#excellent day of biking and beer drinking

[trivialbob]

Yesterday Sheila and I rode bikes on an 18-mile loop we like through Minneapolis. It took us three hours.

Two miles im my front tire popped. I have no idea what I ran over, but the tire was flat before I came to a stop.

Luckily I had tools, a pump, and a spare tube. It's been a while since I changed a tube. This time I accomplished the task in under five minutes, barely getting my hands dirty.

With that taken care of we re-started the ride. The Minneapolis Greenway is in better shape that previous years. The path has been repaved and re-striped. No tents were set up along the way.

When we got off the Greenway we went to one of my favorite local bike shops, Hub Bike Coop. Sheila pet the dog that was in there; I looked at bikes and bought two new tubes for spares (one for each of our bikes).

Years ago I put a Hub Bike Coop sticker on my old Corolla. Matt ended up with that car. The Hub sticker and another for the University of Wisconsin remained on the car while Matt lived in New York, Connecticut, and New Hampshire. It's a Corolla, so despite being nearly two decades years old I like to think that little blue car with my two stickers is still banging around somewhere on the east coast.

From the bike shop we pedaled south to Venn Brewing. An Australian Shepherd and three other dogs were inside. Sheila pet all of them. For her drink she ordered a Fruited Plains: Grapefruite Wheat. After taking a sip of it, I ordered the same thing. Wow, what an excellent beer on a warm day while biking.

Then we headed south and east to Lake Nokomis. There's a concession stand there where we've ordered beer before. Yesterday we saw a sign posted by the counter stating no beer and wine sales.

The place had been serving alcohol illegally for 12 years. Someone finally noticed that there isn't sufficient "covered seating" to allow beer and wine sales. Good thing after a dozen years of alcoholic chaos someone put an end to that madness and pulled the liquor license.

Still thirsty, we headed west along Minnehaha Parkway to Chicago Ave. Then it was just two blocks north to the Town Hall Tap. Sheila had a blood orange lager while I went with the Masala Mama IPA.

We sat at a table on the front sidewalk and split an appetizer. People watching was decent. Sheila, however, thought it was "people talking." She had nice comments for everyone who walked by.

"Oh I like that dress you're wearing." The woman in it was flattered and chatted with Sheila briefly.

"That's a cool tattoo." That woman also stopped to talk with Sheila, explaining how there was still a lot of coloring to be added to it and what it was going to look like. The tattoo parlor two storefronts away.

"Those are nice sandals. Are the straps a light auburn brown, or is that a darker eggshell (free range, not grocery store egg)?"

Now do you understand why it took us three hours to complete the loop?

Next door to Town Hall Tap is a theater. An old movie projector sits in front of the building. A theater employee told me it had been in use there from about 1945 to 1965.

Next to the theater is the Creekside Supper Club. As Sheila talked to everyone walking down Chicago Avenue, I went over to check the supper club's menu. Next time we are in that neighborhood I want to eat there. Maybe I can also find out how that woman's tattoo coloring is coming along.

Finally we paid our tab. Sheila said goodbye to all her new friends and acquaintances. Then we rode more of Minnehaha Parkway over to Lake Harriet where the car was parked. We thought about getting a beer at the Lake Harriet concession stand (which apparently does have sufficient covered seating). But after seeing all the bike shop and brewery dogs, we wanted to get home to our dogs.

At home we swapped two bikes for three Aussies and went to our local brewery. Sheila went to get us a beer. Oliver, Sulley, and Ella would not stop staring in the direction she went. Sheila always comes back, but they don't trust me on that.

The food truck on site served pizza. We didn't want any. The dogs had other ideas.

#grapefruit wheat #excellent day of biking and beer drinking

[haitaniapologist]

Hello June —

I'm here to drop a thought

Draken's roommate afab-reader x Inui Seishu — like she is ofcourse not a blood sibling to Draken but i feel like Draken would be such a big brother, getting cutely possessive and happy for his next door neighbour sister 😍

Like you see the promotion there babe? From next door neighbour to roommate 🥺

i couldn't help myself and not write something about this

also a kiss to @1900-aria because she's another one for the team of tr character x little sister !!!

pairings — inui seishu x afab!reader

warnings — smut, oral (m->f), kind of p*ssy drunk inui, reader is called a little sister by draken, draken is a c*ckblock (unintentionally)

NSFW CONTENT UNDER THE CUT, MINORS DO NOT INTERACT !!

seishu knew it was wrong. 

so, so wrong. but he couldn’t stop. 

draken was the one who gave him a job and a place to live, was the friend who helped him heal from his traumatic past and gave him a new passion in life. and how did he pay him? not in the usual way, like making draken take a day off from the bike shop, or buying him dinner. 

seishu paid with his head between draken’s little sister’s tighs, your moans and mewls only fueling him to continue, even if your hand was tucking his hair to make him stop, too sensitive after two orgasms. 

you weren’t draken’s real sister, like akane was to him, but he knew how his friend saw you like that. he was always proud of your conquests, proudly saying to inui whenever you excelled in an exam, and inui knew how protective he was of you — all the old toman boys knew you, of course, as you were draken’s roommate, and sometimes they did some drinking nights in your shared apartment, and seishu knew how pissed draken could get when chifuyu flirted with you, or when peh would wrap his arms around your form whenever he was feeling a bit dizzy from the beers he drank. 

but inui was like a moth, and you were a flame, and he couldn’t help but be attracted to you. 

from the very first day you appeared in the shop, saying you were an honorary ryuguji, inui knew you would be the bane of his existence. and one thing led to another, and after another friday of a reunion with the boys, you sneak inui to your room without draken, and anyone else, noticing — your lips on his as if they were glued, his hands roaming your body and your muffled gasps fulfilling the room. 

you two continued to sneak up from draken, and seishu knew how wrong that was. but he couldn't stop, you were like a drug to him, and he was addicted to your sweet taste — and not just that. he was addicted to the way your body curled against his when you two cuddled as a form of aftercare, or how your smile seemed to grow bigger whenever he was around. and he knew the feeling was mutual, then, why else would you still let him go inside your room and suck on your skin, playing with your nipples and drinking all your juices? 

“s-seishu, please, it’s too m-much.” you managed to say after the wave of another high went down, but inui’s tongue didn’t leave your clit even after that, his fingers still inside your gummy walls. “i need you inside me now, p-please.”

“not now, pretty. you can give me another one, can’t you?” you whimpered when his warm tongue encircled your clit once more, your eyes rolling to the back of your head. it was too much, but it was so good — so good that you didn’t hear the front door of your apartment opening, or draken’s ‘i’m home, y/n.’, or his footsteps coming to your door. 

only when he knocked on it, you and seishu noticed the little plan you two had thought backfired, and draken was home before he was supposed to.

“fuck.” seishu whispered, getting away from your glistening cunt and putting your panties and skirt back on their place, while draken called for you. 

“y/n, is everything okay?” draken knocked again, trying to open the door. you gave inui a panicked look — it was now or never. 

you got up from your bed. “i'm coming ken, jeez.” you tried to play it lightly while opening the door, but as soon as draken looked at his co-worker and friend sitting on your bed, dishevelled hair and red and swollen lips, you noticed his wrists clench. 

seishu noticed, too. “draken, i can—”

“‘'i can explain’, yeah? what do you need to explain?” draken asked, your feet planted on the floor so he couldn't enter your room and get in a fight with seishu. “you're fucking my little sister behind my back!” 

“that's why we never said anything to you!” you screamed before the two could enter a heated argument, draken's hand already on your shoulder to shove you off, so he could get closer to inui. “i knew you would overreact.” 

you held your hand before draken could say anything else. “i love seishu and i don't care if you don't approve.” 

you didn't notice what you said until inui cleared his throat. 

“i swear to god if you don't say you love her too, i'm gonna kill you.” draken intervened and you rolled your eyes. 

“do you approve of this or not?” you asked, quite pissed — draken ruined another orgasm for you, ruined the night you had planned with inui, and now even ruined your confession. 

“do you love her, seishu?” draken asked again, ignoring what you said. you crossed your arms and huffed, pissed at his behavior. 

but you wanted to know too. you hoped you didn't make a fool out of yourself, seeing you said something in the heat of the moment. inui surely felt something for you, but what if it wasn't love yet? what if he thought you were going too forward? 

“of course. i could talk for hours about how much i love y/n, but i guess you don't want to hear it.” seishu answered, and your cheeks became visibly red. draken gave you two as big smile — from all of his friends, he knew seishu would be the perfect match for you. and, of course, he knew inui wouldn’t be an asshole to you.

“well then, just don't have sex when i'm in the apartment.” ken commented pointing to the tent on inui’s pants and to your skirt, that was obviously not in the right place. 

“draken!”

#inui seishu x reader #inui seishu #tokyo revengers #tokyo revengers x reader #tokrev x reader #inui x reader #inui smut

[samflynn89]

Sam Flynn Bio

General Information:

Name: Sam Flynn

Nickname: Sammy or Kiddo (Usually only by Alan, his dad or his grandparents)

Age: 27

Date of Birth: July 18, 1983

Sexuality: Aroace

Appearance:

Height: 6’2”

Hair: Sandy brown, short cropped, and messy when he’s not working. When at ENCOM - or a work event - it’s styled slightly, only because he has PR people who fuss over his appearance. Often sticks up because of hair gel, and from him frequently running his hands through it. If he lets it grow out long enough, it will curl slightly, a remnant of the childhood curls he used to sport.

Skin: Light dusting of freckles along his cheeks.

Distinguishing marks: Various scars from past reckless behavior, usually thin/small enough that they blend in. Standout scars include: the cut left on his shoulder by Rinzler in the disc wars arena and a jagged scar that runs the length of his left thigh from the time he fell off his bike and sliced it open on debris in the road. His hands are usually nicked with tiny cuts from working on his motorcycle and there’s oil under his fingernails that he's hardly ever able to fully get out.

Eyes: Blue, people always said he shared that with his dad. Sam likes to think he looks closer to his mom in this regard.

Clothing: Black, grey, dark green, anything that doesn’t draw attention. Sam prefers the simplicity of a t-shirt and jeans. He often sports a leather jacket with Adidas tennis shoes.

