#and it's a one time purchase for like. hopefully 5 years lol

[yousaytomato]

Current phone: £200, has lasted 4 years

Phone I'm considering: £800, so logically will last 16 years

[neon-junkie]

hi. a life update

im being oldschool and using this blog website for its intended purpose - blogging.

so, heres the goss. to start off with a banger, i am in a relationship!! ive not had a healthy relationship since i was 17/18 with my high school boyfriend, so to finally have one, at 26, is pretty kewl. my ex was abusive, and when i finally managed to get away from him, i remained single for almost 5 years. relationships/intimacy has been really hard since him, but ive finally found someone who is so calm and patient with me. he really understands the extent of what i've been through, and hes quite clearly sticking around, and not giving up on me.

and oh my dayyyyyssssss, hes so my type!! ive always set 3 firm criterias for dating: nerdy, alternative, and childfree. he ticks them all!! hes heavily tattooed, skates, has a mullet, stretched ears, piercings, loves metal. oh my starrssssss. if 16 year old me could meet him, i think she'd just melt on the spot. he'd be like my ideal teen dreamboat, and im so glad that that has continued into my adult years. honestly, he's a gem.

minus dating, i'm moving cities! ive been wanting to move to this specific city for a few years, and im finally doing it. bonus points that my partner lives there, which is more motivation to move yanno? like our second date happened after i did some flat viewings. oh, did i mentioned that we first met up at download festival? and our first date was watching limp bizkit together? siiiiiccckkkkk. he also asked me to be his girlfriend in a sick way too!! he purchased a cameo of mark anthony austin (dude who plays boba fett in a new hope,) to ask me out in the boba gear. it was so cute oh my stars!! this guy really knows what i like, plus hes a massive star wars nerd too yayaayayayyay!!!!!

anyway. moving cities hopefully early next year!! tbf i was going to move last year, but then i got promoted at work, but work has been.... omg. like i am so on the fence of rage quitting. work hasnt upped my wage, despite me asking multiple times. they havent helped with any training. in fact, i havent been trained on anything. they just expect me to do this job role with fuck all support. i just need to stick at this job until i move, but i think i'll quit before christmas, move, and then find a new job.

anyway uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. yeah i havent been writing much, its really sad. i love writing, but i just... dont get the urge or craving for it much anymore. i dont know whats killed my spark, or how to gain that spark back. i really thought bad batch s3 would help me out, but here i am... one post every few months... idk guys. like i get comments/praise every so often, but definitely not as much as people might assume? like it genuinely sparks joy whenever i get a little comment on my work, but sadly, thats quite rare. idk, im sure i'll find a new interest to ignite that spark once again. we'll see.

i guess thats it lol. update posted. neon out x

[hanquokkasgirl]

Will We Last?

Chapter 3

    It was that tall guy from the airport again. What was he doing here. He wasn't alone this time, but surrounded by people talking in their phones, or just texting. Most of them looking really stylish, but wearing masks to cover themselves up.

Before we could say anything else to each other, he was shoved into the elevator and I was pushed out. Did he work here too? No, that can't be possible, there has to be another reason on why he's here. I started walking towards the door once the initial shock of all of this wore off, and Mr. Kim was already waiting for me there.

"Ms. Hart, ready to go?" He said while holding the car door open. "We're just waiting for Ms. Han and I'll take you both to your apartment." Ms.Han huh? I guess she will be my roommate.

We waited for around 15 minutes until a rushed girl, no more than 21 years old appears through the door. "OMG... I'm so sorry." She was dressed like a harajuku girl. Me being from a world where people judge you from the simplest thing that you wear even if you're a complete stranger, this was a complete cultural shock. "I thought I had more time to get here but gosh knows i'm a late person, lol. Hi! I'm Soo-Jin." She said while reaching her hand... I think for me to shake it.

"I'm Y/N. It's nice to meet you Soo-Jin." Please don't let this girl be a blabbermouth that won't shut up ever. I need my silence from time to time.

Mr. Kim started driving us to our apartment, meanwhile Soo-Jin and I started to get to know each other a little bit. "Oh, don't mind this. It's just a costume. I was helping out a friend with a photoshoot for his photography class." She said chuckling and taking her wig off. Thank goodness, not to be all judgy but, I can't with that vibe.

"It's okay, I just found it... interesting." I said while looking at my phone. I still couldn't text Clarissa since I had to get an internet connection and a new phone number that will work here. Hopefully our place is close enough to a convenience store where I can purchase a sim card. "How long have you been here?" I just tried making conversation, I was never good at making small talk.

"Oh, I'm from here, but I did study in the US for a few years. I'm in college at Yeonsei University, I'm studying a fashion major with a international relationship minor." Wow this girl is smart. From what I've researched about South Korea is that Yonsei is like the Yale or Harvard of here.

"Oh wow, that's amazing. I graduated from NYU back in the states. Fashion major and Make Up and Special Effects minor. So, you're going to be studying and working?" I said I wasn't good at the small talk.

"Yeah, this is more like a paid internship? I think that's how Americans call it. Well, anyway, it's just a stepping stone into what I want to accomplish. My own fashion line" She said that so passionately that it actually made me wonder. Do I want something like that too? I've always saw fashion as something that came to me easily, but not something that I would've pursued as a long term thing. But it is something that makes me passionate. Have my own fashion and makeup line, maybe my own store that gets to be a worldwide hit someday. I don't know why it never ocurred to me before.

"That sounds amazing. Actually, it's something that I kinda want to do as well, my own fashion and make-up line." I said smiling nostalgically. Clarissa always told me that I could be doing that with what I studied and with her help of knowing her business major,  maybe one day it could become a reality.

"Ladies, we have arrived." Mr. Kim said from the driver's seat. It was a 20 minute drive... I think. "This building is only 15 minutes away from the company or 5 subway stops." I was right more or less.

Mr. Kim opened the door for us, leading us to the building. It looks like we were underground, the parking garage. "Wow, this place is stunning! I can't believe we're going to be living so close to Hongdae." She said excitedely.

"We're in the Ichon neighborhood. This are the Park Tower Apartments. Yours is apartment 2013, floor 20. All your belonging are already there." He said once the elevator came. He bowed and left, meanwhile we were being lifted to floor number 20.

"So... is this Hongdae thing really popular?"

"O-M-G. I completely forgot that you're not from here. So Hongdae is like Party Town, all the best clubs are there. You can even see some idols there from time to time." We got off the elevator on the 20th floor, now searching for apartment 2013. "I once went and saw this one idol from BigBang, a kpop group, that well now he's off to jail so I guess that's not a glory story. Nevermind then, that was a long time ago. A-ha here we are." She put the code in and opened the door for the both of us. This apartment was huge! Like two times the size of what Clarissa and I had back in New York. Each bedroom had their own bathroom, a necessity at this point.

    "wow, this place is so..."

    "incredible." Soo-Jin finished the sentence for me. We looked at each other and chuckled.

    As soon as we each claimed our rooms, I saw that in the kitchen there was a piece of paper with the wifi password and everything we would need for our stay here. Soo-Jin decided to go grab takeout since she obviously was more familiar with the area than I was, and in the meantime I put the wifi into my phone and called Clarissa. At this point it was already 3PM here in Korea, but with the time difference it would have been around 10pm or 11pm of the day before in New York... will I ever get used to this time difference? I hope so.

    "Yelloup?" The voice on the other side sounded a bit muffled and with music in the back.

    "I am gone for less than 24 hours and you're already eating pizza and listening to your emo music, aren't you?" I said smiling into the phone. She always did that whenever one of us left town for a day or two, but this time it was going to be longer than that. Oh gosh, how am I gonna live without this... specimen of a human.

    "hey! I am not gonna pause my life just because you're gone. Also I am BLASTING some Pierce The Veil right now... so fuck you" ah I miss that sailor mouth of hers already.

    "Even though I'm thousands of miles away, put that dollar in the jar. Well, anyway, you won't believe the apartment I got. It's so big and I got my own bathroom. Also a new roommate and even tho..." she cut me off mid sentence

    "New roommate? I was never nothing about this roommate thing, I am your one and only best friend."

    "Don't worry" I said chuckling in the phone. "She's still in college so I don't think we'll even spend that much time together. Plus yes, you're my one and only. Jealous much?" I threw myself in the bed, I just made it but who cares at this point.

