#snowboarding for beginners

[techdriveplay]

Achieving Zen in Snowboarding

In the world of winter sports, snowboarding stands out as a vibrant blend of adrenaline, freedom, and creativity. Yet, beyond the exhilarating jumps and sharp turns lies a deeper, more introspective layer to this beloved sport: achieving Zen in snowboarding. This concept transcends the physical aspects of snowboarding, inviting riders into a state of profound mindfulness and connection with the…

[aryansquibbles]

[messyjess88]

Idk what I’m doing but gosh it’s fun

[adventuregeartech]

Essential Accessories for Mountain Biking: Gear Up for Your Ride

Are you an adventure outdoor enthusiast looking to elevate your mountain biking experience? Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just getting started, having the right mountain bike accessories can make all the difference. From safety gear to gadgets that enhance performance, these accessories are essential to enjoy your ride while staying prepared for any situation fully. 

This guide will explore the must-have mountain bike accessories every rider should consider. Whether planning a leisurely trail ride or tackling rugged terrain, these items will ensure you’re equipped for whatever lies ahead. Let’s dive into the essentials that will boost your confidence on the trails and enhance your overall biking experience.

Helmets: Your First Line of Defense

Regarding mountain biking, safety should always be a top priority. The most critical gear you can invest in is a high-quality helmet. But not just any helmet will do; you need one specifically designed for mountain biking.

Why a Mountain Bike Helmet?

Mountain bike helmets differ from road bike helmets in a few key ways. They offer more coverage, particularly at the back of the head, which is crucial when navigating rough trails. These helmets also have better ventilation and are often equipped with visors to protect your eyes from the sun, rain, or mud.

Wearing a helmet is non-negotiable. It’s not just about following the rules but protecting your head from serious injuries. Look for helmets with MIPS (Multi-directional Impact Protection System) technology, which provides extra protection against rotational forces during a fall, giving you a sense of security on the trails.

Top Helmet Brands for Mountain Bikers

Bell: Known for its rugged construction and advanced safety features, Bell helmets are a favorite among mountain bikers. 

Giro: Combining style with functionality, Giro offers helmets that are lightweight yet sturdy, perfect for long rides.

POC: POC helmets are renowned for their innovative designs and safety features, making them a top choice for serious riders.

Protective Gear: Armor Up for the Adventure

In addition to a helmet, several other pieces of protective gear can help prevent injuries while mountain biking. Each piece of gear serves a specific purpose, ensuring you’re covered from head to toe.

Body Armor and Pads

Mountain biking can be unpredictable, and falls are inevitable, especially when pushing your limits on challenging trails. This is where body armor comes in. Elbow pads, knee pads, and chest protectors can significantly reduce the impact of a fall and help you avoid scrapes, bruises, or more severe injuries.

Knee and Elbow Pads: These pads should be lightweight, breathable, and comfortable so they don’t hinder your movement. Brands like Fox Racing and G-Form offer excellent options.

Chest Protectors: For those tackling particularly rough trails, a chest protector can shield you from hard impacts, especially in areas with lots of rocks or roots.

Gloves and Eyewear

Remember to consider the importance of gloves and eyewear. Mountain bike accessories like these enhance your comfort, grip, and visibility.

Gloves: Look for gloves with padded palms to absorb shock and reduce hand fatigue. Full-finger gloves are preferred for better protection.

Eyewear: Goggles or sunglasses with interchangeable lenses are ideal. They protect your eyes from dust, debris, and harmful UV rays while allowing you to adapt to varying light conditions.

Hydration Systems: Stay Fueled and Hydrated

Long rides on challenging trails can quickly deplete your energy reserves. Staying hydrated is crucial; carrying enough water is essential for maintaining performance and avoiding dehydration.

Hydration Packs vs. Water Bottles

Regarding hydration, you have two main options: hydration packs or water bottles. Both have pros and cons, and the choice often depends on the length and intensity of your ride.

Hydration Packs: These are backpacks equipped with a bladder that holds a significant amount of water (usually 2-3 liters). They’re perfect for long rides, allowing you to drink hands-free via a tube. Brands like CamelBak and Osprey are well-known for their durable and comfortable hydration packs.

Water Bottles: For shorter rides, a water bottle may be sufficient. Look for bottles with easy-to-use lids that can be operated with one hand while riding. Insulated bottles can also keep your water cool during hot rides.

Nutrition on the Go

In addition to staying hydrated, it’s important to keep your energy levels up. Energy bars, gels, and trail mix are easy to carry and can provide a quick boost during your ride. Consider stashing a few snacks in your hydration pack or bike-mounted bag.

Tools and Repair Kits: Be Your Mechanic

When you’re out on the trails, the last thing you want is to be stranded due to a mechanical issue. Carrying the right tools and repair kits can save you from a long walk back to your car or, worse, being stuck in the middle of nowhere.

Essential Tools to Carry

Every mountain biker should have a basic tool kit with key items. These tools can help you make quick adjustments or repairs, ensuring you can continue your ride. 

Multi-Tool: A good multi-tool should include a variety of Allen wrenches, a chain breaker, screwdrivers, and other essential tools. Brands like Crankbrothers offer compact and durable options that are easy to carry. 

Tire Repair Kit: Flat tires are one of the most common issues on the trail. Carry a patch kit, tire levers, and a mini pump or CO2 inflator to fix flats quickly.

Spare Parts and Extras

In addition to tools, it’s wise to carry a few spare parts. A spare tube, extra chain links, and even a derailleur hanger can be lifesavers when you’re miles away from the nearest bike shop, giving you reassurance and confidence in your preparedness.

Tubes: Always carry at least one spare tube that fits your tire size. Even if you have tubeless tires, a spare tube can be a quick fix if you can’t repair a puncture.

Derailleur Hanger: These small, inexpensive parts are prone to bending or breaking but are crucial for your bike’s shifting performance. A spare derailleur hanger is easy to carry and can save your ride.