Personality

Temperament: Impulsive. Sam often struggles to think before he acts. He’s driven by his emotions, which can be tumultuous and overwhelming at times. Due to his history with loss and abandonment, he tends to be more of an introvert. He prefers the company of his dog to that of other people. He can be charming when he needs to be, though he prefers to avoid encounters where being sociable is required.

Moral/Ethical Beliefs: Sam idolizes his father, even into adulthood, and it’s his father’s morals that have shaped Sam’s views. Sam is a firm believer that knowledge and tech (especially ENCOM tech) should be something easily accessible. Though he profits from ENCOM’s successes, he would rather give their tech away for free than keep it behind a paywall.

Hobbies: Working on his bike – Sam enjoys the feeling of putting something back together, he likes being able to look back on his work at the end of the day and see it in a better state than when he started. This mindset has also followed him into the kitchen, where Sam has found a love for cooking. After particularly stressful days, you’d find him working on the Ducati or assembling a complex dish for dinner. When he needs to give his brain a break, he reads, usually something tech or mechanic related. Sam also has a love for the ocean, or any body of water, where he can listen to the water lap against the shore and be reminded of a childhood spent skipping stones with his dad or taking walks along the shoreline with his grandparents.

Habits: Picks at the skin around his fingernails to the point that they will bleed, biting at the inside of his cheek when he’s anxious until he can feel the metallic taste of blood on his tongue. While he doesn’t drink to the point of intoxication, Sam does reach for a beer when he’s feeling overwhelmed, or anxious, telling himself he only drinks enough to take the edge off.

Likes: Alan, Marv, Quorra, riding his bike, causing general mischief and mayhem.

Dislikes: Suits, ties, corporate America, most of the ENCOM board.

Fears: Losing the last bit of his family.

Strengths: Excels at any sort of parkour or height based stunts, he has no fear of heights or of injuring himself. He’s an expert motorcyclist. He’s smart and quick on his feet when he needs to be. What he lacks in brute strength, he makes up for in agility and instinct.

Weaknesses: Analytical thinking, he’s an act before he thinks type of person. He also tends to push people away when they get to close, a defense mechanism meant to protect himself from further grief, but which only leaves him further isolated.

Short Term Goals: Take back his father’s company, rebuild his dad’s bike, help Quorra adjust to life outside of the grid.

Long Term Goals: Rebuild the grid.

Hopes and Desires: He hasn’t told anyone, not even Quorra, because he thinks admitting it out loud will make him face the impossibility of it, but he’s rebuilding the grid in hopes of bringing his dad back. He desires the comfort of familiarity and safety, something he hasn’t had since his childhood.

Occupation: ENCOM CEO, merely in title though. While he has technically taken back the company, he lacks any business acumen to lead it. He acts as a figurehead for the time being, which he hates, and is seeking a way around.

Gear

Always has: Ducati keys, chip that the grid is stored on, a picture of Marv that he keeps in his wallet and a key to Alan’s house.

Sometimes has: His motorcycle helmet, gloves and a bracelet that Quorra made for him out of scrap metal from the garage.

[haysjoseph16]

Great Hotels In Salt Lake City

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View More: topphuyenaz.com - Top Phu Yen AZ Reviewed by Team Leader in Top Phu Yen AZ: Nguyễn Hoàng Thục Quỳnh - Nguyen Hoang Thuc Quynh Written By Author in topphuyenaz.com: Nguyễn Văn Cường - Nguyen Van Cuong Written By Author in topphuyenaz.com: Phan Vĩnh Tiến - Phan Vinh Tien

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[choicehotelss]

How to Spend a Day in Downtown Knoxville TN?

Are you planning to tour Downtown Knoxville like a local? There are places that only a local would know. It would be interesting to see few spots that the locals believe are exceptionally good for the tour. When you are in Knoxville, you can travel to the Smokies and even go to Dollywood. However, there are a few things that you ought to try. Find the best hotels near Downtown Knoxville TN before you get started with your trip. • Let’s kickstart this travel with the best places to eat. There are some hidden gems that you cannot avoid while touring the place. Litton’s is an excellent burger joint where you can enjoy some exquisite burgers. You can have steak for dinners from Ye Olde Steak House. If you are looking for a conventional dinner place for family outing, Long’s Drug Store is where your search ends. • The soda fountain is the local’s favourite here. You can actually find some nice melts and malts while here. If you want to grab some pizza you can go to the tomato head. Basically, you should try everything from pizzas to burgers and pies while in the town. Find a comfortable abode in the hotels near Walter State Great Expo Centre for your comfortable stay. Make sure you find some place that is close to most of the diners. • If you are planning to enjoy some drinks night, you might want to go to honeybee coffee place. It is known for roasted beans coffee that you cannot miss. Similarly, for a beer you might want to go to bearden beer market. Balter beerworks near downtown is also a great place to grab some beers. For a good drinks night, you should visit the five thirty lounge for beer or other cocktails. • For the foodies, you cannot end the day without having some sweet treat. You might want to go to cruze farm for ice cream. Make sure you try to the pie shop for the local pie. You should not go without trying a lemon cookie at ham’n goodys. There are local delis where you can find some tea cakes to try. • Well downtown Knoxville isn’t all about having food and drinks. After booking hotels near Downtown Knoxville TN, make sure to find the time to explore the surrounding. • You can visit the Great Smoky Mountains for a day trip and enjoy some time near the rivers or creeks. If you love some park time, you might want to play soccer near Lakeshore Park. This park is also the place where you are likely to enjoy biking and walking • You should go out Fort Dickerson Park Quarry Lake where you can go for hiking and cycling. It was opened to the public in 2019. • You should hike near Mountain Leconte and Canoe Abrams Creek. It is a great way to spend a day near the mountains. It is also a great idea to visit the market square, which is one of the the largest spaces in the downtown. You will find several shops, and restaurants here. Make sure to book hotels near Walters State Great Expo Centre for your perfect stay.

[mcleodkern65]

Friendz Cafe

Located in Tukwila, Washington, Friendz Café is an excellent spot for a family dinner. The casual atmosphere and free WiFi make it an excellent choice for families. You can even sit outside during the warmer months, and there is no dress code. The menu features a variety of entrees, starters, and desserts. You can also order catering if you're having a large group. The Friendz Cafe has been frequented by Friends cast members and supporting actors. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is open seven days a week. It has a distinctly different vibe during its bar hours, so it's a good place to bring a date or just hang out with friends. You can even get a cup of coffee with a side of chocolate for only $3.50! During the day, you can enjoy an afternoon tea or a cup of coffee and take in the view of the city. It's located in a busy part of town, so you won't have to worry about parking. There are several street parking spaces near the cafe, and the cafe has bike racks for diners. It also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The cafe offers a wide variety of menu items, from classic breakfast dishes to creative dishes. If you are looking for a place to meet friends, try the Friendz Cafe in Vancouver, WA. There are many options nearby, and the one-room cafe offers a relaxing and cozy setting for business meetings. While Friendz Cafe does offer a full-service dining experience, it also offers a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails. The Friendz Cafe has been serving up coffee and food for nearly 20 years, and is a local favorite for people with disabilities. During the day, you can enjoy a cup of coffee at Friendz Cafe. The cafe is surrounded by plenty of street parking. You can also find bike racks in front of Friendz Cafe. During the night, you can enjoy a glass of wine in the lounge. Throughout the day, Friendz is a great spot for a family outing. You can spend your afternoon catching up with friends over a coffee or two. If you're looking for a place to eat in Vancouver, Washington, you should consider the Friendz Cafe. This new business venture is a wonderful addition to the neighborhood. There are many options for food and drinks available at Friendz. And if you're a coffee lover, you'll love the delicious coffee and delicious treats. The Friendz Cafe menu is updated regularly, and the prices are more affordable than ever. Friendz Cafe's mission is to create a welcoming environment for everyone. The restaurant aims to provide a positive and inclusive atmosphere for people with disabilities. During the day, it's a place for professionals to relax and unwind with friends, and it's an excellent place to socialize. There are also a few tables for kids at the bar. During the evening, the Friendz Cafe will feature an array of entertainment. Friendz Cafe is a great place for families to gather in Vancouver, WA. Its staff is welcoming, and the staff will be a perfect fit for families with children and adults with disabilities. The restaurant will also serve three meals a day, so you can make a day of it! In addition, if you're looking for a place to meet a friend, Friendz is the best place to meet. Located on 199 Lafayette Street in Vancouver, WA, the Friendz Cafe will serve both a professional and a fun atmosphere during the day. The café is open on Mondays and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and serves brunch and dinner. The Friendz Cafe's hours are ideal for both work and socializing. You can also buy a coffee to go or enjoy a night out with your friends. As an independent restaurant, Friendz has an exceptional location in Vancouver, WA. You'll find plenty of street parking nearby and bike racks for your bicycle. During the day, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a snack. In addition to coffee and tea, the cafe offers a variety of other items for sale. There are even two payment options, both of which are easy to pay online. If you're looking for a unique and relaxing atmosphere in the heart of the downtown, this is the perfect spot for you.

#Friendz Cafe #friendzcafe.org #Learn More

[seniorlivingselections01]

ASSISTED LIVING IN SEMINOLE

SEMINOLE

Seminole is a city in Pinellas County with a population of roughly 17,000 people. Its history can be traced back to the 1840s when the first colony was established in the area. The water tower, which artist Tom Stovall painted in 2000, is one of the most fantastic attractions here.

Despite its tiny size, Seminole, Florida, has a lot to offer. Here are some of the best places to visit and activities to do here:

TIME OUT SPORTS BAR

Looking for something interesting to do with your pals during your Seminole vacation? Time Out Sports Bar is a great place to meet up with friends over drinks and pool games. This no-frills hangout nook is one of the best bars in Seminole. It not only serves 20 outstanding draft beers and creative drink concoctions, but it also entertains. Pool tables, dartboards, and arcade games are available, making guests’ time here even more enjoyable. Pair your beer with the award-winning chicken wings at this sports pub. You’ll undoubtedly enjoy it.

SEMINOLE CITY PARK

Seminole City Park is a great place to unwind, de-stress, and observe nature for a day. It has large green spaces where you may have a picnic, as well as a lovely lake where ducks roam freely, adding to the attractiveness of this gorgeous park. If you’re visiting with children, they’ll enjoy this park because it has various playgrounds for them to enjoy. It also features a lakeside shelter, which is excellent for lone travelers or couples looking for peace.

