#national lifestyle villages news

[leafyisgreennotblue]

With Legends Z-A, I gave him the unavoidable design. I had written so much background and trying to get it on Insta was a hassle, but luckily I’ll be able to fully put it here with no issues,,:

It was hard to steer from the typical older Emmet look but I tried my hardest to make it seem like it would’ve been. I tried looking up France fashion from 1600-1900 but it was either some ridiculous outfits or suits, and since it mentioned the redevelopment of Lumiose City, it was either working up from something like Jubilife village or was upgrading from what it already is. I’ve heard a lot of theories that Legends Z-A will be taking place in the future or bounce back from future to past, but since it’s hard to incorporate futuristic outfits without knowing “how futuristic” it’ll be, I stuck to something from a layer time period in France. I drew him more of a square shape in his eyes instead of triangular, both to signify age and his lost connection with Ingo. Maybe not a permanent design but I think it adds a lot to his demeanor. He kept Basic stuff like he still has his coat, hat, etc. because Ingo got to keep all his old stuff too, but since the trailer looked more modern and Pokémon were with people, I don’t think it would be all destroyed like Ingos just cause it seems like a more civilized nation alongside pokemon and if it really did get destroyed in some way, I have a feeling he would be able to get it repaired without it getting ruined again. Also in terms of the suit I think the darker color is a good parallel to Ingos pearl clan outfits lighter colors. A lot of the design choices were meant to parallel him anyways. Since Ingo had lost his gloves in his Hisui design, giving Emmet new ones felt appropriate for some reason. In terms of the cane I gave him, not only is he an old man, I think it’s kinda needed. Ingo had that little wristband to signify he was a warden, while I think the cane could be useful for a mega stone wink wink nudge nudge. Cute little accessories for them I’m so nice 💀 he could definitely have a slower lifestyle in comparison to Ingo, and I definitely could see him working at Lumiose Station (if it exists in this game) and even though he would most likely have his memory wiped too, Ingo still said the same train themed quotes even with his memory gone, and even then he still had SOME memory, it was just very faint. Emmet definitely could feel some “connection” to the station and say stuff like “Some late nights I think I see a man who looks like me, but upon second glance it’s just my imagination. Even if I can’t seem to shake it from my mind, it seems I still wish to see him again…” anywho for the drawing, I made a few references. The main one just being a reference of design, but the one in the top right corner was a small reference to Alabaster Icelands. I’ve seen a lot of people use the snow to give Ingo flashbacks to Emmet, and while I think my station one is more closely related to Ingos darker color scheme, I think having him in the snow was a good nod to that. The bottom right corner was a reference to a drawing (that probably most people already know what I’m referencing) that had Pokémon that I thought resembled them, and one of the ones I had included for Ingo was Klefki. So just a little salt to the wound (it wasn’t even that bad.) Anywho, I know the design isn’t very refreshing, but I tried to keep it as canonical as possible.

[stardust948]

Air Nomads / Airbenders headcanons

The temples served three purposes.

Raise children until they’re old enough to travel by themselves at 16 and house expecting Air Nomad women who were too far along to travel anymore.  

Certain sections were reserved for reproducing that happened every couple of years or so to keep the population going.

Gathering spots for important holidays and observations like The Great Comet. (Sozin’s Comet).

They operate with rank/caste system.

Top are the Elders give themselves fully to spiritual teachings.  

Next are the Monks and Nuns who are the teachers and caretakers of the children and animals.

These top two ranks are the only ones that are celibate.

Third rank and most common are the Airbender nomads who travel from town to town helping out people and spreading their philosophy. 

Fourth are the nonbender Air Nomads. They take care of the menial chores of the temple like cleaning and cooking in exchange for being taught scared knowledge. Once you reach a certain level of knowledge, you’re allowed to travel with the Air Nomads as a Wandering Zephyr. Some nonbenders chose to leave the lifestyle all together because of the biases towards them.

Hundreds of years ago, Air Nomads were more prone to violence and traveled in packs raiding villages for supplies. After a devasting Civil War, the old lifestyle was discarded and a new way of peace was vowed to never harm a living creature. The temples were built with the help of Earthbenders and violent airbender arts were sealed away as forbidden knowledge. The same knowledge the Elders wanted Aang to learn to protect them from the Fire Nation. Speaking of which, Firelord Sozin spread the stories of the Civil War as anti-Air Nomad propaganda and warned they were planning a new war to wipe out the Fire Nation.   

The few Air Nomads to escape were the Wandering Zephyrs and nonbenders who left the temples. During Sozin’s dynasty, they learned to hide their traits and traditions, thus the original Air Nomad way was wiped out. Even after Aang returned, it was never truly restored to its previous state but shifted and changed with the new era.

[discordiansamba]

some more general spitballing for the pirate zuko au:

once katara gets over her rough start with him, she's actually glad to have another waterbender around. kou's status as Most Experienced Waterbender in the group is a temporary one, but he enjoys it while he can.

local pirate still steals things on the regular. it's just a habit at this point.

kou picked his new name by using the last half of his old one, because he's not very creative when put on the spot. it's a total coincidence that it sounds like koh, but he feels like it's vaguely appropriate, given that he's already had half of his face stolen from him.

traveling via appa has him missing the ocean.

neither aang, nor katara or sokka think to tell toph that kou is fire nation. they think it's obvious- but of course, toph is blind, so she just assumes that since he's a waterbender, he's water tribe. it's kou who has to clear up this misunderstanding.

they forge a tight bond. former rich kids who were forbidden to learn their element and who embraced a less than legal lifestyle in secret? hell yeah. they've got one eye between them and they're ready to be absolute menaces.

aang has to step in so many time because people keep trying to arrest kou. his reputation as a pirate proceeds him.

sokka, as they're being attacked by the sea serpent at serpent's pass: i know! kou should try talking to him. they're kin, right?

kou: NO?????

(toph's nickname for him is, inevitably, sea serpent.)

the gaang just learns to accept that roughly 80% of kou's proposed plans involve illegal activity. you can take the pirate off of his ship, but you can't take the pirate out of the boy.

if you think kou isn't still incorporating breakdancing into his waterbending well. you'd be wrong. pretty sure it drives pakku nuts whenever he does it. that is NOT even remotely a proper waterbending form, young man.

kou: and yet. it works.

zuko's status as a waterbender was likewise hidden from mai and ty lee. when it comes out in the open, they have plenty of questions for azula. she just shrugs and says that her brother is a freak of nature.

learning that his great-grandfather was avatar roku finally clicks things into place for kou. that's why he's a waterbender.

imagine everyone's surprise when the person who gets arrested in chin village is aang, not kou.

local pirate still carries two water skins to go with his dual dao. just absolutely dedicated to the art of dual-wielding. at least it means they have a little more water on them when they're traveling through the desert.

kou meeting the swampbenders and realizing that there are other waterbenders out there who aren't water tribe.

whenever kou brushes off his high society skills, it always throws everyone for a loop. like. oh yeah. you were a prince at one point, weren't you?

it is a beautiful day in ba sing se, and you are a horrible pirate.

the dai li hate him! local pirate infiltrates their base and sets the avatar's sky bison free and departs with plenty of physical proof of their underhanded activities. thanks for keeping meticulous records long feng!

the gaang is jut like. we left you alone for FIVE MINUTES.

the gaang arrives in the fire nation and immediately sets to work spreading rumors that a.) prince zuko is alive and b.) was born a waterbender.

kou's just offended toph started the scams without him. hello? you didn't think to ask the pirate to do scams with you?

kou has zero talent for healing. he has no idea why it's so looked down on and dismissed as 'women's work' when it's actually incredibly difficult to learn.

(hama touches kou's cheek and says it's such a shame. he could have been such a handsome young man. kou is keenly aware she's touching the right half of his face.)

the day of black sun like. your prince has returned. he's a waterbender now. the solar eclipse has taken away your bending, but it hasn't taken away his.

(he still gets to confront his father. he winds up having to dodge his lightning because he can't redirect it.)

he and katara tag team that final fight against azula. kou picks the palace courtyard on purpose. there's water that runs underneath it. it's the perfect place to fight a souped up firebender.

[dandelion-wings]

I was thinking about a fic I'll never write at the barn this morning, and a line of dialogue required the name of horse breed, which led me very quickly to contemplating horse breeds of Teyvat. Which I have before! But today I got a little more in depth.

Bear with me on spelling issues, I'm on mobile and my phone can't cope with having Tumblr and Firefox open at the same time.

We are starting in Liyue, home of the Karst Pony, which is almost certainly the predecessor breed of all the others listed here and very certainly the oldest extant breed. "Breed" in fact is a loose term, as a number still live wild in the mountains of Jueyun Karst, and domestic and semi-domestic herds kept by small mountain villages (including Qingce Village) tend to have a range of characteristics as the smaller populations start to diverge--but the mountain stock never goes too far from true, as new wild stock is occasionally added either through capture to supplement others or through wild stallions wandering through. The Karst Pony is small, shaggy, sturdy, agile, and smart to a sometimes frustrating extent; they can be ridden, but not by very heavy, or armored, people, and are more often used as beasts of burden. They tend to be dun in the wild, but blacks and grays occasionally pop up, and in domestication are often bred for.