    "Not jealous... just cautious. So, anything interesting happening over there yet?" I heard how she was grabbing another slice of pizza. I need to cut her off right now, or else she's capable of eating the entire thing herself and regret it tomorrow. Like a hangover, but with food.

    "Well, kind of. But first go put away that pizza, or you'll regret it tomorrow."

    "Okay, done. Now tell me, tell me." She made herself comfortable in her bed with MooMoo. Oh MooMoo...

    "Well, there was this incident at the airport. When I was getting out, I kind of crushed into this guy and I fell flat on my ass. He did help me up but he was surrounded by bodyguards. And there were a ton of girls screaming for him, with camera people and the flashes made me all dizzy..."

"Oh gosh, you didn't catch epilepsy or something right?" I swear to... how did this girl got two majors, I will never know.

"Uhm... honey, you can't catch epilepsy. That's a neurological disorder." And while I was saying that sentence I heard Soo-Jin arriving with something that smelled incredible. "Well anyway, as I was saying. He helped me up but he was surrounded. Anyway, I found the person picking me up from the airport, and he brought me straight to the company to finalize some of the contracts. And who was there when I was about to leave to come to the apartment? Airport boy!" I say turning around in my bed, now facing the ceiling. I should buy some fake vines as some decorations.

"No way! Does he work there too?"

"That's the thing, I have no idea. He was pushed into the elevator while I was being pushed out once we made eye contact and he was gone again. I don't know to which floor."

"You've been gone less than 24 hours and your love life has already improved. I mean, after what happened with..." I had to cut her off this time. I wanted no memory of said person. Not even his name mentioned. He caused enough pain already close to me, I don't need him causing any more pain from afar.

"You should know better than mentioning his name right now." A single tear managed to escape from my eye. "Well anyway Issa, I gotta go, Soo-Jin brought lunch and I'm starving. I'll call you later." And with that I hung up.

My ex-boyfriend shouldn't have been a topic of conversation at all, not even after... what happened. I've been trying to leave that behind me and not think about it in the past nine months, I'm not going to let it invade my mind now.

"Food's ready!" Soo-Jin had prepared everything over here in the dining table.

"Oh my god, how are we gonna eat all of this?" There were a bunch of small little dishes around the table, and two main plates I suppose is where each of us will be seating.

"Oh! You've never eaten korean food before?" I move my head from side to side. Truth was, I was more a person of habit, that why Clarissa always knew what dishes to get me from which place and exactly the amount of spicyness I needed for each. "Well... this little dishes are called banchans, they are more like side dishes that you add to your plate. This, the main dish..."

"Entree" I said when I saw that she was struggling to find the word.

"Thanks. This is Bibimbap. Basically is rice with some meat and veggies, not spicy because I don't know how spicy you like. And all the banchans are spicy." She explained everything very well.

"I will try everything. I like a little spice on my food just not too much." And we had a nice lunch together. The first of many together I hope.

"Sorry if I was listening before but were you talking about a boy you found in the elevator in the company?" She said after finishing her plate, I was barely halfway done.

"Oh yeah. It was nothing, I had just seen him at the airport and then we crashed into each other again at the company. But it was nothing, really." I truly believed that this was going to be nothing.

"Well, he wasn't nothing. He's part of your assignment. He is part of one of the most successful groups of the entire company. That was Song Min-Gi, from Ateez." She said almost... fangirling?

Please let that not be true, I can't feel attracted to someone I will work for.

[mezmer]

Next time I buy an Apple product I am actually going to invest in one that is 3-5 years old instead of 10+ years old ....... I will say they do run beautifully,my older Macs, but after what happened to my iPad I'm afraid now. I'm testing the bounds of apple lifespans. So strange, I have a iMac G4

Which was manufactured between 2002-2004. So over 20 years old. Boots up like a charm and works great. God, their products are so seamless. I was an iphonetard for a long time and I don't want to go back to that. When I have an iPad, there's no need for an iPhone because I'm home all day! WiFi. The iPad's display is incredible, too. If you haven't seen tumblr on an iPad you have to check that out. Anyway, I believe Apple stopped making products built-to-last. If I find a good 2020+ iPad to bid on or grab from our local pawnshop, it will last hopefully 10 years.

I told Johnny, I'm buying one of those children's cases with the huge handles on it. I get iPad minis because they are not so obnoxiously large. Not the children's case for my daughter though. Its for me. Cuz I don't want it to break lol. I'll put crazy stickers on it so people don't think my daughter has an iPad. Have him spray clear coat on the case so it stays nice for a long time. I am still unsure if I should make this purchase with my tax refund. If I find it at the best price, I'll snag it. Same with a MacBook. I actually need a MacBook because I can't do my job from mobile ...... Hmm much to consider 🤔🤔

[shamelessrabbithole]

About the last post about Noel's career and financial status:

You always summarize things perfectly or very understandable, I like that a lot about you. Now my clumsy thoughts put together lol: We should also not forget, that successfull actors get paid in a short time much more than most of us "normies" in 5 or 10 years. An average working family can live in a house too, plus have kids+pets. So isn't it pretty standard to have a house in America? Maybe he bought it, when he was at his peak with shameless and now he only has to pay for his monthly fixed costs like gas, electricity, insurance plus some grocieres. I don't think, that the house was exorbitant expensive. And as i said in a comment before, he doesn't live in a exclusive celebritie area, it's a normal neighbourhood. And as i said in a comment before, he doesn't live in a exclusive celebritie area, it's a normal neighbourhood, at least this is what i know from other sources.

He and Layla doesn't look like people who spend hundreds of dollars on new clothes monthly and I doubt, that they go out a lot at fancy restaurants. Maybe Layla wouldn't mind a more fancy lifestyle, if the opportunity was given, but I think Noel is a very simple man and he is just happy with his coffee and a good book or maybe some good inexpensive Mexican food. I understand that you are worried about him, because he is taking an obviously long break and whatever Layla does (sorry, I'm still not her bestie), but I don't worry too much about them anymore. Hell, if I would earn 204,000 per year, I would take a long break too. I don't even have half of this per year and i live a pretty good life too! We really shouldn't worry or pity actors too much for financial reasons lol, they are fine, they earn much more than most of us. Is he waisting talent and precious years of his youth, because he is such a good actor and we all want to see him work again? Yes. Do we want him to be more active on social media, even if he just posts nonsense or doing handstands or reading a book in his stupid backyard? Yes. Am i getting too emotional again, because he obviously doesn't care what we, his fans, want or think? Yes 😂 That's all for now 🤣

Thank you for the compliment. 😊 He does live in a relatively modest house that he purchased years ago, and I also don't recall him spending big bucks on renovations. Also, even though this quote is very old, he talks about how he's been driving the same car since 2002. https://noelfisherfans.com/fun-stuff-about-noel/

Not every actor in LA is earning money hand over fist. And many do have to work multiple jobs in order to stay afloat while they keep auditioning. But Noel has 70 IMDB listings to his name. Some were probably low-paying, some much higher, but Shameless in particular earned several of the actors up to $250k-$350k per episode (Emmy and Bill). This wasn't a low-budget indie show and it lasted 11 seasons, which is the longest-running show in Showtime's history. Somehow I doubt Noel was shortchanged salary-wise, especially at the end when the show needed him and Cameron to keep it from being canceled after Emmy's departure.

I don't think Noel is wasting his talent or his youth. I just feel it's not as easy to book roles as people seem to think. I was listening to one of Cam's friends, Madisen Beaty, do a TikTok live a few months ago in which she said that even before the actor and writer's strikes, a lot of Hollywood TV and film production was on pause because everyone knew the strikes were coming. So there's been a longer lull than even most people realize.

I also wish he'd post literally anything just to give us something to cling to. It sucks that he doesn't. He's turning 40 soon. Hopefully, it'll be a big enough reason for him to get out of hibernation and make some noise about it. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[croszukis]

talk hockey to me, tagged by @39oa ty!

