#inside seaside festival

[candlelightceremony]

‘We love you Inside Seaside ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥’ via instagram

[miirohs]

sore wa hanabi [k.s]

pairing: Ken Sato x GN!Reader wc: 1.4k cw: n/a an: this was inspired by hanabi by ikimonogakari and motospeed 24 by bibi, i fucking love those songs so much UGH. pls ignore the plot holes i was tired and it was like 12 when i started!!! i love writing chat

The last of the sunlight rippled across the water, a slow breeze blowing past you on the steps of the house, watching as the city seemed to come alive.

The sounds of a motorcycle in the distance distracted you, head shooting up from your knees as Professor Sato limped out of the front door, gently setting down his walking stick as he sat next to you.

“He’s coming back home then?”

It wasn’t really a question, rather a statement.

“I believe so. He was out for interviews almost all day.”

He didn’t respond, digging into the pocket of his khaki vest, pulling out a worn flyer and handing it to you.

“What is this?” You asked, gently unfolding the colorful paper.

“It was a fireworks festival. I’m sure they still hold them yearly around here, and Emiko took Kenji often when he was younger. I’ve seen it myself from the apartments sometimes, and they’re a sight to see.” He explained softly, smiling into the distance as your eyes flitted over the contents.

“I see, but what exactly-”

“I think you should go see them, you and Kenji need some alone time as well,” He didn’t let you finish, poking your leg with his walking stick, “Plus, it would be good for me and Mina because we need to get more data on Emi, and Ken won’t let us do that without breath down my shoulders about us hurting her.” 

You could barely respond as he got up, limping his way back to the door without further explanation. “But Ken is going to want to see Emi and-”

“Me and Mina can take care of her if anything happens. If the boy troubles you about that, tell him I told you he was to do so. He may be Ultraman now, but I'm still his father!” He cackled, shaking his head affectionately as he closed the door gently.

The light was gone now, but you could hear the sound of his bike getting closer, rubbing your arms to regain your warmth as you waited. Soon enough, Ken appeared against the twilight sky, silhouette illuminated by the headlights of his parked bike.

“Hey baby, what are you doing out here?” he greeted, tone filled with a mixture of exhaustion and relief upon seeing you.

“The weather was nice out, and the view was gorgeous.” You responded, turning to him as he sat down next to you. “The view is gorgeous from inside too,” He joked, intertwining a hand into yours, “I don’t get why you wanna sit out here, it’s cold and you don’t even have a jacket on.”

You clutched the paper in your other, taking a deep breath in. You had no reason not to, it could be a good surprise.

“You know, i was thinking we haven’t had a proper date night since we moved here and-”

“We had a movie night though!” Ken chimed in, staring at you, confused. It was like he couldn’t see where you were going with it. “Yes, we had a movie night honey, but it was interrupted every ten minutes by the loud baby we happen to be taking care of, remember?” You said, exasperated. 

“I would baby, but what about Emi?” 

“Your dad and Mina can take care of her. He said you’d trouble me about it, and that I should tell you that he insists.” You tilted your head towards the city.

Ken chuckled, shaking his head. “That sounds like him honestly, but where do you wanna go? You gotta have something planned if you’re insisting on dragging me out.”

“I was thinking we could ride through the city, I'm pretty sure the seaside looks gorgeous at night.” You could barely hold back your smile as he wrinkled his nose, it was almost like you could see the gears turning in his head.

The exhaustion almost seemed to leave his face, a smile taking its place. “Alright, you win. Go get your jacket and meet me out here in… five?” You nodded, getting up from your spot.

“Five minutes,” you repeated to yourself softly, heading inside to grab your jacket. The excitement was building as you folded up the paper, gently hiding it in your pocket as you grabbed your helmet.

He was already near the motorcycle, leaned over the dashboard as you approached him, barely able to contain the excitement.

“I think you remember how to ride a bike, right baby?” You nodded, allowing him to put your helmet on for you, securing it till you felt comfortable. “Of course. I’m ready when you are.”

Ken winked, helping you onto the bike before climbing on himself. The engine roared to life and you wrapped your arms around his waist, adrenaline running through your veins as you started down the path. The wind was fast, seawater blowing into your face as you both skirted across the water.

​​The city was a blur of nightlights as you weaved through the streets, laughs of delight leaving your mouth as you turned and sped down the straights. The neon signs and billboards created a colorful mosaic, a dazzling display of light. 

Ken glanced back at you briefly, shouting something at you, a wide smile on his face as he pressed down on the accelerator.

“This feels so familiar, what are you doing to make this happen baby?!” You pressed your face into his face, barely hiding the grin on your face as you shouted back. “A magician never tells Ji!” 

You slowed near the city limits, allowing for you to nudge him in the direction you wanted to go. The city faded into quieter roads, riding on the outskirts of the city, the smell of the sea intermingling with the scent of his perfume. The waves crashed against the seawall, spraying you with water.

You looked up, narrowed eyes growing wide as bright lights went off in the sky.

“There, look!” you exclaimed, your voice barely audible over the rush of wind and the distant explosions of the fireworks. You squeezed Ken’s waist, taking one hand off to point up at the sky.

He followed your hand, relaxing in awe as he watched the colorful display unfold above you. It wasn’t long until you found a place to park, Ken eagerly pulling you off the motorcycle, running down to the beach with you in hand.

“Sup- Whoa, surprise Ji!” You laughed as you both stumbled, pulling closer to the source of the lights. The sand was surprisingly cool beneath your feet as you stood on the shore, fireworks exploding in a variety of colors.

Greens, pinks and golds colored the sky, painting the dark with bangs of light, fizzling out just as quickly as they came up.

“Your mom used to bring you here before you moved, didn’t she?” You looked at him, the light reflecting in his glassy eyes, softened by nostalgia.

"Yeah, she did. How did you know?"

“I’ve heard a thing or two about your trips.” You commented to the side, allowing him to lead you aimlessly, "I thought you might like to revisit those memories." You squeezed his hand as he paused once more, turning to look at you.

“She used to call them something else- hanabi. It was the Japanese word for fireworks, I think.” He brought up a hand, wiping his eye on his free arm.

“That sounds beautiful,” You turned to him, floating closer and closer every second.

There was nothing more to be said, holding his hand with as much affection as you could, fireworks exploding somewhere in the background. The light illuminated the sharpness of his features, and you leaned in, closing the distance between you and Ken. 

His lips met yours, soft yet firm. The fireworks seemed to pause for that brief moment, allowing you to be trapped in the bubble you’d made for yourselves. Ken's arms were wrapped around you, holding you close as if he was never going to let go.

en rested his forehead against yours as you pulled apart. His eyes scanned yours, as if trying to capture every detail of the moment to memory.

"I've missed this," Ken murmured, his voice barely above a whisper as you pulled away.

“No kidding, we should do this more often shouldn’t we?” You giggled, running your finger down the ridges of his nose, booping the tip.

Ken nodded quietly, allowing you to lean in closer once more. "Definitely. It's moments like these that make life more bearable."

You leaned in again, brushing your lips against his cheek before resting your head on his shoulder. The last of the embers faded into the sky, pieces of your heart drifting off with them as you watched Ken.

"Let's come back here again," Ken suggested softly, his voice barely audible over the gentle lapping of the waves. "Definitely," you agreed. You could get used to it.

