#i take the pictures myself! photography is a small hobby of mine and it extends to genshin. these are screenshots of those photos

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #286

“has he lost his mind? can he see or is he blind? can he walk at all, or if he moves, will he fall?”

Do you prefer having carpets or hardwood floors? Hardwood floors. Easier to clean and just looks better imo. When was the last time you took a bath? Is this something you do often or do you prefer taking showers? Not since I was a kid, probably. I don't like baths; it feels dirty. What’s your favorite way to style your hair? Do you do this hairstyle often or is it too much hassle for you? "I can’t style it any way." <<<< Mine is too short, too. Do you have a real or artificial tree at Christmas? We always use artificial. The mess isn't worth it. What’s your favourite snack to make when you watch a movie? Popcorn, of course. Do you prefer the Beatles or the Rolling Stones? The Rolling Stones. The only Beatles' song off the top of my head that I enjoy is "Hey, Jude," while there's a handful of Stones' songs I like. When was the last time you played a game of Monopoly? Did you play until the end or did everyone get fed up and start arguing? I'm pretty sure the last time was the PlayStation version at Jason's house. I don't recall if we finished it or not. Have you ever won money on a scratch card or the lottery? How much did you win and what did you spend it on? Maybe like, $10 or so? Mom or Dad would buy one for the hell of it rarely, and they always let us kids scratch it off because we thought it was fun for whatever reason. Have you been on a plane before? Where was the last place you travelled to? Yeah, multiple times. I went to Illinois last to stay with Sara for a couple weeks. Would you rather do a wordsearch or a crossword? Wordsearch. What’s your favorite colour of skittles? Red, duh. I always save those for last. Do you have a favorite TV detective (eg. Sherlock, Poirot)? What is it that you like about them? Does Dean Winchester count? I loved him when I was into Supernatural. He was so charismatic, funny, a wonderful big brother, and don't forget hot as fuck lmao. Were you ever in any positions of responsibility when you were in school? No. Do you need to wear glasses or contacts? How long have you needed to wear those for? I'd had glasses since high school. I'm blind as a mf. Do you talk in your sleep? Yes. Ocean or pool? Pool. Cleaner and less risk. I'll swim in either, though. What's your favorite song at the moment? "DEGRADE" by "3TEETH." I've been hooked on them lately. Ever met anyone famous? No. Do you feel that you've had a truly successful life? *blinks* Have you been in love? Absolutely. Where do you wish you were? Sara's would be great. Last thing you spent lots of money on? My Markiplier tattoo. Favorite restaurant? Olive Garden. What is your favorite kind of car? I really dunno. I don't know almost any car by name. I like slick-looking ones, though. AKA expensive ones lmao. What would you honestly do if you had a million dollars? Pay off a lot of things, first of all. For both myself and Mom. I know too well I'd spend a good deal on tats, but I'm quite sure I'd be disciplined enough to know what's more important. Are you more of a shy or outgoing person? I am VERY shy. Would you rather listen to new music or the classics? I tend to listen to music I already know. I go hunting for new bands and songs too rarely... Can you do a cartwheel? lol hell no Do you currently feel any sadness? I always do. Do you always respond to chain letters? I literally never do. I don't care what it's about. They're annoying. Do you spend too much time online? My life is online. It's depressing, and very. I usually don't know what to do with myself if I don't have access to it. What is your biggest annoyance? Right now, people not complying to COVID restrictions to help end this madness. Are you currently in a relationship? No. What do you like to do for fun? Watch YouTube, play WoW, write, read, take pictures... Not a lot. I've been stuck with anhedonia for years; not a lot of things give me any sort of pleasure, even the aforementioned things sometimes. Can you type without looking at the keyboard? Yeah. Do you ever feel like people use you? I've sure as shit felt it before. What role does religion play in your life? None. It's honestly a place of bitterness. Can you sleep with your eyes open? Noooooooo, that shit creeps me out. How often (if ever) do you use moisturiser? Pretty much never... but I need to considering my skin is dry as the Sahara. Have you had any of your wisdom teeth removed? What was the reason? (eg. infection, impaction, lack of space). No. What was the reason for your last hospital visit? I visited Mom after her surgery. Do you use a laptop, desktop, tablet or phone to take your surveys? Laptop. Do you have any debt? If so, are you on top of paying it all back? College debt, for sure. I dropped out three different times. No, I'm nowhere near on top of it. How often do you travel by public transport? Never. Do you have an Instagram account? If so, how often do you post on there and what kind of things do you post? I have three, haha. I don't post on any regularly enough... but I use my first one most. My "main" one is my primary photography one, and I have a second photography account for my darker/roadkill/"vulture culture" work. Lastly I made one for my pets... yes, I decided to be one of those people lmao. Are you close to your extended family? Do you wish you were closer? Definitely not, but we want to try to get closer. In Grammy's last days, she shared that she wished we were more "together" so much. Do you prefer to give your pets human names or not? Definitely not human names, at least usually. Have you ever used a fire extinguisher? Would you know how to use one without reading the instructions? No; I doubt it. What’s the worst thing you’ve ever had to deal with at your job? When I worked, impatient customers. What was the last thing you used your mobile phone for? Listening to music. While my laptop is kaput, I'm using an old one, but it's super slow so I'm just