Karst Ponies are the direct ancestors of the Guili Plains Horse, bred to be larger and more refined and used for agriculture and transport on the plains back when Liyue civilization was centered there. The Archon War devastated their population and the changes in Liyuean lifestyle as they moved off the plains and prioritized trade and mining over the sort of agriculture where you need larger horses. However, they are considered a valuable part of Liyue's cultural heritage, and the last two hundred-ish remaining were seized some centuries ago by the Liyue Qixing and used as the base for a government program to revitalize the breed. Today they are primarily used by Millelith officers and couriers, but private individuals have again begun to be allowed to purchase and breed them for their own use. They are known for being steady and intelligent; the breed standard includes a notable Roman nose, and they are primarily dun, buckskin, bay, or black.

The Chenyu Draught is a bit smaller than the Guili Plains Horse, but much heavier, and was likewise bred directly from the Karst Pony; while the Guili Plains breeders wanted a more multi-purpose horse, the Chenyu breeders were aiming exclusively for a workhorse, and Chenyu Draughts are not customarily trained for riding. They are slow, steady animals known for catching a nap whenever they stop long enough, even in harness; they are primarily dun, grey, or black.

Moving on to other nations: the Fontaine Water Horse is in fact a pony by all reasonable standards, but Focalors forbid you call it that to a Fontainian's face. It may arguably be its own branch off some further-distant horse ancestor rather than a descendant of the Karst Pony, though it may also be just a very ancient offshoot, and is the only other wild breed currently extant in Teyvat. It lives wild along the shores of the many islands in southern Fontaine, and is an extremely adept swimmer, with a unique fifth gait that helps it traverse sandy shores swiftly and easily. It is very light-boned, shy and quick to startle, but, in domestic populations acclimated to humans, known to be very mischievous. All Water Horses are white, by which I mean gray (as most 'white' horses without some specific genetic stuff going on are born gray and have their coats pale over time; Water Horses pale out very quickly, within the first two years of life). Their population is a shadow of what it once was, as vast swathes were wiped out by Elynas, and it was largely preserved by a breeding program mandated by the Iudex and conducted in its later stages by Melusines, who released their end result back into the wild.

(Some say say Water Horses were different before the Melusines got involved, but no one can say how. They match the old records in every characteristic. It's just... a vibe.)

While some Water Horses have been domesticated, their size and light frames mean they can only be ridden by small children and Melusines--they are in fact the only horses who will tolerate Melusine handling--the humans of Fontaine used them as base stock to breed a larger horse called the Fontainian Pacer, so called because the Water Horse's unique fifth gait was bred for ardently and exaggerated into a much showier gait that we will call the danse. As with our gaited horses, some breeders have taken this to ridiculous heights, and thus there are two breed 'types'. the Court Pacer has an extremely exaggerated danse and is further bred for looks, being taller, thinner-boned, with a much higher-set head and tail, and often a blue-eyed cremello (one of those whites-with-genetic-stuff), though pale gray and perlino (cremello-adjacent) are both acceptable colors in show; the Classic Pacer is a bit shorter, heavier (relatively speaking, it's still very light), with a less exaggerated gait, exclusively that quickly-paled-out-grey, and overall much closer to the original Water Horse. Both types are not very bright and very flighty.

Which necessitated another, more practical breed for functional use: the Oractrice Charger was originally bred from Chenyu Draughts crossed with the Fontainian Pacer and the Mondstadt Hunter, with some Water Horse in there to get a more water-comfortable animal, though it doesn't have the unique gait and is mostly used in northern Fontaine, where horses are more useful, and as a police horse. It was in fact bred for Maison use, hence the name, though the combination of Fontaine's mekanization and the growing influx of Melusines in the government mean it's slowly been phased out. It's kept alive by rich nobles and its general popularity for outcrosses. It is a reasonably large and heavy animal, though not draft-sized, noted for its good temperament and stolid calm, though it tends to be quite stubborn. They are typically grey, black, bay, or chestnut.

Mondstadt's ancient pony breed is now extinct, but the Stormcrest Pony was definitely an offshoot of the Karst Pony, larger and with much thicker, shaggier coats to survive the pre-Barbatos wilderness. That adaptation meant they were doomed when Barbatos changed the landscape and climate, but they were the base breed, with some added Guili Plains Horse blood (and, given their coloring, probably some Desheret Red), for the Mondstadt Hunter, a medium-weight animal with a good temperament and a lot of energy. They were generally bay, brown, or chestnut, with the 'prototypical' Hunter being liver chestnut, and were bred primarily for hunting, though they were considered good all-purpose riding horses. Unfortunately, they were originally bred and primarily used by the Lawrences, and a combination of that association and a cultural shift to hunting on foot (mostly because hunting on horseback was associated with the aristocracy) led largely to their demise. The main remaining population is actually in Fontaine, where a few nobles liked the imports used to breed the Oratrice Charger enough to maintain their own small breeding programs.

Ragvindr, who I will always headcanon as the reason the Knights have a cavalry company, tried to maintain the breed, but for both political and practical reasons the Ragnvinds had to shift tacks early on. They eventually imported Oratrice Chargers and crossed them with Hunter mares, producing Mondstadt's current all-around horse, the Dawntrotter, a medium-sized animal with a steady temperament that is sturdy enough to serve both as a workhorse on the nation's wineries and a cavalry mount for armored knights. There are three breed 'types,' one nearly a draft and primarily used for winery work, one much lighter and considered an ideal riding mount, and in the middle a dedicated cavalry mount bred exclusively by three stables in Mondstadt, one of them the Dawn Winery. They are primarily bay or chestnut, occasionally brown or black.

Modern Sumeru relies upon the Sumpter Beast, which is comfortable in both jungle and desert, carries many times more than a horse does, and is a much, much easier keeper. However, the historical record makes clear that the desert civilizations once bred what's now known as the Desheret Red, a light, fast, smart, highly independent horse highly endurant in heat and desert conditions. It was exclusively chestnut and presumably contributed its blood to the Mondstadt Hunter simply because those red genes had to come from somewhere. Unfortunately, when the great desert civilizations collapsed, it dwindled into extinction. If any local wild ponies preceded them, they're not on the record, but even those would go back to imported Karst Ponies in the end.

(Rumors of blood-red 'rift horses' seen around the Tunigi Hollow are just that. No one has ever verified that they exist.)

Inazuma has imported horses over the centuries, but they've never been popular there--they don't have the terrain or, more importantly, the pasture space. Largely they've served as status symbols, and fallen out of favor amid the conservative influence Ei's policies exert. In any case, no one has made a dedicated effort to create an Inazuman breed.

Depending on their locations, I like the idea of Snezhnaya and Natlan having descendant breeds of the Stormcrest Pony and Desheret Red respectively, but we'll see! XD

[lookalikeds]

      estrella   soto   is   a   twenty   five  year-old   figure   skater   in   new   york,   u.s.a.   they   were   brought   under   richard’s   care   when   they   were   only   five   years   old.   they   are   known   as   the   lookalike   because   they   are   lithesome   but   also   disillusioned.

𓂅 *  ⋆  BASICS   .

FULL   NAME.     estrella   luciana   soto. MEANING.     spanish  ,   “  star.  ” NICKNAMES.     ella  ,   ellie  ,   este  ,   ells  ,   she   accepts   any   and   all   variations. AGE.     twenty   five. BIRTHDATE.     seventh   of   march   in   the   year   nineteen   eighty. PLACE   OF   BIRTH.     tuscon  ,   arizona.  WESTERN   ZODIAC.     pisces. GENDER   IDENTITY.     cis   woman  ,   she   &   her. ORIENTATION.     demisexual   ,   biromantic. NATIONALITY.     american. SPOKEN   LANGUAGES.     english   and   spanish. OCCUPATION.     professional   figure   skater. CURRENT   RESIDENCE.     an   apartment   in   greenwich   village  ,   nyc   that   she   shares   with   her   occasional   skate   partner   turned   roommate   turned   situationship  ,   brando(n).

𓂅 *  ⋆  PHYSICAL   .

