#AVALON BEACH PHOTOGRAPHER

[kasualkasia]

Avalon Beach located in Sydney, Australia.

Photo by Kasia Sykus

[adiduck]

WIP Train WIP Train!!!

I have been invited to join the WIP train by @howdyrat (informally on discord LOL 🥰) Littled did Howdy know, I am incorrigible.

Rules: Post a minimum of one sentence (I'm adding: or line) of a WIP of your choice, and tag others to join the train!

[Today, 1117] Mav: [A photograph of all fourteen selected and potential aviators for the uranium mission in swim suits on the beach. Lieutenant Pete Mitchell is holding a football and bent down to spike it to Lieutenant Iceman Kazansky, who is crouched behind him. Arrayed around them are Lieutenants Bradshaw, Trace, Floyd, Bassett, and Avalone. The remaining seven aviators are arrayed in front of them in what looks like it might be making an attempt at a defensive line] Ice: Nice ass shot, Mitchell Mav: You love it Ice: That was sincere. What do I tell Cyclone you’re doing? Mav: Creating a team

(Operation Groundhog AU: Admiral Ice and Captain Mav often provide commentary over text ;) )

No pressure tags that weren't explicitly in the post I first saw:

@frostbitebakery, @asukaskerian, @oathkeeperoxas, @lambourngb, @goddammitjim, @brigittttoo, @lttrsfrmlnrrgby

[foreveralwaysanauthor]

Riven's Basic Info

Name: Riven Marcus Hewlett

Faceclaims for Riven came very easily, surprisingly. For the 60s, we have the amazing Frankie Avalon (almost any beach movie from the 60s). For the 80s, there’s Jason Bateman (Teen Wolf Too). For the 90s, I picked Brad Pitt (Fight Club). And, finally, we have Dacre Montgomery for the present (Stranger Things).

Nicknames: Riv, Rivet, and “you ass” (Vivien’s favorite way to greet him)

Age: 19

Date of Birth: October 27

Zodiac: Scorpio

Birthstone: Opal and Pink Tourmaline

Nationality: American and Italian

Sexuality: Straight (though even he questions it sometimes lol)

Birthplace: Salem Hospital, Salem, Massachusetts

Current Residence: Whipple Avenue, Laconia, New Hampshire

Occupation: Photographer/videographer for local businesses and the newspaper, junior tattoo artist at a piercing/tattoo shop in Laconia, Dungeon Master for a small D&D group, drummer in a band he made in high school, and he’s, obviously, a competitive skater. He wants to become a director someday, but he’s saving his money for now.

Talents/Skills: He somehow knows people's secrets without having them tell him, he draws things pretty realistically, he’s known for telling the truth all the time, but he’s a fairly convincing liar, and he’s great at filmmaking, which is useful for any short films Vivien and the boys want to make.

Birth order: Only child

Parents: Anthony Hewlett and Emmaline Russo

Signature:

Height: 6’2” or 189cm

Eye Color: Hazel

Hair Color: Auburn brown, but it looks golden brown in certain lighting

Glasses or contact lenses: He needed glasses as a child, but had surgery to correct his eyes once he turned 18.

Distinguishing features: His nose crinkles when he laughs and he has two tattoos - a snake on his collarbone and lightning on his ribcage - but he and Vivien both agreed to get matching space tattoos when she turns 18.

Mannerisms: Tapping his feet along to music whether it’s in his head or not, constantly checking the time when he’s nervous, picking at the skin around his fingernails, and he always stacks up plates and silverware for waitstaff when he eats out so it will be easier for them to take.

Health: Had terrible eyesight as a kid, is allergic to pollen, and has allergy-induced asthma.

Hobbies: Protecting those he cares about, contributing to chaos, taking in injured animals, playing drums (he’s the one who taught Vivien how to play), and exploring abandoned places (once again, if you think that’s how Vivien started, you’d be right).

Greatest flaw (in their opinion): How selfless he can be sometimes. Riven treats others’ lives as more important than his own and will do anything it takes, even sacrificing himself, to keep them safe. A prime example of this is his relationship with Vivien. She is like a little sister to him and has been for most of his life, so he would do anything for her. He’s almost gotten arrested to protect her once when they were in an abandoned school and someone called the cops on them. He puts himself at risk for those he loves and he knows that will be his downfall someday.

Best quality (in their opinion): His best quality and greatest flaw are pretty much the same things - his infinite loyalty to those he considers friends/family.

Biggest fear: Dying. He’s had a few close calls before - one including a skating accident and another coming home from a band session on wet roads - and the thought of dying genuinely terrifies him.

Hogwarts House: Hufflepuff

Favorite ice cream: Chocolate fudge brownie (or, as he calls it, Death By Chocolate)

Favorite color: Sage green

Favorite numbers: 33 and 74

Favorite songs: Teenage Dirtbag by Wheatus, Perfume by Lovejoy, and In The End by Linkin Park

Favorite movies: White Chicks, The Karate Kid, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Free Guy, and Ratatouille

Favorite TV shows: Loki, A Series of Unfortunate Events, Chernobyl, Game of Thrones, and Attack on Titan (he has watched both the English and Japanese versions, and is very proud of the fact that he knew enough Japanese to understand most of what they were saying without subtitles)

Favorite books: You’ll Be the Death of Me by Karen M. McManus, Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk, Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman, Six of Crows, and The Count of Monte Cristo

Favorite video games: Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture, The Walking Dead, and Baldur’s Gate 3

A musical they like: Starlight Express

A place they want to visit: Puerto Rico (mostly for the old cars that are very popular there)

[avalonstudiodesignbuilder]

Dive into Surfing History at Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum in Huntington Beach, CA

Nestled in the lively heart of Huntington Beach, CA, the International Surfing Museum stands as a vibrant tribute to the city's rich surfing heritage. Walking through its doors, I found myself immersed in a meticulously curated world where the history of surfing is celebrated with passion and precision.

