Coffee Shop Kisses

Pairing: Yelena Belova x Female!Reader

Word Count: 1.5K

Request: something soft with Yelena from @bright-molina

Summary: After moving back to her small Ohio hometown, the reader bumps into an old friend at her favorite coffee shop.

Warnings: none ?

A/N: Happy incredibly belated Birthday Bianca!!! Sorry this took so long for me to write but I really hope you like it!! This fic has everything: the gays, some light pinning, and chai lattes !

Masterlist

___

You couldn’t believe you were back in your small Ohio hometown. When you moved away after high school it was never your intention to come back but clearly, fate didn’t have the same plans as you drove through your childhood neighborhood.

It was nostalgic, driving through the familiar streets despite the changes in the neighborhood since your childhood. While the houses had mostly remained the same, you knew many of their occupants had changed. The Browns no longer lived in the house two doors down from yours, having retired to Florida not long after their children had moved out, and many other family’s you’d known growing up had followed suit. Others had downsized to smaller houses in other parts of the city, no longer needing the extra space. Now the neighborhood was filled with new families, young parents taking advantage of the location to raise their children.

Still, the atmosphere was largely the same, and if you let yourself you could almost imagine that the kids playing in the front yards and the street or biking through the neighborhood, calling out to friends as they passed, were the kids you’d grown up with.

It was strange, being back home. It felt stranger still to call it “home.”

It didn’t take long for you to fall back into a routine, despite the lingering nostalgia. You woke up every morning with just enough time to get ready and drive downtown to work, if you were lucky you’d end up with a few extra minutes to stop into your favorite coffee shop from your teenage years, which was conveniently located a couple doors down from your office. It was simple, sure, but it worked for you.

On the weekends you always made a point to walk to that downtown coffee shop with a book or some other activity, preferring the ambiance and the subtle noise of the building and its other patrons over the still silence of your house. Plus they had amazing drinks so you really couldn’t lose.

Normally you enjoyed taking in the hustle and bustle of the small town around you as people completed their weekly errands, but that day you were lost in your head as you walked along the sidewalk. It wasn’t as if you were thinking about anything in particular (when reflecting back later you’d merely blame it on having had a long week at work), but rather than enjoy the people watching as you normally would, you let them all pass you by without a single glance, all the way down the street and into the line at your coffee shop. You ordered your usual without much fanfare, still having the presence of mind to drop your change into the tip jar on the counter. It wasn’t until you had gotten your drink that you were thrust out of your thoughts, quite literally.

You had only just turned around from the counter, about to start scanning the cafe for a seat when you were knocked to the ground, your drink spilling in your hands.

“Oh my god, are you alright?” Disoriented and still in a haze, the thick Russian accent of the woman who had spoken caught your attention.

A hand reached down into your line of sight and you took it gratefully, managing to keep the pitiful drops of unspilled chai latte in your cup as you were pulled to your feet.

“Let me buy you a new drink,” she offered though you barely heard her.

Now that you were back on your feet you got a better look at the woman who had bumped into you. She was of average height and had her blonde hair pulled into a double ponytail. You didn’t know any Russians but you could’ve sworn you’d met before.

“Do I know you?” You blurted out before you could think and the other woman blinked at you in surprise, brows lifting slightly.

“Perhaps,” she shrugged, “I used to live around here when I was younger.”

You narrowed your eyes at that, certain you would’ve remembered growing up alongside a Russian family, everyone you remembered was as American as they come. It was a small town in Ohio, after all.

“So did I,” you spoke slowly, still trying to ponder it out in your head. “Over on Brown.”

Her eyes narrowed at that, now scrutinizing you as well.

“I grew up on State Street.”

That’s when it clicked for you. You remembered them; family of four, two daughters. Natasha used to ride her bike down your street all the time which meant the woman in front of you must be…

“Yelena?”

“You remember me?”

“Yeah, holy shit! Your sister rode her bike through my mom’s flowers one time by accident, pissed her off for the whole summer. Plus, we went to preschool together.”

“Wait, Y/N Y/L/N?”

“In the flesh,” you replied, spreading your arms out dramatically.

Yelena took that as an invitation to really study you then, eyes flitting up and down as she fully took you in.

“You grew up quite nicely,” she spoke, tone appreciative and you found yourself blushing.

“I- I could say the same thing about you,” you stumbled over your words, feeling flustered. “I don’t remember you being Russian.”

You mentally cursed yourself for once again blurting something out before you could even think about it.

Yelena laughed at that and you couldn’t help but find yourself smiling at the sound. She had a cute laugh. It was fitting.

“Yes, well, my ‘family' and I were actually part of a Russian spy organization, sent to infiltrate a nearby SHIELD facility for some information, so,” she shrugged and you laughed at first, assuming she was joking before you realized she wasn’t laughing along.

“Wait, seriously?”

“Why would I lie?”

You fumbled around with your words at that, unable to come up with a proper response but feeling as though you needed to say something anyway.

“How about I buy you a drink and you tell me about it?” You finally settled on saying and Yelena’s brows lifted again in surprise.

“Sure, but I’m buying the drinks. I owe you for spilling your first one.”

You nodded in agreement, somehow having forgotten all about your spilled drink in the excitement of reconnecting with an old friend. An old friend who was very attractive, if you were being fully honest with yourself.

With new drinks ordered and retrieved, the two of you made your way to a small table by the front window of the cafe. True to your agreement, Yelena explained to you that her “family” when she’d lived in Ohio wasn’t actually her family at all, the entire thing fabricated for their mission, and that after their success she continued to work for the organization before finally getting out as an adult. She skimmed on a lot of the details but you got the sense that the entire ordeal was traumatic for her so you didn’t press. Though, you were quite amazed that the woman across from you (and the tiny blonde girl you’d played dolls with as a kid) was a former spy and assassin. In comparison, your own life story was much less exciting, though you guessed it also held much less trauma as well. Still, Yelena asked and she listened intently as you explained how you’d wound up back in your hometown all these years later.

After that, the conversation seemed to flow seamlessly from one topic to another, and it was so nice to talk to a friend and catch up that you didn’t even realize how much time had passed until you went to take a sip from your long-forgotten chai and found it ice cold. You checked your phone and were surprised to see that nearly two hours had passed and while you were planning on spending much longer at the cafe anyway, it still caught you off guard.

“Oh, I’m sorry, am I keeping you from something?” Yelena asked, having noticed you checking the time.

“No!” You rushed to reassure her before flushing slightly at the knee-jerk reaction. “No, I just hadn’t realized how much time has passed. It’s been really nice to see you.”

“It’s been nice to see you too, perhaps we can do this again sometime?”

“I’d like that a lot.” You tried to fight the heat that you felt rushing to your cheeks once more. You weren’t sure if she meant it the same way you did.

“Me too,” she replied softly, ducking her head so that her face was out of view. “I actually do have to get going but maybe we can meet here again next week?”

“Absolutely!” You nodded, trying not to seem too eager and failing miserably. “It’s a date.”

Once again the words slipped out on their own accord and you were left scrambling to do damage control.

“I- I mean like, y’know-”

“A date is good,” Yelena cut you off with a smirk, though you could’ve sworn you could see your own nerves reflected in her eyes.

“A date then,” you agreed, flashing a nervous smile.

“Goodbye, Y/N.” She stood from her chair with a smile, pausing on her way to the door to press a quick peck to your cheek, and then she was gone.

You sat there, still as a statue, for quite some time afterward, your fingertips lightly grazing over where Yelena’s lips had been moments before. You really loved this coffee shop.

Oh My God, We’re Roommates!~Kate x fem reader (Tanner Hall)~College AU-Part 4

Here’s Part 1: https://newcaptainofsquad9.tumblr.com/post/185364926637/oh-my-god-were-roommates-kate-x-fem-reader

Part 2: https://newcaptainofsquad9.tumblr.com/post/185523942072/oh-my-god-were-roommates-kate-x-fem-reader?is_related_post=1

Part 3: https://newcaptainofsquad9.tumblr.com/post/185671804367/oh-my-god-were-roommates-kate-x-fem-reader?is_related_post=1

Pairing: Kate x reader

Summary: After dropping the L bomb on Kate, you flee to your best friends Jane and Robb for advice, while trying to avoid Kate at all costs. You can only avoid her for so long before returning to your shared bedroom, where you nervously try to function without bringing up your feelings or that previous awkward moment.

Word Count: 1, 355

Writer’s Note: Ok, I see how ya’ll reacted to part 3 and one, I’m thankful that all of you folks are invested and, two the reception to this has really gotten me hype to do another fic series. Maybe with *ahem* Natalie aka Envy Adams or even Brie Larson herself (not sure, writing about celebrities is sorta weird, a reason I haven’t done it much--let me know what y’all think, then I’ll decide). 

Warinings: None! Just a lot of angst and doubt. The usual with this reader lol.

 _________________________________________________________    ____

The cool breeze managed to calm me down a little as I ride all the way across campus to the suites. I shot Jane a text, but was too fed up to look at it yet. Why would I even say something that stupid? Kate obviously only wanted a morning of fun nothing more and I should have seen that--I should press my breaks before I run into a car again. I was super lucky it happened to be the principal’s car and she was super cool with it. Also I was lucky that I didn’t dent her car that much.

...

Jane answers the door after a few knocks, eyes wide with concern. 

“Jesus, did you just ride your bike here in PJs?” she asks.

I nod, duck under her arm and collapse on her bed. 

“You think we could trade roommates?” I groan.

Jane gives me a pitiful look and lays next to me. 

“I would Y/NN, but I think I’d end up giving Kate a piece of my mind. Did you bring up your feelings before?” Jane asks.

“No,” I say into her fluffy stuffed lion, “she flirted with me a lot and kissed me back even also--”

Jane pulls me away from her stuffed friend, a mega watt grin.

“How far did you guys get?” she wriggles her eyebrows, clearly forgetting the state I’m in right now. 

“We didn’t get that far, but that’s--that’s not the point!” I mumble, “just, make me forget about her.”

Jane giggles. 

“Look, Y/N I might be into girls and guys too but you’re my best friend--”

I cut off her stupid joke with a death glare immediately.

“Ok! Ok! In all seriousness, you need to get out of your stump! How about we meet Robb at Wackner’s dinning hall, all you can eat pancakes,” Jane suggests.

I cringe at her words. 

“Why pancakes? That’s what Kate ate yesterday,” I groan. 

Jane sighs, grabs my wrist firmly and pulls me up into a sitting position with her. 

“All right! Enough about Kate, Y/N. Let’s get you some food and potentially a new person to think about,” Jane says as she hooks her arm around my own, forcing me up from the bed. 

“Can I get waffles instead of pancakes?” I hopelessly ask.

Jane nods sharply. 

“Bet your ass you can,” Jane vows.

...

The line to get hot and ready breakfast food reached to the middle of the hall. Everyone who got their food already is either sitting at one of the long tables, or excusing themselves by someone who’s in line. Jane and I stand there for fifteen minutes until we get our meal and start toward the row of tables on the right side of the dinning hall. 

“Y/N, Jane! Over here!”

I jerk my head over to Robb, screaming over the room as always. I didn’t miss it during the break, but now it’s endearing. I used to have a crush on Robb and his black, slick back hair. I decided to back off once he and Jane were a thing during freshmen year, but they mutually decided to stay friends. It meant I didn’t have to be a third wheel anymore and not be a shoulder to cry on for Jane if they had problems. Of course Robb had his friend group as well, but we’d talk about comics and video games for hours in the cafe. 

“How was your trip back?” Robb asks while taking one of Jane’s tator tots. 

“It was all right,” I say, while trying not to mention Kate, “managed to get my parents not to cry when they left.”  

Robb chuckles and nudges Jane.

“Is that really all?” he asks lowly.

“Nope,” Jane replies.

“Hey!” I protest, “I can hear you!”

Jane blinks and sets her plate on the table before sitting. Robb and I follow suit. 

“Aw, c’mon what’s up?” Robb asks, “let me guess, it’s girl trouble?”

I put my face in my hands as Jane nods slowly.

“That’s about right. Y/N does have trouble, with a certain girl--she likes,” Jane explains.

Robb turns to me with a mildly shocked expression.

“Oh, well who is she?” he asks.

“My roommate,” I groan. 

Robb grins.

“Well, most of the work is done for you, depends if you make the first move or not--ow!” Robb yelps, Jane stomping on his foot.

“Not the issue, Robb!” she scolds, “Y/N just needs to lighten up and it’s our job to help her, right?”

Robb reaches down to rub his foot, but not before stealing a quick glance at me.

“Right,” he agrees, “if you’d like we could all go to this small get-together with a buddy of mine.” 

“Really? What’s his major?” Jane asks.

I get lost in my own plate of food until a guy comes up to Robb. 

“Robb, hey man!” 

I nearly choke on my bacon as Dave and Robb do a quick embrace and a handshake. 

“Dave, hey. Sorry I couldn’t make it to the party last night, how was it?”

