#2024 Thanksgiving Conference

[a-godman]

Develop the Virtues in Divine Life to Grow unto Maturity & Enter the Eternal Kingdom

We believers in Christ need to develop the spiritual virtues in the divine life and thus to advance in the growth of the divine life so that we make God’s calling and selection of us firm and so that we may have a rich entrance into the eternal kingdom. Amen! This week we have been enjoying the matter of being partakers of the divine nature and having the development of the divine life and the…

[sycamorelibrary754]

Happy Easter

Summary: You are three weeks from your due date, but the thought of you and Natasha missing Easter at the Barton’s farmhouse in Iowa was simply inconceivable. What will you do if your little bundle of joy makes an early, unexpected entrance?

Genre: Fluff

Pairings: Natasha x reader, Avengers x reader (platonic).

Word Count: 5.7k

Warnings: None

A/N: Happy belated Easter! I wanted to post this fic on Easter, but there wasn't enough time. This is part 3 of Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas! I recommend reading those stories first, but it can be read as a stand-alone story as well. This was so much fun to write. I hope you enjoy it! 

"Does anyone know where the purple egg dye is?" you inquired, scanning the table as you addressed the Barton kids. "I could have sworn we had two cups of every color." Cooper and Lila were fully engrossed in the Easter egg decorating contest, meticulously crafting their designs, while Nate seemed to relish in using every color available on the table. "Oh, it's on the counter.”

You were just about to rise from the kitchen table, no easy feat at this stage of your pregnancy. It felt like yesterday when you surprised Natasha with your pregnancy at Thanksgiving in front of her family and announced to the team that they would all be aunts and uncles at Tony’s annual Christmas party. Your due date was three weeks away, but missing Easter with Clint’s family in Iowa was out of the question.

“Don’t get up, Y/N. I got it!” Nat said as she jumped up to grab the paper cup of purple egg dye behind you.

"Thanks, sweetheart," you said as Nat placed the cup on the table.

"How are you feeling?" Natasha asked as she gently caressed your cheek. "Maybe you should take a break?”

“Nat, I promise I’m okay. Come sit back down and color some Easter eggs with us,” you replied, trying to put your wife at ease. 

Natasha was looking forward to Easter, too, but she was more focused on you and the final weeks of your pregnancy. Dr. Cho had given you the green light to go, with the condition that you'd have daily check-ins by phone and go on bed rest as soon as you returned home.

"Auntie Nat, look at this!" Nate proudly showed off an egg with The Black Widow symbol on it.

"Look, Auntie Nat," you echoed with a smile.

"This is amazing! Maybe I should have you design my next suit instead of Stark," she said.

"Shall we start the judging?" Clint asked as he entered the room with Laura.

"Yep, all set," Cooper confirmed.

"Just a sec," Lila said, focused on decorating her egg. "There, done."

"Where are Yelena and Kate?" Laura asked.

"We're coming!" came a shout from the living room.

"It's not a Fabergé egg, you two, come on!" Nat yelled.

"Tada!" Kate exclaimed, revealing a beautiful purple egg with green and orange stripes.

You whispered to your wife, "So that's where all the purple dye went.”

You placed your egg on the table with all the others. Pink and blue with red polka dots. Symbolic of your current anticipation over the impending arrival of your bundle of joy. You and Nat both agreed you wanted to be surprised.

“Hmmm, this is going to be a tough decision,” Clint said, stroking his chin. “As you all know, you will be judged on creativity, technique, and presentation.”

Walking back and forth in front of the kitchen table, you couldn’t help but giggle at his mock seriousness. 

“Allow me to confer with my fellow judge,” he said. After a few moments of hushed whispers with Laura, Clint returned to the group. “We thank you all for your participation. You all decorated beautiful Easter eggs. The competition was tough this year, but one egg stands head and shoulders above the rest,” pausing for dramatic effect. “The 2024 Barton Easter Egg Decorating Champion is Nathaniel Barton!” 

You shouldn't have spent so much time on the sketches!” Yelena said, slapping Kate on the arm. 

“Yes!!” Nathaniel cheered. 

“You are hereby awarded this Lindt Milk Chocolate Gold Bunny,” his father said, handing him the gold-wrapped chocolate as big as his head.

“That you will share with the rest of the family and not eat in one sitting,” Laura added.

“Aww!” Nathaniel whined. 

*^~^*

You spent the evening on the porch, surrounded by the laughter of the kids playing on the lush green lawn as the sun set over the farm. Laura served her delicious homemade Lemonade as you shared stories and reminisced about old times. The air was filled with nostalgia so vivid that you could almost reach out and touch it. Natasha sat next to you, holding your hand gently, her calloused touch a reminder of the strength and resilience she had acquired through years of training.

You were taken by surprise as you felt the baby begin to kick.

"Wow!" You exclaimed as you gently placed your hand on your belly.

All eyes turned to you. Though unspoken, everyone shared the same nervous anticipation as your wife for the approaching due date.

"Are you alright, malyshka?" Nat asked, her eyes filled with concern as she squeezed your hand.

"I'm okay. The baby is kicking. Here, feel." You said as you took her hand and gently guided it to your stomach, trying to find the right spot. 

“Oh,” Nat squeaked. “I’ll never get used to that feeling.”

“Move aside, sestra; I want to feel my little plemyannitsa or plemyannik.” (Niece or nephew).

Yelena playfully bumped her sister out of the way with her hip and eagerly reached to touch your stomach.

"Wow, that's amazing!" she cried out. "Hey there, little one. I'm Aunt Yelena, and I will spoil you rotten!"

"Have you two settled on a name yet?" Kate inquired.

"No," you sighed. "We just can't seem to agree. Since we both want to be surprised, it's been twice as hard to come up with two names."

"Don't worry, you'll know when you see the little bundle of joy," Laura reassured.

"This wouldn't be an issue if either of you were open to any of the names I've suggested," Yelena added with a grin.

“Yelena is not an option,” Natasha frustratedly replied.

“What about—“ 

“Neither is Alaska! That isn’t even a name!” Your wife is exasperated.

“It could be!” Yelena said. “What about—“

“Or Wolfgang!” Nat interrupted.

“You lack all originality, sestra,” Yelena berated.

^*~*^

The soft glow of the table lamp reflected off your glasses as you delved into the pages of your latest beloved read. You placed your bookmark between the pages at the sound of your wife closing the bathroom door and crawling into bed beside you.

"Did you get a chance to talk to Helen today?" Nat asked as she helped me fluff up my pregnancy pillow.

"Yeah, I did. She was glad to hear that the swelling in my ankles went down and suggested taking a warm bath to help with the discomfort," you replied, shifting to get comfortable against the pillow.

"Mmm, a warm bath does sound amazing," Natasha hummed as she settled down on her side, facing me.

“Oh, I didn’t realize you’d be joining me?” You said softly, with a sly grin and a raised eyebrow.

“Of course I would, detka,” leaning over and kissing your baby bump. 

You gently squeezed Nat's hand, feeling a wave of anticipation as your due date drew near. Thoughts of what your baby would look like and who they would become filled your mind. Would they inherit Nat's fiery red hair, or perhaps have your Y/E/C eyes? The anticipation was almost overwhelming, but knowing that Natasha was by your side made it all feel possible.

"Are you looking forward to the Easter egg hunt tomorrow?" You asked, pulling yourself out of your daydream.

Nat giggled, "You make it sound like I'm the one participating."

"Well, you might as well be. I can never tell who's more excited, you or the kids," you replied.

Natasha glanced down at our intertwined hands and then back up at you. Her green eyes sparkled like emeralds.

"I think it's because holidays in my childhood weren’t real. We filled the photo album with fake pictures and empty boxes. But this," looking around at the small details of Clint and Laura’s farmhouse, "Is real, and I’ve always done my best to help ensure that Cooper, Lila, and Nate have everything I didn’t. A carefree childhood filled with love," Natasha explained.

"You’ve done a wonderful job with Clint’s kids, Nat. They love you so much, and I know you’ll be just as amazing with our little one," you said, doing your best to reassure her. “Goodnight, Natasha,” kissing her lips. 

“I hope you're right, detka,” Nat said, kissing your lips in return and laying a hand on your stomach. “Goodnight, malen'kiy (little one).

*^~^*

The following day, you awoke to the sun shining through the window and a soft breeze that caused the curtains to dance gently on the wind. Your back was aching, and you were tired, but you were determined to make it through today. You slipped into the most comfortable maternity outfit you had. Natasha helped you with your shoes, and you both went downstairs to the kitchen. 

“Happy Easter, you two!” Clint said upon seeing you two enter the kitchen. 

You sat down at the kitchen table as Laura placed a plate of eggs and toast in front of you and Nat, along with two glasses of orange juice. The kids were already eating and arguing over who would find the most Easter eggs this afternoon. 

Yelena and Kate walked in a few moments later, clad in bathrobes and their hair disheveled. 

“Against the idea of showering and dressing before breakfast, were you?” Natasha asked.

“Kate Bishop kept me up all night with her snoring, and Lucky and Fanny woke me up by sitting on my face,” Yelena mumbled as she flopped beside you. 

“Hey, that’s how dogs shows affection,” Kate interjected.

“So, I should consider your snoring a Valentine?” Yelena deadpanned. 

After breakfast, the kids ran upstairs to prepare for the Easter egg hunt while Clint got a head start on hiding the eggs. Nathaniel insisted Nat accompany him to help find his Easter basket, but she hesitated to leave you.

“Go ahead, babe. I’m fine.” Motioning for her to follow her namesake. 

“So, how are you really feeling?” Laura asked, now that Nat was no longer in the room. 

You let out a deep sigh, “Tired and sore,” resting your head in your hands. “But this quality time with you all means so much to both of us. I can make it one more day before going on bed rest.”

Laura rubbed her hand softly on your back, “Why don’t you sit in the family room with Kate and Yelena until the fun starts.” 

“Okay, that’s a good idea. Make sure Yelena and Kate haven’t snuck into the Easter candy,” you laughed. 

Laura helped you to your feet and then began to clear the table. As you started to walk, you felt a minor twinging pain in your stomach. You winced but thought nothing of it. With the amount of shifting the baby was doing these days, you had every spasm and cramp in the book. Unfortunately for you, you were in a house full of spies, and Laura picked up your discomfort. She made a mental note to watch you as the day progressed.

*^~^*

"Look, there's one!" Cooper exclaimed, pointing at the leather seat of the tractor in the front yard. He dashed towards it, but Lila beat him by a step. "Ha! Slowpoke," she teased.

From your spot on the porch, you glanced over and saw my wife hoisting Nathaniel onto her shoulders to carefully grab an Easter egg from the crook of an old sycamore tree. 

After about 15 minutes, everyone's baskets were full of eggs. Now came the fun of opening them all. You watched as all three kids dug into their baskets, opening the eggs to find mini Hershey bars, M&M's, jelly beans, or starbursts.

Nathaniel walked over to you and placed an Orange Starburst in your hand. "Here, Aunt Y/N. I know the Orange ones are your favorite."

"Aww, thank you, Nate," you said, kissing his forehead.

As you were about to open the soft toffy candy, a sharp contraction cut through my stomach. “Aaah!” you reached for your stomach as you bent over at the knees. Much stronger than anything you had felt before.

Natasha rushed to your side. “Y/N?! Are you okay? What’s wrong?” Reaching for your hand.

"I don’t know," you grunted.

Natasha's voice quivered with anxiety as she tried to rationalize the situation. "This—this can’t be it. We’re still three weeks out," she said, her mind racing with worry. "Maybe it’s just false labor."

That was the moment when your water broke. "Oh God—" you took a sharp breath as another contraction hit.

"Okay, not false labor," Nat conceded.

"It’s okay, Y/N," Laura reassured you calmly, gently taking your hand. "Most first births are a long labor. But we’re going to get you inside, okay?"

You felt a surge of panic. "What? No, no. I can't have the baby here. I'm not ready. We had a birth plan; I don't have my overnight bag!" you started to ramble, the anxiety rising in your voice.

"You're not boarding a Quinjet now. “I'm going to call Helen,” Clint said as he started to run inside.

"What's wrong with Aunt Y/N?” Nathaniel asked.

"Nothing, sweetheart, but the baby is coming a little bit earlier than we thought," Laura said calmly as she and your wife Nat gently guided you up the steps and into the warm and welcoming embrace of the house.