1. The thing that got you hooked on hockey

in a really convoluted way that is a story for a different time i started listening to a sort of fandom leaning hockey podcast. i googled jeff skinner's name and went "oh", then saw gifs of burky and my himbo of the moment was selected.

i had to move back home (a place that's as not-hockey market in the us as you can think of..) for family reasons and my younger sister and i were spending a lot of time at home. i basically bullied her into watching nhl weird videos with me on tv and then we started watching games together. we followed the avs for the 19-20 season heavily!

covid season + other reasons made me stop paying attention for a while, but now i'm back. i'm very bad at being loyal (sorry) to any specific team and have my players i collect instead & am currently paying attention to my failsons (pens, habs and sabres)

2. Your first ever fandom friend

i was mostly on twitter for my hockey fandom activities, so shout out to my crop of friends from very far away on my phone from there! but i guess it was my sister, actually~

3. The jersey you would most like to own

a stars blackout jersey (aka the reason my layout is robo at all lol) i saw that hideous neon green and said "that's for me". OH and if i had exorberant amounts of money, a lunar new years speciality jersey. otherwise, i am not a jersey/merch purchaser no.

4. YOUR player (you only get ONE so choose wisely)

at the moment? i'll say johnathan kovacevic lol

otherwise, sidcrosby isn't mine he's OURS

5. A pairing that deserves more fic

hmmm i'm either a rarepair (making these pairs up with one offhand mention and the power of imagination) or a certain powerhouse ship person, but i'll say the sabres and stars deserve more transformative fandom attention!

6. Your favourite on-ice moment

oh gosh i have a really bad memory when it comes to things like this (ask me to recall hockey off ice drama from three years ago tho? i got you) the first thing that came to mind was logan couture's girls just wanna have fun goal song reveal though. i love it.

THEN

link someone else's art/fic/etc that you love & think everyone should check out

oh gosh, there's so many fics i've read again again that i'm sure are fandom favorites that i really admire & i'm just a shy newbie

AND

link something you made & are proud of & want people to see

I have a project in the editing stage I'm hopefully going to share soon which will be my humble foray into the sidgeno fandom, but I like this sid/nick suzuki one shot that started my thinking about them and I'm enjoying writing/figuring out their dynamic more!

[unravelingthepages]

Better Than the Movies- My thoughts

Hi! After the sheer amount of reels and posts recommending this book, I just had to pick it up.

Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter is a young adult romance that follows protagonists Liz and Wes, and is written from Liz’s perspective. This read lives up to all its hype, and more. I loved it and definitely recommend it to you! It’s perfect for 13 year olds and above.

The Plot

Liz Buxbaum has always known that Wes Bennett was not boyfriend material. You would think that her next-door neighbor would be a prince candidate for her romantic comedy fantasies, but Wes has only proven himself to be a pain in the butt, ever since they were little. Wes was the kid who put a frog in her Barbie Dreamhouse, the monster who hid a lawn gnome’s severed head in her little homemade neighborhood book exchange. Flash forward ten years from the Great Gnome Decapitation. It’s Liz’s senior year, a time meant to be rife with milestones perfect for any big screen, and she needs Wes’s help. See, Liz’s forever crush, Michael, has just moved back to town, and—horribly, annoyingly—he’s hitting it off with Wes. Meaning that if Liz wants Michael to finally notice her, and hopefully be her prom date, she needs Wes. He’s her in. But as Liz and Wes scheme to get Liz her magical prom moment, she’s shocked to discover that she actually likes being around Wes. And as they continue to grow closer, she must reexamine everything she thought she knew about love—and rethink her own perception of what Happily Ever After should really look like.

Why you should read Better Than the Movies

Liz is frankly very lovable. She starts off as a character I didn’t like much, but as the story went on I found her more and more relatable and loved her character. Her character development was amazing and realistic. She’s a teenager after all- messy emotions, flaws and all. Its what makes her so relatable.

I loved that this book addressed the grief of losing a parent, finding it hard to accept a stepparent even they’re really great, and more. It made me tear up on more than one occasion, especially the dance at the end. And the fact that every chapter starts with a romcom quote? Cherry on the top.

I loved the author’s writing style. There’s pettiness and heartbreaking honesty and acceptance and of course, romance. Wholesome moments and sad ones. I actually teared up at one point.

Liz and Wes. They’re it. Their friendship was everything and I loved the enemies-to-grudging allies-to-friends-to-lovers thing they had. And the cute playlists?? The banter and jokes?? The rom-com references?? I finished the book in one read.

I also really loved how the “jocks” and “cool kids” mixed with Liz. It wasn’t the stereotypical ‘you don’t fit in’ therefore cue the bullying, but rather there were genuinely nice people. There were jokes, and fun, and awkwardness, but the last one was bound to be there lol.

This book is everything. A definite 5 stars.

If you’re planning on purchasing this read, please consider using the following amazon affiliate link to purchase it. It would be at no extra cost to you and would really help me out, thank you!

purchase this read: https://amzn.to/42p0Yu3

[theboardwalkbody]

Bert McCracken announced a mini solo tour at the end of October/beginning of November. I am in the worst part of nursing school. The show closest to me is on a Wednesday night and Thursday mornings I need to be up at 5am.

And you know what - I am BEYOND sick of how many times nursing school has made me have to miss seeing The Used (evidently I only go to shows where Bert is anymore lol). I had to miss their two-night album anniversary tour. I had to miss another that was right before covid (so that's technically three shows), and I missed another that was right after a semester ended but I was broke (*note - still extremely broke and this is a frivolity I should not be purchasing).

So I bought the ticket anyway.

I am in a bad place mentally, I am already burned out a week into the semester and I am contemplating dropping out and can not see myself passing this course. I am entering severe depression levels despite my meds. The show is basically the only thing I am looking forward to for the rest of the year since I am feeling hopeless about passing.

Yes, I have a 5am wakeup the next day because I have clinical that day. BUT I kind of don't care. I'm used to going to bed at midnight and only getting 5 hours of sleep. I know the show will give me a mood and energy boost and I'm sure I'll be riding the high of it for the next day. AND that particular clinical is the last one. (so we may or may not get out early - i doubt we will but there's always a chance). So you'd be insane to think I would miss a show just because it was on the eve of the LAST clinical.

Provided I pass the final exam - Preceptorship starts the following Thursday. It's going to be two 12 hour unpaid shifts a week for the next four weeks. On top of that I will need to go to ACTUAL work during that time (which HOPEFULLY works out because I don't get to make my preceptorship schedule, it's based on the employee's schedule and I may not be able to find work on the days I would have off). That also means I may be 'working' for 48 hours a week from November to December. That's going to suck so bad. The show being when it is will kind of be like a little treat to help boost my mood to make it through that last month.

My final exam is the week after. I am 10000000% going to be stressed AF (and this level may increase if my grades up until this point aren't high enough to make me feel comfortable). I can not explain how badly I will NEED something positive in my life at this point without alarming my therapist.

The timing of this show is actually insanely significant and beneficial. It will give a little boost for the final leg of the semester/program. It acts as a treat to help me reset from the stress of September - November. It is like a reward for the work I will have done up until that point, as well as being a sort of pre-celebration for passing, making it to that point, and PROVIDED I pass that final on the 9th, I technically will have passed nursing school and just have to put in the time for preceptorship. It also helps as a de-stressor to help me try and be a little bit calmer for the final.

The timing is paramount.

(If I have already failed out or am in significant risk of failing out or if my entire grade relies on getting a high grade on the final so the likelihood of failing out is high.... we will have bigger things to worry about regarding my mental health than the show can handle, to be very honest with you and at that point I very likely wont be going for one reason or another while I take care of that because I'll probably be too emotionally catatonic to even care - which is significant because it's Bert and I love him a disgusting amount lol).

[eunicexxx]

Life update: Month of January 2024

To Baguio we go!

Started the year with a trip to Baguio with my core people. I enjoyed the trip and the Baguio weather. Very chill just what I expected it to be. Just a short trip that made me want to go back again. I've been there 3 times already but the third trip really made me appreciate the place even more. I love walking without getting sweaty hehehe. And I think what I enjoyed the most is my alone food tripping at the Night Market. Love their fish cakes! Hihihi. Promise, I will definitely go back again. Hopefully, somewhere in Atok or in Sagada.

Adios, 2 molars!

Got my 2 molar teeth extracted. Been experiencing on/off pain for almost 8 months. But I don't have the nerve to get it extracted because of a.) i'm scared and b.) it's expensive and I didn't have yet the budget. But finally last January 12, I got them extracted. The upper molar, I didn't feel anything (thanks to the anesthesia) but the lower right molar, oh my freakin' goodness it was pain I've never felt before. Ate Abby (the dentist) said it was because my molar and/or gums were sore already that's why it is that painful even with anesthesia. I can never compare the pain to anything because up to date, that's the most painful pain I have experienced. I was literally crying and squealing just a like a pig being slaughtered. Just reminiscing it brings back the pain huhuhu. I almost punch Ate Abby hahaha! But tapping myself at the back because I did it alone! Ha! Brave, Unis is brave.