[agronzky]

⠀⠀⠀𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐓𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐏𝐈𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐁𝐘 𝐀𝐁𝐁𝐀 𝐒𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐒. ♡

Below you’ll find five plots created inspired by the songs of the swedish group ABBA. These can be used in romantic plots, but also adapted for other types of narrative.

ONE OF US. ( 1981, The Visitors )

Muse a and muse b had a relationship for a few years, but broke up for having very opposite visions of life. Muse a is an artist, sees the world in color and dreams of knowing more about everything, being an enthusiast of all things creative and artistic. Meanwhile, muse b is a businessperson who comes from a traditional family and has always dreamed of becoming the best in their field and living a peaceful life. A few years after breaking up, they meet again, having achieved some of their dreams. Muse a is a recognized artist, travels the world and can live life according to their own wishes, while muse b has achieved a high position in a global company, is recognized and lectures on business and how to achieve objectives. However, they both feel there is something missing in their lives and cannot feel truly fulfilled. The reunion therefore causes mixed feelings, mainly fights about the past, about how muse a cried for months or how muse b felt too small and useless. But something inside them still shines through and maybe there's still a chance. Or will someone get hurt in this story once again?

WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE ME? ( 1976, Arrival )

In a charming seaside village lives muse a, a talented young violinist whose passion for music sets them apart from the rest. Cheerful as ever, their contagious joy and love of life has always attracted curious eyes, especially those of muse b, an introspective painter who finds beauty in the little things. Their lives take an unexpected turn when a summer festival is announced in the town, promising a talent contest. Muse a and muse b end up getting involved in the planning of the contest, causing them to suddenly grow closer and start spending a lot of time together, whether naturally or not. Because muse a is very authentic and distracted, they get into a lot of trouble to make the contest happen, which forces muse b out of their comfort zone. Feelings begin to emerge naturally, making them think "Why did it have to be me?" and deciding, unaware of the other's decision, to perform in the show as a way of expressing their feelings.

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY. ( 1976, Arrival )

In the busy alleys of a bustling city, muse a is trapped in a routine of debt and financial difficulties. Working tirelessly at a job that barely pays the bills, they dream of a life of luxury and comfort. In a twist of fate, muse a meets muse b, a charismatic businessperson who has always lived in a world where money has never been a problem. When they notice muse a's situation, muse b decides to hide their lifestyle for fear of being attracted to them for that reason alone. Muse a begins to get closer to muse b, having someone to talk to who seems to understand everything. However, muse b's lies start to cause a lot of confusion for both of them and they have to choose whether they really want muse a to live in a lie forever or to tell the truth.

LAY ALL YOUR LOVE ON ME. ( 1980, Supertrouper )

In the picturesque setting of a coastal island lives muse a, a lonely sculptor whose heart was closed after a traumatic relationship. Everything changes when they meet muse b, a mysterious person who arrives on the island in search of a fresh start. As they grow closer, muse a discovers the painful secrets that muse b hides, making their time together a way to begin to heal past wounds. Discovering they've both been through toxic relationships and a series of betrayals, muse a and muse b contemplate the possibility of love no longer existing and have to deal with this situation. But when muse b's former partner turns up on the island looking for reconciliation, muse a realizes that their hearts are no longer closed to love. They're completely won over by muse b and will do whatever to have them.

WATERLOO. ( 1974, Waterloo )

Muse a is a determined and charismatic person who works as a tour guide in a historic town. Their lives change when they meet muse b, a charming and enigmatic historian. Their attraction is immediate, but they soon discover sharing a rivalry in the search for information about an ancient secret of the city. As muse a and muse b compete to unravel the centuries-old mystery in an almost real war of espionage and tactics, they discover how they'll need to combine the information they've collected individually if they really want to uncover the secret. As time goes by, they discover more in common than previously thought, find it much easier to work together and start to having a lot of fun with everything discovering more of the town and themselfs.

[teaberrii]

The Genshin Boys Surprising You on Your Birthday

Featuring: Alhaitham, Childe, Heizou, Xiao, and Zhongli

Notes: It's my birthday, so I wrote a little something.

He's done. He's prepared. He's ready to give you your annual birthday surprise.

Alhaitham

Alhaitham wouldn't let you in your room for weeks, and you have no idea why. You didn't mind sleeping with him, though.

You get home that day to see the door of your room slightly ajar. Alhaitham comes out and tells you to close your eyes. You're skeptical, but you do as you're told anyway.

Alhaitham's hands are on your shoulders as he guides you inside your bedroom. Then, when he tells you to open your eyes, you see a custom-made bookshelf in the shape of a tree. It sits perfectly in the space you've been meaning to fill in your bedroom.

You notice each branch has a book. When you take the books off the shelf, you notice that they're new and ones you haven't read before. Each book is also from a different genre.

Alhaitham helps you organize your books and surprises you with a two-tier cake he made himself. It's not until later you discover Kaveh had secretly given him cooking lessons.

I know you think that I do not care much for these anniversaries, but celebrating the day you were born is a must. Let's continue celebrating together as we continue our journey hand-in-hand.

Childe

Childe picks you up after work, and you go straight to his place for your birthday surprise... if only you knew what he's planning.

Childe has all the lights off, and as soon as you turn them on, the entire place is decorated with fairy lights, heart balloons, and scented candles.

Childe had spelt a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY using balloons in the living room while the bedroom had I LOVE YOU and rose petals placed in the shape of a heart on the bed.

Childe takes you back to the living room, and you enjoy his homemade food as he serenades you.

You lead Childe back into the bedroom and end your birthday festivities with a nice, long cuddle.

Happy birthday! I hope this wasn't too much. I always say this... but even when we're old, I'll always find a way to give you the best surprise ever.

Heizou

Heizou makes you work on your birthday. He's prepared some riddles and puzzles that you have to solve to get to him and whatever surprise he has waiting for you.

You start your adventure at your house, and you end up going to four different places. The first is the place where you first met. The second is where he confessed to you. The third is where you had your first kiss. The last place is your final destination.

You arrive at a Ferris wheel where he's waiting for you. You playfully scold him for making you run around on your birthday.

You and Heizou ride the Ferris wheel until it stops at the top. You think something has gone wrong when fireworks go off, and Heizou gives you a passionate kiss.

You ask Heizou if this place will be the one where you spent your first birthday together. He smiles at you in return, and you enjoy the rest of the fireworks show holding hands.

These ordinary places can become so special from just a single action. Today's memory is my gift to you. Let's continue creating great memories together!

Xiao

You know Xiao doesn't like being around crowds or care much for birthdays, so you're surprised that he takes you to the beach. It starts with breakfast-in-bed, building sandcastles on the beach, swimming in the ocean, and a beautiful view of the ocean at a seaside restaurant.

You and Xiao are walking hand-in-hand on the beach just as the sun sets over the horizon.

Xiao stops you, and you turn to see him pull out a traditional Chinese hair clip. It's hand-carved with two golden butterflies flying together on the top.

Xiao helps you put it in your hair. He doesn't like being in photos but takes one with you with the clip in your hair.

You find out later through a friend that Xiao had got the hair clip custom-made and that he chose the butterflies to symbolize long life, happiness, and eternal love.

