#/ saw bs on twitter last night that pissed me off \

[unboundpower]

If you actively & happily use AI art for anything, especially for creating OC designs and the like, you are so unbelievably sorry. I can't believe countless artists and writers have been going in on how terrible and threatening AI shit has been (like they...literally go against the concept of what art & creativity even are) all this year, just for some clowns to be like "weeeeell if people aren't making a profit off of them, it's ok!!!"

So you don't want to put in the time & effort to draw or write for yourself. That's fine. Still shouldn't feed these predatory bots tho. All they do is steal shit.

I hope this new AI art trend dies, just like how crypto & NFT garbage did-

[canonicallyobserving911]

Buck & Eddie: 2023 - 2024 Rereleased and Unreleased Photos

A timeline of the photos that were released by JS, JCC & TM since 6B.

After TM (9-1-1 showrunner) recently released two "never before seen pictures" of Buck and Eddie, one as recent as last night, I started thinking about all the photos and videos that have been released of them since the start of 6B and it was quite interesting to see it all once I put them together.

Reminder, Buck and Eddie were barely shown to be work partners let alone friends for 98% of 6A and after 6x13 aired, they were shown to be living separate lives again for the remainder of 6B after Eddie was forced into dating again even though he said he wasn't ready. Aside from the Buckley-Diaz Family scene in 6x1 and the small amount of time they shared at the end of 6x7 and the time they were partnered in 6x13 (my favorite episode which was the finale for me since the last 5 episodes could have been yeeted to the sun); they didn't work side-by-side like they did before Eddie quit the 118 in 5x10. That's why the timing of the rereleased and unreleased photos and video is so jarring.

First, in April 2023, JS released the picture below of Buck and Eddie at the poker game before 6x13 aired and he spent most of that three-week mini hiatus counting down to the day when he was going to reveal it on Twitter or X or whatever it's called this week.

Second, in April 2023, a photo of the clapperboard was released weeks in advance for 6x17 which was an episode JCC directed. It includes a picture of Buck and Eddie at the bottom of it.

Third, also in April 2023, after 6x15 aired, several posts alluded to Twitter users being in an uproar about the introduction of ND and how Buck hurt Eddie’s feelings with that BS line about her seeing him (which everyone but Buck knows was a bunch of BS).

Don't try to debate me on this because Buck’s words hurt Eddie and it doesn't matter if they were intentional or not. He broke Eddie’s heart with that $hit so... I digress because thinking about it still pisses me off (it's been months but I'm still not over the way S6 ended).

Anyway, it was posted on Reddit (linked here) that JCC posted the photo from season 3 below on 9-1-1's TikTok account but the question is why would he release it since he didn't direct 6x15? The OP of the thread explained how he never posts things about episodes he didn't direct so it was interesting to read this information but since I only saw it on Reddit and nowhere else, it's unclear if there was a motive behind it.

Full disclosure: I don't have a Reddit or TikTok account, so I don't know if this post was legit but the date on it is April 25, 2023.

Fourth, in May 2023, right before 6x18 aired, TM decided to release a video of Buck and Eddie from season 2 but why did he do that? Especially right before that BS episode that had Eddie acting like he was in high school again and giggling over some chick he witnessed almost kiss her brother in the mouth in 6x5 and Buck settling once again for a woman who only wanted to use him for his "Firehose" and nothing else like AC, AM and TK did?

What exactly was the point? Was he trying to tell viewers something or was he just piddling around on FB like he did last year when he responded to a viewer with a long post about the storytelling decisions he greenlit for LS?

Reminder, TM was working on LS for the past two seasons while he left OG in the hands of KR who literally destroyed all of Buck’s character development and growth by regressing him with TK, LD and now ND. Seasons 5 and 6 went into a tailspin of Buck not growing or learning from his mistakes and the responsibility for that lies solely at the showrunner's feet and who was in charge? It was KR.

The way Buck's gazillion storylines ended was not long form storytelling especially since he was constantly being regressed. He said he didn't want to make the same mistakes but he kept making them and instead of letting him go back to therapy (which he clearly needs) she let him flounder and read self-help books and donate his sperm to that loser Connor (reminder Connor wanted to run out on his pregnant wife because the baby wasn't biologically his but I still believe the baby is his and not Buck's). She wouldn't let him talk to the team like he used to do so they could offer him some good advice about the important life decisions he was trying to make but in Season 5 she had no problem letting Buck tell the 118 about his dumpster fire of a relationship with TK.

Fifth, in January 2024, TM was at it again with posts on Facebook (I don't use FB) but this time he posted two unreleased photos of Buck and Eddie. Apparently, he released the one below a few days ago but it was discovered by a blogger who posted it on 911blr. Based on Eddie's appearance, it looks like it may have been from season 5, possibly sometime around 5x16 "May Day" but who knows.

Sixth, last night, the photo below was released by TM and it's never been seen before either. Based on Eddie’s appearance, this picture looks NEW like it might be from Season 7 but who knows with all the unreleased promos and pics from previous seasons that started circulating in S6.

In the photos above, Buck and Eddie are shown in every season except for the most important one... Season 4. The shooting is missing and so is the will reveal. (I don't count the picture on the clapperboard because it appears to be one JCC added to it for whatever reason and it wasn't an official photo or video like the others.)

So, are they still using the shooting and the will as the catalyst for them becoming a CANON couple? Only they know what they're doing but whatever it is the question has become why are they doing all these cryptic Buck and Eddie posts and releasing photos of just the two of them? What are they trying to say, if anything?

Hopefully it's not so they can do a repeat of the things they did at the end of seasons 4 and 6 and delay them getting together yet again.

If they're going to finally let them be together then it's time to stop with the delay tactics and get rid of all those one-dimensional LIs. Leave N and M in season 6 where they first appeared and should have remained.

If they aren't planning to make Buck and Eddie CANON then they should let them stay single. It's been 6 years; how long do they realistically believe viewers who actually care about them as characters are going to keep waiting? In the past, actors and actresses have left shows around the fifth, sixth and seventh seasons so hopefully that won't happen on 9-1-1 but nobody has time to wait around for 15 seasons for Buck and Eddie to get together.

[clairebeauchampfan]

Hysteria, hubris, hype, histrionics....that’s one thing. But the rampant hypocrisy, hate and  homophobia now displayed by a number of shippers....that’s another.

Here’s a heartfelt post by @rainmanjdog, a plea for shippers to be left to have ‘fun’ in the way they want to without others’ disapprobation ( I assume she didn’t literally mean to compare shippers to members of the NRA)

(My bold for emphasis).

rainmanjdog

Quote “Why do people who don’t like what is said on Tumblr read it then?  I HATE the NRA, so why would I subject myself to pro-NRA blogs?

Here is my truth.  I sometimes go to Twitter, like last night, to just have fun. Sometimes, I just want to be a normal fan and have fun with it all.  I thought Caitriona looked beautiful last night.  Its subjective.   I wasn’t a fan of the hearts, but if I tried to pull off that look?  Heaven help you all!  I dislike Sam’s people trying to turn him into a cookie-cutter Hollywood actor.  Because that is what he becomes, lost in the crowd.  Sam shines when Sam is unique Sam, so enhance that, don’t turn him into something he is not.  The guy has freaking natural curls?  Why not enhance that?  But, its subjective.

What I don’t understand and never have?  Why don’t people stay in their own lanes?  My feelings are MY feelings.  Your take is YOUR take.

