#that trip in korea was glorious

[nattaphum]

Jeff said that Apo spends a lot of time doing things! For example, when they went to the museum in Korea, Apo spent time reading and taking photos of the first exhibit while Tong and him had already moved to the next one. There were 30 exhibits so they all left late 😂

[odinsblog]

Tankies be tripping like a mf

Sometimes I see tankies posting their usual bullshit and I’m just endlessly smh hard enough to cause myself brain damage

I could, if I wanted, make a dozen social media accounts across various platforms and proceed to talk as much shit about Joe Biden or Donald Trump as I want. I could do that 24/7/365, all day, every day and every night, and do nothing else but that. I mean, I could talk straight up bullshit about either of them or both of them, and their spouses and their families, and as long as I don’t make any threats against their lives, guess what would happen to me?? NOTHING. Not a goddamn thing

I know this for a fact because I’ve done it (talk shit about them, not make troll accounts), and I see people do it every fucking day

Meanwhile, in “glorious” communist countries™ like Russia or China or North Korea, if anyone dares to publicly say anything even slightly unflattering about those country’s leaders, they will be punished, arrested, jailed, disappeared or murdered. And God forbid if you’re an actual journalist or dissident or a political activist trying to speak out against Putin, or Kim Jong Un, or Xi Jinping — your corpse will never be found (except maybe for Russia, where you would either “accidentally” fall out of a window, or “accidentally” ingest a rare but deadly radioactive material) ☢️ 🙃

Look, this isn’t me going, “America is soooo great and everywhere else sucks,” because as a Black man living in America, I’m well aware of how thoroughly anti Blackness is weaved into our society, and as someone who has LGBTQ loved ones, I am also aware of how homophobia and transphobia are also woven into American culture. So no, America was never great. But anti Blackness, homophobia, and transphobia exist everyfuckingwhere. And yes, that most definitely includes the tankie fantasyland utopias of Russia, China and North Korea

Anyway, I’m just blowing off some online steam because every time I see a tankie profess how communism™ will make everything equal and just sO much better, and how Russia, China and North fucking Korea! are heavens for love peace + equality, every fucking time I see that BULLSHIT on tumblrdotcom I wanna pull my teeth out with a rusty pair of pliers 🤬

I just do not get it

Only tankies could look at murderous dictatorial authoritarian regimes and go, yeah that seems much better

LOL, I could almost overlook Russia and China, but when I see tankies defending N. Korea?? I’m like, that mf is farther gone than the Voyager space probes

SN: I know that despite their political party names, Russia and China aren’t really “communist” countries, but I often wonder if tankies understand that fact

And please don’t get me started on the allegedly “pro-Black” tankies who stayed on mute about Brittney Griner, because I guess saying anything would have made Putin look bad 😒

I mean don’t get me wrong, I dO understand that capitalism has utterly failed people so thoroughly and so fucking completely that literally anything else might seem preferable by comparison, but ☭ ain’t it, fam

To be crystal clear: I hate capitalism as much as the next compassionate human being and I know capitalism ain’t it, but neither is communism, sorry

I genuinely do believe that a better world is possible, but seeing people (surprise - disproportionately white dudes) constantly blathering on and on about how good Russia is, makes me feel like 🤮

[youngchronicpain]

I have always dreamed of travel, ever since I was a little girl watching my dad leave for trips overseas, coming home with gifts for me from places I could only imagine at the time.

But when I became disabled, things got a little more complicated. Before I started using mobility aids, travel didn't even seem possible anymore. I could barely get out of my bed each morning, how was I going to stand and walk through an airport and then stand and walk and sit and stand and walk and sit through the different cities I was obsessing over?

(You see, when you are stuck in bed, particularly because of chronic pain and fatigue, you must obsess over something. Otherwise, the days get a little too long and too painful and the bad thoughts start swirling around you again.)

And so, I still dreamed. I watched videos of people traveling in the countries I wanted most to visit. I practiced different languages. I learned to make different foods. But I still yearned for more.

Once I started using mobility aids, things really opened up for me, especially after starting to properly manage my chronic pain with medicine, PT, and my spinal cord stimulator implant too. I was a very young cyborg who had to charge herself daily and take meds every few hours. But hey, that actually made me feel kind of cool! I was battery-powered, baby!

And eventually, I even had a powerchair to help me go all of the places that my body could not (or sometimes, should not) bring me.

That was years ago. Since then I have seen the temple deer of Nara, Japan. I have visited Gyeongbok Palace and eaten delicious street food in Seoul, South Korea. I have taken a train from New Orleans to LA, then LA to Portland, seeing the California coast in glorious detail. I have eaten Viet-Cajun crawfish in Houston. I have eaten a two dollar corn dog in a Las Vegas casino. I have eaten Voodoo Donuts in Portland. (Okay, I admit, food is what most excites me about travel. And plants! But that's a conversation for another time.)

Now, I look back on this past year and I can't help but smile. I've found a partner who loves travel as much as I do (who happily gets my fifty medical bags, cushions, and wedge onto the plane, and helps me advocate for myself with the airlines). Someone who is strong, and warm, and would go anywhere in the world that I wanted to go.

I wish that I could tell my younger self that it would get better. That this was possible. That I would be able to do all of the above things in a powerchair. And that it didn't matter if I could walk (just with a ton of pain), I still deserved mobility aids and accommodations to help my pain, fatigue, and mobility. I wish I could tell her all of those things.

And that it gets better. Even if it gets worse too.

[winnie-the-monster]

“I don’t know if you know this, but I’ve been looking forward to you getting out of the house for a long time.”

“Yeah, I believe you’re exact words were, it will be more glorious than D-Day.”

“Well, your my son, and I’m your father. Here.”

“That’s your pocket knife from Korea. You said if I ever touched that, I’d meet the same fate as hundreds of other godless commies.”

“Well, I want you to take it to Africa with you.”

“Really? Wow, dad that means a lot.”

“And son, I want you to know that I’m gonna miss you and I love you. And have a good trip.”

“Wait a second, what did you just say?”

“I said, have a good trip.”

“No, before that.”

“You heard me.”

“Wow, this feels like one of those moments where normal people would hug.”

[intheshadowofwar]

16 June 2023

The Old Sixteen

Bedford 16 June 2023

You may notice that, having promised a trip to Cambridge yesterday, that I wrote ‘Bedford’ and not ‘Cambridge’ as the location for this entry. There’s a good reason for this - I decided that I simply did not want to ride the bus today. There’s something about public buses that just unaccountably frustrates me. I can’t really explain what it is.

So while Mum and my stepfather rode off to Cambridge, I hung around here in Bedford, and just before lunch I took a walk to the war memorial on Goldington Green. This isn’t Bedford’s main war memorial - that’s by the River Ouse, on the embankment - but it’s still a pretty little memorial and well worth a look.

The Bedfordshire Regiment (which became the Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment after the war, and is now part of 2nd Battalion Royal Anglians) traces its lineage back to the Glorious Revolution, where it was raised by James II to fight William of Orange - they promptly switched sides, like most of the army. They became the 16th Foot in 1751, fighting in the American Revolutionary War and in the West Indies in the 1790s (where they were practically wiped out by tropical disease.) The 16th remained in England throughout the Napoleonic Wars, and spent most of the 19th Century deployed on Imperial service; in India, Canada and Africa. They became the Bedfordshires in 1881.

Twelve battalions of the regiment were raised during the First World War, although about half spent the war on garrison or training duties. The regulars of 1st and 2nd Battalions fought on the Western Front throughout the war, with the 1st being present at the BEF’s first battle at Mons. The 4th (Special Reserve) went to the Western Front as reinforcements, as were the 6th, 7th and 8th (Service) Battalions, which were broken up to provide reinforcements to other battalions in early 1918 - the BEF was running low on reinforcements at this time. The 5th (Territorial) Battalion was landed at Suvla in August 1915, and went on to fight in Palestine.

With six battalions in the thick of the fighting on the Western Front throughout the war, and one active throughout the war against the Ottoman Empire, the number of names on this otherwise modest memorial starts to make sense. Goldington - and dozens of other villages around Bedfordshire - must have faced losses that we would consider unbearable now, and frankly would have been unbearable then. Scarce wonder Britain was so determined not to do it all again in the 1930s. We damn Chamberlain, and it’s my opinion that he wasn’t a terribly great political operator, but can we really blame him, or the British public, for recoiling from war with the Nazis? One would have had to be mad to want to relive the horrors of the Western Front.

