sat in comfortable silence, Jack realized how much Y/N meant to him. She had become his anchor, a source of joy and calm in his hectic life. He knew their relationship wasn’t always easy, but he was willing to face any challenge as long as they were together.

With the hockey season winding down, Jack finally had more time to spend with Y/N. They began to talk about their future, their conversations filled with excitement and hope.

One sunny afternoon, they found themselves at a local park, lying on a blanket and watching the clouds drift by. Jack turned to Y/N, a thoughtful expression on his face.

"Have you ever thought about what comes next for us?" he asked.

Y/N smiled, her heart swelling with affection. "I think about it all the time. I want us to keep exploring new things together, to keep supporting each other’s passions."

Jack nodded, feeling a sense of certainty. "I want that too. And I want you to know that I’m here for you, no matter what. Your dreams are just as important as mine."

Y/N reached out, brushing a strand of hair from Jack’s face. "And I’m here for you, always. We’ll figure it out together."

As they lay there, hand in hand, Jack knew they were embarking on a new chapter of their lives. It wouldn’t always be easy, but with Y/N by his side, he felt ready for anything. They had built a strong foundation, one based on mutual respect and a genuine love for each other’s worlds. And as they looked towards the future, they knew that together, they could face whatever came their way.

[screechingwagonduckhoagie]

Crossing the street in downtown Newark.

[hockybish]

Svea was on the phone talking to Nico, who was home with a fussy baby Freja, as she walked through downtown Newark running errands after finishing up at the hospital for the day when a car didn't stop for her as she walked on the sidewalk. The car struck Svea sending her falling towards the ground.

[lesbiancosimaniehaus]

I went to take out the trash, and a guy who was clearly stoned told me he liked my style (thank you), and asked if I’d ever been to his cousin’s restaurant in downtown Newark. Lol

[annieqattheperipheral]

"...in downtown newark, new jersey! (pause) can almost smell it from here."

*GASP LEAFS RADIO PXP SMELL WHAT SAY IT

[newarknjhijrah]

Downtown Newark, NJ Market St. Halal R Us

[lboogie1906]

Ronald Cordell Sims (July 5, 1948) is the former Deputy Secretary of HUD, having served in the position (2009-11). He is the former King County Executive. A long-time champion of environmental stewardship and mass transit.

He was born in Spokane to James M. Sims and Lydia T. Ramsey Sims. He is a twin. During WWII his parents had moved from Newark, New Jersey, to Spokane’s Geiger Air Field.

After graduating from Lewis and Clark High School, he attended Central Washington State College. While in college he became politically engaged as a columnist for the student newspaper. He wrote articles that challenged many of the policies of school officials. His activism contributed to his election as vice president of the student body and the student body president.

He graduated from college with a BA in Psychology and moved to Seattle. His first position was as an investigator with the consumer protection division of the Washington State Attorney’s Office. He held a similar post with the FTC. He became the manager of youth services for the City of Seattle’s Department of Human Resources. He became the director of the South East Effective Development.

He began his political career when he became the first African American elected to the King County Council. He promoted civil rights issues including lobbying for the renaming of King County in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He promoted computerizing the police fingerprint identification system, building a transit tunnel through downtown Seattle, and improving intergovernmental collaboration. His political success contributed to his re-election election to a second term and final third term. He won the Democratic nomination for the Senate but was defeated.

He was appointed to County Executive. He then ran for County Executive the following year. He was reelected in 2001 and 2005. He was defeated for the Democratic nomination for Governor.

He is an ordained Baptist minister, and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, has continued his community involvement as a member of “Night Watch,” a ministry dedicated to helping the homeless. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence #alphaphialpha

[eurigmorgan]

Newark NJ downtown

[kiloskywalker]

hi kilo! nice ask day ask for you (so very curious about your job I'm so sorry). what's your favourite destination to fly to for work AND what's your favourite non-work travel destination?

