#hopefully hang out with friend on monday. concert on thursday. last day friday | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

umichenginabroad · 11 months

Text

Forever souvenirs

This Saturday I was faced with the hardest part of my entire trip: saying goodbye. So many memories were made in Paris, and it was difficult to leave all that behind. It only felt right to say goodbye by making as many last-minute memories as possible.

Of course, with finals on the way, my last week was some happy medium between preparing for those and checking off any remaining bucket list items. Monday after class, this meant a quick trip to le Quartier Latin prior to doing some studying. Situated between Paris’ 5th and 6th arrondissements, this vibrant neighborhood has been a long-term goal of mine to visit. The quarter is known to house a large student population due to the numerous universities located within. We found that we fit right in with the local age group and walked around a bit to find a cute and homey Mexican restaurant to try for the night.

Tuesday morning, we finally decided to take advantage of our morning time by heading to Shakespeare and Company, a bookstore popular among tourists for containing a majority of English works. The store had a great book selection and a cozy reading area upstairs. There is also the option to get any books you buy stamped with the shop location, which, in my case, made a great souvenir! That same morning, we decided to check out another coffee shop on my bucket list, République of Coffee, located by the République metro stop. I found them due to their renowned vanilla charcoal latte, which was too intriguing not to try!

Wednesday was another busy day filled with both morning and evening activities. Before class, we visited one of the local (and partially outdoor?!) malls, Westfield Forum des Halles, to grab some souvenirs for friends and family. I really loved their Lego store, which contained Lego models of several of Paris’ famous monuments!

Wednesday was also special because it was La Fête de la Musique, an international music celebration that takes place annually on June 21st. This is an especially important celebration in Paris, where you can find plenty of free concerts and other music events. To celebrate this, my friends and I headed towards the Seine and found some live music as well as people DJing. We had lots of fun dancing and celebrating this event in the true Parisian style!

After taking both my final exams that afternoon, Thursday marked the end of classes, meaning that we were free through the end of our trip. Thursday night, my roommate and I attended a program-sponsored viewing of Le Roi Lion (Lion King!) musical currently touring in Paris. The show was, of course, en français, but screens were placed on both sides of the theater with English translations. As someone who knows quite a bit of French, I enjoyed trying to process the plot in another language from what I had previously known it in. Just look how cool these costumes are!

Friday was our last full day in Paris and one we fully booked as to make the very most of. We started off the day by getting arguably my favorite souvenir, tattoos. My roommate and I had been thinking about getting tattoos from Paris our entire trip, and it seemed fitting to finally accomplish this our last full day. Following that, we enjoyed a final lunch at Petit Palais, taking in the lovely weather and architecture one last time. We then made a final trip to Montmartre, this time to purchase one of Paris’ notorious love locks and initial it before hanging it on the fence in front of the lookout to the entire city. Hopefully in the future I can come back and find my old lock! While in Montmartre we also stopped at their vintage photobooth popular among tourists to get a cute picture as a souvenir.

Friday night we had a final program dinner at le Brasserie Mollard, a beautiful art nouveau Paris brasserie. This is hands-down the nicest and most beautiful restaurant we visited our entire trip and made for a wonderful last group meal. There, I had the opportunity to try canard, or duck. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I actually really enjoyed it and was glad to be trying another distinctly European dinner after 6 weeks’ worth of mainly trying lunch foods.

Finally, to end off the night, we visited both the Seine and Eiffel Tower one last time, complete with a last beautiful sunset!

Saturday, it was finally time to say goodbye to the city that was my home for 6 weeks. After one final breakfast, we made our way (via Uber, I did NOT plan on bringing 2 suitcases on the metro) to the airport filled with memories from a wonderful trip.

After all my time spent here, I have nothing but gratitude for my time in Paris and know that this trip has helped to shape me as a person and broaden my worldview. Despite its challenges, adjusting to and then thriving in life in a new country will be an experience I always look back on fondly. It’s been a pleasure to be one of the bloggers for the trip and to share my experiences with all of you. I encourage anyone thinking about studying abroad to find a way to squash all the excuses and reasons not to and make it happen—you’ll be making forever memories!

Until we meet again! Au revoir!!

Hannah Bernardi

First-year Engineering

Engineering in Paris, France

#umichenginabroad #ipeparis #HannahBernardi #IPESummer23 #France

1 note · View note

mhdiaries · 4 years

Photo

New Scaremester Catty Noir Planner

MONDAY 1 Meet with Management Team – Meeting with my publicist and manager to assure them, once again, that yes, I really am going to Monster High and that no; this isn’t just a phase I’m going through.

TUESDAY 2 Thank You Gifts – Buy gifts for all the stage, lighting, sound and travel crews. I just sing, they do all the hard work.

WEDNESDAY 3 Press Conference – Hopefully this will be my last one for a few years… unless it’s with a student reporter at Monster High.

THURSDAY 4 Autograph Session – Sign some posters, albums and other stuff for a charity auction. “Veronica Von Vamp” is also signing items for the auction before she takes the throne as the new queen of the vampires Elissabat the First.

FRIDAY 5 Record Label Party – I like these almost as much as press conferences. Oh well, there will be monsters there I haven’t seen in a long time and others that I’m going to miss seeing every day.

SATURDAY 6 Sleep In – Sleep In – Yes, I am scheduling this. Hey! Since I’m the one making my schedule now, I can see how planning things in advance could have some advantages, especially for things like this.

SUNDAY 7 Picnic at the Beach – Dad has been restoring an old convertible for, like, forever, and he says it’s finally ready to go. Mom and I have a list of the goodies we want to take and our beach outfits picked out.

