#and we kinda just found the shop serendipitously | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

hajimakitten · 29 days

Text

𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝘽𝙀𝙎𝙏 𝙊𝙁 𝙈𝙀. | OT7 BTS reverse harem

author's notes: so what did you think?! i kinda don't really fault ryley for her way of thinking because it's bts. but, at the same time, you really have to remember that they're just humans like us. humans that are insanely talented and beautiful. but, humans nonetheless. ;D

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Chapters: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

A Serendipitous Encounter | Chapter Three

The following night, as BTS took in their last night in America, anticipation mingled with disappointment in the air. Despite their best efforts, they hadn't been able to find any trace of Ryley the night of their concert. Yet, as fate would have it, their journey was about to take an unexpected turn.

Back in their hotel room, the atmosphere was tense with anticipation as BTS regrouped after their encounter with Ryley. Jin's heart raced with excitement and a touch of apprehension as he recounted his brief eye contact with their soulmate while he had been on stage.

"She was right there," he breathed, his voice filled with wonder. "We have to find her."

Namjoon nodded in agreement; his expression determined. "We can't let her slip through our fingers again."

Meanwhile, Taehyung sat on the edge of the bed, his brow furrowed in thought as he scrolled through his phone, searching for any trace of Ryley online. Doubt still lingered in the back of his mind, but with each passing moment, his curiosity grew stronger.

"I just don't understand," Hoseok mused, pacing back and forth across the room. "How could she be our soulmate? It doesn't make sense."

Jungkook placed a comforting hand on Hoseok's shoulder. "Sometimes, things happen for reasons we can't explain. We just have to trust in the universe."

Jimin snuggled up beside Yoongi on the bed, his eyes glued to his phone as he scrolled through social media feeds in search of any clues about Ryley's whereabouts with little to no information on her. But despite his efforts, there was no sign of her.

"It's like she's vanished into thin air," he sighed, frustration lacing his words.

As the hours passed, the tension in the room reached a fever pitch, each member of BTS consumed by their own thoughts and emotions. Taehyung's long fingers hovered over his phone, his mind racing with doubts and uncertainties. Was Ryley really their soulmate, or was it all just a figment of their imagination?

But as he glanced around the room at his bandmates, their faces alight with hope and determination, Taehyung felt a flicker of something stir within him. Maybe, just maybe, there was a chance that Ryley was meant to be a part of their lives after all.

With a newfound sense of resolve, Taehyung set aside his doubts and joined the others in their search for Ryley, his heart pounding with excitement at the prospect of finally finding their elusive soulmate.

Namjoon sighed deeply with a hand sliding down his face while the other went through his phone. "I'm getting hungry and found a Korean restaurant nearby."

"I'll go and tell security that we're going out then," The second eldest mumbled, unwillingly peeling himself away from Jimin to leave the room. Maybe leaving the hotel and getting some fresh air could give them a new perspective on how to get their girl back.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Yoongi stepped out of the elevator; his mind preoccupied with thoughts of Ryley filling his head as he made his way to the entrance of the hotel for food. He was lost in contemplation when, out of nowhere, he bumped into a small figure and suddenly felt a shock course through his body that was unexpected. They both apologized before turning to one another and...

Ryley stood frozen in her spot, her eyes widening in surprise as she met Yoongi's gaze. For a moment, time seemed to stand still as they stared at each other, that palpable energy crackling between them. She had only gone down to the lobby to check out the gift shop before she left back home, leaving Samantha up in the hotel room waiting for her.

Without a word, Yoongi turned his body toward her fully, his heart pounding in his chest. Ryley's breath caught in her throat as he drew nearer, a mixture of fear and longing swirling within her.

"I-It's you," Yoongi breathed, his voice barely above a whisper.

She opened her mouth to respond, but before she could form the words, panic seized her heart, and she turned to flee. But Yoongi's instincts were fast enough to kick into overdrive as he chased after her. Shit, his bodyguards were going to hate him for this later, but he couldn't risk losing her again.

Meanwhile, the rest of the guys emerged from the elevator, their curiosity piqued by Yoongi's sudden departure. Jin's eyes widened in surprise as he spotted Yoongi and Ryley disappearing into the crowd.

"Is that who I think it is?" Namjoon asked, his brow furrowing in confusion.

Jungkook stared with big eyes, his gaze fixed on Yoongi's retreating figure before speaking to the group. "We need to follow them."

With that, they set off in pursuit with their bodyguards now close behind, weaving through the bustling lobby in search of their wayward bandmate and their soulmate. How was she here? Was this fate?

Yoongi chased after Ryley, his heart pounding in his chest as he fought to keep up with her. But she was fast, her fear lending her speed as she darted through the crowded lobby.

"Wait!" Yoongi called out, desperation creeping into his voice. His English may have been terrible, but he could at least remember some sentences of importance that Namjoon and his English teacher had taught him.

But Ryley didn't stop, her mind consumed by a whirlwind of doubts and insecurities. How could she possibly belong with BTS? It was all a cruel joke, it had to be.

As she reached the exit, Ryley glanced over her shoulder, her eyes widening in surprise as she saw Yoongi hot on her heels. But before she could react, she collided with someone, sending both of them tumbling to the ground in a heap.

Ryley looked up to see the rest of BTS standing before her, their expressions a mixture of concern and confusion. She scrambled to her feet, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment as she tried to compose herself.

"I'm sorry," she stammered, her voice trembling with emotion. "I didn't mean to—"

But Namjoon held up a hand, cutting her off with a gentle smile. "It's okay. We just want to talk."

Ryley hesitated, her heart racing as she met their gaze. For a moment, she was lost in the depths of their eyes, each one shining with warmth and sincerity.

"We just want to get to know you," Yoongi added, his voice soft and reassuring as he began to stand up now while dusting off the front of his clothes to stand next to her.

Tears welled up in Ryley's eyes as she looked at them, overwhelmed by the outpouring of kindness and acceptance. Most of them didn't say a word, but they really didn't need to because everything was conveyed to her by a single glance. What was she getting herself into?

Security stood back a bit, ready to jump on Ryley or anyone else that could possibly cause harm to the guys, but they made sure to block the gathering crowd from viewing what was going on between the eight of them. They needed to get out of the spotlight and quickly.

"Will you... Come to our hotel room? To talk?" Jin spoke to her gently, trying his hardest to remember all the English words that he could muster without sounding like a complete imbecile in front of his soulmate. Their soulmate.

As she thought about it for a moment, she swallowed hard and then played with the front of her shirt before nodding slowly. "O-Okay."

It was going to be a nerve-wrecking night.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

As they made it back to the room, thoughts of dinner completely gone from their mind, the members found themselves sitting across from the one who invaded their every thought, their hearts still racing from their encounter with her. To their delight, Ryley had agreed to join them, a sense of anticipation hanging in the air.

Ryley perched nervously on the edge of the bed, her eyes flickering between all seven of them as they gathered around her, their faces filled with curiosity and excitement. And after she had introduced herself to them, it was time to figure out a little more about her to get a conversation going (with the help of Namjoon's translating, of course).

"Ryley," Yoongi began, his voice gentle yet filled with determination and pleased to finally taste her name on the tip of his tongue. "We're so glad you're here. We have a lot of questions."

Ryley nodded, her heart pounding in her chest as she braced herself for the barrage of inquiries she knew were coming. But to her surprise, they were more interested in getting to know her than interrogating her about her life.

"So, tell us about yourself," Namjoon prompted, his gaze warm and inviting.

Ryley took a deep breath, her mind racing as she tried to think of where to begin. "Well, I live in Los Angeles with my friend Samantha. We met in college and have been inseparable ever since."

Jimin's eyes sparkled with mischief as he leaned in closer, a playful grin tugging at his lips. "I hope Samantha is okay with letting us steal you from her..."

She blushed at his flirtatious nature despite knowing that it was just who he was, feeling a flutter of butterflies in her stomach as she met Jimin's gaze. "Um, I'm sure she'd have something to say to that."

Jimin's grin widened, his gaze lingering on Ryley as he leaned back, clearly enjoying the playful banter. "Good to know."

As the night wore on, Jimin's flirtatious antics continued, much to the amusement of the rest of BTS. Ryley found herself laughing along with them, feeling more at ease with each passing moment as they shared stories and jokes.