using my phone for music and videos. Did you used to play The Sims? What version or expansion pack was your favorite one to play? I loved the animals one; I went through a period of playing that a loooot. There was also an African wildlife one that I had, but that one was pretty boring, honestly. I never got into the human ones. What quality do you value most highly in others? Probably compassion. Who has made the biggest sacrifice for you? Mom. What was your best find from a flea market, garage sale, ebay or thrift? I got an AWESOME shipwreck w/ a sea serpent nightlight from the flea market once. What is one selfish thing you tend to do? Uhhhh I'm unsure. I try not to be selfish. Have you ever written a letter to a soldier? No, but man does this make me think of "Travelin' Soldier." I love that song so much, man. Always have. What do you use batteries for the most often? Ha, it used to be my mouse, but now that I have one that plugs up to the computer to charge, idk. What’s the smallest thing you’ve ended a relationship over? "I don’t think I’ve ended any kind of relationship over something small." <<<< Would you rather order a starter (appetiser) or a dessert? Or would you be able to manage a full three courses? It really depends on what I want and how hungry I am. If I had the first two though, I almost certainly couldn't handle a dessert. Have you or a member of your family been diagnosed with COVID yet? My older sister had it very badly to the point she wound up in the ER. It's no fucking joke. Aside from the necessities (eating, breathing etc.) what is something you do every single day, without fail? I was going to say “get on the computer” or something of the sort, but what if I don’t have access to technology that day for whatever reason? In that case, I’d think of Jason to some point. There isn’t a day that passes when he’s not lurking in my head somewhere. Is there anything you enjoy that’s considered childish for your age? What is it? Roleplaying. Some shows. I’m sure there’s plenty others. How many times a day do you use the bathroom? A LOT. If I’m drinking something, a lot of the time, I almost immediately have to go pee after a single sip. Do you need caffeine to wake up in the morning? What’s your drink of choice? I wouldn’t say I NEED it, no. I do regularly have my Mountain Dew in the morning in place of coffee tho lmao. That’s out of habit, though. Do you live somewhere with lots of livestock or wild animals? Livestock, absolutely. Wild animals, sure, so long you’re not right in a city. Well, even then, roadkill isn’t rare. Would you rather live somewhere rural or urban? RURAL. Mom and I are both having trouble adjusting to living in the suburbs. The only good thing is we’re closer to everything. Is there anything (a hobby, for example) that’s guaranteed to always make you feel better when you’ve had a bad day? Not absolutely without fail. If you’re struggling with your mental health, who are you most likely to open up to, or would you bottle it up instead? I VERY rarely bottle it up. That is so unhealthy. I confide in my mom, usually. What room of your house do you spend the most time in? Is this through choice or necessity? Ugh, my bedroom… but yeah, it’s choice. I COULD be in the kitchen or living room on the laptop, I just don’t want to for privacy’s sake. I’m waiting for the extra bedroom to be cleaned out to turn that into like my “dayroom” or “office.” I’m putting a desk in there, lots of motivational stuff, just things to inspire me to work. I NEED away from my bed. I only want to use it to sleep. If you have pets, do you snuggle with them when you’re having a bad time? Does it make you feel better? Well, it’s hard to “snuggle” with a snake, but I’ll still take her out sometimes and she gets comfortable against me for warmth. I do however definitely snuggle with my cat Roman, because he’s a total cuddlebug and super affectionate with me. How would you rate Stephen King as a writer? Shockingly, I haven’t read a novel by him. However, knowing stories he’s written and his genre, I think I’d absolutely love him. What movie are you looking forward to? Oh goodness, I have no idea. I’m totally out of touch with movies. Have you been to see an opera? No, they don’t appeal to me. What do you wish that you knew with more certainty? My career success. Of the following things, which would you most like to have more of? Drink, dreams, bed, drugs, lust, lies, hate, love, fear, fun, pain, flesh, stars, smiles, fame, sex: Love, of course. Would you ever consider working for the government? Absolutely not. What are the best and worst television channels? I don’t need to even watch television to tell you Discovery is best. Idk about worst. If you had a magical pencil and everything you drew became real what would you draw? Hm… if I drew like, Earth overlayed with a peace symbol, would that cause world peace? What would you like to touch? A wild (well, habituated) meerkat. Meerkats are just… so important in my life. Without them, I wouldn’t have met people who’ve greatly affected and even changed my life. I know the day I (hopefully) hold or pet one will be one where I cry. Does anything you own glow in the dark? I don’t know. Would you rather ride a dragon or a unicorn? Who the hell would answer “unicorn” to this???? Dragons are so so so superior. Can you make a balloon animal? No. How many glasses of water do you drink each day? Rarely more than two, if even that. What do you like in a poem, accessibility, crypticness, or something in between? I guess of these options, leaving some cryptic space, room for the reader to imagine. What I cherish most in poetry though is descriptiveness, but not to an excessive point where it’s just hard to understand. Who do you find yourself in constant conflict with? Why the conflict? MYSELF. I’m just so mad at and disappointed with myself. What subjects do you refuse to talk about? Why are you hiding from them? I mean, none, really. With some people I’m willing to talk about whatever topic. Greatest black and white film: Idk, I can’t recall enough. Greatest film three hours or longer: Troy. I adore that movie. I should watch it again…