MONDAY 8 Student ID Photo – It’s like a head shot for normal monsters, and it’ll be my first step to becoming just a regular ghoul at school.

TUESDAY 9 Tour MH – Invisi Billy is going to give Gigi Grant and me the tour of Monster High. I hope I don’t jinx it by being so excited.

WEDNESDAY 10 Lunch at Die-Ner w/Twyla – Twyla is the other student who is going to be helping me get acquainted with MH. We’ve been texting, and she seems really sweet if not a little shy.

THURSDAY 11 Answer Fan Mail – I try to answer every letter, even the not so nice ones. I think it’s unlucky, not to mention rude, if I don’t.

FRIDAY 12 MH Football Game – WOOT! When I was on tour I always had to be scareful not to strain my voice. This is going to be a night when I’m not going to worry about it. Go MH!

SATURDAY 13 Lagoona Blue Beach Bonfire – Lagoona asked if I would bring my guitar and play. I said I would. I may not be touring, but I still love to sing.

SUNDAY 14 Gigi, Twyla and Invisi Billy are going on a scary school adventure. Hoping to get some pens in my unlucky color.

MONDAY 15 Library Tour w/Ghoulia Yelps – I’ve heard amazing things about the MH library. It’s supposed to be vast and has books that can’t be found anywhere else in the monster world.

TUESDAY 16 Tea w/Headmistress Bloodgood – Apparently this is something she does with all the new students. I think it’s a totes cool thing for her to do.

WEDNESDAY 17 New Student Orientation – The school guidance counselor Mr. D’eath is leading my section. Gigi is in this section, too, and we’re supposed to pick her up on the way. I have like a million questions about her unlife as a genie. I hope I don’t act too much of a fan ghoul.

THURSDAY 18 Class Sign Up – This is really happening! A year ago I never thought it would. Break a mirror that I get all the classes and teachers I want.

FRIDAY 19 Dinner @Home – I’ve invited Invisi Billy, Twyla and Gigi. Mom’s making chilling cheese fries, and we’re going to play some board games or watch TV or just hang out.

SATURDAY 20 Coffee w/Operetta – My guitar player is a big fan of hers. He used to play her music on the tour bus and he asked me to get her autograph for him.

SUNDAY 21 Stories @Scarah’s House – Invisi Billy says Scarah’s family tells the best stories, and he got permission to bring me along to listen. I’ll be breaking out my opened umbrella heels for the occasion.

MONDAY 22 Night @the Opera – Operetta gave me box seat tickets to a new opera her father composed. It will be scary cool to actually see it unlive in person.

TUESDAY 23 MH Concert – My last one for a while, and it’s only for MH students, faculty and their families. If I’m unlucky it will be like singing for a bunch of old friends.

WEDNESDAY 24 RR&R – Rest Relax & Read – this is my favorite thing to do after a concert.

THURSDAY 25 Maul w/Gigi – Gigi says she’s worn the same outfit for so many years that she has no idea what’s even in style now. She wants some help picking out new school clothes, so we’re going to shop.

FRIDAY 26 Creepover @Twyla’s – Twyla has invited me and Gigi and Howleen to a creepover at her house. I don’t think I’ve been on a creepover since I was, like, 8. It’s going to be purrrfect.

SATURDAY 27 Hang Out @Home – Just a nice quiet night at home with my fam before school starts. Mom’s making her famous lucky lasagna.

SUNDAY 28 Tomorrow’s the big day. I haven’t been this nervous since my first concert. I’m so ready to step out of the spot fright and into real unlife.

#monster high #monster high diary #catty noir #new scaremester

61 notes · View notes

nekkid-karli · 4 years

Text

Parlez-vous sexe?

My entire life, I’ve gone through stages of near obsession with different things: there was a scrapbooking period; a tennis period; a painting period; a radio contest winning period; a swinging period; a running period; a concerts period; a health nut period. All of these have lasted different amounts of time. While I only made one scrapbook, S and I have swung for many many years. What can I say - I guess some hobbies are just more fun.

At the moment, I have two huge passions. Travel and sex. In the last year, I’ve been to 23 countries and have been with around 50 men. (My need for organization and record keeping means that I have a spreadsheet for both, so yes, I know all the exact numbers.) I’ve mentioned what a fan I am of Tinder - the app combines the two passions seamlessly.

Somewhere on my travels, I must have been swiping in the vicinity of an Eastern European film producer. I’m pretty sure we were both in Turkey at the time, but by the time we matched, we were back in our respective home countries. Well, who am I to make some measly 5,000 miles into an issue?

I had been enjoying our chats for about a month when I mentioned that I was itching to go somewhere while the rest of my family will be on a boys’ trip. Lucky for me, the Producer was kind enough to take the bait and invite me to come hang with him in Cannes.

I decided I’d spend a few nights with the Producer in the South of France, but that I should probably stop in Paris for a few days first, as it’s been a while since I’d had macarons while walking down the Champs-Élysées. (Fuck, that was a ridiculous sentence. I rolled my eyes at myself on your behalf.) Well, if I’m going to be in Paris, that means I’m going to need to find me some company.

First things first: get in touch with Frenchy and see if he’s around. (He is! Yay!) Next up: Tinder. (Plans with two more guys. Double yay!)

WEDNESDAY

I landed on Wednesday, took a quick nap and a hot shower, and went out to walk around Montmartre and meet my first date, #134. He was great - has traveled a lot, so we had lots to talk about. There was a temporary Banksy exhibit in town, which was really cool to walk through. We went for drinks, then dinner with wine, then more drinks… and while I wasn’t particularly feeling sparks, the alcohol made me horny. This guy was really just so nice - including in bed. Which is… nice… I guess. He got up early for work and I went back to sleep.

