I started watching the anime Astro Note. I like the concept of their homeshare, and that they have breakfast together. Their new chef makes delicious meals for them (although their landlord tried, it’s clear the tenants were not fans of her cooking skills, or lack thereof). I haven’t decided how I feel about this show yet. It’s goofy, the tenants are interesting, but I think I’m still wrapping my head around the space travel aspect. Just finished the first episode and noticed a mysterious character in the background. Hopefully we’ll find out who they are soon!
Ah yes. A chill life. Sounds fantastic!
I hope they’ll tell us who this mysterious person is lurking in the background at the welcome party!
I’m watching An Archdemon’s Dilemma How to Love Your Elf Bride, on Crunchyroll. I’ve been wanting to read the light novel, so when I heard the anime was airing this season I had to check it out!
First and foremost, like a lot of us, the main character has some things he’s working through. After hearing his inner monologue, I’d encourage him to speak nicer to himself.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
Zagan is a sorcerer, who is anti-social. I don’t blame him for wanting his peace and quiet, and living alone in the woods seems like the ideal place to do so. Flashbacks from his childhood reveal that he’s had a rough upbringing, and had to overcome a lot of challenges to become a strong sorcerer. Society assumes all sorcerers are evil. Zagan does not come across as evil, but he seems indifferent to the plight of others. If he was inconvenienced, like someone loudly attacking an innocent person, and this attack just happened to wake him from his nap, then he’d take care of the troublemaker and go back to sleep, and go about his day. Zagan would stop evildoers if he came across them, but didn’t actively seek them out. One day, after he unintentionally saves a maiden from a bad guy, his sorcerer friend pops up suddenly and tells him an archdemon has passed, and now there is an estate sale. His friend invites him to the estate sale (his friend has an ulterior motive, he wants to put Zagan’s money to use, since no one else will lend him money).
While at this estate sale, Zagan falls in love at first sight with an elf. I have concerns about this relationship starting off on the wrong foot. He tries to get the elf’s collar removed, but finds out it is enchanted and it may be a challenge to get it off without harming her. It seems he wants her to be free. Flashback scenes reveal she may not have a home to return to.
Zagan takes the elf back to his castle-like home, and she thinks he’s going to kill her, or do something possibly worse. The torture devices in his home are not persuading her otherwise (apparently they belonged to the previous owner of the residence, and he was too lazy to remove it from the premises or clean…I get not wanting to clean, but these devices are not good conversation pieces).
Actually I am concerned about Zagan’s state of affairs and how he is living his life. It’s giving “surviving but not thriving.” I am also concerned for the elf.
Realization hits the next day, when the elf named Nephy, seems sympathetic Zagan’s eating the same food she is…which is a slice of beef jerky and milk. That’s his breakfast on a regular day, and he would’ve eaten that even if she wasn’t there.
It sounds like Nephy can cook, and she doesn’t seem excited about this jerky and milk meal. So they’re going to get groceries. However Zagan remembers he spent his life savings on acquiring Nephy, so luxuries like an Uber ride or a taxi, aren’t happening. Actually how was he even planning on paying for groceries? His face card?
I guess he’s not hanging out the passenger side of his best friend’s ride.
They’re getting their 10,000 steps in today.
Nephy! LOL
Suddenly bad guys are attacking the wagon, and Zagan senses that Nephy is frightened. He assuages her fear, by showing her his strength, and that people like them should not be a concern. He will keep her safe. But saving people, intentionally or not, has consequences which he soon discovers.
Having a change of heart, the bad guys choose life and make a run for it.
Now Nephy has nothing to fear!
That’s a good one Nephy! You’re so funny.
The people Zagan rescued expressed their gratitude and appreciation for his (unintended) heroic deeds!
No one is more shocked than Zagan.
He’s used to people being scared of him.
Yaaaaaaaas!!!! Manifest!!!
Now they think Nephy works for him! And she must be one of his elite employees!
Zagan’s heart is starting to show! I love it. I hope he will embrace his strength to help others, and that it’ll lead him to find inner strength to love himself. He has a kind heart, even if he doesn’t realize it. He’s unintentionally saved other people too! He found out when trying to remove Nephy’s collar, that he saved the shop owner and his daughter. The positive response he received from others is due to his own good deeds, but he thinks it is because of Nephy. He’s shocked by how friendly people are to him. While their kindness is directly related to him, he is more approachable when he is with her, so they can finally express their gratitude.
