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The Scent of October

     October came with a little chill in the air — the kind that makes you feel winter is on its way. During this month, I took a short “gap week” to slow down a bit. I rewatched my favorite anime, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen it, and went back home to hang out with my friends. It wasn’t a big or fancy month, but it felt warm, and full of tiny moments that made me smile.

My October Moments

 

     After the dorm camping event and before midterm exams, I took a “gap week” with my family to Vietnam — a small break before everything got busy again. The trip began with an unexpected surprise. While wandering around the airport before our flight, I suddenly “encountered” one of my favorite celebrities. It wasn’t the real person, of course — just a big poster — but it still made me smile and felt like a lucky start to the trip. In Vietnam, I tried so many foods I’d never seen in Taiwan — sweet jackfruit, rambutan, and endless bowls of warm pho. The people there were so welcoming, and I met lots of adorable street animals too. We even spent a day at an amusement park where everyone’s laughter and warmth made me forget all about exams and stress. It was a simple trip, but one that filled me with sunshine — a reminder that even a short break can bring a whole lot of joy before life gets busy again.

Seven days, a journey to Vietnam

Rewinding,
the Four Seasons of Yokohama

     One of my favorite ways to relax in October was watching anime, and I ended up rewatching Bungo Stray Dogs again, I’ve lost count of how many times! My favorite character is Nakajima Atsushi, who is like a little sun, and always trying his best no matter what. In the first season, when he saved Izumi Kyouka, I couldn’t help but burst into tears because of how pure and selfless him was. His kindness really touches my heart, and every time I watch, I find myself rooting for him even more.

     I also love the whole ensemble, especially the Armed Detective Agency. Each member fights not just for themselves but for the agency and for each other, and it’s their unique presence that makes the group so special. One thing worth mentioning is that the show doesn’t really have a proper villain. It’s just that everyone has different sides and goals, so sometimes they clash, but it’s never about being “bad.” Every single character has something I can learn from, and each time I watch it, it fills me with a cozy, warm feeling — that’s probably why I keep rewatching it.

Homecoming, Where Winter Begins

     Back in Hsinchu, the scent of the season reminded me that the colder days were coming. One afternoon, I met up with a friend because we both missed each other very much. At the café, she taught me some neuroscience concepts, which reminded me of how she used to teach me math back in high school. We ended up talking about everything, laughing at silly stories, and just enjoying being together. Walking home, the soft winter sunlight made the cold air feel gentle. Moments like these, with friends and small signs of the season changing around me, made me feel happy and grateful for the simple things in October 2025.

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