If I'm not wrong, birthdays are a day when you spend time with people you love. If that's the case, I hope to continue spending this day with you for the rest of our lives.

Zhongli

Zhongli pulls up to the most expensive restaurant in town. When he told you he was taking you out for your birthday, you were not expecting this.

You loop your arm around his, and a waiter escorts you and your date to a table with the perfect view of the city skyline.

You end up having a lengthy conversation with him about life, your troubles, books you have read, and anything in between. Zhongli is a great conversationalist but an even better listener.

Zhongli pays for everything, and you enjoy an evening stroll together at the lake.

Zhongli takes you to a pier, and as you look at the moon together, he takes a piece of paper from his chest pocket. His gift to you is a poem where he details he will always be your biggest cheerleader in all your future endeavours.

I understand that it doesn't have to be your birthday for me to give you this. But let today be the start of knowing that you will never be alone.

Bonus: Paimon

You come home to find your place filled with smoke. You panic and are about to call the emergency number when Paimon suddenly appears.

Paimon bluntly tells you that she just remembered it was your birthday and wanted to do something special for you.

You also find out that Paimon had used your card to buy an expensive gift online. A gift that you really didn't need.

You spend your birthday chasing her around as she tries to convince you that she tried her best.

Paimon helps you clean up the mess she made and finally asks if you can make both of you dinner.

Paimon didn't do it on purpose! It's the thought that counts, right? But, happy birthday! Here's to another year together!

[giigil]

10.18: 𖤓 ﹒The Prince in search of the Truth.

The Lady Knight Series.

Notes: ALRIGHT YALL. BIGGEST AU WE HAVE YET FOR BOTS. YAHHHHHHH. The first bot we have in a line of however many I can fucking come up with. LOL. There's a guide for this inside the bot itself if you wanna read up. There's no need to follow it, though! It's free real estate. 😎😎😎 Go crazy mfs

Guide.

Steering his steed down the beaten dirt path of Innisboia Wood, not too far from the mountainous nation of the Kingdom of Todora, Prince Satoru mutters under his breath, a downcast look in his eyes as he’s lost deep in thought.

“Was it all a lie?” he asks himself quietly, his grip on the reins tightening the further he travels through the quiet, desolate forest. “Damnit—where the hell are you?”

𖤓

Two days prior was Todora’s annual kingdom-wide celebration. After completing his orderlies, Satoru invited his knight and close confidant Aiko to tag alongside him, and they spent the rest of the day with one another. No armor, no weapon, or formalities required; they were just two normal people enjoying the festivities together without a worry for titles or duties. It concluded in good spirits with a grand spectacle of fireworks and Satoru escorting her back to her living quarters with the two bidding their farewells.

For once, Satoru was happy, even with his arranged marriage to Princess Utahime nearing.

That following afternoon, however, he received news that she disappeared and declared a traitor by his father’s council. They charged her with treason, placed an abnormally large bounty on her head, and sent a group of men outside the kingdom’s walls to retrieve her.

In the dead of night, he set off on his own to search for her. He doesn’t believe a word that comes from those bastards in the council; they’re old and pompous, with no regard to anything around them. They especially aren't favorable to {{user}} as she's the kingdom’s first female knight.

Satoru is in a hurry to find {{user}} before anyone else does; he wants to hear the truth from her with his own ears.

There are three places he believes she might have gone: Bordraine Grove, the place she often accompanied him to when he needed a breather from his life as a royal; her native village, Allidea; or the seaside Principality of Kairos.

[aziraphales-library]

howdy! i was wondering if you could rec some really tropey ineffable wives fics? i really liked the blesséd language of flowers by elfontheshelf!

Hello! Here are some delightfully tropey ineffable wives fics for you...

i was so tempted (i wouldn't dare) by rubyknowbys (T)

It’s a message delivered to the wrong number that brought Antonia J. Crowley and Aziraphale Fell together and, even in anonymity, a friendship inevitably made something deeper flourish amongst shared texts. Antonia started working at Medium’s Bookshop, they finally scheduled a date, and Aziraphale was thrilled to know that she’s going to meet the owner of the irresistible words, which made her fall in love so quickly. But the bookshop supervisor didn’t imagine that their new employee, who she detested even more each day, is the same woman who has been sending her those anonymous darling messages all along.

And when she found out, the information created a new dilemma inside her mind, while her most powerful impulse became to try to win Antonia’s heart smoothly: should Aziraphale tell her?

Just Like You Were Brand New by SilenceDogood117 (T)

There are two things Aziraphale Fell hates: 1) people checking out books from her library and 2) Christmas. Already gritting her teeth to get through the festive season, she is further alarmed to hear that Antonia Crowley has come back to town for the first time in 14 years.

Cue Christmas absurdities, reading contests, old memories, and the occasional duck.

Take the Monet and Run by SilenceDogood117 (M)

Convicted art thief Antoinette Crowley is fresh out of prison, fresh out of a marriage, and determined to settle an old score with one last heist. She’s certainly not going to be distracted by the reappearance of a face from the past. That would be entirely counterproductive.

I’m Your Landsailor by IneffableDoll (T)

In a small seaside town called Tadfield, one of the last places on Earth where humans and magic coexist, an exiled selkie and a human who ran away from her life accidentally get themselves married in the oldest, most binding sense. The two are forced to stay together until they can find a way to undo it and free the other from their accidental marriage. It sure would be complicated if they started to fall for each other in the process…

How To Fall (In Love with an Angel) by die_traumerei (M)

It's not a meet-cute, because they don't actually meet, and that's the worst part of Crowley seeing the most beautiful woman in the world, stumbling, and breaking her ankle. She gets the weeks in plaster, and none of the pretty lady -- at least at first.

In a village small enough that the Queer community is more like a family, it's no time at all before Crowley and Aziraphale meet, and set about courting each other. Secrets are shared, flirtation is had, and Crowley falls again; just this time, the local A&E isn't involved.

don't read too much into it by mllekurtz (M)

Discovering the identity of the guardian angel who sheltered her from the rain on a dreary Monday morning won’t be easy, but Crowley (beleaguered junior editor in a London publishing house and human disaster) can’t think of anything else.

And the one you mentioned...

The blesséd language of flowers by elf_on_the_shelf (E)

Crowley has given up on her life in the big city and decided to retire early to the lovely village of Tadfield. She expected a run-off-the-mill early retirement. Maybe playing bridge with a couple of old ladies and maybe taking a part in organising some of the village fetes. What she did not expect was actually competing against the woman she had developed a crush on in the village floral competitions and hence that particular woman instantly taking a dislike to her. She also did not expect that for the sake of the village's reputation they would have to band together and participate as a couple for nationals, because why not...