HEIGHT.     five   foot  ,   one   inch. BUILD.     petite  ,   fit  ,   lithe   -   particularly   on   an   ice   rink. FACE   CLAIM.     jenna   ortega. HAIR.     dark   brown  ,    an   almost   black   that   reaches   below   her   shoulders   with   curtain   bangs   to   frame   her   face.   generally   worn   in   loose   curls  and   half   up  ,   half   down   styles   that   can   be   easily   pinned   up   for   skating. EYES.     big  ,   round   and   warm   brown…   in   a   word  ,   doe-like. NOTABLE   FEATURES.     aforementioned   doe-eyes  ,   various   scrapes   and   bruises   from   missteps   on   the   ice  ,   long   lashes   and   a   dark   scattering   of   freckles   across   her   nose   and   cheeks. SCENT.     wild   strawberry  ,   pink   jasmine  ,   patchouli   and   amber  ,   reminiscent   of   miss   dior   cherie. TATTOOS.     a   little   butterfly   on   her   left   shoulder   blade. PIERCINGS.     two   lobe   piercings   on   each   ear   in   addition   to   an   orbital   on   her   right. DOMINANT   HAND.     ambidextrous   but   favours   her   right.

𓂅 *  ⋆  PSYCHE   .

MYERS   -   BRIGGS.     enfj-t  ,   the   protagonist. MORAL   ALIGNMENT.     neutral   good. TRAITS.   balletic  ,   disillusioned  ,   driven  ,   guarded  ,   haunted  ,   independent  ,   keen  ,   resilient  ,   rueful  ,   tender. QUIRKS.     remarkably   flexible  ,   she   bites   her   lip   in   thought  ,   toys   with   jewellery   when   uncomfortable  ,   never   fails   to   keep   a   neat   manicure   and   rests   in   stances   one   might   recognise   to   be   ballet   positions. VICES.     a   true   workaholic  ,   she   maintains   a   very   healthy   lifestyle   but   does   occasionally   drink   and   smoke   socially.

𓂅 *  ⋆  INTERESTS   &   HOBBIES   .

INTERESTS.     choreography   and   dance  ,   theatre   of   every   variety   -   lincoln   centre   is   a   favourite   of   hers   for   their   opera   &   ballet   seasons  ,   classical   music   and   most   recently  ,   the   cold   case   of   winifred   woodrow. HOBBIES.      fitness  ,   theatregoing  ,   cabaret   club   nights   and   uploading   free   dance   skating   routines   onto   (   a   newly   launched   )   youtube   -   brando   choreographs   and   then   they   perform   them together for funsies.  SPECIAL   SKILLS. an  accomplished   dancer   who   still   practises   ballet   to   this   day  ,   remarkably   high   endurance  and  muscle  memory  due   to   her   training   and   profession  ,   uncanny   ability   to   internalise   her   feelings.

𓂅 *  ⋆  BECOMING   A   WARD   .

tw   :   teenage  pregnancy,   child   abandonment   and   implied   endangerment.

it  became  a  regional  news  story.   statewide,   people  seemingly  fascinated  by  how  any  parent  could  dream  of  abandoning  their  child,   let  alone  in  such  a  callous  fashion. 

estrella  had  only  recently  turned  five  when  her  not-much-older-than-teenage  parents  dropped  her  off  at  kindergarten  one  morning  only  to  fail  in  picking  her  up  again  later  that  day.   try  as  teachers  and  later,   police  sergeants  might,   there  was  no  getting  ahold  of  them.   with  little  known  and  much  speculated,   many  would  soon  arrive  at  the  conclusion  that  the  young  couple  had  fled  the  country  to  start  anew,   leaving  behind  the  small  daughter  they’d  come to  look  upon  as  an  unwanted  burden.

one  such  person,   who  took  immense  pity  on  the  girl,   was  a  connection  richard  held  at  the  newly-launched  CNN.   an  attentive  news  reporter  by  the  name  of  julian  esparza  was  keenly  aware  of  the  philanthropist’s  efforts  to  offer  up  his  home  to  young  individuals  in  need  of  safety  and  stability  and  recommended  richard  meet  with  little  estrella  as  soon  as  he  could.   whatever  it  was  that  richard  saw  in  the  five  year  old  girl  that  day  (  likely  the  spirit  and  semblance  of  his  long  lost  daughter  )  caused  the  man’s  heart  to  bleed  and  within  a  week  the  paperwork  had  been  signed  and  estrella  was  on  the  way  to  her  new  home.

𓂅 *  ⋆  LIFE   AS   A   WARD   .

being  not  only  one  of  the  earliest  wards  to  arrive  but  also  the  very  youngest  of  them  all,   estrella’s  status  as  baby  sister  of  the  house  never  really  strayed  from  the  stereotypes.   spoiled  and  resilient,   she  was  a  paradox  amongst  the  wards  in  how  she  seemed  to  possess  the  least  agency  but  carry  the  highest  status.

it’s  a  unique  sense  of  imposter  syndrome,   she  summises   —   bearing  the  unfathomable  weight  of  another’s  lost  girlhood.   cursed  princess  with  her  whole  life  ahead  of  her,   she  was  a  little  girl  walking  so  unknowingly  into  the  tall  shadow  of  the  daughter  who’d  come  before.   from  the  very  beginning,   richard  had  never  been  particularly  shy  in  how  he  doted  on  young  estrella.   freely  showering  her  in  the  paternal  affection  the  past  had  robbed  them  both  of  and  to  a  little  girl  who’d  been  abandoned  by  her  own  parents,  being  made  to  feel  so  wanted  was  all  she  could  have  dreamt  of. he  was  her  father  in  all  but  name.

outwardly,   she  was  a precocious  and  spirited  young  girl,   all  pink  cheeks  and  toothy  grins,   perpetually  in  awe  of  those  she  shared  a  home  with,   their  varied  and  abundant  talents  drawing  her  wide-eyed  wonder.   until  she  took to  the  ice  for  the  first  time,   you’d   see  her  following  fellow  wards  around,   hoping  to  catch  a  glimpse  of  whatever  it  was  they  were  up  to  before  being  told  she  was  too  young  or  too  small  and  relegated  to  sitting  on  the  sidelines.   it  was  a  pattern  of  behaviour  that,   although  adapted,   would  follow  her  until  she  left  woodrow.

for  try  as  she  might,   amidst  the  attention  from  richard  she  so  enjoyed,   the  wards  did  not  warm  to  estrella  the  way  she  hoped  they  would.   their  caretaker’s  favouritism  for  the  surrogate  daughter  he’d  found  in  estrella  had  planted  the  seed  of  resentment  and  in  turn,   stifled  and  isolated  her  entirely.   it  was  in  this  eventual  seclusion  that  she  learnt  the  value  of  independence  and  began  throwing  herself  into  skating  completely,   suddenly  glad  for  the  chance  to  thrive  all  on  her  own  the  way  she’d  watched  the  other  wards  do.

she  grew  reticent,   internalising  all  she  felt  for  the  sake  of  whatever  semblance  of  a  family  she  still  wanted  to  cling  to.   the  same  would  eventually  be  said  of  the  response  estrella  had  to  an  equally  crushing  realisation…   that  she’d  never  quite  compare  to  a  dead  girl.

the  rosy  retrospection  of  childhood  had  begun  to  fade.   estrella  can’t  ever  pinpoint  a  specific  moment  in  which  things  changed  for  them  but  gradually,   over  time,   when  she  would  come  to  meet  richard’s  eye…   her  heart  sank.  in  the  midst  of  reminiscing,   she  could  feel  he  wasn’t  looking  back  at  her  at  all  but  rather  at  winifred…   or  whatever  semblance  of  his  daughter  he’d  long  been  projecting  onto  estrella.   it  was  an  all  too  painful  revelation,   one  that  haunted  her  from  that  point  on.

more  than  anything,  estrella  wanted  to  escape  her  own  skin.   flee  from  any  part  of  herself  tied  to  the  woodrow  daughter  who  had  so  mysteriously  disappeared  that  bleak  midwinter  night.   this  striking  resemblance  that  had  changed  her  life  and  been  the  cause  of  all  her  woe.   had  anyone  accepted  her  for  who  she  truly  was?

despite  the  fierce  independence  she’d  adopted,   estrella  still  found  herself  clinging  to  the  father  she’d  once  known  him  to  be.   looking  on  in  rumination,   she’d  wonder  (  at  length  )   if  his  love  for  her  was  at  all  genuine…    never  once  risking  the  inevitable  confrontation  out  of  fear  for  the  loss  that  would  follow.   instead,   keeping  it  bottled  up  once  again.   distancing  herself  little  by  little  until  she  was  out  and  away  in  the  world  —  determined  to  be  known  as  more  than  ‘the  substitute  daughter’,  ‘the  favourite’  or  ‘the  lookalike.’   her  own  person,   at  last.

although  she  was  never  too  far  away…   and  when  richard  called,   she  could  do  nothing  else  but  gladly  answer.