I try really hard to not take all of this too seriously or personally.  But I fail at it, obviously, or I wouldn’t spend so much time here talking about how I feel!  With her scientific mind, @tvuckic has really helped me see this whole thing as a puzzle.  A game?  (No matter that I am an analyst by profession, I will ALWAYS be an emotional processor first.)  My expectations as a “shipper” are so low, in fact, that I kinda saw last night as…..predictable, and “successful” because a puzzle piece fit.  I was just happy to not see the appearance of someone who cheered and laughed while an animal was being sworn at as it was being beaten because it wasn’t dying fast enough.  That is how low my expectations have become.  Marina?  Success.  She is a loyal, trusted friend to BOTH Sam and Caitriona and a keeper of secrets.  Whatever you choose to believe those secrets are or aren’t.

For an hour or two last night?  I actually had fun again.  I did.  So?  What isn’t fun is women judging other women’s feelings or perceptions.  YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO FEEL OR THINK AS YOU DO.  Your feelings are YOUR feelings.  Your perceptions are YOUR PERCEPTIONS.

The reality is, as long as I base my emotions and happiness on the actions of two people who care less about me?  Its going to be a bumpy ride.  I want off that ride.  If you are able to rise above any of it and just block out the rest?  More power to you.  If you aren’t?  I get it.

Remember when we had a picture of Sam with his machete BTS from Caitriona filming Season 4?  They were making an IG story/“home movie” of an ax-murderer.  They are two seriously ridiculous, silly people who I think either take themselves too seriously in HW at times or there are circumstances I don’t understand. Hey!  This sea-sick shipper is grateful they at least didn’t attend different parties or let the cat out of the bag that they actually attended the same party this time.  I understand feeling cheated.  No, I FEEL cheated because while the two seemed to pretend they were ships-passing-in-the-night at the VF party?  We get treated to my darlingly adorable, always-smiling Emelia Clark with her GOT husband (and “my Hawaiian BF”) Jason.  To Sam and Caitriona?  What’s a few hours at a party pretending you don’t know the other is there?   To us the fans?  A picture would have gone a long way.  A LONG WAY in bringing positivity to a pretty dreary fandom.  So…..I call BS.   I don’t see Bradley or Lady Gaga outraged people are shipping them.

The unkindness, judgments, sanctimonious opinions in the Outlander fandom is what I call BS on the most.  THE MOST.  

Sam, Caitriona, Outlander?  It may feel serious, but it really isn’t.  None of it is worth an iota of my anger.  I wish it was easier said than done. You know what IS serious?  Human-trafficking.  You know what really makes me angry?  My country can’t go a single week without a mass shooting.  I can’t do ANYTHING about Sam, Caitriona or condescending fans, but I can certainly TRY to do something about the recent statistics showing we may have wild orangutans wiped off the face of the earth in five years.  I am NOT OK with that.” Unquote

Let’s look again at Rainmanjdog’s line:

“The unkindness, judgments, sanctimonious opinions in the Outlander fandom is what I call BS on the most.  THE MOST.” 

Does that apply then to the group of ‘fans’ who say Sophie Skelton can’t act? No unkindness there. 

Or the ‘fans’ who, far from giving ‘constructive criticism’ of Season 4, described it as the worst season ever, and (unlike the vast majority of viewers) could find NOTHING positive to say about it? The ‘fans’ who didn’t even watch the last three episodes, but relied upon the relentlessly negative critiques of @pissed- offsoka13?  The fans who rubbished the writing, the ‘fans’ like @jamesandclairefraser who called for Maril, Toni and Matt to be fired? The fans  who even called for Cait to be replaced because in Season 4 she frowned a lot and crossed her arms, just like she has done in every other season, if you were paying attention? 

Or does she mean the unkindness of the ‘fans’ who have traduced  Cait’s motives and character ever since the engagement, whilst trashing  the morals and motivation of Sam’s unfortunate blonde girlfriend ....what do they call her....’trashy’? No sanctimonious judgmentalism there.....no unkindness

Or perhaps she’s referring to ‘former’ fans like @its-moopoint, who never ceases to lose an opportunity to ‘ping’ with her finely tuned gaydar Sam (because he isn’t married to Caitriona, so he must be gay), or  Duncan (because he has no visible girlfriend) or John Bell (gaydar again), even  Tony (because he has a floppy fringe, and is Caitriona’s ‘fake’ fiance, so he must be gay too). Oh, and she accused ‘Tuna girl’ of being a whore, because she was photographed once in the same boat as Sam. Ergo, she must be Sam’s ‘ beard’, or a call girl. 

  No homophobia there then, no judgement, no sanctimony. Just ‘normal ‘ fanning (for me it beggars belief that in 2019 so many ‘liberal’ shippers follow someone with attitudes like that.But it’s okay, isn’t it?  She has A RIGHT TO FEEL OR THINK AS she does .  Her feelings are HER feelings.  Her perceptions are HER PERCEPTIONS.

Presumably that’s the same Tuna girl who @rainmanjdog was relieved not to see on Sam’s arm because she cheered when ....stop!...no sanctimonious opinions or judgments are permitted here on tumblr in the Outlander fandom.  

_________________________________________________________

Well then, I shall get back in my own lane. I won’t criticize the NRA’s objection to having the right to bear arms restricted to a well-regulated militia, like it implies in the American constitution, with good regulations like background checks and the banning of sales of automatic weapons.  I shall just ignore.

 I won’t criticize human traffickers, because I don’t want to stop wicked old men  ‘having fun’ and I don’t want to come over all sanctimonious and judgmental. I shall just ignore. 

And maybe, just maybe, I won’t criticize and be all judgmental and sanctimonious about women being mean, vicious, nasty, horrible and unkind to other women and thinking they can get away with it because their victims work in Hollywood, and are therefore paid to take such judgmental, unkind sanctimoniousness on the chin. I shall just ignore. 

( I do agree though with @rainmanjdog about the destruction of the rainforest and the loss of the orangutans. Take a look, people, at Google satellite on the island of Borneo. See the light green colours...zoom in and take a closer look . see those faint checkerboard grids; that’s all palm-oil plantations planted in the last twenty or thirty years; see how little natural habitat there is left for orangutans : in Malay orang  hutan, ‘man of the forest.’ Now look at the island of Sumatra, once home to elephant, tiger and rhinoceros as well as orangutans, and weep. 

Sorry, I’m straying into the lane of the palm oil manufacturers. My bad.)

#judgmental, unkind and sanctimonious #staying in your lane#normal fanning

[hazyheel]

Monday Night Raw 5/20/19 Review

We opened with Heyman and Lesnar, who still has that briefcase for some reason. Apparently the two planned this when they saw Zayn beat Strowman on Raw last week. And I guess Lesnar was actually in that match, because of some negotaitions backstage, and I’m glad they addressed it. Heyman cut a really good promo about how both world champions should be paranoid. Seth Rollins then came out. Rollins insulted Lesnar for being a terrible champion. He challenged Lesnar to cash in the contract now, which Heyman desperately tried to stop from happening. But Heyman basically just said that it wouldn’t happen, because Rollins is on their time. Heyman kinda insulted Rollins by saying that he didn’t main event Wrestlemania while his girlfriend, Becky Lynch, did. I didn’t know they were dating, so that was lovely to hear. I’m a sucker for wrestling couples. Anyway, Heyman said that Lesnar may cash in on Kofi as well, because Rollins isn’t worthy of being in the ring with Lesnar. Kingston came out, and said that he doesn’t mind fighting Lesnar, and even challenged him. Heyman said that since both champions were asking Brock for a match, which kinda makes him more important than both titles. He didn’t cash in, but he said that he might at any point in the night.