THURSDAY

I was really excited to meet this next guy! He grew up in Lyon, lived in the US in his early 20s, and now lives on the outskirts of Paris. His English is nearly perfect, and we really had a great time chatting on Tinder.

The plan was to go to Lyon for the day and overnight, so he could show me around his old digs. I could tell he was nervous when he picked me up, but as the conversation began to flow, he quickly relaxed. I loved making out at all the stops and towns along the way - this guy was a really great kisser! He took me to an amazing dinner that night, and when we came back to the room, I realized that his oral talents are not just limited to languages and kissing. HOLY CRAP - that tongue!

We had sex for a little while, but Lyon guy and I are both very oral, so there was a lot of mouth stuff going on that night. I must say, for a first time, I felt surprisingly comfortable with him. I normally worry about one thing or another, but this was just straight up pleasure.

FRIDAY

After a little more action the following morning, (both sexual and sightseeing,) it was a melancholy ride back to Paris. We were both sad to be saying goodbye. Hopefully it’s not forever.

Lyon guy dropped me off at my hotel, and I got showered and ready for my evening. Remember Frenchy, the guy I had met at the Florida swingers club? Well, he had two days in a row planned for us. This first night, he was coming over with two of his friends - a girl and a guy. Both smoking-hot. We got down to business pretty quickly. The girl and I were really into each other and the guys were sitting on the side chatting for a while while she and I touched and made out. (Kind of glad my French wasn’t better… this way it was just background noise.) I licked her until she came, and when she returned the favor, one of the guys decided to make use of my mouth.

At some point, the guys pulled us apart and took turns fucking us. The grand finale was when the girl had had enough, and sat back and watched the three of us. I was on my back, with my head hanging back over the bed, sucking Frenchy, with the other guy fucking me. Frenchy pulled out of my mouth and came all over my tits… and I guess that set the other guy off, because he pulled out, ripped the condom off, and came all over me too. That was SO RIDICULOUSLY HOT!!!!

I guess we must have been pretty loud, because the hotel staff was banging on our door and yelling up to our window the entire time. Thankfully they had no right to enter and they didn’t kick me out of the hotel, as it was really late when we were done... and I really didn’t want to have to wander around with smudged makeup and all my luggage in the dark. The couple got a very stern talking-to when they left the room, and when Frenchy and I went to get something to eat later, the manager had a long lecture with several threats for us.

Later that night, Frenchy and I had a really great one-on-one session… we were both really into it. I was going crazy on top of him and it was AMAZING. He was slapping my face and my boobs and it was just making me go more and more crazy riding him. Every bruise and every sore muscle was well earned and appreciated.

SATURDAY

Unfortunately, we woke up to a family emergency and Frenchy had to leave and cancel our plans together for the rest of the day and night. So I got in touch with a guy I had matched with 6 months earlier who lives in the UK, whom I still had never met. My crossed fingers totally worked - he was going to come to Paris for the night!!! His train was to get in that evening before dinner!

I walked around all day, went to Atelier des Lumières, the Louvre, got tons of photos of Parisian streets, picked up some perfume that the Lyon guy turned me on to, and met the Brit back at my hotel in the evening.

Right from the first impression, this guy totally blew me away. Like I said, we had been chatting for about 6 months, but it wasn’t frequent and it wasn’t very deep… however in person, we hit it off from the first few words. By the middle of dinner, I had all kinds of images going through my head - on one hand I wanted us to just keep chatting, but on the other, I couldn’t wait to get back to the room to feel his body on mine.

Getting into the hotel with him, I was really hoping the front desk people wouldn’t say anything about the noise the previous night. I didn't need him knowing that there was already cum on these sheets. Thankfully, it was a different lady at the desk. Phew!

That night was incredible. The Brit is so tall and strong, I felt like he could make me do anything he wanted… and I would have been happy to. I honestly thought I was all out of orgasms after these last few crazy days, but it was barely even a challenge for him. I was honestly shocked. The thing I can’t get out of my head is his hands on my hips while I was riding him. I mean, mine are no little girl hips. These are good, solid, child-birthing hips. But he was manipulating them on top of him like they were nothing, making his dick hit me inside at angles I didn’t know were possible. It’s now months later, and I can still practically feel his hands on me.

SUNDAY

I wanted to touch him and be touched by him all night and following day, and I was really very sad to be separating. This was not nearly enough time together, and I truly hope we can see each other again. Alas, it was time to head to Cannes, for the original point of this trip - the Producer.

The Producer and his work colleagues met me right at the airport, and I swear, my jaw must have dropped when I saw them all. The photos I had seen didn’t do them any justice. The entire group was of the ridiculously well-dressed, tall, perfectly 5-o’clock shadow-ed can’t-look-directly-at-them variety, and I couldn’t have felt cooler being seen with them. We took a car to the beautiful apartment overlooking the Mediterranean coastline, dropped off our bags, (of which they only allowed me to lift my small pocketbook,) and went out to dinner.

On top of being the juiciest eye candy, these guys were seriously some of the nicest people I have ever met. The number of times they checked to make sure I’m not too cold (“let me give you my jacket!”,) that my food is okay (and offered me some of theirs,) that the music is okay (were they going to ask the restaurant to change it?,) kept my wine and water glasses filled, apologized if they slipped into not speaking English for a second, explained every one of their inside jokes and comments… Not to mention, the foodie in me was beyond pleased. I mean, I was floating somewhere way above cloud 9 the entire evening.