"Cooper and Lila, please grab a soft, warm blanket and clean towels from the linen closet?" Laura called out to the older children, her voice steady and reassuring.

I'l boil some water and tear up some sheets!" Kate announced frantically.

"This isn't Little House on the Prairie," Yelena quipped. She looked at you and Natasha with a warm yet nervous smile. "I’ll call Mom and Dad.”

"I thought you said this was a long process?" you managed to say between deep breaths, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.

"Yes, but there's nothing wrong with being prepared, honey," Laura replied with a comforting smile, her hands steady as she and Nat helped you onto the bed.

Natasha gently grasped your hand and locked eyes with you. "Y/N, look at me," she said reassuringly. “You’re okay, and I'm right here with you. Let's take a deep breath together.”

You took a deep breath, trying to follow Natahsa's lead. The air came out shakily as it moved around the sharp pain of the contraction.

"Do you remember your Lamaze breathing?" Nat asked, her voice calm and reassuring.

"I think so," you replied, trying to focus on the breathing technique you had practiced during the prenatal classes.

*^~^*

Contractions came and went over the next few hours. You were thankful that childbirth was part of the first aid classes all SHIELD recruits were required to take. Otherwise, the prospect of giving birth in a farmhouse in the middle of Iowa would have been more terrifying than it already was. 

You heard the front door open and the screen shut behind it as footsteps hurriedly approached the bedroom. When you saw Dr. Cho, you just about burst into tears. 

Helen! Oh, thank goodness," you exclaimed just as another contraction began, your face twisted in agony.

"Y/N," Helen responded, rushing to your side and gently pushing the sweaty strands of hair away from your eyes. "Clint and Laura briefed me. They said that you're handling this wonderfully. Let me take a moment to set up, and then we'll check your dilation progress.”

Okay," you managed to say, catching your breath. "Where's Bruce?"

He's in Kamar-Taj with Wong. Something about ten rings? I'm not entirely sure, but don't worry, both of you," she reassured, meeting your and Natasha’s fatigued and apprehensive gazes. "I have a backup.”

Thor strode into the room, effortlessly carrying a collection of Helen's equipment that seemed as light as a feather in his hands.

"Thor? What are you doing here?" Natasha asked, clearly puzzled.

Thor glanced at your wife, then at you, then at Laura, and then at Helen.

"Hello, everyone," he said shyly. "I was, uh, Helen and I—Dr. Cho. She invited me for Easter, and we were enjoying a nice glass of Asgardian Mead when—"

"When Clint called," Helen finished. "Anyway, he's here to help, right?"

"Of course," Thor replied. "I've never witnessed a human birth before, but I've been present for the births of many Gods and am well-versed in many newborn blessings."

You and Natasha locked eyes, your nervousness quickly replaced with gratitude as you realized the significance of having another close friend by your side during this pivotal moment in your lives.

Natasha expressed her gratitude to Thor, finally breaking the silence. "We're both thankful that you're here," she said, her voice filled with sincerity. 

You nodded in agreement, silently acknowledging the sentiment.

"It's my pleasure, ladies," Thor replied warmly.

“Thor, can you bring the rest of my equipment in from the Quinjet while I check to see how far Y/N is dilated?” Helen asked.

“Sure, and do either of you need anything? He asked.

Some ice chips would be great, you said in a tired voice. “Thank you.”

“Water,” Natasha said.

Shortly after Thor departed, Yelena entered, engaging in small talk as they crossed paths in the hallway. "What's the God of muscles doing here?" she inquired.

"It's a long story," Helen responded.

"I spoke with Melina. She and Alexi are en route and should arrive by morning. At least, I think that's what she said. It was hard to hear her over Alexi's ecstatic screams in the background."

"Okay, Y/N, you've done most of the hard work in my absence. You're just about at 10 centimeters. It’s time to start pushing. You two are going to parents soon," Helen announced with a smile.

“Oh my God,” you said, looking over at Natasha. 

“Hey,” your wife said, running her hand through your hair, “I love you.” 

“I love you too,” you said.

*^~^*

“Push. Push, just a little more! Come on, push for five seconds. 5…4…” Helen counted down.

Gasping for air, you exclaimed, '3-2-1 oh!!' as you fought to catch your breath.

Thor gently wiped away the sweat from your forehead with a cloth.

“You're doing great, Y/N. The next contraction should be coming in about twenty seconds," Helen encouraged, glancing at the monitor. 

“I can’t,” you cried. “I can’t push anymore, I can’t.”

Natasha reassured you, "Yes, you can, Y/N. You're so close," she reached out and firmly took hold of your hand.

“Oh God, twenty seconds, my ass!” You shouted.

Natasha screamed in pain and fell to her knees beside you as you squeezed her hand. “Fuck, detka!”

"Here, Lady Y/N," Thor said, taking her hand in his, "Give my hand a good squeeze; you won't hurt me. And when you reminisce on this moment, you will remember that a God has faith in you. You can do this!" Thor's voice was solid and reassuring, his eyes filled with genuine belief in your strength.

Your eyes shone with tears as you held Thor's hand tightly, feeling the strength in his grip while Natasha enveloped you, her arm supporting your back.

I can see the baby's head. Are you ready to push one more time, honey?” Helen asked, “Here we go, on three: 1... 2... 3!”

You let out a final scream and then collapsed back onto the pillows, trying to catch your breath. As the room fell silent, the innocent cries of your and Natasha’s baby filled the air.

"It's a boy!" Helen exclaimed with joy.

Tears welled up in your eyes as you looked at Natasha, who was also crying. It was more emotion than you had ever seen Natasha show before.

Helen held up your son for both of you to admire. His little head was adorned with the beginnings of red hair. 

"He's absolutely perfect," Nat exclaimed with a radiant smile as she affectionately kissed your temple.

Thor carefully cut the umbilical cord, and then Helen gently passed the newborn over to Laura, who began to clean him up. 

Overwhelmed with emotion, you exclaimed, "He's so tiny! Where'd he go?"

Natasha reassured you, "It's okay. They're just wrapping him up," as she wiped away her tears. Concerned for the baby's well-being, you cautioned, "Okay, well, be careful with him. He's really tiny!”

Moments later, Laura tenderly announced, "Here he is," and placed your precious son on your bare chest, swathed in a soft blanket.

"Hi, baby boy," you whispered, tears streaming down your cheeks. "I know you."

As your voice reached his ears, his little Y/E/C irises opened, revealing a world of innocence and wonder.

At that moment, gazing at your son, you experienced a love so profound it felt as though your heart had been laid bare.

Natasha tenderly kissed his head and softly murmured, “Dobro pozhalovat' v mir, moy malen'kiy mal'chik.” (Welcome to the world, my little boy).

We’ll give you a few minutes," Helen said with a reassuring smile as she closed the door behind her. In the serene stillness that followed, the only sound was the gentle cooing of your precious newborn son.

“I can't believe he's finally here,” you said.

"I know. He’s so beautiful," Natasha said, her gaze fixed on the newborn.

"It looks like he’s going to take after his Mama," you chuckled, running your hand over the delicate red hairs sprouting from his scalp.

"Yes, but look at his eyes—sparkling Y/E/C like yours. Wow," Nat said.

You remarked, "I guess this narrows the names down, then."

Nat sighed in relief, "Thank goodness I don't have to explain to my sister why we didn't choose Yelena."

Looking into your wife's eyes, you asked, "So what do you think?"

*^~^*

A short while later, a gentle knock on the door signaled Helen's arrival as she peeked inside. "Hey, you three. I need to conduct a few routine tests, and there are some eager people outside who can't wait to meet your son."

"Please, come on in, everyone," you welcomed them.

You couldn't hold back the tears as you witnessed the heartfelt expressions on their faces as they laid eyes on your baby boy. It was as if he instantly captivated them, just as you were when you first saw him.

"Oh, my goodness," Laura exclaimed as Clint enveloped Natasha tightly. Tears glistened in his eyes as he held his best friend close.

"He's beautiful, Natasha," Yelena said, her eyes brimming with tears. "Privet, malen'kiy plemyannik," she whispered (hello, my little nephew).

"He's so cute, Y/N! Oh my gosh," Kate exclaimed as your son wrapped his tiny hand around your finger.

"He is lovely," Thor added, his voice filled with warmth. "Strong and brave, like his mothers."

Cooper, Lila, and Nathaniel gathered around you, admiring the newborn in your arms.

"Everyone," Natasha began, her hand resting lovingly on your back. "We have someone special we'd like you to meet.”

“This is Nikolai Odison Romanoff," you announced with a proud smile.

"Nikolai! What a beautiful first name," Clint exclaimed, wiping his eyes. "It suits him perfectly."

"Oh, my, Odison," Thor said wide-eyed. "Ladies, this is an honor fit for someone else. I wasn't even supposed to be here, I—" 

"But you were, Thor. You were here when I needed someone the most," you said, looking at him with gratitude. "We'll never forget what you did for us."

The God of Thunder exhaled, visibly touched by your kind words. "I'm truly honored, Y/N. Thank you," he said, kissing your cheek.

Excuse me, ladies," Helen said, "May I borrow him for a moment? We'll be right back.”

Nikolai began to cry at the loss of contact with you, and the sound tugged at both your and Natasha's heartstrings. "It's okay, little one. It's okay," Helen soothed him. 

Then, looking up at your wife, you added, "There is something else we wanted to ask. 

“Clint and Laura, we would be honored if you would be Nikolai’s godparents,” Natasha said.

“Of course!” Clint declared.

“Nothing would make us happier,” Laura added.”

The couple hugged you both in appreciation as Helen returned with Nikolai. 

“You have a healthy little boy on your hands! Born March 31st, 2024 at 7:23pm. He weighs five pounds and eight ounces and measures 16.5 inches long," she said as she gently placed your son in Natasha’s arms. "He's a bit small, but that is because he was impatient and arrived a bit early," Helen explained with a warm smile. "Nothing to worry about.”

Natasha cradled the baby in her arms, swaying gently back and forth as a soft yawn slipped from his tiny lips.

“We’ll spend the night here, but I want to bring Mom and Nikolai back to the compound tomorrow. I want to perform a thorough examination in my lab before sending you all home.” Helen explained.

"Of course, whatever you think is best," you agreed.

Natasha nodded in approval before a sudden realization struck her. "Oh, Mom and Dad! They're on their way here."

"They can join us if you'd like," Helen suggested.

"That would be great," you said. "Right, Nat?"

"Yeah, great," Natasha said, her mind racing as she tried to imagine the chaos of the Quinjet flight home with Alexi and Melina.

Yelena couldn't help but burst into laughter, fully aware of what her sister was thinking, until Kate elbowed her in the ribs.

"We'll leave you all to get some rest," Helen said. "I'll be outside if you need anything, and I'll be back in a little while to help you with breastfeeding him.”

"Thank you, Helen, and all of you, for everything," you said, feeling the exhaustion and emotions of the day overwhelming you as tears began to fall.

After exchanging warm embraces, everyone exited the room, leaving you and Natasha in peaceful solitude with your precious newborn son, savoring the tender moment.

Natasha gently settled Nikolai in Nathaniel's bassinet, a family heirloom lovingly retrieved from storage by Clint and Laura. As your little one drifted into a peaceful slumber, you both couldn't help but marvel at the miracle of life, watching his tiny chest rise and fall with each breath. It was a moment you never wanted to forget.

“Rest, detka. I'll take care of Nikolai," Nat offered, her voice filled with warmth and reassurance.

"I can stay up; it's fine. You should rest," you insisted, determined to take responsibility.

"Y/N, you've just brought new life into the world. You deserve to rest for the rest of your life," Nat chuckled, her eyes filled with affection and concern.

She settled beside you on the bed and enveloped you in a comforting embrace.

"Look at your face," Nat suddenly remarked, her expression softening with genuine admiration.

"I must look a mess," you replied, a tired smile tugging at your lips.

"No, Y/N, you look absolutely beautiful," Nat insisted, her words filled with sincerity. "I've never seen your face more radiant than it is right now.

Natasha's soft lips met yours in a tender kiss, and in that moment, you felt the truth of her words resonate deep within you.

*^~^*

The following day, Laura prepared a delicious breakfast and brought it to you and Natasha in bed. Both of you had barely gotten any sleep with Nikolai waking up every couple of hours. Despite feeling utterly exhausted, you didn't mind one bit. This weariness stemmed from the joy of caring for your precious newborn son on his very first night.

