chloenwckobiaarchive

[chloenwckobiaarchive]

The fact that they can dedicate that amount of time to training and traveling to the marathon, or even other marathons across the world, is amazing! It's why I've got so much respect for anyone to attempts it. Yeah, it's so much easier to run a short distance rather than think about how much you need to go. Or at least for me, that is! Yeah, that's true. You got to get where you need to go in a blink of an eye. Time is of the essence in your line of work. I'd love to know, too! Maybe it's because we've all been to busy to slow down, maybe? Or perhaps we're just watching the days go by quickly. If I do, you're the first person I tell!

From what I have seen, they really are. I haven't been to it personally but all the photos and videos show how intense and dedicated everyone is there. And I agree! I like short bursts, sprints, not marathons. For work, we don't have to worry about marathons, but sometimes you gotta get out of there quickly. It really has! I wonder why it felt so much faster than previous years. Hey if you ever invent a pause or rewind button, be sure to let me know, I'd the first to use it!

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Chloe wiped the remaining bits of s'more from her face as she smiled up at Aisha. It was always nice to see someone you knew around town events, something that was frequent since Merrock was small. "I'd love to!" she nodded as she got up, walking to the other. "I think you'll get a good prize, especially with me in tow!" she laughed with a wink.

Aisha had just finished up some crafts with a friend and had been heading towards the food trucks for a snack to finish off her night. Stopping when she heard her name being called, she returned the smile at the other. "Hi, Chloe!" Heading over, she glanced at the wheel, and then shook her head. "No not yet, but that sounds like such a great idea. Want to come with me while I give it a whirl? Maybe with you by my side, I'll have a bit of extra luck."

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Being bundled up in a tent that had a heater had its pros, but it was still incredibly cold as she watched people making their snow globes. She knew that New England's winters could be brutal, and she was trying to make the best of it. Chloe made her rounds, making sure people got what they needed. It was rewarding to see that there were people who really enjoyed the idea of making a DIY snow globe, knowing that their small donation to make one would go back into the community. As she sat back down, she could see Josh making his way back to the tent, thankful that he went out to get them some hot chocolate. "Thank you so much for this!," she spoke, savoring the chocolate peppermint flavor. Her eyes moved around the tent, a warm feeling creeping up her chest. "I'm really glad that people are loving this," she nodded. "I think it'll help raise a lot for the Community Center. Maybe when all is said and done, I'll make my own as well."

WHO: Josh & @chloenwckobia

WHERE: Hideaway Market

WHEN: Winter Holiday Market (December, 2023)

"Hot beverage delivery!" Josh announced as he stepped back into the Community Center tent, bright smile on his face as he located Chloe. Although they had a heater that was doing her darnedest to keep things as warm as possible, a little cocoa never hurt anyone, and after getting Chloe's order for what she wanted, he had dismissed himself to pick up a cup for each of them. After all, she did seem to have the booth well under control when he left, and it still seemed that way when he returned. Even though it had been busy, which he was grateful for. Setting the cup down nearby so she could grab it when she was ready, he watched as a parent and child worked at assembling one of the snow globes and smiled to himself, turning his gaze back up to Chloe. "Seems like your idea has been a real hit."

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who: CHLOE & AISHA. @aishathevar

where: near Bardales Inc's prize wheel.

when: sometime during the Winter Market.

Chloe was feeling pretty good as she licked chocolate from her fingertips, finishing off the s'more she made after she spun the prize wheel. She always thought that the prize wheel was a neat idea, as it was always a surprise to see what you'd get. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a familiar face and waved at them. "Aisha! Hey!" she smiled brightly. "Have you done this yet?" she asked, pointing to the wheel. "I was able to get a Mack's gift card."

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"I've got to give it to Merrock and New England in general, there's something about experiencing fall and winter that makes it seem so special. And Christmas can be a pretty big importance, I get it. I've been in that headspace before, where you're feeling a little more weird about Christmas and this time of year than usual. I'm getting there! I've got lights up and I'm starting my Christmas shopping soon, so that's got my mood up. Have you done any shopping yet?"

"I don't usually mind when Halloween ends to be honest because I've always loved the colder months. Something about it just makes me think of Christmas and the holiday season and that time of year has always meant a lot to me. However, I do think that this year I feel much more unprepared for Christmas than normal so that has put a bit of a damper on my mood. I'm usually one that tries to start decorating almost right after Halloween and this year I didn't get started until after Thanksgiving. It's a strange year, but, I personally can't say I was feeling blue, no. Just strange. Are you ready for the holidays now that Thanksgiving is over?"