- Mod D

[varldsormr]

@wickedlehane (didn't) send: 🥂 (but gets one anyway <3) holiday ask prompts: (open)

He has to duck ever so slightly under the doorways to path his way back inside, Euan on his tail as they reinvite themselves from a temporary recess in the cold winter air outdoors; Though the greecian village-house was... nice, strangely cozy, in a way, the arches themselves were already a little too low for his comfort on their own, even without the evident intervention of a slew of festive souls who seemed to have deigned upon themselves to decorate further during the old friends' seaside respite. He picks up on the other poking a tease his way as he tilts his head to avoid tangling with one of the garlands, grumbling a muted noise back in turn, and not entierly looking where he's going as he takes around the corner--

'Hey--!' An indignant voice and the sound of abrupt halt suddenly emminates, the weight of another body on the prowl bumping suddenly into his. Jormun couldn't say whether the collision is undramatic or whether he simply passes over the brunt of it on account of being roughly as accomodating as a brick wall - his weighted figure towering noticably above the smallish figure ahead - but it does catch the oceanic spirit off-guard, and for a moment there's a flash of concern come by a twitch in his brow - almost immediately mitigated as the dark haired woman cuts the chase;

'Jesus fuck you're big. You on somethin' or did you just pop out like that?'

Behind him he hears Euan bark a laugh.

[blisteringstar]

Prompt #8

Inwa read in a book that the first step to recovery after grief was to trim out the items that reminded you of that. He's pretty sure it was some self-help book. There was also something or other about things sparking joy and thanking them for their service, but he didn't want to go quite that far. Getting rid of them was enough.

The ring he got from someone in Eulmore was first. It was payment for telling them something they wanted to know, but he never thought the ring was equal pay for what little he did. When what the soothsayer was looking for was the person closest to Inwa, that didn't call for acknowledgment. In fact, he had done everything he could to keep them apart. The secret of their history was known to Inwa, but he didn't want to encourage the murder and devouring of one's own shard that would come with them finding each other.

It was a ring from part of one of the people he loved most, and so he had kept it close. After being passed over for another, perhaps he had clung a little too much to a trinket that meant nothing to anyone other than him. Now it was placed in the box and he would never see it again.

A toothbrush was next to enter the box, followed by a few articles of clothing. He was quick to realize there weren't many things to shed. All of the gifts he ever received from others were put together in a spot near the door to be kept dear. Even the set of armor he received sat in a cabinet next to everything else, despite how cumbersome it was up get in and out of its storage place.

His home sometimes felt more like a sterile prison than a place of warmth, and it became more and more true the more he thought about how much it lacked life. Ever since the renovation, he hated being alone in it. Now that he was cleaning out items from the ones he used to be close to, the reason why began to beat in the back of his mind like a drum.

No one ever lived here. Not even him. He always conformed to the needs of others and placed himself where they needed him most, even if that was not where he wanted to be.

There was one more item, he remembers as his eyes go up its spot on the wall. It was the painting of the cliff he watched the sea from when he needed to think. It was a place he used to frequent until he was attacked there. He loved the painting when he received it. It had sat in a place where he could always see it and remember the salty seaside.

With a heavy sigh, he reached to either side of it, lifting it up and taking it down off the wall. With a turn, he took a few steps to the box and placed the painting inside.

"That should be the last of it," he murmured to himself, bending down to place his arms around the box and lift it up. When he moved to stand, something flew into the hood of his jacket, giving Inwa a start that almost caused him to drop the box he had only just lifted.

Toushiro, his pet bat, had buried herself in his clothes, opting to go with him wherever he was headed. Inwa turned his head and smiled back at her.

"Are you worried I'm going to get rid of you, too? I would never do that. You and my staff aren't going anywhere," he cooed affectionately back at the burrowing bat, more than content to let her hitch a ride with him and be his companion as he made his way out of the house.

He had a meeting with Talia on the beach. For missing the late-summer festivals in Hingashi, he had decided they could hold their own evening of sending the past on its way with a good old-fashioned bonfire.

With one last look back at the silent house, he stepped outside, closed the door behind him, and endeavored not to look back anymore.

[juniaships]

Rosie Earns A Star Chapter 1:

Rosie gets a new engineer however she is not who she seems. Meanwhile there's news of an actress who disappeared, Schemer violates railway protocol to film his own pilot series, and Arthur tries not to strangle sometime. Mix of TATMR, RWS & TVS because I am not a "purist"; I love Thomas the tank engine in all its form! Not a shipfic, this is purely platonic!!

Times have changed and so have interests. As people think about what they want to do in their lives, some have taken upon themselves to rebuild themselves from the ground up. Others are too busy to realize what they need is right in front of them. Arthur thinks a trip to the seaside could help clear their minds.

Or a well-aimed rock at their heads. - The Author.

"Famous Actress Disappears in Spain!"

Mrs. Stone read the headline aloud as she flipped through the newspaper. It was breakfast time and the Stone family were getting ready to take Lily for her annual trip to Muffle Mountain.

"Who is it?" Lily asked as she looked up from her bowl of cereal.

"Don't talk with your mouth full, dear." Lily swallowed then asked again. Smiling, Mrs. Stone read aloud:

"Brittany Wilson was scheduled to appear at a movie festival later this month. She was last seen at a hair salon in Madrid Thursday afternoon. Her whereabouts are currently unknown, and her family have not spoken to the press."

Lily grew intrigued.

"When they checked the hotel all of her belongings were gone," finished Mrs. Stone.

"Oh that Brittany Wilson! I heard of her before! I haven't watched a lot of her movies but my friends love her. I hope she's alright."

Mrs. Stone nodded in agreement.

"It could be a publicity stunt but who knows in this crazy world we live in."

After breakfast the Stones got in their car and drove to the public transit. Lily bid her mother goodbye and promised to text her when she got to Shining Time.

As the train shuffled along the tracks, Lily couldn't help but feel concern for the missing actress.

In another universe, Mr. Conductor was also getting ready for the day. The tv was playing in the background (he liked a little music to get his engine started, pun intended) when suddenly the news came. It was about the missing actress. They had her picture on the screen: a Black woman with light brown curls and a pink and grey dress sitting inside a salon.

"They still haven't found her yet," he said to himself. "That's troubling."

He wasn't into the celebrity gossip like his cousin. But even he was a little concerned for her wellbeing. She probably had a family waiting anxiously for her return. His thoughts were on his mind even as he sparkled up at the Shining Time office to get his itinerary.

"Let's see, first on the list find a new driver for Rosie."

As he went over the potential substitutes, one of the tulips in his flower vase rang. He went over to answer it.

"Mr. Conductor you have a visitor," Stacy said on the other end. "They're here for the training."

"Training?" He looked over at the whiteboard.

"Oh right! I forgot we have a new hire today! Well bring them on in!"

A moment later the door opened, and in came a person in a dark overcoat and pants. Their hair was tucked underneath a gray hat.

'Odd choice of outfit for this kind of weather,' Mr. Conductor said to himself.

"Are you Mr. Conductor? I'm here for my first day." The woman said shyly. She handed him a folder. He looked over the files, then to her, then over the files again. The lady stared expectantly at him.

"Terri Bud eh? Well, we do need a set of extra hands & these papers are legit," he said.

"They kinda rushed me through training," Terri Bud said quickly. "If you like I can get Miss Jones to corroborate."

"Oh no that's alright love! You are in good hands with us!"

"Cool," Terri said as she shook his hand. "And for future reference just call me Bud."

A cherry red tank engine was in her shed reminiscing about her retired driver when Mr. Conductor arrived with the new hire.

"Good morning Mr conductor! I see you have a visitor," Rosie chirped merrily.

"And good morning to you Rosie," said Mr. Conductor. "And I do! This is Bud. I'm training her today and if it goes well she'll become your new permanent driver!"

