#so that's the influence esp for the car rides

[agustdiv1ne]

here are my thoughts about each song that absolutely nobody asked for but i don't care 🤣

ok GROWING PAINS??? THE WALLS ARE CLOSING IN I'M FALLING TO MY KNEES I'M WAILING BC THIS SONG IS EVERYTHING TO ME. i loveee rock music and this is also reminds me a little of what i used to listen to when i was in the deepest trenches of my middle school emo phase (and continue to listen to bc my emo phase never truly left me),, THE GROWL. BEOMGYU FUCKING GROWLED. ME WHEN. ME WHEN. ME WHEN. *INSERT WEREWOLF MEME* i am just. obsessed. absolutely Obsessed. ALSO YEONJUN'S HIGH NOTE????? ACTUALLY FUCK OFF I'M ON THE FLOOR

chasing that feeling is very 80s new wave and it is Everything to me. i could go over everything in the mv but i'm j gonna focus on the song for now. i love the route they took for the tt, it's very like. dreamy? to me?? and laid back and yet it sounds like it would be part of some action movie????? like hero training scene montage and BOOM CHASING THAT FEEEEELINGGG in the background idk...the synths are making me ascend i swear to whatever is above whoever added those synths in the instrumental deserves the best fucking head of their lives. beomgyu opening fairy, bro always makes sure to EAT THAT OPENING BROOO I LOVE HIM. AND THEN TYUN HIGH NOTE WOOOOOOOOO that Healed me...and hyuka's "come and kiss me" YEAH. YEAHHHH. can u tell i'm obsessed w this tt yet???? i need it tattooed onto my ear drums right now

DREAMER MF DREAMERRRR BROOOOOOOOOO i've been waiting for an rnb song like this from them since 20cm i fucking swear. and this just. BLEW ME OUT OF THE WATER,, their falsettos are so mf pretty esp soobin's like his voice was just made for this song bro. i swear. and then we got beomgyu's falsetto too?????? wow. wowowowow. i need more rn. AND THEN YEONJUN BROO CAME IN W THE "LET ME BREAK IT DOWN FOR YOU" AND I'M DYING. LIKE ACTUALLY DYING PLS DO NOT RESUSCITATE

ahahaha deep down is like. so chill and i loveee the beat omfg. like this is a song that i am going to play when i go on late night car rides, bass boosted n everything bc the beat. the BEAT. i need it injected into my veins immediately,, def not like. my fav off this album but i still enjoyed it ^^

ok happily ever after has me in a chokehold rn. i'm being so serious. it's so fun and catchy it's like a little earworm that i can't get out of my head!!!! it makes me wanna dance and sing and AHHHHH. the beginning "oh ma gawd" that was so cute...def my pick me up song bc it's so cute n fun n i definitely didn't expect to like it as much as i do <3 the power of txt <3333 LIFE IS NOT A FAIRYTALE!!!! also soobin's falsetto got me again i'm ascending yet again my friends...i feel like this song is encapsulated by the ✨️ emoji pls don't ask me to elaborate.

SKIPPING STONES. MY ABSOLUTE FAV OFF THIS ALBUM. THERE IS NO COMPETITION I FEAR.....it's very reminiscent of music i'd listen to while growing up esp the songs my dad would share with me...idk why but that connection just makes this song so much more special to me. also sounds kinda like a day6 song and as someone who loves day6 i needed this!! i love the rock influences so fucking much guys i am so obsessed with this song,,,, i need more songs like this immediately. asap. ALSO hyuka's high note. guys. guys. what the fuck. he is such a talented man i cannot rn

as if i could forget about blue spring — when i told u i started crying??? yeah, i started crying right when it started playing. i love them so fucking much u don't understand 😭😭😭 idk why they autotuned my men like that towards the end tho,, but yeah. this will be my official crying song for the foreseeable future 😁

and then. chasing that feeling english version??? hello????? i typically don't enjoy english versions too much but this one is so good omg. i def like the og more but i did enjoy it and it was a nice lil surprise!!!!

i could keep writing more but i will leave it at that. i'm sorry if u read this far u deserve financial compensation for being so strong

[swamp-spirit]

So You’re in Effexor/Venlafaxine Withdrawal

Had some provider change bullshit and went from 225 mg a day for years to cold turkey for five days. Effexor’s pretty famous for being The Fucking Worst withdrawal wise, but it honestly works great for me. I’m a dumbass with ADHD, so I often end up without a day or two, but HOO BOY five days was a lot.

Unfortunately, most withdrawal advice I’ve found it targeted at people who are intentionally going off Effexor and focused on working with a doctor and weening slowly, not super relevant to me. I wanted to write up what I’ve learned to help other people who might be going through the withdrawal and not have access to Effexor or a doctor. None of this magically fixes it, it’s just making the shit timeframe until you can get your meds a bit less shit.

Note, this is pretty much all personal experience, and there’s not much research. This is not formal medical advice, and if you can talk to a professional, please do. Also note that I have a number of side conditions that may influence my experience. (Withdrawal is actually something that can be so personal.)

Know the Emergency Signs I’m not gonna fully list symptoms here, plenty of people have done that, but know which symptoms are normal ‘yup this sucks‘ symptoms and which are ‘oh shit‘ symptoms.  If you’re in this situation, I imagine the odds are good money is part of the problem, but know Urgent Care and the ER will usually give you an emergency prescription, so if you feel like things are getting that bad anyways, it’s good to go before it gets worse.

Don’t Drive I can’t drive ever, but pls don’t do this in withdrawal. I know you might have obligations, and I know calling a ride is expensive, but getting in a car crash is more expensive.

Try Not to Be Alone If you can, ask a friend over, go to a family members house, whatever you can. A lot of the emergency signs (delirium, seizures, losing consciousness) mean you can’t seek care for yourself. It’s good to have somebody around who knows what to look for. The biggest danger to people in Effexor withdrawal tends to be the mental symptoms. If it’s safe, let your loved ones know that you’re at higher risk for self harm and suicidal thoughts, and what you’d like them to do if  they’re worried. Most situations aren’t going to be that bad. Usually, it just sucks, but like... it’s good to have somebody around who can bring you soup and listen to you feel sorry for yourself. Treat it like having the flu, and know you deserve the same care as anyone else in that situation. (Yes, even if it’s ‘your fault’ you ran out of meds. If punishing yourself for not thinking ahead/missing an insurance detail/forgetting something worked, I’d never miss a dose.)

Chill Out Your Nervous System A lot of the symptoms (brain zaps and shivers esp) are your nervous system going out of control, so doing calming techniques can actually help. Getting hugs, bundling up somewhere cozy, and doing deep breathing is legit medical treatment for soothing out a haywire system.

Track When In the Day It’s Worst Being sick, unfortunately, does not always mean you don’t have shit to do. I realized pretty quickly my shakes were a ton worse at night, so, even though I didn’t want to do much during the morning, if it had to get done, that’s when it was going to happen. It can also be good just so, when you’re symptoms are at their worst, you can remember that it won’t be like this the entire time until you get meds.

Indulge Cravings When your body’s doing heavy lifting, it starts yelling for whatever weird shit it thinks might help. That’s what weird pregnancy cravings are, and that’s what you need now. Save the diet for later, get a little lax on the grocery budget, and have zero shame about replacing dinner with pickle juice mixed with gatoraid or whatever. If you deal with nausea, try to stick to small meals of whatever seems doable. My personal buddy was Morningstar Veggie sausages since they’re high protein without being too dense or fatty.

Medicine Cabinet Helpers Dangerous layman advice!!! I saw medical pages advise it but still be careful!!! That said, holy shit, those dramamine lemon ginger chews are my best friends now, followed shortly by melatonin gummies and advil.

Room Temp Baths Hot baths can be a lot on an overtaxed nervous system, but I found pleasantly warm water was very pleasant.

Sick Day Entertainment When electronics are overwhelming, books are hard, you can’t get out of bed, and you desperately need a distraction, it’s good to have things you can handle. Some ideas -Calling somebody -Audiobooks/podcasts -Coloring Honestly, more suggestions here would be great. My go to was podcasts, but I know a lot of people, trying to track a podcast in withdrawal sounds like hell.

Anyway, cheers to making it out the other side, because you will. In the meantime, spoil the shit out of yourself.

[verdemint]

Okay but what exactly is the cultural influence of Vale? I'd love to hear a first person Italian pov. Also what's Ferrari's influence like?

heiiii, so thank u for asking me! I'm gonna try to explain vale and Ferrari based also on my specific perspective.

In italy formula 1 and Motogp are really popular (not on the level of football) but how and why they're so popular is a little bit different esp in recent years. If we look at the beginning of formula 1 a lot of the drivers were Italians and thats coz in Italy there's always being this "cultura del motore", literally means "culture" for cars and motors as a whole. Thats because we have a lot of companies and factories specialised in this since the 60s/70s, for example the tyres that are used in formula 1 are all Pirelli tyres (an italian company that has always worked on this from like the 70's). From the 90s/00s the italian motor industries started to focus more on the luxury industries, where they don't produce products for everyday use but just for excellence and Italians have become very proud of this heritage of excellence (this also apply to fashion and design with brands like Gucci, Versace,...). So in motors we have brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Ducati, Moto Guzzi.

So in formula 1 you have a country that loves motors, where a lot of people work with motors and are very patriotic and u put there an Italian team thats also a team of "excellence" that stands for luxury and elite > people do get obsessed for it!

Thats how the whole obsession for Ferrari started, they became this iconic team so much now that the color red is basically associated with just them, a red car is a Ferrari in the mind of most children I think, it became an obvious association. Also Ferrari has been in formula 1 from the very beginning basically and helped shape how we see formula 1 now and for Italians they're not watching f1 they're watching Ferrari.

In recent years the Schumacher dominance era in a Ferrari car really did make everyone go even crazier for Ferrari, what's better than seeing your team win?

Motogp is a little bit different. We have the same culture of motor obsessed people in Italy but motorcycles esp in the 70s/80s were less associated with the idea of luxury and elite and more with crazy riders risking their life and the whole Americana culture about motorcycles that was really popular in Italy as well. Thats why even tho ducati has been participating in Motogp for a long time they're way less iconic than Ferrari, their idea of luxury didn't really match with the vibes of the motorcycling world (and still doesn't really). So till the 90s Motogp was about this crazy guys risking their lives through horrific injuries and it was a very much "macho man" type of sport (toxic masculinity ofc) and then u have Valentino Rossi. he's young, he looks like a boyish girl, he's charismatic and knows how to play with the cameras to make fun of others, of himself and of the audience (look at the Polleria Osvaldo joke) as well. He has this boyish attitude to the sport that really contrast with a lot of older more stoic riders > people went crazy about him. But thats the story we all know, about how he completely transform the entire sport as a whole, how he put on a show where he was and still IS the main character and the main narrator as well. Motogp became FUN but for Italians he became an idol!

Most of his sketches and little scenes were in italian and they were aired on the national public broadcasting company in Italy: RAI. He was more well known than Motogp as a whole, the news only talked about him every Sunday, he made people start to watch an entire new sport just to see him being silly lol

for example my mom has never watched a single Motogp race but she knows all about the little sketches Valentino used to make after the races, like the running to bathroom moment, or riding with the blond doll...

Vale was not only a master of communication but he was a master of communication to young people, he was just like them! , he influenced an entire generation to get the stupid little earring and all his haircuts lol

Boys saw themself in him, a young silly boy who loved to announce to everyone that he loved women and having fun! Girls loved him because he was a funny guy, a nice guy and a little bit of a loser!

Anyway I grew up in a family not particularly fan of neither Motogp or formula 1 or even football (my dad is more of a basketball guy), with the only exception being my cousin that at like 13 became a super fan of motorcycles in general and he bought his first motocross, why? because of Valentino ofc

Motorcycles as a whole concept became associated with just Valentino (not with a company name like Ferrari)> people started to buy bikes and everything, even now every time I see someone with a helmet like half of the time they have the little 46 sticker on it.

I don't know when I learned who Valentino Rossi is, because I've always know his name, I didn't even know what Motogp was or even what is a race, but as a little child I knew about Valentino Rossi, didn't know what he was doing, didn't know he was a rider but I knew him!