But as the conversation turned to more serious matters, the members of BTS began to discuss how they would make their long-distance relationship work.

"Ryley," Jungkook began, his voice filled with sincerity and his adorably large eyes staring at her with stars in them. "We've been thinking about how we can make this work. Since you live in America and we live in South Korea, it's going to be challenging, but we're willing to do whatever it takes."

Ryley nodded, a sense of warmth spreading through her as she looked around at the members of BTS. "I appreciate that. I want to make this work too, but I'm not sure how feasible it is for me to move to South Korea."

Taehyung's heart sank at Ryley's words, his mind swirling with uncertainty. "Do you think you'd be willing to at least visit us in South Korea?"

Ryley hesitated, her mind racing as she considered the idea. "I don't know. It's a big decision to make, and I have a lot of responsibilities back home."

Jimin leaned in closer, his eyes pleading as he spoke. "Please, Ryley. We really want to make this work, but we need you to meet us halfway."

Ryley felt a pang of guilt at the earnestness in Jimin's voice, his words tugging at her heartstrings. "I'll think about it, okay? I just need some time to process everything."

Yoongi placed a reassuring hand on Ryley's shoulder, his gaze filled with understanding. "Take all the time you need. We're not going anywhere."

But, they were going somewhere. Home. They would be gone by this time tomorrow and there'd be many hurdles to try and get into contact with them again if she came to a decision. Unless...

"Let me give you my phone number," She spoke gently and reached her hand out toward Namjoon so that they could have a means of communication. Maybe they could make things work?

23 notes · View notes

lydias--stiles · 3 years

Text

serendipitous encounters

juke | human au | fluff

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

"I think I met my soulmate!" Luke shouted as he barrelled through the front door, announcing his presence.

Alex, cuddled up with Willie, groaned from his place on the couch. "Not this again. Luke, soulmates do not exist!"

"Well, I'm curious," Willie joked. "What happened?"

Bouncing through the small living space, he propped himself on the coffee table. His eager lips spouted everything he knew so far. "Her name's Julie and she's beautiful and she drinks lattes with caramel syrup."

The two boys blinked at each other, an amused smile growing on Willie as the scowl deepened for Alex. Yeesh. How did these two work?

The blonde tried keeping composure. "You think... you met... the person you want to spend the rest of your life with... in a coffee shop?"

Luke nodded. What was his point?

Luckily, Willie was on his side. "Did you talk to her?"

Sighing, he slumped to the floor. "No. But I'm telling you, it's her."

"This oddly feels like that Zooey Deschanel movie," Alex mused.

"No! She's not some fantasy! She-I can't explain it." Dreamily looking up at the ceiling, he added. "She's it. I'm calling it."

"I think you're horny," Alex deadpanned. Willie snickered.

He rolled his eyes and swatted their legs. "Very cool, you guys.”

The doorbell rang. Jumping up and saving himself from further embarrassment, Luke went to open it.

And it was her. Holy shit.

She smiled up at him, holding up his trusty songbook.

"Hello. You left this journal on your table at Starbucks? It has your address inside."

Gobsmacked, Luke stared at her. Holy fucking shit. Because of his whole daydream about her in Starbucks, he forgot his book and then she took it upon herself to find the rightful owner. That was fate, right? Take that, Alex!

Stammering vowels, he plucked it from her grasp and let out a breathy laugh.

"Y-Yeah, thanks, that's- yup."

An amused smile pulled on her lips, nodding. "No problem. Have a nice day!"

Her goodbye snapped him out of his stupor, calling out for her with a raised hand.

"Wait! I didn't catch your name!"

She turned around, the girl looking so foreign in the grimy hallway of the apartment complex.

"Why do you need my name?"

Cause he knew it already and didn't want to seem like a creep.

He shrugged. "I want to thank you."

"It's Julie," she said after a beat.

"Thank you, Julie." His grin must've been comically wide, heart beating a mile a minute as he was still convinced she was his freaking soulmate.

And then she left. He was certain he'd see her again. In a non creepy way, that was.

— — — — — —

It was wholly coincidental once more.

It was an early Sunday morning, Luke donned in sweatpants and a ratty cut-off and bedhead, as he meandered in the the shop of a tailor. Reggie owed him for this.

The bassist loved buying vintage clothing, but never stuff that quite fit him. Hence, a tailor. His name was Peter and basically Reg’s best friend at this point, based on the disappointed look the man gave Luke as he handed him the the slip. He could hear the question on his tongue - “Where’s Reggie?” - and was happy when he didn’t ask.

One, cause that was fucking rude.

Two, cause Reg was currently fighting for an exclusive comic book on the other side of Los Angeles with a hurdle of other nerds.

As Peter was sifting through the clothing racks, searching the order, the bell jingled behind him.

“Oh, Journal Boy?”

He stilled. Holy shit.

Whirling around, he came face to face with Julie. Just as beautiful as a week ago; maybe even more disarming in sandals and her curly hair up in a messy bun.

“Hi,” he breathed, unsure if he wasn’t just imagining her. It was a pretty hot day. It could easily be a sun stroke.

Her smile widened. She was probably amused by his goofy behaviour, but he couldn’t help it. What were the odds he’d see her again, in a different location, this early after the first encounter? What was the statistical probability of meeting his soulmate twice?

Before he could say anything else, Peter appeared from his rack and placed a leather jacket on the counter. Their attention diverted, Luke couldn’t help but feel heat travel up his back from having her so near.

— — — — — —

No, he didn't want to go to silent disco.

Alas, Willie and Alex were that quirky type of couple that always liked to do the weirdest shit, including the most impersonal activity ever: a silent fucking disco.

They told him to bring a date, as Reggie was bringing his Tinder match Kayla, but he wasn't feeling it. One, because he still couldn't believe he saw Julie again at the tailor-

("It's Luke, by the way," he added.

She smiled and tasted the name. "Luke. Haven't lost your journal again?"

His name sounded heavenly on her tongue. Keeping the blush at bay, he nodded with a grin. "Yup. Uh-"

And then the man came back with her stuff, and that was that.)

-two, cause he wanted to win from Alex. Soulmates did exist and he hadn't lost hope it was her.

So there he was, in some old factory turned disco, with hundreds of idiots wearing headphones as they danced in a frenzy to whatever song was playing. The whole point of art - connection - was lost. Luke wanted to die.

Until he saw Julie from across the space. Again. And she saw him.

They smiled and waved and suddenly, this whole thing wasn't so bad anymore.

— — — — — —

There were about a 130,000 people living in East LA. It had sprawling neighbourhoods and hundreds of communities and subways that connected it to the other parts of LA. She could’ve been anywhere.

And yet, he found her again.

Even though he was still sticking to his guns that Julie was someone special, he also had his own needs. Which was how he found himself slipping out of a redhead’s bed at seven in the morning, dazed from being in an unknown place, and pulling his clothes back on. He was pretty sure her name was Meredith, though that could also just be entirely false. It was a weird, albeit good night.

She mumbled in her pillow he could let himself out, waving half-heartedly and rolling on her side.

Softly closing the door behind him and cracking the knots in his neck, he didn’t notice how he bumped into a person.

Into Julie.

His eyes widened in shock, the two letting out a surprised yelp. Her hand clutched her chest and took a step back.

“Whoa!” he exclaimed. “Sorry!”

Her mouth opened and closed in confusion, about to say something, when her gaze trailed past him to the apartment he just left. She cleared up.

“Meredith? Good choice, she’s nice.”

Luke flushed red. What the fuck was he supposed to say to that?

Awkwardly scratching the back of his head, he drawled, “Uh, yeah... what’re you doing here?”

It was then that he noticed she had athletic wear on, duffle bag around her shoulder and keys dangling between her fingers. She confirmed his suspicions when she replied.

“I, uh, live here.” She laughed. “So... have a nice rest of the day?”

He wanted to say a lot. He wanted to ask if she wanted to grab breakfast, that Meredith wasn’t his girlfriend, that he had this crazy feeling they were always meant to meet - again and again and again ‘til they got it right.

But he couldn’t. He’d sound insane. Hell, it was insane. Instead, he wished her a nice day as well and scurried out the hallway. He didn’t look back, but he did wonder if he was imagining he felt her eyes on his back.