But of course, war did come again - one even more terrible than the last. And thousands of war memorials like Goldington had to be updated with new lists of names; new butcher’s bills for the war of 1939-45. And then for Korea, and Malaya, and the Falklands, and Iraq and Afghanistan. And again and again and again…

[xieyaohuan]

7, 15, 17, 18 for travel asks please

7. Tell me about your dream trip

Ok, this isn't going to work anymore because war, BUT I was going to travel to Tokyo by land and sea. Basically the idea was to take the Transsib from Moscow to Vladivostok, get on a ferry to Donghae (South Korea) from there, maybe see a couple of places in SK, then take a ferry from South Korea to Japan, and then a train to Tokyo. Had it all mapped out a couple of years ago. Some day...

15. Is there somewhere you'd like to visit but are hesitant about? Why?

A bunch of places. First is North Korea. I've been wanting to go for a really long time (a couple of friends have been, but I missed the right moment I guess). Right now is definitely the wrong time, and at any time, I'd probably feel guilty for going, but I'm curious. I was too young to visit China in the 80s, so NK (at least before the pandemic) seems like the next best thing.

I also REALLY want to go to Goma and Bukavu in the DRC. It's not super safe because terrorism, kidnapping, etc., but I'm considering dipping across the border from Rwanda on my next trip to East Africa if pandemic regulations allow it.

17. Tell me a travel horror story

I was staying in Beijing for a month in 2006, living in a military compound for retired PLA soldiers on the outskirts of the city with a friend of a friend of a friend, doing archival research for a class I was taking. One evening, I was stressed out from I don't even remember what exactly and decided to grab a quick dinner at a dodgy place near Beijing train station. I knew it was a bad life choice at the time (eating near train stations = almost always a BAD idea), but I didn't realize HOW bad until a couple hours later. I got pretty bad food poisoning and had to stop on the way home multiple times because I was throwing up and shitting out my guts. Finally made it back to the PLA compound and collapsed in the apartment. My roommate found me there in the middle of the night, passed out, and took me to the hospital. I don't remember much from that trip, but I do remember the taxi driver (yeah, no ambulance lol, basically Beijing for normal ppl in the early 2000s) telling my roommate I was going to die for sure, he'd bet his life savings on it. Yeah. Not super reassuring. I didn't die, obviously, but I did require treatment for a full week, and my kidneys did take a bit of a hit.

18. What is the first big trip you remember?

California, 1997, with my family. We basically toured the entire state in 5 weeks. It was glorious. The Northern Californian coast is still one of my favorite places in the world.

[inpursuitofmeaning]

March 11, 2024

Had hot chocolate with my friend Sophie. So lost in conversation we forgot that we had a journal club with our favourite lab mate Émile. Ran across campus. 8 minutes late. Received his sarcastic French comments. I would expect nothing less. Met with our CAN-RGX team and introduced them to our new member David. David is really cool. I know him from years ago. Secretly want to be his friend more. He has done some really cool things, like solo bike-packing across California, rafting the Grand Canyon, and babysitting in Japan. David is the kind of person that should be writing a blog like this. Did an interview with the university newspaper about our project, which I am leading. Hunter drove me to pick up my parcel. Thanks Hunter. Hunter got his passport pictures taken. "This Staples feels like the backroom" he said. "What's your current phone plan, maybe I can save you some money" the staples employe said. I gazed upon the wall of pastel highlighters. I am just a girl after all. Thought about the bike-packing trip I've been invited to go on this summer. 2000km from the Netherlands to Spain. I should probably text Russell back about that. I want to go with every bone in my body, but I don't think I can afford it. Im not sure if I can afford to go to Virginia (with Hunter, Cass and Sophie) either, or even New York (With Hunter, Kaylen, and Matt) to see the eclipse. The next one won't happen until 2044, and the moon may have exploded by then. at least Im getting paid to go to that conference in Singapore this June. I'll have to go to Korea to see my friends. Im not Korean, but seeking fluency. Speaking of, I should study for my Korean tutoring session on Wednesday. They love their football, which is great because im Manchurian, and it runs through my veins. I hope these blogs will start to get more interesting as I do more things. The life of a PhD student means work and life don't always happen at the right times. 8 pm and studying for the LSAT, but having fun. Listening to LOFI to drown out the hum of the fridge. A glorious reminder that I am now living in a safe apartment, away from the awfully awful basement I lived in before, with bad people, too. But that is over now, and we will look forward. Never look back, it distracts from the now.

[holidayspackagesglh]

South Korea Tour from Mumbai: Your Ultimate Itinerary

https://www.evernote.com/shard/s399/res/94cca0a0-197c-af61-dcdd-6f55d124022a

1. Planning Your South Korea Tour Package from Mumbai

Before embarking on your South Korea adventure, careful planning is essential. Begin by booking a South Korea tour package from Mumbai that suits your preferences and budget. These packages often include flights, accommodation, transportation, and guided tours, making your trip stress-free. Be sure to check for any special promotions or discounts to maximize your savings.

2. Arrival in Seoul: Your Gateway to South Korea

Your South Korea tour package from Mumbai will most likely start with a flight to Seoul, the dynamic capital of South Korea. Upon arrival, you'll immediately feel the vibrant energy of this city. Don't miss visiting iconic landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and the bustling streets of Myeongdong for shopping and street food. Dive into the local culture by trying traditional dishes such as bibimbap and kimchi, which are a culinary delight.

3. Discovering the Beauty of Busan

After exploring Seoul, your South Korea tour package from Mumbai may take you to Busan, South Korea's second-largest city. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and cultural festivals, Busan offers a different perspective of South Korean life. Visit the famous Haeundae Beach, Jagalchi Fish Market, and Gamcheon Culture Village to immerse yourself in the city's unique atmosphere.

4. The Tranquility of Jeju Island

From Busan, your South Korea tour package from Mumbai might include a flight to Jeju Island, a paradise known for its natural beauty. Jeju Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with its lush green landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Explore attractions like Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, Manjanggul Cave, and relax on the sandy shores of Jungmun Beach. Jeju Island is also famous for its delicious tangerines and black pork, so be sure to indulge in these local flavors.

5. A Step Back in Time: Gyeongju

For a glimpse into South Korea's rich history, Gyeongju is a must-visit destination on your South Korea tour package from Mumbai. Often referred to as the "Museum Without Walls," Gyeongju boasts an abundance of ancient temples, burial mounds, and historical sites. Explore the UNESCO-listed Bulguksa Temple, Seokguram Grotto, and the picturesque Anapji Pond to immerse yourself in South Korea's glorious past.

6. Exploring the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)

A South Korea tour package from Mumbai should include a visit to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, one of the world's most unique and tense borders. Join a guided tour to Panmunjom, where you can step into North Korea (sort of!) at the Joint Security Area. Witness the tension and history of this divided land while gaining insight into the Korean War's enduring legacy.

7. Food Adventures in South Korea

South Korea is a paradise for food lovers, and your South Korea tour package from Mumbai will undoubtedly include culinary adventures. Don't miss the opportunity to savor Korean BBQ, where you can grill your own meat at the table. Try street food delicacies like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and odeng (fish cake skewers). And for the adventurous eater, sampling silkworm pupae and live octopus can be an unforgettable experience.

8. Shopping Extravaganza in South Korea

No South Korea tour package from Mumbai is complete without some retail therapy. South Korea is famous for its shopping districts, where you can find everything from high-end fashion to quirky streetwear. Explore the labyrinthine alleyways of Insadong for traditional crafts, Myeongdong for cosmetics and fashion, and the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza for cutting-edge designs.

9. Relaxation in South Korea's Spas and Hot Springs

After days of exploration, treat yourself to some relaxation in South Korea's world-class spas and hot springs. The traditional Korean jjimjilbangs offer rejuvenating experiences, including saunas, hot baths, and even sleeping quarters for a unique overnight stay. Unwind in the healing waters of the hot springs in places like Busan's Haeundae Spa Center or the tranquil countryside of Asan.

10. Saying Goodbye to South Korea

As your South Korea tour package from Mumbai comes to an end, you'll carry back unforgettable memories, a deeper understanding of Korean culture, and a newfound love for this enchanting country. Don't forget to pick up some souvenirs like traditional hanbok clothing, Korean beauty products, and local crafts as mementos of your incredible journey.