Back in the apartment with the Producer, in our bedroom, the urgency of the entire thing was real. Clothes were flying. Tongues were everywhere. Wait, no, scratch that. Not everywhere. Remember how I said that I’m very oral? Well, I meant that both ways. The Producer loves to be sucked, (I know, shocking,) but is not big on returning the favor. On the plus side, he’s very controlling in bed, which you may have noticed I absolutely LOVE. I was so turned on - absolutely soaking wet. It was all really hot. Really really hot. But…

But he kept us changing positions often. And (this is something I’ve never experienced before,) he came many times throughout the night, and although he was ready to go again right away, it put an off-beat rhythm on the night. So while the sex was great, I just couldn’t actually get to an orgasm. Which was pretty frustrating, because I was SO FREAKING HORNY.

MONDAY

I walked around town all day while the Producer & Co did whatever it was they were there to do. In the evening, I got dressed up and joined them at a party. The kind with free-flowing champagne, gift bags, and a few faces I actually recognized. Afterwards, we all went to another foodie-approved dinner, had some drinks, and the two of us took a walk on the beach before going back to the apartment.

I tried to pull the Producer out onto the balcony, but he didn’t want his housemates to catch us naked out there. (I certainly would not have minded that. And if they wanted to join in, that would have been more than fine as well.) So - back in the room, more of the same sex as the previous night. It was so good, lots of fun, huge turn on… and when he fell asleep, I finished myself off and went to sleep too.

TUESDAY

The Producer and I went for a lengthy walk, lunch, and since there was nobody in the apartment, we finally did it out on the balcony! In daytime! So if anyone was looking up… Hehe… It went from the balcony, to the dining room table, (me lying on my back, him standing,) to him cumming all over my face; with the entire thing filmed for posterity. (Love my little phone stand!)

At night, there was some more hot action. He’s so good at being dominant - I was loving him telling me what to do. After he was asleep, I came in the shower and joined him for some Zzzs.

This had been such a fun several days. This guy and his friends are really possibly the biggest gentlemen I’ve met in my life. They’re all very educated, super quick-witted and charming, were curious about my marriage and how this all works (it always makes me wonder when people don’t ask questions about that,) and actually listened when I spoke. But these few days were enough for now. Going through our travel schedules, we figured out that we’ll be in LA at the same time again in a few months, and maybe we’d meet again. (Spoiler alert: we do.)

WEDNESDAY

I woke up at 5 and couldn’t get back to sleep, so I decided to go running and see the sunrise. When I run and get into a groove with it, it’s almost a meditative experience for me. Just hearing my breath and my steps, the world is drowned out around me - it’s restorative. Same goes for sunrise or sunset, especially when I can watch it happen over the water. This was the perfect last morning for this trip. I ran and reflected on all the events. All the men. All the experiences.

All these adventures, and I couldn’t wait to get back to my normal life. There’s nothing like being wrapped around my amazing husband, in our bed, with my head on his chest. Most of all, as I ran, I thought about how grateful I am to him for allowing me - no, for encouraging me - to live my life in a way that makes me happy. When we’re happy individually, we’re that much happier together, as a couple. I love my husband. I love my life. Fuck societal norms.

2 notes · View notes

jvc-yearofservice · 5 years

Text

Ending the year early

10/13/19- 10/19/19

Monday was rough because a homeless woman having a mental breakdown threw oatmeal on me, and it got in my hair. On Tuesday, we took a field trip to the pumpkin patch where I was in charge of looking after two students who were awesome and behaved phenomenally. We rode the carousel, had a free lunch, and watched a pig race. That night, my housemates and I were walking to our seats at the Jonas Brothers concert, and a random man approached us and asked if it was just the three of us. We said 'yes', and he proceeded to give us tickets for the floor of the stadium, which were obviously much better than our nose-bleed seats. We took them and got escorted down to the floor where there were three seats together. It was literally so close to the stage and therefore closer to them as well. The concert was so amazing, and they played all my favorite songs, including "Burnin' Up", "Cake by the Ocean", "SOS", "Sucker", and "Lovebug". I nearly got trampled several times when they would walk from one stage to another (that's how close we were). My feet were killing me from jumping up and down for nearly two or more hours, but it was definitely worth it.

On Wednesday, I was fired from my job. I'll tell you how it happened: I came to work early in the morning, and my supervisor met me at the door, saying that we would have a meeting at 8am, which was unusual because our one on ones were on Friday's. At 8am, she told me to follow her and then started walking away. I followed her to another building, and we walked in absolute silence the entire way. Eventually, in the other building, we went into a random office, and there was an uglier-looking Angelica Houston type woman standing there. She told me to sit down, so me and my supervisor both sat down while she stayed standing the entire time. The woman who was standing was named Ms. Julie, I think, and she was the head of HR at Loaves and Fishes. She informed me that a JVC representative was on speakerphone (Laura Strubeck) as well as our in-city coordinator, Windi. I was super perplexed about it since there was absolutely no preparation nor had I expected anything amiss. My supervisor started explaining that since my work "fell so short below the expectations I agreed to at the beginning of the year, my position has been terminated". I was so blown away that I couldn't really speak. I looked at my supervisor who had super fake sad puppy dog eyes, and then I looked at the HR woman. The HR woman seemed really angry with me and told me, "Your one job was to protect the kids and you failed." Then my supervisor very helpfully jumped in and added, "We do not trust you to keep the children safe." I was really shocked and confused because my supervisor and I had just had a meeting with the in-city coordinator where we discussed issues and (seemingly) resolved everything (but I guess not). The main issue was supervising the children, which I asked for more clarification on but had only received vague answers from my supervisor every time. They asked if I had any questions, and I could only think to ask about what happens next. The JVC representative, Laura Strubeck, said that because I had been terminated from my job instead of just a mutual agreement to part ways, I was out of the program. I asked if I could be put into another placement (since several of my house-mates' agencies wanted me), but she said I couldn't and that I also had to be out of the house by Saturday. I very numbly nodded, and the in-city coordinator's only contribution to the conversation was, "I'm here for you, Mary Kate!" For those of you at home, the job of the in-city coordinator is to advocate and support the volunteers. Guess who did not support me? Our in-city coordinator. The JVC representative also said that if I could, I should share my "exit strategy"/travel plans with the JVC just for their records. They asked if I had anymore questions, and I didn't so I was walked back to the school where my supervisor insisted on watching me while I packed up my things at my desk and then escorted me out of the school, not before asking me for the work keys back.