The Birthplace of Modern Surfing

The museum, established in 1987, offers an in-depth exploration of surfing's origins and its remarkable journey to becoming a global phenomenon. Home to an extensive collection of surfboards, photographs, and memorabilia, the museum chronicles surfing's evolution from its ancient Hawaiian beginnings to the cutting-edge designs of today. Each exhibit is a window into the sport’s dynamic past, with surfboards ranging from traditional wooden planks to sleek fiberglass creations, each telling a unique story of innovation and cultural change.

Icons and Legends

One of the museum's most captivating sections is dedicated to the legends who have shaped the sport. The Hall of Fame honors iconic figures like Duke Kahanamoku, revered as the father of modern surfing, and Kelly Slater, an 11-time World Surf League champion. Engaging displays offer deep insights into their lives and their monumental contributions to surfing. During my visit, I was particularly drawn to an exhibit highlighting the history of women’s surfing, showcasing the trailblazers who defied norms and paved the way for future generations.

Beyond its permanent exhibits, the museum frequently hosts temporary displays, ensuring there’s always something new to explore. These rotating exhibits keep the museum dynamic and continually relevant, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of surfing culture.

A Cultural Hub

The Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum is more than just a repository of surfing history; it’s a vital cultural hub for the local community. Regular events, film screenings, and panel discussions create a lively atmosphere that fosters a deeper appreciation for the sport and its rich heritage. As I departed, I felt a profound sense of admiration for the pioneers of surfing and a renewed appreciation for the enduring spirit of Huntington Beach, CA.

Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or someone intrigued by the sport's rich history, a visit to this museum promises an enriching experience. It offers a unique glimpse into the soul of Huntington Beach, capturing the essence of a culture that has shaped this vibrant coastal city.

[melcarrphoto]

Miami, FL

March 2022

[elizjjwold]

by Elizabeth Johnson-Wold

[onions-can-photograph]

🌊

[zuzsenpai]

There was this ice cream place on the boardwalk in Avalon, New Jersey that used to have this unbelievable sign warning people about seagulls stealing your food. It was put up some time circa 2010.

The top image is my photo from 2014 when it was already sun-bleached and out front of the shop. The second photo is from 2016 when they bizarrely hung it up on the side of the building, in spite of the sun-bleached nature of it making it completely incomprehensible.

Third and fourth photos are the original photographs used on the sign (I can’t find the actual origin of them unfortunately). These are un-watermarked, but the shop’s sign literally stole the images from a Dutch(?) website that had watermarks on them, so I found and used those in my re-creation to keep it true to the original. Note the photoshopped pizza and paper plate clipart on the sign vs the original photographs lmaoo

I don’t have any non sun-bleached photos of the sign, but I do remember in the early 2010s when it was full color. But anyway... the bottom image is my personal re-creation of the beautiful sign based on my memory of it from its glory days, complete with photoshopped clipart and watermarks intact.

A few years ago, the Avalon boardwalk threw away the sign, so this is all we have left of this delightful beach sign. I hope you all enjoyed my story

[chilling-seavey]

Qui Totum Vult Totum Perdit (d.s.) - 3

A/N Let’s get things moving

Warnings: This story is centered around a murder so there will be graphic descriptions of blood, death/manslaughter, dealing with corpses, possible domestic abuse (physical/verbal), crime/covering up a crime, shock/grief, and other possibly heavy or triggering topics. Please read at your own discretion.

Jonah and I stepped in through the sliding glass door that led from the back porch into the living room of my house. The main floor was quiet and tidy and the blinds on all the windows were still open, allowing the entire space to be brightened nicely. Jonah closed the door behind us, and we paused a moment to look around at our initial surroundings. Nothing seemed out of place; it looked just like how we left it nearly three weeks earlier.

I made the first move farther into the house, scanning surfaces and spaces for any sign of anything that could help trigger my memory of the night before…but even our suitcases from the flight home weren’t there. I ended up finding them in the master bedroom at the end of the hallway, rested neatly against the door with my laptop bag placed on top. Our room was no different than when we left with the sheets pulled tightly over the bed and topped with the odd decorative pillow; a few random items left on the two bedside tables. I let my eyes linger on the framed photograph of Avalon and me on the beach a few summers back that was sat on the small table on my own side of the bed. She wore this terrible huge white sunhat and a pair of designer sunglasses I had bought her for her birthday but her smile was the brightest thing in the picture regardless of what accessories she wore, and even my own self in the photograph was staring at her with nothing but awe.

“Daniel.”

Jonah’s voice pulled me from my thoughts and I followed his voice back down the hallway to the kitchen. He was standing at the end of the island and pointed to the floor with the toe of his shoe to lead my eyes down to the smashed glass and spilt water on the hardwood.

“Remember something about this?” he asked.

“God, I fucking hate you!” she screamed, throwing her water glass at me and it fell and shattered on the ground as she spun on her heel to head towards the sliding doors leading to the backyard.

“Don’t walk away while we’re talking!” I called angrily after her, hot on her heels as she stormed out into the dark backyard. I stopped the door with my foot before she should slide it shut and I followed after her into the warm LA night towards the studio built a few paces from the back deck. “You wanted me to talk to you so goddamn badly so here I am!”

“This isn’t talking, Daniel!” she stomped down the three stairs of the back porch and across the stone walkway to the studio door. “Leave me alone!”

The scene played in my head like a picture, like it was a true memory, but how could I be sure? I furrowed my eyebrows and stepped closer to crouch down and pick up one of the larger pieces between my fingers, “I don’t know.”

“It has to trigger something, Daniel. Be honest with me, bro.” Jonah pressed.

I tapped the tip of my index finger against the piece of glass in my hand until it started to pierce through each layer of callused skin. My eyes scanned the kitchen floor, past the island, and to the tall natural wood front door a few paces away.

“Your ignorance is fucking incredible, Daniel James!”

Her words were venomous, punctuated by the slam of the front door the moment we stepped back inside the house. I was still trying to put my wallet in my pocket after paying the taxi driver, showing exactly how quickly she decided to snap back at me after we already endured a terribly tense flight home. Yet, apparently a simple question of “are you okay” was completely disgusting of me to ask.