DAVID’S WORLD CYCLE

David’s World Cycle is a terrific full-service bike shop with locations around the United States, including Seminole. It offers a wide range of products, such as helmets, apparel, accessories, bicycles, replacement parts, and gift cards. If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys pedaling downtown, David’s World Cycle is the place to go. For your convenience, it provides delivery services, or you can visit its actual store.

STUDIO MOVIE GRILL — SEMINOLE

Are you a movie enthusiast? Upgrade your movie-going experience by booking a seat at Studio Movie Grill — Seminole for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Studio Movie Grill — Seminole is a premium cinema with 12 auditoriums and state-of-the-art lounge chairs. Unlike traditional movie theaters, this innovative entertainment venue allows patrons to order a full meal from the on-site American Grill restaurant. Classic films, family films, and recently released flicks are all shown here. You can unwind at the lobby bar after a fun-filled day of viewing and dining with your family and friends.

WALSINGHAM PARK

If you want to unwind in the great outdoors, Walsingham Park should be on your Seminole vacation bucket list. It’s a lovely 354-acre park with a wonderful lake, hiking paths, and amenities. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, whether they enjoy trekking or fishing. Walsingham Park has eight picnic shelters and a playground. People who also want to visit the lake will be pleased to learn that it offers a fishing platform and a boat ramp. A fitness center and bathrooms are also available at the park.

ASSISTED LIVING IN SEMINOLE

Seminole is a small city with various attractions, but you can also find great nursing homes for seniors here. Let your loved ones enjoy different activities while receiving quality care from skilled professionals. With Senior Living Selections’ facilities for assisted living in Seminole, Florida, you can provide specialized care for seniors they deserve.

[mariolandavid]

Stop 2 : Penang! I didn't know much to anything about this island off the coast of Malaysia before entering the country. A bit of cursory Wikipedia research labelled this part of town as The Silicon Valley of the East, but simultaneously a backpackers paradise of unspoilt old town and charm filled cheap cafes. Like if Starbucks moved in but was best pals with your local neighbourhood cake shops instead of mercilessly grinding them to dust. I was excited for this; sounded like a vibe.

Arriving we've been greeted much more by the latter old town sort of thing, given we are staying in that part of town. This is the only kinda place where i've seen the "people on bikes" graffiti genre veer as far one way as Bansky and as far the other way as "just put mr Bean on the bike and more people will stay at the hotel". It's a beautiful place. Slow. Feels almost too quiet right now but this is a world only just post COVID. There's some way to go before what's 'normal' is back I guess. Places like this got hit bad by having to close their business for 3 years. It shows, there's a lot of shut up places. Man, it's not even just Covid, you can see the effects of the 2004 Tsunami out by the beaches. It's dumb to expect recovery from this stuff quickly and I'm glad they're open up again and the money comes back to rebuild. I'm kinda grateful to be here at all.

One thing I am not grateful for. Durian. I once left a bag of potatoes in a cupboard over a kettle for close to a year in a student flat. Over time the steam liquidised the potatoes as they gradually putrefied naturally. The smell at the end of it was close to something between death and a deep wet mould. Durian is the only thing close to that smell, and it is everywhere. It's actually banned in many public places yet appears so delicious inside that despite these things being on every street corner, & this making you appreciate how bad the whole world must smell in the Walking Dead, everyone love the taste too much to choose not to have corpse stench lightly permeate the air at all times. Good for them. I admire that mental strength. I hate durians.

We did domestic duties early on arrival. Getting the washing done, scouting around and sitting down at Tek Sen for some really good Chinese food. The adaptation from Singapore dollars to Malaysian Ringitt has taken some brain adjustments that's hard to demonstrate without reconverting everything into pounds and realising a beer now costs £1.80, not £7. A meal £2.82, not £20+. The budget might be ok after all. It's taken a lot of work and heart rending "oh god, we need a cheap day tomorrow, this is going to tip is past our average" before realising that a 90 ringitt meal is £16 and no, it's fine, you probably spend that on an aperol Spritz on a bad day back home. Chill.

Day 2 was eventful. We took the bus out to the national park via a breakfast stop off at the Toh Soon cafe. Toh Soon was a lovely little spot, but with a hell of a queue early in the morning. I felt a pang of home-sickness in that queue when the Malaysian man in front of us shouted "FUCKS SAKE" all of a sudden, apropos of nothing. It's a curiously English phrase when I think about it. I don't think i've ever heard it in another accent before.

We got a portion each of Nasi Lemak and Kaya Toast on a couple of different breads, washing everything down with the customary condensed milk laden coffee that I still can't shake the feeling is going to give me diabetes by the end of this trip. All excellent, still not a bad meal here. Because South East Asia is possibly situated next to some great cosmic steam vent, I immediately needed more fluids before the hour long bus ride so we dropped into 7/11. The door played what, on first listen might sound to the corporate morons who decreed this inflicted punishment on the poor staff who have to listen to this song everyday, to be a 'cheerful welcoming melody'. I heard this cheerful welcoming melody 6 times while in the shop buying one drink for something like 5 minutes. Some quick sums; and the poor man working behind the counter is probably there for a minimum of 8 hours a day. He must have heard that welcome jingle a minimum of 576 times in a day. If he works all week, even if it's a 5 day week, he will hear that jingle 2880 times. The suicide rate is remarkably low when considering this.

We hurtled onwards to Penang park after this interlude at 800 mph on the public bus. Seeing corners only as challenges to travel faster. When arriving, we geared up for a big hike (1 hour 15!!) to Turtle Beach, or Pentai Kerachut. We booked a return boat trip, because we're all allowed our little luxuries (and they take you to see the monkeys, come on). Walking through the jungle, you're hit by a wall of humidity and ants. You experience that true sweat that is only reserved for humid climes. The kind where things like your lip and the top of your arms even start sweating when you forgot they could. It's a lovely hike all things considered though, not too strenuous and some gorgeous beach and jungle scenery before you reach the meromictic lake where freshwater meets salt and the two are too different in density to mix. The colours are gorgeous and if you're lucky you'll see them form whirlpools twirling, ever twirling towards freedom.

We got out past the lake onto the beach and played our new favourite beach game "why can't I swim here", is it something that can kill me? Raw sewage? Perhaps lethal waves or a small undersea cliff? Well today it was multiple of these, so we stayed out of the water and continued on to the turtle sanctuary, seeing and reading about the egg laying cycles of the giant turtles on these beaches who need utter quiet, calm and peace, without any bright light to lay their eggs, or they'll simply turn back around and return to the see if they're disturbed. If you lived 100+ years, you'd think time was on your side too.

One of the things I have noticed dating a Spaniard, is that, there's a hell of a lot of Spaniards. I have found them as far aflung as the Premier Inn near Birmingham International, Westminster, local bakers in small english towns, and now here, on a boat in the middle of Malaysia, a group of 5 Catalonians became immediate best friends with Mariola because this is what Spaniards do. They were great company on the way to Monkey beach. Much friendlier than the second boat where I was nearly turfed off by a lady who insisted she had booked the entire boat privately for her family. Ah well. If Brits can do anything well, it's obstinately stand your ground when a small piece of official paper tells you you're in the right. So we stayed on that damn boat.

We had however spent all of our bus money on crisps on Monkey beach. This was a mistake & one I do not encourage. We needed to walk 5km to various hotels imploring people to try and call us cabs and furiously refreshing Grab. After multiple tries, an argument with 2 bus drivers eating dinner and a short rest in a 5 star hotel car park, we were saved by the lovely valet staff of the hotel Ansanga who managed to find us a cab home. This was 10x more expensive than the bus. Please learn from our mistakes and resist those island crisps. Keep some cash handy at all times!

We rounded off the day once we got back and showered with a late dinner at Tem Xim (Penang surprisingly has pretty limited food options past 9pm.. the local population prefers rising early and eating earlier.. look to eat between 6-8pm for the best options!)

The woman who owns Tem Xim, a thai charcoal bbq joint, is likely on some sort of wall somewhere alongside Mother Theresa, Marie Curie & Florence Nightingale. The woman's an artist at hospitality. She saw two floundering hangry westerners staring at chili sauce in beffudlement as to whether it would blow our face off or not and took pity. She was particularly informative and nice in helping us around the menu and it's one of the better dining experiences I think we'll have all trip not just for the quality of food, but also how genuinely kind everyone was. You can tell she does this a lot by the fact she's racked up 300+ 5* Google reviews, most of which mention her explicitly. Good on ya love, you've got one more from me. Hit up Tem Xim anyone reading this and visiting Georgetown.

Our last full day took us from our original plans to go to Penang Hill onto the Kek Lok Si temple instead because, oh boy, when it rains here, it rains. We had a pretty fantastic trip around all things considered and it's a stunning temple, only recently built in the 19th century, but built to impress with grand enormous 70ft tall statues, 7 story pagodas and seals of approval from Beijing about its status amongst Chinese temples. It's well worth a visit and if you want to you could combined it with a trip to Penang Hill to get the views quite easily for a jam packed day. We then did the customary 'eat absolutely everything' food tour, hitting up all the local favourites of Wanton Mee, Char Kaoy Teow, Apom, Lok Lok and Cendol because we are those people, and try and keep me away from weird novelty food. I will eat you.

It's been hard to get away from a fact that Penang doesn't feel quite recovered yet. There's people here, but it feels a bit stunted. Like the energy is yet to return fullly as the place isn't quite full. It's wonderful for a bit of pece and the lack of crowds is something we should be happy about but Georgetown is definitely somewhere I could feel like you could appear, without a purpose, without a clear sense of anything, and have a wicked time simply being. Come for 2 weeks, forget about everything, eat like a king for £3 and forget life happens outside this island. It's back to city life in Kuala Lumpur after this, but i've liked this sleepy little town and recommend it to anyone.