𓂅 *  ⋆  AESTHETIC   .

distinctly  feminine,   very  gabriella  from  high  school  musical  core  with  her  wrap  cardigans  and  ballet  flats.   though  as  an  athlete,   she’s  an  athleisure  girly  through  and  through.   leotards,   leggings,   matching  sets.   day-to-day,   she  really  favours  layers  that  she  can  easily  take  off  and  put  back  on  during  training.   the  odd  tracksuit  here  and  there.   even  if  it’s  warm  outside,   you’d  usually  see  her  with  a  puffer  jacket  on  hand  because  the  rink  is  so  cold. on  more  formal  occasions,   she  opts  for  mini  dresses  and  heels  to  help  give  the  illusion  she’s  taller  (  weeps  in  5’1”  )  and  accessorizes  with  a  sweet  bow  or  two  in  her  hair. 

you’ll  always  see  her  wearing  her  charm  bracelet  however.   it  was  a  present  from  richard  when  estrella  first  joined  her  skate  club  and  each  time  she’d  compete,   he’d  add  a  charm.   they’re  all  stars,   in  honour  of  her  name.

𓂅 *  ⋆  EDUCATION   .

estrella  was  homeschooled  throughout  all  her  time  at  woodrow.   as  figure  skating  became  more  and  more  of  a  serious  pursuit,   it  seemed  easier  to  contain  her  schooling  to  the  house.   less  distractions  that  way.   her  coach  was  certainly  in  favour  of  it.   perhaps  it  was  the  people  pleaser  in  her,   the  ‘perfect  daughter’  of  it  all  but  she  also  maintained  straight  a’s  too.   it  came  as  no  surprise  when  she  applied  to  richard’s  alma  mater  of  kingsbury  college  and  got  in  on  a  skating  scholarship.   the  real  twist  being  that  she  soon  deferred  in  order  to  commit  to  her  sport  full  time  and  has  yet  to  return  to  kingsbury  to  finish  said  degree.

𓂅 *  ⋆  EXTRACURRICULARS   .

figure  skating,   also  known  as  her  entire  world.   estrella  had  been  a  baby  ballerina  prior  to  being  taken  into  richard’s  care  and  he  quickly  accommodated  for  that  love  of  hers  with  a  continuation  in  lessons.   however  by  the  second  winter  she  spent  at  woodrow  house,   he  was  soon  introducing  her  to  the  frozen  pond  on  the  grounds  and  she  took  to  skating  it  like  a  duck  to  water.   

other pursuits include literature,   musical  theatre  and  classical  music.   their  occasional  outings  as  a  ‘family’  to  see  operas  and  ballets  very  much  inspired  her.

𓂅 *  ⋆  THEIR   LIFE   NOW   .

estrella  only  left  woodrow  house  three  years  ago  and  even  then,   living  in-state  meant  she  was  still  a  fairly  regular  visitor.   she’d  moved  into  the  city  in  order  to  be  closer  to  her  skating  club,   other  rinks  she  frequented  and  transport  for  national  and  international  competitions.   being  only  a  three  hour  drive  away  however,   meant  most  national  holidays  were  spent  there  at  richard’s  side,  the  odd  special  occasion  and  long  weekend  too.

in  nyc,   she  shares  a  modest  apartment  with  brandon,   better  known  as  brando.   they  used  to  skate  together  at  the  same  club  before  he  recently  retired  to  pursue  choreography  at  a  nearby  dance  studio.   there’s  always  been  lingering  romantic  tension  there  but  most  of  all,   he’s  her  biggest  cheerleader  and  a  helpful  objective  party  regarding  all  things  woodrow.

all  the  while,   estrella’s  been  forging  her  own  destiny.   she’s  been  competing  internationally  at  the  top  of  her  discipline  for  years  at  this  point.   (  a  writing  guide  on  figure  skaters  advised  not  to  go  into  specifics  about  competitions  bc  it’s  a  lot  so,   i  won’t  but  let’s  just  say  she’s  a  pretty  decorated  athlete  and   represented  team  usa  at  the  2002  winter  olympics  in  salt  lake  city  and  was  in  the  midst  of  training  for  the  2006  games  before  richard’s  death.  )   what  she  loves  most  of  all  though  is  getting  to  step  out  as  herself.   on  the  ice,   the  only  narrative  being  spun  is  the  one  she  creates.   it’s  a  level  of  control  she  enjoys  (  and  dreads  giving  up  upon  her  return  to  woodrow  house.  )   whilst  she  came  to  woodrow  house  seeking  a  family,   she  left  seeking  visibility  and  acceptance  and  in  skating,   estrella  truly  found  that.

[ellilverse]

MORION

Illustrations by @tururv

Editor and translator by Swissy Knife

Morion is the largest kingdom on the continent, whose core calling is combat. It was formed as a result of faith in the gods of destruction, Pyrope and Ruben. According to legends, the Morionians got their bright red eyes from the goddess of hunting herself.

Since its formation, Morion has been a closed kingdom, and opened its borders only after the end of the last war. Escapes from Morion have long been quite frequent, despite being punishable by law in this Northern kingdom. Those who manage to commit this betrayal act become enemies of the nation and are never allowed to return to their homeland, it is believed.

Due to the harsh climate, agriculture is not well developed in Morion. Morionians are mainly engaged in hunting and extracting animal skins from their rich forests. This place is known as a stronghold for excellent hunters who can defeat anyone, whether it's a ferocious beast or an unfortunate victim.

Every Morionian is sent to the army at the age of 75 regardless of gender, and the service lasts for 50 years.

The mountains of Morion are rich in minerals, including a wide variety of precious stones. Because of this, blacksmithing and jewelry making are well developed in the kingdom. Despite the fact that Morion just recently opened its borders, it is a well known fact that the best jewelry on the entire continent is made here. It's no secret that their jewelry carries special powers within itself.

In the Northern lands, you can often see many wooden totems that protect local villages and sacred places. Morionians are worshipful about woodcarving, believing that it is precisely because of the durability of wood that the deities are able to grant them safety, and they, in turn, honor them with their wooden images in that way. In many families, wood carving is considered as a traditional craft that passed down from generation to generation. Many amulets and wooden toys decorate the houses of people of the North.

The Nation

Due to the fact that Morion has been closed to outsiders since its foundation, its people considered themselves superior to the rest of the Ellilians. The Morionians treat outsiders with disdain and disapprove of any contact with other people of the continent. Any intimacy with a representative of another nation was unacceptable and socially punishable for them, and any children who appeared as a result of such unions were disposed of at the egg stage.

There are small communities on the lands of Morion that have settled away from towns and villages. Some of them lead a barbaric lifestyle and attack civilians of the North. They worship their own deities and perform rituals that are unacceptable to both the civilized Morionians and the Ellilians in general. They are no strangers to sacrifice, cannibalism, mass murder and other practices that are considered inexcusable. And although the kingdom is trying to deal with this centuries-old problem, the barbarians are still a huge issue for Morion.

Morion's families are often patriarchal. However, there is a common wedding tradition in which a couple must fight for dominance in their future family. In some villages and communities, there is also a tradition of stealing brides and fiances.

Any trait that is not typical of the original image of a race frightens Morionians. Hatching a white-haired child is a rare phenomenon, interpreted as a curse and misfortune for the entire family. For this reason, the Morionians have a dubious attitude toward the newly-made wife of King Norman, Queen Justine. It is unknown which nation the woman belongs to, but it is surely not acceptable to spread rumors or openly discuss such delicate matters — there is a high chance of becoming a traitor of a nation and losing one's head.

Morion and Sunstone have been allies since the ancient times of Ellil. The history of their origin union is unknown, but when new rulers ascended the throne, these kingdoms repeatedly swore oaths of loyalty to both of their nations' rulers. This alliance obliged them to help each other in times of wars. As part of this agreement, Sunstone sent its best healers to Morion. These healers are considered untouchable in the Northlands, and anyone who dares to harm them will be punished.

Religion

Faith in Morion flows in multiple directions. Most people in the North believe in their current king, while some are more keen on the faith of the Destruction gods. There are also pagan cults that worship local deities in barbarian communities.

[lovepeacestar]

POP NATION: POP CITY

Information of Pop City. The pop tribe in this fic is definitely a lot bigger (continent-size population) than the 5 tribes including the subgenres! Pop City's population is most definitely the most equivalent to the population of 'Volcano Rock City' (the rock tribe) a massive since the pop trolls are the only tribe that can give birth with/without a spouse.

I’ve always imagined pop has the biggest population.

Followed by rock and techno

Then Classical and Country

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

POP FOREST/POP CITY/POP CENTRAL/TROLLTREETROPOLIS

When finally free from the Bergens, the Pop Trolls began traveling northward. They needed to get as close to the Neverglades and the Deep Forest as possible because the Bergens' natural predators, Greygons and Wing-Dingles, were native to the area. This being the case, Bergens avoided the vicinity as if it were cursed. It would be the safest place for them to settle.

With so many small children (and the smattering of elderly), the journey to the area took over weeks of travel, and they continued their nomadic lifestyle for another week after that, searching for the best place to begin building. Peppy and a few others had spent significant time researching the area and learning about defensible geography, and he was confident their input was valuable. The vegetation is thicker, and we see giant trees. Huge rivers and streams are flowing south nearby, so by continuing into the brush, conditions are likely that we'll find an area that suits their needs.