Here is my take on why I was really terminated: from day one, I sensed that my supervisor didn't really like me. I figured that it would take some time to warm up to each other, but our relationship never got better. In all honesty, she had expectations that no person could ever meet, even me who was doing her best and putting way too much effort into a job that didn't fulfill me (the girl in my position last year complained that this supervisor was so overbearing and never satisfied with her work and someone in my position three years ago left after the first day at work). At our meetings, my supervisor asked inappropriate questions about my personal life and tried to involve herself in any drama that was happening back at the house. I stood by my morals and who I am, and I refused to compromise any of my beliefs, and I was punished for that. It was hinted to me that I should tell my supervisor about anyone making any mistakes in their jobs (not to help them learn but so that they would be punished), and I would not because I didn't believe that was right. When my supervisor realized she could not intimidate or control me, she felt I was a liability and therefore had to go. While we were still meeting and giving me the appearance of trying to help me learn and grow as a staff member and individual, my supervisor was actively gathering little mistakes I had made and then presented them to the higher-up people in order to make it look like I was incapable of doing my job. The JVC sided with them likely because of financial reasons. The JVC gets paid by agencies to have volunteers at those agencies, and Loaves and Fishes is such a large and powerful organization that the JVC would not have wanted to get on their bad side. If it were any other site, I believe the JVC would have supported and advocated for me. The only words I have for my supervisor are this: I can see that you are suffering very deeply. I can see that you think your suffering will be alleviated by hurting others. I am very sorry that you are suffering so badly. I do not wish that kind of suffering on anybody. I hope one day you can alleviate that suffering without inflicting pain on others.

All that day, I had decided to tell all my house mates later on so as to not ruin their day. I basically packed up my room, got a plane ticket home, and took down all my decorations. Eventually, I told them all together, and they were outraged and devastated as well. Lots of tears and grieving. Everyone is still quite confused on exactly why I was fired and then unceremoniously kicked out of the program, and whenever we tried to reach out to anybody in a position of power in the JVC, but we were given vague answers every time or blatantly ignored. It especially helped that some support people, Lauren and OJ, came over to grieve with us that night. My housemates reached out to everyone they could in an effort to get the JVC to let me stay and work somewhere else, but I eventually told them to stop their efforts because I was too tired and too disheartened to try to fight anymore. Why should I fight to stay in a program that would treat me so horribly and obviously does not appreciate or see my worth?

The days went quickly after that. On Thursday, I packed and shipped things back home. Thursday night, we all tried to celebrate together by watching a movie and hanging out on the porch like we did at the beginning of the year, but there was definitely a sense of disbelief and dread among us. On Friday, I finished shipping all my things and decided to sight-see as much as I could. I went to Old Sacramento and saw a replica of the original schoolhouse, bought little mementos for everybody (using up the rest of my stipend money, heyo), and visited Fort Sutter and the Indian History Museum. That night, we all went and got a hilarious old-timey portrait done of us in all vintage, cow-boy-looking outfits. For dinner, we went to In-N-Out since I had not had it yet and it was on my to-do list. MOST IMPORTANTLY, at Fort Sutter, I saw the DONNER DOLL, aka the doll of a little girl who survived the Donner Party disaster (look it up-it's horrible).

On Saturday, it was time to go. I woke up to the amazing smell of my house-mates making breakfast for me. A couple of us went to get donuts, and I nearly got into a fight with an "overly-sensitive and emotionally unstable" woman who said I was standing too close to her (okay, so I wasn't standing too close on purpose at first but after she said that, I stood right behind her until she screamed at us all again and then left, haha). For the last time, we all held hands around the table, and I said grace which went a little like this: "Dear Lord in Heaven...what you did was hella messed up...and I hope I can forgive you one day for allowing this to happen to such good people...but still...we ball, and I'm thankful for what I have. Amen." The car was super packed with people as we all drove to the airport, and there were many tears as I was dropped off. It was super funny because a really sad song about missing friends and having good memories came on as soon as we all got in the car. I'm writing this now as I'm waiting for my plane to depart to St. Louis, where I will be moving back in with my parents until I save up enough to get my own apartment and hopefully one day my own dog.