Signing off - DW

[rentcampervan]

Bars to Ring in the Night in Queenstown

Queenstown is known for its incredible and jaw-dropping night scene. The incredible nightlife is what everyone raves about after moving away from this town. If you are exploring this part of New Zealand in your campervan rental Queenstown, and want to stop by for some good food and nice drinks, there are plenty of bars at your disposal. These bars are known for their ambiance, the way they conduct themselves and of course the good food. So, if you are ready to explore, we are ready with our curated list. 1.    The Lodge Bar: This is one of the most sophisticated and stylish places in Queenstown. The way it has been designed is apt for those who want a good drink while going over their day. You can call for one of their delightful cocktails or sip on a glass of wine from their exceptional collection. It faces the Lake WAkatipu, which makes the whole scene all the more good, especially in the night. Apart from the nicely done wine list, you also have an excellent variety of food on their menu. It includes everthing from chees platter to confit pork belly. 2.    Ferg’s Bar: This is an interesting bar, one that you cannot stay away from visiting. When you enter this place, you find a nice cosy little place where you can snuggle up for a drink. There are a total of 40 signature drinks on their menu available for you to choose from. These include gin, mocktails, wines, beers and cocktails. Find a park spot for your motorhome hire Queenstown before you enter. You can have their classy cocktails, all of which use homemade ingredients. You can pair their drinks with oysters or fried chicken, and you are good to go. 3.    Little Blackwood: This little bar is located along the Lake Wakatipu inside the Wharf steamer. It shares one of the best views in the town. It is also said to be the favorite spot for the locals. If you want to get a drink after a hard day at work or, just want to relax with good food, you can take resort at this place. Just make sure you have  aplace for the campervan rental Queenstown. Their delightful drinks such as Japanese Garden, Brown Beer and others will make you crave for some more. When it is cold outside, wine can help you. They serve some fingerlicking delights such as pizzas, cheese platters and quality meat. 4.    Atlas Beer Café: If you want a beer and are up for craft beers, then you should visit this café. It serves some interesting varieties of craft beer, and is one of the local favorites. This is the bar that hosts the mountain bike mayhem during the summers. As it is located along the lake, it is perfect for all seasons. You can grab a drink, sit on the grasslands and enjoy the good view. Apart from the beer, they are famous for their steaks. 5.    Upstairs at the Bunker: this is one of the bars that has been there for the longest time ever. They offer hand shaken cocktails, and have some of the best wines on their list. The cosy indoors combined with the sophisticated places to sit, makes it the perfect bar. They serve food with some good in-house live music. you will find a place to park your motorhome hire Queenstown.

[trivialbob]

Happy Hour Wednesday

Sheila and I live not far from a small ski/snowboard hill and a ski jump. This evening we biked over there.

The chalet doesn't close in the summer. People can play frisbee golf on the hill or hit golf balls up it, then retire to some food and drink. Years ago I sometimes rode my mountain bike from the nearby trails then down the hill.

Good times.

The sun beat down pretty hard on the chalet patio. I'm not a frequent sunglasses user. After bitching about the brightness for a bit I asked to try on Sheila's sunglasses. Why do I have to suffer when she can? The glasses have those clear/frosted frames that seem to be popular. I like them.

We decided not to order food at the chalet (even though I like the egg rolls with Thai peanut sauce). There's a brewery (with a kitchen) not far away. We pedaled over there. As we played cards and drank beer we split a burger and fries.

The brewery's food was excellent. I liked my Caramel Frap, a coffee brown ale too.

For cards we play a game called Five Crowns. There's a special deck for this game with five suits. Sheila keeps a little piece of paper with the deck. She meticulously records wins and losses on it. Because she has more wins than I do, Sheila closely guards that little scrap.

On the way home we passed a machine shop where I worked one summer during college summer break. I drove a fork lift, moving large tubs of metal shavings from a centrifuge (which removed lubricating oil) to huge recycling bins. God help you if you put brass shavings in the steel bin!

I worked 3PM to 11PM, six days a week. I loved the overtime pay. It was dirty, filthy work but I did not mind it. That entire summer I never received a single work email. It was 1986, so no one had email yet.

Yes, good times.

[hyperionswrath--archived]

The only warning he among a couple other pedestrians had was an unholy scream before the disaster unfolded. Aerith had been riding her faithful old bicycle downhill and made to initiate a smooth turn into one of the smaller streets of the crown city when the chain snapped. She jerked the handlebars with an initial reaction of surprise, not entirely knowing what had happened but hearing something that didn't bode well. With the pedal brake rendered useless she was the equivalent of a high-speed projectile now... and not a rational one, had she been thinking she would have gained back control and continued into the side street faster than she had prepared for.

In that moment of panic she lost control with the one warning scream they all had to clue them into something being very wrong. The wayward young woman fell onto the gravel in such an awkward way that she skinned up the back of one leg and the side of the other along with her hands. But worse, the bicycle traveled on, hitting the gutter and sending it into a dangerous flip with the potential to hit him along with other innocent bystanders in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Afternoons in the Crown City meant two things for Seifer Almasy: The end of his shift and his obligatory afternoon beer. Of course just to celebrate surviving another day dealing with the dipshits of the Kingsglaive that were not Luche or Tredd. Honestly, who could stay sober with those untalented fucks all around getting themselves either killed off or being too busy crawling up their so-called Heroes ass? Scoffing, Seifer smashed a yen bill onto the counter and grabbed the provided cool can, opening it with a pleasing fizzling sound. Life was good right now. The sun was about to set, the entire night just before him to booze up and get his mind off things that shouldn’t be occupying space there anyway, and - Just when he had lifted the can to his mouth he heard the ruckus break out somewhere behind him. Frowning, he had just enough time to make an instinctual jump to his right, crashing into a young man who was just ordering his own things from the small and overstuffed sales booth, sending him toppling down to the pavement by his sheer tall, muscular form alone (and well, maybe because of his elbow landing uncomfortably close to the poor guy’s ribcage). What the fuck?! Not bothering with the cursing figure to his feet or the flabbergasted looks of everyone around, Seifer turned just in time to see what positively looked like a bike crash into the booth, sending items flying left and right as the front wheel got stuck in the small space where the vendor’s head had been seconds ago. The tall blond blinked. Once, twice, then leaned forward to see if said vendor had been smashed in the face. Apparently that wasn’t the case since he immediately re-appeared, cursing in what seemed to be three languages at least while he yanked at the wheel, trying to pry it from his precious booth and at the same time busy with inspecting the damage it had done to his wares. Not being able to help himself, Seifer chuckled, the chaos of it all being just to his liking. Not so much however did he appreciate the fact that his maneuver had sent his beer flying, landing somewhere on the ground behind him and spilling it’s desirable contents while part of the same trickled down his Kingsglaive uniform. Good thing it was made of leather. Shaking his hand to rid it from the worst of the wet, foamy drink that had spilled there, Seifer glanced around to find the root of the bicycle attack, spotting it in form of a small and rather worse for wear looking girl on the floor. Ah. Excellent. Mind set to what he’d do next, the tall blond turned towards the booth again and grabbed the bike, rather unceremoniously yanking it free from it’s imprisonment and hoisting it up over his shoulder, before he wandered over to the brunet on the floor, coming to stand before her, looming. “I hope ya plan to buy me a new beer?” He cocked his head to the side, smirking, bike still safe in his grip as he quirked a brow in anticipation of an answer.

#.starters answered #.listen here madam HOW DARE YOU HAVE AN ACCIDENT #.the good beer - wasted! #.he's such a show off too... #.thanks for sending this in!

[justahopelessssromantic]

A/N: Thank you all so much for all the love on this story! It really means so very much to me! I’m so excited to share more with you ❤️ Here’s part 2! I hope you enjoy and please let me know what you think ☺️

Angel never really knew about Monica growing up. Sure they grew up in the same town but with the five year difference between them he never really knew who she was, that was until he began prospecting for the Mayans MC.

The first time he saw her he couldn't take his eyes off her. She was beautiful and he swore his heart skipped a beat when she looked his way and smiled but maybe that was just his inner hopeless romantic talking.

He wanted to ask her out, hell all the prospects did and Taza knew that. It was like he could read their minds or maybe it was just because this wasn't the first group of prospects who had their eyes on the Mayan's princess.

Stepping up behind them he clapped Angel and Gilly on the shoulders holding them tight. "Beautiful isn't she?" He never gave them a chance to answer. "I know what you're thinking, don't. She's off limits boys. Now get back to work." He finished with giving them a shove in the direction of the line of the bikes to be washed.

Angel wasn't stupid. He knew to listen to the older Mayan. If he wanted any chance of becoming a full patched member then he had to focus on the club and try to keep his mind off her, but damn was that hard.

It became a little easier once Derek entered the picture. Monica fell hard and fast for him, Angel could see why, he was a great guy. He treated her well and respected the club. He was good to her and that’s all he really cared about. Then seemingly out of nowhere they had broken up. Monica never spoke about what happened between them but Angel could tell whatever it was wasn't good.

It was only about a little over a year after that that Monica got pregnant. She never told anyone who the father was no matter how much they asked. All she told them was that it didn't matter, she was determined to raise her on her own.

She had the club to help support her, that was enough.

After a while everyone just stopped asking. It didn’t really matter in the end anyways. Soon it wasn’t even a thought. Maddie had her mother, grandfather, and she had all her tios within the club. Maybe she didn’t have a conventional family but she did have a family who loved her and would lay their life down for her.

That’s all anyone really needs.

Angel just finished his shift at the scrapyard for the day. He traded his work shirt for his kutte on his way to the clubhouse. He got to the door just before Monica and Maddie as they just arrived. Holding the door open for them he entered behind them.

“Thank you Angel!” Maddie smiled back at him before running off towards Hank, Bishop, and Taza sitting in the back of the room.

Angel smiled watching Maddie run off. He glanced over to find Monica doing the same thing. God, was her smile breathtaking. He then glanced down to the purple backpack in Monica’s hands. He nodded down to it once she turned her attention to him. “Maddie staying with Hank tonight?”

“Yeah she is, It’s just easier for party planning.” She explained. And she had her blind date tonight but she didn’t want everyone to know that. Monica placed the bag down onto the table besides them making sure Hank saw where she placed it. “I’d love to stay and hang out but I really better get going. I told Vicky I was going to stop by before heading home to check out the cake.”