Lights and Visibility: Brighten Up Your Ride

Whether you’re riding at dawn, dusk, or during the night, having proper lighting is essential for your safety. Lights not only help you see but also ensure that you’re visible to others on the trail.

Front and Rear Lights

Your bike should be equipped with both front and rear lights. The front light illuminates the trail ahead, while the rear light ensures that other riders or vehicles can see you from behind. 

Front Lights: Look for powerful LED lights with multiple brightness settings. Rechargeable lights are more convenient and eco-friendly. Brands like Lezyne and NiteRider offer excellent options with long battery life and high lumens. 

Rear Lights: Rear lights are typically smaller and less powerful than front lights, but they are just as important. Flashing modes can help increase your visibility, especially in low-light conditions.

Reflective Gear

In addition to lights, consider wearing reflective gear or adding reflective tape to your bike. Reflective clothing, stickers, and ankle bands can make a huge difference in your visibility to others.

GPS and Navigation: Never Lose Your Way

A reliable GPS or navigation system can prevent you from getting lost when exploring new trails or venturing into remote areas. Modern GPS devices offer more than just directions; they provide valuable data on your ride, such as distance, speed, and elevation.

GPS Devices for Mountain Bikers

There are several GPS devices designed specifically for mountain biking. These devices are rugged and waterproof, often with preloaded trail maps. 

Garmin Edge Series: Garmin is a leader in GPS technology, and its Edge series is popular among mountain bikers. These devices offer detailed maps, turn-by-turn navigation, and the ability to track your performance metrics. 

Wahoo ELEMNT: Another great option, the Wahoo ELEMNT series offers easy-to-read displays, customizable data screens, and seamless integration with other cycling apps.

Smartphone Apps

If you prefer to use your smartphone for navigation, several apps are designed for mountain biking. Apps like Trailforks and Komoot offer detailed trail maps, user reviews, and offline navigation, making them excellent tools for planning and tracking your rides.

Conclusion

Mountain biking is an exhilarating sport that combines the thrill of adventure with the beauty of the great outdoors. By equipping yourself with the right mountain bike accessories, you can enhance your riding experience and stay prepared for anything that comes your way. From helmets and protective gear to hydration systems and GPS devices, these essentials are designed to keep you safe, comfortable, and confident on the trails.

So, whether you’re an adventure outdoor enthusiast or a beginner just starting, remember to gear up with the best accessories. With the right equipment, you can focus on enjoying the ride and exploring new trails. Happy riding! For more mountain bike accessories and gear recommendations, visit Adventure Gear Tech.

[svelish]

reader is a pro snowboarder dating billie and she teaches billie how to snowboard and someone films it and the media see how inlove they are

˚₊۶ৎ˙⋆

Billie had never been on a snowboard before, and if she was being honest, she was a little terrified. But when you, her girlfriend, had suggested spending the weekend in Aspen, she couldn’t say no. You had promised to teach her, swearing that she’d have fun—“once you get over the falling part,” you had added with a teasing grin.

Now, standing at the top of a beginner’s slope, bundled up in a thick black jacket, her beanie pulled low over her forehead, Billie wasn’t sure if this had been such a great idea after all. Her gloved hands clung to your arms, her knees slightly bent as she wobbled on the board.

“You got this, baby,” you reassured her, standing close, hands lightly gripping her waist to steady her. “Just trust the board and your balance.”

Billie huffed, shooting you a glare, but the effect was ruined by the nervous wobble in her stance. “Trust the board? The board wants me dead.”

You bit back a laugh, tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear before adjusting her stance. “No, the board wants you to chill out and go with the flow.” You stepped back slightly, testing if she could hold herself up, and when she managed, a proud smile spread across your face. “There you go! Look at you.”

Billie groaned. “I hate this already.”

“No, you don’t,” you said with a knowing grin. “Because I’m right here with you.”

She sighed dramatically but couldn’t stop the small smile forming on her lips. “Fine. But if I fall, you’re carrying me down.”

“Deal.”

A few fans had already noticed the two of you on the slope, a few pulling out their phones, but Billie was too focused on not face-planting to care. You guided her step by step, teaching her how to shift her weight, how to turn slowly, and how to stop without panicking. The first few attempts were rough—she fell multiple times, the snow cushioning her but still making her yelp in frustration. But every time, you were right there, offering your hand, pulling her up, brushing snow from her jacket, and pressing a kiss to her cheek to soften the blow of defeat.

“You’re doing amazing,” you told her after she managed a smooth glide of a few feet without falling.

She grinned, proud of herself. “I’m basically a pro now.”

“Oh, for sure. Olympics next year.”

Billie laughed, and for a moment, she forgot about her nerves. She reached for you, gripping your jacket, and before you knew it, she had tugged you forward into a kiss—quick but warm, her lips cold from the mountain air, but her smile against yours making your heart race.

That was the moment someone caught on camera.

The video, posted later that evening by a passing fan, went viral within hours. It showed you laughing as Billie nearly toppled over, catching her before she could hit the ground. It showed the way your hands naturally gravitated toward each other, how you guided her, how she looked at you with absolute trust despite her complaints. And most of all, it captured the way she pulled you into that kiss, the snowflakes drifting around you like something out of a romance movie.

The media went wild. Fans gushed over how in love the two of you looked, how patient you were with her, how Billie had never looked so happy.

And when Billie saw the clip later that night, curled up against you by the fireplace in your shared cabin, she simply smirked. “Guess they caught us, huh?”

You kissed her forehead, arms wrapped around her as she nuzzled into your side. “Yeah,” you murmured. “But I don’t mind.”

She tilted her head up to look at you, her green eyes filled with something soft, something that made your chest tighten. “Me neither.”

And with that, she kissed you again, her lips warm despite the winter air outside, despite the snow still melting in her hair.

If this was what snowboarding lessons with you felt like, maybe she didn’t hate it after all.