Rosie was excited. She had spent the past few months with substitute drivers. While most of them were nice, some of them couldn't handle her bubbly demeanor. Their loss! She preferred a set choice anyways. She hoped this one was nice.

"Nice to meet you Bud, I just know we'll have the best time together," she said politely. "Why don't you get yourself comfortable in my cab?"

"Ehm perhaps you could take off your coat, it gets pretty hot in here." Mr. Conductor suggested.

Bud paused for a moment. Then she tool her coat off, revealing her dark gray overalls and a white t shirt. She took off her glasses and put it inside the coat packet.

Now Mr. Conductor got a good look at her face. Her skin was a light shade of brown and she had hazel eyes. For a second he thought he recognized her face but waved it off as a symptom of the heat.

"Okay then, we'll start with the basics."

He started by showing her the controls and how to start Rosie up. Bud wrote and nodded as he went along. 

"Now since she's one of our younger tank engines it doesn't take very long to start her fire," said Mr. Conductor. 

"I see and it doesn't hurt her?" 

"As long as you keep the fire steady," said Rosie. "I might be a Vulcan but I'm not that immune to overheating."

"Right," Bud nodded. "This isn't as hard as I thought it would be."

"Trust me, once you get through an accident or two you'll be able to navigate the rails like second instinct!" 

"Or three," muttered Mr. Conductor.

Back in Shining Time, Lily was waiting in the lobby for her grandfather. He was having trouble with his truck. While she was texting her friends, Mr. Conductor's cousin Junior was talking to a customer.

"Have you heard about what happened in Spain?" Asked the Customer.

"I know it's been all over my Twitter feed," said Junior. "I heard it's part of a new movie they're filming!"

"I heard she got involved in the trade and is running from Interpol," said the customer. He shook his head in dismay.

"Actors these days, at least back in the day when they got in trouble it was entertaining. Now it's all just sad."

"Those are just rumors though, they're not always spoken with truth," replied Junior. "At the end of the day it's not our business." He looks around and leans closer so no one else could hear.

"Then again what business do we have!"

The two gossip hens clucked in humor, and the customer and left the station house. Lily took it as her chance to greet him. 

"Junior!"

"Hi Lily! Long time no see!" They hugged. "How's life been?"

"I'm doing fine I was just waiting for Grandpa. Car troubles, again."

Junior sucked his teeth. "Burnett and that truck, I'm all for self repair but he's gotta admit some things are a lost cause."

Junior disliked the idea of his friend struggling, especially when he was getting on in years. He wished he could help him but Burnett insisted on keeping that truck.

"That's alright I'm sure some of Lady's magic could help," said Junior.

"How is she?" Lily asked.

"She's running as smooth as I surf the waves," boasts Junior. "She misses you so much. Everyone on Sodor wants to see you!"

Lily was touched by his statement. "Don't worry I'll come by the island before I go back home."

Just then they heard a truck honking from outside. Lily gasped, "That must be Grandpa! We can catch up later!" She waved goodbye then got her things and went to her grandfather.

As soon as she left Junior leaned back in his chair and laughed to himself.

"Oh Lily is going to be so surprised, she doesn't even suspect a thing!"

"Suspect what?" Horace Schemer's voice nearly made Junior fall out of his chair.

"The heck are you doing here?" Don't you have a psychiatrist appointment or something?" The Blond haired man sneered.

"My psyche is in perfectly good health thank you very much," the arcade entrepreneur retorted as he flapped the front of his vest. "As you know I feel it is time for a career change-"

"Cleaning the toilets?"

"No! I decided to expand my business into the world of cinema!"

"Any movie you'd make would end up at the bin at Savers," grumbled Junior. Schemer ignored his putdown and continued boasting.

"So I'm taking the nephew out to Sodor and see if we could film a pilot to sell to the execs."

Junior was about to respond again until another funny idea popped up in his head. A sly grin crossed his lips.

"Well good luck with the new career," he said. "When you get that series I'll make sure to tune in!"

"You better," said Schemer. "I've wasted too many years living under your family's shadow. Now all of you will see it is my time to shine!"

'Shine so brightly you'll explode into a black hole,' Junior snickered as he gave Schemer two tickets to Sodor. He could not wait to see how it will turn out...

Back on Sodor, Conductor was showing Bud how to run Rosie. Despite her initial shyness Bud was paying attention, eagerly scribbling in a notebook. She asked Rosie a few questions to gauge her comfort level. Later that morning Mr. Conductor decided to go on a test run.

Bud loved the sensation of the breeze caressing her face. If she could she would've let her curls down. The sights along Thomas's branchline whirled by in a haze of colors. So this is what it's like? 

"How are you liking it so far?" Rosie asked her.

"It's wonderful! I've been on trains before but not like this!"

Rosie giggled. "I'm glad you're enjoying it Miss Bud!"

"Just call me Bud!" 

Suddenly a foreign object whirled by Rosie's head. "Whoa!"

"Are you alright?" Asked Bud.

"I'm fine," huffed the cherry engine. She yelled back, "Whoever did that, just to let you know you're violating railway regulations!"

Bud saw the thing leave. Her heart was racing and not just from the speed Rosie was going. 'No! They can't find out I'm here!' 

The object had been a drone sent by two cameramen. Well, if a 70 year old man and 9-year-old boy could be considered professionals.

"Did you get the shot?" Asked Schemer.

His nephew checked on his cell phone. "No, that engine was too fast!" The boy said with a pout.

"Too fast - There's no such thing as too fast!" Schemer said. He watched Rosie go.

"A little troublesome than I thought," he noted with a smirk. "I love a good challenge."

Later that afternoon, Rosie made a stop at the sea station for tea time. While Mr. Conductor busied himself with a giant choco sundae, Bud was sitting on a large rock looking at the sea.

"We call these French fries," she held out a piece of fried potatoes to Rosie.

"It smells so delicious but it'll probably agitate my boiler," said Rosie. Bud stifled a laugh. She liked the tank engine.. She didn't comment on her drabby appearance, and her enthusiasm was pleasantly welcome.

Just then Arthur came by having finished his run for the hour.

"Afternoon Rosie," said the dark crimson tank engine. "You don't mind if I rest here for a bit?"

"Sure," said Rosie. "I love some extra company."

Arthur spotted the woman on the boulder. "Who is she?"

"That's Bud, she's my future driver," said Rosie. "We're showing her the ropes today."

Bud waved at him. "Nice to meet you!"

"It's nice to meet you too Bud." "I'm not from the UK so excuse me if I mess up some things," the woman said.

"That's alright. It took me a while to get used to Sodor when I first arrived," said Rosie. She sighed. "Ah I remember it like it was yesterday."

Bud looked at the ocean. As she watched the blue waves crash along the sandy rocks, she felt a pang in her heart.

"I love the sea," she sighed. "This beach looks a lot cleaner than where I used to live."

"Where do you used to live?" Rosie asked her.

Before Bud could answer there was a buzzing sound. They all looked up to see a tiny helicopter with a camera lens attached at the bottom.

"Ugh it's that drone again," Arthur mumbled. "The owners came by this morning asking if they could film the seaside. I thought they were done but apparently not."

"That same contraption almost hit me earlier!" Rosie wheezed angrily.