Hi @welcometololaland thank you for the nice ass(k)! This is a great question and I have to admit I had to do some thinking about it! But no need to be sorry about your curiosity! I love answering questions about it so whenever the urge strikes you absolutely fire away! I've been to so many places for work and a lot of the cool ones vary whether the layover is good (especially if its like a day or two) or the approach to the airport is super cool or even if the food in the airport terminal is bangin' while I wait. I think my favorite layover is probably either Kahului, Hawaii on the island of Maui or Kona, Hawaii on the island of Hawai'i. Obviously because the weather is so nice and they usually have us on the ground for at least two or three days so I get to go to the beach and relax. Flights to Hawaii are usually hard to get (they usually go to more senior crews) but whenever they come across my schedule I try to bid for those. I think an honorable mention is definitely Chicago O'Hare. Our airline is based in Chicago and we have a massive presence there so I'm flying there quite often. On a nice day, the approach into the airport from over Lake Michigan gives absolutely gorgeous views of downtown Chicago. I've mentioned this in a previous post somewhere, but I am originally from Chicago and grew up there. My family still lives there. But our house was right under the approach path at O'Hare and when I was little, I would always look up at the planes landing and get super excited. Now, I am literally living that dream job that little Kilo always wanted. And there are times when I fly DIRECTLY over where the house I grew up in is and imagine little Kilo getting so excited thinking about that. I'll ask my dad, but sometimes he goes out and tracks my flights and tries to get a picture of me landing or taking off from nearby and share a pic from one of those. Always super cool to see!

There are another couple of really cool honorable mentions I have to say: Mexico City has a really tough approach over the city, San Diego is similarly right in the middle of downtown, New York LaGuardia, Washington DC Reagan National (pro-tip if you're flying into DCA sit on the right side of the plane and you might get a beautiful view of the city and the National Mall when you're landing), Sint Maarten in the Carribbean is cool the approach is right over the beach (I've only been there a couple of times but its always so cool). My favorite non-work destination is so difficult. I think its gotta be either Prague, Czech Republic (I went there with my dad on vacation a few years ago and I fell in LOVE with it, or Alaska (I was there on vacation earlier this summer and it was so beautiful). Although I expect that answer to change relatively quickly. Side note: my airline has new flights this Summer from Newark to the Portuguese Azores islands out in the middle of the Atlantic (approx. 2,600 miles east of New York, and about 1,000 miles west of Portugal). They operate the Boeing 737 MAX on the route (which is one of the types I fly) and its only a summer seasonal route. My goal for next year is to try and crew that flight so I can visit! It looks so pretty and it's very high up on my list to travel!

[idkblakee]

ꕀ ᐝ 𖠳   miles teller, male, he/him 𖠳 ᐝ ꕀ  ‷ heads up ; if you hear THE LONELIEST by MANESKIN blaring, it’s most likely BLAKE LIAM CARTER making their way down the shore ! they’re 33 years old and celebrate their birthday on 7/25 - i knew they were a/an LEO ! especially since they’re very CONFIDENT and STUBBORN. they are from NEWARK, NJ, staying in DOWNTOWN and are currently working as a/an GAME STREAMER/MUSICIAN, here at the cape. they always did remind me of colored flannels with bed hair, clouds of marijuana, and emotional piano keys.‷ 

PROFILE

FULL NAME:  Blake Liam Carter ( He/Him ) NICKNAMES: Carter  BIRTHDAY: July 25th, 1990 - ( 33 )  GENDER: Cis Male SEXUALITY: Heterosexual ETHNICITY: Irish, German OCCUPATION: Streamer & Musician  NEIGHBORHOOD: Downtown ZODIAC: LEO sun, SCORPIO moon FACECLAIM: Miles Teller

 A P P E A R A N C E

HEIGHT: 6’1 WEIGHT: 187 lb TATTOOS: a Giraffe on his calf, His friends birthday on his bicep, Cactus on forearm, PIERCINGS: None DISTINCT FEATURES: Whiskey irises, Calloused fingers, Jagged scar on cheek, Freckles along neck  FAVORITE ACCESSORIES: Silver chain, Rings, Beanies 