[veephoenix]

with the waves — noah & lola meet on a surf trip to costa rica. drawn together by the ocean and their love for surfing and traveling, they start a slow, sensual romance that becomes a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth.

mini series ✨ | part one: riptide | words: 500ish | tags: strangers-to-lovers, fast-paced, summer romance, fluff, eventual sexual content

↝ PART ONE: RIPTIDE

They met in Costa Rica at the end of summer, while they were surfing.

Both were on vacation, though for Lola it wasn’t the first time. She’d been coming to that same stretch of beach in the country with her friends for three years now, always looking forward to the freedom, the waves, the sunburnt shoulders and the long salty days that bled into humid, bonfire-lit nights, after spending most of the year saving, planning, and counting down the weeks until she could return. 

Lola had been surfing since she was a kid. But over time, she’d grew tired of the same locations, the same crowds, the same rhythm. That’s why she started traveling. It became her way of breaking routine, and it provided her with a thrill that blended discovering new places, cultures, and languages while doing one of the things she loved the most. 

Noah, on the other hand, was in Costa Rica for the first time. He was newer to surfing, having picked it up a couple of years earlier in back home in California. His background was more pavement and powder—skating, snowboarding… Fast downhill runs, and the kind of adrenaline you could control with muscle memory. Surfing, though, was wavier. Slower. Wiser. 

He didn’t know yet.

This summer, one of his friends suggested a surf trip south, and after checking his bank account, Noah said yes without a second doubt. 

It was on the fourth day that they met.

They’d both been in the water, each with their own group, not more than fifty feet apart, bobbing between sets, focused on their lines, their footing, the next wave. It had been one of those long, perfect days with a cloudless sky, a warm breeze, and a consistent swell. They’d been surfing since morning, and by midafternoon, their skins were sun-bronzed and salty, their muscles sore but buzzing. 

That’s when Lola and her friends began paddling back toward the shore. 

She noticed it first, the change. There was a shift in the light, the water clouded. There was a subtle tension in the pull of the tide. Having spent so many years surfing, it was instinctual, almost subconscious. Years of surfing had taught her how to read the ocean. 

Her group gathered their boards and began wading out. But Noah’s crew stayed in, still laughing, still chasing the waves. 

One of Lola’s friends cupped her hands around her mouth and shouted toward them. 

“Hey! Get out of the water!”

Heads turned. There was confusion. Mild annoyance. Some of the guys exchanged glances, unsure. One of the girls muttered the word “shark”, and Lola nearly laughed out loud. 

“Not that!” Lola’s friend continued yelling, her board at her feet. She walked to the shore, where the water lapped at her ankles. “The current’s shifting and the water’s going murky! It’s gonna get rough! Riptides, closeouts! You don’t want to be stuck when the swell turns!”

That got their attention. From the looks on their faces, Lola could tell they hadn’t read the signs. Perhaps didn’t know how to. One of the guys in her group was shaking his head. Noah’s group didn’t look like beginners exactly, but maybe they were not experts at reading the water yet, either. That kind of awareness was essential for a surfer, though. 

They had time to learn, Lola thought. Just like she had. 

↠ part two: sundazed

Author's note: 🌅 I couldn't get this out of my head and I literally wrote like 4k in one day. Reading summer romance books and missing my boyfriend who's currently on the other side of the world can make you go on a writing spree, I guess. Last year I wrote the mermaid fic and this year I suppose I'm here with surfer!noah. This series will have about 10 parts, give or take, more or less of the same length as this first part. Updates every one or two days, as I've already got a lot of it written. Reblogs and comments are very much appreciated 💕 Let me know what you think if you give this a chance :)

[fluffypinkhedgehog]

❀⊱A Beautiful View⊰❀ ⤷Sonic the Hedgehog | sfw, fluff, one-shot, request

summary: Sonic takes you snowboarding for the first time.

warnings: None! All Fluff!

a/n: Sorry for the delay! Depression hit hard lol. I made this one first person because I was wanting to try something, hope you like it!

I sit on the seat of the ski lift, my feet dangling over a good 100ft drop. I’m shivering, though not from the cold. From the absolute fear that I have for my life. I absolutely, positively, hate heights. Sonic sits next to me, his elbow propped up on an arm rest as he stares at me, a teasing smile on his face. God, I’m so angry at him. Why did he persuade me to do this? How did he persuade me to do this? I’m a beginner, I shouldn’t be going straight to the top of the mountain!

I gripped Sonic’s hand tightly, fear encompassing my thoughts as I stare at the drop below us, slowly decreasing as we near the end of the line. The end of my life. I couldn’t blink. Sonic squeezed his hand back, making me flinch. I almost forgot that he was there. I looked over at him, my neck refusing to turn but I forced it to anyway. It’s an unpleasant feeling.

As I made contact with Sonic’s eyes I realized that his smile wasn’t teasing. It was worried. Oh, now I felt bad.

“We’re almost to the top,” Sonic said, breaking the silence. “Don’t worry.”

I blinked. It had been a while since I blinked. Ouch, dry eyes hurt. I gave Sonic an annoyed look, my eyebrows scrunching together as I frowned at him. “This is your fault, y’know!”

Sonic laughed. I could tell that he tried to keep it in with how his lips pressed together but it was an immediate failure. He laughed loudly, tears forming in his eyes. How was this that funny to him?! I scoffed and turned away, hot anger replacing the fear in my chest.

“How could I let you take me up here?” I vented. “Why did I even agree— ugh!” I cut myself off as Sonic continued to laugh. He was covering his mouth, trying his best to keep it in as best as he could. “How could you be laughing in this situation?!”

I turned towards him, parting our hands from their hold so I could use him as a punching bag. He defended himself, using his hands as a shield against my weak hits.

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry!” Sonic says in between his laughter. “WOAH—!” He shouts as the entire lift shakes, my own voice coming out as a shrill shriek. He grabs onto my shoulders tightly and I instinctively hug his torso as we wait for the lift to calm down.