They slowed as the foliage around them opened up into a huge clearing, and brightly colored, bioluminescent mushrooms lit the area. It was sunny, but the thick canopy of the trees looming above led the area to have what seemed to be a permanent soft layer of shade, with pinpricks of light filtering through the leaves like spotlights on the packed dirt and leaf litter covering the forest floor. The thick, tall trees were too close to each other for any critter larger than a caterbus to enter the area, and the clearing had a natural path that led to the riverbank nearby.

The trolls had made temporary lodgings with tents and carefully assembled foliage, so that the building crew could focus first on essential infrastructure: paths, foundations, the hospital, a new care center to house their critters, a central plaza, clearing nearby land for agriculture, aqueducts, plumbing, a market streets, schools, elderly care facilities, the list went on.

Massive lakes, rivers, streams, a forest with plenty of fruit-bearing trees and bushes, healing herbs of all kinds, flowers so abundant that they would have enough for decades to come, mushrooms as big as some of their pods used to be, even a freshwater spring that fed into beautiful rivers, lakes, & streams. That itself cut through the mountains, leaving caverns large enough to stockpile anything they needed to hoard during the colder months.

The Pop trolls live in a place that’s kind of like ‘Pop Village’ but bigger/more populated and is called 'Pop City or Pop Empire’, with King Peppy. Pop City still lives in the Pop Forest, further from Bergen City, in the Center of the Forest. The Pop Trolls grew another Troll Tree called Pop City or Pop Central. And advanced technology combined with nature. It’s a little metropolitan wonder, where all trolls live due to the powerful and ancient magic of the Pop String. Pop trolls live in the Troll Tree, officially dubbed Trolltreetropolis but often called Pop City or Pop Central. It's a little metropolitan wonder, where the most famous and powerful trolls live. Pop City is nestled in a lush forest, where tall trees and sparkling streams create a magical atmosphere. The Pop Trolls' homes are often built within tree trunks or nestled on branches, adorned with colorful decorations and flowers. Their community is known for its enthusiasm, positivity, and love for singing, dancing, and celebrating life.

The colossal Troll Tree stood magnificently, towering a thousand times larger than any ordinary tree. Just 50 feet behind it, a glistening lake sparkled under the early morning sunlight. Surrounding the lake were crystal formations of all shapes, sizes, and colors, casting prisms of light in every direction. To the right of the Troll Tree, the forest of Pop City flourished abundantly with a bounty of fruits, vegetables, and a riot of brightly colored flowers, creating a kaleidoscope of hues. The lush vegetation hinted at a land teeming with life and abundance. On the left side, a massive field of flowers stretched out, enveloping most of the edge of the encircling mountains. The vibrant blooms swayed gently in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing vista that captivated all who beheld it. Scattered throughout were fruit-laden trees and bushes heavy with ripe berries, adding to the scene's enchanting allure. The landscape of Pop City was a masterpiece of nature's design, a harmonious blend of colors, scents, and life that painted a picture of serenity and beauty in every direction.

In enclosing the city and creating a picturesque backdrop for the landscape, these mountains can be imagined as grand and majestic, rising high above the surrounding terrain. They likely provide a sense of protection and isolation for Pop City, adding to the mystical and awe-inspiring quality of the setting. Towering peaks reaching hundreds or even thousands of feet high create an imposing natural barrier around Pop City. This would emphasize their grandeur and the sense of being enveloped by a majestic mountain range. As its name suggests, the world of Trolls closely resembles the Garden of Eden. A very lush and fertile world with slowly aging inhabitants.

[wanderingmind867]

I've mentioned before how I wish the silver surfer had gotten a 70s comic series set on earth, and I think I even mentioned how I'd thought up a plan for 46 issues and two annuals. Well, i was really bored today and ended up really generating some story ideas for this fake 70s comic. I actually quite like I've got, so I'm going to share what I have here.

Issue #3: Namor and The Silver Surfer team up to face off against some undersea menace in a fantasy epic for the ages.

Issue #4: The reintroduction of mephisto into the pages of the silver surfer. Mephisto is back again to try and claim the surfer's soul, and he's willing to use any means to get it. The Surfer beats him here, but he'll back again soon.

Issue #6: The Silver Surfer teams up with the Black Panther and has an adventure in Wakanda. I'm not sure who the villian would be or what the story would entail, but it would definitely be a Black Panther Team-Up in Wakanda.

Issue #8: The introduction of The Black Boarder, mephisto's herald. The Silver Surfer and The Black Boarder clash in an intense confrontation that ultimately ends in a draw.

Issue #9: Immediately after mephisto and the black boarder fight, the surfer goes to doctor strange and tries to enlist in aid in hunting down mephisto. They do pursue mephisto, but they get trapped in a different realm and have to battle their way back to earth.

Issue #12: The Surfer tires of the madness that is the world of men, so he heads out to the frozen tundra of northern canada. For a while, he lives a peaceful life amidst the animals in the snow. But after around a month or two of peace, the surfer has his isolation disturbed by a confrontation with a yeti or snow monster. The surfer has to stop the yeti from attacking a small village. At the end of the story, the surfer is accepted by the small community. They see him as some sort of guardian protector. Has the surfer finally found a home?

Issue #15: The Surfer ends up leaving his new community for a while because he's beginning to tire of the settled lifestyle. He needs to ride the winds again. But before he is able to depart on his journey, he has to help the people of the village save themselves from a group of terrorists striking at native communities across north america

Issues #16 and #17: The Silver Surfer is on the hunt against the terrorist organization he encountered in issue #15. The hunt takes him to the cheyenne nation in montana, where he has to team up with the Red Wolf to fight the terrorists in issue sixteen. But from their montana base, the surfer learns that their biggest attack is going to be on seminole lands in florida. So the surfer goes to florida in issue #17, which leads to him and the man-thing teaming up to put an end to these terrorists and their rascist ways.

Issue #20: The Surfer ends up crashing the Vision and Scarlet Witch's honeymoon in rurutu, french polynesia. I don't know what villian they'd face or what would happen in this story, but I need to see another team up between The Vision and The Silver Surfer, so I had to include this.

Issue #21-22: The Silver Surfer finally meets Shalla-Bal again. Around a year after the events of Fantastic Four #155-157, The Silver Surfer ends up back in Latveria. Mephisto had decided to take a hand in fate yet again, and he's using Doctor Doom and Shalla-Bal as his puppets. In the first part of the story, Doctor Doom attacks The Surfer again. But once the surfer realizes that Shalla-Bal is trapped in Latveria, mephisto traps him in his domain. Part two of the story features the surfer and Shalla-Bal escaping mephisto's realm (and facing mephisto and the black boarder).

As for mephisto's new goal: The Surfer will find Shalla-Bal and free her from Latveria and her amnesia, but she'll have a plan implanted in her subconscious: when mephisto so chooses, she'll trick the surfer into signing his soul away to mephisto. A long con on mephisto's part. Allow the surfer a long period of peace and happiness, so he'll be caught unawares when mephisto finally chooses to strike.

[mybeingthere]

Emily Carr was born in Victoria, British Columbia in 1871. Her inclination to art was duly encouraged by her father, Richard Carr, a wholesale merchant. After the death of both her parents in 1890, she started to pursue art seriously, and studied at the San Francisco Art Institute for two years. At the age of 26, Carr visited a small village near Ucluelet located on the western coast of the Vancouver Island. There she sketched the lives of the Nootka people, indigenous to the land. Her interest in the lifestyle of Indian people was promoted by her trip to Alaska, where she spent days sketching the daily activities of the villagers.

In 1899, Carr went to the UK to study at the Westminster School of Art in London. In England she befriended and worked with Julius Olsson and Algernon Talmage, artists of the St. Ives School. By the time she returned to Canada, Carr established herself as a professional artist. She worked as a teacher at the Ladies Art Club in Vancouver, where she was highly unpopular among the students due to her smoking habits and cursing, that eventually led her to resign from her job.

After her tryst with many Indian villages in the Queen Charlotte Islands and the Upper Skeena River, Carr once again went to Europe in 1910, to study at the Académie Colarossi in Paris. She also took private lessons from Harry Phelan Gibb who influenced her palette adding there more vibrant colors. She was also influenced by French Post-Impressionism and Fauvism, and, after returning back to Canada in 1912, she exhibited 70 oils and watercolors of her “french period”, showing those influences. However, her bold new style was not appreciated by Canadians.