#survey #quiz #questions #questionnaire #lyrics: ''iron man'' by black sabbath

[bangtanboysaddicted]

** REQUESTED THE ONE KID NO ONE TALKED TOO - BTS TAEHYUNG(V) IMAGINE

(I hope you guys like this, it’s been a while since I wrote an imagine so I do hope this is okay. If you have any request please send me one! Stay healthy everyone.) 

Y/N POV

There was something about him that drawn me too him. Was it the way his dark hair slightly covered his eyes? Or maybe it was that dark stare he gave with his eyes? I don’t know what is was, but whatever it was it was making me want to talk to him. And one day, I’ll put on my big girl pants and go straight up to him and say hi. 

“Y/N?...Y/N?.. C’mon stop staring at him. He’ll notice eventually.” My best friend Lisa stated as she grabbed her books from her locker. 

“I’m sorry.. I just can’t help it..” I whispered “There is just something about him that makes me want to get to know him.” 

“There is a reason why no one here ‘gets to know him’ or even talks to him Y/N,” Lisa started to say as you two walk to class, “Taehyung, he’s bad. Everyone is scared too even talk too him, and as your best friend I’d advice you to do the same.” 

I couldn’t help but too giggle, “How does anyone here even know he’s bad? No one has even talk too him since he transferred here a few months ago.” 

“It’s just that vibe he gives off,” Lisa shrugged as you guys took your seat in class “Plus have you seen those other six guys that he hangs with after school? I mean they all look the same.. like they are in some kind of gang.” 

“Lisa.. hasn’t anyone ever told you not to judge a book by it’s cover?” I stated just as Taehyung walked in through the doors as your eyes followed him to his seat in the back of the class.  “For all we know he could be a cute, love-able, and adorable boy.” 

A few days went past, and every day was the same. I saw Taehyung at school, my mind and heart telling me to talk to him, but then there was Lisa telling me not too. And then that was it. The last bell rang and I missed my chance once again. 

That is until Lisa didn’t show up too school on Monday. As much as I loved my best friend, I was happy she wasn’t here. 

“Today is the day” I murmured to myself as I got my books for English. “Today I will talk to him” 

As I closed my locker, I saw Taehyung at his just a few down. I took a deep breathe, counted down from three and made my way over too him. ‘There is no turning back now’ You stated in your mind as you were a few steps from him. 

“Hey, Taehyung right?” I smiled “You have English next with Mrs. Vue? Do you want to walk over there with me?” 

‘Oh god Y/N.. that sounded so weird, you sounded like a stalker’ 

Taehyung looked around, wondering maybe if you were mistaking him for some one else. 

“I mean.. you are in the same class as me, that’s how I knew you were in that class.” I quickly mentioned before he could answer. 

Right at that moment was the first time I ever saw him smile, that smile that melted my heart within one second. 

He giggled “Sure, I’d like that” He closed is locker, and he extended his arm, “I’m Taehyung, but my friends call me Tae or V for short.” 

i smiled as I shook his hand, “I’m Y/N” 

Taehyung POV: 

I always felt her staring at me, but it was different then everyone else here staring at me. She wasn’t scared, she was curious about me, like she wanted to get to know me. I always asked my friends during the weekends if I should go up and talk to her, and of course they said yes. But I couldn’t, especially when her friend was around. 

I remembered that Monday, that day changed my life for the better. I saw her out of the corner of my eyes coming towards me, and of course my first thought was she was just going to walk right pass me like everyone else did. That’s why I was shocked when I heard her voice say my name. it took me a while to answer because I thought I was dreaming, but when I shook her hand and heard her name, I knew that it wasn’t just a dream, it was real. 

We both made our way to our class, and honestly I was shocked that she sat right next to me  as well. 

“I heard that Mrs. Vue is assigning us a project today and our partner will be the person we are sitting next too.” She smiled 

“Ahh.. so, you’ll be my partner?” I asked 

She smirked “That’s the plan.” 