"Someone's ought to do something about them," Arthur added. 

That was when Bud got an idea. She walked over to a patch of rocks, picked one up and positioned herself as close to the drone. Then with a grunt she threw the rock at the drone! It hit the camera causing it to crack. It flew away before she could reload.

The two engines were shocked!

"Bud! Why did you do that?!" Rosie cried. She didn't her to get in trouble

"Hey it worked for me one time," Bud replied with a shrug.

"That is...quite unexpected!" Arthur remarked awkwardly.

Mr. Conductor heard the commotion and rushed outside.

"What's that noise?"

"Just me taking care of a problem," Bud said, pointing to where the drone was flying away in defeat. Mr. Conductor raised a brow. "And how exactly did you solve the problem?"

Bud walked over to pick up the answer. She held it up with a grin.

"What my folks call it the old fashioned way."

Mr. Conductor groaned and rubbed his temples. He didn't want to deal with a possible lawsuit especially on the first day of training.

"Okay just...don't do that again. I don't think the NWR can handle another scandal and I don't want you to risk losing your job just as it begins," he spoke to her sternly. Bud's face burned with shame.

"I'm sorry, I promise It won't happen again sir!"

Mr. Conductor checked his watch.

"Well, we better get a move on. There's still a lot more to teach you. And hopefully you can learn how to solve problems in a non traditional way." He directed that last part at Bud, who could only grin nervously before meekly going back into the cab.

The two engines whistled their goodbyes and Rosie went off to finish the rest of the day.

At a fishing spot near the boardwalk Schemer's nephew winced at the video. 

"What happened!" Schemer barked.

"I don't know some jerk threw something at my drone now the lens aren't working!"

The drone sputtered pitifully back and landed with a dreadful thud. Schemer picked up the drone and groaned.

"Great! That'll cost me a fortune to replace!"

"You mean my fortune," hid nephew mumbled under his breath. Schemer rubbed his chin.

"Hmm. Whoever that person is they're an obstacle. This is even more challenging than I thought."

But the allure of money & rubbing it in Junior's face overrode all common sense. "Well then if it's a challenge they want they got it!" He slapped his hand on his nephew's shoulder and pulled him close.

"I promise after today we'll become rich and famous! But mostly rich!"

Schemer's nephew frowned. He didn't like the sound of that...

[summertime-delights]

Find MY TAGS for this blog below 👇

MY TAGS

Outside:

#afloat #countryside #in public #seaside #surfer #harbour #lake (puddles of all sizes) #river #stream #waterfall #rain #underwater #garden #patio #pool #shower outside

Inside:

#balcony #bathroom #bathtub #bedroom #kitchen #lounge #mirror #shower inside #sunlight #wall #window

By activity:

#getting naked #getting dressed #after swimming #into the water #camping #exercising #hiking #reading #sunbathing #taking photos #games #meditation #party #roller girl #happy naked #kneeling #lying down #mid air (jumps of all sorts) #running #standing #stretching #sitting #walking

By object:

#bicycle #campfire #coffee #jeans #sunscreen

Sensual:

#playtime* #sp@nk* #spreading* #touching*

Other tags:

#close up #her own photo #portrait #couple #girls of colour #destinations 🌍 #music #video #words

#me #mine #my edit

TO ADD

#inside

#festival

[28whitepeonies]

Hi bea

How was the festival? Would love to hear your thoughts!

Anon 2: Can’t wait to hear your experience. Hope you enjoyed it.

———————————————————————

Thanks anons

So I hadn't been to Away from Home either of the previous two times so I don't have another afhf to compare to. I have been to a lot of festivals otherwise though, both day and camping and if I’m honest this was probably the worst festival experience I have ever had (and I used to go to T in the Park). With that in mind I’ll summarise my thoughts now I am home and chilled.

Things I enjoyed:

• Blossoms - I saw them support another band a few years ago and I thought they were really great both then and now (we also bumped into them the night before in Pisa).

• The seaside location - Italy was so hot, we went to the beach in the early afternoon and then to the festival, I thought that was a great thing to be able to do

• Louis' show was fabulous and I was really glad to have seen him, got to hear some fitf tracks for the first time (no Chicago though :( )

Things I didn't enjoy:

• Food - The website said there would be vegan food, both my friend and I are vegan and chose not to eat earlier because because we were really quite excited by the prospect of vegan options, this was dumb on our part. I've been vegan for a very long time and would never expect a concert venue to have food options so I want to be clear that my issue here is only because the afhf FAQ's explicitly mentioned vegan food being available. In reality there were no real vegan options. We queued for around 2-2.5 hours inside the venue for food in total. First for about 30 mins to get a piece of bread with a slice of lettuce inside it and then for close to 2 hours to get a portion of fries. I promise I am not exaggerating any of that, we missed all of the cribs, the dj set and most of blossoms and I have a photo of the lettuce bread. We were by no means the exception in terms of how long we waited for food. A big part of the problem was that there were I think two/four (two places selling sandwiches and two selling chips & burgers) food vendors for everyone there, and the chip vendors only had one tiny chip fryer each so they could only cook 3-4 portions at a time and then a 5 minute wait for the next 3-4. The venue wasn't sold out but there must have been 15k people at least inside I expect and folk wanted to eat - remember they had said you couldn’t bring food/drink inside and you couldn’t leave and come back.

• Hygiene - listen gigs/festivals are never the cleanest places but this was really quite bad. We arrived about 6pm, at that point the bins were overflowing, there was no toilet roll and no running water to wash your hands in the loos. There were also no staff/stewards to notify. By 9pm then were used sanitary products stacked in the loos and no bins in sight. It was 35° that day.

• Organisation - The organisation around the venue was really confusing, we got a bus to the town and it was almost impossible to get from the bus stop to the beach because of the queue system & closures which just weren't being communicated. Every security guard told us something different which made it hard to navigate. Coming back to the venue later from the beach (around 530pm) there were almost no staff in sight and all the road closures had changed. When we got inside we didn’t get wristbands which we thought odd at the time but now know they weren't given out (I don’t really care about the wristband but think it’s a symbol of the organisational issues). Overall the event felt really understaffed.

• Tech/sound/screens - there were a lot of tech issues, some might have been heat related I imagine but the sound at times was terrible and the two screens seemed really small for the venue (they also glitched a lot). We chose to stand near the back so the screen thing was quite noticeable.

If I am honest the experience wasn't for me and I probably wouldn't go to afhf again, some of this might have been specific to this venue but I just wouldn't be willing to risk it.

[piggybankstomfoolery]

It didn't feel like it was going to be a game-changer when I attended the backer premiere party (maybe because for me it's just one of many indie animation projects I know are floating around out there, lol), but it's exciting to see Lackadaisy's pilot bring a lot of new excitement for indie animation to folks who otherwise didn't seem to acknowledge it. I've had family members ask if I've seen the Lackadaisy short (which caught me off-guard as most of my family doesn't usually know about animation beyond the big studios), and friends have told me they're now looking for ways to take their current projects and "ride the wave". It's even got me looking at some of the projects I've had going over the past year and considering a re-evaluation.