I drop my bacon and place my hand over my forehead. God, I can’t be here. Not in front of him. 

“Jane, Robb--I’ll catch you guys later,” I let out. 

“Y/N,” Jane starts but I’m already up and moving toward the exit. 

...

It’s a school night, which means tomorrow morning I’ll have class to distract myself from Kate. It also gives me an excuse not to be in our room most of the time. I traded this mornings pajamas with a simple tank top and sweats and take my place on my bed with a book. My mind needs to be refreshed before classes start back up. Kate steps through the door an hour later, forcing my heart to leap up my throat. 

“Y/N,” she says with a sigh, “are you all right?”

I nod, close my book and rise from my bed. 

“Fine,” I mumble while slipping on my shoes. 

I can’t be here, not right now.

“Where are you going?” she asks. 

“To Starbucks, I need a latte to finish this book,” I say. 

Kate steps over to me and places a hand on my wrist. 

“Y/N, wait--let me come with you,” she says. 

“No, Kate, I can go alone,” I retort. 

“Y/N,” she says more firmly, “look at me.”

I keep my eyes down at my feet as Kate tries again.

“Please, Y/N,” she whispers, “say something.”

“I-I made a complete fool of myself, didn’t I?” I ask.

Kate raises an eyebrow. 

“Why would you--”

“I didn’t mean too--I didn’t mean to say what I said, I know you’re into Dave and,” I cut myself off as a sob escaped my lips.

“What, Dave? I’m not into him anymore,” Kate says.

“You aren’t into me either,” I let out, “God I’m so stupid.”

Kate frowns and puts a hand on my cheek. 

“You aren’t stupid Y/N, but what you’re saying isn’t very bright,” Kate states. 

“Wha--”

Kate pulls me against her, wiping the tears and stray hair from my face before giving me a passionate kiss. I melt into her, returning the kiss. My hands find her chest and she smiles. This isn’t right. It feels so right, but I need answers. I push Kate away. 

“Do you like me?” I flat out ask.

Kate nods.

“I may not love you as much as you love me, but Y/N I care about you,” Kate admits, “I want you.”

I try to hide my blush at her words. Think with your head, not your lady parts Y/N.

“We’re going to take this slow then,” I say, “no more bed stuff at least until we’ve dated and gotten to know each other a little.”

Kate groans but finally nods. 

“Fine, but can we do this?”

I lean my head up at her question and her lips are on mine again. My arms find themselves around her neck while she holds me close by the waist. Her hand moves lower, but I catch it quickly. I can keep this at a make-out. Not too heated as long as I keep my head straight. 

Love

Pairing: Namjoon x Reader

Genre: Fluff, CEO!AU

Word Count:  2013 Words

A/N: This is pretty much self-indulgent. I love CEO Namjoon in glasses and would love to sit in his lap AND poke his dimples.

Part of my VT x BTS Series. Yoongi / Taehyung 

“Our new products are still in the developmental stage, it would be advisable to wait till it is stabilized.” Namjoon presses the bridge of his nose, adjusting his glasses while prancing around the room, tongue in cheek as he tries to convince a particularly difficult client. “Thank you. Yes, we will notify you when there’s more progress on it.” He ends the call, relieved as he sets the phone down. The last of his worker said their goodbyes, making his room the only occupied one in the otherwise dark office. His phone screen lights up, long fingers closing around the object as he reads the message.

See you later!

Namjoon glances briefly at the message, a fond smile appearing almost instantly. Signing the last piece of document, he hums a soft tune as he closes the file. A sigh escapes his lips as he massages his neck, turning it this way and that to loosen the tension. Stretching his arm upwards, he groans at the cracking of his muscles before standing up and plopping onto the inviting couch nearby. As he leans back, he glances at the clock, an eyebrow raised.

“Just a few minutes.” He mumbles to himself, placing his arms behind his head and leaning back. He knows how you are when you’re working, and the exhaustion from staying up for three days is catching up to him. He closes his eyes with a content smile on his lips, relaxing as he remembers the time the two of you picked out this couch. The pendulum decoration on his desk lulls him into some much-needed sleep, the quiet rotation of the object the only sound in the room. His tie is loose with the sleeves rolled up, jacket placed behind his desk chair. That’s how you find him when you ran in, huffing and struggling to catch your breath.

“Sorry, I'm late.”

He didn’t stir or move from his spot, fast asleep. You take a moment to admire his peacefully sleeping figure, sitting down next to him quietly to get a better look. He looks serene, legs stretched out on the couch while an arm is on his neck. A blissful smile is on his lips, dimples showing as he dreams about something. You peck his cheek and poke his dimple softly, before setting the food down and calling the restaurant. After ending the call, you take his jacket, placing it on his lap gently. Unable to stop yourself, you began stroking his cheek before he grabs it, eyes crinkling as he looks at your surprised expression.

“Hey.” There’s a soft peck on your wrist, and you giggle, about to apologize when he stops you. “I know.” Rubbing his eyes, he glances at his watch before standing up hurriedly seeming to remember the reservation. You pull him down, patting his thigh in assurance.

“I have canceled the reservation.” You held up the two packets of food and he recognizes them immediately. “Remember these? It’s been a while since we ate them.” Seeing the shop name really brings back the memories of when he was starting the company. He nods and takes it from you, faking a loud sigh of despair. “I’m not that hungry.” As if on cue, his stomach grumbles and he clutches it, a faint blush dusting his cheeks while you roll your eyes. Pushing the chopsticks into his palms, you wait for him to eat before doing the same. “We kept on eating it when we first started dating. I almost got sick of it.” He says through a few mouthfuls, glasses sliding down his nose in his eagerness to eat everything. He tries to push them up and gives up after the second try, too busy devouring everything. You nudge him playfully “So that’s why you started suggesting us to go check out those cafes!”

He grins sheepishly, the boyish grin and smears near his lips making you coo. CEO or not, after all these years he’s still that dorky, clumsy boy who always sends you home on his bike. “I wanted to bring you to cute cafes.” You didn’t say anything, sipping your drink as you hide your smile as you think about all the lunch dates he brings you on, feeling the warmth from the memories.

He pauses when you lean in, eyes watching you as you swipe a finger across his lips to wipe the sauce away. Playfully he tries to lick the finger with his tongue, laughing when you hit his arm. The two of you continue eating in comfortable silence, arms brushing against each other and placing different food onto each other’s meals. He is quick to finish his meal, and when he sets his chopsticks down, his eyes shine, making you wonder what he is excited about. Taking your hands, he announces “I have cleared my schedule. Hoseok and Yoongi can handle the rest.” You raised an eyebrow at his excited tone, trying to hide your anticipation.

“And?”

With a flourish, he hands you a scrapbook, one that you are all too familiar with. You flipped to the first page. As your hands traced the photo fondly, he pecks your cheek. With a soft whisper, his hand goes over the words the two of you have written there.

“We’re going to Paris.”

Wrapping your arms around his neck, you kiss his lips, pulling back with a smile. You have always wanted to go there with him, to show him everything you did while you were on a gap year trip there. You were planning to surprise him with that, only telling him that you have a one week break after settling some loose ends on your side.

He was quicker than you, discussing with Hoseok and Yoongi and booking the flight just the day before. Holding up the flight tickets, he starts to list out the things you have mentioned during your long night talks, making you equally as excited. You take a ticket from him, slotting it into the scrapbook.

“I can’t believe you remembered.”

He leans into you as you hug him by the waist, stroking your hair. The musky scent of his cologne and the warmth of his embrace never fails to make you feel safe, and you snuggled closer with a blissful sigh.

“I remember it all. How can I not?”

His eyes are soft and gentle as you bite your lip, feeling touched by his words and action. You start to tell him how you think he will love it there and how he fits the place, rambling so you wouldn’t cry from the overwhelming happiness you feel. Clasping your hand in his he pulls it up to kiss your knuckles one by one. The gesture calms you down enough for you to try and thank him, and that’s what you did. Cupping his cheek with one hand, you lean in and peck his lips a few times and he lets you, pushing your hair over your shoulders. You reach up to remove his glasses.

“I should reward you. Close your eyes”

You murmur into his ears, making his leg jiggle as he tries not to get too excited. He jumps when something wet and soft touches his face, and you giggled, arranging the mask neatly. Soft hands move to his shoulders, working the tension away slowly as he relaxes, head leaning back once again while you continue to massage his shoulders. You push his hands away when he tries to reach for you, kissing his fingers so he can stop distracting you from the task at hand. He stays still just as you have instructed, playing with your hands as you sit down next to him with another mask. As you peel off the mask and tap his face lightly, he looks at you as if mesmerized, one that makes your face heat up involuntarily. You try to duck your head down and he chuckles at your reaction, reaching for his smartphone. You watch him curiously as he clicks away on his smartphone, lights dimming and music filling the room.

“Dance with me.”

He bows, offering his hand as you bit back a laugh and accepts his hand. Hands on your waist, he leans in so your foreheads are touching, both of you swaying gently to the music, eyes closed as you drink in each other’s presence. When he moves back and looks at you his eyes are full of adoration and love, making your heart swell with warmth. The moonlight streaming in makes everything feel magical, making you feel like the two of you are the only ones in the world. Unlike the company dances, there’s no fancy movements, just the two of you in each other’s arms, enjoying the other’s company. The song comes to an end and he takes out a bottle of wine, pouring the drink while you place a hand on your hip and study him, impressed at how prepared he is. When he sets it down on the table, you move to sit down next to him but his arms pull you to sit on his lap instead.

He hums in disapproval when you try to move away, tightening his grip on you and placing his head on your shoulder with a barely audible huff. You shake your head and gave in, pinching his cheek while he protests. Clinking glasses, the two of you look out at the view of the city skyline, sipping leisurely. Namjoon takes out bottle after bottle, deeming it a special occasion, one where he wants to drink with his most precious person in the world. He can hold his liquor well, or at least that’s what you thought from all the times you have drunk with him until his words are slurred and he starts to talk more after the 3rd bottle of wine.

“Do you know how much I love you? I feel like I don’t say it enough.” He’s cupping your face, staring into your eyes seriously. “The moment I saw you for the first time, I knew you were the one. I just KNEW. Something about the way you walk, the way you smile, the way you-” you nod and let him go on, heart overwhelming with love for him as you wonder how you got so lucky. When he is done, he lies on your lap, trying his best to fit his legs and whining softly. Sighing, you helped to stretch his legs out, stroking his hair as he holds your hand. The two of you fell asleep like this, empty wine bottles and takeout still on the table with shoes taken off.

“Namjoon, I need you to sign these documents-” you hushed Hoseok as he walks in with some folders. He takes one look at the sleeping Namjoon and understands, trying to stifle his giggle. Placing the documents down on the table, he leaves with a small wave at you, not batting an eye when his boss stirs awake. “Morning.” Namjoon mumbles to you, voice still husky with sleep. He stands up and stretches himself, lifting an eyebrow when you didn’t move.

“What’s wrong?”

You grinned sheepishly at him. “My legs are numb. I can’t feel them.”

Signing the documents, he winks at you. “There’s a way.”

You hide your face in his chest, arms around his neck as he nods at all the staff greeting him. All of them are shocked to find him carrying you bridal style, trying their best not to stare at their boss too much and blinking at the lovestruck look on his face.

“Must you do this?!” You whisper into his ear, risking a glance and catching Hoseok’s Thumbs up and Yoongi’s tutting. Namjoon readjusts his grip and subtly squeezes your ass, making you yelp as you almost fall and can only cling to him.

“It’s the only way.” He answers as he walks out of the building, still carrying you bridal style.

“Plus, it’s a great start to our vacation, don’t you think?”

“Kim Namjoon!”

Across the Prairies...by automobile

Good morning,

On Friday we racked up the bikes and headed west. The Ks whipped by. A few reflections in the day:

-On our trail over the past three weeks, we noticed the first towns we pedaled through in eastern Alberta and western Sask were incorporated in the era of 1912-1915. By the time we were in southeast Sask, the villages boasted of being around since 1906 or 1910. In Manitoba it was more likely 1893 or 1899 that the communities started. Such is the story of the settlement of the West.

-A good way to see Canada is by car

-Ticks linger around for some time

We are in Moose Jaw this morning. On our way to Calgary we will stop in Morse to attend the memorial service of a dear lady, the mother of a friend.

Speaking of Moose Jaw and friends, Janice Anderson (Thompson), who follows our blog, sent us additional memories of this city from times we visited in our childhood. See below the photos for her highlights.

Final blog from Calgary tomorrow.

Cheers,

Bill & Ken

P.S. A reminder that we have set up our fundraising page for the Heart & Stroke Foundation again this year. To donate, click here.

From Janice:

The Friendly City/Band City indeed had much to offer in the 60’s and 70’s and I couldn’t resist adding my memories......

-Civic Centre hosting Canuck hockey games, the Shrine Circus etc.