Twenty minutes later, the tranquil moment was interrupted by familiar voices outside. Natasha gently pulled the curtain back to glimpse her parents making their way up the front porch steps.

Yelena strode into the room with her arms folded and a mischievous smile on her lips. "Brace yourselves," she teased, "The grandparents have arrived.”

"Where's my little guy?" Alexi eagerly shouted as he entered the room.

"Shh!" Natasha hushed him with a grin, motioning to Nikolai nestled in her arms. "Oh, look at him!" Alexi whispered in awe. 

"Mom, Dad, this is Nikolai,” Nat said, wiping a tear from her eye.

"He's beautiful, Natalia," Melina murmured.

"May I hold him? I washed my hands," Alexi asked eagerly.

"Of course," you replied, carefully passing the baby to Alexi. The sight of the mighty Red Guardian tenderly cradling your newborn son made you smile.

"Hello, Nikolai. I'm your dedushka," Alexi said affectionately. "You're so adorable; yes, you are."

As he spoke, Nikolai slowly opened his eyes, and you could have sworn you saw your father-in-law's heart swell with love. 

Alexi gently placed the baby in Melina’s arms. Your mother-in-law had always been a complex and enigmatic figure. She was one of the longest-tenured widows, and her resilience made her one of the strongest women in your eyes. As she cradled your newborn son in her arms, a single tear traced its way down her cheek, revealing a depth of emotion and vulnerability that you had never seen before.

Yelena inched toward you and whispered, “He won them over faster than you did.” 

*^~^*

The next morning, Thor joined in to assist with packing while Clint hurried to the store to purchase an infant car seat for Nikolai. You were a family of two when you arrived, and you were leaving a family of three.

After a swift diaper change, Natasha placed your precious bundle of joy in his carrier. "Time to head home, Nik," you said, taking his tiny hand in yours. 

You bid farewell to everyone and securely placed Nikolai's carrier beside you on the Quinjet.

Nat smiled as she prepared the Quinjet for takeoff. Your first Quinjet ride," she said. "You're already an overachiever, moy sladkiy mal'chik" (my sweet little boy).

Your phone suddenly vibrates with a flurry of notifications.

"The team group chat is blowing up, sweetheart," showing Natasha your phone.

Nick Fury: Congratulations on the arrival of your precious son, Nikolai! It's heartwarming to see the Avengers family welcoming the newest member. Everyone at SHIELD looks forward to meeting him and supporting you and Natasha.

Steve Rogers: Hey, Y/N and Nat, huge congratulations! I'm so excited to meet Nikolai, the newest addition to our Avenger family. 🎖️

Wanda Maximoff: Congratulations to you both! All those cliches, those things you hear about having a baby and motherhood—all of them are true. Motherhood is the most beautiful things you will ever experience. I’ll drop off some food for you both in the morning. 🥰

Clint Barton: Hey, Y/N! Make sure Nikolai is securely fastened in his infant carrier. I hope he sleeps the whole way back. If he gets fussy, ask FRIDAY to turn on the cabin pressure stabilization. It's a feature I insisted Stark add to the Quinjet after SHIELD found out I had kids. You're welcome. 😏

Laura Barton: I know things didn't go as planned, but I'm grateful we could share in your special day, Y/N. Nikolai is absolutely beautiful! Please let Nat know that I'll give her a call tomorrow. 😊

Tony Stark: Rushman! Y/L/N! Congratulations on the arrival of your precious son. Nikolai will bring you endless joy and fulfillment and become your favorite reason to lose sleep for the rest of your lives. 😉

Pepper Stark: Congratulations, you two! I'm so happy for you and Nat. I can only imagine how incredible it must feel to look into Nikolai's eyes and feel like everything is right in the world. Please don't hesitate to reach out if there's anything I can do to help. Sending lots of love! ❤️

Bruce Banner: I'm truly sorry I couldn't be there; I’m thrilled for you and Natasha. I can't wait to meet Nikolai! 💚

Maria Hill: Congratulations, Y/N and Nat, on the arrival of baby Nikolai Odison! I can't wait to meet the little bundle of joy and see those tiny fingers and toes. The name Nikolai Odison Romanoff is absolutely beautiful. I spoke with Thor this morning, and the honor deeply moved him. 🥹

Thor Odinson: I am incredibly grateful to have been present for the birth of your son, Nikolai Odison Romanoff. Your decision to include me in this momentous occasion is a great honor, and I want to assure you that I will always be there to support and care for all of you. The arrival of Nikolai is a joyous event, and I am committed to being a steadfast presence in his life. ⚡

Peter Parker: Y/N! Congratulations on the arrival of Nikolai! I'm so thrilled for you and Nat. What does he look like? Does he have your hair or Natasha’s? What color are his eyes? I'm already thinking about all the adventures we'll have with him. I'm going to text Nat right now. I can't wait to meet him! 💙

Yelena Belova: Give my little nephew a kiss and hug from me. Also, heads up - Mom and Dad are considering staying with you for eight weeks to help care for Nikolai. Happy Parenting! 😂

Kate Bishop: Yelena is sitting next to me, and she can't stop laughing, so I'm going to assume that everything is going well. Please give Nikolai a kiss and hug from me! 🩵

*^~^*

You and Natasha stood together at the front of the Quinjet, the hum of the engines surrounding you as the aircraft soared safely through the sky. 

“Nikolai is sound asleep. I don't think your parents have taken their eyes off our son since they got here,” turning around to see Melina and Alexi lovingly admiring their grandson. 

Nat lovingly reached for your hand. “Our son,” she repeated with a big smile.

Nat took her place in the pilot's seat and turned off the autopilot as you settled in beside her.

"Come on, Y/N. Let’s go home.”

[aimeedaisies]

The Princess Royal’s Official Engagements in October 2024

01/10 As Court Member of the Fishmongers’ Company, visited a Food Technology Class at Bingley Grammar School. 🐟🏫

As President of the UK Fashion and Textile Association, visited SIL Group’s Fibre Processing Mill at Ladywell Mills in Bradford. 🧵🧣

Visited Viking Arms Limited in Harrogate. ⚔️🏹🗡️

02/10 Visited Blackburn Meadows Bio-Mass Power Plant in Tinsley, Sheffield. 🍃🔋

Visited Sheffield Forgemasters. 🔥⚒️

Visited Loadhog at the Hog Works. 🚛🚚

Opened the University of Sheffield’s Gene Therapy Innovation and Manufacturing Centre. 🧬

03/10 As President of Carers Trust, attended the Short Breaks Wales Conference at Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground in Cardiff. 🦽🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

As Colonel of The Blues and Royals (Royal Horse Guards and 1st Dragoons), attended the Annual Dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel in Knightsbridge, London. 💂🍽️

04/10 As Vice Patron of the British Horse Society attended the Changing Lives Through Horses Forum at Saddlers' Hall in London. 🐎

08/10 As President of the Royal Yachting Association, opened Warsash Sailing Club’s renovated Clubhouse. ⛵��🍾

As Patron of Catch22, visited the Orion Centre in Havant, Hampshire. 🫂

Sir Tim represented Princess Anne at the Memorial Service for Mrs Julia Rausing (Philanthropist) which was held in St James’s Church in London. ⛪️

09/10 Attended the Annual National Service for Seafarers in St. Paul's Cathedral. ⛪️⚓️

10/10 As Patron of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, attended the Annual Scientific Conference at the Glasshouse International Centre for Music in Gateshead. 💊

As Patron of the Butler Trust, visited North Tyneside Youth Justice System in North Shields. 🔗

Opened a renovated manufacturing facility in North Shields. 🏢

11/10 As Admiral of the Sea Cadet Corps, Marine Society and Sea Cadets, opened Midlands Boat Station in Birmingham. 🫡⛵️

As Chancellor of Harper Adams University, opened the Digital Learning Hub at the Quad in Telford. 🖥️💻🎮

As Patron of YSS Limited, visited the Criminal Justice Service at the Shropshire Golf Centre in Telford. 👩‍⚖️

14/10 As Guardian of Give Them A Sporting Chance and the Chaffinch Trust, held Management Board and Team Meetings at Gatcombe Park. 💼

15/10 With Sir Tim as Royal Patron of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, attended the “Countdown to Cure” Reception at the Royal College of Nursing in London. 💊

With Sir Tim As Patron of the Remembrance Trust, attended a Dinner at the Beefsteak Club in London. 🌹

16/10 As Royal Patron of the Security Institute, attended the Annual Conference at the Royal Society of Medicine. 🚨🔒

As Master of the Corporation of Trinity House, attended a Civic Luncheon at Trinity House. 🍽️

As Royal Patron of WISE, attended the Annual Conference at IET London: Savoy Place. 🧩

17/10 As Patron of the Cathedral Church of Saint German Peel Development Appeal attended a Thanksgiving Service in St German’s Cathedral, Peel, Isle of Man. 🇮🇲⛪️

Visited the Manx National Heritage “All at Sea” Exhibition at the House of Manannan in Peel, Isle of Man. 🇮🇲 🌊

As Grand Master of the Royal Victorian Order, attended Evensong and a Reception at The King’s Chapel of the Savoy in London. ⛪️🍾

As President of the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, attended a Reception to mark the 250th Anniversary of RSA House. 🎂

Unofficial Sir Tim, as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Science Museum Group, attended the launch of the Manchester Science Festival at the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester. 🧪🧬🔭

18/10 On behalf of The King, held an Investiture at Buckingham Palace. 🎖️

Attended a performance by the Spanish Riding School of Vienna at OVO Arena in Wembley. 🇦🇹🇪🇸🐎

19/10 With Sir Tim Attended British Champions Day at Ascot Racecourse. 🏆🐎

22/10 As Master of the Corporation of Trinity House, chaired the Quarterly Meeting of the Court and attended a Luncheon at Trinity House. 💼

As Patron of UK Coaching, held a Reception at Buckingham Palace to celebrate Olympic and Paralympic Coaching. 🇬🇧🏅

23/10 Attended a Bicentenary Commemorative Service to recognise the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh. 🚒🧯👨‍🚒

As Royal Patron of Leuchie Forever Fund, held a Benefactors’ Dinner at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. 🍽️

24/10 Re-opened the Rowan Glen Factory at Palnure, near Newton Stewart. 🍶

As Patron of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, opened the new wing at West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven. 🏥

With Sir Tim As Patron of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, attended the Trafalgar Night Dinner at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. ⚓️🫡🍽️

25/10 Opened the British Standards Institution International Electrotechnical Commission Annual Meeting at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🔋

28/10 Attended the Prison Advice and Care Trust’s 125th Anniversary National Volunteer Awards at St John’s Church in London. 🏆

29/10 On behalf of The King, held morning and afternoon investitures at Windsor Castle.🎖️

31/10 Visited the Robotic Surgery Unit at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton. 🤖🏥

Attended a Reception for the Pride of Somerset Youth Awards winners at Bridgwater and Taunton College. 🏆

Was installed as Chancellor of Health Sciences University before launching the University in Bournemouth. 🎓

As Patron of Save the Children UK, attended the Autumn in the City Dinner at the Savoy in London. 🍽️

Total official engagements for Anne in September: 58

2024 total so far: 371

Total official engagements accompanied/represented by Tim in September: 5

2024 total so far: 91

FYl - due to certain royal family members being off ill/in recovery I won't be posting everyone's engagement counts out of respect, I am continuing to count them and release the totals at the end of the year.

[simshousewindsor]

THIS WINDENBURG

WINDSOR STABLES, BRINDLETON BAY • DECEMBER 2024

Queen Katherine: Martin? What are you doing here?

Martin [P.S.]: Sorry to interrupt your holiday, ma'am. This news couldn't wait.

Queen Katherine: I see.

Martin [P.S.]: On the eve of the Conservative Party's annual conference, Keller fell ill.

Queen Katherine: What? That was before Christmas!

Martin [P.S.]: We just found out. He stated his condition is less serious than he imagined and his life is not in danger.

Queen Katherine: Well, what was it? What made him fall ill?

Martin [P.S.]: Downing Street had only told the palace "stress and fatigue" but my parliament insiders say it is far worse. Cancer.

Martin [P.S.]: The Prime Minister has had a difficult few months, with one thing or another. The impression I get is, though he will not resign, he's lost the appetite for it all. He believes resigning would throw his party into even more disarray.