Backstage, Kingston and Rollins talked to Triple H about what they’d be doing later, which was them teaming up for the main event against Bobby Lashley and Baron Corbin. Ugh.

Grade: B. Super good promo, but it didn’t actually give us anything new. I always love to hear Heyman on the mic, and I like that dynamic where Brock is so important that both champions want to fight him. Its interesting. Honestly, Brock having the title is exciting, because he is an exciting talent. I want to see where this ends up going. Personally, I think Kofi is gonna get his ass beat by Lesnar, because he has a fairytale story that is worth ruining to get Brock over more. Hopefully, that’ll be later rather than sooner.

Then we had Braun Strowman vs. Sami Zayn. Zayn ran away before the match could even start. They brawled a bit backstage, and Zayn got his ass beat. Strowman was face to face with Bobby Lashley, but they did not come to blows. Strowman literally carried Zayn back to the ring. Zayn kinda had the advantage by the time the match actually started, but Strowman flattened him and hit a running powerslam for the win.

Grade: B+. This whole segment was super fun. Zayn’s acting here, where he was just ridiculously terrified of Bruan was entertaining. I am not usually into this, but the way that Sami sold everything was pretty funny. I don’t think they should make a habit of this kind of thing, but this was good in isolation.

Lars Sullivan then had an interview, which before I even heard I felt was detrimental to his character. Charly seemed really scared, which was good, and then we saw a video package of him since his debut. Charly asked about his goals, but the Lucha House party came out ot interrupt him. They wanted to fight him, and the three of them together were actually able to beat him to the ground. However, one on one he had an advantage. He was able to outlast each other them by waiting for the team to split up and he attacked them one at a time. Sullivan was able to stand tall once again, although not in as dominant a way as at Money in the Bank.

Grade: B-. A discount version of last night, with the added dynamic of the Lucha House Party being able to take down Sullivan when they worked together. But given that I saw it literally last night, I am gonna be a bit harsher.

Next up was Ricochet vs. Cesaro. Cesaro had a new entrance that was very generic. The match happened because Cesaro called Ricochet weak for having his back hurt in the ladder match last night. So naturally Cesaro worked over the back. At one point, Ricochet literally jumped onto Cesaro’s shoulders and then backflipped off of him.  That is insane control from both guys. Ricochet hit an awesome suicide dive, but the spot was kinda ruined by the commercial for the secret life of pets ad. Cesaro was able to get the win here with a neutralizer.

Grade: B-. Not a lot of time here, but some pretty good spots. I think that they can do great stuff together if they are given some faith.

Backstage, Charly interviewed AJ Styles about his loss, and he was pretty humble about his loss. Corbin then showed up and they trash talked back and forth, and it ended with AJ slapping Corbin. Corbin just said that he would pay for that, and then the segment just ended.

Roman Reigns then had a promo, but before he could even start, Shane McMahon came out to confront him. Shane said that he was totally done with the Miz, and he said that he was still pissed about how Reigns attacked Vince a while ago. Reigns then said that he wanted to fight Shane tonight, but Shane refused. Instead, Drew McIntyre came out, and just sorta stood next to Shane for the rest of the promo. However, he then said that he accepted the challenge for Super Showdown.

Grade: D+. This was really boring, and they teased McIntyre vs. Reigns (I still have hope that it’ll be good sometime) and then didn’t give it to us. Figured Reigns vs. Shane would happen at some point, but it will proabably suck unless they give it a stip.

Backstage, McIntyre and Shane were walking around backstage, and Miz confronted them. McIntyre kinda said that he would protect Shane, and then Miz challenged McIntyre.

Next up was the Usos vs. The Revival. Wilder jumped Jimmy before the bell, and then beat the living crap out of him. Jey got a huge hot tag and beat down both heels. Jey and Dawson slugged it out in the middle of the ring at one point, culminating in a double superkick and a near fall. On the outside, Wilder nailed Jimmy with a tornado DDT, and then Wilder got hit with a vicious suicide dive.

Grade: B. Almost a B+, but not quite competitive enough. This really is a dream match, and I cannot wait to see them actually able to cut loose. I want to see them pull off a really good match. For now though, this was the match of the night.

Backstage, Alexa Bliss confronted Nikki Cross about losing the ladder match last week. And then the Revival came in and were being annoying, and then the segment ended.

Then came the firefly funhouse, and all it was was the themsong glitching out a bit.

Then was a moment of Bliss, with Nikki Cross as the guest, as well as Becky Lynch. Lynch was over as hell in this venue. Cross just stood there awkwardly as they talked. Before Lynch could say anything, the Iconics came out. They said she was Becky One Belt, which is still better than most can say. Lynch wasn’t having any of their BS, and actually challenged them to a match for the Women’s Tag Team Championship. Lacey Evans came out and was being mean, and Becky said that she already beat Evans with only half her attention. She then challenged Evans and the Iiconics to a six woman tag. Cross volunteered to be on Lynch’s team, and Becky said that Alexa would also join. Alexa tried to protest, but Lynch told her to stand around and look pretty. I laughed out loud.

Grade: B+. Not quite an A- because it was a little too crowded, and everyone else brought the quality down, but Becky was sure as hell on point during this. She was tough, she was funny, and it felt like one of her twitter wars. I missed this Becky

In the actual match, Nikki Cross was in the ring a little bit, but really was only fighting so that Becky could get a hot tag. Evans immediately left when Becky got in the ring. She beat the crap out of the Iiconics, and she beat them with a top rope leg drop. Bliss and Cross celebrated in the ring, but Lynch just walked out and held her title high

Grade: D. I was going to grade this and the promo at the same time, but this match sucked. The only reason that it got some points in my book was that Becky really shined, and there were some funny moments, like Alexa just drinking coffee on the outside and one point when Becky hit Billie Cay really hard, and Royce yelled her named, followed immediately by a huge “oof” because Becky Knocked her off the apron. Funny, but not good.

Then we had Mick Foley with a huge announcement: the next title in the WWE. He talked about what being a champion meant, and then he brought out the 24/7 title, which is basically a neutered version of the hardcore championship. The crowd knew that too, and they booed. He resorted to saying the name of the city to get a pop.

The inaugeral champion was crowned by a scramble for the belt, and a bunch of the lower card guys ran down to try to get it. Corey was gonna run out and get it, but Cole and Renee told him to sit down. This was just wild and stupid fun, nothing of note really happened. Titus was able to grab it, so he is the first champion. But then Robert Roode ran out and rolled him up, so Robert Roode won it.

Grade: B-. I don’t think the smark in me can give this any higher than a B-. But I loved this to death. It was so dumb and awesome. The promo kinda flopped when it wasn’t the hardcore championship, and I genuinely don’t think that this belt is worth anything, but it is kinda a kick in the ass that will make me want to watch. I think that it’ll be less exciting then the Hardcore championship given the lack of weapon shots to the face and head, but it’ll still be stupid fun.

Next match was Miz vs. McIntyre. I don’t know why this match took place in the dark, but they changed the logo mid show and it made the stadium look a bunch darker. Miz desperately fought against his bigger opponent, trying to take him out at the knees but not really standing much of a chance. Miz continued to work the knee and eventually locked in the figure four for a submission sequence. Miz tried to attack Shane on the outside, but Shane ran away, which allowed him to run back and attack him when the ref’s back was turned. McIntyre followed up with a claymore for the win.

After the match, Shane went for a coast to coast on Miz, but Roman came out to fight him off. He hit McIntyre with a superman punch and stood tall.

Grade: C. This was very meh. Just felt placeholder, and there was no reason for Miz to almost be able to beat McIntyre.