— — — — — —

Luke was typing on his laptop, the hustle and bustle of Starbucks at three in the afternoon and the methodical tap tap tap of the keys lulling him into a fast-paced trance. As always, he procrastinated some work for Pitchfork and had to get it done in two hours or else his boss would be yelling in his emails.

The bell jingled, Luke looking up automatically and almost rolling his eyes at the sight of her. This was getting insane.

Julie saw him too, changing her course from the register to his round table with a confused grimace twisting her features. As always, she looked pretty; the girl never looked bad and it was kind of messing with his head.

"Alright, fess up," she exclaimed, slipping into the seat opposite of him. "Are you stalking me?"

He snorted and leaned forward with a wry grin. "I can ask the same about you."

Her lips pursed, assessing him for a beat. With a sigh, she mellowed down. "I guess... we live in the same neighbourhood..."

"Still kinda crazy though," he mused. "East L.A. is big."

She nodded, pensive, and then looked over her shoulder to the menu board. "Is it okay if... I sit with you? I was going to grab a latte to go, but since you're here..."

But since you're here - rang in his ears, a careful smile blooming on his lips. Fuck, he really needed to work, but Julie wanted to sit with him, hang with him, be friends with him, outside of all the coincidental meetings they've had.

He wouldn't call it a date yet. He wanted to properly ask her when that day came.

"Sure," he mumbled, biting down the smile from becoming bigger.

His reply satisfied her, the tendrils dancing around her bright eyes as she matched his smile and stood up to make an order.

— — — — — —

Weeks passed with quick meetings here and there, Julie slowly bleeding into his life with laughs and smiles and whirlwind stories about her life. She was always on the go, always bright-eyed and easily matching his energy. He knew his enthusiasm could put people off, but she was never taken aback.

Wit against wit. Snark against snark. A dumb joke met with an amused roll of the eye. It worked. For a while, he even settled on the fact that hey, they might be platonic soulmates. Julie was a great friends and sometimes he felt his emotions fleeting. If they remained friends, he'd be perfectly content.

But then she closed gaps and barriers that had pointedly been kept before. After they got boba, her hand wrapped around his bicep, stretched on her tiptoes and pressed a quick kiss on his cheek. Before he could register it, she was back on her feet waving him goodbye. Luke had a dopey look on his face for the rest of the day.

She kept up cheek kisses, he let his warm embraces linger, their short hangouts turned into hours.

Then one night, she kissed his cheek after they got ramen and he shifted his face 'til their noses brushed. Julie held her breath. Tentatively, their fingers curled together - the simple touch sparking lightning up his arm.

"Is it weird that I've dreamed about you?" he asked, cautious, looking at their joined hands.

Luke wanted to tell her about his initial gut feeling; that he saw her and he knew. But it was too insane and he didn't want to scare her off. But he knew. He's always known.

"No..." Her mouth ghosted his. "I've dreamed about you too."

Luke closed the little space between them, lips slanting together and instantly deepening as one hand came up to cradle her cheek. His heart was bursting with euphoria. It felt as if his body sighed in relief, like it had finally come home. And then he did: he sighed and grinned and giggled when her arms wrapped around his neck.

Oh, man... he might already love her.

— — — — — —

Nothing definite happened afterwards. Though this is what he wanted, he felt weird confirming their relationship when he had always somehow ‘known.’ It had to come from her side, the more level-headed person in this situation.

So, it was casual, even though he was anything but casual.

It was pretty great though, walking past Meredith’s door towards Julie’s, having her yank him inside and kiss him like she’d been waiting for years. Kissing Julie was fucking heaven.

Besides that, they were the same Luke and Julie as before. They got boba or ramen or any new spot that opened up like weeds. She listened to new music with him, sharing earbuds, for his Pitchfork articles. He watched her sing and play the piano at music clubs, becoming more and more enamoured each time simply by the sound of her angelic voice. He built a shelf for her. She taught him how to make friendship bracelets. He met her best friend Flynn. She stayed over for dinner with the guys and got drunk on white wine, giggling along to the jokes.

They fit. But they weren’t exclusive. He had no clue if she was also seeing someone else. He presumed she didn’t, the two constantly revolving around each other, but he couldn’t be certain.

Alex was gobsmacked the first time he properly met her. Stunned that Luke had been right, that it worked out, that East Los Angeles was apparently nothing more than a small town. Luke reckoned he was just jealous he didn’t have to meet his person by getting maimed on the street - ha!

His finger trailed along her sleeping silhouette, gently and drowsy, observing in awe how a smile subconsciously quirked on her lips and shifted closer to his touch. He closed his eyes and pressed his nose in the back of her neck. There were worse ways to wake up.

— — — — — —

Eventually, Julie simply decided for him.

She was moving apartments and he was helping her pack, move furniture, throw shit out, the whole nine yards. For one person, she had a lot of stuff, her cabinets an endless supply of decor, souvenirs and memories.

They were whirling around each other like clock-work, never bumping and smoothly handing things over. Rap music was playing from the stereo, its sound drifting from her opened front door into the hallway.

One of her neighbours popped their head in.

"Oh!" The old man perked up, surprised. "You're moving, Julie?"

She looked up from rummaging through her CD collection to shoot him a tired smile. "Yeah," she puffed, "my lease is up, so..."

"Change of pace, I get it. That's wonderful," he nodded, gaze shifting to Luke walking out of the bathroom. "Hello!"

Luke smiled at him, waving with the box of oddly shaped soaps Julie had for some reason. "Hi."

"This is Luke, my boyfriend," Julie introduced, Luke freezing in his tracks all at once as the words utter from her lips. Boyfriend. Holy shit. It didn't faze her, smoothly babbling more than he wasn't processing.

Boyfriend. Which meant that she was his girlfriend. Which meant that now, he had to threaten the guys to not say a fucking word about how mentally deranged he was the first week after meeting her. This wasn’t planned. This was fully her. This was past fate and serendipity - this was by choice. It felt better than he thought.

The man bid goodbye and left. Luke dropped the box on the coffee table, sliding towards her with a shit-eating grin.

"Boyfriend," he drawled exaggeratedly.

She rolled her eyes. "Yes. ‘Cause you are. I know you well enough to know you can only do exclusive."

"Can you?"

"I said you were my boyfriend, didn't I?"

His smile widened, leaning in to kiss her. She met him halfway, loose curls tucked behind ears before her arms were slung around his waist. I love, I love you, I've loved you forever.

And then the truth tumbled out. Part of it, at least.

"I, uh," he gulped, looking at her through his lashes. "I saw you, that first day, and I thought you were the most beautiful woman I've ever seen."

Her face turned tender, a pout jutting from her lip as she gauged his reaction, like she was waiting for him to make a joke. He wasn't.

"Really?" she whispered, voice so small it took him aback for a beat.

His thumbs gently caressed her cheeks, withholding himself from saying anything more. This was enough. It was the truth without the crazy - being with her was crazy enough. Luke settled on a simple nod.

Her head tilted, shy amusement lilting her tone. "Good thing I'm moving closer to your neighbourhood then."

☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

@blush-and-books @bluefirewrites @willexx @pink-flame @constantly-singing @unsaid-emily @ourstarscollided

#juke #jatp fanfiction #otp: i think we make each other better #queue

121 notes · View notes

apartyinmymouth · 5 years

Text

TUYO

Hard to believe we’re already five months into 2019. It was just 2009 eleven months ago. Time is moving faster than freight trains with no breaks on a downhill track. Since the year began, I’ve been to six countries in five months, and not because I’m a rock star, nope not at all, not in the literal sense at least, something better. I’m FREE. Free as a bird and I’ve managed to create a career and life path that’s allowed me to go anywhere I want, whenever I want, however I want, with whomever I want at any given moment on Any Given Sunday. This also allows for me to rarely be at a loss for content to share. Oftentimes having multiple situations swirling around my head in a linear time frame. Memories from 30 years ago remain as fresh as the ones from 30 hours prior; intricately weaving this quilt I call “Life” together. All the puzzle pieces start to fit together and my view of the forest is as clear as a cloudless day.