Queen Katherine: He asked for my permission at the Duke of Norfolks ball. I thought he was just trying to run away. I didn't know he was sick.

Queen Katherine: Thank you, Martin. You mustn't run off. Please stay for the fireworks show tonight. I know you're on vacation, so no working. I'll have a guest room prepared.

Martin [P.S.]: (bows) Thank you, Your Majesty.

- - - - - LATER - - - - -

BEAVERDAM CASTLE, BRINDLETON BAY

[Equerry]: The Earl of Bridgestone.

Lord Hammond: (bow) Your Majesty.

Queen Katherine: Please, have a seat.

Lord Hammond: Thank you for finally accepting my audience request.

Queen Katherine: Yes. Well, I am quite busy.

Lord Hammond: I'll be direct. My sister disclosed to me an agreement the two of you made regarding the future of my niece.

Lord Hammond: My sister may have forgotten what your family has done to ours but I haven't. I am the head of the Hammond family, not my sister, and any agreement of such nature requires my approval. It wasn't given or even sought. You went behind my back knowing I wouldn't approve.

Queen Katherine: With all due respect, Lord Hammond, your approval is not needed for private agreements extended by the sovereign, and the last I checked, your sister is a member of my court, under her husband's house - Jabari.

Lord Hammond: You think that's how parliament will see it? You want my niece because she is a Hammond not Jabari. The answer is no.

Queen Katherine: You're too late.

Lord Hammond: My niece will never be a member of your family! For generations, the Hammonds allowed the Windsors to control us with fear, bribery, and broken promises. No more!

Lord Hammond: (stands) Find another noble family in Windenburg to leech off. Happy New Year... Your Majesty.

Lord Hammond: (angry) I did not come all the way here for such disrespect.

- - - - - LATER - - - - -

Queen Rowena: Are you okay, darling?

Queen Katherine: Yes. This was a tough year.

Queen Rowena: They fly by.

Queen Katherine: Keller has cancer. He won't resign. He doesn't want to send the party into disarray this close to an election. The conservatives expect to lose the election.

Queen Rowena: What?! The Conservative Party has been in power for decades.

Prince Rainier: It's almost midnight. We should head outside.

Queen Rowena: Where are the kids?

Prince Rainier: Fast asleep. I knew they weren't going to make it til midnight.

- - - - - LATER - - - - -

Prince Louis: Hey, bear. You doing okay?

Queen Katherine: (kiss) I am. I'm so glad you all stayed through New Year. We needed this extra time together.

Prince Louis: I agree.

Prince Louis: Remember at Thanksgiving when you asked about King Felipe?

Queen Katherine: Yes.

Prince Louis: I think Oasis Springs is behind Mt Komorebi's attack and seizure of the Strait of Sims Canal.

Queen Katherine: What?

Prince Louis: I believe Felipe is taking retribution.

Queen Katherine: Retribution? On Windenburg? For what?

Prince Louis: (silent)

Queen Katherine: Uncle Louis, what did my father do?

• JANUARY 2025

(fireworks begin)

"This happy breed of sims. This little world. This blessed plot, this earth, this simblr, this Windenburg."

Previous | Beginning | Next

[kylesvariouslistsandstuff]

Not news, only speculation and some reminiscing... A long post, too, heads up.

Maybe Disney Animation was mum on their 2026 movie at Annecy, despite Pixar all-out telling us what Summer 2027 Feature is (Enrico Casarosa's GATTO, complete with concept art and synopsis), as we have known what their two 2026 pictures are (HOPPERS and TOY STORY 5)...

Because of the switch of leaders?

Before this, since around the end of the 2010s, Disney Animation was quiet about what was *really* on the horizon other than "[x] director here is at work on a movie".

Jennifer Lee was named CCO in June 2018 after John Lasseter's protracted ouster. At the time, a few pictures had been scheduled, RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET was in its final laps, FROZEN II was over a year away, and something was set for the year after.

We didn't learn what that picture was until mid-2019, the company officially announced it was RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON, a little over a year away from its original projected Thanksgiving 2020 release date. Prior to that, it was known that its then-director Dean Wellins was working on something, at least since 2015, with Paul Briggs involved. (Wellins eventually got completely booted from the film, Briggs was demoted to "co-director".) Scooper sites had called the film "Dragon Empire" circa 2018-19. It's very possible it did wear such a working title at one point in time, or scoopers called it that so as not to get targeted. RAYA ended up coming out in March 2021 due to COVID-19 upending Disney's release schedule, a film - among a few others, like CRUELLA and BLACK WIDOW - used as an attempt to get movies back in theaters in some way before vaccines really rolled out.

We also knew that Byron Howard was at work on a Lin Manuel Miranda-captained musical, but the official title and premise wouldn't be officially announced by the company until December 2020, less than a year before its Thanksgiving 2021 bow. Reasonable though, due to COVID and whatnot, and still figuring out the release schedule as it was unknown what shape the world would be in by then. However... That same event in December 2020, Pete Docter straight up laid down the Pixar road going all the way up to mid-2022. TURNING RED and LIGHTYEAR were both announced and revealed to the world for the first time, while Disney capped things off at late 2021.

STRANGE WORLD was officially announced in the press - not a D23-esque event or shareholder conference or anything like that - a little after ENCANTO came out, less than a year before it hit theaters. Scoopers were telling us about that one beforehand, too, calling it "Searcher Clade". When I read that back in the day, I assumed that that name was referring to a ship or something. The airship appearing in the ENCANTO credits as an Easter egg seemed to indicate that to me, as well.

At the 2022 D23 Expo... Pixar reveals movies releasing all the way into 2024 (at the time, the studio's 2024 was intended to be a double header: Adrian Molina's original version of ELIO, and INSIDE OUT 2. Complete w/ renders and concept art shown.) WDAS caps off at WISH, Thanksgiving 2023.

So it seems the pattern is, Pixar announced what's out, a summer after the latest picture WDAS announces. Sometimes it's thought to be two in the following year, again, the planned duo of ELIO and INSIDE OUT 2, HOPPERS and TOY STORY 5 next year.

ZOOTOPIA 2 and FROZEN III are then officially revealed to the public months later, with WISH about half a year away from release. The announcement of those comes from a shareholder conference, where these kinds of things are usually unveiled. No release dates are given.

WISH arrives in November 2023, WDAS uncharacteristically is very very mum about what releases afterwards... ZOOTOPIA 2 and FROZEN III likely aren't ready for 2024, so it remains a mystery. Is it an original? A rumored Middle East-set fairy tale, perhaps?

February 2024, after much radio silence on what WDAS' November 2024 movie is... So close to release, at that... It's revealed that a MOANA series meant for Disney+ has been re-cooked into a movie sequel. ZOOTOPIA 2 is confirmed to be the studio's Thanksgiving 2025 release, FROZEN III is said to be eyeballing a 2026 release, but not specifically the Thanksgiving slot that the company already had locked for a WDAS movie.

So now, WDAS is about neck-and-neck with Pixar in terms of announced movies + release dates/frames. FROZEN III is up in the air, but it's within the 2026 range like HOPPERS (yet to be announced, but the March 2026 slot is already locked for it) and TOY STORY 5 are...

The mid-2024 D23 Expo happens... Pixar officially announces HOPPERS as their spring 2026 movie, all good all good. Then they say that INCREDIBLES 3 is in the works, no date given. That's assumed to be pretty far off, given director Brad Bird's continuing work on RAY GUNN up at Skydance. Assuming he was directing this film. Like, what frame was that feasibly aiming for? 2029-2030? Disney Animation... However... Announced FROZEN III for Thanksgiving 2027, and the quietly says an original movie is coming out in Thanksgiving 2026. No title, no director, no nothing...

It was an unusual presentation, to say the least. Weeks and weeks later, Jennifer Lee stepped down as studio CCO, with Jared Bush replacing her. Bush had already been directing ZOOTOPIA 2, Byron Howard joined the movie as director to help him get it to the finish line while he now leads a studio. Understandably, there'd be some rearrangement going on before announcing a movie set for 2026...

But as time went on, no word...

Pixar confirms COCO 2 is happening, and is eyeballing 2029, back in March. During, you guessed it, a shareholder conference.

And once more, there had been no word on WDAS 2026 throughout the spring. And especially no word on it during this past week at Annecy... Where Pixar, once again, told us what's up going into 2027, not counting undated INCREDIBLES 3 and TBD 2029 sequel COCO 2. To be fair, FROZEN III is scheduled to release *after* GATTO, but that's a sequel. Like, why couldn't WDAS say what the 2026 original movie is?

Are they gonna wait 'til the end of the year to finally say what this thing is, and then speedrun the rollout for it?

...

I then remember what things were like back in, say, mid-2010...

When TANGLED was coming out... As we got closer to its Thanksgiving 2010 landing... I was turning 18 at the time, and yes, following animation news via blogs and news sites and such, forums. Mere months before I got a Twitter.

On the horizon from Disney Animation was WINNIE THE POOH for summer 2011, and REBOOT RALPH for spring 2013. Nothing was scheduled for 2012, because Pixar had both the summer and autumn slots locked for pictures: BRAVE for the summer, MONSTERS INC. 2 (as it was then known as) for the autumn. CARS 2 was etched into summer 2011. NEWT was dead by then, and there was no word on what was coming out afterwards. Only some rumblings here and there.

TANGLED was an interesting point in time for a post-Eisner/post-Stainton Walt Disney Animation Studios. The larger Walt Disney Company's acquisition of Pixar in 2006 upended a lot of things at that studio, who were already having a hard time to begin with coming off of critical duds like BROTHER BEAR, HOME ON THE RANGE, and CHICKEN LITTLE. Films that didn't make Pixar numbers, for sure. A little-known story, after Disney bought Pixar, Steve Jobs had actually suggested closing down WDAS for good and having Pixar be the company's animation house... Imagine that! Luckily, he was vetoed by John Lasseter on that one.

Lasseter and Ed Catmull, now heading up WDAS in tandem with Pixar, started off with Stainton leftovers. A DAY WITH WILBUR ROBINSON is half-retooled and re-titled MEET THE ROBINSONS, and is rather tossed off in spring 2007, it doesn't turn any profit and gets lukewarm reception. Lasseter rids AMERICAN DOG of visionary Chris Sanders, and has it turned into BOLT, comes out Thanksgiving 2008, doesn't really make much of a stir. A 2D features revival with THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG in Christmas 2009 does so-so at the box office...

So, Disney Animation isn't fully back at this point in time. At least, at the box office. BOLT and FROG are critical hits and get nominated for Oscar in their respective release years, while previously announced projects like KING OF THE ELVES and THE SNOW QUEEN get dialed back. FROG's box office is blamed on the film being a "girly" fairy tale, and it's declared that TANGLED - originally titled, simply, RAPUNZEL - is to be the studio's final fairy tale movie... Imagine that?

So, the horizon was looking kinda slim in summer 2010... TANGLED doesn't inspire much confidence (those SHREK-y trailers worried a lot of animation fans, including me), a 2D WINNIE THE POOH is next and is scheduled for the same day as the last Harry Potter movie, and then there's video game movie called REBOOT RALPH... The studio possibly didn't have anything new, either. BIG HERO 6 was in its embryonic stage by the end of 2010, on the heels of Disney acquiring Marvel. KING OF THE ELVES and SNOW QUEEN were on hold. Though curiously, REBOOT RALPH was scheduled for release after MONSTERS, INC 2.... So they were a little ahead there.

But Lasseter-Catmull's Disney Animation needed a box office hit and a kind of confidence needed to keep going, to show that they can indeed coexist with Pixar. TANGLED cost $260m to make, most of it accumulated from thrown-out versions of the movie dating back to the late 1990s. The movie makes about $590m or so worldwide, which doesn't really turn a profit, but that it made the 2nd biggest amount for a Disney animated movie - unadjusted - behind THE LION KING... They were happy nonetheless. We're not in that era anymore. Iger and co would call that a flop now, but in 2010/11, it didn't matter if it wasn't 2.5x the bloated budget... They were happy to see a movie of theirs crack $500m+ worldwide for the first time in over 16 years.

THE SNOW QUEEN went back into development in spring 2011-ish, TANGLED's director Byron Howard pitched some ideas and got to work on a project combining a few of them, rather animal-themed ones. TANGLED's other director Nathan Greno pitched a Jack and the Beanstalk retelling. REBOOT RALPH moved up to fall 2012, was retitled WRECK-IT RALPH, which pushed MONSTERS, INC. 2 - now confirmed to be a prequel, MONSTERS UNIVERSITY - to summer 2013. So by the end of 2011, all this combined with the Marvel movie about the marshmallow robot, WDAS was finally going full-steam ahead into the future. Almost all of those movies happened and did well!