Backstage, Robert Roode ran past Corbin and Lashley, told them they didn’t see him, and then ran again. The rest of the low card chased him, including Drake Maverick, who hurt his back during the scramble cuz Titus threw him out of the ring. He was limping, and just sort of apologized to the heels. I love this belt, it is so dumb.

Samoa Joe then addressed his attack on Rey Mysterio, who apparently was injured during the attack. Basically he said that Mysterio deserved it.

Robert Roode hid inside of R-Truth’s trunk, who was helping him. Then Truth attacked Roode, and won the title. I love this.

And in the main event, Kofi Kingston and Seth Rollins took on Bobby Lashley and Baron Corbin in a no disqualification match. The heels jumped the faces before the bell, and they were tagging in and out for some reason when the match started proper. At one point, Lashley and Corbin were going to superplex Kingston, but Rollins attacked them both with a chair. Kingston was able to get the win with a trouble in paradise.

Immediately after the match, Lashley speared both faces. Brock Lesnar then walked down to the ring, but did not end up cashing in.

Grade: B-. This match was kinda bland, but the no DQ stip was a good change of pace. I liked that, but the match didn’t do much for me. But it was still a cool thing to have in the main event. I definitely never thought that Brock was cashing in, so that didn’t bother me.

Overall Grade: B-, because most of this show was just meh.

Pros: opening promo; strowman squash; usos vs. revival; moment of bliss; 24/7 championship

Cons: shane mcmahon promo; 6-woman tag; Miz vs. McIntyre

[placetobenation]

Last week, I called for a bit of reflection and honest from the WWE. And I think they delivered a solid week on the rebound.

I’ll admit, it didn’t start well as the first couple hours of RAW wasn’t exactly must see TV with Nia Jax and some questionable booking messing things up. But, Sasha Banks title win and Dolph Ziggler vs. Drew McIntyre’s Extreme Rules match changed the momentum. Add in The Legend Killer’s new lust for the WWE Championship and they were off in running!

Keith Lee carried the torch over to NXT with a career best promo on Karrion Kross along with a strong presentation in the ring Wednesday night.

And how about SmackDown on Friday! The Fiend unleashed again, FINALLY!

Plus, I’ll say this – the shows “sounded” better with some renewed energy. It’s a good start and no, one week doesn’t make everything ok, but it sure makes everything better than it was 7 days ago.

It’s a positive sign as we head to the year’s next major PPV at SummerSlam. I wonder if the rumors of the WWE trying to hold it outside on a beach or in the NorthEast somewhere in front of a small crowd come true. If nothing else, it would be a visually pleasing change for a night. And what’s with the announcement of a Payback PPV just one week after SummerSlam? Brings back shades of Tuesday in Texas back in the old In Your House Days as The Undertaker took on Hulk Hogan in back-to-back weeks on a PPV.

Star of the Week:

Dominik Mysterio – OK, I’ll admit it’s a bit of a stretch, but damn, that was some nifty kendo stick wielding Monday night. It looks like the kid might be able to handle himself. We’ll see in the upcoming weeks and we’ll have to see if Dear Ol’ Dad sticks around to see it. See what I did there…

RAW

RESULTS

Andrade & Angel Garza defeated The Viking Raiders and Ricochet & Cedric Alexander to win tag team title match at SummerSlam

Nia Jax vs. Shayna Baszler went to a double count out

Bobby Lashley defeated Mustafa Ali

RAW Women’s Championship Match: Sasha Banks defeated Asuka to win title

Murphy defeated Humberto Carrillo

Non-Title WWE Championship Match – Extreme Rules: Drew McIntyre defeated Dolph Ziggler

Loved it:

Drew vs. Dolph II – While I don’t think we needed a rematch one week later, I give big time props to Drew McIntyre and Dolph Ziggler for putting on another amazing match. This time it was Extreme Rules for everyone and they did not disappoint. Kudos to both for putting themselves through another brutal physical match just one week after their first one at the Horror Show at Extreme Rules PPV. Dolph, even in defeat, helps steal the show.

The champ never saw it coming. RKO OUTTA NOWHERE by @RandyOrton! #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/2XJINy7R1N

— WWE (@WWE) July 28, 2020

Randy vs. Drew – The two hottest stars on the men’s side of Monday Night RAW are now set for a collision course at SummerSlam. Sure, once Randy Orton made his feelings for the WWE Championship known at the start of the show, we all knew an RKO was coming to end the night for McIntyre. Still, out of nowhere, a feud that could be one of the year’s best has begun!

I was able to accomplish so much in the last three years, but it wasn’t because of my ability or my strength. It was because of all of the constant, warm support from the fans. I am so thankful I could meet you all. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Kairi Sane

pic.twitter.com/BaH2UBi9wn

— KAIRI SANE (@KairiSaneWWE) July 28, 2020

The Main Event – There’s nothing wrong with Sasha Banks and Bayley holding all the Women’s Gold in the WWE! Sasha has earned it now with a win over Asuka Monday night. The odd part of it is that the WWE used Bayley’s attack on Kairi Sane to make it happen. Of course, this tactic has been used time and again over the course of wrestling history. No shame there. It’s the fact that Sane is now gone from the WWE and they let Sane tweet about it during the show. Very strange indeed to those on both screens at the same time. But, mind you, only 13% (give or take) of Americans are actually on Twitter so take it with a grain of salt. It just shows lack of detail. Great feud somewhat overshadowed by a sidelight. Now, what does Asuka do next?

Hated it:

Nia vs. Shayna – Why on Earth did they waste my time with not one, but two segments that settled nothing. Jax just lacks depth on-air and it’s the same ol’ story. A battle between Baszler and Jax would be fine if they just let them go. But, to give me a short brawl followed later in the night by a useless (and short) count out was pointless. If you want them to fight, let them fight. Don’t waste our time.

Why?:

.@WWERollins & @WWE_Murphy went TOO FAR with @WWEAleister…but @35_Dominik went to the EXTREME!#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/3RPkoRte9T

— WWE (@WWE) July 28, 2020

Monday Night Messiah – If Seth Rollins is that influential and The Messiah, why does he only have one minion? You would think after months of saying he’s a cult leader, he would have a bigger following. Plus, what exactly in this continuing obsession with people’s eyes? I was hoping that would be left in the past with Rey Mysterio, but now it’s Aleister Black’s turn as he is on the shelf with arm and eye injuries after this week’s attack by Murphy and Rollins. I guess it’s Dominik Mysterio’s turn to take on the MNM. Let’s hope he continues to bring us to the Extreme with more than kendo sticks. But, it was a nice start for the younger Mysterio.

Intrigue:

Just like THAT, it's official.@Zelina_VegaWWE will lead @AndradeCienWWE & @AngelGarzaWwe into #SummerSlam to challenge @AngeloDawkins & @MontezFordWWE for the #WWERaw #TagTeamTitles! pic.twitter.com/dY1ZilL1IK

— WWE (@WWE) July 28, 2020

Tag Team Titles – I love what The Street Profits bring in and out of the ring and now they have a new challenger in Andrade & Angel Garza. They are so many ways they can go to get to their Tag Team Title Match at SummerSlam too. Maybe we’ll get a Bianca vs. Zelina side story too to make things interesting. Either way, the matches should be fun and if done right, it’s a pairing that could (and should) last on and off for the rest of the year.

Where’s Apollo – C’mon WWE – just be honest and let us know the deal with Apollo Crews. If it was just a neck/disc injury, wouldn’t Crews have done an interview segment at least? Maybe the rumors of Crews having COVID-19 are true and if they are, the WWE would be serving the superstar and its audience better by being honest.