I don’t rush this stuff, when it comes. Stuff being my column, my stories, my chosen “shares.” This one began on a Sunday in late January while on a girls’ trip to Cartagena. I managed to break away from the group on our last day to savor a few precious solitary moments, settle into the experience and enjoy a charming lunch date for one. Cartagena, a historic coastal city in Colombia, feels like a mélange of New Orleans & Havana w/ touches of Mexico City and Florence. I’ll be honest it took a day or two to catch a vibe or The Vibe, mainly due to my traveling companions. I like small charming hotels, even smaller restaurants, and no plans – wake up in the morning and go where the day takes me. My girls are, the “full planned itineraries, a large hotel group, eat at restaurants in said hotel, spend-the-day shopping,” kind of gals. Absolutely nothing wrong with that and they have been my sisters for close to 20 years but we have very different travel styles. Nonetheless, when the opportunity for a little solo exploration presented itself, I ventured off and instead of Sex got “lost in the city” much in the way I typically do when I travel.

There’s an easy breezy relaxed rhythm during the day in Cartagena and the scenography is reminiscent of the NOLA Garden and French Quarter districts but the nighttime is when the city comes alive. It reminds me so much of Old Havana between the salsa blaring from every venue at every turn and young people spilling into the streets at all hours, sweaty from dancing, happily inebriated in search of the perfect Arepa to lessen the next day’s impending hangover. I kinda love Cartagena and look forward to returning one day with my love, falling deeper in love and getting “Sexed” in that city ;).

Like Cartagena, I love Sundays too! And every Sunday since that Sunday has been a mixed bag of events, cities and circumstances. As I conclude this entry on Sunday May 12th from a Palazzo in Treviso, Italy that dates back to 1562, ending an incredible week and my first experience at Biennale de Venezia, I reminisce over the joys and pains of this beautiful life and all the blessings and lessons it brings with it. The fourteen Sundays In between Cartagena and now, found me back in Marrakech laying the foundation to my next creative endeavor and the soft launch of a new artistic platform AFRƎE culture, returning to Paris in a serendipitous twist of fate and perhaps impending love, having a Sundae on Sunday with friends during a pit stop home in New York only to descend into the depths of despair a few hours later at the devastating news that one of our generation’s prophets, a master creative and rare soul had lost his life to cowardice. I’m still processing the loss of Ermias Joseph Asghedom, known to many as Nipsey Hussle The Great…We’re either living in hell on earth and all the great ones are being taken from us or their being called home because the work they’re needed for surpasses anything they're able to do while in this physical 3D space. Why did he have to go?

The outpouring of love, admiration and respect since the news of Nip’s passing I believe would shock even him! Nip was always respected amongst his peers but I don’t think any of us truly understood the impact he made on his community and the culture until we no longer had him. Which brings me to a point I addressed in my last entry- why do we wait until people are no longer here to celebrate them? Why does it take someone dying for us to fully appreciate life? We’ve lost so many irreplaceable souls over the last few years, when will we finally understand that life is not promised! This isn’t a practice run. When it’s over, it’s OVER and eventually All Men Must Die…Valar Morghulis. With that I’ll say it again, Give Them Their Flowers While They’re Still Here If you care for someone, tell him or her now. If you respect, admire, appreciate and are inspired by someone or something, say it now. If you Love someone, TELL HIM OR HER NOW! Last chances rarely come with warnings. – APIMM

Soundtrack to this entry from my schizophrenic iTunes x Tidal Libraries

“Tuyo” –Rodrigo Amarante “Noise Above Our Heads” –James Blake “Radio Silence” –James Blake “Transparency” –PARTYNEXTDOOR “Bad Guy” (2:30 mark) –Billie Ellish “Oceans” –Frank Oceans “Right Now” –PARTYNEXTDOOR “Please Me” –Cardi B & Bruno Mars “Yeah I Said It” –Rihanna “Forever” –The Dream “Don’t Be Cruel” –Bobby Brown “Binz” –Solange “King of the Dancehall” – Beenie Man “Only Man She Want” -Popcaan “Ghetto Story” – Baby Cham “Too Experienced” –Barrington Levy “I Was Born A Winner” =Freddie McGregor “Never Dis Di Man” -Sanchez “Night Nurse” –Gregory Isaacs “Ring the Alarm” –Tenor Saw “Not Nice” –PARTYNEXTDOOR “All For The Love” –Wizkid feat. Bucie “Song For Isabelle {Deep House Amsterdam Mix tape}” –Stimming “Float On Your Love” –The Isley Brothers feat. Angela Winbush, Lil Kim, Puff Daddy & 112 “I Want You” -Marvin Gaye “Come Live With Me” –Marvin Gaye “Cherry Pie” –Sade “Fear” –Sade “Double Up” –Nipsey Hussle feat. Belly & DOM KENNEDY “Top Off” –DJ Khaled feat. JAY Z, Future & Beyoncé “U See Us” –Nipsey Hussle “West Coast” –G Eazy feat. Blueface, ALLBLACK & YG “Throw Fits” – London on Da Track feat. Juvenile, City Girls & G-Eazy “Question #1” –Nipsey Hussle feat. Snoop Dog “Money Mitch 2” –Mitch “Drug Dealer” –Slowthai “FWA Boss” –Official SL “T N Biscuits” –Slowthai “Gorgeous” –Slowthai “Different” –Don Strapzy feat. Hache “Unemployed” –Tierra Whack “Clones” –Tierra Whack “Big Ole Freak” –Megan Thee Stallion “Juicy {Nite & Day} Remix” –Notorious BIG feat. Al B. Sure “Use Your Heart” –SWV “Have You Seen Her”-Donnell Jones” “Grown Woman” – PARTYNEXTDOOR “Beautiful” –Tweet “Falling Apart” –Charlotte Day Wilson “idontwannabeyouanymore” –Billie Ellish “Jolene” –Dolly Parton “Bell Bottom Blues” –Derek & The Dominos

#APIMM

2 notes · View notes

cattearambles · 6 years

Text

A (kinda) klance fanfic rec that no-one asked for

It’s Christmas, and I feel bad because the art thing I was going to do kinda flopped and I needed something to get festive, so have a whole bunch of fanfics to binge read over mulled wine or something. (if you’re underage, drink some capri suns or something)

There’s a few general fics scattered in here if that’s also your jam.

Foreign Scenes by bwyn (110K) >> Right so I can tell you that this slow burn is ridiculous and the pining is unreal. These two buffoons are traveling the world, and the world just wants them to get together by shoving them in very very serendipitous meetings. This gave me such nostalgia vibes and the details of each city are so breath-taking and this made me feel emotions at ridiculous times like 4am. It’s also really fluffy but there’s a bit of angst. (klance)

Run into the bright lights by peanutbutterapple (22K)>> As per usual, fluff upon fluff upon fluff and is that pining? Where a ball is held, a confession goes wrong and shit hits the fan but not necessarily in that order. It’s angsty and fluffy and this is such a great read. (klance)

Ambedo by @bowiesnippleantennae (53K)>> This fic was so beautifully written! It was insane!! Like the setting, although it was in a small town, had such character and it was so poetically aesthetic? (have no clue if that makes sense, but there were some moments that were so quiet and thoughtful that I couldn’t help but re-read the passage and sigh a little.) In which these two idiots are oblivious and need to get this communication issue sorted out. And the characters are so well written!?!? Like Shiro being a brotherly figure, but it’s completely as if canon. Just... do yourself a justice and read it! (klance)

Calling me back to you by @apvrrish ( >> Right so there was loads of hype for this fic and every ounce of it was deserved! It’s so well written and I love how magic has been woven into the modern landscape. it’s the AU I never knew I wanted but sorely and desperately needed. I love how the fic was written and everything just fit!?!? I have more to say but most of it is just excited babble and excitedly recalling moments that were truly magical. (klance)

Of Backups and Outcasts by @keiths-stupid-mullet (27K),>> Back again with the fantasy world! There’s dragons, unlikely friendships, an exasperated mullet child and so much fluff and more fluff and to top it off, concerned Lance and (kinda) sick Keith. This fic was just such a lovely read because everything is so well written and the characters are done really well. The only thing I can fault with it is that there isn’t more of it. Seriously! I would be up to read way more of this! I just want to give Keith loads of bread... (klance)

Full Moon Roast by @vulpes--vulpes and @watsonthebox (51K) >> So this is just one of the many examples of the Fic Wars. It’s two genres smashed together. And by all accounts, a coffee shop au and a werewolf au shouldn’t work, but here, it’s just seamlessly fits?? Like how??!!! It had some really tense moments as well as a fair few amounts of fluffy moments and like calling me back to you, it incorporates the magical into the real world. Chapters are short but that doesn’t mean that they don’t pack a real punch. (klance)