“You can’t just lose your temper like this every time you get a bit upset, Avalon. I’m just trying to talk to you.” I called as calmly as I could as I set my computer bag on the kitchen island.

She grabbed herself an empty glass from the cupboard and slammed the cabinet door shut before turning on the tap aggressively. Her brown eyes glared daggers in my direction over the rim of the glass as she raised it to her lips to take a sip, and the diamond ring on her left hand caught the light of the late evening setting sun coming in through the window. Flickers of orange light writhed on the marble countertop between us and died when she lowered her hand out of the incoming rays.

There was a moment of silence as the beginnings of this obvious inevitable fight lingered between us.

“We fought.” I breathed. “We had an argument that kinda blew up.”

“Okay.” Jonah answered plainly, watching me crouched there stewing in my mind.

I bit at my bottom lip as I tried to wrack my brain for any other snippets of memory.

“She didn’t talk to me all day…the whole flight home.” I whispered, eyebrows furrowing deeper as the faint hints of memory flicked through my mind. “She was angry at me…and we had an argument and we yelled and…”

I rubbed my hand over my forehead as the splitting pain was lessened to a dull throb, but my head still ached, especially while straining to think of something that I didn’t remember.

“I think we really went at it…I…”

“What was she mad about?” Jonah knelt down to help clean up the broken pieces of glass.

The gentle tinkle of the shards falling together in our palms as we collected them rang at the forefront of my mind. I could hear her soft gasp as the glass slipped from her hand and fell to shatters on the ground.

I cleared my throat, “Work…I think.”

Jonah’s eyes raised to me, “You never liked when she brought up our job in arguments. You’ve told me that plenty.”

“Yeah.” I said.

I paused a moment before getting up from the ground and I tossed the broken glass into the garbage. Jonah did the same after me.

“Do you think that was the final straw?” Jonah asked gently.

I leaned my hands on the island countertop with a sigh and then turned my head to look at him, “Bro, honestly, I don’t know. Why would I…why would I kill her?”

“That’s what I’m asking you.” Jonah said softly.

“We just got married, Jo. Why would I…I couldn’t have…” I mumbled. “I loved her.”

“Yeah, you loved her. And yet she never seemed to accept your status in society.” Jonah stated.

“Status in society.” I scoffed, turning around to lean back against the counter. “Yeah, right. You open a well-known recording studio and suddenly all of fucking Los Angeles thinks you’re a celebrity. Avalon always hated that side of it.”

“I know she did. You came to me pissed about it more often that either of us would have liked to admit.”

My phone buzzed in my pocket and I pulled it out to see a text from my brother,

Hello?? You said you would text me when you landed and I haven’t heard from you. Where are you?

“Who’s that?” Jonah asked.

“Christian.” I answered flatly as I scrolled up in the conversation thread to see a few other texts from him since the time the plane landed, asking where I was. They were all unanswered. Why didn’t I answer him?

“My brother always told me you were too fucking weak to be my wife…couldn’t handle the baggage that comes with the job.”

“Leave Christian out of this. He doesn’t know bull-fucking-shit about us and especially not about me. Neither of you know how hard it is!”

“It’s not hard, Avalon! You sit here and look pretty and I buy you sparkly things! It’s not that fucking hard! You’re just being an obnoxious brat about everything, and you always have!”

I cleared my throat nervously as I stared at the unanswered texts from my older brother. He never particularly liked Avalon and that was obvious; when we were dating he had it in his head that she was a gold-digger and only with me for my money and once we got engaged he made a point to call her out on all the smallest things she did ‘wrong’. No one was good enough for me in his mind. At least she wasn’t.

If it wasn’t my job that Avalon and I argued about, it was Christian. I adored my older brother, but she had such a tense and weak relationship with him no matter how hard she tried to get him to even tolerate her. He was set in his ways that he would dislike her for as long as she lived. I loved him and he was my family so I would defend him and it would drive her up the walls batshit crazy. I’m not a perfect man, dear reader, and I don’t claim to be better than I am. I suppose I should have tried to take her side once in a while. She was the love of my life after all, wasn’t she?

Detective Team: @jonahlovescoffee​ @randomlimelightxxx​ @stuffofseaveyy​ @hopinglimelight​ @tempus-ut-luceant​ @br4nd1s​ @xkelsev​ @hiya-its-amber​ @sexyseavey15​

[cathraymanuel-blog]

[lilwenney]

london boy (pt. ii)

pairing: will x female!reader warning(s): mention of alcohol, swearing word count: 4.1k a/n: part i can be found here / creative roadblocks aside, i loved writing for this tiny baby of a series way too much. i got to live vicariously through the reader in both her travels and endeavors if i’m honest. i hope you all enjoy x 

Their feet moved briskly along the pavement in sync, matching the beat of the traffic, mixing in with the sounds of the rushing water from the boats along the river. Will took her right to the spot - a bridge with a blue iron railing between posts that overlooked the canal of Little Venice. Boats rested along the sides or moved at a slow pace, people in kayaks sloshing the water around, and the sun bounced off the ripples. 

(Y/N) smiled, her hands gripping the edge of the railing before taking a step back and moving with Will. They walked down a tree-lined street, along the river, enjoying the slight breeze and any conversation that came to a head.

“You’re from California, yeah?” Will asked, hands tucked in the pockets of his jacket. 

Her eyes left the river and landed on him, and she nodded. “Yeah,” she said, “I moved to Huntington Beach when I was young and really don’t know anywhere else besides there.”

“Typical of a lad from London, but I went to L.A. with a few friends a couple of years ago.” 

“Yeah, like most people,” she sighed playfully, “I noticed that here, if you say you are from California they immediately think of Los Angeles. I don’t mind it because the place is so fucking big you can’t really be bothered to learn all the places.”

Will scrunched his nose. “Yeah, can’t be asked really.” 

She laughed. “It’s fine. I love L.A. though. I was there every other weekend visiting friends at UCLA and stuff. I walked into a dorm room to see David Dobrik once so that was one of the better experiences.” 

“Aw, no way man, that’s fuckin’ sick.” 