NXT

RESULTS

Io Shirai & Tegan Nox defeated Candice LeRae & Dakota Kai

Johnny Gargano defeated Roderick Strong

Mercedes Martinez defeated Shotzi Blackheart

Non-title NXT Tag Team Championship Match: Imperium defeated Ever-Rise

Isaiah “Swerve” Scott defeated Jake Atlas

Triple Threat Match: Dexter Lumis defeated Timothy Thatcher & Finn Balor to earn spot in North American Title Ladder Match at TakeOver: XXX

Loved it:

"Kross, you have clearly made it a point that you 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 my attention, that you 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 my championship and you've done such extra BULL****!" #NXTChampion @RealKeithLee is PISSED. #WWENXT pic.twitter.com/QinBFDoKDd

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) July 30, 2020

Keith Lee – Hands down, the best promo of Keith Lee’s NXT career. No BS. Straight forward. This killer feud with Karrion Kross and Scarlett will be epic!

That's our champ.

#WWENXT @shirai_io @DakotaKai_WWE pic.twitter.com/cSL3SAw9qb

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) July 30, 2020

Io & Friends – What a start to the night! Io Shirai is such a bundle of non-stop energy in the ring! It was a very strong tag team match in which Shirai goes over Candice LeRae after Dakota Kai leaves LeRae stranded alone in the ring.

Shotzi – I get a smile when Shotzi comes on the screen. Even knowing she would face a tough battle against Mercedes Martinez, Blackheart brings the tank-riding run to the ring. I really want a Blackheart vs. Sasha Banks match if not for the hair color battle alone! She’s entertaining each and every week.

Clunky:

fixed on gold. #WWENXT #TripleThreat #NXTTakeOver @DexterLumis pic.twitter.com/dEddCIWBtB

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) July 30, 2020

Triple threat ending – What was a decent main event and a fine match (how’s that for underplaying the main event!), it sure turned out to be a very clunky finish. With Timothy Thatcher trying to submit Finn Balor and his injured knee, Dexter Lumis puts out Thatcher to get the victory. It’s an easy way to skirt out Balor from being pinned or submitted and it’s another week of a “surprise” winner heading to TakeOver:XXX for a chance at the North American Title. This new land of opportunity is making a look for the underdog winner each week now.

Strong:

When you 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 wanna shut them up. #WWENXT @JohnnyGargano @roderickstrong pic.twitter.com/KllKZGpg9m

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) July 30, 2020

Johnny vs. Roderick – No pun intended, but these two put on a hell of a match.

The Swerve – I like giving Scott some depth and a shot in the arm with a little build-up. I hope it continues and he gets included in a future triple threat to make his way into the North American Title Ladder Match at TakeOver: XXX.

Looking forward to it:

Ready or not, HERE THEY COME.#UndisputedERA #WWENXT @Marcel_B_WWE @AdamColePro @KORcombat @theBobbyFish @roderickstrong @FabianAichner pic.twitter.com/C6q9OiR0tp

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) July 30, 2020

Imperium vs. The Undisputed Era – After a few months on the backburner, we finally get our Imperium vs. TUE match next week for the tag team titles.

A thought:

"Let's figure out a time for he and I to talk. This does seems like a miscommunication." – @PatMcAfeeShow to @TripleH about @AdamColePro #WWENXT pic.twitter.com/qbucAyuf6o

— WWE (@WWE) July 30, 2020

Pat McAfee vs. Adam Cole – While I think it’s a smart idea to bring that social media/reality drama to the TV side with Cole going ballistic on McAfee’s show, it did seem odd that Cole was on the show but didn’t have any comment on it. Something to watch down the road and probably just a product of late editing to the show.

SMACKDOWN

RESULTS

Intercontinental Title Match: AJ Styles defeated Gran Metalik

King Corbin defeated Drew Gulak

Big E defeated The Miz

Naomi defeated Lacey Evans

SmackDown Women’s Championship: Bayley defeated Nikki Cross to retain the title

Loved it:

@SonyaDevilleWWE almost went there! #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/7YsIcy1Hu3

— WWE on FOX (@WWEonFOX) August 1, 2020

Sonya’s Surprise – She’s back and not done messing with Mandy Rose! Deville’s dominance continues as she not only beats on Rose, but mocks up her make-up and cuts her blonde locks too! It’s one of this year’s best feuds and I’m glad it is back on as we head to SummerSlam. I’m guessing we get a Hair vs. Hair Match coming soon.

WHAT JUST HAPPENED? #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/qxUW17RjOk

— WWE on FOX (@WWEonFOX) August 1, 2020

Firefly Fun House and more – It was stale and then awesome! At the beginning, we’re asking ourselves how many times is Bray Wyatt going to tell us no one is safe when “he,” The Fiend is set free? When’s the last time The Fiend, or Wyatt for that matter, did anything heinous as when he first started out? Then, to end the night, he’s out there giving the mandible claw to Alexa Bliss! Awesome! It’s only a matter of time before she’s trying to turn Braun Strowman in person, right?! Well done!

Solid:

Stay classy, @AJStylesOrg! #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/PsNVaHoriq

— WWE on FOX (@WWEonFOX) August 1, 2020

AJ’s Title Match – Nobody really tough Gran Metalik would beat AJ Styles for the I-C Title, but we knew it would be a good match. And that it was. A very solid way to kick-off the night.

BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! BIG E ROCKS! #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/R0YbD2s3ny

— WWE on FOX (@WWEonFOX) August 1, 2020

Big E – The build to a possible title run in the future begins now for the biggest member of The New Day. A nice victory over The Miz, who seems to be there to put people over at the moment, is a decent way to get things going without Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods. It is kind of odd though how Michael Cole and Corey Graves act like Big E has never wrestled singles before and won. He’s a former NXT and Intercontinental Champion.

Bayley vs. Nikki Cross – A good back-and-forth match that was really never in doubt. Of course, it did get us to plant another seed in the Cross/Alexa Bliss splitting and The Fiend’s attack on Bliss. So, in that, it did its job.

Building the Kingdom?

King Corbin – Is the King about to build a band of merry men around him? Corbin was courting Shorty G Friday night and I’m sure he’s not done. I like the idea of KC being the leader of a not-so-sunshine band.

SummerSlam – Updated Card

WWE Championship Match: Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton

RAW Tag Team Championship Match: The Street Profits vs. Andrade & Angel Garza

Parting Shots:

Moving on – Just in case you were wondering where some of those who left the WWE have gone to these days, here’s an update. The Good Brothers, Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows have joined Eric Young, EC3 and Heath Slater in Impact Wrestling. Matt Cardona (a/k/a Zack Ryder) is now with AEW. Lio Rush wrestling this past weekend for GCW.

Coming up this week:

RAW: Drew McIntyre & Asuka respond to attacks

NXT: Triple Threat Match for spot in the North American Title Ladder Match at TakeOver: XXX – Oney Lorcan vs. Damian Priest vs. Ridge Holland Rhea Ripley vs. Dakota Kai – winner gets a shot at NXT Women’s Championship at TakeOver: XXX NXT Tag Team Championship Match: Imperium vs. The Undisputed Era

SMACKDOWN: TBD

Thanks for letting us share our thoughts! Shoot me an email at jcrowe567@gmail.com. We’d love to hear your comments and suggestions! You can also check out my blog, The Crowe’s Nest as we delve into more pro wrestling, sports entertainment and the World of Sports. My apologies ahead of time – I AM a Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins fan! If you’re not down with that, I’ve got TWO WORDS for you… NEW ENGLAND

[norman-reedus-gossip-mod]

bulk

--mod--

Because I'm a lazy ass and didn't want to transfer stuff in to comments .