Where is Walt Disney Animation Studios right now? Jared Bush assumed leadership right before the release of the hastily-reassembled MOANA 2, which expectedly did great box office but got okay reviews and no Oscar nomination. He got promoted, while neck-deep in directing a ZOOTOPIA 2 sequel, so his mind is understandably very occupied right now…

Disney Animation got impacted by COVID-19 and former CEO Bob Chapek's handling of their releases, not too long after Jennifer Lee was made leader AND was tasked to come up with stuff for the then-new Disney+. RAYA has to be excepted because it was rolled out in a hybrid release strategy, when vaccines were *just* rolling out for elderly age groups. It was critically-acclaimed and got an Oscar nom, ditto ENCANTO later that year, which got a fuller release but was more impacted by how much choosier theater-goers are now.

Where things really slipped was STRANGE WORLD in fall 2022. Got decent reviews and no Oscar nom, was left to die after poor test screenings, was embroiled in right-wing rage, and posted an enormous loss. WISH bombed a year later, and it was known in animation fan circles that the filmmakers at the studio were being stifled. Notes and test screenings and focus groups, used against them and to dilute their respective visions. In the films, it showed. This same nonsense sabotaged a Middle Eastern-set fairy tale that was being directed by Suzi Yoonessi, which was originally aiming for a fall 2024 release... The cancellation left the slot vacant, until the leadership hastily decided to make a MOANA Disney+ series into a movie. A crunch production, at that... Lee stepped down before MOANA 2 came out, but she is still at the studio as a filmmaker.

A lot happened, and now they have a new leader, and he's already trying to figure things out while still having *something* ready for release every calendar year... I get it...

Maybe Jared Bush and company want to make sure that the fall 2026 movie actually happens in the first place, instead of announcing it only for something to compromise it... And they have to cancel it, or put something else in its place. It would certainly stink if that movie got put on ice, and FROZEN III got moved up to fill the gap... Making for three sequels in a row: MOANA 2, ZOOTOPIA, FROZEN III...

There are still some events where it could be announced. San Diego Comic-Con maybe? New York Comic-Con? Usually Disney would roll out some kind of Marvel news there, but even then, with D23, they usually don't need to at this point. The next D23 Expo likely happens late summer 2026, in Cali. Maybe a Brazilian one a little afterwards, too, like last year. Maybe the closer ZOOTOPIA 2 gets to completion, we learn what it is, who is directing it, what it's even about, etc.

It would just be kinda weird to cut it so close yet again, like ENCANTO was, like STRANGE WORLD was, like WISH was... Like MOANA 2 *especially* was... ZOOTOPIA 2, FROZEN III, and FROZEN IV by contrast were known about looong before release...

I know I'm being like so impatient about this WDAS movie, but I do come from an era where we knew about these films about a year and a half away from release. We’re a little past that point now with this film. A year and five months off, June 2025 to November 2026…

Hope it’s in good shape!

[a-photo-every-other-day]

Inside the Mind (Father I), 2024

This was a fun filter. As in camera filter. It's not post processing, but a screw on prism for a camera lens. This is the only good photo I have from it, mostly because it gets used so rarely.

I'm writing a bunch of these posts in advance, for the next couple of weeks, at least through the end of the month, because I have a conference in Chicago, and will likely be too tired to update for a bit, and then when I get back it will be thanksgiving.

©2024. This work is licensed via CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

[brookston]

Holidays 11.22

Holidays

Alice's Restaurant Massacre Day

Arbor Day (British Virgin Islands)

Bank Workers’ Day (Armenia)

Black Entrepreneurs Day

Conspiracy Theory Day

Day of Justice (Azerbaijan)

Day of Music (Spain)

Day of Remembrance for President John F. Kennedy

Day of the Albanian Alphabet (Albania)

Day of the Andalusian Gypsy (Spain)

Family Day (Palau)s

Go For A Ride Day

Good Married Couple Day (a.k.a. Good Husband & Wife Day or Good Spouses Day; Japan)

Good Twin Tail Day (Japan)

Hockey Day

Humane Society Day

International Chick Tract Day

International Ewing’s Sarcoma Awareness Day

International Musician’s Day

Isfahan National Day (Iran)

JFK Assassination Day

Justice Workers’ Day (Azerbaijan)

Kanakdasa Jayanti (Karnataka, India)

Love Your Freckles Day

Love Your Own Country Day

Music Day (Spain)

Musician’s Day (Mexico)

National Agriculture & Related Industries Day (Australia)

National Amelia Day

National Aron Day

National Dental Dam Day

National Dental Nurses Day (UK)

National Housing Strategy Day (Canada)

National Jukebox Day

National Larimar Day (Dominican Republic)

National Nathan Day

National Poetry Day (Philippines)

National Senior Dog Day

National Stop the Violence Day

National Yeti Day

Phonograph Day

Pajama Day (Ireland)

Prosecutors’ Day (Kyrgyzstan)

Psychologist Day (Russia)

Repentence Day (Sachsen, Germany)

Skywriting Day

Slumber Party Day

Start Your Own Country Day

Substitute Educators Day

Teacher’s Day (Costa Rica)

Turnip Day (French Republic)

22q Awareness Day

White Album Day

World Day of the Schnauzer

World Vasectomy Day

Xanthippe Asteroid Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Cranberry Relish Day

Danish Pastry Day (Wienerbrödets Dag; Sweden)

International Stilton Day

Kimchi Day (South Korea; California)

National Cashew Day

Independence & Related Days

Anniversary of Portuguese Aggression (Republic of Guinea)

Duvalia (Declared; 2015) [unrecognized]

Lebanon (from France, 1943)

Regelis (Declared; 1999) [unrecognized]

4th Friday in November

Comfort Food Friday [Every Friday]

Five For Friday [Every Friday]

Flapjack Friday [4th Friday of Each Month]

Flashback Friday [Every Friday]

Flirtatious Friday [4th Friday of Each Month]

Friday Finds [Every Friday]

Fry Day (Pastafarian; Fritism) [Every Friday]

National Day of Thanksgiving (Turks & Caicos Islands) [4th Friday]

Stars in Our Schools Day (UK) [4th Friday]

TGIF (Thank God It's Friday) [Every Friday]

Weekly Holidays beginning November 22 (3rd Full Week of November)

Deck the Halls Weekend (Seneca Lake region, New York) [thru 11.24]

National Farm-City Week (thru 11.28) [Week Ending On Thanksgiving]

Festivals Beginning November 22, 2024

America's Hometown Thanksgiving (Plymouth, Massachusetts) [thru 11.24]

Beaujolais & Beyond (Saint Paul, Minnesota)

Beef Tongue Cook-Off (Eunice, Louisiana) [thru 11.23]

Bruges Christmas Market (Bruges, Belgium) [thru 1.5.2025]

Cayman Brac (Cayman Islands) [thru 11.24]

Denver Christmas Show (Denver, Colorado) [thru 11.24]

Downtown Baraboo Wine Walk (Baraboo, Wisconsin)

Downtown Raleigh Tree Lighting Celebration (Raleigh, North Carolina)

FOBAB [Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer] (Chicago, Illinois) [thru 11.23]

Mountain Mandarin Festival (Auburn, California) [thru 11.24]

National Biodynamic Conference (Phoenixville, Pennsylvania) [thru 11.24]

Night of the Proms (Antwerp, Belgium) [thru 11.24]

Plant City Pig Jam (Plant City, Florida) [thru 11.23]

Salute to Ranching Holiday Dinner-Dance & Auction (Workman's Creek, Arizona)

Silver Bells in the City (Lansing, Michigan)

Tallinn Christmas Market (Tallinn, Estonia) [thru 12.27]

Whiskies of the World (Chicago, Illinois)

Feast Days

Amphilochius of Iconium (Christian; Saint)

André Gide (Writerism)

Blackbeard Memorial Day (Pastafarian)

Cecilia (Christian; Saint) [Music]

Christian Rohlfs (Artology)

Clone Day (Church of the SubGenius)

Colbert (Positivist; Saint)

Descending Day of Lord Buddha (Lhabab Duechen) [Bhutan]

Dispute-Settling Assizes (Shamanism)

Feast of Artemis (Moon Goddess; Ancient Greece; Starza Pagan Book of Days)

George (Eastern Orthodox; Georgia)

George Eliot (Writerism)

Herbert (Christian; Saint)

Ignaz Günther (Artology)

Jon Cleary (Writerism)

Light Snow (Chinese Farmer’s Calendar)

Marjane Satrapi (Artology; Writerism)

Miguel Covarrubias (Artology)

Olga Kisseleva (Artology)

Philemon and Appia (Christian; Martyrs)

Pragmatius of Autun (Christian; Saint)

Sagittarius zodiac sign begins

Samonios (Seed-Fall; Celtic Book of Days)

Theodorus the Studite (Christian; Saint)

Vernon the Grizzly Bear (Muppetism)

Ydalir (festival to Ullr, god of archery & skiing; Ancient Norse)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Premieres

The Addams Family (Film; 1991)

The Air Hostess (Phantasies Cartoon; 1937)

An American Tail: Fievel Goes West (Animated Film; 1991)

Back to the Future Part II (Film; 1989)

The Beatles [The White Album] (Album; 1968)

Beauty and the Beast (Animated Disney Film; 1991)

Bettie Page Reveals All (Documentary Film; 2013)

Blue Hawaii (Film; 1961) [Elvis Presley #8]

Boléro, by Maurice Ravel (Orchestral Work; 1928)

Captain Kidd (Film; 1945)

Casino (Film; 1995)

The Check’s in the Mail (Money Rock Cartoon; Schoolhouse Rock; 1996)

Clambake (Film; 1967)

Coco (Animated Film; 2017)

Convict Concerto (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1954)

Darkest Hour (Film; 2017)

Die Another Day (US Film; 2002) [James Bond #20]

For the Boys (Film; 1991)

Frida (Film; 2002)

Frozen (Animated Disney Film; 2013)

Frozen 2 (Animated Disney Film; 2019)

Goofy’s Glider (Disney Cartoon; 1940)

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (Film; 2013)

Hypnotize, by System of a Down (Album; 2005)

Jack and the Beanstalk (Betty Boop Cartoon; 1931)

Jelly Roll Blues, recorded by Bunny Berigan (Song; 1938)

La Forza del Destino, by Giuseppe Verdi (Opera; 1862)

A Lyell Geste of Robyn Hood, by Winked de Word (History Book; 1495)

King Solomon’s Mines (Film; 1985)

Man of La Mancha (Broadway Musical; 1965)

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (Disney Cartoon; 2017)

Once Upon a Studio (Disney Short Film; 2023)

Pink S.W.A.T. (Pink Panther Cartoon; 1978)

Power and Terror: Noam Chomsky in Our Times (Documentary Film; 2002)

Prefabricated Pink (Pink Panther Cartoon; 1967)

The Producers (Film; 1967)

Shanghai Woody (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1971)

Shine (Film; 1996)

Star Trek: First Contact (Film; 1996)

Swann’s Wy, by Marcel Proust (Novel; 1913)

Throne of Blood (Film; 1961)

Toy Story (Animated Pixar Film; 1995) Vitalogy, by Pearl Jam (Album; 1994)

Wish (Animated Disney Film; 2023)

With the Beatles, by The Beatles (Album; 1963)

Yogi Bear and the Magical Flight of the Spruce Goose(Hanna-Barbera Animated TV Special; 1987)

Today’s Name Days

Cäcilia, Salvator (Austria)

Cecilija, Cilika, Dobrila, Filemon (Croatia)

Cecílie (Czech Republic)

Cecilia (Denmark)

Cecilia, Säsil, Silja, Silje, Sille (Estonia)

Cecilia, Seela, Selja, Silja (Finland)

Cécile (France)

Cäcilia, Rufus, Salvator, Silja (Germany)

Cecilia, Filemon, Filimon, Philimon, Valerios (Greece)

Cecília (Hungary)

Cecilia (Italy)

Aldis, Aldonis, Alfons, Alfonss, Alfs (Latvia)

Cecilija, Cilė, Dargintė, Steikintas (Lithuania)