“Yeah, yeah, he was a usual around there.” She brushed it off. “We used to sneak into clubs a couple of years back to see people perform.” 

They dodged someone riding a bike along the path and then stepped back in closer together, shoulders almost brushing as they walked. (Y/N) heard the rustle of the tree leaves above her when the wind picked up just for a moment, carrying under her jacket, giving her a slight chill. 

“We went to uh, I think it was Avalon? In Hollywood?” Will said, his mind swirling with memories from the brief trip. He drank so much he could barely remember anything other than the view from their Airb&b and the inside of a toilet bowl. 

“Avalon is a good place.” She nodded quickly, remembering the nightclub name well. “I went about three years ago, and someone jumped to the DJ booth-” 

Will paused in his tracks, eyes softening as he looked at her. (Y/N) paused a couple of steps later, turning around to look at Will, and he tilted his head to the side. “And the DJ kept him up there when security came for him, and the bloke played-” 

“Dancing Queen,” she finished.

The two shared a second of realization before laughing. Who would have thought that years ago, they would have been in the same tiny club in West Hollywood. Maybe it was a coincidence, maybe it was a test of fate.

When they began to walk again, they didn’t make it far before (Y/N) paused, pulling out her camera. She stepped up to the ledge near the railing and brought her camera to her eye, taking a few photos of the way the light hit the boat on the water, of the petals that slowly fell from the trees, marking the near end of summer. When the clouds covered the sunlight, she paused and her eyes searched for something else to photograph.

After moving another few feet and taking some photos, she spun around to look at Will to make sure she wasn’t annoying him by stopping every few feet. He was standing just behind her, his hands in his pockets while staring up at the trees. 

She quickly turned her body to him, bringing the camera back to her eye, and taking a photo. Over the sound of scooters flying by, Will heard the shutter of her camera and he glanced at her to see the lens pointed directly at him. He laughed and his head turned to the side, an arm stuck out, shying away from the photos she had snapped.

“The guy who makes videos of himself for a living is camera shy?” She asked teasingly, dropping her camera and joining him on the cobblestone pavement once again.

Will licked his lips, still smiling. “Of course Marg ran her big mouth about that. How much did she tell you?”

“Just enough,” They began to stroll together, reaching the end of the street, but they turned to walk across a bridge. “She didn’t say much, only that you moved here for YouTube stuff, but I never went snooping.” 

“That definitely saves me some embarrassment. Don’t think I can really explain some of the questionable things I have done.” He paused. “So you know why I’m here, but why did you decide to move here? Why London out of every other place in the world?” 

(Y/N) hummed, watching the pavement move between her feet. “Well, besides it being the only option to study abroad in, I always wanted to visit.” She said briefly. “It’s so drastically different from the palm trees, beaches, warm weather I’m used to. So it’s refreshing in a way.” 

“So it wasn’t the footy obsession and the Tesco meal deals that did it?” 

She was versed enough in the culture to understand his jokes, so she laughed. “No, afraid not.” She said and watched him smile - the small dimple forming in his cheek, and she smiled too. “I love it though. I love the diversity, the architecture, everything about it. I still might be in the honeymoon phase with the city, but I don’t think that will change.” 

They crossed the street of cars and immersed themselves between the trees of Regent’s Park. She held tight onto the side of her camera, feeling the urge to snap a photo, but instead she loosened the grip and let it catch around her neck. She was slowly learning to admire the moments she was living rather than photograph them and feel bittersweet about truly enjoying it later on.

Above them, the heavy overcast broke and the sun peeked through, covering the green grass, the trees, and fountains with light. While she lived in the constant summer of Southern California, she was appreciating the weather in different ways now. It was like how she once appreciated the rain, the snow on her previous holidays. She appreciated the London sunshine and her new life the same - like a breath of fresh air.

“Would you come back? You know, after you’ve left?” Will asked after a second as they began to walk along the manicured path of trees near the water of the small lake. 

“Oh, of course,” she said quickly. “I can definitely see myself living here in the future too.” 

“Well then, I have all the time in the world to show you everything.” 

It was a sweet sentiment she was going to reply to before a loud shriek filled the air around them. Their heads snapped, following the sound to the boating lake where a goose had attacked a woman on a small pedal boat, the man next to her on the boat laughing as she fended off the goose from her head.

“Oh my God,” she said between quiet chuckles. “I would be so embarrassed. I feel so bad.” 

Will ran his fingers through his hair. “Bloody ‘ell, imagine what a day you would have if a goose attacked you.”

“Think I would just pack up and go home after that.” 

“All the way back home?”

“All the way back home,” she laughed. 

“Well, before you do that, I think I have a couple more surprises up my sleeve for you.” She looked at him with a raised brow, and he didn’t even give her a chance to ask or to question him. “Just got to trust me.” 

“I feel like I’ve been trusting you a lot today.” 

“And it’s worked out well for ya, hasn’t it?” 

She licked the inside of her lip knowing that he was right. Someone on a skateboard rolled by them and they picked up speed with their steps, and Will led her back onto the pavement off the park. Dodging traffic and across the street, they walked just a bit further before stopping at a small shop with a row of Vespa’s parked in a row in front of it.

(Y/N) looked at the scooters, then back to Will, and then back to the scooters, and then back to Will.

“We are not-” 

“Oh, we absolutely are.” He said pulling out his wallet to prepare his ID and other information to rent a scooter for the remainder of the day. His eyes met hers and he pressed his lips into a smile. “Be back in a second,” and he stepped up and walked into the small shop.

No less than five minutes later, Will emerged back from the shop with two helmets and a smile that made (Y/N) shake her head again as she kicked herself off the wall to stand next to him. “Alright, pick your color, we got it for the rest of the day.” 

“You are incredible. And I don’t know how to deal with it.” He chuckled. 

As cars and bikes whizzed by, she stepped down off the pavement and to the Vespa’s, scanning over the range of colors, and she settled on the white one. She walked over and placed her hand on the black leather seat and turned to look at him. If she was going to ride on the back of a scooter with a random British boy in a foreign city, it was going to be on that one. 