Anon: Was DK at NR's art show opening today? --mod-- Not that I saw





Anon: 
I love Daryl but I was never a fan of Norman. Trust me, I've tried. I even tried watching a few of his movies including BS but I'm sorry imo they were crap movies. His only claim to semi-fame is Daryl/TWD & even then a lot of ppl I know don't watch or even recognize his name. His last barely legal gf & now DK are an example of the REAL Norman. He's not what he made himself out to be to his fans. He fooled them that he's an upstanding guy when in reality he's far from it. Don't fall for it!!!

Anon: 
Dk and Norman are laughing their asses off behind everyone's backs probably thinking we are all dumb and some of you seriously support this behavior and say it's okay. It's shameful disgusting & embarrassing nothing more
                                                                                        --mod-- I'm not exactly sure why everyone thinks they'd be laughing at the fans. I'm not being a dick just curious 

Anon: 
There's just no way she was there he was so busy and today he's busy where is she?



Anon: 
I'm really disturbed by the horrible messages on Norman's IG.. people are so messed up! Regardless of what the truth is these messages just make his fans look insane!




Anon: 
Wow, is it the same ten hateful women posting here about liar Norman and evil Diane? Because elsewhere in social media, people, mature people, are saying this is his business and if he's happy, then so are they. How refreshing. Maybe some of you should expand your horizons. --mod-- Mine are super expanded. Apparently we don't go to the same social media because there is nastiness on all of them.




Anon: 
Here we go Diane isn't his friend showing up to support him for his gallery opening tonight since she isn't even there. Probably waiting for him in their hotel room. I'm actually heavily disgusted with the game theyre playing.



Anon: 
Is that Diane at the opening on shadinyc ig story? That's exactly what the blinds said would happen.
                                                                                              --mod-- Nah that's JDM's wife




Anon: 

Well seems like DK isn't at Norman's gallery opening so she definitely isn't in Barcelona to support his work. Plus they wouldn't hide like this if it's only "friends" hanging out. Come on, some still don't want to see that Norman lied cold in you all's faces..                                                                                        .
--mod-- People are allowed to not believe something anon. We all have different thresholds as to what we need to make a decision.  For instance a picture taken from a distance isn't enough for me personally. But I respect the fact that it's enough for others and try and not to talk down to them 



Anon: 
DK doesn't seem to be at NR's art show opening today. Why do you think that is? --mod-- Maybe she's not there or maybe she wasn't invited.





Anon: 
I have studied those pictures a little closer and noticed something. DK is thin as a stick - her things are practically just bones with muscles and skin on top. The woman climbing on the bike is slim too, but her things seems wider. And then she's even wearing dark jeans that's supposed to make you look thinner. I might be wrong but unless DK gained a couple of pounds over less than a week I don't think that's her




Anon: 
Mod, if they are actually together, do you think we are going to have to see it now? Do we actually have to be forced to look at her attending his art shows and walking red carpets with him? He doesn't do that stuff! I could cry at that thought alone I'm sorry Norman but I can't do that. I didn't sign up as your fan to have to put up with her and her trolling either. Please say it's not true --mod-- If they are then I'd assume we'd maybe see more of them. But I'll make this promise I will keep her to the barest of minimums on the blog. 😉

Anon: 
Mod do you think it's possible that they really are only friends? I mean why would he make an official denial like he did only two weeks ago if he was with her? It seems so weird if he did that. It makes him out to look like a complete liar. Also people were saying that he was taking pics with fans while she was there? If that's true, why would he do that with her of all people if she they were more than friends?
                                                                                                                     --mod-- I think it's totally possible they are still friends. He has friends that he's been out with and have stood back while he took pictures with fans. What strikes me as weird is no one that has said she was there took one picture of her not even a creeper..




Anon: 
I get that people are pissed but the fact is, none of us personally know N or DK. We only see their public personas. We have no idea who they truly are and have no basis on which to judge their relationship. Even if we feel we do, it still wouldn't give us the right to interfere. It's their business and none of ours. And if N is making a "mistake" somehow, it's still his to make. Respect the boundaries between fandom and real life. And if you must leave the fandom, then just leave.                                                                                                           .
--mod-- Fair point.



Anon: To people losing their shit - ever considered that N has 'lied' not to be deceitful or because of JJ, but because he KNEW that the batshit elements of his fanbase would react exactly as they have? Maybe he's keeping it quiet purely to protect DK and himself from lunatic fans who think he owes them something.




Anon: He has left up all supportive comments but deleted others. Even respectful ones just showing disapointment. I think the blind is right he will go public with her. Way to antagonize norman. --mod-- I've actually seen lots of comments that aren't supportive. He did deleted a bunch of the really nasty ones.




Anon: Mod Norman was out last night I think, was DK with him??                                          -mod--                                                                                                                                                 Not that I've heard




Anon: 
Dk and Norman both silent on SM since days. You all love to call it coincidence. I hope you all also know deep down it isn't. If they were just friends they wouldn't have to be silent for days. Reminds a lot of Lapland huuh? Let's be honest here, Norman tried to safe his image by putting out a denial so he probably hoped people would stop watching their steps. Too bad it's not working. I so hope paps call them out and the next shitstorm is coming for him. He deserves nothing else if he lies.
                                                                    --mod--Can you give me a definition of silent on sm because he's little and followed people on ig and twitter




Anon: 
So several people said Norman was there with his girlfriend. We all know he met (secretly) up with ms. attention whore. what do people need more to see he lied big times in ya'lls faces just to make himself look better. I don't get how anyone can support his behavior. He claims to love honesty and hates cheating yet he's apparently the biggest liar. If I was a fan I would be more than disgusted and disappointed and would really think twice if I want to support such shit. Lying is a no go.                                                                                     --mod--People need different things to form an opinion and others just don't care




Anon: 
NR was out at some kind of bar last night, any idea if DK was with him?

--mod-- Haven't heard anything 




Anon: 

This is what we get for thinking a guy who had dated a 20 yr old when he was 44 had changed/matured!!! Ha, that's a fucking laugh!!! This guy NEVER had standards, morals & integrity so why'd we expect he'd suddenly posses them??? My mother always told me no matter how hard you try, you can't shine SHIT!!!! Norman will never change & he'll always go after the women who are either too young or total bitches. It's very telling just what kind of person he really is. --mod-- But some of his exs are really awesome women and super nice. Perhaps people are judging to much on his last few relationships . Also who would try and shine shit that's so gross




Anon: 

Funny how Norman is quiet on SM since DK arrived in Barcelona. He didn't post nor like in days.                                                                                     .
--mod-- But I think he did



Anon: I still adore Norman.But he acts blind and stupid right now.Maybe it's a midlife crisis.At this point of drama I wonder if it wouldn't have been the smarter decision to tell the truth right away.There would've been a shitstorm for a few weeks.NOW this hurting and hating goes on for nearly 2 years off and on.Unbearable. Diane?She's a insidious piece of poo.Made multiple attempts to nail Norman down and finally succeeded.I can see a wedding and a baby in the near future.It's that easy.
                                                                                        --mod-- Whys there gotta be a wedding and baby. Both of those are weird 



