Let’s Go to The Circus… Media that take place within a Circus/Performance Troupe

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Hey guys how’s it going? Today I am writing a post that is most anticipated on my blog draft list. Performers in a circus have always fascinated me especially when it comes to the atmosphere. It also is a part of history that is only scratching of the surface. I appreciate learning about the skills that it takes to become a circus performer.

Inspiration

The Family Fortuna

Thank you so much to Candlewick Press for the opportunity to read and review this book before release day (Has Released as of posting this). I truly appreciate the historical perspective (although some of the verbal abuse was something I was not a fan of). I also liked the atmosphere and unique characters. Overall, it’s an interesting story and if you are interested, please check this book out.

Movie

Dumbo

Now I like both versions of Dumbo, however, I like the live action version a bit more due to the fact that it focuses more on the circus that Dumbo attends rather than Dumbo himself. There is a variety of performers, and the historical atmosphere is helpful for the plot to thicken. Check it out if you are interested.

The Greatest Showman

This biopic is one with beautiful music and a lesson too. Its also a perfect family friendly movie. All-star cast, music to exceed all expectations and period atmosphere. Highly recommend!

Novel

Adult Romance

New Orleans Rush

This Book Series focuses on a ton of performers and this one focuses on a magician troupe and is my favorite. Trigger warnings for violence, parental grief, drowning, scarred both physically for the hero and mentally for the heroine. I recommend this book because there are magicians in a troupe but also the relationship aspect is amazing too. Check it out if you haven’t already.

Historical Fiction

Water for Elephants

This was the first adult historical fiction novel that I remembered reading and then watching the adaptation in the near future. I like how it explains the good and the bad of the historical carnival/circus scene. It also shows intense imagery. I would recommend both if you’re interested although the novel is more coming of age than the adaption being more romance centric. Highly recommend.

Teen Novel

Cirque De Freak

This is perhaps my first vampire story that I remember reading. It starts out as a performance at a carnival. The carnival travels all over the world throughout the series with vampires in tow. Teen friendly as well. check it out if you are interested.

Anime

Kaliedo Star

This is the anime that I have watched that focuses on acrobatic skills as a circus performer. It also shows determination that the main character has to succeed in making people happy. It is child friendly as well and one I would recommend as a first anime for new watchers. Check it out if you’re interested.

Do you have some recommendations for Circus Media??? Let’s talk about it!!!

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Weekly Check-in 03/10/2022

Hey guys how’s it going? Weekly Check-in time where I went everywhere in my media consumption.

Because of that, I watched two movies, four animes, and one TV show. I also read two picture books with my students and four volumes of manga. Onto the Media!!!!

Movie

The Butler

My mom has wanted to watch this movie for so long and I can definitely see why. There’s so many fantastic actors and so many different perspectives that were represented. It felt so real, profound, and very informative for me. I appreciated the range of time that was covered and  the information that may not have been presented in movies like this before. Overall, I appreciated this story being told and I highly recommend it if you enjoy biography movies such as these. 5 out of 5 stars or 5 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣🍣.

R.I.P.D

This movie is definitely one of those that you have to suspend your disbelief on but its a lot of fun with some crude language. If you enjoy speculative stories along with some humor this is perfect for you.. 5 out of 5 stars or 5 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣🍣.

Anime

Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie

This anime was  fun and adorable, and the friendship aspect is top notch. There was more drama in these episodes and background information. Otherwise, I still love it. Because of these points, I have to give it a 5 out of 5 stars or 5 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣🍣

The Way of the Househusband

This series continues to make me laugh and is perfect for needed mindless television. I wish that it wasn’t all over the place in plot to  be honest. But the characters are fun and adorable. I also think its accessible to everyone who hasn’t watched anime before either. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣

Aria the Animation

This anime is one that if you’re not feeling well physically or mentally can bring a smile to your face. But at the same time it can definitely be something that can be annoying if you’re not into the happy go lucky feels. Because of these points, I have to give this anime a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Tonikawa:Fly Me to the Moon

This series was definitely not what I expected,but not in a bad way??? I think personally I’ll need to watch more before I can give a more accurate review. However, I think if you like My Bride is a Mermaid etc., you’ll probably like this but I just wish we knew more about the girl (at least where I am at) because of these points, I have to give this a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 3 sushi 🍣 🍣🍣.

TV Show

ER

This show continues to be fascinating in the professional and personal aspects of life. I wish that though things didn’t go more in the background than in the foreground. Because of these points, I have to give this tv show a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Picture Book

Ruffington Dog Show

This book is one that is definitely perfect for my speech students with the art and speech sounds. The art is beautiful and the story is silly and fun. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣🍣🍣.

Night Light

Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book  with my students

This book is truly beautiful in art and cadence. My students thought this was a fantastic story however, some of the panels were too dark to keep some of them engaged once the art came back to beauty again though, they were able to appreciate the story again. Because of these points, I have to give this book a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Manga

One-Shot

Now Loading…..

If you like the story New Game but needed a singular volume, this definitely takes the cake. It has a developed story, some video game development jargon, and some wonderful female friendships. I think my only concern was that there was not enough time to develop the female relationship. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Series Starters

Run on Your New Legs Vols 1-3

I’ll be honest, with how much hype this series is receiving, I am surprised I did not get to it sooner, but also why there isn’t an anime for it. I truly appreciate the expositions of all the varying perspectives on protestics, but especially athletic ones, which are not as common. The effective use of COVID-19 in this story was profound and important for readers of today and for the future. I appreciate all the characters, how flowing the story is, and the lessons I learn from each volume. Overall, I love this and highly recommend it and am excited for more 5 out of 5 stars or 5 sushi 🍣 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

The Week Ahead

The week ahead, I think that I need to focus on some of my responsibilities when it comes to reviewing just because I know there’s so much, I need to assist with but also, I have gotten behind on my private projects. This past week I went all over the place and this next week with spring break, I would like to focus on something. What about you guys? What have you read or watched or even listened to this past week? Let’s talk about it!

Weekly Check-in 03/04/2022

Hey guys how’s it going? Weekly Check-in time where I have knocked a ton of different media off my backlist

Because of this, I watched five TV shows and three anime. I also read one comic collection and three manga volumes. Onto the media!!

TV Show

Bake Squad

This is a show that has famous bakers competing for a chance to help someone with an event. Thankfully it’s not a negative competing game and everyone helps each other for the most part. Its also a lot of elaborate cakes. Because of these points I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Tattoo Redo

This is just a quick series that shows 4 different types of tattoo artists whose sole job is to cover-up people’s tattoos. I love the positivity among them and how pretty much most of the episodes were great and easy to binge. I think my only issue was the host was kinda annoying at times. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

That 90s Show

When I was a kid, I used to watch that 70s show with my parents all the time. Because of that, when I found out about this series I was worried it wasn’t going to be as good as every other reboot/spinoff I have watched…. watching the last few episodes with my parents made me want to try it from the beginning and get those feels again…. because of these points, I have to give it a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

ER

These latest episodes helped transition from one season to another and it greatly showed how when someone pretends everything is fine and when its not, serious consequences can occur. I know these episodes also show that when you find a soul mate you should never let them go no matter what happens, but I know not everyone believes in that…. point is I am excited to see how things progress and how the series will continue. 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Zoey 101

I think the time I watched this this week I just wanted something different something nostalgic etc. But honestly, this is a series im watching when I am in that mood and nothing else because it has the simple plots, simple solutions, and some crazy shenanigans along the way. Watching this now reminds me of when I was young and wanted to do those things/wanted that to happen but I also know how unrealistic it can be. Overall though, if you want your tweens to watch a show that is older that still holds up, watch this. Because of these points, I have to give this a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Anime

My Hero Academia

This week I watched the latest episodes out and seeing it on screen rather than hearing about it made me actually more sympathy for Deku (honestly in the beginning he was so annoying). It makes me wonder as well, why the creator decided to wait this long to go this dark with the series…… we may never know. But I think for the moment I’ll need to bank some episodes to binge later because going week to week is going to be tough. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Shikimori’s Not Just A Cutie

This is an anime/manga series that one of my dear friends lovess and I can definitely see why. First, its an already established relationship with a fun friend group and the female is the right amount of strong and meek at the same time. I think my only issue is the leading guy at this point. He just seems too much for the story at this point. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣

Aggretsuko Season 5/Series Finale

This series ended not how I had expected, but in a good way?? I appreciated the more background that the characters were given but also make way for the next generation/full circle ending. I think though, I would appreciate more shenanigans/side stories for more character development overall but I am definitely going to rewatch this several times because I love the humor, characters, and how the plot is as a whole. Because of these points, I have to give this anime a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣🍣🍣

Comic Collection

Series Continuations

Fence

Going back to this series after not reading it for awhile was fun but at the same time I forgot everything from the previous volumes so except for the angst I wasn’t as invested (oops). Overall though, I think its a good series discussing fencing itself, but I think its better to binge it all the way through. Because of these points, I have to give this a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Manga

Series Starters

My Hero Academia Team-Up Missions

After watching the last couple of episodes of the anime, I wanted to keep this world in my mind and find out some new information. Reading this, I did get some new information especially when it comes to the Two Heros Movie and the Mirko hero character. But, I also got the feels of the prewar arc of the characters and some character development that was unexpected. Overall though, I am curious to see what the other volumes of this have in store, but ill take my time. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Blue Lock

I will be honest, I have a heard so many mixed reviews about this story. Because of this, I went into this manga with an open mind.. I can definitely see why a lot of people love this series but also why people hate it. I am intrigued by the psychological aspects of how the characters are thinking about the sport soccer and how they win or lose. I don’t think that I will love it as much as other sports series when it’s more team based, however, I still will love to continue to see how the plot and characters respond to everything. Overall, Blue Lock is not going to be for everyone especially when it comes to the cruelty and meanness of the characters. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi. 🍣🍣🍣🍣

Miss Miyazen Would Love to Get Closer to You

The reason I got this first volume was because of all the hype that the manga internet community brought, and I can definitely believe the hype here! I truly enjoy the slow burn friendship that is occurring in this and the artstyle is also adorable. I think my only issue is the panel style seems too much like a 4koma for me personally and it makes things difficult to follow sometimes. Because of these points, I have to give this manga a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

The Week Ahead

The week ahead I think I am going to continue the momentum of reading and watching all over the place but who knows. What about you guys? What did you watch, read, or listen to this week? Let’s talk about it~!!!!

Weekly Check-in 02/25/2023

Hey guys how’s it going? Weekly Check-in time!!!! Where I have been relaxing when it comes to my media consumption.

I watched a couple of movies one anime and one western; I also watched a couple of animes. I read also a couple of volumes of manga and a graphic novel along with a picture book with my students. Onto the Media!!!

Movie

The Sting

This was a movie my parents wanted me to watch and just based on how this was formatted and how intense the pace was, this walked so Leverage the tv show could run. It was very intriguing yet confusing all at once, but the characters were cool, and the plot threw me for a loop about 4 times. Overall, though I think if you are fan of Leverage, I think you need to try this movie. Because of these points, i have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Anime Movie

Bubble

This was my discord’s buddy watch pick if you are interested in the discord let me know

If you are someone that is definitely looking for an anime movie that is similar to all of the rest, but also want to see a dystopian sport anime movie, this is it. I liked the characters, I liked the themes, and the animation and music are beautiful. However, I think I wanted more character development from the main characters and more exposition when it comes to how things happened here. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣

Anime

After School Dice Club

This is definitely one of those anime that I think is going to be a perfect slice of life fave to binge-watch. Its about tabletop games which is something that is very interesting to watch especially when you want to know more about international board games. But it is possible that it might be too cutesy for some people. I also appreciated the life lessons that they show as well. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4-4.5 out of 5 stars or 5 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Romantic Killer

Well do you guys remember how last week I wasn’t a fan of this?? Maybe I just needed to keep watching because I like it more now. I wasn’t a fan of so many moments of the female main character being a gorilla towards love and towards the end of the series went so dark(stalkers, an almost rape scene etc.), that I didn’t like because it felt very extreme….I also didn’t think we needed the Princely character honestly but I do like the friendship aspect and the other characters got less cringey. Because of these points, I have to give the series as a whole a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Manga

Series Starters

A Nico-Colored Canvas

Thank you so much to Kodansha Comics and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this Manga!!!

Yeaaaaaaa this one is definitely a blue period kitchen princess mashup (fluffy underdog with intense artists). Its a university level starting out which is unexpected and there’s not many artistic references with expositions which if you are not a fan of exposition, you’ll appreciate this manga. I love the characters (although one of them is a little questionable……..) and I appreciated the humor and camaraderie between them. Overall, though, I believe this manga needs to get out of digital jail and fill in the void that we need of artistic manga/anime. 4.5 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Series Continuations

You’re My Pet

I’ll be honest, I forgot everything that the prior volumes had….. however, I truly enjoyed the story and the characters (although there is a ton of girl hate and soap opera crazy drama so if that doesn’t interest you do not read this). I think my only issue is that we needed better movement from one chapter to the other. Because of these points, I’m giving this a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

Graphic Novel

Series Starters

Goldie Vance

I can definitely see now why this series is so popular for cozy mystery lovers. I loved the atmosphere, the characters, and the mini mysteries that were presented. The artstyle is also gorgeous and perfect for the story. I think my only complaint was that I wanted more background information on some of the characters, but I have a feeling that I will get that throughout the series. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Picture Book

Chocolate Space Bunnies

Thank you to Netgalley and BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to read and review this book.

This is an adorable story that would definitely be perfect for the bunny as well as chocolate lover in your life. It has beautiful art, and it has the perfect amount of humor. I think there were times when it went too long with the plot but overall, its one I can add for my speech students to read. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

The Week Ahead

The week ahead, I would like to continue going through some of my backlist of all of my media. I also would like to do more community collab things even if it’s just commenting with a friend who has already watched it because I did that twice this past week and it was really fun. We shall see though. What about you guys? What did you read or watch this week? Let’s talk about it!

Missing Figure Skating??? Check out this Media!!!

Hey guys how’s it going? I don’t know about you guys, but I have gotten into the winter sports mood lately because of the weather around here. Because of that, today I wanted to recommend some media with Ice-skating involved.

Background

The whole family at my house would always watch ice skating on television when the small tournaments would come up but also during the Olympics. I always enjoyed the music and the moves that they would create. Because of that, whenever I see ice-skating in media, I consume it. These are the most recent ones I have consumed and if you haven’t already check them out!

Movie

Ice Princess

This movie focuses on teen figure skaters who have to choose between skating or having a career in the STEM field. It is pretty straightforward as far as plot and characters go but I think if you want to show a movie to someone who loves figure skating and they are young, this would definitely be my choice.

TV Show

Spinning Out

This is a show that shows all the positives and negatives of ice skating professionally. There is also an underlying romance that is involved but not really resolved. I think if you are looking for a more in-depth look on figure skating in a live action setting and are looking for an young adult drama show, this is definitely one you should check out.

Anime

Skate-Leading Stars

This anime series gave me Yuri on Ice vibes mixed with Haikyuu in the best way. I enjoyed most of the characters, the plot, and the skating. I also appreciated the journey and humor as well. The animation in the moves is smooth and gorgeous and at least to me, it was great to feel the emotions of a competitive rivalry to the max but also how people who grow up together doing the same type of skating.

Manga

The Medalist

This manga focuses on child figure skaters and adults that do not make it pro exactly but love the sport. There’s more to it than that obviously but I love the artwork that the mangaka shows with the moves and how the emotion feels throughout the series. This one also at least so far is child-friendly so if you want your children to read a fictional story about ice-skating check this out.

Adult Romance Novella

Thin Ice

Like every Cassie Mint Novella, I have read, I love the males falling in love with the females even though in this instance it’s a coach and athlete relationship so if that is not something you’re a fan of don’t read this. This one only scratches the surface on what it means to be a professional couples Ice skater which I personally didn’t mind just an FYI. But the sexual tension and the scenes involved are definitely what I was looking for. 18+ though.

Young Adult Book

The Ice in Our Hearts

This is one that actually takes place during the winter Olympics Its a young adult novel about two teenagers (sixteen and seventeen respectfully) who are world renowned Winter Olympic athletes. One is a skater and the other is a snowboarder. You’d think it’s just fluff. No actually with the athletic aspects of things plus Type 1 diabetes as well as hyperhidrosis representation there was a lot of jargon as well as explanation involved without feeling dumbed down or too excessive.
I really enjoyed this story and how magical it was especially with the family and friendship side of things. I also could feel the emotions that the characters presented in their respective roles in the Olympics but also falling in love with someone who truly understands you. If this interests you, check this book out!

Thank you so much for reading!!!

Did you find some hidden gems with this post??

What Other Sports should I do?

Let’s talk about it!!!

If you want to support me and also want to request a specific blog post, please support me on my Kofi account: https://ko-fi.com/christinasushirainbow27269 . I would appreciate it but there is no pressure at all. Thank you in advance.

Weekly Check-in 02/18/2023

Hey guys how’s it going? Weekly Check-in time where I was trying to just catch up with some media consumption because I was feeling slumpy.

Because of this, I watched two Anime and two TV shows. I also read one volume of manga and one novella. Onto the Media!

Anime

Romantic Killer

These episodes were very chaotic, funny, but also cringey at the same time. The cringe wasn’t exactly the lines but some of the animation style choices were not exactly something I liked but I understand why that choice was made etc. Because of that I can’t binge this series. I do think if you enjoyed the manga, you may enjoy the anime but again I don’t think it’s a bingeworthy series. Overall, just give it a try. Because of these points, I will give this anime a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 3 sushi 🍣🍣🍣.

Aria the Animation

This anime series has hovered around on my radar for so long that because of my media slump this week, I decided to give it a try. It definitely gives me AH My Goddess vibes with the feels and the characters and I am happy about that. However, because of the age of it plus how the anime is structured, there were a few moments that were also cringey enough that I cannot binge watch this either. But if I need something calm, serene, and with no high stakes, this is definitely something I am keeping on my list to watch. Because of these points, I have to give it a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

TV Show

ER

When it comes to ER, it doesn’t just show residents learning the ropes of the emergency room, it also shows experienced doctors dealing with a variety of cases everyday and needing to refer to different departments etc. However, in these latest episodes there were a lot more humor moments and emotionally draining ones as well. These moments are the reason I continue watching and for learning more about the medical field. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

The Practice

I think now after watching this show, I can understand why people love binge watching crime shows such as criminal minds. There was a ton of angst, frustration, love, and also crazy character dynamics all at once. It was definitely addictive and intriguing however, I think I will need to take a break after this week because I did start feeling overwhelmed towards the end. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4-4.5 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Manga

Series Starters

Blue Box

Ok the hype is real with me to an extent with this series starter. It’s definitely the teen version of the manga series Practice Makes Perfect with the athletic comraderies between the characters plus the different sports that are not typically discussed such as badminton and rhythmic gymnastics. I think my only issue with this particular volume, was that the male main character in this one, I wanted to shake him into oblivion with the miscommunication and angst. I am excited to continue on, but let’s just say I hope he gets better. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Novella

Thin Ice

Like every Cassie Mint Novella I have read, I love the males falling in love with the females even though in this instance its a coach and athlete relationship so if that is not something you’re a fan of don’t read this. I also for the purposes of reviewing a sports romance, this one only scratches the surface on what it means to be a professional Ice skater which I personally didn’t mind just an FYI. But the sexual tension and the scenes involved are definitely what I was looking for, and I was glad I read this during the winter season. My only issue with this particular one though was that things that could’ve been flushed out were not, and to me personally, the epilogue could have been loads better. Because of these points, I have to give it a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

The Week Ahead

Honestly, I don’t know anymore. Hahaha! I am sorry I think currently I am going through an intense media slump for no reason, so I am just picking things up and hoping for the best. What about you guys? What did you read or watch this week? Let’s talk about it!

My Journey with Crafts/Arts

Photo by Steve Johnson on Pexels.com

Hey guys how’s it going? Today’s post is something that I have reminisced about for a while but it’s about my journey with crafts/arts. Early in life, I have always appreciated the arts. Because of that, I wanted to try some art and crafts myself. This post represents my journey with that up until present day.

Inspiration

Blue Period Anime

Watching the Blue Period Anime recently with its collaborative efforts with art and how anyone can make it at any time and how different aspects of art can help people express themselves. Because of this, reminiscing on this part of my life has made me happy. Check out both the anime and manga if you are interested.

Let’s get started!!!

Painting

The first known memory that I remember when it comes to the arts is painting with my grandma and trying to paint the walls in the house. I think that was the first time I discovered how color was made and how to express myself…. The only problem that ended up happening was that I never really had a set idea on what I wanted to create when I painted.

Soap-Making

When I was around 8 years old (3rd grade) was when I started doing more crafting things with my mom. She decided to start soap-making and I wanted to try it too. I loved creating the different shapes through the molds and also smelling the scents to make sure which ones would fit best with which color or shape. The only issue that happened with this was that it would eat up our entire weekends at a time and it would make our house very warm due to the boiling water etc.

Art Club

Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi on Pexels.com

In 5th grade (about 9-10years old), I joined the art club at my school. With that, I was able to create a variety of art pieces such as ceramics, pastels, paintings, and photography. With that, I was also able to collaborate with people who had more experience than me and I learned a ton about different art mediums. I even one time created a piece that was in the local dog show. I truly enjoyed my time in the art club, and I actually thought I would continue on creating….

Drawing

Along with Art-Club at school, outside of school in 5th and 6th grade I tried actually learning to draw. This wasn’t really the best experience because at the time, I wanted to learn to draw with color and paint eventually again like when I was little. This particular teacher also had the teaching style of simple of line drawing, shading, and then move up from there through varying drawing books. Doing that, truly turned me away from drawing and creating art in that manner. I also decided that it would never be my career like I thought it would be in the 1st grade.

Sewing

After the drawing fiasco, in middle school (7th and 8th grade) my mom still wanted me to try to do something else to express myself but also, I loved looking at the fashion magazines with the unique items people wore and then looked at my size and….. anyway, my mom decided to sign me up for a sewing class for two summers…. It wasn’t a bad experience although it felt like for me, I only learned the fundamentals and even then, it felt like the teacher was just creating the pieces for me rather than me learning the skills needed to create clothes and pillowcases. However, I think I would be able to make a pillowcase or two today just have not had the time or space.

Photography/Graphic Design

Photo by Wallace Chuck on Pexels.com

Photography is probably the most consistent Art/Craft that I have learned about and enjoyed for the longest. I have taken pictures during my family trips and just for fun to chronicle things I like seeing, however, in high school (14 years old) I actually learned more about how graphic design works/photo editing but also the history of photography as well. Even created something that ended up winning an award. Honestly, If I could say the craft/art medium that represents something that I do the most and the one I am the proudest of doing now, it would be photography.

Jewelry-Making

This is also a craft that I found out about in high school and bled into college and adult life. Jewelry making can be difficult to do, but I think if you have the right beads and skills that can be replicated over and over again, it’s amazing to create something beautiful with it. My mom showed me how at first, then I learned from a professional at a local small business who had classes that I could take over and over again with actual teaching.

College

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In college, you know you start expanding your horizons and meet new people?? Well I definitely did that when it came to art. My freshman and sophomore year of college, I actually met someone who was becoming an artist/art teacher and they gave me a ton of different perspectives and tried to teach me as much as she could about the art styles I rejected and embraced the ones I had tried. I will be honest, I think if not with her inspiration and willingness to show me contemporary artwork, I would probably not enjoy art as much as I do now.

Knotted Blankets

This is someone’s YouTube Thumbnail just due to how the placement works.

This is the latest craft I have learned how to do. I actually thought because of how my cutting skills are, I wouldn’t be able to do this. However, one of my friends’ moms was a fantastic teacher and I have one completed and one in progress. It’s definitely something that can be taught at any age, and I am glad I picked it up now.

Reflection

Overall, at the end of the day I still enjoy having art/crafting in my life, even though it’s not as much as it used to be. I know I am never going to be a professional artist, but having it be a part of my life can make things relaxing.

What about you guys?

How do you feel about Art/Crafting???

Let’s talk about it!!!

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Weekly Check-in 02/11/2023

Hey guys how’s it going? Weekly Check-in Time where I consumed quality over quantity.

Because of this I watched an Anime and a TV Show. I also read a volume of manga and two picture books. Onto the Media!!

Anime

Skate-Leading Stars

This anime series gave me Yuri on Ice vibes mixed with Haikyuu in the best way. I enjoyed most of the characters, the plot, and the skating. I also appreciated the journey and humor as well. I think my only issue was that I wanted more flushed out moments other than the rivalry and more competition/matches. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣🍣.

TV Show

The Practice

This show was definitely very addictive this past week with the morally grey cases along with the characters having to question themselves together or individually. The relationships that the other characters have with each other is also interesting and not just shipping either. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Manga

Ghost Reaper Girl

This is a manga my best friend picked up first and since it was ghosts, I HAD to check it out.

I truly enjoyed this first volume; however, I can definitely see why it doesn’t have the hype it deserves plus it was cancelled at 6 volumes. It is very campy with its humor and some of the lines that the characters say can give me the side eye for sure. The artstyle is gorgeous in its own right and its worldbuilding is lush and interesting. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Picture Books

Otto’s Epic Adventure at the Dinosaur Museum

Thank you to Netgalley and Book Buzz for the opportunity to read and review this book.

This is a story I recently read to my students this week and it is definitely perfect for them. The illustrations are beautiful and clear for what is going on in the story and the story is definitely open for comprehension questions as well. My only nitpick was that I wanted just a little bit more plot wise. Overall, it is one I would recommend educators using. Because of these points, I have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Tiny T-Rex and the Perfect Valentine

This was another story I read to my students and honestly! It was so adorable!!! The illustrations in this one is perfect if you want to teach actions and items that are used to make a valentine. This also shows the lesson that you don’t need to make something perfect for someone to appreciate you. Overall, I am excited to try more from this duo and if you need a great little valentines day story for the kids, I recommend this. 4.5 out of 5 stars or 5 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣🍣.

The Week Ahead

The week ahead I am not quite sure what I will be doing, however, I do want to create more of a balance with my media consumption (yes I say this all the time) but truly I do want to balance things out. What about you guys? What did you read or watch this week? Let’s talk about it!!!

Weekly Check-In 01/28/2023-02/04/2023

Hey guys how’s it going? Weekly Check-in time! I spent time this week focusing on media I needed to review but also just picked and chose through what was pending.

I watched two movies, two anime, and one tv show. I also read two volumes of manga and one novel. I even listened to one podcast. Onto the media~!

Movie

Battle of Jangsari

This was truly a profound story. As far as the movie watching experience, if you are not comfortable with mostly foreign language in your films, I would not recommend it, but if you do not mind, and you are curious about the South Korean perspective on the Korean War, I would highly recommend this film. It is profoundly sad, and you will have emotions all throughout, but there are some funny moments too like American War films. The only aspect I honestly wasn’t a fan of was the choppiness of the American aspects of the event. Because of these points, I have to give this film a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Anime Movie

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: Scarlet Bond

I wasn’t disappointed by this but at the same time the plot was very predictable even for someone who hadn’t watched the series beforehand (I had one of my dear friends go with me and he predicted everything even though he had never watched this series before). Its the usual items that are involved in the series but at the same time, it seemed like there wasn’t a lot of character development except for the guest characters and the bad guys. But in order to know certain characteristics of the series, you need to watch both seasons of the anime. Overall, though if you are interested in the movie, try it, but I would take it or leave it. 3.5 out of 5 stars or 3 sushi 🍣🍣🍣.

Anime

Aggretsuko

I finished up the latest season of this these past two weeks, and I will be completely honest, I was very disappointed by the characters. There was a lot of miscommunications and there were times things were very choppy feeling especially the plot. I am hoping the next season is better and funnier. Because of these points, I have to give this a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 3 sushi 🍣🍣🍣.

Blue Period

I inhaled this series!!!!! Definitely better than I expected for sure. how they handled the (I might be mistaken so don’t crucify me) trans character was awesome (although there are some verbal and physical abuse points so be aware). I loved learning about the different kinds of art that people create and what it takes to become a painter/professional artist. I also appreciated seeing more unique characters with a variety of ambition and mental health discussion. I was also able to look back on my journey with art inhaling this show and if that is something you are interested in plus art, I highly recommend this. 4.5 out of 5 stars or 5 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣🍣.

TV Show

The Practice

These episodes had a ton of relationship dynamic conflicts, a ton of racial and appearance bias, and tremendous lawyering. It can be very intense and annoying at the same time, but I am still enjoying learning about what it is like to have a law firm. Because of these points, I have to give this show a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Manga

Series Starters

Medaka Kuroiwa is Impervious to My Charms

Thank you so much to Kodansha Comics and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this manga

This has a ton of unnecessary fanservice involved and I think the concept is okay however, there were way too many miscommunication moments and the guy just needs to tell her his reasoning for not talking to her properly!!! I was getting a little frustrated with the leading girl so much. I am though curious how things will continue on. Because of these points, I have to give this a 3.5 out of 5 stars or 3 sushi 🍣 🍣 🍣.

Futari Escape

This is a manga that I have heard mixed reviews about, however, if you need a quick lunch break read, I will highly recommend this. Its an episodic slice of life about people spending the day with each other avoiding their obligations and escaping. The art is gorgeous and the characters are funny, however, there isn’t much happening in a sense of plot. I had more questions than answers and wanted more character development. Because of these points, I would have to give this a 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Novel

The Wild

Thank you so much for the author and Valentine_PR for the opportunity to read and review this book

I truly enjoyed this book, but I can definitely understand why people do not. The banter is definitely giving me the vibes of Desperately Seeking Roommate from this author but also it was deeper than I expected. I loved the music aspect (although I wished there was more with the music production aspect when it comes to the female leading lady) I also enjoyed the character dynamics between the friends and the couple as well. One thing that I have a feeling not a lot of people are going to like is a lot of the crude language that a lot of the characters do. However, I think if it’s possible to skip over it, some of the beautiful quotes that are in here make it worth it. I also think and maybe it’s because I haven’t read a lot of longer books lately, there were some scenes that could have been cut. I did appreciate most of them though. Overall, I am curious to see how this series will continue and I am really glad I read another book by this author. 4 out of 5 stars or 4 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣.

Podcast

Dad Needs to Talk

These past two weeks, I have gotten into a slump with what to listen to while I am driving. Because of this, I listened to a ton of Vol 1 reviews from Dad Needs to Talk. I appreciate his conciseness, detailed descriptions and his personal opinion on specific series. My only issue now is that I am running out of episodes lol! Because of these points, I have to give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars or 5 sushi 🍣🍣🍣🍣🍣.

The Week Ahead

For the week ahead, I truly enjoyed what I did these past two weeks, so because of that I would like to continue my momentum to read and watch all I can. What about you guys? What did you read, watch, or listen to these past two weeks? Let’s talk about it!!

Tips and Tricks for Video Game “Noobs” A collab with a Video Game Expert

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Hey guys how’s it going? Today I wanted to talk about video games. I am what people would consider a Noob/Newbie, so I don’t have a ton of knowledge about it. Because of that I have enlisted assistance of my dear friend 2ndtolastunicorn a Twitch Video Game Streamer and her husband to assist me and my fellow Newbies on some tips and tricks to get started.

Bios

2ndtolastunicorn: I grew up playing video games with my family. My first game I completed was the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time on the Nintendo 64 and then the GameCube version of Animal Crossing!

Where does a β€œNoob” start when it comes to consoles? Do we pick what’s popular? Do we pick something that is easiest for our motor skills? Etc.

2ndtolastunicorn: Honestly, I’d take a look around and see which controller works the best for your hands. I prefer the Switch Pro controllers or a PlayStation controller personally!

Now Games, I know you have some favorites that you enjoy, but in your opinion what kinds of games would you suggest being the first place to start (I am sure this will probably depend on the console) however, maybe the opposite would happen.

2ndtolastunicorn: If you’re wanting cozy gaming I’d start with something like Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing, easy to understand and very fun to create. If you want something like a simple RPG (role playing game) I’d suggest a Mario, Zelda or Kingdom Hearts. Shining Force or Chrono Trigger for a more tactical RPG.

Okay we have the game we have the console now; Now are we ready to play. How does a Noob make as much time as you to play video games (without going extreme)?

2ndtolastunicorn: I play whenever I have a spare moment. One nice thing about the Switches is that they are the easiest to carry around and don’t need to be attached to a TV to play πŸ₯°

I know also, being someone who is obsessed with video games, it can also be expensive. Any tips on how to be a video game lover on a budget??

2ndtolastunicorn: Watch for sales! Around Black Friday there tends to be some good ones. If you want the biggest bang for your buck check out the memberships for the consoles! Switch Online is awesome and PlayStation Plus has great pros to it too!

Any Additional comments for any noobs and plug your social media. Thank you so much for assisting me on this blog post, I truly appreciate ya’ll.

2ndtolastunicorn: Honestly, all gaming is to be FUN! So, if it doesn’t bring joy to YOU, then don’t do it hahaha and don’t let anyone tell you what you can and cannot play. And once you master any of the games, there are SO MANY communities of gamers that will help you get better and even if you want a challenge there are challenge runs and speed runs. But that’s another blog post for another day! 🀣🀣

Thank you SO much 2ndtolastunicorn for this opportunity to learn!!! Please check out Her and Her Husband’s Twitch Channels if you haven’t already!! I hope this was helpful for you I know for a fact it helped me!

If you want to support me and also want to request a specific blog post, please support me on my Kofi account: https://ko-fi.com/christinasushirainbow27269 . I would appreciate it but there is no pressure at all. Thank you in advance.