During the next 15 years, Carr did not paint much. She run a boarding house, took a short-story writing course, and spent some time in San Francisco doing different jobs, like painting decorations for the St. Francis Hotel and drawing cartoons for Western Woman’s Weekly. In 1927 Carr attended an exhibition of West Coast Aboriginal art in National Gallery of Canada. There she met Lawren Harris and other members of the Group of Seven, the most recognized modern painters in Canada at that time. Their distinctively Canadian art impressed her greatly, and triggered the most prolific period of her creative career. Throughout the decade, she mastered the scenes from the daily lives, traditions and culture of the indigenous Americans. With Lawren Harris as her mentor, Carr began to paint bold, almost hallucinatory canvases with which many people identify her - paintings of Aboriginal totem poles set in deep forest locations or the sites of abandoned Indigenous villages.

After a year or two Carr left Aboriginal subjects to devote herself to nature themes. From 1928 on, critical recognition and exposure in exhibitions of more than regional significance, like the National Gallery of Canada and the American Federation of Artists in Washington, D.C., began to come her way. There was even the occasional sale, though never enough to improve her financial situation. In full mastery of her talents and with deepening vision, she continued to produce a great body of paintings freely expressive of the large rhythms of Western forests, driftwood-tossed beaches and expansive skies, like Indian Church (1929), Loggers’ Culls (1935), and Heart of the Forest (1935).

In 1937, Carr suffered her first heart attack, which marked the beginning of a decline in her health and a lessening of the energy required for painting. Artworks from her last decade, like Odds and Ends (1939), reveal her growing anxiety about the environmental impact of industry on British Columbia's landscape and on the lives of Indigenous people. Carr died in 1945 of a heart attack. More than half a century after her death, she has become a Canadian icon. Her long preoccupation with the Indigenous culture of the Canadian west coast coincided with the beginnings of a rising tide of awareness and confident self-identification on the part of Aboriginal people who had for some time been considered part of a moribund culture. In the same way, her passionate involvement with nature and its portrayal coincided with a growing popular awareness of environmental issues and an accompanying sense of loss associated with the disappearance of "nature" in our own day. And the fact that she was a woman fighting the overwhelming obstacles that faced women of her day to become an artist of stunning originality and strength has made her a favorite of the women's movement.

[thxnews]

Chicago's Fascinating History of Change

  Chicago is one of America's largest cities, having grown from a small village of Native Americans to the bustling metropolis it is today. Its fascinating history takeout can be traced through both its cultural roots and developing infrastructure over the last 2 centuries.  

Chicago's History of Change. Photo by Victor Lozano. Unsplash.  

Chicago's History in Rich Explorers

The City of Chicago, with its extensive and rich history, has witnessed significant transformations. As one of the largest cities in the United States, it has evolved from its founding by French explorers to becoming an industrial powerhouse. Chicago has navigated through numerous eras, leaving an indelible mark on America. Established in 1779 as Fort Dearborn by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a fur trader of Haitian and African descent and considered Chicago's first permanent resident, the city's historical tapestry is woven with diverse threads.  

Chicago's History of Change. Photo by Victor Lozano. Unsplash.  

Early Settlements: Native American Tribes

The history of the United States is intrinsically linked to that of Native American tribes, who first settled in North America thousands of years ago. Tribes like the Apache, Cherokee, and Sioux were among the earliest people to inhabit the continent long before Europeans began exploring. These tribes lived a nomadic lifestyle for much of this time, forming small settlements as they followed migrating animal herds or sought out lands with more fertile soils. As these settlements evolved, becoming more extensive and intricate, they developed distinct cultural identities. Notable examples include the Iroquois Confederacy, an alliance of five Native American nations, and the Mississippian Mound Builders, who constructed expansive earthworks in present-day Louisiana and Mississippi.  

19th Century Boomtown. Photo byBernd Dittrich. Unsplash.  

19th Century Boomtown: Immigration and Development

The 19th century brought an influx of immigrants to the United States, particularly in cities like Chicago. Many immigrants were drawn to this bustling city by its promise of opportunity and potential for personal growth. This time marked a significant boomtown as new businesses, industries, and infrastructure began to develop remarkably.  As these immigrants settled into their new city, they quickly made their mark by introducing fresh ideas and innovations that led to further economic growth. By the end of the 19th century, Chicago had become a major industrial center with an international economy rivaling other large cities worldwide.  

20th Centuries. Photo by Geoffrey Hubbs. Flickr.  

Manufacturing and Migration: 19th and 20th Centuries

The 19th and 20th centuries marked a period of massive industrialization, and increased demand for manufacturing labor came with it. By 1900, in Chicago's metropolitan area factories. Many of these employees had come from Germany, Ireland, Italy, and other parts of Europe to work in the factories due to limited job prospects back home. This need drove many people to migrate from rural areas to large cities such as Chicago in search of employment opportunities. Chicago was once known for its large stockyards that processed livestock meat, but the city also grew into one of the most important centers for manufacturing in the United States. Immigrants were critical in fueling Chicago's remarkable growth during this time. They brought new skills and ideas that helped propel the city into a major center for innovation and industry.  

Chicago Fire of 1871. Photo by Meridith112. Flickr.  

The Great Chicago Fire of 1871

The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 remains one of the most catastrophic disasters in U.S. history. Sparking on October 8th, a small fire broke out on the Southwest Side of Chicago, swiftly engulfing the city. The inferno raged for two days, consuming over three square miles of land and devastating an estimated 17,500 buildings. The cause of the fire is unknown to this day, though many theories exist as to what may have sparked it. Some believe that a cow belonging to Mrs. O'Leary kicked over a kerosene lamp in her barn, while others suspect that faulty wiring or arson was responsible for starting the blaze. Whatever its cause, conditions were ripe for disaster due to an arid summer that left much of Chicago covered in sawdust and dried lumber - perfect fuel for any spark that might be ignited.  

Post-Fire Rebuilds. Photo by Randy von Liski. Flickr.  

Growth Despite Adversity: Post-Fire Rebuilds

The City of Chicago is no stranger to adversity, and the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 is a prominent example. Despite this catastrophic event, the city was able to rebuild and grow in the wake of destruction.  With determination and resilience written into its history, it is no surprise that Chicago has been able to once again find success after facing another setback: the wildfires of 2020. In June and July last year, more than 11,000 acres were burned by wildfires in northern Illinois due to extreme weather patterns across the Midwest. Fortunately for the citizens of Chicago, despite these conditions leading to some property damage, the city maintained its strong sense of community throughout its recovery efforts. After a summer full of dedicated work from local officials and volunteers alike, many areas have experienced positive change as they rebuild their city.  

Changing Landscape. Photo by Jim. Flickr.  

Changing Landscape

The 21st century has changed the face of cities, and Chicago is no exception. For centuries, people have flocked to this storied city on Lake Michigan's western shore for the opportunity and a chance to make a home for themselves. But in the last 20 years, the city has seen changes entirely transforming its landscape.  The City of Chicago boasts a long and rich history. As one of the largest cities in the United States, it has undergone substantial transformations over the years. From its founding by French explorers to its evolution into an industrial powerhouse, Chicago has navigated through numerous eras, leaving an indelible mark on America. Established in 1779 as Fort Dearborn by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a fur trader of Haitian and African descent and considered Chicago's first permanent resident, the city's historical tapestry is woven with diverse threads.  

Conclusion

Chicago boasts a long and illustrious history marked by adaptability. Originating as a humble river settlement, it has transformed into a major metropolis. Over the years, the city has experienced numerous changes, including population booms, economic and technological advances, and architectural wonders. Chicago's story of progress is both exciting and ever-changing. Chicago has a rich history and numerous attractions, such as The Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, and the Art Institute of Chicago. There are also world-class shopping districts, lively entertainment venues, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during all seasons of the year. Moreover, its diverse communities offer an inviting atmosphere and there are many different cuisines with many different cuisines to sample from around the world. With so much to see and do in Chicago, it's no wonder it continues to be a popular spot for visitors from far and near.   Sources: THX News & Wikipedia. Read the full article

[avrahamglattman]