A couple last things before I go: I don't regret joining the JVC, flying all the way out to Philadelphia, flying all the way out to California, and living intentionally and simply for exactly 80 days. I don't regret it because I met some of the most incredible people in the entire world (Caroline, Fran, Meg, Joseph, Laura, Morgan, Lauren & OJ, Mr. Martin, Sara F., Kelsey & Katie, Liana, Lucia, Miss Emily, Mr. Troy, Miss Erica, Miss Stacey, Fr. Tom, Mercy Meg, the Mercy volunteers, the ACE volunteers, Grace, and many more). I'd also like to sincerely thank all the unknown former Jesuit volunteers who reached out to the JVC on my behalf in an effort to try to get them to change their mind and let me stay. I'm conscientiously choosing to release the anger and bitter feelings I have towards my supervisor and all those in power positions in the JVC who advocated for my termination because holding onto those feelings is so unfair to me. I would rather use my energy to continue to help and choose joyfulness and love than to seek out revenge for what was done to me. Yes, it was unfair and horrible, as well as traumatic and embarrassing. There has also been more crying and suffering in these past few days than probably my entire life before. However, I take comfort in the fact that those who really know me absolutely understand that I did nothing to deserve this and are outraged on my behalf as well. That's enough for me- to have the faith of the ones who really matter, so I will let the issue rest.

And maybe this was all for a greater reason. We'll see.

Godspeed,

0 notes

sentrava · 6 years

Text

What’s On in Stockholm: April 2018

Spring is finally here and we are happily basking in any sunlight we can find! In Stockholm, spring also ushers in a great music season as people begin to emerge from their hibernation. Whether you’re keen to check out a concert, enjoy the outdoors, or stroll through a gallery, the Swedish capital has something for you!

Here’s the best of what’s happening in Stockholm this April:

Sunday 1st April

Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami at Bio Rio

A movie breakfast? What a cozy idea for a Sunday! First enjoy breakfast supplied by the cinema, then the film “Grace Jones: Bloodlight and Bami,” and finish off with a conversation about the film. Tickets are 195 SEK including breakfast, and 145 without breakfast.

Sunday 1st April – Sunday 8th April

Easter at Skansen

For one week, open-air museum Skansen is hosting Easter-related events. There are activities for children like face painting and pony rides, as well as activities for adults such as glass blowing. Some of the events end earlier than 8th April, like the Easter Market, so check the schedule for those you want to attend!

Thursday 5th – Saturday 7th April

ISU World Synchronized Skating Championships

The public is welcome to the free opening ceremony in Kungsträdgården, where there will be entertainment and the starting order will be decided. Friday and Saturday events will be held in Ericsson Globe, including the competition and award ceremony. You can purchase a ticket for a single event or for all of the events to see this fascinating sport.

Friday 6th April

Justin Nozuka at Södra Teatern

Nozuka comes from a musical family: three of his siblings are also musicians and he has been writing songs since he was 12 years old. His folk-style music often focuses on heavy topics. Tickets for this show are 195 SEK.

youtube

Friday 6th – Saturday 7th April

Davis Cup: Sweden vs. Portugal at Kungliga Tennishallen

Are you a tennis fan? Come support the Swedish players! Tickets cost between 150 – 250 SEK if you’re over 18.

Saturday 7th April

La Paulée Nordic at Operakällaren

Treat yourself to a day of wining and dining. The program for La Paulée Nordic includes a seminar and tasting (both in English), followed by a gala dinner with a tasting menu and an all Burgundian wine pairing. Prices vary depending on how many of the events you choose to attend.

Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th April

Hornstulls Market Premier

Enjoy the first Hornstulls Market of the season! This market runs every weekend throughout the summer (except for midsummer), with new collaborators every month. The market features a range of food, antiques, art, design, and vintage clothes. If you’re an interested vendor, check out the website for more details. An outdoor market is the perfect way to welcome spring in Stockholm.

Thursday 12th – Sunday 15th April

Urban Burn at Nobelberget

Nobelberget brings a Burning Man-style event to Stockholm for the third year. Tickets give you access to the empty 2000 square meter indoors space. From there, the community has the opportunity to co-create. Tickets to this event are 600 SEK, and ticket sales end on 9th April.

Friday 13th – Sunday 15th April

Market Art Fair at Liljevalchs

Prominent galleries, artists, and collectors all in one place for the weekend. Whether you’re looking to purchase, or just look, this fair will have the latest in the Nordic art scene. There will also be talks scheduled. For a full list of galleries and artists that will be represented, check out their website.

Stockholm Writers Festival

The first-ever Stockholm Writers Festival promises to be a treat for established as well as up-and-coming writers. The events are in English, and include speakers, workshops and more. This is a great way to make industry contacts and surround yourself with a community of writers!

Saturday 14th – Sunday 15th April

Licorice Festival at Annexet

The Licorice Festival returns for a 10th year and we Scandi fans are excited; Swedes definitely know how to do licorice. You can purchase tickets in advance or at the door for this event (140 SEK/day). There will be entertainment and, of course, as much licorice as you can eat!

Thursday 19th April

Sam Smith at Ericsson Globe

Sam Smith’s exquisite voice will fill Ericsson Globe and we can’t wait. Tickets range from about 500 to 800 SEK, some of which goes toward War Child, as Sam Smith has partnered with PLUS1.

youtube

Saturday 21st April

The Girl 21K

Start your spring training for this event! You can choose to do the full 21 kilometers on your own, or split the distance with a friend. Stayed tuned: time and location are still tentative!

Female Athlete Running Outdoors

Saturday 21st April

Cherry Blossom Day in Kungsträdgårdsgatan

The aim of this day is to celebrate Japanese culture, including multiple Japanese performances. There will be workshops, food, and activities. And (hopefully) cherry blossoms!

Saturday 21st April

Culture Night

This night affords the amazing opportunity to explore cultural institutions, museums, studios, theaters and more for free! For information on participating venues, check out this website. We love the comfort of our home city, yet it’s so easy to forget to continue exploring. This is the perfect opportunity to broaden our view of Stockholm.