I’m optimistic about this anime, and I’m looking forward to more episodes!
I caught up on watching That Time I was Reincarnated as a Slime, so now I’m watching The Slime Diaries. The scene that amused me in the episode “The Residents of the City of Monsters” was seeing Rimuru’s envy of Benimaru’s popularity with the ladies. Haters can be in one’s inner circle too! Beware! Lol…although, truth be told Rimuru is very popular himself, but he seems oblivious.
I’m watching on Crunchyroll.
OMG do you see what they gave him?! They made a super cute doll of him! Plus the flowers, and I’m sure there’s a love note or two in there! 
Hmmm now how will Rimuru answer? Lol – with humor, sarcasm, jealousy, amusement, or in another manner??
Wow, they are really camped outside like he was BTS, or a famous pop star! I’m a BTS fan, so I get it, but it might not be the way to Benimaru’s heart lol.
I’m watching Queen’s Legend, and the main character is a modern day doctor who finds herself transported to the past. Her conversation sounds too familiar to me. So on that note… I’m going to change my ways, like he’s doing…
Episode three of My Dress Up Darling, Sono Bisque Doll wa Koi wo Suru, is called “Then Why Don’t We?”. I watched on VRV / Crunchyroll. In this episode, Gojou is feeling self conscious since some of his classmates think he is dating Kitagawa, and he believes their comments implying she’s out of his league. He feels like a burden towards her. Meanwhile, Kitagawa couldn’t care less about the opinion of others, and searched high and low for Gojou since he’d been avoiding her. They were able to talk and resolve that awkward situation, and go…shopping!
I love the whole concept of cosplay; of temporarily embodying a beloved character, and paying homage. I’ve only done Ms. Joke from MHA, but it’s fun to portray a character you admire. For me, since I love making people laugh (improv class is a hoot – I totally recommend trying one out, and a great public speaking course at my job taught by my friend Michele, enabled me to properly roast some dear colleagues for a retirement and farewell), that aspect of Ms. Joke resonated with me. Plus wanting to help others! I’m a fan of Aizawa too! I agree with her choice for a potential husband – haha! I’ve also enjoyed meeting character fans that run up at events, and talking to people who like Ms. Joke as much as I do. All that to say, I can understand Kitagawa’s desire to cosplay, and wanting to pay tribute to her beloved character. So it’s great Gojou is helping her achieve her dream!
Now, I am nothing like Gojou, and I am definitely worse than Kitagawa when it comes to creating costumes. Years ago, during home ec, I was trying to fix my project, and was so behind. I alone, was using the sewing machine, while everyone else who had finished their projects got to watch the Robin Williams film, Flubber. As an adult, I’ve taken some workshops to improve my skills, but I need a remedial class. Maybe Joanne’s or Michael’s can help me out. My dear sister has the power and skill to create beautiful costumes, and outfits. I am on the opposite end of that spectrum that she and Gojou are on. So I am glad I have Kitagawa to relate to.
Kitagawa is in wonder and astonishment at Gojou’s eye for detail and his drawing skills. As they shop for items for her cosplay, they discuss everything they’ll need.
I can’t wait to see how their creation turns out! This episode was fun, and it was great seeing Gojou break out of his shell. Despite the horror of everyone standing in line waiting for their ramen, overhearing that one conversation. Also…maybe watch the first five minutes of this episode alone. Might be less awkward. Did you watch this episode? Let me know your thoughts!
I just finished Dr. Ramune Mysterious Disease Specialist, Kai Byoui Ramune, on VRV. Ramune is a doctor, that specializes in supernatural afflictions.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
Sometimes the illness can be emotions, trapped, and unable to express themselves. Memories that are suppressed. Or behavior that needs to be faced honestly. Using unconventional methods, Dr. Ramune, enables his patients to face their challenges and heal themselves. They are able to make the connection between their condition, and their life choices. And they gain insight and strength, to make healthier choices going forward. Their body is communicating a message, that Dr. Ramune helps them decipher.
I agree with the VRV/Crunchyroll commenter KhakiBlueSocks. This show is a good mix of xxxHolic and Mushishi. I enjoyed both of those series. This show has humor and heart. The positive messages are just as applicable to our daily lives. Well-being is to be healthy physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
This anime ended with an episode that updated us on Dr. Ramune’s patients, and emphasized all the healing he helped them with, and how his empathic nature is a blessing. This show also touched upon self-care, and how it’s vital that he take care of himself, so he can continue helping others.