(Also one of the reasons why I decided to get it extracted is because I don't want to take painkillers anymore. I am scared for my kidney huhuhu)

Book-buying and Book-reading Era!

Yep, I am on my book-buying era. (Blaming all the bookstagram people I follow!!!) Next to this would be the book-buying-banning era. It's just the first month of the year and I already purchased 5 books! And 4/5 are romantic fiction novels. Not denying anymore, reading romance novels are totally my guilty pleasure :)) I already read 3 books for January and I am ready for my book # 4 but February is a busy month so I have to pause for a while.

(Posting this today, February 1, 2024. It just came to my mind that January was a really loooong month. Finally it's done. Lol.)

[izzy-b-hands]

I'm gonna ask a weird question but:

Is there anything you guys (aka y'all following me lol) want to see more of from me, in terms of a potential item(s)/service(s) to purchase?

Better explanation of what the fuck I'm waxing on abt below the cut. TW for talk of money/work/the overall state of things economically for me and my plans/goals/potential options to keep making things better.

I need to bring in more money. I'm getting more stable, trying to save on top of the generous donations I've been given while using them as needed for things we absolutely need (food, basic supplies/necessities.) But we're still so tight, and I know nearly everyone is dealing with some form of this right now bc Everything Sucks Economically on like. a level of how it felt in 2008 (extra terrifying feeling now) but. It's killing me. I can't take feeling like a burden like this. I have to do more.

I have been applying elsewhere, for FT, PT, and contract jobs that pay better, though I am hoping more for the FT positions of course. Thus far, I have not had any bites back that amounted to anything, but intend to continue my efforts regardless (because what else can I do there anyway?)

I've been trying to figure out other options, w/things I know I can do somewhat well to very well. All would be cheap, but hopefully would add up over time until I can get a FT job again and while I grind away at the current PT job (which I am hoping to add more hours to for the next semester, when they have us make our scheduling choices again and allow us to potentially add at least one more shift to our schedule.)

So, a poll. To gauge interest, and see if y'all have any opinions/would even potentially purchase anything like the below things from me. I'll try and detail each option below, but first, the options:

1. Photo Prints: I've done photography since high school, though I only have my current Pixel phone available for it right now. That said, they would be as cheap as I can get away with, and my Pixel actually doesn't do too badly, plus I would be editing these to make them as good looking as possible. Ideally, I'd have a Pay What You Want option instead, so ppl can just give whatever they think the print is worth since these will be smaller, amateur prints, but I'm not sure if all the platforms that usually handle photo print sales for smaller creators allow that. So, in that case, a range of probably $1-$5 at most for each print. They would be of things out here; I have access to and experience already with taking city and nature themed pictures (it was literally all I did in hs and since then bc of where I've lived.) So general city life/scenery, plus local wildlife like the birds, squirrels, and nature surrounding us in all seasons, plus any extra pictures I can take elsewhere whenever Housemate and I are out and about (aka probably lots of mountain and ocean shots.) My speciality when I had my other camera was micro/detailed photography, and I'd like to explore this with my current setup and see how they turn out and potentially offer those as well.

If it would help to see some current pictures that I am considering as the first set I would put up for sale, please reply on this post letting me know and I can post a couple as examples 🙌

2. Poetry Commissions: I have done these on and off since middle school, usually for friends/family. Nothing wild, but usually shorter, some rhyming, some free verse, poems on varying topics. I've done them for birthdays, holidays like Mother's Day and Father's Day, as well as with obits or for weddings, and even a baby shower, to go on the invites. I haven't posted much of what I've written in recent years, but as with the pictures, I would be happy to post some of the ones I've written before as examples. Poetry is where I have no fear and will work myself to the bone to provide the best work possible; if you can get me just the bare basic details (ex. You want a poem for your brother's bday. Give me his name, a couple of hobbies/likes of his, and two of your favourite memories with him and I'll write you something beautiful, to celebrate him and his place in your life and take the piss out of him too, depending on your relationship with your brother lol), I can get you a poem in a 2-4 day turnaround time for as low as 5¢/word. Electronic only, but you would get a PDF of the poem that you can do whatever you want with afterwards (I would require my name remain credited on any other posting/usage elsewhere, but you wouldn't have to pay me again if you want to reuse it for another brother, to harken back to our example.)

3. Data Entry/Transcription Assistance: This one is a pretty wide range of what I can offer. I have experience working with medical documents (neurology, ophthalmology, and optometry for specific specialities both in data entry and transcription) via two of my last jobs, technical documents from two prior jobs (public library and medical staff training specifically), and historical documents including both handwritten (including print and cursive) and typed documents and charts via my volunteer work with Zooniverse. This is my bread and butter in terms of general job skills, and one I genuinely enjoy. That means that I come into each job, regardless of field or exact task, with excitement and an open mind, ready to prioritise and organise everything to the requested system and/or standard, with the goal to go above and beyond that however possible. Usually I achieve this by completing projects as ahead of deadline as possible, as well as by taking on any additional related tasks as needed (example: you hired me on to type up all of Grandma's lifelong journal entries for archiving and easy reading at an upcoming family reunion, but now you've found that Grandpa has one too. For minimal to no additional cost, I will happily take that on and endeavour to have both sets of data typed up in an easy to send/print word doc and/or PDF well before the reunion deadline.) I am more than willing to take on contract/NDA required work for this option as well, and have done so in the past with a prior job (aka why I'm not allowed to share any of the clinic training docs I made.) Cost might depend some on project size and deadline, but a general estimate would be, to stick with our above example: $5 per 250/pg journal, with a small additional charge of $5 if a rush is requested (aka say the reunion gets moved up to three days from now vs three months or weeks.) I would endeavour to charge no higher than $25 with $5 rush fee if rush requested for bigger projects.

4. Research Assistance: More or less what it says on the tin. Can be for work, home related things, whatever (though if requested for school/in regards to homework, I only go as far as providing resource links because unfortunately, usually doing the research yourself is a part of the learning process. However, if you're struggling to find primary or secondary sources, I am happy to help find those for you so that you can peruse them to see if they'll have the information you're looking for. If they do, great! If they don't, then I would keep looking for more.) While research hasn't been my main task at any of my prior jobs, it has always been a feature in much of the day to day work regardless, and is a skill I have kept up in my volunteer work with Zooniverse on projects which requested it. Looking for sources for anything, from work projects to recipes can be a slog. Let me do it for you. Pricing on this I'm putting at $5. That's it. Pay me $5, and I'll find as much as I can in regards to whatever you have that needs researching. Turnaround might depend on project, but I'm leaning 1-4 days at the very most.

So. There we are! Vote on the poll if you'd like, reply with any opinions/feelings/ideas you have for me about these, and thank you if you read this whole thing ❤️🫂

[le-trash-prince]

i successfully renewed my vehicle registration on time this year, which is something i consistently have trouble with. i get this done on time like 1/5 times LOL

part of my struggle is not thinking about it at the appropriate time, which is, i only ever think about it when i'm driving and unable to do anything about it. and then i forget as soon as i get out of the car. but part of it is also that there's a lot of steps involved prior to actually getting the registration renewed, and most of those steps involve interfacing with people, and i don't usually give myself enough time to get it done.

so this year i made sure to

set a mental visual reminder while driving, so i could remember to make a note about my sticker once i got to my desk

break down all of the things that needed to be done, i.e. oil change, tire rotation, print out insurance card, get car inspected, purchase new sticker

actually schedule out each of these things ahead of time. this meant designating three separate weekends where i wasn't already loaded down with things to do.

breaking down a task and scheduling a time in which to do it is really important for me to be able to wrap my head around doing something, but it's not until recently that i've realized it's not just "helpful tip to get things done" but rather "this is how i function and if i do not mentally prepare for a task that is outside my routine then it will not get done."

what was really fun is that no one ever told me anything about renewing my car sticker in my first year of driving, so i didn't know it was something that needed to be done until a cop pulled me over for it. and then my dad did not fully explain what was involved in the renewal so it went like this

I look up where to get car inspected

I go to that place and tell them I need an inspection

They tell me they need my up-to-date insurance card and I can't just show them the pdf on my phone, I have to print the pdf out

I leave the inspection place mortified and feel like I can't go back

I find a different inspection place and go there with my insurance card

My car does not pass the inspection because my tires need to be rotated

I leave the inspection place mortified and feel like I can't go back

Once I finally get my inspection sticker I then have to work up the gall to go to the registration office, which is a whole other nightmare

It takes me more than six months to finally finish everything and get my sticker

I actively avoid the popos for two years after that to prevent having to go through this process again

anyways hopefully I can repeat this next year. I feel like I finally have a solid understanding of what I must do and how I must do it. I've also got places to get my oil and tires changed etc that are comfortable and familiar, some of which I don't even have to get out of my car for, which is very nice.