Tuesday 24th – Wednesday 25th April

Sunny at Dansens Hus

Emanuel Gat originally planned to become a music conductor, until a workshop changed his mind and he became the well-renowned French choreographer that he is now. With its playful choreography, Sunny is perfect for springtime.

Tuesday 24th April

>Mystique: The Inspector is Coming at Scalateatern

This magic show ensemble performs a completely new show every month, each with a different guest performer. This month the guest is Gabi Pareras from Spain. Tickets are 220 SEK when pre-purchased and 300 SEK at the door.

Friday 27th April

Lauv at Södra Teatern

Lauv is stopping in Stockholm on his first world tour. Maybe he’ll leave with a song dedicated to our city! Stockholm in the Rain? Tickets are 175 SEK.

youtube

Sunday 29th April

Bryan Adams at Ericsson Globe

We’re going back to the “Summer of ’69” with this one! He’ll be performing songs from his new album, “Ultimate,” which includes new material and some of his classics.

youtube

Monday 30th April

River Rafting in Uppsala

At the end of April, students of Uppsala University celebrate Valborg. One of the events is rafting down the Fyris River. The rafts are homemade, and there are often entertaining ones to see! If you are a student, there are more events that you can attend during Valborg so check out the website for information about specific events.

Ongoing in April

Free Photographers’ Department 2018 at Kulturhuset

This exhibition includes photographs from over one hundred participants, from beginners to seasoned photographers. Rules for participation in this exhibit were minimal. We are so excited to see what the creative eyes of Sweden have presented us! Open until 22nd April and shown in Gallery 5.

My Olsson at Gallery Anigo

Throughout April, you can view My Olsson’s colorful work. Check the website for hours; the gallery is only open Thursday through Sunday.

Weaving Silk at Millesgården

Traditional looms and weavings from Nanking are on display throughout April. The exhibit will also highlight the beginnings of silk production. Entrance fee is 150 SEK, and 120 SEK for students. Consider downloading their free audio app to enhance your tour of the museum!

Sigrid Hjertén at Waldemarsudde

It’s no secret that we love the influence of a strong woman, and this exhibit highlights just that. Sigrid Hjertén was at the forefront of the Swedish Modernist avant-garde movement; she’s been both praised and criticized for her use of strong colors. She was a pupil of Matisse in Paris. Entrance fee is 150 SEK, and 130 SEK for students and seniors.

Self-Guided Hiking Tour

Stockholm Adventures provides self-guided hiking tours all-year round. We think that April is a great time to get yourself back outdoors. For 290 SEK, they provide you with all of the provisions you need (map, daypack, lunch, etc.). You can choose between three trails, ranging in distance from 6 km to 13 km.

Bergmans Filmstaden

Ingmar Bergman, as many Scandiphiles will surely know, was a Swedish director, writer and producer of film, born in 1918. On 12th April, Filmstaden opens an outdoor exhibition of photographs to tell Bergman’s life story. These will hang all year. There will be events throughout the year, such as film screenings and tours, to honor his work.

If you’re a business or organisation that would like us to add your event to next month’s calendar, please contact us at hello [@] scandinaviastandard [dot] com. Thank you!

Stay Up to Date with our Newsletter

Get new articles, interesting links and upcoming events delivered to your inbox every month. No spam. Unsubscribe whenever you want.

#mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; width:624px;} /* Add your own MailChimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block. We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. */

Email Address

First Name

Last Name

What’s On in Stockholm: April 2018 published first on https://medium.com/@OCEANDREAMCHARTERS

0 notes

hellotvv · 7 years

Text

What an eventful weekend.

Wednesday - went to nightclub to see Manila killa and robotaki with michelle. Really spontaneous! Much adventure~ pregamed in the car, bonded with her, saw Ben randomly, befriended a random but kind asian couple

Thursday - 1st day of school, pretty chill

Friday - bought books with cousin, went to party with max and his friends, met Bryan at the party surprisingly, met ted from sm4sh club randomly at the same party, found out one of the girls Max and I went to party with is one of my followers on ig and we were supposed to shoot together almost a year ago but never met in person and now finally met through this party randomly, Rebecca Lindsay and Amy came through to the party after seeing my snap, and had a chill time. The after party at max, was kinda juggling between Danica the photographer girl that are mutual followers with me on ig but we never met till now and Rita. Danica ended up added me on fb next day and asked to hangout again in future haha.

Saturday - chill, went to another Max’s party

Sunday - idr actually, I think I hung out with cousin and ran some errands. Rebecca texted me and wanted to hang this week hehe. Idkk prob since she single now, but I’m no rebound yo. Michelle also texted me to hang out

Monday - blah blah school, ended up going to dinner with Michelle. We hit it off well, making bunch of plans together like gyming, seeing armnhmr in sf, other concerts/raves, and etc. I treated her to dinner, since she drove me hehe and took initiative to ask me out. She was pretty happy and wanted to treat me out next time, but I was like nahhh.

Tuesday - more school, more groceries, and Rebecca wanted to get dinner. Took her to this place that was on her yelp bookmarks that I already been to. Kinda went will, since I know how to carry conversations, learned some more about her, and made plans for Monday to get brunch/lunch, and she also wants to hang out more. Idkk what this means yo.