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For a moment, Chloe was zoned into the fact that she was hit by a snowball. And it wasn't because she accidentally interrupted a group of kids, but it was from one of her friends. Chloe watched as the snowball she thew hit Darrius, a laugh following afterwards before it grew louder when she watched the snow slide down his coat. "I call that karma!" she yelled out, moving closer to where he was but not close enough where he could get a good aim at her. "We're one for one, but I think I can win," she spoke, grabbing some more sock in her gloved hands, packing it tightly. Once she was done, she moved to try to find a hiding spot so she could get him again.

Maybe starting a snowball fight across the street from one another in downtown Merrock was… not the smartest idea he had ever had. But he couldn't bring himself to care as he watched Chloe react to the snowball, grinning with pride. And then very quickly becoming aware of the fact that she was not going to let that go as she hauled back her arm to throw one at him in return. "Shoot," he let out a loud laugh, attempting to duck, which only caused the snow ball to hit him in the side of the neck, cold snow sliding down the back of his coat. "Ah, ah, ah!" he bounced a little where he was standing, reaching down to gather more snow and hurling a couple of quick snowballs in his direction. "Bring it on!"

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Chloe was walking around, a cup of hot cocoa in hand when she stopped at the voice asking for requests. Never one to turn down a busker or someone wanting to sing, Chloe stepped up. "Ooh, could you do Santa Baby? I've always loved that song," she asked, an eyebrow arching up. "I'll get you all the hot chocolate you want. Deal," she smiled before waving a hand at the other's last sentence. "Hopefully Santa Baby isn't too scandalous."

Where: Blades When: Winter Fun Party Who: Open

"Requests?" Lou asked, quirking an eyebrow as she looked up to her companion. She was camped by the heaters with her guitar in her lap, and though she was wearing two gloves that didn't match, and a hat coated in dog fur the instrument was immaculate. It always was. "I will play for hot chocolate." She was thinking of putting out a sign. Have it be her first business venture now that her employment had dried up. "Though keep it in the lines, we got little ears out on the ice."

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even though we've been getting bombarded with holiday ads since the calendar turned to october, it was refreshing to see her video. maybe it's because i love her or because i'm not immune to her specific holiday songs, but it did make me feel a tad bit excited. oof, i know so any people who have very big opinions on the food and honestly? i think the sides are always the best part. it is! or at least when they're not bickering.

umm right? i'm against capitalism (obviously), especially the capitalization of holidays... but that video? how can you not support it? and true, though i have some thoughts regarding the food too... but, being around family is always nice.

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I agree, anything sounds like a treat after taking a dip in the freezing water! I know I've got to hype myself up and it's not even near the time to do the plunge yet. Same here! But I think people get freaked out by the wild animals or bugs that could be lurking and that's why they dislike it. I know that there's who really enjoy it, though, and it's always nice to find those people too. Exactly! It's why I try to take a few pictures during each session, gives us all a memory to remember. Sweet! I'll let the kids and their parents slash guardians know, they'll be stoked!

If I'm going to jump into freezing cold water, then I want a cookie afterwards as a nice treat! I don't even care what kind of cookie it is, I won't be picky with something like that. I've never understood people who don't have an appreciation for nature, but I realize not everyone lives, like… out in the middle of the woods, either, so I'm glad that you get me. I hope so, too, and wouldn't that be a treat? Look back and remember them as kids, but there they are, working as park rangers, running their own programs. Yeah! That's fine with me, honestly, I can defintiely have somethign around and ready to go by the seventh.

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They go so hard, so early! But not that I blame them, it can be nice to put on a movie in the background while you go your laundry or house chores. And like you said, I'm sure they know that there are so many people who enjoy them so it's an easy cash grab for them. I'm glad you get it! Like, it's cool if it looks straight out of a magazine or like you got it as is from the store, but adding your own touch makes it feel more personal and comforting. At least it does for me. I'm glad to hear that you were able to get some things! Me too! It's the one time of year where I know the deals were be better than any other time. And now I feel like I can do the rest of my shopping when the Winter Market comes around.