In conclusion, a South Korea tour package from Mumbai is your ticket to a remarkable adventure filled with culture, history, culinary delights, and natural beauty. By following this ultimate itinerary, you'll make the most of your South Korea experience and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the Land of the Morning Calm.

Must Read: Paradise Found: Experience Fiji with Unbeatable Packages from India

[fmdmichelle]

The instant Ash mentioned the two of them taking a weekend getaway somewhere, Michelle didn’t hesitate to take the wheel—prioritizing it even more than some of her other more pressing schedules. Over the last couple of months, she’s ached to feel free; genuinely feeling like a sad little songbird in its cage that’s desperate to spread its wings and fly to a tranquil space; to find a soft place to land far, far away from the chaos of her reality. As it seems, Ash is experiencing something similar, and with their schedules likely to become all the busier as the rest of the year unfolds, she was adamant on tucking them away into a more natural setting—one surrounded by glorious nature in the form of scenic hiking trails, crystal clear bodies of water, and variegated flora. Somewhere that’s far enough away from the city, but still somewhat close in case of any type of emergency occurring. She thinks about these things; wanting to figure out possibilities so they’re prepared for whatever may come.

So, in her planning, she decided on a relaxing trip to Nami Island. It’s intimate—romantic, even—and she chose a time period that, according to the concierge, isn’t as busy; hoping to steer clear of as many tourists as possible. Being that both of them are public figures, she ensured that they booked the most private, secluded accommodations possible; envisioning this like a retreat, in a way. That in mind, it’s a personal choice of her’s to turn off her electronic devices; craving solitude and quality time with the most important person in her life, above all else. Ash can do whatever he wants in regard to that, but it’s important to her that she uses this time to rest.

Speaking of which, it’s their first morning after their arrival, and as the sun streams in through the windows, Michelle is awoken by its rays; her bare face saturated with the light as her lashes flutter open to greet the new day. Having nothing scheduled for them until sometime later, she turns to look at the clock and notices it’s still early. A part of her is tempted to sleep more, but she realizes that she’s already gotten her coveted eight hours and doesn’t want to end up too groggy, so after mulling over the options, she decides to remain awake—limbs stretching carefully before she turns over and gets an eyeful of Ash. When securing their suite, she wondered if sharing the same bed was a good idea, but in the end, she felt it would’ve been stranger if they didn’t; the two of them having always done so in the past after long nights out.

Delicately, she reaches one of her hands forward and combs her fingers through his hair; nails scratching at his scalp before she cups his face affectionately. “Hey,” she lilts, gazing at him; finding him so beautiful, per usual. “Are you still dreaming?"

A CLOSED STARTER WRITTEN, WITH LOVE, FOR KWON, ASHTON— SET AT HOTEL JEONGGWANRU ON NAMI ISLAND IN SOUTH KOREA.

[jdgo51]

DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR JANUARY 29, 2023

Joy in Sacrifice

By Dennis Oh (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)

READ MATTHEW 19:23

"Everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and will inherit eternal life."

MATTHEW 19:29 (NRSV)

"In the summer of 2011, I was in Singapore for what I thought would be a short trip to renew my visa before returning to my mission field in northern India. I was excited to email my sponsoring church and report on my first few months’ work, but I was distraught to learn they would not be sending the funds necessary for me to continue missionary service. I came to the painful conclusion that my missionary dreams in India were over.

I had left a trunk in India filled with everything I owned. Now, all my earthly possessions fit in a school bag. I quit mission work and went to Korea, feeling dejected. I was just trying to serve God. Why didn’t God provide?

From today’s scripture, we learn that serving God can come with the loss of comfort, security, and even future prospects. At the same time, I have learned much from my many and varied experiences. I have gained friends and family; I’ve lived in several countries without ever lacking shelter, food, or the sweet fellowship of God’s people.

When we make sacrifices for God, we gain more than we can imagine, both in this life and most certainly in the life to come." Give your all to God and you will be rewarded. You will have a life that matters.

TODAY'S PRAYER

"Dear God, give us courage to risk our own comfort so that we can lead others to know the joy that you alone can give." Amen.

Matthew 19:23-30

New International Version

"'23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

25 When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?”

26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

27 Peter answered him, “We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?”

28 Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife[a] or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first. "' Who can be saved? You Trust in God and the kingdom is yours. Everything can be possible for God. He has your back. Blessings for all. Joe

[hyperbolicgrinch]

The rules: tag a few people you would like to get to know better

tagged by these glorious folks @the-sassiest-trixster @marulo @mishathewtf

thanks, guys, I'm feeling very loved ( ꈍᴗꈍ)👉👉

THREE FAVOURITE FOODS: roast veggies, fried rice, cinnamon donuts

FAVOURITE COLOURS: yellow, blue, maroon

LAST THING I GOOGLED: David Ellsworth (for an edit 😇)

DREAM TRIP: New Zealand/Argentina/Canada/Singapore/South Korea/China/Japan/Britain/Tasmania/anywhere with my fam

TIME: 12:30am

tagging this lot 😏 @lolacouldnotcareless @sebyth @thienna @toinfinitywarandbeyond @thealmightyawesomegay-blog @vishcount @omgdontlookatmeuniverse

[kth1]

After months and months of planning between Jimin and Maggie, with the occasional help from Taehyung and accidental help from Namjoon, Maggie awaits in the baggage claim area of the airport after Jimin’s long flight from Korea to LAX. Jimin wants to surprise his girlfriend, Lindy, for her birthday this year as many times in the past he missed special occasions due to his hectic schedule. It’s understandable, being adults trying to figure out career paths makes you do that.

Be busy that is...

But luckily, Jimin is able to swindle his charms and cast his pleading eyes enough times to finally make a glorious trip to the States to revisit his love. Already debated on sweeping her right off her feet and bringing her back to Korea when he returns back home. 

Maggie spots Jimin in the best, ‘no really, there isn’t a celebrity under these clothes’ hidden attire. A stark baseball cap covering the majority of his face along with a face mask covering. Large baggy clothes that he probably is eager to break out of once he hits the car or the apartment complex. To Maggie’s own surprise as she waits for the bags to flood in by the conveyor belt, are the two - yes two - companions accompanying Jimin. One she partially assumes is a manager of some sort and the other is none other than Jimin’s best friend and soulmate, Taehyung.

Thank God Maggie has a large car to house all these extra suitcases and bodies.

Maggie formally greets them to the best of her ability after Taehyung nearly crashes into her with a large bear hug, nearly suffocating the poor girl with how much he’s missed being around her. Jimin’s eyes shine bright and crinkle, no doubt matching the smile hidden under his mask. 

“So I have it set up that I'll bring you guys to Lindy’s apartment. I have a spare key so we can chill there a bit. You guys can take a nap or something if you need to,” she checks her wrist at the watch that flashes her the time. “We have about two hours before I need to pick her up.”

“That sounds great. Did you get her the cake I told you about? The cream cheese cake one with cherries?” Jimin looks over to Maggie from the passenger seat of the car.

“Order it exactly how you requested!” 

Jimin sighs relief. His mind hasn’t ever stopped the thoughts of excitement and nervousness of hopefully making this birthday one of Lindy’s best. 

Time flies by and Maggie is already driving Lindy back home for what she knows as a night in with movies and drinks. Lindy looks slightly exhausted, surely work never helped make her mood lighter. However, Maggie tries to cheer Lindy up by bringing her a small bag of chocolates before the big surprise. 

“You seem a bit off, did something happen?” Lindy quirks an eyebrow, fingers grabbing around a face mask that has been trampled on by her feet. It’s a full black mask, one Maggie doesn’t necessarily ever have to her knowledge. 

“What do you mean?” Maggie’s eyebrows furrow, hiding the way her eyes nearly widen at the sudden question. Worried she ended up saying or doing something that tipped Lindy off. 

“You’re quieter than usual.” 

Maggie begins to laugh, more at herself but Lindy cannot detect that. “Oh? I’m honestly pondering if we should go with Jennifer’s Body or She’s the Man for movies.” 

It’s a lie, but Lindy doesn’t know that. 

Prior to Lindy entering the car, Maggie had notified Jimin via text that they would be arriving in roughly twenty minutes. So in the back of Maggie’s mind as she’s driving closer to Lindy’s block, is praying to the lord how this plan must execute perfectly for it to all work. 

Jimin planned to put together Lindy’s cake in the stairwell of Lindy’s apartment complex, hiding from Lindy’s view from when he begins hearing both her and Maggie stepping up the concrete steps. Taehyung and the manager already planned to make their way around the block for some local convenience store snacks in the meantime, ready to bring back even more food and drinks. 