“Careful, there! Don’t want you to fall off,” Sonic says in a light tone. I look up at him, my brows furrowed and my cheeks puffed out in anger and annoyance. “C’mon,” he chuckles, “don’t give me that look.”

“What look?” I ask, turning away with a huff and crossing my arms as I lean back in my seat, knowing fully well I was giving him a look.

“You always give me a look whenever you’re frustrated or annoyed,” Sonic says, indulging in my feigned ignorance with a teasing smirk.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, sir,” I responded, keeping the act going.

“Whatever you say, my dear,” Sonic continues. Shit, he used that pet name. My face flushes red. He knows that I’m not used to pet names!

“Sonic!” I protested, but he just grabbed my hand with a laugh before sliding off the ski lift onto the ground.

Oh. We’re here. I tense up.

“Don’t worry, it’s okay,” Sonic says in a soothing voice. He helps me off the ski lift before I’m taken back around to the bottom of the mountain in an almost never ending loop.I hold onto Sonic’s hands, our fingers intertwining. My face is still flushed red from the pet name. He smiles at me, one of his more brighter and innocent smiles. I feel like I’m falling for him all over again with just that smile.

Without warning, Sonic kissed my forehead with a chuckle before leading me forward. As we walked hand in hand I brushed my free hand against my forehead where he kissed me. I hide my face in the collar of my jacket, embarrassed.

As we reached the start of the ski path my eyes widened. I could see a beautiful scenery for miles ahead, all painted with a pinkish purple sky from the rising sun. I was frozen in my spot as I stared. Was this why Sonic wanted me to come up here? Now that I think about it he didn’t specifically say he wanted me to snowboard down the mountain.

I immediately feel guilty about my actions earlier. I turn to Sonic, opening my mouth to apologize, only to see him silently admiring the same view with a content smile on his face. I stared at him. Yeah, I really am falling for this goofball all over again.

Sonic noticed me staring, looking back at me with a chuckle before speaking: “Like what you see?” He wiggled his eyebrows.

I push Sonic away with a grunt, knocking him over and onto the snow.

“You wish!” I say before playfully sticking my tongue out at him.

“Oh, to only wish that my girlfriend would look at me like the morning sun on the mountain tops—“ Sonic said dramatically, only to be rudely interrupted by a snowball in the face.

“Oh, my, I wonder where that came from?” I say, feigning surprise as I walk away. “It seems like there’s a fiend throwing snowballs around!” I giggle to myself as I turn to face him, walking backwards. The look on Sonic’s bewildered face is priceless. Sonic gets up, a snowball in hand ready to be thrown at me, before he stops and drops the snowball, rushing forward.

“Wait— stop!”

My leg hits the trunk of a fallen tree, catching me off guard. I lose my balance and almost fall over it but Sonic was there before I could. He held my arm as I held his gaze, slowly setting me down on top of the trunk. I looked behind me, a bit afraid that I almost tumbled down the mountain. Thankfully, it was just regular snow instead of another long drop.

I looked behind back over at Sonic, who held my hand like his life depended on it. I raised my brow in confusion. “You could have just let me trip and laughed.”

“I could have… but why should I let a royal princess fall in the snow?”

Gosh, he can be smooth sometimes.

I decide to quickly change the subject, else Sonic will subject me to a face of burning coals

“So…” I start, retracting my hand from his, “Is this why you wanted me to come up here?” I gestured to the gorgeous view. Sonic scratched the back of his head, seeming shy, before swiping his index finger under his nose.

“Yeah. I wasn’t gonna actually make you snowboard down the entire mountain. That’d be cruel.”

“Really?”

“Of course! Unless.. you want to?” I stuck my tongue back out at him, my cheeks puffed out in annoyance. “Okay, okay!” Sonic raised his arms in defense. “Got it, no snowboarding down this slope.”

Sonic sat down next to me on the log. Silence grew between us, but it was comfortable. His arm slinked across my back, holding onto me tightly. I looked up to him, getting a thought in my head.

Should I act on it? I think I should.

I turn towards Sonic, attracting his attention, and cup his face in my hands. I’m a bit nervous, I’m not usually the one who initiates these things. Sonic looks at me quizzically, but before he figures out what I’m planning I should lean in… Sonic held my face in his hands.

Damn it, he figured it out.

Taking the lead, Sonic lightly kissed me on the lips. It was warm. It left a light tingling sensation.

I’ll never get used to this.

Tag List: @affinitytales, @boogiemansbitch

[wolfofcelestia]

I find it so fun how Zayne and Sylus are both such smart beans but in starkly different ways. Sylus would HATE uni. Probably not attend the lectures and if he had to, he’d just read the recommended readings and submit his work, get his degree, and go.

I could see him taking online courses that give enough freedom for him to take them on his own time.

Zayne on the other hand is all about structure. Med school, housemanship, specialisation. All he does is study and all he will do is study for the rest of his life until retirement. And maybe then some if he chooses to stay in academia and do research. Just classic STEM guy things.

But if I were to hazard a guess, I’d say Sylus has the broader knowledge between the two. Simply because he’s exposed himself to more. He seems the type who’s both into STEM and arts and philosophy. He’s definitely read Plato and Aristotle and all the classics in different languages. Probably loves poetry. Definitely knows music theory. Probably a history and mythology buff too. Learns languages in his free time not just for business, but because he has fun. Tinkers a bunch. Probably can do woodworking. Definitely would enjoy making stuff with clay on a wheel (and reenact that scene from Ghost because he’s a corny loverboy 🤭)

Actually I’m not too well versed in Zayne. Does he have interests outside medicine and confectionery?