-The band parade marching down Main Street on the May long weekend

-At Christmas there was Christmas Card Lane winding around the east side of Crescent Park

-In the summer there were swans and ducks to feed in the park as well as the kiddie paddling pool. Later years we cooled off inside and out at the “Nat”

-Every Dec. there was a big decorated evergreen at the foot of Main St. and garlands draped across the road

-The animated holiday displays in the Eaton’s store windows were magical. I’m so glad they were preserved and now reside at the WDM in Saskatoon - I’ve taken my kids and now my grandkids to see them every year

Places to eat:

-A&W- with car hops!

-Burger Baron- not many of those left

-KFC in River Park- when the flood waters receded each spring

-The Modern- where “Paul” knew everyone and their families within a 100 mile radius of the city

-The 722 and Uptown cafes

-Lunch counters at Woolworths and Kresgies- great for a sandwich

-The National Cafe for Chinese food (and juke box songs) and upstairs in the Arbor Room for special occasions

- The Regal Room at the Harwood or dining room at the Grant Hall when fine dining was required

-Grad corsages, wedding bouquets and funeral arrangements either came from Moffats or Evans

-Hair cuts and colourings were done at the Artistique or Ron Muir’s (I believe Gladys preferred the latter)

-Groceries were bought at Loblaws, Safeway, Co-op, or Economart (they used to sell Pic a Pop). Smaller grocers were the Supermarket and BC Fruit on Main St.

- Baked treats came from Dutch Bakery (wedding cakes were a specialty) or Maple Leaf Bakery on South Hill (best Eccles Cakes in town)

-The Times Herald kept us informed of national, provincial and local events, not to mention wedding photos, birth and death announcements, and the police lists of drivers fined for speeding (Jack Thompson appeared here more times than he wanted!)

—Swingin’ Sam’s was the best place to pick up ‘45’s and the CJME weekly list of top songs

-The Studio was where you got Stooges reruns and if you were lucky there would be a new Disney or Elvis flick at the Cap. It was ok to enter half way through a movie and then stay to rewatch the whole show again

-Memorable fires: the National Cafe, St. Andrews church and Joyner’s Dept. store

That’s my trip down memory lane....

—

Song of the Day

Visit Al Qudra Lake in Dubai

There are numerous approaches to spend a beautiful day in Dubai, with beautiful beachfront, lively boulevards, and various outdoor activities. Anyone preferring more serene surroundings, on the other hand, can discover it at Al Qudra Lakes, a true desert oasis that is great for wildlife-seekers and those wishing to interact with the natural world.Multiple islands provide shelter for the various species of birds that hatch here, and small vegetation give food for both nesting birds and insects, while there is little cover for people.

Desert Safari Dubai is the best option for adventure. If You are a adventure lover and you have a plan to visit dubai you should go for desert Safari.

Show up early, and you'll be mostly alone as birds sing and a gentle air sweeps all over the water. Biologists will strive to draw binoculars to look for the various bird species that assemble there. For both local and seasonal, and several bird-watching towers provide excellent vantage points. Some less unique swans, curlews, and duckling, as well as a huge flock of flamingos, make for a lovely sight.  

Roaming through the tracks

Prepare your motorbike or work boots if you want to get some exercise and enjoy the benefits of the flat path. It travels around the lakes and across the desert for a total distance of 86 kilometers. Keep a close eye as you walk since you might see most of the area's larger local species. You might spot sand gazelle, desert foxes, or perhaps the rare Arabian Oryx eating or dashing around if you're extra silent. Drive to neighboring Love Lake to inject a layer of beauty into your day. This man-made lake, fashioned to represent two linked hearts. It is a very evocative area to enjoy and shoot pictures with a beloved one.

Camping 

First and foremost, Al Qudra Lake is among the top campers' locations in the United Arab Emirates. The area can get busy on holidays, but you can generally find a quiet space to pitch your tents in the Al Qudra Lakes East campsite.Camping at Al Qudra is a popular enjoyable event in Dubai. You must, though, ensure that you are ready. Bring your camping equipment, such as tents, air mattresses, and lights, with you. One of the camping supplies stores in Dubai will have everything you require. You must adhere to the regulations and tidy up yourself.

Al Qudra Love Lake

A highly recommended adventure on the list of stuff to do in Al Qudra is to explore the Love Lake and experience its splendor and unique design. It is perfect for those looking for an Insta-worthy image. Around the Al Qudra Love Lake, there seems to be a designated running track. This heart-shaped lake in Dubai is complete with covered arches.

Wildlife Admiration

The Al Qudra Desert is home to around 170 local bird species and animals varieties. The Al Qudra lakes are a man-made wonder that also makes them an appropriate environment for biodiversity.If you're a bird’s lover, Al Qudra is a fantastic location to see black swans, flamingos, and ducks if you're lucky. Though its creatures are a little more mysterious, they do make appearances now and then. Just remember that trying to feed the creatures is illegal and might result in a fine, so don't do it. Soak in the stunning sandy dusk from the water's edge. An among the 170 bird species living near the waters, this is one region of Dubai where people observe nature in its native environment. Foxes, swans, flamingos, ducks, and other birds are among the many varieties.

Sunset Views

At the lake, there are numerous fantastic sites to see the dawn. You may enjoy undisturbed and beautiful sights of the sunsets over the sands as the sun goes down.If you're a cameraman, you'll have the opportunity to click some incredible images. For those who love observing natural beauty, bring some folding seats, tunes, and refreshments. The sky above Al Qudra Lake glows once it becomes darker, making it an excellent site for stargazing.

Cycling Activity

Bicycling is among the most favorite hobbies at Al Qudra. Because of the large 86-kilometer road that runs across the area. You'll see a combination of young and older adults cycling through the sandy dunes.

Eateries and food stores

There are eateries and cafes at Al Qudra's Final Gate where you may get a bite to eat. A full day of discovering all of Al Qudra's new experiences will undoubtedly boost your confidence, so if you need a fast, nice meal, head down to Al Qudra's Last Door. It features a variety of eating choices to accommodate all of your food desires. There are also restrooms there, so if you need to refresh, here is the spot to go. Al Qudra lacks cafes and bars when it comes to food, which doesn't prevent guests from eating on the beach. Otherwise, bring a lunch and a mat and find a quiet location to unwind while taking in the scenery. Diners can dine at neighboring eateries or try premium Arabian food at Bab Al Shams, a five-star desert hotel. You can also have a barbecue or have a relaxing ride at Al Qudra Biking Trough amongst the other series of lakes.

Desert Safari

Last but not the least, comes top tourist attraction that is Desert Safari. When you are finished with you day visiting these wonderful places head towards any of deserts of Dubai. For a thrilling and mesmerizing adventure make your Desert Safari adventure thrilling by experiencing exciting rides. If you want to make your day fantastic then don’t skip the must-do activities like camel safari and dune bashing and so much more.

Conclusion

As darkness comes, the waters provide a great impact for some very amazing panoramas. The songbirds prepare to nest as crimson sky shine off the calm waters, as do Dubai's most courageous residents, who are enticed into camping nightly by the quiet environment. Before you depart after the sun goes down, make sure to look up. The clouds here are completely devoid of traffic or lights. So you'll have no trouble spotting glittering stars and beautiful patterns.

Reference Link:

https://desertsafarisuae.blogspot.com/2021/07/visit-al-qudra-lake-in-dubai.html 

The Netherlands: Week Two

We packed up the cars and our friends drove George, Saskia and myself to the local train station where we hopped on the next train departing to Amsterdam. We got off at Amsterdam Central station and caught the tram to Leidseplein, the location of our hotel and where Saskia would be collected by her friend who she would be staying with for the next week. We said our goodbyes and made our way to the ‘King Hotel’ to check in.

Not the most attractive of hotels but in the best location for tourists! We were right on the canal (with a canal view room), a mere 60 seconds from the centre of Leidseplein and the tram stop. Everything we needed was on our doorstep, including Vondel Park, the Bulldog, the Heineken museum and much more. 

I’ve left this part of my blog way too long to remember everything clearly but i will tell you the highlights and what i would recommend. First of all the hotel is perfect for travelers on a budget and the location is perfect for both food and drinks and also for quick travel around the city.

Leidseplein has a wide range of eateries all within walking distance. My favourite for general cuisine was ‘In De Buurt’, a very modern and classy restaurant with complete wine list and bar also available. They served fantastic rustic food for a reasonable price. The other restaurant i cannot forget is about 20 minutes walk from Leidseplein square or 10 minutes on the tram and goes by the name ‘De Bekeerde Suster’. This one is great for people who love beer and BBQ ribs as much as i do! They have a generously sized menu consisting of honest, hearty meals and a huge range of beers, ales and lagers on both draught and by the bottle.

When it comes to drinking, the famous spot to be is ‘The Bulldog’. Once you go you will understand why. This place is jam-packed full every night of the week and open till late. They have many around the city but the biggest is in Leidseplein square. It’s a place you can go for live music, cocktails, sports and beers on the ground level or the place you can go to smoke your favourite seed alongside freshly squeezed juice, closely followed by a mountain of pancakes in the lower level. They also have cafe’s under their brand name where you can go for special brewed tea and space cakes. The best night we had in there might even have been on a supposedly ‘quiet’ Monday night (even though to our virgin eyes it seemed full) to listen to a live Jazz band. Fantastic atmosphere! If your style is a little different to mine then fear not as Leidseplein square has something for everyone, from comedy clubs, to dive bars, to live rock music, to swanky cocktail bars playing lounge music. The majority of these places also have outside seating with overhead heating, perfect for a romantic glass of wine and people watching.

As for museums, site seeing and excursions, here are my top 10;

1. ‘Anne Frank’s Huis’ is of course a must. People all over the world, when they think of Amsterdam, connect it to Anne Frank (give or take a few other attractions!) and are eager to feel the history behind it. When i say ‘feel’ i mean feel... the aura inside is enough to make your hairs stand on end. The building now, due to the influx of tourists is remarkably big as far as Amsterdam houses go but only because it’s been extended to fit in a reception, cafe and gift shop. However, the house itself is preserved and is the absolute original. We paid a mere €9 each for a full tour plus the extra optional costs in the cafe and gift shop.

2. A canal cruise was also one of the best things we did in the city. It’s called ‘100 Highlights Cruise’, costs €15pp and lasts 60 minutes. The description is in the title but i’ll tell you anyway! It takes you on a guided tour along some of the canals, explaining what you are seeing along the way through headphones. (These headphones are included in the ticket price and give you the option to select which language you desire). We were lucky enough a witness an unusual and rather funny occurrence on our trip, as half way along one of the canals we narrowly had to squeeze past a water skip. It was obviously supplied by the council to do some canal cleaning, much like a road-sweeper but the range and peculiarity of the objects they were retrieving from the bottom of these canals were incredible. I’m sure there are more bicycles 6ft under water than there are in the Tour De France! The local joke when tourists ask ‘How deep are the canals?’ is for the locals to answer 'Three meters; one meter of water, one meter of mud and one meter of bikes’. Only in Holland.

3. Vondel Park! This was such a beautiful part of the city, full of lakes and grassy pastures and is again only about 10 minutes walk from the ‘King Hotel’. It became clear that this must be the place-to-be in the summer months, as scattered around the park where huge stages and remnants of concerts and festivals. However, even in February the park was beautiful and full of life, both wildlife and human life. Many people jogging, walking the dogs, busking, feeding the ducks, taking photographs. It really is a hub of life all year round. Take a stroll with your morning coffee and breathe in the fresh air, i assure you it won’t be a waste of time.

4. I am not a massive fan of museums in the true sense of the word as i tend to enjoy other attractions a lot more but having said that the ‘Rijks Museum’ might have been an exception for me. This place was truly stunning inside and out. Even at first glance it is a treat for the eyes because of it’s enormous size, regal design and the big ‘I AMsterdam’ letters outside it’s front door. The entrance fee is  €17.50pp for a one day ticket allowing you to stay as long as you wish and includes a floor plan.

5. The Sex Museum was possibly the most entertaining. I’ll leave this to your imagination but it is definitely worth a visit and cheap entrance fee. It’s located in ‘Damrak’ the area exactly where the central station is.

6. The Heineken was also one of the few museums i enjoy, one where it is 100% acceptable to drink whilst inside the building. It is actually a distillery turned into an interactive tour in the heart of the city. It’s an 8 minute tram ride from Leidseplein and costs  €16pp entrance and tour, if booked online.

7. The Red Light District is a real eye-opener and a 100% must see! The district is located between Nieuw Market and Dam Square and very close to the central station (15 minute by tram from Leidseplein). We visited here in the night time, purely because we thought it was the logical thing to do so i cannot tell you what there has to offer in the daytime. However, in the night time, the long street with the canal running through the middle, is lit up exactly how you would imagine in neon lights and offers you everything you could want. There you can wander through the side streets and admire the gorgeous women behind the red doors, peruse the sex shops, attend a live sex show or one of the countless strip clubs. The hidden gem is the VIP area on one of the side streets. Inside here are again beautiful prostitutes behind red doors but the most expensive and elite ones. Spoiler: 75% of these ones are actual men and i swear they are more stunning than the regular women!