Anon:
I don’t know what to think about Norman anymore.. I’m okay with him being in a relationship with someone and being happy but… with DK… ugh. I wonder if he even knows how she calls the paps… does he even care that she does this? Does he care that she trolls his fans? Does he not realize what type of person she is? And I’ve noticed that when things arise with her, rumors fly or they’re spotted together- he seems to post photos of him with kids, make a wish foundation children, etc around the same time… And his Facebook page did that again tonight… several pics that have already been posted… but were posted again tonight of him with kids and charities… and it turned my stomach because it comes off extremely fake to me now, like he’s trying to get his image to be shown in a better light whenever the DK stuff hits the fan. I always thought of him as a good person but… now I don’t know what to think anymore because I went from thinking he really cares about his fans that are kids(I know he does care) but to somewhat use them to get his reputation to look better at these times… Ugh. :/

Anon: Did anyone thought that the blond girl jumping on NR was Hillary Burton (JDM's wife), she was in Barcelona with them and she does own boots and bag like the ones in the picture, they're not a special edition made for DK (other people can have the same). When I see how many IG accounts are created by so called "fans" to only spread rumours and hate toward NR and DK, I believe this storm won't stop, so I hope you have lots of whiskies and nachos mod. --mod-- That was my first thought. Irish nachos and whiskey all weekend

Anon: Did DK go to Norman's exhibit opening tonight? Is that her in Shadi's video right after he pans from JDM? --mod-- Didn't see her there

Anon: One would think if DK was only a friend for Norman she'd be officially invited to his gallery opening. Apparently she isn't there. Sorry but that makes it all the more obvious they are not just friends .

Anon: Did DK go to Norman's exhibit opening tonight? Is that her in Shadi's video right after he pans from JDM? --mod-- No it's JDM's wife I believe

Anon: Funny how DK isn't at his opening show if she was only in Spain to support him. If they were only friends why isn't she just official attending his opening so they could easily prove they're friends. Her being not there makes everything even more obvious. She's hiding and waiting for him somewhere so they can keep going laughing about us and screwing around further. --mod-- Maybe p, if she was in Spain, they decided is was best she not attended because have you seen the hate. Also why would they be laughing

[neverisalongtime-ja-blog]

Chapter 6: The perks of being a Truman

You guys are A-mazing and make me really happy. So here is another chapter for you.

Remember that Anastasia has her own Instagram and you can follow it to know her more and have a few hints about the story.

Anastasia_Truman 

Remember to leave your feedback!

-----------------------------------------------------------

Read chapter 5

-          Wake up! – Mandy said pushing Anastasia – Wake up! You need to see this! – She said with a hint of alarm in her voice.

-          How can you be so drunk and wake up so fresh? – Anastasia asked trying to open her eyes but failing.

-          You are trending on Twitter because everybody thinks you and Galvin are a thing – Mandy said and Anastasia opened her eyes fast and big.

-          What?! Why?!

-          Look! – Mandy gave the phone to her friend.

A pink magazine website was shown on the screen and the article read “Galvin leaves Courtney Sky for Anastasia Truman”, the shot he uploaded to Instagram with her was there, and Mandy’s snap from last night too. The article also cited that he played one of her songs at an after party. Besides that, paparazzi style pictures showed the two at the festival and later at the club.

Anastasia was angry. This was the kind of things she had to deal with her whole life. She tried hard to fly under the radar and be as invicible as she could to the media but things like this followed her no matter where she went, thanks to her last name.

-          This is so stupid – Anastasia said after a long silence.

-          Can’t you have a male friend because that means you are automatically dating him? – Mandy said taking her phone back.

-          This is what I’ve been running from my whole life. I’m mad! – Anastasia said hitting the bed.

-          Calm down. In a day or two it will disappear – Mandy said trying to comfort her friend.

-          This is why guys like Josh won’t be with me, because thanks to this stupid last name I’m Hollywood’s property.

-          First, that is stupid and second, that last name has given you great things too. You have worked hard to keep you out of the spotlight.

-          Not hard enough.

The girls heard three knocks on the door and Mandy opened. Nick and Eric entered the room.

-          Thank you for the publicity. Great way to start a tour – Nick said taking a seat in Anastasia’s bed. She threw a pillow to him.

-          Carl wants to see you. He’s coming right now – Eric said. Carl was their manager.

-          I fucking hate this – Anastasia said.

Anastasia took a shower and got dressed before leaving the room. She walked through the aisle to call the elevator, the doors opened and she felt her heart beating fast when she saw that Josh was inside.

-          Hello – she said with a smile but he only made a gesture with his hand. No smile. That shocked her but she tried not to make it uncomfortable – I’m on my way to talk to Carl. Apparently there aren’t enough problems in the world to deal with so people focus on my love life - she said speaking fast because of her nervousness. Josh didn’t answer, he was drowned in his phone screen.

The doors opened again and he left without saying a word. In that exact moment she knew that every possibility between her and Josh was over.

Carl, a tall guy wearing a flashy cap, was waiting for her at a table at the hotel restaurant. He was smiling, so that had to be a good sign.

-          Good morning headline maker – he said while she was taking a seat.

-          You know none of that is true.

-          I know! You are drier than the Sahara desert.

-          Wow. Respectful and classy joke. So smooth Carl.

-          Since you don’t have a publicist or any of that I want to ask you how you want to deal with it. Do you want to say something? Do you want to remain silent?

-          What do you think?

-          Well your Instagram is private so we can ditch that, but your Twitter is still public, right?

-          Yes I’m still writing stupid shit there to piss off people.

-          That’s why I love you. Why don’t you tweet something?

-          But if it’s not true… why write something?

-          Cut the thing off. Say that is not true. Attach the article and call it bullshit.

“I would like to know the source of these so called journalists. I call it BS” she tweeted next to a link of the article she read earlier.

-          In other news, the reviews from last night’s set were amazing – Carl said after reading the tweet – people loved Dead Curse.

-          Well something nice for a change.

Josh approached to the table and greeted Carl. The manager invited him to take a seat and have breakfast together but Anastasia realized it was a weird situation so she excused herself saying that she needed to finish packing for London.

Anastasia owned an apartment in London and between festivals the band will stay there.

-          So Josh officially hates me – Anastasia said once she was at her room with Mandy and the guys.

-          Because of your relationship with Galvin? – Mandy asked.

-          I don’t have a relationship with Galvin! – Anastasia said angry throwing herself to the bed.

-          I know I just wanted to piss you off – Mandy said and the guys laughed.

-          Why do you say that? – Eric wanted to know.

-          Because I ran into him in the elevator and he didn’t say a word to me.

-          Maybe he was having a bad day – Nick said.

-          At eight o clock in the morning?

-          Maybe he was having a bad morning. You never know.

-          I will talk to him – Eric let know.

-          No! Please. I had a lot already. Just leave it like that. We leave for London at two pm so we better finish packing.

The band arrived to the airport and the Chili Peppers were there waiting for their flight at the VIP area, Anastasia and Mandy took a seat next to Anthony, while Nick and Eric sat next to Josh.

-          Antonio of my heart – Anastasia said greeting Anthony and he laughs.

-          I though your heart belonged to someone else. Certain crappy DJ – he said with a big smile on his face. Josh didn’t look at her.

-          You know that’s not true! – She answered kind of angry.

-          I know! When I heard about it this morning I told Flea that you must be so angry.

-          The perks of being a Truman – she said smiling.

-          Are you going to Novarock? – Chad wanted to know.

-          No. We are heading to London while we wait for Roskilde in Denmark – Mandy answered.

-          Cool. We are going to play there too – Chad talked again.

-          We know Chad! – Mandy and Anastasia answered at the same time making big smiles afterward.

-          Why London? – Josh asked looking only to Eric and Nick.

-          Anastasia’s family got properties there so we can stay there for free. It’s cheap for the record label and closer to our next destination.

Anastasia would have liked to talk to Josh but he didn’t give her the opportunity. Their plane took off first. She was tempted to send him a text but Mandy took that idea off her head.