“Oh shit,” Maggie exclaims as she’s only one foot through the door to Lindy’s apartment. “I forgot I had a bottle of liquor in the trunk of the car. I’ll be right back.” 

Lindy stands awkwardly as her sweater starts to drape off her elbows, nearly falling to the floor when she goes to speak up.

“Ok?”

Lindy watches her best friend vanish down the stairwell before the door closes, preventing any further view to the outside world. She shrugs it off, ready to deflate her body to her trusty couch after kicking off both her worn down shoes and hooking her purse up on the hanging rack. 

She stares at the odd placement of her remote, how a few of her magazines seem to be scattered erratically when she knows she almost always places them in chronological order whenever she touches them. 

Once the door shut behind Maggie, she twists her head and halts her descending steps. After a few moments pass, she lightly walks back up the stairs and up the next flight. With a low whisper, Maggie calls out for Jimin. 

Maggie rounds the corner of the railing, noticing Jimin is kneeling down with the cake set on the stairs and a handful of candles in each hand.

Maggie begins recording the set up, camera lens focusing on every move Jimin makes. You can see and feel the anxious energy off of him. It’s endearing how much he truly cares. 

“You’re doing great,” Maggie whispers low. Her eyes continue to flicker down to where Lindy’s door stands, making sure that for whatever reason Lindy does not open that door back up. 

Jimin lights each candle one by one, hands trembling with excitement. “I only saw the back of her and literally my entire heart jumped out of my chest. It keeps going ‘boom boom boom boom’,” he exaggerates with the gesture of his hands. 

“She’ll be so happy Jimin, trust me!” 

“We’re going to have to text Taehyung that the coast is clear,” he says as he slowly and carefully picks up the cake in both of his hands. Together the two of them walk down the stairs, edging closer to Lindy’s door. Jimin already has a wide smile plastered across his face, eyebrows raised and anticipating seeing his beloved. 

With the twist of the handle, curiosity of Maggie, she flings the door open while holding her cellphone steady to capture the moment when Lindy first lays eyes on Jimin. 

Lindy is leaning over her coffee table, shuffling through the random array of useless knickknacks when the door suddenly bursts open. Her head snaps to look, eyes immediately finding Jimin holding out her cake with lit candles who is beginning to sing ‘Happy Birthday’. Jimin steps through the door frame; a stunned beyond belief Lindy frozen to the middle couch cushion as her face is ready to burst into tears. 

“Surprise! Happy Birthday, baby! I love you!” Jimin says with his whole chest.

[scoot-over-yonder]

Update 3/1/2022

As of this past Monday, I've been out of quarantine 2 weeks. Unfortunately, that's the average span of time it takes for my sleep schedule to turn upside-down when I'm on a break, so here I am, having been up all night and slept all day out of no desire to on my own, likely going to do the same tonight. But at least I'll have classes to force me into a proper sleep schedule, especially since I have an evening Korean class two days out of the week.

It's 9:30 at night the time I've started writing this. I can walk to my room's window and look out and see the bright city of Gwangju, if only just a little part of it. At some point I'd love to go out and walk the city at night; I may be a country baby, but there's few sights I love more than bright neon signs and streetlights on overpasses and life in general still going on even in the deep hours of the night, but due to a certain virus most businesses are required to close after 10, and the buses stop running around the same time. My own curfew at the university is between 1-5am, which is almost a little silly in how late and short it is, but I'd guess it's to discourage people from being out in the city and exposed to danger all night long.

Outside the window is another sight I've found is common on the Korean nighttime skyline - eerie, neon-red crosses atop every church.

My phone's camera isn't great, but you can see two in the image - the obvious one there, and there's also another farther one on the left.

I can count a grand total of seven of these from the view from my window, and while I suppose it is an effective way to signal the location of a church, it's still a little... hm. I don't know. I hate to repeat a descriptor, but it's eerie.

During my time out of quarantine, I've managed to do a lot. One thing in particular was an entire trip to Seoul with some fellow Americans (and I believe one French girl), which will be its own post(s) considering how much we did.

Aside from that, I've mostly been busy. I haven't been able to try much yet outside of Seoul on account of the fact that I know basically zero Korean aside from "hello" and "thank you". However, there is an abundance of the glorious invention that is a lifesaver for not only the COVID-conscious, but introverts and monolinguals, the electronic ordering kiosk. I've been able to feed myself without draining all of my hope in myself using those things, especially getting a spicy soup or fried chicken that I really like from Hansot.

I did go with a few girls to an area here in Gwangju the other day, and while unfortunately I've forgotten the name (I may add it to the next post when I remember/find it), it was a street full of shops. Many of them were names you'd find here in America, like H&M or Burger King or... National Geographic? I didn't know they had stores, let alone in Korea. But there was something that was the highlight of my night, a little hole in the wall that sold corn dogs.

REALLY good corn dogs. So good that I'd love to use stronger language to describe them, but I'm keeping this blog clean. It was a hot dog sausage that tasted better than any hot dog sausage I've ever had back home, dipped in some sort of heavenly corn batter that was so good that I would and did eat some on its own, and that was rolled around in potato chunks and then fried. I never thought I would have a borderline spiritual experience from a corn dog.

Bask in the glory. It looks small. It was not. What's in there was the size of your typical hot dog weenie, absolutely smothered with corndog stuff and taters. I'd dare say it's worth coming here just for these.

We also went to a self-photo studio. There are so many of those here. You cannot escape them. Though, from what it seems, you're free to take as many pictures with your own camera in the lobby as you like, but if you want their little fancy picture machines to do it for you it costs money - but not much; ₩2,000 each (a little over $1.50) was what this studio charged. I got put in the back because I had a lobster hat on. Unfortunately, I'm very short, and they weren't too mindful of me, so it was a struggle to be in the pictures in the first place.

Also, there was a huge plush cat.

It was also my twentieth birthday last week. It's hard to believe I've been alive 2 decades now, possibly because for better or for worse I don't feel a day over 14. Technically, in Korea, I'm considered to be 21 and have since I got here, since Koreans gain a year at the beginning of the year and are considered one year old at birth.

The drinking age here is 19 (18 to us). Yes, I've tried some things, including soju, which was one of the strangest things I've tasted. I also tried a drink that tasted almost exactly like Tootsie Rolls, if Tootsie Rolls were alcoholic.

Strangely enough, a bottle of soju here costs ₩1,200 (exactly one dollar) and you can get it from basically any convenience store. To be more specific, that's less than soda or even water costs here. I'm... a little concerned.

But back to birthday stuff... I had told some of the girls I was traveling with that it was going to be my birthday. I didn't expect anything; I already had my own gift from my mom to open (which was a bunch of cards written by all sorts of people back home, thank you to everyone who wrote one!), but the day after my birthday they came to my dorm with a little macaron with a candle in it and a gift bag. In it was a couple more macarons, a little pack of cotton candy, and a hedgehog plush - I see you glancing at my profile picture; it was a regular hedgehog plush, not Sonic, though it is very adorable. They said they had tried to find something Sonic with absolutely no luck. I have, too. I've looked everywhere. These stores have everything from Sanrio to Peanuts to My Hero Academia to Harry Potter, but aside from a few people recognizing my profile picture or phone wallpaper, the blue blur is surprisingly absent here. Sad!

They did draw him on a sticky note on the bag, though :)

And here's the plush - I've named him Nicky. If you know, you know.

There's more to tell about Gwangju (as well as the Seoul trip, which was so jam-packed that I may have to split it into a post for each day), but this post has gotten a little long, so I'll leave some for tomorrow evening.

I'm sorry for the delay in posting; if I'm being honest it's been hard to motivate myself to write anything about anything lately. But I have a bit of a backlog of things to talk about, so keep an eye out over the next few days :)

[darkdevasofdestruction]

Fluffy Days ~ Jumin Han x Reader

Everyone, when they looked at Jumin, they saw him for his position as the Director and future CEO of one of the top 5 biggest, wealthiest companies in South Korea, so it was needless to say that, before thinking of how much he worked to perfect himself to be the best version of a professional director as he can, despite the title being given hereditary, people would still think of all the riches he was blessed with.

Many, like Zen and Yoosung, would envy him for having so much money and being able to do anything he could even dream of, including any weird fantasy like creating a wine line specifically for cats, or a cat brand...