Class began and Y/N was right, Mrs. Vue assigned us a project that was due within a couple weeks. The bases of it was to get to know your partner and write a small book about them. “Your partner will be the person you are sitting next too.” Mrs. Vue stated, “You’ll try to get to know your partner within a couple weeks. Such as what they like to do, their hobbies or actives. By the end of the project I want to get to know each of my students a bit more. Like you get to know a character a more when you read a book.”

As soon as Mrs. Vue said that your partner will be the person you are sitting next too, everyone turned their head at Y/N and I. I knew what they were thinking, ‘why did she choice to sit next to the scary kid?’ 

I looked over at her and she smiled at me, she didn’t mine that they were thinking that. She was fine with it, and that made my heart beat fast for some reason. 

Y/N POV 

As soon as the bell rang Taehyung looked at me, “So.. should we start on the project today?” He asked “I have a camera at my place we can use.” 

I smile “Sure, I can meet you at your locker after the final bell?” 

“Sounds great, “ He smiled “Just to let you know, I live with my friends.. but they are really cool guys.” 

“Well I can’t wait to meet them.” I smiled, as we stopped at my locker the next bell. “Well, I’ll see you soon TaeTae.” 

“TaeTae?” He asked “I like it” He smiled with those beautiful dark eyes of his.

The school day went by pretty fast and before I knew it I was walking with Tae to his place.  

“We’re here” He stated, as he walked up and open the door. When I walked in there was a lot of going on. Two guys were dancing in the living room, another was sitting in the kitchen area reading or studying, one was trying to play a video game, another was cooking something in the kitchen, and as soon as Tae closed the door one came out of a room looking half a sleep. 

At first they didn’t notice Tae walking in, until the half a sleep guy looked over “Oh, Hey Taehyung.. “ he started to say “Wait, is that a girl next to him or am I still sleeping?” 

As soon as he said that everyone looked up at him, “Tae! Who is this?!” The guy playing the video games asked. 

“Oh, this my friend from school. Her name is Y/N” 

I smiled, “Hi, nice to meet you guys.” 

They all came up and Tae told me all their names, the smart looking guy was Namjoon, the sleepy guys was Yoongi, the two dancing were Hoseok and Jimin, The one cooking was Jin, and the one that was playing the video games was Jungkook. 

“Anyways, we have a project to do, so please don’t bother us.” Tae stated “We’ll be in my room.” 

“So, your friends seem cool.” I said, “How long have you guys known each other?” 

“Hmm, about four years now.” Tae said as he grabbed his camera, “So, where should we start?” 

I put down my backpack and grabbed my notebook. “Maybe with the basics, like favorite color, food, hobbies.”

By the end of the afternoon, I found out a lot about Tae. He loves to sing, he enjoys photography, he collects ties, he loves amusement parks and he also told me that he moved here with his friends because his family wanted him to have a good education, but they couldn’t afford for all them to move since they are farmers.

I’m not sure why, but when I learned more and more stuff about him my heart kept beating so fast. Especially when he smiled as he talked about his family. 

“So, tomorrow we’ll take some pictures at the amusement park?” Tae asked 

“I can’t wait,” I smiled “I haven’t been there in so long” 

Taehyung’s POV 

“It’s not a date you guys, its for a project” The guys were joking around as I grabbed my things to catch the bus. 

“Sure... ‘project’“ Jimin smiled “Have fun on your project” 

“Ahh Tae is growing up” Jin smiled “Be safe and call me if you won’t be home for dinner.” 

I ignored both of their comments as I made my way to the bus stop. I’m not sure why I was so nervous like it was a date. Which it wasn’t,  we just decided since we both liked amusement parks, we were going to spend the day today at one to get a majority of our pictures done. 

However, on the whole ride there, my heart was beating. 

She was there before me, I saw her but she couldn’t see me. She was at the entrance by a tree helping a little girl get her stuck balloon. I quickly took my camera out as she kneeled down to give it to the little girl and snapped a picture. I’m not sure if that was the moment that I knew I liked liked her, or if it was from the first time I saw her on my first day of school. But all I knew now was that the reason why my heat was beating every time she smiled at me was because I liked her. She was kind, beautiful and smart. And I wanted to portray that in my project. 

I looked at the picture I snapped, it was perfect, she was perfect. I then put my camera way and took a deep breathe then made my way up to her. 

“TaeTae!” She smiled “I got our tickets, so we are ready to go in” 

I nodded “great, where should we start?” 

“Rollercoasters?” She smiled “I loooovee rollercoaster, I haven’t been on one in a while” 

“Lets go!” I smiled 

The rest of the day was filled with laughters, lots of pictures, and just spending time with her was overall great. We learned so much about each other, and I was really happy I got to spend the day with her. 

A few weeks passed by and our project is due in two days. In a way I’m kinda of sad that it’s due, because I was afraid that would be less time that I got to spend with Y/N. I wanted to spend more time with her, I wanted to be with her more as a friend. 