Also funfact: rossi is the most common surname in Italy, but nowadays if someone is called Rossi the first thing people say is "Rossi? Come Valentino?" > he took the most common name in Italy and made it HIS.

soo thats it, Italians feel free to add stuff! sorry it became a super long rant about Italians, upsi

[winebleeds]

i know im on hiatus but i can’t stop thinking about these trivial ranks of musical headcanons for the spencers so you’re welcome

BEST TO WORST SINGING VOICE: liz, jamie, maddie, raleigh

MOST TO LEAST LIKELY TO SING IN PUBLIC: maddie, jamie, raleigh, liz

MOST LIKELY TO GO CRAZY SINGING IN THE CAR: jamie, maddie, raleigh, liz (but, for the first three, it’s such a common occurrence that it’s basically a threeway tie. in fact, singing in the car was an activity jamie & raleigh use to do with maddie when raleigh. once getting his driver license, took them to places. and this was kinda often since this was a heavy period of robert isolating himself & liz from the others by all of the trips to dc & equestrian competitions. seeing the way the teenagers goof around made maddie giggle & was one of the very few moments jamie & raleigh could get along (for maddie’s sake), and that resonates to this day... and why maddie can’t sing.)

MOST LIKELY TO HAVE HEADPHONES: maddie, jamie, liz, raleigh

MOST LIKELY TO LISTEN ON A VINYL: liz, maddie, raleigh, jamie 

BEST AT AN INSTRUMENT: maddie, raleigh, jamie, liz (maddie is proficient at the bass & harp, but also knows how to play the piano (her first instrument), the guitar (second), drums (marching band), and ukulele while saying she ‘fiddle’ with the xylophone, cello, violin, & the banjo; she does not like any instraument she has to blow into, like brass or woodwinds. as for raleigh, he only knows how to play piano but is fairly decent at it; he plays it better than maddie, since she’s more of a jack of all trades. jamie has fool around with the guitar. and, liz knows nothing even if her dad attempted to get her to try his guitar.)

KNOWS MORE SONGS: maddie, raleigh, liz, jamie

PLAYS MUSIC IN THE BACKGROUND THE MOST: maddie, jamie, liz, raleigh (they’re all pretty equal here actually, besides maddie since she breathes it.)

SEEN MORE CONCERTS/GIGS: maddie, jamie, raleigh, liz (this doesn’t include maddie seeing other artists play when her band is part of the gig/festival/concert. meanwhile, for liz, she pretty much has only gone to maddie’s shows only.)

the rest is a list that im putting under a readmore... and i think i finally got liz’s music taste settled after like, a million years.

MADDIE’S TOP THREE GENRES: alternative metal, heavy rock, kpop MADDIE’S LEAST FAVORITE GENRE: country MADDIE’S MOST ASSOCIATED ARTISTS: halestorm, alice cooper, frantic amber, paramore, blackpink, metallica  MADDIE’S ARTIST SHE CANNOT STAND: she can’t tell the country artists apart tbh, so she’ll go with blake shelton here. ARTIST I ASSOCIATE WITH MADDIE: (aka when i hear songs from this artist, i think of maddie or the remaining spencers) dermont kennedy, pat benatar 

A SONG I RELATE TO MADDIE I HAVEN’T SHARED: barracuda | heart

JAMIE’S TOP THREE GENRES: pop, rap, 80s pop(?) JAMIE’S LEAST FAVORITE GENRE: folk rock JAMIE’S MOST ASSOCIATED ARTISTS: britney spears, cardi b, sza, bonnie tyler, carrie underwood... tbh his playlists are like 99% female artists. and did i mention britney spears?? JAMIE’S ARTIST HE CANNOT STAND: john denver ARTIST I ASSOCIATE WITH JAMIE: nf, ron pope

A SONG I RELATE TO JAMIE I HAVEN’T SHARED: drunk face | mgk

ELIZABETH’S TOP THREE GENRES: indie, punk rock, classic country ELIZABETH’S LEAST FAVORITE GENRE: ??? ELIZABETH’S MOST ASSOCIATED ARTISTS: johnny cash, p!atd, stevie nicks, fiona apple, dolly parton, mcr, john denver, her sister :( ELIZABETH’S ARTIST SHE CANNOT STAND: justin bieber  ARTIST I ASSOCIATE WITH ELIZABETH: nancy sinatra, taylor swift & no longer ironically at this point

A SONG I RELATE TO ELIZABETH I HAVEN’T SHARED: king of anything | sara bareilles

RALEIGH’S TOP THREE GENRES: classical/instrumental, soul, soft rock RALEIGH’S LEAST FAVORITE GENRE: country RALEIGH’S MOST ASSOCIATED ARTISTS: bill withers, john williams, whitney houston, the fray, louis armstrong, the temptations, yiruma, elton john, the piano guys RALEIGH’S ARTIST HE CANNOT STAND: probably blake shelton too ARTIST I ASSOCIATE WITH RALEIGH: regina spektor, ben platt

A SONG I RELATE TO RALEIGH I HAVEN’T SHARED: the science love song | asapscience and im sorry considering raleigh would be the most likely to play embarrassing songs rip

[baddiedaddy7]

𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙄𝙣 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙃𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙚𝙨🔥🧡

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲💥

nice jaw, might have a square face. can have an argumentative presence to some. blunt. might be athletic. might like to get their hair pulled. probably likes to ride or being ridden😩😂. can be enthusiastic. being controlled might make them agitated

celebrities:Nicki Minaj, Johnny Depp, Megan Fox, Brad Pitt

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲💸

works hard. might be competitive to get to their goal. might be impulsive with money and possessions. probably loves to cuddle. most likely likes oral. neck kisses, and a romantic setting. lol probably finds feeding their partner attractive. stubborn and possessive. try not to be materialistic

celebrities:Will Smith, Marlon Brando, Elizabeth Taylor, Jennifer Aniston

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗿𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲👯‍♀️

might have more brothers than sisters or males in family. might have a lot of aries/scorpio placements in family and/or neigbors of these signs. might fight a lot w/siblings, but will always defend them. might get agitated if they aren’t mentally stimulated or when bored. will probably hold your hands during sex. probably a big fan of fingering or handjobs. likes debates. might have controversial opinions. melodramatic

celebrities:Harry Styles, Ben Affleck, Miley Cyrus, Paris Hilton

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲💫

probably has an athletic family/mom. family could’ve had a lot of arguments. mother might have heavy aries/mars influence. compassionate and instinctive. might be defensive though. needs to have an emotional connection to have sex with a person. prefer it raw. probably gets turned on when talking abt getting impregnated. play with their breasts, they love it. be careful to not be manipulative

celebrities:Jennifer Love Hewitt, Amy Winehouse, Will Smith, Chuck Norris

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗳𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲🥰

might have athletic children or taste in s/o’s. probably likes abs. children, esp the first child will probably be a boy and have aries/mars influence. probably likes to go to the gym as a date. likes hair pulling. doggystyle probably. likes to be worshipped, finds begging hawt. fun-loving. try not to be brash

celebrities:George Clooney, Gordon Ramsey, Serena Williams, Sarah Jessica Park

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗶𝘅𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲🐥

most likely wants/haves big dogs. Thoughtful. Dedicated. might like to get kissed on the belly/bell rubs. anal or likes anal positions. probably the type to prefer like sex in the shower or taking showers before sex. might like being tied up. bossy. probably nitpicks you when mad.

celebrities:Zendaya, Jennifer Lawrence, John Lennon, Drake

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲🍂

attracts a lot of aries placements or mars influence ppl. your enemies might also have these or have a love-hate relationships. Creative. Fiery. Smack/Grab their assss. likes riding positions. but they also like eye contact. might like being spanked. can be argumentative. Restless

celebrities:Rihanna,Lady Gaga,Chris Evans,Matt Damon

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗶𝗴𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲😈

Independent. Instinctive also. Probably like to hide your vulnerability. likes to give oral. deep penetration positions are preferred. neck kisses. sensual. grudge holder. secretive. also can be possessive. death can be sudden and/or violent so watch out. veiny penises lmao

celebrities:Marilyn Monroe, Lana Del Rey, Robin Williams,Sylvester Stallone

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲👾

Playful. Straight Forward. likes having sex in places they shouldn’t ex:outside, in a car, etc. men here usually have big penises and the women like deep penetration. rub their thighs. likes it rough, and not really into foreplay that much. blunt. try to avoid being cocky

celebrities:Madonna,Angelina Jolie, Zac Efron,Muhammad Ali

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲🥵

might go to work to let their frustration out. might have a job that requires being athletic, like a wrestler. can be serious. reliable. massage their knees when giving them oral. they like someone submissive, since they like to be in control of like everything lol. enjoys some teasing. prefers normal positions. controlling. sarcastic. rigid

celebrities:Selena Gomez,Cindy Crawford,Eminem,Ryan Gosling

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲🥸

helpful. thinks outside the box. likes quickes. type to whip out a vibrator during the act. probably likes positions that aren’t face to face. detached during sex. Erratic. will not care abt your feelings if you upset them. inconsiderate. crushes, online friends, or besties might have aries/mars influence

celebrities:Christina Aguilera,Meryl Streep,Chris Brown,Orlando Bloom

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝘄𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲🧜🏽‍♀️

considerate. open-minded. friendly. submissive in bed, but if you’re detached it’s a real turn off. gotta be connected to you emotionally, to enjoy sex. likes it rough but romantic at the same time. probably prefers aftercare over everything. might like to have sex in a bath w/rose petals teehee.likes slow strokes. can be passive-aggressive. type to hold it in until it comes all out in a burst. don’t feel bad for getting upset, kick ass😼

celebrities:Britney Spears,Gwen Stefani,William Shakespeare,Heath Ledger

[disfordevineaux]

Top3 charming points about Devineaux? ☺

Yes.

1) Chase can be brash and bumbling on the surface and yet confidently determined and quick-witted somehow simultaneously? Chase: falls onto car. Also Chase 5 mins later: Deduces instantly that Carmen would have to be heading to the train station to escape. The duality and diversity within his personality is just so intriguing and I’m so happy they didn’t just make him a 2D flat surface. He’s pretty complex for a side character and I love that. He is just smart, but does dumb brash things? Impulsive.

2) He always looks 10/10 even when he is clearly only feeling like 2/10. Always effortlessly lookn fine.

2.a) This in general.

and this for some reason I don't know I think its the lean? Could be. Not sure.

and this too. Don’t question me here aight.

Oh and this. The sass.

3) The fact he tries with all his soul to be Mr Gruff Stuble Man but went right for the hug when finding out his old partner decided to return. Like sir, your soft golden heart himbo-ness is showing.

I really did like his angry self in s1-2 because it wasn’t all anger without purpose (A lot of it drove the conflict between Chase and Julia along which was story relevant even if it hurt my soul esp with the regretful glance he gave after. He knew he was being a pain in the ass but didn’t stop himself. The look of someone who knows better smh), it was mixed with other emotions and had ‘reasoning’ based around the context of the scene. Like dude I’d be mad too if I nearly died like 3 times man I AM RIGHT THERE WITH YOU.

He really fought a bird and LOST. It got to have the last swoop at him. God, I love you.

He just overall has such a goofy, exuberant and energetic vibe mixed with a seriously stoic exterior, esp when we compare S1 Chase to S4 Chase. I liked how it was slowly teased he isn't a 100% angry person with no feelings but really just someone who runs at an extreme chaotic setting 24/7. Also, the way he was, with no questions asked, ready to go locate/save Julia after figuring out she was in trouble with Carmen. Directly jeopardizing his precious ACME career for someone he hadn’t seen in upwards of 6 months (who clearly gave him the cold shoulder). He kind of always tries to do the right thing and genuinely appears to care a great deal about others who he’s gotten to know. He got better at that as well as expressing himself honestly and openly by season 4 I must admit. He was rude to Julia, plain and simple. But he resolved the conflict in a way that was meaningful to her. And I found that unique way of him apologising (probably one of many that we didn’t see) a great way to show that things aren’t always simple between adults and resolutions can be met in varying ways.

She clearly seemed to love that public gesture. I think people forget that Julia is a smart woman, she wouldn't stick by him for another 2+ years if he didn't repent, and remained a negative influence. He clearly became a positive influence in her opinion. Julia even looking his way for reassurance when Zari questioned her for directions. As well as overall visibly enjoying his company. Wholesome. And the fist bump thing.

But yes I find that charming, I find his personality and development into his true self in general charming. Endearing, even in his worst moments that mostly just ended up with himself hurt, physically and emotionally.

I dunno, I think the fact he was always a softy hit me right in the feelings. The slow reveal of it was just 11/10. A real ride or die homie. I love how CS didn't waste him as a throwaway ‘ew men are stinkie, stinkie stinkie stinkie’ character like 1) that's so boring ugh and 2) please its 2019aka2020aka2021 give us nice adult development within male presenting characters for others to learn and grow from please and thank you good night tri-state area.