8. A flower market may sound boring to most people but I personally adored the famous one they have in Koningsplein! The edge of the canal is laced with floating stalls selling thousands of different types of flowers and seeds, whilst on the other side of the walkway you have many tourist and souvenirs shops, so taking a walk down there will definitely keep you entertained for a few hours. This is only a short 10 minute walk from Leidseplein and is open everyday, normal working hours, even on Sunday.

9. Dam Square lies in the historical district of Amsterdam and is a lovely day out to take in the sites of the heart of the city. It’s a short walk from central station to Dam Square, a place filled with beautiful architecture, a combination of highstreet and designer shops, cafes and restaurants. Here is the perfect place to do all your shopping at once, souvenirs, gifts for the family and a quick stop in H&M or Zara along the way, interspersed with pit stops at quaint cafes within easy reach. Here the buildings are magnificent and include structures such as, the Royal Palace, the National Monument, Madame Tussaud’s and many more. The square is never quiet and always has some kind of event going on. Whether it be a fun fair, a market or just full of some of the many street performers. We saw an incredible magician the day we passed through!

10. The Albert Cuyp Market! This for me was one of my favourites! It’s located in De Pijp, a 12 minute tram journey from Leidseplein and is open every Monday - Saturday. This place is incredible, doused in stalls selling everything from antiques to clothes and serving up street food. Here you can buy local fish from the mongers, real Dutch cheese or watch them make traditional baby pancakes or stroopwafles in front of your eyes.

That sums up our busy week in the city! We stayed for 7 days and for us it was the perfect length of time but if you are organised (people who wake up early!) or on a budget I would say you can easily do Amsterdam in 3 or 4 days and manage to squeeze in the highlights. It’s a fabulous city and has something to offer for all walks of life.

One other important tip i should mention is to purchase a travel card. You can get these from the kiosks or at central station and you choose how many days you want the pass for. The prices change depending on which deal you select. This card includes trams and buses and you just swipe the card at the available machines once on board your form of transportation.

One day i hope to return and see it familiar, not with flustered eyes. I would do it all again in a heartbeat. Here are my personal favourite photos of the city break...

Skater Boy

Prompt: Music AU

Ft. Leo as a punk skaterboarder and Guang-Hong as a shy pastel person.

(AO3 link coming asap)

@leojiweek

“Why the hell should I go out with you? You’ve got like, so many piercings and tattoos, and I bet you’ve failed half your classes because you’re too busy skating. Ew. Go away, freak.”

Clutching his books to his chest, Guang-Hong peered around the wall as Leo rubbed the back of his neck before walking away. How could she be so cruel towards someone so sweet behind the facade? He passed by him, downcast and he leant back against the wall, pushing his glasses back up and flicking through the page of the topmost book.

“Hey, uh, Guang-Hong Ji right?”

He looked up to come face to face with none other than Leo himself. Nodding, he ducked behind his books to cover the blush turning his face red. A hand reached out and pushed them down, peering over with a blinding smile.

“Good book choice.”

He winked and released the book, waving and pulling his headphones on and skating away. Guang-Hong didn’t even see him put down his skateboard. Sighing, he pulled out his phone and texted Minami, knowing that he’d be a good person to confide in.

G: leo spoke to me help what do i do

M: HE DID WHAT???

M: HOLD UP

M: SKATER BOY SPOKE TO YOU???

G: yeah

M: tell me everything

G: a girl rejected him (why tho he’s super nice) and i saw everything i’m not even kidding

G: then he walked past and I was ‘reading’ gatsby and he actually knew my name!!! like hello what?? then he smiled at me and said it was a good choice of book before putting on his headphones and skating away

M: YOOO WHAT??? He knew your name??

G: Yah don’t know how though

M: you are super lucky i swear

G: Ikr?

---

The chair next to Guang-Hong scraped against the floor and he jumped, knocking a pen off his desk in the process. Before he could pick it up, a tan hand was passing it back to him and he found myself face to face with Leo.

Again.

“Sorry for startling you. Cute drawings by the way.”

He took the pen and smiled, turning back to face the front of the class as the teacher began the lesson.

---

G: OH MY GOD

G: MINI HELP ME

M: I’m not mini

G: SKATER BOY TOLD ME MY DRAWINGS WERE CUTE

G: I NEARLY DIED

M: WHAT???

M: bippity boppity back up

G: HE SAT NEXT TO ME IN CLASS TOO!!!

M: luckyyyy

G: I’m gonna die

M: nuh pls don’t

---

“Guang-Hong, you can’t hide under a pile of beanbags forever.”

“Yes I can.”

“Seriously? What’s going on?”

Peering round the corner of the isle, Leo frowned as he saw Minami standing there with his hand on his hip.

“Come on, they’re going to kick us out if they find out you’re in there!”

“Nope.”

The beanbags shuffled as a hand stuck out and flipped him off before retreating back underneath. Confused, he coughed quietly, catching Minami's attention.

“Hey, Leo right?”

“Yeah. Everything okay?”

“Guang-Hong won’t come out from the beanbags and won’t explain why.”

He put my basket down and crouched next to the shelf, wincing as his ankle clicked.

“Hey… You want to talk elsewhere? We could, I don’t know, go to a park or a cafe or something like that. My treat.”

The beanbags shuffled to reveal Guang-Hong as he climbed out, tugging nervously on his sleeves as he sat in front of him, eyes downcast. Reaching out, Leo patted his arm gently, biting his lip as he flinched away.

“Where would you like to go?”

He shrugged, so he held out his hand for him to take. Hesitantly, he took it and Leo helped him up, steadying him when he rocked backwards. He led him to the front of them store, Minami trailing behind slightly to give him space. He clutched Leo’s hand tightly, letting him guide him and keep him safe.

“I have some shopping to do still, Guang-Hong will you be okay being alone with Leo?”

Tensing, Guang-Hong took a deep breath and nodded, waving goodbye to Minami. As Minami grabbed a basket and walked back into the store, Leo pulled him outside to where he'd parked his motorbike.

“Ever ridden a motorbike before?”

“N-no…”

“We can walk if you want.”

With determination, Guang-Hong walked over to the bike and folded his arms, waiting for him to come over. He chuckled, pulling out his keys and opening the hatch at the back and pulling out two helmets, handing one over. Slipping it on, he did it up and reached across to offer Guang-Hong a hand.

“Thanks.”

Climbing onto the bike, Leo helped him up, encouraging him to hold onto his waist. It took a few moments but he complied, wrapping his arms around him tightly. He started the bike, driving carefully through the streets until he reached the local McDonalds.

“Need a hand down?”

“I’ve got it, thanks.”

Guang-Hong jumped down, slipping the helmet off and handing it over, and he placed them into the back once more. Offering his arm, Leo smiled as it was taken up.

Sure, he was heavily tattooed and pierced, and sure, he rode a motorbike and listened to heavy metal, but that didn’t mean he didn’t have a heart.

---

Guang-Hong knocked on the backstage door, smirking as it opened and the person’s jaw dropped.

“Leo de la Iglesia, I’d like to congratulate you on the fact that your boyfriend has joined us in wearing leather.”

He heard choking from inside and he held up his hand and waved it in front of JJ’s face.

“Fiance actually.”

Cheers echoed around as he was let in, Leo immediately pulling him into his lap and kissing him senseless, much to the delight of everyone else in the room.

---

I’m with the skater boy, I said “see ya later boy”

I’ll be backstage after the show, I’ll be at the studio

Singing the song we wrote

About that girl you used to know

He could see her in the crowd, surrounded by all of her friends that had told her to turn Leo down and he winked, grabbing the front of Leo’s jacket and pulling him in for a kiss for the world to see.

Skater boy was his.

oasis

park jimin - 2242

jimin likes you. okay, scratch that, jimin is enamored with you. he knows it. his boss, seokjin knows it. his coworker, namjoon knows it. his best friends, taehyung and jeongguk know it. even some of the regulars (hoseok and yoongi, right?), know it. everyone but you is painfully aware to the fact jimin has fallen head over heels in love with you. he's obvious. seokjin often jokingly complains that jimin spends more time paying attention to you, than he does to his orders. taehyung and jeongguk whine of his incessant ramblings about you, from your hair, your voice, your smile. even hoseok and yoongi teasingly mention your name when jimin hands them over their steaming hot cups of tea.

you meander into the quaint little cafe every wednesday afternoon. you once told jimin that wednesday is your day off from work, and the only day of the week you feel that you can dedicate to yourself, save maybe sunday. but the cafe is closed on sunday, and jimin remembers the way you smiled when you said, “well my day wouldn’t be that great if i couldn’t see all of you, would it?” jimin likes to think that you included him in this statement, but part of him hopes that you were secretly only referring to him. he blushes at the memory, snapping himself from his thoughts when seokjin calls his name.

it’s a wednesday today, a dreary one if anything. outside the rain slams against the earth violently, and ashy clouds block the sun from view. despite the soft hum of the radio, jimin can only seem to focus on the rain, and how it pounds against the roof, as if demanding to be let in. even the amiable chat of the handful of customers enjoying their caffeine isn’t enough to distract jimin from mother nature. he wonders if you’ll come in today; you do bike after all, and this weather isn’t ideal for that sort of thing. with a sigh, jimin rests his hand on his chin, glancing out the window to his left just in case. all he sees are drops of rain racing down the glass, swallowing each other up and consequently growing in size. for a moment, jimin is taken back to his childhood, when he would watch the droplets chase each other on the car window as his mother drove him to grade school. now isn’t a time to reminisce thought. he has things to do, coffees to brew, tips to check, counters to clean.

jimin pulls his sweater up on his shoulders, suddenly flustered at the sun-kissed skin peeking through. he ducks his head to hide his growing blush; how much more embarrassed he would be if you were here! laughing under his breath, he readjusts his apron, nimble fingers tying a neat bow on the small of his back. everyday, he thanks the gods that seokjin is lenient with their uniforms. despite the heat emitting from not only the various drinks, but also the kitchen only about thirty feet away from the counter, jimin constantly finds himself cold, and constantly dresses in sweaters, beanies, and even, the occasional scarf. today, his sweater is black, and white, with thick, horizontal stripes. jeongguk bought this for him for his last birthday, and jimin wears when he’s feeling exceptionally cold and in need of some love. his black beanie is neatly packed away in the cabinet behind him.

jimin sighs again. he's used to spending his wednesday debating whether or not he should finally conquer his fears and give you his number. he likes the way his heart races whenever you enter the building, the way he becomes acutely aware of everything he is doing, the way he finds himself constantly smiling simply because of you. he is bored without you here. earlier in his shift, jimin convinced himself that today would be the day he finally did it, but maybe destiny is trying to tell him something.

“don't think like that…” he mumbles to himself, a pout tugging on his full bottom lip. “you're going to make yourself even more upset…”

“are you talking to yourself again?” namjoon asks, sticking his head out from the kitchen doorframe. “ you're just thinking…oh, i get it now.” a knowing smirk graces his sharp features, and he laughs.

jimin glows red, hiding his face behind his hands and shaking his head profusely. “no no, it's not like that, really i swear it isn't! i just, just-”

the bell above the door jingles, snapping jimin from his ranting. he glances to his left. he gulps, his eyes widening and his lips parting slightly. there you stand, soaked to the bone, your hair drooping in your eyes, and your clothes cling to your frame. you hug your arms to your chest, inhaling sharply. you peek around the room, smiling and waving brightly when you spot jimin. namjoon snickers, but soon heads back into the kitchen, leaving jimin absolutely alone. his face reddens when you acknowledge his presence, and his cheeks only heat up more when your smile grows. you look like an angel, a beautiful, perfect angel, and jimin can already feel his heart starting to race.

but then his brain starts to work again, and he realizes that you must be freezing half to death like this. quickly, he races out from behind the counter, paper towels and his heavy sweatshirt in hand. you laugh at his valiant efforts to save you from dying, and offer him yet another soft smile. jimin returns the gesture, though refuses to make eye contact after that, afraid that looking at you will cause his heart to rip straight out of his chest. without a word, he hands you the paper towels, hoping that somehow they can be of use. you ring your hair out, dry off your hands, begin to dab with your face with the towels. jimin raises a hand to help, but then remembers that you two are practically strangers, and that doing anything would be creepy… right?

from the doorway to the kitchen, jin and namjoon watch in amusement. they murmur excitedly amongst themselves, enamored with the scene playing out before their eyes. jin leans over and whispers something into namjoon’s ear, and the younger smiles wickedly. the two of them scurry back into the kitchen, pen and napkin in hand.

“is this helping?” jimin breathes, brushing the hair from his eyes nervously. “oh uh, here-”

he shoves his heavy black hoodie in your face, his face scarlet. he bites down on his lip, hard, shoving his free hand into his pocket. your eyebrows raise curiously, but you take the sweatshirt from him. a gentle “thank you” escapes your lips before you turn on your heel, intent on making your way to the bathrooms. without thinking, jimin tugs on your sleeve. his own actions surprise him though, and he immediately starts to ramble off apologies. you shake your head though. sheepishly, you bite down on your lip, “yes?”