Gilly was listening in to the conversation from where he was behind the bar. “You’re leaving already? Can’t you at least stay for one drink?” He pulled out a beer waving it at her. He could usually convince her to stay for one.

“No, unfortunately I can’t. Next time I will.” She promised. Gilly pouted making a show of it as he cracked open the beer for himself. Monica rolled her eyes laughing before reaching for the door knob which Angel had already had being one step ahead of her.

“I’ll see you tomorrow Maddie.” She called out to Maddie who was now playing cards with Riz. “You be good for grandpa and make sure you keep these guys out of trouble.”

“Okay!” Maddie called back with a grin. “Love you!”

“Love you too!” She called back blowing her a kiss which Maddie dramatically caught.

Angel opened the door for Monica seeing her out. He followed her to the steps where he stopped to light up a cigarette He watched her walk away just as Coco pulled back into the yard. Coco gave her a nod and she gave him a wave as they crossed paths.

Coco parked his bike and slipped his helmet off shaking out his hair with his hands a little after doing so. He met Angel on the top of the steps who had a cigarette extended towards him.

“Everything good?” Angel asked him. He watched Coco light up his cigarette and take a drag before he answered.

“Yeah, everything’s good.” Coco replied plainly. He just got back from the other side with the rebels.

“Good.” Angel nodded, taking another drag of his own cigarette.

The two leaned against the railing looking out around their home. They both knew getting involved with the rebels was risky but it was a risk they would have to take for their club, their family.

****

Monica watched Vicky leaning against the counter as she smoothed the white icing around the cake. Vicky was making a special unicorn cake with blues, pinks, and purple colors for Maddie’s birthday. One thing many people didn’t know about her was she was an excellent cake decorator and made the very best cakes in town. She was also just an excellent baker in general.

Monica smiled watching her in awe. “That looks amazing Vicky. Maddie is going to love it.”

“She better.” Vicky teased. She finished smoothing it out before stepping back to admire her own work.

Next to the cake was a tray of vanilla cupcakes, some with purple icing and some with pink icing. Reaching over Monica grabbed for one of the purple ones earning a swat to her hand.

“Don’t even think about it. Those are for the party and you know better.” Vicky scolded her. Sometimes she still saw that little girl from all those years ago.

Monica pouted. “Can’t I just have one? Please.” She begged, folding her hands together.

Vicky rolled her eyes. “Some things really never change.” She mumbled under her breath. Taking the cupcake Monica was after she handed it to her. “Fine, just the one.”

Monica peeled the wrapper away. “That’s all I wanted.” She happily took a bite giving a moan of approval as she sat back. “This is delicious.”

“I know.” Vicky smirked.

Monica sat enjoying her cupcake as her mind began to wonder. The other night’s conversation with Maddie kept finding its way into her mind. She looked down at the cupcake for a few moments fiddling with the paper around it. Sighing, she looked back up at Vicky.

Vicky wiped her hands off on a wet washcloth. She sat down next to Monica placing her hand on her shoulder, she knew that look. “What’s wrong baby?”

“Maddie asked me about her father last night.” She blurted.

“Well you knew this day would come eventually. You and Coco both knew that.”

Vicky was the one and only person who Monica told about Coco being Maddie’s father. Vicky was like a mother to her, she always knew she could trust her with anything. She needed just one person to know and there wasn’t anyone else she would have rather shared with. It was only right, Vicky was the one who was there for her for everything while she was pregnant.

“Yeah, we did.” She knew that. “I was just hoping I would have a little more time I guess.”

“That’s the wonder of children.” Vicky laughed lightly, “They always keep you on your toes, making you deal with things you don’t want to or don’t think you are ready for.”

She had that right.

“Ooh cupcakes!” Lydia came in behind the two diverting their attention from the conversation to her. She grabbed a cupcake for herself grinning.

Vicky smacked her arm playfully. “You two can’t wait one day?”

Monica and Lydia made eye contact before bursting out in laughter. “Nope." They said in unison.

Lydia and Monica became fast friends when Lydia first started working for Vicky. The connection was instant between them. It was as if they had been friends forever. Vicky used to tease them for being inseparable.

“Vicky these are the best things I’ve ever tasted.” Lydia said through a mouthful.

“Thank you.” Vicky smiled leaning into Lydia’s kiss to her cheek. “You two flatter me.”

“I keep telling you you should open your own bakery. People would pay good money for these.” Monica held up her cupcake motioning to the cake beside them. She scooped some frosting on her finger.

“And I keep telling you I don’t want to kill my hobby by trying to profit from it. I love it too much to do that to it.” Vicky looked back at the beautiful cake. “Getting to bake for my family is good enough for me. I love being able to share with you all and getting to see your smiles, that’s payment enough for me.”

“Well Maddie does have the most rewarding smile. You’re sure to get that tomorrow.” Monica always thought Maddie had Coco’s smile. Every time she smiled it would take her back a minute. “It’s a shame it’s all going to be destroyed tomorrow.”

“That’s what pictures are for!” Lydia piped in after she finished her cupcake tossing the wrapper. “Thank you so much for the treat Vicky and the company ladies. I’m afraid better get going though.” Brushing her hands off she then gave Vicky a hug before Monica. “I’ll see you two tomorrow.”

“You’re not working tonight?” Monica asked before she could get far. As far as she knew Lydia had to work tonight. That’s why she couldn’t help Monica with party set up tonight.

Lydia cursed herself. Putting on a smile she quickly found an excuse. “I did but then Candace wanted to trade the nights with me. I guess she has to take her mother out of town to a specialist on Monday.” It was complete bulshit and Vicky knew that. Lydia tried to keep her eye contact on Monica and not look to Vicky. “I can still come over tonight if you want.” Lydia offered knowing she really couldn’t. She hoped Monica would pass her up on that offer.

“No, that’s okay.” Monica gave her a smile. She would much rather ditch Luke for Lydia but she wasn’t going to be that person. “I’ll see you tomorrow. Have a good night Lydia.”

“You too.” Lydia blew a kiss in their direction before disappearing out of the kitchen.

Vicky watched Lydia through the doorway until she was completely out of sight. When she turned back to Monica Monica had her arms crossed and eyebrow raised.

“Are you going to tell me what’s going on there? Because I know for a fact Candace didn’t ask Lydia to switch.” She just talked to Candace the other day. Her mother was doing fine. She would have said something but she wasn’t wanting a confrontation with her tonight.

“What do you think it’s about? It’s a man, like always with her.” Vicky tried to wave it off.

“She hasn’t said anything to me about a man.” Monica frowned. She thought she and Lydia shared everything.

“That’s because she doesn’t want you to know because she knows you wouldn’t approve.” Vicky didn’t even approve of Michael but trying to talk sense into the young vibrant girl was impossible.

Monica huffed sitting back. “Well if I wouldn’t approve then she knows she shouldn’t be wasting her time.”

“She’s in love Monica, you know what that’s like.” Vicky didn’t approve but she also knew she couldn’t police who her girls spent time with off the clock.

“In love?! Fuck, how long has she been seeing this guy?” Lydia couldn’t be in love. She would have said something to Monica. Monica would have noticed some change, she would have. “Who is this guy?”

“He’s a client. A pretty, rich boy.” Vicky had met Michael plenty of times as he came through. He started off as a regular with Sierra, then he started seeing Lydia and made it a point to only come to her. Shortly after Lydia started seeing him outside of work. It was a disaster waiting to happen in Vicky’s opinion. She tried to warn Lydia but she just didn’t want to listen. “She’s been seeing him outside of work about a couple of months now.”

Monica let out a bitter laugh. “A client? Of course he’s a client.” She huffed rolling her eyes.

“I know, trust me I know.” Vicky sighed. She grabbed Monica’s hand in hers. “Now isn’t the time to lecture her. I already tried.”

“She’s gonna get hurt and I’m gonna be the one left cleaning up the mess.” Monica muttered. It wouldn’t be the first time Monica had picked Lydia back up after a man broke her heart.

“She’s very lucky to have you.” Vicky tried to comfort her and gave her a warm smile.

Monica glanced back at the clock on the wall behind Vicky. She didn’t have time for this. “There’s nothing I can do about it now plus I really need to go or I’m going to be late.” She stood from her seat followed by Vicky.

“Late?” Vicky asked, quirking an eyebrow.

“I may have a date tonight.” Monica said quietly looking at her feet. She looked back up to Vicky who was standing there with the biggest smile on her face. “You can’t tell anyone.”

“You never have to worry about that.” Vicky grabbed Momica’s arm as they walked towards the front. “So, a date? With who?”

“Alex set me up on a blind date. If I didn’t agree I’m sure the next step for her would be to sign me up for Tinder and there is no way in hell that is happening. The last thing I want is to see all the guys from the club on there.” Monica laughed. She didn’t know if any of the guys had Tinder but it wouldn’t surprise her. “Or for them to see me on there. His name is Luke, he’s handsome.” They stopped at the door and Monica showed Vicky a picture of Luke that Alex had sent her.

“He’s not just handsome he’s hot.” Vicky smirked holding the phone so she could get a closer look. “Where are you going?”

“Just the cute little italian place downtown.” The restaurant was casual enough but also nice enough for a first date. Not too much but just right, at least that was what Alex said.

“And what are you going to wear?”

Monica chewed on her lip. She hadn’t exactly thought that far ahead. “Um, I’m not sure.”

“Wear that little black dress you picked up the last time we went shopping.” Vicky suggested. “And the gold hoops I gave you for your birthday.”

Monica smiled giving Vicky a hug. “Thank you.” She mumbled into the embrace.

Vicky held her tight a moment before pulling back holding her a little longer as she took in the beautiful young woman before her. She was proud of Monica for actually going out on the date. “Good luck, he’s not gonna know what hit him when he sees you.”

Monica’s cheeks heated up as she smiled. Her confidence about the date improved a little with Vicky. She always knew just what to say to her to make her feel more at ease in any situation. “Thank you mom.” She murmured leaving a kiss to Vicky’s cheek. She then headed for the door to head home to get ready for the night. Thankfully she was a little more prepared now.

Back at home Monica checked her reflection one more time as she slipped the gold hoop earrings in. She had curled her hair letting her dark locks lay down and loose. Her makeup was light. She opted for just the basics, a little foundation, blush, mascara, and light gloss on her lips. She looked good, not too overmade up but still enough to notice.