Cecilie, Silje, Sissel (Norway)

Cecylia, Marek, Maur, Wszemiła (Poland)

Arhip. Filimon, Onism (România)

Cecília (Slovakia)

Cecilio, Filemón (Spain)

Cecilia, Sissela (Sweden)

Cecelia, Philemon, Yaropolk (Ukraine)

Abbey, Abbie, Abby, Abigail, Cecelia, Cecil, Cecilia, Cecily, Cecyl, Celia, Gail Gale, Galen, Gay, Gayle, Philemon, Philo, Shayla, Sheila (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 327 of 2024; 39 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 5 of Week 47 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Hagal (Hailstone) [Day 27 of 28]

Chinese: Month 10 (Yi-Hai), Day 22 (Geng-Yin)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 21 Heshvan 5785

Islamic: 20 Jumada I 1446

J Cal: 27 Wood; Sixthday [27 of 30]

Julian: 9 November 2024

Moon: 50%: 3rd Quarter

Positivist: 19 Frederic (12th Month) [Pombal / D’Aranda]

Runic Half Month: Is (Stasis) [Day 1 of 15]

Season: Autumn or Fall (Day 61 of 90)

Week: 3rd Full Week of November

Zodiac: Sagittarius (Day 1 of 30)

Calendar Changes

Is (Stasis) [Half-Month 23 of 24; Runic Half-Months] (thru 12.10)

Sagittarius (The Archer) begins [Zodiac Sign 9; thru 12.21]

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 7.10

Holidays

Armed Forces Day (Mauritania)

Army Day (Albania)

Battle of Britain Anniversary Day

Battle of Poltava Day (Russia)

Beatles Day (Liverpool, Hamburg)

Capybara Appreciation Day

Chronic Disease Awareness Day

Clerihew Day

Cumin Day (French Republic)

Don't Step On A Bee Day (UK)

Flag Day (Mongolia)

Global Energy Independence Day

Gospel Day (Kiribati)

His Masters Voice Day

International Glut1 Awareness Day

International Safewords Day

Lá Cuimhneacháin Náisiúnta (National Day of Commemoration; Ireland)

Lady Godiva Day

London Bridge Falling Down Day

Merchant’s Festival (Elder Scrolls)

Minion Day

Naadam Day (Mongolia)

National All American Pet Photo Day

National Caleb Day

National Contour Day

National Fish Farmers Day (India)

National Kitten Day

National Lineworker Appreciation Day (Canada)

National Stella Day

National Transplant Financial Coordinator Day

Natto Day (Japan)

Nikola Tesla Day

Oils and Concentrates Day

Police Radio Day

Protogeneia Asteroid Day

Rhodes Day (Rhodesia)

710 Day

Silence Day (Meher Baba)

Srebrenica Memorial Day

Stay Away From Bees Day

Teddy Bear's Picnic Day

Telstar Day

Uniwaine (Senior Citizens’ Day; Kiribati)

U.S. Energy Independence Day

World Airway Disorders Day

World Miniature Golf Day

World Shuvit Cancer Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Beer Distributors Day

National Piña Colada Day

National Pizza Day (Brazil)

Pick Blueberries Day

Independence & Related Days

Bahamas (from UK, 1973)

Federal Republic of New Potato Land (Declared; 2017) [unrecognized]

Wyoming Statehood Day (#44; 1890)

2nd Wednesday in July

National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving (Montserrat) [2nd Wednesday]

Weekly Holidays beginning July 10 (2nd Week of July)

Sweetheart Days Festival (Minnesota) [2nd Wednesday; thru Friday]

Festivals Beginning July 10, 2024

American Cheese Society Annual Conference (Buffalo, New York) [thru 7.13]

European Balloon Festival (Igualada, Spain) [thru 7.14]

EXIT (Novi Sad, Serbia) [thru 7.14]

Love International Festival (Tins, Croatia) [thru 7.16]

Mad Cool Festival (Madrid, Spain) [thru 7.13]

Ossipee Valley Fair (South Hiram, Maine) [thru 7.14]

Riddu Riđđu (Manndalen, Norway) [thru 7.13]

Sandcastle Contest (Belmar, New Jersey)

Tangomarkkinat (Seinäjoki, Finland) [thru 7.14]

Vegan Summerfest (Johnstown, Pennsylvania) [thru 7.14]

Winona County Fair (St. Charles, Minnesota) [thru 7.14]

Woody Guthrie Folk Festival (Okemah, Oklahoma) [thru 7.14]

Feast Days

Alice Munro (Writerism)

Amalberga of Maubeuge (Christian; Saint & Widow)

Amalburga (Christian; Saint & Virgin)

Antony and Theodosius Pechersky (Christian; Saints)

St. Bathilda (Positivist; Saint)

Camille Pissarro (Artology)

Canute IV of Denmark (Christian; Saint)

David Teniers III (Artology)

Day of Holda (Goddess of the Underworld; Anglo-Saxon, Norse)

Feast Day of Knut the Reaper, Hela, Holda and Skadi (Norse)

Feast of Translation of Saint Maclovius, Bishop of Saint-Malo (Christian; Confessor)

Feast of The Seven Brothers (Januarius, Felix, Philip, Silvanus, Alexander, Vitalis, and Martialis; Christian; Martyrs)

Felicitas of Rome (Christian; Martyr)

The First Sermon of Lord Buddha (Buddhism; Bhutan)

Giorgio de Chirico (Artology)

Hela’s Day (Pagan)

Joe Shuster (Artology)

Kanute IV, King of Denmark (Christian; Martyr)

Knut the Reaper's Day (Norse; Scotland)

Marcel Proust (Writerism)

Mel Blanc Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Millennial Fairy Olympics, Day 5 (Shamanism)

New Robe for Athena Day (Ancient Greece)

Otto Freundlich (Artology)

Pina Colada Day (Pastafarian)

Reach Out and Touch a Green Leaf Day (Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Reg Smythe (Artology)

Ronnie Cutrone (Artology)

Rufina and Secunda (Christian; Martyrs & Virgins)

Rusty (Muppetism)

Septic Bralu Diena (Ancient Latvia)

Seth Godin (Writerism)

Seven Brothers (Christian; Martyrs)

Sixto Rodriguez (Humanism,)

Tita or Tatata Ita (Muppetism)

U Festinu (a.k.a. Feast of St. Rosalia; Palermo, Italy) [thru 7.15]

Viaticum of Llefoed Wynebglawr (Celtic Book of Days)

Victoria, Anatolia, and Audax (Christian; Saints)

Wickerwork Giants Parade & Festival (Douai, France)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Butsumetsu (仏滅 Japan) [Unlucky all day.]

Fatal Day (Pagan) [13 of 24]

Prime Number Day: 191 [43 of 72]

Unfortunate Day (Pagan) [39 of 57]

Premieres

Ball Four, by Jim Bouton (Sports Memoir; 1970)

The Brave Little Toaster (Animated Film; 1987)

Cocky Cock Roach (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1932)

Cool World (Animated Film; 1992)

The Day of the Triffids, by John Wyndham (Novel; 1951)

Do Way Diddy Diddy, by Manfred Mann (Song; 1964)

Escape from New York (Film; 1981)

The Fox and the Hound (Animated Disney Film; 1981)

Greyhound (Film; 2020)

A Hard Day’s Night, by The Beatles (Album; 1964)

Heat Wave, by Martha and the Vandellas (Song; 1963)

Homesteader Droopy (Tex Avery MGM Cartoon; 1954)

The Hot Spell, featuring Farmer Al Falfa (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1936)

Lethal Weapon 4 (Film; 1998)

I Got You Babe, by Sonny and Cher (Song; 1965)

I Love You Beth Cooper (Film; 2009)

In Search of Lost Time, by Marcel Proust (Novel; 1927)

In the Midnight Hour, by Wilson Pickett (Song; 1965)

Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome (Film; 1985)

Minions (Animated Film; 2015)

Moon (Film; 2009)

Mother Necessity (America Rock Cartoon; Schoolhouse Rock; 1976)

New Maps of Hell, by Bad Religion (Album; 2007)

Ode to Billie Joe, by Bobbie Gentry (Song; 1967)

The Oily American (WB MM Cartoon; 1954)

The Old Guard (Film; 2020)

Once Upon a Mouse (Disney Cartoon Documentary; 1981)

The Outpost (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1942)

Palm Springs (Film; 2020)

Parachutes, by Coldplay (Album; 2000)

Pi (Film; 1998)

Pink Valiant (Pink Panther Cartoon; 1968)

She Wolf, by Shakira (Album; 2009)

Small Soldiers (Animated Film; 1998)

Smoke Signal (Animated Film; 2018)

Son of Schmilsson, by Harry Nilsson (Album; 1972)

Summertime, recorded by Ella Fitzgerald (Song; 1936)

Tempted, by Squeeze (Song; 1981)

Trouble with Lichen, by John Wyndham (Novel; 1960)

Unnatural Death, by Dorothy L. Sayers (Novel; 1927) [Peter Wimsey #3]

Up N’ Atom (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1947)

The Wayward Pups (Happy Harmonies Cartoon; 1937)

We Are the Champions/We Will Rock You, by Queen (UK Song; 1977)

Your Hit Parade (TV Series; 1950)

Today’s Name Days

Engelbert, Knud, Raphael (Austria)

Feliks, Srećko, Viktorija (Croatia)

Amálie, Libuše (Czech Republic)

Knud (Denmark)

Saima, Saime, Saimi (Estonia)

Saima, Saimi (Finland)

Ulrich (France)

Knud, Engelbert, Raphael, Sascha (Germany)

Amália (Greece)

Amália (Hungary)

Armando, Marziale, Pietro, Rufina (Italy)

Lielvardis, Lija, Olīvija, Uve (Latvia)

Amalija, Eirimė, Gilvainas (Lithuania)

Anita, Anja (Norway)

Aleksander, Amelia, Aniela, Filip, January, Radziwoj, Rufina, Samson, Sylwan, Sylwana, Witalis (Poland)

Amália (Slovakia)

Cristóbal (Spain)

André, Andrea, Anund (Sweden)

Anthony (Ukraine)

Emanuel, Emmanuel, Gage, Immanuel, Manuel, Manuela (USA)

Emanuel, Immanuel, Maos, Manuela, Ulla, Ulrich, Ulrika, Ulrike (Universal)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 192 of 2024; 174 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 3 of week 28 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Tinne (Holly) [Day 4 of 28]

Chinese: Month 6 (Xin-Wei), Day 5 (Yi-Hai)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 4 Tammuz 5784

Islamic: 3 Muharram 1446

J Cal: 12 Red; Foursday [12 of 30]

Julian: 27 June 2024

Moon: 21%: Waxing Crescent

Positivist: 23 Charlemagne (7th Month) [St. Bathilda]

Runic Half Month: Ur (Primal Strength) [Day 2 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 21 of 94)

Week: 2nd Week of July

Zodiac: Cancer (Day 20 of 31)

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

An eventful coming week.

November 13, 2023

ROBERT B. HUBBELL

          Current funding for the government will expire on Friday, November 17 at midnight. Speaker Mike Johnson proposed a “laddered continuing resolution” on Saturday that was met by deafening silence. Well, almost. The White House called it “unserious.” But there was little evidence of legislative activity over the weekend with only five days before shutdown.

          A “laddered continuing resolution” has rightly been called “gimmicky.” It has never been used before. It probably won’t be used now. But since we will hear the phrase “laddered CR” for the next 72 hours straight, let’s take a look at the context and meaning of the proposed “laddered CR.”

          When Congress fails to pass a budget, it frequently passes a “continuing resolution” that keeps the government operating at existing funding levels until Congress can do its job. But Mike Johnson couldn’t pass a regular “continuing resolution” if his job depended on it. So, he has proposed a hybrid resolution that amounts to “kicking two cans down the road” at the same time. Let’s take a look at the possible options to see where Mike Johnson’s hybrid solution fits in:

Congress passes a budget on time (which requires twelve appropriations bills to pass). That is a good outcome but nothing to write home about. Passing a budget on time is, after all, one of the primary duties assigned to Congress in the Constitution. Republicans gave up on this option about six months ago.

Congress passes some appropriation bills but not all twelve. A partial shutdown results. This happened in 2018-19. Republicans gave up on this option about three months ago.