[muwur]

Since requests were open I was wondering if I could request father headcanons for iwai + ushi + atsumu 🥺 btw your writing is vv tasty n I can’t wait to see you write more !! Keep up the good work n stay safe !!

haikyuu daddee headcanons

✧ hc’s ✧ for iwaizumi, ushijima, and atsumu

❧ gn reader

✎ 1.4k words

a/n: omg u called my writing taSTY Dx i cri tySM 💞 that is a high compliment for me AHAHAHAH ILY and ty for the request! 

also my lovelies i m back i m sry i was gone so long feojfe i miss yall <3 here u go enjoi, this was fun to write lmk if yall want more characetrs AHAHA

current listen: accidentally in love by sHREK AAHAH jkjk i mean counting crows, they cant take that away from me by ella fitzgerald and louis armstrong, love the way you lie by eminem and rihanna

requests: open!

iwaizumi

✧ prePARED daddy

✧ picked up on this parenting thing p fast, also does a lot of research so he’s ready to face any situation

✧ teaches his kids how to behave n respect others

✧ also makes sure they know not to talk to strangers and teaches them some self defense

✧ be warned these kids are packing a surprise can of whOOP ASS,, dont fuck w them,, plus u wouldnt want buff daddee iwa on ur tail

✧ honestly his kids would be ANGELS ,,, n thats cuz he treats them all so w e l l

✧ mans is ATTENTIVE. he asks his kids about their days, their interests, and encourages discussion about their fEELINGS 🥺

✧ always offers them really valuable and light-hearted advice

✧ and gives them the love and transparency we all wanted but never had--

✧ however his kids are easily (n negatively) influenced esp when uncle oikawa comes to visit--

✧ but mostly bc iwa gets annoyed and slips out a lot of curse words and a “shittykawa” and then his kids started calling oikawa that and now it’s ingrained in them forever fjoefefgfvi (*distant phlattykawa crying noises*)

✧ gives them LOTS of head pats and ruffles as signs of affection

✧ PACKS THEIR SCHOOL LUNCHES and ensures they eat a balanced meal

✧ attends all their games/events,, will get a bit rowdy hype them up

✧ def lets his kids sleep with him when they’re having a bad night or woke up scared from a nightmare (and waits for them to fall asleep before going to sleep himself fojref)

✧ when they were babies he usually succeeded to get them to stop crying by pulling funny faces, showing them their favorite cartoons, or humming a lullaby

✧ when they get older,,, u bet iwa would be suPER protective esp when their kids start being iNtErEsTeD in other people

✧ you: “iwaizumi, they seem like a really nice kid, though”

✧ iwa: *sitting with you in the car, across the street from the ice cream parlor your child said they were at, and spying from the window* “you can’t trust everyone, of course they seem ‘nice,’ they just want our approval”

✧ definitely did not interrupt his child’s potential first kiss at their house’s doorstep by slamMINg the door open “sUDDENLY” cuz he “hEard TheIR vOicEs and THougHt TO lET them In”

✧ effectively traumatized both kids

✧ tho he felt bad after n u made him go apologize so he did (and he was forgiven, only if he agreed to never spy on them again--)

✧ doesn’t stop him from scrutinizing every person yalls kid introduces to you tho

✧ overall a super supportive dad, 11/10

ushijima

✧ ok dEF does not know much about parenting ,, at first

✧ stared at his child like ???nani when you both changed their first diaper

✧ also had plenty of staring contests with his babies ,,, called it bonding

✧ was curious and tasted baby food once,,, immediately regretted it

✧ once put a volleyball next to his child, who attempted to bite it, and took it as a sign that they liked it

✧ after sum time n practice, his mind becomes split between “how to volleyball” and “how to dad”

✧ catch him in the kitchen wearing an apron and whipping up his kids’ favorite smiley face pancakes 😤😤

✧ has an amazing ability to get his kids to stop crying, does really simple things like give them their favorite toy or place a gentle hand on their hand or attend to their needs (mans can tell if they want food or needa poop) and they calm down immediately

✧ carried them on his shoulders once and now they never stop asking him for shoulder rides (not that he minds anyway)

✧ if theres two kids he can probs carry one on each shoulder cuz cmon ,,, have u seen this man

✧ always goes to every performance/game/event his child takes part in

✧ man smiles so soft™ when he goes to the 1st grade play and sees his kid’s name in the program next to their role as “townsperson b” (next year, they upgraded to “singing carrot” in a play about the food pyramid)

✧ if his kid ends up enjoying volleyball, he will teach them e v e r y t h i n g they need to know

✧ but is overall super supportive of anything else his child pursues and doesn’t push anything onto them, would rather let them choose what they want to do

✧ had n o idea what to do when his kid asked him about the birds n the bees asfghkl

✧ couldnt sleep one night thinking about it and just randomly asks you while yall laying in bed in the dARk like “so our child asked me how babies are made and I told them they came from watermelon seeds” (you: 👁️👄👁️ “come again”)

✧ you: *at the grocery store with your child*

✧ child: *hands you watermelon* “I want a little brother!”

✧ you: “haha of course honey” 👁️👄👁️ what do i do (*later to ushijima* “duhfojhguf we needa get another baby i promised our child a younger brother fohurof” ; ushi: “wat” ; you: “itS YOUR FAULT”)

✧ yall eventually tell them not every watermelon can produce babies only really special ones that are really hard to get fhuoefkfotfi theyre not ready for the truth

✧ another great daddee, we stan

atsumu

✧ knew parenting was stressful esp with bABieS but was like eh it cant be that bad right

✧ think again

✧ g o o d b y e  s l e e p

✧ develops phat bags under his eyes, responds with a weak “aha im fine just that parenting life and the kids ykNOW” whenever his teammates ask if he’s oKAY

✧ tried to tempt his kids to eat their mush baby food by trying it himself, nearly gagged but was able to say “eughh yuMM”

✧ loves to lift them high up in the air, even throws them up a little and nearly drops them (yall almost died from feAR but babie was having so much fun,,, yall agreed to be just a bit more careful)

✧ rlly bad at getting them to stop crying, gets very stressed when he’s exhausted every option he can think of then calls you over for some help/advice (you: *immediately calms them down* ; ratsumu: “how--”)

✧ calls up osamu a lot to ask him how to make food ,, then simps whenever his twin brother comes over and the kids are in love with this man and his cooking (”dad why cant you make stuff as yummy as this”)

✧ very affectionate with his kids, gives them lots of hugs and kisses on the forehead

✧ plays with them a lot! whether it’s sports, just dance, animal crossing, or UNO, yOU NAME IT WE PLAY IT

✧ also has no mercy when playing competitive video or board games,, has made them cry more than once LOL

✧ so sometimes he toned it down n let them win,, until his kids actually got better and DEMOLISH him every time

✧ is cool with his kids cursing, just as long as they don’t do it in front of their teachers LMAO

✧ plays innocent when he gets a call from school saying his kid was using ‘inappropriate language’ and is like “whaaat? my child? im not even sure where they learned that, maybe check if the other kids in class are saying those things, too--”

✧ reminisces how much nicer his kids were to him when they were younger and all the time they spent together,,, bc now that they reached their tEeNS they want alone time

✧ wants to be B) cool dad so he tries kinda hard, esp in front of their friends but his kid’s just like dad pls dofjrgjigtgro

✧ also very supportive of whatever his kids want to pursue and dedicates time to help them in whatever ways he can (whether that be to help them practice, make sure he can provide transportation, get them supplies, etc)

✧ always playfully competing with you to see who’s the “better” parent (you win by default)

✧ PROTECTIVE dad and will easily intimidate ANYONE who crosses his kids

✧ takes sum adjustment and mental resilience but daddee atsumu perseveres  😤 absolutely loves his kids and would do anything for them  

[lottalucamotion]

Lucas' Guide to to Railfanning for First Time Railfans

Have you thought of picking up the railfan hobby? Whether you're fixation on a musical about trains or your bored/looking for a new activity to give you a chance to go outside and practice some good old fashioned amateur photography here's what you should know as a first time railfan

Disclaimer: This was written with American railfans in mind. International readers should learn the rules for their area. I said that the engineer is always on the right, but this is not the case for all countries like the UK where the engineer is seated on the left side of the cab.

The thing that you must always keep in mind is that trains are dangerous. It's not like the trains are out to get you, they're just very strong and difficult to control compared to other vehicles. If you somehow end up in the way of a train YOU WILL ALWAYS LOSE. Rule of thumb, If you can see the train, the train won't be able to stop before it reaches you. Rolling stock are specifically designed to maximize speed by minimizing friction. This is accomplished by metal wheels on greased metal rails. Rails and rolling stock are designed to be difficult to stop. If an engineer is forced into emergency breaking, the train has a greatly increased derailing risk.

That's the other thing you should remember. Derailing doesn't just occur when a train hits a curve too fast, it can happen at any time going as slow as 25mph. Getting hit by rolling stock or debris in a derailment can seriously injure or kill you. When railfanning don't stand too close to the tracks for this reason. You should allow AT LEAST 10ft of clearance between you and the train.

I'll let this being me into my "must haves" for railfanning:

-camera: obviously if you wish to take photos and/or video you need a camera, a phone with a clear, working camera is fine as well.

-tripod: remember what I said about distance from the tracks? Well sometimes your good shot is a bit on the close side to the tracks. In this case a tripod is a great solution. If something happens, worse case is you need to replace a broken tripod and camera/phone.

-Radio transceiver: A must have if you are looking to catch freight trains. It’s a good thing to have even if you only watch passenger trains, but since there’s no other way to really keep track of freight trains, they are a game changer. When dealing with radios, remember that it is illegal to talk to railroad personnel via radio. Listen only dont talk.

-Florescent safety vest or other brightly colored article: Good thing to have when shooting from trackside. Basically, trespassers who may put themselves in danger in front of an approaching train don’t wear florescent outerwear. It’s a good way to communicate to the crew of an approaching train that you intend to stay a safe distance away from the track.

-Dress for the weather: this does not just mean wearing weather appropriate clothing. Always bring thinks like sunscreen and insect repellent with deet to avoid sunburn and keep ticks and mosquitoes off. Take it from me. Ticks don’t like me, I work on a farm and walk through tall grass all day, haven’t found a tick on me yet, but I walked through a tiny patch of taller grass while out railfanning and managed to pick up two American dog ticks. You are not immune to the hostile elements when railfanning. Make sure to wear closed toed shoes, preferably with ankle support.

-Car charger and/or battery pack: If you use your phone as a camera, you want to make sure you have plenty of juice. Not just for footage, but in case of emergency, you don’t want to be dealing with a dead phone.

Basic safety rules:

-Rule number one is never trespass. Always stay a safe distance away from the tracks and trains (at least 10ft from the tracks). Remember, a train can derail at any time. Respect trains.

-If you see something, say something. Know the track ownership and contact the railroad police if you see a trespasser or hazard on the track during your outing. If a railroad crossing gate is not functioning, there usually is a number on the crossing gate which you can contact to report the malfunction.

-To further elaborate on the no trespassing rule, never stand, sit, or lay down on track for any reason, esp not photographing. I can’t help but cringe when I see people snapping “aesthetic” pictures on functioning railroad tracks (if the tracks are abandoned, and you have confirmed that they are abandoned, just be careful as tracks can have loose spikes and other hazards you can injure yourself on, but go ahead, otherwise stay off!). Even if you don’t think a train is coming there can be freight trains, test runs, track switches, or other such things that can surprise you. You may think trains are not stealthy, but you’ll be surprised on how trains can sneak up on you.

-You would not bank your life on your toaster’s ability to make breakfast, so don’t assume that devices such as railroad crossing gates and signals at stations to always be accurate, as always stay off the tracks and always assume a train could be coming through at any moment. When driving through a railroad crossing, stop, look, and listen if you can. If someone’s riding your tail and you can’t, at least reduce speed and roll down your windows so you can check to make sure the crossing is safe from any approaching trains. If you can hear an approaching horn, stop, even if the gates aren’t going down yet. When the lights start flashing, stop before the white line in front of the gates always. Be extra cautious in a no horn zone as you won’t be able to hear an approaching train as easily.

-Never play chicken with trains. If you witness someone doing so, tell them to get their soggy ass off the tracks. Reminder that making a train go into emergency increases it’s likelihood of derailing.

Remember to be courteous to railroad crews:

-Body language is an important key to the positive communication and relationship between crews and railfans. When I mentioned the tripod and vest, these are great tools for this method of communication. Bear in mind, the average engineer will have their train strike a pedestrian once in their career. Trains run on tracks and always have the right of way so when it’s train vs trespasser, it’s never the engineers fault, but it doesn’t make the event less traumatic. You wearing fluorescent outerwear and using a tripod sets you apart as a railfan, putting the crew at ease that you are not about to run out in front of the train. As far as body language goes, When a train is approaching, step into the engineer’s line of sight maintaining a safe distance from the track (the engineer always sits on the right. Then, take a several steps back to communicate to the engineer that you don’t intend to run onto the track. When the lead vehicle is passing (engine or cab car) wave to the crew members, not only does this show that you are a railfan rather than a trespasser, a friendly engineer or other crew member will wave back and/or sound the horn for you (this is called a “horn show” and it’s one of my favorite things to experience as  railfan)

-When standing at a platform, occupy one of the farthest ends. Passengers looking to take the train will typically stand toward the middle. Standing on the ends will better indicate that you are a spectator and don’t intend to board.