[marshallpupfan]

I recently got some more Marshall merchandise! I haven't even found room yet for the last stuff I purchased... 😅

I've seen these "Stampers" before on Ebay, but this is the first time I've ever found any in a store near me. The back shows a bunch of different versions, including three of Marshall. This is the only one they had, so hopefully I can find the others someday!

I think this is supposed to be a pillow? A tiny pillow, at that! I know they have much bigger versions, and some of which can even project lights and shapes onto the ceiling! Sadly, this one cannot, but it's still really cute! I seen it on Ebay for $5 and figured why not!

A new Hallmark ornament! At least, I think it's new? I seen it listed on Target's website, but it said it was only available online. It cost $7, and Target gives you free shipping if your total order is over $35, so...

...I purchased the Mega Bloks "Marshall's Ultimate Fire Truck" set alongside it! Oh, you KNOW I had to add this to my collection! It's his Ultimate Fire Truck! And Marshall in his Ultimate Fire Gear, my #1 favorite outfit of his! It's the pup at his ultimate-est! Seriously, it's so... ULTIMATE!!! Oh yeah, Skye's there, too. lol

I haven't put it together yet, but I'll likely do that soon. But can I say how awesome it is that we got TWO pieces of Ultimate Fire Rescue merchandise this year?! I really hope this means we'll see it again in the cartoon soon! Season 9 could seriously use more Marshall. 🙏

Last, and it's a bit of a doozy; it's one of those yard inflatables! Halloween Marshall's rocking that outfit, as always! 😁

I've only ever seen a few of these around where I live, including last year when someone had a holiday-themed Marshall in their front yard around Christmas! I've always thought about getting one, but I never could find any in stores. Fortunately, my local Walmart ended up getting this one in stock, and when my folks seen it, they bought it because they really wanted me to have it! A big thanks to them once again for yet another great gift! If I ever do display it in our yard, I'll be sure to take some pics! (I'm not 100% sure yet if I will, since I'm kind of paranoid now about it getting dirty or torn up. 😅)

Well, that's all for now!

[babymilkawa]

are your requests open? if so can i get bakugou, kiri, shinsou and sero (or anyone) surprising their s/o with a puppy they’ve always wanted? or their s/o coming home with a puppy without telling the boys ? thank you !! n happy valentine’s day

this is so cute!! My requests are almost open lol and if they’re not, it’ll show up on my pinned post ^^ And happy belated Valentine’s Day to you too anon <33 make sure to take care of urself 🤍

surprise puppy headcanons with:

bakugou katsuki, kirishima eijiro, shinsou hitoshi, sero hanta

gn!reader :)

bakugou katsuki

he knows that you’ve been looking on adoption sites for dogs

you haven’t actually brought up the topic to him yet, unsure of what his response would be

it just so happened that your anniversary was coming up and bakugou couldn’t think of a better gift for you

he didn’t mean to be snooping around but he had searched your history and noticed one tab that you just never deleted

it was a a little puppy, about 2 months old and bakugou had a feeling that this was the one

sharing the site to his own laptop, he booked an appointment to adopt immediately

he had to choose between taking you to the adoption center or straight up bringing the puppy home

the latter seemed better though

so it’s the day before and your boyfriend is leaving it at your neighbors place so he can pick it up the next morning

he wanted you to wake up to the puppy

smiling at the thought, bakugou entered into the home you shared and greeted you at the door

“How was your day, babe?” you asked

“not too bad, you?”

you yawn and stretch and tell him of your day’s activities

then he asks what you want to do for your anniversary tomorrow

“Hmm maybe keep it lowkey this year? hang out at home?” you asked hesitantly, unsure of whether he wanted to do something more

but bakugou thought it was perfect

you could spend the whole day with your new puppy

the night before, as you laid cuddled to his side, bakugou stared at the ceiling until a thought occurred to him

what if you hadn’t told him about wanting a dog because you weren’t sure urself? No but you never closed that tab

You must’ve really wanted it

he just wished that you could’ve told him

he didn’t want you to hold yourself back for his sake

you were always so selfless and thoughtful of him

he hoped that tomorrow and in the years ahead, he can show you just how much he appreciates you

it’s 5 am and bakugous slipping out of bed

he makes sure you’re warm before leaving the house, careful to not make any noise

he knocks on the neighbors door and they hand him the puppy in its cage

at home, bakugou takes out the box he’s pre-wrapped and places the puppy inside it

it starts to squirm a little, now that it’s finally out of its cage but bakugou holds it still, petting its head to calm it down

the puppy was quick to obey and he let out a sigh of relief

carrying the large box to your room, bakugou froze when he saw you come out

“huh? what’s that, babe?” You say, sleepily

“just go back to sleep y/n” he said, placing the box down

he ushered you back in bed and you tried to pull him down with you, whining when he protested

“I gotta do something real quick, ok? I’ll be back”

thanking the heavens that you were facing the opposite direction as the door, he slipped the box right next to it

there was still a couple of hours until you would agree to start the day so bakugou joined you under the covers and pulled you close

he must’ve been exhausted because when he woke up, you had a little blob laying on your chest

“oh my god, katsuki!!” your face was split into a wide smile and the puppy was happily playing around with you

bakugou’s eyes widened and cursed out loud

“sorry babe, we were supposed to open it together. I must’ve overslept”

“Aww it’s ok katsu, I woke up to this little ball of sunshine here”

it must’ve jumped out of its box, he thought

“But how did you know that this was the exact one I wanted?” You asked

he shyly rubbed the back of his neck, “you had that tab open for ages”

the puppy continued to bounce in your arms and bakugou admired the smile on your face

leaning in for a kiss, he said, “happy anniversary baby”

kirishima eijiro

you had gone to the adoption center just to look around while your boyfriend was at work

you really hadn’t meant to actually commit to it when you saw the most cutest puppy ever

it was even clinging on to you, surely it was perfect

and your boyfriend also seemed to really like dogs so you really just said why not?

it was a pretty big impulsive purchase but you knew he wouldn’t mind

it was for the both of you after all

bringing it home, you couldn’t wait to think of names with your boyfriend, knowing that he’d come up with really creative ones

kirishima still had a couple hours left of work so you decided to pass the time with your new friend

you set up its bed and its food, all while having the puppy follow you around the house

you were in the closet at the back of the house, rummaging for a blanket when you noticed that your puppy wasn’t right behind you any more

not having a name for it yet, you weren’t sure how to call out for it

so you decided to just look for it yourself

it wasn’t until you were closer to the front of the house did you hear the sound of your boyfriend laughing

“eiji?”

he was holding the puppy in his arms and it was licking his face, causing him to laugh in response

it was such a cute sight, you had to snap a picture

“what’s his name, hun?” He asked

“haven’t decided yet. I was hoping you’d have some good ones”

“How long have you been planning this? There’s no special occasion is there?”

“I went to the center for fun and I decided to just get it”

“Good choice” he laughed

“so you got any names?”

he set the puppy down and it whined, looking up at him

“I was thinking d/n?”

it was perfect

calling its new name out, the puppy immediately turned its attention to you, leaping into your arms

“aww” your boyfriend said, before wrapping you both into a hug and picking you up

shinsou hitoshi

so we know he’s more of a cat person

but after seeing how much you interact with dogs and gush about them, he decided to surprise you with one

it was shinsou’s day off but you still had to work so he took that chance to visit the adoption center

before when he had asked you what kind of dog you wanted if you were to ever get one, you told him your favorite types, including gender

luck seemed to be on his side because he found the exact same breed you liked

it was a much younger one though, only being a few months old

excited to see your reaction, shinsou signed the papers and brought your new puppy home

he also figured that since you seemed to be stressed and overworking yourself, this was the perfect present

there was no special occasion but hey, couldn’t he just spoil his s/o?

by the time you came home, the puppy was asleep but away from your line of vision

your boyfriend kissed you hello and took your belongings

he could see how exhausted you were and part of him was glad that the puppy wasn’t jumping around right now

hopefully you could play with it when you had more energy

“you hungry y/n?”