“So you like her?” Jimin asked, “So, ask her out..” 

“I wish it was that easy, “ I replied 

“Well why can’t it be?” Jimin asked “Just ask her on a date.”  

“I don’t know.. what if she doesn’t feel the same way? Then I will lose my only friend at school.” 

Jimin looked at me, “It’s better to take the chance then regretting it later. And who knows she might feel the same way.”

“Actually,” I started to say, “I have a plan on how I can tell her tomorrow, I just need your guys’ help.

Y/N POV 

“You like him?” Lisa asked, “How did that happen?” 

“I don’t know... “ I shrugged, “I think I always did,, but being his friend made me realize it.” 

“Well, go for it then,” Lisa stated, “Tell him.” 

“Really?” I was shocked that Lisa wanted me to tell him, “I  thought you didn’t want me to talk to him in the first place.” 

“True, but seeing him with you and seeing you with him definitely makes you both happy.” Lisa stated, “He smiles a lot when he’s with you, and he seems like a good guy.” 

I nodded, “I’ll tell him today after school... we are finishing up our project, so I’ll tell him then.” 

Lisa smiled, “I’m cheering for you.” 

The day went by really fast and as soon as I knew it Tae was at my locker waiting for me, “Ready?” He asked.

I nodded, “Yup, lets go” My heart was beating, I don’t know if I should tell him, I don’t want to lose him as a friend. 

We were walking but then he turned a other corner passed his place. 

“Where are we going?” I asked 

“Oh..” Tae stated, “There is this really pretty park over here with a ton of cherry blossom trees, and I figured we should take a few photos there.” 

As we made our way into the park I saw a small picnic set up there. “Wow, this is so pretty, I wonder who is having a picnic here.” 

“Us.” Tae smiled 

“Us?” I asked shocked 

“Mhmmm.” Tae smiled as he grabbed my hand and pulled me over to the picnic set up. 

Taehyung POV 

As I grabbed her hand I knew it was now or never, so I took a deep breathe. “Y/N, I like you. More as a friend, and well if you want too I figured this could be our first official date.” 

She smiled “TaeTae, I like you too... I’d love for this to be our first date. It’s perfect.”

“Great, well I can’t take all the credit Jin cooked the food, and the rest of the guys helped set this up. But it was my idea.” I smiled. 

The rest of the afternoon was perfect, I can’t believe she told be she liked me too. it made me wonder maybe she was my soulmate, because if I didn’t  transfer to her school, if she didn’t talk to me, and if we didn’t partner up for this project we would never get to know each other. And she was the only girl that made my heart beat this fast, no other crushes or girlfriends did that for me, which I think means I love her. But I won’t tell her that now, I’ll tell her that later.  Right now I’m just glad she likes me back too. 

#bts imagines #bts taehyung #bts tae x reader #bts taehyung imagin #request imagines #bts v imagine #bts army #kpop imagines #request kpop imagines #BTS request #kpop request open

[niara-aldaine]

challenge 3

special thank yous to @e--jun with mentions of  @haidenschreave @lady-naomi-lafleur @aliyatyson @lizzy-matthews

the dress 

the shoes

the hair pin 

I can do this, I mentally prepared myself, I can do this. In a matter of minutes, I would be descending downstairs to greet all the foreign diplomats, ranging from an ambassador from New Asia to the princess of Italy. 

Celestia zipped up the back of my gown. It was gorgeously hand-beaded, the color of dusty rose, as if the ethereal goddess of the dawn had skimmed her fingers along it. It looked as though it was spun from gossamer and silk, something only a fairy wore. Celestia squeezed my shoulders comfortingly and Aurora brought over my shoes, a pair of rose gold heels that had elegant spirals of ivy climbing up. 

I could already hear Heather coming around, making sure we would all be on time. I tried to elegantly descend but failed when I almost fell and instead tried to discreetly enter the room. Some of the girls were already talking to diplomats, others hoarding the platter of chocolates, so naturally I drifted towards the chocolates. 

I joined Naomi, who looked absolutely dazzling in her gown. We exchanged greetings and struck up a conversation briefly before Aliya joined us. I ended up exchanging words with Lizzy before I decided to talk with E-Jun, the ambassador from New Asia.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” I smiled, “I’m Niara Aldaine.”

“So how are you feeling now that it’s a step away from the Elite?” she had asked. “A bit nervous, I suppose, I'd be surprised if anyone's not,” I laughed, “It's just another step closer to finding out the next true Queen of Illéa.”

“I have complete faith in him as well, he isn't one to regret what he's done,” I explained, ”I think all the countries' rulers and leaders are waiting to see the new Queen of Illéa. It'd change a lot of things, no matter who takes the position.”

She nodded. “New Asia is looking forward to continue working side by side with this country for many years toward, so we are excited to meet the future queen. I'm glad you mentioned the changes that will we have in consequence of all this. May I ask which changes would you make in case you win the competition?”

I had known the subject would come up and I hadn’t mentally prepared an answer beforehand although I knew what I would want to change if I had a position of power. I had often contemplated this when I was younger, playing pretend with my sisters that I could change everything.

“As Queen,” I had started out, “I'd reaffirm the ties Illéa has to other countries in order to strengthen allies and also create new bonds by perhaps increasing trade of resources and more diplomats. Also, I'd try to rewrite the caste system because of the large amount of discrimination and unfairness people face due to a status they were born into. I would also try my best to have the people have more of a say in the monarchy's decision, seeing as sometimes how decisions made by the monarchy either doesn't agree with the people or isn't benefiting them very much. Oh, and also opening new opportunities to those who need jobs or ones who can benefit our economy. And of course, adding more women into government positions. We need more women in administrative positions and although we do have some, I think we should increase that number. Women are just as capable as men to handle these positions and the only reason they aren't receiving these positions are lack of opportunities simply because of their gender.”

E-Jun raised her eyebrows, a small smile on her face. She was so elegantly composed but I could tell she would speak her own opinions if she felt the need. It was no wonder she received the job of ambassador. She was perfect for it. 

“What do you like the most of being born here? Do you wish you were born anywhere else?”

I thought this over in my head slowly before shaking my head. 

“I don't think I would want to be born anywhere else. I know Illéa has its flaws but I love Illéa. Hopefully the future Queen will make it an even better Illéa. And I'd love to travel to other countries though! My favorite part would just be the people itself. Illéa is full of so much hope and possibility, I don't think I could have that bond to any other place.”

We then moved the topic to hobbies of ours and traveling to other countries. E-Jun wistfully described the beautiful scenery and delicious food in New Asia.

“Of course there are amazing benefits but also the workload and stress are parts of your position, so you have to be able to handle it,” I brought up a point.

“Talking about jobs, why do you think you deserve to be the future queen? What qualities do you think you have that will serve you well for the job?” she inquired curiously. And I could tell by looking at her that she truly wanted to know. Haiden’s choice would change not only Illéa but all the other countries as well.

“Well of course I think we all view ourselves differently than others see us, so I hope I’m not being vain. But I believe that I have the patience and determination to do my best for all of the country so although I wouldn’t be the perfect Queen, I think I could be a likely candidate for deserving this position. I also think I have the mix of a logical and creative mind, seeing as I like inventing but also art, thus I will be able to both reason and debate while having compassion for my country. And I think I would also be able to stand for my opinion, even if it went against what others thought. The hard part is sometimes being a good person but also being a good Queen, and I hope I can be that as well as a wife and best friend,” I sighed.

“I agree with you in that too, sometimes is kind of hard to find the balance between using the head and the heart when it comes to ruling a country, you certainly need both... and when it comes to love relationships too,” she winked at me. 

E-Jun described how some families had arranged marriages but her parents gave her the freedom to choose. According to her, all of them ended in the man becoming upset over how her job seemed more important than them although I knew that her job was simply time-consuming and needed focus. She laughed and said, “I wonder if it was better to let my parents choose for me.”

“Well then that's good you didn't choose those men,” I spoke up, “The one for you would understand and I don't think it would have been better for your parents to choose, I think the one for you will come along with time,” which had earned a grateful smile from her.

Later I was strolling down the halls of the palace, clutching my heels in my hand. I saw E-Jun hurrying down the hall towards me, relief on her face.

“Oh wait, I almost forgot again! I brought you a little detail, hope you like it!” she extended a case towards me. I opened it to see a gorgeous flower hair pin. “Oh my goodness,” I squealed, “thank you so much, I love it! It’s absolutely gorgeous.”

I held it to my chest and thanked her endlessly. I don’t think she quite knew how much it meant to me that I had received a gift. 

a couple hours later

I collapsed on the neatly made bed with a pounding head and aching feet. My mind was throbbing with the conversations I had with almost all the foreign diplomats. 

I could feel a migraine coming on and I suddenly felt like I couldn’t breathe. 

This was really it. We were already half way from the original pool of 30 and soon Haiden would be choosing his life-long partner, the future Queen. One of us, out of the 15 left, would be crowned. 

This was my life now: part of the pool that would be chosen from for the next Queen. I could face that later but for now, I didn’t want to think about the Selection.

So I went down to the kitchen and requested for a bottle of alcohol and 2 glasses before heading back upstairs. I knocked on the door and it opened, revealing surprise written across Haiden’s face.

“Lady Niara.”

“Haiden. What do you say to a drink in the gardens?”

#submissions #challenge1-3submission #selectionoc #selectionocnet #niara aldaine

[avaycarter]

These 10 #Travel and #Tech Products are a must have for your Holidays 2018 Wish List! #CTATravel

Disclosure: This is an event recap. This post is NOT compensated.