-If you are actually a passenger but also want to get some shots of the train you are riding, wait until you have reached your destination to take pictures. Either your train could end up departing without you, or you could cause a holdup if you manage to make the train wait for you. Remember that running railroads is a complex endeavor and seconds matter. If you cause a hold up for one train, you are influencing the timing of many more even for other lines besides the one you are boarding.

Now that you know how to be safe and courteous when railfanning, here are some tips for finding good spots.

When trying to locate good railfanning spots, there are several things to consider. These include:

-If you have to drive, where will you park? You have to pay to park at most stations, though some allow free parking on weekends. If it’s not a station it may be even harder to find a parking spot.

-When scoping out your spot use google street view to figure out the best place to go for shots (this can help with parking too). Using a map of the railroad systems will help you find stations, crossings, bridges, and yards, but using street view will help you figure out if these spots are easily accessible and good spots for taking shots.

-Look for other railfans in your area, some will tag locations, or even just the towns which they saw the trains they photographed. If you’re interested in what is there, try to scope that spot out or somewhere near there.

-Railfan forums are a great way to find spots and also know when an interesting engine or other rolling stock is out. If you see something interesting, other fans in your area will appreciate you sharing it.

How to identify rolling stock:

It’s okay if you have no idea how to identify rolling stock right off the bat. There’s a simple way to figure it out. All you need to do it look up the company and number, or look up the company’s roster, and figure out based on the number index. Railfanning is a lot about learning as you go so dont feel like you need to be an expert on trains to pick the hobby up. Really it's a great hobby if you enjoy learning new things, esp about the local history, and transport of people and goods of your area. Happy railfanning! Have fun, and most importantly STAY SAFE

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #246

(song lyrics here idc)

What is the most you’ve ever eaten in one sitting? I don't know. Probably too many slices of pizza back when I could kill pizza if I was hungry enough. How often do you skip breakfast? Rarely. What’s the longest you’ve gone without leaving the house? A couple+ weeks, probably. Where are you going the next time you go out? School. What kinds of things are likely to make you cry? Reunions of like any type, seeing things (esp. animals) in pain, if my feelings are deeply hurt, deaths... stuff like that. Really nothing unusual. What are some things that make others cry that don’t make you cry at all? Hm. I dunno. I'm sure there's something, but I'm unsure. If you drink/smoke, how often do you do these things? I don't smoke, and I'll ever only have like a drink or two on some holidays or for my birthday. What website do you spend the most time on and why? YouTube because it essentially replaces television for me. What’s the most amount of time you’ve spent online? Is this usual for you? Oh my god don't ask me this. What is one belief you used to have, but no longer do? In what ways are you influenced by the opinions of others, if ever? The one I disdain the most was being homophobic up to my late teenage years. I wanna curb stomp that ignorant fucking kid. I wouldn't say I'm influenced by other's opinions on things very much. What was the last thing to make you feel good about yourself? Drinking water lmao. How would you describe your overall (or preferred) personal aesthetic? My friend recently described me as a "gothic lolita" and y'know he's onta something. What kinds of small judgments are you likely to make about others? *Small* judgments? Uhhhh... God why am I blanking on surveys so much lately. What was the last thing you did mostly because society expected you to? Shower, 'cuz I seriously wasn't feeling it but needed to anyway. When was the last time you felt out of place? I had to babysit my nephew on my own early last month and I felt like I was in a different universe. I felt so, so unfit in the position and just all-around uncomfortable. I love that boy to death but babysitting is noooooot my thing. Do you believe in aliens, spirits, or angels of any sort? Yeah. Well, not "angels" by true definition, no. In what ways are you superstitious? I'm not. Where was the last place you went walking and how far? Would you rather exercise alone or with other people? Like, for fun? Not since I was at Sara's. I DO NOT like exercising in front of other people at all. What kinds of nail polish colors do you prefer to wear? How about makeup? Black is the entirely superior makeup color. How would you describe your own relationship with makeup? It's just for fun for me when I actually feel like it, and even that's rare. I usually only put makeup on for some pictures. Who has been in your life the longest amount of time? What about the shortest? My mom the longest, and my school teachers the shortest, I guess? Who was the last person to leave your life? How about return to it? My fucking therapist that deserves my fist through her face. Return, uhhhh yeah I dunno. It might be Sara, and that was yearsss ago. When it comes to travel, what kinds of places intrigue you most? Wildernesses, especially with mountains, rivers, waterfalls... that kind of stuff. Do you think humans colonizing Mars is a good idea? Would you go, if you could? No. Focus on the goddamn planet we're already on. If it was a life or death situation, I'd go, but otherwise, I'm staying here and at least trying to patch it up. What is the farthest you’ve walked in one day and what made you do it? Oh, many miles, I'm sure. I used to walk for literally hours out in my yard at night with my iPod. That was so common for me. Funny how now I'm recovering from muscle atrophy in my legs. Do you have a chore/housecleaning routine or anything like that? A "routine," no. How organized would you say your living space is? The house is currently a travesty. What is something important that’s often on your mind lately? Success in school. Do you find it easier to forgive yourself or others? Others. Have you ever had to call 911? For who/what reason? Yes; Mom thought she might've been having a heart attack. Thank fuck she wasn't. Do you like oatmeal? If so, what kinds of things do you like in it? Oh yeah. It's like a regular for me now that I'm big time trying to lose weight. I like the apple cinnamon one. What was going on the last time you felt nostalgic? Thinking about that walking question. How much attention do you pay to the movements of the stars and planets, and do you believe they influence anything? The most non-Pagan belief I have is being void of this one. No. When was the last time you were afraid to tell someone something? Heh, speaking of being (mostly, ig) Neo-Pagan. Classmate and I were doing an assignment getting to know each other and she asked my religion. She was a serious Christian and was clearly SO uncomfortable when I awkwardly answered lmao. When was the last time something didn’t go the way you expected it would? My disability case hearing just a week back. I expected to be way, way more terrified, shaking even, and was prepared for an intimidating judge. Just in general I was afraid of it being "court-like" and with a lot of people, but it was okay. I think having my attorney there was crucial to my (relative) calmness, though, because I was comfortable with and liked him. What is the most difficult or involved video game you’ve ever played? Most difficult that I ever tried, Dark Souls. Quit that waaaay early. Hardest that I've beaten, I honestly think The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night. Don't even @ me w/o trying it yourself 'cuz that game was so fucking hard to where I rage-quit for years until beating it. I did play it a second time for fun, though. Still hard. Most involved, oh, easily World of Warcraft. Years of effort put into too many characters la;ksdjfawoei Have you ever taken lessons for anything? Yeah; dance for a very long time as well as guitar. What’s your favorite band’s name? Well Ozzy goes solo. Btw I nearly died when I heard the Parkinson's news wtf life how dare why him- Who is your last sent text to? My mom. What’s your favorite flavor of Gatorade? I do noooot like Gatorade. What does your bikini look like? Oh hunny I'm barely comfortable in a one-piece. Do you drink the milk after you finish cereal or just leave it in the bowl? I can almost never drink it. The taste is just changed and is usually gross. Have you ever worn glitter eyeliner? No, yikes. Imagine that getting in your eye. Has anyone ever called you a hippie? I don't think so. Did you have any unread texts this morning? No. Have you ever been involved in strength training? No. Who is the last person you kissed? Sara. Have you ever been to a pottery painting store? No. Are bonfires common with you and your friends? Not at all. I don't think I've ever done that with friends. If you’re really quiet, what is probably the reason? I'm thinking about something intently. What does your boyfriend/girlfriend call you? N/A How much does the last person you kissed mean to you? A whole lot. Do you use lotion? If my skin is particularly dry. Have you ever used a sewing machine? No. Is hairspray a staple in your morning routine? I've never regularly used it. Do you believe in teenage love? Fuck yes I do, I can promise you that. When is your favorite TV show on regularly? It's discontinued. Who is your favorite person to waste time with? Sara. What has been the most significant thing to happen to you this year? Well, it's the first day of February, so I'll imagine you're asking about the past year, in which case I went back to school. What kind of kid were you when you were seven? Happy, weird, kinda hyper, outgoing and goofy. Do you always eat those mints you get at some restaurants? Yeah, if they're not the semi-soft ones that kinda melt in your mouth. Ew. Is there a subject you know so much about that you’d be able to teach it? Sure, but nothing like seriously important. Do you believe that being ‘cultured’ is important? Why or why not? I mean, probably if you travel. It's definitely wise to try to act at least semi-"appropriately" in another country. Where did you purchase the computer you’re using right now? Best Buy or Office Depot, idr. Do you think it’s fair to compare Family Guy to The Simpsons? I don't care? Will you miss CDs if they end up going obsolete? Why or why not? Not really, I just don't care. If you could relive one hour of your life so far, what would you choose? I don't have a clue. Do you think animals have a sense of humor? Probably. Animals can definitely act silly. Are you proud of your hometown, or do you try to distance yourself from it? That place is shit. Has your idea of the perfect romantic partner changed with age? Oh yeah, to a degree at least. I had such a fairy-tale ideology on love back then. How many cars have you ever owned? Myself, zero. Can you do math in your head well? I almost can't at all. What’s your favorite flavor of potato chip? Oh man, that's hard. Maybe salt and vinegar. Do you ever read the weather forecast? I mean I'll check the app on my phone occasionally. Do amusement park rides make you sick? Thus far in my life, no, but I'm too afraid to try some out of fear of that. Who is your favorite Star Wars character? Don't even like SW. What kind of cheese do you put on your sandwiches? American. What radio station do you listen to the most? None. Who was the last person to give you a gift? A family friend for Christmas. How old were you when you got your driver’s license? I'm about to be 24 and still don't have it. What was the first thing you ever learned how to cook? Scrambled eggs. Did you ever collect beanie babies? Maybe? I know I had one big one (me and my sisters had a matching set of different colors; mine was pink, what a shocker), but idk if I actually collected them. When was the last time you got a haircut? Early last month. Have you ever been to a bachelor/bachelorette party? No. How many people can you say you TRULY love? Romantically? Two. Platonically, a whole lot. Where are you most ticklish on your body? My feet jfc. Have you ever bailed anyone out of jail? Nope. What’s the last board game you played? Shit, what's it called. Something with my nephew. It's the one with the popping dice in the middle and four different colors to move around the board. "Sorry!" or something? Have you ever given someone a fake phone number? Might've when stupid kid me made prank calls. Do you have any bumper stickers on your car? No. Do you leave good tips when you eat out at restaurants? I've never been the one paying. Do you still own any VHS tapes? I'm sure Mom has home videos stored somewhere. If there was a real Jurassic Park, would you visit it? Oh fuck yeah 'cuz I'm dumb and love dinos. Have you ever gone golfing? Not legit golfing. Do you know any sign language? No. How many friends do you have that are married? Close friends, like people I still regularly talk to, none. Do you still have your wisdom teeth? Yes. Did you have a swing set in your yard when you were a child? Yes. Do you eat your mac & cheese with a fork or a spoon? I don't really care so I haven't noticed which I usually use. Where did you have your first kiss? His bed. When you were a kid, were you ever afraid of cooties? Lol no. Do you ever go Christmas caroling in December? No, I could never omg. Which overrated tattoo are you sick of seeing? I don’t care. Get what you want. What was the last thing you taught a younger kid? Apparently to say "aw shucks" at everything lmao. Are the clocks in your house mostly digital or analog? Digital. We have on analog in the living room. How long have you had your television(s)? God, years. A loooong time, but it's a fine TV. Do you like watching movies made with CGI or do you prefer hand-drawn ones? I tend to enjoy CGI more. I like realism in what I watch. Where did your parents buy their car(s)? Dad, idk. Mom got hers for free; a dance friend ran into a deer, so the front bumper got fucked up, and she wanted a new vehicle. Mom took it because shit, it was drivable, and she DIY fixed up the bumper to make sure it stays in place. Literally with zip ties and duct tape lmfao but HEY it WORKS. Do you know why your grandparents chose your mother’s name? No. Do you think you’d do well at teaching the English language to a foreigner? I think I'd be at least decent. What is a store you like that is exclusive to your country? Idk what's only exclusive to the country. If you attend school, what time do you usually get home after? Like, 4:35 or so. Mom finishes her field work at 4, and afterwards we go home. Have you written a resume before, either for yourself or someone else? Yes. What is your favorite thing about snow? IT'S PRETTY. What do you usually do when you have trouble sleeping? Try to go back to sleep at first, and if I really can't, I get back up on the laptop for a while. Are you satisfied with your social life (or lack thereof)? NONONONONONONONO. What TV show do you just assume you wouldn’t like? 13 Reasons Why. Do your friends have more money than you? lol duh I make none. Who always has the power to make you feel intimidated? Pretty much men as a whole...