“no just come here please” you made grabby hands at him and he laid on the couch with you

he ran his fingers through your hair and gave you a small peck on both your eyelids

you were about to fall asleep when you heard small, high pitched barks and the sound of paws on a hardwood floor

sitting up, you looked straight in the face of your new puppy

“toshi...?”

“that’s for you babe. I know you’ve been stressed out recently so I thought it would help”

“but I thought we agreed to get a cat?”

“you wanted to get a cat for me. But I know you like dogs better babe”

“aww” you pulled him into a hug and he kissed the top of your head

the puppy, wanting to be included, jumping in between you two and snuggled his way in

as it got settled on your lap, you gave your boyfriend a thank you kiss

sero hanta

sero’s birthday was coming up and you had no idea what to get him

you couldn’t think of anything your boyfriend had said he wanted recently

until you guys were talking about his boss’s anniversary with his wife and how she got him a golden retriever

a lightbulb binged in ur head

that’s what you’d get him

trying to not reveal your plans, you asked him what kind of dog he’d want

he was open to anything really

so you went straight to the adoption center the next day and you decided to find one you’d like too because your boyfriend was ok with any kind

after hours of playing with each dog, you settled on a small puppy

it had been sleeping on your lap the entire time until you brought out snacks the staff gave

it woke up immediately and obeyed when you told it to “sit” and “jump”

driving back home, you were satisfied and picked up a cake for the celebration tomorrow

you decided to just give the puppy early and have the cake on his actual birthday

when sero came home, he called out for you, receiving no response

thinking that you must be busy, he went into the kitchen to feed his stomach

turning around with a sandwich in his mouth, you popped up from the corner and held the puppy up, a cute ribbon tied to its neck

“tadaaa”

he looked at you and dropped his sandwich, his face lighting up

he pumped his fists in the air and yelled “hell yea we got a puppy!”

you let him scoop it from your arms and it’s snuggling up to him immediately, licking the remainders of his sandwich from the corner of his mouth

picking up the sandwich your boyfriend dropped, you set up dinner while listening to the joyful sounds of your boyfriend playing with his new puppy

bnha masterlist

[merry-kuroo]

Top 10 2020 Anime

Hello everyone! Its the last day of 2020, and like with every year, here is my top 10 anime list. This list covers anime that aired this year only :) Hopefully you can use this list as a recommendation for something to watch. But tbh this list is for me to remember which wonderful anime made my year a little brighter :D I apologize for any typos lol.

1.) Tower of God

AHHH! I love Tower of God so much!! So, I almost dropped it at episode 1 because I was really confused. But I stuck with it and I’m glad I did. Tower of God gave me HxH vibes, but it was still different enough where I didn’t need to compare the two. The opening and ending by Stray Kids was amazing too.

Because I loved Tower of God so much, I made a Webtoon account and ever since then I’ve been hooked on Webtoons. I’m really glad they partnered with Crunchyroll to bring us this anime!

I read the TOG Webtoon and it explained things a lot better. I highly recommend going to read it after watching the anime!

I hope there is a season 2, but I won’t get my hopes up :( I’m sure this anime was just advertisement for the comic.

So, yeah, go check out Tower of God <3

2.) Great Pretender

WIT Studio has done it again. First with Attack on Titan, then Seraph of the End. They keep bringing me my favorite animes.

I love animes that feature a found family, and cons. Great Pretender brought all of that and more. Great characters, jokes, missions, and music. The music in Great Pretender is fantastic (I mean the ending song is a Queen song!)

I still stand by my opinion that Part 1 was better. I wasn’t a huge fan of season 2 and the ending as well. I think they dropped the ball. But I still won’t let that stop me from recommending it to you! It was still fun to watch :D

I’m going to miss Team Confidence <3

3.) Weathering With You

So, I have been a fan of Makoto Shinkai’s movies for a long time (5 Centimeters Per Second will always have a special place in my heart). So, when I saw that Weathering With You was coming to the movie theater, I immediately purchased a ticket. It was such a surreal experience watching in the theaters.

This was the last movie I saw in theaters before...you know >.> I’m glad this movie was my last too. It makes it even more special.

Everyone, please go see this movie. It’s beautiful. It will make you laugh and cry. I left the theater with tears in my eyes. It was such a amazing experience. I’m patiently waiting for his next movie!

4.) Kaguya Sama: Love is War Season 2

My favorite rom-com returned with a season 2. The opening is still stuck in my head. It always will be lol.

Anyway, this season was not only hilarious, but there was development between Kaguya and Miyuki <3

Miko IIno was also a interesting character. She is so different from everyone else, so I’m excited to see how being on the student council will change her. Maybe she and Ishigami will start to get long lol.

Another thing that made this season special was Ishigami’s backstory, and how Miyuki saved him. I just really love their bromance, okay?

Please go check out Kaguya Sama: Love is War if you haven’t! It’s funny and heart warming <3

5.) Jujutsu Kaisen

I’ve been hyped for this anime for like a year! When it was announced last November, I was like AFJAIOFJAOGLJMAPOGJ

I love the manga, and the adaption is doing a fantastic job so far. I definitely ended up loving Sukuna more due to the anime adaption though lmaooo.

Not a lot to say here except, go watch Jujutsu Kaisen <3 and read the manga!

6.) Moriarty the Patriot

I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this anime or not. I only started watching it because people said Sebastian Moran was Daddy! Kuroo lmaooo

But I have to say...I do like that Albert was like “Oh yes lets bring William and Albert into our home” then William was like “Haha hey Albert do you hate the upper class and nobility too? You wanna murder your brother and parents, burn down the house, and reform society?” And Albert is like “DON’T MIND IF I DO!” (The Moriarty brothers are wild af, my God.)

I liked each individual case, and it got even more intense when Sherlock and John were introduced. Super excited for season 2!

The opening and ending songs are also fantastic. Go give them a listen!

7.) Digimon Adventure 2020/Digimon Adventure Tri/Last Evolution Kizuna

Tfw you go to buy tickets Digimon Last Evolution Kizuna, but all the movie theaters shut down :(

ANYWAY

I was super hyped when Last Evolution Kizuna was announced, and then the reboot of the 1999 anime. I finished up Digimon Adventure Tri...which could’ve been better tbh. I only liked the first three movies, so at least I got some good content out of them lol.

I like the new spin on the new Digimon anime, and I’m excited to see what they’ll do next. I kinda want a reboot of 02 Digimon...and Digimon Tamers and Frontier, but that may be pushing it lmao.

Last Evolution Kizuna was absolutely phenomenal. It was the perfect 20th anniversary movie :)

8.) Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun

Another show I started at the beginning of the year! I read the manga in 2019, and I was happy to hear it was getting a anime adaption! I enjoyed this series a lot, and I really want there to be a second season. I feel like some stuff was left out. But the anime might have been created just to promote the manga.

The opening song, the different wonders of the school, and the art style quickly made this one of my favorites!

9.) Idolish7 Second Beat

Idolish7 is vastly underrated. It’s more than just pretty guys singing and dancing. Every character in the show has gone through their own hardships, and all the characters are fleshed out well.

The second season did not disappoint. It still served me with a good dose of angst, drama, and comedy.

And season 3 was announced!!! I wasn’t expecting that, so that surprise made me really happy <3.

I was really sad when Idolish7 stopped airing back in the spring, but I’m glad they were able to finish up the season this year :D

10.) Haikyuu!! To the Top

Alright, so my excitement deflated when Part 1 aired back in January. I hated the new art style and while Part 1 did have some good character development moments, I was really bored :/

The OVAs were really good though >.> I love Nekoma and Fukrodani so those were fun to watch.

Part 2 was a 100 times better. I accepted the fact that the art style wasn’t going to change and we wouldn’t have those cute breaks where the volleyball players would serve the ball and hit the water bottle. Once I got over that, I found myself enjoying part 2.