Congress passes no appropriations bills but agrees to a “clean” continuing resolution that funds the government at current levels for a set period. Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy agreed to such a continuing resolution in September and lost his job as a result. Mike Johnson floated this idea last week in a Republican conference meeting, but it was shot down before ever making it out of the GOP conference closed-door meeting.

Congress proposes a “laddered” continuing resolution that funds parts of the government for different time periods (here, through January 19 and February 2, 2024) at current levels.  This is what Johnson has proposed. The “laddered” continuing resolution does not include funding for Israel or Ukraine. Nor does it include cuts from current spending levels—a demand made by the most radical members of the House Freedom Caucus. See below.

Congress can’t pass a regular continuing resolution or a laddered CR, so it proposes a continuing resolution that cuts spending from current levels. This proposal was championed by the Freedom Caucus under McCarthy (but ultimately rejected). The proposal for “continuing resolution with cuts” may make a return under Johnson if he can’t get support for his “laddered CR.”

          The relative calm (and silence) over the weekend is disquieting. Either the chaos is so bad that no one knows what to do or everyone is confident that Congress will pass a “clean” continuing resolution. After all, what politician wants to be responsible for US troops not being paid during the Thanksgiving holiday?

          This story will dominate the news next week. Apart from the drama of “Will there be shut down or not,” the real story is that Republicans are simply incapable of governing. We need to get that story out to friends, family, neighbors, acquaintances, and complete strangers.

Trump's statements on Veteran’s Day weekend echo Hitler and Mussolini.

          This next story may be upsetting for some readers, so let’s start with a shortened version, followed by a more detailed version. In short, Trump's unhinged statements over Veteran’s Day weekend became even more unhinged as he began to use epithets reminiscent of the hate speech of Hitler and Mussolini. Bottom line: Defeating Trump is a matter of national urgency and human decency. Do not relent in your efforts.

          The longer story is this: In statements at a campaign rally and on his vanity social media platform, Trump used words and phrases favored by Hitler and Mussolini as they attacked their enemies in the run-up to World War II. He said, in part,

We pledge to you that we will root out the communists, Marxists, fascists and the radical left thugs that live like vermin within the confines of our country that lie and steal and cheat on elections. They’ll do anything, whether legally or illegally, to destroy America and to destroy the American Dream. [T] he threat from outside forces is far less sinister, dangerous and grave than the threat from within. Our threat is from within.

          See Washington Post, Trump calls political enemies ‘vermin,’ echoing dictators Hitler, Mussolini. (This article is accessible to all.) The headline writers at The New York Times did not see the need to raise alarm about the historical antecedent to Trump's speech, writing blandly, “In Veterans Day Speech, Trump Promises to ‘Root Out’ the Left | New York Times.

          As usual, the rest of the Republican Party pretended not to notice that Trump had descended into Hitlerisms in his speech. Republican National Chair Ronna McDaniel dodged questions about Trump's speech by saying (a) she hadn’t read the speech and (b) wouldn’t comment on a Republican candidate involved in a presidential primary for the GOP nomination. See The Hill, RNC chairwoman dodges questions over Trump’s Veterans Day post. Coward!

          Comparisons to Hitler and Mussolini should not be made lightly, but they are appropriate here. For a superb (and unsettling) historical comparison, read Lucian Truscott’s Newsletter, This is how it begins - by Lucian K. Truscott.

          For those whose parents, grandparents, and family members suffered and died under Hitler and Mussolini, Trump's deliberate effort to model his language on theirs is unsettling, even traumatizing. Every American should be alarmed and concerned by this dark turn in the hate speech of a man known for his hate speech.

          Trump must not be normalized. He is not merely a candidate for the GOP presidential nomination—as he is frequently portrayed by major media. His plans are anti-democratic, unconstitutional, and despotic. Despite that fact, in a series of polls over the last three weeks, he has been presented as merely “another horse in the race” to become president—a characterization that is morally and intellectually dishonest. For Jennifer Rubin’s take on the normalization of Trump through polling, read on!

The threat to democracy posed by “normalization of Trump through polling.”

          Jennifer Rubin hits the nail on the head as she takes down the NYTimes poll last week that dominated three days of front-page coverage by the Times. See Jennifer Rubin in WaPo, Opinion  A wasteland: Political coverage ignores the threat to democracy. (Accessible to all.)

          Although Rubin covers themes I addressed last week, she brings her own style and clarity to the problem of normalizing Trump by reducing everything to the “lowest common denominator” in polling.

          Rubin writes,

Last week demonstrated the sorry state of political coverage in this country. The fixation on early, non-predictive polling and endless speculation that President Biden might step away from the 2024 race (contrary to all evidence) created an endless cycle of frenzied coverage, none of it informative about democracy, the issues or the threat of an authoritarian regime in a second Trump presidency.

          After discussing the yawning deficiencies in the Times’ poll (which are substantial) and reviewing the true state of the race, she indicts her colleagues in the news media for ignoring the threat to democracy and focusing on the horse race:

Many media outlets after Jan. 6, 2021, vowed to focus more on threats to democracy. (Occasionally, they do; but it doesn’t dominate coverage, as polling does). However, most are stuck in overhyped horse-race coverage and endless chatter over meaningless Republican debates. Americans deserve better. Our democracy needs better.

Robert B. Hubbell Newsletter

[beardedmrbean]

WASHINGTON – Rep. Michael Guest, R-Miss., chair of the House Ethics Committee, introduced an expulsion resolution against the indicted Rep. George Santos, R-N.Y., in lawmakers’ third attempt to remove the embattled Long Island Republican from the House.

Guest’s resolution, filed Friday morning, comes after his committee released a damning much awaited report finding Santos sought to exploit his campaign for his own personal financial benefit and concluding there is “substantial evidence” that Santos broke federal law. 

“The evidence uncovered in the Ethics Committee’s Investigative Subcommittee investigation is more than sufficient to warrant punishment and the most appropriate punishment, is expulsion. So, separate from the Committee process and my role as Chairman, I have filed an expulsion resolution,” Guest said in a statement.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

The House could take up the resolution for a vote as early as Nov. 28, when the lower chamber returns from its thanksgiving break. 

Santos snapped back Thursday evening in a lengthy post on X, formerly Twitter, after the House Ethics Committee released its report. The New York lawmaker said the committee's actions were “not part of due process” and accused the committee of influencing the jury pool in a Department of Justice investigation.

“This was a dirty biased act and one the tramples all over my rights,” he said.

Santos will hold a press conference at the Capitol on Nov. 30, two days after lawmakers return from Thanksgiving break.

“I will continue to fight for what I believe in and I will never back down,” he wrote in the post.

Santos has survived two previous expulsion attempts, but Guest’s resolution appears to be gaining serious traction among members who were previously unsupportive of removing Santos from the House after the Ethics Committee’s scathing report.

House Democrats led the first efforts to expel Santos from the House, but Republicans referred the resolution to the Ethics Committee in May. The committee was already investigating Santos at the time, having opened its probe in March.

Santos’ fellow New York Republicans, a faction of moderate and vulnerable members heading into the 2024 elections, led the second expulsion efforts against him earlier this month, but that push fell short due to most members voting against expulsion, deferring to the Ethics Committee to release its report first before delivering their own judgement.

[societascriticus2]

Secularism…

Societas Criticus, revue de critique sociale et politique, Vol. 27-02, Éditos : www.societascriticus.com

A translation assisted by Google translation and Antidote of our french text La laïcité…

Michel Handfield, MSc. Sociology (2024-03-23 in French, 2024-03-24 for the translation)

If we pursue secularism, we must do it not just for others, but for everyone. This is as important for the CAQ, the Parti Québécois, and all other parties, both provincial and federal, in my opinion.

So, if we practise secularism in the strict sense, there must be no special treatment. Even Christian holidays must be discarded. We don't have the excuse of saying that, for us, it's not religious, but cultural, as some politicians say to maintain their more religious right.

Christmas then becomes the celebration of the winter solstice on December 25. A new celebration is added to the spring equinox and Good Friday and Easter Monday are removed. Thanksgiving is replaced by the autumn equinox, but the Quebec Day, which corresponds to the summer solstice on June 24, is retained. If we wish each other a happy Saint-Jean, it is because we are going or have gone to Saint-Jean mass (1). Otherwise, it is a happy Quebec Day or happy summer because we do not mix religion with politics in secularism.

On the other hand, if we keep religious holidays, it must be good for everyone, and we are then in open secularism. This could be the occasion to review the calendar of these holidays to make some space for others who are also part of us, especially if we are talking about integration!

We must therefore keep Christmas and Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (Quebec's holiday), but we must review some other holidays, such as Good Friday, Easter Monday and Thanksgiving, and replace them with an Indigenous, Jewish and Muslim holiday in the calendar of public holidays. This is a sign of openness and peace.

It is also a way of telling others that intercultural/multicultural dialogue is better than war, especially for humans, who too often fight in the name of divergent beliefs towards a god that they often say is unique, even if this is not the case in all religions (2) and the different spiritualities that exist (3). If I may say so, we can then think of the god of Spinoza and Einstein, where God is found « dans l'harmonie de tout ce qui existe » ("in the harmony of all that exists") as in nature or the universe, for example :

"As historian Simon Veille points out in an article written for Le Monde des religions, when asked if he believed in God, Einstein replied: "I believe in Spinoza's God, who reveals himself in the harmony of all that exists, but not in a God who would be concerned with the destiny and actions of human beings." (See footnote 4 for French text and reference.)

Still an interesting concept, where there is no reason to fight in the name of God, since he is harmony and neutrality.

But, regardless of our divine and spiritual conceptions, we cannot force secularism on others if it does not touch us, and ask them to understand us. If there is an effort to be made, whether towards closed or open secularism, we must do it collectively. In essence, the government could take ownership of historic churches and transform them into regional hubs that cater to diverse cultural and spiritual needs. These spaces could host interfaith religious services, as well as scientific and cultural events, conferences, exhibitions, a community radio station, and a public library in the absence of one. In short, make it the meeting centre of the community, which is too often lost with the disappearance of churches and businesses on the main street (5), both in the regions and in the neighbourhoods of large cities that are visibly devitalizing.

Notes

1. A very beautiful mass, by the way, because I once went to the Saint-Jean Baptiste church in Montreal. It was in 2019 and I talked about it in my text of July 17, 2019: « Vous avez bien dit laïque? », Societas Criticus, Vol. 21 no 03, Essais :

À BAnQ :

À BAC :

2. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion

3. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spiritualité

4. The original version : « Comme le souligne l’historien Simon Veille dans un article écrit pour Le Monde des religions, lorsqu’on lui demande si il croit en Dieu, Einstein répond : "Je crois au Dieu de Spinoza, qui se révèle dans l'harmonie de tout ce qui existe mais non en un Dieu qui se préoccuperait du destin et des actes des êtres humains." » Source : Audrey Dumain, "The God Letter" : la lettre exceptionnelle d'Albert Einstein sur Dieu et la religion juive, France Culture, Religions – Spiritualité, 4 décembre 2018 :

5. Clin d’œil à La Rue Principale, chanson des Colocs, 1993. Le lien :

[a-godman]

Abide in God as Love and Love others with Discernment and According to the Need

As we believers in Christ partake of the divine nature to the uttermost, we are filled with God as love and abide in Him as love, and we become persons of love, even love itself; we will love others with God as love, not according to our emotions or feelings but according to the need and with discernment. May the Lord recover such love in us and among us today! Day by day, we need to enjoy the…

[aimeedaisies]

The Princess Royal’s Official Engagements in May 2025

01/05 As Patron of the United Kingdom Antarctic Heritage Trust, visited a virtual reality Antarctic Experience at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens in Selborne. 🇦🇶

As Patron of the Royal College of Midwives, attended the Annual Conference at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham. 🤰🍼

02/05 Attended HMS Raleigh’s Phase One Training Passing Out Parade at Trevol Road in Torpoint. 🫡

05/05 With Sir Tim Alongside other members of the royal family, attended a Military Parade from the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace to commemorate the Eightieth Anniversary of VE-Day a VJ-Day. ✈️⚓️🪖

With Sir Tim Witnessed a fly-past by aircraft of the Royal Air Force, led by Air Commodore Christopher Layden, to mark the Eightieth Anniversary of VE-Day a VJ-Day. 🛩️

With Sir Tim Held a Reception at Buckingham Palace for veterans of the Second World War, at which other Members of the Royal Family were present. ☕️🍰