And only he knows what else he thought of, but never tried to give form to.

However, very few ever looked at him for being a hard-working man, business-orientated, rational, logical and always putting the benefit of the company above all else.

But...

Was Jumin truly happy the way he was?

That question was answered one day, when a certain maiden called Y/N found a weird phone on the ground, and somehow found herself joining this charity organisation called RFA, and given her profession as a Vet, and having enough money for herself, and obviously not being a materialistic gold-digger...

Well, the brunet man of the RFA found himself completely entranced by this mysterious woman, who, in time, will end up being his girlfriend, and even more, his fiancee.

In due time, though, there is no rush.

The other important question that even fewer people ever ask themselves was...

Was Jumin never stressed out or over-worked?

And the answer goes pretty obvious that yes, he was, rather often, but he masks that and tries to cope with it by retorting to his childish self that has been long locked away, and yet, sometimes resurfaces when needed, so he does silly cat projects.

Now that he has a lover, however, he can allow himself to go on dates, that began rather fancy, but upon her protest, became more relaxed and casual, preferring peace and content to extravagance and luxuries.

They would go on a picnic in the forest nearby, take impulsive trips to what-ever place they felt like, sometimes throwing a dart on a world map on the wall and going wherever it lands, or going on shopping sprees for whatever self-care items they felt like, doing skin care routines together from time to time, cuddling together in the cinema room, eating commoner cinema snacks that he has to admit, aren’t too bad (although he won’t trade the ‘Melanin’ stake for popcorn).

There are, however, some days when he would just want to stay at home and cuddle with Y/N and Elizabeth the 3rd - Those days are definitely the most stressful and he needs to calm himself down before he bursts with weird emotions, which is something he prides himself to never do, and yet, he acknowledges the fact that it is not impossible, and he is still just a human, not a heartless robot as some claim he is.

As soon as he got home, Jumin sighed, going to his room, threw his blazer on the chair nearby, and folding up his sleeves, he let himself fall on his bed, looking at the ceiling with an exhausted and annoyed expression, before closing his eyes altogether, taking a few deep breaths to calm down.

Sighing at the deplorable state her beloved was in, she went to the bathroom and drew hot water, putting in some lavender bath salt, lighting up some incense sticks, some scented candles with lavender, vanilla and cinnamon, made the lights be dim, put bubble solution and waited until it was hot and steamy in the bath, as she searched for some calming Lo-Fi music, choosing some mountain sounds that had soft bird chirping and forest sounds included.

When everything was perfect, she threw in a Lush northern lights bathbomb, loving how great the purple and blue blended together, and went out, sitting on the side of the bed next to Jumin, gently brushing away the hair from his face and kissing his forehead.

“Come on, darling, I drew you a bath. Let’s help you relax a bit...Shall we?” she spoke in that soft voice that could always sooth his worries away.

He didn’t have the power to say much, but humming positively, he sluggishly followed Y/N to the bathroom, where his eyes widen and how aesthetically pleasing and relaxing the bathroom became.

It was almost like he never had any idea how relaxing a bath can be, and not as much of a ‘chore’ as he felt it was.

Y/N told him to take his clothes off already and get in the water before it gets cold, which seemed to make him chuckle in amusement, but did so without any protesting, and he found himself sighing at how good it felt having his sore, tense muscles tended by the hot water.

She pushed him gently down by the shoulders until he was up to his chin in water, then went to pour a glass of his favourite red wine for him to enjoy.

“Is this how you always take baths?” he asked in a lower voice. “Most of the time, yes. I make this ritual whenever I feel the need to properly relax, and it sort of became like a Pavlovian reflex, y’know?” she snorter in amusement, sitting on the ground next to the bathroom. “I see...Now I understand why you were always looking forward to them.” he nodded slightly in agreement. “I’m happy if it can help you as well. I haven’t seen you this stressed since the whole Sarah and Elizabeth the 3rd problem.” she gave him a sad smile, which made him look deep into her eyes with a pondering look. “I don’t appreciate too many unexpected things coming up all at once.” he nodded, leaning back once again. “What kind of music is this?” “Oh, this! It’s called Lo-Fi, and it’s mostly for relaxing. It has all sorts of genres and types, but this, in particular, is a mountain Lo-Fi. Do you like it? I know it’s different to the classical music you always had, but I thought maybe a little change wouldn’t hurt. I-I can change it back to Debussy and Vivaldi if you don’t like it!” she blinked, her eyes widening at the realisation that she messed up, but he could only chuckle at her cute reactions. “I don’t mind this. It’s pretty nice. Perhaps, as you said, a change in the usual routine wouldn’t hurt once in a while.” he gave her a soft smile, which left her weak to her knees. “Sweet. Let me pamper you up a bit, then.” she grinned, as she started applying a hydrating face mask, putting two big cucumber slices on his eyes. “Why...Are you doing all this for me, Y/N?” he asked, unsure of himself. “Why? Because you’re stressed out an you need to relax, obviously.” she spoke as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. “Yes, I know, but...Why...?” he asked again, putting emphasis on the last world. “Ohh, I think I get what you mean. Because I love you, of course. I want to spoil you because you love me, and you care about me, and you make me happy, so of course, I want to do anything in my power to reciprocate and make sure you know how much I love you.” her words were so sweet and innocent that Jumin felt the burning need to throw away those stupid cucumber slices and look at her beautiful face, but decided against that impulse, so he won’t upset her and her thoroughly prepared routine.

After that, she took away the slices and gently washed away the cream-mask, in circular motions, as he massaged his face, and he truly felt in Heaven for the first time in ages.

If this wasn’t bliss, he had no idea what else could be.

And if that wasn’t enough, the shower gel she put on the sponge smelled like home-made chocolate, and as she gently rubbed his shoulders, arms and neck, he had to use all the self-restraint he had not to grab her arms and get her in the tub with him so he can hold her tightly to his chest and kiss her until he forgot to breathe altogether.

It lasted for at least an hour, but Jumin got a bit bored and restless of staying in the bathtub, and told the girl he’s done for now, she brought him his bath robe and told him to get in his sleeping wear while she cleans and organises stuff around the bathroom, as it was one of her little quirks, to have everything in order, which always amuses him since he does the exact same thing all the time, going as far as to scold Assistant Kang for not putting the folders on his desk at the exact millimeters specified.

As soon as she was ready, Y/N did a short night time skin care routine and went to her lover, cuddling with him and bringing out the laptop and putting on his favourite movie on the huge plasma TV that he only ever turned on thanks to her.

Jumin wasn’t even sure if he was paying attention to the movie, as he let Y/N hug his head to her chest, gently playing with his hair in a way that made him almost sleepy, yet very warm and content, his past stress and worries being long eradicated.

He remembered her saying that since she was very little, and even now, when she’s all grown up, she always loves crawling in her mum’s arms in bed and letting her play with her hair, as it was one of the few things that can combat her insomnia and help her sleep peacefully...

And now, she was doing it to him, and he felt more than honoured to be subject to such personal, intimate and comforting act of pampering.

That is the kind of privilege he would do anything to achieve, and it was happening to him, as the angel that his girlfriend is was always the one person who could somehow make him feel happy by merely existing.

Outside was a gorgeous night, and Jumin’s dormitory was illuminated by nothing more than the twinkling stars and the glorious silvery light of the moon that was looking over the two lovers holding each other under the covers of the master bed, while faint jazz music played in the background, as it was one of their little before-sleep rituals, still feeling the little euphoria from the movie they just watched.