Exactly! I was so surprised by how soon they were playing Christmas movies on TV. I always figure around Thanksgiving, it doesn't have to be right after! Could be a day or two before, but you're right, there were people playing holiday movies right after Halloween was done! But, you know, I guess they know what brings them viewers and makes money. Me too! It makes it more personal. There's no doubt that Pinterest-inspired viral Christmas trees are gorgeous, but they're not really a reflection of the person who put it up, either. I did, actually -- I got a few things that were on my list for my parents, and lots of neat little decor items at the thrift store and shops in the Market place. Score on the kindle! I feel like this is absolutely the best time to get electronics.

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An eyebrow perched upwards on Chloe's face at the statement from the other. "I've only skated a few times," she admitted, holding her own pair of skates that she dug out of her closet for the Winter Fun Party. Chloe listened to the other, eyes widening when she mentioned a hockey team falling through the ice. "God, that would be a nightmare. I mean, I enjoy hockey but it's always been in a place where the ice was controlled. Hopefully they were able to get everyone out in time," she spoke, shaking her head at the thought of anyone getting seriously hurt. "Listen, I'll try my best. Maybe we can get you one of those things the kids use to balance themselves," she joked before adding, "don't worry, I'll take you to Anchors no matter what happens."

Where: Blades When: Winter Fun Party Who: Open

"I don't skate." Reminding them as she plucked the rented skates from the guy at the booth's hand. "Never have. Weird I know, this place is like a birthplace of hockey junkies. I remember forever the fuck ago a whole ass team falling through the pond on the outskirts- now that was headline news for way too long. They were idiots. Find something more important you know?" Pointing out, the excitement she was feeling at actually skating for the first time well hidden, "You're gonna show me how right? If I eat shit and my front tooth gets knocked out you'll at least take me to Anchors, get me so drunk I won't feel it?"

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I've been to the Boston marathon before and those people are all in. If only I had enough motivation to do something like that! I feel the same way. I love the adrenaline of running, but not to do it for that long. I think my legs would give out. They are! This whole year just went by so far, which is just wild to me. I kind of wish I had a pause button or a rewind so I could've enjoyed it more. I feel like when I was younger, time would move so slow. But now it's hard to even feel like you can take a break to breathe.

Damn, yeah those are intense. Same with the one in Boston, none of which I think I could ever do either. I mean I enjoy running but not nearly enough to do a full 26.2 miles. I'll stick with the 5Ks we do here in Merrock, which yeah they're pretty special aren't they? Right!? Like where did 2023 even go? I feel like it was just New Years like 2 weeks ago. But I agree, I hope it slows down too. Life seems to speed up each year.

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Seeing snow in Merrock never got old for Chloe. It felt like she was in a snowglobe where the snow just settled, watching it glisten off of the sun and feeling the crisp air on her cheeks. Taking a walk around downtown was perfect for enjoying the first fall of snow, and it was nice to enjoy seeing everyone else in high spirits. Holiday season was drumming up and it made Chloe feel like a little kid again. As she walked, she could hear her last name being called out but figured it was her mind playing tricks on her. It wasn't until her head turned to see a ball of snow making its way to her, hitting her right in the arm. "Darrius!" she yelped, caught off guard. Granted, he gave her a heads up, but her reflexes weren't up to speed. "Oh, you want to play it like that?" she laughed, sitting down her latte from Cobblestone to pack her own snowball to throw it his way, hoping it'd land where she wanted it to go.

WHO: Darrius & @chloenwckobia

WHERE: downtown Merrock

WHEN: November, 2023

"Nwokobia!" Darrius yelled out, spying the familiar face from across the street. He had decided to spend some time helping with the lights in the park, wanting to get out, do something productive... have an excuse to play in the snow. Alright, that might have been the biggest motivating factor. And of course, if he saw Chloe nearby, he was going to talk her into helping. Unsure if she had heard him, he took matters into his own hands, leaning down to drag his fingers through the snow and scooping up a handful, a wicked grin spreading across his face as he balled it, cocked back his arm, and threw it in her direction. "Heads up!"

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Don't sweat it! I'm sure you'll find your footing way faster than I did! I was just getting accustomed from living in the hustle and bustle of NYC to the literal peacefulness of small town living. But, I think so as well. I really threw myself into the community and instantly felt like I was local here once I did that. It's a good plan! And that way you kind of know where everything is. If you need any help with unpacking, I an lend a hand.

Oh great. So I still have a while to feel like a newbie. I hope so. I think the more I immerse myself in the community, then maybe I'll be feel more at home sooner than later. We'll see. Maybe I should start doing that too, now that Thanksgiving is over. I think it'd be easier to unpack christmas stuff before I unpack the rest of my kitchen things.