“i um…” jimin takes a deep breath. “i’ll have a hot chocolate waiting for you when you get out. extra whipped cream. on me.”

your eyes widen in pleasant surprise, and a smile brighter than the sun graces your lips, causing jimin to blush yet again. suddenly embarrassed, he hurries back to his post behind the counter. you giggle. soon though, you make your way into the bathroom, tired of your soaking clothes. when you come out a few minutes later, jimin’s sweater hangs down to your knees, and your shirt and own jacket lay neatly folded in your arms.

jimin just about has a heart attack.

his knees shake and his mind races. is it hot in here? why can’t he breathe? was the room always spinning like this? he holds a hand to his forehead and leans against the back counter. this is a mess. he is a mess. you look too good in his sweatshirts and jimin isn’t ready to have this image commited to memory just yet. not when you two aren’t dating, hell, not when you two don’t even talk outside the cafe.

jin and namjoon are dead set on changing that though. out from the kitchen seokjin meanders, coy smile on his lips, fresh chocolate chip muffin and napkin in hand. jimin thinks nothing of it, and that’s his first mistake. with the same suspicious smile on his lips, jin takes the mug of hot chocolate off the counter. jimin lets him too. he doesn’t want to embarrass himself again, and so he thinks it’s better that jin handles your order today. jin is good with customers anyhow. jimin pouts and crosses his arms over his chest, starting to feel self-conscious about himself.

he’s so absorbed in sulking, he doesn’t catch you checking him out from your little table for two. you sigh, and rest your head on your hand. you’ve been pining after jimin for months now, and he’s the sole reason you ventured to the cafe in the rain, but sometimes you wonder if it’s worth it. on days like this, when jimin smiles and blushes and his hands brush over yours, you think that maybe, just maybe, you two might have a spark. but neither of you have ever done any sort of confessing, and you think maybe that it’s all in your head. knowing your luck, jimin is already dating; why wouldn’t he be? he’s handsome yet cute, sweet and selfless, shy but in a lovable way. anyone would be lucky to have him.

luck never seems to be on your side.

but who needs luck when seokjin exists? the said male is in the process of the ultimate match making scheme, that of which you and jimin are both oblivious too. jin comes over to your table, sets the hot chocolate down, along with the muffin too. he winks your way, and you flush, because that wink looked cheeky if anything, you don’t have time to think about it though, instead wondering where the muffin came from.

“um, excuse me, i didn’t-”

“on the house.” jin smiles sickeningly sweet.

you blink. he smiles wider. you give a confused sort of nod, then take an awkward sip of your drink, seokjin doesn’t want to seem to leave, but namjoon yells about burnt pastries from the kitchen, and soon seokjin vanishes from your sight. you watch him go, only to discover jimin staring at you, gnawing at his bottom lip, eyes narrowed. he looks pissed to say the least, and you can’t help but wonder: is he jealous? the thought causes heat to spread throughout your body, so you quickly find an interest in your drink. lots of whip cream. just how you like it.

    the whip cream decorates your face like mustache after only a few sips, so you grab your napkin to clean your face. however, you don’t realize the writing scrawled out in blue ink, and you wipe your face off. the ink doesn’t mix well with the raindrops you never managed to dry off, and when you pull the napkin away, a giant blue smudge appears on your cheek. jimin’s eyes widen at the sight, and soon he begins to giggle, unable to tear his eyes away from you. self-consciously, you raise a hand to your face, wiping off the same spot again with the napkin. this only causes the blotch to grow.

    jimin scrambles over to you. he leans down. gets in your face, makes you back against the wall. he only giggles harder, leaning in close, closer, and you think maybe, just maybe, he’s going to kiss your lips and-

    “hey wait a second…” his brows furrow. “that’s my number on your cheek!”

    although smudged, jimin can make out the digits to his cell. slowly, he pulls away from you, shaking his head and smiling just a bit. you stare up at him, obviously confused. but then, then it clicks, and suddenly you’re stammering out apologies, thinking that somehow or another the elaborate set-up must be your fault. jimin shakes his head and puts his finger to your lips, mumbling a soft “you’re fine”, before grabbing a clean napkin off the table behind your own. gently, gingerly, he begins to wipe the ink off your face, his merely inches from your own. you close your eyes and take a deep breath, your body trembling from his touch. when jimin pulls away, for real this time, your heart sinks into the pits of your stomachs, and you mentally scold yourself from thinking something more would come of this.

    jimin stares down at you, and you stare up at him. your feelings for each other are too obvious to deny, yet too insecure to act upon. jimin chews on his lip again; you play with the strings of his sweaters. it’s as if time is frozen, stopped completely, and it refuses to start again until one of you ends this cycle of unsaid feelings.

    jimin takes a deep breath. he’s been waiting for a chance, and here it is. he won’t let it slip through his fingers, not today. “i mean…” he runs a hand through his bangs. “i could always give you my number normally… i mean only if you wanted!”

    your breath hitches in your throat. but he’s beaming, and you’re smiling too, and maybe luck really is on your side. “i think i would really like that actually.”

Engagement photos & how we met

This week we got our engagement photos back from our AMAZING photographer Ashley Maxwell, and I am so over the moon in love. With Ashley. I mean with Joshua…

So, I thought not only would I share some of my favorite photos, but also the story of how we met, why I moved across the country to pursue our relationship, and how we got engaged!

I met Joshua my junior year of college at UC Davis. It was a cold and rainy day (giving you some ambience…). My friend/sorority sister, Amanda, asked me to grab coffee at our favorite coffee shop, Mishka’s. If you visit Davis, go there immediately and order a mint latte and a peanut butter chocolate chip cookie. I used to eat one at least once a week and I was so skinny then! I guess it was all that biking. Ok, back on topic…

As we were enjoying our coffees, Amanda asked me if it would be ok if her boyfriend and his friend joined us for a little while. Before I could even answer, she told me that her boyfriend would give us a ride home afterwards since it was raining. Obviously I said yes.

Said boyfriend (Andrew) and his friend (Joshua) arrived shortly after. Ok, you guys get that this was all planned out beforehand, right? Well, I sure didn’t. I was completely oblivious. They ordered coffees and came and sat with us; Joshua sat next to me.  I did notice Joshua right away when I first saw him because he was so tall, had beautiful dark curls and was wearing a navy peacoat. I thought, that guy can rock a peacoat!

I have absolutely zero idea what the four of us talked about. It’s not that he didn’t make a good impression, he definitely did. I remember thinking he was really nice and easy to talk to. And I was definitely interested. I immediately went home and asked my friend Lisa about him, who told me she was pretty sure he had a girlfriend (they had broken up a few weeks earlier) and that he was very nice (this part is true).

Unfortunately, Joshua was already signed up to spend three months in Washington, D.C. interning at the U.S. Senate, and would be leaving a week or so later. I figured that was the end of that, and went about my normal life.

WELL if you’ve met my friend Amanda, then of course she wasn’t going to let things end there. So as soon as Joshua returned from D.C., she more or less forced me to go to one of his fraternity parties that week. (I promise we were not THOSE people. Yes, we were in greek life but I literally went to bed by 10pm every night of college). I went to the party. I played beer pong with Joshua and we were both awkward. He offered a handle of BLUE vodka which he drank most of, but even the small amount I drank was awful and quite strong. I left early (again, went to bed by 10pm every night), and still got up for my 8am Spanish class the next day. (Full disclosure-I made it to class but was so hungover I had to lay down on the grass outside the building afterwards until my friend Lisa could come pick me up).

After that, we pretty much continued dating through that spring and summer. At some point we had “the talk” where we decided to date exclusively, although I don’t think we were calling each other “boyfriend” and “girlfriend” at the time. I think a lot of that had to do with the fact that Joshua had accepted a full ride scholarship to the University of Iowa Law School that fall, so we both knew he would be moving, and I had a year of college left, plus a study abroad trip planned for the end of the summer.

But, I was falling hard and was secretly hoping that we could somehow keep the relationship going, even if that meant dating long-distance. I was terrified to bring this up to Joshua because I figured he for sure would not be interested in this. He was going to meet some beautiful and intimidating law school woman and they would do mock trial together and rule the world. So I kept putting the talk off. I literally didn’t bring it up until the last night before I was leaving for Europe.

I could not stop crying that night. We went out for dinner and saw a movie, and I cried at the restaurant and during the movie. I found myself telling Joshua that I would be willing to move to Iowa if it meant we could be together. I ugly cried (so much snot). To my surprise/joy, Joshua also did not want to break up. We had only been dating for less than six months at this point, but we already started talking about what me moving would mean for our future and even talked about marriage. It wasn’t like a proposal or anything, but we both agreed that me moving cross country for him was a big deal and a huge commitment and we both wanted to take it seriously.

When I left the next day, we hadn’t made a definite plan besides me coming to visit him in Iowa in the fall and re-assessing at that point. I went to Europe for six weeks and I am so glad I did because it was the best six weeks ever. I also talked to Joshua every day during that time. I went and visited him in October, and was surprised by how much I loved Iowa City. As a born and bred Californian I had pretty stereotypical ideas about the Midwest, but Iowa City is an adorable little red brick, hipster coffee shop/bookstore oasis. I mean, people wear birkenstocks there, for God’s sake.

So, I did senior year of college and we continued dating long-distance and talking every day. I applied for the Master’s of Social Work program at Iowa and nowhere else. I figured that if I didn’t get in, I would just move home with my parents and make a plan from there. I’m a highly practical person and even though I was optimistic that Joshua and I could be long-term, I also did not want to move for a boy and then break up and have nothing going for me there.

I found out I had been accepted to Iowa while in Dublin, Ireland with my dad and sister. I was both exhilarated and terrified. I had never lived outside of California and knew nothing about winters with snow or how to be far away from my family. But, I did it anyway.

And you know what? Following my heart was the best decision. I loved graduate school and I still keep in touch with my friends from Iowa. I loved Iowa and I miss it all the time. Except that dang flight (or flights I should say, as they have NO DIRECT FLIGHTS from California). And, not only did I come away with a master’s degree, but Joshua and I stayed together. I supported him through law school, which if you or anyone you know has gone to law school, then you know it’s the worst. And Joshua supported me through homesickness. We both survived Iowa winters, which are truly no joke.

In 2017, we moved to Denver, Colorado after Joshua accepted a job with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. I originally accepted a job as a therapist for a private practice, but after the practice closed due to financial issues I moved to Denver without a job, which was majorly anxiety-provoking for me. But I found a great temporary gig as a barista at the cute coffee shop down the street from our apartment, and within six months I found a job in my field, where I just celebrated my 2-year work anniversary.

In 2018, we adopted a cat. In 2019, we bought a condo. In October 2019, we planned a weekend trip to visit Fort Collins, which is a college town about an hour north of Denver. Confession time-I had a pretty strong feeling that Joshua was going to propose. At this point we were talking about marriage and the future a lot, and my mom had dropped some pretty heavy hints that a proposal would be coming by the end of the year. Plus, when we planned our Fort Collins trip Joshua kept saying we needed to visit the flower gardens there, and I was like, “Hello? Who are you?”.

As I predicted, Joshua did propose that weekend, and in the flower gardens. The best part was there was an enormous frat house right behind the gardens having some kind of rager. I’m talking guys in wife beaters with red solo cups playing rage cage and screaming. It honestly made the proposal hilarious and lightened the mood (who knew proposals were so nerve-wracking? Although I’m pretty sure I was more nervous than Joshua).

I cried, we called my parents, I cried some more, we went and got lunch/champagne, I probably cried again.

We were supposed to take our engagement photos in January, but I fell on ice and broke my arm, and I didn’t really care to take my pictures in a cast extending from my shoulder to my fingertips. We rescheduled for March and I am SO glad we did, because beautiful spring flowers were coming out and we lucked out with the weather. It rained the whole morning, but cleared up in the afternoon just in time for our photos.

We decided to do our photos in Davis, since that’s where we met and we just love it there so much. We did the first part of the photo shoot at the UC Davis Arboretum, which is full of beautiful flowers and trees and REALLY AGGRESSIVE DUCKS. If I look uncomfortable in any of these photos, it’s not the photographer’s fault but because the ducks were literally following us around quacking at us in a menacing way.

We did the rest of our photos at Mishka’s Cafe, and were lucky enough to score the EXACT TABLE where we first met (ok, we may have had to scare a tiny undergraduate student away but it’s fine). Then we just walked around downtown and took some awkward crosswalk photos (only awkward because you have to kiss really fast and then run away from oncoming traffic).