“Jumin...I love you. And I’m really grateful for everything you’ve done for me. Never forget that, okay?” the h/c girl spoke in a gentle voice, as the man ran his fingers through her long locks, just as he would play with his cat’s fur, and she’d start purring. “I won’t forget, Y/N. I’m glad you were able to convince me to meet up with you, despite the circumstances, back then when we barely knew each other. No, actually, I am glad that you found that phone.” Jumin’s velvety voice spoke out, ringing in her ears. “Want to go out tomorrow? I have a free day tomorrow at the clinic. We can go have a walk through the forest or the park, if you want.” Y/N suggested, drawing shapes on the man’s chest absent-mindedly. “I don’t see why not. Elizabeth the 3rd is at V’s and I’ll have Assistant Kang erase everything from tomorrow’s schedule. I believe I had some meeting with another business with a group of women...Not something I’m too fond of.” he groaned slightly, making the girl chuckle and raise slowly, resting her form on her elbow. “What, you don’t want to throw around too many compliments and sickeningly sweet sugar-coated words in just one day?” she chuckled, a teasing smirk on her face. “The more I look at you, the more you remind me of a vixen. I don’t see any reason why I should carelessly throw around compliments to thirsty women who are only in it for my money and looks, when I could direct them all to that one person who holds my heart.” Jumin shot right back, making the girl dramatically put her hand over her heart, mimicking that she got shot by Cupid’s arrow. “Mon Dieu, my ears can’t believe what they’re hearing, are you sure you’re not trying to charm me again?” she leaned down to plant a soft kiss on his lips, as one of her hands gently brushed away the fringe from his face. “There is no end line to the path to someone’s affections. I believe that once you found the special someone, one should continue to show their appreciation towards said person.” his words soothed her heart like a nice glass of rose syrup as he snaked his hands around her waist and brought her back into an embrace, her head resting on his shoulder. “You always know how to make my heart beat like crazy.” she nuzzled her face in the crook of his neck, giggling softly, making the man shiver slightly. “Just like a fox.” he muttered, chuckling lightly.

[trash-tan]

Haikyuu Skincare Routines

I know most of these hoes would actually just use the bar soap they just used on their pubes on their faces but I’m a skincare whore and that’s unacceptable. This is mainly going to reference kbeauty bc that’s what I’m most familiar with. This is unedited brain heartburn please be wary

Kuroo would come across that one™ heavily quoted vit c research paper (15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid and 1% vit e in alpha tocopherol form) and literally only use that serum (he uses the wishtrend 15% with ferulic acid bc fuck skinceuticals and their $150+ serum) in his routine in combination with the Good Morning cleanser from Cosrx bc it’s cheap and the first thing that popped up when he searched for low acidity cleansers. Uses a combo spf moisturizer from clean and clear bc he hasn’t ‘gotten that far’ into skincare

Hanamaki would be the anti-skincare guru and only believe in cetaphil and whatever prescription his derm gave him but still wonder why his skin isn’t getting better. Uses Elta md sunscreen which is good but there’s so many better options out there honey (get out of your asshole we know you can see the results on your friends)

Mattsun would take a page out of makkis book but prob would opt for curology instead bc he doesn’t have the spare money to see a whole ass derm+/saw the ad somewhere and it worked for him so he kept the subscription. Doesn’t use spf like a heathen

Akaashi would have a solid three or four step routine depending on his mood for the day consisting of: 1. a cream to foam cleanser (bc he doesn’t like the way his face feels tight after super stripping cleansers) 2. probably that galactomyces toner from cosrx except he sprays it onto a cotton pad, tones his face, and then sprays it directly for a good pat down 3. (Optional) a lululun facemask or serum sample he got when he bought his toner 4. A thin layer of a rather dense cream but opts for a lighter cream in the summer or daytime but sometimes whatever bokuto got bc he basically shares akaashis stuff. Spf when he’s going to be out and about that day, but not to school bc he considers that indoors even with the windows flooding uv rays into the room but ok

Bokuto would use whatever akaashis using bc it looked cool to have a routine but then realized after following it for a while that he likes the super clean feeling after washing his face and would probably buy perfect whip by senka bc the foam is super satisfying to play with and it leaves him feeling super clean. He would feel bad about using akaashis products all the time and replace them every now and then with whatever he saw on a commercial or with whatever he got suckered into buying from the super convincing attendants at the beauty counter. One time bokuto used all his savings and bought the flagship pitera cream from skii bc if it’s the most expensive and best it’s gotta be good right? Akaashi sighed and tried using it but the fragrance broke him out and he couldn’t muster up the heart to tell bokuto so he just replaced the insides of the jar with the snail cream from cosrx and the placebo affect made bokutos skin shine like he belonged on the face of Elle. Doesn’t know spf exists unless it’s on a beach

Tendou would fall into any skincare fad and try it once. Has a billion products he’s tried once and thrown away bc it ‘didn’t work out’. Has definitely fucked up the pH balance of his skin, over exfoliated more than once, destroyed his skin barrier, and sometimes combined all of these in one sitting. Needless to say his skin is screaming all the time because it’s so damn sensitive from the torture he puts it through but he thinks the stinging is the product ‘working’, When he ‘tries’ a product he goes straight in without patch tests and applies w a y too much. Gets intoxicated with the feeling of slippy slidy on his face which makes him feel like the product is sinking into his skin better. Definitely makes faces and contorts his face while doing so. Does not actually have a semblance of an actual skincare routine other than doing it for fun. For some reason he always uses spf and remembers to reapply.

Ushijima would be the king of spot treatments and moisturization. Knows more than basics, and definitely incorporates skincare into his routine because he just likes the word routine jk he just gets frustrated from the occasional spot that typically comes up on his chin, otherwise he has immaculate skin. Moisturizes with a gel cream (probably the water bank cream from laneige) because he likes the feel of the oil/water balance on his face. Definitely tries the occasional fad with Tendou but in moderation and picks up whatever he likes/whatever tendou wants to throw away. Favorite products would probably be benzoyl peroxide spot treatments and would only use acne patches overnight. Uses spf occasionally but forgets most of the time unless tendou reminds him.

Kenma would accidentally click an ad for a gimmicky all in one skincare product but then whirlpool himself into the world of skincare and pick up a thing here and there and use it most of the time. If he’s on a gaming binge he won’t wash his dusty face until his eyes water and the crap his long eyelashes have so desperately kept away for the last 18 hours get mixed into his eyeballs and then he’ll finally wash his face. Probably uses good morning cosrx cleanser like kuroo (they get 1+1 deals together) and then the anti stress carrot pads by bellamonster bc he liked the flip top and the big pads bc it’s faster to finish his skincare with more wiping surface area. Finishes with dr jarts cicapair cream bc he’s got somewhat sensitive skin and it doesn’t bother him for his long wear hours. Knows that he should wear sunscreen but still opts out bc he rationalizes it by saying that he prob doesn’t even get enough sun to get his vit d requirement so he doesn’t really need it and to that I say touché

Hinata watched a hadalabo commercial on tv when he was young so he has a firm! belief that your skin should be sticky enough so that the van der waals forces between your palms and cheeks feel like peeling tape after you’re done with your skincare routine. An absolute hyaluronic acid whore, started off with hadalabo but the paraben scare ultimately made him switch to isntrees hyaluronic acid toner plus, not to be confused with the normal one because the more diverse the molecule sizes, the better, no? He doesn’t really understand but he understands that it sinks in better than the original and he likes the dark blue color of the toner on his counter because it makes him feel 0.00001% more manly. Also uses the sleeping mask from the same line before tournaments to mentally(?) prepare himself. Doesn’t use spf unless playing outside because hyaluronic acid is all he knows about actual skincare

Asahi would probably try to find an oil that’s good for his beard and his face. A true connoisseur of cleansing oils as well because he got sucked into it after overhearing from the girls in class that it helps with clogged pores. He always needed something to help with that because he had been getting ingrowns ever since he started getting facial hair. It took a lot to muster up the courage to ask for recommendations and even though he started off with the kose speedy cleansing oil hes made his way all the way up to shu uemuras anti pollution cleansing oil. He doesn’t keep it in the open because he doesn’t want anybody to mistake it for hand soap (ahem nishinoya) and it’s kind of his little secret because he treats it as a mini stress reliever at the end of his day. Doesn’t use spf because he thinks it’ll make him tan unevenly

Osamu looooves using apothecary themed skincare or skincare with essential oils. Probably a whore for the klairs supple preparation toner and innisfree as a brand. The type to cup his hands around his nose after using a product on his skin and breathe it in. Solid skincare routine (that he actually makes a routine) equipped with regular sheet mask sessions every week. His skin is positively glowing and glorious and it makes atsumu mega jealous but he really just doesn’t put in the same effort as osamu does and it shows. Thinks if the packaging says ~derived from natural ingredients~ it’ll have less chemicals or something. If he ever went on a trip to Korea he probably went to jeju as well to experience the innisfree green tea/osulloc luxury tea shop (2 birds with one stone, ya know?). When he was younger he probably liked skinfood (I’m sorry I had to) or tonymoly bc it was cheap, gimmicky, and fun to play around with with atsumu. Hates it when atsumu steals his sheet masks, especially if they’re the mediheal ones he keeps at the back of his drawer. Uses spf at the end of his routine always but forgets to reapply sometimes.