-          First you don’t want anything with him – she said taking her seat on the plane – now you are looking desperate. Calm down An. Damn it! We don’t know why he is upset; wait until he talks to you.

-          For you everything is so easy, right?

-          No is not. For you everything is complicated – Mandy answered faking a smile.

London days went by fast. The band did a little bit of press and some appearances before heading to Denmark for the Roskilde festival. There was no sight of Josh or the Chilies because they played a different day than Dead Curse.

Then it was time for Poland and the Open’er festival. Before their set, one of Anastasia’s and Mandy’s favorite bands was playing: Tame Impala, so the girls didn’t miss the opportunity to see them. Eric and Nick joined them from a side of the stage.

An and Mandy were singing and dancing like crazy but suddenly Anastasia felt the need to look back and there was Josh with Eric and Nick laughing at them. She smiled to him feeling shocked by the situation. The last time she saw him he wasn’t speaking to her, not even looking at her and there he was now: laughing at her for jumping and singing along to Tame Impala songs. She was relieved but annoyed.

-          Are you laughing at me? – She said to him in one of the band’s intermissions.

-          I’m laughing at the whole panorama – he answered like the Netherlands thing never happened.

-          I thought you were mad at me.

-          No! Why? -  He asked.

-          I don’t know I felt you weird at Netherlands.

-          No. Forget about it – He hugged her. His warm arms around her make she felt peace.

-          Oh my god! I love that song – Anastasia said when Tame Impala started to play “The less I know the better”. She didn’t wanted to break the hug but decided to join Mandy to keep singing and dancing with a little more enthusiasm this time.

Read chapter 7

[jjlunfiltered2]

I’mma Ruin Your Labor Day

There’s going to be a TL;DR, I PROMISE.

So, here we are. Labor Day. We should all be having fun, enjoying an extra day off, and celeb the last hurrah of summer before whatever Texas calls “Fall”. But notwithstanding the fact that I’m working today, since A&M doesn’t understand your Labor Day (not necessarily complaining, just jealous), just a reminder that:

• Millions are without a job with no end in sight 

• Businesses from the corporate big wigs to locally-owned are closing, many of which will never return

• Systemic racism, regardless of cop vs black or society against the minority is making it feel like the 60s all over again

• Depression, anxiety, discrimination, and suicide rates can easily jump if this keeps on

• We currently sit with a commander-in-chief who, if you come on out your echo chambers, isn’t a fan of soldiers, veterans, democrats (far left to the center), TiKTok users, a press where current journalism students feel like the may never be respected again once they graduate (don’t even get me started), and children in grade school with resources that are sub par or above par but are inaccessible due to living condition (this is more pointed to Betsy DeVos, but his ass appointed her) &

• Did I forget to mention every other person in this country or others that think masks are:

  • “Ïnfrîñgińg œn my Fīrśt Åmëndmėnt rįghtš”

  • “Ællöwš prîvåté būsiñêssès tø kīck mé ôût før nõt rëspécting my Ämêricân rîghts sö theyyyy càn pROmOtè hUMan DecĒÑcy” or

  • “Affecting my health condition covered by HIPAA” (which isn’t even the right government act; you’re looking for the ADA)

Sorry to be the buzzkill for your holiday, but until things get better, I refuse to let the platforms where I can spread the word go to just me letting BS spread.

I honestly legit wanted to just give up and side with other people so I didn’t have to hear how much of bad person I was so I could please them. Yes, these are legit thoughts that have entered my head.

Then, thanks to TikTok (yes, THAT app), I learned that I exhibit the Fawn response all the time (seriously, Google it). Well, this is one thing I not use that response over.

I’m sure many of you are sick of me making long ranting posts about the situation in the country and have probably muted me or are close to unfriending me. Good. That means your skin is too soft to read and take criticism like a decent human being. This, like my birfday, like the Fourth of July, like Memorial Day, like Easter, like AggieCon, like A-Kon, have been cancelled or dialed back severely. You think I really love the situation right now?

Let me repeat the record for you if you didn’t see the last 15 rants:

I have friends, good friends, who I’ve yet to see since JUNE. FUCKING. JUNE. These same friends are struggling to get by and to go through unconventional means to survive. Do you know how many almost sleepless nights I’ve gone thinking about how to make their situation better, how to put a smile on their face at the expense of my mental health because that’s what friends do?

Do you know how many stories I’ve seen of teachers, staff, students, and parents that are not fond of how school operates now? Do you know haw much it pisses me off to the moon that Betsy DeVos gets to sit on her late husband’s Amway global MLM fortune while children have to sit at a McDonal’s JUST to get their homework done?

How about this: do you realize how many times I’ve had to see or hear that Biden & Harris did [INSERT BS RUMOR HERE] with no proof, yet when I come back and refute claim after claim after claim after claim with indisputable evidence they either find something else great about Trump and change the subject or will squirrel around and find some way to spin it in their favor, thus pissing me off even more while I try to avoid going berserk on them because of all the pent up frustration, lack of physical affection to raise my endorphins levels (I’ll get to that), depression, and anxiety I have to hold back?

Look, I’ve mention these things once, and I’ll mention them until I die. Yes, I’ve been told by my own psychologist that I do have long-term depression, severe anxiety, schizotypal traits, and ADD. Yes, physical affection (i.e. hugging & cuddling) do help; ask the people who know me well enough that help me with it. No, I don’t want pity or sympathy because you saw this. A good person who truly is my friend will offer it without me begging for it. What I do want and what I’m asking from all of you is awareness.

2020 IS. NOT. NORMAL. The past 4 years has not been normal. But if you want everything back to the way it was, then you need to do some things:

(1) Yes, all lives matter. But Black live SPECIFICALLY need to matter some more. And if I hear one more time that BS Antifa is controlling it or [INSERT BS BLM CLAIM HERE], I will verbally rip you a new one. Someone breaking into and destroying property and saying “Black Lives Matter” doesn’t mean they understand the underlying cause of this. Put it to you like this, I can run around nude pissing in front of the door of every church and pooping at every mosque yelling “All Lives Matter”, but it doesn’t mean I’m fighting for the same cause hundreds of peaceful, knowledgable people who know exactly what ALM means, does it? Weird example, but I got your attention, huh?

(2) Wearing a fucking mask to all of you Karens and Kevins who fell what I wrote above. A few posts back I was pressured to take this part down, but it’s coming back up. I will have 0 sympathy for you avoiding to wear a mask for whatever reason just so you can be treated special. You can’t/don’t want to wear a mask? There are SOOOOOOOO many alternative shopping options, food delivery solutions, etc you can take in this age. You’re doing something that is (A) easy to avoid and (B) really doesn’t take up much time or hurts you physically (it seriously doesn’t).

(3) VOTE. DO IT. Register to vote……..ONCE. Yes, I actually have to say that. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and even Discord are making it so EASY to help you get active in the polls. If you truly believe that Trump is, in fact, going to continue to “Make America Great Again”, VOTE. If you want to see Joe Biden & Kamala Harris bring change to this county, VOTE. If you think it’s about time Jo Johnson can give us a break from red and blue, VOTE. It’s not hard, it’s you right as an American, and I, like the rest of the country, will be glad you did.

(4) Finally, if all of this is resonating with you, if you’re feeling like I am in your own way and feel like no one is there for you, YOU’RE NOT ALONE. Share this to whomever needs to see this. Seriously. 2020 has divided the world. We need to come back together. Please. For the sake of my well being and others, come together.

TL;DR:…………….You know what? No TL;DR for you! Read the whole damn thing, ya lazy ass!