[realignbyredvox]

Please talk a bit about what kind of music you like. Favorite genres, bands, artists? Do you play any instruments?

oh lord this is the rabbit hole. alright. I'm not good at music unless you count belting house of the rising sun in the shower and never learned to read it or play an instrument. But in general I like indie/alt rock (whatever the fuck that means), usually with an electronic/psychedelic rock influence. definitely have some favorite tracks that don't fit that at all (looking at you kesha singles) but my faves all fall in there somewhere.

my favorite bands/artists rn in order of how long they've been favorites are jack white, phantogram, and red vox. I've been in love with jack and garage rock since I was little and listened to white stripes and black keys albums on repeat... i got special permission from my parents to use our iPad and stream a jack white concert on spotify late at night when I was young... watched him launch his stupid amazing record player into space during a 3 hour car ride... I love this man ok. His new shit is so weird and it's great listen to lazaretto and boarding house reach esp ice station zebra and lazaretto

phantogram is a somewhat newer obsession, I got to see them in concert this summer which was amazing. I've liked them for a couple years now. really amazing duo, super cool electronic rock sound with some pop elements. I hold their older stuff close to my heart and the new singles out are fantastic too and I'm super excited to see what they do next. ik some older fans don't love the new sound but like. idk. I think esp considering what they've been through recently the shift makes sense and I really like it tbh. just compare the feel of eyelid movies to three (particularly answer) to into happiness. you can feel it. anyways huge fave and they always seem to come out with something new exactly when I need it. I'd check out when I'm small, mister impossible, fall in love, or any of the three A-sides (esp same old blues and you don't get me high anymore) if you're interested.

I got into red vox over the summer. I've watched vinny stream for a really long time and always meant to look into his music and. Well. Finally did. I listened to into the garden and then all of their first album and then all of everything. I like a lot of the bands that influence him, I grew up on classic rock and like some of the newer stuff like tame impala. hes also just a super cool guy lmao. Good intro tracks would probably be into the garden, atom bomb, job in the city, cemetery window, and back to school.

some other bands I really like but don't know as much about are joywave (electronic/indie rock, try facility, travelling at the speed of light, destruction, or anything off content), son lux (wikipedia says they're considered experimental lmao. They sound like the most amazing movie/TV show soundtrack you've ever heard. really interesting mix of instruments, vocals are beautiful and almost feel hymnlike at times. read about and try remedy and you'll see what I mean), sir sly (rock, psychedelic, they do some cool things with sampling. try basically anything off don't you worry honey, gold, or too far gone)

notable mentions include idk how, LCD soundsystem, the neighbourhood, the strokes, elo, the mountain goats, lorde, and yeah yeah yeahs

[nordic-breeze]

I was going through my files and I came over this document I sent to my friend @distant-rain pretty much the same day I realized I had fallen in love with Arthur, after weeks of being in denial or shrugging off my daydreaming of this cowboy as nbd or thought experiments and boy was I confused. 

I knew next to nothing about RDR1 when I wrote this December last year and I didn’t know much about RDR2 post chapter 2 either except for Arthur’s fate, which I had just learned of, and oml was I upset and confused. Though also scaringly accurate about certain things.

Now over six months later, I love this cowboy even more. And I kept true to my word. If anyone wanna read the rambings of a fangirl who had just found her new obsession be my guest.

I was blown away by how massive this game is. The level of detail is incredible and I greatly appreciate the effort put into creating this world. Yeah, we’ve all heard about the horse testicles shrinking in cold weather but it’s not like it’s just one bizarre detail being essentially a dick joke in an otherwise average game. No, RDR2 is detailed enough that it actually makes sense to add in peculiarities like that. The amount of wildlife alone, I mean, ever since the PS2 era I’ve been used to seeing animals in games but R* created whole-ass ecosystems in RDR2, several of’em, from snowy mountains to marshlands, with animals that act so much like actual animals. Just listening to the birds singing, it’s like being out in an actual forest!

Characterization is another thing that amazed me, in particular the protagonist. I knew nothing about the first RDR when started playing RDR2, nor did I know anything about RDR in general other than it was western-themed and made by the GTA-guys. I expected somewhat of a similar characterization as GTA where every character is a stereotype or a caricature. I genuinely liked GTAV’s story for what it was and even though every character was more or less an asshole, some of them were also weirdly likeable and even earned my sympathy (and hint of affection) occasionally.

But it never really went deeper than that nor was it particularly long-lasting (still way more than I expected tho). I bonded with one of the characters more than I thought I would but not nearly as much as I would had the characters felt more like actual humans and not like the epitome of stereotypes. But it is what R* wanted and it worked. I expected the RDR2 characters to be the same but to my surprise the characters, especially Arthur, are fleshed out, complex, even relatable (depending on your actions I guess). Unlike GTAV, they act and react like actual human beings. Well, human beings that have lived their entire life (more or less) as outlaws. In a country and time period foreign to me. But still they felt human. Ofc I’ve not gotten to know any of the NPC’s as well as Arthur but from various missions and eavesdropping on their conversation I’ve gotten to know them a bit. Hosea is my favorite. He seems like a good man despite being an outlaw and I love how everyone goes to him for advice and how supportive he is. I also wish more people (esp a certain Dutch man) could listen to him more. I also really like Charles. He definitely got morals and could be a good influence on Arthur and the others. I haven’t seen much of Sadie yet, but think I’ll like her too. Lenny seems nice. That one scene when he and Arthur went out drinking together was absolutely brilliant! And lil Jack’s adorable ofc. Only one I don’t like is Micha or Miach or whathisname. I know no one in the van der Linde gang are saints but that guy is a total psychopath. I kinda wish Arthur had gotten his way there when he said they should just leave him in jail as he was nothing but trouble and it annoys me how Dutch is sticking up for him. Yeah, speaking of, not too fond of Dutch or that German guy either atm.

But all in all very impressed by the large open world, the level of details to well, everything and the characterization. Soundtrack is great, graphics are stunning, animations smooth, the horse-riding simulation is just extraordinary and you never know what’s gonna happen as you ride through the map. The amount and variety of random events and encounters are truly impressive. Often comical, like that wildlife photographer who keeps getting almost eaten up by the wildlife he’s trying to document, sometimes eerie like the serial killer side story, or sad like when Arthur met with his former love. Or a combination of said elements like the pig farmers I ran into. With no pigs. But were still veeery well fed. You know, when people are just a liiitle bit too friendly? That eerie feeling you get when you just know something’s wrong but you can’t quite put your finger on it. Until you can. I thought they were husband and wife I really did. You shoulda seen my face when I realized they were in fact brother and sister. Me and Arthur had the exact same face. They were living as husband and wife tho. Well, up until I killed them.

I also love the contrast between the more ‘modern’ world and the simpler life. I could go into town, buy food at the saloon and rent a room or take a bath at the hotel. Or I could ride a few mins out into the wilderness, hunt and gather my own food, cook it over a bonfire and sleep under the stars. Electricity exists, but people are still completely dependent on oil lamps and open flame. Trains and trams exist, cars have been invented, but people still mainly travel on horseback. This contrast between old and new as an era is ending and the modern era is about to begin has been an amazing experience considering the level of detail the game has. The colonization of the new land, which has been largely unknown to me, the contrast between this and modern-day America we see on TV. So many people did not even speak English, I often find abandoned buildings, or burnt-down buildings, some with bodies inside, leaving me wondering what happened to them, I found a ghost town whose inhabitants had been wiped out by a plague. It was tough for many I reckon.

In fact, I find the exploration of this foreign but also somewhat familiar, beautiful but harsh world and its many random events and encounters waaay more interesting than the actual main story itself, which is why it took me forever to reach chapter 3. In fact, the story is probably my least favorite part about RDR2, as backwards as it may sound. I’ve never been into western stories or aesthetics, and I’m certainly NOT into the whole ‘outlaws till the end’ stuff ugh. I fail to sympathize with the whole ‘boo-hoo the world no want outlaws like us no more it’s unfair’. Ugh, go cry me a fucking river. And then go get a job. A real job. Yeah, I get it that adapting to society is tough, life’s tough deal with it and stop preying on others. Wow, robbing two trains in short time and staying in the same fucking area actually has consequences, I’m so shook!

So yeah, story-wise I don’t quite ‘get it’ and Dutch is really starting to get on my nerves, which is probably why I prefer to just ride off alone and experience the world. I guess RDR2 story will rely heavily on being torn between gang loyalty and your own morality and principles but since I have virtually no concept of group loyalty that is all lost on me. My own morals and principles all the way. I’m like, ‘these people suck, take Hosea, Charles, Sadie, Tilly (maybe John Marston and his family) and leave these bitches behind’.

At the beginning, I did kinda liked Dutch. He seemed genuinely sorry for Sadie, took her in and saved her life, even if it meant another mouth to feed in dire times. And he showed Kiran mercy despite hating the O’Driscol’s. But as I’ve progressed thought the game, his grand speeches about sticking together, sticking with him, slowly but surely has turned from pep-talk to keep people’s spirit up to sounding like a cult leader desperate to keep his following no matter the cost. Yesterday when I was playing, I overheard him quote some quasi-philosophy book to Lenny and used the words to twist them into his own convictions to support his decisions. And when Lenny objected, Dutch literally said ‘you’re breaking my heart, kid’. Wow Dutch, talk about manipulating your protégé.

It was the mission when those lawmen approached Arthur as he was fishing with Jack that really made me consciously see Dutch in a new light. Up until then, RDR2 had mostly been fun and games but that conversation left me feeling a bit uneasy. But I just figured it was the main story finally picking up pace and also, I figured I was near the end of the chapter. I carried on, suddenly eager to see what would happen and was thoroughly surprised by how the chapter ended. In a bad way.

While both chapter 2 and chapter 3 begins with a ‘new start’ vibe, chapter 3 felt very different from chapter 2. Mostly it was that feeling that Dutch’s obsession with ‘sticking to this life’ is going to get people killed. Idk, it’s this eerie feeling something’s wrong but can’t quite put my finger on it-feel again. But thanks to internet being internet I already knew some spoilers so I couldn’t help but to look up something and… well, let me put it this way. I’m never going to finish this game. Ever. It breaks my heart because in so many ways it’s truly an amazing game and a fantastic experience. But I’m just not that into the story, I don’t like where it’s heading and I don’t want to see what’s coming to character(s) I’ve come to care deeply about.

I still want to explore the world more, see what unfolds, do more challenges, add stuff to my compendium, maybe get some trophies… but I doubt I’ll ever progress much story-wise. Quite the contrary, I might reload an earlier save and just stay in chapter 2 forever.

(wrtten a couple of days later)

Seems my instincts was right on the money, esp concerning Dutch. Sad thing, I do believe he is sincere. In the first few chapters at least. He is manipulative but I also believe he’s convinced himself that he’s doing the right thing. And then his obsession will eventually get the better of him and when people and the lifestyle is slipping away from him, he doesn’t handle it well at all. Ugh, it’s so frustrating, I just wanna gather all my favs and yell: “leave nooow, before it’s too late!

It’s not for the sake of spacing it out or making it last. I just don’t want to progress in the story at all. I hated losing Horseshoe Overlook. HATED IT HATED IT HATED IT!!!! Yes the new place is beautiful, yes I know it’s the life of the outlaws and RDR2 does show that life for better and for worse whereas most stories tend to romanticize the whole thing, yes as outlaws they can’t stay for too long in one place. But as mentioned I have a hard time sympathize with and immerse myself into that lifestyle. Yes, I got all my upgrades and a whole new area to explore, a bigger nearby town, and closer to that big city. Still hated it. Horseshoe Overlook was my place. The Heartlands was home. And the view was stunning! And I liked Valentine. It was small and dirty but I had good memories from there. Until I had to shoot up half the town. My motivation for continuing the main story is at absolute zero.

It was more what the transition represented, I guess. You never know what will happen in RDR2. And it’s true, for random encounters, and many of the individual missions. But when it comes to the story as a whole, I feel like I already now can predict how it’ll play out. Every chapter begins with the gang on the move, finding a place to settle down and have a fresh start, even chapter 1 (as they were on the run bc a heist gone wrong or something). Then they settle down, go into town to get to know the area and establish connections and looking for easy money, often at the expenses of others. X random events later, they get too overconfident or careless, screws up or get hunted down, it ends with a shootout, then they are on the run again, finds a new place to settle down where Dutch promises that THIS TIME IT WILL BE DIFFERENT until they’re wanted on the entire map and can’t go anywhere cos the wild west is ending. I really liked it at Horseshoe Overlook and whenever Im in that area again I’ll just get sad.