I started up a few things last year after the Pencilmation downsizing and layoff: a Doog short film, a series pitch with a studio which was presented and still being developed, and a small game (besides Seaside Fireflies) which got an equally small publishing deal last year. All three are exciting in their own way, but I'd be kidding myself if I said I had the resources and manpower to develop all three of those at once, or the funds to pay people to help me out.

That said... I think all of this new buzz has got me considering reviving the Doog project. The game project is fun in its own way, but its audience is very limited, and without the help of a good friend on the project who has since dropped offline for health reasons, I've been feeling aimless and have been considering putting the project on indefinite hiatus. The studio project is exciting to develop too as it's with a studio whose output I've always loved, but with the marketplace for investment in new series having clearly dried up to both insiders and outsiders, it feels like a lot of practice with developing a project, but without much of any return of investment for my part.

Meanwhile, Doog is short (probably around five minutes at most), simple to draw (black and white lineart drawn in Procreate), and mostly made by myself (with Joshua Tomar voicing the one character who currently has lines). The film could probably do a short festival run as well, and I've already got a little bit of marketing synergy going for the short with Newgrounds, as Tom was interested in giving the short a front-page banner and maybe working out some other stuff if we can.

The real question then becomes whether I can get the time to actually, y'know, make all this stuff. Will see what happens...!

[apieters]

Buried Treasure

K-POOM!

The shot from the flintlock pistol rang out in the darkness and echoed across the beach that marked the Western coast of the Magic Kingdom. Chris looked around, holding his breath, but he couldn’t see anything, blinded by the light of the torch he held in his right hand. The tyrannosaur listened for the sound of anyone stirring, but no one shouted or stirred, no lights came on in the few houses just off the beach.

He couldn’t be too careful. Lieutenant Rennes’ “visit” to Pride Rock could only mean that Frollo was looking for the papers, and he wouldn’t be surprised if he returned to find Jeronimo’s with a busted door and ransacked rooms too. Chris could only thank the saints that he’d been there himself to fight off Rennes until Mufasa could rally the lionesses.

When the mainsail’s set and the anchor’s weighed, Chris sang in his head, There’s no turning back from any course that’s made. There was no room for mistakes, and they only had one shot to pull this off. The Festival of Fools was tomorrow. He had to be back in the French district by daybreak—it was the only window of time to save André. Frollo would be out of the Palace of Justice, his guards would be out guarding the square, and the great bleak castle would be left with only a skeleton crew. Still, it was the Palace of Justice, and they were going toe-to-toe with Frollo himself, and escaping the walls of the prison was arguably more perilous than getting in. These papers would be his and André’s only hope of survival if he pulled off this stunt.

Chris patted his coat, checking to make sure nothing was lost. 1, 2, 3…8 packets of papers. All there. Good. If the secrets buried in these papers ever got out, Frollo would be torn to pieces in hours. Tonight, Chris’s mission was to make sure that those papers could get out, if the worst should happen tomorrow. Chris checked the lock on the gate that barred the entrance to what the locals had started calling Tristan’s Cove. The pistol shot had worked—the padlock hung loose, with a gaping hole where the cogs and machinery had been. He pushed open the gate and thrust his torch inside. There was a long, dark tunnel in the seaside rock that he knew lead to a small, isolated cove, protected from the eyes and ears of overly-curious pedestrians by sharp, jagged bluffs and the loud roar of the surf, with hollows carved by the crashing waves at high tide. Chris checked behind him one last time, hoping that no one was spying on him in the dark, then headed into the tunnel.

When he finally emerged, he found himself on the cove, a moderately-sized little beach exposed by the low tide, covered with great strands of washed-up kelp and surrounded by cliffs. He held the torch up, looking around, and saw what he was looking for—a small sailing canoe, with two shadowy figures inside, with what appeared to be only a small candle for illumination.

The figures stood up and Chris pulled out his reloaded pistol.

“Finger on your pistols?” Chris whispered hoarsely.

“Not a finger,” the voice said. “Just a hook.”

“It wouldn’t be good form,” the other said.

The only other sound was like the tinkling of silver bells, almost drowned out by the surf.

Chris put his pistol away, having received the agreed-upon answers.

“Captain Hook,” he said to his old friend. “Peter Pan.” The small light tinkled loudly.

“No, I didn’t forget you, Tinker Bell,” Chris said to the little pixie.

“Captain Carnovo,” the old pirate and the Lost Boy said, and the friends embraced. Chris and André had gotten their start in film and theatre as fight choreographers for Peter Pan, and Chris considered James Hook to be one of his best students and a close friend—close enough to be entrusted with secrets worth more than a thousand chests of Spanish gold.

“Still doesn’t feel right without André,” Peter said. André had been his personal fencing master, and of the two fencing masters Peter had been closest to André before the Reign of Terror.

“Well, if we all do our parts, we’ll be back together soon enough,” Chris said grimly. “Did you bring what I asked for?”

“It’s in the stern,” Hook said. Chris checked the back of the boat, and sure enough, there was a small treasure-chest.

“Is it waterproof?” Chris asked

“Sealed with tar.”

The tyrannosaur reached into his coat and put his hand into a tear in the lining, and began pulling out the precious packets of papers, wrapped in oilcloth. He stacked them neatly into the chest until it was full, and thankfully there was enough room. Then he pulled a padlock out of his coat pocket and locked the chest.

When he was finished, he climbed into the boat and and fished out two more small oilcloth sacks.

“This map tells you which of the islands in the Pirate Bank Archipelago the treasure will be found,” Chris said, handing one bag to Hook. “The other side tells you where on the island to find the chest,” he said, handing the second bag to Peter. “You must swear never to tell a soul that you have these maps. Now listen carefully,” the tyrannosaur leaned in close, so that everyone’s head was touching. “In the event that I, Mufasa, the Archdeacon, Cinderella, or André should die, no matter what the circumstances, I need you to dig up this treasure chest and give it to Mickey Mouse himself.”

“What exactly is in the chest?” Hook asked.

“Frollo’s death warrant,” Chris said. “Every letter sent between him and Tristan. Every command, every order, will be exposed and the Magic Kingdom will know that Frollo was not some helpless old man at the mercy of a rogue Captain of the Royal Guards.”

“We should be doing more to help you,” Peter Pan said.

“By accepting this and staying out of danger yourselves,” Chris said, pressing Peter’s hands around his map, “you are doing far more for André than I ever will.”

He pushed off from shore, and Tinker Bell flew to the top of the small mast as Chris raised the sail. Peter Pan grabbed Captain Hook, and the boy carried the pirate as he took off flying into the dark, cloudy night, and soon they had parted, heading back to Neverland.

Chris was left alone with Tinker Bell. “Set a course for Rumrunner’s Island,” he said. Tinker Bell flew ahead, and Chris took the rudder and jig and followed her into the night.

“Shiver my Timbers, Shiver my sails,” Chris sang softly to himself. “Dead men will tell tales.”

[tkwsdmc]

Best Places to visit in Denmark

Denmark is a charming country with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and picturesque landscapes. Here are some of the best places to visit in Denmark:

Copenhagen - Denmark's capital city and a vibrant cultural hub. Explore the colorful Nyhavn harbor, visit the famous Little Mermaid statue, and stroll through the historic Tivoli Gardens.

Aarhus - Denmark's second-largest city and a center of art and culture. Visit the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, explore the picturesque Old Town, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere along the waterfront.