 P E R S O N A L I T Y 

PROS: Curious, Outspoken, Witty, Loyal, Goofy CONS: Impatient, Lazy, Sarcastic, Impulsive, Blunt

MOOD: Ready to smoke a joint HOBBIES: Coding, Collecting action figures and comics, DND, Piano, Poetry  HABITS: Playing w/ stache, Ramen, Asking a lot of questions, Cracking knuckles MANNERISMS: Extreme eye contact, Lots of hand gestures, Brow twitching when upset 

B A C K G R O U N D 

Blake was born and raised in Newark, NJ. His parents were Timothy and Lisa Carter. They owned a small bagel shop called, “I Bagel To Differ” that was known among locals as the place you had to stop by. He grew up an only child and always wanted to be a big brother but had tons of cousins he played that role with. 

Around the age of 10, Blake started noticing his parents were growing more distant. His father was always gone and his mother was drinking herself away on the couch. The spark that was once there between the two parents faded. Eventually, Timothy never came home and he never contacted Lisa or even Blake, ever again.

Blake and his mom couldn’t afford their own housing so they moved in with his Aunt and many cousins. He finally achieved the “Big Brother” role, taking up responsibilities to help around the house; making breakfast and dinner, taking the kids to school, helping them with after school activities and homework. It didn’t take long for Blake to adjust to the new setting, he actually liked the change. He didn’t feel as lonely anymore, picked up new hobbies and a love for piano and theater. 

Blake found that being in theater helped block out any negative thoughts or feelings about his life. He had a distraction and something to keep him occupied. He didn’t care to ever be the lead role, he liked being behind the scenes and creating the masterpiece. He did play piano pieces for their shows a few times after being begged by the director and he always received awestruck faces when his music was played.

Around the age of 19, Blake moved out of his Aunt's house and into a duplex with his friend Steve at Capemay. He still visited on the weekends and worked shifts at his moms bagel shop or made late night spaghetti if his cousins asked him to. 

Currently he’s living downtown and plays piano at an open mic bar while also streaming video games as a daily job. 

[screechingwagonduckhoagie]

Woman chilling on the bench in downtown Newark.

[bvar]

Downtown Newark, with yellow and red highlights.

[nospainnogain]

Madrid Day One-Matt Long

Hi all,

We are at the end of our first day in Madrid, after a busy day of traveling yesterday. We met up at Newark airport in the afternoon of the 27th and spent time getting to know each other before the flight. The overnight flight allowed us to get a little bit of sleep, although maybe not as much as we had hoped. We arrived at about 9am local time, and immediately went into the first experience.

Our packed schedule has kept us all awake and help us get accustomed to the time change as quickly as possible. From the airport, we went directly to University Camilo Jose Cela, a private university about 30 minutes from downtown Madrid. We were introduced to Fernando, the head of the athletic training program at the school. This is the only program of its type anywhere in the world besides the US. He gave us an overview of Spanish culture and the Madrid area, informing us that today is the Spanish version of April fool's day. We toured the campus and met some very friendly dogs and horses, then moved on to a couple of classroom lectures.

Dr. Ana Carmona was our first lecturer, teaching us about the Spanish health care system, which is based around the Beveridge model. This means that citizens receive healthcare from government contracted workers funded through tax programs. We learned that Spain has a higher life expectancy as well as a lower % of expenditures on health care than the US. Next, Professor Roberto taught us about flossing, a technique used in physical therapy to help increase range of motion on joints by wrapping the area with a large rubber band.

The rest of the day consisted of a large lunch, a short walking tour of central Madrid after checking into our hostel, and a dinner in the hostel restaurant. We are all definitely exhausted after this long day, but very much looking forward to the rest of the trip. I have included some pictures below from today's activities.