I had no idea I’d gotten so emotionally invested so I was really surprised at how much I disliked moving camps and all. I’ve also gotten so fond of Arthur. I was so busy with exploring, doing challenges, learning to hunt etc I didn’t even realize it happening. Until one scene had me almost tearing up! I think because, we as the player really have to look out for him. Even though I make sure that he eats regularly, he’s still underweight. When out riding I usually set up camp when night falls so that Arthur can get some rest. Something I’d never think about in any other game. And I always give him coffee in the morning. Then it’s his journal that gives such valuable insight into who he truly is as a person. There’s no doubt he’s so much more than just a mere outlaw. He writes surprisingly well and is open and is surprisingly honest about his thoughts and feelings. How torn he is between the life of an outlaw and wanting to be a better man, a better person. How he admired Charles because, for him it was ‘so easy to just be good’ whereas he himself always feel torn between good and evil. And his journal entries when he meets his long-lost love Mary and saves her brother from the cultists. The expression on his face as he said goodbye to her on the train station… how utterly heartbroken he was… how she still loved him too… man, that one tore at my heart. Still does when thinking about it.

I wish I could take Hosea, Charles, Sadie, Tilly, John’s family and maybe Lenny too with me, run off and start anew. Charles would have good influence on Arthur and encourage him to turn his life around and find his place in society and encourage John to be a better father and role model for Jack and they could all learn how to live as free men and women without robbing or hurting anyone (unless they deserve it). Like, Charles is an excellent hunter and tracker. He’d totally get enough food for the gang and maybe even enough to sell. He could train Jack too. Hosea was always more of a conman/grifter than a brute/robber. He could con bad guys or rich assholes Robin Hood style. If anyone gave him grief, John and Arthur would settle the score. Arthur could sell animal pelts and John could take up carpeting. They’d be such a happy lil family. But, RDR1 is yet to happen so it’s all just wishful thinking *sigh*

[numberplates4u-blog]

Skoda Citigo review – small on size, big on quality

For  Well-screwed together, lightweight Against  Long gearing Not a true thriller, but a competent car in which some fun can be had. Whereas many rivals feel built to a budget, the Skoda Citigo fosters its VW Group roots to good effect, exhibiting impressive build quality, decent practicality and, most importantly, polished driving dynamics. . As a result, it feels a grownup car, at home on fast flowing roads as it is in the urban jungle. In 2017 Skoda refreshed the Citigo’s interior and exterior, and updated its suite of technology, too. Lengthened gear ratios constituted the only mechanical change of note, which improved fuel economy and refinement, albeit at the expense of some driver engagement and real world performance. > Best small cars  While the Citigo isn’t huge on thrills, there's some fun to be had. The age-old recipe of low l power, light weight and a tiny footprint lends the junior Skoda some charm when you hustle it. However, it's certainly no hot hatch. Volkswagen Golf in detail Performance and 0-60 time - With 0-62mph sprint times ranging from the to mid-to-late teens, the Citigo is certainly one of the slower cars on the roads.   Engine and gearbox - One engine, in two guises, is available, while there's an automatic gearbox option as well.  Ride and handling - It's all steady going and relatively comfortable, too. Opt for the sport suspension package and the Citigo becomes a tad more agile.  MPG and running costs - All Citigos are budget-friendly, occupying in the lower road tax brackets and returning 60-plus MPG figures on combined cycles, Interior and tech - Simple but effective, the interior is well laid out if a little dull, Design - Its VW Group relatives are better looking in our eyes. However in sportier forms the Citigo still harbours some appeal.  Price, specs and rivals At £8,860, the three-door Citigo is one of the cheaper cars you can buy today. As we said before, though, the basic model is best avoided, so you should be spending over £10k, affording you the SE trim, which includes alloy-wheels, (manual) air con and bluetooth phone and audio connectivity. Next up in the trim hierarchy are the Colour Edition and SE L, priced at £10,820 and £10,685 respectively. Over the SE the former offers fog lights and alloy wheels, which you’ll also find in the latter, along with heated seats and rear parking sensors. Topping the range in price terms is the £11,500 Monte Carlo edition. > Skoda Citigo Monte Carlo review Range-wide the five-door body carries a £350 premium, so it’s worth the outlay for the extra practicality. Unsurprisingly, the options list is short, and aside from the aforementioned sports suspension there’s nothing worth specifying. Image 2 of 10 Image 2 of 10 The SEAT Mii and VW Up are the Citigo’s closest rivals. All three roll off the same production line, so there’s little to separate them. However, to differentiate the Up from its VW Group relatives, it’s offered with a wider range of engines. Elsewhere, Renault’s Twingo  range offers Play and Dynamique trims which sandwich the Monte Carlo price-wise. However, this side of the expensive GT model, the Twingo isn't as fun to drive as the Citigo. Citroen, Peugeot and Toyota offer city cars too; all developed as a joint enterprise in similar fashion to the VW Group city car triplets. None, though, are as well polished as the Citigo and feel built down to a price. Performance and 0-60mph  One naturally aspirated engine is offered – the 1-litre three-cylinder motor – in two states of tune. In its lesser form it develops 59bhp and 70lb ft of torque; the more powerful application produces 74bhp while torque remains unchanged and is developed at the same 3000rpm.  The lower powered unit will take the Citigo to a 100mph top speed; the 74bhp versions tops out at  107mph. 0-62mph sprint times range from 13.5 seconds to 16.7 seconds depending on the engine and gearbox combination; quickest is the 74bhp derivative, hooked up to a manual transmission, while the 59bhp engine mated to the ASG automatic (effectively a single clutch automated manual) is the slowest. Image 7 of 10 Image 7 of 10 To make the most of the three-pot’s modest means, in either guise, you really need to wring it out and chase the red line with the gears so widely-spaced. As a result any overtakes or quick manoeuvres require planning and wide-open throttle applications. Engine and gearbox With no turbocharger to boot peak torque comes on stream at a high 3,000 rpm in both engine applications. However, peak power arrives at different crank speeds: at 5,000rpm in the 59bhp model and at 6,200rpm in 74bhp model. However, you don't notice the latter’s extra oomph unless you work it hard. That said, the recent facelift has  lumbered the Citigo with ridiculously  long-gearing (of both transmissions). It’s clearly a move designed to improve official efficiency claims, but the changes make the car feel sluggish to respond, with second gear taking you past 60mph and third past 90mph. Image 9 of 10 Image 9 of 10 A shorter final drive would add a layer of involvement, forcing you to use more of the gears with greater frequency. That said, the shift is action is rubbery and notchy so you’re not missing out. Although changes can at least be dispatched quickly to avoid losing hard-gained momentum. Furthermore, the heavy flywheel sees the engine hang onto revs after an upshift which can make for jerky going. Ride and Handling Softly sprung, the Citigo takes nobbly city streets in its stride, with the suspension comfortably filtering out the road’s imperfections – only a cavernous pothole will send a crash through the structure. However, up the pace on winding roads, and the loose-limbed body control translates to plenty of roll. Initial turn in is responsive enough, but the Citigo adopts a leaning stance under sustained loads. While this doesn't scream sporty, the small Skoda clings on gameley with decent control - although mid-corner bumps can unsettle the car. Opt for the £155 Sport suspension (it’s standard on the Monte Carlo), which lowers the ride height by 15mm, and the Citigo takes on a sportier edge giving some pliancy in the process. The body is better buttoned-down with vertical movements less exaggerated, so it nips into corners with greater alacrity, encouraging you to carry impressive speeds through the bends. Even so, the sportier chassis setup still advertently favours understeer, and the ESP isn’t shy of stepping in when you overwhelm the front tyres or attempt to mobile the rear axle, but it does so smoothly. Image 5 of 10 Image 5 of 10 The steering rack offers just enough feedback, but  it's accurate and light so you can intuitively position the Citigo. As a result you feel confident t driving right up to both the Skoda’s and , the road’s limits, as you strive to sustain momentum. This proves surprisingly challenging, addictive and fun.  A combination of disc and drum brakes, at the front and rear respectively, offer appropriate stopping power. Most of the brake pressure comes in the top half of the pedal, which feels a tad overservoed, so you don't get the extra performance you hope for under with heavier brake inputs. MPG and runnings costs  Even the least fuel efficient variants, in the shape of the 59bhp manual and 74bhp automatic, achieve returns of 64.2mpg on a combined cycle. The leanest runner is the 74bhp manual model, that returns 68.9mpg on combined cycle. All the models fall into two VED brackets, although the difference of £25 between the dirtiest and cleanest models is unlikely to influence you one way or the other. Service intervals are every 10,000 miles and the Citigo should be light on consumables. Interior and tech Unsurprisingly, the Citigo’s interior is pretty sparse and it’s no tech-fest. That said it’s well screwed together, and provided you plump for a higher-speciation model, it’s equipped with the mod-cons you'd expect from a car in its class.  Despite its compelling price, the entry-level trim is best avoided: air conditioning, a tachometer and a height-adjustable driver’s seat all are extra cost options. Furthermore, the standard all-black interior is a little drab, although the exposed door tops add a welcome flash of colour across the range.    Image 3 of 10 Image 3 of 10 The switchgear in the centre stack is well laid out an easy to interface with, positioned around the digital display. While the cabin’s small you can seat two people comfortably on the rear bench, but the tradeoff is reduced boot space. Design The Citigo cuts a similar, boxy figure to the SEAT Mii and the VW Up, so you have to pick out smaller details to tell them apart: each receives a bespoke grille, headlights and front apron. In our eyes the Citigo’s arrangement isn't the best execution. At least in Monte Carlo guise, the black trim, wheels and decals add some visual excitement. 18 Jul 2018

https://www.evo.co.uk/skoda/citigo

[privateplates4u]