It was just one date she reminded herself. She had been on plenty of dates before, this was no different.

Except it was.

She hadn’t been on a real date in at least two years now. She tried to date after Maddie was born but each man left after finding out she was a single mother and that Maddie would always come first. It was frustrating but Monica had gotten used to it. At the end of the day she’d rather have them run off before she or especially Maddie could get too attached. That would only make it more painful.

She stepped back from the mirror and smoothed out the little black dress Vicky had suggested. It was flowy, light, and flattering. The material moved with her as she walked down the hall. Slipping on her black flats at the door she grabbed her purse and keys before heading out locking up behind her.

Monica sat at a back booth in the small restaurant. She ran her finger around the rim of her drink as she waited. She checked her phone and huffed. She had been there an hour now and Luke so far was a no show. She knew she should have never agreed to being set up on a blind date.

Monica sent another text to Alex. She would give him another fifteen minutes but after that she was done.

The kind young waitress stopped by her table for probably the fifth time now. “Can I get you anything else?” She asked.

Monica hated the pitying look the girl wore. She needed to get out of here.“No, thank you. I’ll just take the check please.” She said politely. She had enough. It was time to just face it, she had been stood up.

Thankfully the girl got the check to her rather quickly bringing another loaf of bread with her for Monica to take home, on the house. Monica finished off her drink then made her way straight for the exit after paying. She couldn’t wait to be home.

“Monica?”

Monica looked over to the waiting area where she heard her name come from. That’s where she found Angel. “Angel? What are you doing here?”

Angel looked over Monica in her dress and all made up. She looked beautiful. “You on a date?” He couldn’t see why else she would be all dolled up. He wouldn’t lie to himself, the thought of Monica being out with some other man made him insanely jealous. He wanted to be the man taking her out, the man she dressed up for, the man who would treat her like the queen she was.

“Yes, I was, but he never showed.” She admitted. She felt like an idiot. “Are you?” She asked eyeballing his outfit. He was still in his usual attire, kutte and all.

Angel felt a little guilty for how relieved he was to hear the fucker didn’t show. He hoped she couldn’t tell. At the same time he was pissed that anyone would leave her waiting like that. “His loss,” he gave her a smile. He watched her tuck a strand of hair behind her ear as she gave him a small smile back. He couldn’t help himself, he found his gaze lingering a little too long on her neck.

Angel cleared his throat gathering his thoughts, “Nah,” he said, licking his lips, “just picking up some food, gonna take it over to Pops and have dinner there.” He tried to play it cool.

“That sounds nice. The bread here is fantastic.” She commented. She would know, she only had about two loaves as she waited on Luke.

“You’re more than welcome to join us.” Angel offered. “We ordered plenty of food. Pops and EZ wouldn’t mind.”

“Thank you, Angel. That’s very sweet of you.” Monica knew what he was doing. She appreciated it but she didn’t want to be pitied anymore. She would much rather go home and wallow in the embarrassment there. “But I think I’d rather just go home, run a bath and listen to my favorite true crime podcast or something. I still need to prepare for the party tomorrow anyways.”

Angel nodded. He understood her not wanting to but he had to offer. “EZ and I are going to bring the play set over in the morning. We’ll help set it up before the party.” For Maddie’s birthday everyone in the club pitched in to get her a play set fully decked out with a swing set, slide, and jungle gym for their backyard.

“Sounds like a plan.” Monica gave him a smile, “Maddie is going to love it.” She then leaned in to give him a quick hug before parting. “Have a good night Angel and tell Felipe and EZ I said hi. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“You too, querida.” Angel got out just before Monica exited the restaurant. He watched her all the way until she got to her vehicle before realizing the hostess at the front had his food ready and waiting for him to take home.

Tag List: @carlaangel86 @starrynite7114 @mayans-sauce @capnsaveahoe @creepingfromthecorners @scuzmunkie

#made to love you #angel reyes fanfiction #mayans mc fanfiction #angel reyes x oc #mayans mc x oc #angel reyes #mayans mc #coco cruz #hank tranq loza

[cherry-gemz]

City by the Bay: Part II

Summary: Fates push you and a handsome and known stranger into each other's paths. His chilvary and good looks make you take a leap into his world and more.

Pairing: Keanu Reeves x Y/N (F!Reader)

Word Count: 1200+/-

Rating: PG, fluff

A/N: First time taking a try on a Keanu fic, be nice, please! This little ficlet will have more chapters, hope you enjoy. Appreciate comments or feedback 💜.

---------------------------------------

The roar of the motorcycle muted any fear of riding for the first time. The exhilaration of zipping through the city and the fact that your arms were around the handsome actor was enough to make you swoon. 

As you pressed your face against the black leather jacket, the coolness tingled your cheek. You were becoming slightly chilly thanks to the spilled drink earlier and the breeze of the bay air nipped at your nose. 

Keanu motioned the motorcycle down Pine Street and made a few turns to familiar spots. However as he turned up Temple street, there was a back alley that you never would have noticed and it led up a long and windy hill. He zipped by and before you knew it, you were on the 101-N and your heart raced. 

You quickly shut your eyes as you travelled the freeway and what seemed like an eternity, the compact architecture of the city disappeared and the road widened. Many trees aligned the path and after a left turn, he slowed the bike down and approached a fairly large driveway. 

At the top of the driveway was a gorgeous, hidden, two story house. There was redwood sliding on the exterior and large windows that showcased a large oak tree, making the 1960's era home feel like a treehouse of sorts. 

You gasp at the sight of the structure and the bike comes to a stop. Keanu turns off the engine and you hop off and unbuckle the helmet, handing it to him. 

"Wow," is all you could mutter as you gawk at the house. "Your house...it's unbelievable."

"Thanks," he replies as he tucks the helmet by his hip. "Only renting the place while I finish up a project. But I am partial to it. See that oak tree?"

You nod as you follow him to the front door and he enters the foyer. 

"Well the tree was repurposed, it would have died otherwise. Makes it seem like we are above the treetops, overlooking the bay." He points to a large window and you can see the closest house is about a good quarter mile away. 

He sets his helmet on the walnut table and the retractable sliding glass doors from the dining allow the sunlight to peer in with ease. 

"It's really remarkable."

He turns to you, "I am extremely rude. I haven't even asked you for your name."

"Y/N," you smile and he heads to the fridge. 

"Y/N, he repeats as he pulls out some bottled water. "That's a lovely name." 

"Thank you, it's within the family."

"Very cool," he hands you a water bottle and you graciously accept. 

"Where are my manners?" He says as he shakes his head. "Let me bring you a shirt so you can change. Make yourself at home."

You nod as he quickly disappears and you wander around. You notice a few trinkets here and there, mail, one or two empty beer bottles. But other than that it's fairly minimalist. You open the sliding door to the wrap around balcony and admire the city that you lived in all your life. Seeing a different perspective for the first time, you smile and shake your head at your inability to comprehend you are in Keanu's house. You've met Keanu Reeves. A star who you've admired and dreamt about. 

He's obviously dashing and attractive, but you don't know if you're mixing up his kindness with your enthusiasm of meeting him. You expect that this moment will be short lived and you'll be back at stocking books at the bookstore. 

A tap on your shoulder startles you and you jump slightly. He's holding his hands up jokingly and hands you a black t-shirt. 

"I come in peace," he jokes. 

"I'm sorry! I was in deep thought," you reply as you accept the shirt. 

"Yeah, looked like you were someplace else."

"What? Oh no, there's nowhere else I'd want to be," you smile. 

He smiles back, "I am a person who always wants to be somewhere else."

You give him a look of confusion. 

"David Levithan?" He responds. 

"What?" 

"Were you quoting him?"

You laugh heartily, "No, I wish I was that cool. I do know him...err of him. His writings, that is."

God, are you always this tongue tied when speaking to the opposite sex? Or is it just the gorgeous man before your eyes? Gotta be the latter.

"Ah so you're a reader…" he motions you to follow him back inside. 

"I mean, I read yes. I work in a bookstore off Van Ness."

"Books, Inc.?" The two of you walk into the adjorning room and you notice that it's much more furnished and cozy. 

"Yeah...you know it?" You run your hands across the spines of books on a shelf. You peruse the authors: Tolkien, Dostoyevsky, Dumas, Proust. 

"I have found myself there from time to time. Surprised I haven't seen you though." 

"I work there part-time. I'm really a chef, well a pop-up chef."

"Is that what the cool kids are calling themselves these days?"

You laugh, "What?"

"Don't mind me," he rubs the stubble of chin and looks at his book collection, seeming to search for one in particular. 

"Pop-up...like a supper club? It's a way that I can still work without having to go bankrupt in the city. I can't necessarily afford a restaurant and all with my salary. Plus it gives me the flexibility."

He still scans the books and then stops to a light blue cover. He tickles the spine with his slender fingers and pulls the hardcover out. "Have you read this?"

He hands the book to you and you read, "Molecular Gastronomy…?"

"Yeah!" He exclaims excitedly and he starts talking with his hands. "It's written by this fantastic French chemist and how he collaborates with French Chef, Pierre Gagnaire. It's...out of this world." 

"I can't say I've read it," you reply and read the back print. 

"Take it! I think you'll love it. Or I'd like you to tell me what you think."

"Thank you, yeah I'll totally give it a go."

"Excellent," he smiles and you can't help but stifle a giggle from one of his famous movie quotes. 

He notices and blushes, "Sorry, I...that came out weird, didn't it?"

"A bit, but it was entertaining," you laugh. 

He rubs the back of his neck, "I can't seem to comprehend words or construct them when I'm around a beautiful woman."

"I'm going to pretend you didn't say that..." you say shyly as you hug the book against your chest. You realize you're still in your stained blouse and look down. 

"What? No...sorry...look I don't want you think I'm some weirdo. I never just bump into someone and then bring them back to my house...I just felt like I knew you or felt comfortable around you…" he rambles. 

"It's okay, I don't ever just jump on a motorcycle with a hot stranger."

"Hot, huh?" He smirks and gets you flustered. 

"Uhhh...is there a bathroom where I can change my shirt?"