In the hands of hatred by Haleykim84 (22K),>> This fic is all about the family dynamic in voltron, a relationship that I seriously think needs to be written more. it’s so heartwarming to see their relationship become akin to a found family and seeing them being all badass to save the other is amazing. This one has loads of angst, so just be careful. Where an alien race don’t like Keith and they’re not nice. (general)

Predestination by @elfenphoenix (64K) >> Galra Keith and Altean Lance. Do I need to say more? It starts off really fluffy and then angst hits you like a bunch of bricks as you go further. This story was so bittersweet and heartwrenching in the later chapters and tears will probably flow (they will). It incorporates the modern day and the past in such a fluid way and it’s an interesting take on how Altea was destroyed. If we didn’t already have the canon, I would have happily accepted that this was how Altea got destroyed. (klance)

Big Stick Diplomacy by windscryer (3K) >> Keith and Pidge’s friendship is one that I desperately want more in canon. I just need them to bond over something together and this fic just makes those dreams come true. In which Pidge has Keith’s back and team forest fire kinda fan the flames when it comes to diplomacy. I just need more of their friendships and I will flip a table if we don’t get more of it! (general)

At Rest (Five Miles Behind the Front) by @thisgirlhastales (19K) >> Okay so Mytay strikes again with this fic and it’s characterised so well! I love it so so much! This fic needs more love! That and canon relationship between Shiro and Lance. I really want to see them interact more and just being really supportive of each other: just showing their weaknesses and just being there for the other. Shiro just needs rest, Lance is reassured of his place and Keith is trying. I just... the last few paragraphs may or may not have made me tear up a little. (klance) (but I’m going to say it’s really actually General, because the klance is really just beginning and doesn’t go into much depth)

Smallest of these by @faequeen40 (64K) >> I’m sorry, but any fic that has BAMF paladins is automatically a win in my book. This focuses a lot on the voltron family as a whole again and in every chapter shows a new paladin in the most badass way. It’s characterised so well and I love how everyone in Voltron all care for each other. And while this fic focuses a lot on our smallest paladin, I loved the family interactions between them all. it’s on my to read again list. (General) (but if you squint there’s a small small amount of klance)

Those are some on the top of my head. Happy reading!! Merry Christmas and a Happy new year! Hopefully 2018 will be kinder!

#Haz rambles #fic rec #I have so many more #but my hand is sore and I need to shower #please give these fics some love #they are all amazing #klance #voltron legendary defender #I need to read more general fics #because while I love Klance #their family relationship is so important to me #I still have so much more to read as well......#I love untranslatable words

237 notes · View notes

alabasterswriting · 6 years

Text

I was tagged by @80smikewheeler and @willthewisest

Thank you so much Mel!! And thank you so much Willow! I’m going to answer Mel’s first because her’s is the one I got first and then I’ll answer Willow’s:)

Rules: 1) Post the rules 2) Answer the questions given to you by the tagger 3) Write 11 questions of your own 4) And tag 11 people!

1. What’s your favourite 80s song?

I’m not sure, really. I don’t listen to many 80′s songs, but probably Should I Stay or Should I Go just because it makes me think of my darling Byers’ boys.

2. Do you have any special skills or talents that you haven’t told many people about?

Not really. Does being able to name all 50 states in alphabetical order count?

3. Coca Cola or Pepsi?

Neither. I don’t like soda.

4. Do you have a favourite swear word, and if so, what is it?

Probably fuck, just because I use it all the time. But, fun fact, I didn’t actually start to swear until I was 21.

5. Are you in any other fandoms?

Yep! Though not as actively as this one. I love Naruto, The Chronicles of Narnia, Agents of Shield, BBC Merlin, Harry Potter, and Star Wars (though I admit I really hated The Force Awakens and so that sort of turned me off it for a bit).

6. What is your all time favourite blog?

Gahhhh!!! I can’t answer this one! I have so many that I love!!!!!

7. What’s your 11:11 wish?

To be successful in my lifetime pursuits.

8. Would you rather get a piggyback from Pennywise, or kiss the Demogorgan?

Piggyback from Pennywise. Much as I hate clowns, I hate teeth more, and I can just laugh in Pennywise’s ear the whole time.

9. If you could only hang out with ONE of the ST cast for a day, who would it be and what would you do?

Crap, well as much as I would love to have a baking competition with the kids, I think I’d have to go with Natalia. We’re close in age and I would love to spend a whole day shopping in NY with her.

10. if you could only hang out with ONE of the ST characters for a day, who would it be, and what would you do?

Idk, if this was meant to be for another character, but I’m gonna take the opportunity to hang-out with Joe.

11. Ride on the back of Mike’s bike, or on the back of Max’s skateboard?

Mike’s bike. Skateboards and I are not friends.

1. What’s your favorite color?

Probably maroon.

2. Any unpopular st opinions?

I didn’t need El to come back for the second season. Much as I like her as a member of the boy’s group, I don’t have any real emotional connection to her as a character individually. This is an issue I have pretty much universally with every female character in every media so it has nothing really do with her specifically. I just happened to get more invested in the four boys and the story of their friendship than I did her.

3. Has a scene in Stranger Things ever made you cry? If so, which one(s)?

Pretty much every scene where Will was crying or in pain or suffering.

4. If you absolutely HAD to sacrifice one of the main 6 kids who would you pick? (this one’s evil i’m so sorry)

Eleven. I’m sorry, but I’m more emotionally invested in the others, and considering the effects her powers seem to have on her physiology I think she’s actually in the most danger of dying. I’m sorry!

5. Who’s your favorite character from each of the age groups on the show (kids, teens, adults)?

Kids: Will Byers

Teens: Steve Harrington

Adults: Jim Hopper

6. Favorite video game?

Outlast

7. What do you think about the fact that Dr. Brenner is still alive?

Honestly, I don’t really care either way. The whole government angle wasn’t as interesting to me as the monsters or other dimension. Though, I kinda have an idea in my head that El confides in Will what happened to her after they become siblings (cuz we all know Jopper’s coming), and he goes and straight up murders the man when he learns that he was the reason El’s life was shitty and he was dragged into the Upside Down.

8. 3 Musketeers - yay or nay?

Nay, but only because I’ve never actually tried one.

9. Have you ever tried to keep something as a pet that you knew wasn’t supposed to be one?

Don’t think so.

10. Steve - a shitty boyfriend and a pretty good babysitter, or a shitty babysitter and a pretty good boyfriend?

A shitty babysitter and a pretty good boyfriend. Like, I give him credit for trying in the babysitting department and for getting the kids to safety in the end, but he did go down initially and the kids did kidnap him.

11. Favorite song of the st soundtrack?

Soldiers. It’s just so eerie.

My Questions:

1. How long do you think you’d be able to survive in the Upside Down?

2. Vanilla ice cream - classic or boring?

3. If you found out that you were switched at birth what would you do?

4. A hundred years from now, what do you hope is still relevant?

5. 8-bit style Stranger Things video game or Outlast-style Stranger Things video game?

6. You wake up to find out you’re the last person on Earth. What is your first reaction?

7. If you could resurrect three deceased famous people to have a chat over lunch with, who would you choose?

8. Do you want to see more of the superpowered experiment children or do you just want the focus to stay on Eleven?

9. Rain or sunshine?

10. Your favorite “Earth is Space Australia” headcanon?

11. Favorite midnight snack?

I tag: @maxmayfield @1980s-jean-ralphio @curiosityvoyage @stevemossington @serendipitous-rambles @dadhopper @heliophobicsoul @a-fandom-unicorn @themadzoomer @themikewheelers @thefivefootterror

And honestly if you want to do it then please go ahead!

#tag game #thank you Mel!#thank you Willow!

7 notes · View notes

trulyowenfree · 4 years

Text

Why Norwood Fisher might think I'm the Devil!