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Perfect! I think they will be stoked. And I'm a little excited as well, I won't lie. Ah, the cookies! They're always the best reward after jumping in. And the cocoa is a nice way to warm back up. Of course! This world is so big and beautiful, and I really love getting to see firsthand their love of nature develop from these activities and the program. I really hope it stays with them as the years go on, and maybe we'll even see them take on the program when they get older! I know it's supposed to snow soon, so maybe sometime next week? On the 7th of December? I'd say this week, but I don't want to rush you!

Oh, I'll be there. As soon as I saw that added to the town bulletin board, I thought about you and this conversation! I'm mostly excited for the cookies and hot cocoa that will probably come afterwards, but I think it'll be a fun, invigorating way to kick off the new year. Which is kind of nice, being able to introduce them to some options for their future if they're big nature nerds like me and want to spend more time outside than inside, so I'm happy to help them out. Alright, cool! Then absolutely let me know when a good time is, I'll work up some presentations, maybe try to get some good photos of paw prints, see what I can come up with!

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Yeah, exactly! And I feel like even for those who don't even celebrate, it's just overwhelming because every brand and company shove it into your face from the moment Halloween is over. It's all about post-Thanksgiving deals and then Christmas commercials galore. There's no reprieve until the clock strikes twelve on Christmas Day. I think it's nice, getting to still kind of keep that light inside of you. It reminds me that not everything is as bad as it seems. Plus, I'm a sucker for the cheeriness that other people have during these weeks. Hey, that's okay! Will you be doing any sight-seeing for decorations? I know the train will have that option. Oh, same. I've seen others keep their Halloween decorations up until Thanksgiving. I also have seen people mix the two holidays together, kind of like a Nightmare Before Christmas type of deal. I'm glad I wasn't the only one! Kind of had to give myself a break from the gym afterwards so I didn't overwork my body. Though with the snow, I don't think I'll be leaving my place until it lets up. I might do some online shopping during these next few days if I get bored.

Right! Like I feel like I'm on a ride and need to get off sometimes. It's just back to back and not enough time to breathe and regain my composure or sanity sometimes. I understand what you mean, I'm pretty sure my parents and sisters go ham on the holidays still. Yeah, I agree, trying to keep hold of that wistfulness is good, helps keep that sort of magic alive. I live in an apartment so I really don't decorate, but I think that's okay. To keep up the fall decor until Thanksgiving, just as long as it isn't like your Halloween decorations. Though I have seen some people keep their's up until Thanksgiving. No judgement here! I haven't even recovered enough from the 5K to start about Christmas shopping!

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Chloe was busy trying to polish off her onion rings when she saw the other sit down at her table, caught off guard by the sudden company of someone else. At the other's words, she nodded her head and decided to not ask any questions. If the other needed this, she might as well indulge them in whatever they were trying to do. "I can manage that," she spoke, lifting up her lips in a sympathetic smile as she wiped her hands on a napkin. An eyebrow perked up at the reasoning before she responded. "Gotcha," she understood. Chloe had dealt with her fair share of assholes and needed a way to avoid them, so she got where the other was coming from. "Thanks," she replied, eyeing the other. She wasn't planning on drinking tonight, but if the shots were free then who was she to say no? "Oh, no. I wasn't on a date." she spoke, soft laughter following. "Don't think I'm in the mindset to be dating right now, so I was just here by myself." Which she hope didn't come off as too pathetic. "Just decided to grab something to eat. Can't go wrong with a burger and onion rings, honestly."

where: mack's for: open

“alright, well,” he groans, coming to sit down at a random table, “ i’m just going to sit here and we’re going to pretend like we’re having a fucking blast, alright?” he didn’t even wait for the person to respond before he called a server over and ordered a tray full of shots. his attention was everywhere but at the person who’s evening he just interrupted, his mind still buzzing from the altercation he had with some guy before walking into the bar. there was a good couple of seconds that went by, even after the shots were delivered, before zian finally spoke up, “look there’s this asshole who just won’t leave me alone. personally, i’m not trying to go to jail tonight, i kinda don’t need the backlash being locked up will bring right now.” he thought about how upset his mentor would probably be, maybe a little about his father, and he really didn’t need to go through any of that right now. “so have these shots as token of my appreciation or whatever.” he finally looks over at the person, tucking his phone in his pocket. “you weren’t on a hot date or anything, right?