Atsumu really likes fragranced skincare bc he thinks it makes the product more luxurious. Forgets to wash his hands between hair care products and skincare products which makes him break out from time to time. He thinks he has a routine but in reality it’s just the normal 2-3 step he puts on occasionally for the ~vibes~ but is still worried about that line or two starting to form around his eyes. Loves sheet masks, especially the cellulose ones where it feels like agar jelly on your skin. Honestly just likes masks in general (eye masks, wash off masks, sleeping masks, modeling packs) but he likes getting them done at the spa (he takes osamu with him when he steals one too many of his mediheal masks). Washes his face regularly with whatever osamus using because he’s too lazy to bother getting his own but too invested in looking good to ignore the pretty bottle of face wash just begging to be used. Uses spf when he remembers that uva=wrinkles

[hello-robin-goodfellow]

THE DIFERENT CYCLES OF NOSTALGIA FILTER

Most of the nostalgia towards the past is based on Nostalgia Filter. The good stuff is remembered and the bad stuff ignored, forgotten or not even taken in account. When it's about a time period Two Decades Behind people will be nostalgic for it because they experienced it themselves, but from the viewpoint of a child or a teenager, when they didn't have to worry about all the adult stuff that depresses them nowadays, because the grownups took care of all that: taxes, work, bills, tragic news events,... If the nostalgia is about a time period people didn't directly experience themselves the romanticism is even more rampant. People will base their rosy posy image of that time period on stuff they have seen and read in books, comic strips, cartoons, TV series, films, old photos and/or fond memories of older family members. Usually they aren't aware that many things they now take for granted didn't always exist back then or were still considered highly controversial.

The glories of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome where the cradle of philosophy and science started, everyone is able to enlist in the army (well, if you weren't a woman or a slave, of course) and see the world while doing so. You can go and enjoy watching Olympic Games, a play in the theater or watch exciting gladiator battles in the arena, philosophers like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle and Virgil are respected as pillars of their societies, and people were opened to sex and LGBT as opposed to the close-minded Christians in later centuries. Not taken in account: class systems, people dying early of diseases we nowadays have proper treatment for, slavery, democracy only for rich upperclass males citizens, bloody battles, Roman military service had to be fulfilled several years! before you could retire and start a civilian life, women having no rights, not even allowed to watch sporting games, xenophobia was so prevalent that would make modern prejudices and bigotry look tame, scientific contributions were more based on superstitions and empirical and weren't always based on logic (see Plato's and Aristotle's works), pederasty was the only accepted form of homosexuality and it was punishable if a relationship did not fit in those criteria (also it was only tolerated in some city and states), Roman sexuality was still arguably patriarchal and not all sexual taboo was acceptable (ie. a wealthy man get away with his slaves while married women were expected to be faithful, oral sex was considered shameful).

The thousand years of Chinese dynasties up until Republic was the time where people dressed in beautiful colorful haifu with good etiquette and manners, scholars were appreciated, education was valued as opposed during the Cultural Revolution, the Tang Dynasty was the golden age of prosperity and where women has more rights than any other periods. Not taken in account: the Confucians were oppressive against the lower social classes, the caste system, education systems were corrupted with many scholars and students were promoted based on bribes rather than actual skills, women were still considered inferior in the Tang Dynasty, the royal court were so deadly and decadent that would make the place in wuxia media look tame, slavery, the rebellions and civil wars (ie. The Three Kingdoms, An Lushan Rebellion, Taiping Rebellion) that were very common that cost million of lives that went unheard of and resulted in many famine and diseases that led to cannibalism, footbinding was practiced since the Song Dynasty, xenophobia was prevalent including against their sister countries like Japan and Korea.

The Middle Ages are usually romanticized as a glorious past with chivalrous knights fighting for the honor of beautiful princesses, proving their worth in tournaments, stuffing themselves at royal buffets with the kind old king, and defending castles against malevolent invaders. Not taken in account: The Plague, wars, mercenaries and soldiers plundering farms and villages, filthy streets, people dying at a young age because of insufficient knowledge of diseases, the injustice of the feudal system, monarchs and the Catholic Church being oppressive towards people with other viewpoints, high illiteracy, people executed and tortured for audience's pleasure and often without anything resembling a fair trial, women considered being lesser in status than men, famine whenever harvests failed... Ironically, the part that was arguably good, the Byzantine Empire (with its extremely high literacy and such luxuries as running water) is usually overlooked or completely ignored.

The Renaissance and The Enlightenment are the time when society finally got out of the bleak, primitive and God fearing Dark Middle Ages and gained wisdom by discovering a lot of stuff. Kings and queens never looked more magnificent. Artists and sculptors painted the finest works and humanists, philosophers and Protestants learned humanity to think for themselves. You could enjoy a Shakespeare play, listen to baroque classical music or have a swashbuckling duel. Not taken in account: A lot of new thought and discoveries in the field of science were very slowly adapted into society. Mostly because a lot of royals, religious authorities and other government officials suppressed these "dangerous" new ideas. Compared to those "primitive" Middle Ages more people have been hanged or burned on the stake for their beliefs and/or on the assumption that they were witches during the 1500s, 1600s and 1700s than in the centuries before! The Reformation and Counter-Reformation divided Europe and caused many casualties. All the great books and art works created during this era were only enjoyed or experienced by the very rich. Wars still ravaged Europe, colonization exploited other continents, slavery became a real industry and absolutism made the monarchy and nobility so powerful and decadent that they didn't care about the lower classes. Duels weren't glorious at all, just a matter of killing off your opponent.

The Golden Age of Piracy is one big adventure where you could go on a boat trip with pirates and have fun attacking other ships, taking gold and bury or search for treasure on some Deserted Island. Men were real men with a Badass Beard and cool looking eye patches, hooks for hands and wooden legs. Not taken in account: scurvy, people forced to do what their captain told them, your ship being attacked by other ships and losing, keelhauling, loot just being spent instead of buried, anti-piracy laws could get you arrested and hanged, storms could destroy your ship, all the cool looking eye patches, hooks for hands and wooden legs were just practical solutions for grievous injuries suffered during fights, and the fact that most of the Caribbean economy was reliant on the slave trade. There were also plenty of brutal attacks on helpless villages, indigenous communities, plantations, civilian ships, and even colonial settlements. In addition to helping themselves to everything that wasn't tied down, pirates would also torture, murder, enslave, and/or rape men, women, and children indiscriminately just for their own sick pleasure.

America's Wild West is a fun era where you could roam the prairie on a horse, visit saloons and shoot outlaws and Indians. Not taken in account: slavery was not abolished until deep in the 19th century and still going on in many colonies or remote place in the American South, cowboys took care of cattle and didn't engage in gun fights, gun violence was just as illegal as it is nowadays and could get you arrested by local sheriffs, outlaws could actually remain on the loose for several years, Native Americans being massacred by white settlers and armies, black people having no basic human rights, The Ku Klux Klan was a respected organization...)

The mid-to-late 19th century and early 20th century were a classy time period where everybody was impeccably dressed and had good manners. You could take a coach ride or (later on) test the "horseless carriage", read some of the greatest novels in history, listen to the first records or even the great Caruso in person, admire the wonders of electricity and enjoy a world still untouched by modern industry. Life in the colonies was even more fun because you so many countries were still unexplored territory and the ideal place for adventure. Not taken in account: Victorian values were dominant, women couldn't vote, poor people couldn't vote, industrialization didn't have any health, safety or ethical rules to obey, child labor was rampant, workers had no rights, factories were very harmful to people's health and the environment, city rivers were open sewers, upper class had all the advantages upon the lower class, people could be sent to the poor house when they couldn't pay their debts, many novels were just pulp (think of it as the 19th century version of Internet) and music was strictly symphonic, the first automobiles were as dangerous as electricity, colonization was great for white Europeans but not as much for the oppressed native populations of Africa and Asia, animals were still hunted down as trophies, people who looked different were exploited in freak shows and circuses for spectators to Come to Gawk.