My man's second bed is a pool table 😭😭😭😭

Known to be a master at billiards, he knows how to handle his big stick and put things into holes 🫶🫶🫶

He also snowboards and has an interest in history. He likes to browse museums and has intricate knowledge of medical practioners in ancient times. I'm still on the lookout for anything related to ancient Egypt in a possible future myth for him

I don't know if you can call it an interest or hobby now in light of the new main story chapters, but he suspiciously has a lot of knowledge about fortune telling and divination. He also doesn't rule out the existence of mythical creatures, which, again, in light of the new chapters make a lot of sense. So like... In my headcanon, he likes to research cryptids lmao

Zayne is also quite the artist. He can draw really accurate anatomy pictures, so I assume that he'd be able to draw people really well too if he ever tried. He's also good with jade carving and ceramics since he seemed to have no issues with carving a jade moon for MC and making matching mugs together. Considering he's good with his hands, even as a beginner, he has enough artistic instinct to produce better work than other beginners

Good example is this:

Also, I think this was from the silk ball event chibi, but he did mention that he doesn't know how to sew or that he's not good at it? Which just sounds like the biggest lie ever or him being way too humble because as a surgeon, he sews people up on the daily. He even threatens to show us how he ties knots!! And he uses a surgical knot on the jasmine sachet we get from him at a certain affinity level so he definitely does know how to sew

I feel like MC would ask him to heal/sew up her plushies whenever they get holes in them. And tbh I can't remember if that actually happened before or if I just dreamed it up ajdlslshsdl

Edit: ok yeah it did happen before lmao

Also he plays shooter games now thanks to MC lmaooo

Maybe that's where he learned to hold that gun at an angle

Imagine them playing GTA together?

"come on, zayne, you need to loosen up. Go shoot someone and steal that car!"

[senatortedcruz]

When I have kids I gotta put them on to skiing and snowboarding early so they aren’t going for the first time and falling and eating shit and taking beginner lessons with 5 year olds at 30 like someone we know around here.

[lady-bluebird-luv]

WIP Wednesday

Ah, skiing. The sport of high society. Elegantly skimming over deep snow on the way to clink Aperol glasses at a tasteful apres-ski. Champagne in hot tubs back at the chateau night after night until it was time to drive home in six-figure cars. Lounging at the ski lodge in black Moncler jackets the same texture as trash bags, satisfied that they'd spent the weekend as high above dirt-dwelling plebians as they longed to be every time some wannabe on the street said Herrr-miez instead of Hermes.

Feyre was miserable.

Across the bench in the gondola, making their way up from the bottom of the slope, Tamlin frowned at her. "You're not putting enough weight on the outside leg when you turn," he said. "You need to trust yourself more. You won't lose control if you push with just the one foot."

Feyre sighed. "You keep telling me that." A bead of meltwater trickled down her spine. She shuddered. How did it even get there? She'd bundled up in layer upon layer of waterproof-insulated-high-performance-whatever this morning until she was waddling to the lifts like a penguin, and it somehow wasn't enough to keep her warm and dry.

Tamlin's frown deepend. "There's nothing else I can tell you, though. Once you get your turns down, you'll be fine."

"I understand the explanation, I just… I don't know, Tam." Feyre sighed. "My legs just won't do it."

Tamlin's lips pressed into a tight line.

His family had invited her with them on their European ski vacation. Feyre couldn't say no - not when they paid for het tickets and rentals. Not when Tamlin wanted her to go so badly.

"I don't know how to ski," she warned him. "And your family… Tam, even you don't like spending time with them, and we're going to be together for a week?"

"They're covering everything, Fey." His grip on her wrist tightened. "You know I don't ask you for much."

Didn't he, though? Her feet throbbed in the stiff, strangling ski boots, and her knees ached from desperate attempts to control her speed while pizzaing down the mountain. She was grateful for the Meadowlands' generosity, but she couldn't shake the fear that she was embarassing them. Especially when Tamlin kept looking at her like a disappointed parent.

"I think I need a break, Tam."

"You need to practice," he pushed.

"If I'm too tired to practice properly, it won't be worth it anyways," Feyre countered.

There was that look again. "Come on, babe. You haven't done enough to be that tired."

Anger shot through her, hot and sharp. "You don't remember what it feels like to be a beginner, do you?" Feyre demanded. "Not everyone learned to ski before they learned to walk, Tam." She was vaguely aware of the gondola slowing as they neared the middle station, the doors creaking open to accomodate any additional skiers who wanted to come back to the top. "Not everyone goes to fucking Switzerland every weekend, you know."

Tamlin sucked in a breath. "Feyre -,"

"Mind if we join you?"

Feyre jumped as a trio dressed in head-to-toe black entered the gondola - a snowboarder and two skiers, one of whom was so tall that he had to crouch to get through the doorframe. The snowboarder and the giant sat next to Tamlin, wedging him into the corner with his wide frame.

The second skier sat down next to Feyre. As the door closed and the gondola accelerated out of the station, he took her goggles off and grinned down at her. "Nice powder day, isn't it?"

He was the most beautiful man she'd ever seen, either or in person or in a gallery. His blue eyes were so dark that they shone the same indigo as the night sky, and a curl of thick, raven-black hair escaped from under his helmet. The cold flushed his cheeks, and his crooked smile was all boyish mischief - a kid who knew he would get caught with his hand in the cookie jar, and reached in anyways.

"Huh?" Feyre said.

[zorosbeau33]

Where they take you on vacation~ MHA/BNHA Headcanon Part 1

❖ BNHA/MHA, Starring Gender Neutral Reader and Shoto Todoroki, Kyoka Jiro, Denki Kaminari, and Eijiro Kirishima~

❖ Headcanon, Series, Fluff, Comedy, Romance

❖ Tw: None

❖ wc: 561

❖ @kimnamshiks @d0uble0hd0nut ❖ Masterlist Part 2~ (coming soon)❖

. ⋅˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ ⋅˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

Just a fun little pathway for you to run along while I dream of my vacay later this year~ Who would you like to see next?