The two Nekoma episodes,the episodes focusing on the Miya Twins and Kita were my personal favorites. But overall, Karasuno vs. Inarizaki was fantastic and I enjoyed it a lot!

I need season 5 to be announced already!!!!!!! PLEASE!!!

[misscorn]

Day 3

Winter/Rings

This one is extra late oops lol @sihjrweek THIS ALSO TOOK ENTIRELY TOO LONG TO WRITE SO ITS NOT PROOFREAD SO IF U SEE A MISTAKE NO U DIDNT

***

"Anchan's birthday is in a week." Onodera Youko said, currently sitting at the dinner table across from her son, her husband absent.

Ritsu nodded as he pushed his food around on his plate. He was fully aware that March 14th, An's birthday, was fast approaching, but not for the reasons his mother was hoping. No, it was because March 14th was also White Day. Ritsu was both severely stressed and excited about it.

Ritsu planned on going on an aquarium date with his Senpai after school, thinking it'd be a little more special than their typical bookstore-pandaway combo. Not that Ritsu disliked this pattern at all! He just wanted to do something different for the holiday.

Then, they'd go back to Ritsu's house where the brunette would prepare dinner. His parents weren't going to be home since his dad always took his mother on a trip for White Day from the 14th to the 17th, so he figured it was the perfect time to finally invite Saga Senpai to his house! He had already started practicing cooking and baking the day after Valentine's Day. He figured he'd need as much practice as he could get, seeing as he had never done either of them before, but he was definitely improving!

Ritsu intended on making white chocolate chip cookies as a gift. Although his Senpai didn't particularly like sweets, it was tradition to give something white. So, he'd give the cookies in addition to some bitter dark chocolates that Saga was more likely to enjoy. Additionally, he'd give a white rose, since his Senpai had given him a red one and he thought it would be a sweet gesture to mirror. And...perhaps the most embarrassing and overkill gift idea of all: a jar full of paper origami stars that, when unfolded, have reasons he loves Saga written on them. His Senpai had asked him once before why he loved him and Ritsu simply didn't have the time or the courage to say all the reasons to his face, but he could definitely write them down!

"What do you plan on doing for her birthday?" Youko asked, interrupting Ritsu's thoughts about his string of plans.

"Oh, well, since it lands on a school day we were going to hangout over the weekend instead." Ritsu said. "But, I'm not really sure what to get her..." He admitted.

"Why don't you just spend time with her after school? It's not as special if you celebrate after her birthday's already passed. Plus, it's White Day. She did give you something on Valentine's day, didn't she?" Youko said. She recalled Ritsu coming home on Valentine's day, giddy and flushed as he held tupperware full of homemade chocolates. An was really such a sweet girl, going through the trouble of making the chocolates herself.

Ritsu felt a swirl of dread start to form in his stomach, recognizing his mother's tone. "Yes, but mother-"

"Its the polite and gentlemanly thing to do. Imagine; not spending White Day with your fiancée and to make matters worse, blowing off her birthday as well!" Youko said.

"Mother-"

"And as for what you can get her, I have a great idea." Youko smiled brightly. "Promise rings! Such a cute and meaningful gift, she'd love it." Youko continued.

"Anchan and I aren't a couple!" Ritsu did not mean to raise his voice, but his frustrations of being talked over got the best of him.

Youko's cheerful demeanor left her. "Don't be ridiculous, Ritsu. You and Anchan are a perfect match. She is a lovely, intelligent, kind girl from a fine background and she undoubtedly adores you. What more could you ask for?"

"Mother, I..." Ritsu trailed off and frowned. "I just-I don't like her that way!"

"You won't even give it a chance! Who could possibly be a better fit for you than Anchan?"

"I'm only fifteen, why do we have to start talking about marriage now?" Ritsu desperately wished his mother would let this go, but his mother was just as stubborn as he was.

"Because your future is important and should matter to you, Ritsu." Youko said. "You are spending White Day with Anchan and that's final. If you'd like, I can help you pick out a pair of promise rings." She offered, the happy tilt in her voice returning as she tried to force the conversation back on track.

Ritsu just mumbled something in assent in order to stop this awful conversation, fully intending on avoiding that little ring shopping trip. Let his mother believe that he would spend White Day with Anchan. What she didn't know wouldn't hurt her.

Ritsu tried to act normal around his Senpai for the rest of the week, (well, his version of normal, which was already a certain level of nervousness) but he could hardly contain himself.

"You're being weird." Saga commented on March 12th. Exactly 1 day, 8 hours, 14 minutes and 25 seconds before 12 A.M. on White Day. Yes, Ritsu was counting.

"S-S-Sorry, I just-um-I-I had something I wanted to ask you." Okay, this was it, deep breaths Onodera, deep breaths. "I was wondering if you w-wanted to...spendWhiteDaywithme?" Ritsu squeezed his eyes shut tight as he waited for an answer.

"...What the hell?"

Well, that wasn't a good sign.

"I thought we were already spending White Day together." Saga said. "Or did you forget what you said?"

"N-n-no, of course not, the opposite actually, I've been thinking about White Day nonstop and what I should do, what would be a fun date, what sort of presents I should get you-"

Saga glanced around the library to make sure they were alone as Ritsu rambled before he cut him off with a gentle kiss.

Ritsu blinked a few times, dazed and completely embarrassed, but undeniably happy.

"So, tell me these ideas you've been thinking about 'nonstop'." Saga echoed.

"Well, I want some of it to be a surprise." Ritsu said after he managed to get his thoughts back in order. "But I thought it'd be fun if after school we went to an aquarium together and then...my house for dinner."

"Your house?" Saga was surprised to say the least, his normally stoic face for once betraying him.

"U-Unless that's not okay?" Ritsu said, automatically assuming the worst, as he typically did. "We don't have to go to my house, we can do something else-"

"No, you can't take back the offer now. I'm coming to your house." Saga said quickly. He was endlessly curious about Ritsu's home and more specifically Ritsu's room, so he'd be damned if he let this opportunity slip by him.

Ritsu smiled a little and nodded before he became shy. "And um...my parents won't be home...s-so..."

"Ahhhhh, I see. Who knew you were such a pervert?" Saga teased, but his straight face and serious tone gave no hint to his playfulness.

If it were possible for humans to combust into flames on the spot, Ritsu would have done so. The younger teen shook his head vehemently as he made frantic and wild hand gestures. "No! I-I didn't mean it like-I'm not-!"

"I was just messing with you." Saga smirked a little bit. Normally he didn't really joke around like this, but Ritsu's reactions were priceless. Even in the beginning of their relationship Saga would never say something like that, but Ritsu managed to get deeper and deeper into his heart every day and break down more and more walls.

Ritsu's whole face was red, including the very tips of his ears. He looked away out of embarrassment, not knowing what to say.

Chu

Ritsu swore his body somehow heated up even more after Saga leaned forward to press a kiss on the back of his head.

"I'm looking forward to White Day. It'll be fun." Saga said. "I'm expecting to be impressed."

"Y-You're teasing me again." Ritsu complained.

'It's not my fault you make it so easy.' Saga thought.

White Day was sure to be fun this year and hopefully for many years to come.

...Or maybe not.

The day had started off fine, completely normal in fact. When Ritsu woke up his parents were already gone. They always left early in the morning.

Ritsu was completely exhausted. He had stayed up all night, excited and anxious about White Day, but Ritsu's exhaustion caused him to miss the small box and a note left for him in the kitchen.

It was such an innocent item with good intentions behind it.

It was a thoughtful gift that would surely be cherished.

It was going to ruin everything.

Ritsu had already made the cookies last night and had the dark chocolate, keeping both of them stored in his kitchen. He'd also purchased a white rose the previous day, telling his mother it was for Anchan when she asked about it. It probably didn't help to feed into the insane fantasy his mother had, but he didn't have any other excuses. The jar of stars was also hidden in his room underneath his bed. He'd spent at least 4 or 5 days making them all. He planned on giving Saga these gifts in privacy later today.

As the day went on, Ritsu started to think that maybe it would have been better for him just to cut class since he wasn't able to focus at ALL! An agonizing 7 hours later and he was released from his class, hurrying out front where he and Saga had agreed to meet after school.