“This one okay?” 

“Perfect,” he held the black helmet under his arm, handing out the shiny, cherry red one in her direction. “So where to now?” He asked, placing the helmet over his head, adjusting his hair under the front. 

She hummed, plucking at the straps to secure under her chin. “Lunch? I could go for food after you made me walk bloody forever.” 

He smiled at her words. “Bloody forever,” he teased and she rolled her eyes. “Already becoming one of us, yeah?” 

“Guess you have a bit of influence on me.” 

Will fumbled with the small key in his hand before throwing a leg over the bike and settling down on the seat. He started the scooter and a second later, (Y/N) stepped over, placing a hand on his shoulder for balance while she threw her own leg over and settled down on the back seat. She could feel the warmth of his legs against hers and she cleared her throat.

“So, where are you going to be whisking me off too?” She propped up her feet from the ground, finding footing on the side of the scooter, positioned right behind his. 

He gripped the handles, but looked over his shoulder to her. “Have you ever been to a beer garden?” 

“Nope, not yet.” 

“Well, I know a place…” he said turning on the small scooter, allowing the engine to rumble beneath them. He adjusted his helmet and leaned back against her gently. “Might want to hold on.” 

(Y/N) complied and tucked her camera into her bag, and she leaned forward, pressing her chest against his back, and she slid her arms around his torso, hands resting just below his chest. Her nose grazed his back and she smiled, raising her chin to meet his shoulder. 

“Was this your plan all along?” Her eyes scanned over his side profile - from the gentle stubble on his jaw to his long eyelashes, and the way that his eyes crinkled when he laughed. 

Will chuckled and walked the small scooter backwards and onto the street. “You know me better than I thought.”

(Y/N) laughed and felt a rush of adrenaline shoot through her body, from her head to her toes, as Will clutched the handle and sent them riding through the streets. She felt the wind slap at her cheeks, the air running through her hair. 

When he took a corner a little sharply, she gripped the material of his shirt in her hand, and they both laughed. 

Through the windy and packed streets, she admired the throngs of people, of tourists in their brightly colored clothing, she admired the way the sun bounced off the skyscrapers. It was experiences like these that she longed for, that she dreamed of when imagining her time in London.

And that adrenaline raced right to her heart and bloomed, making her feel alive. 

***

The place that Will had in mind was a rooftop beer garden in the middle of the city. 

Walking through the restaurant and taking the stairs up to the third floor, Will opened the door and allowed (Y/N) to step out first. Instead of stepping into a small greenhouse filled with wooden benches and iron chairs, greenery hanging down from the ceiling in baskets around a bar, and through the fogged glass, she saw the skyline of Central London at its closest. 

The Culpeper was in Central London, and Will knew that she would love it. And she did. They sat under the sun at a wooden table on the roof, sipping draft beers in frozen glasses and sharing a plate, but (Y/N) couldn’t keep her eyes off the view around her - she admired Heron Tower, 100 Bishopsgate, and St. Axe Mary which Will told her was called “the gherkin” and she laughed, shaking her head. 

“So,” she took a sip of the beer, her lipstick staining the rim, “where’s your place? Top of the Shard with that 360 view from that YouTube money?” 

“Never been more clear that you haven’t watched my videos,”

Will craned his head around, looking in the direction of his place before turning back to her. He could see himself in the reflection of her red-rimmed sunglasses, he could see her eyes smiling back at him and he smiled too.  

“It’s in Canary Wharf - back that way,” he motioned to where he was looking before, “but you can’t see the building for literally every other building in the way.” 

“I’ve been to Canary Wharf once, but only in an Uber pick up Margot. She didn’t tell me she was at yours though or that’s where you lived.” 

“Yeah, yeah,” Will took a sip of his beer, “I just moved to a bigger flat.” 

She perked a brow, holding up a chip, “so the YouTube money is pretty good?” She popped the chip into her mouth.

“Ah, guess so,” he chuckled, “good enough to split rent with a flatmate.” 

(Y/N) smiled at the group of friends that walked onto the rooftop and they shuffled by to another row of tables across from them and then she looked back at Will. “So who is your flatmate? Another YouTuber?”

“Gee is, fucks sake, don’t even know anymore. She hasn’t uploaded in about five months, but guess you can call her that.” 

“Gee?” She questioned, her mind flickering back to a girl who went by Gee that was in her commercial editing course. During class introductions, she said she made YouTube videos but wanted to get better at editing in her free time. “Does she have blue hair?”

Will cocked his head. “You know Gee?”

“I think she is in one of my classes. She goes to King’s College?”

“God, how small is London?” He whispered under his breath and she laughed.

“Apparently a lot smaller than we both thought.” 

They both paused for a moment - (Y/N) reaching out and grabbing another chip, Will, leaning back in his chair and running his fingers through his hair. With the lunch rush, their hidden solace on the rooftop became hectic with larger groups coming in every few minutes, the traffic on the streets picking up, but they remained. 

“So you’re doing that culture, media, and creative stuff too?” She nodded. “What do you want to do with it?”

“Always wanted to be a journalist, but now I don’t know, I’m finding a lot of open doors when it comes to commercial editing.” She swirled her beer in the glass before taking a sip, and then tsking with a smile. “If you ever need an editor though, I’m have some services to offer,” 

“Really?” 

“Oh-” 

“Rah, I have been thinking about getting an editor, you know.” He leaned up to the table again, his elbows meeting the edge. Her eyes widened, fully expecting him to take it as a joke because well, that’s what it was intended to be. “Would that seriously be something you’re up for?”

She thought about her schedule, how she had a few free hours during the day and at the end, and if she really wanted to, she could make it work. Her school load would get lesser as the semester went on, when she had to start working on bigger projects, so she could make time.

“You really want me to see all your uncut footage?”

“As long as you don’t blackmail me.” 

“Could never,” she giggled. “But yeah, I would have to watch a few of your videos to get a feel of how you edit, but I would be up for it.” 

“How much you want a video? A tenner?” He saw her eyes narrow at him through her sunglasses and he laughed.