. ⋅˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ ⋅˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

Denki Kaminari

Bora Bora

This boy knew nothing about it until he heard Yaoyorozu talk about a trip her family had taken there years ago

At first, the idea of you in a swimsuit was what drove him to suggest it, but when you made research and planning his responsibility. He fell into awe of the beauty of the place, the lure of the food and serene waters made him see how soon was too soon to book a trip there

Does a deep dive into things to do in the area for safe, nonscary excursions (no swimming with sharks, but the swimming with pigs looked fun) and overbooks you both slightly at first

Absolutely booked the best house on the water at a resort he could find that also offered couples spa packages so you both could get a little pampered before throwing on your hottest swim attire

Eijiro Kirishima

Hokkaido in winter

Kirishima wants to do something MANLY, but also have quality bonding time together with something you’d also enjoy

So he booked the hotel at the hot springs near the ski resort in Hokkaido, so he could teach you how to snowboard

Does all his research of course because it has been years since he himself was a beginner snowboarder, but would take his sweet time to teach you

The bonus of this trip is the hot spring you both can relax in together and watch it snow after a long day on the trails and end it snuggled inside together 

Would book Switzerland for your next ski adventure

Kyoka Jiro

Los Angeles

Originally had thought Vegas might be cool, then read articles on how much of a tourist trap it is, and didn’t really want to be around so many drunk people during her downtime

She took her time and started from scratch looking at places throughout North America that you both might enjoy with all your hobbies and landed on Los Angeles 

Plans out a week to see all sorts of music venues, and get you both in to see one of your favorite music groups for a concert, this might delay the trip a few months in order to get that time frame perfect but the whole night let alone whole trip was worth the wait

Other days are filled with trying new food, going to Disney, or relaxing at the hotel pool with you

Shoto Todoroki

Paris

When you talked to him about going on a vacation overseas together being romantic he was already pulling his phone out to call for Endeavors private airplane

Upon your panic and discussing how normal people plan trips (thank you Midoriya and Ochako, Tenya tried to help but also needed his rich boy bubble popped a bit) he spends a fortnight planning the most romantic and cliche cheesy Paris trip ever

His sister thankfully bought and packed a bag of everything you’d need because he only said to take the week off and not make plans (The talk helped 50% he’s still working on normal people life)

From the Eiffel Tower overlooking the city as fireworks go off, to a cheese tour, to see the Mona Lisa he does it all and pays for a busboy to bring champagne and flowers every morning so he can wake you up to those gifts of romance he feels you deserve

[rebouks]

Previous // Next

Gael: [groans] Bloody hell. Brynn: That was bad… Gael: Yep. Brynn: Next time-… Gael: Nope, I’m going to the onsen. My ass can’t take any more. [Brynn snort laughs] Gael: Shut up-.. you coming? Brynn: Pfft, no! I carry on, get good. Gael: Come on, this sucks in comparison to a nice hot spring. Brynn: You never get better at this rate. Gael: I’m willing to accept that. Brynn: [chuckles] Loser. … [Brynn pauses at the edge of the slope; it’s a long way down, and steep. No wonder Gael biffed it so spectacularly. Still, she wasn’t about to be bested by some silly hill] [squealing] [Brynn lands with a thump, winded and gasping for air as a cloud of snow settles around her. Wyatt winced, remembering the feeling all too well] Wyatt: You’re lucky you didn’t cause an avalanche with all that screaming. Brynn: You wait there just to watch me fall? Wyatt: Well, I saw you hesitating at the top.. I didn’t think you’d be stupid enough to come down. Brynn: Not stupid, ambitious. Wyatt: You’d be better off on the bunny slopes. Brynn: [snorts] Those are for babies. Wyatt: And beginners… [Brynn pulls a face, less than enamoured with the idea] Brynn: Are you good snowboarder? Wyatt: Better than you. Brynn: You should teach m-… Wyatt: I’m not an instructor. Brynn: Could you be? Wyatt: I don’t think so. [Brynn dusts herself off and shrugs, more than happy to continue teaching herself] Wyatt: [tuts] You get half an hour.

[roylustang]

Okay believe it or not it was actually pretty easy which was….weird….

Ngl really do not want to run another 3 hours tomorrow

[timaeusterrored]

(Snow Day)

“Honestly Kerry, age has made you boring.” Louise stated as if she wasn’t only ten years younger than Kerry. The exes looked great for their age.

“Okay but, freezing cold snow ooooor skinny dip in the hot tub with Venus…. I like the second one better.” Kerry put his hands on his hips, shrugging.

Louise groaned again, Vax chuckling by the door… until he realized he was about to be left alone with Kerry’s ex wife for an extended amount of time. In a snowy mountain. Where he was completely at her mercy as someone who’s only been in snow a handful of times.

Kim ran up to Vax’s side, taking his hand with a bright smile behind pink goggles. “Don’t worry, I’ll teach you everything you need to know!”

At least his little buddy would be there with him. Ted was staying up in his room, not wanting to be seen out in public with his stepdad that was old enough to basically be his older brother.

The ladies finished getting ready and making sure they had everything for Vax, Kerry watching from the couch. Vax fidgeted by the door, his nerves starting to get the best of him. He was unarmed, and in unfamiliar territory. He was beginning to regret being talked into this. He hated new things, he hated being unprepared. What if they were attacked, what if Kim got hurt, what if they couldn’t reach anyone-

“Hey.” Kerry’s voice dragged him from his thoughts, the hard eye contact grounding him for a moment. “You’re okay. Everything is going to be fine. I wouldn’t send you with them if I didn’t think it was perfectly safe.” Vax usually hated when Kerry talked to him like this. Like he was a wounded animal he was trying to tame.

“I don’t like not being armed. What if something happens?”

“Baby the worst thing that could happen to you guys is if Louise decides to smother you in the snow when Kimmy isn’t looking- I’m joking.” Kerry held his hand out, kissing the golden band on Vax’s ring finger when he had the chance. “You take your meds today?”

Vax nodded. Not that they helped.

“Ready?” Louise blinked when Vax jumped, never seeing the young man so on edge before. “It’ll be okay, I’m not above holding your hands.” Her eyes flicked to her ex husband, who just smiled in return.

“You kids have fun!”