Odense - Birthplace of renowned fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen, Odense offers a charming atmosphere and attractions like the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and the picturesque Funen Village.

Skagen - A picturesque seaside town located at the northern tip of Denmark. Known for its stunning beaches, unique light, and vibrant art scene, it's a great place for nature lovers and artists.

Roskilde - Home to the famous Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Viking Ship Museum. Explore the history of the Vikings and attend the annual Roskilde Festival, one of Europe's largest music festivals.

Frederiksborg Castle - Located in Hillerød, this magnificent Renaissance castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a lake. Inside, you can explore the Museum of National History, which showcases Danish history and culture.

Bornholm - A Danish island in the Baltic Sea, known for its picturesque coastal landscapes, charming fishing villages, and ancient ruins. Visit the Hammershus Castle Ruins and enjoy the island's unique natural beauty.

Legoland Billund - A must-visit for families and Lego enthusiasts. This amusement park in Billund offers a world of Lego-themed attractions, rides, and displays that cater to all ages.

Kronborg Castle - Situated in Helsingør, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known as the setting for Shakespeare's play "Hamlet." Explore the impressive fortress, stroll through the castle grounds, and enjoy panoramic views of the Øresund Strait.

Møns Klint - Located on the island of Møn, these breathtaking chalk cliffs are a natural wonder. Take a hike along the cliff tops, enjoy the stunning views, and visit the GeoCenter Møns Klint to learn more about the area's geology.

These are just a few of the many wonderful places to visit in Denmark. Each destination offers its own unique attractions and experiences, showcasing the country's rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

[snellblogs]

Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival

BUDLEIGH SALTERTON LITERARY FESTIVAL

Sept 21 24 Blog by Lynne Pearl

The sun was brilliant and the gardens beside the Temple Mount Methodist church in Budleigh were resplendent, the sun was so strong.  We might have been in Greece, the sea was nearby.  But we were in a small seaside town in the far South West.  It is beautiful and far away from anything.  And it has a very good literary festival.  On the programme were many quite renown writers such as:

Rick Stein, Frank Gardner, Patrick Grant, Carol Klein, Rev Richard Coles, Iain Dale Jonathan Dimbleby Susan Fletcher Liz Earle Lesley Pearse Cathy Rentzenbrink Craig Brown Wendy Joseph KC Sir Anthony Seldon.

Chair of the festival Cathy Rentzenbrink welcomes us to the festival in the festival programme like this:

‘What a complete delight it is to be writing these words, thinking about how wonderful it will be to be back in beautiful Budleigh Salterton, and what an honour it is to be introducing you to this year’s offerings. The programme is full of familiar favourites, new discoveries and mind-expanding treats. There’s plenty of war, politics, fashion and food, workshops for the curious, and lots of entertainment in the Marquee. I’ll be exploring brotherly love with the amazing Manni and Reuben Coe, and am honoured to be chairing the Hilary Mantel Emerging Writers’ panel. My President’s Event this year is with the erudite and amusing Sam Leith who has written a fabulous book about the history of children’s literature, and I’ll be talking about my own novel Ordinary Time which is about a reluctant vicar’s wife - there is a hint of Budleigh and her churches in my fictional St Breda. Literary festivals and those who organise and attend them are very much on the side of the angels, I think, and I am heartily looking forward to seeing you all in September.’

And these were the authors we came to see and listen to them talk about their writing experiences:

TOM LAMONT, PENELOPE SLOCOMBE, CARLA JENKINS

Emerging Writer’s Event where: Temple Church time: 2pm | ticket: £5 Talking to Cathy Rentzenbrink

This year’s trio of debut writers are certainly ones to watch for the future. Their books, which share the theme of relationships, include the story of a mother’s desperate search for her son, the magical relationship that grows between a young boy and his unexpected foster father, and the disturbing tale of a therapist and his patient. Tom Lamont’s Going Home is already one of the Observer’s Debut Novels of 2024.

We were attending a session with two of the three emerging writers being interviewed about the books they had just written and these were their first books.  They were debut writers, their stories were fascinating. One was a journalist by profession, the other an English teacher.  They had just written successful novels one set partly in India and the other book was about the parenting of a very young child and the trials of difficult friendships.

Each writer read from their novel which is always a treat to be read to by the person who has written the words so one sees the personality behind the story.

When I tell a story, I am enchanted with my words, the world and the situation I am creating out of nothing.  It’s rather like being a magician creating worlds that tell us stories and hopefully teach us.

For example, when the hero of my third book, Thiel, is on his travels in a created landscape and country, he has to find accommodation for the night for himself, a young child and his horse so he steps into the pub on the harbour at the sea port of Ive:

The warmth inside made Thiel’s head reel and the brightness of the light blinded him.  He stood quite still on the door mat as the door banged behind him.  No one in the bar seemed to notice the addition of one more body in the room.  They were sitting in groups, some in high-backed benches, some clustered around the huge fireplace, some talking, some listening, and a few playing some kind of game with wooden counters.  When his head stopped reeling, Thiel stepped forward from the shelter of the door to the bar.  He had seen the innkeeper, or so he took him to be by his wide, warm face, standing behind the bar serving customers drinks and food.  Thiel crossed the floor, and a few turned to look and stopped their talk to study the stranger.  Some spoke to their neighbour, they were trying to place him.  Where did he come from?  His appearance and clothes were not easy to identify.  It was a favourite game for the folk of Ive to guess where a stranger’s home port was from outward signs that gave him away.

And in ways like this the author has to make a world out of nothing as it were, which is what the two authors did who were being interviewed that day.

They both happily answered questions including about their book deals, one author had a book deal with US and the other author had a book deal with Germany.  They talked about the luck of it.  One said he nearly didn’t send it.  This was a story about parenting a young child and a problem friend who lets you down.  He had sent it out before, but it was not accepted, so he began to give up, but he edited with help.  He added who you meet is luck, that you can anticipate nothing and have to be grateful for what happens.  But as a result of their book deals both authors are able to continue to write.

It was a lovely day by the seaside and we were in the company of some excellent writers, to listen to how others make a story out of nothing, or just what they know, that is always fascinating.

[limoteesese]

Inside Me New York Giants And New York Yankees 2024 T Shirt White

Inside Me New York Giants And New York Yankees 2024 T Shirt White

The first thing you need to understand is the background of the word “jolly.” It has reached the Inside Me New York Giants And New York Yankees 2024 T Shirt White now of being purely a noun, meaning a paid-for day out, commonly in your employer’s time. But a jolly? Strange word. Back in the relatively innocent days of the mid-twentieth century, jolly was a round-cheeked, smiling, uncomplicated word. It went with fat, beaming, seaside-postcard ladies, having a cheerful time on the beach or at the funfair, or Enid Blyton schoolgirls having a midnight swim down at the beach, or a midnight feast up on the roof of the jolly old school. It was all very jolly, with never any repercussions, and it was all jolly good. Before that, the word seems to have come from two possible directions, and quite possibly both of them. It may be from the French joli, meaning merrry or joyful, or from the Norse word jól, from which we get Yule, as an old word for Christmas festivities. Put them together and the result is a jolly good word for everyone having a good time. It’s a pity it’s been corrupted into having overtones of something slightly dishonest!