Skoda Citigo review – small on size, big on quality

For  Well-screwed together, lightweight Against  Long gearing Not a true thriller, but a competent car in which some fun can be had. Whereas many rivals feel built to a budget, the Skoda Citigo fosters its VW Group roots to good effect, exhibiting impressive build quality, decent practicality and, most importantly, polished driving dynamics. . As a result, it feels a grownup car, at home on fast flowing roads as it is in the urban jungle. In 2017 Skoda refreshed the Citigo’s interior and exterior, and updated its suite of technology, too. Lengthened gear ratios constituted the only mechanical change of note, which improved fuel economy and refinement, albeit at the expense of some driver engagement and real world performance. > Best small cars  While the Citigo isn’t huge on thrills, there's some fun to be had. The age-old recipe of low l power, light weight and a tiny footprint lends the junior Skoda some charm when you hustle it. However, it's certainly no hot hatch. Volkswagen Golf in detail Performance and 0-60 time - With 0-62mph sprint times ranging from the to mid-to-late teens, the Citigo is certainly one of the slower cars on the roads.   Engine and gearbox - One engine, in two guises, is available, while there's an automatic gearbox option as well.  Ride and handling - It's all steady going and relatively comfortable, too. Opt for the sport suspension package and the Citigo becomes a tad more agile.  MPG and running costs - All Citigos are budget-friendly, occupying in the lower road tax brackets and returning 60-plus MPG figures on combined cycles, Interior and tech - Simple but effective, the interior is well laid out if a little dull, Design - Its VW Group relatives are better looking in our eyes. However in sportier forms the Citigo still harbours some appeal.  Price, specs and rivals At £8,860, the three-door Citigo is one of the cheaper cars you can buy today. As we said before, though, the basic model is best avoided, so you should be spending over £10k, affording you the SE trim, which includes alloy-wheels, (manual) air con and bluetooth phone and audio connectivity. Next up in the trim hierarchy are the Colour Edition and SE L, priced at £10,820 and £10,685 respectively. Over the SE the former offers fog lights and alloy wheels, which you’ll also find in the latter, along with heated seats and rear parking sensors. Topping the range in price terms is the £11,500 Monte Carlo edition. > Skoda Citigo Monte Carlo review Range-wide the five-door body carries a £350 premium, so it’s worth the outlay for the extra practicality. Unsurprisingly, the options list is short, and aside from the aforementioned sports suspension there’s nothing worth specifying. Image 2 of 10 Image 2 of 10 The SEAT Mii and VW Up are the Citigo’s closest rivals. All three roll off the same production line, so there’s little to separate them. However, to differentiate the Up from its VW Group relatives, it’s offered with a wider range of engines. Elsewhere, Renault’s Twingo  range offers Play and Dynamique trims which sandwich the Monte Carlo price-wise. However, this side of the expensive GT model, the Twingo isn't as fun to drive as the Citigo. Citroen, Peugeot and Toyota offer city cars too; all developed as a joint enterprise in similar fashion to the VW Group city car triplets. None, though, are as well polished as the Citigo and feel built down to a price. Performance and 0-60mph  One naturally aspirated engine is offered – the 1-litre three-cylinder motor – in two states of tune. In its lesser form it develops 59bhp and 70lb ft of torque; the more powerful application produces 74bhp while torque remains unchanged and is developed at the same 3000rpm.  The lower powered unit will take the Citigo to a 100mph top speed; the 74bhp versions tops out at  107mph. 0-62mph sprint times range from 13.5 seconds to 16.7 seconds depending on the engine and gearbox combination; quickest is the 74bhp derivative, hooked up to a manual transmission, while the 59bhp engine mated to the ASG automatic (effectively a single clutch automated manual) is the slowest. Image 7 of 10 Image 7 of 10 To make the most of the three-pot’s modest means, in either guise, you really need to wring it out and chase the red line with the gears so widely-spaced. As a result any overtakes or quick manoeuvres require planning and wide-open throttle applications. Engine and gearbox With no turbocharger to boot peak torque comes on stream at a high 3,000 rpm in both engine applications. However, peak power arrives at different crank speeds: at 5,000rpm in the 59bhp model and at 6,200rpm in 74bhp model. However, you don't notice the latter’s extra oomph unless you work it hard. That said, the recent facelift has  lumbered the Citigo with ridiculously  long-gearing (of both transmissions). It’s clearly a move designed to improve official efficiency claims, but the changes make the car feel sluggish to respond, with second gear taking you past 60mph and third past 90mph. Image 9 of 10 Image 9 of 10 A shorter final drive would add a layer of involvement, forcing you to use more of the gears with greater frequency. That said, the shift is action is rubbery and notchy so you’re not missing out. Although changes can at least be dispatched quickly to avoid losing hard-gained momentum. Furthermore, the heavy flywheel sees the engine hang onto revs after an upshift which can make for jerky going. Ride and Handling Softly sprung, the Citigo takes nobbly city streets in its stride, with the suspension comfortably filtering out the road’s imperfections – only a cavernous pothole will send a crash through the structure. However, up the pace on winding roads, and the loose-limbed body control translates to plenty of roll. Initial turn in is responsive enough, but the Citigo adopts a leaning stance under sustained loads. While this doesn't scream sporty, the small Skoda clings on gameley with decent control - although mid-corner bumps can unsettle the car. Opt for the £155 Sport suspension (it’s standard on the Monte Carlo), which lowers the ride height by 15mm, and the Citigo takes on a sportier edge giving some pliancy in the process. The body is better buttoned-down with vertical movements less exaggerated, so it nips into corners with greater alacrity, encouraging you to carry impressive speeds through the bends. Even so, the sportier chassis setup still advertently favours understeer, and the ESP isn’t shy of stepping in when you overwhelm the front tyres or attempt to mobile the rear axle, but it does so smoothly. Image 5 of 10 Image 5 of 10 The steering rack offers just enough feedback, but  it's accurate and light so you can intuitively position the Citigo. As a result you feel confident t driving right up to both the Skoda’s and , the road’s limits, as you strive to sustain momentum. This proves surprisingly challenging, addictive and fun.  A combination of disc and drum brakes, at the front and rear respectively, offer appropriate stopping power. Most of the brake pressure comes in the top half of the pedal, which feels a tad overservoed, so you don't get the extra performance you hope for under with heavier brake inputs. MPG and runnings costs  Even the least fuel efficient variants, in the shape of the 59bhp manual and 74bhp automatic, achieve returns of 64.2mpg on a combined cycle. The leanest runner is the 74bhp manual model, that returns 68.9mpg on combined cycle. All the models fall into two VED brackets, although the difference of £25 between the dirtiest and cleanest models is unlikely to influence you one way or the other. Service intervals are every 10,000 miles and the Citigo should be light on consumables. Interior and tech Unsurprisingly, the Citigo’s interior is pretty sparse and it’s no tech-fest. That said it’s well screwed together, and provided you plump for a higher-speciation model, it’s equipped with the mod-cons you'd expect from a car in its class.  Despite its compelling price, the entry-level trim is best avoided: air conditioning, a tachometer and a height-adjustable driver’s seat all are extra cost options. Furthermore, the standard all-black interior is a little drab, although the exposed door tops add a welcome flash of colour across the range.    Image 3 of 10 Image 3 of 10 The switchgear in the centre stack is well laid out an easy to interface with, positioned around the digital display. While the cabin’s small you can seat two people comfortably on the rear bench, but the tradeoff is reduced boot space. Design The Citigo cuts a similar, boxy figure to the SEAT Mii and the VW Up, so you have to pick out smaller details to tell them apart: each receives a bespoke grille, headlights and front apron. In our eyes the Citigo’s arrangement isn't the best execution. At least in Monte Carlo guise, the black trim, wheels and decals add some visual excitement. 18 Jul 2018

https://www.evo.co.uk/skoda/citigo

[aureliasaid]

Nashville x2

Nashville 2/15-18, 2018

Thursday, 2/15

Flew in and headed to Lowe's hotel, dropped our stuff and hopped over via Uber to Germantown to go to City House, which is right on the main Germantown drag of 4th Ave and Taylor along with the likes of the new hottie Henrietta Red, 5th and Taylor, Germantown Cafe, etc.  City house is in an old stand alone compilation of a house and small warehouse?  The smoker is going in the back and the concrete floors and high ceilings make for a casual, loud and buzzy atmosphere full of all sorts and types of people.  It is Italian with southern US infused overtones. From pizza in the wood fired ovens to pasta to mains, it is primarily small plates that combines unique ingredients and styles. Like many of the hot Nashville restaurants, this small plate with some creative and sometimes funky flavor combos is the new norm as we see food and restaurant trends changing as fast as the millennials and technology can influence them. 

Friday, 2/16

Hideous rainy and cold weather met us as we planned to spend the day exploring apt options.  We looked at The Aertsen and The Morris in Midtown, drove around SoBro, toured The Monroe in Germantown, The Iconic in The Gluch and 505 on Church St near Printer's Alley in downtown.  Tried to see The SoBro, but couldn't get an appointment. Location sorta crazy since it is near the Bridgestone Arena and apparently a pain with events. All good options except the Gulch which has little to offer for apt rental and is more condo rental. That would be the choice spot, but the 505 is incredible and great location for downtown. Very tempting. The Aertsen will prob win as it attaches with the Kimpton Hoel and several restaurants including the cool Caviar and Bananas cafe and coffee shop.

Met Relia for a famous lunch at Pegleg Porker BBQ in the SoBro area. Pulled pork along with sides, and ribs in a small warehouse dive setting.  Packed.  Dinner was at BarTaco in 12 South with Relia and friends Jules, Jane, Maggie, and Morgan.  Very fun. They went out.  We didn't.

Saturday, 2,17

Saturday another un-lovely weather day, so we headed to Green Hills Mall, lunch at our fav, Nordstrom's Cafe and then to Memorial Gymnasium to see Vandy upset the Florida Gators. A visit to Cole Dorm, Dance Marathon and then on to dinner at The Tavern in Midtown specifically to watch the Tar Heels play Louisville.  Great spot with lots of TVs and very good casual food, but no reservations unfortunately.

All in all, another fun time in Nashville.  No music this time, but that was not the MO.  Next time!

Tarboro does Nashville 4/20-22/18

Friday:

The Clarks have come to Nashville and it ain’t Nashville that neighbors Tarboro. First stop The Tavern for al fresco late lunch and then touring the city by 2011 Q7. Drinks at the Westin roof top featured a gorgeous sunset followed by dinner at the Bee and Butcher in East Nashville. Super casual, smallish warehouse feel with lots of small plates of varying and delicious foods. And then its time for Broadway which with warm weather, the Preds in town for Game 5 of the first round of the Stanley Cup (debated going, but glad we didn't since they lost,) and Friday night, it was packed.  Visited FGL first which was not so crowded...until you went to the rooftop which had millions up there. Moved on to do the usual of Robert's, Tootsie's before taking it back to home sweet midtown.

Saturday:

Beautiful day! Walked down to Demonbreun to buy some running shoes and finally got moving to get 4 bikes to see Nashville up close.  (Geared hybrid bikes might be preferable to the Aertson Townie bikes, but like the concept by the Aertson.) Rode through Vanderbilt, Centennial Park and onto the roads by Tennessee State to access the Greenway.  Little farther than expected, but finally got on track.  Beautiful ride coming from the southwest into the city. Cruised through Germantown, by Broadway debating Acme Feed and Seed before bailing and biking onto Pegleg Porker near the Gulch.  Home again late afternoon.  

Started the evening just up the road at The Patterson House speakeasy on Division St which was a cozy bar that is limited in seats so there was a wait to get seated.  Light snacks and great cocktails. This was a great recommendation esp after we fumbled the original plan of going to the 6pm Listening Room show which was sold out. Dinner in East Nashville again, just off Main Street and 5 points at The Treehouse.  Super casual again, we were in the main room, which is small, but has a series of treehouse type rooms in the backthink that may be more of a bar through??  Didn't realize it until after we left.  it is supposedly one of Nashville's best and it was creative and good - small plate style again, but a bit heavy handed on the salt IMO.

Backing up to The 5 Spot music venue, we ventured in and encountered a rough version of new punk I guess.  We left after 10 mins.  Decided to try the New Orleans Blues bar, which was not too crowded and 8 piece band.  Of all the gin joints in the world, the 4 people standing alone on the dance floor by the stage edge was Martha and Charlie McClendon with their niece Mary Stuart. While the band was not really what I expected as blues, we still had fun dancing to The Rolling Stones and Cake by the Ocean (who's real singer was down the road at Vanderbilt's Rites of Spring concert.)

Sunday:

Rain replaced the sunshine and so we toured Belle Meade and Warner Park by car.  Lunch was at Burger Up in 12 South where the proprietors have Tarboro roots! Timed perfectly for a 1:00 pm opening, we went to the Musician's Hall of Fame to see the traveling Rolling Stones exhibit.  We pretty much did it all before BNA beckoned.

[emerssn-blog1]

hey fam !!! it me hanna & this is my new son (but more accurately fATHER) emerson !! i’m honestly so hyped to play him so hmu for plots :~~~) pls :~)

i’m not the only one who just saw milo ventimiglia walk by, right ? oh, wait, that was emerson beckett. i don’t know much about them besides that they’re thirty two years old and moved into golden horizons six years ago. everyone calls them the recluse because they’re reticent and solitary, but also altruistic and adroit. i’ve also heard he is currently a coffee shop owner and identifies as cis male.

k so this is emerson!!! he was born in a rly rly small town in georgia into a really big family!! edit: he was born on a farm this is an important detail otherwise none of thise makes sense lmao

im talkin big like .. he had six other siblings & he lived with many of his other relatives as well

he basically grew up in a very small gated neighbourhood - the kind where u go to school with the exact same small group of kids every year, u know all of ur neighbours stories and their parents know u and everyone’s just pals nd practically family

from a young age, emerson rly rly loved school strangely?? his family never considered it that much of a priority but emerson genuinely loved it and learned very quickly!! he read things on his own (anything he could get his hands on), lit knew the most useless random facts and would go around sharing them and yea sdjfjfsd he was a nerd since early on 

he was always interested in learning. for the rest of his family, after high school, it meant they were gonna continue working on the farm & carry on w what their parents do. but emerson wanted to venture out...learn more abt the rest of the world...

emerson finished his schooling quickly & graduated when he was 17 !! he wanted to go to university and move to the city and make his dreams of becoming a vet come true but his parents...disapproved 

so he stayed for another yr and planned on moving out on his own when he was 18!! 

another detail to note tho was that from childhood, he met the Ultimate Love of his Life. her name was savannah !! 

anyways she dreamed of moving to the city too?? it was always a thing of theirs to leave together nd live together it was very hopeful but yanno they didn’t know any better

when he was 18, sav and emerson moved to nyc !! emerson wanted to study biology nd she wanted to become an actress :-) his parents were still very much opposed but they supported him financially in regards to tuition, bc they highly doubted he’d last for very long

they were right , it was hella difficult ?? they didn’t help him out very much w money besides tuition so he was working a lot while studying

it wasn’t an ideal situation but he still got to live in the city, with his gf, and it was hard but he refused to prove his parents right?? so he stayed and worked rly rly hard but slowly his parents stopped financially supporting him as they gradually realized his choice was final

when he was in his 3rd yr of uni tho sav became pregnant .. so emerson naturally came to the conclusion that they can’t afford for him to go to school when he’s gotta work to support them & their baby so he dropped out rip

yea so now he’s working even MORE and it’s stressful and they can barely pay bills or do ... anything really

so even after the baby was born, they lived paycheck to paycheck. emerson never really bothered telling his family about his situation tbh

when their kid ( her name is theadora aka thea !! ) was four years old tho, savannah died after bein involved in a nasty car accident :( it was obviously very hard on both thea and emerson

in need of a fresh start, emerson moved to sf. he was still broke tho lol 

so yea !! he moved into golden horizons w thea and started workin in a coffee shop. over the yrs, he moved up positions & got highkey close w the owner but as the owner passed away 2 yrs ago, he was given the shop nd still runs it today!!