And, that’s pretty much our story. Minus six years of details. I am really really praying that we are all out of quarantine by November because I’ve been planning this dang wedding for months and months now and I just want to wear a pretty dress and drink all the wine. If not, I guess we can always elope.

the tech of travelling

Let me take the time out of my busy day to regale you, my beloved readers, with a little tale of how my day has gone and fit it into a rather larger thought I've harboured for years. Yes, this is not just a "what have they been up to today" piece but one where I pour my thoughts and feelings into the blogosphere so all of you can share in my musings and arguments. This is not such a controversial topic, it is one that everyone knows but takes little  notice of as it is so engrained in the modern day backpacker. Anyhow, I'm in a bus, shock, and have dour and a bit hours to kill before we enter Bulgaria after a brief time here in Macedonia that has been plagued by illness and a lack of time. I'll write another post about Macedonia I think, although there wasn't much to our time here sadly. We'll see. Yes we're on the autobus to Sofia, capital of Bulgaria now, I am as tired as I have ever been, Alina feels sick and the bus driver has told us we can't eat on this journey, wicked. Urgh. I also just finished "a brief history of time" for maybe the third time as I pursue my scientific education.

So, today was supposed to be a chilled day as we went to the matka canyon for the day before our bus. It started smoothly, we got there, the bus trip took an hour not 40 mins, no worries, and we went on the half hour boat trip. It was pretty. Afterwards I wanted to walk to a monastery to get a nice view on the canyon. Alina didn't fancy it so chilled as I embarked on the half hour trip up followed by a 40 minute walk back. Alina took the phone so I was going blind. I ran up the hill and made it up in no time. Got the pics and saw the views before heading down. Firstly I almost went the wrong way, luckily I asked some people which way to go and they told me the right way and told me to just follow the path all the way round and down. Simple. I ran down, semi running semi speed walking. I got to a fork, hmmm. I went for the one that looked more direct and had a sign pointed towards the monastery, a simple choice I thought. I ran down, all the way down till I heard the water, bangin I'd made great time. I wandered down over the bridge along the dam and then the path stops. Literally it stopped. I couldn't cross the river. OK I looked around, there was no choice, no other path along the water. I panic, no phone so I couldn't just check the route. Ok so I went back and found a fork. Perfect. I followed the alternate path. Sprinted up it. At this point scared wed miss the bus back to Skopje and miss the consequential bus to Sofia and thus restricting our time further and missing our hostel reservation that had been paid in full (literally for the first time ever). I was panicking. I continued to run up. And got to a point I recognised. Bollocks. I ran back down, I couldn't retrace my steps all the way back. I had to find another way. I was back at the river. And climbed over the fence to follow the river thru the undergrowth. This was a mistake. First: I was lacerated by thorns across my bare chest. Second: I tried to duck under a bush and the entire bush, its leaves, dirt and rubbish moulted on me. Third: my foot sank into to sinky mud. Wet and muddy and smelly, horrible. I turn back. Time for plan c. I climb onto the wall bordering the river. Its like a tightrope... Ok its not that thin but you get the gist. I wander along wondering how to get back across the water I get to the end if the wall and climb down to the river (my makeshift path has disintegrated). I have one choice, wade across this relatively shallow part of the river. I embark. Shoes in my hand, socks off, water bottle in hand and go pro and sunglasses in pocket. I wade. The rocks are slippy, the water is wet, it is also cold. Slow progress but no slips. We're half way. It gets deeper, thigh height, and is tougher to keep myself dry. I keep going and make it to the other wall. Next issue getting to the "steps". I follow the wall back. The water gets deeper, waist high. The steps are a meter away. The metre is long tho because the water is much deeper for it. I brace myself and leap. Semi swimming semi jumping I make the bottom "step" with relatively dry shoes, jumper and socks. Success. Next I have to clamber up the metre high steps (each step was a metre high) and get to the electricity plant, definitely trespassing at this point. I climb up. Then need to climb down, proper parkour. I make it to the road and sprint to the cafe agreed as our meeting point. I get there. What time is it I gasp. 2 o clock. It had been 1 hour. What??? I thought it was maybe 4. Wow. I was proud, but dead.

What is the relevance of this little anecdote I hear you cry? Ah very good question. Yes, so it got me thinking as I sat silently on the bus back, so energy less i t felt like I was back at school having just finished cross country. If I'd had a phone, literally any phone, this whole ordeal would have been avoided easily (this thought was confirmed as I checked on maps.me and saw the trails marked on there clearly). And I thought lucky we have phones, but then, I thought: do you know what? While it was a stressful, tiring hour, it was a hilarious story. It also provided me some adventure, something unlikely to happen at home or Australia... I thought, this is one of the beautys of being away. Phones have, sadly, changed travelling I think, a lot. In s america all I had was an iPod and in c america I had a phone which  was as useful as an iPod as I couldn't use anything without internet and consequentially I found my self in a lot more tricky situations as I got lost, got ripped off and wandered so blindly around these alien places. It was scarier but it also held the merits of giving you a sense of achievement as you completed relatively simple tasks like finding a hostel, or the peak of a mountain. The increase prominence of phones, the widening 4G coverage, the increase in mobile plans that allow for use in foreign countries and the app maps.me have all, together, eroded much of the adventure of being in a foreign country and so as to say "in the stick".When we went to Vietnam we got internet for Christians phone so we could use google maps on our bikes. Then whenever we were lost or in a dodgy situation we always had the safety blanket of having our phone. In Australia I had 3G the WHOLE time except in the outback, coincidentally making that the period that included BY FAR the most adventure of the whole trip. It was literally directly proportional. The less phone coverage I had the most adventurous the trip became. Now here in Europe we haven't got internet so we have found ourselves in sticky situations however the having of maps.me (an app that allows you to use maps without internet, just location settings) has made life so much easier. You don't get lost on walking trails. You find the hostel. You know when the bus driver drops you in the wrong place. You know when to get off the bus. I remember in s america I would literally be reading every road sign in an attempt to work out where we were and when to get out. I'd have to speak to the driver and ask him to tell me when we were there. I even took a photo of the map and our route and tried to follow the route as we drove it (this led to me missing my boat to Uruguay and ending up in Boca when I was in Buenos Aires, so maps.me would have been a beautiful addition to my life here).Its hard to say that phones are wrecking travelling, especially as they're just gonna gain more influence and prevalence over our lives but I do sometimes look back in nostalgia at the times of old when being away really felt like you were against the world with no help, now I feel we have our ever present little helpers in our pockets.

Lol look at me talking about back I'm the day at the age of 23 haha. Anyway, just some food for thought for y'all. Meanwhile, the sun has set and its dark here, I'm dreading having to find the hostel in the dark when we get there.... Oh wait we have maps.me it'll be easy.Back to restart Stephen hawking for me. G.

LOTS OF JULY 4th 2018 CELEBRATIONS ON & OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND 

On Anna Maria Island 

  Parade — The Anna Maria Island Privateers annual Independence Day Parade followed by a daylong Fourth of July celebration. Stand right outside your front door of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals – 601 Gulf Dr. N. Anna Maria Island, Florida, 34217 as the patriots drive by throwing beads and other treats to kids of all ages. The parade begins at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach at about 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 4 and runs the entire length of the Island ending at the Anna Maria City Pier at the east end of Pine Avenue. Everyone is invited all to participate in the parade and all entries are encouraged to wear red, white and blue and to decorate their rides for the holiday. You will see a variety of vehicles from — automobiles, golf carts, Segways, roller skates, bicycles, scooters and pirate ships on wheels.

  Parties — After the parade the Privateers will celebrate with two parties. The first will be immediately after the parade at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. There the benevolent pirates will award more than $17,000 in college scholarships to local students. The second, is an adult party at at D.Coy Ducks Tavern, 5410 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

At City Pier Park, the city of Anna Maria will celebrate the holiday with a “Celebrate America” picnic from 12:30-2 p.m. The city will serve hot dogs to picnickers while enjoying patriotic songs in the park at the corner of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard. For more info, call city hall, 941-708-6130.

  Fireworks — After sunset, the Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, will mark Independence Day with the 32nd Fireworks Spectacular at their outdoor wedding pavilion. For more than 30 years both tourists and residents have lined the beach with their feet in the sand watching the Sandbar’s colourful display in the sky. They will offer a VIP evening party package which include VIP seating for the show. For more information, call the restaurant at 941-778-0444

  Off Island —

Just off Anna Maria Maria Island, in Cortez, The Swordfish Grill will host it’s Fifth Annual Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4. Given 10 minutes to eat as many hot dogs as possible, the winner will have his or her name engraved on the prestigious Hahana Ilio Cup trophy – hahana ilio is Hawaiian for “hot dog”. The winner will also take home $250 in prizes, including cash and Swordfish Grill swag. The annual contest will also feature raffle prizes. There is no registration fee, but all participants are required to sign a waiver. Contestants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian’s written permission. Contestants can stop by the Swordfish Grill and pre-register ahead of time or register by noon on the day of the event.. The Swordfish Grill is located at 4628 119th St. W. in Cortez. For more information, call 941-798-2035.

  A firework display in downtown Bradenton along Barcarrota Avenue at the Riverwalk, 452 3rd Ave W. Fireworks will be launched from a barge in the river about 9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4.

Another display of fireworks will take place July 4 on the Sarasota bayfront in downtown Sarasota and over Manatee River, with the best viewing on the waterfronts in Bradenton and Palmetto.

  Early Celebration — Baseball fans come out and celebrate Independence Day on Tuesday, July 3, at LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Enjoy an evening of baseball as the minor-league team, the Bradenton Marauders  in patriotic jerseys will take on the Palm Beach Cardinals at 6:30 p.m. The first 1,500 lucky fans will receive a free T-shirt and the team will auction off a star-spangled jersey. The game will be followed by a fireworks display show sponsored by Budweiser.

For more information, go online to bradentonmauraders.com or call 941-747-3031.

  Parade — Longboat Key will celebrate the holiday July 4 with a parade and the annual Freedom Fest and Hot Diggity Dog Parade presented by the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce. The parade along Bay Isles Road will take place at 9 a.m. with wagons and bikes decorated in red, white and blue, fire trucks, police cars and pets. Following the parade at Bicentennial Park, 500 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key until 11 a.m. there will be a celebration with games, face painting, balloon and sand art, a butterfly release and a feast that includes waffles topped with strawberries. For more information, call the chamber at 941-383-2466.

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

*Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals offers the above company names and affiliated links as suggestions only. We are not receiving commissions from the above and are listing only to assist our guests. We recommend services that we or close friends and family have experienced.

*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals.

The post LOTS OF JULY 4th 2018 CELEBRATIONS ON & OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND  appeared first on AnnaMariaIslandCondoRentals.com.

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LOTS OF JULY 4th 2018 CELEBRATIONS ON & OFF ANNA MARIA ISLAND 

On Anna Maria Island 

  Parade — The Anna Maria Island Privateers annual Independence Day Parade followed by a daylong Fourth of July celebration. Stand right outside your front door of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals – 601 Gulf Dr. N. Anna Maria Island, Florida, 34217 as the patriots drive by throwing beads and other treats to kids of all ages. The parade begins at Coquina Beach in Bradenton Beach at about 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 4 and runs the entire length of the Island ending at the Anna Maria City Pier at the east end of Pine Avenue. Everyone is invited all to participate in the parade and all entries are encouraged to wear red, white and blue and to decorate their rides for the holiday. You will see a variety of vehicles from — automobiles, golf carts, Segways, roller skates, bicycles, scooters and pirate ships on wheels.

  Parties — After the parade the Privateers will celebrate with two parties. The first will be immediately after the parade at the Anna Maria Island Beach Cafe at the Manatee Public Beach, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach. There the benevolent pirates will award more than $17,000 in college scholarships to local students. The second, is an adult party at at D.Coy Ducks Tavern, 5410 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.

At City Pier Park, the city of Anna Maria will celebrate the holiday with a “Celebrate America” picnic from 12:30-2 p.m. The city will serve hot dogs to picnickers while enjoying patriotic songs in the park at the corner of Pine Avenue and North Bay Boulevard. For more info, call city hall, 941-708-6130.

  Fireworks — After sunset, the Sandbar Restaurant, 100 Spring Ave., Anna Maria, will mark Independence Day with the 32nd Fireworks Spectacular at their outdoor wedding pavilion. For more than 30 years both tourists and residents have lined the beach with their feet in the sand watching the Sandbar’s colourful display in the sky. They will offer a VIP evening party package which include VIP seating for the show. For more information, call the restaurant at 941-778-0444

  Off Island —

Just off Anna Maria Maria Island, in Cortez, The Swordfish Grill will host it’s Fifth Annual Fourth of July Hot Dog Eating Contest at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4. Given 10 minutes to eat as many hot dogs as possible, the winner will have his or her name engraved on the prestigious Hahana Ilio Cup trophy – hahana ilio is Hawaiian for “hot dog”. The winner will also take home $250 in prizes, including cash and Swordfish Grill swag. The annual contest will also feature raffle prizes. There is no registration fee, but all participants are required to sign a waiver. Contestants under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian’s written permission. Contestants can stop by the Swordfish Grill and pre-register ahead of time or register by noon on the day of the event.. The Swordfish Grill is located at 4628 119th St. W. in Cortez. For more information, call 941-798-2035.