Snow never failed to put Vax in awe. It was a gorgeous and new thing he loved. Kim held his hand the whole way up the mountain, talking his ear off about snowboarding. It was Ted’s preferred snow activity. Louise just smiled at her daughter’s enthusiasm.

“Don’t forget to bend your knees okay? You’ll fall if your too tense.” Louise wasn’t kidding, she had both of Vax’s hands in hers. “You okay?” She asked a bit softer, so Kim didn’t hear.

“Learning new things in unfamiliar environments isn’t exactly my forte… but I’m okay.” Vax offered a small, nervous smile.

“I’m serious, V. Everything is going to be okay. I’m not gonna let you get hurt, if that’s what you’re worried about.” It wasn’t, but she was still sweet to say so. “You seem to really enjoy the snow for someone who grew up in California.” Changing the subject, a good distraction.

“It’s gorgeous. And the cold, my therapist said something about it shocking my nervous system or something that keeps me calm. So I’m always calm. Just. Really don’t like being unarmed.” Vax rambled a bit, squeezing her hands without thinking.

“You aren’t our bodyguard, Vax. You’re family. I know this is easier said then done, but ya gotta relax. Take a deep breath for me.” Vax found himself taking one. “Good… now bend your knees and go.”

…that lady shoved him down a smaller slope. Vax had somehow managed to stay standing, only to fall on his ass at the end and staring up at Louise who was grinning at him as she followed.

“Not bad for a beginner! You stayed up the whole time!”

“That was sneaky.” Vax huffed.

“You weren’t gonna go the easy way. So I did the bird way.” Vax rolled his eyes at her cheeky smile.

By the time they came trudging home, Kerry and Venus were curled up on the couch with cocoa. Vax’s laugh was music to Kerry’s ears, knowing the man was terrified of Louise.

Vac was carrying an exhausted Kimmy in his arms, the sight always warmed the rocker’s heart. Louise and him chatting about something and laughing to each other.

“Have fun?” Venus asked, looking over the couch. They were quickly horrified by the amount of snow on the three. “Oh my god! You’re gonna freeze get in here!”

“Smells good in here.” Louise smiled calmly, winking at Kerry like she had won some unknown contest the two had.

Vax found himself back next to his husband after a warm shower and clothes. Louise was bragging about him being a quick learner and how well he had done… and Kerry didn’t miss the red on his ears as she talked. Maybe in another life that would be possible. Though… Louise would eat him alive.

“He stayed up- thank you, dear- the whole way down.” She explained as Vax handed her a cup of warm hot coffee he had just made.

“You shoved him down a slope?” Kerry asked, exasperated.

“Sometimes, in order for birds to learn to fly they need to be shoved out of the nest.”

“Oh my god…” Kerry rubbed his face. “He’s been through enough, Lou!” His ex wife just cackled.

“I had fun.” Vax spoke up finally, smiling. “Thank you for being patient with me.”

“Oh anytime! We all gotta learn one way or another. You did fantastic.” Louise totally noticed the red spreading from his ears to his cheeks the more she praised him. It was amusing.

“I’m glad you had fun. I told you she wouldn’t kill you.” Kerry smiled, kissing his cheek.

“She almost did.” Vax grinned, trapping him in a kiss on the lips.

[tearsinthemist]

Want to learn something new

Want to learn something new in 2022??

Absolute beginner adult ballet series (fabulous beginning teacher)

40 piano lessons for beginners (some of the best explanations for piano I’ve ever seen)

Excellent basic crochet video series

Basic knitting (probably the best how to knit video out there)

Pre-Free Figure Skate Levels A-D guides and practice activities (each video builds up with exercises to the actual moves!)

How to draw character faces video (very funny, surprisingly instructive?)

Another drawing character faces video

Literally my favorite art pose hack

Tutorial of how to make a whole ass Stardew Valley esque farming game in Gamemaker Studios 2??

Introduction to flying small aircrafts

French/Dutch/Fishtail braiding

Playing the guitar for beginners (well paced and excellent instructor)

Playing the violin for beginners (really good practical tips mixed in)

Color theory in digital art (not of the children’s hospital variety)

Retake classes you hated but now there’s zero stakes:

Calculus 1 (full semester class)

Learn basic statistics (free textbook)

Introduction to college physics (free textbook)

Introduction to accounting (free textbook)

Learn a language:

Ancient Greek

Latin

Spanish

German

Japanese (grammar guide) (for dummies)

French

Russian (pretty good cyrillic guide!)

Jan 2, 2023

Want to learn something new in 2023??

Cooking with flavor bootcamp (used what I learned in this a LOT this year)

Beekeeping 101

Learn Interior Design from the British Academy of Interior Design (free to audit course - just choose the free option when you register)

Video on learning to read music that actually helped me??

How to use and sew with a sewing machine

How to ride a bike (listen. some of us never learned, and that's okay.)

How to cornrow-braid hair (I have it on good authority that this video is a godsend for doing your baby niece's black hair)

Making mead at home (I actually did this last summer and it was SO good)

How to garden

Basics of snowboarding (proceed with caution)

How to draw for people who (think they) suck at art (I know this website looks like a 2003 monstrosity, but the tutorials are excellent)

Pixel art for beginners so you can make the next great indie game

Go (back) to school

Introduction to Astronomy (high school course - free textbook w/ practice problems)

Principals of Economics (high school course - free textbook w/ practice problems)

Introduction to philosophy (free college course)

Computer science basics (full-semester Harvard course free online)

Learn a language

Japanese for Dummies (link fix from 2022)

Ukrainian

Portuguese (Brazil)

American Sign Language (as somebody who works with Deaf people professionally, I also strongly advise you to read up on Deaf/HoH culture and history!)

Chinese (Mandarin, Simplified)

Quenya (LOTR fantasy elf language)

Dec 26, 2023

Want to learn something new in 2024??

Beginner-oriented video on how to sail

This guy has so many videos on baking different types of bread. SO very many.