I am woefully behind on Event Recaps thanks to a summer that brought a devastating fire on the Fourth of July due to someone sneaking up to the roof of my apartment building and throwing illegal fireworks, followed by a death in the family a week later, and culminating in me twisting BOTH my ankles and spraining my wrist a week after that!

To say it has been a "challenging' summer would be a complete understatement.

All the events I did get to attend before my world came crashing down were pretty amazing, and while it may take me awhile I promise I will get to each and every one of them.

I had the chance to attend the Techlicious/Consumer Technology Association/CES Lunch and Learn event at Quality Italian Restaurant in Midtown New York City.

I will start with the hot tech first and then lead into the great food!

These are the great products I was exposed to (these are NOT reviews, I got to see the products at the event, not road test them personally, so these are first impressions)

Since the nice reps from Roku were seated at my table, I will start with Roku first:

Roku Streaming Stick

I am totally getting sick of dealing with my Cable Company, and with features like Hotel and Dorm Connect the Roku Streaming Stick is perfect for both Travelers as well as College Kids hitting the dorm. Why pay the hotel a million bucks to rent a movie when you can just bring along your own streaming stick? Retail Price = $49.99 - these were in our gift bags but I didn't get a chance to test mine as it was lost in the fire, if Roku sends out a replacement I will definitely provide you guys with a full review.

The next brand has been at several events I regularly cover including The Luxury Review/The Luxury Tech Show and I haven't had a chance to take the demo or speak to the reps (in this instance it was my arrival time, at LTS my time at certain booths ran overtime during the Press Preview time period and once that event opened up to non-press it was just too crowded to get in there.) But I have wanted to take the demo and will have to make sure to do it next time I see HTC Vive.

HTC Vive

I love that Virtual Reality is being used by the travel/hospitality industry to help you tour a destination or a hotel room without ever leaving the comfort of your couch. Retail Price = $1,399 (definitely a splurge but Vive Pro definitely has one of the richest content libraries available on SteamVR and VIVEPORT.

Ashley Chloe Helix Cuff

You guys know I am called #TheOfficialTwitterPartyDJ via Twitter because I am a Twitter Party Hostess with the Mostest who LOVES Music and hasn't met the twitter party yet I couldn't find the right song for. I am always on the market for new audio and when I can combine my love of audio and tech with my love of fashion and accessories all the better! My Audio 'Form Meets Function' pick from the event is definitely The Ashley Chloe Helix Cuff. The world's first wearable wireless Bluetooth headphones with cVC noise reduction, AptX Technology, Smart Multipoint Connectivity and Bluetooth 4.1. Retail Price = $99.00 - $249.99 (The pricier one is the Helix 24K Gold Edition, love the exclusive color! I would have to listen to Bruno Mars 24K first on these!) Earbuds not getting twisted or destroyed in my cavernous handbag, PRICELESS!

myCharge Pride Limited Edition Power Bank

myCharge Pride Limited Edition Power Bank was donating 5% of Pride Month Power Bank Sales to The Trevor Project, and since later on this year I got to cross attending Ru Paul's Drag Con off my bucket list (full post to come) - this got me a thumbs up every time I pulled it out to keep my phone charged during the conference. This is a little bulkier than some of the Power Bank's I have used in the past, but love the on and off button, how fast it charges my devices and how long it holds its own charge. The plug for the wall flips out, and this charges itself AND the device simultaneously. This one definitely gets a thumbs up from me, and something like this can cross off nearly everyone on your list! Retails for $34.99

Hum by Verizon 

With holiday travel at it's peak and everyone driving to visit family and friends, the Hum by Verizon certainly helps prove that 'those who wander are not lost'.  With pinpoint roadside assistance, you can get the help you need by using the Hum App to request 24/7 roadside assistance, there is also a mechanics hotline, stolen vehicle assistance, maintenance reminders, you can check your safety score (this helps keeps insurance costs low), vehicle diagnostics and you can also turn your car into a Wi-Fi Hotspot allowing passengers to stream, surf and game on the road (eliminating the dreaded "Are We There Yet?" Questions, PRICELESS).

Sony WH-1000X M3 Wireless Headphones

The Sony WH-1000X M3 are pricey at $349.99, but these wireless, noise cancelling beauties offer five hours playback from a mere 10 minute charge, perfect for us frequent fliers who struggle to find an outlet or left our trusty powerbank behind. We were shown the M2's but the M3's are already out now. I need these in my life and am sad they were not in the gift bag!

Sony SP700N true wireless earphones

With extra bass and the Google Assistant built into these Sony SP700N true wireless earphones, you can make easy hands free at the click of a button, enjoy digital noise cancellation or ambient sound which lets you hear essential sounds. The compact carrying case not only keeps them secure, but holds an additional two full three hour charges, so you can power them on the go! These sound perfect for my morning commute, and I am bummed that these weren't in the gift bag either. These Retail for $149.99.