  A firework display in downtown Bradenton along Barcarrota Avenue at the Riverwalk, 452 3rd Ave W. Fireworks will be launched from a barge in the river about 9 p.m. on Wednesday, July 4.

Another display of fireworks will take place July 4 on the Sarasota bayfront in downtown Sarasota and over Manatee River, with the best viewing on the waterfronts in Bradenton and Palmetto.

  Early Celebration — Baseball fans come out and celebrate Independence Day on Tuesday, July 3, at LECOM Park, 1611 Ninth St. W., Bradenton. Enjoy an evening of baseball as the minor-league team, the Bradenton Marauders  in patriotic jerseys will take on the Palm Beach Cardinals at 6:30 p.m. The first 1,500 lucky fans will receive a free T-shirt and the team will auction off a star-spangled jersey. The game will be followed by a fireworks display show sponsored by Budweiser.

For more information, go online to bradentonmauraders.com or call 941-747-3031.

  Parade — Longboat Key will celebrate the holiday July 4 with a parade and the annual Freedom Fest and Hot Diggity Dog Parade presented by the Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce. The parade along Bay Isles Road will take place at 9 a.m. with wagons and bikes decorated in red, white and blue, fire trucks, police cars and pets. Following the parade at Bicentennial Park, 500 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key until 11 a.m. there will be a celebration with games, face painting, balloon and sand art, a butterfly release and a feast that includes waffles topped with strawberries. For more information, call the chamber at 941-383-2466.

For the latest up to date news, things to do, special offers, travel tips and more continue to follow our blog @ Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals/Blog

*Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals offers the above company names and affiliated links as suggestions only. We are not receiving commissions from the above and are listing only to assist our guests. We recommend services that we or close friends and family have experienced.

*The content of this blog is not to be copied, adapted or shared without the written consent of Anna Maria Island Condo Rentals.

TRAVELOGUE – AMSTERDAM CITY GUIDE PART I

For me, inspiration, work and travel all roll into one, which does make me feel incredibly lucky! We travel to destinations all over the world (and closer to home) for work and pleasure, always combining the two. So when Booking.com asked me if I’d like to try out their service I couldn’t wait to have a scroll through and look at all the different types of accommodation they have. Lots that are the perfect bases for creative work trips it turns out. There was one city I couldn’t wait to get back to and that was the ever inspiring Amsterdam – today and tomorrows part II post will be a visual Amsterdam city guide sharing my favourite places to visit to feel creatively inspired and get away from it all.We chose to take a winter trip to Amsterdam, to refuel our creativity after the craziness of December and picked a hotel we could work in as well as relax. This is my second visit to the city and I love what a calm and creative place it is, friendly, eclectic and full of great food spots, museums to visit and artists to meet. Although it is not everybody’s idea of work, fueling a creative soul this way with experiences tops up the mind and imagination reserves for weeks. Meeting people wherever we go all over the world opens up avenues to collaboration and both being photographers – we love sharing stories visually with our camera lenses and always leaving a little unseen for our next visit.The hotel we stayed in was called Zoku – a place with modern loft style living, offering a warm welcome, chilled out Living Room, a Living Kitchen, Communal Working Spaces, bustling bar and a living roof planted with herbs and vegetables to be used in the ‘Living Kitchen’. A greenhouse filled with beautiful plants leads to the communal spaces, and out on the roof terrace in spring and summer herbs and flowers are blowing in the breeze. We loved it here. Fast and free Wi-Fi is available all over the place, perfect for working on your phone or laptop and the open-plan design effortlessly brings you together with other residents and city locals. A home from home, the smell of freshly ground coffee is in the air and we loved huddling around the log burners in the Living Room for breakfast, one particularly chilly morning.The places you stay when travelling make the world of difference to a trip, whether for work or pleasure and this place is a homely, friendly and welcoming find.We absolutely loved our room at Zoku, with a huge bed tucked away behind a screen at the top of a secret pull out staircase – to save space. Compact modern bathroom, kitchen/dining area and desk with everything you’d need hidden away under the sleeping deck, there was even a stapler – small joys! With a minimalist Scandinavian feel, cosy touches and low maintenance plants to care for while you visit. There is a fully equipped studio kitchen for cooking if you don’t want to be out every night, with pale wood accents and everything else is decorated in varying shades of my favourite colour – grey.The views from the terrace outside the eating areas were just lovely and we could see our morning walking route from up above. That’s our bridge!This place is super tech from the lift to the facilities, so don’t forget to order your breakfast on the iPad before to go to your table! The chefs were so lovely and happy to whip up special requests or adapt to specific diets. The Vegan breakfast option was A-mazing!We couldn’t wait to get out on the streets each morning and see the city, I just love to walk along all the canal streets looking at the houses and all the different folks going about their days. All the windows here seem to frame some magic detail, this place above was just around the corner from our hotel. An indoor jungle of amazing proportions and an enviable collection of vintage globes to top it off.As well as travelling to seek inspiration for our own work we also love seeing how other forward-thinking folks run their businesses and supporting them too. Maybe also figuring out what possible future businesses we might like to run – cat cafe or hotel is up there!We discovered this place and booked a table right away, to be in the company of as many feline friends as possible is always our happy place. Eight cats live here at Kopjes – rescued from two shelters they have plenty of places to hide out of sight if they are wanting quiet time and all kinds of crazy stuff to climb on and people to play with if they want company. Homemade cake, mint tea and a snuggle for breakfast is my kind of working Saturday ;)To feel inspired I often look to the past, we love antique shops and flea markets, I had a wish to find Japanese antiques and there are quite a few great little shops dotted all around the city with beautiful artefacts and treasures. From humble bowls to ostentatious flourishes, the shops here are meticulously curated and there is colour everywhere.The smallest green spaces always inspire here, outside almost every home there are pots and climbing plants growing, we met a lady who had planted her rose over twenty years ago and trained it all along the street above the windows. A labour of love that we would be delighted to come back and see in full bloom in June (just visible in the top photo of this post).Hints of spring, peeking out of every cold February corner.Boat life is another of the daydream lives we love to live, imagining how it would be on a houseboat of our own, rationing our belongings to fit in a smaller space than we live in at home, a life lived bobbing gently on the canals. Swans and ducks swimming past on the water and mopeds and bikes sailing past on dry land. My favourite stories about this are in the true-life book of once Amsterdam houseboat resident and visual artist Pia Jane Biijkerk.Whilst in the city we managed to visit the beautiful ceramics studio of Annemieke Boots, a wonderful maker or delicate pieces that we were hoping to work with this year, fingers crossed our plans made over tea and clay will be going ahead soon.Such a calming and light-filled space, pots and plates in subtle hues stacked up and waiting for new homes. Experimental pieces alongside functional items. I love the tiny splatters of clay everywhere and tools waiting to be used at any moment.We left this beautiful space with our hearts full and some handmade treasures safely packaged in paper and string. Taking them back to the hotel to make mint tea in our new cups. Personalising trips for fun or work is quick and easy for all types of travel with Booking.com, they have the world’s largest selection of places to stay, including everything from apartments, vacation homes, and family-run B&Bs to luxury resorts, tree houses and even igloos. I hope my work travels may one day require me to stay in an igloo, but for now, interesting (photogenic) accommodation, with great facilities, a tasty breakfast and friendly staff is always top of my list, so happy we discovered Zoku through them!It was only on our return that I discovered that Booking.com was actually established with humble beginnings as a small Dutch start-up in Amsterdam. I’ll be back tomorrow to share my list of discoveries from favourite streets to visit and places to eat – to shops, green spaces and a visual tour of the botanical gardens that were a five-minute walk from our hotel. xxx

Disclosure – The flights and accommodation for this trip were paid for by Booking.com, all words opinions and images are my own.

Three Days in Melbourne

This weekend I’m headed back to Vegas to photograph the finished kitchen and master bathroom in the flip house, both are finally done and I can’t wait to share them with you, hopefully next week once I edit the photos. :)

I was going through my memory photos on my phone and up popped the fact that at this exact time last year, I was visiting my cousin in Melbourne, Australia. Then I remembered OMG I totally forgot to share about my experience there. Bad blogger!

I’d been to Australia before, but hadn’t visited the city of Melbourne yet, so it was at top of my list. I envisioned it would be balmy and warm like Gold Coast but since it’s much farther south, Melbourne experiences more dramatic seasons, especially cold winters. I was there in February of 2017 (the height of summer) so I was lucky to have blue skies during my visit.

Melbourne impressed me right away as a very cultural city, it’s quite sophisticated. It reminded me so much of San Francisco, with its medley of classic architecture and modern high rise buildings in a vibrant downtown.

    Here are the highlights from my visit, through the eyes of me, the willing and happy tourist, and my cousin, the local know-it-all:

Queen Victoria Market

My cousin Andrew was an excellent tour guide and our first stop was the famous Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne’s biggest attraction and for good reason. On Tuesday, and also Thursday through Sunday, you’ll find outdoor stalls that sell Australian made goods and produce, it’s an energetic place filled with locals who are tasting, shopping, and enjoying life and every week there are cultural festivals happening.

My cousin insisted we get donuts and coffee first. (No objection). We stood in a brief line at the the donut van to grab a paper bag of sweets before we headed to the market stalls.

  above image via: queen victoria market

      I had a belt made but I do regret not buying authentic Ugg boots… oh well, another excuse to go back :)

    Indoors, you’ll find many purveyors of fine foods inside a light filled brass trimmed interior. We browsed the stalls, just so I could get a feel for it.

Markets are always a favorite place to linger, so I soaked it all in. Spice and cheese shops and savory goods galore. We stopped for lunch at The Bratwurst Shop despite its exceptionally long line, but my cousin guaranteed it was worth the wait to so I chose a spicy one with mustard, wow so good.

        Coffee is King

The coffee scene is huge in Melbourne, and my cousin is a connoisseur. He took me on tasting tour to several coffee shops just to show me how very much into coffee they are in that town, and how many ways they prepare it.

Micro roasters are around every corner, selling their distinctive blends. I tried so many I got a crazy caffeine high. In Melbourne, they describe the flavors of coffee in a similar (obsessive) way like we do in wine country. Hints of spice, fruit, caramel, etc. This article describes just how seriously the Australians take coffee.

        Downtown Monuments

I spent one full day on my own, walking in a loop around Melbourne, starting at Flagstaff Gardens, heading north into Carlton, cruising over to East Melbourne on foot, then headed through Fitzroy Gardens to Southbank and back up to the downtown area. It was about ten miles total but it was a perfect day to meander, so I stretched it out and I took all day to do it.

  For those less ambitious, note Melbourne has a great public transportation system and there is a Free Tram Zone that will take you all over the inner city, a great advantage for tourists who are lodging downtown and don’t want to walk to see all the sights. Just hop on and hop off!

  The State Library was a beautiful building inside and out, and a popular spot, with lots of people hanging out on the front lawn, sunning themselves. I was charmed by the men playing chess outside the front doors. Inside, the interior is cool and quiet, all marble hallways with a grand staircase, and rotating exhibits and a giant room where a few hundred people are doing concentrated research.

    I walked over to Carlton Gardens where I watched a bride getting her photograph taken in front of the beautiful Exhibition building.

  Next, I walked down Spring Street past Parliament, it was a grand building that you have to stop and admire for a few minutes because of its amazing architecture.

  Fitzroy Gardens was just down the street, it’s a large beautiful park that’s lovely to stroll around. It also houses a conservatory of flowers where I was surrounded by the most beautiful begonias I’ve ever seen.

Maybe it was just because I was enchanted by my location or perhaps it was the contrasting liner on the edge of the petals that I found so captivating. I just remember in that moment thinking they were the most perfect flowers I’d ever seen.

        My next stop took me to a place everyone should visit: Flinders Street Station, one of the most recognizable buildings in Melbourne, it’s next to Federation Square, a modern abstract building that is a stark contrast to the old world design of the train station.

      By afternoon, my feet were tired but I crossed over the Yarra River to Southbank where a festival was happening along the promenade.

    It was hot and crowded, so I ducked into a restaurant to talk to the bartender, they always have the best insight on things to see. I ordered a local beer while we chatted, and I had to take a picture of this label, it cracked me up, so Aussie.

    My cousin recommended Shanghai Street for dinner, a popular place downtown (I could tell because of the line) but I got a single seat by the window and ordered kung pao chicken with a side of dumplings and they were amazing, maybe the best I’ve ever had.

  While I ate my dinner, I had a 20 minute conversation with a local businessman who sat next to me, he had visited San Francisco on business several times and we engaged in a great conversation about the similarities between our cities.

This is one of my favorite things about traveling, when I go out, 9 times out of 10 I end up striking up a conversation with a new person sitting next to me and by the end of our time together, I’m reminded that we’re all human, and deep down we really want the same things: to be connected, to share good food, a few stories, and to be surrounded with good friends and loving family.