Wednesday - today, gonna have a nice steak dinner cooking party with Jessica, kristy, my cousin, and Michelle coming along. We’ll see how it goes~ should be really fun

Overall life: honestly can’t complain. Fairly stress free, since school only started recently. So not too stressed with classes or grades yet. Uhm kinda juggling hanging out with both Rebecca and Michelle, kinda feel like their interested LOL. Since trust, I’ve been friends with Rebecca for almost 4 years now, she never hit me up to hang out this much ever and kinda aggressive with hanging out more. Like I’ve known her for 4 years and she could have done it beforeee, prob since she single now and ready to mingle idk. But she’s like, idk incompatible with me long term tbh. We got too many differences in like interests, future goals, hobbies, idk. Definitely wouldn’t last outside like short-term. For Michelle, I do like her as a person a lot, and kinda wanna see where this goes. My friend kai approves of Michelle, but model friendJenn thinks I can do better. Idk I think Jenn just views me highly since we phone call every day. But for uh the party broads like Danica and Rita, ehh I’m not pursuing them really, only if they actively try for me. Physically, pretty happy with myself tbh. I got some abs visible, and been working out! I’ve been prettyyy good about my diet for a good amount of time now. I’m trying to keep it up! I’m trying to go to the gym even more, and if I can’t then I still work out in my room. I am content right now physically, since recently skinny and some abs showing. But could always be better!! Much content with life as of rn, hopefully things continue!

#ye

0 notes

mhdiaries · 4 years

Photo

New Scaremester Twyla Boogeyman Planner

MONDAY 1 Meet Howleen @ Coffin Bean - Howleen has a master plan to use up the remaining days of summer before school starts. Hopefully, it won’t turn from master to disaster.

TUESDAY 2 Cemetery Garden - I like to go and pick up any stray litter that happens to find its way among the headstones, benches and fountain. It’s my way of giving back to one of my favorite haunts.

WEDNESDAY 3 Nightmare Catching w/Dad - Dad can shadow jump to anywhere in the world, and it’s fun to eat nightmares in exotic places.

THURSDAY 4 Dustin to groomers - It’s not his favorite place to go, but he’s so stubborn about letting me do it, I just take him to the professionals.

FRIDAY 5 Family Reunion Weekend Starts - Yay! All my aunts, uncles, and cousins are coming. Can’t wait to see them.

SATURDAY 6 Family Karaoke Night - This year I am avoiding having to perform by volunteering to be a judge, although I do have a Catty Noir song as back up just in case.

SUNDAY 7 Family Picture - The one and only time of the year when we all actually step out of the shadows long enough to get a group shot.

MONDAY 8 Hang Out w/Gigi - Not sure what we’re going to do, but we’ve got all day to figure it out.

TUESDAY 9 Welcome to MH Party - This is the party to welcome in exchange, transfer and new students. Even though this kind of thing is difficult for me, Howleen is insisting that I go with her. She had promised not to try and shine the spotlight on me.

WEDNESDAY 10 Lunch at Die-Ner w/Catty Noir - I hope I can get a quiet booth in the back. I can’t imagine how hard it must be for a pop star like Catty to have an undisturbed meal in public.

THURSDAY 11 Nightmare Catching: Normie Sleepover Camp - Nothing ruins time at camp worse than nightmares. I’m planning on doing my best to keep that from happening.

FRIDAY 12 Nightmare Catching: Normie Orphanage - It’s impossible for me to be everywhere at once, but visiting here is always on my schedule. Making sure only the good dreams get through is the least I can do, but I always leave wishing I could do more.

SATURDAY 13 Bonfire@ Lagoona’s - I love the bonfire parties Lagoona throws on the beach. They always cast such lovely shadows.

SUNDAY 14 Nightmare Catching: Normie Hospital - Children’s Wing - Hospitals are scary enough without having to worry about bad dreams making things worse.

MONDAY 15 Shop for New Bed - Time to upgrade, especially since I’m still sleeping under the little ghoul bed I got when I was 10.

TUESDAY 16 @Wydowna’s - She’s altering this scary cool vintage dress I found so it fits like a shadow!

WEDNESDAY 17 Candle Shopping - Candles are quiet and friendly, and I find the flickering shadows they cast very comforting.

THURSDAY 18 Class Sign Up - I’m actually already signed up, but I have to pick up my schedule. I hope my speech class is first period so I can get it over with early.

FRIDAY 19 Dinner @ Catty’s - Invisi Billy, Gigi and me having dinner at Catty Noir’s house. If I don’t stop pinching myself I’m going to get a bruise.

SATURDAY 20 Craft Store w/Howleen - She needs supplies to DIY her backpack, and I need some feathers to finish some nightmare catchers I’ve been making.

SUNDAY 21 Hiking w/Venus - She said there is a nice shady trail behind her house that leads to a little lake. Nature and exercise are a nice combination.

MONDAY 22 School Supply Shopping - I’m hoping it will be pen-sational, but it probably won’t be anything to write home about.

TUESDAY 23 Catty Noir Concert - I don’t really like big crowds, but it’s Catty Noir... in concert... at Monster High... and I am totally going.

WEDNESDAY 24 Pie with Gigi @ Die-Ner - The die-ner serves strawscarry dream pie this time of year until their supply of fresh strawscarries is gone. I bet Gigi never wished for anything this tasty.

THURSDAY 25 Clean My Room - Dustin won’t be happy, but I can’t have my friends sneezing all night, and he’ll just have to get over it.

FRIDAY 26 Creepover - Gigi and Howleen are coming over. I have to make sure any dream container that Howleen might be tempted to open is safely put away. She has some seriously bad curiosity karma.

SATURDAY 27 Dinner w/Dad - He says we’re going somewhere special. I know better than to try finding out where. He’s the best secret keeper in the monster world.

SUNDAY 28 Last Day Before School Starts - I’m going to find a quiet place with some comfortably long shadows and do absolutely nothing. It might be the last time I get to do this for a while.

#monster high #monster high diary #new scaremester #Twyla #twyla boogeyman

96 notes · View notes