I watched on VRV / Crunchyroll. I do recommend this show, I really enjoyed it. It was interesting to think of underlying behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that contributed to the seemingly odd illnesses. But it was most insightful, seeing the patients come to their own conclusion for healing, and how their quality of life improved.
Acceptance is a wonderful idea. To be received, and included, as you are. This message resonated with me, as I hope people in my life feel accepted. The idea of acceptance, is explored in the anime My Dress Up Darling, Sono Bisque Doll wa Koi wo Suru. I just watched the first episode on VRV / Crunchyroll. It’s also on Funimation.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
Wakana Gojou, helps with his family’s business, which involves the tradition of making Japanese Hina dolls. Gojou puts a lot of effort and passion into designing the dolls, and has become proficient in sewing and creating their traditional costumes. He wants to improve his skill with making their detailed faces, like his grandfather, who is an expert at making them. He’s been in the business for 48 years!
An unpleasant childhood experience, made Gojou feel that his passion for doll making was not acceptable to his peers, so he’s since withdrawn and prefers to keep to himself. He feels awkward around other people and doesn’t want to be judged.
The first few scenes show a memorial alter for Gojou’s parents, and his grandma. He and his grandpa live together. Families can be all sorts, as long as they love and support one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and help each other as they go through the challenges of life.
Over breakfast, Gojou and his grandpa talk about doll making. Gojou’s grandpa wonders if he is lonely and asks if he has friends. Wanting to assuage his concern, Gojou tells a fib.
Almost choking on soup, leads the viewer to think the answer is no. Which is confirmed moments later.
Gojou and his grandpa both mean well. But, at the moment Gojou does not have friends.
The animation in this series, is vivid. Looking out the window, you can see how incredibly detailed the tree is.
This beauty is in Gojou’s life, right outside his classroom window, but it seems he can’t see it. He’s missing it. Which makes this next moment, even more heartbreaking, as he thinks it would be better if he didn’t exist. You don’t have to “do” anything to feel worthy of life. Your presence is a unique imprint upon this world, that only you can bring to this realm. Your soul expression is one of a kind.
Gojou is having unhealthy thoughts. If he was someone in real life, I’d encourage him to talk about his feelings. And there are resources too, and websites like https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ that can help.
However, Gojou is distracted by a loud ruckus. Looking up, he sees his classmate Kitagawa flying in from stage left and then banging her head on his desk. I was worried she’d fly right out the window if it wasn’t for his desk there.
She said his name, which means she knows who he is. Kitagawa was concerned for his well-being, even checking his arm. My first impression is she seems pleasant, and is a ball of energy. As Gojou continues his observation, we learn she’s his complete opposite.
Kitagawa’s friend shares a story about them getting their hair done, and a cute guy waited after his appointment, for an opportunity to talk to Kitagawa. He was unsuccessful in winning her heart, but we the viewers, got to learn more about her character.
Quick pause here: Her friends imply she never hangs out with them after school because she always runs off somewhere, so I’m curious where she goes!
I like that Kitagawa has a strong sense of self, is confident, and holds her own. Despite the feedback she gets from her friends regarding the incident, she knows it was the right action for her.
If Kitagawa is an ice queen to people who hit on her, why is that? Is it the type of guys that tend to approach her? Is it their manner? Doesshe have an ideal type? Or does she question their motives? Do they seem shallow?By accounts so far, she is cheerful and approachable. I’m curious why she has a different demeanor with others. But the same could be said for most people. I wouldn’t be as relaxed around strangers, or people I just met.
True. I wonder if he was trying that “negging” approach? Although I am guilty of roasting people, but only my nearest and dearest. Never to someone I just met, and surely not as a flirting attempt!
This moment, really resonated with Gojou. Although he is sitting in the back of the classroom, he is able to hear their entire conversation. Gojou was judged in his youth, for his affinity for dolls, and it’s affected his ability to interact comfortably with others. Meanwhile Kitagawa, seems to be taking a different approach when being judged for her preferences. Why? Is it because she’s older? Versus Gojou being a younger child when he had the experience? Does this happen to Kitagawa often, so she’s developed a tough exterior to handle these situations? Or is it because she’s an attractive female, so society treats her differently? Or could it be a different scenario, where Kitagawa is hit on often, and she finds holding a firm line is the best way to handle it so she’s assertive in establishing a boundary? Sometimes we want to protect our hobbies and passions. Keeping it to ourselves might keep the energy around it more positive, or we assume that to be the case. Less judgement, less defending, less explaining. Other times, we want to share our passions, and spread the good word! Haters be damned. There’s a lot going on behind the scenes here. Have you ever had a judgement against a hobby or passion you had? Or did you find a supportive environment, or community? Was the reaction based on external factors? Maybe it changed over time. Why do people react the way they do? Do they think the hobby is too consuming? Perhaps they dislike the attention it takes away from them in your life. Maybe it adds to the quality of your life. Perhaps they just don’t understand.