Sony RX100 Advanced Camera

Sony was showing their RX100 Advanced Camera with 1.0 Sensor, while it may be portable, the specs are definitely not 'lightweight'. It is a 20.2 MP, with a SteadyShot that reduces blur even in low light, HD video capabiity for beautiful video and full manual control for creative photography. It retails for $369.99. Not in the gift bag either, le sigh. I have had my eye on the Sony a7rIII which I played with last year during Fashion Week at Sony Square Space in NYC and then again at this year's Photo Plus Expo. I took a picture with it that served as a Best Buy contest entry during the Expo which is featured on my Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BpbS1-TAXLt/ - I have to say I am bit more inclined to the A7RIII, but this has a $2,799 retail price tag making the RX100 a bit more holiday budget friendly. But as Photography is a huge part of my career, not just a hobby/passion, I am telling Santa I want the A7RIII (42.4 MP with 14-bit RAW output!) for Christmas! I really have been a very, very, very, good butterfly this year.

Speck Presidio for iPhone X

Speck Presidio for iPhone X offers 8 foot drop protection! While I am an Android girl and have never owned an iPhone, I have witnessed a ton of friends, family and colleagues drop their uber expensive phone and ended up walking around with a cracked screen - not cute. Why not make a small investment in protecting it instead? At $39.95 ($27.96 if you act fast to nab the extended Cyber Week deal) it gives you something absolutely PRICELESS - peace of mind!

Modobag - Motorized Luggage

See that image above? That is a grown man riding on Modobag - Motorized Luggage, it convinced me to give it a go:

Actually I watched TWO men ride this thing before I opted to get on it myself.

Zip through the airport terminals and never miss a flight, on a single charge the Modobag has the ability to travel up to 6+ miles based on a rider weight of 180 pounds, it has an indoor speed of 4 MPH, and outdoor speed of 7 MPH, three times a regular walking pace, and it goes to full charge in two hours. It also has two USB ports for individual or simultaneous charging. I totally want this for Christmas, as a Blogger this would be my portable office for press trips! I really want this! The Retail on Modobag is $1,495 - which considering designer luggage costs three times as much, and does not haul you around in addition to your stuff, this is actually a steal! I also wanted to share some photos of our meal:

CTA Travel Tech Lunch Menu

Above: CTA Travel Tech Lunch Menu

Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer

Above: Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer (shared by our table, I swear I didn't all that!)

Baby Kale Tricolore Salad

Above: Baby Kale Tricolore Salad

Sausage and Pepper Garlic Toast

Above: Sausage and Pepper Garlic Toast

Mediterranean Branzino, Pesto Rosso with Qi Tuscan Fries

Above: Mediterranean Branzino, Pesto Rosso with Qi Tuscan Fries (you know I usually go for the seafood/fish dish!

Above: Sometimes I am not fast enough to nab a shot before hungry Editors tear into something, but I oddly like this shot all the more for having some pieces missing!

Chocolate Coffee Malt Cannoli with Pistachio Gelato

Above: Chocolate Coffee Malt Cannoli with Pistachio Gelato

QI Signature Lemon Meringue Tart

Above: QI Signature Lemon Meringue Tart MY TAKE: These items are perfect for anyone on your list, and are going to score major brownie points with travel lovers and tech enthusiasts of any age. Again these are impressions as I got to play with these products at the event. Should I get review units I will give those items their own day in the sun with full reviews.

My photos are watermarked, un-watermarked photos were used by media with permission. This is the second year I have attended this event, (the food is always amazing) just in case you missed last year's which focused heavily on Photography and Photography tips for getting better shots, check it out here: https://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2017/10/techlicious-ctatech-ctaphotonyc-lunch.html This by far has been the second worse year of my life, second only to almost dying in 2011. It zapped every ounce of writing energy out of me. Not to mention left me without a computer until Black Friday Sales enabled me to get a laptop. I am just not one of those bloggers who can blog solely via phone. I do not have millenial thumbs and have no idea how they can get so much typing done on a mobile touch keypad. I am slowly but surely trying to get myself ramped up again. And am considering either a re-design or a complete re-branding. I do have some overdue giveaways so check back often. For those of you who have sent me personal emails checking in on me, Thank You! I know our Inspirational Messages of the Day and Gratitude Sundays have been missed, and I will find a way to bring them back soon. Let's just say getting myself motivated has been difficult enough lately. This event put some great products on my radar, I definitely wouldn't mind seeing any or all of these under my Christmas Tree or stuffed inside my stocking this year. Readers: Which of these do you want most? Do you already have any of them?

·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ♥●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: No monetary compensation has been received, and all opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

These 10 #Travel and #Tech Products are a must have for your Holidays 2018 Wish List! #CTATravel published first on https://vsguides.tumblr.com/