Well, after that random roadside run-in with Johnny Knoxville (see my last blog entry), you can bet I was ready and gunning! With game stickers in hand, and the tie-straps of my backpack (it's an old olive-green canvas military one) halfway undone, so I could get into it quick. Even though it's not what I expected when I went to LA, or certainly not what I went there for, serendipitously meeting one mega-celebrity had me vow silently to myself...that the next one wasn't gonna get away so easily. After such a huge 'defeat' I decided very firmly, that if I ran into any more celebrities on that tour, like Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, or even Crispin Glover...then I was gonna make darn sure that I at least got a book into their hand. And hopefully even tell them something about my TV and Movie ideas. Though of course...I also really didn't think any of that kinda stuff was gonna happen again. Not to goofy old me anyway. But, if you are a True Fighter like I am, then every defeat you get handed is only an excuse to fight harder, and so that's exactly what I did. I hit those sweet old LA streets the very next day! Right back out there, trying to make my own Luck! And I even put that lucky Devil Pin on my hat (the one I found on the train down from Seattle) to see me safely through the city. This time I caught the train out to Santa Monica, and planted stickers all around the college. Then I hit the library and handed out some more fliers until the cops started looking my way, and you can say whatever you want about the folks in Los Angeles, but most of them are at least half-friendly. I mean, nobody threw the fliers back at me or anything, but no one really seemed like they cared a whole bunch either, and I even found a few of them cast down onto the ground around the corner, like brightly colored leaves that had just fallen off the Give-a-Damn Tree. So of course I picked them up, because nobody likes a litter bug...and they also have a link to my website, right there on the front. Next I rented another scooter and cruised down the beach-path through Venice, and on to Marina Del Rey, where boy-oh-boy do they got boats! My skull and crossbones stickers didn't look out of place at all either. Not there among all the sailboats and mega-yachts. Like any minute now a group of Real Pirates might shamble down the sidewalk and invite me out to lunch or something. Or maybe even rum, but I only drink coffee now.

I stopped off at the library there too, and people seemed very responsive when I told them about my books and handed them a flier. People who live on boats tend to be a literate lot, since cruising often has a bunch of down time to it, and books don't eat up your batteries. So a well stocked library is a fine addition to any good vessel, and especially books about pirates and treasure, or even just a few short sea tales, or traveling to another country. After Marina Del Rey I headed back to Venice, and my dear readers...I have to tell you...that place is kind of a Heartbreak now. It used to be one of the most magical parts of the Los Angeles metro area, or am I wrong? More than many other places in the City of Angels...Venice will make you feel like any second you might become famous. Like any given moment you and Roller Skate Guitar Guy might end up on the big screen, or that some big producer might spot you loitering by old Muscle Beach and ask you to be in their film. And the Boardwalk... But now...in late 2018...the whole neighborhood smells like some kinda' thrown-away-dirty-hippie-super-polluted-gutter-punk-Hemp-Fest; with two-block long piles of garbage, and super depressing homeless encampments in almost every alley. Even all along the main sidewalk at the beach, like nobody cares at all anymore, or like The Desolation has just gotten so far out of hand now, that there just is no way to ever catch up again. Like there really never was a way to take care of everyone, and we are all on our own now. Welcome to Hell. And don't get me wrong either, I'm not against Marijuana legalization or even Weed itself, but when it's all you can smell all day, and there are kids and families around, but so many crowds of heavily unwashed people (who are obviously the ones smoking it, right out in the open)...well...it just doesn't have the attraction it used to for me. Which is totally fine actually. I've been meaning to quit anyway, and the outside thought that it might lead me (back) to a life on the streets someday...is a clear and easy deterrent. Nobody wants to be a smelly old street bum. No matter how high or drunk you get all day. But I was just being dramatic above. Ganja by itself will probably never force a person out into a life of blatherskite level homelessness, but it's still a good idea to be careful. I bought myself a new hat from one of the vendor booths along the main drag. A distressed-looking ball cap with the big brown bear from the California flag riding an even bigger bright green surfboard. Then I went to find myself something decent to eat, away from all the smells and commotion. Which wasn't as hard as I am making it sound really, because Venice, California is still one of the hippest, coolest, and most interestingly flavorful places on the planet, so I ducked into one of the many colorfully decorated breezeways off the main boardwalk and found a cute little one-of-a-kind coffee shop to get a sandwich from. Two fried eggs on good wheat toast, with broccoli sprouts and feta cheese...and yes oh yes I poured a whole bunch of hot-sauce on there too. Then, what was shaping up to be a super-fine day turned into an even brighter one, because when I stepped back out into the courtyard a long thin and lovely Mocha-skinned lady was sitting at one of the tables underneath a brightly colored canvas umbrella, and she smiled really wide and toothily at me when I looked her way, so I walked right over and sat down next to her. I guess I must have looked like Mr. Confidence about the whole thing too, because she even cleared all her papers and books over to one side of the table, just so I could put my plate, cup, and backpack down. But, if you've ever read anything else I write, then you know darn well I was actually coaching myself through each and every played-out moment, like: “Oh man, you're doing good, Free...don't screw it up. Just keep your cool and do not let her know how fine she really is. Holy crap! Look at those...cheekbones. Ah ha ha ha!!” (Look, I'm really only asking your opinion here, but do you guys think it means a person is clinically crazy...if they laugh out loud at their own jokes---but only inside their own head...a lot? OK...maybe even all the time. Well? Huh? Does it? Wha'd'ya think? And...what about if it echoes?)

Her name was Nadia and she said she lived over in Inglewood, but liked to come out to the beach to visit her mother in her condo. She reminded me of a dancer as we talked, with quick graceful movements of her long lovely hands, and an evil-sweet toothy smile that could melt the paint right off a gas pump from fifty yards away. Nadia smelled like some kind of bright purple flower too, so I leaned in close as we spoke, just to breathe in as much of her as I could. And she didn't seem to mind at all. “So what brings you out here to LA? You come down to try some of this Cali bud? Shit'll knock you right out if you ain't careful...” “No honey, I'm visiting from Colorado, and we have all the Weed you could ever ask for. It's like going to Baskin Robbins or something; 33 flavors in every store. I'm actually out here on a book tour, to promote my new Treasure Hunt Game. I write coffee-table adventure books, and if you solve the puzzles inside...you could be the first to find my Hidden Pirate treasure.” I took out a copy of the first book, and I even had a couple copies of Three Short See Tails with me too, so I laid them out on the table for her to look through, while I bragged about myself some more. But don't be trying to judge me for it either. You would have pulled all the stops out for this girl too. I mean it y'all...she was fine! And the sizzling hot idea of me scoring even one of her Cappuccino kisses made it seem like the whole rather uphill tour might just pay off after all. Yes! “So you're a real shipwreck treasure hunter? Wow! Man, my horoscope even said I was gonna meet somebody interesting today, but I didn't know it was gonna be someone like you. This must be our lucky day.” The way Nadia looked at me right then, with just a bit of flush to her cheeks, and dilated auburn eyes, let me know she really meant what she said, so I took her beautiful brown hand and moved myself even closer, suddenly feeling a whole lot warmer in the cool December air. “I actually have to get going right now, Babe. I'm out here today doing a bunch street-level promo work for my website, and I want to cover as much ground as possible before dark. Sunset comes kinda early this time of year, though not nearly quite as bad as up in the mountains, but I want to try and hit the gym before dinner too. Do you think maybe we could meet up later? If you're not busy...” “I actually am busy tonight.” As she picked up my phone and started typing her number into it. “I have my kids this evening, but we could go out tomorrow night if you are still around. I'd love to show you all the local sights.” She gave me another one of those smolderingly fantastic LA Woman looks, and let it linger even longer just to punctuate her last sentence, so my dumb old heart fell right into it. Pounding so loudly now at the thought of what 'sights' she might have been exactly referring to, that I was totally sure sweet Nadia might even hear it. So I gathered up all my things as calmly as I could and excused myself quickly, before I fumbled and failed, but then made sure to steal a kiss from her velvety fragrant cheek as I walked away. Just in case it was all a dream. Out on the sand again, I ran into a regular looking middle-aged guy running an expensive looking metal detector back and forth across the golden cinnamon sand. We met over by the graffiti walls, near Old Muscle Beach. I stopped him to talk, and he was very friendly, especially when I told him about what I was out there doing, and that I was a detectorist too.