In this scene Kitagawa attempts to explain her anime passion, and her love of this particular character, so her friends might understand.
In Gojou’s eyes, he lives in a world where he is not accepted for who he is. He even continues to hide his ink mark on his arm, while sitting at his desk. But he imagines the world that Kitagawa lives in, where she is accepted as she is, must be really comfortable.
Gojou runs into Kitagawa later that day. He is stuck with clean up duty, and his classmates who were supposed to help, have bailed on him. All except for Kitagawa. She can sense his true feelings, and calls him out for not standing up for himself. But she does it in a way, that reminds him, he is worth standing up for and his feelings matter. Kitagawa’s integrity and inner strength reminds me of Hori, from Horimiya.
It’s awesome that Kitagawa sees Gojou, can sense his true feelings, and also encourages him to be authentic. You can already tell she’s the type of friend you’d want in your life, someone who encourages you, and lifts you up. But also tells the truth, even if that may be uncomfortable at times. Because ultimately, she wants you to be happy. Her words stay with Gojou, and he reflects upon it later, as he’s working.
There’s something to be said for the people in our lives, that see things as they truly are. The ones that see behind our forced smiles, our eyes that don’t shine as they normally do. They give us permission to let our guard down, to be ourselves. We never needed their permission, but their presence, and their words, were the reminder we needed.
I’m so excited to see where this show goes, and I hope these two have a lot of growth, fun, and friendship in the future! Also, I guess the mystery of where Kitagawa goes after class has been solved! If you’d like to watch My Dress Up Darling, check out VRV / Crunchyroll or Funimation.
I just started watching My Senpai is Annoying on Funimation. Futaba Igarashi is a hard working adult, yet she’s viewed differently due to her height, and youthful appearance. She works diligently to earn the respect of her colleagues and to be taken seriously. Harumi Takeda, is her Senpai, and takes excellent care of her as a mentor. He is patient, and helps her grow in her career. There is an inkling of romance in the first episode. Takeda has appeal as the male lead; he is good humored, generous, kind, and reliable. After seeing our girl put herself out there (after having a few beers, maybe too many beers), and receiving this response…well, I hope she’ll get out of whatever zone this is! Because YIKES! That sounds like a solid rejection. Here’s hoping they find their happy ending.
Qingqing should focus on work, and not daydream about her co-worker! If you’re curious to see how these two end up, give Feel the Fairies a watch. It’s on the IQ streaming site, but proceed with caution, as I’m not sure if it’s a legitimate site, but hopefully it is. This show was recommended to me after I watched Psychic Princess.
In addition to romance, this show has supernatural appeal, and humor. The episodes are short, around ten minutes or so. It’s ongoing, but the episodes I’ve watched so far were entertaining.
It has slice of life elements, with work scenes.
This show also has a cute cat.
Having a cat means winning at life? Good to know!
There’s Qingqing’s roommate, a Merman.
If you’re looking for an amusing show, that is a quick watch, you may like the Chinese Anime (Donghua), Feel the Fairies!
After watching Psychic Princess, I received a recommendation for My Demon Tyrant and Sweet Baby. It is a Chinese anime, or Donghua. This show had romance, cuteness, comedy, and all the makings of a rom-com with a splash of (unnecessary) drama. There are episodes on YouTube, and this streaming site called IQ (I don’t know anything about this site, it’s the first time I’ve heard of it, so proceed with caution – it looked like a legit site, and I hope it was).
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
There are awkward/funny moments between the female lead (who is a nanny) and the child’s uncle.
There are funny moments when the Dad sees the difference in how his daughter treats him versus her nanny (don’t worry it all works out in the end!)
Mia, the little girl, thinks the nanny is her mom.
And this moment when Mia didn’t want her Dad’s ornament near theirs, and it was relegated to the bottom of the tree.
It’s an obvious romance anime, with a happy predictable ending, but I love those! Some secondhand happiness is always appreciated.
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