"Yeah...just around the corner. Did you...did you want to hang out for a bit? I mean, I didn't know if you were headed somewhere before I spilled your drink. What am I thinking? Of course you were off somewhere…"

"Are you always like this?" You giggle as you turn to head to the hall. He's earnest and it just makes you like him more.

"Like what?" 

"Nevermind, I'll be right back," you reply coyly. "And...I didn't have any plans today...I'd love to hang out."

#keanu reeves #keanu reeves x reader #keanu reeves imagine #keanu reeves fanfiction #keanu reeves fanfic #keanu x female reader #romance #san fransico #the city by the bay

[madamewriterofwrongs]

911 Week: Free Choice

Day 1 Fluff

Day 2 Fun

Day 3 Hurt

Day 4 Love

Day 5 Comfort

Day 6 Angst

Later, they would blame the alcohol flowing through their system. The truth was, it was inevitable.

Eddie slammed his half-empty glass on the table with finality. “No, I am not playing Fuck, Marry, Kill with my co-workers. That’s incredibly inappropriate.”

From beside him, Buck scoffed, bumping his shoulder. “Come on, Eddie, we’re off the clock and if it will keep Chimney from doing more baby research, I’m willing to try anything.” He shrugged, ignoring Chimney’s look of indignation, and hoping his own face reflected the same puppy dog pout that got him a new bike when he was 12. “We’re just friends having a drink and talking in fun hypotheticals.”

“Yeah, Eddie.” Hen smirked with a mocking tone in her voice. “Fun hypotheticals.”

Eddie narrowed his eyes, growing ever suspicious of his friend’s motives. As with most things when it came to the three of them, Eddie surrendered with a sigh. “Fine. But I’m not going first.” He was definitely not going to reveal his choices yet. Not until he’d heard the others. “Hen, of the three of us, who would you Fuck, Marry, and Kill.”

“Easy” she answered without hesitation. “Fuck Eddie, Marry Chimney, Kill Buck.”

Buck clutched his heart in a wounded show. “Hey! That was way too easy for you to kill me.”

Hen only shrugged. “Sorry, baby face, I know where your hands have been.”

Alright, the game was officially on. “Wow. Fine, I’ll go. Fuck Chimney, Marry Eddie, Kill Hen.”

Chimney pointed with his glass, ruefully disappointed at its emptiness. “Careful, Buckaroo, we’re practically in-laws.”

“Ooh, good point.” Buck winced. “I don’t want my sister’s sloppy seconds.” After a moment of consideration, he shrugged and put his own glass to his lips. “Eh, I still want to kill Hen. Go.”

The paramedic rolled his eyes by acquiesced. “Okay… hmm. I gotta go with Fuck Buck, Marry Hen, Kill Eddie.” At Eddie’s faux-offended expression, he patted the man on the arm. “Maddie would never forgive me if I killed her brother. Gotta take one for the team.”

“I’m touched.” Buck responded flatly.

Hen waved off the inevitable bickering that would start between the boys, to turn her attention to the last player. “Alright Eddie, you made us all go before you. What d’you got?”

“Buck.” Eddie finished off his drink before he could second guess his answer.

Chimney figured he already knew the answer but had to ask, if only to see Eddie blush. “To Fuck, Marry or Kill?”

“Yes.”

Apparently, Buck had not known that would be his answer. “You want to Fuck, Marry, and Kill me?”

“Frequently.” Eddie’s eyes went comically wide for a moment before he stared into the bottom of his glass. “I mean…hypothetically.”

Hen found it within herself to grant a small mercy and let his friend off the hook. “Come on, Eddie, that’s not a real answer.”

He sighed. “Fine…Fuck Hen, Marry Buck, Kill Chimney.” Eddie winced. “Sorry, Chim.”

The man waved him off, with a smirk on his face. “I respect that we’ve paired off in our marriages. Very telling.”

Hen had noticed that, too. “Best friends make excellent romantic partners.”

“I couldn’t agree with you more” Buck nodded.

Eddie snapped his head to his best friend, a look of hope he would definitely blame on the alcohol (despite having one glass of ineffective beer). “Yeah?”

Buck would make the same excuse for the way he leaned, never taking his eyes off the man. “Oh yeah, Eddie, there’s been studies.”

An understanding passed between them and Eddie smiled softly. “Good to know.”

That wasn’t good enough for Buck. He raised an eyebrow in playful challenge. “You planning on putting that information to good use?”

Eddie’s face went slack but he pulled it back together in time to seriously consider what Buck was offering.

Hen and Chimney, meanwhile, were very confused – though they had their suspicions about what would happen next. She looked between the boys, hoping one of them would have an answer. “What are you guys talking about?”

Eddie took a deep breath. “Do you want to get married?”

The other half of the table jumped back in surprise and Chimney raised his hands in surrender. “Whoa, I just thought you were gonna ask him out on a date.”

Buck didn’t hear any of it, too focused on Eddie’s offer. “You want to marry me?”

“I thought that was pretty clear.”

His response was almost immediate. “Okay.”

“Yeah?” Eddie absolutely did not have a lovesick grin on his face – if anyone asked.

“I did say I wanted to marry you, too.” And then Buck was retrieving his phone from his back pocket and typing at an alarming rate.

“I don’t know what’s happening right now.” Eddie looked over at his two stunned friends, laughing at Chimney’s look over terror. “Are you two together?”

He shrugged. “Yeah, we’re getting married.”

“I meant before this very moment, were you together?”

“Nope.”

Hen stared at Eddie for a long moment before collapsing back into her seat. “I need another drink.”

“I second that notion.” Chimney slapped the table to steady his rise from his seat. “I’ll be right back.”

Eddie watched his friend leave before turning his attention back to Hen. “Don’t drink too much, you gotta stay standing to be my best woman.”

Hen was oddly touched – not that oddly, she’d been rooting for the boys for a long time. “You want me to be your best woman?”

Eddie’s response was to smirk. “Chimney wanted to kill me. It just makes sense.”

“Well I’m honored to be a part of this hypothetical wedding party.”

She finished off her drink as Chimney returned with four fresh ones for the table.

In time for Buck to close his phone with triumphant finality. “And we officially have a marriage license. It’ll go through tomorrow morning and then we can go down to the courthouse.”

Chimney handed Hen her drink without looking, too focused on Buck’s words. “Wait, you two are actually getting married? How long was I gone?”

Eddie looked at Buck with a fond smile. “When you know, you know.”

Buck returned his own look of adoration, only feeling the smallest fluttering of nerves. This was crazy, right? They were crazy? Maybe it didn’t matter.

Chimney was less sure of their actions, but supportive nonetheless. “Are you at least going to tell your sister that this wasn’t my fault?”

“Nope.” He figured as much.

Hen sighed but raised her glass to the newly engaged couple. “Well, congratulations, Eddie. You will officially get your wish to Fuck, Marry, and (probably) Kill Buck.”

They echoed her sentiment with wild cheers and many, incredulous smiles.

#911week2020 #author regrets nothing #buddie fic #fmk #firefam #911 fox #911 fic #cj writes things

[europeantravel1]

10 Best Day Trips from Amsterdam

Best Day Trips from Amsterdam 

Amsterdam is arguably one of the best cities to visit in the world and it is a great place to visit museums, art, coffee shops and culture — but there is much more to the Netherlands than Amsterdam. Within an hour from Amsterdam, you can visit the tulip fields, windmills, and even climb up sand dunes and lie on the beach and work on your tan! The Netherlands is a relatively small country, so you can get to Utrecht in 30 minutes or even Belgium in 1.5 hours since the country is relatively small. Even traveling from the northernmost city in the Netherlands (Groningen) to the southernmost point (Maastricht) takes roughly two hours. The Netherlands has an excellent system of public transportation that allows travelers to travel anywhere in the country. The trains generally run on time and are modern and comfortable. The Dutch railway company NS has a website on which you can get train schedules. Holland is the world capital of cycling! There are over 32,000 kilometers of bike paths stretching out in all directions, letting you cycle from one city to another with ease if you wish. For nearby cities like Haarlem and Leiden, it is possible to bike from Amsterdam Centraal in an hour to these cities. With this list of the top day trips from Amsterdam, you can get away from Amsterdam and explore the rest of the Netherlands.  

Amsterdam Day Trips

In this list of day trips from Amsterdam, only places within a two-hour train ride from Amsterdam were included. It is possible to access all of these sights in one day by public transportation.  

Recommended Amsterdam Day Trips

1. Haarlem

The short train ride to Haarlem makes it an ideal day trip from Amsterdam. Haarlem is often described as a smaller, more compact version of historical Amsterdam. Haarlem is less hectic than Amsterdam and offers a more authentic experience. It is essentially a suburb of Amsterdam so it is easy to get to. In fact if the hotel prices in Amsterdam are to high for you staying in Haarlem is a good alternative. Haarlem is seen as a quieter, gentler Amsterdam – which is in fact only 15 minutes away by train. Haarlem's Christmas market is quite possibly the top Christmas market in the Netherlands. The event is centered around the city’s Grote Markt (main square). On a regular Saturday, however, the square will have local stalls offering cheese, clothing, souvenirs, and more. There is a church located right near the square and a variety of bars and cafes. Throughout your stay, be sure to enjoy a boat ride along the canals, observe the authentic windmill located directly in the city, and finish the day at Jopenkerk, a church-turned-brewery. And, trust me the beer here is way better than the beer at the T'ij brewery in Amsterdam even though that one is located in a cool windmill.   2. Tulip Fields in Lisse and Keukenhorf, Netherlands

Most tourists come to the Netherlands in the springtime to view the world-famous tulip fields. Lisse is the best place to see them. Just 40 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Lisse is an easy day trip from Amsterdam. The striking colors of the flowering tulip bulbs are a typical sight in Holland during the spring. The bright red, pink and yellow colors are overwhelmingly beautiful and are a must see, or should we say, a must experience! Keukenhof is situated in Lisse, and is one of the world's largest flower gardens. The park is home to over 800 beautiful tulip and flower arrangements. There are several attractions around the gardens, including a petting zoo, art installations, restaurants, and boat trips. Tourists do tend to overcrowd this area. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you purchase fast-track tickets that include transfers. You don’t have to go to Keukenhof to see the tulips; there are plenty of tulip fields scattered all over the Lisse province that are open to the public. We suggest renting bicycles and cycling around the fields to admire them. You can also take a tulip bicycle tour with a guide to see them.   3. Zaanse Schans