“Yeah, I actually live up there in Ventura, but we come down here on the weekends and do really well sometimes. One weekend me and my partners found six-thousand dollars worth of jewelry. Not too bad for only the cost of a tank of gas! But I sure would like to get down there to Florida some day though. I bet I could really clean up.” I asked him (I think his name was Jonah) if it was OK for me to put a picture of him on my blog, and he said it was no problem at all, so here you go sir, and Good Luck: Next I stopped by the book-store in Venice, to try and consign my work, but the buyer wasn't in so I made my way over to the Santa Monica Pier, sticking my skull-and-crossbones Treasure Hunt stickers everywhere I went in between. On the backs of signs, on light-posts, dumpsters, newspaper stands, and especially onto any pieces of graffiti I really liked. Though of course one has to wonder at the possible efficacy of a sticker-marketing campaign...in a place so very sticker-polluted as Venice. Like everybody who has access to a printer and a pack of label-paper tried to leave their mark at one time or another, but at least I'm not the only one. Santa Monica was totally crowded that day too, since it was a Saturday. Just imagine a half-crushed case of sardines thrown down into a trash compactor, then getting squashed by some gigantic falling boulder. I mean it. We could barely move! And then a box of canned peas and carrots showed up on the very next train. So it was packed! I put up with it long enough to fight my way out to the end of the pier. And I was lucky enough to spot a long silver sea-lion playing around in the foam while waiting around for a fish. The ocean was green and cool-looking, with long strands of red-blue Kelp undulating around the barnacle crusted pilings, and the sounds of carnival rides and screaming children hung in the air like diurnal sonic fireflies. If there even is such a thing.

And it sure is funny how the dank and briny smell of the sea goes so perfectly well with the savory floating scent of hot dogs, popcorn and cotton candy. Sorta like mermaids and pirates holding hands. They're not even of the same World really at all, but still somehow just seem naturally made for one another. The sun was getting low in the sky by that time, so I walked into the shopping district on the bluff, to go get some weight-lifting in before dark. I'm not a beef-head or anything either, in case you were wondering, or a gym-nut, health-freak, or even all that into the whole thing really, but I started going to the gym last winter (in Colorado) to keep from falling asleep when the sun went down (at 4pm), and fell totally in love with what a half-hour-a-day on the weights does for my overall energy levels. Plus I have a few deep nagging joint-injuries, from being a construction worker most of my life, and whatever beneficial chemical it is that weight-lifting releases into my body...does absolute wonders for all that stuff too. So yes, I highly recommend it, and especially after you work at a physically demanding job all day. Because then you get the real benefit. Going to the gym, or running, biking, surfing, or even playing sports after you bust your hump outside all day...is like putting the icing...on a steak. Plus, higher-end public gyms generally have really nice showers and saunas in them too, so I walked out of there feeling like a Movie Star or something. Ready to take on the World...again!

The cool evening air felt amazing on my clean and freshly-worked body, while the wafting smells of food and cigars decorated the Santa Monica streets, and I was breathing it all in deeply. I stopped at a food vendor across the street in the park on the high bluff (forgot the name), then leaned on the cement balcony and watched the lights out on the pier as I devoured three more very heavenly tacos. I walked toward the train feeling very satisfied, and was just about to call up Nadia to make the whole day complete, when I looked to my left and noticed a couple walking leisurely beside me, which seemed out of place in the Saturday evening bustle. The man turned towards me a bit so I could see his face better, and I couldn't believe it! It was Norwood Fisher; the bass player and founding member of Fishbone!! “Excuse me sir, is your name Norwood?” “Yeah, that's me.” He replied with a wry little smile. His date was a cute and tiny surfer chick, with shiny blue eyes and a bob-style haircut. She seemed especially amused that her date was getting recognized, so they stopped right there in the middle of the sidewalk, just to talk to me. I immediately pulled up my shirt-sleeve, to show him my Fishbone fore-arm-tattoo, and told him “My name is Truly Owen Free, and I've been a Fishbone Soldier (it's what they call their fans) for a really long time now. We've actually met before. A couple times, and in different towns around the country...but I'm sure you meet a lot of people....” “Well alright! That's very cool man! What you up to this evening?” “Oh I'm just out walking the city and promoting these books I've been trying to write.” As I reached for my trusty backpack. “Would you mind if I gave you one? I think you'll like it.” I handed him a sticker too, then pulled out a copy of How I Became a Real Pirate, and he took that graciously too, but I have to go ahead and tell on myself again, when I say that I was making another mistake right there. And it was because of that stupid Starstruck thing again. Norwood Fisher is one of the most down-to-Earth Rock Stars you could ever want to meet, but for some stupid reason I was getting nervous while I talked to him. I guess part of it is I feel weird for treating someone special, but I was also interrupting his date. It was all inside me though. I was the only one having a problem. If I had been paying better attention I would have realized he was ready to have a real conversation, and was genuinely interested in what I had to say, but of course I assumed otherwise, and I really can't tell you why. But I did manage to spit out, “Yeah, I'm on a multi-city promo tour for my two new books. I'm riding the trains around the country and trying to generate some sales. Grass roots style! Street level.” “Well that's the way we do it!”, as he turned the book over a couple times, to check out the cover. The copy I gave him was the older out-of-print version too (see my Amazon account); with the black cover and only the skull and crossbones on the front, and the somewhat-sinister sub-title that only comes with the full-length novel. And I don't know if it was the very piratical cover that spooked him, or if he was picking up on my nervous vibe, but when Norwood looked up again...he gave me a cock-eyed taken-aback guard-dog look, like he wasn't too sure about me now. Like he had noticed something new about me, which he hadn't seen before, so maybe now he better put his guard up. And of course that just made me even more nervous, so I said “Thank you Norwood. Hope you enjoy it, and there's links to my site inside. You guys have a good night.”, then walked away quickly, before I made it worse. I walked backwards through the crowd, away from the train (?!), so I could cross the street and not seem like I was following them. But then when I started walking up the opposite side, I looked over...and they were walking parallel to me across the busy street. Norwood just happened to look my way at the same time too, and we even met eyes...so now it looked even more awkward! Like I was stalking them, and trying not to look like it! Celebrities are so weird. Of course I called my friend Terrence back in Tarpon City, just as soon as I was on the train. He's the only other person I know who is as big of a Fishbone fan as I am, so I just had to let him in on the story. “Are you serious? And you met him in LA?! Oh man, you are out there living life, my brother Truly! I wish I could be out there with you. And you say you even gave him one of your books? That is amazing. I bet he's gonna like it.” “Yeah Terrence, I can barely believe it just happened, and I was there. I totally screwed it up though. He was being really cool, and I think he even wanted to keep talking, but then I made him nervous or something. And I totally gave him the wrong book too. I gave him a copy of the pirate one, but should have totally given him Three Short See Tails. It even has Fishbone glyphs in it, from my tattoo, but I got all nervous again. I'm such a Starstruck little kook!” “Ahhh, don't be so hard on yourself buddy. At least you're out there trying, and it sounds like luck is on your side, if you ask me. Maybe you'll run into him again, or even somebody else. So you should just keep right on doing what you're doing. But hey listen I gotta run. I'm at work right now, and somebody might have a heart attack if I don't pay attention to these monitors, so let me get back to you later. Good to hear from you, bro. Keep on truckin'!”

But you know I still beat myself up, all the back to my vacation rental, which was really just a bunk in a tiny bedroom...with four other people in it. Not even a hostel really. Just some guys house he was paying off by running an Air-BnB mill. Pretty good trick really, and you would probably meet all kinds of people. Hmmm... I got back to the room about eight, and was feeling so low I decided to call it an early one. I put my bag in a locker and was just about to hang my hat up when I noticed the shiny red Devil Pin winking at me in the lamplight. “Oh! That's probably what freaked him out! Norwood saw the black sinister book cover, and the devil pin...and thought I was The Devil himself or something. Especially with my weird old name, and especially here in LA. 'Cuz I'm sure The Devil has a house around here somewhere. Probably a few...” Fishbone has some pretty strong ties to the Gospel community, and are known to be mostly good and spiritual people too, so maybe Norwood thought I was some kinda evil weirdo trying to get at him. Or at least that's the best I could figure. And that really sucked. What another major fail! Just trying to do something good, but I ended up freaking out someone I wanted to get closer to. Dammit! I vowed right then and there...to go to the very next Fishbone show and explain myself. But if you are an adventurer too, then maybe you should check out my armchair treasure hunt. Bet you can't crack the code. Copyright 2020 Truly Owen Free. All rights reserved. Read the full article

0 notes

uncontrollablyme · 7 years

Text

So last weekend I was off-roading with a friend of mine, on an expedition with Mountain State Overland. (Check them out in links at the end, not only are they skilled overlanders, but an amazing group of folks, bringing together other rad peeps and likeminded individuals.) Driving from Virginia Beach across much of Southern Virginia with the most picturesque scenery, we traversed the mountains from VA into West Virginia. The trip was unreal. Such a memorable, fantastic experience. I will circle back around to it in just a minute, or like 5, mmmm after proof reading maybe more, measurement has never been a strong suit.