now its lowkey a mix of a coffee shop & a cheap book shop/library?? he collects all his faves heh

in general he’s still .. a pretty upbeat person he’s just a lil worn out bc life was....definitely not everything he ever dreamed of being and he’s sort of had to settle because of what was given to him but !! he isn’t like super emo about it u know he doesn’t like to think about it too much

he loves bein in the city but at heart is still a southern boy?? rly old fashioned bad w technology loves the outdoors loves nature and animals all that good stuff

he’s so sefless like he feels so guilty if he does something for himself?? esp after having a kid and even after living on his own w sav, he’s used to giving up stuff and making sacrifices for other people so ,, he just feels like someone else deserves help more than him?? someone gotta remind him to take care of himself too

tbh emerson has a lot of surface lvl relationships but not a lot of super deep ones just bc he’s so bad at maintaining relationships and unless someone initiates it then he hates making the first move bc he feels awkward and like he’s bein annoying 

but if he loves u he will stick with u no matter WHAT ,, for real

probs seems annoyed sometimes but rly he’s just in his thoughts too much nd in actuality is very nice !! 

literally carries around snacks everywhere just in case also probs hands out water bottles .. he is everyones dad ok

possible connections!!

any ex plot tbh but specifically, ex-fiance or ex- very very serious relationship?? i could see them having gotten into the relationship a few months or so after emerson moved to sf ( or anytime, really ) and things got pretty Real but in the end emerson wasn’t prepared to go all the way and ended things

ride or die - i live for brotps!!!! or any bff plots!!!!! give me all of them!!!!

friends w benefits?? emerson’s never gonna put a label on it and maybe ur muse feels the same way so for now they’re just foolin around ,, havin fun

like a lil sibling sort of?? just someone that emerson’s super protective of bc he’s the ultimate dad friend tbh. let him be ur designated driver for when ur drunk & lecture u on making responsible decisions

if ur neighbours with this boi hit me up

if ur chara lived in ny back in the day then maybe they were also really good pals with his ex gf aka the mother of his child?? that would be interesting bc emerson is still really attached

his bad influence ~~ the one that convinces him 2 take one night for himself, make dumb choices nd wake up the next morning not remembering anything!!

JUST PLOT WITH ME THX

[chinad]

in thick dirt.

Jan 13, 2018

last night dirty spying eyes pestered me a lot. I saw lots of sexual scenarios, esp my familiar individuals around me, like dorm canteen operative woman, a staff of the canteen to whom my laundry outsourced. Its normal dusk when I went to canteen. When I felt good I asked some wine from the operative woman & handed over ￥5 as reward. I just want to be joyful & sharing my gratitude. Then sexual emotion likely aroused in the dorm canteen, esp in the 2 women. After dinner I went to joy as usual. On the road I saw lots of sexual scenes mindfully I once experienced when in doomed love which broke me up back to 2001 when I left Qiqihar to Nankai Univ, Tianjin, seeking my master degree. I know mostly women there love me, and I sometimes inspired by them. But I dislike unreal sex esp out of my loved one. I always pray for my peaceful soul partner, not indecent ones. That heaps of unblessed illusions reminded me this week an elder man I didn't know approached me in my dusk jog twice. He likely the husband of an elder woman who frequented me in my jog and some cases when I on way to visit my son 3 bus stop away. Every time she rode a bike. I at once thought in her elder what business can she have for such a busy route. Especially a time on my way to visit my son, she rested aside street and acquainted me. I just wonder how she made a living wilder around the street. I quit curiosity at once, as none of my business in that moment of probing mind. Now I'm almost sure that the insane elder woman in her show cheating me out her stalking me. Each time she talked to me, her husband, the old gay would appeared in my jog and trying talk to me, but I just reckoned him among QRRS workers once known me for I worked once in their factories soon after I employed, and never lingered more in my mind as unpleasant nod. Now I know the man's real ID. In this week after the insane woman acquaintance on her evasive riding away in my jog, the man stealthily pushed his way aside me arbitrarily, each time in dark area of my route. First time he claimed he noticed me watching my watch, which I never did. I mistaken him as passenger ask for time, so I search my pants pocket for watch to help me, the coward at once exiled, likely thought weapons in my pocket. After 2 days disappeared, he approached me again in front of QRRS square, claimed he noticed my usual route against normal people's there exercise, trying selling his research of me, or proof of his stalking. I just noticed aside a car turning around and the gay shamed then scattered again. I never looked him nor look back. The dirty illusive scenes all likely exerted by the sinful couples, they abused my well behavior. From my poor mother's grass root, I always resolved for poor diligent women, but didn't know the difference between normal elder woman's life, and those of out of shape. Last night I struggled to escape the fallen & dishonored, till I research my chromebook's replacement, new chromebook with android apps. I found amazon China selling this kind of products usually blocked within PRC. In the night I dreamt a lot purchasing the 2 notebooks for my son & my own notebook evolvement. I dreamt fought in sea with 2 battleship with same name derived from new chromebook I found at the e-commercial website. I saw fighting area on their functional dissected deck. When my son & I almost purchased the notebook, I woke up for the emptiness of wanting. God, dad, grant us sooner to have new set of chromebook for our workspace. Bring me sooner my Royal China, esp Asoh Yukiko, my Crown Queen from Japan. Grant us sanctum of love & privacy. Put self-esteem among people I concerned. In the lunar new year eve, grant us securer ownership over our adorable domains, ie renewal.

Jan 4, 2018

dreamt of Elon Musk, or Chinese version of Musk. he interviewed us from job applicant. then we take care of his family: his wife and his only son. an older staff also attending his family. his house in a lofty mountainous architecture, we have to clime in risk to reach it. when we returned to his house, the old staff throw Musk's boy onto a floating cushion, for no other shortcut to transport the kid bare hand in the harsh environment. even dangerous but the boy safely landed onto his house. Musk also challenged us with his famous product design. last night a bit relentless. after dinner in canteen, I first time felt hungry & dorm gate snack vendor out of service. so I bought myself a bread and ate it deliciously after dusk jog & watching TV in my dorm. then I reviewed recent talk to my 2nd elder sister. how she hated me & faked orthodox. I told her about world food crisis report online, she at once responded if I take pills recently. last time decade ago she forced me into asylum with plot with my other siblings, ignored dedicated cares healing. she is a coward, not only she married with a beast and suffered regret all life, also she currently trying push our niece into marriage with her nephew who likely a poor gay. she found her family doomed then tried her best to help attending my kid brother's first son, who turned out much less educated, and left her second son, also a cheap soul, followed my kid brother and successfully earning a life in southern China as my kid brother, and seized himself a tall girl as trophy wife from peasants labor flood there. she consumed my old family so many credit & merit to save her cheap family she once hopelessly sold herself into when she getting old & dependent to my eldest sister who committed suicide in her 30' partially caused by the kid sister who stayed awkwardly in my eldest sister's house after her senior middle school my parents hardly supported. she totally a betrayer & cowardice. then I reviewed all my brilliance lightened so many people in my living sphere, esp my home town villagers, my siblings, our relatives. my powerful influence was a gift of my era, my national atmosphere in which we believe in growth, scientific, and moral uprising under God's shine, ie. Christian, out of people's self-esteem. I saw society mindset and its efforts in molding reality for generations, and my development as the chosen. I review my failing siblings and praying forgiveness, exactly for their painful giving: hurt in guise. I reviewing love of my 3rd elder sister since childhood put me in peace so many decades. our road towards independence past and ahead. God dad, yesterday I almost first time felt panic of hunger. grant me anxious free upon food security. fed me with clean food & safe life. bring me sooner my Royal China and new family in which I likely bring one more child. God dad, bring me my Crown Queen, Asoh Yukiko from Japan, when it matters us. dad, grant us a peaceful and merry lunar new year.

Jan 1, 2018

first dreamt in school. the subject of experiment is to distill starch from stem, for final bean curd or jelly separated from paper tissue. then found I was studying my Doctor degree course. my old family members mostly proud of me. I likely in vacation and visiting my old family's relatives at hometown, Zhudajiu village or local municipal, Wuxue. then found my purse missing. I was very concerned. then my 2 elder sisters help me search in fields for it. we exam carefully every inch of earth, hoping find it back. I was so distressed that I woke up for it and found at once I didn't miss it, but now I can't figure out how my property safe in reality while when I just exit from dream, I know dreamy concern dissolved. This is first day of 2018. after 3 hours I will bring my son to dine out in Qiqihar downtown via groupon and aid financially by alipay credit. the holiday approached so quietly that I didn't prepare. I barely borrow ￥150 for usual weekend reuniting my son from QRRS Dorm canteen. after found my mistake, I search web carefully using the virtual credit to buy service online to make ends meet. in half day I setup alipay, Meituan on my raspberry pi and ordered 3 meals in cyberspace. yesterday we dined dico's franchise. on bus I prayed God allowing our coupon working and our holiday won't run short of cash. when we got there, there were not crowd. our groupon handled perfectly. we enjoy the meal so much. in fact, my deficit of meat healed quickly. I told my son Warren Buffett advises that youth should refrain from debt, and how Taiwan people inspire me, including dico's service. I urged him we are blessed to visit the franchise more frequent for it's just in its wane due to PRC economic hard problem, and eroded customer base among both richer Chinese and average Chinese family, for expenditure power just wears away in sinking PRC. I felt lucky to be served by the fast food chain in time when it's still graceful, and sale girls still so decent. I also told my son how I satisfied by my charity activity to offer a laid-off motorcycle worker begging for his hard life alongside street, on way my visiting my son, with ￥5: how its cost efficient & my emotional sanctified. after luncheon, we hangout in RT-Mart for my shampoo & toothpaste. my son definitely refused buying goods for him. so we only spend about 60 CNY there, among heavy carts and long queue of people at checkout. dad God, this week I will arrange installment with alipay credit. promise us smooth operation, grant us to complete paying back credit in time in coming year 2018. bring me sooner my Royal China, and my Crown Queen from Japan, Asoh Yukiko, for my lonely post mid age. grant us more offspring, esp Billing Zhu 's role in anticipated capable of billing, harmony with the Holy. God dad, in this pale morning, You ignite me with this post, let 2018 burning brighter & enlightened.

Dec 25, 2017

dreamt at my hometown village my passed mother sent me among other new enrolled undergraduates into college. my 2nd elder sister also prepared my package at home. there were near dozen of youth passed the entrance exam & enrolled. my nephew, ie. my 2nd elder brother's first son, also the lucky one. I query the richer family's kid, if he travel by airline. most kid will go to their campus via train, while I already had experience by air with my son recent years which let me proud, but I likely took train for poor economy. most of the village kids carried rice in bag. my family also prepared me rice in bag for dispatching, but I managed to persuade my relatives gave up for campus canteen does offer the food. it's touching moment for my elder brother's children never complete their senior education in reality. This is a cloudy morning. I at first felt gloomy, for last week I refrained from my son's anticipated joy of new SWAT suit, and a new pair of boots amid our cyber shopping. but my son likely didn't feel it, at least he didn't refute the spitting coward, the grandma's scorn of coat's qualifies being heavier from put on at once the new clothes' arrival, and also his new boots didn't put on right & sluggy for he didn't leave the high ankle standing, likely his mom & grandma refused guiding him. our only meal together in a week, in the downtown hotel restaurant, also disappointing for it cheatingly remove our once ordered dish with rich meat, replaced with poor quality & quantity meat, after some relentless exchange viewpoint upon our insisted tips for the gorgeous dining hall & cuisine in months. that reminded me time to shift away now that our tips left the hotel boss at a loss. but fortunately our salon buzzed in half hour ago, the shop owner settled our missing renewal in July & admit our membership extends nearly 5 months, values ￥200 after dispute arose last week. that affirms my faith in goodness, understandability of hearts. God, dad, even this month salary removed near ￥400 from usual standard, I still believe year end bonus will surprise me. now new year day of 2018 just a week away, and this wonderful christmas, dad God, reinforce us with plentiness and supportive, remove vain in our materialism seasonal heart. grant me treating my son in next weekend KFC or Mcdonald's or Dico's. shelter us from needy & wanting, instead warm us by powerful & functional of our new gears, esp from US & google. thx Dad.

via Blogger http://ift.tt/2FATI43