“Be careful,” she teased, “you’re the one giving me the blackmail material.”

“Ah, fair,” 

He looked at her and he smiled, and then she smiled back, a laugh following from her lips. It was a sweet sound, to him, one that mingled with the birds in the sky, that felt as golden as the sun. He looked away bashfully with the same smile. 

“Okay,” she leaned forward on the table with a smile, “can I tell you a secret?”

Will leaned in closer, smirking. “I’m honored for you to even consider.” 

(Y/N) took another sip of her beer. “When I drink or get drunk, I adopt the accent of whoever I am talking to.” 

He laughed, leaning back in his chair again. He wasn’t expecting that to be her secret, but he also couldn’t be surprised. “Alright, give it to me. Give me your best mockery.” 

She cleared her throat and threw out what she knew was the most basic, stereotypical British phrase she could think of. “Oi, mate, we can go ridin’ around on my scooter...” 

“Fuckin’ mate,” Will cursed with a loud laugh. “Is that really it?” 

She laughed too, her shoulders moving as she found herself more than amused by his reaction. “Yeah, and what about it, mate?” 

“I would have to say it was the cutest mockery of the British accent I ever heard.” He admitted, and when their eyes met, they both smiled. 

A handful of minutes later, they were jogging down the stars of the restaurant’s inner lining, and they stepped out onto the busy street. With helmets strapped on and her arms around him, Will drove them out to the outskirts of London, to Walthamstow. The last stop on their bucketlist for the day was a hidden gem on the corner of a street - Gods Own Junkyard. They zoomed past cherry red double-decker buses and through the narrow streets between townhouses, landing at the base of a building disguised as a regular shop. 

With a small thank you as Will held the door for her, she stepped into the room filled with neon, glowing lights. Pinks, blues, reds, yellows, everywhere she looked, in every corner. She beamed, feeling as if she had just stepped into outer space. 

Will watched as she walked ahead of him, finding herself lost in the array of colors and the vibrating atmosphere, and he smiled, lingering behind with his hands tucked in his pockets. He liked watching her get excited about the things he found so minuscule. When she turned around and looked at him, pointing to one of the signs with a smile, he found a new way to look at it. What was a place he had once been before, he was now seeing through new eyes alongside her, and with a new appreciation.

(Y/N) held the camera up to her eye and she snapped a photo of the wall plastered with signs that read - LOVE & LUST and SEX DRUGS & BACON ROLLS along with red glowing hearts and the Union Jack flag around them. 

Moving past the groups of people around certain signs, she found Will sitting on a small decorative chaise lounge against a back wall. It had a wicker table in front of it, a yellow fire hydrant to the right, and it was littered with Union Jack throw pillows, and another of the Queen’s crown. He smiled when their eyes met, and she noticed the glow of the blue sign just above his head - Love at Dusk, written in cursive blue lettering. He watched her slowly bend down at the knee, and she held her camera pointing directly at him, snapping the perfect photo as he laughed. For someone to make a living in front of a camera, he was shy when others were the ones snapping the photos. 

“Oh, come on, don’t be shy now.” (Y/N) giggled, stepping around the table and falling onto the chaise lounge with him. He allowed her to sit close, his arm stretched along the back. “Look at these,” 

She pulled the strap from around her neck, clicking the small buttons on the camera with the pad of her thumb and showing him the screen. Over the course of the day, she had taken at least a couple hundred photos of the river, the view from the rooftop beer garden, the streets, and of all the lights. 

“And look at this one,” she sunk in closer, her hip resting against his as she showed him the photos and they laughed together at the blurry ones or mistaken ones. 

Will looked at the screen to see a photo of him standing on the street in Little Venice, the bloomed trees above him as he turned his head with a laugh, a hand stretched out in her direction to stop her. A couple photos later, he saw himself again, this time at the beer garden. He was sitting across from her at the table, bringing his beer to his lips, and he could see her in the reflection of his sunglasses. 

The last photos were of him - a zoomed-out shot of him taken just moments ago that captured his whole body as he sat on the lounge, but the last photo was zoomed in, capturing the way the blue light bounced off his dark hair and jacket, how it brought out the features in his face. 

(Y/N) handed the camera to Will and he took it in his large hands, allowing him to look at himself and the other photos.

“Might have to tag you along as a camera operator as well as editing,” he said looking at the photos she had taken over the course of the day, “you’re proper good at it, you know.” 

He handed the camera back to her and she looked at him with a small smile. “Well, it’s pretty easy when you have a great muse.” 

He turned to her, perking an eyebrow, and they looked at each other for a beat. They both felt a surge of forwardness, of bravery given after spending the day together with flirtatious smiles and teasing in between. They were able to bounce off each other, to talk without stopping, which was something that made them think maybe, just for a second, that their new-found friendship could be more than that. 

“Are you flirting with me, Miss California?”

Have been all day, she thought. (Y/N) laughed, her head tilting to the side, “and what would you do about it, London Boy?”

Will turned his body to her, their knees grazing, but his eyes never left hers. He cracked a smile, unable to hold it in as he leaned in closer, “guess yous just have to trust me.” 

Under the bright blue lights hovering above their heads, Will tilted his head down as he leaned into her, her eyes flickered back and forth from his eyes to his lips and then back, her own head tilting to the side and meeting him in the middle where their lips locked. 

It was sweet, a kind kiss that filled your heart with joy, and (Y/N)’s was overflowing. She thought of it like she thought of London, the sunshine - a breath of fresh air. 

Will reached up and placed a hand on her cheek, holding her face, and she pecked his lips again before pulling back just slightly, the tip of her nose grazing against his and she laughed. 

“Trusting you really has done me well.” 

“I told you this tour would be worth it.” Will chuckled, his thumb resting at her cheek, fingers sliding behind her ear. “And if you’re willing to pay, it will be another five dollars added on for that kiss. It’s originally a tenner but you get that special discount.” 

“So all it takes is a kiss to get the special discount?” She teased. “What do I have to do to get the whole tour for free?” 