The Netherlands isn’t complete without mentioning the iconic Dutch windmill and wooden clogs. The Dutch are known for their windmills, and the closest one to Amsterdam is Zaanse Schans, a town dating back to the 19th century. Looking around you at the Zaanse Schans, you will see nothing but history. Take a tour of the wooden windmills and try on traditional Dutch clogs and savour some Dutch cheese. Zaanse Schans is one of the very best places to visit in the Netherlands. The Zaanse Schans takes its name from an earthen sconce, a fortification from the Eighty Years’ War (the uprising against Spanish rule). From 1961 to 1974 old buildings from all over the Zaanstreek were relocated here from all over the Netherlands. Getting to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam by bus can be accomplished in 30 minutes from Central Station.   4. Delft

In the Netherlands there is no shortage of adorable towns, however, Delft stands out as my favorite. Delft is best known for its pottery, especially Delftware pottery! There is even a factory here that produces Delftware. Delft is not only known for the pottery, but also for its beautiful churches, charming boutiques, and cozy cafes. Delft is a popular tourist destination in the Netherlands, famous for its historical connections with the reigning House of Orange-Nassau, for its blue pottery, for being home to the painter Jan Vermeer, Vermeer is buried in the Old Church. Make sure you climb the clock tower for the best view in Delft. Delft is the perfect place to visit if you'd like to see beautiful Dutch architecture without the crowds that Amsterdam attracts.   5. The Hague (Den Haag) & Scheveningen Beach

The Hague is located approximately one hour train ride away from Amsterdam and is the perfect day trip destination. The city is beautifully designed and the city has a sense of calm about it, even though it is surrounded by a large amount of activity. It is a city on the western coast of the Netherlands on the North Sea. It is famous as the place where war criminals are tried but it is much more than that. Koningsdag, or King's Day, is held annually on 27 April. It is traditionally celebrated with fairs and flea markets throughout the city. On this day, the color orange predominates at a festival (which sells orange cotton candy) and has scores of informal street markets. The Hague is also home to one of the finest beaches in the Netherlands called Scheveningen Beach. This beach is one of the most popular attractions to The Hague and is particularly popular with tourists and locals alike. The white sand beach stretches for miles and includes a Ferris wheel on its pier. 6. Alkmaar Cheese Market

If you are eager to experience the world-famous cheese of the Netherlands, then you should visit Alkmaar. Alkmaar, not Gouda is the cheese capital of the Netherlands, and there are many cheese-related attractions for visitors to enjoy! Every Friday from March through September, there is a cheese market, which is particularly interesting to say the least. Alkmaar has many medieval buildings that are still intact, most notably the tall tower of the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk, where many people from Alkmaar hold their wedding ceremony. This Dutch city is 30 minutes from Amsterdam by train and has more than just cheese. Visit the Dutch Cheese Museum or the National Beer Museum, while Belgium and Germany are more well known for beer, the beer scene in the Netherlands is very healthy.     7. Rotterdam Among the most popular cities near Amsterdam, Rotterdam is one. The reason for its popularity is that it is modern and different than any other state in the country. During World War II, the whole city was destroyed by bombs and rebuilt in a totally different style. Rotterdam is home to many fine examples of modern architecture, much of it inspired by the city's waterside setting, as well as a response to the devastation of WWII.

This unique city can be reached by a fast train in just 45 minutes. This allows plenty of time for exploration. The most popular sites here include the famous cube houses, the Markthall (market hall) and the Erasmus Bridge. Nevertheless, a leisurely stroll through the streets and a discovery of the city is much more enjoyable.   8. Utrecht

Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and has a fascinating history. This city is located only 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam and is among the most popular Amsterdam day trips. While most people think of Amsterdam when they think of the Netherlands. Utrecht is the lively, beating heart of Holland, an ancient university town built around the Dom Tower. Utrecht is known for its city center with wharf cellars along the canals housing cafes and terraces by the water. Utrecht is celebrated for its canals, which run through the center of the city. In addition to the unique design, the lower section of the canals is complemented by outdoor eating areas for restaurants during the warmer months. Besides the unique canals and restaurants, Utrecht is an amazing city to stroll around and explore. Upon exploring the city, you'll find that Utrecht is full of special places. For example, you can drink the best coffee in the city in the vibrant Voorstraat, find all your groceries in the multicultural Lombok and taste and feel the city's archaeological history at Castellum   9. Leiden

Leiden is an old and historical city in the Netherlands that can be reached by train in 30 minutes from Amsterdam. It is best known for its historical significance as a university town and for its stunning old architecture dating back to the year 1575. It reminds me a lot of Leuven in Belgium or Heidelberg in Germany. It is the best place to explore museums, canals without tourists, restaurants, and coffee shops. Although Rembrandt spent much of his life in Amsterdam, he was born and raised in Leiden. In fact, he attended classes at the city’s university for some time before deciding to pursue a career as an artist. There are several tributes to Rembrandt around the city including a plaque on Weddesteeg that marks his birthplace. The Floating Christmas Market in Leiden is another favorite of Amsterdammers. This quaint market boasts more than 90 stalls that sell a variety of festive foods, warm drinks, and handcrafted items. You'll also find a floating ice rink, as well as a small stage where performances are performed round the clock. This yearly event has won multiple awards, including the “Best Christmas Market in Europe” in 2016.   10. Antwerp, Belgium

Taking a day trip from Amsterdam does not necessarily mean remaining in the Netherlands. By crossing the border into Belgium, you will arrive in Antwerp in no time at all. It may seem impossible to travel from The Netherlands to Belgium in one day, but thanks to the high-speed Thalys train it is quite doable. Antwerp is an ancient center of medieval architecture and history, completely distinct from the Netherlands. Taking this day trip will provide you with a chance to explore another country, learn about a different history, and see a beautiful city nearby. The old city center is steeped in history. You will find it in ancient building-fronts on narrow streets or in the imposing Grand-Place. The Plantin-Moretus Museum is the only museum in the world to be classified as a Unesco World Heritage site. Belgian beers are world-famous, and Antwerp is an excellent place to improve your acquaintance with them. The De Koninck Antwerp City Brewery offers an ideal introduction to the world of beer. Het Pakhuis and Antwerpse Brouw Compagnie are other breweries where you can taste authentically brewed Belgian beer. One of the top-rated beer bars in the world, the Kulminator is located in Antwerp and there are a host of other good pubs.   Related Story: Amsterdam Red Light Area Bars   Read the full article

#amsterdam #gouda #delft #daytrips #netherlands #holland

[twistednuns]

June 2021

The silvery crossword letters, penciled in, shiny in the afternoon sun. Blue sky, no clouds, getting heated up and thinking about hopping into the pool again. Swimming the first lap of the year, feeling the muscle memory kick in. Diving. Being underwater. In my element. The smell of sunscreen. Cornetto Bottermelk. My first day back at the pool.

Enjoying milk coffee with excellent foam.

I finally met the kittens! R. invited me over to his parents' house so I could play with the cats. He had been sending me photos and videos for weeks.

After a late night anxiety attack we kept talking until 6:30am. About my issues. And personality tests. Everything, really. I called in sick and in the afternoon R. got us very late breakfast. I was pretty happy with my butter and jam buns (something I very rarely eat).

The first Thai massage this year.

Noticing that I manifested pretty much exactly the person I described in my list of goals for 2021.

Making personalised crossword puzzles for each other #nerdy

My new kink: kiwi in salad

An evening at Dantebad with R. The pool boy analogy. Making plans for my health. Playing outdoor chess (I got defeated after 5 minutes). Buying veggies for a very late dinner. Wholesome.

A 5-minute late night obsession with Josh Turner's Your Man. I even watched the music video. I found it through Zach's Insta-Reel about 10pm curfew; kinda hot.

Spontaneous picnic spread on one of the Isar balconies. Being attacked by spiders, mice and a dog. Getting drunk. Talking about all the things. I love deep talk in the dark. We walked back to R's flat and got more wine. Back to the river.

An afternoon with Sash. Käsespätzle at Mini-Hofbräuhaus. We took a paddle boat at the lake in the English Garden and saw fluffy swan babies and ducklings. Ice-cream, shopping, Aperol Spritz in the evening sun.

A little reminder of how good almond milk tastes with apples, berries, oats and pecans.

Cycling to Lake Starnberg. My butt didn't particulary enjoy my new bike saddle and the hills kinda killed me but I still liked it a lot. The view of the mountains, all the pretty flowers everywhere. Diving down to the cold deep. Eating pistachios, doing a crossword together. Sitting in a remote beer garden, eating dumplings and creamy mushrooms. Listening to R opening up about health issues. Heidschnucken. Coming home together.

Something I've never seen before: some kind of water plants or algae in a small local river, with lots of small white blossoms; reminding my of Waterhouse's painting of Ophelia.

My first appointment with the new therapist didn't suck and I actually liked his concept. Walking home through Schwabing during sunset, pistachio ice-cream, cat-spotting on my way home.

Dinner outside the Korean restaurant. Litchi drink, Bibimbap and steamy buns.

Cycling through the English garden. Sitting under a tree with no one around. Making out. Drinking Lillet.

Crossing the Isar bridge by bike on my way to work. Looking down, I would have preferred swimming in the river over going to school... it was such a hot and sunny day.

Getting some delicious truffle spread at Viktualienmarkt. Bloody expensive but pecorino and truffle oil are a pretty fantastic combination.

A bowl of ramen noodle soup.

Making breakfast for R. Decorating hip with random household objects. Acting like a lunatic around him.

A lunch date at Katzentempel.

Shopping with Margit.

Feeling good about myself / these rare moments when I actually like myself.

A reminder of the mood-altering powers of music (I should really listen to music more often).

Working on my summer to-do list: Picking strawberries and eating spaghetti ice-cream.

Thunderstorms. Actually kinda cosy when you're inside in your bathrobe, grading essays with a hot cup of tea.

R. sent a postcard from Czech Republic!

Painting with R. watching. Unfortunately he didn't draw or paint anything himself, that would have been lovely.

#things i love #personal #june #2021 #june 2021 #present perfect