Ritsu beat the older teen to the entrance, waiting for him as patiently as he could, unable to contain his bright smile once he saw him

'Damn it, why does he have to smile at me like that? I don't know if I'm going to survive today.' Saga thought as he walked over. "Hey."

"Hi, Senpai! H-Happy White Day..." Ritsu said, the latter half coming out a little quieter so no passing students would hear.

"No gift?" Saga didn't actually care about a present, excited to just spend the afternoon with Ritsu, but he couldn't pass the opportunity to mess with him.

"S-Senpai, don't tease me!" Ritsu complained with a pout. Shit, that expression wasn't good for Saga's heart. "They're at my house. But come on, let's go!" Ritsu's excitement returned to him quickly as he set off. Saga followed.

The aquarium was a little busy, so it didn't give Saga many opportunities to sneak attack Ritsu with PDA, but he still enjoyed himself. Of course, he watched Ritsu more than he watched the actual animals, but it was still a good choice for a date spot.

When they finally did have a moment alone, Saga reached out, gently taking Ritsu's hand into his. "Thanks for bringing me here."

Ritsu blushed, but felt electrified by the touch. "Of course, Senpai. I'm glad you're having fun." He smiled.

Saga couldn't deny he was enjoying himself, but what he was REALLY looking forward to was finally being in Ritsu's house! He had his own preconceived notions about Ritsu and how he lived, so he was curious about how right or wrong he was. And the hormonal teenager in him wanted to do it in Ritsu's bed.

But, when they finally left the aquarium and arrived at Ritsu's home, Saga wished that he had jumped into a damn fish tank instead.

Sitting on his Kouhai's porch was the girl who had given Ritsu chocolate on Valentine's day.

"Richan!" She stood when spotting them, looking angry. "Where have you been?" She asked, putting her hands on her hips.

"A-Anchan? What are you doing here?" Ritsu asked, genuinely confused.

"Didn't your mother talk to you? She called my mother and set up for us to spend the day together! For my birthday! We were supposed to meet after school, but you never showed so I came here, but you obviously weren't home." She frowned and crossed her arms.

"No! My mother didn't tell me anything about this." Ritsu said, going up to the front door and taking out his house key to unlock it.

Saga cleared his throat.

"Oh-uh-Anchan, this is Saga Masamune, Saga Senpai, this is Kohinata An." Ritsu hastily introduced them. Crap, this was bad, this was so bad!

"I think I recognize you...you and Richan hang out together at the library, right?" An said.

"Hai." Saga responded blandly.

"Well, it's nice to meet you." An said politely.

"Same." Saga looked away from her and An decided to ignore his rudely aloof nature. A friend of Richan's was a friend of hers, after all.

"Um, well, come in I guess..." Ritsu said before going inside, Anchan following.

What. The. Fuck. This girl already had her chance on Valentine's Day and, according to Ritsu, was rejected. Now she was going to interrupt White Day too? Saga was absolutely pissed, though he tried not to let it show as he walked inside.

"Um, I was going to make dinner, if you want to sit in the living room and relax..." Ritsu said awkwardly. He was with his two favorite people, so this shouldn't have been as bad as it was, but oh boy was it terrible.

"I'll help!" An offered with a smile.

Ritsu tried to insist that it was okay and that she was a guest and that she didn't have to, but An ignored him and marched into the kitchen. Ritsu couldn't do much other than shoot Saga an apologetic look before following her. Saga decided to trail behind him, not wanting the girl to have even a moment of alone time with HIS boyfriend.

"Hey, Richan, what's this?" An said, regarding the box on the table.

"Oh, I don't know. I guess my parents left it this morning before they left." Ritsu picked up the note and started to read it. His mother detailed the plans she had set up for An and Ritsu today in the note and also explained that inside the box was...

"Rings? Are these what I think they are Richan?" An asked after opening the box, her curiosity having gotten the better of her. She plucked the note out of Ritsu's hands, the boy frozen in terror as he realized what was happening. "They are! Promise rings! I'll have to thank your mother for getting them for us, they're so cute! Let's put them on!" An beamed.

SNAP

Saga turned and stormed out of the kitchen, Ritsu breaking out of his shock when he heard the front door open and slam shut.

Ritsu quickly ran after Saga, ignoring An's concern as she followed him out. "Senpai, wait!" He called after him, somehow managing to catch up.

"What the fuck, Ritsu?!" Saga whipped around to face him. Oh God, Ritsu had never seen him so angry. "You told me she was just a friend, that you rejected her!"

"She is! I did!" Ritsu insisted. "She's just a friend!"

"Then why the hell is your mom buying the two of you fucking promise rings?! On fucking White Day too!"

Ritsu started to tear up, but he couldn't cry. He needed to explain everything before he lost the person he loved. If he started crying then he wouldn't be able to get a word out.

"W-We're in an arranged marriage." He admitted, feeling so ashamed for not telling his Senpai the truth earlier. "But I don't like An like that! Its a fantasy created by our parents and I've told my mother over and over again that I won't go through with it! A-An and I are not a couple and we're not getting married!" Ritsu insisted.

'Please, please, please believe me, he has to believe me, please.' Ritsu silently begged.

Saga looked between Ritsu and An, who was standing on the porch. He clenched his jaw, shaking his head and refusing to meet Ritsu's eyes. "Looks like you're the only one who thinks that way." He turned and walked off again, Ritsu staring helplessly as he did. The image of his Senpai blurred with tears before they finally started to fall.

[the-enzyme]

Part of my June toy haul arrived. From left to right: Banpresto Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Q posket  Giyu Tomioka, B Sepia Color Ver. Prize Figure; GoodSmile Nendoroid InuYasha Sesshomaru Figure; GoodSmile Nendoroid Doll Animal Hand Parts Black Set; PuriPla DECO AIR NARUTO Shippuden Sasuke Uchiha Plastic Model Kit.

Second image is a bunch of clear files (& other stuff) I got all combined to ship together, but some released on May and some on June. From top left to bottom row: Arma Bianca Persona 5 Protagonist Ani-Art Clear File vol.2 x2; Arma Bianca Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei Visitor Arc Tatsuya Shiba Ani-Art Clear File; Movic The World Ends with You The Animation Clear File Key Visual; Arma Bianca Attack on Titan New Illustration Eren Wearing Muffler ver. Clear File;  Bell House Action Series Tin Badge & Acrylic Keychain Attack on Titan Eren Yeager;  Arma Bianca Attack on Titan New Illustration Eren Wearing Muffler ver. Sticker.

I’m not sure why I got two of the P5 Joker/Protagonist clear files. I’m sure it’s because my brain (doesn’t) work in mysterious ways. That’s one of the reasons why I started to take photos of my hauls; I sometimes forget which “sold-out” prize figures I’ve already purchased. And apparently, now, I also forget when I have already pre-ordered clear files! Lol!

The rest of my June toy haul was shipped via unregistered airmail, so I have no idea when it will get here. I paid DHL for the shipment in the 1st image, because it was only $3 USD more than the Airmail option with no tracking, so I went with the tracking. I would hate to for something to happen to my Sesshomaru, it’s the first Japanese figure I own of him. I got lucky and got one of the Toynami smaller Figueres in a local toy shop a million years ago, but the quality and accuracy leave a lot to be desired. Though now, second market they go for an eye off the face, I wish I could have gotten one of larger ones at retail. Oh well, at least now were getting Japanese ones! 

I got the Nendo cat hand set for once I unbox my Sasuke Nendo, and sew him a cat outfit. I missed out on the official GoodSmile Nendoroid black/grey one, because I always have a million other stuff to pay for at the same time. Hopefully, they’ll re-release it, so I won’t have to make one myself.  The Sasuke plastic plane kit is so tiny! I knew it was going to be small, but it’s so much smaller than I thought. I wasn’t planning on building it, because the packaging is so cute, and it is easy to see all the parts, and I don’t feel I need to build it. However, now I’m tempted to get a second one to build, and give to my 1:6 Alpha toys grown-up Sasuke, as a toy plane (because I am silly that way)... I got the two versions of Giyu Tomioka Q Posket figure, but the other one is shipping with my Chitocerium XCIX-albere & C-efer model kit, via unregistered mail, as I mentioned above, so I dion’t know when they’ll get here. Overall, I’m very happy with all these, but definitely have to limit my clear file purchases... these were a bit of a slap on the face, once payment was requested. A single one seems like super inexpensive, but that’s why they are dangerous! (: