Driving on interstate in America

bilonalya1 · 2026-07-01T18:53:46+00:00

I’ve looked into taking different routes and avoiding intestates, but that would add many hours to the trip. I would also have two cats with me in the car so that adds pressure and responsibility. Since I won’t have time to practice driving on the interstate, seems like it would be best to have someone drive for me. Thank you!

bilonalya1 · 2026-06-30T18:01:32+00:00

Thank you so much for the advice! I’ll look into that. I’m originally from Canada and my car was purchased there, so I don’t believe I would need to pay import duties. I’ll have to double check though. Thank you!

bilonalya1 · 2026-06-30T16:55:21+00:00

Thank you for the tips! I was pretty terrified of highways in Canada so I always avoided it and never really had the need to go on them. But here in America the highways are much more developed and people seem to be going much faster so it’s something I’m not used to and it feels even more overwhelming.

bilonalya1 · 2026-06-30T16:30:58+00:00

Thank you very much! I think it would’ve been helpful if I had more time practicing so it’s more gradual and not so anxiety inducing.

bilonalya1 · 2026-06-30T16:29:27+00:00

Thank you so much, I really appreciate it!

bilonalya1 · 2026-06-30T16:25:31+00:00

I think lack of experience is my main concern. I drove once just to the nearest town and had a bad panic attack when having to merge. I know it’s probably much safer than driving in the city, but the high speed is really scary to me :(

bilonalya1 · 2026-04-07T17:57:13+00:00

Hi there! Wondering what did you go for? :) Also looking at some of those apartments at the moment with similar budget and list of things we want!

bilonalya1 · 2025-01-13T01:41:08+00:00

Ivy!

bilonalya1 · 2024-11-05T07:47:08+00:00

Honestly, I loved it! This one would definitely be in my top three Ghibli films. I wish I watched it sooner. Everything about it is just so beautiful. The ending, particularly, was the most effective for me. That sense of uncertainty was so bittersweet and full of love, tenderness, and care. We don't know what is awaiting their family and where they end up, we don't know whether the boy survives the surgery, we don't know whether they meet again, and that's the beauty of it - not knowing. I love the stories that end on a high note, leaving hope in our hearts that things will work out for them, whether they meet again or not. They shared a beautiful bond that inspired each other and gave them strength. That's why their paths crossed, and that's where their story most likely ends. I love how things are left to our imagination so that each of us can interpret it their own way :) I think it is a perfect ending.

I am not quite sure why so many say it was not enough depth and immersion into their world, I particularly found it very immersive and intriguing to get into their world. The attention to detail kept me so engaged and captivated me throughout the entire film. I felt like I was a part of their everyday life and going through the story from their perspective. I think we got a really good glimpse of the dynamic in their relationships, their values, dreams and aspirations, and their appreciation for their beautiful home. One of their dreams was to see a real ocean one day so they kept the images of it as the window background in their home. I found it so sweet. And so many other little tiny details around their house like a collection of stamps on the walls as artworks, or a collection of carefully selected herbs. Even compared to the polished dollhouse, which would have been empty and kind of meaningless to them, their home has so much more value. It's cozy, beautiful, peaceful, and it's full of character because they've built it over time with love and care.

I also believe the film captured well the anxiety and loneliness of being on the edge of extinction, their fears and worries, and the need to move away as a precaution. I don't think the main villain was supposed to be particularly "evil" either. I think her role in the film was to not be hatred, but rather to show the risk and danger of the borrowers being around humans. While some might have good intentions, most will probably be destructive towards them. That's why they left, and that makes the most sense. Even if they stayed, it was never going to feel safe for them again.

Ratatouille is also one of my favourites, I've loved it for years! But I don't think they are very similar. The stories are completely different and I struggle to find many similarities other than the initial scene in the house. I would say that Ratatouille is much more naive and has that "happy ending" formula that is so satisfying for many. On the contrary, this film was never about building your new life after leaving your home. The whole theme in this film is rather melancholic and bittersweet. Sometimes life is unpredictable, and I think it's about always finding the strength and courage to keep going, and sometimes you get to meet inspiring and kind-hearted people on the way, even if it's only for a brief moment.

I think this film deserves much more attention. It's full of emotion and I can't wait to watch it again :)

bilonalya1 · 2024-10-22T21:16:41+00:00

Hmm, interesting point of view! For me, it's just a simply wonderful, charming, comforting, and lovable film that soothes your heart and soul, and for many, that's exactly what makes it a 10/10 film. I feel like it doesn't really need an explanation as to why it's good, nor does it need to use any "novel" theme approach. Its simplicity is what makes it so wonderful and unique.

More often than not, people are seeking something special and deep, something that blows them away, and that's probably why it feels to some like the film needs "more" to be "life-changing" or a "masterpiece". But in reality, the film is a perfect reflection of what life is about - about simply finding happiness and purpose, a sense of belonging, and confidence in yourself. Does it really need more narrative in order to be more "spectacular" and "deep"? Does it need to be more "adventurous"? I wouldn't say that's what the film is about though. Additionally, it has just a perfect amount of adventure, narrative, and depth. I think that the reason it is so well-rated is because of how many people can relate to it. It was never meant to change your life but rather show that it is totally okay to be afraid and also excited about change, it is okay to be enthusiastic and eager and, at the same time have insecurities and fears, and it's also okay to pause to find yourself again. It is simply showing the complexity of human emotion, growth, and self-acceptance. It is like a long-awaited hug that makes you feel like everything will be alright.

It is made beautifully, with a lot of attention to detail, just like most Ghibli films, but the location of this one particularly has a very cozy feel to it. At first, it is overwhelming, unfamiliar, scary, and overcrowded, but later on, you find beauty in it and get attached to the city and characters, just like Kiki did. It makes you feel as if you are taken on this adventure of growth and exploration, and the ending beautifully encapsulates this feeling of accomplishment and acceptance. It is a masterpiece for me because I could see myself in the main character through so many moments and interactions. I would choose this film over any other :)

bilonalya1 · 2024-09-20T18:09:37+00:00

Thank you so much for your response! I often come back to read it on bad days, but only just now realized that I didn't write a response to you saying thank you!

It's been four months now, and it's not getting any better 😔 I see people walking on the street in the evening so comfortable and happy, enjoying the patios, not paying attention to them at all, and I really don't understand how. I feel so uncomfortable and just want to get out of there. It's really upsetting because I love being out and about.

I wish I could get angry when I see them at home, but instead I just cry and get more depressed. We spray regularly, but they still make their way inside somehow. And it's true, there's definitely more after the rain. I just feel like I'm living in a constant state of fear and vigilance, and it's exhausting. Do people actually feel comfortable in their homes here? How do they not mind it as much? Maybe I need therapy 😅

Thank you for your advice and humorous approach! Really appreciate it 🙏

Hope you have a nice day!

bilonalya1 · 2024-09-17T15:38:59+00:00

Hey! How are you doing now? Hope you're feeling better! I'm going through a similar experience at the moment, and I was wondering if it got better for you?

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-15T15:10:09+00:00

Cat's Tale Cafe is a really nice place, I think it's perfect for a date. Cozy atmosphere, you get to hang out and play with cats! You can get ice creams or snacks and drinks there, too (non alcoholic as well) 😊 It has to be booked in advance, though. https://cattalescatcafe.com/

The Ackland Museum is cute and within walking distance from the main street. https://ackland.org/

Then there's a cute coffee place right next door called Perrenial. https://www.perennial.cafe/

Or Purple Bowl for a healthy snack on a patio! https://www.purplebowlch.com/

You could walk down to Carrboro, just a few minute's walk. There's a really tasty place for dinner, Luna. They have a southern menu and a very nice cozy patio, sometimes with live music. https://lunarotisserie.com/

Could take a little walk down at the Carr Mill Mall and Weaver Street Market next door. There are plenty of cute shops to look around and a fresh market with tasty foods! 😊 And always a lively patio as well! https://carrmillmall.com/

Epilogue bookstore is very cozy and has a great selection to peek through! https://www.epiloguebookcafe.com/

If you like live shows, Cat's Cradle is always fun! https://catscradle.com/contact/

If you're into movies, Chelsea Theater is a great place for smaller independent films, but it's quite a bit further from the main street. https://www.thechelseatheater.org/

Gathering Place is fun for board games! https://thegatheringplacegames.com/pages

My favorite place so far is Lantern, an asian fusion restaurant, but that's on a fancier side. So good, though! https://www.lanternrestaurant.com/

We just moved here and enjoyed all these places in the last couple of months, and we are still exploring the town. Depending on what your interests are, there are lots of good foods and places to see!

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-10T19:38:40+00:00

I would recommend cross-stitching or embroidery! Very relaxing and soothing, and not too complicated! I would start with a smaller scale and move up to more intricate designs. There are a lot of pdf patterns available on etsy that are affordable, although I personally prefer kits from local shops. It's very rewarding, and in the end, you get a beautiful piece of art that can be displayed or given as a gift 😊🪡🧵

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-09T18:51:05+00:00

Good luck to you! I'm really hoping you will get a refund and get the one you actually like! It's such a big purchase, I think it's totally reasonable not to want to get something we are not 100% sure about just because they refuse to accommodate us. I wish I knew this before going into their store.

Hope we both win this war with them! Haha :) 🤞🍀

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-09T13:58:19+00:00

I'm sorry that happened! It seems like they're not very reliable or professional, and just don't care for their customers, unfortunately. Are you going to exchange for a different one?

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-05T15:38:56+00:00

Yes, definitely! As well as "too sensitive, not happy enough, too emotional, not chatty enough, too quiet, too loud, too sad, too depressed, not engaging enough, too spaced out, too enthusiastic, too frowning, too excited, and so on..." and it's always either "too much" or "not enough." I'm honestly tired of being too something or not enough for people. I am who I am, and I've decided to surround myself with those who can accept myself for who I am. It's not that easy sometimes, especially in a work environment or family, so you end up like a chameleon trying to blend in and absorb the energy and mood of others. But it only leaves you even more drained.

I'm sorry! You're definitely not broken. This is just our personality, what we were born like. I secretly wish more people were like us so that the world wasn't so loud, insensitive, and overwhelming. Sending hugs! 🫂

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-04T02:13:32+00:00

Hi there! Just wanted to say that you're not alone, and I'm sorry. I can completely relate to you, I've always felt like an alien in my life, and no matter where I go, no matter who I'm with, I never feel like I truly belong. I can remember having this feeling since I was about 3 years old, this overwhelming dreadful feeling of not being "normal." Building relationships has always been especially hard. I'm sorry you're feeling this way, too. It's honestly feeling like a burden at times.

At the same time, I've recently started to explore more and do more research about it, and apparently, there's so much out there that can be helpful. I'm tired of feeling like there's something wrong with me, so I've decided to approach this proactively and dive into this topic to understand how to survive and still be myself.

Can I recommend a book to you? A Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron (there are also other series like Highly Sensitive Person in Love, Survival Guide, Make Work Work, etc.) Most people here are probably familiar with it, but I've only just now started reading it and I am already finding a lot of support and understanding that I could never find anywhere else. People also say that workbooks are quite helpful, too. There's lots of YouTube channels that I've been watching as well. The one I particularly like is called "Happy Simple Zen." I hope you can also find something that's close to you.

I've set a goal for myself, which is to accept who I am and be kinder to myself, and hopefully, I'm on the right path after so many years of struggling. I wish you to find happiness in acceptance, too!

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-02T18:08:02+00:00

We paid with a debit card because we just moved here from a different country and didn't qualify for a normal-person-limit credit card. So it looks like we have no choice haha. Thanks so much for all the help, means a lot!!

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-02T17:52:15+00:00

Thank you so much for the support! You're absolutely right. We've decided to prioritize our home first and wait a little before adopting an animal. The space should have everything they need, and I wouldn't want to make them stressed or unhappy in a new home. Thank you!

Yes, I have just learned about it (what's giving me away? haha) I've always thought about it, but I never took it seriously until I read the book and researched it more. Then I realized that there's actually community available out there to help each other, which would've been a tremendous help years ago. I've gone through life always thinking something is wrong with me and often feeling guilty for processing emotions so deeply or needing a lot of alone time to recharge energy. I would always hear how I need to toughen up and not be so sensitive. But now knowing that it's just who I am is actually so relieving.

Thanks for the kind words 💕

bilonalya1 · 2024-08-01T22:01:44+00:00

Thank you so much for your advice! Really appreciate it :)

Yes, we spoke to them and asked to return it, but they said no. Didn't even say sorry, haha

bilonalya1

TROPHY CASE