The Interbellum (1920s and 1930s): Between the two world wars, life was great. Everybody went to night clubs and/or revue theaters where they could enjoy great jazz music, girls and comedians. Movie theaters were a great place to be, because fantastic cinematic masterpieces were made. On the radio you could great music and serials, and newspapers published the best and most engaging comic strips ever printed. Not taken in account: From 1920 until 1933 alcohol was prohibited in the USA, so having an alcoholic drink was impossible without getting arrested or dying because of bad homemade brew. Crime was able to organize itself in a way that will probably never get untangled again. Many people got murdered in gangster violence. Jazz music was initially seen as "barbaric" just because it was made by blacks, and it had to be adapted to symphonic music to make it well-known. Hollywood in its early years was subject to more scandals than ever since, leading to a industry-wide censorship that lasted until the 1960s. The Great Depression between 1929 and 1940 caused major unemployment and poverty in many civilized countries, also forcing quite some people to start a life in crime. The "Dust Bowl" generated a desertification of the Midwest. Germany was particularly struck hard, because the country was still paying huge war debts to other countries, causing mass poverty and the ideal atmosphere for Nazism to gain voters. Many countries during this time period suffered under either Nazism, Fascism or Communism. From 1933 on Jewish, homosexual, Romani and left wing people were already persecuted in Nazi Germany, at the same time disagreeing in anything with Stalin meant a one-way ticket to Siberia. War was already brewing in Europe and the Far East, when Japan invaded China and South East Asia. Many countries were still colonies, which wasn't a great deal for the natives there. Afro-Americans were still second class citizens and the Ku Klux Klan was still quite powerful in many political circles.

The '40s and World War II, the time where the entire world was united against a common evil foe and soldiers could still fight a just cause. Everybody worked together to defeat the Nazis or Japanese, while enjoying great Hollywood films and jazz and big band records on the radio. Not taken in account: Not everyone was united against the Axis. Numerous people (even Lindbergh and Ford) didn't consider Nazism or Fascism anything bad or felt their country should stay neutral in the war. During the occupations many people on both sides were arrested, deported, and/or murdered. People couldn't trust anyone, because your neighbor might be a Nazi collaborator or a spy who would turn you in to the authorities. The Nazis banned American and English music and films in Europe, so you could get in big trouble if you tried. Also, you know, there was a big war on. Millions of young soldiers were drafted and died on the battlefield, cities were bombed and occupied by enemy armies, you could die any day, shortages were rife.

The '50s: The last truly great time period in history. Music, films, politicians were nice, clean and decent. There was a general optimistic feeling about the future, exemplified in sunny fashions, interiors and technology. The youth enjoyed some great rock 'n' roll on their transistor radios and the early TV shows show how happy and pleased everybody was. Not taken in account: the Cold War, the Red Scare, anti-communist witch hunts, the Korean War, the French Indochina War, many European countries tried violently oppressing the inevitable independence of their colonies, Afro-Americans were still second-rate citizens in the USA and had to fight for human rights, homosexuals were forced to keep their sexual identity silent in many countries, the traditional role of women as housewives was still encouraged in many Western countries, a lot of music in the hit parade was still the bland, square, formulaic and sappy crooner music popular since the 20s, adults were scared of early rock 'n' roll and actually did everything to suppress the youth from listening to it and becoming teenage delinquents, the TV shows and films of that decade were so escapist that they ignored every controversial element.

The '60s and The '70s, a great time when everybody was a beatnik or a hippie and enjoyed fantastic rock music, marijuana, LSD and free love. People chased bad guys with their own hands with cool funk and disco music playing in the background. The young demonstrated for more democratic rights and everything changed for the better. Not taken in account: the older generation looked down upon hippies, the Vietnam War cost many lives, The Cuba Missile Crisis nearly caused a nuclear war between the USA and USSR, Afro-Americans still had to fight for civil rights, just like today there were just as much idealistic but naïve demonstrators who merely wasted time smoking pot instead of actually doing something, drug casualties were just as rampant back then as they are today, people took the law on their hands because of the alarming crime rates, not helped by the extreme corruption of police forces, psychedelic rock, funk and disco are now confined to sit in the shadow of both rock-and-roll and modern pop music, to the point that for decades, these were considered as the most cheesy genres created by man, [[not all demonstrators were pacifistic in their approach and it's an open question whether everything actually changed for the better.

The '80s: Oh yes. A great decade for pop culture after the sordid '70s and before everything went to the gutter in the '90s: Everybody felt a bright future coming along, as demonstrated by good TV shows, groundbreaking technology, computers and videogames, colorful clothing, simple yet catchy pop music and finally a TV channel that showed your favorite bands 24/7. The Cold War came to an end, the Berlin Wall and Apartheid fell. Not taken in account: The early 1980s had many people fear the Cold War wasn't going to end well. The Latin American debt crisis. President Reagan wanted more nuclear missiles in Europe, envisioned the Star Wars defense system and the "Evil Empire" speech reflected the "Red Scare" at a time "the Bomb" was still making everybody nervous. The Cold War, Berlin Wall and Apartheid did fall, but only near the end of the decade. Unemployment and economic crisis were a huge problem in many Western countries in the early years of the decade and the high speculation led to a bubble which fatigued in 1987 and burst in 1989. AIDS caused many victims because governments were slow to inform the general public on this disease as most people at first dismissed as just a problem for blacks, gays and drug users. TV shows and movies were extremely escapist and PCs and video games were prohibitively expensive. MTV did bring music videos on TV, but the downside was that how a pop star looked and danced became more important than the music, which was now created by computers, becoming increasingly sappy and repetitive as samples became the norm, becoming a disadvantage for those who still wanted to use actual instruments, chords and tunes. Metal and rap were seen as crime-mongering and even "satanic" as a whole. Also drugs went artificial during this time, turning Florida into a Crapsaccharine World. The nuclear power plant explosion in Chernobyl caused another major fear among people about the dangers of nuclear power.

The '90s and The Aughts: Dude. The Cold War has ended, and though some pesky Arabs (and some nutcases in the West) will try to blow people up and some Central European countries will be at each other's throats, there is peace at last! Outsourcing has lifted the West from the heavy load of manual work for good and turn to technology, and anyways, isn't the Internet wonderful? Society and culture are now free to break all imposed boundaries: Music has become more authentic with the arrival of rap, hip-hop, grunge and pop-punk. TV and movies now address modern issues instead of being stuck in those stodgy 50s and 60s. Politicians at last agree on stuff and generally get along. Whatever. Not taken in account: While a couple of years in the late 1990s were quite peaceful, the years before were marked by the extremely chaotic rearrangement of the former Warsaw Pact nations and the decade after was dominated by the Iraq War and memories of 9/11. The "technological revolution" ultimately never became the boon it was supposed to be: Economically, the exodus of manufacturing jobs forced the middle class to live on debt, which would give way to an economic meltdown by the end of the 2000s while privacy would gradually become a major source of concern as personal data became readily accessible. During the 1990s, the Internet was very expensive and was the province of businessmen and geeks while during the following decade, online downloads and chatrooms became incendiary topics. Grunge and "gangsta rap" were better known at their peak for the demise of several of their stars than for the music while hip-hop and pop-punk would be regarded in retrospective as trashy as the bubblegum pop that dominated the late 90s. By increasingly appealing to the trendy set, TV and film became increasingly shallow. While ideological differences became a thing of the past, politics became more self-serving and conflicts became pettier. As a result, people began to feel a sense of disconnection, which eventually led to the rise of strongly ideological populist movements.

SOURCE:

https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/NostalgiaAintLikeItUsedToBe

EXTRA: IN THE DISTANT YEAR OF 2045.

The New '10s and New '20s : Remember that meme? Do you have a Harriet doll? I need her to complet my My Little Poney: Friendship is Magic and Equestria Girls collection. Do you want to exchange her for my Fluttershy doll? Oh, do you like Lady Gaga? Her music was so deep. “Oppan Gangnam style. Gangnam style. Op, op, op, op oppan Gangnam style. Gangnam style. Op, op, op, op oppan Gangnam style. Eh sexy lady. Op, op, op, op oppan Gangnam style. Ehh sexy lady, oh, oh. Eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, eh”. Oh, i love your funko pop of Baby Groot!  “ Gotta get that. Gotta get that. Gotta get that. Gotta get that that that. Boom boom boom (Gotta get that). Boom boom boom (Gotta get that). Boom boom boom (Gotta get that). Boom boom boom. (Gotta get that) Boom boom boom. That boom boom boom. That boom boom boom. Boom boom boom”. Avengers Assemble! 

Not taken in account: The Syrian refugee crisis. The burning of the Amazon jungle. Donald Trump as the american president. Jair Bolsonaro as the brazilian president. The Covid-19 Pandemic. Navy oil in the beachs of the brazilian north east. The Brazilian Cinematheque getting closed. Height of murders of LGBTQ in Brazil. Disney monopolizing the american TV an Movie Industry.

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