NYCs Top Sports and Fitness Activities

NYC’s Top Sports and Fitness Activities http://avrahamglattman.org/nycs-top-sports-and-fitness-activities/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nycs-top-sports-and-fitness-activities New York City, the vibrant metropolis that never sleeps, is a global hub for culture, food, and entertainment and a playground for sports and fitness enthusiasts. From iconic sports arenas to breathtaking outdoor spaces, the city offers many activities to get your heart pumping and adrenaline rushing. Let’s delve into the top sports and fitness activities that make NYC an athlete’s paradise. Running in Central Park  Central Park, the iconic oasis in the heart of Manhattan, is a haven for runners of all skill levels. With its sprawling pathways covering 843 acres, runners can embark on scenic jogs through meadows, alongside tranquil lakes, and under the shade of towering trees. The park hosts various organized runs, including the annual New York City Marathon. Lace-up your running shoes, breathe in the fresh air, and join the vibrant community of runners who gather here to stay fit and challenge their limits. Biking across the Brooklyn Bridge  For a thrilling and picturesque adventure, hop on a bike and pedal across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Marvel at the stunning Manhattan skyline as you traverse the East River, capturing breathtaking views of the city’s architectural wonders and the serene water below. Cycling enthusiasts can explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Manhattan using dedicated bike lanes and paths that crisscross the city. Whether you’re a casual rider or a seasoned cyclist, this exhilarating journey will provide an unforgettable fitness experience. Pick-up Basketball at West 4th Street Courts Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, the West 4th Street Courts are legendary among basketball enthusiasts. This iconic outdoor court has witnessed the skills and energy of some of the city’s most talented ballers. Join a pick-up game or soak up the electrifying atmosphere as you watch others compete. The courts attract both amateurs and aspiring professionals, allowing you to hone your skills, showcase your talent, and experience the essence of New York City street basketball. Indoor Climbing at Brooklyn Boulders Escape the bustling streets and discover the thrill of indoor rock climbing at Brooklyn Boulders. Located in the industrial neighborhood of Gowanus, this state-of-the-art facility offers climbers of all levels a chance to scale walls, conquer challenging routes, and test their strength and agility. With expert instructors, diverse climbing terrain, and a vibrant community, Brooklyn Boulders provides a safe and exciting environment for climbers to push their limits and build physical and mental resilience. Tennis at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center  Home to the renowned US Open Tennis Championship, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is a mecca for tennis enthusiasts. With its numerous indoor and outdoor courts, the center offers ample opportunities for players to engage in friendly matches, take lessons, or watch professionals in action. The vibrant atmosphere and top-notch facilities make it an ideal destination for recreational and competitive players, allowing them to embrace the spirit of the game and nurture their passion for tennis. New York City’s dynamic landscape provides various sports and fitness activities for locals and visitors alike. NYC offers something for everyone seeking an active and exhilarating lifestyle. So, lace up your sneakers, grab your gear, and dive into the vibrant sports and fitness scene that defines this iconic city. The post NYC’s Top Sports and Fitness Activities first appeared on Avraham Glattman | Fun in NYC.

[hopeonmyphone]

BTS J-Hope's enlistment, ABC, BBC, Egypt TV, etc. 300 overseas media coverage "World attention"

Jhope joined the 36th Army Recruit Training Center in Wonju, Gangwon-do on the 18th, and more than 300 media outlets around the world reported on it and showed great interest. .

The world's three major news agencies, the AP of the US , Reuters of the UK, and AFP of France, introduced that "BTS has become a global cultural phenomenon by contributing billions of dollars to the Korean economy and building an international fan base "

Special exemption from military service is provided to traditional musicians, ballet and other dancers if they have won a top prize in a particular competition and are judged to have increased national prestige, but K-pop stars and other entertainers are not subject to the privilege.” ABC , CBS , NBC , Fox News, and UPI, the three major American terrestrial broadcasters , also reported on the enlistment news. NBC and CBS also reported on entertainment news programs such as Access Hollywood and Entertainment Tonight.

CNN reported on the news of their enlistment, saying, " BTS have become global superstars, such as being nominated for a Grammy, and with sales of $4.9 billion in 2019, they account for 0.3% of the country's gross domestic product and have become an important part of the Korean economy."

Major media such as Time, Forbes, Washington Times, Washington Post, USA Today, People, Variety, music media such as Billboard, Rolling Stone, Consequence of Sound, American Songwriter, radio networks such as iHeartRadio and Ohda, and entertainment Tonight, Teen Vogue, EFE , and IBTIMES also reported the news.

In the United States, even local media such as New York Daily News, SCNOW , Gadget Times, Montana Standard, laprensalatina , Fox LA , and Massachusetts Radio joined the ranks of reporting and showed keen interest. Canada's ET Canada also broke the news.

Brazil's OFuxico , Mexico's daily Diario de Yucatan , la verdad noticias, Peruvian daily la republica , Aristegui Noticias , news es euro , TV channel latina pe , and Chilean publimetro , etc.

Britain's public broadcaster BBC reported on the situation in South Korean politics, saying, "There has been discussion for years about whether BTS should serve compulsory service or whether they should be exempted for their contribution to the arts, but the Ministry of Defense has ruled that they must serve . " "When J-Hope released a photo of his shaved head, fans cheered by clicking more than 8 million likes," the report said.

Daily Mail, a daily newspaper in the UK, NME , a music media outlet , Metro Entertainment, and Forcenet, which delivers news related to defense around the world, also reported news.

In France, news of J-Hope's enlistment was reported by 24-hour news channel BFM TV , state-run international news TV network France 24, and weekly news magazine Paris Match.

Germany's wochenschau , Italy's TV news channel Sky TG24 , Netherlands' TV channel RTL Boulevard , Spain's national daily sports newspaper Marca, Portugal's national newspaper publico , and Russia's Orsk Today also joined in the reporting.

In Africa, Egyptian TV channel Sada El Balad , Egyptian radio channel Nile FM , Nigerian news agency Peoples Gazette , and Jordanian mediaAl Bawaba et al reported. UAE daily Khalij Times and Gulf News reported the news.

In India, many media such as The Telegraph, India TV , NDTV , Hindustan Times, East Mojo, Fun Times, Delhi Times, Glasham, and Bangalore Times showed interest.

Japan's Oricon News, Billboard Japan, The Japan News, Hong Kong's South China Morning Post Lifestyle Asia, Singapore's Straits Times, Philippine daily Inquirer, CNN Philippines Philstar, ABS-CBN, Indonesia 's CNN Indonesia , Thailand 's Reports from Asian countries followed, including thethaiger daily , Malaysian Insight, Pakistan's Global Village Space , and Vietnam's daily thanh nien .

It is estimated that hundreds of millions of viewers and readers around the world heard the news of J-Hope's enlistment through such news reports. Meanwhile, J-Hope performed ' HUH', a song from Suga's solo album released on the 21st.?!' as a lyricist/composer and featured in the song, giving fans a song gift. J-Hope's scheduled discharge date is October 17, 2024.

Source: Herald Economy

[quitequaintrelle]

we shall have the world forever for our own

Good Omens, Aziraphale/Crowley, Ch 7/8 (Rated M)

Summary:

Your new beginning starts here! Lying wholly within the South Downs National Park, the village of Wood’s Bottom is your destination for an idyllic retirement. This quaint hamlet is a short five miles away from the seaside resort of Brighton, with its vibrant array of shopping, culture, and leisure attractions. Boasting stunning landscape views, entirely average weather conditions, welcoming neighbours, and intimate rural charm, Wood’s Bottom is your opportunity to live the exceptionally normal and relaxing lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.

--

Aziraphale and Crowley have finally found their forever home after successfully ensuring there is still a “forever” to share. Surely they will integrate perfectly well amongst their new neighbours. Surely.

The latest chapter of my South Downs romp is here! Spoilers without context: 🍂😚🍆🎡🤒🐍🧈👵🦩🦩🐿️🐿️🐿️🎵🐄🐌🐌👁️🎃💥🥃🤯🔁💕

omg it’s FAN FICTION FRIDAY

Reblog and promote a fic of yours <3

[valiantsafariss]

Reasons Uganda Is Great for Group Tours: Adventure, Culture, and Wildlife

Uganda is a fantastic destination in terms of breathtaking views, a thriving culture, and wildlife experience. It has been termed the “Pearl of Africa,” that country having a unique combination of natural beauties, adventure, and lively local culture, perfect for small group safaris and group joining adventures. Actually, Uganda has everything for all kinds of tourists: be it one is planning a Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari or is only looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush or perhaps cultural immersion within remote villages and communities.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris:

An Experiential Experience for a Group

No tour to Uganda is ever full without the excitement of going gorilla trekking on a safari. Over half the population of mountain gorillas that exist in the world call Uganda home, and there is no easier place that allows one to view them in their natural habitats except for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Joining efforts in the process of going through forest trails, feeling excited in the view of seeing gorillas, and jubilation of the moment of discovery makes Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safaris ideal for group union.

Since the costs are shared in group safaris, gorilla trekking is relatively cheap. Additionally, it provides an excellent opportunity to socialize with other explorers who come from diverse backgrounds around the world. During group travels of small sizes, Valiant Safaris offers well-organized gorilla trekking tours which vary in terms of fitness and interest levels of the participants so that they fully enjoy the activity.

Small Group Safaris in Uganda.

Discovering the Big Five and More with Small Group Safaris

Small group safaris will take you on an expedition to explore its unmatched variety of landscapes or the even greater variety in its wildlife. Uganda apart from the gorillas can be one of the places to view the Big Five that is lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, within the borders of its national parks such as the Queen Elizabeth National Park, or even Murchison Falls National Park. Uganda’s broad savannahs, luscious wetlands, and dense forests are teeming with life, from climbing lions in Ishasha to the biggest concentration of hippos on the Kazinga Channel.