Will hummed, eyes squinting. “The accent was pretty cute, so if you do it again I might consider.” 

She playfully rolled her eyes. “Alright, mate,” she heard his laugh and she leaned forward, kissing Will again with a smile. 

[touristicplaces]

10 best places to visit in California

10 best places to visit in California

There’s additional to American state than simply flick stars and amusement parks.

This is a state that boasts an outsized range of gorgeous natural attractions, including

beautiful beaches, serene deserts, and majestic mountains.

California is additionally home to a variety of exciting major cities, charming cities and many

the world’s best wineries.

An overview of the most effective places to go to in California:

1-Big Sur.

Located between the Carmel Highlands and San patriarch, the geographic area could be a giant, rocky stretch

of the Californian lineation.

Although it doesn’t have any official boundaries, it lines around seventy miles of California’s

famous route One.

The area could be a magnet for travelers on road visits, WHO square measure attracted by the soaring redwood

trees and breathless beaches on the route.

More than simply lovely scenery for driving through, the world conjointly provides lots of

top hiking opportunities that wind their method through the many state parks encompassed

by Big Sur.

2-Catalina Island.

This charming island is found around twenty-two miles across the Pacific from Los

Angeles.

It is each a favorite tour for guests to L.A., likewise as a preferred vacation and

honeymoon spot.

Santa Catalina could be a tiny island with 2 main centers of population, 2 Harbors and

Avalon.

Most travelers to the island keep in the main within the Avalon space.

Surprisingly, the island even boasts a little population of yank bovid that were brought

to the island throughout the photography of a flick.

Travelers will reach the island by personal boat, ferries, helicopters or tiny planes.

Once on the island, transportation is restricted to bicycles, taxis and golf carts.

3-Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe isn't solely spectacular for being the second deepest lake within the North American nation, but also

for its wide length of bounds that offers fantastic natural vistas.

The fresh lake straddles each American state and Battle Born State and could be a high destination year spherical.

The lake became a winter sports destination once the Nineteen Sixties Winter Olympic Games were control

in North American Indian natural depression on the North Shore.

Summer brings hiking within the mountains and boat visits on the lake, likewise as days spent

lazing on the shore, swimming, and BBQs.

4-Sequoia and King's ravine National Parks

These 2 national parks square measure placed nearby to every different within the southern Sierra

Nevada Mountains, and each square measure famed for his or her monumental sequoia trees.

These trees will grow to be over three hundred feet tall and their trunks will be the maximum amount as one hundred

feet wide.

Sequoia parkland, that was established in 1890, is additionally home to Whitney, which

is the highest purpose within the contiguous us.

Interestingly enough, King's ravine boasts the deepest ravine in America.

The parks also are home to plenty of living species, as well as bobcats, gray foxes, bears

and deer.

If they’re lucky, guests would possibly even be ready to spot mountain sheep or mountain lions.

Both parks square measure popular backpackers and hikers, and there square measure fourteen campgrounds obtainable

for guests.

5-Napa natural depression.

Napa's natural depression is the premier destination for wine lovers within us.

Its wines square measure thought-about to be a number of the most effective within the world.

To accommodate the various intoxicant connoisseurs that travel cruciferous plant, the world currently boasts a

variety of accommodations, as well as charming bed and breakfasts, beautiful store hotels

and well-known chain hotels.

There also are habitation grounds obtainable for those curious about saving a bit cash

on lodging.

Besides, cruciferous plant natural depression boasts several best spas wherever guests will get soft and revel in

a variety of fun activities, as well as hot air balloon rides and guided bike wine tours.

6-San Diego.

With fabulous beaches, ideal climate and outstanding family attractions, it's no marvel that San

Diego is one in every of the foremost in style places to go to in American state.

Located simply north of the Mexican border, San Diego could be a giant coastal town with a little

town atmosphere.

The most in style attraction in San Diego is America’s premier facility, that is found

in Balboa Park with flowering gardens and Spanish design.

The city is home to different family attractions like SeaWorld San Diego and also the Birch fish tank.

Another holidaymaker magnet, San Diego’s gorgeous lineation, offers miles of fantastic beaches

including the upmarket beach neighborhood of Los Angeles Jolla.

7-Death natural depression.

Located within the desert, desert encompasses abundant of the desert National

Park.

Although thought to be the driest and lowest place in North America, the desert offers

a variety of outside activities, historic sites, and nature viewing.

From cover mountains to colorful dunes, the distinctive desert landscapes of Death

Valley square measure like no different place in American state.

Places of interests embrace the scenic view of Zabriskie purpose and historic sites like

Scotty’s Castle, the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns and ruins of ghost cities.

8-Los Angeles.

The second-largest town within the USA, l. a. is found in southern American state enclosed

by the seashore, mountains, and valleys.

Known as the town of Angels, the town offers a good vary of attractions and beaches, including

wild-and-crazy Venice Beach and Malibu, the sandy playground favored by flick stars.

Travelers to L.A. will notice a number of the known amusement parks on the earth here, including

Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood.

Los Angeles is additionally one in every of the most effective places within us to travel in search of celebrities.

Tourists will rummage around for celebrity homes or sponsor the designer stores in the urban center that

cater to celebrities.

And in L.A., travelers also can visit and decay an equivalent famed restaurant that the

celebs and also the made and famed dine at.

9-Yosemite parkland.

Located within the Sierra Battle Born State Mountains of the central jap American state, the Yosemite National

Park is well-loved for its gorgeous granite cliffs, sequoia groves, lovely waterfalls

and various animals and flora.

Visitors will hike among the 800 miles of trails, or drive on scenic routes to expertise

the beautiful landscapes and glimpse life.

Attractions embrace ice mass purpose, with unbelievable views of the Yosemite natural depression, the character center

and Yosemite repository and historic places just like the LeConte Memorial Lodge and also the Ahwahnee

Hotel.

10-San Francisco.

San Francisco could be a fun and exciting town in northern American state, assail the tip of a ground

in the San Francisco Bay space.

Undoubtedly, the sound Bridge is the city’s beloved attraction.