The week before the trip, I got out my old hiking pack, and sorted through its contents. I hiked a lot in my old life. It was one of the things during the chaos of an abusive relationship, that I remember fondly, mostly. I remember the first time I saw a natural waterfall. I can still hear the growing rush of the water crashing on the Earth below, snow melting by the second moving the ground and dirt and rocks, in to this majestic flow of beauty. So powerful it could down trees and cut right through rock, the water has a way of unearthing the life below the surface, shifting everything around and finding all the more water along the way, harnessing its power. Symbolic really, and I was intensely drawn to it.

I remember hiking in boots too small that created blisters so bad, I was donned with the trail name “Blisters”. They were my size, these boots, but I learned quickly, hikers need a half a size bigger on their journey usually. Walking through tears streaming from the pain, because he would never have allowed me to slow his hike down, I almost stepped right on a snake. Boy did that wake me up and shift my focus! He came running for that, to get credit for saving me of course, (since I was such a mess I wouldn’t ever be able to help myself, I was conditioned that way, by him, fucker). But I also remember being behind, so far in fact, that I felt I was the only one out there. Symbolic, again. What I was amazed at, though, was that there in the woods where I could have disappeared and no one would have known, was that I was not scared. Now sure, the concern of being eaten by a bear, is forever present in the woods, but more like I felt I was not alone. I was no longer as lost as I felt, daily.

I discovered I actually was not alone out there. Long before, having abandoned my religious roots, I had had the feeling of being disconnected from my Faith. But out there, It found me. Every step, each inhale, all of the deafening quiet, I was NOT alone. I was in fact, surrounded by all the beauty, the life of the woods, the clarity in my mind, the full connectivity in a “disconnected” way. It was glorious. For a few hours I walked to the beat of my heart. I processed life, and was away from the terror that existed in my day-to-day. Just for those moments, I was free. I was instantly smitten with Nature (yes I used a capital F on purpose).

While looking through my pack, I came across a few words I’d written years ago, I managed to stick in a pocket and forget about until now. As I came off the trail, at least 11 to 13 years ago, and most likely headed straight for a pizza joint, (because who doesn’t crave carbs after a 13 mile day?!) I scrawled out the following on the most perfect card I purchased in the town. On the front of the card is a sketched picture of the Town Inn in the small city. On the back:

“And above all things have fervent love for one another; for love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another; as good stewards of the manifold GRACE of God.” ~Peter 4:8-10 (how serendipitous to me, my life and how I choose to live #BELOVE)

Inside I wrote: “There are so many life thoughts and quotes driven by the trail, path and woods. This weekend was a reminder as the ideas of ‘life’s path’ floated through my brain. I am never closer to my Faith than when I am in nature, and this weekend was exactly where I needed to be. Grateful, hearts.

Even when the path is hard to see there are always guides, signs and reminders to help open your eyes to the right way.

You can branch off the path, but you will be guided back without fail. Wandering is not lost, as the saying goes.

Even if you do not reach the end, your journey is what matters. It is where the living is.

Sometimes your path takes you off track a bit, you must see it through to find all of the beauty in life, it is there just beyond the comfort zone.

Take time to enjoy all that surrounds you.

Obstacles may be just the test you need, to make you stronger, better.

Not everyone has been through exactly what you have, but we have all faced struggles and challenges on this path of life.”

Now in the thick of that time in my life, to find this now, and know that back then I was still okay on fundamental core level, gives me a belief in my own strength that just sets my heart on fire. To know that I was in immeasurable pain, mentally and physically and socially, financially, as a parent, woman, lover, my life raped daily down to nothing of myself, and I still managed to be this human… WOW! Something to be proud of for sure, but more so, to propel me to advance this human condition of acceptance and adventure and love and growth as far and deep and wide as I can, because I can!

Needless to say Nature is where I can most easily connect, recharge, heal etc. And last weekend, current time this time, was still very much needed. Jumping day one off with the rolling mountains, unfolding each peak with more breathtaking views, we arrived in Bedford, VA to make a stop at Blue Ridge Overland Gear. A quaint town, with a delicious little coffee shop (there is much more, but it was a quick stop). B.R.O.G. is located inside a building that as I walked past the basement doors, made me imagine bootleggers delivering their moonshine there. It is old, but what a beauty of a building. It has those good bones. Woodwork that makes you want to take a picture, which I did, and lighting that makes the beautifully worn floors look bright, columns that make you want to touch them and remember the generations of people that existed there before. I got to meet the owner and some friends and instantly knew they were my kinda people. (y’all know who you are if reading this far… high five to hammock man, keep on keepin on with the hot pants. Chris, I understand why others say they feel like they’ve known you forever. Your soul is a special one, now keep clear of the creepy’s).

We continued on to Covington, to a piece of Virginia land, with the oldest standing home in VA. Merry Go Round Farm is absolutely breathtaking, and the owner/farmer Jacob fast became a group favorite. He is funny and easy to adore, but he also let me hold a 3 hour old piglet, so basically I love him. We set up camp, checked in with family, got to know the rest of the group, had dinner, listened to music, got a rockin bonfire going, and stared up at the vast twinkling sky above. We shared stories and laughed lots, and of course, I broke out my moonshine! Certainly it didn’t make it on the rest of the trip, but don’t panic, I had plenty of brown water, (bourbon for those who don’t know me) and the group brought even more. Sausage, you are an awesome guy, filled with all kinds of history, knowledge and compassion. Tell my babies I miss them, and take mama for a walk, her 700 pound booty!

I left Covington beginning to relax and sink in to the adventure. Often, my anxiety makes the transition from routine to vacay tough, I need a timeline so I know what to expect. I am not in need of planning all the details, but a guideline so that honestly, I don’t lose my shit. I can prepare my surroundings and people so that if I do lose said shit, that I am safe and I can get myself through it eventually. Yep, that’s me, #crazygirl over here… eye rolls… but this time, I had an easier go of it, I was excited, I was happy, and I was in that place, like back in the woods, not alone.

The next two days were spent crawling over rocks, and up steep hills, and wading through door high streams and “puddles”. The vehicles were impressive, but the drivers – you guys deserve a cheers! When the locals stand back and say “y’all ain’t gonna make it through there with no damn vehicle” and then watch as you do, maneuvering with skill and confidence, and the rush of adrenaline at times… bad asses… all of yas! We camped remotely, and had the privilege of some pretty amazing weather, sites and sounds, and challenging and beautiful terrain. I got to watch the majesty of massive windmills swooping (if you’ve never seen one, or been to a wind farm, you must), see how some true to WVA country folk live, and sit in awe over the history and awesome country we are blessed to live in!

To say the trip was fantastic, just doesn’t quite cover it. I have attached some pics, and you can also check them out on my IG: @uncontrollably_me but my suggestion to all, because the pictures really only serve as personal memories of the actual greatness and do not really do it justice, is to get out there, see the world, or just your back yard. Get to the beach, the mountains, the trails, the gardens. Take them in, hold them close to your heart. I mean what is the point of a memory if we don’t keep some amazing stuff in there?

We are not lost, we are on an adventure. Go on lots of them!

Find your clarity, your peace, your passion, amplify it with things you love. Surround your self with beauty in the purest form and people that make you wanna love harder!

Peace!

Mountain State Overland http://www.mountainstateoverland.com/ follow their IG: @msoverlandand and watch their youtube videos for more *** Merry Go Round Farm IG: @merrygoroundfarm *** Thanks to my friend Adam for taking me along, follow him on IG: @overland_history Huge shout out to Gaby and Rachel for cooking the most delicious meals, Jason for navigating like a BOSS, and saving my life with the better bag, Papa lemonade for being the fire-man and comedian, and all of the other overland crew with unreal rigs, Y’all ROCK! Cheers!

The path So last weekend I was off-roading with a friend of mine, on an expedition with Mountain State Overland.

0 notes