Small group safaris in Uganda provide an experience of viewing wildlife close up, with personal attention from knowledgeable guides. This usually gives an opportunity to build friendships with fellow travelers because of the shared sense of wonder at Uganda’s beauty and the excitement of spotting some elusive species.

Group Joining Trips in Uganda: Cheap and Activities Holiday

For those who want to travel at a relatively low cost to Uganda, Group Joining Trips are the way to go. The idea behind this is that groups can enjoy the best of Uganda’s wildlife and culture at a relatively cheap rate by being able to join other groups of travelers on a similar itinerary. This will allow them to experience all of Uganda’s iconic sights-from Lake Mburo to the source of the Nile-without paying for a private tour.

Group joining tours are great for solo travelers and friends alike, giving one a chance to get out there, meet new people, and share in the fun seeing the joy of traveling together. From the breathtaking views of Lake Bunyonyi to chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, these tours include all of Uganda’s top attractions at a fraction of the cost a private trip would bring.

Learning Local Customs Together: Ugandan Cultural Immersion

Similar to its land, Uganda also has a sturdy and varied culture. To learn a little about local culture during the visit to village, market, and different traditional performances in group trips to Uganda, one visits villages, local markets and traditional performances. During cultural experiences by tourism, individuals can come to know more about practices and lifestyle through group tours of Uganda of its varied tribes, especially the Batwa pygmy, and the nomadic tribe of Karamojong.

Uganda Group Tours- Truly Epic Experience with Valiant Safaris

Uganda, regardless of experience level, offers an unforgettable group tour. Uganda Group Tours satisfy the interest and will to remember those attending it with its adventures, wildlife, and encounters of the culture. With the purpose of optimizing comfort, enjoyment, and exploration in the small group joining tours, Valiant Safaris‘ excursions assure each visitor will leave with the memories he or she treasured as well as deeply understanding Uganda.

Start out on an experience as captivating and diverse as Uganda. Make your group tour booking with Valiant Safaris today and let us take you through this fantastic adventure, wildlife, and cultural tour.

CONTACT US :-

Email :- info@valiantsafaris.com

Call us :- +256 704 613919

Tel: +256 781 564 639

Address: — 07 Mwiine Rd Sumba Budo

Kampala, Uganda, East Africa

[manyatravelbogs]

Top travel trends to watch out in 2024

Top Travel Trends to Watch Out for in 2024

Hey, travel enthusiasts! If you’re planning your next adventure, you’re in for some exciting updates. Travel in 2024 is all about meaningful experiences, smarter choices, and cutting-edge innovation. Let’s dive into the latest trends that are reshaping how we explore the world this year.

Go Green or Go Home: Sustainable Travel Have you ever thought about how your travel habits affect the planet? Sustainable travel is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a lifestyle!

What’s Trending? Eco-Friendly Stays: Think treehouses, solar-powered resorts, and accommodations that give back to the environment. Slow Travel: Forget rushed itineraries. Travelers are spending more time at fewer destinations, soaking in local vibes and cutting down on their carbon footprints. Pro Tip: Look for hotels certified by organizations like Green Key or EarthCheck.

Workcation Goals: Bleisure is Booming Mixing business with pleasure? Yes, please! The rise of "bleisure" travel means you can conquer your to-do list and explore dreamy destinations at the same time.

Why It’s a Hit Work from a beachfront café in Bali or a cozy lodge in the Alps. More destinations are offering high-speed Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, and even “work-friendly” travel packages.

Wellness Travel 2.0: It’s Time to Reboot

Wellness travel isn’t just about spa days anymore. It’s about hitting the reset button on life.

What’s New? Healing Through Nature: Think forest bathing in Japan or sound healing in Costa Rica. Digital Detox Retreats: Swap your screen for serene landscapes and reconnect with yourself. Fun Fact: 85% of wellness travelers say they feel more recharged after a nature-focused trip.

Hidden Gems: Offbeat is the New Cool Ditch the overcrowded tourist traps! 2024 is all about finding those lesser-known, Insta-worthy spots.

Hot Picks for 2024: Albania: Pristine beaches and charming villages. Bhutan: A carbon-negative paradise that promotes happiness. Local Wonders: Explore untouched villages, ancient trails, or lesser-known national parks near you.

Travel Meets Tech From planning your trip to making it seamless, technology is taking travel to the next level.

Tech Upgrades You’ll Love: AI Itineraries: Apps that design travel plans tailored just for you. Augmented Reality (AR): Tour ancient ruins virtually or preview hotels in 3D. Contactless Everything: From check-ins to room service, minimal touchpoints are the new norm. Pro Tip: Try AI-powered travel planners like Kayak or TripIt for a stress-free journey.

Taste the World: Culinary Adventures Are you a foodie? 2024 is your year to explore the world one bite at a time.

What’s Cooking? Join local cooking classes or explore food markets. Opt for hyper-local, farm-to-table dining experiences. Don’t Miss: Street food tours in places like Bangkok, Istanbul, or Mexico City for an authentic taste of culture.

Family Adventures Redefined Family vacations are moving beyond the usual theme parks. Think immersive, engaging experiences for everyone.

Trending Now: Multi-generational travel with activities for kids, parents, and grandparents alike. Kid-friendly safaris, eco-lodges, and interactive cultural tours.

Solo Travel for Every Age

Solo travel isn’t just for young wanderers anymore! Travelers of all ages are embracing the freedom of solo adventures.

Why Solo Travel is Thriving Gen Z loves the spontaneity. Baby Boomers enjoy ticking off bucket-list destinations. Best Spots for Solo Trips: Japan, Portugal, or the vibrant streets of Vietnam.

The Bottom Line

2024 is the year to travel better—whether it’s for self-discovery, family fun, or sustainability. With these trends in mind, your next trip is bound to be unforgettable.

So, where are you heading next? Share your travel plans in the comments below!

Follow this blog for more travel updates, tips, and destination guides!

[hotspringsvillageinsideout]

Tune into the Hot Springs Village Podcast with Dennis Simpson

In the heart of Hot Springs Village, a unique blend of community stories, local events, and engaging conversations comes to life through the Hot Springs Village Podcast, hosted by the knowledgeable and charismatic Dennis Simpson. This podcast has quickly become a beloved platform for both residents and newcomers, offering a window into the vibrant culture of this picturesque Arkansas community.

A Local Voice

Dennis Simpson, a longtime resident and an active participant in the community, brings an authentic voice to the podcast. His familiarity with the area and its people allows him to engage with guests in a meaningful way. Each episode features a variety of guests, from local business owners and community leaders to artists and residents who share their experiences. This diversity of voices adds richness to the discussions, making each episode a delightful exploration of what makes Hot Springs Village special.

What to Expect

Listeners can expect a wide range of topics covered in the podcast. Whether it's a deep dive into local history, discussions about upcoming events, or interviews with residents who have fascinating stories to tell, Dennis ensures there’s something for everyone. His ability to ask insightful questions leads to conversations that are not only entertaining but also informative, shedding light on the community's values and aspirations.

One recurring theme in the podcast is the emphasis on community engagement. Dennis frequently highlights local events, encouraging listeners to participate and connect with their neighbors. From farmers' markets to art fairs, he underscores the importance of being an active part of the community. This focus on engagement not only promotes local businesses but also fosters a sense of belonging among residents.

Engaging with the Community

The podcast serves as a platform for showcasing local talent and initiatives. Dennis often invites guests who are making a difference in Hot Springs Village, whether through volunteer work, artistic endeavors, or innovative business ventures. By sharing their stories, he inspires listeners to consider how they too can contribute to the community’s growth and development.

In addition to interviews, the podcast features segments dedicated to listener questions and feedback. This interactive approach encourages audience participation and makes the show feel more like a conversation among friends rather than a one-sided broadcast. It’s a testament to Dennis’s commitment to creating a space where everyone feels heard and valued.

The Importance of Local Stories

In an age dominated by national news and global events, local stories can often be overshadowed. The Hot Springs Village Podcast counters this trend by shining a spotlight on the community’s unique narratives. Dennis emphasizes the value of local history, sharing anecdotes and stories that may have otherwise been forgotten. This preservation of local culture not only educates listeners but also instills pride in the community’s heritage.

A Resource for Newcomers

For those new to Hot Springs Village, the podcast serves as an invaluable resource. It offers insights into the local lifestyle, amenities, and events that newcomers might not be aware of. Dennis’s warm demeanor and welcoming approach make it easy for new residents to feel included, helping them navigate their new home with ease.

Tune In Today

The Hot Springs Village Podcast with Dennis Simpson is more than just a show; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and connection. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just starting your journey in this beautiful area, the podcast invites you to tune in and engage with the stories that shape Hot Springs Village.

So, grab your headphones and join Dennis on this auditory adventure. Discover the hidden gems of Hot Springs Village, learn from its residents, and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of life that makes this community truly special. Subscribe today and be part of the conversation—your next favorite story is just a listen away!