Coding in Python - one of the most flexible and adaptable high-level programming languages out there - explained through projects making video games

Learn to swim! (for adult learners. I don’t care if you live in Kansas or Mali or wherever. LEARN TO SWIM.)

Learn how quantum mechanics works. Then read some more about it

[Learn about quantum mechanics again, but in a more advanced engineering/mathematics class. Then read more about the math and physics of it]

Poetry Handbook, by Mary Oliver

Something I learned this year: how to sew a quilt (Here’s a very easy beginning pattern that looks amazing and can be done with pre-cut fabric!)

How to hit the ball in softball

Tutorial video on what is under the hood of most (gas) cars + weird engine sounds and what they mean

Full beginner mechanics technical training, if you want to go more in depth

Playlist on how car engine physics work if you want to go ultra in depth

Lecture series on architecture design through study of buildings

How (American income) taxes & tax law work (choose “audit course” at checkout for free class)

Pickleball for beginners (so you can finally join your neighbor/friend/distant cousin who is always insisting you join their team)

+ Para-Pickleball for beginners (for mobility aid users!)

School is so much more fun when there’s no tests:

American Law - Contracts

Shakespeare’s Life and Plays

Fairy Tales: Meanings, Messages, and Morals

Modern Poetry

World History [Part 1, Part 2]

Learn a language:

Arabic + Resource Guide compiled from Reddit (includes info on different dialects)

Chinese (Cantonese) (audio)

Urdu (frequently recommended course on Reddit) + Resource Guide

Yucatec Maya

[dansconcepts]

Quirky RC!Hajime - Talentsharer HCs

This is kind of a different approach to Hajime having all the talents at once, and merely just him having access to one talent at a time through whichever Ultimate touched him recently (or vice versa). He's still a Reserve Course student, he's just a little quirky (HAHA).

How long does it apply for? For an hour or two before wearing off.

How does it work? For the duration, Hajime will exhibit similar interests and experience as the person who interacted with him, but he won't have the same quirks (i.e. Being the Ultimate Musician, he'll have a nice voice/desire to sing, write songs, and play instruments, but he won't have the same music taste as Ibuki). Afterwards, it just fades away slowly until all the knowledge and experience is gone completely (sorry, I imagine Hajime's voice is also average, which honestly, mood). His memory of what he did and accomplished doesn't go away though. If someone else touches him before the hour ends, his thoughts will shift accordingly to the new person's talent and the previous talent isn't accessible anymore (i.e. if he's tinkering with something because of the Ultimate Mechanic talent but Mikan trips and accidentally bonks Hajime in the head, he'll be unable to finish the project).

Who's giving their talent most often? Kazuichi and Ibuki through constant casual touches and/or hugs (mainly Ibuki for that one). You can bet 100% you've got a Hajime having to deal with a sudden compulsion to fix everything with schematics in his head, along with very sensitive hearing mixed with a love for humming and strumming. Nekomaru's up there too, because he comes up to Hajime to give him a hearty slap on the back and give him tips to be a great rugby player. It makes Hajime match his energy and suddenly they're plotting together on how best Hajime could succeed ("Hey, actually, don't you think I'd make a great snowboarder?") As well, Hajime looks at his classmates and mentally judges whether their physique would befit an athlete in x sport, and makes off the cuff comments about it.

Who's giving their talent least? Nagito goes out of his way to avoid touching or interacting with Hajime when he knows he's in the Reserve Course (Nagito gets a LIL curious though when he observes Hajime hanging out with his fellow classmates). Peko isn't the type to touch people unwarranted, even casually. Kuzuryuu isn't either, but he'll give Hajime a friendly shove every once in awhile. I can't imagine Mahiru touching him much, but they do get along decently enough.

How does this affect Hajime's day to day life? No one actually knows about it, and he's not even aware of it. Once he meets Chiaki, he still isn't aware of it. After all, it's kind of hard to notice if you're not interacting with Ultimates that much. It becomes prevalent after he's been adopted by Class 77-B and he's being casually touched or brushed against, with his impulses shifting in different directions. He starts noticing it and he thinks he's gone insane, and that's when he tries talking about it with other RC students and a handful of Ultimates. Nagito's pretty interested in this whole mystery and how it manifests, considering the circumstances. Chiaki says he's collecting power-ups. "Like Pokemon! Why don't you try to collect 'em all?" "...yeah, no thanks, I don't want to get my ass kicked by Mahiru."

How would this impact the Killing Game? Well, the implications are kind of silly... for instance, when Hajime's trying to figure out his talent with Nagito, he'll be casually brushed (or bumped into) by his classmates and suddenly have hints of having that talent (I have a drabble for this). Of course, the knowledge wears off, and it's dismissed for being beginner's luck. On that note, Nagito considers the idea that perhaps Hajime also has a luck based talent or something to that effect, but they don't get to pursue that thought much before, well, y'know. Also features some shenanigans where Nagito brushes Hajime throughout the game and Hajime starts dealing with a luck cycle but on steroids (considering the 1-2 hour length). Imagine that just because Nagito touches Hajime through encouraging shoulder grips and wrist grabbing, the whole killing game doesn't even start because other chaos ensues. Even Monokuma is baffled because there's suddenly a tsunami??? He didn't even do that???

Some conceptualization rambles under the cut.

I 100% made this because I want to make (more) drabbles for this.

I love Hajime and I'm not overly partial to giving him a talent (although I do have a talentswap AU with him having one bc that's free real estate), but I do find the idea of giving Hajime in a non-despair AU (or even in context to the game) something a little unique fascinating.

I do have more concepts along the lines of "Hajime is a Reserve Course student but he DOES have something strange about him". All of the ideas are on a silly note and not the most logical, but I do enjoy finangling them around in my head.

Also, unintentionally I made most of the Quirky RC concepts so far with him meeting Nagito first instead of Chiaki (except this one). I do have a reasoning for that. I needed to give Hajime a reason to be... less willing to meet the Ultimates. That'll makes sense whenever I post my next quirky!hajime idea.