Street Art

In pockets of Melbourne, you’ll find streets where artist have coated the walls with murals, caricatures, and graffiti. Melbourne is famous for it, so keep your eyes open, or consult this list that pinpoints the streets where it can be seen.

      If you like to shop, there’s a district for it downtown. There is also a Chinatown to visit, another reason Melbourne reminded me very much of San Francisco.

  If you like Italian food, go to Hardware Lane for the cafe scene. One night, we dined at a great South American restaurant called Mamasita. Another hidden gem I really loved was was Berlin Bar where inside, you travel back in time to the Cold War. At Berlin Bar, they have the most innovative cocktails and a magician entertained us at our table while we waited for our drinks. Definitely worth the visit if you seek someplace eclectic and cool.

  I have no fear of traveling alone, but I was lucky to meet up with my American born (now Aussie) cousin, who I see so rarely because we live continents apart. He welcomed me to his home, shared all his knowledge of the area, and we spent hours having great conversation and laughing about so many memories from our childhood. How fun it was to look back on it twenty years later. It reminded me that connection and being present in the moment are so important, and how essential it is to cherish your times spent with special people you’re lucky to have in your life.

This picture makes me smile so much because in the States, Pabst is the cheapest beer ever, but in a bistro in his suburb of Geelong, Pabst Blue Ribbon beer is a big deal and he has to pay extra for it. We both thought that was so funny! Yet another thing I love about travel, those unexpected details that reveal themselves to you when you get out and explore the world.

    I was lucky to spend one full day with my cousin out at the coast. He strapped three bikes to the back of his car and took me on a drive to the ocean where he and his wife showed me some the surf spots in Jan Juc and Torquay. We went on a long bike ride from Winkipop and Bells Beach all along this breathtaking coastline. That was an amazing day, what a view!

        (I should note these images in this post were taken with my iPhone, but now I use this Canon Powershot camera to shoot better quality images. I love that camera so much for travel for taking amazing pictures and video!)

I left Melbourne having experienced great scenery, food, and company and having fallen in love with yet another amazing city. Have you been to Melbourne, or do you live there? I’m thinking of returning at the end of the year so I can hop over to Tasmania and explore that island. What did I miss? What are your favorite places?

from Home Decor Collection https://centsationalstyle.com/2018/02/three-days-in-melbourne/

Are you getting excited yet?  I Am!  Its almost time for Europe’s largest Indoor Funfair to arrive! Thats right.. The Irn-Bru Carnival returns to the SEC, Glasgow for all the kids this, as well as us adults, to enjoy the fun, food, shows, rides, games and excitement!

Rides, Stalls & Games, Food & Drinks

The Floor Plan / Carnival Layout

Ticket / Entry Price & Possible Discounts

Opening Days & Opening Hours

Last Year’s Irn-Bru Carnival

Be Safe & Useful Links

Continue on reading in this blog post to find out all about the fun and exciting that is coming your way very soon as well as information on all of the above listed things!

The Rides

Are far as fun fairs and and pop up carnivals goes, The Irn-Bru December Carnival tops them all. Here are all the rides that are scheduled to be at this year’s carnival and boy, is there a selection? … Yeah!

(If you see * next to a ride, this is a cash only attraction)

Thrill Rides:   Speed Buzz  –  Sticky Wall  –  Experience Miami  –  Frog Ride  –  Midnight Express Matterhorn  –  Top Flip  –  Top Star  –  Superbob  –  Extreme

Family Rides:   Dodgems  –  Flying Dumbo Ride  –  Helter Skelter  –  Crazy Circus Fun House  –  Waltzers  –  Superbob  –  Ice Maze  –  Big Apple Coaster  –  Drop Zone  –  Twist  –  Bungee Trampolines*  –   Climbing Wall*

Kids Rides:   Mini Wheel  –  Ice Mirror Maze  –  Cups & Saucers  –  Mini Chairoplane  –  Trampolines  –  Toyset  –  Baby Apple  –  Race O Rama  –  Mini Train

There is also an Inflatable Bumper Cars* ride attraction that is located in the Inflatable Play Area, Hall 3.  This area will be open will be open during the same hours that the Irn-Bru Carnival is open.  To find out more about the Inflatable Play Area at this year’s carnival, then visit Here for Age & Height Restrictions, Price & Time Limits, Rules Of Play and more.

View Height Restrictions For Rides / Attractions Here!

The Stalls & Games

There are many stalls, games and fun things to do at The Irn-Bru Carnival every December,  some of these stalls accept cash only, and the other accept vouchers only.  Here is what is scheduled to be at the 2017 / 2018 Irn-Bru Carnival:

Voucher Taking:   Skittles  –  Football Pick  –  Catch A Dog  –  Ball Game  –  Darts  –  Milk Churns  –  Knock Off Cans  –  Rings & Blocks  –  Spill the Milk  –  Hook-a-Duck  –  Ball in Bucket  –  Darts  –  Cork Shooter  –  Basketball  –  Shoot The Footballers Down  –  Penalty Shoot Out  –  Coconut Shy  –  Toy Town Stall

Cash Taking:   Face Painting  –  Striker  –  Shooter  –  Make 21  –  Amusements Cranes  –  Novelties, Toys and Balloon Stall  –  Winchester Shooting Game  –  Whack-a-Minion  –  Derby Racer  –  Bingo  –  Fortune Teller  –  Amusements Arcades  –  Climbing Wall  –  Kiddie Bikes  –  Lucky Cranes

All of the Stalls & Games, as well as the Rides & Attractions mentioned earlier,  each have their own allocated operator(s) to guide to onto the ride or to show you how to use or play at the Stalls.

The Food & Drinks

When you are enjoying your day or night out at the Irn-Bru Carnival this year and you start to get hungry,  there will be loads of places for you to grab a bite to eat.

From small vendors and stalls selling Tea, Coffee, Drinks, Candy Floss, Pick & Mix, Sweets, Ice Cream, Sno Cones & more to larger outlets and vans selling Hot Dogs, Chicken, Burgers, Chips, Nachos, Pizza & More,  you will definitely find something to eat and drink that keeps everyone happy!

Main Food Outlets:   Burger Grill  –  Chicken Shack  –  Seafish Cafe  –  Central Food Court

To download the Food Menus from the above mentioned food outlets as well as find out about the Kids Deals & Meal Deals that are available, then please visit Here.

Floor Plan / Layout

This is the floor plan image showing what the layout of The Irn-Bru Carnival this year will look like at the SEC.  It shows where each Ride and Stall will be as well as other Kiosks, Offices, Meet Points, First Aid, Toilets, Sale Points, and Places Of Interest / Need are located. Click on the image to view it bigger, or check out the official PDF Here.

The Irn-Bru Carnival 17 / 18 – Scottish Event Campus (Floor Plan)

Ticket / Entry Prices

On entry to the Irn-Bru Carnival, you will be given a stamp done on your hand, this means that if you want, you can leave at anytime and return on the same day without needing to pay entry again.

Below you can see the different prices of the entry for each Age Group and also wither you are paying when you arrive or paying online before you go.  –  You can enter Here to Win A Pair Of Free Tickets!

Online:  If you are going to be buying your tickets ahead of time online, then these are the prices you will pay for the tickets:

£13      –      General Admission

£50      –      Group of 4 People

£8        –      OAP (Over 60s)

Offline:  If you will be paying for your entry into the Irn-Bru Carnival at the door when you get there, then these are the prices you will pay:

£14      –      General Admission (Entry + 10 Vouchers)

£52      –      Group of 4 People

£8        –      OAP (Over 60s)

Children Aged 3 & Under Get FREE Entry into this year’s Irn-Bru Carnival and a Group Of 10+ People Get 10% Discounted. – These apply to Both Online & Offline ticket purchases.

£11      –      Young Scot Entrants (Entry + 10 Vouchers)

Additional Vouchers: You are able to purchase additional vouchers for the rides and stalls in the hall at anytime during the opening hours of the Irn-Bru Carnival for £1.50 Per Voucher or 5 Vouchers for £6.

Be sure to double check the prices on the official website Here before you leave to go to the carnival encase of any last minute price changes after this post has been published. Also check any additional booking fees that may apply when booking online.

Opening Days & Times

The Irn-Bru Carnival 2017 / 2018 is coming to the Scottish Event Campus, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom on the 21st of December 2017 and will be open everyday (except Christmas Day) until the 14th of January 2018.  Here is a list of all the days the indoor fun fair is open along with opening hour too:

21st December  –  Thursday:  5pm – 10pm

22nd December  –  Friday:  12pm – 10pm

23rd December  –  Saturday:  12pm – 10pm

24th December  –  Sunday:  12pm – 9pm

25th December  –  Monday:  Closed   (Christmas Day)

26th December  –  Tuesday:  12pm – 10pm

27th December  –  Wednesday:  11am – 10pm

28th December  –  Thursday:  11am – 10pm

29th December  –  Friday:  11am – 10pm

30th December  –  Saturday:  11am – 10pm

31th December  –  Sunday:  12pm – 9pm

1st January  –  Monday:  12pm – 9pm

2nd January  –  Tuesday :  11am – 10pm

3rd January  –  Wednesday:  11am – 9pm

4th January  –  Thursday:  12pm – 9pm

5th January  –  Friday:  12pm – 9pm

6th January  –  Saturday:  12pm – 10pm

7th January  –  Sunday:  12pm – 9pm

8th January  –  Monday:  5pm – 10pm

9th January  –  Tuesday:  5pm – 10pm

10th January  –  Wednesday:  5pm – 10pm

11th January  –  Thursday:  5pm – 10pm

12th January  –  Friday:  5pm – 10pm

13th January  –  Saturday:  12pm – 10pm

14th January  –  Sunday:  12pm – 9pm

The above dates and times have been taken from the official website Here.  Please re-check on that website before you leave for journey to the carnival to see if any last minute changes have been made to their opening days and times schedule.

Last Year’s Irn-Bru Carnival

In the first video below, you can have a watch at clips that i recorded when i was at the Irn-Bru Carnival last year (2016 / 1017).  Underneath that, in the second video, you can see one of the rides (the Drop Zone) from last years carnival too..

I thought The Irn-Bru Carnival last year at the Scottish Event Campus last year was great and i am expecting the same again this year.  If you are looking for a fun filled day or night out with your friends and/or family, then this is a must to go to.  Here is another Highlight Video of last year’s carnival by QD Events.  Below is some photos i took last year also..

Be Safe!

Travel:  Remember to always take care in your journey to the carnival, wither that be traveling on foot, bike, bus taxi or train.. Leave in enough time to get there so that you are not rushing and wrap up well for the cold weather.  You can Get A Free £15 Taxi Journey by simply signing up to Uber and entering code IBCARNIVAL16 (See FAQ for more details, scroll down to”Traveling by Taxi”).

Kids:  We all know kids can get really excited and run about crazy at these fun fairs, i know, trust me, i know! …   So keeping them safe is a priority.  Before you leave to go out, you can put a band around their wrist with your Name & Mobile Number wrote on it so if the worst happens and a little one wonders off,  the staff their or another visitor can contact you easily and quickly.

Don’t Loss Anything:  I’ve done it before, you’ve probably done it before.. We go on a ride, the ride starts, and only then do we realize when its too late that we have our phone, money, keys and more all in our pockets and Not zipped up!  Remember to keep all your pockets zipped at all times while your on and off the rides and don’t ever just leave a bag or possession laying at the side of a ride until you come back off.  Ask the ride operator where you can leave it (usually allows you to leave it at the ride’s pay box / cabin or by a fence Inside the ride.

Useful Links

The Irn-Bru Carnival:  http://www.irn-bru-carnival.com/

Irn-Bru Carnival Inflatable Play:  http://www.irn-bru-carnival.com/inflatable-play

Irn-Bru Carnival Food & Drink:  http://www.irn-bru-carnival.com/food-and-drink

Tickets, Prices, Times, Days:   http://www.irn-bru-carnival.com/ticket-information

Win A Pair Of Tickets:  http://www.irn-bru-carnival.com/irn-bru

Directions To Carnival:  https://www.sec.co.uk/visitor-information/how-to-get-here

Irn-Bru Carnival FAQ:  http://www.irn-bru-carnival.com/faqs

Irn-Bru Carnival Social Networks:  Facebook | Twitter

Scottish Event Campus:  https://www.sec.co.uk/

Thanks For Reading

Thank you for reading this blog entry of mine to the SQ Post blog and i hope you liked it as well as found it informative too.  If you decide to go to the Irn-Bru Carnival this year, i hope you have a great time and enjoy yourself and keep safe. I will be posting again here to the blog very soon, so please give the SQ Post blog a Follow from the left of this page,  Like the SQ Post Facebook Page and Follow the SQ Post LinkedIn Page to be notified.

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#SQPost - The #IrnBruCarnival 2017 / 2018 is Coming Soon to the #SECGlasgow !! Are you getting excited yet?  I Am!  Its almost time for Europe's largest Indoor Funfair to arrive!