06/05 As Patron of the National Coastwatch Institution, visited St Ives Station and afterwards attended a reception at Tregenna Castle in St Ives. 🔭

Visited South Crofty Tin Mine in Pool, Cornwall. ⛏️

Visited Cockwells Modern and Classic Boatbuilding Limited at South West Shipyard, Ponsharden, Falmouth, Cornwall. 🛶🏗️

Gave an Afternoon Party in the garden of Buckingham Palace. ☕️🧁

07/05 As Patron of Force Atlantic 2024, visited the Transatlantic Rowing Team at Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. 🚣‍♀️

As Patron of the United Kingdom Sailing Academy, attended a Founders’ Club Luncheon at Fortnum and Mason in London. ⛵️🥪

As President of RedR UK, attended a Reception at Arup in London. 🥂

08/05 With Sir Tim Attended a Service of Thanksgiving in Westminster Abbey to mark the Eightieth Anniversary of VE Day. ⛪️🌹

Afterwards laid flowers at the Innocent Victims’ Memorial outside the Great West Door. 💐

09/05 Accompanied by Sir Tim Laurence, Princess Anne visited Guernsey for the 80th Anniversary of the liberation of the Bailiwick and attended the following;

Attended a Parade at the North Esplanade in St Peter Port. 🇬🇬

Attended a Service at the Town Church in St Peter Port. ⛪️

Visited the Occupation to Liberation photography exhibition at George Crossan Gallery, Market Street, St Peter Port. 🖼️

Visited the St Peter Port parish celebrations and opened the Visitors’ Centre at Market Square, St Peter Port. 🎉

Visited St Pierre du Bois parish celebrations at Route des Sablons, St Pierre du Bois. 🎊

Visited Festung Guernsey at Batterie Mirus, Rue de l’Arquet, St Saviour. 🪖

Attended a Dinner at Les Cotils, l’Hyvreuse, St Peter Port. 🍽️

10/05 Accompanied by Sir Tim Laurence, Princess Anne visited Sark for the 80th Anniversary of the liberation of the island and attended the following;

Met Little Sark residents at Duval Farm. 🤝👩‍🌾

Walked the East Coast Path a received a briefing on Operation Basalt an Operation Hardtack from the Royal British Legion. 🚶

Visited la Société Sercquaise, Mill Lane. 📜

Visited the Sark celebrations at the Avenue. 🇨🇶🍾

Visited the World War II exhibition at Old Isla Hall, Rue de la Seigneurie. 🖼️

Visited the Sark Observatory, Chasse-Marais. 🔭

12/05 Alongside The King, presented new Union Standards to the Household Cavalry at Windsor Castle. 🚩

Attended a Reception for veterans, Service personnel a Regimental families in the Home Park. 🥂

As President of the Riding for the Disabled Association, attended the South Buckinghamshire Group’s Sixtieth Anniversary Celebration. 🐎🎂

As President of the UK Fashion and Textile Association, visited Luxury Lockstitch UK Limited in Maidenhead. 🧵👕

13/05 As President of the Riding for the Disabled Association, visited Forde Abbey Carriage Driving Group. 🐎

As President of the Royal Yachting Association, visited East Dorset Sailing Club to mark its 150th Anniversary. ⛵️

As Patron of the National Association of Citizens Advice Bureaux, later visited East Dorset and Purbeck Citizens Advice Bureau at the Mobile Advice Bus. 📚🚌⚖️

14/05 As Deputy Colonel-in-Chief of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, visited 4th Battalion at Bourlon Barracks in Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🪖

As President of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Commonwealth Study Conferences, attended a Meeting. 💼

Unofficial Sir Tim, as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Science Museum, attended the Directors Annual Dinner and presented awards. 🍽️🧬🏆

15/05 Visited the Cathedral Youth Club in Londonderry. ⛪️

Attended a Reception at the Ebrington Hotel to commemorate the Eightieth Anniversary of the Battle of the Atlantic. 🥂🍾

Visited the Clinical Translational Research and Innovation Centre at the Altnagelvin Hospital Campus in Londonderry. 🧬

16/05 As President of the Devon County Show, visited the Show at Westpoint, Clyst St Mary, near Exeter. 🐑🐄🐖🐓🧑‍🌾

28/05 Visited MS QUEEN ANNE at Liverpool Cruise Terminal to mark Cunard’s 185th Anniversary. 🚢🥂

As Patron of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine, visited Royal Liverpool University Hospital. ❤️‍🩹

As President of the Riding for the Disabled Association, visited Crosby Riding for the Disabled Group in Little Crosby, Liverpool, to mark its 50th Anniversary. 🐎🎂

29/05 Unofficial Departed from Heathrow Airport, London, for Barbados and was received upon arrival at Grantley Adams International Airport by the British High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean (His Excellency Mr Simon Mustard). 🇬🇧✈️🇧🇧

Called upon The President of Barbados. 👨‍⚖️🇧🇧

As President of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Commonwealth Study Conferences, attended a Board Dinner at Champers Restaurant in Bridgetown, Christ Church. 🌍🍽️

30/05 As President of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Commonwealth Study Conferences, attended the Closing Plenary of the Caribbean-Canada Leaders Dialogue 2025 at Hilton Resort Barbados in Saint Michael, Barbados. 💼

Attended The King’s Birthday Party Reception given by the British High Commissioner to Barbados (Mr Simon Mustard) at the Residence in Bridgetown. 🥂

31/05 As President of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Commonwealth Study Conferences, attended the Closing Plenary of the Caribbean-Canada Leaders Dialogue 2025 at Hilton Resort Barbados. 💼

As President of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Commonwealth Study Conferences, attended the Closing Plenary Reception and Dinner at Hilton Resort Barbados. 🍾

Total official engagements for Anne in May: 50

2025 total: 199

Total official engagements accompanied/represented by Tim in May: 17

2025 total: 34

[brandonmcadory17]

As 2024 and the Early 2020s concludes Tomorrow, I’d like to take the time to be grateful that I’ve turned 31 in the previous 5 months and have a golden opportunity to be grateful each and every holiday, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas and I’m most importantly grateful what’s been given to me in the sports and video game industry and I thank God and I am grateful to be alive at a young age even though that I’m in my 30s. However, I am looking forward to having permanent resolution on the table as I like for 2025 to be a new prosperous year. I know that I’m not likely to be perfect and I don’t mean to do things on purpose, but I promise to God that 2025 will be at least be so much better than it was than 2024, even though that I’ve been trying to improve as much as I possibly could in 2024. In sports in 2025, I’d like for Michigan State Football to go to a bowl game for the first time since 2021 because I’m appalled and lividly disappointed that Michigan State has missed a bowl game in 2022, 2023 and this year in 2024. Personally, part of the scheduling was indeed partly the fault of Michigan State because they have a habit of scheduling harder opponents, but that didn’t mean that Michigan State had to miss a bowl game and it still doesn’t mean that they have to miss a bowl game for the majority of the decade and it’s time for these biased analysts, experts and Michigan State haters to knock it off with the bias towards Michigan State Football and actually stop pretending to care about Michigan State because it’s not like that they’re Michigan State allies that wanted Michigan State to go to a bowl game in 2022, 2023 and in 2024 in the first place. Speaking of going to a bowl game, Michigan State Football should go to a bowl game in 2025 simply because 1 particular programs has decided to opt out of a bowl game after finishing the season 10-3 in the AAC conference and that is no other than the Marshall University Thunderingheard. Marshall decided to opt out of the bowl game because most of the players on the team has decided has decided to set their own 2024 season on fire by entering the transfer portal before Marshall even squares of vs. Army. I fully understand why they wanted to enter the transfer portal in the first place, but at the end of the day going to a bowl game is essentially supposed to be a dream come true and it’s how the Marshall players decide to entered the transfer portal and Michigan State could have been either been 10-3 or 11-2 and the people on social media need to STOP fighting tooth and nail to make Michigan State miss bowl games because of their personal feelings and stop being petty about it. On top of that, if somebody doesn’t like Michigan State for some reason then they should get some therapy, do something else and/or watch something else and stick to streaming video games either on Twitch or YouTube. It’s that simple. After everything that God has done for football programs like Marshall University , who recently decided throw their own 2024 season away, I think that Michigan State should be going to a bowl game in 2025 and beyond because the players and certain people on socializing media should think twice about stopping that from happening because I’ll guarantee them that it’s certainly not a good look for them to defending ungrateful programs who never want to be in a bowl game in the first place and it’s just simply inexcusable college football programs like Marshall and Michigan never should have had any business going to a bowl game in the first place and Michigan State would not have done something like that and I’m not throwing anything away and that’s a promise that I will keep for God in 2025.

[mnovenia]

Last day of 2024

Father in heaven, my source of life, strength, giver of this beautiful life, my reason to live and continue this journey.. I thank You, there's no other words can describe how grateful I am to know you better this year.. I finally can treasure the meaning of salvation and how preciously loved I am to experience this year..

January: kkh came and my life did changed

February: our church building moved & i got to meet yoora, taekyun oppa & jimin jibsanim

March: my littlekedungu was handed over and I got to enjoy it while taking care of church n went to bangkok as the best trip ever

April: went to Korea deokpyeong n blessed by Sonia soenkyusanim n korean 237 family (i was part of missionaries from all over the world) RTS started

May: thing were good w kkh n hyeonseok thing also prep for bali camp

June: hardest part w kkh n depresing, but also a new beginning with connor being in the villa & rental business

July: went to Bandung & Korea for wrc

Aug: wrc n hardest month ever

Sept: slowly gain strength n RTS started again

Oct: RTS, new leadership in Solideo & new liturgy work n prep for Business Conference

November: Bali’s 1st business conference by darakbang, most amazing thanksgiving w my US family

December: christmas in america, it went so fast but enjoying every part of it & gain confidence to look forward to the future.. wrapping the last day w noi, ivan & family.. i feel like God's taking a very good care of me n giving me family everywhere I go.. even ci maurin n ko yosa..

God I couldn't count how much you give, enlarge, stretch, grow, comfort, sustain, give rest, understanding, pull closer to you, beyond my limit n what I can imagine.. all I know is Your plan is always better than mine and I will continue to trust you for whatever You have in store.. Help me to keep this faith alive <3 I know you will.. as adel said, you’re not only sustain but the INITIATOR & PERFECTOR of my faith!

KH thank you, I learnt now of hananim appeseo & the all knowing God, so then it becomes the foundation of my serving and everything I do for the church now. I know you were in Bali for a season, for a reason and God’s glory. Thank you, and I will keep praying for you & what God has for your future.. Even though it doesn’t end up as I expected, I believe in God’s protection and greater plan (even though it’s hard and I haven’t seen the other open door).. Let’s cling on to God’s perfect sovereignty <3

[madi2112]

2024 in review (part 2)

A wild second half.

Picking up from part 1.

July:

Lots of work in July but enough time for a road trip to Vero Beach and a nice stay at the Disney Resort there.

Team Cher kept the momentum going with a reunion and dinner.

August:

A visit down to Ft. Lauderdale for an LGBTQIA+ movie night. "Das Kleid" was a film that hit home in so many ways.

A visit to the Coral Castle and a great comedy show by Kristen Key also made the month fun.

September:

A great month because I spent a long while away from work.

In Oregon.

To prepare for the trip I even had my nails done in a salon for the first time ever!

October:

My biggest event at work was cancled because of a hurricane 🌀. This really was dissapointing because the Out and Equal conference meant a lot to me. I was the unofficial ambassador of the event.

But on a great note I started chatting online to a certain someone...

November:

A wonderful month ruined by the horrible election. I'm still disgusted, scared and angry that an adjudicated rapist, convicted felon, morally bankrupt hateful bigot was supported at all. Let alone put back in power.

But on much better news Laura and I started seeing each other in person after a few weeks of constant communication.

<easily, my favorite picture of the year>

I also had my first ever video call with her while she was visiting family for Thanksgiving.

I did start my lose weight campaign on the first. Had a consultation for FFS and attended the Orlando Strong LGBTQIA+ conference too.

December:

Started great. Then went to hell half way through.

I got a long sought-after spot on the Traditions team!

Something I had been after for 5 years.

The high from that came crashing down when days later Laura let me know she wasn't ready for us to be in a real relationship. So instead she pulled away completely. This left me heartbroken and made for a typical miserably lonely holiday season once again this year.

So what I think of 2024 overall?

I'll let you know in part 3.

~Madison