Tourists will drive, bike ride or walk across this famed bridge to admire and

photograph gorgeous views.

Besides, guests to San Francisco will visit the street, that is known for

its tight curves, or take a visit to San Francisco’s Chinatown section, that is that the largest outside

of Asia.

Tourism in USA from Blogger https://ift.tt/2tN2Sc6 via IFTTT

[avalonstudiodesignbuilder]

Discover the Enchanting Seal Beach Pier in Seal Beach, CA: Ideal for Evening Walks

Nestled along Southern California's beautiful coastline, Seal Beach is a sanctuary of natural splendor and peaceful charm. Among its many highlights, the Seal Beach Pier is a standout landmark, providing stunning vistas and an ideal setting for evening walks. As a regular visitor, I am consistently captivated by the pier’s allure, embodying the essence of Seal Beach, CA.

A Scenic Wonder The Seal Beach Pier extends elegantly into the Pacific Ocean, showcasing the town’s commitment to preserving its scenic allure. Strolling along its wooden planks, one is serenaded by the gentle sound of waves caressing the pier’s supports. The pier offers a clear view of the horizon, where the sky seamlessly merges with the sea. This spot is especially enchanting at sunset, when the sky is adorned with shades of orange, pink, and purple, casting a golden glow over the water.

Every visit to the pier reveals new delights, whether it's watching surfers conquer the waves or families enjoying a leisurely day out. The pier is a place for contemplation and tranquility, as well as a lively hub that brings together locals and visitors in a shared admiration of Seal Beach’s natural beauty.

Evening Walks and Community Spirit Evening walks on the Seal Beach Pier are a treasured tradition for many. As the sun begins to set, the pier becomes animated with the soft hum of conversations and the happy laughter of children. The air is infused with the salty scent of the ocean, and the gentle breeze hints at a perfect evening. Walking the length of the pier, I often pause to take in the panoramic views, feeling a profound connection to the timeless beauty of Seal Beach.

The pier also serves as a communal gathering spot. It's common to see couples holding hands, photographers capturing perfect moments, and anglers patiently awaiting a catch. This sense of community is palpable, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie that enhances the overall experience. The Seal Beach Pier is more than just a structure; it symbolizes the town’s spirit and resilience, standing proudly against the ever-changing sea.

Seal Beach, CA, with its magnificent pier, offers an unmatched setting for those seeking moments of peace and beauty. The Seal Beach Pier, in particular, provides a space to fully immerse in the splendor of nature and the vibrant community life. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, an evening walk on the Seal Beach Pier is an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

[unfolkist]

21 Questions Tag

Tagged by: the greatest rock photographer east of the Canadian Rockies @mitskilovingbisexual

Rules: Answer 21 questions and then tag 21 people you want to get to know better.

Nickname: Family and super close friends have called me alligator or gator since I was a baby, for reasons I’ve gone into before and don’t feel like doing again right now. Some people call me Alexander condescendingly even though my name is just Alex, so I guess that counts.

Zodiac: Aries

Height: 6′2″

Last movie I saw: Happy as Lazzaro

Last thing I googled: "fiona apple discography” for a customer

Favorite musician: Stephen Malkmus atm but it’ll be Bob Dylan again eventually

Song stuck in my head: "Mardi Gras Beads” by Parquet Courts

Other blogs: idk if this means other blogs I would have, or recommended blogs. I recommend every blog that isn’t mine.

Do I get asks: Hardly ever. I get thrown off guard by them, and I think I answer rudely trying to be funny. So that’s probably why. But I would like them! I’m bored always and social interaction is great.

Blogs following: 471

Amount of sleep: Usually 6 hours

Lucky numbers: none

What I’m wearing: A blue flannel over a Bruce Springsteen shirt

Dream trip: Used to be Ireland but I don’t dream of vacations anymore now that the reality of being poor has set in.

Dream Job: Screenwriter and possibly director of politically-literate, surreal social satires

Favorite food: Cheap Mexican food

Languages: English

Play any instruments: Guitar, enough to sing along to and impress drunk people

Favorite songs: I’m gonna pretend this says albums just because it makes it easier for me (in no particular order): -Building Nothing out of Something by Modest Mouse -Sunbathing Animal by Parquet Courts -Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys -There’s Nothing Wrong with Love by Built to Spill -Hejira by Joni Mitchell -“Love and Theft” by Bob Dylan -Alien Lanes by Guided by Voices -Wowee Zowee by Pavement -Avalon Blues by Mississippi John Hurt -Darkness on the Edge of Town by Bruce Springsteen -and a bunch more but I can’t think very well right now

Random fact: My girlfriend thinks I have ADHD, and she’s probably right but I’m afraid of getting diagnosed

Describe yourself as aesthetic thing: Creepy best friend who doesn’t deserve the cute girl but gets her anyway at the end of the movie because hollywood screenwriters are all former incels who have petty high school grudges against jocks. Also messy manchild???

Okay gotta tag 21 people now, which a lot so I’ll probably be tagging a lot of people who don’t care at all: @glenn-the-dawg @cinequeen @yournewgirlfriend @stephenmalkmusofficial @normaldesmond @surrealistwaltz @l0w-budget @mamijohnmisty @crypticmilk @absolute-boredom (or @princess-trashh whichever one you prefer) @twentyonearias @divinesorrow @tittytittygangbang @belle-bete @helllandhoney @lesbianfrannyglass @danefonda (you won’t I know, but I gotta reach 21!) @xtacoqueenx @kittyhalk @visionsofajohanna @vegils fuck okay I did it

[sachkiawaaj]

Walrus makes a rare appearance on N.L. beach — and draws a crowd

Walrus makes a rare appearance on N.L. beach — and draws a crowd

‘Seeing a walrus in person, seeing the enormity of the creature and the skin texture and its tusks, it’s amazing,’ says photographer Alick Tsui. (Alick Tsui/Submitted) An errant walrus on Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula is drawing a lot of attention, though wildlife officials are asking people to give the animal its space. Middle Cove Beach in the town of Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove is a…

[johnspanhandle]

The Pardo’s in 1999.